A Season Of Rest

by Barbara Murray

At the end of 2017, after losing a sibling to cancer and the heart break that comes, I must say that during these long dark days that ensued, God was so ever present. I would find every moment possible to be alone with Him because I needed His kindness, His strength, His guidance, His reassurance…….I could use hundreds of examples to explain things I found myself in need of. And can I tell you that He never let me down. As I would seek Him in my “Secret Place”, he would show up in ways that brought such healing. Looking back over 2017, at our last retreat, I received a little rock that had the following words written on it: “Rest in His love”. I chose that little rock during the teaching my friend Janet did from a table of many, many other rocks, but that rock was to describe the rest of my year. I can truly say that this year has begun very differently for me than ones in the past. This year I am dwelling in “His Rest”, continually. He has taught me to bring my burdens, through the words written such as these:

Isaiah 40:29 He gives power to the faint and weary, and to him who has no might, He increases strength (causing it to multiply and making it to abound). V 31 But those who wait for the Lord (who expect, look for, and hope in (Him) shall change and renew their strength and power; they shall lift their wings and mount up (close to God) as eagles (mount up to the sun), they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint or become tired.

Philippians 4:13 I have strength for all things in Christ who empowers me (I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses inner strength into me. I am self sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency).

I don’t know if you’ve ever gone through such a time of desperation for answers that only He can give you, but let me encourage you, that He’s waiting for you to take the time to be alone with Him. He will meet you right where you are, and you can tell Him what’s on your heart. The Holy Spirit will teach you as you enter into their presence. I’d love to tell you more. Just ask me the next time we see each other.

In His Love,

Barbara