Encouragement

Well, it happened. I personally met someone who reads my blog. And I didn't even have to travel to China, Russia or France. Ha! Truth be told, given the vague stats blogger offers, I wasn't sure more than two Americans ever read my blog aside from my own family. In the grand scheme of things I know it isn't a big deal. But the truth of it is, I was strangely blessed by meeting this woman even though I don't even know if she liked my writing. When I was on Facebook it was much easier to measure the reach of each post. Feedback, for better or worse was more readily given and though occasionally it wasn't positive, there were also many times people took the time to let me know how God was using me to bless them, encourage them and build them up. I don't regret leaving Facebook, but I do miss that.

I know I haven't written in a long while. Life sometimes just has a way of taking over. But aside from that, I've also been feeling very quiet in my spirit. It's been a time for me to listen rather than to speak. And it's been good for me. During my silence I have often been filled with various scripture verses that come to mind in the form of prayer.

-"Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Oh Lord my Rock and my Redeemer"

-"Where there are many words, sin is not absent"

-"Always be ready to give an answer for the hope that is within you"

-"Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips"

-"Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us"

These scriptures and others have been governing my thoughts as world politics have been raging on, horrific evils have been committed and the love of many continues to grow cold. It's been tempting at times to publicly comment on what is happening in our world. But I think most often my heart has been driven to prayer.

I would have my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ know that God has not forsaken us. He is not blind, nor is He deaf. And most assuredly, nothing is outside of His control. As we wait for His will to be done on earth as it is in Heaven, I want to encourage each of you to continue to put your faith in Him. Do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with God. Love Truth and obey it. And allow yourself the simple joys of the moment by moment grace that He gives you. Though more and more people reject what God has said is true, I want to remind you that nothing can separate you from the love of God. Though people who once worshipped with us have changed their minds and given themselves over to new and unholy opinions, you need not fear nor fret. God's got this.

Have faith and stay true to His commands; Love the Lord Your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength; And Love your neighbor as yourself. Jesus said His yoke is easy and His burden is light. Believe it and live each day like you do. And remember that God's mercy is new each morning. Peace be to you all.