Welcome back to Heartstrings family,

We have evidence of God's love and kindness even when we are in trials. Do you agree? It takes a bit to focus somedays. Whether from pain or loss of a dear ones life or by our foolish choices. It all comes down to where my thoughts are going. 

So, can you find freedom when you are hurting? I mean, without the use of all the bandaids we have been offered to apply? Where do you go first? Who do you run to?

There are so many scriptures to guide us to freedom for our soul. Knowing Jesus hung on the cross and took all the burdens of sin on himself...something I couldn't do on my own, is the first place I have to go to. By bringing all that I am to a place where I humbly bow before Him. It is after the cross, the removing of sin can this world of hurting people find an empty tomb. Jesus conquered death, He didn't just die!

When I focus on this amazing gift of God, I begin to adjust my feelings to what I know is true. In all the world, the Lord God still sees me. And, you. Only God can do that.

I consider the wonders of His Love and begin to walk in freedom regardless of my circumstances. I am free to tell others how awesome His Love is for them too. Eyes off of self and onto the very purpose of my being here. 

Yes, there is still pain and loss. However, there is comfort and joy! Yesterday, my mother in law died. She went to rest in the arms of Jesus. I believe I will see her again. After so long a struggle, she is free! That gives me reason to rejoice today, even with tears on my face. I am so happy for her!

My mind is swimming with scriptures. Hope and joy and peace stir my soul, bubbling over with gratitude for the new signs of Spring today! What do you see in your small world that shows you how awesome Gods love is for you personally?

The first thing I read this morning was found in Isaiah 61:3. It spoke of having a garland of beauty instead of ashes. The oil of joy instead of mourning. A garment of praise for a spirit of heaviness. Words of Life! So my soul will sing!

The very time I need to praise God is when I feel struck down. When my hope is shattered. This is the time to make myself come before the Lord, yes, cry out to Him and stop letting my mind worry of things but, put my hope in the Lord Jesus Christ. Decide to praise God whether I feel like it or not, no matter what is happening. Psalm 103:1-2.

Cast your burden on the Lord, knowing He will sustain you. You will not be shaken. Psalm 27:1.

Psalm 34 begins with the positive truth...I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.

We are to magnify the name of the Lord God. Not only when things are easy but in the tuff stuff of life. This is where I am at right now. Who will I trust? Certainly not in my own power. But, in the power and life of the Lord who is my Life and my salvation. The mind of the Holy Spirit is life and soul peace right now and forever! Then sing my soul!

I pray you draw nearer to the Lord. Really focus on His goodness and keep your hand in His. Whether in the valley of on the mountain tops, we need the Lord to guide us. Bless you and thank you for coming to hear my heart today. You are precious in His sight. In the matchless name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Abundance is...a soul that sings