Good morning Heartstrings family

What is the theme of your life story? I am sure something comes to mind right away. Maybe based on the last year. Maybe based on a lifetime. Whatever, that theme may be we must remember Who we belong to, Who is in control and so then, what have we to worry about? 

One thing seems to stand out to me and that would be the word pain. But, when I bring it into the light of the Word of God, it is only one aspect. And in that, I am realizing the pain has a purpose. How can I say this? Because I belong to God. His ways are not happenstance or suddenly thrown in my direction like a lightning bolt in a storm. His ways are perfect. 

I am confident that my life is hid with Christ. He is my Shepherd to feed, guide and shield me. Is He yours? Reading Ephesians chapter one will settle any confusion. Chosen by the Father, Redeemed by the Son and Seal by the Holy Spirit...for eternity! 

I would love to sit with you awhile and chat. I know the troubles of this world will continue. The pain, the loss, the hatred, the financial needs. All of these and more. What about the burden you carry for your children? The loved ones that have refused Jesus as their Savior? All of these can cause a person to begin to feel hopeless, can't they? They touch us personally. 

God sees and longs for matchless, boundless, abundant companionship with you and I. No matter where we live or what our station in life is. Sick or poor. Rich or alone. He is our answer.

Freedom is what I long for. Not only for my nation but for my body. When my mind begins to covet more time to be indulged by entertainments or foods or attention...then I feel distant from the Lord. But, in returning and repenting, I find the peace I long for and the soundness of mind I certainly need, regardless of my circumstances. 

Psalm 25:2-5 says..."O my God, I trust, lean on, rely on, and am confident in You. Let me not be put to shame or [my hope in You be disappointed; let not my enemies triumph over me. ~ Yes, let none who trust and wait hopefully and look for You be put to shame or be disappointed; let them be ashamed who forsake the right or deal treacherously without cause. ~ Show me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. ~ Guide me in Your truth and faithfulness and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; for You [You only and altogether] do I wait [expectantly] all the day long."

Oh, brothers and sisters, I long to have the heart of David. Yes, he knew trouble but somewhere in the middle of all of that, he could rejoice that God was by his side. He knew what tasks a shepherd had each day. The care and keeping the flock safe and well. What has God given you to care for today? A visit to a neighbor, a shoulder to lean on, a witness of light in the darkness?

Jesus said there would be troubles in this world. In His short walk on this earth, He had many to care for. Matthew 14 tells about the feeding of the people. He had compassion on them and even healed the sick. He fed them all until they had enough. To see, they had to have eyes of faith. Open my eyes Lord.

Anxiety is needless because Jesus is near. We can say that but, do we believe it when hit with bad news? Who will we trust? The word of man or The Word of God?

What about this? Have you, I know I have...had the stray thought that nothing can be done because there isn't enough money! How sad. For example: today I have a grocery list, but only 5 dollars. The list is for good things but now, I get to see how God will supply. Will He give me all on the list? It is up to Him. He is the Good Shepherd. Now, I get to believe.

That is just one example. Now, Hebrews 12:2 talks about looking away from all that will distract to Jesus. He is the source. Do you agree? I know sometimes it seems so long for an answer to come from God, but He will answer. Maybe not in the way I desire, but Father knows best.

Well, this is a long one today. There is so much more I wanted to write but, I believe the Holy Spirit will teach you all you need as you are facing the day. Every step. Every hope. Every desire is found in Jesus Christ. Ask Holy Spirit to fall upon you today and bring a refreshing to your body, soul, and spirit. I agree with you in the matchless name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Abundance is...a good theme