Recently cruel winter storms blasted the east coast of the U.S. Thick snow accumulation shut down major cities, led to cancellation of countless events, and ruined plans of frustrated travelers. In the midst of biting winds and bitter sleet and snow it’s easy to forget shirt-sleeve temperatures and bright skies that carry the hope of spring, much like today at the ranch. The day burst open with a Technicolor sunrise and the morning is now bathed in delicious soft sunlight. Tender grass sprigs are beginning to dot the pastures and our Black Angus cows are contentedly mooing as this writer cradles a warm mug of New Mexico’s Pinon brew.
But you may have entered this day anxious and frozen in the midst of difficulties. Perhaps your family is in unprecedented crisis or those you care for are walking an icy path. You may be in a severe winter of financial or relational loss, or perhaps you’re devastated by a health diagnosis, an upcoming change beyond your control, or a necessary and imminent decision. You may wonder where God is and don’t know the next step. Consider what the Psalmist says.
“Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him for the help of His presence,” Psalm 42:5.
No matter what you perceive a situation to be, God maintains his power, his control. He remains the everlasting authority drenched in love and grace which is perfected and pointed toward you and me.
“Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving, let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms,” 95:2.
Offer God your tattered heart, your jumbled thoughts, and your weary soul.
“You will make known to me the path of life; in your presence is fullness of joy; in your right hand there are pleasures forever,” 16:11.
“Surely the righteous will give thanks to your name; the upright will dwell in your presence,” 140:13.
God grants strength to emerge from life’s storm-swept landscape and treacherous road conditions into His enveloping warmth and eternal spring.
As the words of Psalm 31:24 encourage, “Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who hope in the Lord.” Will you choose God’s path today?
Blessings of basking in God’s presence in all ways at all times! Prayer requests? As always, confidential.
“Dear Lord, let my soul know that you are the source of all hope (Ps 62:5) and you, indeed, are my hope forever (Ps 71:5). Thank you, Amen.”
“Sustain me according to your word, that I may live; and do not let me be ashamed of my hope,” 119:116.
Thawing All Frozen Parts Only With God, PJ
COPYRIGHT ©2016 PJ Gover
PJ.Gover@yahoo.com http://www.PJGover.com
Filed under: Practical Christianity Tagged: east coast storms, God cares, God is hope, Hope in the midst of hardship and pain, winter storms
