This is a time when I need to be reminded that, The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. (Psalm 27:8) This is a season when I just need to know...Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation. (Isaiah 12:2)
In some ways, it feels like my heart and mind are being bombarded on many fronts, but in those moments when I draw near to God, I am able to find a measure or rest in the One who has promised to lead me to green pastures and beside still waters, who promises to refresh my soul. (Psalm 23:2-3)
I am finding a source of strength and encouragement from my Lord, but also from God's people. One of the blessings of being part of a community of faith is the support we receive from one another; how blessed we are to share life together with our friends at Valley. Thank you for upholding us in prayer, for you prayers for Noah and Luke and Andrea and Jason; this is a time when we are keenly aware of just how dependant we are upon the prayers of the saints. I think here of the words of the Apostle Paul to Philemon...Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you...have refreshed my heart. (Philemon 1:7)
With all that is happening in my own life, our family and in the lives of our people at Valley, I am finding a measure of rest, assurance and confidence in the simple words of the hymn writer:
Be not dismayed whate'er betide, God will take care of you.
Thro' days of toil when heart doth fail, God will take care of you.
No matter what may be the test, God will take care of you.
Over and over the refrain has been playing in my mind: God will take care of you, Thro' every day, o'er all the way; He will take care of you, God will take care of you.
In this I rest secure.