Remember my saying not so long ago that there are times that I just can’t wrap my mind around the words that I want? Today is one of those days. There are so many who are sick and are facing challenges that they never anticipated facing. I know many of you can relate.
As I contemplated this email, once again, song lyrics came to mind. It’s a song I have loved since the first time I heard it because it applies to our lives so often. It goes like this:
Lord, I Need You
Lord, I come, I confess
Bowing here I find my rest
Without You I fall apart
You’re the One that guides my heart
Lord, I need You, oh, I need You
Every hour I need You
My one defense, my righteousness
Oh God, how I need You
Where sin runs deep Your grace is more
Where grace is found is where You are
And where You are, Lord, I am free
Holiness is Christ in me
Lord, I need You, oh, I need You
Every hour I need You
My one defense, my righteousness
Oh God, how I need You
Teach my song to rise to You
When temptation comes my way
And when I cannot stand I’ll fall on You
Jesus,…
Thank you Lord, for always being there when I need you.
Pray unceasingly,
In His light,
Lois
The Daniel Plan
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. —Romans 15:13
Even when our situation is full of challenges, we can confidently pray that the God of hope will fill us with the joy and peace that come from believing in him. He won’t let us down. And in those moments when we feel we can’t go any farther, throwing our reliance wholly on him is crucial. We need the power of the Holy Spirit if we want to abound in hope. He is always right there ready to help us when we ask.
God also asks for our participation in the process. We can integrate faith and fitness for maximum benefit because getting up and moving our bodies actually lifts our mood and alleviates anxiety, depression, and stress. Spending time with a friend is another way to connect with God’s hope. Consider taking a brisk and prayerful walk with a friend. He often provides his arms of love through those closest to us.
Food for Thought: Joy and peace come from the God of hope.