Omnipotent

Warning: This may be a complete "need to get this off my heart/mind" post.

My previous blogs have been as a result of a devotional book that I started January 1. I am reading and dwelling upon the passages in this book daily and am absolutely AMAZED at how God is speaking to me through this. I mean, I guess I shouldn't be all that surprised. He truly knows what I'm going through and speaks to me in a way that I'll listen.

The last week or so has been rough. I've been sick all year (haha, sounds funny to say that). School has brought more drama in the last week than I want to deal with in a year or even teaching career. Worry about the future and doubt has set in. My house still hasn't sold, thus causing anxiety over my living situation right now (including a call from my landlord). Loneliness.

I have been very diligent in my prayer time, devotional time, walk with Christ. Does anyone else ever feel that the more you lean on Him and grow in your relationship, the more the world throws upon you? I know, I know. "Take heart, I have overcome the world..." it's encouraging, and I'm not saying that He will let me down and not help me through this. I feel like I'm trusted with more. I'm challenged with more. I'm brought to a point to say, "Yeah, God, I can't do this." Which I'm sure is the point...

Enough ranting and raving. I just want to put today's entire devotional on here for all to read. I can't even summarize this. I just bawled my eyes out reading it. This is from "Jesus Calling" by Sarah Young. If you listen to K-Love, they have been reading excerpts of this devotional daily. I am going to enter my own thoughts and connections that I reflected on while reading. Here we go, January 9:

"I am with you and for you. When you decide on a course of action that is in line with My will (moving to KY), nothing in heaven or on earth can stop you (selling my house). You may encounter many obstacles as you move toward your goal (being confused about living here), but don't be discouraged -- never give up! With My help, you can overcome any obstacle. Do not expect an easy path (people are cruel) as you journey hand in hand with Me, but do remember that I, your very-present Helper, am omnipotent (Thank you, Lord).
Much, much stress (seriously way too much stress lately) results from your wanting to make things happen before their times have come (husband? house?). One of the main ways I assert My sovereignty is in the timing of events (I need to let You). If you want to stay close to Me (I do) and do things My way, ask Me to show you the path forward moment by moment (please show me). Instead of dashing headlong toward your goal, let Me set the pace. Slow down, and enjoy the journey in My Presence." Read Romans 8:31; Psalm 46:1-3; Luke 1:37

Presence

Thank you Jesus for Your presence today. Thank you for your protection and peace when I feel like I'm being torn down. Thank you for carrying my burdens, for lightening the weight I've been carrying around on my own.

In Christ, we can overcome anything. His presence in our lives is evident when we invite Him and seek His peace in the biggest and smallest of situations. He loves us. He has conquered it all. Why not ask for His presence? Nothing is too big for Him. He wants to give us peace.

"I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart, I have overcome the world!" John 16:33

The truth that means the most to me today: In the shelter of your presence you hide them from the intrigues of men; in your dwelling, you keep them safe from accusing tongues. Psalm 31:20

Martha, Martha

"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed." Luke 10:41-42a

I am worried and upset about many things. But reminded through scripture and prayer to "look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always." Psalm 105:4

Spending time with my Lord is just the refreshment and renewal I need for the day's troubles. He is speaking to me, reminding me to rely on His strength, not my own. I can't do it. My friends can't do it. My coworkers can't do it. My family can't do it. One thing is needed. Devoting my time and attention to the One who equips me to handle any and all situations.

Lord, be my strength. You know what I need. I give You the things that are making me upset. Only You can take away my worries. Amen.

Jesus Calling

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2

When reading, reflecting and truly listening to the depth in this verse, I am confident that I need to claim these truths this year. I need to listen. I need to hear Him. I need to find His peace and understand His purpose and calling for my life. Renewing my mind. Filling my mind with His truth and allowing Him to transform my life and reveal His will.

How can I do this? It's a journey that I'm re-beginning today. I say re-beginning because this isn't a brand new thought or idea, but more of a fresh start to something I've strived for in the past. I love the start of a new year because I feel encouraged to make changes. Changes for the better. I'm digging down deep, purposefully devoting more time, energy, emotion, thoughts, and heart into what matters most.

Ready to join me on this journey? Jesus is calling and I am seeking to hear Him.