hold on

The past several weeks have maintained a very fast paced scheduled for our family. Acknowledging that this "crazier than normal" schedule is not going to end anytime soon I have found myself trying to hold onto the strength of the Lord. I know in my mind I should not allow stress and anxiety to overcome each day but am finding I am too weak to maintain a calm spirit on my own. I HAVE to rely on God to provide His peace and comfort to those deep parts of my soul that only He can reach.

I have felt badly because I have not had much time to spend with my kids. Last week both of my kids just clung onto me and I ended up having to sit on the floor because they were hugging me so tightly. In that moment I really felt the Lord whispering to me, "I love you Jennifer - I'm holding onto you as strong as your kids are clinging to you. I am your rock and your strength." I felt God say this so profoundly that I grabbed a quick picture...

That word picture has not left me since last week. I am so thankful that in the midst of life we have a God who walks with us and does not expect us to figure things out on our own. It is our job to daily rely on Him and ALLOW Him to guide us with his peace, strength and direction.

Take rest in this beautiful verse today:

"The Eternal is my shepherd, He cares for me always. He provides me rest in rich, green fields beside streams of refreshing water. He soothes my fears; He makes me whole again, steering me off worn, hard paths to roads where truth and righteousness echo His name.

Even in the unending shadows of death's darkness, I am not overcome by fear. Because You are with me in those dark moments, near with Your protection and guidance, I am comforted.

You spread out a table before me, provisions in the midst of attack from my enemies; You care for all my needs, anointing my head with soothing, fragrant oil, 

filling my cup again and again with your grace."

Certainly Your faithful protection and loving provision will pursue me where I go, always, everywhere. I will always be with the Eternal in Your house forever."

Psalm 23 (the Voice)