So, I (again) missed the last two weeks as things got busy and then I traveled home for family circumstances.  I’ll get us caught up over the next few weeks (expect 2 “Weekly Words” for the next two week).

All that said, it seems like for the past couple of weeks, I’ve mentioned how overwhelming the state of our country and our world can be (especially with our 24 hour news cycle and our level of connectivity through the internet and social media).  The more I hear (and continue to hear) of change upon change, whether it’s weather conditions or within our government, the more I appreciate consistency.  That said, this week’s verse is a reminder of that:

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. – Hebrews 13:8

While everything around me may be in transition, I can rest in the fact that Jesus is not.  He is the same–his promises are true, and He is faithful to do what fulfill that which He has promised.

In some circles, one might have you to believe that faith in God and His ability to cause things to act and move on your behalf makes you weak.  I believe that true faith is requires strength.  You have to be strong to believe beyond what you can see, knowing that God can (and will) move on your behalf while others may doubt.

As the old hymn would say, “On Christ the solid rock I stand. All other ground is sinking sand…” While it may be tough, I’m grateful for Christ and his faithfulness; his renewed mercies, and his consistent love towards me despite my inconsistencies.

Until next time…

Be encouraged! Peace and blessings!

Happy Wednesday! Over the past week, I was able to scale back some of my news intake and spend more purposeful time with my family; which helped me to focus more on the joy near me, as opposed to the chaos out in the world. This week, I’m continuing with a memory verse that I find to be encouraging, despite everything that is happening in our world.

“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

When I consider the state of this world, I can absolutely see (and sometimes feel) the trouble.  I need to spend more time focused on the promises of Jesus and the fact that He has already overcome the world.  It’s encouraging to know that through Him, I already have victory!

Reflecting on this verse for this week, also reminded me of this song.  These lyrics stood out for me:

But when I fix my eyes on all that You are, then every doubt I feel deep in my heart grows strangely dim. All my worries fade and fall to the ground, ’cause when I seek Your face and don’t look around any place I’m in grows strangely dim…

I’m challenging myself to focus more on His promises and His victory in this week as I reflect on this verse.

Until next time…

Be encouraged! Peace and blessings!