[box] “In my distress I called to the LORD, and he answered me. From deep in the realm of the dead I called for help, and you listened to my cry.” Jonah 2:2[/box]
Jesus Whispers:
Your troubles are safe in My ears. I don’t always answer the way you expect, but I answer. When people hurt you, don’t carry the burden of judge and jury. That’s my job. I’m the only who sees the heart. Pray for your enemies, leave room for my discipline, and allow my grace to flow through you. Freely you have received; freely give.
When you’re upset because you stepped out my protective covering, repent and call me close. I’lll set your feet on solid ground and astound you with truth. Even in the midst of sin’s consequences and my loving discipline, I work all things together for your good and my glory. Stick close with me and you’ll see: Mercy triumphs over judgement. So let my peace rule your heart.
How has God been there for you when you’ve been distressed? I’ll do a drawing from the comments below, and one blessed commenter will receive a free copy of A Friend in the Storm. : )
Deborah H. Bateman
It is so good to know that God is always there waiting on us to turn to Him and even when we mess up he still loves us and is waiting with open arms for us to return to His loving arms! May God bless you!
Cheryl
Well said, Deborah. Yes, God is amazing in His mind-boggling graciousness toward us. “While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” I can understand dying for a righteous man ~ but for someone who hates me? That’s what Christ did.
Thanks for stopping by!
Cheryl
Congratulation, Deborah! Your name was selected to win a FREE copy of A Friend in the Storm. Please go to the contact page of my site to email me your address.
Thank you, everybody, for participating! God bless you!
Betsy
LOVE the post, “Jesus says”. Hope you don’t mind but I posted it to my Facebook page. I totally gave you credit, though. It’s just such a fantastically gentle reminder. I’m sure it will offend some of my FB “friends”…but that’s the beauty of FB, you can click to something else if you’re offended by my faith and love for Jesus.
Cheryl
Thanks Betsy!
It’s difficult, but way to go in not worrying about what others think.
Stepping out is a daily struggle, but I ask myself, “what’s the worst that could happen?” Hmm… I could suffer for my faith and discover how Heaven’s joys far outweigh the pain.
God bless you as you take a stand! : )
Cheri
Cheryl: What an important post. I talk to God all the time. He’s my friend. He’s especially there for me when I have DiSTRESS. We all do have that distress — it part of being a human being. I was just thinking this morning about how much I love Him and He loves me. I love the beautiful “BLOOM” background, the quote, and your words. Great reminders of who to turn to when I’m having those moments of sadness, distress, etc. — all those negative emotions. Thinking about Jesus helps me re-frame my perspective! Thank you!
Cheryl
Hi Cheri,
I’m glad you know Jesus. There’s no better friend!
Satan wants us to feel isolated and alone, but it’s a lie, lie, lie.
Jesus is as close as the mention of His Name. And He understands our loneliness. Away from His Father in body, He longed for His heavenly home as we do. Yes He knew…
Earthly life is short compared to eternity.
And the end is really just the beginning.
Keep thinking about the One who loves you like no other.
Thanks for stopping by!
Dr. Linda B. Greer
Thanks for your post. I have been hurt a lot lately by an immediate neighbor and also my own mother and brother in Florida. I wish people would not carry grudges and speak badly of you to all your family without even thinking how they murder your character.
Cheryl
Sorry to hear this, Dr. Linda. It was wrong and it hurts.
I’ve been there before too. On both ends. That’s why I desperately need God’s grace to flow in and through me. Every day.
The flesh is weak.
With God’s strength, I pray, “Lord, help me love my enemies and do good to those who are hateful toward me.”
Linda, I pray the Lord brings justice to your situation.
Keep guarding God’s character and thank Him in advance for guarding yours.
He will make all things fair in His time.
Good always wins in the end, and truth is revealed.
God bless you, my friend!
~Cheryl