So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10
Take a Moment to Ponder
This month (May) we celebrated Child Month and there were a number of initiatives which focused on improving the lives of our beloved children. These initiatives included the posting of ChildMonth Tips. Tip # 16 says:
“Celebrate your children’s uniqueness: Remind them that they are deeply loved and accepted as they are”
This tip is equally relevant to us adults; that we realize our uniqueness as children of God and not fall victim to the fears and doubts that prevent us from achieving our full potential as special/unique gifts given by our Lord
One of the great challenges of the Christian life is dealing with the experience of fear and courage. Fear tells us that life is unpredictable; anything can happen but courage replies quietly, “Yes but God is in control”. We are fearful of the acts of violence and hate that have become part of our reality and yet as beloved children of God, we are assured of his active and abiding presence in our lives.
If we will stop for a moment to reflect, we will realize that this life is not a rehearsal. This is it! So, how will we choose to live?
Sometimes life becomes so complicated we feel as if we have gone as far as we can down this stressful highway. We imagine ourselves up against a brick wall, unable to answer one more complaint, or go one more step in dealing with dissatisfaction and bitterness. When that is the image that fills your mind change the brick wall to God. Imagine yourself being able to feel the strength and support of an ever faithful God.
The teaching for ourselves and our children is to step out on to the highway once more, to live a life that recognizes the fears but moves out with courage. Why? Because God says so and we believe! Show the world what God can do through one who was ready to quit!
Life is tough, but God is faithful.
Practical Action
Spend quality time with the Holy Spirit, unearth the root of your fears and hear what needs to be done to build your confidence and trust in Him….then act. How can you, in thought word or action achieve this goal?
Think of 2 steps you can take to be the gospel that others can read and come to believe in a faithful God.
A Moment in Prayer
Ever present God: The doubts and fears that clog our pathway make us lose our confidence and assurance that we are your beloved children. Come Holy Spirit and fill us with your peace. We want to live as beacons of love, breaking down walls and building bridges. Fill us with hope, as we rest in the certainty of your presence and goodness. Amen
Contributed by: Rev. Melrose Wiggan
