I want to be real with you. I've had a pretty beautiful and amazing life. I am blessed. So blessed. From the outside, you may think I've got it all together. But the reality is these past few years have not been easy. So much transition and change happening that I just wasn't prepared emotionally or mentally for. The kids are growing up and leaving the nest, health scares, job loss, fear, anxiety and ultimately - joy lost.
My heart just feels heavy and I seem to wear my emotions on my sleeve these days. The thing is, I know the truth. I know that this life is not meant to be easy or without hurt and pain. I've had seasons in my life where I felt so close to God and His calling for me. However, I wonder if I compare my closeness to God with my circumstances. It is easier to be happy when life is going well, right? It's easy to thank God for things when you have all that you want and need. But what happens when you are hurting or confused or something unexpected occurs? How do you and I keep trusting God and believing that He will get us through the storm? How do I find joy through the storm?
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“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
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This bible verse is what is helping me get through the storm. Everything in me wants to be anxious and afraid, but God's words tell me to pray and petition with thanksgiving. I have been carrying the load and God is telling me to release it to Him. Let God be the Prince of Peace and the captain of my life, not me or others. To the outside world, this may sound crazy. But what I am learning is that real joy comes only as we love the Lord with all our heart, soul, and mind. He is the reason we keep moving forward. He is the reason we don’t lose heart and abandon ship. Serving God, afterall, is being faithful when your flesh wants to run the other way. He is the ONLY reason we can have genuine joy even in the midst of the storm.