I woke up today feeling overwhelmed. Not just for me personally, but for those I am in contact with near and far. Worldwise there was a devastating earthquake. Closer to me still is one who lost photos in a hard drive crash; one whose father is in his last days; one who lost two family members; one who is in need of legal help; one who is in need of a job; one who is traveling; one who procrastinated and is feeling the consequences; children in need of direction; a household in need of attention; finances to be figured out; and a job to be found. My former habit was just to get mad. Not mad at any one thing or person in particular, but mad at it all. I guess it seemed to help me steam through what needed to be done...but left me feeling exhausted and affected those around me.
But today is a new day...I will not give into the temptation to get angry or to despair when things all seem to be falling apart. 1Corinthians 10:13 says, "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."
A new habit gets to be formed today. A new understanding. In the midst of all the pressures of life, I still can hold onto the One who is my rock, my fortress, my deliverer. Habits are a hard thing to break. I am so thankful that I do not have to do it in my own strength. I just have to lay aside the old habit as if I am laying aside an old piece of clothing. The old habit is corrupted, it never worked. Time to go shopping for a new piece of clothing and I know just where to find it - the perfect store! And I have a gift card! The price has already been paid. All I have to do is sift through and pick out the perfect piece of clothing. The one I chose has the name of prayer. And it also has a some wonderful accessories called trust and obedience. There, put those on and my feet are ready for action! Interestingly, I already know that this new garment feels a little stiff. But as I continue to wear it and it gets washed and dried and used it will become like my favorite pair of jeans. It's the perfect fit! Thank you, God!
Unfailing Love
You have my heart
and I am yours forever
You are my strength
God of grace and power
And ev'rything You hold in Your hand
Still You make time for me
I can't understand
So I praise You God of earth and sky
How beautiful is your unfailing love unfailing love
And You never change God you remain
The Holy One and my unfailing love unfailing love
You are my rock
The One I hold on to
You are my song
And I sing for you
And ev'rything
You hold in Your hand
Still you make time for me
I can't understand
Words and Music by Chris Tomlin, Cary Pierce and Ed Cash
