Rest by Julie Short

Do we even know what “to rest” means anymore?

Always Thinking

Re-thinking

I should have………

Pre-thinking

What if?

And "why's" sprinkled through Like chocolate chips melting and solidifying our despair.  If I had only been better, things would have turned out differently.

We might as well take a seat grab a glass of cold milk and eat the cookie.

Then with God’s wonderful mercy and grace, blowing like a fresh spring breeze, we can rest in His words, His Promises.

Matthew 11:28

Comfort by Theresa Zuber

We all face fears which can vary from phobia's that cripple our ability to enjoy life to just everyday worries that occupy too much of our valuable time. Regardless of the severity, scripture assures us that we need not fear because “the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4b) So.. “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” (Phil 4:13) Therefore..”Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy on me, for in you my soul takes refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed.” (Psalm 57:1)

Take comfort in this passage from Isaiah 41:10-13. “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. All who rage against you will surely be ashamed and disgraced; those who oppose you will be as nothing and perish. Though you search for your enemies, you will not find them. Those who wage war against you will be as nothing at all. For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.”

All powerful God, help me to rest in the shadow of your wings, to trust you have my life in your control and to turn to you when I am afraid. Who better to chase the monsters from my thoughts?

Scars by Theresa Zuber

My Savior healed a man’s shriveled hand (Matt 12:10-13), yet still chose to keep the scars in his own. Was it so Thomas could believe? Did Jesus know the nail prints in his hands would be such a moving reminder of the sacrifice he made? I wonder if his heavenly hands still bear the marks.

My life is sometimes jagged, painful & ugly. I’d like God to take away all evidence of these gaping wounds. But he knows that life’s trials are what shape my character and build my spiritual muscles. He wants me to look at these “scars” as beauty marks; reminders of the mercy, grace, faithfulness & love that he provides to carry me through.

Point of Grace has a song called, “Heal the Wound.” The chorus has this beautiful message: “Heal the wound but leave the scar; a reminder of how merciful you are. I am broken, torn apart. Take the pieces of this heart, heal the wound but leave the scar.”

Lord, I am so thankful for your mercy and grace. Help me to look upon painful times in my life and see only a beauty mark that reminds me of your love, healing power and your ability to make all things work for the good of those who love you. (Romans 8:28)