Life's Storms

Joshua 1:9

"Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."  

Fifteen years ago as I found myself in cold and lonely operating room.  My husband and parents no longer with me, but in the waiting room.  Alone, scared and devastated for the reason of being there... I had had a miscarriage and was now having a D&C.

As I laid there, I could hear the voices of the anesthesiologist and others around.  They could have cared less about me.  This was their job.  I was merely a number; another case.  I remember feeling very isolated, though many were around me.

Suddenly, out of no where, I heard a voice in my head saying, "Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."  (Joshua 1:9)

It was as if Jesus were standing right beside me saying, "Tara, don't be terrified or discouraged.  I going to be with you, even as you pass into lala land from this anesthesia.  I will be there, Tara.  And don't you be discouraged.  I have a good plan for your life."   

His Words enveloped me like a warm blanket.  Suddenly, I didn't feel fear.

NOTHING substitutes from the comforting, encouraging Word of God during the trials and storms of life.

Today's post is dedicated to the people in my life - people I adore - going through major storms. Storms that NONE of us would wish on our worst enemies.  Storms that threaten to leave devastation for years to come.  Storms that came out of know where - storms you didn't see coming and then - WHAM.

If you are in a storm or in life's dark seasons,  I pray that the Scriptures below will give you some encouragement.

Now here's the deal:

1. If one of these passages resonates in your heart, write it on an index card.  Put it on your refrigerator; your mirror; carry it in your pocket.  These words can serve mightily as they are the Words of God - comforting you at just the right time.  Often, when we are feeling the worst.
2. Share a verse that carried you through life's dark storms.  Over the weekend - refer back to see encouragement from other people.

(Note:  To leave a comment:  Double click on the title of the post.  (This carries to the site).  Scroll down and leave a comment.)  

2 Chronicles 20:1-30, 
:3, "Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord...
:12, "For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us.  We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you."
:15, "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army.  For the battle is not yours, but God's.

Psalm 27

Isaiah 26:3, "You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast because he trusts in You."

Isaiah 41:10, "So do not fear, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Isaiah 43:2, "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweet over you.  When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned up; the flames will not set you ablaze."

:5, "Do not be afraid, for I am with you."

Isaiah 45:3, "I will give you treasures of darkness, riches stored in secret places so that you may know that I am the Lord, the God of Israel, Who summons you by name."

Isaiah 50:10, "Who among you fears the Lord and obeys the word of his servant?  Let him who walks in the dark, who has no light, trust in the name of the Lord and rely on his God."

Zechariah 9:12, "Return to your fortress, O prisoners of hope; even now I announce that I will restore twice as much to you."

Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."

Romans 8:31, "If God is for us, who can be against us?"

Romans 8:37, "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him Who loved us."

John 16:33, "In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart!  I have overcome the world."

2 Corinthians 9:8, "And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

Be encouraged, sweet friend.  Your God sees you and loves you.  He will never leave you nor forsake you.  (Hebrews 13:5)

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