Thoughts Collected

 'Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.'

~Hebrews 10:23~

It has been a long, silent summer. 

Not because I haven't had anything to say, or stories to tell. I haven't stopped writing, as I am likely to stop breathing before that happens. I have just been too busy clinging.

Clinging to the hope that I have professed since kindergarten and carrying the tune of 'Jesus Loves Me' home from Sunday School. Hope that has stemmed from learning and discovering that God IS good.... (Mark 10:18, Luke 18:19)

...that His will is perfect... (Romans 12:2)

...that He never leaves or forsakes... (Deut. 31:6 & 8; Joshua 1:5)

Sooooooo many of the Bible passages' fulfill God's aim to comfort and assure us. Comfort for the weak moments and assurance of the strength He will provide when we need it. Now, try stating such truth day after day as the media blitzes you with one more tragic story of man's sinful desires winning over.

I can attest, IT IS HARD. You pray that your hope stays alive in Christ, then you grit your teeth as you recite the verses that have always backed up your belief in the past.

Then somedays you don't even try to convince yourself. You just ask 'why?'

Yet, in the midst of my desperate clinging, I realize... my grip has become stronger. My convictions have grown deeper. My prayers are becoming slower and more earnest. I am rereading the books of my Bible, giving the words that extra moment to sink in.

Even amongst all the stifling anger, hate, and sickness going around, I find that I am growing. That this year is not wasted time, nor has God's love and care been diminished through any it. So while I may flex my fingers and adjust my grip, I'll continue to cling.

When the waves are taking you under

Hold on just a little bit longer

He knows that this is gonna make you stronger, stronger

~'Stronger' by Mandisa~