Thanksgiving is over, but I hope our giving of thanks will never end! Now Christmas is coming and the year is swiftly coming to a close. Oh my! – How things have changed this year!!! Even more than usual. (If that is even possible.) Some very good changes and some very hard changes. When I think of the good changes my heart is light and full of joy. When I think of the hard changes my heart is heavy and the tears flow. But I cannot NOT think of the hard changes. They are there – they are real – and nothing will change that. But, I CAN also remember all the good that my wonderful Lord has placed in my life. It gives me strength and hope. And I know I am not alone.
Not only have I gone through a lot of changes this year, but most everyone can say the same.
Happy news from friends, family and even slight acquaintances is such a blessing and is always a cause for rejoicing! It seems to me that God gave us not only permission to enjoy the good blessings of others, but a bit of a command to do so. Yay!!!! I get to enjoy your happiness! I have the privilege to be happy simply because someone else is happy. That makes me happy! 🙂
But sadly, others I know have also had to deal with very, very hard pain. I cannot begin to imagine the pain some others are enduring. My heart turns to them often and I shed tears for them that they will never know about, and I pray and pray and pray. Along with rejoicing with others, we also have the privilege to weep with those who weep. I am so thankful for that privilege.
God did not make us solitary creatures, although we may often feel that way. Because I spend so much time alone that is how I often feel – but my feelings can be so deceptive. I have to constantly remind myself of the truth. Then I realize what an amazing God and Savior I have. If God puts others on my heart that I may rejoice with them and weep with them and pray for them, then surely He has others doing the same for me. And if not…I know that Jesus Himself lives to intercede on my behalf! (Romans 7:25) And really…what more can one ask for?!?
As we enter this Advent season I pray the Holy Spirit will fill you with the strength to take your eyes off this world and give you a heart to…
“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and curse not. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” Romans 12:10-15(NASV)
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Laura S in Texas
January 2, 2017 at 9:59 am (7 years ago)Thank you for reminding me that even though I spend many days alone & sometimes feel lonely that I’m not alone. I too am an empty nester but I’m also disabled and a widow. For all that, He knows I’m here, loves me and is always with me, even if I do forget now & then, He doesn’t and with His love I’m never alone. Praise his holy name & if tears must flow, may they be tears of joy.
Merri Gamble
January 3, 2017 at 11:02 am (7 years ago)Hey Laura! Thank you for your kind comment. Your words are such an encouragement to me. Isn’t it a blessing that no matter where we are or how we feel, He is there all around?
“You have enclosed me behind and before, and laid Your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is too high, I cannot attain to it. Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?” Ps 139:5-7 NASB
I love Psalm 139! The entire chapter is a wonderful reminder. 🙂
Laura, my prayers are with you. Again, thank you for your kind words.
“Oh magnify the LORD with me and let us exalt His name together!” Ps 34:3 ~Merri