Finding peace

In the Bible, "Let there be light" were the very first words God spoke, and Moses recorded them. And there was light, and it was good. And it is still good today. Along with the rainbow, the light from the sun, moon, and stars is a silent witness to God's love and power.

I love hiking into the woods. I usually search for a quiet spot deep in the forest, with a stream or river nearby. The deep carpet of pine needles and decayed logs silences my footsteps. A canopy of trees above, with streams of light reaching the floor. A moss-covered log beckons me to sit near the stream, beneath the trees, and breathe. Silence, only interrupted by the call of birds or the wind gently rustling through the trees. The water nearby rolls over rocks as it makes its way somewhere. Does the water know where it is heading? Does it know what lies ahead?

My musings cause me to smile. Water cannot think or feel; only our heart can. As I watch the creek pass by me on its way to somewhere, I think of my own life. Where am I going? What lies ahead?

Back home in the city, I am surrounded by a cacophony of sounds. Cars and buses hurry to a myriad of places, always rushing. Planes boom overhead, drowning out the call of the birds. Voices can be heard. Some are happy, filled with laughter. Others are filled with anger or fear. My favorite sounds are children laughing, dogs barking, and baby giggles. The sound of my husband telling me he loves me. Voices in church raised in praise hymns.

The forest is my getaway. I come here to dissect my life and let go of the troubles and fears. Here, I meet with my Father and pour out my heart. And once I am empty, he fills me with peace, joy, and hope. But the forest is not my only sanctuary. Sometimes, I find it in my room, my car, or out in a public park. For He is there too. Wherever I go, whatever is happening - my Father is with me.

I pray for you, my friend. Life is full of frustrations, heartache, and noise. Do not let it trouble you. Give your fears, doubts, and shame to the one who loves you and is always listening for your call. He never disappoints. Yes, you may have to wait sometimes. Yes, He may provide an answer you didn't want. But the one truth remains. He loves you, and He knows what is best for you, and when the perfect time is for him to bless you. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding*, your feelings, or your circumstances. You can't see everything, but he can. You don't understand all the consequences or the cost of the things you think will fix your life. Only God knows, and he loves you.

Lean on HIM. He will work things out, and in the process, you will become a better you.

Bless you, my friends,

I hope you find peace today.

Deb

*Proverbs 3:5-6