Five to six months elicits different feelings based on what the months reflect. For one given a jail sentence – it feels like an eternity; for separated lovers longing to be together – the short months are agonizingly long; for the family receiving an Oncologist report of life expectancy – it’s all too short.
The latter is where my family is. I had not planned to write as the pressure to meet deadlines and having one more thing to do was overwhelming. I was encouraged by the Lord and a message from a reader I’ll call Mr. J, stating “The…message spoke to me right where I am in life… I have some decisions and moves to make and is often the case with your messages, they remind me of His precious promises for all of us! Thank you for the reminder that God is with me (Mt 28:20; Jos 1:8,9), for encouraging me to step out in faith, that no matter the outcome, He is on my side, and loves me more than I can ever know on this side of glory!”.
I praise and give God glory for how he touches people by the articles everyone writes; I’m certain it’s all our prayers that the Lord uses them to minister and encourage others. Late one night I felt the Lord encouraging me to write, not be silent, during the travels into unknown territory. In upcoming articles the intent isn’t to elicit sympathy or bring sorrow, rather to give hope and encouragement when facing troubling times. I’d like to be real and not try to appear super-spiritual, for I certainly have my moments.
For perspective let’s step back in time; my husband was first diagnosed with prostate cancer and treatments seemed a breeze, which was without doubt answered prayer. At the end of treatment we were told it would give him five years; the Lord blessed us with 17 years before once again hearing the words “cancer”, this time it was aggressive and too advanced for surgery and few medical options available. Treatment began early 2018, unlike 17 years earlier the cancer was not stopped; my husband made the decision to stop treatment. He knows the Lord and like all of us looks forward to being with. There are no answers to some questions and sometimes I’m uncertain how to pray; the pause button has been hit, plans on the calendar erased, and priorities changed.
I have my moments but try not to dwell there. I do not know what the future holds but I know the One who holds my future. I know the goodness of my God and His promises; he has a perfect track record. Thank you Mr. J for the encouraging reminder that “God is with me”, “He is on my side, and loves me more than I can ever know”.
Next month… What to Do.
“…lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20
Your life does matter, you have value you don’t even realize, there is much in you waiting to be revealed. You are a gift to those who know you and the ripple effect touches others you will never know. Live life to the fullest, not in excesses, but in the abundance that comes from a life lived connected to Me.
It’s going to be okay, I will be your strength, lean on Me anytime you need encouragement; in fact – let me carry the burden for you. During the uncertain times of life you can be certain I am with you, you are not walking alone. I know the way through, you will be alright.
Sometimes life seems pleasant with green rolling hills, where there is an ease of flow up and over them; other times there are jagged mountain peaks and valleys deep below; yet, there is beauty and joy in each if you look around to see it. I am in each circumstance for I will not leave you even though you may not feel me near; hold onto faith in My promises and I will see you through.
Draw to Me and I will draw to you. I am not a god made of wood and stone who does not hear or speak. I am the living God who hears your heart cry, whispers in the night, the tears you shed, and the laughter that escapes your lips; I know all things and the way that is best for you to go. As you seek Me I will be found for there is no place you go where I am not. I take delight when you come to talk with me in the middle of the night or at noon day, when you set aside the time to spend it with me. I know the questions and answers you seek, I’m glad you bring them to me and not look for the answers elsewhere, for I alone know all things, know all truth, and the deeper things you seek. When I seem silent do not despair or give up, continue your pursuit of Me – to know and understand my ways, you will find the answers and the richness of a relationship with me.
As the Camp Fire in neighboring Butte County ravage everything in its sight leaving a path of destruction and countless individuals fleeing for their lives, a Friend couldn’t sit by as evacuees drove past our church. He wanted to fix them breakfast and headed to the church with a griddle and pancake mix in hand; another friend and I signed on bringing the oatmeal. We changed the marque to invite evacuees to breakfast; giving them a chance to catch their breath, receive comfort and prayer before pushing on; that was the beginning of an adventure in operating an evacuation shelter. 
I love you, always have – always will. I know I said it before and it is still true; receive it as truth, not just as a head knowledge but as a heart one. That this truth be an inseparable part of you being, that no matter what life throws at you My love for you is never in question. When the enemy whispers a doubt you will with all boldness and confidence declare “this one thing I know is true – God loves me, always has – always will. Satan take your lies and get away from me”
Ever have those days or even seasons when life is tough, when you’re not certain you can go on or take another step; when hope begins to fade and in the dark with eyes cast heavenward, you cry out “I can’t do it alone!”
I know you are not where you want to be, you strive for righteousness and to walk in the fruit of the Spirit; yet trying times show that you miss the mark, the high bar you strive for. I admire your aim and encourage you to keep pressing towards it. I don’t condemn your failures; I know right where you are at and love you right there. I’m also your supporter as you dust yourself off and continue pressing forward letting Holy Spirit do a work in you, transforming you more and more into My likeness.
Because you live, my Lord, I can face tomorrow, all fear is gone, joy is mine, life is worth living, my future is bright, in today I take delight; all because of You.
Beyond the Silver Coin 