First off, let me state that yes, I believe in God and love him dearly. I try to lead a Christ-like life, but I'm far from perfect. I go to church on Sunday's and Wednesday's, but I've never been a real big participant in all things Godly. Growing up, we'd go to church, but we never did devotional time or any kind of praying really at home, so it's not something that I've instilled into my adult life. I'd love to get into it, but for some reason, I keep putting it off.
Since I lost Erik, I've had several people email me devotions. I'd read them and then save them on my computer for future reference, but yet, I still haven't taken any steps towards routinely reading my OWN devotions.
Meredith Woodruff (Miller's mama), posted her devotion from yesterday on Facebook and I'm so glad I clicked on it and read it. Thank you Meredith for enlightening me with this.
“All your words are true…” Psalm 119:160a (NIV)
I’m beyond hurt.
I’m beyond confused.
I’m beyond stressed.
I’m beyond tired…physically, emotionally and mentally.
I could go on and on. But then I would be beyond depressed.
When feeling like this, I realize I have to get my mind out of the gutter and anchor myself on God’s promises.
I have to be intentional to focus on a different set of “beyond” statements or I quickly find myself in a pit. I know this from experience. Even if the “beyond” statements above are true, there are others that are also true.
I am beyond blessed: From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another. John 1:16*
I am beyond strong: Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9
I am beyond secure: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27
I am beyond safe: Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes, with your right hand you save me. Psalm 138:7
I am beyond hopeful: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
I am beyond loved: But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. Psalm 13:5
I am beyond valued: For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16
I am beyond forgiven: Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” Luke 7:48
I am beyond found: Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, “Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.” Luke 15:4-6
I am beyond complete: So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority. Colossians 2:10 (NLT)
I can’t trust my feelings, or even circumstances, to tell me how I am. They change like the wind. Up one moment and easily shot down the next. His Word however, never changes. Its ceaseless truths go beyond emotions and whatever my day holds to anchor me to hope.
Some days, weeks or even seasons of life are discouraging and we can’t see beyond the pain, hurt and stress. Searching God’s Word for His view of our circumstances and us lifts our eyes off the problems and onto Him. He’s our ultimate source of truth and encouragement!
Dear Lord,
Thank You for recording Your Word for me to reflect on and find truth in.
Thank You for giving hope and peace beyond my feelings and circumstances.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
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