It’s hard to believe it’s been over three weeks since I last posted on Enduring Grace. I apologize for being out. During this time away, Katherine and I welcomed our fourth son into the world!
Throughout being out, I prayed through ministry, the website, and writing. I found my time from 1:00 am—3:30 am most effective for praying and seeking the Lord as I gently patted my son while trying to let Katherine catch a few moments of sleep.
One particular night, I can recall how good it was to sit in total silence. I was preparing to read some when the power went out at midnight. Kyzer was sound asleep, and Katherine drifted off only moments after Kyzer had fallen asleep. I’d been wrestling with staying up in case Kyzer woke up or if I should go to sleep. Then, without warning, silence and darkness filled the house.
As I stepped outside, the brisk wind hit my face; a cold front had moved through and chilled the evening air; looking up, I could see the majestic work of God’s hand—a painter’s splattering of stars on the canvas of heaven. Frozen in awe of God’s creation, I witnessed His majesty.
Slowing down allows us to take in the wonder and beauty of God’s magnificent work through His creation. Yes, chaos and evil abound in this world humanity broke through our rebellion. But God’s goodness and greatness are still on full display.
I was reminded of Elijah’s experience in 1 Kings 19. I’d encourage you to take the time to read Elijah’s life experience; it’s been a blessing to my soul for many years. In summary, Elijah has been on a spiritual high but retreats when his life comes under threat. Discouraged. Broken. Depressed. Elijah hides in the wilderness. From spiritual high to spiritual low, Elijah felt alone. Yet, in the stillness, God speaks to Elijah and helps him witness the greatness of God’s glory. Elijah was not alone; God had kept a remnant of people who still worshiped the Lord Almighty in Israel!
If you find yourself discouraged, you are not alone. We all go through seasons of doubts, depression, and loneliness. We cannot get ourselves out of our emotional lows. But God can lift our spirits. God can encourage us. We can trust Him to see us through all our life struggles. And, we need to remember, we are not alone. We have an army of believers ready to pray and walk through this life with us. No matter the difficulty, we can trust the Lord to be with us every step of the way.