Yesterday found me struggling. Missing my parents and our Christmas Eve traditions. I was experiencing a deep exhaustion, depression, and a pressure of deeper darkness than I have had for a while.
I struggled to hang in there and just breathe. I curled up under the blankets after having cleaned a friends driveway, trying to warm up and trying to regain my composure. Trying to prepare for celebrating with Dave's family.
I called a friend and we talked on the phone for a little bit and she shared with me and asked some questions, and then told me she was going to lift me up in prayer.
I grabbed my heating pad, bible and journal and curled back up under the covers, still trying to get warm. I spent some time in prayer and slowly relaxed as I warmed up. I spent some time in tears as I tried to pray. Finally I was able to settle my heart, and read through a Psalm. Then I set my alarm and succumbed to what I really had wanted to do in the first place.
I curled up, under the covers, pulled them over my head and was finally able to sleep for just a little bit.
I got ready, Dave picked me up and we headed to the farm to spend time with his family. I was able to relax and converse and just have a good time catching up with his relatives.
I wasn't able to spend any time in the Word last night, but this morning I woke up and didn't have to rush too much, as the kids were at the farm and had their stockings to keep them occupied for a little bit.
Before I even stepped foot out of bed, I had the chance to pray, read through parts of Luke 1 and 2, journal, just rest in His presence.
God rested me, held me, comforted my heart.
He renewed me.
I am still tired, and struggling some with my mood, and the sense of depression, but the deep exhaustion has lifted some, the darkness has brightened, just like a candle flame brightens a dark room.....
.... and I am reminded.
You, O Lord keep my lamp burning, my God turns my darkness to light. (Psalm 18:28)
God is good my friends. Sing praises to Him today. He is the lifter of my head. May you experience His love, joy and peace this day and every day.
2 comments:
Dear Heather,
I have fallen out of touch and for this I apologize. I think of you often and pray for you. I'm sorry you are struggling this holiday...it is a difficult time for me too. It is as you say, though. It seems that it is during these times of grief and sorrow that I feel God closest.
Love to you, sweet friend.
Linked here from Cindy's.
Your post reads like a Psalm. Starts out with a recognition of the pain in our lives, then ends with praise. Your memory work in the Psalms is evident.
Sorry about the sense of absence during this time of year. Glad you have a connection with the one who can offer comfort.
Post a Comment