So get out there and live. Yesterday, I went to the barn and got back on my horse for the first time in 6 months. Why so long since I’ve ridden? Amid other health struggles, I broke my left leg, ankle, and foot in many places, then injured the MCL in my knee from a fall down 6 steps. In the pain, the disappointment, the setback of life as I knew it, God was with me, but so many days I was too sad or distracted to care. He still did not leave me. He gave me grace and time. So, as I stepped into the stirrup and swung my leg over the saddle, I had mixed emotions. It had been too long. And, there was fear. I teared up as I realized that it felt like I had waited a lifetime to return to the saddle. My horse walked off into the sun. I closed my eyes and began to just breathe in the smell of leather and horse. It was glorious. I thanked God for not giving up on me when I ranted and raved about the unfairness of my struggles. I felt the fear dissipate. Bravery seeped into the depth of my soul. I smiled. Peace filled me up. It became a worship experience.
We are not promised an easy life. However, God does promise that when we struggle, He will provide, protect, give rest, give time, give life forevermore, and peace in the midst of our chaos and suffering. His Word strengthens our life, so fear does not overtake us. Our prayers strengthen our relationship with Jesus so we can keep going, get stronger, and be more confident. We are in this together; me and Divine.
If I do not believe Holy is right there in the middle of my darkest hours, deepest fears, my hardest struggles, the sharpest pains, or when my heart and physical body are broken, then I’ve allowed fear to override His promises, and Satan wins the battle. The enemy did not win today.
How are you choosing to live?
The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Deuteronomy 31:8
God holds us up, suspended in time, until we are ready to hear Him. Our anger slowly ceases. Fear slinks away. When we turn back towards His promises, He then can begin anew within us. He waits patiently. He understands.
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10