“Stop striving and recognize that I Am God! I will be exalted over the nations, I will be exalted over the earth.” Psalm 46:10 NET

Being Loved

 Sometimes I forget just how incredible the enormous love of our God is. I get distracted and/or restless and I try to solve issues myself. Even though I pray, I don’t stop and allow my precious Lord to lift the burden and simply rest in His goodness. I may think I’m there, but something is not right. I need to stop striving, be still and know, by faith, that He is God. He loves me. He has this.

Last week our water heater went out. My husband was working out of town and would be for another ten days. My mind took off with all kinds of worry about cost and cold showers. But, by my husband’s instruction, I called around and got estimates for replacement. I made an appointment for the soonest time, which was five days out, but after all it is summertime and a cold shower is not too bad (yikes!). I made it through, with God’s grace, a couple of (freezing) showers. God had given me a “can do” attitude and His peace. Then to my great surprise, my husband was able to change his work schedule, come home and replace it himself. This saved us money and was done several days sooner than the plumber’s appointment. What a sweet surprise, and I know the Lord had made it possible.

When I stopped the striving and simply gave over the heaviness and inconvenience, He was there to meet the circumstances. He had spoken to my heart and directed my rest with His overwhelming peace.

His Word is the hand of strength that will continue to grasp our souls. With prayer, the Holy Spirit opens our understanding to exactly what we need to hear when we read the Bible slowly and pay attention to His guidance. He dissolves all unwillingness, apprehension, and fear in much worse situations than a non-functioning water heater.

Then when we turn our attention to exalt and honor Him, realizing His greatness, His power, and our insignificance, we are teachable and our hearts become consumed with worship. He truly loves us and shatters all misconceptions that may have been there prior. As this Psalm says: “I will be exalted over the nations….” He is in control—and one day the whole earth will recognize this.

But for now, I need to stop striving and be consumed with His goodness and grace allowing the Holy Spirit to bring truth and extinguish the fiery darts of the enemy whenever faced with tribulations or inconveniences.

Oh Lord, may we abide in that sweet place of Your rescue and our dependence, knowing You are God and You always have every detail in our lives under control. You are our peace and guidance. We exalt and honor You above all.