Ever have one of those days where you have feel…OK God, I’ve had enough for today!?
I’ve had a few of those lately. In fact I had several just last week consisting of some sadness, some difficult (physically) days of caregiving, troubles “at work,” our condo flooded from the unit above and has to be gutted, friends are experiencing some really difficult situations, the car broke down with the needed part back ordered for a month, and I got lost on the way to Wyndham’s doctor’s appointment and then got pulled over for going through a yellow light. However these things are not worth comparing to the difficulties of those experiencing devastation from recent natural disasters…which then brings me guilt for feeling discouraged about the above mentioned “difficulties.”
Whenever I feel I’ve had enough for today God reminds me, “I’ll give you enough for today.” Enough grace, enough encouragement, enough joy, enough love, enough of anything and everything you truly need.
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. (2 Peter 1:3)
When Jesus was facing his most difficult time he encouraged his disciples with these words.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
Jesus told us that in this world we will have trouble… that’s a promise, and it’s certainly true. If I’m living for this world I’m cooked. However, he continues…but I have overcome the world. Now that’s good news!
Because he has overcome the world, he can lead me through good times and hard times. His perspective is eternal and unlimited. He gives me everything I need, and helps me “take heart.”
I am reminded of a familiar Psalm.
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever. (Psalm 23)
Too often I have pictured this Psalm like this—A chubby, fluffy lamb lies peacefully on a lush, green, flowering field beside sparkling steams. These streams curve amidst rolling hills while a gentle breeze brushes wispy clouds through brilliant colors of the setting sun. Aaaaahhhh.
Whose life is like this?
A few weeks ago I watched a video that stuck with me and has helped me numerous times. It moved me, and reminded me that I must stay close to the Lord to truly have enough for each day, to find rest in the green pastures, and to have my soul restored. I’ll never read this Psalm the same way.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2x8MwiTs0hM
God wants me to feel dependence on Him, one day at a time because he alone can give me what I need. He gives me enough for the day, each day. Just like the manna God sent to the Israelites—which was just enough for the day
He knows that each day has enough worries of its own (Mt. 6:33) and he will take care of me one day at a time.
So, I will stay close to him as he leads me to and through the green pastures where I will be given enough for today.
You have been on my mind and in my heart so often. I pray for you and Wyndham continually.
Your day is “too familiar”. Your guilty feelings over others’ suffering is too. Thank you for the spiritual perspective on these “light and momentary” days.
I love you! Marcia
Sent from my iPhone
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First: I’m so sorry you had such a difficult week. You amaze me with the way you fight to find grace and joy through so many difficulties big and small.
Second: Wow, that video. Loved it!
Praying for you and Wyndham always—
Elizabeth
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Jeannie – thank you for reminding that I can only live one day at a time so I should only try to tackle one day at a time. I am famous for thinking of all the reasons I should fear the future. When that happens, I feel like I’m drowning or suffocating. Great Scripture references and I love your vulnerability and personal insights. With love, Terri
This is not what we have been praying you both! But I can see the words oh God sparking to life for you and those of us who love you.
Thanks, Kitty
Jeanie, great thoughts, and thanks for sharing the video. “Give me today, my daily bread.” (grass, strength, etc.) Just enough.
On Sat, Sep 30, 2017 at 5:37 AM, My Morning Cup – Refilled… wrote:
> jeanieshaw posted: “Ever have one of those days where you have feel…OK > God, I’ve had enough for today!? I’ve had a few of those lately. In fact I > had several just last week consisting of some sadness, some difficult > (physically) days of caregiving, troubles “at work,” our” >
Thank you, Jeanie, for continuing to share your heart and your wisdom even as you go through such difficulties. I love you and admire you so much. You and Wyndham are in my daily prayers. And thanks for sharing that video! What a different perspective that gives me on such a familiar passage. I love the part when he defines “worry.” Whoa!
I would be very willing to come and be of help to you! I have known you through Martha and the Bergerons as well as social media. I’m a Retired RN, years before that CNA. I’m a mom and a grandmother. I’ve admired both of you from afar. I come from Crossroads 1975. I live in Brevard, NC.
I am available if you could use my help!
Love, June Varas, RN (Ret)
Awesome Jeanie!! Thank you for sharing. I did used to think if I followed God my life would be good and it IS good but not the way I thought. It’s just not easy. Love the “green pastures” lesson!!
Thank You for sharing this…really needed this right now!❤️
Thank you soooo much Jeanie ♡♡♡♡ with health and financial troubles we’ve had the last few years, having this mentality of one day at a time with God has been something I constantly need reminding of ♡♡♡ Needed it today ♡♡♡ Praying we can be at peace no matter what comes our way ♡♡♡ Hugs to u from Tucson, AZ