I've had the darkness creeping in a lot of late. And not just because it's winter and we're in the shortest light season of the year.
I find it takes much work to stay happy for some reason. The pressures of life do willfully tread on my heart.
But the One who knows those same pressures from personal experience reminds me often not to let the cares and anxieties of this world choke out the words of eternal life that spring up in my heart... and I become still and quiet.
Sometimes, I see myself sitting near Him in a quiet, peaceful spot -- He holds my hand and just being with Him comforts and encourages me.
I wish you encouragement about your own lives, dear friends. And grace for every footprint you must make today and this week. Arise, shine, for your Light has come and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
With a gentle kiss atop thy heads,
Brenda
xox
Brenda
xox
Photos: (c) Brenda Leyland, 2014
Sorry to hear you have been feeling less than best, Brenda. Life can weigh us down at times, but not for long. I often ask the Lord to hold my hand, too, and fill me with His peace. Hope the same for you. Susan
ReplyDeleteWhile I do not know your heart's cares, I understand the feeling of sadness because I have had some heartaches, too. I know that The Lord is more than able to lead and guide as I yield my will to Him. I consider you one who is actively doing that daily.
ReplyDeleteSweet Brenda, praying for this season to pass quickly. He has equipped you for times such as these... He say's he never lets go of our hand... Praying for you to find your joy!!
ReplyDeleteHugs!
Those times when the weeds of darkness threaten to choke out all else...those times are hard to get through. Praying for you Brenda.
ReplyDeleteSending you rays of GOD'S golden light from Iowa!!!
ReplyDeletewww.facebook.com/hawknitr13
Times like these are hard to endure. Knowing God is alongside and indwelling is a comfort that cannot be measured. Praying for small joys to penetrate the darkness and bring light.
ReplyDeleteThinking of you, Brenda, and feeling for you and with you. I love that bible verse at the end - gives me chills!
ReplyDeleteMany thanks to each of you for being so sweet and encouraging.
ReplyDeleteI should clarify that I'm not sad or depressed. The darkness is not stuff in my own life and home.
I think it's that the world is too much with me.
The many sad things that happen in our world, the pressures I see loved ones and strangers carrying.... it weighs on my soul. I feel its pain. I feel the earth groaning.....
That's the darkness that weighs.
In my own life, I have many small joys that bring laughter and lightness to my individual days.
So I wanted to clarify.... I am well, even though I am not well (if that makes sense).
Hugs to you all,
Brenda
“In darkness God's truth shines most clear.”
ReplyDelete― Corrie ten Boom, The Hiding Place
Thinking about you yesterday, today and tomorrow, dear friend!
this is the first year I have experienced a slump after the holidays-think I've learned to limit my expectations and be thankful for what is. I also write about my feelings lots and that helps. Hang unto your faith and realize the evil one tries to discourage all of us....hugs!
ReplyDeleteOh, Brenda - I am so with you in this place. And, yes - the purpose is for SHINING! I was so encouraged by Ann Voskamp's Week 2 Wednesday devotional yesterday on running through the dark. What a story - and Word from Heaven.
ReplyDeleteBe ye blessed . . . http://www.aholyexperience.com/2014/01/how-to-get-through-the-dark-places-thejesusproject-2/
Joy!
Kathy
I find several people are writing about the same theme recently. Must be a common experience and a message I need to hear at this moment. Thanks for sharing your response to the encroaching darkness.
ReplyDeleteMaybe this blog award will also shine some light in your direction :) http://notesfrominnisfree.blogspot.ca/2014/01/super-sweet.html