Thank you - thank you for your prayers over me as I spoke at Clinton Presbyterian church yesterday. It was an amazing morning of worship and God filled me with His words and peace. I continue to praise Him for His faithfulness!

My friend Tammy, had a sweet friend and mentor, Jean. Although their ages were quite far apart, they loved spending time together. As the years brought Jean into the nursing home with medical issues, Tammy continued to be a faithful friend and visit her every day. She told me of the encouragement, teaching and love she received from her mentor. One thing that stood out to Tammy was that Jean continued to praise God even through very difficult and trying times. Jean missed her family that wasn’t able to visit often and yet she would lift up her hands to God and exclaim “and yet I will praise Thee”. When she lost her sight and could only be reminded of the Word of God with her ears, she lifted up her hands to God and exclaimed “and yet I will praise Thee” as a cassette player became her new Bible. In the hospital, when Tammy sat by her bed during kidney dialysis and she would become ill and vomit, before raising her head from the bucket, the words slipped from her lips once again, “and yet will I praise Thee”. As I stood with Tammy and watched Jean slip into the hands of God, we knew that she had been preparing herself for the worship she would be involved in for all eternity and we whispered, and yet will we praise thee.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

This is a command. God’s will is that we gratefully acknowledge His hand in all circumstances, not for all circumstances. Circumstances change; God does not. Continuous prayer causes us to be open to God in all situations and we have the opportunity to talk to God about all situations. Do not be afraid to pour your heart out to Him. He is always listening and wants to hear and connect with you.

Have a great day!

Living fearlessly in Christ
Christie