“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18 (NIV)
Many people are hurting and depressed. I have many medical issues that make me feel anxious and depressed. Living in a new place, without the beauty of the U.P., has been hard. I miss seeing the ships and freighters, I miss walking in nature and on the beach, I miss the weather and cooler temps, and I miss my friends and church. It has been physically and emotionally challenging. I’ve been so busy running back and forth to specialists, having tests done, and undergoing surgeries that I have felt overwhelmed and exhausted.
The other day, I went to the kitchen to get a bottle of water, and when I opened it, it went down the front of my shirt. I started to cry. I felt like I couldn’t do anything right. It was the last straw to an already depressing day. When I walked into the bathroom to get a towel, I looked in the mirror, and on my shirt was the biggest heart I have ever seen. In between the tears, I started laughing. I knew then I wasn’t forgotten. The Lord was with me, walking hand in hand through my struggles. He had turned that water stain into a visible heart, reminding me that I am loved and not forgotten or alone. “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.” – Jeremiah 29:11-13 (ESV)
I know many of you are discouraged and overwhelmed. Whether it’s from medical issues, financial problems, addictions, or whatever burden you are carrying, you aren’t alone. Don’t despair and don’t give up. You are loved. “Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.” – Psalm 55:22 (ESV)
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, giving me the gift of a heart on my water-stained shirt that day brought me encouragement and hope. It was a badly needed reminder that I wasn’t alone in my struggles. Lord, help us to remember that You are a loving, compassionate God, and You want us to come to You in our time of need. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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Thank you for sharing. Your water spill may have happened by accident, but a wonderful reminder that you are loved by God!
Dear L Wolfe
Thank you for commenting. It’s easy to get bogged down these days, but it’s great to be reminded of He that loves us.