Isn't it interesting that it is in the toughest times of life that our faith is strengthened and character is built. There have been so many lessons learned through painful and difficult seasons of our lives, and we know that if it had not been for the grace of God, we would not have made it. One particular moment comes to mind, a while back when my husband and I just began our journey together. We were in the middle of central Africa working for God's Kingdom sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ, loving people and living life so full of love and joy as happily married newlyweds. After driving for many miles on the pot-holed and distressed roads of Africa, we happened upon a quaint and cozy place to stop and refresh with a short walk to a small lake. Hand in hand we walked down the dusty lane to see this beautiful, quiet water in what seemed like an unusual place. Arriving at the waters edge, we decided to just sit and bask in the solitude and beauty of our surroundings. Somehow, oddly enough, we were abruptly just ready to go. It wasn't typical of us to be in such a rush, and there was certainly no reason at all for us to leave this relaxing place so quickly. As we stood up and started to walk back to our vehicle, we were met with the sounds of several youngsters feet running towards us as they were loudly conversing with one another, in somewhat of a panic to get a message to us fast! When we were able to interpret what they had come so urgently to explain to us, we realized that we had left the lake area in just enough time to not find out what their stories were to reveal! That particular quiet and solitary place we had chosen to find temporary rest at, happened to also be the location that several people had been recently eaten up by one or more crocodile! To say that our hair stood up and our eyes popped wide, would be an understatement. But by the look on their faces and the tones in their young voices, we knew what they were saying to be true. Thank God we made it out of that area alive!
Psalm 23 is a reminder that God is our shepherd and we are His sheep. He has promised to keep us and protect us from all evil, and we know throughout the challenges and danger we have faced from time to time, that He is our Comforter. Not only does He prepare a table before us in the presence of our enemies, but He also makes "our cup" run over, because of His great mercies and love for us in giving us the Holy Spirit as a daily source of strength. His Presence refreshes us, just as a beautiful waterfall flows down, so does heaven fall on us because of God's Great Love for you and I, His people. We belong to Him, and nothing can ever separate us from His unending, unfailing Love. Be Encouraged and remember that goodness and mercy will follow you all the days of your life, and you shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever and ever. Listen to the song by Tauren Wells; He is the God of the Hills and Valleys, and I am not alone! Amen.
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