Life Can Come at You Like a Sledge Hammer

Life was going along pretty smoothly there for awhile, when suddenly and unexpectedly, alarm bells and concern poured in from several different directions practically at once. I was instantly on my default fix-it mode and my stress level was climbing. I was praying constantly, which is the best thing I can do when fixing is off the table. But it has been rough and we are still in the middle of it.

My husband took the photo from which I painted this picture, Cattle Chute, hunkering down as the rain poured over him. I asked him what the wood structure was, city girl that I am. He explained that this is how they direct the cattle to funnel them onto their path ‘to market.’ One minute they are grazing peacefully on this beautiful meadow, and the next, well, we know what’s next.
So goes life.
I need help in these rough patches. I pray these words from God’s Word will encourage you when it feels the hammer is about to fall. Above all, trust Him who loved you first.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God, and the peace of God which passes all understanding, will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus.   Philippians 4:6-7 ESV

LORD, I wait for you; you will answer, Lord my God. Ps. 38:15 NIV 

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair. 2 Cor 4: 7, 8

In the morning, LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly. Ps 5:3 NIV

Lord, we thank You for your promises and Your very Presence. Praying PSALM 46 over all who need You today in their troubled waters.