Tuesday, July 14, 2015

God, a Refuge and Stronghold

A Sallman portrait of Christ.


“The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed,
a stronghold in times of trouble.” 
Psalm 9:9 (NIV)

               Several years ago, I went through a time of prolonged depression. At my husband’s suggestion, I took a 30-day personal leave from my job. While I wasn’t as knowledgeable about God’s Word, I did rely on Him to help me through.

               On the heels of that time, my husband had to be hospitalized due to something that could have been life-threatening. One year later, he had to be admitted for a lengthy stay. When he returned home, certain issues were touch and go. God and praying people helped me through some very tough times.

               During this time, I felt led to change churches. There I found Jesus real and learned He walked with me through the difficult times. My husband found the LORD just over a year later. We hold in high esteem those people we met and prayed with almost 30 years ago.


               Jesus is still with me, especially during the trying times of life. For that, I am thankful. A list of the events where Jesus guided me would prove exhaustive. Almost every day, He reminds me of His protective presence over me.

               While all these issues belong to my past, I am humbled that God was there for me and has allowed me to grow in Him and also use me to minister to others.

6 comments:

  1. I appreciate this reminder. He is indeed a stronghold in the day of trouble, the very best kind of help!

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    1. Thank you for stopping by. Our VBS started tonight. I more or less headed up registration for the school. I't's been a busy few days getting things finalized.

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  2. Oh, how happy I am that Jesus got you through that time, and your husband found Him! Now you are helping others--myself included--through our rough waters!

    Thank you for being my friend,
    Jen

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    1. Thank you, Jeanette. We have to 'choose life' in order to gain ground in and rise above our traumatic seasons. Praying for you and yours.

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  3. It takes difficult circumstances for us to sometimes see what God is doing in our lives. What a blessing your husband found the Lord then!

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    1. Thank you ,Terri for stopping by. His health has deteriorated in the intervening years but I feel blessed to still have him around to share life.

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