Today I learned a new term, "Irons". It's a sailing term for a windless time of drifting. I kind of feel like that's what it's like in my life right now.I don't feel close to God.
There are tough situations either with those I love, or that those I love are going through - either way it hurts.
I'm grateful for the knowledge that even when I do not feel close to God, He is still here. Grateful that the truth is that God loves me (and everyone else) and has I plan for my life; even when I can not see it, and don't feel particularly enthused.
I'd mentioned before that my husband John had recommended a simple devotional, Silent Strength for my life, by Lloyd John Ogilvie. Repeatedly through my life I've found devotionals helpful when I'm in those dry times. It only requires a ten minute commitment on my part so I can always make myself do it. I've found that devotionals allow me to maintain the discipline of daily time in the Word, while also giving me someone else's thoughts on the Word to contemplate when I'm feeling disconnected and depleted. They kind of help jump-start my own thoughts. I appreciate this type of devotional because it has a portion of the Bible that you look up on your own and read, and then one or two verses from that portion are printed with the author's thoughts. I can say that Ogilvie's thoughts are worth reading. Yesterday Ogilvie ended with a quote from Francois de Fenelon that I'm still pondering:
"Should we feel at times disheartened and discouraged, a simple movement toward God will renew our powers. Whatever He may demand of us, He will give us at the moment the strength and courage that we need."
I'm sure counting on this truth!
What about you, what helps you when you're going through dry times?
6 comments:
I am praying for you Tracy.
May I recommend the book "I am with you" by Father John Woolley; ISBN 0-950-8840-7-3
It contains words of divine encouragement and guidance from Our Lord given to Fr John in prayer. Whenever you feel in need of God's peace just open the book at any page. It's amazing how often the passage chosen speaks to your needs there and then.
God bless.
Hi Tracy,
Sounds as though you are going through a rough patch, a time of testing.
So, you do not hear from God.
Not surprising. The teacher does not talk during a test.
Before and after, yes; but not during.
I've read a little of Fenelon's writings and they really impress me. The man was serious.
John Cowart
I can relate to this. Yes God does that at the strangest times. Or is it my imagination that that moment always seems to be my weakest?
Perhaps it is because we have to over-rely on him? Is that possible? Perhaps it's not good.
Perhaps John is right, it's a test.
But I do somehow know at the back of my mind, that He is there and it means it is my move. And then I ask myself what is that move.
He does what he does to strengthen us. And after countless situations I believe that must be so.
Praying for your well-being and peace.
BM
I stumbled across your blogs, sorry to read that you're going through this. I hope that your find answers and that you get through it. I noticed your interested in study and memorization.
I have a blog about studying and study tips: http://studyguidedirectory.blogspot.com
Victor - Thanks for the caring and praying. Also for the book recommend, I saw where there's an entire foundation and website, I am with You Foundation,based on the thoughts in that book. Sounds like worthwhile reading.
John - Seems like you always understand. Thanks
Being Me - I can't help but think of all those Bible passages that talk about how when we're weak, then He can be strong. One of my favorites is the way Peterson, in his The Message paraphrase, says Matthew 5:3: "You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and His rule."
Thanks for this post .....this one is really the truth for most Christians....sometimes I feel that way, but I forced myself to just pray and read my devotional....even if I don't feel like praising, I praise because God delights in our praise.
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