The year didn’t begin as expected.
I hoped to grab a quick breakfast on the road so we could arrive at our family vacation spot earlier than expected, but Brian insisted we take advantage of the free breakfast at our hotel. (Brian also insists I missed my calling as an industrial engineer because I naturally gravitate to saving time. *wink*)
We took the stairs instead of the elevator on our way back to the room. (Trust me when I say you don’t want to join me in a confined space.) In a blink of an eye, the rubber tip of my shoe kissed the edge of the stair step, and down she went. It wasn’t pretty. In fact, it was downright painful from the get-go, but we enjoyed our vacation only to find out later I’d broken the shoulder socket.
One doctor appointment after another quickly ensued, leaving me exhausted physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Every week required a different appointment, a follow-up call, or a notification that a new bill had landed in MyChart. I needed restorative time with God but struggled to create it.
One night, however, while taking Henry the Doodle for a walk outside, it felt like the sky was magnetic. I couldn’t help but look up. And when I did, God used the glorious backlit heavens to remind me of His vast love, faithfulness, and purpose in every detail sifted through His hands for my good and His ultimate glory.
Threads of God’s restorative power began weaving its healing power through a weary soul that night.
“I lift up my eyes to the hills. Where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” Psalm 121:1-2
Jesus created restorative time with God, and we can too.
When people or circumstances look for us at every corner of our day, we can look up and find help in Christ. In my featured article on the Dawn app this week, I share how Jesus exemplifies this beautiful connection after experiencing an onslaught of expectations from those around Him. Hop over and join me there. It’s a short read, but one I pray will stick with you on those days when everything feels like it’s falling apart.
When was the last time you felt sought after by either circumstances or people and how did God help you?
Oh Cathy I’m so sorry to have read this . I first all know that type of pain very well as I’m enduring the same pain . Like you God has been there for me larry played some gospel music on the Bluetooth thing and I felt the presence of God with tell me that I’m going to be ok . And that has helped me through this ordeal I’m going through . Prayers for you my dear precious friend . Love ya
Thanks so much, Amanda! Listening to praise music helps me get through a lot of things. What a blessing. I appreciate you stopping by!
Oh my, Cathy. So sorry to hear about your fall. But the sweet reminders of God’s presence are precious…yes, I need this too.
Hi, Jeanne! They are precious indeed. 🙂 Thanks so much for taking the time to share. Blessings, friend.
Oh, Ms. Cathy. My heart breaks thinking I missed hearing anything about your injury. I sure would have been praying harder for your healing and peace ma’am. Shoulder injuries are NOT FUN! Praying a complete recovery ma’am. Thank you so much for this encouraging message my friend. God is always right there awaiting us, isn’t He? That’s what I love about living here, I can find Him everywhere I look. No noise, just peace, quiet, and lots of opportunity to seek Him. See you soon ma’am.
Thank you, J.D. I’m sorry I didn’t share that sooner but I would appreciate prayers on June 15th when I have surgery. Thankfully, it will be done through a scope so the recoup time should be much less. You know I can’t stop writing just because of surgery. 🙂 🙂 Look forward to seeing you next week at BR! Give Diane a big hug for me.
I’m so sorry that you had this experience. However, I am sure that God is using the time to speak to you in an unexpected way.
Thank you, Erin. Yes, He has. As you know, new situations, especially difficult ones, often bring new insights and growth in our faith. I appreciate you taking the time to share. 🙂
Somehow I missed hearing you’d fallen – I am so very sorry, my friend. I’ve been feeling so empty – this post resonated with me. I’ve been asking Him for restorative time alone with Him. It’s as though my life has taken steroids or something. I miss those early hours with Him – just Him.
I’m so sorry to hear you’re struggling, Joy. Lifting you up in prayer — for His Spirit to fill in all the gaps that leave you feeling empty. (((hugs)))
Oh, Cathy, I’m so sorry to hear about your fall and injury. I’ll be praying for you as you navigate the surgery and recovery. I love the thought of how “Jesus created restorative with God and we can too.”
Thanks so much, Karen! I hope you’re planning to be at Blue Ridge. I’d love to see you. 🙂
Whew, girl. I’m praying for complete healing and freedom from nagging pain…soon! I so enjoyed your article on the Dawn App. I can’t help but picture the puzzled expressions of my ‘seekers’ should I choose to cover my head with an apron (lol). There is truly something to the action of getting up and going to a place to be alone with our Father. For me, it’s feels like a triumph when I do so, and I’m grateful for every moment with Him.
Ha!! I couldn’t help but giggle when I read about the apron. She was definitely creative! I’m delighted you enjoyed the article on Dawn. Thanks so much for stopping by!
Ouch! This sounds so painful! I’m sorry!!!
Hi Angie! Thank you, but it’s not too bad. 🙂 It could’ve been much worse so I’m very thankful. I appreciate you taking the time to stop by and share. Blessings, friend!
“He MAKES me lie down in green pastures. He restores my soul.” Years ago, another friend described illness and injury in this way to me. I do believe illness is one of the significant ways the Lord gets my attention and makes me be still to hear his voice and have my soul restored. I am so sorry you were injured, Cathy! May the Lord use this time to heal anything that needs healing internally too. Love you, my friend!
Thank you, sweet friend. You are a source of inspiration to me and so many others. (((hugs)))