Immanuel Now

“I rise before dawn and cry for help; I put my hope in your words.”  Psalm 119:147

Are you a morning person?  I’m not.  I’m more of a night owl than a morning person; however, even that is waning as I age.  But as far as mornings go, few things make me rise before dawn. On the occasions that I am up before the sun, unfortunately, it’s usually because of stress, anxiety and worry.  Those mornings my mind immediately starts racing as I ponder the day. I often find my thoughts focused on the struggles of the day, of the week, of my life and the lives of others.

When I read this verse (and the context in Psalm 119), I realize I can once again relate to an author of the Bible.  He cries out to the Lord for help.  His desire is to be faithful to God, to trust in the Word of the Lord.

It is a good thing when God leads a sinner’s heart off himself and back on to the goodness of the Lord.  Yes, it’s a good thing when God intervenes with my thoughts.  In those early mornings of anxiety, when God works on my heart to find peace amidst frustration and contentment amidst anxiety, I find that my day becomes much more joyful and fun.  Not that I don’t care about my work or that I’m shirking my family responsibilities, no; but that I can work and live knowing the bigger of picture of life here on earth and the life that is to come.

Immanuel – God with us . . . early in the morning, late in the evening, for this year and forever.  In Christ, it’s all good!

PRAYER:  Dearest Jesus, I need You.  During the day and during the night.  Darkness may seem to surround me at times.  Anxiety and stress may fill my mind.  But come into my life to dispel the darkness as I know is Your specialty.  Lead me in Your ways and teach me to trust in Your word . . . for forgiveness and hope and joy and peace . . .”  Amen.

Photo was taken in Kerrville where Maggie is walking along the Guadalupe River amongst a few cypress trees.