Leaning on the Lord
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ~ MATTHEW 11:28 (NIV)
After the holiday season, there are some days when I feel so tired. The days are dark and dreary with impending winter storms in the forecast. I find myself becoming sad, depressed, and moody. In my office I sit next to the window every day and wonder, “Will the sun ever shine? Is it spring yet?” Perhaps I suffer from SAD* (Seasonal Affective Disorder). That’s when I truly lean on the Lord. He’s my everlasting Sonshine!
Putting myself in His loving arms, I start humming ... “I have blessed peace with my Lord so near ...”
What have I to dread?
What have I to fear?
Leaning on the everlasting arms
I have blessed peace
With my Lord so near
Leaning on the everlasting arms**
To find daily joy, I watch for God’s blessing of the multitude of birds enjoying the feeder outside my window. I keep it filled with their favorite seed. Suet cakes hang nearby, and peanuts are in the wreath. The bright red cardinals and squawking blue jays are my favorites. Smiling at their frenzied activity lightens my mood, and I am thankful to God for sending me what I need just when I need it most. Then, lo and behold, the sun pops out, too! Such blessings and hope!
Heavenly Father, I thank you for watching over me every day. You know my needs before I do and provide for me always and in all ways! Continue to care for me, my family and friends, and all your beloved creatures here on earth. I ask this in the precious name of Jesus, amen.
KATHY CHANDO, ZION COMMUNITY CHURCH
* Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression related to changes in seasons.** Leaning on the Everlasting Arms by Anthony J. Showalter and Elisha Hoffman. Hymn based on Deuteronomy 33:27: “The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.”