Living From an Overflow

      Sometimes we feel lonely and discouraged in life. It seems like no matter how hard we try we can never measure up to the expectations of those around us and those we place on ourselves. Because this is the reality in which we live, we tend to follow the same pattern in our relationship with God.       We imagine that if we could only reach the standard that He gives to us, we would be lauded as a 'good Christian.' However, the beautiful truth is that He has come to set us free from the lie that our worth and value are found in the way we perform. His words to us are richer than the tantalizing lies of this world and if we take the time to listen, our hearts and souls can be refreshed. Daughter Beloved daughter of the King Your work doesn't go unnoticed I've got you in my Loving Hands Just give me all your focus. Doubts and fears may cloud your mind The truth will set you free I'll give you strength for each new day You can trust in me. Come ...

       You see me. You see every part of me and you still invite me into a relationship with you. A deep, beautiful fellowship with the One who knows me more intimately than anyone ever could. You see my brokenness and speak restoration into my life. Like a potter with a lump of clay, you see potential in me. You mold my life into a vessel that will bring Your Name honor, for this is the reason I was created. You see my tears that fall to the ground as I cry out to you with my mind full of questions, and You gently bring your healing touch and embrace me with identity, crowning me with grace and beauty. You see my doubts and call me to trust You without wavering. To believe in Your identity that will never fade or change. You see when I fall down and in Your mercy, You reach out Your hand to pick me up, dust me off and stand me upright to walk again.            You see my fears and remind me of Your promises that will never fail, no matt...

     This poem came to me while I was preparing to go to Nepal on a mission trip. We had just been told that several people on our team were now unable to go. Both of the girls in question are dear friends of mine and I was very disappointed. As I was digesting this startling news, words started to form in my head and I quickly wrote them down in the journal in front of me. God taught me a lot about trust in that season and I am grateful that He is always open to listening to my questions especially when I don't understand the way He's working. Trust Trust is such a beautiful thing  I can't understand it sometimes  Like a journey still to travel  Or a poem yet to rhyme I get so disappointed  When expectations aren't met  My heart longs to trust You  My mind wants to forget  Where are You in the valley Dreams smashed against reality  Are You there to hold my hand? Do You truly understand? I know You see each piece  In this puzzl...