I love an old adage
From friends tried and true
If ever there’s too much
to think about and to do
“Don’t fret about it…”
Worrying constantly
and tied in a wad
To be anxious is wearing
A devouring monster
Who seeks to consume
Hear words of comfort
Life’s seasons all pass
There much to give thanks for
Let it go, “Now don’t fret!”
Charlotte-Anne Allen
“Come here” we call to the bouncing puppy so full of life, reaching out our sheltering arms and welcoming their companionship.
“Come” is used in so many ways but it always points to recognition! After all, there has to be someone the words are directed to. It speaks to us. “You are here. I see you.”
We share the excitement of discovery or offer support and comfort. When we hear, “Wow, come look at this,” we gather around as our curiosity and interest is piqued. The caring, “come here” of family or friend as they reach with open arms, a hug, or an offer of help is welcome, too.
Jesus’s words encourage us to “come.” “Let the little children come to me,” he said to his disciples. At another time, his compassionate words called all “who are weary and burdened” to come to him (Matthew 19:14 and 11:28). He cares about us when we are struggling and brings us the example of coming as a seeking and trusting child. Sometimes the “come here” can be hard to follow and, like a small child exerting that will for independence, we turn away.
Often for me, that voice is a welcome reminder to run to God’s sheltering arms. When my anxiety swells and overwhelms, God’s voice whispers in my ear, “Come to me. I’m here.” It’s in His presence that I begin to learn the nature of love, obedience, security, and protection in daily life. God’s place of acceptance offers shelter and comfort.
Whether we come as a trusting child or a bounding puppy. Whether we come dragging our feet or unable to rise on our own… stressed, tired, or content, may God draw us ever closer to Him. He sees you, recognizes you, and cherishes you. “Ah, come here.”
Be encouraged.
Charlotte-Anne Allen
Honey. I love honey, especially in a cup of hot tea or maybe spread on some toast or a biscuit.
Growing up in a small town, our neighbors behind us kept some beehives and the busy bees were regular visitors to our apple trees. We were also thankful recipients of some of the harvested honey and honeycomb. I still have fond memories of that honey!
A fun fact I’ve heard is that honey is the only natural food source that has all the nutrients that we need. Natural raw honey is rich in antioxidants. It’s also helpful in healing wounds and is a positive alternative to processed sugar. Isn’t that amazing?! The fact that it is good for us really makes one of my favorite verses even more meaningful.
Kind words are like honey, sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.
Proverbs 16:24
Like honey, words spoken in kindness are healthy and healing for both soul and body. When our spirits are low, an encouraging word can be powerful. We remember soft and comforting words offered during times of stress, don’t we? Even if I can’t remember the exact words later, I do remember that they were spoken and how much they meant at the time. Thoughtful words spoken during times of celebration or after hard work and accomplishments are important too.
“Kind words are like honey.” What we choose to do with our words has an impact every day. Do you ever think of the effect of your words, both words spoken, and words left unspoken? I was thinking about the fact that words we don’t say can have as much effect as words we do say. What if we don’t encourage or express our love and caring to someone who needs it? How will that affect their lives and what blessing do we also miss? Then too, what if we hold our tongue and don’t speak that hasty or critical remark? Aren’t we all more prone to snapping at others during times of anxiety or exhaustion? Stepping aside, avoiding words, or being especially mindful of what I say helps… Those are good times for some kind words from others!
Just as a smile is contagious, so are positive and kind words. “…Sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” Maybe we can help each other out with that, and in so doing better reflect God who loves us.
Clear today and not a cloud,
The sun is warm, and body relaxed.
When life is good, I walk about,
And pause to give my thanks.
Sometimes the fog descends on me.
It’s hard to see ahead.
Gloomy thoughts blot out the sun,
And anxiety hovers near!
The wind will often tear and break.
It throws us for a loop!
What’s down is up; all now is snarled,
And chaos strives to reign.
When frigid times do freeze my brain
I find I cannot think at all.
Pain or stress, or simply choices,
Cause me to become immobile!
Heatwaves come and sunrays fry.
No relief in sight amid the drought,
But seeking hope when growing parched.
Where is water to be found?
Clearing air, shows me the way.
Cool soft breezes, touched by friends.
Calming care, to lift and sooth.
Helping hands, to offer aid.
Delete. Delete. Delete… How in the world had I managed to let so many emails pile up and fill my account?! Sure, I deleted many as a read them, but as they slipped out of sight I soon forgot or was too busy to go back and clear them out. It was so satisfying to finally have them gone and to dump out the trash and spam folders.
Looking through my email, I was reminded of many good things – friends, family, work, church – service given, information and encouragement exchanged. Some things I saved to files on my computer or printed out before deleting them, like family stories or other important events or information. It was good to keep the memories.
There were other things that I’d rather not think about though, like illness or death, finances, missed opportunities, and bad news. Can’t I just delete them and forget them?! … What about those painful time periods in life? It would be great if they had never even occurred! There are other things that I’d like to delete too – like bad habits, thoughtless or poorly timed words or actions, things left undone or forgotten. I don’t like to let others down or cause hurt.
Stress and anxiety can be overwhelming at times, can’t it? Uncertain times can keep us unsettled and trauma and loss bring grief. I am so glad that we can turn everything over to God and to know that He will strengthen and support us. He cares about us and our messes are cleaned and washed through faith in Him. God is our delete button for anxiety and worry (*Psalm 55:22a; 1 Peter 5:7).
It is my hope and prayer that we turn to God for our needed “deletes,” whatever they may be, …making space for peace, forgiveness, or comfort. May we look forward with anticipation!
• Strength of character is an asset
• Dedication and hard work are commendable
• Working together brings about strong finishes
• Think and pray before making commitments
• When you make a commitment stick to it
• Keep your goals ever before you
• Remember to take time out for a slower pace
• Spend quiet solitary time to reflect
• Join others in relaxed company
• Letting go of anxiety develops inner peace
• Mind and body absorb whatever you immerse yourself in
• Thoughts turned to the Spirit lead to contentment in life
from “Reflections from the Everyday”
Restful quiet
When exhaustion looms
Comfort and calm
And blessed to relax
Help and strength
So much appreciated
Release of stress
Let go anxiety
Welcome peace
Amidst changes and challenges
Calm assurance
And seeking patience
Grant contentment
When all is done
That light may enter
And joy possess
• Transitions may cause both anticipation and anxiety
• Be watchful and allow time for outcomes to develop
• Value the past for it prepares us for the todays and tomorrows
• We grow accustomed to the familiar and the constant
• The cries and words of the forgotten are paid no heed
• Loss is felt the greatest when we first realize absence
• The roar of circumstances can drown out all else
• The effects of our experiences crawl into all areas of our life
• Our soul is carried in the swell and fall of majestic music
• Join your voices for the cause of good and wholeness
• A joyful chorus gains strength as others join in
• Lift your voice and your hands when the season is right
• Hear the words of the One who calls us to Him
• Gather nourishment for each day from God our source
from “Reflections from the Everyday”
• We have many options when tackling a big job
• If things become unbalanced, we can tip over
• Loads can be eased with the right equipment
• Gathering resources first will increase success
• When the load is large, work a little at a time
• Easing burdens improves the work process
• We take on challenges so we can move forward
• Dumping anxiety and doubt eases stress
• Step-by-step, progress is made
• Consider your best path to offer services
• Take care of your tools for long and productive use
• Thank the One who works along-side you
The Still Small Voice 