Throw Your Burden

Good Saturday Morning, wonderful blog community. I’ve thought of you so many times this week and knew that some of you really active ones were wondering where on earth the Mama was. Sabrina told me a few weeks ago that I had a week off coming up and I knew in that moment what I wanted to do with it. I did not take it off but I did stay home each day this week – out here in the country – and gave my full attention to a personal project. I normally still would have blogged at least once but, for the life of me, I could not think of anything to say. I’ve just had a quiet of sorts fall on me. Have you had times like that? Times when a stab of pain was personal enough and stunning enough to somehow cause you to put your hand over your mouth and keep it there a while? Times when you want to scream, “What is going on here? What is this madness? How did this happen??”

If you’re like me, you find it much easier to talk about a storm in its wake. In the middle of it, you’re just trying to hold on tight to the edges of the boat and keep from throwing up while it rocks to and fro. I’m still in it so I’d rather not even speak to it directly and once again ask you to resist conjecture as well. This is such a public format. I don’t want anyone involved in the challenge hurt by any words here. There’s enough hurt. But I want to be able to minister here and serve here and share with you even in the middle of a hard situation. Please let me leave it at that. Staying general invites more people to relate anyway.

One reason I have a quiet come over me in a season like this is the pure length of time that can be involved. Yesterday someone I’m crazy about shot me a very loving text that included, “How is it all going?” and I never answered it because it’s going the same as it went last week. Anybody understand what I’m saying? This dyed in the wool sanguine likes to say, “SO MUCH BETTER!” I don’t like to burden people long term. Oh heck, I don’t like to be burdened long term either. Who does?? In our humanity, we all wear out eventually. But sometimes the fact is, we’re not quite at the point of so much better yet. We will be. Make no mistake. Those of us who are willing to let Jesus minister to us in the deepest parts of our souls and knead the crushed grain of brokenness into break will indeed be so much better. It’s just a matter of time. Satan will indeed be defeated. And God will make sure he’s sorry.

I decided I had the words to write to you this morning – not because I felt talky all the sudden but – because Charles Spurgeon supplied them to me. They landed on a sore spot in my soul and brought some comfort and insight. I thought I’d just share the whole thing with you then make a closing comment or two. From Morning and Evening, today’s date…

 

“Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee.”
— Psalm 55:22

Care, even though exercised upon legitimate objects, if carried to excess, has in it the nature of sin. The precept to avoid anxious care is earnestly inculcated by our Saviour, again and again; it is reiterated by the apostles; and it is one which cannot be neglected without involving transgression: for the very essence of anxious care is the imagining that we are wiser than God, and the thrusting ourselves into his place to do for him that which he has undertaken to do for us. We attempt to think of that which we fancy he will forget; we labour to take upon ourselves our weary burden, as if he were unable or unwilling to take it for us. Now this disobedience to his plain precept, this unbelief in his Word, this presumption in intruding upon his province, is all sinful. Yet more than this, anxious care often leads to acts of sin. He who cannot calmly leave his affairs in God’s hand, but will carry his own burden, is very likely to be tempted to use wrong means to help himself. This sin leads to a forsaking of God as our counsellor, and resorting instead to human wisdom. This is going to the “broken cistern” instead of to the “fountain;” a sin which was laid against Israel of old. Anxiety makes us doubt God’s lovingkindness, and thus our love to him grows cold; we feel mistrust, and thus grieve the Spirit of God, so that our prayers become hindered, our consistent example marred, and our life one of self-seeking. Thus want of confidence in God leads us to wander far from him; but if through simple faith in his promise, we cast each burden as it comes upon him, and are “careful for nothing” because he undertakes to care for us, it will keep us close to him, and strengthen us against much temptation. “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee, because he trusteth in thee.”

Spurgeon, C. H. (2006). Morning and evening : Daily readings (Complete and unabridged; New modern edition.). Peabody, MA: Hendrickson Publishers.

 

I think I’ve told you before that I like to do my early morning reading out of a different translation than the one I use the rest of the time. Different wording often has a way of stirring up a different response in me. So, a couple of translations sit on my desk where I have my quiet time. One is always The NET Bible because Melissa gave it to me several years ago and it has (literally) “60,932 Translators’ Notes.” If I’m not presently doing a Bible study in my quiet time like the one I just finished of Kelly Minter’s, then often I’ll open up a devotional reading like Spurgeon’s. Because many of the daily devotionals don’t have longer Bible readings assigned with them, I check the verse they’re using then turn to that chapter in my Bible and read it. (True to form, I’m making this explanation harder than it has to be. I’ll try to cut to the chase.)

SO, this morning I opened up The NET Bible and read a large portion of Psalm 55. When I got to verse 22 – the verse captioned in the Spurgeon devotional –  I sat tight on the NET translation:

“Throw your burden upon the Lord, and he will sustain you. He will never allow the godly to be upended.”

Maybe you’re visual, too, and right about now you’re picturing throwing. Like hauling off and throwing something as hard as you can. And maybe getting a little frustration and madness out of your soul while you’re at it. Maybe crying while you’re doing it. Even out loud.

Throw.

Before you’re tempted to hold it to your chest and suffocate yourself nearly to death with it.

Throw.

Then something else spoke to me. It was one of those 60, 932 scholars’ notes. The comment footnotes the word “you” at the end of the phrase “Throw your burden upon the Lord and He will sustain you.” I’ll just cut and paste the note from my Bible software so you can see it for yourself.

“The pronoun is singular; the psalmist addresses each member of his audience individually.”

Biblical Studies Press. (2006; 2006). The NET Bible First Edition Notes (Ps 55:22). Biblical Studies Press.

Individually. We EACH have the invitation to throw our burdens upon the Lord and let Him sustain us. Not the “we” of us. The “you” and “me” of us. We also each have the responsibility. In other words, no one can throw our burden on the Lord for us. We can’t call in a relief pitcher. Don’t misunderstand. We can certainly call upon people to pray for us and with us and the New Testament adamantly tells us to carry one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2) but listen. There is a difference between a burden that is entrusted for us in a season that we are to partner in sharing and carrying. Say, for instance, a long term illness or thorn in the flesh. But the part of the burden that we are inadvertently – even accidentally – playing God over needs to be THROWN, Girlfriend. The part we’re suffocating under because we’re no longer walking, we’re laying down with it on top of us, needs to be…

Thrown.

When we keep trying to figure out what would fix it, then we try that, and it doesn’t work so we wring our hands and go to the next fix, we need to throw it. We cannot be Savior. We know that because, Lord help us, we cannot even save ourselves.

I so don’t want to be depressing this morning. Forgive me. See? That’s why I’m not as anxious to write while I’m right in the middle of something. But, after this morning’s reading, I don’t feel as depressed about it. I feel a little lighter. A little less weight on my chest. My hope is that you do, too. And if you do, it won’t be this post. It will be Jesus.

Oh, you guys. I love you so much. I care so much. Don’t grow weary. God is working. Jesus IS Savior. HE WILL SAVE.

 

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477 Responses to “Throw Your Burden”

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Comments:

  1. 201
    Vicki says:

    Mrs. Beth-
    As I lifted you up in prayer this morning the lord reminded me of a verse that I learned from you which gave me such encouragement. I am now going to “pitch” it back at you;)

    “…he is your constant source of stability.”

    Isaiah 33:6b

  2. 202
  3. 203
    Molly says:

    Thank you for sharing truth from the Word, from Spurgeon, and from your heart. Good reminders. Reminds me of your Live Streaming teaching several weeks ago. A lesson we must keep putting into practice!

  4. 204
    lauren says:

    Oh my…I am near speechless myself. Everything in this post spoke directly to a couple of burdens for other people (mostly family members) that I’ve been letting near suffocate me. And…praise You, Jesus…these words came as deep ministry to me because they weren’t the first words on this topic that God has spoken to me this week. I picked up “Jesus Calling” a couple of days ago (May 25) and the SAME message was driven home to me. God so cares for the burdens we carry. And He IS INDEED WELL ABLE to save. But we are not. We must throw those burdens onto Him. Thank you, Beth. Praise You, Lord.

  5. 205
    Sarah says:

    Thanks Beth, for being real about your life and not trying to cover up when you’re having a difficult time.

  6. 206
    Selina says:

    Selina, Kentucky
    Praying for you Beth. I know exactly how you feel and when I’m going through something, I don’t feel like I can communicate all that well so I just still away and spend quiet time with God. I have recently had surgery and need the prayers of my dear Siesta’s for a good recovery and no bad after effects. Let’s all keep our chins up! Hard times are sure to come but we serve a God that is mightier than all of those things!!!
    Loving ALL of you !!!!!!!

  7. 207

    Beth,
    I was so impressed with this message. It is my first introduction.
    Especially the discretion part.
    You are very wise. And your understanding obviously has been gleaned from some “threshing”.
    The scripture that came to my mind as I read of your personal trouble was this..
    “Bread corn is bruised, but no One crushes it forever.”
    He will as you declared, have the victory in your life’s circumstances.
    I was honored to read your insight.

    I live in Santa Barbara, Ca and have been invited to one of your Bible Studies. To be perfectly honest, I have never heard you before.
    Looking forward to following this blog and participating in your ministry.
    On this journey of Hope and Healing with you.
    Lynne

  8. 208
    Tanya says:

    I love this post. I remember praying, crying, and screaming in prayer/frustration to God because my oldest of four sons can not seem to overcome his addiction to alcohol. Then the Lord reminded me to cast my burdens upon Him. He spoke so softly (and sweetly) in reminding me that I do not need to pray for so many things related to son number one – just pray that the Lord would open the eyes of His heart to see Jesus. If he (son #1) could/would see our wonderful Jesus, then all the other things would fall away Then I changed my prayer from praying for so many things, to just praying that the eyes of his heart would be enlightened. Beth, may the Lord be your encouragement during this struggle, may He continue to gain in you through this experience what He is after and may He have mercy and grace upon your sister and open the eyes of her heart to see Him so that all the other things will fall away. You already know that it is in our times of greatest struggle, whether for ourselves or those we love, that our God unveils Himself in ways He couldn’t have otherwise. Continuing to stand with you and yours in prayer – the wonderful thing about Siestaville is we never have to carry our burdens alone! tpettit

  9. 209

    Dear Beth,
    I had a very difficult, life changing event happen to me last week. I feel like the biggest ministry in my life right now, second to my family, is writing on Cooking Up Faith. After the situation happened last week I wanted to quit and never write again. I just didn’t feel like I had it in me. But God showed me it was okay to take a break, but not okay to quit. He has led me slowly back into writing and what He has led me to write about has brought healing. It’s not quick or painless, but with His help we can get through anything. He is so patient with us.
    Much love.

  10. 210
  11. 211
    Kim Ulkekul says:

    Our Sweet Mama,

    How my heart breaks for you and the burden you are so obviously carrying for a loved one for whom you feel desperate to save and heal. I will be praying for the miracle obviously required, but also whatever His will, you will figure out how to live with the result. As I was reading your honest entry, the song “I Will Rise” came on – ‘…with eagle’s wings and rise.’ Going through a series on Revelation at our church is such a reminder of the One who sits on the throne and does and will reign. And all this pain and suffering will indeed end. This is not it. Not it. We all love you so much, Siesta Mama. Your gifts of teaching, your willingness to share your experiences so honestly and with such wise words of encouragement – may we be able to offer even a portion back to you now. Praying His victory and peace to reign – soon.

  12. 212
    Faith says:

    Thank you so so much for posting this… it is exactly what God wanted me to read today! This is something I have been struggling with for a few months and God keeps bringing the same verses to mind again and again in various forms – through books, devotionals, other people… I even have a notecard with Isaiah 26:3 (You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in You) staring at me right now because it’s taped to my laptop!! It’s a daily struggle to let God have the control and keep our minds fixed on Him, but I am learning that’s the only way to live. Thank you again for the reminder!!

  13. 213
    Judy says:

    Dear Beth, Thanks for sharing and I really needed this today. My husband of 48years is now in the final stages of melanoma cancer. I have placed this at the Saviors feet and would like to say that this time it was not easy. We have had a very good marriage and I feel that part of me is dying also but I trust the Lord with it all even when I don’t understand why the last days are so long and filled with so much pain. The Lord is right here with me and now has this but it was awhile before I was able to turn this over to Him. Some may be able to yeild things totally to the Lord in the instant that life’s trial surface. I would like to know how this is down because the time between the beginning of the trial and the releasing of the burden is totally agony to me.
    I would like a “quick release” solution. I know that peace accompanies attority.

    I am praying for you as you go through this at this time. It is not necessary for anyone to know because the one that can heal knows all about it.

  14. 214
    Dawny Beau says:

    A season of silence has finally been broken for me. I can so relate to that comment. There are times and things that require quiet reflection before the Lord. But my quiet lingered and I became paralyzed. God used an unexpected situation to help me throw that burden aside. It was like CPR. . .Sleeping Beauty kissed back to life.

    I don’t have a very big circle of people in my life to resucitate me, only a select few, but it only took ONE complete stranger I have yet to meet. I have to admit it was the most scary feeling in the world, being in that glass coffin. Looking at God but with the MUTE button on.

    My encouragement is for those who read this and may know of someone who is struggling and needs a siesta to come along side them. To help them snap out of a prolonged quiet time. Maybe even someone that is a total stranger but God wants to use you to assist Him, like in my situation. So that they too can “throw” their burden on to the Lord. And be used for His Kingdom & Glory! ! !

    I’m thankful that you are being lifted up by so many during this time, Siesta Mama. You will be in my prayers as well.

    Cast Away. . .Amen!

  15. 215
    Katherine Ray says:

    Loved your willingness to share. Praying for your daily!
    Love Kathy

  16. 216
    Sheryl Braun says:

    Beth, In your pain you encourage us. Our ladies recently studied with your DVD “Who Will You Trust”. Your demonstration of “This Thing” hits home hard, even to the ladies who may be seeing it for the second or third time. It’s a fresh message because we always have new “Things” we have put in our box. We know your heart and your love and faith in our Lord and yet you revisit paths you have conquered just as we do. You remind me that we will never defeat the enemy with a lesson learned one time. We need God’s strength and mercies new every day. “Throw your burden” is a fresh encouraging Word.

  17. 217
    Diane says:

    Dear Beth,
    I really want to get a firm grip on these words of encouragement and throw all my cares upon the LORD. Sometimes when I throw my cares, they come back … but I’m going to throw them back again because I really don’t want them. I need the LORD Jesus so much.

    Thank you for loving us so much, Beth, and praise the LORD Jesus for His love that goes beyond our comprehension!
    Diane

  18. 218
    Ali says:

    Beth you and your family have continued to pop onto my heart and prompt me to pray for you several times in the past weeks. I know so many are praying and hope you are all feeling it. Thank you for coming up for air and casting a word on us. Real life is just stinking hard sometimes, and when we can’t make sense of what happened, is happening or how it will all unravel and show signs of sanity, it can be paralyzing. We serve such a MIGHTY GOD. A LOVING FATHER who holds it all in HIS HANDS. He is IN CONTROL and He will WORK ALL THINGS FOR GOOD. May we all THROW our burdens where they belong today. And remember the One who loves us so is right beside us in the storm.

  19. 219
    Gwen says:

    So grateful that God gave you words today. I am four months into a time of separation from my husband due to a job transfer. My four kids and I remained behind to sell the house and finish school. Three more weeks till we make our big move from Michigan to Tennessee and are reunited as a family! Those I thought would care for us seem to have forgotten, but I have been so grateful that my Father is never too busy to hear my cries and receive my burdens. He has been my sustainer.

  20. 220
    Climber Mama says:

    Dear, Dear Beth…THANK YOU!!!

    I have that same kind of feeling, hand over mouth & at a loss for words. Waiting. Knowing. Believing

    You have been on my heart. I have been praying. My own life has a major need which at the end of this weeks prayer and fasting (from TV…that one seems harder to me than food at times!;)) God has shut not one but 3 doors. Humm, what on earth are you doing my Lord? I will Believe, even as a tear falls, My God is Faithful! I thank Him for protection and direction through the closed doors. Your words today are part of my own encouragement!!!
    Thank you for sharing…the story is (all of our stories are) certainly NOT finished! =)
    Love you all so very much.

  21. 221
    Redeemed says:

    Dearest Friend Beth,
    Please keep writing, even if you feel you are depressing. Nothing could be farther from the truth; in fact, I find great comfort in your words. But I am sorry for your hurt.

    I’m winding up for a big THROW. I may even pitch alot of frustration and fear in with it. Maybe some anger. Maybe even some doubt.

    I think He can handle it.

  22. 222

    Proverbs 11:25b He who refreshes others will himself be
    refreshed.
    Thank you for sharing your heart and refreshing us for so many years. I pray the very presence of God will refresh you, and even our words will help. =)
    A friend .

  23. 223
    Barbara Duncan says:

    Thanks for sharing in the midst of your “burden.” Your authenticity is especially inspiring when you share that you are admittedly “feeling depressed.” Those of us who wish to feel as close to God as you appear to be need to know that you, our mentor, have those moments too. So sorry that you are going through this thing.

  24. 224
    Denise says:

    this is a video of potter and clay by Hillsong. I don’t know if this will work or not.
    And one Bible thought.. His power is perfected in weakness. Thanks for taking the step out to share.

  25. 225
    Denise says:

    and ….I’m sorry.

  26. 226
    Denise says:

    But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. (2 Cor 4:7 NIV)

  27. 227
    Denise B says:

    Thank you Beth – I sat down on this Sunday afternoon looking for some kind of encouragement and found it in this post. I too am in the middle of something big – I needed to be reminded that God is in the middle with me. Thank you for your time to give us a bit of your light that God has shown you.

  28. 228
    Sarah Elizabeth says:

    Dear Beth,
    I am a chronic worrier and this post spoke to my soul. I worry about everything. I worry about final exams, friends, what I’m going to eat for lunch…you get the idea. Thank you for posting this and being vulnerable. It’s what I needed for sure. I feel like I’m in the middle of a tough sin struggle and this really encouraged me to be real with others and to let the Lord shine through me and work in me even when everything’s not okay. I love you and am praying for you.
    Love,
    Sarah Elizabeth

  29. 229
    Morgan says:

    I came home spiritually refreshed from the Boise conference. Unhindered! Heartbreak – Hindrance = Depth. May God be glorified in our weaknesses, in our struggles, in our hurts. May Jesus receive all the praise and glory when we emerge from heartache with a more clear view of His magnificent spendor and gracious care. May we be able to cry, “We know God causes all things to work together for good, to those who love God and are called according to His purpose…to be conformed to the image of His Son.” Praying for the sweet salve of His Word and comfort of His presence to be felt by you today.

  30. 230
    Casey says:

    Thank you so much for sharing your heart. These words minister to a sore place in my soul and resonate a truth that I desperately needed to hear. Thank you.

  31. 231
    Katie Rose says:

    This morning I got up with a plan. A plan that involved having church on my own to be able to be fed and sit at the feet of Jesus alone for some time. And this blog started it all. I am in a very similar spot, a spot of waiting on the Lord and this post hit me right where I needed it. Thank you so much for being a faithful servant, even when the path gets rough and rocky. Thank you for being vulnerable. I needed to be reminded to do the same! Praying blessings of peace & comfort over you today. The LORD acts for those who wait…Isaiah 64:4.

  32. 232
    Tami Spence says:

    Thanks for having “nothing” to say. you spoke right to me, again. I’m throwing! thanks Beth!

  33. 233

    Praying for you, Beth.

  34. 234
    Betty M says:

    Dear Beth,
    Just know that you are prayered over daily. We who have been a part of this blog community for awhile have sensed your quietness for awhile and have been praying about it. We all go through seasons in life. I know lately with the crisis we have been going through and are still going through, my quiet times are not as focused. I at times do not feel His presence as much as I should but I know He is there I am the one who has moved away and I know it is a season and it will pass. Life is not all mountian top vistas sometimes the valley is deep and oppressing. I know you will triumph over whatever the issues are now and claim the victory for the Lord over it. We stand by you as sisters thorugh all this. My heart was warmed when I received a letter from your offices once. In it was stated that you hold us all up in your prayers and I thought how wonderful it is to have a group that would do that for those of us who value your ministry. Most of the time groups will thank you for support and that is the last of it. To know your organization does that for us even once is amazing and so we do the same for you. Bless you Beth as you go through this time and season. Spurgeon is wonderful I read the same devotion book quite often too. Love in Jesus, BettyM

  35. 235
    Church Lady says:

    Thanks so much for sharing. That is the thing that I love so much about you, Miss Bibby. You are like us and you teach from your own experiences. I pray that this valley that you are in will not last long. For me it always seems that the valley is where I learn the most about the Lord. Hold tight to Him and you will be on that mountain top soon. God is faithful!

  36. 236
    NewMadge says:

    Thanks so much for your post today. You see, I am a total fixer. It may be more accurate to say I am/have been a try-to-fixher, try-to-fixhim, try-to-fix everything that is bothering anybody. I am getting a little better but had a little fixin in my sites when I read this. I think I’ll do some studying instead of fixing this afternoon. Thanks so much. Sending prayers for all who are hurting right now <3

  37. 237
    Doris says:

    WOW – I have had a very serious and emotional issue occurring in my family this week and I’ve had to “give it up” to the Lord, but hadn’t considered throwing it. In other words, I gently laid it out there and asked Him to take it, but have kept a string in my hand. The issue has caused our family untold heartache over the past few days and I am having trouble seeing it as being resolved in a good way – in fact it’s breaking my heart. But God’s Word tells us not to be anxious, so thank you for the timely post.

  38. 238
    Nancy, Georgia says:

    Beth, This blog spoke directly to me today. I just recently learned about a terrible situation in which one of my favorite siblings has placed himself. Thank you for the reminder of Psalm 55:22. Thank you for all the reassuring words and emotions you shared with us. I keep you, your family in my daily prayers as I do my own.

    Peace, Nancy

  39. 239
    Tami says:

    ThNk you for sharing your journey. God spoke and I heard!

  40. 240
    Karen says:

    Yes Beth, We are praying for you!

  41. 241
    Suzi says:

    Hi Beth, I noticed on Lifeway there are 3 online studies with you available. Will you be adding other ones as time passes? They are wonderful and we can do them at home on our own time. Thanks for doing this for all of us. Suzi in Iowa

  42. 242
    Susie Hampton says:

    I am reminded of what Teresa of Avila said about times of trouble:

    “Let nothing upset you,
    let nothing startle you.
    All things pass;
    God does not change.
    Patience wins
    all it seeks.
    Whoever has God
    lacks nothing:
    God alone is enough”

    Hugs and love, Susie

  43. 243
    Jeanna says:

    You helped me keep everything in perspective. As a Nana you want the best for your daughter and your grandchildren. With a divorce in the near future for them to deal with, I only hope for the best. I must always realize it is in God’s hands
    and he will care for us all in His time and way. Thank you

  44. 244
    carla says:

    Yes Beth,I have thrown it up to God before. Yet sometimes it is so wearisome i sometimes wonder what I am throwing. I guess i kept it long it began to look like a normal part of my life. That’s so WRONG! God help me to throw it before it gets that far. Thanks Beth for this word. Very helpful during this time of weary I’m in. Praise you Lord for taking me in and sustaining me through it all.

  45. 245
    GJ says:

    Dearest Beth – I love you so much. Psalm 55:22 Love this THROWING of my burden. I also like the word at the end – that He won’t allow me to be “upended.” So if my burden is heavy, I can still throw it without losing my footing – hard to do when you’re trying to throw something heavy. I have a mental picture of an Olympic athlete throwing a discus and spinning and spinning and spinning and finally letting go of the HEAVY THANG!

    I’m thankful for you – glad you could be home. Would love a long walk with you!

    GJ

  46. 246
    Diane says:

    Dear Sweet Beth! Now I know why God had me lying awake Friday night unable to sleep and why He brought you to my heart to pray for! One of the things I love about you is that you struggle like the rest of us and that you’re not afraid to let that show. I feel like I can relate to you but I also admire your deep, unwaivering faith in the God who has your name written on His loving hands. This has not been an easy year for me and for various members in my family either but I just keep hanging on (sometimes only by my fingernails) to the fact that God loves me and my family members and He understands the purposes of our trials. Know that you are dearly loved by God, and by us, your sisters.

  47. 247
    Kathy White says:

    Dear Beth,
    After reading your blog, I felt led to write you back. I sensed a heaviness in your spirit, and I was so grateful you shared your heart and feelings. We need each other ! And when you spoke forth, the Calebs, came forward and helped you hold up the banner of the LORD .
    Having just returned from a much needed “Unhurried Day” ( day retreat of silence) I was so aware of how much I needed to step into the boat with Jesus and let Him take me to the other side for REST.
    Approaching the retreat grounds, I was brought back to “my roots”….The center was Catholic and a warm sense of God’s love and faithfulness fell upon me. I had come with a heavy heart and after being dismissed from the meeting room I was led to sit and marvel at Gods creations. Birds, squirrels, wild turkeys, butterflies et. surrounded the grounds before me. As I sat and thanked God for this day, I felt led then to lay out my blanket and lay prostrate before the God of all Creation. I began to thank Him for my struggles because I knew He was using all of these disappointments for HIs appointments. When I lifted my head there before my eyes was a 50 foot cross of the crucified hanging on it. I sensed the Lord speaking quietly to my spirit ” Kathy, you know I am the resurrected LORD and you know the power that lives in you. But I want you to reflect on the “crucified life, I have called you to” I began to weep. the passage that we read that am was from the book of Mark on the “transfiguration”…..Jesus leading them up the mt. So often we forget the climb, which is usually never easy….there is soreness, weariness, extreme thirst, stones, thorns , distractions from staying focused. We all have climbed them and when we’ve gotten to the top, we might think we have arrived. We often forget the real journey in the climb was the “character” being built in us along the way. The sunsets and star gazing were meant for “inspirations”, yet we must always go back down the mts just as Jesus led them to show HIs love, and mercy to the dying world…yes the broken, oppressed and captive.
    So may I just say many are lifting you up right now….the way and walk is HARD but the prize of seeing JESUS at the end makes it all worth it….He’s walking beside each of us, and His hand is holding our hands…He loves you so and so do us all !!!!! HIs nail scarred hands clutches you, ( Gay, my son Lance) and all His redeemed ones !!
    May HIs glory shine forth in its brilliance, He is worthy…kathy

  48. 248
    Patti Hayes says:

    Hey Beth,
    I just wanted you to know that you’ve been in my thoughts and prayers during the past few weeks.
    Much love to you,
    Patti

  49. 249
    Leah Brannon says:

    Beth,
    How timely your words are for me. I definitely have been learning how to cast it on Him because He can certainly handle it.
    I am definitely praying for you — no I don’t need to know specifics.
    I was watching a youtube video of you this morning while getting ready for church–the hairbrush story : ) “When you are filled to the measure of the fullness of Christ…you have no idea the needs you can meet.”

    I love you, Beth, and I am so thankful to be a recipient of the ministry that God has given you. My sister and I are hosting your James study this summer and we have one lady coming who is not a believer. So excited to see what God is going to do with our little group.
    Happy Sunday evening from Georgia!

    -Leah

  50. 250
    Breahn says:

    I love you Mrs. Beth… I needed this so badly today. I’m going through something unimaginable, and I’m needing to “throw”…. thank you so much.
    Breahn Royal
    White Oak, Texas

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