I’m really ticked. I just ran into a beloved little sister in the faith on my way to work when I stopped off at a grocery store to grab a few things. She and her family are nearly being eaten alive by the enemy. Honestly, we stood right there in plain sight near the vitamin aisle and ratted on the devil and shook the family tree for some fresh truth. As big tears rolled down those cheeks, she said one thing so emphatically that it seared straight into my bones:
“I was just thinking about you this morning, Beth. And I’ve just gotta know: have you been here?”
Where exactly did she mean by here? In that place where the enemy seems to leave NOTHING untouched. Nothing unmangled by his crushing iron jaw. The scene of the onslaught. Where Satan seems to systematically and patiently and daily and hourly go for you – heart, soul, and body, and for everything and everyone you hold dear, and for all you know – that you know – that you know you believe. That season where you can’t seem to recover because every time you start to get back up, something knocks you down again. That season that you really do begin to believe will absolutely kill you…and, in some respects, it does. It kills the old you. If allowed to, it stones to death the Goliath within every David, one welting throw after another. Welcome to the sifting zone where Satan gets so much leash that he rips to bloody shreds everything he can get his paws on…but what is really real. What is really left behind when we are stripped bare of all our earthly security and fleshly confidence.
Have I been there, my beloved little sister?
Let’s see. How loud can I say this?? I HAVE BEEN THERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BOY, HAVE I EVER BEEN THERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And part of me survived. And part of me died.
And the part of me that died, as painful as it was, needed to.
And when it tries to resurrect it’s ugly, deformed, decayed head, I remind it that it is dead, lest it need another killing. Because I don’t want another killing.
I don’t mean my baffling tendency to sin is dead. I deal with that old nature everyday. I can still – almost out of nowhere – vacillate furiously between self-love and self loathing until I’m so dizzy I could regurgitate. But that joint victim and victimizer in me, that violent inner working nurtured at the breast of deceit and raised in sickness with a bent on self-destruction, took what still appears over many years to be a fair beheading.
YES. I have been there. And it was so awful I still well remember almost to the detail. And this morning I was glad I did because my little sister in the faith – a MIGHTY woman of God – needed to hear it.
I got in that car so mad at the enemy and at this brazen, hateful world that I made a bee-line straight to work and clicked the words “new post.”
Big sisters, our little sisters need some encouragement. They need to know we’ve been where they are. Even if they’re not in a season of hell on earth. Maybe their house just smells like one huge dirty diaper. Maybe they just need a nap. Maybe they need a job. God alone knows exactly and truly what they need from Him but this WE can know they need from us: encouragement! And, by God (and I mean that), we are going to give it to them.
Here’s what we’re going to do today. You who are 39 and under get to tell us where you could use some encouragement. You who are 40 and older and willing are going to give it to them. Here’s how it’s going to look:
If you are 39 or younger, you’re going to start your comment with “Your little sister here: …”
If you are 40 or older, you’re going to start your comment with “Your big sister here: …”
Here are the ground rules: (I’m going to warn you. When I’m furious, I can get into a bossy frame of mind and I’m there right this second. But, look at it this way. I’m beside myself in your behalf so humor me.)
Little sisters, don’t snow ball with every irritating, annoying, frustrating thing or relationship in your life. Get pretty quickly to the bottom line. I’m thinking about someone I really do love so much and want to encourage and help when at all possible but her emails to me are so long and about so many things going wrong and so many people going awry that by the end of it, all I can do is throw up my hands and say, “I am so overwhelmed, I have no idea where to begin!” Try, as much as you know how to tell us, to articulate what is really wrong. The real bottom line. Also, please look throughout the post for encouragements that may help you and keep in mind that what the big sisters write to one, they extend to all. Don’t be offended if no one speaks directly to you. Every encouragement is meant for every one of you.
Big Sisters, today is for encouraging our little sisters and that’s all. I know you have problems because I’m about your same age and I have a truckload of them. But you and I have lived long enough to know that we’re going to make it and that God IS going to be faithful and He is INDEED going to bring beauty from ashes and He will most certainly, given enough time, work every single detail out for our good and His glory. No complaining from us today. This post is a N0-Whine zone for big sisters. Life and the devil are eating our baby sisters alive. Let’s GET UP in their behalf, encourage them, and draw out our swords and fight for them. As often as you can, make your comment to all of them instead of just in reply to one of them. There will be exceptions, of course, but it’s crucial that we edify them across the board. They could all use it. You can talk to them or pray for them in your comment. Both are so Biblical and so right.
Now, listen, Little Sisters. One more thing from Big Sister with the big mouth. Get your tails in the Word. I mean it. Get your tails in the Word. NO TIME OFF. Read it aloud when you can’t absorb it or concentrate on it. Get yourself some accountability. Call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised and so shall you be saved from your enemies. Every morning.
One last thing. I left my beloved little sister with an assignment this morning and with the accountability to let me know she’s doing it. I’m going to give you little sisters who are feeling devoured the exact same one: memorize Psalm 25. Every word of it. Don’t tell me you can’t. Yes, you can. Get it printed out, laminate it, and memorize it. Say it over and over and over again. Start today. We can cheer you on and we can fight for you but we can’t fight instead of you. This victory is YOURS. The battle is meant to bring plunder directly to your personal life and family line or God wouldn’t have allowed it. Get up and fight.
Psalm 25.
I mean it.
I’m going to be asking you about it.
OK. I’m sorry for the bossy tone but I am so mad on behalf of you, our baby sisters, that I’m bruising this keyboard.
Now get busy, Girls. I have to be out of the office for a little while several times today so if we go a few hours without any comments moderated, have no fear, I’ll get back to it and get your encouragements posted.
I love you.
Little sister here…
…I have a wonderful godly husband, am a stay at home, homeschooling mother to 3 young boys, am exhausted most days, but what really burdens my heart and I just cannot get away from no matter how hard I try to close my heart to it is the deception believed among the Church, believing the lies of this world and the deceiver and that I somehow have to speak out against it, or burden my heart with it, like somehow it’s my responsibility, I can only imagine God’s heart for His people to come to Him, but as much as I try to turn it off, every page of Scripture, ever word from Him reminds me of His Truth and promises and love for a people who are turned from Him. I feel so serious and heavy, weighty all the time, do I want to be free of the burden? I want to be carefree and joyful in my Lord! There is so much to be thankful and grateful for, and I am, but my heart is so heavy all the time, wanting others to know what I know to be true, His freedom and grace and love and confidence in Christ!
Your little sister here…
I just recently found out that I have heart issues. It beats extra but also the bottom part of my heart is trying to take over. However, if it ever does, it is not strong enough to sustain life. I will either have to be put on medicine or have part of my heart lasered off. As a mother of two (4 and 2) and wanting a third, I am scared the death. I already deal with worry, fear, and anxiety on a daily basis so this just added to the pot. I am not one to share this but I need all the encouragement I can get.
Big sis here… Sarah! I know exactly what you are talking about because I had the same thing with my heart. It started out of nowhere and I ended up spending a lot of time with cardiologists, being tested and examined. Very scarey, indeed! I was placed on the medicine first, rather than have the ablation done and it helped a bunch. But GUESS WHAT?!? After a few years, I forgot to take my meds with me on a vacation and noticed that I was doing fine and not having the weird syptoms that initially took me to the doctor. So, I cautiously continued without the meds (under my doctors supervision, of course) and bottom line-I was healed of my heart pathology! Didnt even know when, how or why! But I have been healed and live a fully active and fast-paced life today! Just know, that we dont understand eveything, but when you are scared, worried or confused, do not forget who your number one doctor is! HE IS IN CONTROL OF YOUR LIFE!!! And do not forget that He really does love you so VERY much!!!!!
Lord, please literally bless and touch Sarahs heart! Amen and thank YOU!!!
Your big sister here:
My husband received a pacemaker and was also put on meds to address two separate heart issues. He was 34 — father of two young children and fully employed. That was six years ago. He is doing great! We faced the fears and we won! And you can, too!
My prayer for you, Sarah, and for all of us sisters (me, too!) is this: Oh, that we would allow God to use the thing in front of us to, once and for all time, deliver us from the chains of that ugly parasite we call fear. Because in Him is fullness of joy and peace beyond measure. Oh, how He loves us so!
Your little sister here::
Lately, I have been feeling like I’m in no place to talk to anyone about the lord because I am struggling with sexual temptation. It’s ripping me apart. Literally. I’m like Paul when he says that when he wants to do good he does the opposite. That’s me right now.
I’m too ashamed to talk to the people around me because I’m held and looked at as the “example”
I Need to know that I’m not worthless, ruined goods.
And that the battle for sexual purity is possible!!
Dear Kara, You are not worthless, ruined goods. I struggled with the same for years because I so desparately wanted to be loved. I thought if I gave myself away they would love me. Time and time again they didn’t. You’ve got to settle this one face to the floor before God. It’s time to draw a line in the sand and stand firm. Will it be easy? Heck no! But you gotta! It is possible and you can do it through Christ. Stay in God’s Word. Memorize scripture to quote when you are tempted. Set up some protective boundaries for yourself. You can do this! I know you can!
Your big sister here,
I have been there and still struggle, BUT with God ALL things are possible!
Firstly, do not categorize sin. Oh, some sin has greater consequences, but He sees it all as sin.
My soul ached for a period of time with this struggle so severely, that I just wanted to totally give up! I thought about how God must be so disappointed in me! Here, I was, a devout woman of God having this struggle!
This is where He brought me, to my knees, begging Him for His forgiveness and then He explains to me, that any need that I have can only be filled with Him!
Each time you turn to Him, no matter where you are, will get easier.
The evil one wants you to give up!
Remain steadfast in Him dear sister! He will never let you fall!
Lisa
Big sister here…
You are not worthless, you are priceless and just the fact that you are burdened with the choices you have made or are making tells me there is good in you. Good that God placed in you. When I struggle with the battles of my self worth and bad choices, I just do the next right thing. Ask for forgiveness and do not worry about the past, do the right thing on the next choice you are given.
Find someone you have prayed over and trust and talk to them. Be authentic, real and you will be the best example to the people you have influence over. I will be praying for you.
Isaiah 43:18-19 – NIV
18 “Forget the former things;
do not dwell on the past.
19 See, I am doing a new thing!
Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the wilderness
and streams in the wasteland.
Oh sister… I am a “little” sister too… but I beg of you… PLEASE hang in there… knock off the pedestal the “image” of yourself, no matter who put it there. Get gut to gut with God and beg Him to rescue you. I’m telling you from someone who is in the mess of her life, because of this very very thing. There are NO tears like the ones you will cry if you allow this to have its way with your life. Those tears, sister, are very very painful. God is good, and He is faithful even now… but girlfriend… let Him slay it.
I LOVE YOU!
Breahn
Your Big Sister here says:
Memorize Psalm 105:4 “Look to the Lord and His strength; seek His face always!”
Even when things are not going as you would like them to, seek God’s face! Like Beth said on one of Travis’s cd’s, even when you don’t feel it, Praise Him and feel it later! Praise Him through the storm and you will feel the Victory later! I ask God to fill me up with His Holy Spirit everyday! I NEED Him!
I hear you Beth, on this one! I will be driving and get so mad at the enemy for all he is trying to do! But he does NOT win! I am sure I look ridiculous when I am fighting the Good Fight while I am driving but I don’t care!!
If we praise God only when things are going great in our lives, He probably would not hear from us very often! He wants to take all of our concerns! And yes we have all been there and are still there everyday but if God is for us, who can be against us!!! (Romans 8:31)
I will be praying for ALL Siestas!! Big AND Little!!
I love you Beth!
Little sister here: I’m in the middle of one of the largest battles of my life. And it’s not a specific circumstance. It’s God healing my broken mind and heart. But all I hear all day long are the lies that the enemy throws at me. I’ve made poor decisions in the past, just trying to find some security, some meaning. It’s been a vicious cycle all of my adult life. BUT… God is giving me a do-over (it feels like what I imagine an amputation might – but you can’t see mine), and it’s so hard not to run back to familiar captivity. I am literally leaning on Him, just to stand up throughout the days, let alone take one step forward…..
little sister here- allyson said it perfectly…bottom line- God is trying to heal my broken heart and transform my mind that so easily and often is in bondage to satans lies and more often my emotions. i want so badly to grow through this and grow up spiritually. i feel allyson to my core when she described the vicious cycle. i know progress has been made and God will continue the work He started, but i so long for a place of more stability,clarity of mind, &steadfastness spiritually. all i ask is for you big sisters to remember us in prayer to have a desire for God and His word above all else-there are so many distractions and things vying for our attention all the time and i know you guys go through the same thing. allyson i will be praying for you, girl and thankyou big sisters for praying for us and for desiring to encourage. thankyou beth for taking time to post this, encourage, and spur us all on.
Praying for you too, Steph!! My heart is already encouraged through this blog post and all the responses and prayers being lifted. I hope yours is too. Have a lovely day, dear sister.
Little sister here, and Allyson, you took the words RIGHT out of my mouth! It’s such a huge battle for me that feels like its never going to end.. I’ll be praying for you!
I’ll be praying for you too!
I’m a little sister but friend, the word is the sword of the spirit. Put it every where. I even carry it in my pocket, my car, purse. Don’t go anywhere without it. Pray for a hedge of protection around your mind. Rebuke Satan and let him know in Jesus name that Jesus is your king and he (Satan) needs to get behind you, under your feet!
Beth I believe even said that at a time she had to sleep with her bible on her head.
It works and I’m proof!
Stay strong!
I did indeed!
Amy, thank you for your sweet, Godly words of encouragement. I have been praying that God guards my mind, and you are right, it works. God’s Word is alive and active, and even though it’s a struggle, I know you speak truth. I hope you have a blessed day, friend.
Your little sis here.
I’m on my second marriage and have recently been struggling with daily, nearly merciless reminders of all the wrongs done in my previous marriage. I’m finding that it hinders my ability to connect with my husband lately as my wall of mistrust is trying to reconstruct itself!
I appreciate any suggestions you can give. The only other issue I’m struggling with is that my mom is trying to encourage my son to keep what happens at her house a “secret” and my husband and I aren’t comfortable with this. My son will be two in August.
Many thanks for any encouragement that you can give me ladies. I’ve been rubbed raw over these two issues this week.
Your little sister here… I am tired, exhausted, discouraged and hurt. That. About. Covers. It. Feel an overwhelming sense of never being enough for those who need me most. Thank you for your prayers.
April
prayers to you april…read captivating by stasi eldrege 🙂
Thank you for the prayers and encouragement! Today was a great day!
April
You ARE ENOUGH! Just the way you are. I struggled my whole young adult life feeling the way you feel- and ONLY God- and the truth of His Word brought me out of it- now I KNOW I’m enough- God says so- and tells us WE ARE ENGRAVED ON THE PALM OF HIS HAND.
Just felt like I wanted to tell you that today- YOU ARE ENOUGH!!!!!
Hugs from Michigan
Thank you Kelly! Your words were like balm to my soul. Hugs!
Big Sister here. My sons were 3 and almost 6 when I hit rock bottom in my depression. I could no longer function. I was trying to home school and look like the mom who had it all together. I was the MOPs coordinator at our church. I was a mess. I needed help in the worst way and had to humble (read: humiliate) myself in order to get it. I put my kids in school and drove downtown to a mentoring program. It was there that I received one-on-one good Christian counseling and grace. Possibly for the first time.
Little sister, do you know what grace is? It’s that thing you need because YOU CAN’T DO IT ALL. You can’t even do most of it. You need the grace that Jesus Christ freely gives to those who are weak to do what he has called you to do today. He’ll give you more tomorrow. And then the next day. And the day after that. It’s already paid for.
Eight years later I am able to testify to the power of grace in my family’s lives. I NEVER thought it was possible.
What’s that thing you’re most afraid will happen if you let go? Trust God. His grace will carry you beyond your wildest imagination. Grab on to him with both hands and let the thing go. He will NEVER let you go.
I needed to hear that today. Thank you.
Thank you for that beautiful testimony! I am a big sister and I am struck and hurting for all our sisters trying so hard to do it all perfectly all the time, and so discouraged when they can’t! I wish I could invite you all into my messy house, and let you see all the remnants of drive thrus in my car. Maybe you could also witness my children being ugly to each other, or see me lash out at my husband from time to time. Do not be deceived – most of us are not living in a magazine spread 🙂 please do not wear yourself out physically and emotionally trying to do so! Enjoy your life, even – maybe especially – with all it’s flaws.
Big sister here.
Pray without ceasing. It does help.
Here it is, just for you, in the KJV.
Psalm 25
Unto thee, O LORD, do I lift up my soul.
O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me.
Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause.
Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths.
Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.
Remember, O LORD, thy tender mercies and thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old.
Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions: according to thy mercy remember thou me for thy goodness’ sake, O LORD.
Good and upright is the LORD: therefore will he teach sinners in the way.
The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.
All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies.
For thy name’s sake, O LORD, pardon mine iniquity; for it is great.
What man is he that feareth the LORD? him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose.
His soul shall dwell at ease; and his seed shall inherit the earth.
The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.
Mine eyes are ever toward the LORD; for he shall pluck my feet out of the net.
Turn thee unto me, and have mercy upon me; for I am desolate and afflicted.
The troubles of my heart are enlarged: O bring thou me out of my distresses.
Look upon mine affliction and my pain; and forgive all my sins.
Consider mine enemies; for they are many; and they hate me with cruel hatred.
O keep my soul, and deliver me: let me not be ashamed; for I put my trust in thee.
Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee.
Redeem Israel, O God, out of all his troubles.
Little sister here, last year I lost my beloved grandfather in December, put my 10 year old dog down in February, with a shattered heart buried my 60 year old dad in April after a massive heart attack, then buried my other grandfather in May, in July my dad’s youngest brother was fighting for his life and is continuing to battle aggressive lymphoma…. I am tired of being sad! I have 4 littles ages 8,5 and 2 year old twins. I have a wonderful husband, who is also tired of me being sad. I am mad that I have to talk about death daily with my kids because they miss my dad and talk about him all the time.. I love talking about him but it is hard to answer your 5 year old son when
he asks, ” why won’t Jesus let Papa visit for just one day?” or when the 8 year old wanted to bring a show and tell to school and said, ” I am going to tell the class grandpa gave this to me. he died. A lot of people in my family have died.” I feel worn out! God has shown himself faithful over and over but I am desperate for the constant ache to go away.. This season is killing me.
Big Sister here: Kadie…I can feel your pain and your loss. I lost a lot of loved ones as a young person…even lost my Mama when I was sixteen. I was ashamed of the grief I constantly felt. I thought it was a sign of weakness. Therefore I stuffed it back into an inner corner of my heart and there it became a festering, nasty sore! It affected my life in a very negative way for many years. It was not until several years ago that I realized through some Bible studies that grief is a natural…and healthy…process for us. It’s not a sign of weakness. In the Bible days there was a long period of mourning for lost loved ones. If you could in some way just ”embrace” this time of grieving for your loved ones and then ”release” them to God I believe it would help tremendously. As a 59-year-old grandmother I know it can’t be many years before I am reunited with my family and friends who have gone on before me. I will give you the same advice that Beth did…get in the Word and saturate your mind and spirit with it! It will comfort and sooth you like nothing else can! And it’s OK to talk about your departed loved ones. Most times now when I think about or talk about my Daddy and Mama (who are both deceased) it makes me smile instead of tear up. You will get there. Don’t give up! It just takes time.
God bless you!
Marilyn
Kadie-Grief is HARD. To grieve successfully is HARDER. After I lost my father,I had the attitude of ‘just get through it. Too soon after, my mother passed as well. I realized I had work to do if I was to ever not feel sad again. It takes time. It takes patience. It takes knowing Jesus is there, even if it doesn’t feel like it. I truly think no one can grieve in a healthy manner without some professional help-a grief group/study at church, Stephen minister, hospice group, counselor. My help came in the form of a friend who had once been a hospice social worker. We went on a lot of walks and she let me talk. But it took a long time to wake up in the morning and not have my first thought be a sad one. Be patient. Trust Jesus. Know He hurts with you. Spend time in the Psalms, let someone know you are hurting-People forget that although the funerals are over, the grief is still there. Ask an older woman in the church to just spend some time with you. Mostly though today-know that you are prayed for.
Kadie,
Rest in the Lord and His love for you. Grief takes time, don’t let anyone tell you how to grieve. Celebrate the tears and the memories. I lost my dad in February and still have days when all I do is hold back the tears because I don’t want people to know how much I hurt. Tears are one way we grieve.
Big sister here
I am no where near where I want to be in my journey of grief, but I am better than I was a year ago. I lost both of my precious parents in a tornado on May 24, 2011. Our family had all been together to celebrate my nephew’s graduation from high school on that Saturday and they were killed driving home on Tuesday. I never dreamed when I kissed them good-bye at the hotel on Sunday morning, that I would never see them again! My twin daughters, 11 at the time, were going to be baptized on Sunday of Memorial Day weekend the next weekend and they were going to be there, instead we had their double funeral that day. My girls LOVE their grandma and papa!!! I could tell you so many “God things” that have occurred over the past year to me and my 3 sisters as we have tried to survive our grief and move forward with our lives without our precious parents. We have all four said at one time or another that we really should write a book about God’s faithfulness and presence in our lives. I can tell you that I COULD NOT open my Bible to study for MONTHS after their deaths. I wasn’t angry with God, but my heart was broken and my feelings were so hurt that God didn’t protect them that day. I shared my struggle with opening my Bible to close family members and close friends and asked them to pray for me. I decided Jan 1, 2012, that my “word” for the year would be PRAYER. I couldn’t study my Bible but I prayed like I’ve never prayed before. I have sought people to pray for and it is amazing how God will put people in your life at specific times that need prayer and it has blessed me SO much. I have learned so much since my parents were killed. I feel SO thankful to have had them for 43 years – they were amazing Christian parents and I miss them more than I can put into words! I, too, recommend a group or counseling to help with your grief. I didn’t want to go to a counselor at our church or even visit with the pastor, but my family and I went to grief counseling at Hope and Healing Place and it helped SO much in understanding the feelings that I had were normal and that others hurt in similar ways and I developed some amazing friendships with people that I would never have met otherwise and that I pray for every day. I, too, felt tired of being sad, and felt that my husband (who has been amazing) was also tired of me being sad. I have friends that are specifically praying for me to find joy again in my life. We all miss my parents dearly and we all talk about them EVERY day and most days I wake up with them on my mind and they are my last thought as I fall asleep. God has been faithful to our family and I am now in a Bible study with a group of friends on Tuesday nights (Beth’s James, Mercy Triumphs) and I tell you that it feels amazing to be back in my Bible and digging in it deep. I love you, my little sister, and will be praying for you and your family.
I am a 33 year old mother of 2 boys. The oldest is 3.5 years and the youngest is 6 months. I am fortunate enough to stay home with my boys though I work one day a week as a speech therapist at a local hospital.
I am overwhelmed with life and all the roles I have to play. On top of working part time, trying to be a good mom, wife, friend, etc., losing those last few “baby pounds”, and now taking care of my mother and grandmother….it’s too much.
My mom sustained a spinal injury 4 months ago leaving her in chronic pain and my 90 year old grandmother fell and broke her back. I have had to pack up my grandmother’s house and move her to an assisted living facility after her 3 month stay in rehab….all with 2 little boys in tow. I am exhausted. There are too many needs to fill and not enough of me to fill them. I know God has orchestrated all of these situations at this particular time but I need help living them out on a daily basis. It is physically and emotionally exhausting.
Memorizing Psalm 25, Beth!
Big Sister Here: Remember these four prophetic words…This. Too. Shall. Pass. How well I remember those very trying times as a young mother having had three babies in three years! I also had the responsibility of helping care for my sick mother-in-law who had breast cancer. I recall one night when my husband was working the midnight shift, I was up in the night with one of the babies and it just seemed like the weight of the world was on my shoulders. I had carried soiled clothing from a sick baby out to the laundry room and then just laid my head across the washer and cried! I told God…”I’m so tired! I’m SO tired! I can’t do this anymore!” I can’t explain what happened then but it was like God just wrapped His loving arm around me and said, “Of course you can! You can do all things through ME!” I won’t lie and say it was easy from then on. I will say that I just took one step at a time doing what I knew I had to do and God saw me through it! He will do the same for you! Rest when you can. Play when you can. Love always. Believe always. God is there for you! I have been so encouraged just reading your post and knowing how hard you are trying to do the right thing in your life. Lean hard on Him! Read His word. HE is the answer to all our problems!
God bless you little sister!
Marilyn
Thank you, Marilyn…..from the bottom of my heart. Your words were such encouragement today. You’re right, I can do ALL things through Christ! Thanks for reminding me.
I first want to thank you for this. I am a little sister only 19 years old and have been praying for Godly wisdom from older women. To be honest, I have struggled with homosexuality ever since I was a little kid. It wasn’t until high school where I acted upon it and ended up getting kicked out of my church. It was a very difficult time in my life but I found a new church who accepted me with open arms and loved me the way Christ did. It would be easier to say that once I got kicked out of the church, I fully surrendered to God about this struggle but the truth is, it would be almost 3 years ahead that I did. I continuously battled with trying to change and would fail each time. I didn’t know why God wouldn’t let me overcome this if it was so wrong so I decided to accept it. I started researching everything I could about why it was okay, talking to gay accepting people, and so on. I acted upon my desires an continued a relationship that led me further into this life style. And for a long time I tried to tell myself it was okay but even after all of that, I felt an emptiness in my heart. Why did I have to try so hard to prove something was okay if it was of God? And why did I continue to be unhappy, worrying, doubtful, and the list goes on. It wasn’t until a few months ago when I was probably in the darkest time in my life where I cried out to God to help me. I finally realized that the reason why I failed in the past so much was because I was still trying to figure everything out on my own. I wasn’t letting go an saying God I can’t, but You can. And most of all, I always identified myself in what I thought I was not how Christ did. It’s something that’s taken many months to even comprehend a little of what it means for God to love me but it’s when I fully started just seeking after His love and grace and letting Him take care of everything else where the change started to happen. It’s not always easy but it gets easier. And even in my hard days I have learned to praise Him in the storm. He has given me so much more then I deserve and it’s through the fruits of the spirit that I have weapons to say no to my old life an I can promise I any other woman out there dealing with this know that God loves you and He can satisfy that emptiness that you feel in your heart. I think the biggest thing that I want to point out is for the church to be more aware that there are people in your church who struggle with this who don’t open up for fear of condemnation or being kicked out like I was from my first church. Remember to love as Christ loved us and not condemn people for homosexuality but also to stand up for the gospel. It was because 3 people in my life who showed me the love of God but also made me aware that this was wrong where their seeds were sown in my heart. Although I was angry then and didn’t believe them it was because they never gave up on me or the gospel where their seeds grew in my life. This is still a daily battle but I have a God who doesn’t let me carry the weight on my own and I know I am free in Him and with Him there is Hope. I am getting through this but I pray that you all may pray for me, encourage me because it is still a battle with the mind, and remember your seeds are important. Please talk about this more because society is only getting more accepting towards this and so are some Christian’s which makes it harder on us who deal with it to believe what, but we don’t want their views, we want God’s view. So I hope that as bigger sister’s in Christ you will show us God’s view instead. Thank you.
what an incredible testimony and call for all of us (big and little sisters) to stand by your side in solidarity!!
very thankful for you!
rachel
Hugs to you sweet Blaine!
Seek the truth- and the truth will set you free- God loves you so much- and so do I- my sister in Christ!
Praying for you, precious sister!
Thank you so much for sharing this, my best friend’s husband recently came out to her as bi-sexual. She has really struggled with this, and knowing that she is wanted as any woman would. She also has been deeply influenced by his view points and is now saying that she doesn’t believe homosexuality is wrong. I don’t love him any less, but I also don’t love strongholds in whatever form over his or my own live. I have seen her drift away from the lord, and lift her up daily in prayer. You are right, this is something that definitely does need to be talked about.
So brave and so powerful. Thank you for writing in and letting us in on your struggles. You are loved and accepted here. I learned a lot from what you had to say and please know your sisters are encouraging you to keep seeking God and His will for your life.
Shelly
Another (older) little sister…thank you for being vulnerable here…I’ve been reading “Love in an Orientation” by Andrew Marin and it has been eye-opening for me. The GLBT/Christian debate over who’s right and the methods that both sides have tried to employ to convince the other has been troubling to me and this book has really helped me see how I can (in some small way) help those I come in contact with who are either living the GLBT lifestyle or struggling with the temptation to.
May the strength of God carry you through each day and may your continued time in His Word and His Presence draw you ever closer to Him as you see things the way He does!
love,
Audrey
“Love IS an Orientation” Sorry about that!
Little sister here…
Gave birth 5 months ago to my baby boy Caleb. He was premature, in the NICU for 2 weeks and he is growing but lately we are seeing some development delays. Just yesterday a specialist ordered an MRI for his brain, and additional testing as well. It took us 4 years to get pregnant, had some complications in pregnancy and its been a long road. I’m tired and I love my son. Please pray for his healing and that he begins to development. We need rest. I’m scared.
Hi Karen,
I am not a Big Sister, but when I read your post it made my heart ache and brought back some memories for me.
My son at 4 weeks of age was diagnosed with Meningitis and the future for him looked very dark. Over a period of 3 weeks, he suffered a stroke and seizures and the meningitis had taken over his body so much so that the docs laid him in my arms to die.
That little boy will be celebrating his 6th birthday in a few weeks and he is the picture of health with no side effects from the meningitis. He is our miracle from God. I tell you that, to tell you this….I know that you are feeling tired, helpless, frustrated and scared beyond words. But know that God has your son under His wing and you have to trust and lean on Him. I was given this verse one day as I sat in the NICU ward….it is from James 4:8 and it says..”Draw close to God and He will draw close to you”. Hold unto your hope and God will give you the strength to see you through.
I’ll be praying and believing with you.
Big sister with much experience here. My twin girls were born at 26 weeks. They lived in the nicu for three months. One was on vent for a long time. One suffered a brain bleed. We were told they would face serious developmental delays and possibly mental issues. After coming home they had to stay on monitor due to the fact they would stop breathing and their heart would stop from time to time ..long story short, after many sleepless nights filled with panic and worry, my girls are beautiful healthy 13 year olds who are in the gifted program at school and live life to the fullest. They are our miracles straight from God. Trust in him. Give your sweet baby lots of love and watch God show out!!
From a Loving Big Sister:
Oh Karen, sweetheart… You’re having an “Abraham Moment” in your life, sweet girl. I KNOW how tired you are and how very scared. I’m the mom of a cancer-surviving, beautiful teenager, so I really, really get it.
This is a time when God wants you to give Him back (figuratively) this GIFT. I have BEEN in that hospital room, held my sweet girl during testing, not slept or eaten in days, and didn’t know what to pray. All God wanted was obedience that my daughter was HIS, not mine. So… I literally opened my hands and said, ‘She’s Yours… show me what You want me to do with this. Regardless’. And we walked. Through that “valley of the shadow”. And we clung to Ps 91. It was ugly and I became a Momma Warrior. You’re in a brutal training for this very thing. It’s nasty (I’m a “reality-based” Christian). Nothing about this is fun. It hurts, it’s sickening and it wants nothing more than to defeat you. Don’t you DARE let a fiery arrow get passed you. Suit up (Eph 6) and FIGHT.
I have learned to give both my children to God daily. I have learned my role is to fight for them viciously and powerfully! I get MEAN about it. THESE ARE CHILDREN OF A KING!!!
I know this is not easy, Karen. But I will pray with you and for you and Caleb. Open your hands (this is exactly what I tell my MOPS Mommies), Hand Caleb to God, KEEP WALKING and keep fighting for him.
YOU ARE LOVED.
Karen,
I pray our Heavenly Father Grant you grace and peace in your heart concerning these things with your prescious baby Caleb. Know without a shadow of a doubt, that your Heavenly Father has a plan for Caleb. And the struggles that you face will bring knowledge and strength for when you meet the future little sisters who face similar unavoidable situations, and needing uplifting. embrace each item that comes, the lack of sleep and the medical professionals who I pray God will grace with great wisdom and words of comfort for you as you face each day.
Lifting up the Bleed he has that the Lord will show the doctors HE is in control by healing and in Jesus name give you Peace.
Philippians 4:13
New King James Version (NKJV)
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Your little sister here: I am just feeling so – for lack of a better word – STUCK. I moved to a new city a year ago for a new job that I have hated from day 1. I feel so deeply that it is not where the Lord wants me to be. At the same time, I just feel frozen in place. It’s like I can’t move for fear of making the wrong decision. I know God doesn’t call me to a spirit of fear, but it’s so hard to know where to turn when I don’t even have a clue what’s next. Look forward to sweet time in the Word & Psalm 25!
Your little sister here…
Just wants to know that our older sisters are FOR US. Even when life is relatively “in order,” it’s still messy. Beautifully, irritatingly messy! The joy of knowing that an older sister is cheering, believing, and asking for me – it is so good.
Just this morning, I snuck away and had coffee with a fellow young mom. We talked about how much we need and desire this, the wisdom of women who have gone before us. Women who are for us.
Thank you ladies! Keep it coming. Consider yourself invited to invest:).
Your little sister here..
is feeling overwhelmed with the deep loneliness of being single and the fear of never having a family of my own. I know that God is sovereign and His plan is best, but there are days when I feel crushed by these feelings.
Anne – I’m a “little sister” too, but by only a couple of years. I never thought I’d be 38 and still single. Some days are ok, but some are just plain tough. Please know you aren’t alone…
Big 60 year old Sista here!!
How many times in my younger years I have felt “My way is hidden from the Lord; my life situation is disregarded by my Lord God.” I would go to bed exhausted after taking care of our 3 children all day as my husband was not one to enter into that responsibility. Every night I would wonder if I would have the strength to get up at the early hours that our children would. But every morning I did have the strength.
“Do you now know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. HE WILL NOT GROW TIRED or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary, oh read on little sister – Isaiah 40:28-31.
There were days I would ask God, “I just need a blessing. Some kind of a blessing to know You are here. That I’m on the right path.” And He never failed to give me the blessing I so needed. Maybe it was a bird singing. Or a hug from one of our children. No, it wasn’t a $500 check in the mail. Never did receive that kind of blessing. (hahaha)
And sometimes you just have to quit reading the books on how to be the godly mother and wife. Now I’m not saying they’re wrong or out of place. But God’s Word can breathe more strength and encouragement into your being than those books can. Oh, and women’s Bible studies were a huge “pick me up” for me!! Cause they provided child care. (hahaha again)
Believe me, your children will honor you. Your husband will mellow with age. And you will be glad you hung in there! Bless you little sisters!!
Thank you!
what a great word, Diane. “stop reading books on how to be a good mom and get into God’s Word.” Thank you for that affirmation!!!
love,
rachel
Good afternoon Little Sisters ! I want to encourage each of you today, bc God’s grace & mercies are new & fresh, waiting for you to start anew in prayer & most importantly
in His Word ! Let me say this VERY LOUDLY !!! YOU CANNOT MAKE IT OUT OF THIS HORRIBLE SEASON W/THE WORLD’S SUGGESTED PLAN !!! There is a very good reason that satan does not reveal the nasty details & the horrible ending of his plan in the beginning. Webster’s Dictionary; 1: devil,friend of hell,malicious 2: devious,shifty; not straightforward. Litter Sister PLEASE do not allow satan to misguide you for another second. WARNING : As an older sister that has been in that dark place,it is not pretty !
You may come out of the battle w/some scaring,if so,I pray that they are visible on both knees ! Come out of this w/your arms lifted high (His Word in one hand)praising,singing & dancing w/the JOY of the LORD ! Psalm 25 Awesome !
Big Sister here, who is teary-eyed from reading Little Sister’s posts and cries. I’m praying for you to hold on to that which is good! The life of a young woman/wife/mother is not easy, yet there are greater days to come. At age 54, I am enjoying my marriage with an empty nest and my nearly-grown daughters (ages 19 and 23).
Be encouraged. The very BEST things I have done to stay focused are:
1)Be consistent in Bible Study. Do it on your own, or better yet – find a group to share and study with.
2)Pray with other women. Where two or more are gathered…
3)Exercise regularly. The physical & mental benefits are tremendous.
4)Listen to praise & worship music. Your thoughts will be lifted!
5)Read some Christian novels and/or devotional books. My personal favorites are “Redeeming Love”, “31 Days of Praise”, “Praying the Bible for your Children”, “The Power of a Praying Parent”, and “My Utmost for His Highest”.
6) Don’t try to be SuperWoman. Ask God daily to show you His priorities and follow where He leads you.
I really love the “My Utmost” devotional today. Here’s the link if you want to read it, too. http://utmost.org/
We are clay in His hands. He alone has the vision of what we will become. Hang in there and wait for it!
Love you, Little Sisters!
A little sister here. Battling an addiction. I have repented so many times I’ve lost count. I’m at a loss for how to put this sin to death. I’m also terrified about what this repeated sin is doing to my relationship with Christ. Any encouragement, even tough love, is welcome.
Michelle,
Big sister here…I have been sober almost 1,000 days. Addiction is rough and it does separate you from God, but you can overcome. I know it does not seem that way while you are deep in the pit, but you can because God will set you free. Your struggle has already died with Him!! Just hand it over and start out minute by minute making the next right choice. Next you can move to every hour making the right choice and eventually you will have days of sobriety. Even years!
Immerse yourself in Christian music…Fireflight is a great group and has some awesome songs that deal with battles we face. Ronnie Freeman also has many good songs dealing with addiction. “Sober Me” is one of my favs. God’s grace, the music, and my family are what got me through the initial days of sobriety. Also…tell someone…exposing your battle is not fun but it is freeing.
Love ya girl. Praying.
Your little sister here, needs reminding that God will keep His promises. You know, the really personal ones that we don’t share with many others. . . the ones that seem impossible, improbable and down right imagined (only they weren’t). . .I think. . .and His timing is not mine.
Jeremiah 29:11
Phillipians 4:19
Deuteronomy 7:9
Proverbs 18:10
Pslams 103:6
Just to name a few….
Little sister here:
I am a 24 year old Kindergarten teacher. I am struggling with waiting for God. Sometimes I feel like I will never get married, but will stay where I am at for the rest of my life. I am also struggling with a chronic illness which makes me feel unlovable. It can be a struggle to do the simplest things.
HELP!!
Father, I lift up Anne Marie to you in her struggle with chronic illness, in her busy life as a teacher. I thank you, Lord, that she is willing and able to teach a future generation despite her challenges. I pray for relief for her, Lord, and ask that you rain down blessings upon her. Amen.
Little sister – Waiting on the Lord is hard, but oh, so worth the wait. I was a 44 year old single, never married, missionary to deaf children waiting to hear from the Lord whether or not He wanted me to go back on the field. I wondered a lot whether I would ever get married. Finally, I said “Lord – I’m willing to go back on the mission field if that’s where you want me. But, you know my heart, I would love to be married…..” I waited a little longer, getting ready to head back to the field and God gave me the BEST man ever to be my husband. So, little sister, wait for God’s best. I know sometimes the waiting is hard, but I have seen so many young women “settle” because they feel time is running out. Don’t settle. He will give you His best.
Karen – thanks for this word of encouragement. As my 38th birthday gets closer, I struggle with still being single. I don’t want to settle.. I’ve always said I’d rather be miserable alone than miserable with the wrong person. But honestly, I don’t want to be miserable at all. Trusting God to take away the misery and bring His mate for me in His time. thanks again!
Little sister here…
Im 21 and still hurting from the brokenness of past friendships that will probably never be reconciled. I look back and see almost no one from my youth standing next to me, im about to be engaged and saddened that most of my friends that will share in this life event are fairly new (within the last 4 yrs of my life) and none of the old ones want anything to do with me. I cant seem to move on from this heartbreak of lost friendships or from the verision of myself I know they all still see me to be.
Katie, I’m praying God brings you Christian sisters who encourage, help and provide you many years of friendship. If there is any chance you live in the DFW area, I’m here!
Four months to the day of divorce from an ungodly marriage, my best friend died unexpectedly. I know what it feels like to grieve over a lost friendship. But, I also experienced the full restoring power of what HE can do and what HE can provide to a breaking heart. Now, I can’t imagine my life any other way than just what HE had planned all along. Be encouraged, His Light will bring you new friends and renew your strength. Keep holding that armor! There’s no better place to be.
prayers to you katie…maybe it’s time to embrace new friends..sometimes the old ones come back around and sometimes friendships are just for a season.
Oh little sis Katie! I have been there!
Medium sis here? 28 but I have been 21 and looking back at friendships that have been broken, especially as I got married. They can be worse sometimes than romantic relationship break up!
I know, sometimes we think only with time comes closeness, but God has put these new friends into your life for a reason, to lift you up! You may not have pictures of the two of you in kindergarten together, but what matters is that you are loved and known by fellow believers who can lift you up when you’re down, who enjoy your gifts, and with whom you can share joy and sorrow with. Those are the kinds of people you want beside you as you go into your marriage, and if you don’t have those yet, I’m praying to God now that you find them!
You can seek to reconcile with them. Forgive them for hurting you by throwing away your friendship and ask for forgiveness for the things you have done. God loves it when his children stop fighting and start forgiving!
Remember, you are who God says you are, not who these old friends say you are. No matter what mistakes you’ve made, or wrongs you’ve done, He forgives you. You are forgiven! You are changed! Don’t believe them when they think they’re the same old you. You are not! You are a daughter of King of Kings, made new by the sacrifice of Jesus.
For all those little sisters who are struggling to find friends and role models, I know we are all in agreement that God provide those to you! He wants us to be in relationship, with Him and with each other. When things seem darkest, it highlights our need more than ever.
Big Sister here, Katie. God KNOWS you, He knows you by your name and every hair on your head, He sees you as His sweet, beautiful child and no one can change His heart about that. Your “new” friends could turn out to be your life long friends, give Him thanks for them and look forward to what He has planned for you.
I’m a little sister (30) and I’d just like to say that the 12 step program I attend (Codependents anonymous) has made a remarkable difference. There is absolutely no question of who my higher power is (JESUS CHRIST all the way!) but I’ve been so blessed by all I’ve learned about me through the program and the unhealthy and familiar patterns I’ve lived in for so much of my life. The 12 steps give me a wonderful framework for coping and support and encouragement as I continue to grow.
Big Sister Here:
In 2001, I had a 3 1/2 year old, an 18 month old and new born twins. That’s four kids, under 4 and 3 in diapers. I was beyond exhausted, I was at home all day and I did not look my best (to say the least). I learned to ask for help, and people helped me: willingly, lovingly and more than I could imagine. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The world is feeding us lies about “supermom”, “having it all” and dressing the part. The Lord built us for community; reach out to the community. I contacted my Sunday School class, and my Preschool Minister( did I mention I had just moved to Dallas), and people were so willing to help me.
Now, don’t worry, your time will come to return the favor. You may not be able to do it for years, but there will be opportunities to cook a meal, keep someone’s kids for them, transport others’ children, and you do them when you can. I am in that spot today. I told the Lord I would say “yes” to those who asked me for help as often as I could, and I have.
My first two years with all four were “survival mode”: feed, change diapers, get them to a nap, I napped, and start all over again. It does get better, they do sleep through the night, they do become potty trained, and one day they are 14, 12, 11, 11, and they’re almost out of your house. So put some deodorant on,a little lip gloss, brush your teeth and ask for help.
Is there anyway I could email you? I have 5 kids 4 and under. I could really use someone who under stands and could help guide me through this time! Here is my email… Mrs {dot} MLB2004 {at} yahoo {dot} com.
Help as in advice/mentor.
So humbled that you would want to talk to me. I will email you, and give you any encouragement and wisdom I can.
Blessings
Little sister here: I could use encouragement that God will continue to provide Big Sisters. Right now my life is in a ttransition from throwing off the new and putting on the full armor of God. I am in a time of walking out of shame and seeking out Grace and our God has been faithful to provide Big Sisters to walk in that journey for the time. I would greatly appreciate encouragement, reaffirming scriptures or even tales of experiences where God has continually provided the right peoe for the right seasons of life.
Your Big Sis here…Hang tight to Him, Little Sis! He’s got a plan and it’s much bigger than what you can imagine. Father, I pray that every little sis in this ring of love feels relief by Your Mighty Power. Lord, we know we live in an unhealthy, destructive world but I’m praying that my Little Sister (YOU!) breaks free of Satan’s evil fingers. We know YOUR grip is stronger, Lord! Amen
Your 30 year old little sister here…
Was minding her own business at work one day this past December when all of a sudden I didn’t know where I was. In no time flat this snowballed into a sea of MRIs and EEGs and neurologists and horrible medications, and a diagnosis of partial-onset temporary lobe epilepsy (google it). This is part of a perfect storm that has just now hit its peak – and I have never felt so alone and full of despair in my life. I have known God – I have known him – and I cannot find him. I am scared all the time and barely hanging on. I know – i KNOW that God has never ever ONCE left me to die – but so help me, it feels like it right now and I need to see him.
Hi Kate,
While I haven’t had the exact physical ailment you describe, I have COMPLETELY experienced life trauma and drama that left me feeling scared and alone. Wondering where God was and what did I need to do to get a glimpse of Him? Feeling like if I let it, panic would just wash me away.
The truth is that many of us, in our Christian journey, come up against this. There are epic things we can face, like what you wrote, that scare the heck out of us. But…hang on little sister. God has NOT left you. The God we serve has promised that he will never leave us or forsake us. He will not leave us as orphans. No, not ever!
But what will leave you? Fear, that is what. It will pass as you come to grips with your situation, through prayer. Even in the storm, prayer is your anchor and lifeline. Praying for you!!
Kate,
My prayer is that you will experience the presence, peace and healing of Jesus like never before. He promised to never leave you or forsake you. Hold onto that promise.
Your little sister here could use some encouragement, prayer, resources to help me love my mother-in-law. Going on 10 years of marriage (stronger and happier than ever) and still struggling so deeply with lack of strength to even try to relate to her at this point. I know it’s not impossible… Who’s with me?
I know how you feel, I don’t have an answer, I have a strange mother-in-law but I will pray for you 🙂
Lord God, I pray for Jb here. I thank you that her heart’s desire is to love her mother in law. Lord, anything is possible with you. Enable her to love her MIL with Your love. Let Your love flow out of her. Also, as she endeavours to do so, let it be a growing experience for the both women. Where healthy boundaries needs to be placed in order to grow a healthy loving relationship, give Jb and her husband a courage and strength to do so. May Your name be glorified in the process. Amen!
My goodness… spot on. Thank you so much. Thanks to both of you for your prayers!
Your big sister here … agrees completely with Beth! No matter what you are facing, stay in the Word. Whether it is a one-liner verse you heard at church or you read on a calendar or in your Bible … God pointed it out to you for a definite reason … so meditate on it. Example: I write … had a story to write … heard a one-liner at church, Matthew 25, “Come and share in your master’s happiness” … that was the exact direction I needed for my writing and for my life … accident? No way! I’ve been meditating on it all week … “Come and share in your ‘Master’s’ happiness” … no matter what is happening! Yahoo!!
LITTLE SISTER HERE:
Bible Study Hostess..been hosting same group for two years. Seeing great fruit , but everyone seems distracted and disapointed lately, not understanding why God is allowing certain hardships. I can feel Bitter Roots rising and I hope they get plucked out soon. Life has not been easy for me personally. Financial hardships.. SHAME over being poor. Not sure if God wants me to host anymore. Please pray for our Sisters.
“I’m homesick-longing for your Salvation: I’m waiting for your word of HOPE…” Ps 119
Little Sister here…
First of all I have to say that the timing of this posting is giving me chills…God is so good!
I am a wife to a wonderful husband and a mother to two boys, ages 5&8. I have been a stay at home mom for the past 9 years. My children are everything to me and because I don’t live around any family…my children are ALWAYS with me (so I don’t get a break)…boy, oh boy they can just suck the life right out of me some days. I moved to this city 16 years ago when I was 16 (with my parents) and I never made any real friendships, so I don’t have any girlfriends to call on for a chat or to get together with for a coffee. My husband works long days (so, financially I can stay home with our boys)…so I guess I’m just lonely.
My husbands job is not a good work environment for him and he does not enjoy it. But it does pay well enough that I am able to stay home. So he comes home stressed out to the max and he tries to hide it for my sake, but I can tell.
I don’t know what I need…I’ve prayed and prayed and asked God to intervene…somehow….but while I’m waiting…I need some encouragement that I obviously won’t find in pop up story books.
Big Sister here, April! While I can’t understand being in a place without family, I do understand having a husband who works long hours and comes home spent!!
I started praying for my husband’s job, specifically naming every person above him that God would open their eyes to see his worth. I am here to testify that this has recently happened after 10+ years of prayer. Don’t quit praying. Support him in a way that fills up his love tank. The 5 Love Languages by Gary Smalley is very insightful.
As far as loneliness, God may have you there so that you find what you need in HIm ALONE! If that’s not the case get yourself in a good women’s bible study with women of all ages. Consider hosting one in your home, you WILL be blessed!!! Lastly pray, pray, pray that He would give you those friendships that all women want. My love to you sweet sister 🙂
Forgot to say that I was a stay at home mom for the majority of my daughters lives. Now 23 & 19 this was the BEST INVESTMENT I could have ever made. You will know that one day too!!!!
Thank you Michelle….those words mean so much to me! May God bless you for your willingness to help.
Much love,
April
Your little sister here:
In the last five weeks:
1. I’ve had mono (I’m 37), but the doctors thought it was something to do with my liver due to blood and bile being in my urine. Many blood tests and ultrasounds later, it was just the mono enlarging my spleen. Praise God…I have left the mono building, but still fatigue a little.
2. I tore a muscle in my quad by stretching. Yes, stretching. (It was an antiquated stretch said my wonderful ortho doc.)
3. Having the mono weakened my immune system, so I developed cellulitis in the quad area where I tore the muscle. Since cellulitis, if left untreated, can kill you by causing staph to enter your blood stream, I’m so very thankful God got me to the ER and in heavy doses of antibiotics before it got bad.
I’ve been attacked by the devil so much physically, but I’m coming out of it stronger spiritually! Thank you, Jesus. I’ve gotten deeper into the Word, and I will be memorizing Psalm 25.
I’ve had big sisters wrap their arms around me during this season and they have literally torn down the gates of heaven praying on my behalf.
**The key to the big sisters helping me was this—I LET THEM KNOW I NEEDED IT! I’ve not always done that, but I’m so glad that I did this time. The encouragement has been amazing.
God has been right there with me this whole time and I give Him the glory for carrying me through.
Love you, Beth!
Rebecca
Your big sister here wants to encourage you today the way God encouraged me this morning. I was reading Luke 8, and God used a very familiar story to teach me about my faith. Luke 8 describes when the disciples and Jesus decided to cross the lake in their boat. Jesus fell asleep, and a huge storm threatened to sink the boat full of people. The disciples frantically woke Jesus, not, I suspect, because they thought he could do anything about the storm. Because after Jesus stilled the storm, they were astonished that even the winds and waves obeyed him. It is after Jesus stilled the storm that he asks: “Where is your faith?” What spoke to me this morning- because I myself am in a storm in my own family- is that storms are real and storms can destroy. And a lot of time I put my faith in the storm as if it could possibly be bigger than God. Jesus reminded me- where is MY faith? Is it in the storm, or is it in Christ? Like the disciples, I need to realize that the One in my boat is able to still the storm. Because when I focus on the storm, it does threaten to overtake me; but when I focus on the Creator of everything, my Savior, I can survive the storm. I hope to encourage someone like I was encouraged!
Little sister here…I have visions/dreams & knowledge impressed in my spirit and I’m so insecure about this gift I am always second, third, and fourth guessing whether I am hearing The Holy Spirit it if I’m being deceived by the enemy. Many, not all of these visions have come true. A few were if deaths within my family. So when I receive another one I’m sent into a tail spin. Please help me know how to discern what is of God and when I’m being misled. I don’t have anyone at my church that speaks about the gift of prophecy so I read as much as I can.
Your little sister here: Expecting our first child (baby boy) in the next four weeks or so and need some prayer specifically for the strengthening of my mind. Please pray for me to take my thoughts captive and for their to be no fears or anxieties about the labor and delivery and so forth, in Jesus’ name. What a sweet blessing to read this blog post today and know that I can share this desire of my heart with you all to pray. So blessed by this community of siestas!
Little sister here feeling awful. I had to go to a food pantry for the first time because we can pay all our bills but there is not much left over for gas and food. My husband is morally opposed to government help so I didn’t tell him about the food pantry and snuck the food in after everyone fell asleep. The kids are fed now and I had a piece of fruit for the first time in like, ever, without giving it to the kids first. I’m ashamed and sorry but the worst part is that I’ll probably do it again.
Hi Anon in NH,
Praying for God to give you wisdom to navigate this tough time. Praying that God also gives you lots of free fruit this summer so you can enjoy as much as you can hold! Financial struggles are tough, tough, tough. We have been there too.
No matter what anyone else thinks, you can look in the mirror and repeat the truth of 2 cor 5:17 everyday til you are believing it- you are a new creation! It is true no
Matter what others think, and with it come new friends who may not have a history with you or even maybe same interests, etc., but my new friends in adult life are reliable, prayerful and true. they may be very different from me, but the common bond of Jesus and growing together is worth more than having friends who just like all that you do. Life is hard and we need that encouragement and reliable prayer friends!!
Big Sister Here: Dear Heavenly Father, I bring Anon in NH to you. I pray that God’s people will flood her home with your provision. That they will be your hands and feet to bring what she and her family need. That hungry tummies will be filled. That minds and hearts will be eased. That you will be glorified. In your Son’s name, I pray. Amen.
You have no idea what your prayer means to me. I really hope it comes true and if it does I will testify it out loud to the siestas! I’m not southern but I hope God does bless your heart. You have encouraged me deeply. Thank you. Thank you thank you.
Little Sister here…
I am convinced the enemy is working overtime, but not specifically in me or my family. You see, my husband is a preacher and for the last many weeks (I can’t even remember how long this has been happening~at least 12 weeks) the crises in our church and community and family have been non-stop! A few months ago he ruptured a disc in his neck and the pain made concentrating on studying/listening to God/writing a message incredibly difficult, then there was a lady from our community dying of cancer who wanted him to visit, and a surgery where he was waiting with the wife while the husband was being worked on and it was delayed by 4+ hours, then he was ill from heat exhaustion, then another minister/friend was rushed an hour away for a heart attack and on and on…and to top it all off one of his best friend’s here (we moved to Ohio from Illinois just 2 years ago) will be moving to Florida next month.
We LOVE ministry and are not going to stop being with people. But, for crying out loud! When’s a man supposed to have time to study and listen to God, then put that on paper with all that going on??? I’m thrilled to say that God’s Word continues to be preached boldly, but I’m not sure how much longer my husband can keep up the pace. I am also super thankful that he loves and values me and our boys (9 & 7) so much and will specifically set aside time for us…but I’ve heard the saying “burning the candle at both ends” enough times to know it’s true.
I have just finished memorizing my passage in 1 Corinthians 1:20-31 (the foolishness of God is wiser than men and the weakness of God is stronger than men~v.25), so I will gladly take on Psalm 25.
May we stand firm together so that in the end we will be standing victorious!
Hi Beth, I hope this post is moderated because I’d rather you approve it before posting it here. Yesterday I woke up with Psalm 30:5b on my heart, and it inspired me to write a poem of encouragement around that verse. I posted it last night, then saw your post this morning and thought it might be encouraging to someone here, though I’m not sure this is the forum. Feel free not to post, by all means I understand as it doesn’t fit your two categories, but if you’d like to it is available. Have a blessed day and thank you for many words of encouragement over the years. God bless you!
When Morning Comes (A Poetic Version)
Night falls
As I knew it would
Bringing nothing good
Though I need the rest
Heart faint
Leery of the tide
Bent to steer this ride
Into sure duress
Tears break
Melancholy glass
But this too shall pass?
This unrivaled storm?
Clouds form
Gone now are the stars
Like a song’s last bars
With its memories warm
Hushed call
Yes, I hear Your voice
You are still my choice
Though the darkness crowds
Unglued
Pieces fall abstract
Joy now dressed in black
Hope, its kin, in shrouds
Orange streaks
Bold as charging steeds
Beasts of noble deeds
Pierce my lidded slits
Warmth creeps
Cracks the lonely cold
Light from days of old
Shadowed guile submits
Pain flees
Chased by mending time
Faith and courage climb
Spirit carries on
Hushed call
Yes, I hear Your voice
You are still my choice
You have brought the dawn
Rejoice?
Night may come again
Fateful wounding friend
Bruising blows anon
Rejoice!
Lord, I hear Your voice
I have made my choice
With You comes the dawn
Psalm 30:5b Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.
Big Sister here…..I need to clarify that…..50 something with 3 grown boys, 2 daughters- in-law and 2 grandbabies Big sister. I’ve been through so much of what has been posted by our Little Sisters that it almost makes me weep to revisit those emotions. I can look back now and see God in every minute of every day through all of those years – our Abba Father is faithful beyond what that word means. My encouragement, don’t wait another minute. Look back over the last hour and find something, some moment that you can give Him thanks for. It’s there, trust me! He’s there, trust me! One day, I can’t tell you how soon, you will be able to claim –
Psalm 40:5 “Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare.”
Hold on tight to Jesus, sweet Little Sisters.
Little sis here.
Struggling in my marriage. We have been married 5 years with 2 beautiful girls, 2 and 8 mo. Gotten to the point of being so angry and frustated by each other. Hanging on but desperate to find some love with each other.
Us, too. You are not alone. A couple older sisters commented on my post above, encouraging me to hold on. They did and survived and are glad they did.
Big sister here: Yes, you will come out victorious. God is the Healer. But, you must first chose to love. Even when you don’t want to. I have been married 31 years. Some of those years were really, really, really tough. But, God brought us through and we are stronger now than ever. Praying for you.
Dear God, I bring you Sarah and her husband. And Kelly and her husband as well. I pray that you will help them see each other with your eyes. That you will open their hearts to your love, forgiveness and freedom to be the couple you have called them to be. That Satan’s attacks would be bound and that they would be victorious over past hurts and failures. I thank you Lord for what You have done and are already doing in their marriages. Amen
Big sister here-
I know that feeling. I’m there right now!! You keep persevering asking God to love him despite everything about him that drives you nuts. Consider CHRISTIAN marriage counseling, it is the best investment you could make. Hard & painful work yes but so worth it. He is enough…
It is overwhelming to have close together children and also learning to parent, get used to each other’s parenting style and unify… Plus, the tiredness and new demands make it hard to ‘ see’ each other. Stormy Omartian’s Power of a Praying Wife was a lifesaver, as she gives real issue prayers to pray. God will come alongside when you pray in amazing ways that you would not have thought possible. There is a verse in Psalms that David talks about being so upset, but he says, ‘I will yet praise Him’ . Thank God ahead of time for how He will help you two find ‘togetherness’ again. Live expectantly and be watching for some ‘rain’!
Your little sister here:
I have struggled with infertility for almost 6 years. I can’t shake the feelings that maybe I just haven’t been good enough to deserve to have a child of my own. Please pray that I can know that God has a plan for me and that while I wait I will just trust him.
Dawn,
I am a little sister here..30 years old. Miscarried and struggled for 4 years to get pregnant with no reason why. Just had my first baby. I tell you that to encourage YOU. I SOOO get where you are coming from. You are NOT alone. Infertility is such a monster and its a joy killer. You are beautiful and God has such an awesome plan for you. He does. I read Ann Voskamp’s book One Thousand Gifts and started learning how to love the life God gave me. It was so hard to practice thanksgiving in waiting. EVERYONE was having babies and I just waited. I so remember. I will be praying for you. Believing with you!
Little Sister here…
…I stay home and homeschool our two daughters (3 and 7) I love it but I am exhausted!
My 7 year old had open heart surgery when she was 4, and the doctors expect she will need to have it again, question of when. Appt Aug 15 Praying for healing. weight of this feels crushing, but God is so good.
We live far from family and two years ago moved from our friends. It feels very lonely, like we have to community in the everyday, just in crisis mode.
I feel weary and broken. Like this has gone on for so long I just have no reserve left and am fighting tears as I type this.
Big sister here…
I don’t have all the answers. Please don’t take it lightly when I tell you that if you talk to God about it, he will walk you through it. I’ve read all the comments and I’ve been in your shoes. I’ve been overwhelmed by a house full of small children, a husband who travelled extensively with his job, tragedies within our family and extended family, infidelity, illness, disease, burnout and all that comes with it. Please know that there is light at the nd of the tunnel. HE is the light. Just grab on to his promises and hold on. He is the only thing that will pull you through it. We cannot make people change but we can ask the Lord to work on them as well as our attitude toward them. You and God can do this!
My children are fun, sweet, college educated, and precious joys of my life. My husband of 30 years is closer to me than ever. The Lord is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. Don’t hang up the towel.
Little Sister Here:
I’m waiting on someone to answer RH’s question on post 55. I need the answer to that one too.
In two and a half months, I’ll be 25 years old. I’m graduating with a Master’s degree in August. I have no job, no home after my lease runs out on July 31st, and no husband (or any prospects for that matter). My life is about Jesus – doing what He wants and going where He wants. I know that one day I will serve His ladies through ministry, but otherwise I’m clueless, and I feel a little directionless. I’m trying so hard to patiently wait for Him – not just for a job and a home, but also for a man who loves God wholeheartedly (something I deeply desire). It would be nice to know that someone’s been here. Thank-you all for taking care of us.
Dear Hope, I have not been in your situation, but I have been through a period of time when I did not know where to turn. I tried lots of ways, but only God was enough. Someone else said it here, but that is the main thing to remember. God is enough. If you read through all these stories, that is the bottom line. So, I would say, to chose to trust when you don’t think you can, to live up to your name and hope when you don’t think you can. Because no matter what the circunmstances, when you come to the end of yourself, all you need is God. One of my favorite quotes is by Edward Teller. It says, “When you get to the end of all the light you know and it’s time to step into the darkness of the unknown, faith is knowing that one of two things shall happen: either you will be given something solid to stand on, or you will be taught how to fly.” Praying for you right now. Dear Heavenly Father, we know you have a plan for Hope. We know that you created Hope! That your name is hope. So, we ask that you will show Hope what direction you want her to take. That you will give her the strenngth and the courage to step out in faith and hope knowing that You will catch her. Amen.
I’m a mother of two preschool aged children. I feel like my husband is no longer interested in me. We have free babysitting in town, but he does not take me out. If I ask him to, then he does. But that kind of defeats the purpose. I want to feel desired and loved.
Little Sister….we ALL want to feel desired and loved. And there are alot of us out here who have gone through a season of wondering if our man still feels the same way about us? Let me make a suggestion….try to do something nice for your husband every day. Something small, like bring him a glass of lemonade (or whatever) when he gets home from work one day. Then maybe make one of his favorite dishes for dinner another day. Offer to run an errand for him. Leave him a note or card in his briefcase or a note in his lunchbox. Or something that you know he hates to do….do it for him if possible. Just little things that show him that you care and want to make him happy. I’d be willing to bet that he is feeling the same way you are. Might be worth a shot. Oh, and of course, PRAY! Good luck little sister. I’ll pray too.
Little sister here.
I struggle with a consistent relationship with the Lord.
I want to be close to him all the time, not on this roller coaster of up and down. Is it enough to have snipets of prayer and time with Jesus while doing dishes and such?
I feel guilty when that’s all I give him, HE IS MY GOD, MY SAVIOR, and all I can give him is 5 minutes of my day, while distracted by other “things”. But sometimes (or most times) that all I give.
You’re 21 year old little sister here…
I am getting married in 22 days.
To fill you in on my background, I had an alcoholic father who was verbally and sometimes physically abusive to my mother and I all throughout most of my life. He is now a christian and constantly changing, free from alcohol for over 4 years. However, there are so many wounds and fears left behind that satan is having a field day in my heart. For these 8 months of engagement I have been beaten down by the enemy in ways I could never have expected.
I am literally in bondage to my insecurity. My body image, my character, my ability to be a wife. My security has been shaken beyond belief. I know Jesus has a plan for all of this difficulty, but I feel betrayed. I thought i’d get to be excited going into my wedding, but i’m so held by satan’s lies about my worth, my past, and my future. I feel afraid that God’s plan for my marriage will be just like the one my mother faced – painful and loveless. My fiance and I have been through some very difficult things these last few months and everytime he sins against me in anyway (which I know we both will do everyday in some way), I want to give way to panic. All I see is my dad. And I just want to hide and run away. I love my soon to be husband so much and I want to truly love him like Jesus loves him – even when he hurts me. But I can’t seem to trust that Jesus loves me perfectly – I know if I did I wouldn’t be so full of fear and insecurity.
The fear is crippling. And my heart is aching. And I just feel exhausted.
It seems that I know all of the “right answers”. I know my security needs to be in Jesus alone. But I can’t seem to BELIEVE in my heart that His character is good and that he really is enough. I need prayer and encouragement – I want to walk into marriage trusting Jesus not fearful of the past and sin.
Satan has been coming after me to steal kill and destroy my hope for marriage,grace, and joy. I don’t want him to win.
Hi, Kristy!
First of all-congratulations! Yay for getting married, for new families being built, for you and your fiancee modeling Christ’s love for the Church!
Anyways- I KNOW the time before getting married is so stressful! It feels like such a huge step in life! Kudos to you for not treating it lightly. Two questions: Did/are you and your fiancee getting pre-marital (Christian!!) counceling? (It worked wonders for us, and for many people I know). And secondly: Have you read Beth’s book on Insecurity? 🙂 It helped me a tremendous amount. I’m sure you’re busy, but I’d advise making time for it.
Oh and here’s another thing- How about writing down, in a journal or whatever, every time you get an answered prayer, or something good happens? Then when you start doubting Jesus’ love for you…go back over what He’s already done.
Finally and most important-the WORD! Study and memorize scriptures on His love for you! 😀 I love you dear sister! My wedding day was one big happy day, and certainly, the happiest day of my life up to that point. I will pray that yours is, too!! Marriage is work, don’t get me wrong, but it also can (with dedication!) just keep getting better and better! 😀
Little Sister Here…
I need help extending forgiveness and love to my parents, especially dad who left the family for another woman a few years ago. None are Christian and it is so hard to live with the shrapnel of broken hearts scattered around me. He is desperate for completeness and searching for it in all the wrong places. It is my prayer that the Enemy would not entice me to stop praying for them and that God would somehow use this brokenness to bring healing to their hearts, that they would finally know Him.
P.S.to my earlier post: I’m currently reading Ann Voskamp’s book 1000 Gifts. Amazing book! In one chapter in particular, she writes about fear and worry and trust and belief. (Actually it was in this book that I learned…again…that our feelings can lie to us. I want to give credit where credit is due.) I would highly recommend this book to anyone who’s having struggles in life – basically all of us, right?