I drove my dear husband to the airport today. Sending him off on the first leg of a long journey to Afghanistan. After eight years of marriage and nearly the same amount of time in the Army, this is our first deployment. With three kids under six at home, I am now geographically a single parent.
I have had my moments of tears and sadness in preparation for today. But praise the Lord for I have peace. Philippians 4:6-7 tells us “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
We do not have to be thankful FOR everything, but we are commanding to give thanks IN everything. I take all those fears and lay them at the feet of my Savior and in turn he guards my mind and heart with ineffable peace.
In “A Woman’s Walk with God” one of my favorite authors, Elizabeth George calls us to notice these truths about this peace that comes from God.
*Our peace has nothing to do with our circumstances, and everything to do with knowing we have a right relationship with God.
*Our peace has nothing to do with daily challenges or crises, and everything to do with knowing that our times are in God’s hands.
*Our peace has nothing to do with the conditions of our life, and everything to do with knowing that God is all-sufficient.
*Our peace is an inward repose and serenity of soul that indicates a heart at rest—regardless of our circumstances—as we place complete confidence in God minute by minute.
So as we begin this race together we are “forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, [we] press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:13-14)
I pray in all we do this year and in every circumstance we will “run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith.” (Hebrews 12:1-2)
It has been a while since I have tried my pen at poetry, but this little poem is written for my love, Jason. I am honored to be your wife and soul mate and so very proud to call you my own. Praying for you continually. Be safe and come home to me.
Early morning, sun still hiding
Hearts aching; yet still abiding.
Peace like a river; gently flowing,
Faith like a flower; always growing.
"Farewell my love, I'll be waiting for you,
Pray for me, and I'll be praying for you."
"Fear not my love, I will come home.
Trust in Him and peace will come."
Two became one, for better or worse,
The Kingdom of God, seek ye first.
Through faith in our heart does Christ dwell,
Whatever our lot with my soul it is well.
