Dealing with Stress, Pride, Forgiveness, etc.
“We are not built for the mountains and the dawns and aesthetic affinities, those are for moments of inspiration, that is all. We are built for the valley, for the ordinary stuff we are in, and that is where we have to prove our mettle.” ~ Oswald Chambers
What an appropriate quote for me at this time. The last six months have been a big-time valley–some of the most stressful days in my life. A valley of rejection and despair. I have felt as if my faith is being tested and I’m not passing.
Besides the normal day-to-day stress, we also had: my husband’s heart attack, my husband’s retirement, my open-heart surgery, three family members diagnosed with cancer, a futile attempt to sell our home (for TWO years–two years of staying show-ready), dh getting a new job, us being apart as a family, buying a home in TN, entering the hormonal roller coaster of menopause, watching my adult children struggle with issues, adapting to and weaning from new medications, some personal family things I can’t mention, and the most devastating of all– family rejection due to my Biblical convictions.
Studying God’s Word and writing are tools I use to help me get through these times and to remain in the Word. These stresses I recently faced are reflected indirectly in my recent blog entries: combating pride, family challenges, confession, learning to forgive, waiting on God, growing in weakness.
There are times in the valley when I lean on God and get victory and times when I give in to flesh and struggle to let go and let God.
Oswald is right, we are built for the valley. The time in the valley is a time to grow spiritually. We choose to walk in the Spirit or in the flesh. This valley time for me has been a constant challenge to stay ahead of anger and bitterness. Anger blocks the Spirit of God from working through us. I’m not doing so well in this battle right now. But, I’m working on it. I certainly have been learning humility and learning more about waiting on Him. Praise God; in my weakness He is strong.
“Are you going to believe what the Lord says, no matter what He allows into your life?” Yes! I’ve flunked the test of faith but God gives make-up tests. In faith I believe God will stretch and develop me until I am the woman He desires me to be. My job is to trust, pray, forgive and love. The valley is a chance to to prove our mettle (vigor and strength of spirit or temperament.)
Jesus said, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. This is my command: Love each other.” (John 15:16-17)
My children and I are in a hotel in TN waiting for our house to close. Praise God. I am very burnt out and desperately need this time to stay in God’s Word and focus on forgiveness and love. Please pray for our family.
