Good morning, Dear Friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! Not a breeze was stirring when I stepped outside earlier, but now, a slight one is blowing and it doesn't feel as humid as the past few days.
I had a real treat when I walked Saturday. Not only was Mama gator stirring around amidst all the branches and trash that almost covers her now, but I discovered that the old nest is trampled at the bottom and freshly dug at the top, which leads me to think that she has laid her eggs and now we just have to wait a few months.
The treat was, as I was walking back I saw a HUGE gator across the canal, on the bank. He was about 11 feet long and very fat. As I watched, he slid backward into the water with something in his jaws. I couldn't tell what it was, but Pa gator took it in the water and held it for a minute or two, then slowly sank out of sight. God's Creation is great!!
From the Promise Bible:
Should I be surprised by the stress of life?
John 16:33 "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world."
Jesus warned us to expect stress. This world is filled with trials and sorrows that generate stress in our lives. Christ gives us lasting peace because his power and grace are able to overcome all sources of stress in our lives.
What can I do to find relief from stress and anxiety?
Isaiah 41:10 "Don't be afraid for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand."
We can turn from fear and anxiety to faith and peace. God promises to supply the power to get us through the hard times.
Matthew 11 28:29 "Jesus said, "Come to me all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you because I am humble and gentle, and you will find rest for your souls."
Resting in Christ breaks the hold of stress. When we are yoked together in service to him, we are free from the unrealistic and destructive expectations that can overwhelm us. Jesus' humility and gentleness overcome every conflict and stress in this life.
I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!
Love and hugs,
Amaryllis
