restorer of lost voices

There will be a shelter to give shade from the heat by day, and refuge and protection from the storm and the rain.  ~ Isaiah 4:6 (NASB)

Our God is a safe haven, a shelter from our storms. We run to Him and find rest for our soul.  As long as we have breath, we  will call out to Him! Like a canopy for prayer, He bends down and hears our cries for help.  And we go from strength to strength as we pass through our Valley of Baca,  our time of weeping. Our imperfections and sin don’t keep us from Him, and He throws our mulberry messes into the sea.  He says to come as we are and  invites us to sit under His shade and rest.  And we will find peace for our soul.

“Come to me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.” ~ Matthew 11:28 (NASB)

God’s branches are beautiful; the different sizes , strengths, and imperfections are necessary.  Each valued and significant as they intertwine and provide cover.  Likewise, as we come together with our hearts and hands, we are encouraged, strengthened, and have purpose.  We provide support on our difficult days and those we simply need a break.   

Storms, drought, and  productive growing seasons all affect the grain of the wood.  It is the same for us as the happy and painful circumstances in our lives shape who we become.  The daily grind, the weekend wanderings, and celebrations…our losses, trials, and defeats…they contribute to our raw beauty.  Even the dead and decayed, what appears useless in our lives, is fuel for fire and warmth.  Nothing is wasted in God’s craftsmanship…He sees the finished product!

Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord and whose trust is the Lord.  For he will be like a tree planted by the water, that extends its roots by a stream and will not fear when the heat comes; but its leaves will be green, and it will not be anxious in a year of drought nor cease to yield fruit.   ~Jeremiah 17:7,8 (NASB)

May your roots grow deep in God’s truth.  And may you be a sheltering tree for others…a canopy of prayer…refuge…rest…transparency…and beauty!

Blessings,

Lily Mae