My sister Jane shared a quote with me:
We are like a sponge. When squeezed, what comes out is what we’ve soaked in.
I was struck by the truth contained in this simple expression and was led to reflect on what kinds of things we soak in throughout the day and how these either help or hinder us when the trials of life “wring us out.”
Conversations
Attitudes
Thought patterns
Emotional responses
Music
Books/Magazines
News
Sports
TV
Facebook/Twitter
Wherever we are we soak up part of our environment, the good and the bad. And we make our own choices about many of these, often unaware of whether they are building us up for a time of trial or just filling us up for a moment, like the tasty but empty calories of a Hostess Twinkie.
How do you maintain strength and faith in the face of great trials? You soak in strength and faith each day. Neither will keep all the troubles away. But when they do come and wring you inside out, what will come out is faith and strength. It’s how God designed us to depend on Him and enjoy the life He gave us. Draw close to Him and you will be surprised by the wisdom, strength, courage, and faith you soak in.
Completely agree. We need to ensure we soak in the presence of God so that when hard times hit we have something to draw on.
I have recently begun writing in a journal about prayers, emails, encouragement – great to see what God is doing and will be something I can draw on when I struggle
The journal is a great idea. Thanks for stopping by and commenting!
“How do you maintain strength and faith in the face of great trials?”, you ask. Not too well, dear friend, I answer… not even in the face of small trials. I’m ashamed to confess it, but lately the idea that God disciplines those He loves is making me cry: “Dear Lord, please don’t love me so much!”
Dear Julia, it is easy for even the faithful to be shaken. Worry and fear sometimes finds us easy targets. Otherwise why else would there be so many admonishments of “Do not be afraid. Be strong and courageous,” throughout the bible? I am encouraged that Ephesians 6:10+ calls us not to be victorious warriors but simply to stand firm in the armor God gives us for withstanding battles, both small and large. Hannah Hurard’s classic, Hinds Feet in High Places gives testimony for this. I think we gave Kely a copy in Spanish you could borrow. This quote from the book strikes me: “O Shepherd. You said you would make my feet like hinds’ feet and set me upon High Places”.
“Well”, he answered “the only way to develop hinds’ feet is to go by the paths which the hinds use.”
― Hannah Hurnard, Hinds’ Feet on High Places
Blessing you dear friend, Bryan and Marcia
Marcia & Bryan, Thank you for such an inspiring post today! I forwarded the link to my Bible study friends. You are so right; we need to be grounded in God’s Word, which is Truth.
I am glad you are coming along with your recovery, Bryan. I’m praying for complete healing such that you and Marcia will go to Bolivia eventually. Meanwhile, you both are proof that we are all called to be part of a holy priesthood, right where we are. Hugs to you both!
Thanks Hanson. Your note is a good reminder of the role we each play in encouraging others, especially in times of difficulty. (Hebrews 10:24-25) Be God’s light at the U of I Hospital! Thanks for spurring us on.