This past weekend was our churches annual ladies retreat and what a blessing it was!  The Lord showed Himself mightily during this time and many hearts where turned back to Him (some for the first time).  As the weekend progressed we (over 100 had signed up) where encouraged to allow the Lord to speak to us through His word.  The above verse is where the Lord was speaking to me big time! (You may remember a few encouragement's back being on Psalm 1: 1-3, which is similar)

 

The Lord allowed me to serve Him this weekend in a very honorable way and at the Saturday evening session I went to read a preselected Scripture before worship and there was Jeremiah 17: 7,8.  I hadn't noticed it during worship practice and here it was boldly before me and I had just been ministered by it only a few hours prior during quiet time.  As I read it to the ladies I went on to say, "I want to be this tree who's roots extend into the Living Water, Jesus."

 

Yesterday during my quiet time the Lord revealed to me that He wants me to trust HIM more.  He revealed to me how I had gotten caught up in the "approval trap".  I was wanting the approval of those around me, because I didn't feel like I belonged, and was placing my trust in whether they "approved" or not (this He verified again last night at a after retreat gathering).  The Lord, being faithful, granted me HIS peace and calm through out the weekend; believe me when I say, I couldn't have led these ladies in worship in my own strength!

 

Beloved, do you find yourself sometimes seeking, desiring the approval of those around you?  Join me in placing your trust in the Lord.  He will NEVER let us down, He will ALWAYS listen and forgive us our shortcomings and He accepts us (unconditionally) as we are - remember He created us and gave us these very personalities and qualities!

 

The man (woman) who trusts in the Lord, will be like the tree planted by the water, who's roots extend into the stream.  We will not fear when the heat (trials, testings) comes; but will remain green (strong in HIS strength) and we'll not be anxious in a year of drought (no pity parties, or discouragement when it seems you're forgotten about) rather we will remain strong continuing to yield fruit to the glory of Jesus our Lord.  And that's what it's all about - HIM, bringing HIM glory.

 

Have a joyous day in our Lord!
April
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Scripture references (unless noted otherwise): The Open Bible, New American Standard
copyright The Lockman Foundation 1960, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977
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