Carolyn sends out a more or less regular “Just for You” to pastors’ wives in our ministry (Idaho Mountain Ministries). Here’s what she wrote this morning. Actually, in my present state of mind, it was “Just for Me.” 

——

Good Morning Friends,

It’s been a rather trying and troubling couple of weeks around our house and sometimes in my heart. I imagine many of you can relate. At times it is that “one more thing” that brings tears close and an undone feeling grips us.

Maybe even a little thing that becomes the proverbial straw that breaks. You know what I mean.

This morning in my quiet space, my safe place, I read a section in Dare to Journey by Charles Ringma that resonated with me. He writes,

“At a particular moment issues can appear to be so pressing that we literally panic. Problems can appear to be so demanding that they press for immediate solutions. Projects and plans can seem to require quick resolution. Present difficulties can cause us an undue amount of distress and anguish. And disappointments may appear to be so severe that we think our present ‘world’ may cave in. In the heat of the moment, things can appear in such an urgent and accentuated manner.
   

It’s important, therefore, that we learn the art of disengagement....for we frequently have knee-jerk reactions rather than make considered responses....It’s important to create a place for reflection....From the benefit of hindsight, we can begin to learn that our anxious reactions in the heat of the moment are frequently inappropriate and wide of the mark. In the place of reflection we may be able to achieve a perspective that has the wisdom of hindsight.”
The Scripture at the beginning of this essay was Lamentations 3:25-26.

The Lord is good to those who wait for him,
    to the soul who seeks him.
 It is good that one should wait quietly
    for the salvation of the Lord.

As you and I begin to practice the art of disengagement so that we can withdraw to a quiet place of reflection, seeking the One who so loves us, He can change our perspective. He can give us His wisdom and quiet rest. As we cultivate this habit of the seeking heart the results will be long-lasting, rather than a quick fix. Of course our circumstance may not change but our perspective certainly can. And we can be refreshed and strengthened to adventure on in the very place, in the very circumstances God has placed, trusting Him as we go.

After reading this essay from Ringma this morning, I was praying, including praying for you as well as for me. While praying, this short hymn came to mind.  May it bless you as it has blessed me once again.

With so much love,
Carolyn

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHCTRKXONcA