Returning...

the bout ends

humored

bowed

i am won

When my eyes are turned (or returned) on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, I see. All that stuff - even though it drives me crazy - really does fade in His presence; when I get that He actually does love me, even in my mess. 

And always did. 

Reminds me of my husband, who continually reminds me of God... 
And I see clearer what matters. 
Love. Faith. Mercy.




Completely undeserved, I received a gift this week. (well, more than one obviously, but one specifically that I want to share)


During a prayer among friends, the Holy Spirit saw fit to bless us each with physical healing. We didn't ask for it, or even think to. On the drive home that evening, my lungs felt ... like they opened. It literally felt like something opened and flowed down. From that moment on, I've been able to breathe deeply like I haven't in a long time. Deep, full breaths like I forgot existed.  I can yawn. I can walk up steps and not feel out of breath. I can hold a note for longer and not feel winded. Thank you Lord!  


I'm so thankful. I'm especially moved by the mercy of it. We did not ask. I've been struggling. I don't deserve it. 


Yet He gave. He keeps giving! I can't repay it, and will never earn it. 
I can only raise my eyes and hands and receive with thanks.

 I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless 

because of what Christ has done.  Yes, everything else is worthless when 

compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake 

I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain 

Christ  and become one with him. I no longer count on my own righteousness 

through obeying the law; rather, I become righteous through faith in Christ.

For God’s way of making us right with himself depends on faith.

Philippians 3:7-9

I will tell of the Lord’s unfailing love. I will praise the Lord for all he has done. 

I will rejoice in his great goodness to Israel, which he has granted 

according to his mercy and love.

Isaiah 63:7

Thank you Lord, for the reminder that you ARE love. Not just the giver of gifts, healer and guide, but LOVE. You have loved and forgiven and have good plans for me. You did not come to judge, but to save. Thank you for being so good and kind and merciful. Thank you that I can walk in your presence with confidence. You love me. May I never forget it. ... but, I might, so thank you for reminding me over and over and over and over... You are good and can be trusted. Thank you for healing my body, training my spirit, and guarding my soul.