I say it again-Rejoice!

04.11.16 

I was walking back to my room in the pouring rain this afternoon, my only thought being how badly I wanted to take a nap and sleep the day away, when I saw an interesting basket sitting outside of my door. To my surprise, it was full of sweet happies and letters from dear friends who wanted to let me know they were praying for me and are here to support me through all of these trials I have endured recently. My heart filled with love as my eyes filled with happy tears and I could not have been more grateful for this encouragement I never knew I needed. It was such a beautiful reminder to me of not only how blessed I am to have such a wonderful support group here at Samford, but how blessed I am to have a God who cares enough about little old me to send me such a wonderful reminder of His love and unending grace!!! 

In addition to today’s blessings, this weekend I had the opportunity to witness the dedication of a church building in the name of my great grandparents, two God-fearing role models who truly embodied the spirit of Christ and lead their church in so many ways. This reminder of their great faith gave me hope and encouragement in ways I didn’t even know I was looking for, and reminded me just how great God is and how He chooses to send us messages of hope in just the hour we need them.  

It’s been such a long few months medically for me, what with the injuries to my voice and all, and I received further bad news on Friday that its going to take longer than I thought before I will be fully recovered. (That + the car accident + more health issues + other disappointments and failures = a rough few months for Meagan). As devastating as that news was to hear at the time, God has shown me this weekend that I have so many wonderful things to be thankful for and that I need to thank Him for this as well!! 

I started today with the mindset that God was in charge of my day, and since then I have been reminded of so many things I have to be thankful about. 

I was reminded today that though I cannot choose every circumstance or problem I’ll have to battle in the future, I can choose my response to it. My prayer is that I become more aware of God’s goodness and more thankful of His blessings in my life. He has promised to protect me always and I should not doubt Him in that!! I know His will will be done always, even through my current struggles. 

Even though these trials may look like setbacks, I know that they are only setting me up to fulfill God’s will and bring Him glory! And what may look like trials are actually just examples of God being at work in my life. 

In the words of a friend, I pray that I may still sing his praises in my spirit even when I cannot sing them with my voice. 

•••

I read this verse today and I just think it is such a beautiful reminder of how we are to approach all things, good or bad, in the eyes of the Lord:

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again–rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. – Philippians 4:4-5 NLT

As usual, I came across a song today that I love so much and find so applicable to what is going on in my life. I think it explains my message tonight so much clearer than I ever could…

Oh, I’ve seen many searching for answers far and wide

But I know we’re all searching

For answers only you provide

Cause you know just what we need

Before we say a word

You’re a Good, Good Father

It’s who you are, it’s who you are, it’s who you are

And I’m loved by you

It’s who I am, it’s who I am, it’s who I am

•••

Dear Lord, in the words of Kari Jobe, “Let us become more aware of Your presence; Let us experience the glory of Your goodness.” Help me to find your glory amidst all my chaos, and to always give praise to you!! amen.
 (happy pics from the church dedication)  
    
     

  xoxox