Trust Over Fear

In God, whose word I praise – in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? – (Psalm 56:4, NIV)

I trust God, so I am not afraid of what people can do to me! I praise God for His promise to me. – (Psalm 56:4, ERV)

In God – whose word I praise – in God I place my trust. I shall not let fear come in, for what can measly men do to me? – (Psalm 56:4, VOICE)

As we enjoy the blessing of a bonus long weekend, my heart cannot help but give gratitude for the brave men and women who served our country with a trust like this. This weekend, may we remember those who stood firm in the face of fear, knowing that they had a purpose to protect their friends, family and the nation they loved and paid the ultimate price. Though people can take a life on earth, they cannot deter the eternal destination of those who trust in God. Our time here is but the blink of an eye in comparison to forever. May we truly place our trust in God, and not allow fear to overwhelm us. For God has promised to be present and is preparing a place for all who trust in Him. 

May we ever choose trust,

In God, whom we praise;

For He’s always faithful,

Forever; always.

Help us not permit fear,

To stand in our way;

Please grant us Your courage,

To do as You say.

Help us to choose honor,

Those whom have served well;

Paid the ultimate price,

Before their time, fell.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You showed us what it is to sacrifice for others. Thank You for the men and women who have sacrificed and paid the ultimate price for our freedom. Forgive us for allowing any to be forgotten, for You love all with a love that laid down Your life in our place. Teach us to trust in You and be not afraid, for You are with us, always. Show us how to love those around us in such a way that they come to know the faithfulness found in You. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we trust in You and fend off fear, knowing You are with us always. Help us to remember and honor all who sacrificed so that we might be free. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. – Psalm 46:1

Help In All

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. – (Psalm 46:1, NIV) 

God is our protection and source of strength. He is always ready to help us in times of trouble. – (Psalm 46:1, ERV) 

God, You are such a safe and powerful place to find refuge! You’re a proven help in times of trouble – more than enough and always available whenever I need You. – (Psalm 46:1, TPT) 

In this extraordinarily long season, I think everyone needs a space of refuge and strength, and help in these troubling times. For some, it is for provision; for others, companionship; still others, for help and protections and strength. Whatever the need, God is able to provide in abundance. The hardest part is that it seems like we are stuck in a space of waiting. Often, it is in our waiting, that God grows us the most and helps us in ways that we cannot always see. For the upcoming school year, I feel as if I am in a holding pattern of “wait and see” to know and understand what the expectations and format will look like. I am not a fan of feeling ill-prepared, yet it is difficult to prepare for the unknown. All I can do is seek the Lord and choose to read all that I can to make certain that my heart is ready, even if my mind does not yet know the details. As for my Mom, she too is trusting God to be her refuge, strength and help, as she waits and prepares for next steps. She is more than ready to be back in her own home, but knows that details must first be aligned, before it is safe for her to return. God is faithful to grant her strength and resolve, even on the longest and most mundane of days. In all circumstances, God is more than enough. May we ever seek the Lord to be our refuge and strength, and to be our help, no matter our need.  

There’s no other place, 

In the same way this sweet pup seeks and finds refuge in our arms, we can do the same with Christ. ❤

That I’d like to be; 

Than when I am safe, 

With God, who holds me. 

He is my comfort, 

When all is unknown; 

My safe Provider, 

Whose love’s always shown. 

Shown as He grants grace, 

And keeps my heart safe; 

He loves as He guides, 

Even on dark days. 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that even when we cannot feel it, You are working. Thank You that You are our space of refuge and comfort, and You provide for our every need. Forgive us for our fears and doubts when the wait seems long. Teach us to trust You more, as You are always good. Show us how to love those around us well, and help us to provide safety and peace and provision as You call us to do. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we praise You for how You love us so well. Amen. 

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge. – Psalm 62:8

Trust in His Present Help

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. – (Isaiah 41:10, NIV) 

Don’t worry – I am with you. Don’t be afraid – I am your God. I will make you strong and help you. I will support you with my right hand that brings victory. – (Isaiah 41:10, ERV) 

Do not yield to fear, for I am always near. Never turn your gaze from me, for I am your faithful God. I will infuse you with My strength and help you in every situation. I will hold you firmly with my victorious right hand. – (Isaiah 41:10, TPT) 

God is faithful to His promise to be present to help, in both small and great things. Yesterday, we took our Lab puppy, Thor, on a couple of hikes. The first took us along Lake Easton, down to the state park campgrounds, and then on a bit further to the river below the dam. Thor loved the water, and happily waded and drank his fill of the fresh, cool water. Later in the afternoon, after witnessing his love and seeming fearlessness, we took him on a hike around the lake, and first found a small cove with a few feet of beach-like terrain. Each step he became a bit more daring about going further out. At last, we decided to see if he would swim. Though there was a bit of fear in each of us, for it was a first and required trust, Thor galloped out past where he could touch to retrieve a stick, and swam as he was born to do. Our hearts were strengthened as we watched the faithfulness of God in how He created our sweet pup, and we then took him further on the trail to the boat launch area. Once there, we began to throw the same stick out a bit further each time he retrieved it, our hearts growing in trust a bit more each time. When we determined Thor had done enough, we began our trek back to our campground. Thor was emboldened, and was actually protesting as we were leaving; jumping and attempting to nip at us to encourage us to turn back around. He settled back down when he was able to take part of the leash in his mouth, allowing him to think he was leading us back. Though I know this is a small thing, it is still an example of having to trust. The more we trust in the small things, the more we are prepared to trust when trials and difficulties come our way. May we ever look to the Lord and trust in Him, for He is faithful to strengthen us and hold us up with His mighty hands. 

Do not be afraid, 

For God’s always near; 

To comfort, strengthen, 

And wash away fear. 

The Lord’s mighty hands, 

In love, hold us up; 

Protect, empower, 

He fills empty cups. 

In spaces of fear, 

He often will show; 

Beautiful new things, 

To help our hearts grow. 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You are faithful to meet us wherever we are; be it in small things or tremendous trials. Thank You that You strengthen us and uphold us with Your mighty, loving hands. Forgive us for the spaces where fear overwhelms us. Teach us to trust You more, as You are ever present to help, and faithful to love us through all things. Show us how to love, encourage and strengthen those around us in the same way that You do as You lovingly walk alongside us. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we trust You to be present to help and strengthen us in all things as You uphold us with Your loving hands. Amen. 

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. – Psalm 46:1

Protection and Strength

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. – (Psalm 46:1, NIV) 

God is our protection and source of strength. He is always ready to help us in times of trouble. – (Psalm 46:1, ERV) 

God is our shelter and our strength. When troubles seem near, God is nearer, and He’s ready to help. So why run and hide?  – (Psalm 46:1, VOICE) 

As a visual learner, I am often reminded of biblical truths as I observe the world around me. This morning, as I sit on the couch with my laptop in front of me and my sweet puppy sleeping soundly on my lap, I am reminded that just as I am a safe space for Thor, God is so much more for us. Thor is a smart puppy, and often gets overzealous in his desire to play. Interestingly, despite correction and redirection, he quickly comes and wants to jump on my lap and snuggle in. He knows that I love him fiercely, even when his impulses get the best of him. God provides the same sort of safety as we seek Him. He embraces us in His goodness and grace, and guides us in the way that we must learn, change and grow, even after correction or redirection. May we ever seek the Lord as our shelter and strength, for when trial or trouble are near, He is nearer still. 

God is our shelter, 

Our true Source of strength; 

No matter what comes, 

Through depth, height or length. 

When troubles are near, 

The Lord’s nearer still; 

Embracing with grace, 

With His love, He’ll fill. 

Strength when we’re weary, 

Safety through the storms; 

Wisdom, direction, 

With truth, He informs. 

So, trust in the Lord, 

Throughout each new day; 

Pursue what is right, 

He’ll show us the way. 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You are our safety and strength, no matter what comes our way. Thank You that You lead, direct and correct us in Your love. Forgive us for the times that we have thought, spoken or walked the wrong way. Teach us to look to You for wisdom in the ways that we are meant to go, so that all we do will honor You. Show us how to love as You love – lavishly and without reservations. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we look to You to be our strength and safety while we pursue all that You are calling us into. Amen. 

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

For in the day of trouble He will keep me safe in His dwelling; He will hide me in the shelter of His sacred tent and set me high upon a rock. – Psalm 27:5

His Hand in the Storm

He reached down from on high and took hold of me; He drew me out of deep waters. – (Psalm 18:16, NIV)

He reached down from above and grabbed me. He pulled me from the deep water. – (Psalm 18:16, ERV)

He then reached down from heaven, all the way from the sky to the sea. He reached down into my darkness to rescue me! He took me out of my calamity and chaos and drew me to Himself, taking me from the depths of my despair! – (Psalm 18:16, TPT)

I love the imagery found in this particular verse; it is so powerful! Being an incredibly visual creature, I can picture a giant, strong, yet gentle hand, reaching down from heaven, to pull me out of the raging sea in the midst of a fierce storm. Though my current status is not tumultuous nor terribly storm-like, I know for many, it is. I have been in several raging storms throughout my life thus far, and each time, God has been faithful to be present and bring His peace, drawing me unto Himself to calm the storm within me. My circumstances seldom changed right away, but the depth of despair, desperation and isolation, did. As God takes our hand, He leads us in His loving kindness to places of peace. Sometimes, He has to guide us from deep waters to a safe harbor, yet other times He simply speaks to the storm within us, and says, “Be still.” Our current season feels long, as one day runs into the next, and into the next. Staying in one place for a long period of time can create a sort of storm within us. The greatest combatant to getting stuck in the deep end is to remember what keeps us afloat. Gratitude, faith, and hope are terrific navigation tools when storms come our way. May we look to the Lord to take our hand and pull us from the places that do not keep our head and heart above water, and trust in Him to be our help and hope as we navigate each new day that we are blessed with on this journey.

In troubled waters,

The deep raging seas;

The Lord reaches down,

His love rescues me.

His strong, gentle hand,

Extends out to mine;

A powerful peace,

No words can define.

Though storms keep raging,

Knowing He is near;

Quiets storms within,

Removing the fear.

No matter how great,

The storm will not last;

But for a season,

Then this too, shall pass.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your gentle, yet powerful love that You have for all. Thank You that as we call on You from the midst of raging storms, You reach out Your strong hand to pull us out to a place of peace. Thank You that You still the storm within us, even if the circumstances around us continue. Thank You that all things right now are temporary, and will come to a close. Forgive us for thinking that the hardest seasons will never end, or that we are in them on our own. Teach us to trust You more, so that we would be ever aware of Your presence and Your peace; for You never leave us nor forsake us. Show us how to love those around us in ways that offer peace, love and hope, reminding them that better days will come again. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we trust Your strong hands to keep us safe through the storms, and keep hope in knowing that what is yet to come is far better than what is right now. Amen.

 

 

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

 

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. – Psalm 46:1

Help Ever Near

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. – (Psalm 46:1, NIV)

God is our protection and source of strength. He is always ready to help us in times of trouble. – (Psalm 46:1, ERV)

God is our shelter and our strength. When troubles seem near, God is nearer, and He’s ready to help. – (Psalm 46:1, VOICE)

 

God is faithful to meet us wherever we are, no matter what we are facing. Yesterday, I wrote about my anxiousness over an upcoming oral surgery that I need to have done. Incredibly, it was not at the surgeon’s office that peace was made present, but rather through the sweet and encouraging words of both my sister-in-love and a sweet friend from work. As each mentioned their own experiences or that of another, my mind was eased of the fear that I had been holding. Often God’s nearness is made tangible through those whom He places around us. For me, learning from those who had witnessed or experienced what lies ahead, took the unknown element out that which was the root of my fear. Strength is provided in the safety of His hands when we choose to seek Him. May we ever remember our Source of strength and safety when trouble instills fear into our heart.

 

Space of protection, 

Our Calmer of fear;

When troubles come close,

The Lord will be near.

Choose place in His hands,

All trouble that comes;

He will keep us safe,

Grant strength through His Son.

Thank You, Lord Jesus,

That You are our hope;

Faithful to meet us,

His grace helps us cope.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You are faithful to be near and answer us as we call on You for help. Thank You that You are our strength and our shelter in all things and at all times. Thank You for the people that You place in our lives to be Your voice and Your heart to us. Forgive us for our fears when troubles and trials come our way. Teach us to trust You more, so that we would seek You for strength and peace and safety. Show us how to love others well, so that they may come to know the strength and security that are found in You. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we run to You as our Source of safety and strength, for You are always near. Amen.

 

© Shannon Elizabeth (Moreno) Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

 

But You, Lord, do not be far from me. You are my strength; come quickly to help me. – Psalm 22:19

The Anchor for Our Soul

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain. – (Hebrews 6:19)

 

Our hope in Christ is immovable, just as an anchor secures a ship at sea. When we earnestly seek the Lord and truly trust Him, we are granted unconditional acceptance and salvation. Where we once were not allowed access, we are now granted full access through Christ. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. – (Hebrews 4:16) Christ is our ever-present help in time of need, and our reason to praise for all of the good things that we have been given. He is our hope, our help and our source of security in an world that is full of uncertainties. May we hold fast to our anchor of hope, as He is ever-present help and faithful forever.

 

Lord, You’re our anchor,

image found on Pinterest

set firm and secure;

no matter what comes,

hope in You is sure.

Because of Your love,

we approach Your throne;

with confidence in,

the grace You have shown.

Thank You that You are,

help when we’re in need;

merciful and kind,

true in word and deed.

May we move forward,

set firm and secure;

for You are enough,

for hope to be sure.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You are our hope and the anchor for our soul. Thank You that You are steadfast and secure, regardless of how life tosses us to and fro. Thank You that You made the way for us to come before You, directly, personally; no longer hindered by rituals and sacrifices. Jesus, thank You that You are our great High Priest forever. Forgive us for forgetting that You are the anchor for our soul – not anything or anyone that surrounds us. Teach us to trust You more, so that we will look to You in all things and at all times for direction and strength to do as You are calling us to do. Lead us to love others well, just as You so wonderfully love each of us. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we place our hope in You, the anchor of our soul, firm and secure forever. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present.

For it is commendable if a man bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God. – 1 Peter 2:19

Approach With Confidence

Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. – (Hebrews 4:16)

 

Christ came and endured all temptations and trials known to man, yet was without sin. He knows what we face. He knows when we fall. We are His and we are loved. Our path to approach the throne of grace is through prayer, and we may do so confidently, yet reverently, because He is both our loving Heavenly Father and Christ the King. Jesus is available as our Counselor and our Friend, and is our ever present help in our time of need. His mercy is made available to all who call on His Name. May we approach His throne with confidence, being supplied all that we need, as God is loving and merciful to those who call on Him.

 

Look to the throne,

of God’s mercy seat;

where grace is shown,

a gift to receive.

With confidence,

go boldly before;

our help in need,

Holy Counselor.

Boldly approach,

in prayer, we shall come;

before the Lord,

most merciful One.

He is our help,

in our time of need;

our Source of strength,

when we’re feeling weak.

 

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You sent Your Son, Jesus, to come live, die and rise again, experiencing every temptation and trial that He did, so that He could be the perfect High Priest for us. Jesus, thank You for all that You endured on our behalf, and for remaining seated at the right hand of the Father, listening to our every prayer and receiving us as we come. Thank You that because of Your sacrifice, we are considered acceptable before You – not because of anything that we have or have not done, but because of You dwelling within us. Forgive us for approaching Your throne either meekly or flippantly. Teach us to have a proper perspective as we come before You in prayer. May we do so with both confidence and reverence, giving all glory and honor unto You. Lead us to love people as You so generously love each of us, and may many come into a saving relationship with You as a result. Be glorified Lord God, as we approach Your throne of grace with confidence and reverence. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present.

Because of the tender mercy of our God, …the rising sun will come to us from heaven. – Luke 1:78

Wisdom’s Wooing

image by Bob Jones

Now unto us all,

each are called to hear;

listen and be wise,

grant God heart and ear.

For those who listen,

and follow His word;

wisdom is granted,

His blessings are heard.

Keep watch at the door,

be daily at wait;

to answer His call,

do not hesitate.

Whomever finds God,

finds favor and life;

yet to deny Him,

leads to harm and strife.

Rejoice in Presence,

may we find delight,

as we pursue Him,

and choose what is right.

(Responding to Proverbs 8:31-36)

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that when we seek You, we find You, and when we ask, You answer.  Lead us in love, to ask for wisdom, so that we may better understand Your word and walk more boldly in Your way.  Forgive us for hesitating, and help us to both ask and answer as we are prompted by Your Spirit, who is our ever-present help.  Teach us to be watching and waiting expectantly for You always, and may we choose to rejoice, regardless of our circumstances.  May many come to know Your favor and the fullness of life found in You, as we live and love, reflecting Your light to all whom we encounter.  Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

He Provides As We Abide

“And he said to man, ‘The fear of the Lord – that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding.” – Job 28:28

image by Josh Weidmann

As a lover of words (especially His word), this passage provides a wealth of insight and instruction.

First, “the fear of the Lord” is to maintain reverence and awe for He alone who belongs on the throne.  When we do allow the Lord to lead, and remember to return the reigns and grant He alone the right to rule in our hearts and lives, this, this is where wisdom begins.  Wisdom too, is a wonderful word as it represents far more than intellect.  Wisdom comes through instruction and insight, provided by our Prince of Peace.

Next, “to shun evil” is a very vivid visual to me.  Shunning is a physical action to pair with an intellectual decision.  To shun is to keep away from and take pains to avoid.  Evil is that which is morally wrong, harmful or injurious.  As we avoid such things, God opens our eyes and hearts to understand that which had been previously hidden in plain sight.

Our charge is to place God properly as Lord and leader of our lives, and avoid that which is wrong – according to His word and His way, so that He may open our understanding and grant us wisdom.  As we grow in wisdom and insight, we are better equipped as believers to share the love and light that comes from our closeness to Christ.

He provides as we abide.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You give us simple and clear instruction.  Thank You too, that we are not left to our own devices to follow what You ask.  Thank You for the great gift You have given by granting us grace and guidance through Your Holy Spirit, who dwells in every heart that invites You in.  Forgive us Father for not fearing You, and for drawing near to evil rather than shunning it.  Instruct each of us as to how to properly place You on the throne in our lives, and lead us to shun the stuff that sinks our soul and tempts us to submit to sin.  Grant us wisdom and understanding so that Your word would be deeply rooted in our hearts and minds, and that our lives would bear the sort of fruit that clearly conveys the love and call of Christ to the lost.  Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present