Have you ever been melancholy for no particular reason? I woke this morning looking back at those that have gone to heaven and missing them, thinking of all that is happening in the world and wondering why even Christians don’t act like they belong to the family of God. 

I look forward to what God is trying to tell me each day, as I come into His presence with a cup of coffee in my hand. Especially on those days when I’m a little sad, I’ve taught myself to put away thoughts of what I need to accomplish and ask Him to fill my heart with a peace that only comes from knowing how much I am loved. I block out the laundry, the emails waiting, and the phone calls I need to make — not because I’m so reverent — but because I’m not!

My sister always said I wake up like a piece of popcorn, exploding onto the scene. I used to think she was a “Mary” and I was a “Martha.” She had her priorities right and I seemed to be distracted with too many details. To combat my active “focus disorder,” I begin each morning with Jesus, and He doesn’t seem to mind if I get my coffee first! 

Before I bring my worries and petitions to the Lord, I take time to acknowledge who He is, not for His benefit but for mine. I need to remind myself He is the Lord of all, and nothing happens in my life, or in this world, that He has not ordained. He is worthy of praise, honor, and glory. I like to begin there, praising and glorifying my Lord. Then, I take my cares to Him, knowing who He is and what He has done for me. I ask for His will in my life because I am HIS, bought with the blood of His Son, and I am precious in His sight.

Praising my Savior and Lord takes the sadness right out of me! 

Is it OK to be melancholy? Yes. Is it OK to run to Jesus and ask for help before praising His name? Yes. Is it OK to cry out in anger and ask Him to heal me? Yes. When I realize He can see into my heart, I have no reason to hide my frustrations, or my sadness, or my fears. Because He already knows them, He just wants me to know He knows. He knows! He cares! He’s waiting to listen and talk to me! He’s waiting to listen and talk to you also. Join me each morning (and throughout the day!) as we bring our troubles to the One who cares beyond our comprehension. Today, and every day, I am lifted by Jesus — into HIS arms. And there is room for you there, too!

Today, and always, we are surrounded by HIS grace,

Debbie