God's Love Lifted Me

Aren’t the little surprise blessings in life the greatest? They are extra special when your day has been a rough one or something, in particular, has gotten you down in the dumps.

Maybe the concerns you secretly carry as you live life in the joy of the Lord, (hidden behind your cheerful smile) are clouding out the Light God wants to shine in your heart. I find fatigue seems to be key that unlocks the door to that “poor me,” vulnerable state of mind.

That leads to getting overwhelmed by my to-do list and from there it’s all downhill. I’m aware that the day will come every now, but I don’t add guilt to the other feelings bringing me down. I just ride out the storm knowing that it will pass. I also know that it will pass sooner if I keep my eyes on Jesus.

God knows when we need a little something extra to boost us out of our emotional funk. He knew I needed it the other day.

For me, the three-day weekends are sometimes accompanied by mixed feelings. Last Thursday evening was one of those times.

The forecast was beautiful sunshine all weekend. A real blessing after the entire month of rain we are recovering from. Then the dreaded question... ”Do you have plans for the 4th?” Ugh! That one question may have been what pushed me into my mini-depression.

With a smile as respond, “I’m not really sure yet. I may just stay home and get caught up on some things.” Then I start visualizing the endless list of stuff I could (and should) do. Fatigue already began to set in as I reviewed the imaginary list in my head. The tears begin to fall as soon as I sit behind the steering wheel and head for home.

Psalm 13:2-3   2 How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul,

                              with sorrow in my heart every day?

                              How long will my enemy have the upper hand?

                           3 Turn and answer me, O Lord my God!

                              Restore the sparkle to my eyes, or I will die. (NLT)

Tristan, our King Charles Spaniel, my constant companion and “baby-dog,” is on hand and crowding me in my chair. (He’s also ready to put a stop to any tearful pity party I may consider having.) It is impossible to cry with a dog in your face wiping your tears away and wanting to know what’s wrong. It’s impossible to stay in that, feeling-sorry-for-myself state of mind.

It takes more effort than I’m willing to put forth to keep pushing him away. Before long his relentless doggy kisses have brought a smile to my face. With all that “love” in my face how could I possibly remain down in the dumps?

Love lifted me.

Then comes the call from the love of my life. Though apart, Larry has always been able to make me laugh at nothing... and at everything. A few more of the gray clouds, darkening my otherwise sunny skies, are edged out.

Love lifted me.

The “funk” had not totally disappeared, but at least I was feeling somewhat better. As I write, the silence of the rural evening is broken. Whoosh! I wondered, “What is going on the fritz now?” Whoosh! “What IS that? Is the air conditioner going?” WHOOSH! “It’s getting louder! What now, is something in the house going to explode?”

While trying to figure out what it could be, I happened to glance out the window. It looked almost close enough to reach out and touch. A huge, multi-colored hot air balloon hovered just over the tree line in the back yard. It was so close, so beautiful - such a blessing. “THAT’S what the sound is!” I thought to myself.

Within a matter of seconds the anxiety about the unknown problem disappeared. In it’s place, the explanation and peace of mind. As a bonus, it provided motivation to get up and get going (outside to get a picture).

This time, God’s love lifted me. (In the form of a hot-air of the balloon)

Psalm 86:4 Bring joy into the life of Your servant, 
for it’s only to You, O Lord, that I offer my soul. (VOICE)The Voice