Two things happened this week I would like to share in hopes that it will assist you in a tangible way in your daily faith journey.
First, I discovered something new the other day when reading the Bible in a new light. I know being in the Word is important and can’t imagine not reading it. But, there are times when I come across a very familiar verse and I struggle because it can feel like just words on a page.
For example, I was reading Philippians 4:6:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
I love this very familiar verse and pray it often for myself and others. But on this particular day, the Spirit encouraged me to read more. So, I looked to the verse right before this passage which says:
“The Lord is near…”
Now, this is what I read:
“The Lord is near. Do not be anxious.”
It was as if the Lord was saying personally to me, “Susan, always start with Me because I am near. This is why you don’t need to be anxious.”
Sometimes all it takes is simply grouping verses together in a different way to jumpstart a new thought. So, when the verse you are reading doesn’t seem to be really speaking to you, I’d encourage you to dig deeper. Look at the verses surrounding the one you are reading.
I don’t know what is going on in your life, but I want to encourage you: The LORD is near. And because of this, you do not need to be anxious.
Second, I had the privilege of being a guest on a new podcast called “Conversations” which was recently released and I hope our conversation might encourage you in your faith walk. Karen Shayne, the moderator and I chatted about faith journeys, redeeming time, and tips on how to make Jesus a priority in your everyday life.
I’d love for you to listen and give me some feedback on our discussion. Even more, perhaps you could share what was an “aha” or maybe an issue you wished would have been included.You can listen by clicking the link here
“Faith. It does not make things easy. It makes things possible.” Anonymous
Dear Sister Susan,
OH MY❣️ Thank you, thank you, thank you, for your in-site about reading scripture. NUGGET #1!
The podcast with Karen has So Many nuggets I lost count. I’ve shared your email with my sister & niece to start with. The Holy Spirit will prompt me with more to share it with, I’m sure. You are such a Blessing in my life. Thanks for sharing your faith walk with me!!! Love & prayers, Ruth Torbert
Thank you for reminding me that He is near. I am in the midst of a project that feels like the loneliest thing I have ever done. Watching a dream that my late husband and I shared come to fruition, but now he is not here to share it with me.