As I think about Thanksgiving and pause to think of life since January 1st, 2024, I found myself taking in all of 2023 as well. Then, before I knew it, I was remembering my three to four weeks with Covid in June of 2022, and all the fatigue that followed for a few months after. I have been having one long season of physical challenges, multiple sinus infections, ending with a radical sinus surgery that took over three months to recover from, and then Vertigo came back December 31 of 2023 after 42 years of being in remission, all this since that time with Covid. And the Vertigo has been coming and going up to this very day.
Oh, where was I? Oh, yeah, Thanksgiving.
You know, we all find it easier to remember our struggles than we do our blessings, right? So many of you have had it far worse than me. Some of you could say ‘could be better’ if I were to ask how you are. Some might readily confess that your heart is exhausted; emotionally, physically, and spiritually. You are weary and discouraged. The years between Christmas 2019 and today have been filled with heartaches, fear, and difficult days for certain. But I have found that even in my worst days, my Shepherd Jesus is still with me and His rod and staff give me great comfort.
I am thankful that you are in this moment with me, and I want to leave some Scriptures filled with hope and encouragement for you to take rest in as I have achieved.
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.” Isaiah 40:29
“I have said these things to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
“Come to me, all who are weary and heavy burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
“I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.” Jeremiah 31:25
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness and endurance.” James 1:23
“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
“I sought the LORD, and He answered me and delivered me from all of my fears. Those who look to Him are radiant with joy; their faces will never be ashamed.” Psalm 34:4-5
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but the One Who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.” Hebrews 4:15
“When I am filled with cares, Your comfort brings me joy.” Psalm 94:19
“I can do all things through Christ Jesus Who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
“Praise the LORD, Who has given rest to His people Israel just as He promised. Not one word has failed of all of the good promises He gave through His servant Moses.” 1 Kings 8:56
His promises stand. Great is His faithfulness. He will refresh you, give you rest, provide peace, satisfy your soul. In all things, seek first, over all things, the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and He, beloved, and He alone, will meet your every need according to His Divine understanding and power. Have a great Thanksgiving . . . anyway! And, Pray On!
