Surrounded by Joy Takers!

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give it to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.  John 14:27

A prayer I wrote on February 11, 2004:

Dear Lord,
I appreciate the scripture up above because today I have a wounded spirit. My day began with a reprimand from a loved one that was not deserved and very hurtful. Other situations arose today and now I feel beaten down. Lord, give me the strength to do what needs to be done. I am tired, sad and discouraged - only emotions that I know you can heal. So will wait and continue on to do what needs to be done. 

Lord, give me the strength to keep going and to want to keep moving forward. I cry, I pause, I pray, I wait! It's only pain, it's real but nothing compared to the pain Christ suffered for me. I don't always understand what plan God has for me but I just trust in faith and continue to walk in His will for my life. 

My heart is broken today! I have been surrounded by "joy-takers". Too many for me to handle all in one day. I remind myself that even though I may be down I know God is still working. So I cry, I pause, I pray, I wait. Lord, only you can restore my joy! Thank you Lord.....

I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8

This picture was taken at Bethesda by the Sea Church in April 2013.