We often have such high ideals, long "to-do" lists, and any number of people depending on us every day. I'm sure it has much to do with the fast-paced culture we live in, but I'm not here to analyze why--just to deal with the problem! The ever-increasing demand and expectations put on us--both by ourselves and others--are exhausting! And then, when you simply cannot keep up with it all, which inevitably happens, you quickly descend into a deep pit of despair as you continue to fall more and more behind... *insert dark, sorrowful music here*
Is it just me? It could be, sometimes it feels like I'm pretty out there... :) However, if you can relate to this at all, then what do you do with it? Do you realize that this happens? And if so, then what?
Listen to the Message's translation of Romans 8, verse 1 and half of verse 2: "With the arrival of Jesus, the Messiah, that fateful dilemma is resolved. Those who enter into Christ's 'being-here-for-us' no longer have to live under a continuous, low-lying black cloud. A new power is in operation. The Spirit of life in Christ, like a strong wind, has magnificently cleared the air..."
Hallelujah! I hate living under a continuous, low-lying black cloud, don't you? It is a daily decision to remind yourself daily--sometimes hourly or 'minutely'--that we are not condemned! We have to learn to rely on the "new power", the "strong wind" to strengthen us to do what he has called us to do, ask forgiveness when we fail, and move on quickly--not allowing the black cloud to overtake you.
This blog is intended for a number of things.
1) To help ME keep from living under the black cloud.
2) To encourage other women to keep from living under the black cloud.
3) To facilitate other women to connect and and encourage each other.
This certainly is not a blog with all the answers...I believe strongly in the words of Ecclesiastes 4:9-10: "Two are better than one...If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up." Women, especially, are designed to encourage and "help each other up". I am excited to be apart of that! Sometimes things are light and humorous, sometimes things are serious, and sometimes I'm afraid I'm a twisted combination of the two... :) I hope you can find encouragement and feel free to participate in discussions. We're all in this together, you know?!
Praying for you, friend. May we "soar with wings as eagles" (Isaiah 40) above the low, black clouds!
