I've brewed my coffee and I'm getting ready to start a brand new day. With my cup in hand I head over to my cozy spot and I read or listen to the Word of God. Afterward, I feel refreshed and enthusiastic about the day. This routine has built deep reservoirs of strength in me. When a crisis hits, I am not overtaken by it. And as I'm sure you know from personal experience, we have more challenges than most families! That's why it's so important to prepare yourself for the battles of the day.
I love the Scripture, "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). As we agree to hand over our burdens to Jesus, He promises us He will give us rest in exchange for the worry we just had. Now I realize this is easier said than done. It's a process. My first reaction to any crisis is, "How can I fix this?" But over time I have learned to hand them over to God a little faster. Releasing our burdens over to Him is one secret to finding rest and refreshment. Once we acquire deep rest, we develop stability during a crisis. Peace and patience become our new best friends!
We recently returned from a short visit to Omaha, Nebraska where one of our sons lives. He had just endured a near-death medical crisis. From the moment I heard the news to the time we arrived at the hospital, my mind kept bouncing like a ping pong ball from "How do I fix this?" to "Here Lord, he is yours!" Eventually my mind and heart settled. But even after decades of crises, I still have to train my heart and mind to retreat to the Lord.
"Come to Me" is so inviting and soothing, and so is His rest. Wouldn't you like to live a life that is filled with peace and patience? You'll find that the wonderful ripple effect will be a reflection of peace in your children.