Psalm 136:1, Oh give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good: for His mercy endureth forever. Are you experiencing some challenging times in your life? This year, my family has dealt with a number of health issues that pulled us in several different directions. Because we live in a small town, it required the family to travel to Jackson, MS, or Memphis, TN for medical treatment. Both locations are nearly two hours away. On several occasions, we had competing appointments and other life issues to balance. But through it all, we stuck together and trusted God to see us through. Sometimes, you have to remind yourself that God’s mercy endureth forever and that He is able to see you through!
In times like these, when you have health issues, financial problems, or things just aren’t going according to plan and to be honest, God is not showing up as quickly as you need Him, what do you do? How do you re-imagine contentment? Can you have that peace that allows you to keep your eyes on God? How do you keep the faith when troubles collide at the same time? For me, sometimes the challenge is having peace late at night. Whenever I am troubled, I have trouble sleeping. Fortunately, I was able to talk to a dear friend and he reminded me that I needed not only to pray and rest but to take the time to replenish my soul. He asked me, “How do you replenish your soul?” Honestly, I had to spend a few moments thinking about it. Most of the things that I enjoy, I had put them on the back burner. Now, I am deliberately taking the time to rest and to also replenish my soul.
As we are approaching the holiday season, don’t forget to take the time to rest and replenish your soul and body. In order to be your best self for family and friends, it is imperative that you take time for yourself. I know you may think this is selfish but as they say when you are preparing for a flight, “Put on your mask first.” So, start resting in the Lord and develop a sleep routine if needed. I want you to get back to those things that replenish you or start identifying those activities that make your heart happy!
The Bible teaches us in Jeremiah 31:25, For I will satisfy the weary soul, and every languishing soul I will replenish. Matthew 11:28, Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Isaiah 26:3, You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.
As always, thank you for your love and continued support! Join me in prayer to change hearts, to heal our land, and for the contentment and peace to handle whatever should come up! I am so thankful to each of you for joining me on this journey to re-imagine contentment in 2023!
Always look for the Remarkable in your life!
Dr. ReShone
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