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| The forest outside the chapel where we met to contemplate these three questions. We could only see glimpses through the narrow windows of the auditorium. It was nice to nip out and snap a photo. |
This was the topic at the women's retreat I went on late last week. The theme was based on the idea that you identify (and memorise) Scriptures and other “bricks” like songs, quotes, etc. that will help you weather difficult times. Especially times when you don’t have access to a Bible or phone. For example in the middle of the night when your thoughts are swirling around getting snagged on negatives and dragging you down into anxiety and stress. Or when you’re sitting with your loved one waiting for an ambulance to arrive. Or stuck in traffic and late for an appointment and feeling anxious.
Our speaker split these into three easy-to-remember categories, the foundation being—who is God? Followed by—who am I? And then—why am I here?
These are really fundamental questions. We were encouraged to find our own “bricks” in these categories at the retreat, bricks that have particular significance to us. But that was too much for me to contemplate while I was at the retreat. My desire was to soak in being present with these precious women. That turned out to be about all I could cope with. Now there is time to reflect on the messages and come up with some of my own verses. There are so many! Here are some I might add to my spiritual emergency kit:
Who is God?
He can do all things, no plan of his is thwarted. Job 42:2
He is our refuge and strength, an every-present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1
He is a shepherd who tenderly takes care of his flock (us). Isaiah 40:11
He is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. Isaiah 40:28
He is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer. Psalm 18:2
My provider. Matthew 7:11–33
“When you don't understand, when you don't see his plan, when you can’t trace his hand, trust his heart” From a song "Trust his heart" by Babbie Mason
He goes before me: “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8
Who am I?
Created and called by God, not a mistake. Ps 139
Precious. 1 Peter 2:4
Loved. Jeremiah 31:3
Alien and a stranger on earth 1 Peter 2:11 but now a member of God’s household Ephesians 2:19
Why am I here?
I’m here to do his will, even if that means sitting still. “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.” Psalm 37:7
To declare the praises of God. 1 Peter 2:9
To glorify God by serving with the strength he provides. 1 Peter 4:11
Because God wants me here. Ps 139:16
To do good works that God has prepared beforehand. Ephesians 2:10
Competent because God makes me that way. 2 Cor. 3:5
I'm not good at memorising, but already can see how helpful this might be. A couple of times since Friday I've been stuck in that spot halfway between sleep and wakefulness, and thinking through those of these that I could remember has been helpful and has calmed my heart, even if I can't remember all the verses, I can remember the key point. And now I've written them down, I can review them when I need to!
How about you? Do you have answers to these questions that help you when times are tough?
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