autumn living

I love writing. I have been a passionate writer since I was was 7 or 8, when I started keeping a daily prayer diary. Those precious simple words, printed out my young hands are a treat to read, along with the simple illustrations painstakingly drawn. 

About the time I turned 21 and moved back from Indiana, the Internet had happened, and I turned to the pages of an online blog, first on Livejornal and then MySpace. And so it goes.

Now I have two blogs. One is private, the other public here where I write about what I deem encouraging or uplifting. I always get a writer's boon each fall season. I don't know whether it has to do with autumn being my favorite season, or whether it is refreshing after our wilting Florida summers, and I am seeking to reinvent more than the sweltering weather and my burnt-out garden. I enjoy the renewal, the cathartic release of thoughts and hopes and plans.

Here's to a blessed and restful autumn season. There's a lot going on, but I am going to endeavor to snatch moments for soul Sabbath. It's been a particularly difficult year, full of changes and issues that I can't reveal (as they relate to the workings and running of the school), and I am needing the peace. Shalom to all!

my tongue is the pen of a ready writer

"My heart overflows with a good theme; I address my verses to the King; My tongue is the pen of a ready writer." -Psalm 45:1

A Psalm of Individual Thanksgiving
“The Lord Saves Me from the Troubles of Life”
By Mary Beth Jones

I love Yahweh, for He hears my petition and my cry for help.

I lift my voice in the night time and whisper aloud to Him in the morning hours.

My Abba is near and answers my prayers when I call on His name.

Selah.

For the pressures of life sweep over me like an ocean wave.

I am bowled over and am in the grip of strong undertow.

I cannot free myself; only Yahweh can save me.

The sands of life drag me down into the depths, and I am drowned in anxiety.

I am overcome with fretfulness, and my responsibilities overwhelm me.

Sleep escapes me, and I lay awake in worry and apprehension.

Lord, you are sovereign. You are in control of the universe.

You rule over the principalities and powers of this world and reign supreme over the devil and his tormentors.

Remind me that You are also my Abba and that You care for me.

You know everything about me; I can hide nothing from You.

I am your child, and you know my comings and goings.

You, O Lord, have been kind to me. In my low state, you saw and rescued me.

Your lovingkindness has overcome my fears and brought me peace.

Selah.

I am compelled to praise Yahweh in my troubles, for He has trounced them.

I will overcome, in the strength of the Lord, and will arise in victory over the dark places.

O Lord, my refuge, I will never be ashamed that I put my trust in You.

I will praise His name forever and live a life of thanksgiving.