Sometimes this old world can feel overwhelming, and overpowering. Some days I feel surrounded by people who are hurting. And some days, I am the one hurting. Some days I look around and see darkness and evil lurking in tragic news stories, in movies meant for entertainment, and even in the sex trafficking at the Super Bowl.
Sometimes, I feel overwhelmed and inadequate with my small light in a dark-feeling world.
I feel inadequate in raising daughters who love themselves as God does. I don't know how to raise daughters who respond in kindness, yet are bold enough to speak up. I don't always know how to balance grace with tough love in my parenting decisions.
Today, I feel inadequate--and frankly, worn out from loving, caring, listening, talking, encouraging, and making decisions.
Today, more than ever, I am feeling drawn to pray, and to stay plugged into the only power source that is lasting. Actually, that's not quite saying it right... Lately, I've felt like I'm in a swirling sea--and the only sure thing is God's amazing life buoy. And if I don't cling to Him with all my might, I could be swept into the swirling darkness all around me.
I don't know about you, but this darkness makes me MAD. Sometimes I want to cling to God out of pure stubbornness--just to show the devil that he cannot have me, and he cannot have my family.
Today, I am doing battle with my inadequate feelings by praying. Praying for my hurting friends, praying for protection for my family, and praying for the sweet daughters I don't always know how to raise. And I am plugging into God's Word to find the energy to keep my little light shining in this dark world.
How about you? Have you felt inadequate about anything lately?
“But you, Israel, my servant,
Jacob, whom I have chosen,
you descendants of Abraham my friend,
I took you from the ends of the earth,
from its farthest corners I called you.
I said, ‘You are my servant’;
I have chosen you and have not rejected you.
So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
“All who rage against you
will surely be ashamed and disgraced;
those who oppose you
will be as nothing and perish.
Though you search for your enemies,
you will not find them.
Those who wage war against you
will be as nothing at all.
For I am the LORD your God
who takes hold of your right hand
and says to you, Do not fear;
I will help you.
Do not be afraid, you worm Jacob,
little Israel, do not fear,
for I myself will help you,” declares the LORD,
your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.
-Isaiah 41:7-14
