I've been silent for a little while.

I've needed silence.

For so long my world has been crazy busy, running from one place to the next rushing to get it "all" done. To be honest, I don't know how I was able to get everything accomplished ~somehow I managed but not without sacrifice.

The problem is... I was unaware of that sacrifice.  I was unaware that the rushing around to finish my to-do list, the staying up late to finish projects, the giving up myself to minister to my husband & family & friends was taking its toll on me. I've spent hours, days, weeks, months worrying, praying, giving, loving, planning ~ sacrificing.

The sacrificing has been for good, worthy reasons. Every bit of it I would do over again.

I don't regret the years I have spent planning & praying for Just Give Me Jesus with an incredible group of women. ~ I would do it again in a heartbeat!

I don't regret the hours I have spent talking & praying with my husband over some difficult issues at work. ~ Each moment brought us closer together as a couple.

I don't regret running my kids around to their various activities. ~ I love watching them experience something new.

I don't regret meeting up with a friend who needs a shoulder to cry on. ~ When I take time to love on a friend I am sharing God's love with them.

But, in all of that I forgot to minister to myself. I spent time in God's word but, I forgot to slow down & soak in the quiet moments.

It has taken a diagnosis of a health issue that is caused by stress to make me realize I need to slow down.

Rest in the quiet moments.

Rest in the arms of my Lord, my Healer, my Comforter, my Sustainer.

As I have spent time quietly, alone with Him He has revealed His Truth in marvelous ways.

He has revealed His Perfect Peace and His Amazing Glory.

So, while you are busy today running around marking off your to-do list, ministering to friends, caring for children ~ remember to take time for yourself.

Sit. Rest. in the quietness of God.

Be Still and Know He Is God!

In my quiet moments I will continue to pray for God's direction for The Calm of His Presence, in the meantime I will continue to pop in with ways God is working in my life.

How may I pray for you?

In His Calm,

Mary