Well I'm back. Been traveling up and down the country. We spent three weeks in Pennsylvania. I think I shall have to add it to my list of favorite states(Amish, shoo fly pie, battle grounds, funny talkin' Yankees....jk) Any way....
I have found that with new surroundings(and new people) often comes new challenges(I actually met people who didn't know what "y'all" meant!! Where have they been??) But on a more serious note...how to keep your cool when you have been sitting in a van for 7-13 hours...and you have Larry, Moe, and Curly in the back seat and they wont hush up.
Your ever slightly carsick, you need to use the restroom, your iPod's battery is dead, and there is no interesting scenery for the next 50 miles(not to mention those horrible tunnels, I'm claustrophobic). I find myself in this position a little to often.
So what do I do when the stress monster is trying to overcome me...I run to the WORD!!! Yep, the precious King James 1611 Holy Bible!!!! I love the Psalms!!! Because the poor Psalmist had the same problems that we face each and every day!! I've always been able to find a Psalm that expresses the burdens of my heart, and uplifts my spirit. Have you ever felt that all the world is coming at you, read Psalm 27! Feel nasty and dirty inside from your sin and you don't know how to convey your Godly sorrow?(Godly sorrow worketh repentance, 2 Corinthians 7:10), pray Psalm 51. God said He would supply all your need. "I need encouragement!" you say. Do a study on the love of God, or joy, or salvation. It's all there!!! One of the most common sins among church members is a lack of appreciation(and a love) for God's Word. If you find yourself with this kind of attitude, I would suggest reading "The Bible Makes Us Baptist" other wise known as "In Editha's Day" by Mary E. Bamford. And also read "The Little Baptist" by J. M. Martin. In these books you will find the accounts of two girls in search of truth, wisdom, and even protection from persecutors. Each finding daily comfort in the Scriptures.
So next time you feel as though your going to ring someones neck, or when everything falls apart right before your eyes; run to the Word, IMMERSE yourself in its truths, and find rest and strength.
