God's Faithfulness

It's been another busy week. I had Bible study on Tuesday and Wednesday; a doctor appointment on Wednesday; took my MIL to the doctor on Thursday and then to my prayer meeting; and Friday, I worked in the church office. Between all that, I tried to get things done around here.

I'm still having pain issues, but let's not go into that! LOL

I had an epiphany, of sorts, the other day. I've known for a long time that my Spiritual calling is encouragement and compassion. I have done lots of different ministries throughout the years and they are all related to these gifts. However, lately I've had a situation in my life where I've been mentoring someone who is going through a lot in her life. I felt rather ill equipped with not knowing some information that I wanted to share and so did some research and also got a wonderful book called, "Shepherding Women In Pain". As I was reading through this book I realized that I felt called to mentor/counsel other women. I have always been someone friends and family have looked to when they wanted to share something of great importance in their lives. I always attributed this to the fact that I am a good listener - but now I'm wondering if it's not something more - a calling that the Lord is leading me to. I'm going to be in prayer about this and also staying open to opportunities that may come my way to learn more about mentoring/counseling and really focusing on the Lord's Word so that I can counsel in the right way. God's truth is just that - truth. Counseling or mentoring needs to be from the wisdom from God, not from me. Please pray about this with me - I absolutely want to be in God's will about this.

I had coffee with my friend from church today. I met her many years ago in my first ladies Bible study and God has brought me full circle to meet up with her again and it's just a total blessing. She inspires me, gives me Godly counsel, makes me laugh, and best of all, loves the Lord just like I do. (It doesn't hurt that she loves coffee as much as me, too! LOL) I'm so thankful to the Lord for bringing her back into my life.

Tomorrow I am meeting up with another lady from church for lunch. I'm really looking forward to getting to know her better - I have a feeling we're going to be great friends, too. I'm really trying to "take the risk" and put myself "out there" and make new friends. I have always been a bit shy and probably not that sure of myself. I'm finding, though, that as I allow the Lord to work in me and my life, I'm able to set "me" aside and just reach out to others. It's great!! I highly recommend it!!! :)

My diverticulitis is back, but not too bad. I think I caught it early and got meds from the doctor today. I have figured out what is bringing it on and I'm going to avoid it from here on out!! This is the pits and I want to make sure I'm more aware of those foods that may "get stuck" and cause me pain.

Stay in the Word - it really does change your life for the better. I am so thankful to God and His faithfulness to me and for drawing me closer to Him. There's no where else I'd rather be than in God's presence and His will!!

God bless you - Julie