Tuesday, April 8 Psalm 3:6

I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me, one on every side.

SPIRITUAL PEACE — OUR SHIELD IN TIMES OF TROUBLE

There have been times in my life where I felt surrounded by nasty people, ugly images and cruel words in my everyday life. It affected our whole family. I was angry and fearful.

As I turned to my faith, I remembered what my mother said years ago. If you worry, why pray; and if you pray, why worry? I had some very good friends who supported us. My church family was also there for us, allowing us to have refuge in our church.

I also turned to Psalms for images of God. Images of God as Shield, Rock, King, Shepherd, Judge, Refuge, Fortress, Avenger, Creator, Deliverer, Healer, Protector, Provider and Redeemer. Pick one — surely you can find one that speaks to you. There was always an image of God that helped me.

Those tumultuous times have mostly passed for me with a very sad ending. But they continue for many others. I try to “let go and let God ” and rest in the arms of my savior.

There will be times when you feel it is all collapsing around you. Remember, God is always there. We can do it “one day at a time.” There are two kinds of peace — worldly peace and spiritual peace. Worldly peace is bracketed with anxiety and can be taken from us. Spiritual peace is the peace that the world cannot take away.

Oh God, wrap your arms around me and let my faith shine forth. Amen

Jeanne Tiller

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