It shall blossom abundantly and rejoice, even with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the excellence of Carmel and Sharon. They shall see the glory of the Lord, the excellency of our God.
Sometimes Father it is so challenging to imagine when we are in the desert place of life that there is beauty there. Those seasons of financial fruitlessness, loneliness even in the midst of relationships, the barren employment field of no opportunities that are desperately needed or healing that has been restricted and doesn't come. But when we fix our eyes above the hills that seem so hard to climb, looking to You our ever-present help in times of need, You are there. We truly will see the glory of the Lord, and the excellency of our God. Father, by the power of Your Holy Spirit strengthen the weak hands and make firm the feeble knees. Say Lord to those who are fearful in their hearts, be strong, and do not fear! The knowledge of You Jesus our Savior is coming, and justice will be restored in every area of life. Let us rejoice when a stranger leaves a bag of groceries on the front step, an acquaintance greets us with a warm hug, an unexpected refund check appears in the mailbox, or a warm bath is drawn to ease the pain that is relentless. Father, open our eyes to appreciate even the smallest of gifts; the simplicity of mealtime that is satisfied by laughter of loved ones, even if what is on the plate is a pauper's portion, or when the career path takes a sharp turn back down the ladder of so-called success, but the new co-workers are delightful and encouraging. Help us Lord to have compassion for others who are in bleaker situations then we ourselves are experiencing, for we are the buds that You will cause to bloom in the deserts of other lives. May the love we have found in You be the sweet aroma in another's situation bringing with it a renewed sense of hope. May we be glad even in our wilderness and wastelands because You are always with us. May we remember Father to pursue peace, and holiness not allowing the root of bitterness to spring up among or in us. Father, I pray for Your faithful servants who are enduring great trials in their commitment to the spreading of the Gospel. May Your Holy Spirit within them give them peace even when they are tortured, scourged and imprisoned. Father may their selfless sacrifice be first and foremost in our minds when our flesh want to rise us and murmur and complain. Father, please encamp Your mighty angels around those who are in dangerous and life threatening situations, may they be victorious in ever battle. Jesus, bless those who boldly and unashamedly live to glorify You. Be their refuge and strength. In Your powerful name I pray. Amen.
Isaiah 35:3-4 and Hebrews 12:12-17
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