Rainy Days - by Pastor Libby Martin

Bible Reference: Proverbs 4:23

On a very rainy Thanksgiving evening, many years, Ethan (my 13-year-old son) and I were driving back to Dayton from Independence, KY. It had rained all day and continued with a heavy downpour. Immediately after crossing the big bridge on, I-75, crossing from KY into OH, I started driving through a flooded highway. There were no signs and it was very dark with very low visibility. Suddenly, water was splashing all over our car. I could not see in front of me, beside me, or behind me. Fear gripped my heart. For what seemed like long minutes, turned out to be seconds - and we were on the other side of the highway that was covered with water. I will never forget the sweet relief of getting "through" the overwhelming amount of road water. Thanking God for the safely of both my precious son and me, I continued my way home.

I have often thought of the path that was so unclear at that time. Many life experiences have gripped my life throughout my walk with Christ. I am so thankful that He will bring us "through" even though many times we cannot see in front of us, behind us, or beside us. Trust and Believe . . . .

Proverbs 18:10 " the name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe"

Prayer: Dear Jesus, I pray for our wonderful church family right now . . . You know the ones of us who need encouragement and hope to get "through" the flooded, rainy seasons of life. Help us to trust you, believe Your word, and be safe in the very name of JESUS . . . . Thank you for peace and comfort. Help us to "guard our hearts for it a wellspring of Life" Proverbs 4:23.

Fear Not God is in Control – By Greg Frueh

Bible Reference: 2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. (NLT)

The Lord brought me and our family through a difficult time several years ago. I was in my mid 50’s and lost my job due to a company merger. I was very concerned and was starting to worry about being able to support our family as we had four kids in college and two more in Christian school. I was at a point where getting another job in my career field was difficult due to my age and the current failing economy. I prayed for peace and I went for my first interview at a hospital and got accepted for a position that I was probably under qualified for. I had my last day at the previous company on a Friday and was able to start the new job the following Monday. It was a huge praise and a way God brought us through what could have been a real financial hardship.

Prayer: Lord thank you for always being with us as we go through the trials in this life, help us always remember you are there to give us strength. In the name of Jesus.

Through Fear - Lynna Burton

Bible References: Philippians 4:8-9; Deuteronomy 31:8

I didn’t really deal with fear much in my younger years. I was told by my older brothers that I couldn’t cry when I got hurt joining in whatever they did, so I quickly learned to ‘suck it up.’ I was taught by my parents to be strong and independent and not to rely on other people if I didn’t want to be disappointed. Later, I got married to the love of my life, fell in love with God, and spent my days at home with my 3 kids. Life was good. When problems came our way, we handled them without any major issues. I believed that together, we could handle whatever life threw at us. That is until alcohol addiction became the driving force in my husband’s daily life and rattled our family to the core. It erased our finances and created hardships I never could have imagined. It consumed every thought and every moment of our days. I became so overwhelmed and paralyzed by fear that I could barely function. My thoughts raced from one scenario to another without any hope of the kids and I made it through this. How could I possibly support a family on my own? If I lose the house, where will we go? I tried to absorb the grief and fears my kids had and reassured them that I would figure this out. I watched control slip through my fingers, as I became weary and hopeless and started to break down mentally and emotionally. For the first time in my life, I was full of doubt and fear.

One sleepless night after another, I lay in bed watching lyric videos of worship songs, letting the healing promises of God sink into my soul. That is where I surrendered every area of my life over to the Lord. He would have to heal our hearts and lead us through grieving relationships that would be forever changed with my husband. He would have to make a way for us financially and provide an adequate job. I clung to Philippians 4:8-9 constantly training my thoughts to rest on the goodness of God, not on my circumstances that promised we would be devoured by grief, loneliness and hardship. In verse 8, God says to dwell on “whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, and anything worthy of praise.” I had to stop carving the same hopeless thoughts into my mind and jumping to the same conclusions. Verse 9 promises “then the peace of God will be with you.”

Three years into single parenting, I was diagnosed with widespread cancer. Panic and fear threatened, but I kept my eyes fully trained on God. My circumstances were certainly more than I could manage, but I had learned to cling tightly to the One who can lead me through it. Deuteronomy 31:8, promises "The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Fear is a liar, but God is a way maker when I cannot see through the darkness. He has been my shelter, my resting place, my healer, and the one who fights my battles. He faithfully provided for us and met our needs. He surrounded us with unwavering support and encouragement. He has led me through two and a half years of six rounds of chemo and continues to heal both physically and emotionally. I have learned that when I am stuck in the maze of trial and error looking frantically for a way out, the Lord has the vantage point of looking down from heaven and seeing the path to freedom. And He will lead you through the valley every time, never leaving your side.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I pray for your guidance when life’s circumstances feel overwhelming. Help me keep my thoughts on your truth and rest in your promises. I pray that you will make a way through hard times, and I thank you, Lord, for your goodness and mercy that follows me through all of my days. Amen

Acknowledgement Is the First Step – By Kim Brubaker

Bible Reference: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

We recently moved to a small town, and our evening bike rides look very different to when we lived within the city limits. When we ride in the country, we pass farmhouses with wide open fields that look like they stretch for miles. Many times, we see people working in their gardens, or farmers in their tractors working in their fields. Every time we pass, the strangers' hands flies up in the air to give a quick wave. My daughter asked for the first 􀆟me "Who is that? Do we know that person?" I replied "No, we don't know that person, but it was nice of the farmer to acknowledge our presence. That farmer saw us pass by their land and wanted to greet us and show us that they saw that we were there. We should always wave back and acknowledge them in return. This is how you start to get to know another person."

I think God feels that way about us. When we take notice of Him, when we accept and surrender that He is a part of every single moment of our lives, He promises that He will make our paths straight. He doesn't say that He "might" or that He would "think about it". He promises that He will.

Deep down we all want God to be with us when hard times hit. We want assurance that we are not alone. The definitive way to know that He is with us "through" the hard times is to recognize daily that He is also with us during the insignificant, unimportant times too. Developing a habit of noticing the Lord in small areas guarantees that we will recognize and acknowledge the Lord when we walk through the big things.

Take a moment to think about an errand you went on today. How many insignificant moments happened during that errand? Did you slow yourself down to see the Lord walking along with you? Take a moment right now to acknowledge and thank the Lord for all the many ways that He walks with you. Rest assured that when we acknowledge His presence, He promises that He will straighten our paths "through" every moment as well.

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to stop, to be slow, to pause, and to reflect. May I look at my experiences from yesterday and acknowledge all the ways that you walked by my side and all the ways you helped me that I didn't notice. May today be different. May I acknowledge your Presence and may I look for you today with wide open eyes. In Jesus I Ask, Amen

A Surrendered, Mosaic Life - By Laura Churchman

Bible references: Proverbs 3:6; Hebrews 12:2; Psalm 23:4; Job 38-41

This broken world produces broken situations that shatter already broken people. Without Jesus, this is a one sentence summary of walking through this life - past, present and future. For many, the story ends here, with piles of shattered pieces. Life has not been all bad and you have some beautifully colored pieces within your pile. It is important to recognize that, although the color may add appealing beauty, without Jesus, our lives are still jumbled, broken pieces.

What have you had to walk through that shattered you? Unfulfilled dreams? Financial issues? Addiction? Divorce? Death? We all have a story.

For some, the shattering was self-induced. For others, they had no choice. For many, it is a combination. For me, life was already hard, but on May 31, 2022, it became unimaginably hard when I held my 7-day old daughter as she took her last breath. In that moment, parts of me broke that I did not even know existed. I reached an inhumane depth of grieving, and I genuinely did not know if I could live through it. Every single day, I intensely miss her. A quick reality set in – nothing, including myself, would ever be the same. There’s no “returning to normal” in a situation like this. You must accept a new normal which you never wanted or consented to.

In the pain and grief, God drew nearer as I sought Him. I actually had never felt closer to Him than when our family was walking through the loss of Abigail. With Jesus, in time, healing began.

Then, on April 24, 2026, I held my 9-month, 22-day old warrior son, Elijah O’Shea, as he took his last breath. How? How has the Lord allowed our family to be here again? “Lord, didn’t I already faithfully walk this valley with You?” I asked. I trusted Him, and He allowed this pain . . . again.

This is all still so fresh and raw. The wound still bleeds and requires much attention. Where does someone go from here?

Many prominent figures have spoken about how you cannot control your circumstances, but you can control your responses. After alot of processing, what I know in the depths of my soul, and proven in scripture, is:

1. Who God IS . . . does not change because I got hurt.

2. Causing and allowing are not the same.

3. My circumstances are not a reflection of God’s love for me.

The truth is, we are going to go through unbearable challenges in this life. How we choose to respond is the key. I encourage you to read God’s response in Job. I cannot read this without smiling, knowing that, even in the hardest situations, God knows every detail and is still the loving Father He said He was.

We can trust God in our suffering.

He deserves all the glory, all the honor and all the praise. Especially, the heart felt praise from the dark places.

God desperately wants us to surrender our broken pieces to Him and, through His unconditional love, transform us from dust into gardens, dry bones into life, and our broken pieces into beautiful mosaics that reflect His faithfulness in our lives and through our trials.

Psalm 23 comes alive when you choose Jesus. “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,” I choose Jesus. Biblical, eternal joy is rooted first in choosing Jesus and then in keeping your eyes fixed on Him; not despite what you are walking through, but because of it. Jesus is Joy – on the mountain top, the valley, and everywhere in between.

Prayer: Jesus, thank you for Your faithfulness throughout my life. In Isaiah, You are described as a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. You know grief. In the Garden of Gethsemane, You received a hard "no," but chose to submit to the will of Your Father. Jesus, from the depths of my heart, I pray I never loose site of You and Your love for me, regardless of what I am walking through. On the mountain top, in the darkest valley, and everywhere in between Lord, help me to faithfully follow You.

God has Brought me Through More than I Could Have Imagined -By Ken McNeal

Bible References: Psalm 23:4; Isaiah 43:2

I was raised in a home where faith was present, but over time God brought me into a deeper and more personal relationship with Christ. I have walked through seasons of disappointment, loss, divorce, career change, anger, codependency, and uncertainty. I have also walked through the physical and emotional challenges of Alopecia Universalis, learning that my identity is not found in appearance, position, or performance, but in Christ.

Psalm 23:4 says, “Even when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff—they comfort me.”

That word “through” matters to me. God did not always remove the valley, but He never left me in it alone. He brought me through.

For much of my professional life, I helped organizations move through complexity, change, and crisis. But in this season of life, God has used Celebrate Recovery to show me something even deeper: people do not simply need better systems; they need healing, community, truth, and the presence of God.

For more than four years, I have watched people walk through addiction, grief, trauma, broken relationships, fear, shame, and hopelessness. And I have watched God meet them there. Every Monday night reminds me that God is still restoring lives one step, one prayer, one testimony, and one act of surrender at a time.

Isaiah 43:2 says, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.”

That was my testimony. God has been with me through every season. Through loss.

Through failure. Through change. Through recovery. Through uncertainty. And because He has been faithful before, I can trust Him with what is ahead.

God never promised that we would avoid valleys. He promised that we would not walk through them alone. Looking back, I realized it was not only the mountaintops that shaped my faith. It was the valleys God faithfully walked through with me.

Prayer: And today, my prayer is that we would know God more deeply, be His people more faithfully, value others more intentionally, and change the world by helping others discover the same hope that has carried us through.

Reflection - By Donna LaChance

Bible Reference: Isaiah 43:2 “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you.”

Water and fire—two elements that seem unable to coexist. Yet for the Christian, they become two expressions of God’s work in our lives.

In Isaiah 43, God tells us that we will walk through waters and fire. This is not presented as a possibility but as a reality for those who follow Him.

Water often represents trials and overwhelming circumstances—seasons marked by fear, suffering, chaos, or situations beyond our control. Scripture also uses water to symbolize judgment, as seen in the flood in Genesis. Yet water is equally associated with purification, renewal, and new life—the transformation that can come through hardship.

Fire can represent refining and purification as God removes what is harmful within us.

It reveals the condition of our faith—what is genuine, enduring, and where growth is needed. Fire can also become a place of revelation, where God speaks and makes Himself known, as He did to Moses through the burning bush.

As believers, we cannot avoid the waters or the fire. But we live with the confidence that hardship will not ultimately consume us because God is present within it. He promises to walk with us through every trial and to use even difficult seasons to strengthen our faith and bring Him glory.

When You Are In Distress – By Donna LaChance

Bible Reference: “When you are in distress and all these things happen to you, in the latter days you will return to the Lord your God and listen to His voice. For the Lord your God is a compassionate God; He will not abandon you nor destroy you, nor forget the covenant with your fathers which He swore to them.” Deuteronomy 4:30–31

As you reflect on these verses, notice that the author of Deuteronomy says, “when you are in distress,” not “if you are in distress.” Distress is a part of life. It may be brief or last through an extended season, but either way it is an uncomfortable place to be.

Most people would never choose distress willingly.

The word distress comes from the Hebrew word tsar, meaning a narrow or confined place. It can also refer to affliction, anguish, sorrow, or tribulation. None of those experiences sound appealing. Yet even in our distress, God does not leave us alone.

His grace remains steadfast.

This passage instructs God’s people that when they are in distress, they are to turn to Him and listen for His voice. God is never distant from us in our suffering. No matter how far we may drift or how many trials we face, there is always an open invitation to return to His embrace. He is near enough to hear every cry.

In the midst of distress, those who seek Him can experience His compassion. God’s commitment to remain with His people is not based on human perfection, but on His faithfulness to His promises. His love and mercy are deep, unchanging, and everlasting.

Because God remains faithful to His covenant, believers can take comfort in knowing that even in the darkest valleys, His presence is there. The distress we endure can become an opportunity to strengthen and deepen our relationship with the God whose love never fails.

Family Drama – By Mary Thomas

Bible References: Psalm 27:10 “Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.”

Psalm 147:3 “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

The Bible acknowledges the deep pain that can come from disappointment within our families, yet it consistently points us to God's unfailing love, healing, and faithful presence. It also encourages us to practice forgiveness, patience, and to find strength in God and the community of believers when family relationships are strained or broken.

Let's begin with the first three truths found in these verses: God's unfailing love, God's healing, and God's constant presence. As we turn to Him in the middle of our hurt, He meets us there.

Family pain can run very deep. Sometimes the wounds remain for years, and because family members are often still part of our lives, we may face those hurts again and again. In those moments, we have a choice. Will we allow bitterness to take root, or will we ask God to help us forgive, show patience, and lean on His strength? Family members may not always give us the love or support we hope for, but God never fails to do so.

Psalm 27:10 speaks directly to the pain of feeling abandoned by family and reminds us of God's unwavering acceptance. No matter what others may do, God welcomes you and holds you close.

He will never leave you or forsake you. His love is faithful and secure. Scripture also reminds us that God does not tempt us to do evil. Instead, we live in a world where spiritual forces oppose God's work, and sometimes people are influenced by those forces in ways that cause great pain.

Remembering this can help us guard our hearts against hatred while still recognizing the reality of spiritual battles.

Psalm 147:3 reminds us that God heals the brokenhearted and gently binds up their wounds. The hurt caused by family can feel as though your heart has been torn apart, but God is able to bring comfort and healing over time.

It is also important to remember that loving someone does not always mean allowing unhealthy behavior to continue unchecked. Healthy boundaries can be an expression of wisdom, not a lack of love. While we may be related by blood, God has also given us a spiritual family through

Jesus Christ. Often, our brothers and sisters in Christ become a source of encouragement, support, and love that reflects God's heart in powerful ways that heal us and give us the ability to continue through the journey of life.

Prayer: Lord, I praise you for being the ultimate Forgiver. You have forgiven me so many times, and I thank you! Even though I am the wounded, help me to forgive those who have wounded me. I know it can be done in Your Strength, and with Your Help. You are the Comforter (the one who will come beside me)! In Jesus name. Amen!

Sharing a Thought on Going Through – By Terese Hackett Smith

Bible References: 2 Chronicles 20:12b

In every season, there is something we each need to contend for—whether it be our health, our family, our career, our focus, or our spiritual peace. Sometimes, we find ourselves contending for several of these at once. In a season like that, a battle waged can feel exhausting.

I have good news. This is when I give myself permission to look to God, my Heavenly Father. There is a scripture that helps me “have heart.” When I feel anxious, uncertain, overwhelmed, or utterly hopeless, I remember a story in scripture where a king named Jehoshaphat may have felt the same way. The odds were against him, the scoffers were taunting him with the worst possible outcomes, and yet he determined to seek the Lord.

In 2 Chronicles 20:12b, part of Jehoshaphat’s prayer says, “We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.” I love how this prayer becomes my own. It reminds me that I don’t have to have all the answers or all the courage. I can tell the Lord that I need Him and His direction to see me through.

It also helps me realize that waiting on the Lord is fruitful, because He has carried me through before—and I can trust Him again. Before the outcome is known, I can pray and praise God for knowing me and caring about the things that concern me.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for giving me faith to call on your great name. When I consider all that I face, I am grateful that I don’t face any season of life without you knowing exactly what I am going through. Because of this great truth, I don’t know what to do, so I will keep my eyes on YOU.

But He Needed to go Through Samaria – By Mary Reifsnyder

"Therefore, when the LORD knew that the Pharisees had heard that He made and baptized more disciples than John,...  Jesus left Judea and departed again to Galilee.  

But He needed to go through Samaria." John 4:1-4

In this life, there are times we go through our own Samaria's. It may appear these "side trips" are secondary, or even in opposition to our primary mission.  

My goal has always been to pass through these experiences as quickly as possible.   Perhaps you feel that way too.  

But what if the glory of GOD will be revealed in not just getting through these times, but in what we do for Him while passing through?

What a glorious day it was for the people of Sichor when Jesus needed to go through Samaria!  

On that day, at a well outside the city, a thirsty woman met her Savior - the One Who knew everything about her.

We learn in verse 6 that Jesus was wearied upon arriving at the well.  He was fatigued from hard work, and the long walk in the heat of the day.  

But instead of focusing on just getting through Samaria, Jesus took the necessary time to convincingly show this woman that He is Messiah. 

And she then took the time to convincingly introduce Him to her townsfolk.  And many were saved!

Let us follow Jesus as our example.  As we're going through difficult circumstances in life, let us take time to glorify GOD and witness for Jesus.   

Let's not say, "But, I don't know enough, or I'm not good enough to witness for Jesus."  Dear brothers and sisters, if you know something about Jesus that somebody else doesn't know, then you know enough.  And as for being good enough, we're not telling them about how good we are, but how good is GOD.

I grew up in the days of singing hymns at church.  In closing I'd like to share an old hymn that is a beautiful prayer to GOD. 

If you know it, sing it to Him today.  If you don't know it, simply say it to Him today.

"GOD of grace and GOD of glory,

on Thy people pour Thy pow'r;

crown Thine ancient church's story,

bring her bud to glorious flow'r.

Grant us wisdom, grant us courage,

for the facing of this hour,

for the facing of this hour."

Prayer:  Almighty GOD, our Heavenly Papa, You are the best Trail Leader, and we trust You are guiding us every day.   When we, like Jesus, must go through Samaria, let us not rush to get through, but make us aware of opportunities to share Your pure love with those You have placed along the way.   As we completely rely upon You, LORD, in these opportunities, may You be glorified and may many be saved.   In the name of Jesus – Amen.

“Mom, not a hair on my head moved!!” – By Pam Sommer

Bible reference: Psalm 103:2, 4

“Bless the Lord Oh my soul and forget not all of His benefits…..crowning you with loving kindness and tender mercies. Psalm 103:2, 4

Bible Reference: Bless the Lord Oh my soul and forget not all of His benefits. Who redeems your life from destruction. Who crowns you with loving kindness and tender mercies. Psalm 103:2,4

“Mom, not a hair on my head moved!!”

This was our college aged daughter, Wendy’s exclamation to me after she hit undeveloped pavement on I-75, then did a donut, crashed into the guardrail, totaled her car, with a car behind her! No one was hurt!! I will never forget it: “Mom, not a hair on my head moved!!” I also remember my reaction: “God, I do not have enough thanksgiving in me to be thankful!!”

It has been over twenty-five years since this incident happened. Our Lord has granted me time to appropriately expand my thanksgiving to Him for His miraculous protection over Wendy during this event. So many other times also, as I reflect upon His goodness, grace, and mercy in my life and those I love. His intervention, when situations could have turned out so badly, but did not because of His favor are countless!

“His ways are far past finding out.” We can, though, give Him a lifetime of thanksgiving for who

He is and for what He has done for us.

Prayer: Lord God, I thank You and praise You for the protection and care that You have shown to me and my loved ones over my lifetime. It is in Your Son’s Name that I pray and thank You. I love You. Amen.

Reflection – By Kathleen Bledsoe

Bible References: Psalm 23:4; Deuteronomy 31:6; 2 Tim. 1:7

In one of the most loved Psalms, David writes, “Even though (or when) I walk through the darkest valley (or the valley of the shadow of death), I will fear no evil, for you are with me” (Psalm 23:4). He reminds us that we will go through times and situations that may stir up fear, but that God’s power and presence are greater than those circumstances.

When Moses was about to die and Joshua was going to lead the people of Israel into the Promised Land, he encouraged the people with a similar message: “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear or be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you” (Deut. 31:6, NKJV). One of my favorite New Testament verses also talks about God’s grace to strengthen us in times of trouble. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Tim. 1:7, NKJV).

A sound mind is not confusing. It does not entertain chaos and negative ideas about outcomes. A sound mind has the power to focus on the Word of God and His promises to His children. It reminds us of the love that Jesus demonstrated for us when He paid a debt that He didn’t owe.

I am thankful for these and many other verses that help in times of difficulty. Each is a building blocks for strengthening our faith. They help us as we walk through the darkest valley, and fear tries to overwhelm us. I take great comfort in knowing that God promises to be with His people in all circumstances!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for being the Good Shepherd. Thank you for assurance in Your Word that You are always with me. Thank you for a sound mind, free from fear. Thank you for Your love. Help me to trust You completely and rest in You. You are worthy to trust. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

A Prayer for the Desert Season- by Brandon Moate

Bible References: Genesis 12:1; John 8:56; Matthew 28:20

What do you do when, in faith, you follow the Lord only to be led to a desolate place? The desert. The not here, yet not there. Call it, “the gray”, “ or “the in-between”. Whatever you call it, it’s this unsettling, transformative space, where every security and familiarity reveals itself to be unreliable and insufficient. I called it, “the cave”.

A journey which began in faith and optimism led to isolation and brokenness. The honeymoon excitement of a new beginning waned and then began the chiseling of my exterior. “Crucify your flesh”, right? Very unpleasant. Questions surfaced, like, “If God led me down this path, then why is it so difficult?” Or “Perhaps I didn’t hear him right, and now I’m stuck.” Both the cave and the desert make for unsuitable homes. Neither allows you to settle in and cozy up. It’s…transitional, and frustratingly so.

“Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and kindred and your father’s house to the land I will show you.” - Genesis 12:1

God called Abraham to move. To surrender the comfort of his community, his established land with his abundant crops, and the place of his forefathers. Though he was obedient and called, “righteous” for his submission, his quest tested his devotion with every passing day.

To say “yes” to the Lord in a sweeping moment is one thing. Muttering a “yes” as you’re pressed by the walls in the valley of the shadow of death, each day, is a whole other statement of faith. Abraham made mistakes, he faced conflict internally and externally. He grew impatient and creatively “solved” God’s promise for him; only to create a generational wake of opposition. Yet, God walked through it all with him. And God will walk with you. Jesus said, “Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day, and he saw it, and was glad.” God answered the promises he gave to Abraham, but certainly not in the way Abraham expected. The cave God placed me in, and that I eventually walked out of, led me to a new home I did not anticipate, yet I have rejoiced and I am glad. God has done infinitely more than I could have dreamed or imagined. I know Abraham, catching a glimpse of the salvation plan of God, must have felt a similar relief and elation. His process is his alone – foreign to us, really. Still, every day, in the holding pattern of the desert season, let his word to you be enough to get up and keep going. “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” – Matthew 28:20

Prayer: Lord, we pray for faith to arise within us as we wait on you. We ask for fears to be subdued as we remember how you’ve already been faithful to us. Give us hope that keeps our heads high as we navigate the unknown. We know you are with us. In Jesus Name, Amen.

When you pass through the water - Latarsha Rucker

Bible Reference: Isaiah 43:2-3

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God……

The definition of the word through is in one side and out the opposite. In Isaiah 43:2 each of those instances can undoubtedly cause fear and anxiety. However, God never intends for us to move through any aspect of our lives alone.

Prayer: Dear Father God, Savior Jesus,

Thank you for seeing me and guiding me through this life. Help me, Lord, to remain focused on you as I handle hardships and help me Holy Spirit to remember who I am and whose I am. May I never be consumed by my circumstances, but I pray you will continually fill me with your strength and wisdom and help me Lord to be a light to others. Amen!

Through: Trusting the Shepherd in Every Season - by Heather Shellabarger

Bible References: Psalm 23:4-5

As we journey together through this month of prayer and fasting, one word stands out as a source of encouragement: through. In Psalm 23, David paints a beautiful picture of God's character. He reveals God as our Shepherd, Provider, Guide, Protector, and Constant Companion. In every season of life, God faithfully leads His people. Yet one of the most powerful truths found in this Psalm is that God does not promise a life free from valleys—He promises His presence as we walk through them.

“Even when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for You are with me; Your rod and

Your staff—they comfort me.”

Psalm 23:4

Notice David's confidence. He does not say, "If I enter a valley," but "when I go through the valley." Valleys are a part of life. We all face seasons of uncertainty, disappointment, grief, sickness, financial hardship, and spiritual struggle. Yet David reminds us that the valley is not our destination. It is a place we travel through under the care of our Shepherd. The comfort of Psalm 23 is not found in the absence of trouble but in the presence of God. We do not walk alone. The Shepherd is with us in every dark moment, guiding us when we cannot see the way and protecting us when fear tries to overtake us.

As we continue reading, David reveals an even deeper truth: “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” Psalm 23:5

What an amazing picture of God's faithfulness. God does not wait until every battle is over before He blesses us. He prepares a table in the presence of our enemies. He provides peace in the middle of chaos, strength in the middle of weakness, and hope in the middle of adversity. Our circumstances do not determine God's ability to care for us. While opposition may surround us, God's provision sustains us.

This is the message we need during this season of fasting and prayer. Whatever challenge we are facing, God is leading us through it. Whatever burden we carry, God is able to sustain us in it. Whatever uncertainty lies ahead, our Shepherd has already gone before us. As we seek God's face this month, let us remember that we are not stuck in the valley. We are moving through it. The Shepherd who walks beside us today will faithfully bring us into the place He has prepared for us.

Prayer: Through Heavenly Father, Thank You for being our Shepherd, our Guide, and our Protector. During this season of prayer and fasting, help us to trust You completely. When we walk through difficult valleys, remind us that You are with us and that Your presence is greater than any fear we face. Lord, strengthen us to keep moving through every challenge, every disappointment, and every trial. Help us not to focus on the darkness around us but on the faithfulness of the One who walks beside us. Thank You for preparing a table before us even in the presence of our enemies. Thank You for Your provision, Your peace, and Your overflowing grace. Renew our faith, refresh our spirits, and draw us closer to You throughout this month. May we emerge from this season stronger, wiser, and more confident in Your goodness than ever before.

In Jesus' name, Amen.

Trusting God in the twists and turns - By Hollee Stanton

Bible references: John 14:1

As one of the leaders of our CLC’s Hiking Group, I’ve noticed there are generally two types of hikers. The first enjoys the beauty of nature and the camaraderie of the group without worrying much about the twists and turns of the trail. This hiker simply follows the designated leader, trusting that he or she will safely bring everyone to the final destination.

The second kind of hiker also loves the fellowship and the time in nature, but pays close attention at every turn, hoping the trail leader doesn’t lead the group astray. This hiker must consciously choose to place trust in the leader.

Isn’t that a lot like our relationship with God?

I see believers who appear to have this trust thing figured out. They simply walk with the Lord, step by step, seemingly at peace, confident that He will faithfully bring them through whatever lies ahead. Then there’s me. I’m pulling out my map at every intersection, making mental notes of the surroundings “just in case,” and wondering if there’s a better, shorter, or more scenic route. Like that second hiker, I must consciously choose to trust the Leader. After all, He knows things I don’t know and has already traveled every path before me.

I’m reminded of the many Scriptures that call us to trust God. In John 14:1, Jesus says, “Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in Me.” When did He say those words? At the Last Supper—His final formal gathering with His disciples before He would be arrested, tried, tortured, and crucified. Knowing exactly what was ahead, Jesus called His followers to trust Him.

For me, placing my trust in God is often an act of will. I must step down from the position of “leader” in my own life and allow God to lead me through difficult seasons. It rarely comes naturally. In fact, it often requires a deliberate, conscious decision.

Will I let Him lead me today? Will I choose to “lean not on my own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5)?

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for Your Word. Again and again, I read stories of Your faithfulness to people who were far from deserving it. I also read promises that remind me You are always with me—that I can follow You and trust Your ways, even when I cannot see the whole path. You provide for me in ways I don’t even realize I need. Thank You for the ultimate provision of Jesus. Today, I willfully choose to follow You on the path You have set before me. May every step I take and every interaction I have bring You glory and honor. Amen.

But God!! – By Gary Bowyer

Bible scriptures: Psalm 23:4;

My name is Gary, and I wanted to say a few words to let you know that no matter what happens to you and what the circumstances look like, God is a God of hope and comfort. He will help you to make it though whatever may come your way.

My wife, Teresa, was diagnosed at the end of December 2021 with breast cancer, and 15 days later, I was diagnosed with bladder cancer. To say we felt like we were kicked in the stomach is an understatement. Being diagnosed with cancer will cause your mind to race in all kinds of directions. “Am I going to die from it? Will my wife die from it? How will the end be? How will we financially afford this sickness? How will our children and grandchildren be?” The confusion was real, being anxious was real.

But God!!!

Psalm 23, verse 4 says “Even though I walk THROUGH the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.” When I read that verse it struck me as a promise from God that He w walking with us “through” the valley, we were not going to stay there with God as or guide. We were going to find the exit. We still didn’t know what the outcome would be, but we both receive a peace that only Go can provide. God has been our source of strength through this whole journey and with His help we have made it. Don’t get me wrong, here are still days when we must surrender our thoughts and become focused again on His promises on getting us through this time of our life.

Trusting Jesus in our time of need is not without question or doubt; it is a decision to place the need into God’s capable hands and know that with Him we will be victorious over our circumstances. “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

Me? A Stroke! Psalm 23 got me through it! – by Roxie Bowyer

June 1, 2019, started out like any other day in my life. But God...I was brushing my teeth and my head started to feel funny, I laid down on the bed, and it felt like we were having an earthquake. I got up stood beside my closet door and my right leg lifted by itself several times. I was taken to the ER where they told me I had a stroke. ME A STROKE! At 64 years old! I couldn’t believe it, but the MRI said so. The doctor told us, “You bit the bullet” and my family and I said “NO”, it was Jesus” because I had NO deficits! I could walk, talk and use all my limbs normally. I remember not being afraid (Psalm 23:4) because I knew my Lord had protected me and He would get me through this. They sent me home not knowing what had caused my stroke but put me on a protocol of medicines. All that summer I spent time in the word and reading many healing scriptures daily. (Psalm 23:2). Several months later through some medical tests, I found out I had a hole in my heart from birth . (Psalm 23:5)The Lord prepared me!

I found a heart doctor who closed the hole with a medical device and told me I have a 75% chance of never having another stroke! WOW! Lord, you anointed my head with oil and my cup overflows. (Psalm 23:5) It has been seven years, and I feel good and can do and enjoy my work and my family. I give all the glory to God for seeing me through this and I know He is with me all the days of my life. (Psalm 23:6)

Prayer: I thank you, Lord, for seeing me through this time in my life! I see your goodness and love in my life and praise you for it. You're a good, good Father! Amen!

Be His People – by David Winters

Bible References: John 13:4-5; Ephesians 4:1-3; Ephesians 3:12

Confidence is wonderful and needed attribute of a maturing Christian. We've slain the lion and bear (past obstacles), so we feel confident to undertake new challenges. I felt that way about a volunteer endeavor several years ago in Washington, DC.

Although among a new class of volunteers, I had no doubt God, and I could handle working with inner city youth. Soon, my smallish car was loaded with four boys - headed for the Go- Cart Park. The kids loudly boasted, argued, and laughed - excited about a new adventure.

All seemed to be going well, until I noticed only three go-carts on the course. I prayed hard until I saw the oldest boy emerge from behind a hill, setting his machine back on the course after a wreck.

All my confidence evaporated in a few seconds. Could I really keep track of four rambunctious boys on my own? Holy Spirit reminded me of my partnership with God. My role was to serve them. Give them my best efforts but leave the outcomes to God. Washing feet metaphorically doesn't make us accountable for the actions of those humans we serve.

Gods in charge of that. With renewed confidence in God, I lasted two years more working with those youth. I learned a lot and no one got hurt. Smile.

Prayer: Most Amazing Lord Jesus, Thank You for endlessly loving us. It is easy to serve such a beautiful, humble, mighty God. Your words spoke the world into existence, yet You washed the feet of others. As prisoners of Your addictive grace, teach us to live a life worthy of Your name. Show us how to foster unity without compromising the truth of Your word.

When we fall short of being the ideal representative of the kingdom of God, remind us to approach our Father with freedom and without fear, covered by Your grace. Thank You for the opportunity and confidence to serve You.

Through…by Kara Harris

Would we get through this?

How would this all work out?

What if…?

Those were the questions running through our minds as our youngest at age 3 months needed a tracheotomy, a long-term hospital stay, with my husband and I learning new medical procedures, and then the endless questions of what did all of this really meant. We were less than a year into our furlough from a 4-year term in overseas ministry. We had been told we were burnt out from the mission field but still did not know what that really meant or how to fully navigate through all the emotions we were feeling. How were we going to get through this?

Beau was born on a warm Saturday afternoon in December of 2012. His blue eyes captured us from the beginning. We tried to focus on the miracle and blessing of God giving us another son, but the medical staff wanted to focus on his diagnosis. The string of people through his hospital room, then the string of appointments once we were sent home. Now this… no returning to the mission field, no third world country for our family. How were we going to get through this?

God. The simple answer of how we got through it all was God. He stood by us through it all. He lit our path, he guided our decisions, he directed our steps. Through raising our kids, beginning our business, and now volunteering in Eswatini. God had a plan through it all.

As I think back on that season of our lives, I now wonder, what was God trying to refine in my character through those trials? The Bible says I am a continual work in progress. If I run to Him, He will continue the good work in me He began. He will not leave me nor forsake me. He is my joy through any trial or circumstance.

I see the joy Beau brings to so many, how he has defied all the doctor’s estimations, how through him our family is complete. It is only through the redeeming power of the cross. We are lambs covered in the blood of Jesus.