Getting Through December

As we begin another December, I’m doing my best to focus on the blessings in my life. I know Jesus will continue to get me through the hard times, both physical and emotional, by wrapping His arms around me as a constant source of comfort. My mind keeps taking my heart down a not so pleasant road.

Seventeen years ago, on Dec 2nd, my mother-in-law died. While I was sitting at the funeral home, on Dec 4th, I was also mourning the loss of my daughter, Sara, who was stillborn two years prior.

Every year, I try my best not to dwell on those thoughts and work on getting things ready for Christmas. Oddly it’s getting harder. My mother loved Christmas! In 1995 she managed to fight breast cancer until Dec 28th so she was able to be here for Christmas.

Writing helps me get through the rough times. I thank God I’m able to put my thoughts on paper. There are times I feel like I’m drowning in these thoughts. Thankfully through my faith and dear friends, I’m able to make it through.

I will get through this

I get to choose how I act and react to the things around me. I know that all things work together for good because I love God and I’m called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).

I need to make internal changes not just external ones. My heart is a key part in this. My heart needs to be transformed. I need to throw out bitterness, judgement, resentment, discouragement, depression, and anxiety. I need to guard my heart because out of it springs issues of life (Proverbs 4:23).

I know God will use my brokenness. What I’m going through is a gateway to get closer to God. The times I feel alone and unloved, I need to remember, God always loves me and is always with me. I need to be strong and not afraid. My Lord is always with me and He will never leave me (Deut. 31:6-8).

I need to remember God is with me and His comforting arms are around me to shield me from the things that are hurting me. I know God is going to get me through this. His comfort and His strength is always available to me.

When I get to the end of this chapter of heartache and tribulation, I will be stronger and able to comfort others with the same comfort I received from God (2Corinthians 1:3-5).

This is the day the Lord has made; I will…I choose to… rejoice and be glad in it (Psalms 118:24).