"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." - 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Reflection:
I'm thinking of you today, dear friend, wondering if you might need a big dose of comfort.
Is this quarantine making you nervous, stir-crazy, or just plain fearful? Have you received startling news of a layoff or, worse, the end of your longtime career? Do you wonder if this will ever stop?
If you find yourself taking deep breaths after watching the news or hearing the latest update on COVID-19, then, like me, you're ready to pull the plug and occupy your mind with something else. Something uplifting; something that brings you much needed peace.
We know without a doubt that our heavenly Father Himself is our main source of joy, and the salvation and grace He offers are, as well. That's a given. Hundreds of God's promises are another source of comfort and hope in these crazy, troubled times.
Yes, we acknowledge these things in our heads, don't we? But do we turn to Him with our hearts in our desperation, or do we try to figure things out on our own?
During this season of dire hardship for so many, let's not forget Whose arms are open wide to us. He is absolutely our adoring, caring and comforting heavenly Father. And never will He turn His back on us, even in the darkest hours when news of dreaded illness, terminations of employment, or loss of family members and friends shatter our emotions. Our life in Christ brings true joy, despite great sadness and sudden disappointment. He alone is our comfort today and every day...for always.
Repeat His name softly when you're most frightened in the wee hours of night, ask Him to surround you with divine peace each and every morning. He is there with you, walking this painful path, carrying us in some cases.
Remember that the Lord who exploded out of the tomb—Victor over death, hell and the grave—is also the tender Shepherd of our souls. As never before, let's embrace the joy of His resurrection together, and in it find comfort.
He is risen, indeed!
Prayerfully,
Beverly Lewis
Writing Update:
I've completed the pre-galleys for The Stone Wall, coming September 8, while also writing the first draft of my Fall 2021 novel.
My Amish Cheer cards are still shipping, and now is a good time to stock up on these very special cards I've created with my artist-sister, Barbara. So many people in your life, and circle of friends, are hurting, so a unique card like this will surely bring cheer and delight. See more here: amishcheer.com.
Remember: blessing others brings joy to our own hearts!
"I will be your God throughout your lifetime—until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you." - Isaiah 64:4
Reflection:
It’s far too easy to fall into the worry trap, isn’t it? We get so caught up in family concerns, health issues, political frustration, and more. But we know in our hearts, and from past experience, that it is our sovereign Lord who can always be counted on to carry us through the difficult, even challenging, times of our lives. Our trust and dependence upon Him is essential. And through it all, we learn to understand the plights and sufferings of others, as well, becoming a willing channel for blessing, which is why we’re here…to make a difference!
Wishing you an inspiring month ahead,
Beverly Lewis
Writing Update:
I’m awaiting the arrival of pre-galleys for my September novel, The Stone Wall, while writing the first draft of my Fall 2021 book…and while launching my “Amish Cheer” line of creative, 3-D cards with my artist sister, Barbara. These cards are connected to my Amish novels and research, and were created specifically to be a blessing to the giver and to the recipient! You can take a look at all of the cards at amishcheer.com!
"The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: 'I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.'" – Jeremiah 31:3
Reflection:
Ah, to be chosen and loved unconditionally—to be forever loved!
Our heavenly Father woos us, the Great Lover. He alone offers the kind of love we yearn for...the love we were created to receive and embrace.
This month, the so-called month of love, let us remember and open our hearts to this most amazing love-gift, each day as we rise, never forgetting that He is with us, our very breath. Then, in return, let’s give our hearts unreservedly to God in constant adoration and amazement. And gratitude.
Blessings abundant,
Beverly Lewis
Writing Update: I have completed my revisions for The Stone Wall, releasing September 8, 2020 and am currently creating the synopsis for my novel set in Hickory Hollow for Fall 2021.
"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.... And the one sitting on the throne said, 'Look, I am making everything new!' and then he said to me, 'Write this down, for what I tell you is trustworthy and true.' And he also said, 'It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega—the Beginning and the End. To all who are thirsty I will give freely from the springs of the water of life. All who are victorious will inherit all these blessings, and I will be their God, and they will be my children.'" – Revelation 21:1-2, 5-7
Reflection:
Just think, this world with all its struggles, heartache, and trials will have passed away when the new heaven and the new earth appear. What a joy to know that our Savior and Lord—the Lamb of God—will be continually present with us, His people, dwelling with us on that day. We have much to look forward to, dear friend, when Christ makes all things new!
I wish you a happy new month, new decade and...New Year 2020.
Let's look forward to what good things God has planned for us, together as His emissaries on this earth.
Blessings abundant,
Beverly Lewis
Writing Update: I'm wrapping up revisions for The Stone Wall, releasing on September 8, 2020. The cover is currently being designed, as well!
