“Whatever dark tunnel we may be called upon to travel through, God has been there.” ― Elisabeth Elliot
Trust Let us start here—in the present moment that exists, where we have a choice—to doubt or trust in God’s great sovereignty, his constant care and love. Let us continue while we cling tightly to Truth, to Hope, to Faith, embracing our challenges because of the blessings God has hidden within the hardest of days. Let us walk by leaning on the staff of faith, relying on what we already know and experience of God’s mercy, his grace and strength. Let us lean ever harder on our God when troubles come, even as they multiply like flies may we know, deep down, we will cope and survive. Let us journey with open minds and hearts, with open hands as well, expecting to be surprised by the power of holy Love in which we dwell. © joylenton
“Trust the past to God’s mercy, the present to God’s love and the future to God’s providence.” — Augustine
“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” — Isaiah 26:3
Poetry Joy 
Dear Joy,
Thank you for these precious words today. I loved the imagery contained in this thought:
“Let us walk
by leaning on the staff
of faith,”
As I walk through my home leaning on my walker, you have provided me with such a precious picture to hold onto. Our Lord has given us such a solid foundation for our faith. May I lean ever harder on Him. Blessings, love, and hugs to you today dear friend! xoxo
Dear Bettie, such thoughts become vividly real and tangible to us when we’re needing help to walk and be supported. Although our limbs might weaken and fail us, God never does. His great and powerful promises are a “solid foundation for our faith” day by day. May you sense that sustaining power working in and through you, my friend, as you lean harder on Him. Sending much love, prayers and hugs to you across the pond! xoxo 💟
Joy, I love these words,
“Embracing our challenges
because of the blessings
God has hidden within
the hardest of days.” Thanks for the reminder that God hides blessings in a multitude of ways, that surprise us with hope and joy.
Shirley, I’m so glad those lines spoke to you. We might have to look harder and dig deeper some days, but the hidden treasure will be revealed when we ask God to open our hearts to His presence, and give us eyes of faith to see the treasure He wants us to discover. May you continue to be blessed and surprised by hope and joy! xo ❤️
Such a lovely and timely reminder, Joy, and so important. Sending hugs.
I’m so glad these thoughts resonated with you, Deborah. We all need something reliable to trust in, don’t we? Hugs warmly returned to you, my friend. x ❤️
“the power of the holy Love in which we dwell” Yes. Thank you for this offering, sweet friend!
What a wondrous power it is, June! I’m grateful to be dwelling in it by faith. Thank you for your encouragement, sweet friend. Blessings and hugs. xo 💟
A beautiful reflection, Joy 💜 It reminds me that the present moment is where we live fully. Thank you!
Oh how hard it can be to calm our minds enough to live in the present moment rather than reaching into the future or delving in the past because they’re so often preoccupied with what happened yesterday or what comes next. Thank you for your sweet encouragement, Michael, and for reminding me to live more fully as you have described. May you have a blessed, restful Sabbath, my friend. 💜