Hello, my friends,
Many liken life to an immense ocean - serene yet unpredictable, where tranquil seas can abruptly transform into violent storms. We've all experienced it, right? One moment, we're gliding along smoothly, and the next, we're in the middle of unforeseen challenges.
Whether it's navigating a troubled relationship, supporting a loved one battling mental health issues, or dealing with our own internal struggles, these storms can truly shake us to our very foundation. But there's hope.
In the most recent episode of "Out of the Darkness," Ann Visser discusses how she clung to her faith in Jesus Christ during the storms of life. She states, "Enduring adversity...means gripping onto the rock...He has been my rock since I was 15...I don't know another way to live life." Her words stand as a testimony to the strength of spiritual resilience. It's not about ignoring the storm's intensity but about finding an anchor to hold us steady when everything else is unsettled.
The Bible reflects this sentiment in Psalms 107:29, "He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed." Like the Psalmist, Anne found comfort in the conviction that there's a grander scheme and a mightier power in operation, even amidst the chaos.
Ann and Ruth talk about the triumph in vulnerability and the happiness found in sobriety. It's inspiring to hear Ann's viewpoint on personal development and self-forgiveness, how every obstacle becomes a stepping stone towards more profound wisdom and empathy. Her bravery in facing fear and her dedication to journaling her way to recovery is truly inspirational.
A standout point from our conversation is the idea of reframing thoughts. Ann explained how a simple switch from "I have to" to "I get to" changed her perspective towards daily tasks, filling them with gratitude and intention. This minor adjustment, a cognitive therapy technique, aligns beautifully with Philippians 4:8, which encourages us to concentrate on what is true, noble, and praiseworthy.
And we shouldn't overlook the wisdom imparted by Ann, who discusses "the wheels"—our tendency to become ensnared in a cycle of worry and negativity. She encourages us to stop and question, "Is this thought accurate? What does God say about this thought?" In doing so, we can dismantle the untruths that fear tries to sell us and reconstruct our thought patterns on the solid foundation of God's truth.
Ann's story resonates with everyone who has ever felt swamped by life's tempests. She is candid in addressing the challenges of marriage and parenting, particularly when dealing with a child's depression, and serves as a guiding light for those navigating similar waters. It echoes 2 Corinthians 1:4, which talks about God comforting us so we can comfort others with the same comfort we receive from Him.
Here's a practical tool that helps me fall asleep and not dwell on things that need to be accomplished the next day. I recommend doing a "brain dump" at night, which helps alleviate the stress of a crowded mind (Proverbs 14:30 — "A heart at peace gives life to the body"). Allocating non-negotiable time for prayer and scripture reading is crucial (Matthew 6:33 - "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well").
So, what can we learn from this episode? It's about acknowledging the storm but not allowing it to steer our course. It's about realizing that while we can't control the winds and waves, we can decide to adjust our sails—and that starts with the state of our hearts and minds.
In Ann's words, "Each crisis has offered more lessons... It's also taught me that I can't control the outcome." Isn't that freeing? To give it up to the One who commands the seas and calms the winds is to discover true peace.
Remember that faith isn't the absence of fear; it's the courage to confront it head-on with the confidence that we're not alone. So, the next time you feel like the waves are about to crash over you, take a deep breath and ground yourself in faith. There's a peace that surpasses understanding waiting for you on the other side.
Until we meet again, keep navigating, keep believing, and may you always find tranquil waters.
With love and blessings,
Visit www.ruthhovsepian.com for more resources on spiritual growth and deepening your relationship with God.
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