Valley

I've taken a little break from social media over the past few weeks. It has been a nice time free of distractions to just think and process through some things. This month has brought a whirlwind of emotions ranging from overwhelming joy to crushing sadness.
I know that God is good in all circumstances. That is not even a question in my mind. I will say though, that experiencing such a wide range of emotions in such a short time has left me exhausted and drained. I did not get much studying done last week, nor have I had the energy to write and process through the emotional rollercoaster I have experienced this month. I will say though, that even when words fail me, the peace that comes only from Jesus truly is overwhelming. I have experienced His love so fully and completely through this hard time; it has been clear that He does care about each detail and He meets us in our brokenness.
Last Friday morning, as I was driving to meet a friend for breakfast, Valley Song by Jars of Clay came on my Pandora station. I had never heard it before, but it so perfectly expressed how I was feeling. I just sat in my car and cried and remembered that when I am weak, He is so strong.
Here are a few of the lyrics that really connected with me:

When death like a Gypsy
Comes to steal what I love
I will still look to the heavens
I will still seek your face
But I fear you aren't listening
Because there are no words
Just the stillness and the hunger
For a faith that assures
I will sing of Your mercy
That leads me through valleys of sorrow
To rivers of joy
And though the pain is an ocean
Tossing us around, around, around
You have calmed greater waters
Higher mountains have come down
I will sing of Your mercy
That leads me through valleys of sorrow
To rivers of joy
Oh, Lord sing of Your mercy,
Mercy
Your mercy

Today is a new day. One of my lovely friends from my small group sent me a sermon by Bill Johnson at Bethel church. He said that when God says no, it's because there is a better yes. I have so much hope in Jesus, and feel so much freedom in the fact that I am not in control. He has a beautiful plan, and even though there is sometimes pain, He is the master of redeeming brokenness. Hallelujah.