Author: Karen Sebastian

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Finding Rest in the Storm

Purple Dianthus Surrounded by Rock

The Lord speaks to me when those I love are going through trials:

 

I long for you to live in my presence. I know that right now you feel like you’re running a marathon in the middle of a huge storm. Quiet your heart before Me and you will experience a deeper level of peace than ever before. A flurry of activities can seem to serve the purpose of accomplishing much, but you will find that if you give Me the first few minutes of your day, you will be able to do more.

Staying still can be hard when the storms of life swirl around you. Your temptation is to run for cover. I ask you to run to Me because we can weather the storms together. Lay your burdens down at My feet and give Me a big hug. As you receive My peace, you will discover that I am mending the tears in your heart. Breathe in My presence and know that all will be okay. I am aware of what you are going through and have called you to find Me in the midst of it all.

Resist the temptation to pick up the burdens of others. They are going through a lot and you can be a listening ear, yet you are never their solution. I am the only One who can give them what they need. Continue to trust Me to work it out in their lives and hearts. I am working even when it may seem like nothing is happening. I want you to find your rest in Me regardless of the outward circumstances.

Ps. 46:10, Micah 7:7

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Walk with Me

Water flowing over rocks into a peaceful stream.
Water flowing over rocks into a peaceful stream.

When I find myself in the middle of a storm, the Lord tells me:

 

As you navigate difficult times and stormy situations, I want you to know that I am always with you. I have promised to be with you every step of the way and I never go back on My promises. There are many reasons why you may not feel the sense of my presence. Your very anxiety about the situation can interfere with that sense. Just as the disciples were in the storm being buffeted by the waves, you are wondering when you’re going to catch a break. I know what you need even before you ask and I will be there at the right time.

I have heard your prayers and will grant peace. I also invite you to walk with Me even as it were, on the water. There’s nothing impossible for Me. I will be with you whether you stay in the boat or get out to walk with Me. The key is for you to keep your eyes focused on Me. We will get through this and you will have a great testimony to share with many.

Matthew 14:22-33

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Learning to Walk in God’s Love

Beautiful orange and yellow spring flowers

What the Lord spoke to me when I was feeling burned out:

 

I want to restore your soul yet I need you to spend more time with Me. I long for you to see Me in the little things. I long for you to feel My presence in the mundane chores of your life. I long to be a part of your daily routine. In order for this to happen you will need to get the focus off of yourself and on to Me. I am always with you yet often you do not acknowledge that truth because you do not feel it is true. The sense of My presence will be sharpened as you awaken your heart to My love and My provision for everything you need just when you need it. Quiet your heart and breathe in My presence. I want you to walk in this new dimension of My love for you. I want you to feel what David felt as he described that in My presence he found fullness of joy. I’m here for you. I’m not hiding. Lean in to Me and find Me in the difficult times and the good times. I’m not going anywhere because I always keep my promises.

Psalm 16:11, Matthew 28:20

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Working Together

The calm of a pool of water on a beautiful day.
Stop and rest in Me.

Insight from the Lord when I’m frustrated:

 

There are many times that you’re running around trying to accomplish so much yet going in circles. I know your heart is to accomplish My will and purpose for your life. I love that about you, yet want you to enjoy what you do for Me. I never intended for it to be hard.  If you’re weighted down, then it means that you’re carrying what you were never intended to carry. Give it back to Me and let Me share the weight.

Stop and rest in Me. We can accomplish this together. As you talk it over with Me, you can relax and enjoy the process. The details are coming together to glorify Me. This level of trust can only come as you work through the tough spots and keep moving forward.

1 Peter 5:7, Matthew 11:30

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Reflections

Mississippi River reflection
The fast moving Mississippi River in Jackson, Mississippi makes me think how quickly life moves yet the sunrise and sunset are constant.

Let your life transparently reflect your joy, peace and hope.

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Finding My Source

HOPE rays

You have felt a deep stirring of dissatisfaction lately. You are trying to fill it with many things other than Me. Only My presence can fill that void you are feeling as I am calling you to reach new levels and grow. Your spirit will be awakened to My working even in the midst of the difficulties of your life as you turn your face back toward Heaven and seek My presence.

I am the only true source of your life and as you learn more from Me you will begin to make a difference in this world. Your interactions with others will be filled with My grace and mercy as you ask for My perspective. I will answer that prayer and give you an expanded capacity to receive all that I am so you will no longer be amazed at all that I will do.

Haggai 1:14, Deut. 32:11