Last week, before I left for the retreat, I thought to myself that I was going to be away from my church longer than I have ever been. Normally I see my pastors at least twice per week, once for the Sunday service and once for prayer group. Lately we've been together three times per week for the class of evangelism and now for the Saturday class of how to preach. I knew that would leave an empty space in my life, but I didn't realize how much I depend on that fellowship until Saturday when we finally got back together.
I had been in contact through messages, but had not been part of any actual worship or prayer group. As soon as we gathered in a circle and Alan, a young church member, started to pray, my heart felt the peace (AND the piece) it was missing.
I had a good week. I had faced several tough challenges with strength and power, knowing that these things were trying to steal my peace and get me off track. I acknowledged that but did not give them the power to upset me. Although I will say that I was frustrated at times.
At the Saturday class I was able to talk about my week, and received positive feedback about the way I had handled the things that tried to get in my way. Sunday was a day of healing and being reminded of God's immense power. I went to both my church and also the English speaking church because I had to do some paperwork there. Normally I like to visit the people there, and I usually learn something interesting. But the last two times that I visited the English church, it really filled my soul in a way it never has before. This week the Holy Spirit was present in an amazing way. I gobbled it up and embraced every second.
Today God gave me the best gift of all.
I was in a quiet time of prayer. I could feel that God was trying to speak to me, so I quieted my mind and asked what He would like to share.
The first thing that came was a word - GUIDE. So I prayed to God, asking Him what this word meant. At first I saw only the word, over and over. This is how God communicates with me often, so I knew to wait.
Finally I saw an image of God on a wooden raft. He stood on the raft with a long pole to steer or push like a river rafting guide. I was sitting on the raft. He was guiding us down the river. There were rapids, and He guided us through the rough waters. It was such a peaceful image. I only had to sit on the raft. He showed me that He alone is in charge of exactly where we were going. No human or organization can control our direction. He will keep me safe in the dangerous times where the waters get rough. He is my guide and the one who chooses my path, watching over me through it all.
I wish I were an artist. I would love to paint the image of God as my river guide. As crazy as it sounds, it is something I need to remember every day.
Anyone have the gift of drawing? I really want a painting of this!
