I recently celebrated my 52nd birthday with my family in a warm climate and on the beach.

My granddaughter ran in and out of the waves, getting braver and going a little further each time and my heart was full of joy.

Her laughter and energy were contagious and made me reflect on the past couple of years.

I’ve weathered a fierce storm and the One Who sticks closer than a brother was with me every step of the way. Now that the clouds have lifted, the sea of my life is calm once again. And I am thankful.

Good Father, there are battles in this life that leave us forever changed. My eyes and ears are open to You and how things and people really are. We live in a progressively selfish and evil world and yet You are in control. You never physically leave us or emotionally abandon us. The story You are writing on my heart is beautiful. It is so much more than I asked for or thought of according to the Power that works within us. I will continue telling others about You and what You’ve done. How You carried me through with Perfect Love and that You want to do the same for others. Amen.

I will extol the Lord at all times;

His praise will always be on my lips.

I will glory in the Lord;

let the afflicted hear and rejoice.

Glorify the Lord with me;

let us exalt His Name together.

I sought the Lord, and He answered me;

He delivered me from all my fears.

Those who look to Him are radiant;

their faces are never covered with shame.

This poor man called, and the Lord heard him;

He saved him out of all his troubles.

The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him,

and He delivers them.

Taste and see that the Lord is good;

blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him.

Psalm 34:1-8