After I wrote the journal entry Something Beautiful last week, my heart and head felt convicted and conflicted.  
I pray that no one misunderstands my view or thinks that I am inconsiderate of others’ problems.  My heart has been aching at the thought of being misconstrued as not being empathetic or compassionate. 
How I react towards the difficulties in life was, and is, meant to be an encouragement.
In my own life, I’ve dealt with the effects of issues of brokenness.  Sometimes my choices of reaction were pleasing to the Lord, and other times not.  I have learned that when I choose to lay it at His feet, pray, and get into His word, that my attitude is better, hope and peace are felt, and the presence of God is ever nearer.
Handling the brokenness in our lives may differ.  My choice is faith over fear, hope over hatred, and glory over gloom.
This morning, I woke way before the sun was up with a burdened heart.  I lay in bed praying.  Finally, after tossing and turning, I came to my study, closed my door, and read over my prayer wall/door.  The list continues to grow.  Yes, brokenness is evident in my life and the lives of many whom I love.
This morning of prayer consisted of requests being made to God for:

• Loved ones fighting for their life with cancer, covid, and alcoholism
• Anxiety
• Job
• Loss of limbs
• Sleep
• Unknown illnesses
• Unrest in America, and in Haiti as well
• Surgeries
• Lifestyles
• Abuse (mental, physical, and substance)
• Addictions
• Suicide
• Wisdom
• Marriages
• And all the loved ones being directly affected by their loved one’s brokenness mentioned above.

Tears streamed down my face, as I felt the heartache of each prayer.  Then, God prompted me to look up and trust Him.
My “Prayer Changes Things” wall/door is filled with requests and reminders of bible verses to believe in regarding prayer. 

Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.  1 Chronicles 16:11 NIV

As I glance at all the requests, there are some that deal with heart issues. Their heart problem isn’t physical, yet relationally with the Lord.  Above all the requests made to God, these are the most important.  
If you are to leave this world without having your heart right with the Lord, your eternity will be devastating.  I pray that no matter what trials/heartache/brokenness in life comes your way, that you will first of all have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Life is short.  We have no idea what tomorrow may bring.

How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone.  James 4:14 NLT

So, first of all get your heart right with the Lord, and secondly hang in there when tough (even those gut wrenching and dire) times come…hang on to Jesus.  Finally, remember to find a way to bring glory to God.  May you choose faith over fear, hope over hatred, and glory over gloom.

So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.  1 Corinthians 10:31 NLT

Blessings to you and yours.
With much love and prayer for you,
Stephanie