This has been quite a year! And its only summer.
I completed the final edits on my book. My book was released!
I’ve had four eye surgeries and a gazillion doctor visits.
I’m tired. I’m low energy. I’m not getting much done.
At the moment, I’m not even rejoicing that my book was released after 6 ½ years of work. I’m an author! An author! Me! This is definitely something worth celebrating.
At the moment, I’m not even rejoicing that the eye surgeries corrected the underlying conditions and that my vision is improving. What a wonderful blessing! The Lord answered a multitude of prayers. I have so many reasons to be grateful.
Am I too tired to rejoice?
Is Satan trying to steal my joy?
Elijah
Elijah challenged the prophets of Baal to prepare a sacrifice but put no fire to it. Despite crying and cutting themselves, Baal did not answer them. Then Elijah prepared a sacrifice for the Lord and poured water over the offering and the wood. After prayer, “the fire of the LORD fell and consumed the burnt offering and the wood and the stones and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench.” The people fell on their faces and said, “The LORD, He is God.”
After this dramatic victory, Jezebel threatened Elijah’s life and Elijah ran for his life. He asked the Lord that he might die for “I am no better than my fathers.” (Read the whole story in 1 Kings 18 and 19.)
Depression followed victory. A low followed a high. Valleys come after mountains.
The Lord did three things for Elijah:
- An angel provided food and water. Elijah slept.
- The Lord listened to Elijah.
- Elijah listened to the Lord, who came to him in a gentle whisper.
What we should do
What we should do when we’ve gone from the mountaintop to the valley:
- Expect it.
- Remember what the Lord has done for you. Don’t forget the highs.
- Take care of yourself physically. Practice good nutrition. Exercise sensibly. Listen to music or read. Rest. (See Rest for the Glory of God.)
- Talk to the Lord about how you’re feeling. Pray.
- Read the Bible. Listen to Him.
Gratitude
I am so grateful He prompted me to write When Storms Come: Will You Be Ready? I’m grateful (and astonished) it has been published.
I am immeasurably thankful my vision has been saved and is improving.
When I pay attention to those five action points, when I praise and thank Him for His blessings, I am reenergized.
How about you?
My book is now available through KristinPSnyder.com or Amazon!
When Storms Come: Will You Be Ready? helps Christians not fearbad news, shows them how to handle current trouble, and help them emerge stronger on the other side.
