Journey to Stability

At that time, says the Lord, all the families of Israel shall recognize me as the Lord; they shall act like my people. I will care for them as I did those who escaped from Egypt, to whom I showed my mercies in the wilderness, when Israel sought for rest. For long ago the Lord had said to Israel: I have loved you, O my people, with an everlasting love; with loving-kindness I have drawn you to me. I will rebuild your nation, O virgin of Israel. You will again be happy and dance merrily with the timbrels. Again you will plant your vineyards upon the mountains of Samaria and eat from your own gardens there.

The day shall come when watchmen on the hills of Ephraim will call out and say, "Arise, and let us go up to Zion to the Lord our God." Jeremiah 31:1-6 (TLB)

Sheryl H. Boldt lives in Florida. Seventeen years ago, she had a breakthrough and finally understood the Lord's love for her. For decades she had begged God to deliver her from her eating disorders and clinical depression. They were taking a toll on her relationships, and Sheryl felt like even God had given up on her. She prayed, "God, I'm constantly letting people down, including myself. From now on, I'm going to focus on your love for me."

Something changed when she heard herself speak with certainty of God's love for her. In a powerful way Sheryl knew her heavenly Father loved her and was on her side. She knew that God never had and never would give up on her. She no longer felt that God was exasperated with her - Sheryl sensed God's tenderness.

That day began her slow and steady progress out of emotional instability. After a lot of counseling, the right medication for a while, and, most of all, lots of time with God through prayer and Bible reading, Sheryl found stability.

Sheryl was glad she didn't wait until her situation got worse. Even though her situation seemed hopeless, Sheryl learned to trust in God's love for her and sought the help she needed.

Prayer: Lord God, surround us with your compassion and fill us with renewed hope, in Jesus' name. Amen.