During these trying times, it has become easy to feel isolated and alone. Having pre-existing conditions, I’ve had to guard myself even closer during a life-threatening pandemic.
I cannot begin to remember the last time someone came by to visit or have a conversation over dinner or tea. I have resigned from watching the news that I usually DVR because there are very few nuggets of inspiration to be found.
Despite the social unrest taking place in our streets and the fear that resides in our hearts, I have found my resting place. It is in the arms of my Savior, Jesus Christ. In Matthew 11:28, Jesus says, Come to me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.
God is our refuge and strength; a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea…Psalm 46:1-2.
One thing has become crystal clear to me over the past several months; I AM NOT ALONE. God has been with me through all of this chaos. He continues to be with me, providing for me, protecting, comforting my soul, and encouraging my heart. He has shown me I can do things that I never thought possible, or I was afraid to try on my own.
With God’s help, I have completed the writing of my next book, and Lord willing, ebook pre-orders begin Monday, August 3, 2020. The official release is September 22. I thank Him continually for the talented people that He has brought alongside to help me with this labor of love-almost two and a half years in the making.
My love for God grows more profound, and I look forward to our times together. I know He’s going to reveal something new or remind me of His everlasting and unconditional love. Knowing that during these unexpected and unusual times, God is preparing me, and for that, I am grateful. So, I rest in His peace. I choose not to live in anxiety and fear.
My heart sincerely goes out to those who are hurting. I pray for the leadership of our country at every level that God will grant them the wisdom they need to lead confidently and wisely.
I have no idea what you are feeling during these tumultuous days, but I pray that you will seek God with your whole heart. He promises that when you seek Him, you will find Him. Jer. 29:13.
Be aware of what’s going on, but don’t let that be your only focus. You, too, can find peace in the arms of Jesus. He is nearer than you think, and He wants what is best for you. Trust Him and His perfect plan for your life.
Thank you, Jesus, for the trying times that test us and mold us into the people that You desire. May we keep our eyes focused on You and not only on our circumstances. Remind us that we are NOT ALONE.
Give us the peace that ONLY YOU can provide. A peace that surpasses all understanding-Philippians 4:7. In Jesus’ name, I pray this, amen.
Recent Updates: Since I first published this article on Facebook last month, I have seen my family! Unfortunately, it was because my father, who has Alzheimer’s, suffered a heart attack in the last week of July. By the grace of God, he is now resting at home. He also has pneumonia. So, please continue in prayer for Him.
On Sunday, August 2, I celebrated my 54th birthday! My sister came over to have a celebratory lunch. I roasted some wild-caught sockeye salmon that I got on sale. We also had some steamed broccoli sauteed in avocado oil, and to finish it off, Kahlua cappuccino crunch cheesecake for dessert. Yum!
The Furnace of Affliction: How God Uses Our Pain and Suffering for His Purpose, is finally here! Well, almost. Pre-order sale for the ebook begins Monday, August 3, and the official release is Tuesday, September 22.
Once you pre-order the ebook, save your order number. Amazon will deliver it to your selected device on September 22. (paperbacks will be available for purchase on September 22.) There will also be giveaways with prizes every weekend leading up to the release date. You will need your order number to enter. Thank you to everyone who helped, supported, and encouraged me. I genuinely believe that this book will affect many lives for the good.
Horace Williams Jr is the oldest son of a pastor who went to be with Jesus in 2020. He is an award-winning author and amateur chef who loves Jesus Christ. His passion for Christ inspires readers to draw nearer to the God who loves them.
It brings me such comfort to remember that I am never alone. Sometimes we may feel like it, but the truth is that God will never leave us or forsake us and for that I am forever grateful! Happy belated birthday to you, Horace! And praying for your father. Hard times. 🙁
Amen, Lisa. He promises to never leave us or forsake us. It can be easy for us to forget that. But let’s always remember God’s faithfulness. Thank you for the birthday wishes and your prayers. My father seems to be getting a little stronger little by little. Have a blessed day, sister.
Horace, congratulations on your book. What a blessing to be used by God in such a powerful way! It is so good to know that we can trust the God who cares for us during these tumultuous times. I can’t imagine what people who don’t know God are feeling. I know for me it would be so discouraging to see what’s happening in our nation and the world. Blessings to you!
Thank you, Donna. It has been so rewarding and yet exhausting at times journey writing this book. I am so thankful that God has given me this opportunity to write on this topic. It’s my prayer that God will encourage and inspire those who read. What a pleasant surprise for your visit today. Be well. Stay safe. God’s got us in His hands. Praise God!
Congratulations on your book! And one of my favourite verses is Psalm 46, the reality that God is ever-present – thank you for your open and honest reflections of depending on God through difficult times, blessings in the days ahead!
Thank you, Sharon. I adore reading Psalms. There is so much goodness throughout the book. Thanks again for visiting, and your kind words. May God watch over you and yours during these trying times. Blessings
Horace,
Congratulations on finishing your book and its release – what an accomplishment and testimony. Like you, I sure have been needing to lean in close to the Lord. Too much focus on the world, the news, the uncertainty of our days can leave me anxious and floundering. I know God’s presence is with me and He is preparing us through this journey for His good and perfect will. Keep hanging on with eager anticipation…and happy belated bday!!
Blessings,
Bev
Thank you, Bev. Leaning into the Lord is ALWAYS a good thing. I am excited about the opportunity to share what God has put on my heart. It is my prayer that hearts are affected for good and God’s glory. Be well. God bless you and yours.
Horace, I enjoyed your first book so much. I know this one will be great, because it comes as an overflow of your life. Many blessings on you and your book!
Wow! Thank you, Debbie for your kind encouragement. That means a great deal coming from a sister in Christ like yourself.May God be glorified in everything relating to this book.