Worn and Weak

It’s Day 4 of my liquid fast and I am starting to feel the detox effects, mainly fatigue. I also got way too busy today and ended up waiting WAY too long to drink my 3rd meal! As I sit here in the peace and quiet, after tucking the kids in bed, I feel aches and pains creeping up on me. I have often heard that as your body detoxes and heals it will bring up “old” pains to heal. The strangest “side effect” is an added dose of emotions. I have felt almost on the verge of tears a few times today, with no explainable cause. The more I think about it, the more it makes sense. I believe we are not just physical beings, but a complex triad of mind, body and spirit. We cannot affect one without it impacting the others. This is the main reason I selected a couple passages of scripture to be a vital part of my 40 Day Fast. I wanted my journey to not only nourish my body, but nurture my mind and spirit as well.

I have long loved the scriptures in the book of Isaiah. So when I read through chapter 40 and saw it was all about comforting God’s people, I knew it was perfect for this time. I feel like a child safe in her Father’s arms when I read-

“He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms  and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.” (Isaiah 40:11 NIV)

Such gentle kindness spoken in those verses. They are like soothing balm to this weary mother’s heart. As I continue reading I am reminded that there is none like our God. He is so powerful and able to do so much more than we can even fathom. Then as a final encouragement the chapter concludes with some of my favorite scriptures-

“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary,
    they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:29-31 NIV)

I love that I have a heavenly Father who is so aware of my fragile humanity, and is ready and willing to hold me together and lift me up in HIS strength. Isn’t that comforting? I don’t have to be Super Woman for God!!! I can simply be His little girl in need of His big arms and strong hugs! Tonight while most people are out all dressed up and enjoying a feast of candy, I am laying down my cape and removing my mask. I am allowing myself and all my weariness to be seen by the One who knows me best! It feels good to just be me! Psalm 40 is the other passage of scripture I am meditating on during this time, and the first couple verses best express how I feel as I lay my soul bare before my Creator.

“I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.” (Psalm 40:1-2 NIV)

Life can feel like standing in the ocean while the waves knock us side to side and lap away the ground beneath our feet (it’s exhausting), but God is my firm rock! I can be worn and weak, but firmly and securely planted in His love!!! So tonight as I sign off my computer and go tuck my sore and tired body into bed, I am curling up in His love and allowing Him to renew my strength for tomorrow! Do you need to do the same? Are you weary too? His lap is big enough for us all, and His arms know no bounds they cannot reach! Sleep well my friend. Sweet Dreams in Jesus!!!