Hello ladies! This month our theme is “Worship Lessens My Worries.” Would you find this to be true? I do. I may not always want to admit it, but I do. Whether it is corporate worship with fellow believers or private worship between Jesus and me, the worship gets my focus back to where it needs to be…..on Him.
Often, I have times where I get so involved in myself, my worries, my responsibilities that I quickly give up that personal worship time. Things slowly begin to unravel from there. I am more impatient with my children and husband. I become “mean momma.” I begin to have trouble sleeping and my thoughts are negative which really affect my mood and behavior. Typically, I realize the source of the problem, but that is after I have attempted to deal with the symptoms on my own. You think I would have this figured out by now! Alas, I don’t.
Getting involved quickly with fellow believers helped me with my struggles in Italy. I discovered people who loved Jesus enough they were able to love me. Each time I went to the worship service or Bible study I was able to leave with my focus back on the King. These times provided me with a chance to leave my burdens at the cross so I could live for Him.
Sometimes when you live overseas you can get out of fellowship easily because of all the traveling you can do while you are there. Staying connected to God through His son Jesus is VITAL to our living. I really want to encourage you to get involved in your Chapel community while living overseas. Or, if you know the local language or there is an English speaking church, attend there. Staying connected to the body of Christ provides amazing accountability for our personal growth with Jesus. If Bible studies are available at the chapel or in your housing area, join one of those. Fellowship with other believers to be encouraged in your walk with God. Also check out Survival Sisters with Wives of Faith or MAYBE, just maybe God is leading you to start a WOF group where you are! The ways to worship Christ truly are endless!
Keep worshiping no matter how painful; as God assures us:
The LORD you God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.
Zephaniah 3:17
Until next time, enjoy God rejoicing over YOU with singing!