Strength...

Inner Strength

Where does my strength come from? I know I am a strong person. I have had to be. Growing up in the home situation I was in and then going into foster care, I've just had to rely on myself. I remember at 5 years old pushing a chair to the stove and cooking for my sister, two brothers and I. I did the laundry on a ringer washer by myself and brought water in milk jugs from the nearby creek. I had to be strong.

My husband and I met in high school and were high school sweethearts. We have been together over 40 years. He has become my Earthly source of strength. He takes care of me when I'm hurting and worries about me. Now, don't get me wrong, he isn't the lovey person. He was a firefighter for 30 years and wishes he could erase things he has seen. Yes, he is a little rough around the edges sometimes. But, he loves me and in times like now, I see his love and the strength he gives me.

The truth is I am strong because of who I put my hope and trust in. Psalms 28:7 says "The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him." You see, being strong in the Lord and knowing He will sustain us allows us the freedom to believe, love, grieve, and sing songs of praise. God holds us, lifts us up, and provides our source of strength. We can simply let go and rest in Him.