“It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”
—Deuteronomy 31:8

For over forty years as a pastor’s wife, I was honored to serve churches in several states. And I can say, every single one was filled with strong, loving Christian men and women who never had internal conflicts. I can say that. It’s not true, but I can say it.

Click here for some exciting words from our Loving Father regarding church family.

Sweet readers, as long as we are here on earth, we will have problems, in and out of church. When there is that inevitable conflict, I believe it’s not so much whether I am right or wrong, but how my spirit is toward others.

When my husband was asked to leave one church, we had children in school and a very active, growing congregation.  We took a week’s vacation and shared and prayed as a family seeking God’s will and direction. Only God’s Holy Spirit could have granted us the peace we had as we returned and continued to serve those who would do us harm. (I must say, God’s clear direction was sometimes to leave.)

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

Before leaving for vacation, we ensured everything about the church was in good order and ready for worship. I grabbed some of my favorite flowers and made a colorful altar bouquet with little thought of how God would use those flowers to speak to me when we returned.

Week after week as we grew in grace, God seemed to reveal His character and grant peace through a simple bouquet. Three lilies – Father, Son, Holy Spirit; gladiolas – I was glad… to worship; striped grasses – by His stripes we are healed; baby breath – He is the Breath of Life; roses – He died and rose again … Each week a loving Father spoke through the Victory Boquet and turned our hungry hearts toward Him.

If your heart is troubled, or you know someone struggling, meditate on these verses as you pray for one another. Allow our Father to pour out His grace and love upon you, those you love, and those who rub you the wrong way.

I love you. I care. God loves you so much more.

Drop a note if I can pray for/with you.

Hugs, Susie