Breakthroughs and Let Downs

On a very private level, we have had a major let down.  It is financial, and I just don't feel that it is right to share. However, please pray with me about this, for restoration.

Another private level, we have had a breakthrough on a very specific prayer issue, that is personal to me.  So there, I'm all secret squirrel today.  But please pray some thanksgiving for this breakthough, it is beautiful!

Another thing I am really praying about is me.  My need for restoration and victory.  It has been several months since I have felt really well.  I am going to the doctor about this, so see if something is medically wrong, or if it is just the culmination of exhaustion over years.  This feeling poorly and tired all the time has robbed me of one of my great joys, which is running.  Running blows when you feel tired and your legs are  like cement.  I find myself often slowing to a walk without even wanting to, it just happens, over and over and over.  I am really hoping to run the 25k in the Riverbank this year, since I ran my first half marathon last fall, and really, really want to run the North Country Trail Run marathon at the end of the summer.  My good runs are OK, my bad runs are not runs.  I really, really want this for myself.  Really.  Really.

Overall the fast has been a good experience.  I am on day 17 of 21.  Almost there.  I believe there have been some answers to prayer, and that others are on the way.  I believe that the experience itself has blessed me with the fruit of self-control, and changed my relationship to food.  I have learned that I love date honey, and can replace sugar with it in many things.  I have learned that when I go without dairy and sugar that my acne clears right up.  I sure won't be eating the same, and I was healthy to start!

My relationship to God has changed as well.  I am learning to trust and believe in his power in my life in a way that I never have before.

This scripture has become a life theme for me:

The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, 
   because the LORD has anointed me 
   to proclaim good news to the poor. 
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, 
   to proclaim freedom for the captives 
   and release from darkness for the prisoners,  

to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor 
   and the day of vengeance of our God, 
to comfort all who mourn, 
 and provide for those who grieve in Zion— 
to bestow on them a crown of beauty 
   instead of ashes, 
the oil of joy 
   instead of mourning, 
and a garment of praise 
   instead of a spirit of despair. 
They will be called oaks of righteousness, 
   a planting of the LORD 
   for the display of his splendor.

God Bless!