Feeling Parched? Grab Some Balm.

The cold weather has wreaked havoc with my skin.  It feels dry and craves hydration.  But, if I’m being honest, my spirit has been feeling a bit dry this week as well.  I found myself asking what happened to cause this dry spell? 

Recently, I had stitches in an awkward spot due to a mole removal, over-exerted my knee, and some long-lingering hip pain began to flair - all at the same time.  Although I'm sparing you most of the details, maybe that's still too much information. But, guess what happened? I turned into a grump, quickly!

It is true that when my physical body doesn’t allow for my current routine of movement and physical exercise, more than my body suffers.  My family suffered.  My attitude suffered.  My spirit suffered.  I became frustrated and felt a tiny bit (okay, more than a tiny bit) sorry for myself.  
 
Yet, I began to hear a gentle reminder whispered from God.  God reminded me that I am loved.  God reminded me to rest.  God reminded me that my soul can be healthy and restored even when my physical body is not able to cooperate. 

Shortly after God's whispers became audible to my ears, I received a text from a friend.  I had shared with her that I felt a bit tender inside and out.  Her response said this, “Rest in Him, sister! He is the balm.” 
 
Maybe you need a little extra salve in this season too?  Maybe you need God to slather you and hold you and heal the cracks of a long winter?  For we can search far and wide for perfect solutions.  However, the only balm that heals is our God alone.  

The Lord will guide you continually    
and provide for you, even in parched places.
He will rescue your bones.
You will be like a watered garden,
like a spring of water that won’t run dry.
- Isaiah 58:11 CEB

If you're in a parched place, grab some balm.  Take time to slather yourself in God this weekend. Find time to connect with the one who is your healer. Listen when God speaks through others around you. I'm so very thankful there is an unlimited supply of his healing balm and am feeling the relief already.

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