The long haul… Jane Coates’ latest thoughts and prayers

The reference to the long haul in Jane’s latest Thoughts and Prayers reminded Shelley of a long haul flight –  a holiday perhaps.  Have a read and see what you think. 

 

 

We also pray that you will be strengthened with all His glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy. Colossians 1 v 11 NLT

 

Sometimes in life, the challenges that come are sudden, unexpected, urgent but may be short lived, so that the steep mountain of stress, discomfort and dismay, although unbearably and painfully challenging, is conquered, and life is able to move on at a pace again. But sometimes the challenge is not a sharp Himalayan climb but a long-drawn-out trek across an indistinguishable, barren route with few landmarks to guide, reassure and to measure progress. The road just goes on indefinitely into the future and it is hard to fix your eyes on that final victory. That kind of challenge needs an extra grace to keep going for the long haul.

 

There are many folks who are in this position who need the daily grit, energy, and patience to get up and get going, knowing that there will be many, many more days like this one. They need that patient endurance and stickability that Paul speaks of here. Even the most resourceful and strong need the power of our most glorious God to remain focussed and faith filled. This kind of stamina and strength cannot be worked up from nowhere. God provides it in abundance- and with joy as an added measure. He will provide the inner strength for the long haul.

 

It is comforting too to be accompanied on the journey by those who will walk parts of the road with you, lifting your spirits, encouraging, sharing and supporting in a myriad of ways, that may seem small to them, but which have the gift to move your steps forward. Be thankful for those companions and fellow hikers on the journey.

 

We are praying, too, that you will be filled with his mighty, glorious strength so that you can keep going no matter what happens—always full of the joy of the Lord, TLB

 

 We pray that you’ll have the strength to stick it out over the long haul—not the grim strength of gritting your teeth but the glory-strength God gives. It is strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into joy, thanking the Father who makes us strong enough to take part in everything bright and beautiful that he has for us. MSG

PRAY You are always worthy of praise and thanks. May we see beyond the daily circumstances and the challenges to Your beauty and goodness. We will sing praises to You because of your grace and love. You are our personal friend, ever present, our provider and your purposes are true and faithful.

 

Even to your old age and grey hairs
    I am He, I am He who will sustain you.
I have made you and I will carry you;
    I will sustain you and I will rescue you.