Hello friends,

Sunday was rough.  Have you ever heard that someone was going through a hard time and your immediate response is to help?  Was that someone who hurt you?  This is what happened to me Sunday.  Someone whom I used to trust, that deeply wounded my faith in people (that's another topic for another day) had something happen and I knew she was going through a hard time.  My immediate response was to see what I could do to help.  My heart was heavy, and I wanted to be there for her and her family.  But I also knew I needed to use wisdom.  I didn't want to be put in a situation where I could get hurt again (emotional wounds).  I prayed, hard.  I asked a couple other friends who are aware of the situation for their wisdom and counsel.   I wanted to help, but I was afraid to risk my heart in the process.  While I've forgiven this friend, the wounds are just starting to heal.  It was hard, because my first thoughts were that God wants us to love people and help them.  But through the wisdom of some wonderful people, I realized that sometimes it's ok to say no, step back, and let people figure it out on their own.  Was it easy? Not at all, my heart still aches for her, but I know in time all will be well.  If she called me, I would answer, but sometimes it's ok to make sure you protect your own heart.  

Thankfully I sought out the wisdom of these older (than me) Christian ladies.  Their wisdom is invaluable to me.   Sometimes our hearts want to jump into action before we take a breath and listen to God.  It's especially hard when my first reaction is to take action, to do something positive.  Create a care package, call, text, etc.  I am beginning to learn, not only does God answer us with "yes", "no" and "wait" but sometimes our response needs to be "wait... listen" we need to be still and not so quick to jump into action, so that we can hear God's still small voice leading us.  God promises to never leave us nor forsake us, we need to rely on Him to direct us in our day to day living.

I am a follower of Christ, I am not perfect, but I love Jesus.

Until Next Time,

Liz Allen