remember.

Dear soul,

Please don't give up just yet. I know you are faint, I know you hurt, I know it's hard...but sweetness awaits. Don't forget Who it is that holds you together. That soothes the ache. That mends the brokenness. That fills the holes.

Remember...when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. And when you walk through the fire, it will not consume you. He is with you always. (Isaiah 43)

Remember...He holds your right hand, guiding you along His ways. He is your strength, oh heart, and your portion forever. (Psalm 73)

Remember...that love of His, that relentless love, is wide and long and deep and high. And enough...it is enough for you. (Ephesians 3)

Remember...suffering gives way to perseverance; perseverance, character; character, hope - and hope will never disappoint. Stand on this grace, my soul, and rejoice. (Romans 5)

Remember...all this? All these troubles? They are light and momentary. They are achieving for you an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. Fix your eyes not on the temporary, not on what only you see...fix them on eternity. (2 Corinthians 4)

Remember...before all things, He was there. In all things, He is there. (Colossians 1)

Remember...this God of yours, this God of all grace, will restore you - making you strong, firm and steadfast. (1 Peter 5)

Remember...you will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Be strong, take heart and wait on the LORD in confidence. (Psalm 27)

Remember...His banner over you is love - and His is the sweetest love of all. (Song of Solomon 2)

Be brave, dear soul, for you have not been forgotten. Let the tears fall when they may, for He cherishes each one. I know your temptation to run, hide, self protect... if you let fear win out now, you will miss the blessings. And yes, there are even blessings in pain. Keep living the full life, oh soul - stay open, soft and tender. Endure all things. Believe all things. Hope all things. Bear all things.

Please don't give up just yet. Stay fixed on Him. Remain in His presence. Seek His face. Wait in His grace. No matter where this road might take you, rest in knowing Who it is that holds you.

Stay strong, oh brave soul of mine.