Footprints in the Sand
One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord.
Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky.
In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand.
Sometimes there were two sets of footprints,
Other times there were one set of footprints.
This bothered me because I noticed that during
the low periods of my life,
when I was suffering from anguish, sorrow or defeat,
I could see only one set of footprints.
I said to the Lord,
You promised me Lord, if I followed you,
you would walk with me always.
But I have noticed that during the most trying
periods of my life, there have only been one set
of footprints in the sand.
Why when I needed you most,
have you not been there for me?
The Lord replied,
The times when you saw only one set of
footprints in the sand
was when I carried you.
Mary Stevenson
I MET GOD IN THE MORNING
I met God in the morning
When my day was at its best
And his presence came like sunrise,
Like a glory in my breast.
All day long His presence lingered,
All day long He stayed with me;
And we sailed with perfect calmness
On a very troubled sea.
Other ships were blown and battered,
Other ships were sore distressed;
But the winds that seemed to drive them
Brought to us a peace and rest.
Then I thought of other mornings
With a keen remorse of mind,
When, I too, had loosed the mornings
With His presence left behind.
So I think I know the secret
Learned from many a troubled way---
You must seek God in the morning
If you want Him through the day.
-Ralph Cushman
Dear Child of Mine,
As you go through this day, know that I am gently protecting you. I am as near to you as your very breath, as close to you as your heartbeat. I can see the fragile state of your emotions. I know how close to the surface your tender feelings are. I am aware that the wick of your spirit's inner light is flickering in the winds of your dilemma.
But you are MY child, and I am on your side today. I will not allow the flame of your spirit to be snuffed out. I will stand between you and the wind. I will hold you in My love until you are strong again. Do not be troubled or afraid. Do not strive in your own strength, but lean into My love. Be strengthened by My Spirit. Find comfort in My mercy.
Your Shield and Defender,
God
Letters From Heaven
Claire Cloninger
