I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
    where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
    the Maker of heaven and earth.       Psalm 121:1-2

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.  James 1:12    
    
The joy of the Lord is your strength. Nehemiah 8:10

Whom have I in heaven but you?
    And earth has nothing I desire besides you.
My flesh and my heart may fail,
    but God is the strength of my heart
    and my portion forever.                     Psalm 73:25-26

We got a call one day last spring from Mike Spencer, one of our pastors and our ABF teacher. He and Joe Adamson, a fellow class member, wanted to come for a visit. When they got here, they presented us with a journal that had been passed around class. The Lord put it on Joe’s heart to do this for us. The journal contains notes of encouragement and Scriptures penned by the class members. The above Scriptures are a sampling of those in the journal that we continue to read over and over.

Every day Steve and I read parts of four devotional books, Jerry Bridges book, Trusting God, the Bible, and the journal our class gave us. We feel loved, comforted, uplifted, and grateful as we spend time reading and praying. It keeps our focus where it should be – on God’s goodness, love, grace, and mercy in sending His Son so that we can have eternal life in heaven. We praise Him for choosing us to be His children before the foundations of the world!

Reading and meditating on the Scriptures brings peace, joy, and hope. Our hearts swell with love for our Savior and God, Jesus Christ as we think about all that is in store for us when we leave this earth. Yes, it will be sad for those of us left here when God takes Steve to heaven, but oh, how glorious for Steve to see Christ face-to-face!

Revelation 21:3-4: “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

This verse sparks fireworks in my heart! We have so much to look forward to when Christ returns for His church. Meanwhile, I pray we will walk in faith and trust God with all that He allows in our lives. God is good, no matter what!