The Object of My Trust

Any transition requires TRUST. The question is what or who are we trusting in? Our lesson at church today was from Isaiah 30. The children of Israel are running to Egypt (a place of slavery and bondage); Pharaoh (a harsh taskmaster and dictator); camels laden with treasures (stuff); pleasing words (listening to that we like but is not necessarily true); idols (whatever/whoever we depend on); swift horses (to run away)  

When I move towards a solution, it is because I recognize there is a problem. It is good to recognize there is a problem. It was good the Israelites knew something was wrong. In transitions and the process of being transformed, there are problems and you know you got to do something!

As I reflect on my life I see how I have used many of the things the Israelites also used for solutions. Maybe you can relate? I have run to food, self-control, controlling others, new homeschool curriculum, rearranging the furniture, escaping present circumstances, writing a new schedule, good works, busy in activities, memorizing scripture, evaluating food choices, pondering if I did or did not follow a medical protocol, health, money . . . Many of these things are good-- God gave them to me. However, none can truly bring what my problem requires.

"In repentance and rest you shall be saved; In quietness and trust is your strength." Isaiah 30:15

The TRUST that brings peace in my heart and life  is resting in what God has done and what He continues to do to bring me to His place of salvation--ultimately to His Heavenly Home where all is as it should be. I can have peace in my present circumstances because of the Object of my trust is Christ. He alone will provide all that I need if I but run to Him. So, the placement of my TRUST is seen in where I am running.

Marshall Protocol Update and REST

Update on Marshall Protocol: January has been a roller coaster. First I became so exceedingly dizzy that I was concerned about passing out on several occasions and often had to stabilize myself against something. The doctor took me off of one of the antibiotics and I was told to increase my rest (ARGH!) but it makes sense if my body is fighting something, I may get dizzy and resting allows my innate, God-given immune system to function more effectively. I have to keep reminding myself about the hidden bacteria that causes these symptoms. I am also thankful that God brought these changes to our attention prior to our vacation! Sure enough, as I rested and the antibiotic filtered out of my body (thus, less intense bacterial die-off), the dizziness became manageable.

I cheated on the Marshall Protocol lifestyle at times on our vacation because making memories was more important for the family.

Another week in January, I became very nauseated. This definitely ebbed and flowed with the Benicar dosing so I just tolerated it. It is just so fascinating how certain symptoms are highlighted for a period of time and then they are gone.

Finally, I had an exhaustion week that was very hard. We have labeled these SLUG times. I started investigating all the things I might have done or not done that could have placed me there.  It is so easy to think it is my fault and I am in control. This too causes stress--another thing to avoid! I suspect the best avenue, if you are being prudent on the protocol is to REST in that you are trying and REST in God's healing and His ways.

I shared this acronym with a friend: REST--Reflecting on Every Strength and Triumph. Ultimately it is all His Victory and He has already Overcome!

Limitations

I have written about the margins God places in our lives and that we need to heed those. I decided that I like blogging (and other types of writing) and will have to accept that, here too, I face limitations in time, energy, and mental clarity. Chronic illness, little ones in the home, increased work stress, starting homeschooling, creative budgeting, and household repairs all remind us of our limitations.

So, rather than ignore my blog, I am purposing to write shorter entries. My literary son, Peter, assures me that many of the greatest writing is short and pithy. Well, I am not sure I will get to the pithy part if I write only a few paragraphs but I may be able to share more in the long run and make it feasible for others to read without it just being a few rambling thoughts.

Recognizing limitations can be a freeing experience.