April 22, 2026
My heart has been kind of heavy this week, despite the recent vacation, the beautiful weather, some amazing family time over the weekend, and the presence of the Holy Spirit in my life. World events, local tragedies, political unrest and family struggles sometimes weigh on my mind and my spirit, even though I understand that I am supposed to leave all these burdens at my Savior’s feet in exchange for His burden, which the Bible describes as easy and light. Sometimes I just feel like withdrawing from the world and becoming a hermit. It is in times like these that I am so grateful for the Word of God! Listen to these verses and be encouraged:
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say rejoice! Let your forbearing spirit be known to all men; the Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your heart and your mind in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-7
This is the day which the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalms 118:24
The righteous cry, and the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted; He saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:17-18
Nevertheless, I am continually with You; You have taken hold of my right hand. With Your counsel You will guide me and afterward receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but You? And besides You, I desire nothing on earth. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:23-26
It gives me great comfort to remember that even though situations are heavy and life can sometimes seem overwhelming, God is right here, ready to lift my burdens and my spirit. I can count on His promises, and I find peace in knowing that things are chaotic now, but they will not always be so. And I can find joy amid the struggles when I take my eyes off the problems and turn them where they belong – to Jesus and all He has done for me.
See you on Sunday for worship!
Careen
Worship Songs for April 26:
Holy, Holy, Holy – Daniel Baptist Congregation – https://youtu.be/bvvL0HpxOHM?si=9AcXvQp6viBkSs5Y
Faithful Now – Vertical Worship – https://youtu.be/9YexUJ2WHik?si=JDKSJ0KWFhb4TyJm
Jesus Paid It All – Passion/Kristian Stanfill – https://youtu.be/0rWXUqF_BFo?si=lPkVdnLpB3KddJ42
Make Room – Community Music – https://youtu.be/wrQuKK6jz-4?si=q379ssTayHL57oQt