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Joshua 1:9

I hereby command you: Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."

When I was 15 years old, my beloved mother was diagnosed with cancer.  I remember her doctor, dear Dr. Henry Akiyama, coming to our house and explaining to my younger brother and I what was going to happen.  There were still many unknowns and my sweet mom kept telling us not to worry.  I tried to not worry and wonder what would be the news once she got to Seattle.

The day my parents left for the airport, we said I love you and goodbye, hugs and kisses. I tried to be strong for them because I wanted them to know that we would be okay. I remember watching the car drive away and the tears started to flow.  I looked over towards the swimming pool and saw the smoke from the chimney and it was in the shape of a cross.  It was then I felt a sense of calm.  A sense that the Lord our God was with all of us and would be there to watch over us in the weeks ahead.  

However, I am only human and admit there have been many times in my adult life that I have been afraid and I didn’t have the strength and courage to believe that the Lord our God was always with me.  I think it was because I didn’t feel worthy.  It took time, it took asking forgiveness of others and it took self-forgiveness.  Today, I know and believe that I am a beloved child of God.  He is my source of strength and courage.

Heavenly Father, I ask you to strengthen my mind, body and spirit today. When I am weary, may I be refreshed. When I am worn, may I be renewed. When I am broken, may I be restored. When I am fearful, may I become faithful. I pray that I walk in complete confidence today knowing that the Lord Almighty is with me. Amen.

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