While dress shopping with my daughter, a child’s temper tantrum prompted me to share that I was stomping my feet at God.   “I am frustrated with God. He keeps pushing me to write more, but He won’t give me places to speak. I love talking about the names of God, His faithfulness, Advent, or about the spiritual disciplines.”

"Unsettled times" is a nice way to say what is happening right now. The government shutdown, protests, riots, National Guard troops in cities, and wars around the world all cause us to worry and fear. We fear the future, going outside, meeting new people, and so much more.

"My Spirit is with you," says the Lord. Every important endeavor begins with discipline.

We spent our time waiting for our soldier with Yahweh. He called us to remember His memorial name, Yahweh, the self-sufficient One.

Heading from the pews to the altar in front of the church took time. She silently mouthed, “I will wait for the Lord; He will meet with me.”

This week, we will look at God's promise to strengthen us in verse 11c. Along with the characteristics of restoration and guidance highlighted by Isaiah, he now adds strength.

Opening a door and walking outside into midday in the desert has all the characteristics of opening an oven door and stepping inside. Life in the desert is not easy, but God will restore us as we venture out.

During times of transition, Isaiah 58:11 is a fountain overflowing with encouragement. Our Lord and Master will guide us. As we face many changes in our lives, we can trust in Adonai to order our steps.

Zephaniah 3:17 highlights the intimate relationship between the Elohim and His people, emphasizing that God's love reassures us that not only will He protect us in times of trouble, but He is exultant and joyful. He will give us joy and will quiet our worries with His love.

This week, my devotion time with God is in the book of Zephaniah. One passage jumped out at me, Zephaniah 3:17. In times of distress and uncertainty, this verse spoke peace, love, and strength over me.

Prayer for Hope, Faith, Joy, and Peace.

The Lord is a strong fortress. You hear my cries, my sobs in the dark. When I am overwhelmed, You comfort me. Oh Lord, draw me near to You.

You, oh Lord, are El Olam. You are our everlasting God. You never change; no beginning or end.

Lord of Lords and King of Kings, we praise You! Hallelujah to the Lord Almighty!

Oh, El Elyon, The Lord Most High, You give us joy every day.

Just as the Magi traveled in faith, teach us to step out in faith. When our faith is weak, draw us close to You.

As we look to Your Second Coming, You give us hope during our waiting.

You prepare us for Jesus' Second Coming. You never forsake us.

Praise Adonai, Our Lord and Master! Praise Him from the heavens; Praise Him in the heights! Praise Him, all His angels;

El Shaddai, the all-sufficient One. You are powerful. You are stronger than anything we face. Breathe Your strength into us.