finding peace in God's presence

 Wednesday, April 29, 2026 (5:21 a.m.)

Holy God,

Thank You! 

I am safe. Feeling shaky. After being startled out a dream-filled second sleep.

(6:02 a.m.)

Thank You for the privilege of bringing to You the shock and alarm I was feeling. Thank You again for being my Go-To!

After a bit of searching I am thrilled to realize that I just experienced first hand what it is to ♪take it to the Lord in prayer♪

Unsettled to the point of speaking out loud while walking throughout the house. Telling myself to, “Shake it off.”

Father, thank You for the changes You have been making in, with, by, through and for me. Empowering me to truly celebrate:

♪What a Friend We Have in Jesus, 

All our sins and griefs to bear

What a privilege to carry

Everything to God in prayer!

O what peace we often forfeit,

O what needless pain we bear,

All because we do not carry

Everything to God in prayer!♪

(Philippians 4:6)

Thank You for this intense reminder Dear God. Even Especially in the midst of muddled confusion, my brain went to “Talk it over with God” instead of my usual tendency toward “Fear!” And being afraid.

Searching to learn more about “taking startle to God” I’m tremendously comforted in reading that doing so “involves transforming moments of sudden fear, surprise, or anxiety into opportunities for deeper faith, prayer, and reliance on divine grace.”

This same description adds, “this approach invites believers to find peace in God’s presence, recognizing His sovereignty over unexpected life circumstances.”

Father thank You that as I continue reading I am reminded that we are to: surrender anxiety, embrace Your divine grace, cultivate awe, and convert fear to prayer. Mm, yes, thank You Father.

Use me today exactly as You know is best. Easily startled, yet unafraid. Because of Your presence. In my heart, soul, mind and strength. Do all You must that I represent you well. I love, need, trust and want You Lord. Thank You. Praise You. Amen.

(339 words ~ 6:54 a.m.)