Send to Kindleby C.J. Peterson
In today’s world, we are usually moving at speeds exceeding Mach 10. So, what happens when the world comes to complete stop? Well, we got a sample of it recently with the quarantine from this virus.
Whether you believe it to be true or not, you were still (or still are, depending on your location) in quarantine. During that quarantine, we saw the best and worst in people. Crime went up in some areas. Meanwhile, giving, serving, and sacrifice went up in other areas. During that time, how did you do? What did you do with the extra time? You know, that time where you were normally going to a sports event, a concert, going out with friends, or watching a movie. Did you use that time wisely?
This world has some amazing sights. Some are in the picture connected to this blog. Those are photos that I took on our travels. Yes, we have done a lot of traveling, but we also know those words said in Psalm 46:10 – “He says, Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Whatever we are doing, we take time to stop and just be. We take time while we’re out and about to appreciate all He has given us, and all He does for us each and every day.
In a world that is running a mile a minute, and is also an instant gratification society, do you take time to just be still? When you do, what does your mind center on? Is it on Him? Do you even take time to appreciate Him…all that He is, and all that He has done for us? What does that look like?
I have often said I find God in nature. I find Him looking after the birds of the fields, and the fish in the ocean. I found Him in gazing out over the vastness that is the Grand Canyon, and in the stunning beauty of the setting sun. I found Him in the power of the waters in the ocean and in the falls at Niagara Falls. I found him in watching the vast creatures He created as we were on a safari in Kruger Park, South Africa. I found Him when we’re snorkeling in the Grand Caymans and in Cozumel. I found Him in the massive power of a hurricane as it was barreling down on us in the Dominican Republic. I found Him in the mountain loads of snow, when I see prints from a little bunny, knowing He was watching out for them as well. I see Him when I watch the birds flying south to avoid the snow. How do they know when to go? I find Him, when I see the damage tornados inflict around us – sometimes literally on our street. I find Him in watching the bees in the apiary of our front yard. They know when to gather, and when to hunker down. They know what flowers are poisonous to them. They know when to make a new queen before the old one passes. I also find Him in the streaks of light pouring through the storm clouds…assuring us that even in the storms, He is there.
What I’m saying is that He is here. He is all around us…whatever part of the world you find yourself in at the time. I encourage you, that no matter what is going on around you, to listen to His words, “Be still, and know that I am God.”
About the Author:
I was raised in a Christian military home, but it was far from tranquil. Like many young people, I left home as soon as possible, and went my own way, thinking I knew better. To me anything was better than where I was. Unfortunately, some of the choices I made led me away from the Lord, and sometimes that path was a dangerous one.
God is faithful, even when His children are lost and wandering. When I needed Him most, the Lord was there for me. He led me out of that danger and into a new life…a life where I am loved and appreciated. He taught me what ‘real love’ is, and what it’s supposed to look like through my family and wonderful husband.
Who knew that “Prince Charming” actually existed? I hoped and prayed he was out there, and I found him! He is a 24 year Navy veteran and the love of my life! With his encouragement, I rediscovered the creativity I thought I had lost a long time ago, and have begun to publish the books I have written through the years. The words in these books helped me through my struggles, and my prayer is they will help others.
The way in which I write my Christian Books, is unique to say the least. I am a realistic Christian. People are people, they stumble, they fall, they trip, but God continues to dust us off, and set us back on the path again, if we just learn to trust in Him.
The challenges faced in my past give me a perspective on the realities of living the Christian life that some people may never see. There are times we wander away from God…there are times when we draw closer to Him. In our arrogance we think we can make it on our own. However, the One who made this world, and who made you, has the answers, and thankfully, He forgives our impudence and petulance and loves us through it all. God is a God of love, mercy, grace, and guidance. He loves us and only wants the best for us.
Those who have read my books, describe them as encouraging, frustrating, and a wonderful read all at the same time. The same character that could have you crying one minute, will have you cheering the next! One of my editors, stated that ‘she was so into the story, that she forgot to edit, and had to go back to do the editing’.
I pray you will enjoy my books as well!
While the stories are fiction, the journey is real.
Visit CJ’s website – http://cjpetersonwrites.com/
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