Author J. Conard

As I sat in front of my computer, the stark blankness of the document loomed before me, a silent challenge demanding to be filled. Thoughts swirled chaotically in my mind—whispers of ideas, emotions, and inspirations waiting to break free. I found myself pondering where to locate that elusive turn-on valve, the one that would release the torrent of creativity within and allow it to transform into a coherent message. For a moment, I let my gaze drift to my calico cat, perched elegantly nearby. Her fierce, warrior-like demeanor captivated me, providing an unexpected source of motivation and strength as I wrestled with the void on the screen before me.

So, it began. The blanket document became clothed with a message of hope. My cat revealed her territorial instinct when something unwanted became too close to our domain. God is very protective of His children.

Trials, temptations, and closed doors aren’t abandonment. Trials become a soldering tool that seems valuable to the kingdom warriors. Temptation escalates a resilience in us we’ve never encountered. A friend and I discussed drawing closer to God and regaining ground. Desolate places become sacred ground, holy ground. Now, I understand more than ever how important our spiritual deserts and valleys are. Ruble, deadness, and absence are swallowed up when we invite Jesus on the journey. Stagnation flees when we speak, “God, I’m weak, but You are strong in me.” The overpowering stench from the drought will fade upon the arrival of The Lily of the Valleys.”

My dear friend, there may be moments when it feels as though no light can break through the darkness. I speak from the depths of my own experience when I say that overwhelming circumstances can drown even the most resilient spirit. The weight of despair seems to press down on you, draining every last drop of hope. Your eyes may swell with tears, betraying a heart that feels shattered, while a numbness begins to creep in, dulling your senses and leaving you in a fog. In those desolate moments, the relentless voice of loneliness may echo in your mind, insisting that you are utterly alone and that no one truly cares about your pain. But I urge you, do not give in to that voice; resist entertaining those thoughts, not even for a fleeting moment!

Jesus says, “I am the rose of Sharon and the lily of the valleys. As the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters. As the apple tree among the trees of the wood, so is my beloved among the sons.”

We must declare, “I sat down under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit was sweet to my taste. He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love. Stay me with flagons, comfort me with apples: for I am sick of love. His left hand is under my head, and his right hand doth embrace me.” Song of Solomon 2: 1-6 KJV Make these places Holy Ground; it’s your domain. One day, you’ll be able to see evidence of God’s power when you didn’t! No Nonsense!

Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

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