Day 50: Beech Grove, Tennessee
“Please say prayers for peace and strength.”
The text pinged in my ear, disrupting the cadence of my feet on the country road blacktop that stepped out time to the playlist. It was the first day in so many days that I wanted to find a breeze to brush against my face. I hadn’t realized just how weary I had become until sweet friends encouraged me to simply breathe and rest. And resting had brought me to Tennessee – a location that’s more space than place to my soul. Where are those spaces for you?
I prayed for my precious friend as I ran, unafraid of who might hear the words. “Lord God, warrior God, tender God. Fly your banner now, and fly it high. A banner of I love you, a banner of you are safe here, a banner of I am holding tightly, a banner of I will never leave you. Let Your words be written on the sky, I am yours and you are Mine.I will fight for your honor, My love.”
And the vision came into view. Still waters. Green pastures. And I was undone. Because I saw the song written by a shepherd boy. I saw the melody of the lamb. And I saw His words written on the sky and on the land and on the water. Peace, because He gives it. Strength, because He provides it. Rest, because He tends to it.
Her prayers and my prayers and your prayers. He hears them all. And He responds.
You, Lord, are my shepherd. I will never be in need.
You let me rest in fields of green grass.
You lead me to streams of peaceful water,
and You refresh my life.
You are true to your name, and You lead me along the right paths.
I may walk through valleys as dark as death, but I won’t be afraid.
You are with me, and Your shepherd’s rod makes me feel safe.
You treat me to a feast, while my enemies watch.
You honor me as your guest, and You fill my cup until it overflows.
Your kindness and love will always be with me each day of my life,
and I will live forever
in Your house, Lord.
What is your heart longing to hear right now? What are the prayers that need to be prayed for you? What banners need to fly high over you? I would love to pray for you right now – I’d love to hear your song.
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Shoot like a Girl began as part of the #31days project. You can learn more about the “why” of my story and see all my daily posts here. I’d love to stay in touch with you – be sure to subscribe to my blog and visit my writer’s page to get updates on stories and special projects, including a collaborative that will publish this spring and a book about women who are fighting for change and beauty. Thank you for your encouragement!