Personal Notes
From Jan

God is good!  He is good even when the ominous dark clouds surround us, even overtake us!  He is there even when we can't feel His Presence. 

A couple of years ago, when I felt the cold threat of fear, God's still small voice was there.  It surprised me how he spoke comfort.  Tunes and words of two songs of my childhood played in my mind night and day.  I could not and did not want to erase them.  They were just there.  I asked myself, Where did these come from? God whispered, They are for you as you once again pass through the shadow.  They are a reminder that I'm passing through this valley with you.  Fear not, my child!  I'm singing these songs over you and with you:

Jesus Will Walk With Me

"Jesus will walk with me
down through the valley,
Jesus will walk with me over the plain,
When in the shadow or
when in the sunshine,
If He goes with me,
I shall not complain.

Jesus will walk with me,
He will talk with me.
He will walk with me.
In joy or in sorrow,
today and tomorrow,
I know He will walk with me."

--Haldor Lillenas, 1922

God Leads Us Along

"In shady, green pastures,
so rich and so sweet,
God leads His dear children along;
Where the water's cool flow
bathes the weary one's feet,
God leads His dear children along.

Some through the waters,
Some through the flood.
Some through the fire,
but all through the blood;
Some through great sorrow,
but God gives a song.
In the night season and
all the day long."

--G.A. Young, 19th Century

A Promise from God

"Do not be afraid,
for I am with you.
Do not be dismayed,
for I am your God.
I will strengthen you.
I will help you.
I will uphold you with my
victorious right hand."

Isaiah 41:10

He gives power to those who are tired and worn out;
He offers strength to the weak. 
Even youths will become exhausted and young men will give up. 
But those who wait on the LORD will find new strength. 
They will fly high on wings like eagles. 
They will run and not grow weary. 
They will walk and not faint."

(Isaish 40 29-31)

"Those who live in the shelter of the Most High
will find rest in the
shadow of the Almighty."
(Psalm 91:1 New Living Translation)