ANGER & ACHING

I had my Wednesday's Word all written and set to send out to you, and then the shooting happened in Texas. It somehow didn't seem fitting anymore because the words that were on my heart were now ANGER and heart ACHE. And so, with that said, I am choosing to share with you my heart today. It's a confused heart. A broken heart. An angry heart. An aching heart. But it's my heart. And part of who I will always be with my writing, is someone who is real with you. So here's my heart today: Wednesday’s Word(s): Anger & Aching

My heart is angry that there are fifteen plus families going through unspeakable pain because of this shooting.

My heart is aching for those families who will not hold their children in their laps any longer,  tuck them into bed tonight…or any other night.

My heart is angry that someone can walk into a school and in a matter of minutes, take the precious lives of others.

My heart is aching for the hopes and dreams that will never come to fruition for these families.

My heart is angry at the people and systems that have failed, bringing us to this point…again.

My heart is aching, as so many search for ways to help, but don’t know how to meet the needs of the hurting.

My heart is angry that we need to create pretty memes, once again, asking for prayer for yet another American town because of the devastation of a shooting. 

My heart is aching because I don’t know what to do to make it better. 

As I tucked my seven-year-old granddaughter into bed tonight, my heart was broken for the grandma’s who won’t get to do that tonight. I couldn’t help but picture the parents and grandparents who sent their children to school, for just another day, counting down til summer vacation, only to have them not return home. It makes me angry. And it makes me ache inside. 

Lord, I don’t have a lot of answers. But I do have a lot of anger, and a lot of heart ache. As a parent and grandparent, my head and heart cannot wrap themselves around the needless deaths of children, family members. I’m tired of it, and yet honestly, I feel helpless. I don’t know what to do, to help, to move forward, to stop it from happening again. So, I guess I’m venting here Lord. Hear my prayer today, even when I don’t really know the words to speak. You know the deepest parts of my being, the utterances that cannot be verbalized, the pain that I can’t figure out how to put into words. Take it Lord. Take my anger. Take my aching heart. Pour your comfort and strength upon those who need it most at this very minute; show those who are feeling this tragedy personally, that you are still on the throne, that you love them so very much. And show me, how to love others better today, impacting them in an eternal way. Amen

Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”

Misty Cramer is an author and speaker who enjoys walking alongside others in this journey we call life. Her deisre is to encourage others, as she shares the hope Jesus provides in the midst of life's darkest challenges, as well as it's brightest triumphs. If you would like to receive “Wednesday’s Word”, as well as other encouragement, you can subscribe to her website, https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome and follow her on Instagram @mistydawncramer and Facebook, Misty Cramer, Author & Speaker. She would love to connect with you!  

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FOCUS

The sun had not yet risen over the Houston sky, when our driver dropped my husband and I off at the MD Anderson Cancer Center that cool spring morning in 2015.  I had a full day of blood work and imaging, as well as an appointment with the surgeon on the docket for this day; the day before I would undergo surgery to remove the cancer that had decided to make its home within the walls of my uterus. 

Soon after my arrival that day, nausea and stomach pain began to take over my body. Could I possibly have a stomach virus the day before I was scheduled to get rid of this cancer? As the symptoms intensified, and the trips to the restroom became more frequent, I waited for my MRI, and it became clear that yes, I was indeed sick. After explaining my symptoms to those at the center, they attempted to get me in quickly. The pain in my body began to worsen; by now, I could barely make it to the restroom without assistance. However, delaying the test was not something they were interested in doing. They wanted this MRI, and they were going to get it.

I had undergone many MRI’s since my diagnosis, and I remember wondering that day how I was going to be able to lay on that cold table, without moving, without needing to stop the test so I could run to the restroom. My name was called. Upon seeing me, the faces of those caring for me turned immediately to concern. But they would see me through this. They walked me back, and as I changed into my gown, I was certain I was going to collapse. The cool tile floor beneath my feet beckoned me, begged me to lay down on it; the desire to curl up in a fetal position upon that floor took a strange type of resistance I had not met before this day. I needed to stay focused on the objective of the day, which was to get that MRI. 

The man helped me onto the MRI table. The sterile, hard surface attempted to embrace me as my body shook. Focus. You can do this. Focus. My mind wanted to do anything but focus. My body wanted to be anywhere but on this table. The man explained, if I move, if I interrupt the test, they would need to start it over. I understood. I also understood that it would take more than what I possessed within myself to make it through this test, without rushing to the bathroom, without curling into that fetal position that continued to tempt me. Focus.

What would I focus upon? God, are you there? I can barely think coherently, but I know that you are the only one who can get me through this test. My focus will most certainly need to be on you. The machine began to move me inside the walls of the cylinder. And as it did, music began to play. Not just any music, but to my suprise, a familiar song of promise by one of my favorite artists. “Overcomer,” by Mandisa filled my ears. Yes, God was indeed here. My focus was on Him alone. My frail body. My fearful mind. Both were filled with laser focus on the Father who was in this cylinder with me. The Father who walks this journey with me today. The Father who would walk with me in the days ahead, as the cancer was removed from my body. The Father who made focus possible. 

Focus is not always an easy mission to accomplish. The distractions are endless; ongoing temptations attempt to pull us away from Focus. And then, God. 

I wonder what you may be encountering today that takes more focus than you believe you have within yourself. Do you have a work deadline, one that is weighing you down, that needs your focus? Do you have a spouse who is drifting further from you; one who needs you to take the time to focus on him/her? Do you have a child who is struggling, one who is exhausting you, one who calls for focus in a way that you feel you can’t give right now? You may not have the ability to focus on what is on your plate today, but I guarantee that if you change your focus to God, He will guide you. He will adjust the lens of whatever needs your focus today, and equip you with the strength to zoom in on it in a way that would be impossible without His strength. You may not be able to focus like you need to, but…God, He can.

I hope you are encouraged by these quotes, as well as these scriptures, that offer the reminder to put our attention unto the One who fill our hearts and minds with all things good. 

Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.  1 Peter 1:13

It is during our darkest moments that we must focus to see the light. Aristotle Onassis

Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Proverbs 4:25

Choose to focus your time, energy, and conversation around people who inspire you, support you and help you to grow into your happiest, strongest, wisest self.  Karen Salmansohn

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:2

Every day is a gift from God. Learn to focus on the Giver and enjoy the gift!  Joyce Meyer

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable…if anything is excellent or praiseworthy…think about such things. Philippians 4:8

When trouble comes, focus on God’s ability to care for you.  Charles Stanley

Misty Cramer is an author and speaker who enjoys walking alongside others in this journey we call life. Her deisre is to encourage others, as she shares the hope Jesus provides in the midst of life's darkest challenges, as well as it's brightest triumphs. If you would like to receive “Wednesday’s Word”, as well as other encouragement, you can subscribe to her website, https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome and follow her on Instagram @mistydawncramer and Facebook, Misty Cramer, Author & Speaker. She would love to connect with you!  

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Earlier this week, I glanced out my window to see the sky suddenly becoming dark. The previously blue skies had made a quick turn to gray, and then suddenly a branch struck my window, startling me. Before I could even get to the window, the high winds could be heard howling outside. Twigs and branches were torn from their places among the trees and thrust to the ground. It didn’t take long for rain to  combine with the high winds. As the water poured down from the sky, the wind blew it sideways, making it impossible to even see the trees that stood just yards from our house.

Minutes later, the skies cleared. The rain slowed to a trickle. The wind blew out as earnestly as it had blown in. The storm had subsided, leaving only its remnants scattered across our yard.

I sit here today pondering the impacts of storms on our lives. Not necessarily physical storms, although we have seen a number of those leaving devastation in their wake this year. But today, I think of the proverbial storms in our lives. Those who are walking through storms, struggling to stand in the wind. Attempting to find shelter from the rain. Those who are being hurt by the debris hurled at them with a force strong enough to knock them off their feet.

Perhaps you are one of those people. Or perhaps you know someone close to you who falls into that category. The people with life and death struggles. Some quite literally watching a loved one cling to this earthly existence. Others saying good-bye to those who have just made their journey to heaven, leaving a gaping wound in the hearts of those left behind.

Others face storms of a different sort. Ones that rage at the mailbox with the delivery of yet another bill that can’t be paid. Some that cause the household to tremble, as arguments and hurtful words are found echoing through the halls. A father’s heart is crying for the child who appears lost, wondering if the child will return home. A teens heart pounds with anxiety, as she attempts to figure out her next steps; high school is over. The storm rages within her, as expectations press down, attempting to pound her into the ground.

Some days, the temptations slide their way into her thoughts…would it be easier to disappear. Would anyone notice if the storm carried me away, she ponders. A mother’s heart pounds; she is unsure if the sound of it is from inside her or if possibly those around her can hear the thunderous noise it makes. The clouds hang over her bed, luring her to stay there. It would be easier than facing the chaos and uncertainty the day holds.

My heart is heavy today, as storms close in for so many of you. The pain is deep; I know you are wondering when the darkness will turn to light again. Let me promise you, it will. In the midst of it all, sun can be seen. It is peaking through the horizon. It is making its way, oh so slowly; yet we can remain confident, it is there. It often doesn’t come with an earth-shattering arrival, parting the dark storm clouds in the blink of an eye. It frequently comes slowly, penetrating the darkness bit by bit. Only one ray at a time. A ray of hope. A ray of hope that promises…there is life outside the storm. There is Someone who sees the person at the bedside of their loved one. There is Someone who will walk through the challenges of financial devastation. There is Someone who sees the hurting household. Hears the cries of the father for his child. There is Someone who lifts the anxiety and desires to remove the weight of expectation. There is Someone who puts out His hand and lifts people out of bed, carrying them when necessary. 

Whether you are currently weathering a storm, or hearing the distant rumblings of thunder on the horizon, I am praying for you today. I see you. More importantly, God sees you. You are not alone. I pray that regardless of how dark your storm appears, you catch a glimpse of the ray of sunshine. And when you catch that glimpse, even if it is minute, hold onto that ray. Hold tightly onto the ray that promises you are loved and you are not walking this journey alone. 

May you find encouragement today in a few of my favorite scriptures. And please know, I’d be honored to confidentially pray for any requests you may have today. Just email me from my website, and I will join you in prayer.  

Scriptures for the Storms:

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you a blaze. Isaiah 43:2 (NIV)

Peace I leave you, my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27 (NIV)

For you are my hiding place; you protect me for trouble. You surround me with songs of victory. Psalm 32:7 (NLT)

Mightier than the thunder of many waters, mightier than the waves of the sea, the Lord on high is mighty. Psalm 93:4 (ESV)

Misty Cramer is an author & speaker who recently released her first book, The Every Day God, 40 Daily Devotions for Walking with God through Everyday Moments. This book quickly made its way to Amazon's #1 New Release and Best Seller lists in multiple categories, as well as made its way into the Finals for the Selah Awards in the Devotion category. In her book, Misty authentically shares her own story to remind us all that God has a specific plan, even in the midst of life's messes. She has been married to Todd for 39 years and has five adult sons. While they enjoy their time as "empty nesters" in rural Michigan, they also love visits from their sons, four daughters-in-laws, and three granddaughters. Misty sends out a monthly devotion, and she'd love to send it along to you. The link to subscribe to the devotion, as well as the link to Misty's book can be found below:

Sign up here to receive reminders and links to Marriage Monday, Wednesday's Word, and Misty's monthly devotional newsletter:  https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome

Head to this link if you’d like to purchase the book:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CH258Y14 

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Misty Cramer © 2024

Pictured is my granddaughter, Layla, watching in wonder, as someone blows bubbles and they float up into the sky. Photo credit: Son, Micah Cramer @cramer.11 

Sense of Wonder

My heart seemed to momentarily stop, as I gazed across canyon. Mountains bigger than anything I had ever seen. The tops of them laced with snow, as the base of them held the lushness of multiple shades of green. The clouds hung loosely in the sky, the rocky earth below them, the endless galaxy above. And it filled me with wonder.

The little spider had created its intricate web. And as intriguing as I have always found the spiderweb to be, this time it was the spider in the web that caught my eye. The contrast between her black body and the yellow stripes and dots on her back, actually was beautiful. I’m far from being someone who enjoys spiders, but this particular one, caught the eyes of our whole family. And we examined it closely, filled with wonder. 

Do we take the time frequently enough to allow ourselves to be filled with wonder? Sometimes it’s the things in nature, like I mentioned above that cause us to stop and reflect on God’s goodness with a sense of wonder. But I believe there are reasons to pause, right in the midst of a seemingly “normal” day, to soak in the wonder of God.

The birth of a newborn baby. Wonder.

The flower buds in the front yard, ready to burst forth with color. Wonder. 

Time spent with someone special, caressing their hand, sitting silently, yet being so very much connected. Wonder.

Watching the eyes of child light up as bubbles are blown, released into the sky. Wonder.

The hummingbird at the flower, flapping his wings at 53 beats per second. Wonder.

The gaze of a parent, looking down at their sleeping child. Wonder. 

The list goes on and on. What comes to your mind today, when you hear the word “wonder”? 

Below are some verses and quotes that can help inspire and encourage you. I pray that the Lord fills you with wonder today, as you catch multiple glimpses of His goodness in the midst of your daily routine.  

For you are great, and do great works of wonder; you only are God. Psalm 86:10 (BBE)

Look at everything in the world as if you are seeing it for the first time, and paint everything as if you are seeing it for the last. Andrew Hamilton

And the men were full of wonder, saying, What sort of man is this, that even the winds and the sea do his orders. Matthew 8:27 (BBE)

A state of wonder is a state of mind. Margaret Stone

And hearing it, they wer full of wonder, and went away from him. Matthew 22:22 (BBE)

Wonder is the beginning of wisdom. Socarates

Make clear the wonder of your mercy, O saviour of those who put their faith in your right hand, from those who come out against them.  Psalms 17:7 (NIV) 

All of us have wonders hidden in our breasts, only needing circumstances to evoke them. Charles Dickens

I am as a wonder unto many; but thou art my strong refuge. Psalm 71:7 (KJV) 

Misty Cramer is an author and speaker who enjoys walking alongside others in this journey we call life. Her deisre is to encourage others, as she shares the hope Jesus provides in the midst of life's darkest challenges, as well as it's brightest triumphs. If you would like to receive “Wednesday’s Word”, as well as other encouragement, you can subscribe to her website, https://mailchi.mp/7844a4ba7f8b/welcome and follow her on Instagram @mistydawncramer and Facebook, Misty Cramer, Author & Speaker. She would love to connect with you!  

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