MY VICTORY VOYAGE || Steady in the Storm

In MY VICTORY VOYAGE I’m sharing the trials I’ve faced and how God’s faithfulness carried me through. Join me on the 2nd Friday of each month in 2025 as we reflect on His restoration and grace.

The storm isn’t just outside—it’s within me. When depression and anxiety take hold, a heavy cloud descends on my spirit, soul and body, leaving me feeling stifled and struggling to breathe.

This is when it is critical to turn to God’s Word. I go directly to the topical section in my Life Application Study Bible and find a verse that speaks to the moment—whether it’s fear, worry, sadness, or something else. When I discover a verse that resonates, I meditate on it, seeking specific applications for my situation.

When the storms of life affect our mental and spiritual health, it’s vital to remember that our identity is in Christ, not in the opinions or misconceptions of others. Experiencing anxiety or depression doesn’t diminish our faith. On the contrary, I believe it can help deepen our reliance on God if we allow it to by connecting ourselves to The Anchor—Jesus Christ!

“We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.”    — Hebrews 6:19

An anchor secures a ship in turbulent waters, keeping it from capsizing or drifting away. It doesn’t stop the storm, but it keeps the ship from being destroyed. In the same way, God doesn’t always calm our storms immediately, but He anchors us in His love, promises and peace. When I feel tossed around by my emotions, I remind myself that I am anchored to Jesus!

Our journey through depression and anxiety isn’t always a straight path, nor is it always quick. But I’ve experienced the faithfulness of God in big and small ways—sometimes through the most unlikely people or events.

Holidays are often the most difficult. With loss of family and grandchildren far away that can be a challenging season. During those times, I lean into the Lord, trusting that even small steps forward are progress.

Through my journey, I’ve discovered spiritual practices that help me connect with God and steady my heart when the storm feels overwhelming. These practices have been a source of comfort and growth, and I want to share them with you.

Spiritual Practices

Soaking Worship: Lay down or sit quietly and listen to a worship song like the one attached below. Giving everything to God while praising Him in those few minutes brings peace.

Breath Prayers: Sit quietly and inhale, saying, “Lord, You are my peace.” Then exhale, saying, “I trust in You.”

Journal Your Prayers and Victories: Writing even just a few words each day can help you process your feelings, challenges, and resolutions. Looking back to see answered prayers reveals how and where God has been faithful in your journey.

Scripture Meditation: God’s Word has the power to calm your mind while also reminding you that He is present with you. If you don’t know where to start, write down the verse below on a simple 3×5 card or Sticky note. Repeat it to yourself during anxious moments—it will help.

I was very worried. But you comforted me and made me happy. ~ Psalm 94:19 (New Century Version)

Dear reader, you’re not alone in this journey. If you’re facing a storm, remember that God is your anchor. His promises are firm and secure, no matter the waves. Join me here next month as we continue our Victory Voyage, trusting in His faithfulness together.

Spend a few minutes in soaking worship with this beautiful video by Hillsong Worship. It will redirect your heart out of the storm to God’s peace. Be blessed… Tamara

THE TWELVE STEPS TO VICTORY™ || Step Three || Trusting God to Lead

In The Twelve Steps to Victory™ column, we’re reframing the traditional 12 Steps with a focus on victory vs continually looking back at our missteps and failures. Each Step aligns with the months on the yearly calendar. This series publishes on the first Friday of each month in 2025.

We made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him, trusting that He would lead us to victory. ~ Step Three

Step Three is where we begin to walk by faith as we learn to surrender control of our lives to God. For many of us, this can feel intimidating—but it can also be a freeing step toward an important spiritual victory. This step is about trust, humility, and letting go of the illusion that we can manage everything on our own.

Surrendering can be scary. It’s uncomfortable not knowing where we are going. We want to hold on to the illusion that we are in control even if that means drifting away from God’s purpose for our life.

Step Three is inviting us to let go and let God take the lead in our life.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. — Proverbs 3:5-6

We must remember that God will never take us where He won’t provide for us. Surrendering our control isn’t a loss–it’s actually a victory in disguise. By turning our lives and our will over to God’s care we step into the amazing life He has planned for us.

This week let’s give Him our plans, fears and desires. We can trust His guidance in all things for our life. Let’s let Him lead the way!

Be blessed by this inspiring song by Leeland: Lead The Way.