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

PSALM 91 :: UNDER HIS WINGS

REACHING HURTING WOMEN MINISTRIES OFFERS FOUR THEMES FOR STUDY AND CONTEMPLATION EVERY MONTH OF THE YEAR.
EACH OF THE FOUR POWER-PACKED THEMES ARE A 12-MONTH STUDY SERIES ASSIGNED TO A SPECIFIC FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH. IN MONTHS WITH FIVE FRIDAYS I’LL BE REVIEWING TOUCHING INSPIRATIONAL MUSIC.
On the first Friday of each month in 2021 we will be studying Psalm 91. We’ll be learning this powerful psalm and applying its phenomenal promises to our life one phrase at a time.  We continue today with verse four.

He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection. ~ Psalm 91:4

When we are in right relationship with God our Father, we are in the safest place in the universe. Today’s verse tells us that God will shelter us with His wings. We can be sure that His promises are our shield and protection.

Then he said, “I tell you the truth. You must change and become like little children. If you don’t do this, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. The greatest person in the kingdom of heaven is the one who makes himself humble like this child. ~ Matthew 18:3-4

In general children don’t have fear of protection because they have loving parents that take care of them. As children of the King we too must have that humble childlike faith to know and trust that our loving Father will protect us.

So we are convinced that every detail of our lives is continually woven together for good, for we are his lovers who have been called to fulfill his designed purpose. ~ Romans 8:28

When tough times or illness come our way we can know that even these will work out to our good in the long run of life. In the secret hiding place under God’s loving wings we’re being grown into the mature believers that He wants us to be.

We can trust that under the shelter of God’s loving wings He is not only our deliverer and protection, but He is our help in every kind of need!

 

Vectra Wings Image Credit