I remember the date clearly when memorizing God’s word took on a whole new meaning for my life. It was 5 years ago, and I had recently given birth to our 4th child, a precious little girl – Emma. This was also my fourth C-section. Recovery was fairly easy for me, but this time God was about to take me on a different journey.
My husband and I had been involved in church ministry for most of our married lives. I knew that memorizing scripture was important, but I never really found the time to make it a priority. However, after Emma’s birth, I found myself in a very humbling place. It was the dark pit of post-partum depression.
Many fears surrounded me; especially, the fear of holding her. In my mind I knew it was crazy, but I couldn’t escape the lies of the enemy. I began to lose weight and could not eat or sleep. My husband was a wonderful encourager, and we found a good doctor to treat my condition. However, I knew that no amount of encouragement or medicine could cure me of the lies and fears that filled my mind. This had become a spiritual battle.
Thankfully, in God’s perfect timing, our son’s fifth grade Sunday school class had started to memorize the book of James. As I watched him and listened to him repeat the words of James, I knew that was what I needed! I had to find a way to have His word continually in my mind and heart to block out the lies and the fears. I decided to join him in memorizing James, and ever so slowly a light began to shine in my dark pit.
Without a doubt, I know that memorizing His word gave me the strength I needed to climb out of that dark pit. Even today, I can be found with my packet of verses in hand. What a joy it is! I am grateful that he has allowed me to memorize 4 books of the Bible and several chapters in Psalms.
And Emma? She is the joy of our family!
During the time that she was a baby and I could not hold her, I prayed that God “would restore the years that the locusts had eaten.” (Joel 2:25) I praise Him because He has done so tenfold and has placed within my heart His word.
Wow, what a great story. Thank you Angela for being so open and willing to tell others about your struggles. God is so good, that he gave us his word to help us in our time of trouble. When I read your story it reminded me of Psalm 119:25, My soul clings to dust; give me life according to your word! It sounds like God has done that for you, as he will do for anyone who asks.
Angela, your story is so inspiring and from the heart. Thank you for sharing. God’s timing to fulfill all our needs is so amazing! As believers we are in awe of Him!
God bless you, sister in Christ, Maureen
Angela,
Great story thank you for inspiring people to turn to God’s word in our pits. I am so thankful He uses his word to restore our souls.I praise God for what Has done for you. Very inspiring story.
Angela, thank you so much for your transparency and willingness to share. It was a breath of fresh air and a much needed one. As Christians, we face so many unreasonable expectations of perfection from non-believers and believers alike. Honesty about real struggles from the enemy, as well as struggles faced by our imperfect human bodies is (irrationally) viewed by some as a failed spiritual life. This perpetuates the cycle of Christians afraid to be honest—especially regarding emotional/mental health issues. I am very grateful for your bold honesty. Emma is seriously adorable and she has a seriously wonderful—and brave Mommy.
Thank you both. Mickey, what a wonderful verse. I am definitely marking that one down.
His timing is amazing. In the midst of my struggle, I probably didn’t think so. I wanted quick relief and a quick rescue, but He knew that my heart needed something else (the power of His word), and I am so thankful. Today I can say, “I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.” Ps. 40:1,2
Thank you for sharing your story, Angela! God’s Word is so precious and powerful in our lives. How sweet that your son’s memorizing the book of James was used in your life as well! May the Lord continue to bless you!
What a beautiful and touching story of the God’s powerful healing. Thank you for your willingness to share. God bless you and Emma and your whole family.
What a precious story of how God’s word transforms!! I know it but love being reminded! Thank you for being vulnerable and authentic-it is very inspiring and encouraging. I love the book of James also-probably my favorite–a great tool for all of us to have in our toolboxes for life!
Thank you for your story! I love how God had your son working through a book that was perfect for that trial in your life! How amazing to see His great love for YOU! He is truly an awesome God and we are so privileged to have His Word woven into our lives.
Yes, it was a very humbling experience. I was not one who could easily ask for help or wanted to look like I was struggling. But I was quickly reminded this past month as I was finishing up memorizing 1 Peter. That I Peter 5:5 reads, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” It was hard to admit my struggles to others, but only through that could God’s glory shine. I am also now much more sensitive to others who struggle with the same issues. Blessings!
Hi Angela:
What a wonderful story of God’s grace and the power of his word to transform our thinking. His word really is a sword to be used against the lies of the enemy. And how wonderful that your son’s class just happened to be memorizing James at just the right time for you to jump in with him. Thank you for sharing your experience with us. It is so encouraging!
Richie
Angela, thank you for sharing your story about how God used His Word in your life. Your story blessed my life today.
WOW!! God’s Word is indeed powerful. Thank you, Angela, for sharing.