To Hear & Trust - Stephanie Rautio

When I was a little girl, we lived in Eastern Oregon.  Most of our family lived in Idaho, and I also had Grandparents who lived on the southern Oregon Coast. This meant many road trips to see loved ones. Either location meant driving over mountain ranges, and many of these trips were during the winter for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Anyone who has ever made the trip over the Blue Mountains knows how curvy and steep this drive can be. I don’t ever remember it being scary because my Dad, who I trusted, would always get us there. It wasn’t until it was my responsibility to safely get my kids over the pass that I even thought about it. Trusting my Dad and seeing his faith is how I learned to lean on and trust the Lord.  He carries us and our worries. The big thing that I have to remember is to slow down, calm my worried mind, and listen.

On Sunday, Daniel taught us the Hebrew word Shema, which means to hear. In my notes I wrote down that we need to have what we hear from the Lord to change us. To act on his truth, you must listen and hear. This made me ask myself, “What do I hear God saying to me right now?”

The answer was simple: remember to slow down and take the time to listen. I often get out of my rhythm when my schedule isn’t normal, and this week, I realized that was where I was. When this happens, there is excess worry that creeps back in and takes over my thoughts.

So, this week, it was time for a reset. To make sure that daily, I set aside time to sit, read the word, and listen to what the Lord wants me to hear. One of my favorite things to do is journal. I like to be able to go back to see what I’ve come through, the lessons the Lord had for me, and the prayers that have been answered. This rhythm helps me to not be in a stressed and worried state. It helps me to hear the Lord and remember to pray for others.

This is a verse that came to me during these times of worry this week:

Matthew 11:28-30
Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

I am so thankful for this reminder to slow down, listen, hear, and continue to trust in the Lord who cares for us.

 

Stephanie Rautio
Office Administrator | Hope City Church