One month after my son took his life, my sister, Susan Halgren, gave me a copy of that particular day’s entry from the devotional book, Jesus Calling. I’ve carried that Jesus Calling entry in my Bible ever since. We’re approaching two years since my son, Jordan, stepped into Paradise. The words my sister gave me are below, with brackets containing some personal commentary.

“Trust Me and don’t be afraid; I am your Strength and your Song [one month removed from Jordan’s death, I never thought i would sing again – but I did 🙂  Do not let fear [planted there by the enemy] dissipate your energy. Instead, Invest your energy in trusting *Me* and singing *My* Song…

The battle for control of your mind is fierce [that’s an understatement; there were several times in those first 8 months I looked at Michelle Pittam Watts and said, “I’m not gonna make it.”]… Therefore, you need to be vigilant in guarding your thoughts. Do not despise this weakness in yourself, since I am *using it to draw you closer to Me* [once again, Christ has taken what the enemy intended for evil, and is using it for good.]….

You are not alone in this struggle for your mind. My Spirit living in you is ever ready to help…”