Women’s Devotion: Riding a Roller Coaster of Emotions

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 

Does anyone else feel like you’ve been riding on a roller coaster for the past couple of months? Some moments are exciting and enjoyable while others may be uncomfortable and leave you wondering what is going to happen next and when will this crazy ride be over?! Being a mom to younger kids, we are currently transitioning out of school time and into summertime, which usually looks a little different than it has this year, and I’m finding myself wondering what exactly is next.

I found myself thinking about roller coasters recently when it really sank in that our summer plans will need to be modified this year. This summer was going to be the year we planned to take a family trip to an area where my family used to spend time during summers when I was a kid. I realized that it had so many things that truly excite my 5-year-old son – a lake with a sandy beach, a mini golf course, trails to ride his bike, and of course guaranteed ice cream for dessert every day – it is vacation, after all. Also, it has a little amusement park that would be my son’s first roller coaster ride! I expected him to have a mix of emotions when seeing the roller coaster for the first time. He may be excited, and also afraid, but then likely brave to try it together. I could hopefully help him be strong and courageous. Isn’t it amazing the strength a little extra squeeze from a mom can do for their child when facing a new adventure that seems a little frightening?

But where can I get more strength when I am the one facing a frightening new adventure? The reminder that I need is the good news that we all have a God who is with us every step of the way, empowering us to be strong and courageous, even when we face the unknown.

Dear Lord, Thank you for your presence in our daily lives, helping us be strong and courageous, as we experience the highs and lows of our own roller coaster rides. Please be with us as we enjoy the view at the top and seek your comfort and guidance at the bottom.
Amen.

Written by Kristin Blomendahl

Kristin Blomendahl, a member of the Sheridan Women’s Ministry Team, lives in Lincoln with her husband Ben, son Max, and daughter Shelby. Kristin and Ben were both raised on farms in Northeast Nebraska, attended UNL, were married at Sheridan, and then lived in California and Maryland before moving back home to “The Good Life” to raise their family. Kristin’s educational background is in Nutrition and Public Health and she is currently a stay at home mom.