Well, today, for whatever reason, I had a pretty big panic attack driving to church. I wanted to turn around and not go. But Stephanie was with me and she loves church now, so I continued on. I think it had a lot to do with finding out that dh will be away now for 18 months and not the 14 measly months we had planned on. (I know, I should be a good wife and suck it up!)
Well, I got Stephanie settled in her "class" (playroom) and went into the worship center. I still felt stressed. Then I started to sing and felt a bit more relaxed. The pastor wasn;t there due to vacation, but another preacher was filling in and I was listening to his sermon on connecting with God- something I have an interest in doing better. Well, he started praying for people in that particular service because he felt there were people who were anxious and stressed out and needing comfort at that moment. This is the first time I have had this happen at this church. he talked about fear and panic, etc.., Everything I was feeling. Do you know, I started to cry in front of those 800 plus people! I just felt a huge weight lifted off of my heart. I am tearing up just remembering how I felt. See, I am a "seasoned" military wife. I have to be tough and strong all of the time. I cannot let my children see me upset. I have to comfort the younger wives. But I guess I really needed to feel how stressed I am on the inside, deep down. I just couldn't believe how much that prayer spoke to my situation- everyone feels stress, but anxiety and panic were exactly how I was feeling at that very moment! It was amazing. I am a skeptic, but I really believe that message was sent to me today, and it mad eme feel much closer to God.
Thanks for letting me relay my story:)

:hug: First of all, sorry you were feeling that anxiety. I know that feeling.

But, I am glad that God reached out to comfort you when you needed it.

Isn't it amazing when you're sitting in church and it appears that the message is tailored to exactly what you needed right that moment? God speaks to us when we need it most. I'm so glad he touched your heart. I cry in church almost every Sunday lol - so don't even give that a second thought. ((((hugs to you))))

Thanks, guys! Yeah, I was feeling pretty amazed- I'm *such* a skeptic and it was not something they have ever said before in that church.

God is amazing like that. I'm so glad you found comfort. I know panic all too well. I'm sorry things are stressful for you, but I hope that you can rest now in knowing that He is right there with you -- that you will feel His presence even more in your DH's absence. :hug:

I am sorry about the panic attack but I am so glad that the pastor was able to speak to you today and that God touched you. Even though you are a seasoned military wife it is still stressful and I think it is ok to admit that to yourself.

Thats so awesome :hug:

:hug: First of all, sorry you were feeling that anxiety. I know that feeling.

But, I am glad that God reached out to comfort you when you needed it.

Took the words right out of my mouth!

:hug:

If you know my story at all, you have to know how much of a sceptic I was. Just keep yourself open and I promise you that you will have more affirmations in your life. :)

that is fabulous, Maura!

so glad you felt that connection yesterday maura!

I'm so glad you experienced that. Isn't it great that God takes time out of His busy schedule to reach down and touch one heart? He really does care about every aspect of our lives. Thanks for sharing!!

That's wonderful Maura! I'm glad God could help you relieve those feelings.

That is amazing. I am so happy that God could connect to you in this way. Those are the types of experiences that strengthen your faith and bond with God and that will stick with you forever. :hug:

what a wonderful story. i am glad you found some solace.