"You say/God says."

I received this meditation the other day, via e-mail. I share it with you this morning for two reasons. First of all, because it makes reference to Romans 8: 28, which we heard a few moments ago in our second reading. Secondly, it's a powerful testimony to the importance of reading the Scriptures. If we read God's Word--and believe what we read--it will make a monumental difference in our lives. As this reflection indicates, the benefits will be physical and psychological, as well as spiritual.

For lack of a better title, you might choose to call this meditation "You say/God says."

You say, "It's impossible."
God says, "What's impossible for human beings is possible for me." (Luke 18: 27)

You say, "I'm too tired."
God says, "I will give you rest." (Matthew 11: 28)

You say, "I can't do it."
God says, "You can do all things through Christ." (Philippians 4: 13)

You say, "I'm always worried and frustrated."
God says, "Cast all your cares on me." (1 Peter 5: 7)

You say, "I feel all alone."
God says, "I will never forsake you or abandon you." (Hebrews 13: 5)

You say, "I'm not smart enough."
God says, "I . . . shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute." (Luke 21: 15)

You say, "I'm afraid."
God says, "I have not given you a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and love and self-control." (2 Timothy 1: 7)

You say, "I can't figure things out."
God says, "I will direct your steps if you trust me." (Proverbs 3: 5-6)

You say, "I can't go on."
God says, "My grace is sufficient for you." (2 Corinthians 12: 9)

You say, "Nobody loves me."
God says, "I have loved you with an everlasting love." (Jeremiah 31: 3)

You say, "I don't have enough faith."
God says, "If you have faith the size of a mustard seed you can move mountains." (Matthew 17: 20)

You say, "I can't be forgiven."
God says, "Though your sins be like scarlet, they may become white as snow; though they be crimson red, they may become white as wool." (Isaiah 1: 18)

And finally:

You say, "Nothing good can possibly come out of my trials and sufferings and mistakes."
God says, "If you truly love me, everything in your life will work together for good, and that includes your trials, sufferings and mistakes." (Romans 8: 28)