Matthew 14: 9 – 10, 13 The King was distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he ordered that her request be granted and had John beheaded in prison. When Jesus heard what had happened, he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place.

Child of God what do you do when you’ve heard bad news? Not just random news but the kind that is so personal, it knocks the wind out of you or causes your knees to buckle. Well, after you regain some composure, the first thing you need to do is separate yourself from the confusion which is likely to ensue. Follow Jesus’ example – find a quiet place. If you can, breathe just four words “Father I come to you.” That is all you need to say in that moment and stay still until his Spirit revives you, however long it takes. Like Jesus, when you emerge, you will not only have the strength you need for yourself but enough to reach out to those around you – your Father will make it possible for you to show compassion even in your darkest moment. I share this with you because I know it to be true.

Read Matthew 14: 1- 23. After Jesus had done what was necessary for that day he again went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When certain life events happen they create a crisis. The pain is unlikely to disappear in a flash and the effects for you going forward might be life-changing. But your response should be to continually return to your source of strength – your heavenly Father. Only He has the power to impart his peace so you can have strength to move forward. “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40: 29 – 31). Lean on Him.