Judy and I have had a very busy two months in April and May. We have made a trip outside the US, one in the US; we have had children, grandchildren, parents, and a sister-in-law visiting with us (multiple times!). And above all this, we are involved in all that is entailed in pastoring a church. Whirlwind hardly describes our life. We are not the only ones that live such a life nowadays. How can you do it without being run over, overrun and run down?

Let me make some suggestions that might help you. The most important thing you need in your life's "makeup" is a personal walk with the Lord. This is where you rightly can vent, express needs and worship and be thankful for the Lord's presence and strength. It is important to tell Him your frustrations and express your joys, to call out to Him for help and strength. (Remember, others are probably just as stressed as you are and have no time or energy to help you -- certainly none to listen to your frustrations.) Then the Lord, Who knows your needs so well, can send the right people to help you, AND the right people who need the blessing of hearing your joys. Trusting Him in this lightens your load.

Secondly, embrace each situation as an opportunity to further immerse yourself in God. Each situation can bless you, stretch you, grow you, and open doors which might otherwise never open. It seems that the doors of blessing have secret latches that are buried in the depths of service to others. So make each busy, frazzling, over-the-top situation a treasure hunt for the latch that opens a door of blessing. When people say, "How can you handle all this?" Just say, "I am on a treasure hunt!"

Lastly, keep a good check on your attitude. Remember, your attitude determines your altitude.

Be blessed today (that's a command from me to you).