Ever been on a roller coaster? The climb to the highest point and the extreme drop can be exciting and very scary, but one thing I've learned is never step out while it's moving As long as I stay inside, I will be safe. Many times, God has taken me on roller coaster rides; not all have been fun, but the lessons I've learned are invaluable-experiencing the highs and lows of life and wanting to share what God has taught through the mountain tops and the valleys. The feelings of great exhilaration as well as the uncomfortable let-down can be breathtaking, but also very instructive.

There are other times God reveals Himself while listening to a sermon and a certain phrase or concept will catch my attention, needing to pursue it further. Or times when God awakens me from sleep with a thought or song that has captured my mind, and He will give me ideas and words to write.

More often than not, however, He will just let me catch a glimpse into His power and glory as I hear the ocean's mighty roar, see the radiant beauty of His hand-painted sunrise or sunset, or simply stand in awe of the unbearable suffering He endured for me. These things ignite a desire in me to write so others, too, might catch this same glimpse of His majesty.

Lastly, there are times when the hurts and pains of life seem to overwhelm me and I find the need to press in closer to Him, finding the renewed strength to take another breath and move on one step at a time. As long as I stand aside and allow Him to work, He has always been faithful to take me by the hand and gently lead me that next step.

Have you ever had these same feelings? I'm guessing you may have at some time and, if so, these short inspirational thoughts might just be your encouragement from God.