Comfort Food

O taste and see that the Lord is good;
How blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!
–Psalm 34:8

In the two years I have lived in Indonesia I have learned different ways to travel, talk, shop, care for my family, respond to situations, and refuel my life, which often seems drained by living overseas.

With so much that is different, I find that I look forward to coming home, shutting out the world, and clinging to what remains the same. As I was hanging out in my comfy chair one morning, I looked up to see my favorite beverage and snack of choice sitting in front of me and it made me think about where I was looking to find my comfort.

D Klynstra_snacks

It was then that I realized, in the midst of so much transition and change in my life, I was longing for control and reaching for the wrong things. But they only provided temporary comfort. How could I serve my family and those around me on a stomach full of “chips and chocolate”? The snacks were not wrong by themselves, but when I came to depend on them, or on social media, or my own busyness, then I began to depend on the Lord less.

D Klynstra_chair

I found being in the Word of God daily is so much more satisfying, and a privilege. So many in this country do not have the written Word of God in their own heart language. I am thankful to be a part of an organization that is helping make this possible by flying His servants to remote places to share the Gospel.

As you pray for missionaries overseas, please pray for their walk with the Lord. It is easy to get caught in the many needs surrounding us, and rely on the wrong things for comfort. But when we’re fed by His Word, He gives the strength for each day.

For He satisfies the longing soul,
the hungry soul He fills with good things
.”
–Psalm 107:9

10 Comments

  • Linda Hoekwater says:

    Thank you, Debbie! This spoke to my heart this morning. Love you, sister!

  • Nancy Hawes says:

    Thanks for sharing these truths Debbie! May the Lord give us hearts to embrace the spiritual manna and drink of His living waters which can provide the security our hearts long for. Isaiah 55. Praying for you friend!

  • Joan Kimmey says:

    I can’t wait after I arise and get a cup of tea to get in God’s word to start my day

    • Debbie says:

      You are such a wonderful example and mentor to those around you…because of your great love for Him and His Word. x o

  • Marcia Whetsel says:

    That is a beautiful reminder not only to missionaries living overseas but to everyone. God’s Word is our only sustainer in this life. Thanks for the reminder. Helps to know how to make our prayers for you and others more personal. We love you.

  • Sylvia Rogers says:

    Good reminder, Debbie! I’ve been thinking about that a lot recently too. I remember struggling with that overseas, and it pops up from time to time here as well. Thanks for sharing!

    Hugs from Idaho!

  • Debbie says:

    Transition seems to be my hardest time for turning to food for comfort. I am sure the Lord has taught you so much through the years of faithful service. Can’t wait to see you!

Leave a Reply to Debbie Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *