The first Sunday of September stirs thoughts of fall, though the meteorologist dashes my hope with his prediction of 90 degrees.

Maisie and I walk early, before light invades the darkness. The sun is not yet visible, but its rays tinge the grey clouds with shades of pink. Stillness envelopes the beginning of this new morning.

New mercies await me.

My thoughts turn to a new Bible study beginning next week. Women will gather at the Wright House, and we will study the Word, stretch our faith, and learn anew to Believe God.

“Believe” is a word that has profound meaning for me. A number of years ago, God spoke in my desperation, me on my knees at the couch heaving sobs. My heart was broken. My future looked frightful. This was not how my life was supposed to be.

Through my tears and brokenness, He spoke words to my heart:

“Believe and see the glory of God.”

What? Where’s the glory in this ugliness? How are You going to turn chaos into splendour?

The very next day I received a letter from someone who knew a part my struggle. She wrote on the outside of the envelope these words:

“Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?” 
                                                             — John 11:40 NIV

A verse written on paper by my friend, Jesus’ spoken words lettered red in my Bible, and the Holy Spirit’s echo of courage as I knelt – His holy word was inscribed on my heart. I grasped it like a life raft. I feebly exercised my believing and waited to see His glory.

His glory finally came. It was miraculous, like the dead being raised to new life. I could not have imagine what my God was about to do.

That memory stirs my soul as I enter the season of Believing God once again. I long for my theology to become my reality, as Beth Moore says. I desire to walk in victorious faith, to actually live like I’m more than a conqueror, to receive the blessings God wants to give me.

I Believe God. And He’s about to be wonderful.

Sunday grace.