"Winkler: 'I was worn out'"

The headline read, "Winkler: 'I was worn out'"(Tennessean.com). Whether or not one believes Mary Winkler, emotions run deep. Some feel for her and what she "endured," while others support Matthew Winkler.

Life is not a "do-over," like a video game. What's done is done. We don't get the chance to undo what has already been done. At best life is difficult and we all struggle to "keep our heads above water."

I am quite sure life in the Winkler home is much like that of most. We all struggle to make ends meet and our relationships are strained.

I knew Matthew and cannot say he did or did not do what Mary has claimed (I want to believe that he would not or could not be that kind of person, God alone knows his heart.) My concern lies in her apparent lack of concern for the Lord's church and quite frankly her lack of trust in God and His people. I realize that no one can feel what she felt, or know what she knows but the fact remains God was not at the focus of her thoughts and actions. (I cannot speak of Matthews mindset, he is not here to express himself.) Furthermore, I feel that she has exposed a sad reality in the lifes of many children of God.

This lack of God in our lives is evident by the lack of trust in Him and His promises. God will take care of us (Matt. 6, 10; II Pet. 1). Many of God's children try to take care our problems by ourselves. We hide our true feelings and grow weary of life and it's trails.

Children of God should have (do have) an audience with God and His people. We try to bury our hurts, groanings and problems instead of facing them with God in our heart. When we trust God, we know (beyond doubt) God will take care of us. He will mete our vengence on all who hurt His children (Rom. 12). He will bless those who bless His children, as a matter of fact He has promised a place of rest for His children (Hebrews 9).

The apostle Paul encourages us to "bear one another's burdens" (Gal. 6:1-2). Satan has produced great doubt in our minds and heart and leads us to be ashamed, afraid and "closed lips" when we need the prayers and support of our fellow brethren.

God and I should be a majority, add His people in the equation and there is absolutely nothing we cannot handle. Truth of the matter, God and I can overcome any and all situations we find ourselves in. If we only trust Him to provide and care for us.

I realize this sounds simple, and yet it is true. We cannot overcome without God. With God in my heart I will not sin against you nor will I sin with you. I will not take justice into my own hands, I will let God handle all who transgress His law.

"Trust God and lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs. 3:5).

David Stofel