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Cathey Cone's avatar

Thank you for taking the time to share your heart. I would say with utmost certainty that we've all been there, striving to do good things and accomplish what we believe God wants us to do., and taking on more that we can reasonably achieve. I have been guilty of the sin of "busyness" more than I care to admit. But I also know that when we come to the end of ourselves and admit that we can't do it all is when God can. So many times when I have tried to do things under my own power, things didn't go well. Take comfort in knowing He will carry you - rest in that! Hugs!

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Anne Wooten's avatar

Donny, truly, truly, we can put so much pressure on ourselves to “perform” if you will. We can be our own worse enemy. I’ve been there and done that. I think we all have. Thank you for your honesty! Thank you for sharing that honesty with us. Pride goes before sin and our sinful pride can weigh us down. That’s when the devil loves to swoop in and fill our heads with lies. And you know, it’s okay to say “no” sometimes. God has heard a lot from me lately over the past several years, but one thing I cling to each day is Matthew 6:33 that you shared. When I leave myself vulnerable, seek His kingdom and His righteousness first, all will be given to you, it brings me such peace. All He asks is a little of our time placing Him as our priority. I fail, we all fail at this. But when we come to Him in child like faith and confess and repent, He will forgive us because He loves us. And you know, we always learn a lesson that can be used to encourage someone else. I believe this particular prayer walk or prayer “sit” as you call it will benefit or be used to encourage someone. It helped me to believe the course or journey I’m currently on is good. 🙏🙏 for you my friend. All will work out in God’s timing and per His will. My favorite three words I say to myself each day that I’ll end with is, “STAY KINGDOM FOCUSED!”

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Jan Stoneburner's avatar

Yes, I have burned out like you before. I struggled over a year trying to save myself, trying to put one foot in front of another. I spent hours praying, journaling to God, but it wasn’t until I truly surrendered to him did I find Peace and a new motivation for Life. I don’t even know how a true surrender happens -- except one day I shouted, “God, I can’t do this by myself” and I literally felt a weight lifted off my shoulders. You have allowed too much stress to build up, Donny. Release the valve and let some pressure out -- let some more God in. You’ll be raring to go in no time. -- Jan xoxo

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Teresa Montgomery's avatar

Donny, please don't be too hard on yourself, you are only human and like all of us we tend to rush into things and forget the important ones. I just finished a course and we were told to write down all the things we felt we needed to do, pray over them then list them in order of priority with no.1 being first and so on. Then start working on that and then so on down the list. If any of them have other components to them like your bus do the same with that and then work on what is the priority when any priorities above it are worked on. Some on your list may need to done around the same time but you will work that out if you work on the number one priority. I think you already know what that will be. Please know that I have to work on this as well but I hope it may help you to be less stressed about things.

Many Blessings

Teresa

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Linda Jane Brown's avatar

Greetings to you, Donny, during this time of questioning and being overwhelmed. Matthew 11:28-30 is a life lesson from Jesus. During Jesus’s life he focused on what was in front of him. When people came to him he gave them his attention and met their need. His mind was focused on the task in front of him. He didn’t worry about balance. He did what needed to be done, when it needed to be done. As humans I believe we spend a lot of time worrying about things and people we cannot control. I read an article recently that talked about relationships and that a key component of successful ones is moving towards your partner, leaning into them. I feel sometimes I run from God and his expectations. In my life now I need to set apart a firm time each day on my calendar as my time in prayer, in stillness, in listening. It needs to becomes the most important appointment of the day. I will move toward my Lord. In this prayer walk today, Donny, your discouragement was so genuine. Your heart is hurting and we hurt with you. God is speaking through you to us and speaking to you. He is saying to all of us let the worry go. One moment at a time, one task at a time, one day at a time. Our rest is in the Lord. My prayers are with you as I know your prayers are with us. We are one body! Together we accomplish His work on earth, one person at a time, one task at a time. If this sounds like a sermonette, a pep talk it is one to myself, just sharing it with all! My prayers are with you. Continued blessings on your journey.

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Denise Hawks's avatar

Donny, I have been praying for you all week, and especially today. I know you are discouraged thinking that you have let all of us down. But, remember, as you have said many times, we are a "family". When you are down, we all want to help you..but, you are going to have to decide (through God's Word and praying) the order of your priorities. If you have to back off on prayer walks, or whatever, we will understand. The Bible says whatever you do, do it heartily as to the Lord..I pray God will give you the wisdom in how to handle all this. Love you in the Lord, Denise

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Lucinda Jolly's avatar

My friend Donny, we all become overwhelmed sometimes. What is precious about God is that knows we do. He waits until His quiet voice can penetrate our thoughts. I have been there too. I’ve been like my dog great concentration then the squirrel show up. I am trusting God. I beginning to paint or draw but forget to acknowledge Him then my child jumps in and throws me a left curve. You never deny giving yourself and pray. I don’t bug you knowing you’re also overcome. Whatever time you give I’m so blessed. Hearing from you whenever you have the time is a great help. I because I’m to pray without ceasing. I pray for you daily and you need not to ask for forgiveness from me for being Donny.

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Robin's avatar

Thank you for sharing your burden. Just watching this I could tell you are carrying a heavy load in your mind and heart. So many times we think we are doing what we are supposed to be doing or being called to, but we are actually walking parallel to where we truly need to be. The facade becomes the reality. Your thoughts remind me of something that I do very often, I keep doing a task or job choosing to ignore what is in my heart because of the fear of walking away. I get scared to let go and move forward because of the unknown. I pray that you find some clarity and that you are able to see clearly your path to peace and joy, because that is where you need to be.

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Pamela Eisen's avatar

I need some help in discerning whether my behaviors are distracting me from my

being present to God.

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Donny Mac's avatar

did you ask God to show you?

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Pamela Eisen's avatar

I don't know who I'm asking right now, Donny. I thought I was praying in a way that would bring me closer to God. Now I'm questioning myself again. How do I ask someone that I can't see? I know in myself what behaviors I think are distracting. I don't trust myself, though. Do you DONNY FEEL the PRESENCE of God or Jesus? Was there ever a time6 since becoming a Christian that you didn't? My questions just seem to lead me to more questions in an endless fruitless search. So, I need FAITH, then, but what does that actually mean? Faith in the Bible? Ah,Donny, as you can see I'm kind of messed up tonight.

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Donny Mac's avatar

Those are all great questions Pam.

Yes, there are many times when I do not "feel" the presence of God or Jesus. AND my questions can also lead me to more questions.

Having faith in the bible as being true is good but in John 5:39-40 Jesus said "you search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me, yet you refuse to come to me that you may have life.

What is faith?

Hebrews 11:1 says "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."

and in John 20:29 Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

Your questions are valid, try to be patient with yourself. Keep going to God in prayer through Jesus. Tell Him everything that is on your heart. Even if it is concussion about Him.

I hope this is helpful

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Pamela Eisen's avatar

Knowing that I'm walking WITH someone who also at times doesn't actually feel the presence of God or Jesus, is such a help to me. I feel less like a fraud, and more like a person who is on the same path, with a companion who actually "gets" me. and accepts me as I am.

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Pamela Eisen's avatar

Everything you said, Donny, is helpful and I want you to know how much I appreciate your thoughts and prayers.

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Pamela Eisen's avatar

Thank you so much Donny for taking the time to answer my questions in such a well thought out way, and for letting me know that I'm not alone in my struggles to let go of my endless questioning. Knowing that I'm walking WITH someone

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Pamela Eisen's avatar

Donny, This seems to be the only way I can talk to you now. I've been asking for your response, and haven't received it. This is the first time you haven't at least given me a thumbs up or a 🙏 or a heart symbol. I don't understand. Please talk to me...Pam

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Octsris's avatar

Dear brother, please do not be so hard on yourself. He knows His ways are higher.

You are such a great example of a real human who truly wants to live for the Lord. Do not you think you are right where He has you for now? To be that example of honesty?

All of us are being perfected, yet, as you have previously shared, when He looks at us He sees Jesus. Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.

Ah yes, the enemy of our souls is constantly distracting us. But the beauty is, in that we realize more and more how meaningless are the cares of this world and how our souls and spirits really are only satisfied in His presence.

I can relate so well. But each day as I battle distractions I do see the Lord in small but powerful ways showing me He is here. He is patient with us.

Thank you and no need to apologize.

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Christine Davies's avatar

No apologies necessary. I believe that you are putting a lot of pressure on yourself. To fulfil your dream you need to work in order to get the bus done.

Also, you need to do things you love. I believe that God wants us to be happy. Jesus sacrificed himself for us. Not only for our sins, but so that we can have a happy life. So we can have some fun.

For me, so long as you are happy and living a life where you treat others with kindness, respect and love, then I am living the way I am meant to live. I believe I am a good person and just because I don't go to church all the time or spend 24/7 thinking about the Holy Trinity, doesn't make me, or anyone else, a bad person. I don't smoke, drink, take illegal drugs, steal or hurt others, so I believe I am a good person. I have found that having a mental health illness/disability, that I need time to not go too deep and to enjoy what I love to do. There is nothing wrong with this. I volunteered for 10 years, but am now taking time for me. Taking holidays where I enjoy life, learn, and feel better within myself. I think God would be smiling, knowing I am happy and able to enjoy life. Taking the pressure off myself to be this perfect person. To constantly serve them, but not myself. To live a life of misery. With that pressure gone, I can be me and be happy.

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Lucy Bernas's avatar

I think most of us puts too much pressure on ourselves I’ve had many struggles. But it is true that the struggle is worth it. The greater the difficulty of the “mountains” that’s what I called ,the stronger you get. How many times you fall means that you have that many lessons to teach others. The more pain,the more empathy you will have for others. You see,ONLY by the struggle and the pain and the difficulty do you get to the top. What’s at the top? The beauty. The world that you get to see once you’re there cannot be seen from any other point. You breathe it in,create pictures in your mind and let every part of you drink in it. This is to sustain you as you share with others once you’re back down that they can do it too. You let them drink from the beauty as you share it and then they too,feel like they can overcome their mountain. Donny you are an inspiration for others and you will both be Grateful for the mountains. I have this quote given to me the beginning of my struggle “ There is something uniquely beautiful about a person that grows from his or her struggles,and uses the lessons from their experiences to spread wisdom. It doesn’t matter what you’ve done or how far you fell. Be the example that shows others that they can overcome that mountain too.”- Morgan Oliver

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Mary L Bachman's avatar

Thank You Donny for this "Prayer Walk" ! I've been in the same circumstance as you are feeling. It consumes you. Believe me I know. Step back, take a deep breath and relax. One thing at a time. God Loves you and knows what you are going through. I'm 92 Yrs of age so in my lifetime I,ve had many doubts about my relationship with God. But in your quiet times turn it all over to Him and He won't steer you wrong. Much love to you and all will be well!

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Donny Mac's avatar

thank you Mary 🙂🙏🏼

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Angela Oliveira's avatar

While you mentioned Moses I remembered Joshua and the overwhelming weight he felt in the face of the mission God gave him.

God knew that Joshua was afraid, feeling incapable and without strength, so God says to him: "Did I not command you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Donny, I pray that you stand boldly before the throne of Grace, because it is there and only in this place that we find the answers to all our needs. Hebrews 4:16

God bless you!

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Lisa Randolph's avatar

I could use a prayer right now

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Donny Mac's avatar

Hello Lisa, anything specific that you need prayer for?

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Lisa Randolph's avatar

I've been having a hard time.my husband is very abusive and he threw me through our house and I don't know what to do about it

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Donny Mac's avatar

I am praying for you and your husband. Have you spoke to your husband about this, If you did and he is unrepentant, did you bring a friend and to talk with you and your husband?

If you did and he is still unrepentant I advice speaking to your elders at church,

If it's really bad call the police.

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Lisa Randolph's avatar

I've left him today and I asked him for a divorce.i felt like I have gave him so many chances to change.and all he wants to do is beat around on me

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Lisa Randolph's avatar

I'm doing much better now not being around him.ive started doing exercises and there is one called the 28day challenge and I got my daughter faith in it and we both love it and it gives me a chance to work out what ever is bothering me and me and her get to talk to each other

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Lisa Randolph's avatar

I have been hurt in my chest and I think it's caused by me being so stressed out.but there is a lot of things that has been going on and I have not been dealing with. And everyone else says that I am depressed because I will not go anywhere at all.and I stay with my daughter and her husband and I stay in my room where I'm staying at and they said that I need to get out and do something like go for a walk or find someone to talk to about how I'm feeling

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Lisa Randolph's avatar

Thanks for the advice on this.i have not spoken to him since I left him.and I don't think it would be safe to reach out to him to talk about it.thanks for the advice and I hope you are doing well

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Lisa Randolph's avatar

Pray for me.i went to the doctor office to day and they did blood work to see if I have any infection in my blood work.because I've been hurting really bad in my stomach and they are seeing if my white body sell counts are high and if so it could be a infection and they will need to put me on antibiotics for it unless the cancer has came back.i just hope and pray that it has not

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Lisa Randolph's avatar

I was watching this video on tv about childhood cancer and diesseas and it really touched me and I don't hear anything about it until last night and I started crying last night and I really could not think that if that was one of my kids or grandkids.my heart and soul feels bad and I still haven't gotten thought the way he did me because I was with him for twenty years and I tried so hard to figure him out and I couldn't do I just gave up on him

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Lisa Randolph's avatar

I don't know if you now where Dalton ga is.thats where I live at and when you call the police here they take both of you to jail

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Lisa Randolph's avatar

Well I've got some bad news and I'm trying to figure out how to break it to my kids and I'm hoping and praying for the best.i found out that I have cancer on my ovaries and they are hoping that they can keep it from spreading to other parts of my body so keep me in ur prayers please

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Lisa Randolph's avatar

I've been trying to get a hold of ur friend graham wardie but he is hard to get a hold of him but he is really hard to get ahold of him I'm on the timehascome account.but I've been trying to talk to him.ive sent him message I pray that he will answer back to me.ive never had talked to a actor before this is my first time

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Lisa Randolph's avatar

I've been having a hard time.dealing with some abuse in my relationship with my husband and he beats on me and throws me through our house and I need u advice on it . I've been trying to get a hold of graham wardie but he is hard to get a hold of

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Denise Hawks's avatar

Praying for you

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Lucy Bernas's avatar

I will watch this later after I get home 🙏

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