My Mom wrote on perseverance in her journal. Sometimes I think this is the greatest character trait the Lord has given to me, because no matter how often I fail, no matter how hard things seem at the time, I always manage to get back on the path and keep putting one foot in front of the other. This morning my body feels like it's been run over by the proverbial truck. Long hours at the post office at Christmas time will do that to a person! I'm trying to pay off some bills so I know the Lord is providing in the form of overtime, but this older gal is weary! LOL So it's really fitting (a God visit maybe!?!) that the next entry in Mom's little book is on perseverance. Here's what she wrote.
Perseverance. The steadfast effort to follow God's commands and to do His work.
The New Testament makes it very clear that faith alone can save, but it makes it equally clear that perseverance in doing good works is the greatest indication that an individual's faith is genuine.
James 2:14-26 What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? 15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, 16 and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do? 17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless. 18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.” 19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror. 20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is useless? 21 Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions made his faith complete. 23 And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” He was even called the friend of God. 24 So you see, we are shown to be right with God by what we do, not by faith alone. 25 Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and sent them safely away by a different road. 26 Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.
Through persevering in God's work, Christians prove their deep appreciation for God's saving grace.
1 Corinthians 15:57-58 57 But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
As a result of perseverance the Christian can expect not only to enhance the strength of the Church but also build up strength of character.
Romans 5:3-4 3 We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 4 And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.
We learn we can persevere primarily because God is intimately related to us.
Romans 8:25-27 25 But if we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.) 26 And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. 27 And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will.
From me.
Perseverance is a necessity in the Christian walk. Jesus told us in John 16:33 "I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” He warned we would need to press on, but also encourages us that victory is already a done deal.
Galatians 6:9 So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Never give up.
Seems like Tuesday's entry goes right along with this theme...not giving up on ourselves, or on God. whether it's changing our hearts, or changing our lives, building a dream or tearing down strongholds. Philippians 1:6 And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. God is the ultimate example of perseverance.
Perseverance is fueled by hope. And our hope is in the One who never lets us down.
Lord, thank You for the gift of perseverance. Build this character in each of us. Keep us walking forward, even if the path is dark and stony. Our hope is in You! Strengthen You children to keep believing, keep doing good and keep step with Your leading. In Jesus Name, amen.
What area of you life do you need to persevere in? What can you do to strengthen your resolve when it is fading?
Thursday, November 29, 2018
Tuesday, November 27, 2018
Heart Issues
Jeremiah 17:9 The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is?
John 2:24-25 But Jesus didn't trust them, because He knew human nature. No one needed to tell Him what mankind is really like.
What's in your heart? Good intentions, anger towards others, love, deep sadness, the feeling of wanting to smack someone, bless someone, revenge, peace....on and on, our hearts are a mixed bag of good and evil. Sometimes I feel like there is more junk than treasure in my heart.
Many days I cry out to God to take away the stinky garbage that seems to fill my heart. Just put it out by the curb to be taken away and never seen again! I plead with Him to make my heart a sweet place for the Holy Spirit to reside, a place filled with His light and His love. And yet I find darkness, malicious thoughts, selfishness. Oh that I would be able to shed these things!
So as I drove to church on Sunday morning and listened to Ravi Zacharias teach on the human heart, I cried out again to the Lord, "change me!" I think our heavenly Father just loves that prayer. I believe that the desire to purify ourselves and be like Jesus pleases Him more than we know. I see all the dirt, the filth, the impurities and He sees my desperate desire to please Him, to have a clean heart and He smiles.
On to the God visit! Our terrific worship team hit the target once again with the perfect song...never an accident, always a God thing. LOL God answered my cry with His promise. He is so loving and faithful. Our Savior the promise keeper. Our Savior the encourager. Our Savior the heart changer. What a beautiful God we serve!
Lord, thank You. You are all those things and more. You've got this! I can't understand what You see in us, but I'm so glad You treasure us the way You do. Your faithfulness is unending. Thank You Thank You Thank You. You sure up our waning faith and strength. You encourage us on this journey that has so many twists, turns, ups and downs. Lord, please continue to hold onto us until we safely arrive in Your heavenly home. In Jesus' faithful Name. Amen
Listen and believe today. Philippians 1:6 And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.
John 2:24-25 But Jesus didn't trust them, because He knew human nature. No one needed to tell Him what mankind is really like.
What's in your heart? Good intentions, anger towards others, love, deep sadness, the feeling of wanting to smack someone, bless someone, revenge, peace....on and on, our hearts are a mixed bag of good and evil. Sometimes I feel like there is more junk than treasure in my heart.
Many days I cry out to God to take away the stinky garbage that seems to fill my heart. Just put it out by the curb to be taken away and never seen again! I plead with Him to make my heart a sweet place for the Holy Spirit to reside, a place filled with His light and His love. And yet I find darkness, malicious thoughts, selfishness. Oh that I would be able to shed these things!
So as I drove to church on Sunday morning and listened to Ravi Zacharias teach on the human heart, I cried out again to the Lord, "change me!" I think our heavenly Father just loves that prayer. I believe that the desire to purify ourselves and be like Jesus pleases Him more than we know. I see all the dirt, the filth, the impurities and He sees my desperate desire to please Him, to have a clean heart and He smiles.
On to the God visit! Our terrific worship team hit the target once again with the perfect song...never an accident, always a God thing. LOL God answered my cry with His promise. He is so loving and faithful. Our Savior the promise keeper. Our Savior the encourager. Our Savior the heart changer. What a beautiful God we serve!
Lord, thank You. You are all those things and more. You've got this! I can't understand what You see in us, but I'm so glad You treasure us the way You do. Your faithfulness is unending. Thank You Thank You Thank You. You sure up our waning faith and strength. You encourage us on this journey that has so many twists, turns, ups and downs. Lord, please continue to hold onto us until we safely arrive in Your heavenly home. In Jesus' faithful Name. Amen
Listen and believe today. Philippians 1:6 And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.
Wednesday, November 21, 2018
Happy Thanksgiving!
Have a beautiful and blessing Thanksgiving! Give thanks to the Lord for He is good and His love endures forever!
Tuesday, November 20, 2018
Being Grateful
Thanksgiving is almost here. I love that we have a holiday to remind us to be thankful. A day focusing on the blessings and the love of God and family.
I want to make everyday thanksgiving though (without the overeating, which, while yummy, would really wreak havoc with my waistline and health LOL). I think that is going to be my goal. Maybe we could all think of a way that works for us. I have heard of people making lists each day. Others have said to think of three things you are thankful for each day as you wake up or go to sleep. And I think I would like to incorporate that into my day. But make it five things, both when I awake and when I retire for the night.
So what plan would work for you? Is it making a list and pasting it in a place you would see it everyday? How about posting on social media...one thing you are thankful for each day? Not only would you be reminding yourself, you would be encouraging others to do the same. I really like that idea. Perhaps at meal times we might remember to pray and express our gratitude to our heavenly Father. I read a great book a few years ago, "One Thousand Gifts" by Ann Voskamp. She kept a gratitude journal...and even the smallest of blessings was written down. This wonderful book helped shape my quest for thankfulness in my own daily life. Maybe make "gratitude cards." Upon each index card could be written something we are thankful for and we could either carry them with us, or post them around our homes, cars, work areas as reminders. They could change each day. Make a collection!
Lord, thank You!! A million times, thank You. There will never be enough words, enough days to thank You for all that You are and all that You do. Create in each of us a thankful heart. In Jesus most giving Name, amen.
Make a gratitude plan today.
I want to make everyday thanksgiving though (without the overeating, which, while yummy, would really wreak havoc with my waistline and health LOL). I think that is going to be my goal. Maybe we could all think of a way that works for us. I have heard of people making lists each day. Others have said to think of three things you are thankful for each day as you wake up or go to sleep. And I think I would like to incorporate that into my day. But make it five things, both when I awake and when I retire for the night.
So what plan would work for you? Is it making a list and pasting it in a place you would see it everyday? How about posting on social media...one thing you are thankful for each day? Not only would you be reminding yourself, you would be encouraging others to do the same. I really like that idea. Perhaps at meal times we might remember to pray and express our gratitude to our heavenly Father. I read a great book a few years ago, "One Thousand Gifts" by Ann Voskamp. She kept a gratitude journal...and even the smallest of blessings was written down. This wonderful book helped shape my quest for thankfulness in my own daily life. Maybe make "gratitude cards." Upon each index card could be written something we are thankful for and we could either carry them with us, or post them around our homes, cars, work areas as reminders. They could change each day. Make a collection!
Lord, thank You!! A million times, thank You. There will never be enough words, enough days to thank You for all that You are and all that You do. Create in each of us a thankful heart. In Jesus most giving Name, amen.
Make a gratitude plan today.
Thursday, November 15, 2018
Let it Sink In
Wow, that peace thing can sure be elusive. Yesterday as I drove to work, I was fighting a battle between the promises of God and my emotions. I recalled all the words of the previous blog. I recalled the Scripture, talked to God about the trust and still struggled. But through two short verses, my soul was quieted. Two short verses, given in a daily devotion (topic: peace in the Presence of Jesus. Another "Godincidence" I guess, lol). Two short verses that I opened my heart up to and just let sink in.
Psalm 31:14-15 But I trust in you, Lord; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in your hands; deliver me from the hands of my enemies, from those who pursue me.
Just sit, let those verses, the beautiful words penned by David to a loving, sovereign Father. They sooth. It's like a river of peace washing over our hearts when we let them flow thought our being. The flowing waters wash away our angst, our anxiety, carrying them far from us.
David purposely choose to trust in God. He knew who watched over him, cared for him and delivered him. We may not have flesh and blood enemies pursuing us, but we can feel hunted by problems and difficulties.
This was the most amazing God visit. I sat in my truck, mulling over this verse and taking it for my very own...and I was at rest, peaceful and at ease. This was the exact Word I needed spoken to my heart at the exact moment I needed. Truly, our times are in God's hands! I pray that it is for you right now!
Lord, thank You that in the thick of the battle, You are there, speaking and imparting Your peace to us. Help us to take Your Words to heart, let us wrap around them and them around us. We need not fret or fuss, but let You envelop us with Your love. Lord, I pray that each of us would open more and more to the gift of peace and care that Your offer, that our faith would grow and we would learn to rest fully in You. In Jesus' caring Name. Amen
Find your peace verse!
Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Psalm 31:14-15 But I trust in you, Lord; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in your hands; deliver me from the hands of my enemies, from those who pursue me.
Just sit, let those verses, the beautiful words penned by David to a loving, sovereign Father. They sooth. It's like a river of peace washing over our hearts when we let them flow thought our being. The flowing waters wash away our angst, our anxiety, carrying them far from us.
David purposely choose to trust in God. He knew who watched over him, cared for him and delivered him. We may not have flesh and blood enemies pursuing us, but we can feel hunted by problems and difficulties.
This was the most amazing God visit. I sat in my truck, mulling over this verse and taking it for my very own...and I was at rest, peaceful and at ease. This was the exact Word I needed spoken to my heart at the exact moment I needed. Truly, our times are in God's hands! I pray that it is for you right now!
Lord, thank You that in the thick of the battle, You are there, speaking and imparting Your peace to us. Help us to take Your Words to heart, let us wrap around them and them around us. We need not fret or fuss, but let You envelop us with Your love. Lord, I pray that each of us would open more and more to the gift of peace and care that Your offer, that our faith would grow and we would learn to rest fully in You. In Jesus' caring Name. Amen
Find your peace verse!
Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Tuesday, November 13, 2018
Peace, from Mom
Back into Mom's journal today. And the entry is on peace. Wouldn't it wonderful to walk around all day in a state of peace. A quiet heart and mind. Inner turmoil and confusion cease to exist. I can't even imagine what that is like. Some days I argue with myself over what shirt to wear or which direction to turn to run errands! UGH!! I long for that peace that passes understanding, the inner serenity that only Jesus can give. Here's what Mom penned in her journal.
Peace. A state of rest, quietness and calmness. The absence of strife, tranquility, well-being. A harmonious relationship between God and man, man and man, nation and nation, family and family.
Jesus gives peace to those who call on Him for personal salvation. The Lord tells us in Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts I think toward you, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Worldly peace is the absence of hostility. God's peace comes from a sense of wholeness and inner completeness. It brings stability to a person's walk no matter what is going on in our lives. It is prevailing and un-defeatable.
From me.
This is the peace I long for. Some days I ALLOW myself to get so riled up over the smallest of things. Then I get frustrated that I allowed it. But the Lord is working with me in this area and I know I am growing, albeit slowly. LOL Focusing on Scripture, claiming our trust in God's plan and timing, giving ourselves little pep talks...all of this are the tools our Father is using to teach me to remain in a quiet, peaceful place. One of my favorite sayings is, "God's got this." Three simple words we can repeat to ourselves whenever we start becoming agitated over circumstances that will not cooperate with our will and desires.
If we read the verse Mom included above, we can see that no matter what is going on around us, even when we feel like we are in the middle of the biggest, most ferocious storm, God has good plans for us, plans of peace and hope. That alone should comfort and create stillness in our hearts.
When we lose our peace on the inside, we react on the outside. And it all feeds upon itself. The more we lose our peace, the more upset we get and the more peace we continue to lose until we are just a complete wreck. That's an awful state to walk around in. We lose our witness, our concentration and the ability to cope go out the window.
But if we remain in Jesus, keep pulling ourselves back to His promises and keep reminding ourselves to trust....whether in the middle of small annoyances or a raging tempest, we can remain at peace and in faith. This takes lots of practice, but thank God, He is faithful, patient and always working with us.
Some Scriptures to show how to obtain and remain in peace.
Psalm 34:14 Turn away from evil, and do good. Look for peace, and go after it.
Psalm 37:11 But those who are free of pride will be given the land. They will enjoy peace and success.
Psalm 85:8 I will listen to what God the Lord says. He promises peace to his faithful people. But they must not turn to foolish ways.
Psalm 119:165 Those who love your law enjoy great peace. Nothing can make them trip and fall.
Matthew 5:9 Blessed are those who make peace. They will be called children of God.
We have been promised peace...it's ours!
John 14:27 I leave my peace with you. I give my peace to you. I do not give it to you as the world does. Do not let your hearts be troubled. And do not be afraid.
John 16:33 I have told you these things, so that you can have peace because of me. In this world you will have trouble. But be encouraged! I have won the battle over the world.”
Peace comes from trusting God.
Romans 15:13 May the God who gives hope fill you with great joy. May you have perfect peace as you trust in him. May the power of the Holy Spirit fill you with hope.
Lord, thank You for the peace You say is ours. Help us to receive this beautiful gift and not let it go. What a wonderful blessing You bestow upon Your children! Thank You. Help us to grab hold of it, unwrap it and keep it in our hearts every day. In the Name of Jesus, the Prince of peace! Amen
Find the verses that will help you remain in peace. Meditate, memorize, write down, carry around...whatever works for you to walk in Jesus' gift of peace. And sometimes, just take a few deep breaths!!
Peace. A state of rest, quietness and calmness. The absence of strife, tranquility, well-being. A harmonious relationship between God and man, man and man, nation and nation, family and family.
Jesus gives peace to those who call on Him for personal salvation. The Lord tells us in Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the thoughts I think toward you, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Worldly peace is the absence of hostility. God's peace comes from a sense of wholeness and inner completeness. It brings stability to a person's walk no matter what is going on in our lives. It is prevailing and un-defeatable.
From me.
This is the peace I long for. Some days I ALLOW myself to get so riled up over the smallest of things. Then I get frustrated that I allowed it. But the Lord is working with me in this area and I know I am growing, albeit slowly. LOL Focusing on Scripture, claiming our trust in God's plan and timing, giving ourselves little pep talks...all of this are the tools our Father is using to teach me to remain in a quiet, peaceful place. One of my favorite sayings is, "God's got this." Three simple words we can repeat to ourselves whenever we start becoming agitated over circumstances that will not cooperate with our will and desires.
If we read the verse Mom included above, we can see that no matter what is going on around us, even when we feel like we are in the middle of the biggest, most ferocious storm, God has good plans for us, plans of peace and hope. That alone should comfort and create stillness in our hearts.
When we lose our peace on the inside, we react on the outside. And it all feeds upon itself. The more we lose our peace, the more upset we get and the more peace we continue to lose until we are just a complete wreck. That's an awful state to walk around in. We lose our witness, our concentration and the ability to cope go out the window.
But if we remain in Jesus, keep pulling ourselves back to His promises and keep reminding ourselves to trust....whether in the middle of small annoyances or a raging tempest, we can remain at peace and in faith. This takes lots of practice, but thank God, He is faithful, patient and always working with us.
Some Scriptures to show how to obtain and remain in peace.
Psalm 34:14 Turn away from evil, and do good. Look for peace, and go after it.
Psalm 37:11 But those who are free of pride will be given the land. They will enjoy peace and success.
Psalm 85:8 I will listen to what God the Lord says. He promises peace to his faithful people. But they must not turn to foolish ways.
Psalm 119:165 Those who love your law enjoy great peace. Nothing can make them trip and fall.
Matthew 5:9 Blessed are those who make peace. They will be called children of God.
We have been promised peace...it's ours!
John 14:27 I leave my peace with you. I give my peace to you. I do not give it to you as the world does. Do not let your hearts be troubled. And do not be afraid.
John 16:33 I have told you these things, so that you can have peace because of me. In this world you will have trouble. But be encouraged! I have won the battle over the world.”
Peace comes from trusting God.
Romans 15:13 May the God who gives hope fill you with great joy. May you have perfect peace as you trust in him. May the power of the Holy Spirit fill you with hope.
Lord, thank You for the peace You say is ours. Help us to receive this beautiful gift and not let it go. What a wonderful blessing You bestow upon Your children! Thank You. Help us to grab hold of it, unwrap it and keep it in our hearts every day. In the Name of Jesus, the Prince of peace! Amen
Find the verses that will help you remain in peace. Meditate, memorize, write down, carry around...whatever works for you to walk in Jesus' gift of peace. And sometimes, just take a few deep breaths!!
Thursday, November 8, 2018
Healing
Early in my Christian walk the Lord healed me of headaches. For years I had suffered from daily headaches. Not incredibly painful, but a nagging and annoying pain that made me feel at times foggy and slightly queasy. It felt as if the inside of my head was bleeding....I know that probably doesn't make sense, but that's what it seemed like. It was a rare day I didn't wake up with this dull ache in my head. As I was in church one Sunday I felt Jesus wanted to heal me. So I asked Him for healing. Well, the next week was probably one of the worst headache weeks I had ever experienced. Everyday was bad. But I knew that Jesus said I was healed and I knew that it was an attack of Satan and I knew that I needed to stand on the promise of healing I received from my Lord. And I did. And I was set free from these daily irritating headaches.
Now, I still suffer from the occasional migraine. I have had them since I was a kid. Tuesday I woke up and I could feel one coming on. When I feel a migraine headed my way, I usually limit exercise or strenuous activity because it exacerbates the pain...but this time I was determined to go out for a short jog. I figured if it was going to hurt anyway...So I took some medicine and out the door I went into the misty morning. As usual I started up a Joyce Meyer podcast on my phone. This one was part of a series entitled "Dare to Believe." In the middle of the lesson, Joyce says that she almost forgot to do something the Holy Spirit had impressed upon her to do. She was told by Him to pray for healing of people with migraines. WHAT!!!! REALLY!!!! Could this be for me?!?!?
Now, what's the chances a Bible teacher would stop in the middle of a sermon and pray for the exact thing someone was suffering with at that exact moment? What were the chances I'd go out for a run when I had an oncoming migraine, something I never do? I'm thinking the chances were slim to none and this was a God ordained, God orchestrated moment. WOW!!!
Of course the headache didn't want to let go. This has been an area of attack for me for as long as I can remember and Satan doesn't want any of us to be set free. But since I firmly believe this was a word from Jesus I was determined to grab hold and not let go. All day I spoke healing verses out loud and in my heart...finally settling on one in particular because it was easy to memorize.
Jeremiah 30:17 The Lord has declared that He will restore me to health and heal my wounds. I am not going to give up what the Lord said I could have.
Joyce went on to teach about how we need to press on for the things the Lord has for us. She brought up the woman who touched the hem of Jesus' garment, knowing, believing that if she could just touch Him, she would be healed. This woman had pressed through myriads of people just to reach Jesus. And we need to be the same way. Press on, press through...circumstances, problems, negative reports, naysayers (even our own emotions), whatever is standing in the way of having what the Lord wants to bless us with.. Press on and keep believing. Holy Ghost determination and perseverance!
Mark 5:24-34 24 Jesus went with him, and all the people followed, crowding around him. 25 A woman in the crowd had suffered for twelve years with constant bleeding. 26 She had suffered a great deal from many doctors, and over the years she had spent everything she had to pay them, but she had gotten no better. In fact, she had gotten worse. 27 She had heard about Jesus, so she came up behind him through the crowd and touched his robe. 28 For she thought to herself, “If I can just touch his robe, I will be healed.” 29 Immediately the bleeding stopped, and she could feel in her body that she had been healed of her terrible condition. 30 Jesus realized at once that healing power had gone out from him, so he turned around in the crowd and asked, “Who touched my robe?” 31 His disciples said to him, “Look at this crowd pressing around you. How can you ask, ‘Who touched me?’” 32 But he kept on looking around to see who had done it. 33 Then the frightened woman, trembling at the realization of what had happened to her, came and fell to her knees in front of him and told him what she had done. 34 And he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace. Your suffering is over.”
Years ago I had to stand firm for my healing. And the same again on Tuesday. When the Lord tells us something we must stand on His word no matter what we see or feel. Not everything that is wrong in my body is being healed right now. Some things I need to see doctors for, and thank You Lord for modern medicine. Some things will not be fully taken care of until I get to Heaven. Thank You Lord for strength to get through. But when our heavenly Father tells us something, we need to dare to believe, dare to trust and dare to stand firmly without wavering. He is faithful!
I am so grateful. Beyond words Lord. Thank You. Help me to continue to stand on Your promises and Your faithfulness. Lord, Your heart is for us! Let us remember that! Give each of us the strength to press through the crowds of doubt and worry and reach out for You! Thank You so much for the healing You've brought to my life. You are amazing and I love You. I want to believe for even more! And Lord, I lift up those who are suffering right now, and I pray that You will speak healing into their lives as well. Lord, You are the God who heals. I pray for spiritual healing, emotional healing, physical healing for all who read this. Nothing is impossible for You Father! Thank You. We praise You this day! In the mighty, loving, healing and powerful Name of Jesus. AMEN!
Is there an area in your life where you need some perseverance? Ask!
Now, I still suffer from the occasional migraine. I have had them since I was a kid. Tuesday I woke up and I could feel one coming on. When I feel a migraine headed my way, I usually limit exercise or strenuous activity because it exacerbates the pain...but this time I was determined to go out for a short jog. I figured if it was going to hurt anyway...So I took some medicine and out the door I went into the misty morning. As usual I started up a Joyce Meyer podcast on my phone. This one was part of a series entitled "Dare to Believe." In the middle of the lesson, Joyce says that she almost forgot to do something the Holy Spirit had impressed upon her to do. She was told by Him to pray for healing of people with migraines. WHAT!!!! REALLY!!!! Could this be for me?!?!?
Now, what's the chances a Bible teacher would stop in the middle of a sermon and pray for the exact thing someone was suffering with at that exact moment? What were the chances I'd go out for a run when I had an oncoming migraine, something I never do? I'm thinking the chances were slim to none and this was a God ordained, God orchestrated moment. WOW!!!
Of course the headache didn't want to let go. This has been an area of attack for me for as long as I can remember and Satan doesn't want any of us to be set free. But since I firmly believe this was a word from Jesus I was determined to grab hold and not let go. All day I spoke healing verses out loud and in my heart...finally settling on one in particular because it was easy to memorize.
Jeremiah 30:17 The Lord has declared that He will restore me to health and heal my wounds. I am not going to give up what the Lord said I could have.
Joyce went on to teach about how we need to press on for the things the Lord has for us. She brought up the woman who touched the hem of Jesus' garment, knowing, believing that if she could just touch Him, she would be healed. This woman had pressed through myriads of people just to reach Jesus. And we need to be the same way. Press on, press through...circumstances, problems, negative reports, naysayers (even our own emotions), whatever is standing in the way of having what the Lord wants to bless us with.. Press on and keep believing. Holy Ghost determination and perseverance!
Mark 5:24-34 24 Jesus went with him, and all the people followed, crowding around him. 25 A woman in the crowd had suffered for twelve years with constant bleeding. 26 She had suffered a great deal from many doctors, and over the years she had spent everything she had to pay them, but she had gotten no better. In fact, she had gotten worse. 27 She had heard about Jesus, so she came up behind him through the crowd and touched his robe. 28 For she thought to herself, “If I can just touch his robe, I will be healed.” 29 Immediately the bleeding stopped, and she could feel in her body that she had been healed of her terrible condition. 30 Jesus realized at once that healing power had gone out from him, so he turned around in the crowd and asked, “Who touched my robe?” 31 His disciples said to him, “Look at this crowd pressing around you. How can you ask, ‘Who touched me?’” 32 But he kept on looking around to see who had done it. 33 Then the frightened woman, trembling at the realization of what had happened to her, came and fell to her knees in front of him and told him what she had done. 34 And he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace. Your suffering is over.”
Years ago I had to stand firm for my healing. And the same again on Tuesday. When the Lord tells us something we must stand on His word no matter what we see or feel. Not everything that is wrong in my body is being healed right now. Some things I need to see doctors for, and thank You Lord for modern medicine. Some things will not be fully taken care of until I get to Heaven. Thank You Lord for strength to get through. But when our heavenly Father tells us something, we need to dare to believe, dare to trust and dare to stand firmly without wavering. He is faithful!
I am so grateful. Beyond words Lord. Thank You. Help me to continue to stand on Your promises and Your faithfulness. Lord, Your heart is for us! Let us remember that! Give each of us the strength to press through the crowds of doubt and worry and reach out for You! Thank You so much for the healing You've brought to my life. You are amazing and I love You. I want to believe for even more! And Lord, I lift up those who are suffering right now, and I pray that You will speak healing into their lives as well. Lord, You are the God who heals. I pray for spiritual healing, emotional healing, physical healing for all who read this. Nothing is impossible for You Father! Thank You. We praise You this day! In the mighty, loving, healing and powerful Name of Jesus. AMEN!
Is there an area in your life where you need some perseverance? Ask!
Tuesday, November 6, 2018
Sit
This concept of sitting in the Lord's Presence just keeps coming and coming. As I was finishing up my Bible time with the Lord a couple of days ago, I was having this special time of communion with my Father. It is a discipline, so I struggle with it some (quiet and focused is not a natural state for my brain!), but I was working on it. Adding to the distractions already in my head were two cats who decided that was the perfect time to share some love with Mommy. Gotta love the babies!
But as I sat there with my two fur babies climbing on my lap and purring up a storm, God used it as a teaching moment. He is so amazing. My kitties were so longing to be with me, to be loved by me....their contentment evident in their loud purring and persistent head butting.
And then I got it. God wants us to be the same way. He wants us to come to Him willingly, needfully, and happily. He wants us to long to be with Him, enjoying fellowship, and to be content just staying in His Presence. Who wouldn't want that from those that love us and that we love?
Two of my favorite verses, Psalm 90:14 "Satisfy me in the morning with Your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days," and Psalm 1143:8 "Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You," give us good reason to want to spend a few moments or so each morning just seeking out our Father's heart and sitting in His Presence. Filling up on and building up in His unfailing love at the start of the day gives us strength to go through the day. And really, this isn't just limited to morning time....we can stop for short (or longer if you can) spells throughout our day to just breath in the Lord's love, strength and peace. Just enjoy being in His Presence!
I can't believe how much God is impressing this on me lately. It must be extremely important to Him. And if it's important to God, then it's imperative for us to listen.
Lord, lead us. Lord, we need Your Presence, we want to enjoy Your Presence and Your love each and every day! Give us more and more and more of a hunger for You! I know we need to gather our strength for the coming battles. Lord, help us to live as close to You as possible, not just in our quiet times, but in all the moments of our day, and even as we sleep through the nights. Fill us with Your light as we sit at Your feet that we may shine brightly, live holy lives, and love with Your love. It's in Jesus strengthening Name I pray. Amen
Keep practicing the discipline of quiet time with the Lord.
But as I sat there with my two fur babies climbing on my lap and purring up a storm, God used it as a teaching moment. He is so amazing. My kitties were so longing to be with me, to be loved by me....their contentment evident in their loud purring and persistent head butting.
And then I got it. God wants us to be the same way. He wants us to come to Him willingly, needfully, and happily. He wants us to long to be with Him, enjoying fellowship, and to be content just staying in His Presence. Who wouldn't want that from those that love us and that we love?
Two of my favorite verses, Psalm 90:14 "Satisfy me in the morning with Your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days," and Psalm 1143:8 "Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You," give us good reason to want to spend a few moments or so each morning just seeking out our Father's heart and sitting in His Presence. Filling up on and building up in His unfailing love at the start of the day gives us strength to go through the day. And really, this isn't just limited to morning time....we can stop for short (or longer if you can) spells throughout our day to just breath in the Lord's love, strength and peace. Just enjoy being in His Presence!
I can't believe how much God is impressing this on me lately. It must be extremely important to Him. And if it's important to God, then it's imperative for us to listen.
Lord, lead us. Lord, we need Your Presence, we want to enjoy Your Presence and Your love each and every day! Give us more and more and more of a hunger for You! I know we need to gather our strength for the coming battles. Lord, help us to live as close to You as possible, not just in our quiet times, but in all the moments of our day, and even as we sleep through the nights. Fill us with Your light as we sit at Your feet that we may shine brightly, live holy lives, and love with Your love. It's in Jesus strengthening Name I pray. Amen
Keep practicing the discipline of quiet time with the Lord.
Thursday, November 1, 2018
There's Work to Do
I believe God is driving home the point of being prepared. After I finished my entry on Tuesday, I went out for a short jog. Not ten seconds into the Joyce Meyer podcast I put on did she say that she felt the Lord was impressing on her the message that God's people needed to be prepared. To say I was blown away was an understatement. The fact that God is reaching out through multiple sources with the same message says a lot to me. To think that He used this page as one of those sources is such a huge honor.
I believe being a stagnant Christian is going to become less and less of an option. Not only do we need to stay prepared to face the challenges and temptations in our own lives, but the coming days are going to grow darker and darker, spiritually speaking. People will not abide sound doctrine or truth. So our light needs to grow brighter and brighter. And that means people will try to shout us down, shut us up, and try to extinguish the light of truth. From friends who reject, family who will turn from us, and society who will ridicule (have you watched some of the stuff on tv lately?) and in some cases even by law attack....persecution is coming. For many it is already here.
Spending time with the Lord now, drawing on His strength, absorbing His love and allowing Him to change us from the inside out is imperative. And it's urgent.
It's so easy to become comfortable and complacent. I know I easily fall into those categories. I can easily be a lukewarm Christian. I don't want that!! I want to stand strong whether it's against the sin in my own life or the rejection of friends when I don't wish to join them in things the Lord doesn't like. Over the six months or so I've heard the Lord's instruction on the importance of spending time in His Presence. And I'm starting to see where it's all fitting in with being a prepared Christian. One who is ready to stand tall, to meet their Savior with gladness, and be pleasing to their King.
Lord, let us sit quietly in Your Presence. Sometimes it's so hard to be still, to let our minds and hearts rest, but that is what we need in order to let you fill us. Your Word, Your Spirit, all working together to strengthen us, to change us, to empower us to be Your light. Lord, help us to learn this discipline that we may be what You need and want when You need and want it. Set Your children on fire, give us a holy zealousness for the things of God. Prepare us for the darkness and difficulties ahead, be they personal or public. Lord, we want to be Your servants. We want to bring honor and glory to You. Thank You for Your message. Thank You for instructing us. Thank You for leading us to start preparing. Jesus, we look forward to the day You return. And we want to be found working and faithful. Come Lord Jesus! In Your mighty Name. Amen.
Lord, I also want to pray for those already facing severe persecution. Father, give them Your strength. Surround them with Your love, fill them with Your peace. Let them know their brothers and sisters around the world are praying for them. Let them know You are with them and they are not alone. Help them to shine brightly for You and give them a Holy Spirit boldness and strength that goes beyond anything they can imagine. Turn the hearts of their tormentors to You.
Take time to sit with the Lord today. Start a preparedness routine!
Psalm 119:133 Guide my steps by your word, so I will not be overcome by evil.
Galatians 5:21-25 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
I believe being a stagnant Christian is going to become less and less of an option. Not only do we need to stay prepared to face the challenges and temptations in our own lives, but the coming days are going to grow darker and darker, spiritually speaking. People will not abide sound doctrine or truth. So our light needs to grow brighter and brighter. And that means people will try to shout us down, shut us up, and try to extinguish the light of truth. From friends who reject, family who will turn from us, and society who will ridicule (have you watched some of the stuff on tv lately?) and in some cases even by law attack....persecution is coming. For many it is already here.
Spending time with the Lord now, drawing on His strength, absorbing His love and allowing Him to change us from the inside out is imperative. And it's urgent.
It's so easy to become comfortable and complacent. I know I easily fall into those categories. I can easily be a lukewarm Christian. I don't want that!! I want to stand strong whether it's against the sin in my own life or the rejection of friends when I don't wish to join them in things the Lord doesn't like. Over the six months or so I've heard the Lord's instruction on the importance of spending time in His Presence. And I'm starting to see where it's all fitting in with being a prepared Christian. One who is ready to stand tall, to meet their Savior with gladness, and be pleasing to their King.
Lord, let us sit quietly in Your Presence. Sometimes it's so hard to be still, to let our minds and hearts rest, but that is what we need in order to let you fill us. Your Word, Your Spirit, all working together to strengthen us, to change us, to empower us to be Your light. Lord, help us to learn this discipline that we may be what You need and want when You need and want it. Set Your children on fire, give us a holy zealousness for the things of God. Prepare us for the darkness and difficulties ahead, be they personal or public. Lord, we want to be Your servants. We want to bring honor and glory to You. Thank You for Your message. Thank You for instructing us. Thank You for leading us to start preparing. Jesus, we look forward to the day You return. And we want to be found working and faithful. Come Lord Jesus! In Your mighty Name. Amen.
Lord, I also want to pray for those already facing severe persecution. Father, give them Your strength. Surround them with Your love, fill them with Your peace. Let them know their brothers and sisters around the world are praying for them. Let them know You are with them and they are not alone. Help them to shine brightly for You and give them a Holy Spirit boldness and strength that goes beyond anything they can imagine. Turn the hearts of their tormentors to You.
Take time to sit with the Lord today. Start a preparedness routine!
Psalm 119:133 Guide my steps by your word, so I will not be overcome by evil.
Galatians 5:21-25 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
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