There are things about winter time that I just love. I love the smell of the crisp cold air. I love the way the stars seem to shine brighter in the clear winter air. Snow falling, covering the landscape with white is beautiful...it covers all the junk in our yards, making everything look clean and neat. The bare trees contrasting against the sky. There are also things I don't like. Shoveling, driving in bad weather, being cold at work, wearing so many layers I feel like I can't move. But one of the things about winter that I always think about is God at work. The other thing that I think about is being in a time of rest.
The trees are stark. The grass is brown and faded. There are no colorful flowers in bloom lining our walkways. Everything looks bleak, and lifeless. But in a way this inspires me, encourages me. It reminds me that even when circumstances may seem dead, hopeless....God is at work underneath it all. There must be something going on during the winter, because every spring the buds come again, the flowers roll out their beautiful colors and the grass becomes a lively green again. We can't see it happening, but God knows it is. He's working during the winter in nature and He is working in our "winter" circumstances. I find winter so encouraging in this way, because so many times I am waiting on God's answers, waiting on God's timing, waiting for God to act. Winter reminds me God is active even when I don't see what He's doing.
The other part of winter that I like is the restfulness. It's not a season of doing. After the crazy pace of the holidays, I need this quiet time. And maybe that's one of the reasons God gave us this season so closely following the busy holidays. He knew we wouldn't slow down if the weather was always sunny and warm. There is a stillness to winter that I enjoy. There is nothing better than a "snow day" when hot chocolate and a snuggly blanket are involved! I am thankful for this cold, muted time of year. I am thankful for the mindfulness of God's Presence, the reminder that He is still active when all we see is deadness, and the fact that we can rest securely in His hands.
Thank You Father that You are always at work on our behalf, whether we see it or not. Increase our faith as we look at the way You have made nature work. Thank You that we can rest in You and Your loving care. Thank You for the reminders of this fact. You are amazing. In Jesus' most knowing Name. Amen.
Trust, rest.
Thursday, January 31, 2019
Tuesday, January 29, 2019
Plans, From Mom
Mom wrote a very short entry on "Plans." Basically she asked some questions to determine if the plans were from God or from ourselves.
Proverbs 16:1-9 We can make our own plans, but the Lord gives the right answer. 2 People may be pure in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their motives. 3 Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed. 4 The Lord has made everything for His own purposes, even the wicked for a day of disaster. 5 The Lord detests the proud; they will surely be punished. 6 Unfailing love and faithfulness make atonement for sin. By fearing the Lord, people avoid evil. When people's lives please the Lord, even their enemies are at peace with them. 8 Better to have a little, with godliness, than to be rich and dishonest. 9 We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.
Before putting any plans into action, ask yourself these three questions:
- Is this plan in harmony with God's truth?
- Will is work under real life conditions?
- Is my attitude pleasing to God?
These are great questions to answer before we go ahead with any endeavors. And the Scripture Mom included is like a plan making guidebook! If our plans line up with these words from the Lord, then we are in the right place. Commitment to the Lord, staying in His purpose, walking in love, faithfulness, and fear of the Lord, bring a life that pleases our God...our plans will then be pleasing to Him, aligned with His will. As we walk honestly and humbly, God will direct our steps. The path may not always be easy, but it will be sure and we will be at peace.
I can remember so many times I went ahead in my plans with an unsettled heart....I have regretted this every time. I have learned that going forward without peace will always bring consequences. Putting this concept into practice is challenging. We want what we want when we want it. And our plans always sound so perfect, we tell ourselves all the great reasons we want this or that....But unless we can line up with the above Scriptures and the peace that comes from the Holy Spirit we need to be open to waiting on our Father's timing or even to letting go of our plans entirely if He says to.
Lord, You know my heart...my stubborn, willful heart. Soften it to be obedient. Lord, let each of us be willing to lay down our plans, even good ones, so that we may walk in Your best way. Fill us with humility, trust and a desire to live wholly for You. Remind us often of Jeremiah 29:11 or I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Lord, I want to do not even the smallest thing if it's not in Your will. Thank You for wisdom, and for a heart that desires to please You. Give each of us to the strength and wisdom to follow Your lead instead of following our flesh or the world. Thank You. In the wisest Name of Jesus. Amen.
When making plans, check with God first. Follow the questions and the Scripture above.
Thursday, January 24, 2019
Anger Kills
Genesis 4:6-8 "Why are you so angry?" the Lord asked Cain. "why do you look so dejected? You will be accepted if you do what is right. but if you refuse to do what is right, then watch out! Sin is crouching at the door, eager to control you. But you must subdue it and be its master." On day Cain suggested to his brother, "Lets go out into the field." And while they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother, Abel, and killed him.
Ephesians 4:26-27 And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.
We had a horrible tragedy take place a couple of houses away from mine. A man estranged from his wife came back to their home to talk with her and ended up killing her while their teenage son tried to stop it. My heart is broken for this family. I can't begin to imagine the pain and damage this boy has suffered, the deep, unthinkable sorrow of the daughter who fortunately was not home at the time, and the overwhelming guilt this man will carry for the rest of his life.
I keep thinking of anger and how dangerous it is when allowed to fester and boil inside our heart. I don't believe this kind of anger just happened in those moments before his tragic actions. This kind of rage comes from years of allowing resentments to run freely in one's heart. It comes from harboring unforgiveness, disappointment and bitterness, letting this toxic stew simmer until one day it just bubbles over. I know this is an extreme case, but any action or words that come from this dark place will cause some kind of harm....sometimes irrevocable harm.
What's in my heart? What's in your heart? Are there things we need to let go of? The Bible warns us of the dangers unrighteous anger can bring.
Lord, I am so saddened for this family. My heart is heavy thinking about these two young people who have to live with this tragedy in their family. I don't know how they can heal....but I know You do and You can. Please send them people that will bring Your love and care to them. Please let them find their peace and healing in You. And I ask for this man as well, that You will reach his heart with forgiveness. Lord, let each of us examine our hearts and rid ourselves of any anger, unforgiveness, resentments and bitterness...Lord, every time I get angry over some perceived slight or annoyance, help me to bring it to You right away and let it go. I pray, as always, in the holy, healing Name of Jesus. Amen.
Please keep this family in prayer. Thank you.
Ephesians 4:26-27 And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.
We had a horrible tragedy take place a couple of houses away from mine. A man estranged from his wife came back to their home to talk with her and ended up killing her while their teenage son tried to stop it. My heart is broken for this family. I can't begin to imagine the pain and damage this boy has suffered, the deep, unthinkable sorrow of the daughter who fortunately was not home at the time, and the overwhelming guilt this man will carry for the rest of his life.
I keep thinking of anger and how dangerous it is when allowed to fester and boil inside our heart. I don't believe this kind of anger just happened in those moments before his tragic actions. This kind of rage comes from years of allowing resentments to run freely in one's heart. It comes from harboring unforgiveness, disappointment and bitterness, letting this toxic stew simmer until one day it just bubbles over. I know this is an extreme case, but any action or words that come from this dark place will cause some kind of harm....sometimes irrevocable harm.
What's in my heart? What's in your heart? Are there things we need to let go of? The Bible warns us of the dangers unrighteous anger can bring.
Lord, I am so saddened for this family. My heart is heavy thinking about these two young people who have to live with this tragedy in their family. I don't know how they can heal....but I know You do and You can. Please send them people that will bring Your love and care to them. Please let them find their peace and healing in You. And I ask for this man as well, that You will reach his heart with forgiveness. Lord, let each of us examine our hearts and rid ourselves of any anger, unforgiveness, resentments and bitterness...Lord, every time I get angry over some perceived slight or annoyance, help me to bring it to You right away and let it go. I pray, as always, in the holy, healing Name of Jesus. Amen.
Please keep this family in prayer. Thank you.
Tuesday, January 22, 2019
Awesome
“It is a glorious phrase of the New Testament, that ‘he led captivity captive.’
The very triumphs of His foes, it means, he used for their defeat. He compelled their dark achievements to sub-serve his end, not theirs.
They nailed him to the tree, not knowing that by that very act they were bringing the world to his feet.
They gave him a cross, not guessing that he would make it a throne.
They flung him outside the gates to die, not knowing that in that very moment they were lifting up all the gates of the universe, to let the King of Glory come in.
They thought to root out his doctrines, not understanding that they were implanting imperishably in the hearts of men the very name they intended to destroy.
They thought they had defeated God with His back the wall, pinned and helpless and defeated: they did not know that it was God Himself who had tracked them down.
He did not conquer in spite of the dark mystery of evil. He conquered through it.”
James Stewart (1896–1990) was a minister of the Church of Scotland
I recently heard of this writing by James Steward, and it just blew me away. I read each line and it puts me more and more in awe of our God. Who is like Him?!?! Who is like our God?!?! Who could think like Him? Who could plan our salvation out in such a glorious and mind bending way?
1 Corinthians 1:18-25 8 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 19 For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, And bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.” 20 Where is the wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the disputer of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? 21 For since, in the wisdom of God, the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe. 22 For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom; 23 but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block and to the Greeks foolishness, 24 but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
God is so opposite of anything the world is or ever will be. He is far above anything or anyone we can dream of. Isaiah 55:8 My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. And I love this about Him. How wonderful and comforting and safe. Nothing surprises our Father. And even when all seems wrong....He has the right plan. We see such evil in the world, but the ruler of this world is a defeated foe. We can overcome Him by the blood of the Lamb and the power of our God.
I love You Lord. You amaze me. You are so more than we can imagine, so far above our thoughts and knowledge. Knowing this makes us know how safe we are in Your hands.
Jeremiah 10:6 Lord, there is no one like you! For you are great, and your name is full of power. I just praise and worship You this morning Lord. Hallelujah!!
Read and think about each line in this passage by James Stewart today...let it fill your heart with praise and wonder.
Thursday, January 17, 2019
Hmmmm....a New Revelation
I read something in the book of Judges recently that really got me thinking. Judges 2:20-23 So the Lord burned with anger against Israel. He said, "Because these people have violated my covenant, which I made with their ancestors, and have ignored my commands, I will no longer drive out the nations that Joshua left unconquered when he died. I did this to test Israel--to see whether or not they would follow the ways of the Lord as their ancestors did. That is why the Lord left those nations in place. He did not quickly drive them out or allow Joshua to conquer them all.
I feel like I've struggled with addiction forever. Drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, now food and coffee. Craving excess seems to be a constant companion for me, much to my chagrin and frustration.
Almost twenty-five years ago the Lord delivered me from drugs and alcohol. A year after that cigarettes left. Those were difficult battles, but through the strength of Jesus, I was able to lay those things down and never pick them up again. I am forever grateful for these victories.
But food and coffee are another story. I am in a constant battle with them and ridding my life of the desire to overindulge in either seems near impossible. And I never understood why God left the spirit of addiction with me when He delivered me from the most destructive of my addictions. It has always confused me. Until now.
When I read the above passage in Judges, I finally understood that it was God's way of testing me to see if I would cling to Him with the same zeal and fervor I needed in order to get away from drugs, alcohol and nicotine. Or would I let the desires of my flesh rule my days. I don't believe God did this in anger, but to remind me daily of my desperate need of His deliverance, strength and salvation.
In the early days of my battle, I clung to the Lord, hour by hour, sometimes minute by minute to overcome the cravings for cocaine and alcohol. It was the same with cigarettes a year later. But I've forgotten all of that, given in to temptation with excuses and lame reasonings. Instead of looking to the Lord to deliver me from excess, I've said "tomorrow" more times than I can count. What an eye opening experience this has been.
I was listening to a Joyce Meyer podcast yesterday on de-stressing our lives. One of the topics she covered was the five ways Jesus kept stress out of His life. The one that struck me most was prayer and I knew God was tying it into this new revelation on addiction He'd given me. When Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane...He was desperate. And He prayed, and prayed and prayed some more. Finally the Lord sent an angel to strengthen and minister to Him.
When there is a difficult, sometimes almost impossible battle waging in our lives, we need to pray and pray and pray, staying connected to our Father. The Lord will answer. And He will send help. We need to hang on. It's so much easier to give in, so much easier to just let go and follow our flesh. I know. I've done it probably thousands upon ten thousands of times over the years. But I don't want to anymore. I believe the Lord revealed this information to me to tell me it's time to overcome. This year seems to be one of tough love for me! And I love it!!
I know the Lord can do this. I can praise and thank Him for the victory already in place. Through gratitude and trust (this year's resolutions!) I can follow Jesus into my place of rest, my own promised land!
Lord, thank You. We all have battles that seem unending, unrelenting. But You are our Savior. You are for us. And You will be our deliverer. Lord, help us to do our part, to cling to You and never let go. Help us to stand, in Your strength against any addictions that seem determined to keep us in chains. I don't want to live imprisoned anymore. Thank You for revelation. Lord, I pray this helps others who struggle like me. I pray they learn and overcome along with me. Lord, it's hard. You know that. But like You told Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:9..."My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness." Lord let our struggles draw us closer to You, let them push us into Your arms. Lord, let us truly live out Philippians 4:13 For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Let it be more than a pretty Scripture we quote...make it a reality in our lives, a rock on which we stand. Lord, I know I can't overcome on my own...nor would I want to....I want You to be glorified and honored. I want You to get the credit for anything good in my life, any victories. Thank You...You are awesome. I stand in the Name of our victorious Savior. Amen.
Hang on, stay connected, stay in prayer.
I feel like I've struggled with addiction forever. Drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, now food and coffee. Craving excess seems to be a constant companion for me, much to my chagrin and frustration.
Almost twenty-five years ago the Lord delivered me from drugs and alcohol. A year after that cigarettes left. Those were difficult battles, but through the strength of Jesus, I was able to lay those things down and never pick them up again. I am forever grateful for these victories.
But food and coffee are another story. I am in a constant battle with them and ridding my life of the desire to overindulge in either seems near impossible. And I never understood why God left the spirit of addiction with me when He delivered me from the most destructive of my addictions. It has always confused me. Until now.
When I read the above passage in Judges, I finally understood that it was God's way of testing me to see if I would cling to Him with the same zeal and fervor I needed in order to get away from drugs, alcohol and nicotine. Or would I let the desires of my flesh rule my days. I don't believe God did this in anger, but to remind me daily of my desperate need of His deliverance, strength and salvation.
In the early days of my battle, I clung to the Lord, hour by hour, sometimes minute by minute to overcome the cravings for cocaine and alcohol. It was the same with cigarettes a year later. But I've forgotten all of that, given in to temptation with excuses and lame reasonings. Instead of looking to the Lord to deliver me from excess, I've said "tomorrow" more times than I can count. What an eye opening experience this has been.
I was listening to a Joyce Meyer podcast yesterday on de-stressing our lives. One of the topics she covered was the five ways Jesus kept stress out of His life. The one that struck me most was prayer and I knew God was tying it into this new revelation on addiction He'd given me. When Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane...He was desperate. And He prayed, and prayed and prayed some more. Finally the Lord sent an angel to strengthen and minister to Him.
When there is a difficult, sometimes almost impossible battle waging in our lives, we need to pray and pray and pray, staying connected to our Father. The Lord will answer. And He will send help. We need to hang on. It's so much easier to give in, so much easier to just let go and follow our flesh. I know. I've done it probably thousands upon ten thousands of times over the years. But I don't want to anymore. I believe the Lord revealed this information to me to tell me it's time to overcome. This year seems to be one of tough love for me! And I love it!!
I know the Lord can do this. I can praise and thank Him for the victory already in place. Through gratitude and trust (this year's resolutions!) I can follow Jesus into my place of rest, my own promised land!
Lord, thank You. We all have battles that seem unending, unrelenting. But You are our Savior. You are for us. And You will be our deliverer. Lord, help us to do our part, to cling to You and never let go. Help us to stand, in Your strength against any addictions that seem determined to keep us in chains. I don't want to live imprisoned anymore. Thank You for revelation. Lord, I pray this helps others who struggle like me. I pray they learn and overcome along with me. Lord, it's hard. You know that. But like You told Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:9..."My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness." Lord let our struggles draw us closer to You, let them push us into Your arms. Lord, let us truly live out Philippians 4:13 For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Let it be more than a pretty Scripture we quote...make it a reality in our lives, a rock on which we stand. Lord, I know I can't overcome on my own...nor would I want to....I want You to be glorified and honored. I want You to get the credit for anything good in my life, any victories. Thank You...You are awesome. I stand in the Name of our victorious Savior. Amen.
Hang on, stay connected, stay in prayer.
Tuesday, January 15, 2019
Gotta Love That Correction
So, my New Years resolution is trust and thanksgiving. Trust brings peace, thankfulness brings joy. Well, I've been doing pretty good so far, slipping up here and there, but my overall attitude has been better and I've definitely been experiencing more peace and contentment than in the past. A couple of days last week though, I felt myself falling into the same old habits...and not just complaining inside my head (which I think is where the majority of our complaining goes on long before it ever comes out of our mouths), but my overall attitude was complainy and disagreeable. There was the sighing when things go wrong, the oh woe is me, nothing works easily, waa waa waa body movements and mindset that epitomizes a ungrateful and whiny lifestyle.
So on the first day of this attitude down turn, I get into the car and one of my favorite songs was on. "So Will I" by Hilltop Worship. I knew it was God reminding me to be grateful in a way that blessed me and made my heart smile and sing. A gentle nudge and loving touch from a dear Father to step back on the right road.
So that worked for the rest of the day. Next day though, I veered right back off that give thanks road onto the complaining highway. I was feeling overwhelmed with the to do list that was running through my head and getting more weighed down by the hour....so the grumbling commenced. And this time the correction wasn't so gentle. Funny, when I think about it, that statement, about the complaining highway that kind of just sums it up. The thankful, peaceful road the Lord would have us on is calm, slow and steady, His pace....but when we start speeding up our lives, over filling them with lengthy to dos and unattainable expectations, it's like being on a fast moving highway where we get overwhelmed and can't keep up. Interesting analogy.
So again I get into the car to go to work (a perfect place to bring my rotten attitude and join with the other grouchy people and compare complaints!), turning on the radio as I do so. The radio was tuned to a Christian teaching station and as soon I turned it on, the teacher was saying things like...."You're complaining because you are overwhelmed." "You are being complainy and nitpicky!" On and on it went in this vein. Ouch! Complainy and nitpicky! Did I really want to be called that by the same loving Father of yesterday's gentle correction!?!?
No. But I needed it. And quite frankly, it made me chuckle. God was so direct in His correction. And just the way He went about it, so on point and so needed and so timely, it made me laugh out loud. A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person's strength. Proverbs 17:22 My Father knew just the remedy I needed! I think only God can make us glad while bringing correction.
For the most part, I am back on track and heading in the right direction. Yaay. But I know when I start to falter, the Lord will lift me up and get me going again. He loves His child so very much.
Lord, thank You. You make me smile and help me grow all at the same time. I know You want each one of us to keep step with You and stay the course You've laid out for us. Thank You for correction, be it a soft touch or a loud and clear shout....You know exactly what we need. You are amazing. I sit in Your peace and just feel the gift of Your contentment. What a wonderful Father we have.
Is God trying to reach you with His correction? Ask for a listening heart.
So on the first day of this attitude down turn, I get into the car and one of my favorite songs was on. "So Will I" by Hilltop Worship. I knew it was God reminding me to be grateful in a way that blessed me and made my heart smile and sing. A gentle nudge and loving touch from a dear Father to step back on the right road.
So that worked for the rest of the day. Next day though, I veered right back off that give thanks road onto the complaining highway. I was feeling overwhelmed with the to do list that was running through my head and getting more weighed down by the hour....so the grumbling commenced. And this time the correction wasn't so gentle. Funny, when I think about it, that statement, about the complaining highway that kind of just sums it up. The thankful, peaceful road the Lord would have us on is calm, slow and steady, His pace....but when we start speeding up our lives, over filling them with lengthy to dos and unattainable expectations, it's like being on a fast moving highway where we get overwhelmed and can't keep up. Interesting analogy.
So again I get into the car to go to work (a perfect place to bring my rotten attitude and join with the other grouchy people and compare complaints!), turning on the radio as I do so. The radio was tuned to a Christian teaching station and as soon I turned it on, the teacher was saying things like...."You're complaining because you are overwhelmed." "You are being complainy and nitpicky!" On and on it went in this vein. Ouch! Complainy and nitpicky! Did I really want to be called that by the same loving Father of yesterday's gentle correction!?!?
No. But I needed it. And quite frankly, it made me chuckle. God was so direct in His correction. And just the way He went about it, so on point and so needed and so timely, it made me laugh out loud. A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person's strength. Proverbs 17:22 My Father knew just the remedy I needed! I think only God can make us glad while bringing correction.
For the most part, I am back on track and heading in the right direction. Yaay. But I know when I start to falter, the Lord will lift me up and get me going again. He loves His child so very much.
Lord, thank You. You make me smile and help me grow all at the same time. I know You want each one of us to keep step with You and stay the course You've laid out for us. Thank You for correction, be it a soft touch or a loud and clear shout....You know exactly what we need. You are amazing. I sit in Your peace and just feel the gift of Your contentment. What a wonderful Father we have.
Is God trying to reach you with His correction? Ask for a listening heart.
Thursday, January 10, 2019
Personal Walk, Part 2, from Mom
Mom wrote out some more Scriptures that she knew would help her in her personal walk with Jesus.
2 Timothy 3:16 tells us, "All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right." Enjoy these verses and sections my Mom pulled out for her own journey with Jesus.
Self examination is necessary. Search me, Oh God....point out anything offensive and lead me in the pathway of everlasting life.
Psalm 139-23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.
Psalm 51:11 Do not banish me from your presence, and don’t take your Holy Spirit from me.
Discipline my mind, meditate on God. He will bless me with spiritual benefits in increased discernment and a clear sense of purpose.
Seek God. Seek His ways. Praise God.
1 Kings 3:9 Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours?”
The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for wisdom. So God replied, “Because you have asked for wisdom in governing my people with justice and have not asked for a long life or wealth or the death of your enemies— I will give you what you asked for! I will give you a wise and understanding heart such as no one else has had or ever will have!
1 Kings 3:14 And if you follow me and obey my decrees and my commands as your father, David, did, I will give you a long life.”
Galatians 2:20 My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Proverbs 3:6 Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.
Put on Jesus daily. Look into the book of Ecclesiastes. God hears our every word. Be quick to listen. Be slow to speak. Walk softly before the Lord.
From me.
Being in the Word, looking to Jesus, "putting Him on," daily, frequently throughout the whole day...this is the way to have a vibrant, victorious walk with God. We cannot do it alone. We cannot do it though self-help books, self-improvement programs....anything the world has to offer. I believe that is why Mom put so much Scripture in this journal entry....it's where our strength comes from, what changes our hearts desire from the things of the flesh and the world, to the things of God. It changes us....He changes us. As I was skimming over Ecclesiastes, I was getting excited to get into this little book....I had forgotten how great it was! I want to be on fire and filled with joy as I journey this path toward heaven. That only comes through being with the Lord.
Lord, set each of us on fire for you....give us a burning yearning! Change us, lead us, fill us and use us. Let our walk with You display Your glory to all who we come in contact with. Thank You. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Get into these Scriptures!
2 Timothy 3:16 tells us, "All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right." Enjoy these verses and sections my Mom pulled out for her own journey with Jesus.
Self examination is necessary. Search me, Oh God....point out anything offensive and lead me in the pathway of everlasting life.
Psalm 139-23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.
Psalm 51:11 Do not banish me from your presence, and don’t take your Holy Spirit from me.
Discipline my mind, meditate on God. He will bless me with spiritual benefits in increased discernment and a clear sense of purpose.
Seek God. Seek His ways. Praise God.
1 Kings 3:9 Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours?”
The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for wisdom. So God replied, “Because you have asked for wisdom in governing my people with justice and have not asked for a long life or wealth or the death of your enemies— I will give you what you asked for! I will give you a wise and understanding heart such as no one else has had or ever will have!
1 Kings 3:14 And if you follow me and obey my decrees and my commands as your father, David, did, I will give you a long life.”
Galatians 2:20 My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Proverbs 3:6 Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.
Put on Jesus daily. Look into the book of Ecclesiastes. God hears our every word. Be quick to listen. Be slow to speak. Walk softly before the Lord.
From me.
Being in the Word, looking to Jesus, "putting Him on," daily, frequently throughout the whole day...this is the way to have a vibrant, victorious walk with God. We cannot do it alone. We cannot do it though self-help books, self-improvement programs....anything the world has to offer. I believe that is why Mom put so much Scripture in this journal entry....it's where our strength comes from, what changes our hearts desire from the things of the flesh and the world, to the things of God. It changes us....He changes us. As I was skimming over Ecclesiastes, I was getting excited to get into this little book....I had forgotten how great it was! I want to be on fire and filled with joy as I journey this path toward heaven. That only comes through being with the Lord.
Lord, set each of us on fire for you....give us a burning yearning! Change us, lead us, fill us and use us. Let our walk with You display Your glory to all who we come in contact with. Thank You. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
Get into these Scriptures!
Tuesday, January 8, 2019
Personal Walk, Part 1, from Mom
Today was my Mom's Birthday. And even though she now celebrates in Heaven with her Savior, to me it's still her special day. "Personal Walk" is the entry from her journal that we are up to and since it's her birthday, I thought it appropriate to share her words today. Mom wrote some Scriptures and advice for making our personal walk with the Lord alive, focused and fruitful. Enjoy.
Remember: Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
When facing temptation: Philippians 3:12-21 12 I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. 13 No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. 15 Let all who are spiritually mature agree on these things. If you disagree on some point, I believe God will make it plain to you. 16 But we must hold on to the progress we have already made. 17 Dear brothers and sisters, pattern your lives after mine, and learn from those who follow our example. 18 For I have told you often before, and I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 They are headed for destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and they think only about this life here on earth. 20 But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior. 21 He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control.
Press toward the goal, ask the Lord's help to overcome our flesh today.
Remember: Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
When facing temptation: Philippians 3:12-21 12 I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. 13 No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. 15 Let all who are spiritually mature agree on these things. If you disagree on some point, I believe God will make it plain to you. 16 But we must hold on to the progress we have already made. 17 Dear brothers and sisters, pattern your lives after mine, and learn from those who follow our example. 18 For I have told you often before, and I say it again with tears in my eyes, that there are many whose conduct shows they are really enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 They are headed for destruction. Their god is their appetite, they brag about shameful things, and they think only about this life here on earth. 20 But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior. 21 He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control.
Press toward the goal, ask the Lord's help to overcome our flesh today.
Lord grant me grace this day
to walk the straight and narrow way.
To do whatever in Thy sight
is good and perfect, just and right,
in You, for You to be seen in me.
And You, Your kingdom to be glorified.
(I don't know the author of this prayer)
Lord, I pray to overcome my flesh today, right now. Thank You. Let my speech always be with grace (Your love), that I may know how to answer. Colossians 4:6 Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. Today Lord God, supply me with whatever I need to do Your will and to be in Your will. Holy Spirit help me to know what my one specific job is today and step out in faith and do it God's way.
Put on Jesus Christ daily. Colossians 4:2-5 2 Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. 3 Pray for us, too, that God will give us many opportunities to speak about his mysterious plan concerning Christ. That is why I am here in chains. 4 Pray that I will proclaim this message as clearly as I should. 5 Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity.
vs 2 continue earnestly in prayer with thanksgiving.
vs 3 that God would open a door for others to see Christ.
vs 4 that I make it clear as I speak.
vs 5 that I walk in wisdom to those that are outside.
From me.
Scriptures to pray over, meditate on and remember. We are new creations, but old habits die hard. We need perseverance on this walk! I believe the more we stay in touch with the Holy Spirit throughout the day, the more success we are going to have. Staying in God's Word is so important to our journey with Jesus. And pray, pray, pray.
Lord, I echo my Mom's prayer above. Help each of us to put on Jesus today and walk out the newness of life You say is ours. Lift us up when we fall, keep us humble and keep us going forward. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
What can you do to keep the Lord at the forefront of your thoughts?
Thursday, January 3, 2019
New Year, New Verse
Sometimes God sends us a word from His Word. It could come through a card from a friend, or maybe on a "verse of the day" calendar or through a daily devotional. Perhaps you have a Bible app on your phone like I do with a verse for each day, and one of them touches your heart deeply, and you know that in that very moment, God is speaking that very verse to you. Or it could be like what happened to me yesterday, I was reading God's Word for our Sunday Bible study and had a "verse jump off the page" experience.
Now a while back the Lord sent me a verse that was so warm and comforting. Zephaniah 3:7 For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty Savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With His love, He will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs. That's a wonderful verse to receive. We like those type of words. Verses like Joshua 1:9 This is my command--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Or Jeremiah 31:3 Long ago the Lord said to Israel: “I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself. And an all time favorite of many of us, Romans 8:28 And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. These are verses we love to get. God's promises, His reassurances. These words encourage, strengthen, and help us to keep going forward each day knowing our Savior is with us and loves us.
Well this was not exactly the type of verse I got this year. LOL Nope, my Father is getting serious with me and He let me know it. On Tuesday I wrote what His goals were for me in 2019. And after "hearing" my "verse of the year," I know the Lord is not playing around. I know He wants so much more for me than the place I've been living in for far to long. What was the verse, you ask? Deuteronomy 10:16 Therefore, change your hearts and stop being stubborn. Yup, that's it. Just what all of us want to hear from the Lord. LOL
I get it. I hear ya Lord! I know I've been stubborn and unbelieving and difficult. I'm so glad and grateful that the Lord gets stern with us when needed, just like a good parent teaches and guides a young child. That is one of the biggest blessings in being a child of God.
Hebrews 12:5-12 And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said, “My child, don’t make light of the Lord’s discipline, and don’t give up when he corrects you. 6 For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.” 7 As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? 8 If God doesn’t discipline you as he does all of his children, it means that you are illegitimate and are not really his children at all. 9 Since we respected our earthly fathers who disciplined us, shouldn’t we submit even more to the discipline of the Father of our spirits, and live forever? 10 For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness. 11 No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way. 12 So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. 13 Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong.
When God corrects us, it's out of a heart of love. I am feeling very loved! LOL
Philippians 3:12-14 I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead. I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
We all can take this verse as our own. I am looking forward to going forward! The Lord has so much blessing in store for us. He desires us to be transformed into the image of His dear Son, Jesus, and live out His love through us, reaching those around us with His salvation. I want in on this!
Lord, You are a transforming God. You correct and discipline in love. Thank You for not letting us go our own way when You know the better path. Lord, give me, and all of us a cooperative spirit. Let us all lose any stiff necked stubbornness that so easily keeps us stuck. I pray for a mold-able hearts, and eager spirits. Let's do this! In Jesus' wise Name. Amen.
Keep a look out for God's verse for you!
Trust brings peace, gratitude brings joy. I want to keep focused on that this year.
Now a while back the Lord sent me a verse that was so warm and comforting. Zephaniah 3:7 For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty Savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With His love, He will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs. That's a wonderful verse to receive. We like those type of words. Verses like Joshua 1:9 This is my command--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Or Jeremiah 31:3 Long ago the Lord said to Israel: “I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself. And an all time favorite of many of us, Romans 8:28 And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. These are verses we love to get. God's promises, His reassurances. These words encourage, strengthen, and help us to keep going forward each day knowing our Savior is with us and loves us.
Well this was not exactly the type of verse I got this year. LOL Nope, my Father is getting serious with me and He let me know it. On Tuesday I wrote what His goals were for me in 2019. And after "hearing" my "verse of the year," I know the Lord is not playing around. I know He wants so much more for me than the place I've been living in for far to long. What was the verse, you ask? Deuteronomy 10:16 Therefore, change your hearts and stop being stubborn. Yup, that's it. Just what all of us want to hear from the Lord. LOL
I get it. I hear ya Lord! I know I've been stubborn and unbelieving and difficult. I'm so glad and grateful that the Lord gets stern with us when needed, just like a good parent teaches and guides a young child. That is one of the biggest blessings in being a child of God.
Hebrews 12:5-12 And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as his children? He said, “My child, don’t make light of the Lord’s discipline, and don’t give up when he corrects you. 6 For the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child.” 7 As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as his own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? 8 If God doesn’t discipline you as he does all of his children, it means that you are illegitimate and are not really his children at all. 9 Since we respected our earthly fathers who disciplined us, shouldn’t we submit even more to the discipline of the Father of our spirits, and live forever? 10 For our earthly fathers disciplined us for a few years, doing the best they knew how. But God’s discipline is always good for us, so that we might share in his holiness. 11 No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening—it’s painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way. 12 So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. 13 Mark out a straight path for your feet so that those who are weak and lame will not fall but become strong.
When God corrects us, it's out of a heart of love. I am feeling very loved! LOL
Philippians 3:12-14 I don't mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead. I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
We all can take this verse as our own. I am looking forward to going forward! The Lord has so much blessing in store for us. He desires us to be transformed into the image of His dear Son, Jesus, and live out His love through us, reaching those around us with His salvation. I want in on this!
Lord, You are a transforming God. You correct and discipline in love. Thank You for not letting us go our own way when You know the better path. Lord, give me, and all of us a cooperative spirit. Let us all lose any stiff necked stubbornness that so easily keeps us stuck. I pray for a mold-able hearts, and eager spirits. Let's do this! In Jesus' wise Name. Amen.
Keep a look out for God's verse for you!
Trust brings peace, gratitude brings joy. I want to keep focused on that this year.
Tuesday, January 1, 2019
Happy New Year!!
Happy New Year to all of you. I ask for the Lord to bless you and be with you this upcoming year. Whatever trials you face, may you feel our Savior's hand in yours as you walk through them. And in the victories and blessings, rejoice in His Presence. And in all things, remember that you are loved and cared for by a heavenly Father whose heart is kind and wisdom is unending.
Every year a lot of us set resolutions. Weight loss, exercise, be a better person....I do it too. But my biggest thrill is listening for the Lord's plan for my "improvement" during the next year. I just read a statement that said something like, January 1st is the first page of a new 365 page book. I like the thought of that. I want to walk with the Lord and let His story unfold day by day in my new book! When I write each page I want it to be a testament to His grace, care and love.
So onward to God's plan for my year. My year end God visit! One of my biggest struggles is and has always been unbelief. If things aren't going perfectly...I get frustrated and mistrusting. And as I've chronicled here, complaining is another issue. Well the Lord gave me a statement for this new book of 2019. "Trust brings peace and gratitude brings joy." And that's God's word for me this year (along with Hebrews chapters 3 and 4). And that's where he wants me going this year. Lose the unbelief, lose the complaining. And I want the transformation that comes for doing those things. I'm so excited!
You know what's great too, is that perfection isn't a goal, but going forward is. I know that even if I don't get it right all the time, or if I need to make the same goals again next year, as long as I keep working at it, with the Holy Spirit's help I'll reach the place He wants me to be. With our Father, the progress isn't in perfect behavior, but in a heart that is eager to follow Him.
Thank You Lord for Your leading and for the brand new book we will write this year. I don't know what the next ten minutes will hold, let alone the entire year, but You do and You have only good in mind, not just good, but the best, even if that best comes out of hardship. Increase all our trust, faith and gratitude this year. Help us all to let You be God and rest in the fact that You are. In Jesus' most trustworthy Name. Amen.
Get with the Lord, and set your goals for this new year.
And so, dear brothers and sisters who belong to God and are partners with those called to heaven, think carefully about this Jesus whom we declare to be God’s messenger and High Priest. 2 For he was faithful to God, who appointed him, just as Moses served faithfully when he was entrusted with God’s entire house.
3 But Jesus deserves far more glory than Moses, just as a person who builds a house deserves more praise than the house itself. 4 For every house has a builder, but the one who built everything is God.
5 Moses was certainly faithful in God’s house as a servant. His work was an illustration of the truths God would reveal later. 6 But Christ, as the Son, is in charge of God’s entire house. And we are God’s house, if we keep our courage and remain confident in our hope in Christ.
7 That is why the Holy Spirit says,
“Today when you hear his voice,
8 don’t harden your hearts
as Israel did when they rebelled,
when they tested me in the wilderness.
9 There your ancestors tested and tried my patience,
even though they saw my miracles for forty years.
10 So I was angry with them, and I said,
‘Their hearts always turn away from me.
They refuse to do what I tell them.’
11 So in my anger I took an oath:
‘They will never enter my place of rest.’”
12 Be careful then, dear brothers and sisters. Make sure that your own hearts are not evil and unbelieving, turning you away from the living God. 13 You must warn each other every day, while it is still “today,” so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God. 14 For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ. 15 Remember what it says:
“Today when you hear his voice,
don’t harden your hearts
as Israel did when they rebelled.”
16 And who was it who rebelled against God, even though they heard his voice? Wasn’t it the people Moses led out of Egypt? 17 And who made God angry for forty years? Wasn’t it the people who sinned, whose corpses lay in the wilderness? 18 And to whom was God speaking when he took an oath that they would never enter his rest? Wasn’t it the people who disobeyed him? 19 So we see that because of their unbelief they were not able to enter his rest.
4 God’s promise of entering his rest still stands, so we ought to tremble with fear that some of you might fail to experience it. 2 For this good news—that God has prepared this rest—has been announced to us just as it was to them. But it did them no good because they didn’t share the faith of those who listened to God.3 For only we who believe can enter his rest. As for the others, God said,
“In my anger I took an oath:
‘They will never enter my place of rest,’”
even though this rest has been ready since he made the world. 4 We know it is ready because of the place in the Scriptures where it mentions the seventh day: “On the seventh day God rested from all his work.” 5 But in the other passage God said, “They will never enter my place of rest.”
6 So God’s rest is there for people to enter, but those who first heard this good news failed to enter because they disobeyed God. 7 So God set another time for entering his rest, and that time is today. God announced this through David much later in the words already quoted:
“Today when you hear his voice,
don’t harden your hearts.”
8 Now if Joshua had succeeded in giving them this rest, God would not have spoken about another day of rest still to come. 9 So there is a special rest still waiting for the people of God. 10 For all who have entered into God’s rest have rested from their labors, just as God did after creating the world. 11 So let us do our best to enter that rest. But if we disobey God, as the people of Israel did, we will fall.
12 For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. 13 Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable.
14 So then, since we have a great High Priest who has entered heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we believe. 15 This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. 16 So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.
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