From Desperation to Determination

"What will my brother do to me?" Jacob wondered, hearing Esau was heading his way with 400 men. "Will he take his vengeance on me?" "Will he destroy me for having deceived him from his natural birthright?"

Desperate, distressed, and distraught, Jacob worked out a plan to appease his brothers anger. He sent out servants to take hundreds of male and female goats and camels to appease Esau's anger. Though God promised Jacob He would prosper him, upon returning to his home country, Jacob feared Esau.


Anxious, worried, and in a panic Jacob pressed in to God. Left alone in the middle of the night, scripture says Jacob wrestled with a man until day-break. Jacob desperate for a blessing, held on, fighting, grappling, tusselling; determined to not let go until the man blessed him.

Finally, realizing Jacob's determination, the man blessed him saying, "Your name shall no longer be Jacob, but Israel; for you have striven with God and with men and have prevailed."

Friends, what are you wrestling with? Have you determined to press in and press on? Will the cry of your desperation turn to determination?

Jacob turned his desperation to determination,

and God blessed him. 

 
The same is true for us: when we determine to not let go, not give up, and we press in and hold fast to God, God hears us. Scripture says if we ask anything in accordance with His will, it will be done.
 
Mark 11:22-24 says, "Have faith in God," Jesus answered. "I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." (NIV)
 
 

I'm NOT talking about naming and claming it...

 

 
I'm talking about holding fast to the truth...knowing what God has said...clinging and wrestling...determining to not let go of what HE HAS PROMISED. God told Jacob to return to his home country and that He would prosper him, that was God's promise to Jacob...
 

What has God promised you?
What does Scripture declare?

 

Whatever it is...DON'T let go. DON'T give up.

Be desperate for God. Be determined to NOT let go!

You're blessing is coming. God fulfills ALL of HIS promises!

 
PRAYER: Father, we are desperate for a touch from you. Fulfill Your promises. We give You our life. We surrender to YOUR will. Deliver us from our enemies. Empower us for Your service. Let Your Kingdom Come...Let Your will be done...on earth...in our lives...in our jobs...in our finances...in our marriages...in our families...in our health...as it is in Heaven! In Jesus name we pray, amen!

"What to Do in Moments of Silence"

I know this may sound crazy, but I don't mind when God rebukes me. It's not that I love being chastised or look forward to God exposing my sins, but when God rebukes me, at least I know He's still speaking.

What I dread are His moments of prolonged silence...the moments in time, where I neither hear His rebuke or His gentle encouragement...To me...that is torture!

I despair the silent responses to my cries of, "Speak, Lord, Your servant is listening!"..."Say anything at all!"..."Just let me know You are still there!"..."HELLO...are You there?"

Jesus felt this anguish on the cross; He cried out, "My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?"

Friends, we are not alone. Jesus felt isolated, abandoned, naked and alone, bearing the weight of sin. Hebrews 4:14-16 says, "Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are — yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." (NIV)

So, what should we do in moments where God seems to NOT speak? How do we survive times of His unresponse? Are there ways to encourage our faith in the days, months, or years of silence? ABSOLUTELY!

1. First we must learn to WAIT. Moments of silence are an opportunity for us to wait, knowing that the testing of our faith produces perseverance and character.  We are being made to be more like Him.
• Ps 27:14, Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD. (NIV)
• Isa 30:18, Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion.For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him! (NIV)
• Isa 40:31, "but those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." 
2. 
   
   Second, we must continue to keep WATCH. Don't give up hope. Keep looking. Guard your heart so you don't lose your hope.
• 
  
  Deut 4:9 reminds us, "Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them." (NIV)
• 
  
  Mic 7:7, But as for me, I watch in hope for the LORD, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me. (NIV) 
3. 
   
   Third, we need to make sure we continually READ HIS WORD. Though we may feel alone, God has given us many promises. When God seems silent, we must determine to press in and read His Word even more to find strength.
• 
  
  He will never leave us forsake us. (Joshua 1:5)
• 
  
  He works all things together for our good.  (Romans 8:28-29)
• 
  
  Commit your way to Him and He will direct your path. (Proverbs 3:5-6)
• 
  
  The Lord is faithful and loving toward us. (Psalm 145:13)

No matter our circumstance today, whether we readily hear God speaking, or find ourself straining to catch His slightest whisper, KNOW THIS...GOD IS WITH US. WE ARE NOT ALONE. SO, KEEP PRESSING ON! Rest knowing He will speak. Trust His character...He will NOT dissapoint us or ever let us down.

I want to encourage you to NOT be discouraged,  1 Corinthians 15:58 reminds us, "Therefore, my dear brothers (and sisters), stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." (NIV)

Fighting Off the Enemy's Accusations

I long for the day when I no longer have to fight "the accusers" accusations. You know, the small voice that whispers "You'll never be good enough." or "If God really wanted to use you, then ... wouldn't have happend!" I look forward to not having to deal with all his subtleties of confusion, discouragement, and disappointment.


Scripture says that Satan "masquerades as an angel of light." He doesn't show up with his entourage of demons spewing fire and venom; he cloaks himself in small subtleties, hoping to go unnoticed...undetected. He hopes to infiltrate our hopes with discouragement, our mission with busy activity, and our mind with confusion.
 
1 Peter 5:8 says, “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” So...stand guard dear friends. Pay attention to the subtle accusations whispered in your ear. Reject the enemy's lies. BE ALERT! Don't be naive...there is a battle being made for you. Satan hurls accusations in an attempt to defeat, discourage, and distract each one of us from God's call. BUT the good news is, we can and will overcome Him.
 
HOW?
 

We overcome him, by the blood of the Lamb

and by the word of our testimony.

 

• Satan cannot stand against the truth of our salvation. The truth is, we have been purchased. It is not by our merit, not by our works, not by our accomplished achievements...it is a gift of GOD through Jesus. We overcome each accusation by reminding ourselves of the truth of our salvation found only in Christ. It is so important to remember where our hope comes from and to remind ourselves that God doesn't require us to be "successful" He calls us to be "faithful".

• Secondly, we overcome each lie by the word of our testimony. Here is our chance to actively participate with GOD. We speak forth the truth. When the enemy hurls accusations of "You'll never be good enough." We respond with, "True, we will never be good enough. In our own power we can't, but GOD CAN. His Word declares that we can do all things through Him...that we are more than conquerors in Christ Jesus. We will prevail, because God is with us. When He acts...who can reverse? The key to overcoming Satan's accusations is to counter them with the Truth of God's word.

The only way to overcome accusation, discouragement, and defeat...is to press in to Jesus...press in to the hope of our salvation...and cling to the truth of His word...making His word the word of our testimony.

God has great plans in store for each one of us. He has predestined us to be conformed to HIS likeness. He positioned us securely in His love. We will accomplish all He has promised.

So...Don't give up. Don't give in. Resist the enemy...and he will flee...draw near to God...and GOD WILL DRAW near to you!

NEVER FORGET...You are His Love Extended! Shine brightly for Him and have an awesome weekend! Let me know if there is any way I can pray for you. And if you know of someone who is discouraged or someone who would appreciate words of encouragement...pass His Love Extended's Blog-site on to them.

PRAYER: Father, we love You so much. Thank You that You have given us everything we need that pertains to life and godliness. Fill us to overflowing. Give us Your mind. Fill our heart. Make us secure. IN JESUS name, amen.

Spinning Wildly Out of Control...

"Stop it Steve; that's enough!" I covered my ears; his incessant honking was no longer funny.

But, Steve continued, determined to press harder and longer on the horn, laughing, at his ability to be in control.

"Stop it Steve!" My sister lunged her hand, hitting Steve's elbow-locked arm...and just that quick...the world Steve felt so in control of...turned upside down...and so did ours . Our van veered back and forth across the road, tilted on two wheels, hit a guard rail, and then flipped over and over again.

I closed my eyes, watching my life flash before me. I recalled my grandmother's recent accident and the comment the doctors made to my grand-father about her survival: "It's a good thing she was sleeping. She probably survived this crash because her body was so relaxed."

Though, today, I'm not sure what made the doctor say that, at the time, I kept saying, "Just relax and you'll make it through!" So, I let my body smack against the sink counter, along with our couch that pulled out into a bed, and then landed hitting the ceiling; the van finally came to a stand still. It was completely totalled but  miraculously, we each survived to live another day.

It's funny how we can feel completely in control one minute, feeling as if we have the world by its tail, then all of a sudden the tail snaps off, and we helplessly watch our world spin wildly out of control. We find ourselves crashing up against things, unexpectedly twisting and turning, in a complete state of un-control.

Can I be completely honest with you? I've felt like that many times this week. I find myself questioning God's direction for my life. I keep asking Him, "What is it that YOU really want?" I've teetered between commanding mountains to be moved and pulling covers back over my head. What can I say...I guess I'm human! And dear friends, I've found the only safe thing for us to do in moments like these is to "Relax...and to remind ourselves...we'll make it through!"

Perhaps the reason our world begins spinning uncontrollably is to bring us to the place we should have started and remained...in a place of SURRENDER!

Not surrendered to the chaos, not surrendered to our own abilities, not surrendered to plans of action or the antithesis of helpless retreats...but SURRENDERED to the One Who is in control...SURRENDERED to the One Who holds our future...SURRENDERED securely to the One Who loves us unconditionally.

Unfortunately, heartaches and disappointments are certain in life...it's what we do with them that defines us! I for one am resolved to release each fear, each heartache, and each disappointment to JESUS...confident that He who began a good work in me will be faithful to complete it!

So if your world seems to be spinning wildy out of control...RELAX...and surrender each ambition, dream, and vision to God. He speaks peace, commanding storms and waters to stop raging...AND...even greater news is HE CARES FOR US!

Matthew 6:31-33 assures us of His provision; it says, "So do not worry , saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (NIV)

PRAYER: Thank You LORD that YOU ARE in control and YOU ARE working all things together for our good. Thank You for Your love, grace, and mercy. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit. Let our life count for You. In Jesus name, we pray, amen.

Escaping The Slippery Slope of Discouragement!

Discouragement casts shadows on our future, blurs our vision, and destroys our hope.

You know what I'm talking about...the unshakable shackles around your hands and feet, making it difficult to lift your head from your pillow or put your feet to the floor...or the big hole in your chest (feeling) making you certain death is upon you, except your heart continues to beat...

It's ok. We've all been there. We've all experienced the moments where we doubt our abilities, ponder our existence, and question the meaning of life. In our moment of weakness, we succumb to the voices of "You'll never be good enough." "Give up!" or "You're a fool for trying!"

Dissatisfied with our present circumstances we question our call and wonder if God really cares...


In Psalm 42:3,10, David faced the giant of discouragement and cried out to God; "My tears have been my food day and night...My bones suffer mortal agony as my foes taunt me, saying to me all day long, "Where is your God?"

But after each battle with darkness he reminds himself of the truth. "Why are you downcast , O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God." (Psalm 42:11, NIV)


David knew the only way of escaping the slippery slope of discouragement is to look up!

When we realize "OH NO! I kissed a frog!" And our promised prince and fairytale ending doesn't turn out like we envisioned we must reevaluate our surroundings...forget what WE had hoped for...and CLING to the PROMISE of WHAT GOD HAS SAID. Though God's ultimate promises are sometimes delayed, they are ALWAYS fulfilled.

2 Peter 3:9 reminds us that, "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness." (NIV)

God is the Rock, His works are perfect, and all his ways are just. He is a faithful God who does no wrong, He is upright and just. (Deuteronomy 32:4)


So, if you're facing discouragement today, here are a few simple steps to break-free:

1. Remember, we have a choice: we can wallow in self-pity and flounder in the sea of misery or we can choose to be encouraged.
2. Recall Who You Serve.
3. Hold Fast to What He Promised.
4. Position yourself to receive His strength. Read your Bible. Pray without ceasing.
5. Finally, get up! Put one foot in front of the other...and PRESS ON!

PRAYER: Father, we look to You. You are our hope. You are our life. Fill us to overflowing. We put our trust in You! Thank You for the promise that You will never leave us or forsake us. Thank You that You love us! In Jesus name, amen.

Just A Glimpse!

Sometimes, as I read through Scripture, I catch a fresh glimpse of WHO God is...and it totally takes my breath away. In Isaiah 43:12-13 God says, "...You are my witnesses," declares the LORD, "that I am God. Yes, and from ancient days I am he. No one can deliver out of my hand. When I act, who can reverse it?" (NIV)

Wow...think about that. We are HIS...He holds us securely...No one can snatch us from His love...He moves mountains on our behalf...He is ALL POWERFUL...and when He acts...NO ONE can reverse it.

HE PROMISES later in this same passage of Scripture, from Isaiah 43:16-19, "This is what the LORD says — he who made a way through the sea, a path through the mighty waters, who drew out the chariots and horses, the army and reinforcements together, and they lay there, never to rise again, extinguished, snuffed out like a wick: "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." (NIV)

Are you facing impossibilities today? I'm sure the Red Sea and a vast Egyptian army seemed pretty daunting...but God FULLY delivered the Israelites!

We serve an AMAZING GOD!

God commands us to forget the former things...to not dwell on the past...WHY because He is doing a new thing...it's right here...HE is making a way...even in our desert wastelands!

Have relationship troubles? God restores!
How about financial difficulties? God promises to sustain and provide!
Are you weighted by sin? God removes our sin as far as the east is from the west!
If you're tired...weary or worn out...God will lift you up as if on wings of Eagles...

Dear friend...GOD CAN BE TRUSTED! YOU ARE NOT ALONE! He sees you right where you are...the difficulties...the challenges...AND HE PROMISES...

"Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."

(Hebrews 13:5, NIV)

PRAYER: (Taken directly from 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24) "May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it." (NIV) In Jesus name I pray, amen!

What'cha Thinking About?

"What'cha thinking about, Joshua?" I asked my eight year old, little boy, as he gazed blankly out the window.

Turning his head toward me, he smiled; focusing back to reality, breaking away from the glazed distant dream world he had just visited.

"I was thinking that when I grew up, I could be a preacher and a police officer." He replied.

"Oh yah, why's that?" I asked.

"Well, that way I could protect people and lead them to Jesus." He said.

"Well son, that's a great idea."  I giggled under my breath and smiled. "No matter what, you simply need to listen to what God tells you to do; you can't go wrong if you listen to Him; He has a plan specifically for you."

A couple minutes passed, when Joshua commented, "Well, looks like I'm suppose to be a preacher."

Again, I laughed. "That's awesome son! Either way, you'll be great at whatever you decide."


Proverbs 23:7 says, "As a man thinks in his heart, so he is."

So, today I ask you, "What'cha thinking about?" "What do you privately meditate about?" "What consumes your thinking?"

Do you focus on what God says about you or give your attention to the accuser of the brethern (the devil)? Do you center your attention on impossibilities or the God of the impossible?

Whatever you think about, will come about.

Matt 12:34 says, "For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks." (NIV) So if you constantly contemplate the what ifs of life, worrying and wallowing in hopelessness, eventually you will live in it. BUT, if you train your mind, disciplining it to believe what God has said, you will be unstoppable.

Proverbs 18:21 says, "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit." (NIV)

Friends, we have been given the mind of Christ. His gift to us is, His very presence. Satan's mission is to destroy us from the inside out; he attempts to paralyze us through the futility of our thinking. If he can convince us we are powerless, we will never step out to fulfill our mission. BUT...we aren't powerless...God has given us all things that pertains to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). So, if we center our hope in Christ...knowing that it's through HIM that ALL things are possible...then victory is inescapable!

I encourage you therefore to take note...guard your mind...evaluate your private thoughts...ask yourself, "What'cha thinking about?" Take every thought captive to Christ and the power of the message and hope of the cross.

PRAYER: Father, thank You for Your Holy Spirit. Thank You that You have given us the mind of Christ. Thank You that it's through You that all things are possible. Help us to focus on what You say about us and not fall prey to the enemy's accusations. We put our hope in YOU! Fill us to overflowing with Your joy, peace, and power. In Jesus name we pray, amen.

"Whoever Loves Much, Does Much"

Thomas a' Kempis said, "Whoever loves much, does much."

(http://www.sermonillustrations.com/a-z/l/love.htm)

With all the stress of packing, unpacking, finding new doctors, registering kids for school, discovering new grocery stores, and busily accomplishing everything on my "to do list"...I found myself a little more "edgy". Two weeks ago my husband even made the comment, "You are really short in your answers with everyone; you haven't showed a lot of grace to anyone lately."

His words penetrated my heart and grabbed my attention. Here I am, starting an international ministry, "His Love Extended", and I wasn't even extending love or grace to those closest to me, my family....UGHHHH! His words woke me up, calling me to action.

It's so easy to get distracted by our own concerns that we forget why we are really here. As Christians, we have been given an amazing opportunity. God breathed life into us. He extended His love, mercy, and grace and commanded us to go into all the world and share the good news!

There is no greater news or joy to share, than the message of God's grace. There is no greater privilege than representing God to others by extending forgiveness to those who don't deserve it or loving someone who doesn't expect it. When we extend mercy, grace, love, or forgiveness, we cooperate with God, becoming partners with Him in the great exchange of life.

Today's message is short and simple:

"...do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness , rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." (Ephesians 4:30-32, NIV)

"Dear friends, let us love one another..." (1 John 4:7, NIV)

Today, don't let the cares of life crush your joy; let your love for God be witnessed in your love for others; we are his hands and feet...each one of us are HIS LOVE EXTENDED! Be an extension of His grace through your words, through your actions, through your life.

PRAYER: Father, soften our hearts. Help us to extend Your love and reflect Your glory. Season our words with grace and mercy. Help us to be slow to speak, slow to become angry, quick to listen, and abounding in Your love. In Jesus name, amen.

No Matter What!

As a kid, I feared that I had blasphemed the Holy Spirit. I feared that I would spend eternity in hell. As I wrestled with my faith, I determined that even if I spent eternity in hell...I still needed to honor God here...after all...He alone was worthy of my praise. I determined that NO MATTER WHAT...I was going to love God and serve Him.

Wow...I wish I could have more of that kind of faith now. The kind of faith that says "No Matter What...I'm going to serve God!"

I love reading Bible stories of complete abandonment: like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednigo telling the king that God could deliver them from the fiery furnace...but that even if He didn't, they still wouldn't bow their knees to the idle made of gold. Then there's Daniel; Daniel continued to pray to God, regardless of the kings decree, or the threat of the lion's den. Or, how about Paul, in Acts 20:22-24, when he writes..."And now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there. I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me — the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace." (NIV)

Now that's abandonment...knowing through the Holy Spirit that prison and hardships were awaiting you...but considering your life worth nothing and following His voice to go anyway!
 
I want to have that kind of faith...the kind of faith that says..."I'm pressing on...NO MATTER THE COST!" "I'm following You where ever You lead, God, I won't back down, give up, or shut up until I fulfill ALL that YOU have called me to!" "I will willingly lay down my rights, my privileges, and my image...to serve You, glorify You, and to be faithful to You!" "I will not spend my life in fear, worry, or doubt, wondering or worrying about all the "What ifs" or "When's it my turn?" kinda stuff!"
 
I've heard it said that "Faith honors God...and God honors faith."
 
Friends, let us step forward, completely abandoned to His will...and take up our cross and follow Him. Jesus said in Matthew 16:24-26, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 25 For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it." (NIV)
 
Don't back down. Don't give up. Press on and serve Him...NO MATTER WHAT...knowing one day when we bow our knee and confess Him as Lord we will hear him say..."WELL DONE, GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANTS...come share in your master's happiness!"
 
PRAYER: Father, we submit our lives to be used by You and for You. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit. Empower us and Equip us to fulfill all that You have called us to. In Jesus name, amen.

This Side of Eternity

Our opportunity to demonstrate faith exists only on THIS SIDE OF ETERNITY...once we see Him...what we have hoped and lived for becomes reality...the only chance we have to exercise our faith is here and now.

Letters written while in prison (inspired by God) shaped the Christian Faith...a woman at a well who heard the truth of her life led entire city to Jesus...a poured out jar of alabaster became a a remembered story for all time, inspiring sacrifice, surrender, and abandonment to God...fishermen who left their boats to follow, listen, and learn became pillars for the gospel...

I don't imagine any of these individuals recognized the significance of their acts. They didn't set out "TO DO" great things; they simply remained faithful to the opportunity before them; they seized the moment; they influenced where they were.

"Dont' waste your time waiting and longing for large opportunities which may never come. But faithfully handle the little things that are always claiming your attention." (F.B. Meyer, http://www.sermonillustrations.com/a-z/f/faithfulness.htm)

What is God calling you to...TODAY? Serve your spouse...care for your children...write the letter...teach the class...follow...press in...press on!

Mark Hatfield tells of touring Calcutta with Mother Teresa and visiting the so-called "House of Dying," where sick children are cared for in their last days, and the dispensary, where the poor line up by the hundreds to receive medical attention...Hatfield was overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the suffering she...faced daily. "How can you bear the load without being crushed by it?" he asked. Mother Teresa replied, "My dear Senator, I am not called to be successful, I am called to be faithful."
(Beals, Beyond Hunger, http://www.sermonillustrations.com/a-z/s/success.htm)

Dear friends, we are not required to be "successful" we are required to be "faithful". God is working in us to make a difference. He is faithfully orchestrating the events of our life. He has not forgotten us. When we yield our life to Him...we WILL reap the promised harvest!


"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11, NIV)



PRAYER:  Father, we give you this day. Help us to be faithful in each task. Let our life reveal Your love, mercy, and faithfulness. Let us be YOUR LOVE EXTENDED! In Jesus name, amen.

(Hope you can join in on today's broadcast at: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cwa-radio/2010/08/18/his-love-extended  On today's episode, Becki Reiser shares her powerful testimony about the amazing grace and restoration she experienced after the murder of her teenage daughter.)  Hope you can listen live today, at our NEW BROADCAST time of 12 NOON EST. Or listen later at the same link to the archived message.

SQUARE YOUR SHOULDERS BACK!

"The LORD is my light and my salvation — whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life — of whom shall I be afraid?" (Psalm 27:1, NIV)

Yellow buses...long car lines...back packs and lunch boxes...School is back in session. 

As I maneuvered through crowds of little people, my children squeezed tightly to my hands...they felt so unsure and uncertain.

It's tough being the new kid; walking into a new school, not knowing where you're going feels frightening. So many questions run through your mind...Where do I go? Who will I sit with? Will the other kids like me? Will I fit in?

Not know whether you'll be accepted is intimidating. So, as my children clung to my hand I squeezed even tighter to theirs and drew them in closer. 

"I am so proud of each one of you." "You are going to do great." "God has called you to Florida to represent Him...You are going to make so many friends...YOU HAVE NOTHING TO FEAR! God has great plans for each of you...So, listen closely...I want you to relax, have fun, and be kind to each person you meet." "I love you both and am so proud to be your mommy!"

Smiles returned to their little faces. They squared their shoulders back. They lifted their heads high...they were ready for the day ahead.

Returning home, I sensed the Lord whisper tender words of affirmation for me to share with you today.

When we feel apprehensive, unsure, or uncertain, He squeezes our hand and draws us in close. He reminds us that we are His. He repeats His mission for our lives. He tells us how proud He is. He lovingly draws us closer and encourages our soul.

"THERE IS NOTHING TO FEAR! For I have called you...I will sustain you...You are NOT alone!"

Isaiah 44:2-8, "This is what the LORD says — he who made you, who formed you in the womb, and who will help you: Do not be afraid...my servant...whom I have chosen. For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants...Do not tremble, do not be afraid...You are my witnesses..." (NIV)

"No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you." (Joshua 1:5, NIV)

I don't know about you...but as I read these encouraging passages, a smile returns to my face. I can square my shoulders back and lift my head high...I'm ready for the day!

PRAYER: Father, thank You that You never leave us or forsake us. Thank You that when we feel weary or apprehensive You are there to draw us in close. Fill us with Your presence. Empower us to live for YOU today! IN JESUS NAME, AMEN!

UNHARMED and REMADE!

I rarely buy anything new for myself; so by the time I do, the old is so worn and tattered, it really isn't good for anything, except to be thrown away.

Currently, I have 4 shirts with little holes in them, but instead of throwing them away...I put them back in the drawer to be worn yet another day. (As a matter of fact...I'm wearing one right now. LOL.) I guess I just get so comfortable and familiar with the way they fit...that I don't notice how tattered they are.

Eventually, I recognize their condition and realize it's time to get something NEW!

Today, as I looked at my tattered shirt, I thought about the condition of my life. I like to have what I call, "LIFE EVALUATIONS"...where I reflect on where I have come from...and where I am going to. I like having these life evaluation because sometimes (like my shirts) I have become so comfortable and familiar with life...I haven't noticed how tattered, torn, and worn I've become!

Shopping for a shirt is easy enough...but when it comes to life...only God can remake us.

In Jeremiah 18:1-4, we read: "This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD: "Go down to the potter's house, and there I will give you my message." So I went down to the potter's house, and I saw him working at the wheel. But the pot he was shaping from the clay was marred in his hands; so the potter formed it into another pot, shaping it as seemed best to him." (NIV)

Friends, God wants to remake us. He wants to take the tattered and torn fragments of our life and reshape them. Our condition hasn't escaped His notice. He's masterfully spinning our world round and round...breaking us...melting us...reshaping us...and watching us closely in the fire...and at just the right moment...He lovingly draws us out...UNHARMED and REMADE!

The truth is...we can trust God.

If it feels a little hot...if it seems uncomfortable...if it seems like you've been spinning around and around on the same "potter's wheel of life"...REMEMBER THIS..."The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made." (Psalm 145:8-9, NIV)


Sometimes, we just need to take a step back and recognize that it's time to be made NEW AGAIN.

PRAYER: Father, we ask that You would lovingly reshape us and remake us. We want to be made NEW. Fill us with Your Spirit. Breathe Your life into us. Take all the tattered and torn pieces and make us whole again...a vessel of honor for You! In Jesus name, amen.

Close Your Eyes and Fall Back

"Put your hands down to your side...close your eyes...now...fall back."

Throughout the years  we've all played this game. We've played it as kids or at team builders with corporate companies. The purpose of the game requires you to build trust in your friends or teammates.

Our spiritual journey demands the same faith building process. God calls us to put our hands down to our side, empty our hands and mind of all control...to close our eyes...and fall back into God's arms...knowing He will catch us.

Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your steps."

Today, I want to simply encourage you to close your eyes. Let the tension in your shoulders drop...take a deep breath and fall back gently into God's arms...He WON'T disappoint you.

As we abandon ourselves to God and fall back into His arms, we will not only experience Him catching us...but also enjoy the freedom of Him carrying us...faithfully fulfilling ALL HE HAS PROMISED!

I can hear God gently urging us... "Are you READY? Then altogether now...one...two...three...fall back...DON'T WORRY...I'll catch you...I promise!"

PRAYER: Father, today we release every care and worry we've picked up. We release them from our thoughts. And Lord, we are determined to fall back into your arms and put our trust in you. Catch us and carry us...we pray...In Jesus name. Amen.

Gentle Whispers

As I sat, looking at my computer screen today, asking the Lord what He wanted to share with me...and in turn for me to share with you, I felt prompted to share this simple thought...

God is speaking...will you give Him a few minutes to simply listen?

My newest book is called: When He Whispers...God's Speaking Even When You Think He Isn't. (I'm awaiting a response today, from a publishing house, whether it will be published or not....ahhh the anticipation.)

The concept of the book came from years of walking with the Lord, learning to hear His voice...combined with Elijah's experience in 1 Kings 19:11-13, which reads, "The LORD said, "Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by." Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave." (NIV)

God gently calls for our attention. Amidst all our distractions He whispers to us, calling us to incline our ear to listen for His voice. Our busy "to do" lists attempt to distract us...our own ambitions try to divert our attention...but God whispers to spend time with Him.

If you are like me, I tend to expect God to show up in some magnificent way. I want Him to boldly speak to me from a burning bush...or to knock me off my horse with a bright flashing light and thundering voice if He wants my attention...BUT the truth is...most of the time...He simply and very gently whispers..."Come away with Me." "Spend time in My presence." "Rest." "Lay your burdens down and fellowship with Me." "Draw near to Me...there is so much I want to share with you."

His voice isn't thundering; it isn't demanding; He doesn't arrogantly demand my praise or adoration; rather, He gently whispers and then waits to see if I will respond.

Here are a few tips that help me to hear His voice more readily:

1. Get alone in a quiet place. (This can be a closet, a car, or in a room where no one else is...bathrooms are great place for seclusion in my home).    :)
2. Take 2 steno pads of paper with you. Use one to write out your prayer (which helps maintain focus on God.) On the 2nd, write any thoughts that attempt to divert you from spending time praying.
3. Sit quietly for 5 minutes, ask God to speak to you. Write down any verses or thoughts He shares.
4. If you hear nothing...don't get frustrated...simply praise God for WHO HE IS, and thank Him for the truth that you know He longs to speak to you.
5. Then, go on with your day. (Life doesn't stand still.) BUT, throughout your day, invite God to speak. When you face a decision, ask for God's wisdom. When you're running out of time and the list seems longer than the minutes you have to accomplish your task...ask for God's help. Allow Him to interrupt your schedule. Give Him permission to speak, by surrounding yourself with open doors for His presence to speak (like a small near by Bible...or praise music in your vehicle...or post it notes that declare His promises, etc...)

Friends, the truth is, God is speaking..."EVEN WHEN WE THINK HE ISN'T." So listen closely, and you may just hear His gentle answer to the question you've been asking!

PRAYER: Father, help us to hear Your voice. Teach us how to listen. And then speak clearly Lord, helping us to recognize You. In Jesus name we pray, amen!

The Rain is Coming!!!

In Genesis chapter 6, verses twelve through fifteen, we read that God told Noah, "I am going to put an end to all people, for the earth is filled with violence because of them. I am surely going to destroy both them and the earth. So make yourself an ark of cypress wood; make rooms in it and coat it with pitch inside and out. This is how you are to build it:" (NIV)

Then, 10 short verses later, Noah and His family enter the arc. Seems nice, short, and sweet, doesn't it? God says build a boat; He gives Noah specific instructions; Noah builds it exactly like God says to...and boom, Noah loads the boat with his family...right?

Well...not likely.

I think about life during those 10 verses...the sneers...the jabs...the scoffing from neighbors. I wonder the private agony Noah experienced ...What is a flood? How am I ever going to get this built? I am so tired. What if the rain doesn't come? Am I really hearing God?

Not sure how old Noah was when He began building the arc; but, Scripture says, He was 600 years old when the flood waters came! WOW! I wonder how many years he spent building a boat, waiting, in expectation, for God's promise. They didn't have a Lowes or Wal-Mart to run down to. Supplies didn't come in pre-shaped lumber. NO screw guns or nail guns to quicken the pace...

Just a lot of work...a lot of time...filled with a lot of sneers and skepticism...

Sometimes, the fruition of God's promises take time. Sometimes, we have a lot of work awaiting us. Sometimes, we have to carefully follow God's specific instructions before we see the first drop of rain. BUT...friends...the years of faithful obedience will pay off. We will enter our boat.

So ignore the scoffing...demolish any self-defeating thoughts...pay careful attention to do everything God has commanded you to do...because the rain is sure to come!

God promises in Gen 28:15, "I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go...I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you." (NIV)

So don't give up..."IT LOOKS LIKE RAIN!"  :)

PRAYER: Father, assure us that we are hearing Your voice. Help us to understand Your specific instructions. Fill our spirit with expectation as we await for Your promises. We put our trust in YOU. Let Your favor be upon us. Do exceedingly above all we could ever ask, think, or imagine. In Jesus name, we pray, amen!

DON'T HOLD BACK!

"No tie it over there." Sommer said. "It's gotta be bigger."

"Like this?" My youngest son, Joshua asked.

"Yah. It's gotta be bigger." Sommer reiterated.

"How big we gonna make it?" Joshua questioned.

"As big as we can!" Sommer answered.

I love watching my kids make tents out of blankets and sheets, maneuvering chairs and furniture, tying ends to make their canopy. I love how they think BIG!

Isaiah 54:2-4, instructs to, "Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes. For you will spread out to the right and to the left; your descendants will dispossess nations and settle in their desolate cities. "Do not be afraid; you will not suffer shame. Do not fear disgrace; you will not be humiliated." (NIV)

This verse leaped off the page at me this morning, grabbing my attention, quickening my heart!

Friends, we have an opportunity every day to live BIG for God...To enlarge our areas of influence...to stretch pass our comfort zone and NOT HOLD BACK!

God calls us to live a life of faith, trusting Him for our provision, direction, and His blessing. He encourages us to NOT BE AFRAID. He reminds us that we will NOT SUFFER SHAME.

Don't let fear stop you from pressing forward into ALL GOD has called you to. True faith doesn't conjure up some noble feat in an effort to force the hand of God; true faith simply steps forward knowing that GOD will do all He has promised and simply obeys His voice!

Today, I am determined to live my life in COMPLETE abandonment to THE ONE I know I can trust. He is faithful. I will NOT cower to fear. I will NOT faint at adversity. I will NOT shrink at opposition. I am determined to PRESS FORWARD and live my life for Him.

WHY? Because I know in WHOM I believe...and I AM persuaded that He is able to accomplish ALL that He has promised!!! WHO's WITH ME???


PRAYER: Father, fill us with YOUR Spirit; empower us to LIVE BIG for YOU, fulfilling ALL You have called us to! In Jesus name, amen.

Shake Off the Eyeore Syndrome!

LAUGH! REJOICE! CELEBRATE LIFE!

Go on...put a smile on your face! Look at yourself in the mirror and determine to live out today in joy!

Romans 12:12 encourages us to, "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." (NIV)
 
Regardless of our circumstances, we have every reason to celebrate life. Why? Because nothing can separate us from the love of God! Nothing can steal our salvation!
 
Sometimes I find myself acting like Eyeore (from Winnie the Pooh). My private thoughts shift to doom and gloom from the little disappointments in life... you know ... the gradual things of life that creep in ... attempting to drain every ounce of joy?
 
The truth is, if our circumstances determine our joy we can be be rattled, tossed around, and ultimately defeated...but when our hope rests in the truth of Who God is and what He has promised us...we cannot be shaken!
 
Today, I awoke singing a song I sang as a kid in Children's Church:
 
(the boys sang) "This is the day" ...
(and then the girls echoed) "This is the day"...
"That the Lord has made" ... "That the Lord has made" ...
"I will rejoice!" ... "I will rejoice" ... "
And be glad in it" ... "And be glad in it!"
 
Then in unison we all sang ... "This is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it!"
 
(Then the boys) This is the day ...
(followed by the girls) this is the day.
 
(We stretched out the last line as far out as possible, reverberating our little voices as loud as we possibly could) ... "That the Lord has made!"

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 encourages us to "Be joyful always; pray continually; (and) give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. (NIV)

Did you catch that last line? "This is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

What's His will for us? "To be joyful ALWAYS! To pray CONTINUALLY! And to give thanks in ALL CIRCUMSTANCES!"

So join with me today; shake off the EYEORE SYNDROME ... let the grey cloud circling over your head be obliterated ...  don't focus on the "oh woe is me" stuff ... rather remember ... God is faithfully leading you and empowering you ... He will never fail you.  Let the truth of Who He is and the Promises He's given you fill you with LAUGHTER! 


PRAYER: (Taken directly from 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24) "May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it."

Making Sense of Each Puzzle Piece

When my children were little we sat connecting puzzle pieces together.  I gently encouraged them to look for the clues in order to determine where each piece fit... by paying attention to colors...shapes...pictures...lines. I watched them carefully work, trying to make sense of each piece and where it might fit.

Occasionally, they got upset; they'd put their puzzle piece down and cry out, "I just can't do this!"

Each time, I put the puzzle piece back in their hand and encouraged them to try again...and that they could do it.

Sometimes, I feel just like them. I look at the pieces of my life...looking for clues of how they might fit together...but the fragmented pieces just don't make sense. In sheer desperation I throw my hands into the air and say..."I just can't do this!"

BUT...the truth is, we seldom recognize the reason for each season of our life. Most of the time, it's not until it's all over that we can look back and make any sense of the "Why's".

Over the last couple of years, I've abandoned myself to trust God. Instead of focusing on the why's or trying to make sense of my circumstances, I have resolved to center my attention on WHO GOD IS and REMEMBER WHAT HE HAS PROMISED...trusting that He truly is a good God and is working ALL THINGS together for my good...knowing that one day I will look back and realize how "each piece"  fit.

How about you? Will you pick up your puzzle piece again? Will you take up your cross and follow after Him?

I can sense God encouraging us today, putting the puzzle pieces back into our hands, encouraging us to try again...and that we can do it! Amidst all our battles He is with us and will work all things together for our good.

Isaiah 43:1-3 encourages us, "But now, this is what the LORD says — he who created you..."Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior..." (NIV)

And Romans 8:28-29 reminds us, "...that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." (NKJV)

PRAYER: Father, I pray for the one who is discouraged, for the one who is weak, for the one who can't make any sense of the reason for this particular season of their life; encourage them. Encourage each one of us to press on. Fill us with confidence of WHO YOU ARE. Help us to remember Your promises. Empower us to live life abundantly and to bring glory to You. Fill us with joy we pray. We put our trust in you. In Jesus name, amen.

What Do You Do When the World is Pressing In?

What do you do when the world is pressing
in and you feel you can't go on...

Recognize, Reflect, Rest, and Remember

1. Recognize every breath you take is a gift from God. So, take a deep breath; and as you do, realize God just provided a miracle for you. Think about it...the very breath you took is a gift from God. So breathe deep; breathing deeply for five minutes has proven to generate clearer thinking and relieve stress. I encourage you to take the next five minutes; do nothing other than, breathe in and breathe out. Thank God for your life and the breath He provides you.

2. Reflect on WHO you serve. Nahum 1:7 says, "The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him..." (NIV) God is GOOD. He is a REFUGE from all of life's storms. He cares for you; put your trust in Him.

3. Rest and take refuge in God; know He will deliver you and save you. Psalm 37:39-40 encourages us; "The salvation of the righteous comes from the LORD; he is their stronghold in time of trouble. The LORD helps them and delivers them; he delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him." (NIV)

4. Remember what God has promised you and meditate on the truth of God's word. Fear escalates when we focus on our circumstances or our inabilities. Fulfilling God's call has never been about our abilities, our power, or our influence...it's always been about GOD's. Through God we can do ALL things. He give strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. He fulfills all His promises and never forsakes the righteous. God is not a man that He should lie...when He speaks...who can reverse? If God is for us...who can stand against us?

5. Reflect on God's amazing power. Think about His power--He created the world by speaking it into existence. He sent Jesus to demonstrate His love for us. Jesus said in Luke 4:18-19, "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor." (NIV) God's intention toward you are good. He is a consuming fire. (Deut. 4:24). He is merciful. (Deut. 4:31) Deut. 7:9-10 says, "Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands." NIV

PRAYER: Father, bless each and every one of my friends with Your Presence. Strengthen them. Help them to rest securely in You. Speak comfort. Provide peace. Work miracles on their behalf; in Jesus name, amen!

Remember Who You Serve!

What battle do you face today? Do you feel over-whelmed?

Do you feel ill-equipped?

Our battles seem unconquerable when we focus on our circumstances...BUT...when we remember WHO we serve...and turn our focus to WHO HE IS...we are unstoppable!

• Abraham and Sarah were as good as dead...BUT GOD fulfilled His promise and Sarah conceived.
• Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego faced the fury of a fiery furnace...BUT walked out unsinged... because the Son of God stood with them amidst the fire. God protected them.
• Goliath struck fear in the hearts of Israel's mightiest warriors, BUT GOD brought him to his knees with a sling shot and five stones.
• When the world was without form, God created the heavens and the earth by His spoken word.

The truth is, I could go on and on BUT I think you understand what I'm talking about! God sustains us, empowers us, provides for us, and protects us. Through Him we can do all things.

I know some of you are facing BIG BATTLES...BUT...

We serve a BIGGER GOD!

So, DON'T lose heart; God can be trusted. Psalm 34:18-19 says, "The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all..." (NIV)

God sees us, right where we are, and promises us He will never leave us or forsake us. So, cry out to Him today...and if you feel like you can't go on...or feel like giving up...REMEMBER WHO YOU SERVE!
 
PRAYER: Father, thank You that You are our Defender. Thank You that we are not alone. Thank You that You go before us and make the rough places smooth. Thank You that You hear us when we cry out to You. Move on our behalf this day. Fill us with Your Spirit. Empower us to do...all that You've called us to!

Don't Give Up...Get Started

Proverbs 13:4, "The sluggard craves and gets nothing,

but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied." NIV

After a long day of loading our moving truck and cleaning our old home, my husband and I headed out for our 18 hour commute towards Florida, with 3 kids, a dog, and a lot of suitcases (filled with miscellaneous last minute items).

Yesterday, we arrived safely and successfully unloaded our stuff into our new home. Now amidst the endless boxes...I sit...staring...wondering how much more work I have ahead...in order to make our new house...our home.

I see clutter everywhere, and for a moment, I just want to crawl back into bed and pretend it's all done...BUT...it isn't...So, the only choice I can truly make, if I want to finish well, is to begin again...I have to choose to get started!

How about you? Are you physically tired? Are you weary from your battle? Trust me I can relate...the last couple of years have been filled with battles and unepected upsets...But we can't give give up...we have to choose to press on!

James 1:2-5, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance . Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." NIV

Dear friend...God is with us. And if we keep making the right choices we will reap a harvest!

Galatians 6:9; it says, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." NIV

Whatever you do...Don't give up...choose to Get Started!

So with a sigh, I bid you farewell...to spend the rest of my day amidst bubble wrap and cardboard...knowing this small battle will soon be done...and I will be able to enjoy the fruit of my labor! :)

PRAYER: Father, fill us with strength to finish well. Give us joy in our journey. Empower us to begin again, even though we'd rather retreat. Help us to not be weary but to persevere! In Jesus name we pray, amen.