Choosing Jesus

I find it interesting when people wish they could have my life, even amusing.

Granted, I have an incredible relationship with my amazing husband, Greg. My children all love and serve the Lord and lavish me with love, daily. I have a beautiful home and am humbled to serve God in full-time ministry with His Love Extended Ministries and Women Inspired...

BUT...can I share transparently?

My journey of faith has teetered at different times. I have endured sexual, verbal, and physical abuse. I felt the sting of divorce. I've struggled with battles associated with blended families. I know what it feels like to live in need.

The truth is...we all feel discouragement at times. NO ONE is exempt to trials. We all experience emotions of abandonment. At times, our journey of faith waivers in disbelief and we feel like giving up. At times we feel empty. Broken. Bereaved. Rejected. Weak. Weary.

My life is no exception! So...what causes my genuine smile? What is the secret to living life abundantly regardless of circumstances? PLAIN and SIMPLE--Jesus.

C.S. Lewis once said, “He who has God and everything else has no more than he who has God only.”

The Apostle Paul wrote, in Philippians 4:11-13, "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength." (NIV)

JESUS makes the difference. He empowers us. He strengthens us. Apart from Him we are wretched, miserable, and without hope.

Friend, despite all of God's blessings, favor, and love...IF I choose to...I could focus on realities of my circumstances and lose ALL HOPE.

CHOOSING JESUS...CHOOSING TO FOCUS on Who we serve...CHOOSING to remember He keeps His promises is what will sustain us in our darkest hour.

I identify with Psalm 71:5-6, as David prayed to the Lord, "For you have been my hope, O Sovereign LORD, my confidence since my youth. From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother's womb. I will ever praise you." (NIV)

Today, be encouraged. God is near. He will never leave you. He will sustain you as you wait on Him. NEVER EVER GIVE UP! And, here's another C.S. Lewis quote to consider: “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”



I'd love for you to join me on today's broadcast as I interview Dr. Catherine Hart Weber. Join us LIVE at 12 PM EST at: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cwa-radio/2011/12/07/his-love-extended as Dr. Weber highlights the how to's of flourishing in life.