WOW! I am completely worn out...Tired...Exhausted.
As I sat waiting on the Lord this morning. I cried out for strength, wisdom, and His presence. As I waited, a verse ran through my thoughts. Words I've read a 1,000 times. Words that jumped from the page with a different emphasis.
Jesus said in Matthew 11:29-30, "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (NIV)
Only today, as I thought about Jesus' words, the verse emphasized a choice!
I felt the Holy Spirit gently, lovingly urging me to CHOOSE to take HIS YOKE...
There are so many things we can pick up, and choose to bind to our lives...but Jesus gently reminded me to choose HIM. To learn from Him. To remember He alone is what counts. He is gentle and humble in heart.
The hope for each one of us in our busy hectic schedules is to remember to choose life. To choose to take on ONLY what God declares for our life. Not what others think. Not what others demand. Not what society says is important or successful....BUT completely...t-totally what GOD SAYS.
So today, as I feel sheer exhaustion, I CHOSE to release every concern. TO TAKE GOD ALONE into my thinking. To remember WHO HE IS and to hold fast to WHAT HE PROMISED.
As I did, HIS SWEET presence lifted so many concerns, so many weights, and I (as His WORD promised) found rest for my soul!
Praying you find rest today too!
PRAYER: Father, we release every concern, every weight, and our long "to do" list to You. We choose to take YOU and YOU alone into our thinking. To meditate on Your goodness and power. We choose to remember that with YOU ALL THINGS are possible. Give us rest for our souls. WE NEED YOU DESPERATELY! In Jesus name, amen.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
Bound Up In Knots?
As children, my sisters and I played a game where we tied one another up in blankets and then timed one another to see how long it would take to get free. Being the smallest I easily freed myself, squirming between small openings. One day, my sisters decided they were going to make sure I didn't win; they tied knots all over.
"Ok, Julie, you can start now!"
I maneuvered around, looked for openings, and after multiple failed attempts began to get nervous. I asked for help. But my sisters decided to let me struggle for awhile. I became frantic.
"Let me out! I screamed.
"Someone PLEASE Help me!"
I kicked and flailed around...thrashing back and forth to free myself. But, I was trapped. Powerless. Bound. Afraid.
Friends, sometimes life is like that. We get involved in something that started out harmless, something that seemed like fun, and then...unexpectedly it traps us. A small Flirtation ties our emotions. A small white lie cause distrust. Selfish acts breaks up a relationship. A seemingly insignificant comment hurts a friend. Plans made devoid of God's input binds weights of pressure. And our demands of "our rights" or our justification of " why we should be exempt" ensnares us to an addiction.
But it's not just outward sins that ensnare us...sometimes its the way we think, the voices we listen to, or the fears we entertain.
Today, I felt prompted to share a verse from Isaiah 52, verse 2...it says, "Shake yourself from the dust, rise up, O captive Jerusalem: Loose yourself from the chains around your neck, O captive daughter of Zion."
Friends, we must determine to shake off every chain that entangles us...gossip, fear, insecurity, lust, drunkenness, pride...ah...the list could go on and on...and NONE are exempt. HOWEVER...though NONE are exempt, ALL can CHOOSE FREEDOM!
Repentance is turning from an undesired action toward GOD. And, the sooner we do that, the less entangled we become.
I'm also painfully aware that for some reading today may be completely ensnared...the blankets of our life have entrapped us and we can't get out! NOTHING is more frightening than being trapped...but...here is good news...GOD HAS NOT LEFT YOU! AND HE PROMISES us in Isaiah 41:13, "For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." (NIV)
In Psalm 91:14-16 He says, "Because he loves me," says the LORD, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble,
I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation." (NIV)
Friend, you are not alone. You may feel trapped. You be bound up in lots of little knots. You may be so entangled that you can't get out on your own...but...the good news is GOD IS WITH YOU. CALL ON HIM. And He will answer your cries for help and set you free.
PRAYER: Father, help us. Free us. Empower us to live for You. Change our desires to honor You. Fill us with Your Presence. Demonstrate Your love for us today. Calm our fears. Give us life. In Jesus name, amen.
"Ok, Julie, you can start now!"
I maneuvered around, looked for openings, and after multiple failed attempts began to get nervous. I asked for help. But my sisters decided to let me struggle for awhile. I became frantic.
"Let me out! I screamed.
"Someone PLEASE Help me!"
I kicked and flailed around...thrashing back and forth to free myself. But, I was trapped. Powerless. Bound. Afraid.
Friends, sometimes life is like that. We get involved in something that started out harmless, something that seemed like fun, and then...unexpectedly it traps us. A small Flirtation ties our emotions. A small white lie cause distrust. Selfish acts breaks up a relationship. A seemingly insignificant comment hurts a friend. Plans made devoid of God's input binds weights of pressure. And our demands of "our rights" or our justification of " why we should be exempt" ensnares us to an addiction.
But it's not just outward sins that ensnare us...sometimes its the way we think, the voices we listen to, or the fears we entertain.
Today, I felt prompted to share a verse from Isaiah 52, verse 2...it says, "Shake yourself from the dust, rise up, O captive Jerusalem: Loose yourself from the chains around your neck, O captive daughter of Zion."
Friends, we must determine to shake off every chain that entangles us...gossip, fear, insecurity, lust, drunkenness, pride...ah...the list could go on and on...and NONE are exempt. HOWEVER...though NONE are exempt, ALL can CHOOSE FREEDOM!
Repentance is turning from an undesired action toward GOD. And, the sooner we do that, the less entangled we become.
I'm also painfully aware that for some reading today may be completely ensnared...the blankets of our life have entrapped us and we can't get out! NOTHING is more frightening than being trapped...but...here is good news...GOD HAS NOT LEFT YOU! AND HE PROMISES us in Isaiah 41:13, "For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." (NIV)
In Psalm 91:14-16 He says, "Because he loves me," says the LORD, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble,
I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation." (NIV)
Friend, you are not alone. You may feel trapped. You be bound up in lots of little knots. You may be so entangled that you can't get out on your own...but...the good news is GOD IS WITH YOU. CALL ON HIM. And He will answer your cries for help and set you free.
PRAYER: Father, help us. Free us. Empower us to live for You. Change our desires to honor You. Fill us with Your Presence. Demonstrate Your love for us today. Calm our fears. Give us life. In Jesus name, amen.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Practice Must Be Intentional
Tomorrow is the launch of our very first Women Inspired Conference in Lake Worth, Florida. And, as I've prepared over the last few months, a hunger for God's presence continues to grow within me.
Friends, there are many things that we can be spent for in this life. Many things call for our attention. But NOTHING is more important than knowing God and living in the center of His Purpose for our life.
The Apostle Paul refers to our spiritual journey with a race; in 1 Corinthians 9:24-26 he writes, "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever."
Running takes conditioning, conditioning takes practice, and PRACTICE MUST BE INTENTIONAL. So, today, let's be intentional in our pursuit of GOD and determine to spend a few minutes each day (starting with today) to:
He has an amazing plan for your life. He created you for a distinct purpose. Don't allow the business of life to choke out His dreams for you. There is no greater joy than living centered with HIS WILL.
PRAYER: Join me today in praying from Psalm 119:33-38; "Teach me, O LORD, to follow your decrees; then I will keep them to the end. Give me understanding , and I will keep your law and obey it with all my heart. Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight. Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain. Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word. Fulfill your promise to your servant, so that you may be feared."
Friends, there are many things that we can be spent for in this life. Many things call for our attention. But NOTHING is more important than knowing God and living in the center of His Purpose for our life.
The Apostle Paul refers to our spiritual journey with a race; in 1 Corinthians 9:24-26 he writes, "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever."
Running takes conditioning, conditioning takes practice, and PRACTICE MUST BE INTENTIONAL. So, today, let's be intentional in our pursuit of GOD and determine to spend a few minutes each day (starting with today) to:
- Wait and listen for what God wants to reveal. Ask Him for direction. Ask Him to make His will known.
- Once He directs, write down what He instructed or encouraged.
- Post what He said to do in a place we can come back to time and time again.
- Consider questions like how can I follow after God in this command? How can I align my thoughts and actions with His plan?
- Take steps to fulfill His plan by align our life to follow Him
He has an amazing plan for your life. He created you for a distinct purpose. Don't allow the business of life to choke out His dreams for you. There is no greater joy than living centered with HIS WILL.
PRAYER: Join me today in praying from Psalm 119:33-38; "Teach me, O LORD, to follow your decrees; then I will keep them to the end. Give me understanding , and I will keep your law and obey it with all my heart. Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight. Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain. Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word. Fulfill your promise to your servant, so that you may be feared."
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
What If Love Oversaw Every Action?
Wow...ever come across a Bible verse that leaps from the page...stirs your soul...and immediately compels you to surrender, repent, and embrace NEW life?
WHEW. "LET ALL that you do be done in love??? I wonder what that might look like.
What if we added love to everything on our endless "to do list"? What if we did each chore with love over-flowing from our heart? What if we loved while Packing school lunches? Loved while Cleaning bathrooms? Loved while overseeing every minute detail?
What would it look like if we loved while we dealt with difficult people...cared for the afflicted...and spent time with the un-loveable?
What if love oversaw every action? How would love change the way we listened to the weary? Or interacted with a "grouchy, cantankerous, boss"? How would love react to a distant spouse? Or, wayward children? What about the homeless? The broken?
Personally? I've busied my life with lots of "ministry"...BUT today...I am purposing once again to let GOD'S LOVE...dictate every action and oversee every "ministry" encounter!
Proverbs 3:3-4 issues a great command that yields a great promise. It says, "Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man." (NIV)
1 Cor 13:4-8 defines love for us saying, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." (NIV)
Friends, we are "HIS LOVE EXTENDED". And I don't know about you...but I'm beginning to realize it's time for me to center back on what life is all about...it's time to LOVE again like GOD loved me!
PRAYER: Father, forgive me for getting so distracted and busy with life...forgive me for busily "DOING" for You that I somehow forgot to "LIVE and LOVE" like YOU! Empower me to see others like You do. Fill me with Your perfect love. Equip me to embrace and love like You did me. In Jesus name, amen.
PS... http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cxtended
This morning I read 1 Corinthians 16:14; it reads,
"Let all that you do be done in love."
WHEW. "LET ALL that you do be done in love??? I wonder what that might look like.
What if we added love to everything on our endless "to do list"? What if we did each chore with love over-flowing from our heart? What if we loved while Packing school lunches? Loved while Cleaning bathrooms? Loved while overseeing every minute detail?
What would it look like if we loved while we dealt with difficult people...cared for the afflicted...and spent time with the un-loveable?
What if love oversaw every action? How would love change the way we listened to the weary? Or interacted with a "grouchy, cantankerous, boss"? How would love react to a distant spouse? Or, wayward children? What about the homeless? The broken?
Personally? I've busied my life with lots of "ministry"...BUT today...I am purposing once again to let GOD'S LOVE...dictate every action and oversee every "ministry" encounter!
Proverbs 3:3-4 issues a great command that yields a great promise. It says, "Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man." (NIV)
1 Cor 13:4-8 defines love for us saying, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." (NIV)
Friends, we are "HIS LOVE EXTENDED". And I don't know about you...but I'm beginning to realize it's time for me to center back on what life is all about...it's time to LOVE again like GOD loved me!
PRAYER: Father, forgive me for getting so distracted and busy with life...forgive me for busily "DOING" for You that I somehow forgot to "LIVE and LOVE" like YOU! Empower me to see others like You do. Fill me with Your perfect love. Equip me to embrace and love like You did me. In Jesus name, amen.
PS... http://www.blogtalkradio.com/c
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Spent for Nothing?
Ever struggle with walking out your faith? Ever know God spoke and gave you an explicit promise until the reality of your circumstances confuses your thoughts? Friend, you're not alone...
Check out Isaiah 49:3-4, God spoke to Isaiah saying, "You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will display my splendor." But I said, "I have labored to no purpose; I have spent my strength in vain and for nothing. Yet what is due me is in the LORD's hand, and my reward is with my God." (NIV)
I can so relate to this passage of Scripture. Some times I think I have a dual personality at work in me...I Guess in some ways I do...It's called the flesh and the spirit. My flesh (and "human" tendencies) wars against the spirit (and what God says is true). Can you relate? Isaiah sure can...
Isaiah hears God's voice; knows what He spoke; and yet, wrestles...wondering...I have labored to no purpose...spent my strength in vain for nothing.
Friend, living for God and working for God can often be filled with disappointments. Life gets messy. Circumstances aren't always pleasant. But, we must resolve, as Isaiah resolved, "what is due me is in the LORD'S hand, and my reward is with my God."
I love the promise of Galatians 6:7-9, it says, "A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 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)
Friends, God sees us right where we are. He is working all things together for our good. And, His Word promises that we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. So, keep planting, keep plowing, keep asking God to send forth sunshine and rain...
Our reward is with Him and we will reap a harvest...so don't ever give up!
PRAYER: Father, thank You that we are not in this alone. Thank You that our reward is in YOU. YOU are our greates REWARD. Knowing YOU, loving YOU, serving YOU is a privilege. Thank You for choosing us. Thank You for Your forgiveness. Thank You for loving us. Empower us to do ALL You've called us to. In Jesus name, amen.
Check out Isaiah 49:3-4, God spoke to Isaiah saying, "You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will display my splendor." But I said, "I have labored to no purpose; I have spent my strength in vain and for nothing. Yet what is due me is in the LORD's hand, and my reward is with my God." (NIV)
I can so relate to this passage of Scripture. Some times I think I have a dual personality at work in me...I Guess in some ways I do...It's called the flesh and the spirit. My flesh (and "human" tendencies) wars against the spirit (and what God says is true). Can you relate? Isaiah sure can...
Isaiah hears God's voice; knows what He spoke; and yet, wrestles...wondering...I have labored to no purpose...spent my strength in vain for nothing.
Friend, living for God and working for God can often be filled with disappointments. Life gets messy. Circumstances aren't always pleasant. But, we must resolve, as Isaiah resolved, "what is due me is in the LORD'S hand, and my reward is with my God."
I love the promise of Galatians 6:7-9, it says, "A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 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)
Friends, God sees us right where we are. He is working all things together for our good. And, His Word promises that we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. So, keep planting, keep plowing, keep asking God to send forth sunshine and rain...
Our reward is with Him and we will reap a harvest...so don't ever give up!
PRAYER: Father, thank You that we are not in this alone. Thank You that our reward is in YOU. YOU are our greates REWARD. Knowing YOU, loving YOU, serving YOU is a privilege. Thank You for choosing us. Thank You for Your forgiveness. Thank You for loving us. Empower us to do ALL You've called us to. In Jesus name, amen.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Remember Who Carries You!
Yesterday, my pastor showed this amazing video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sb_tEOkcfds&feature=related
I've seen the video several times, but every time I watch it...I cry...It overwhelms me with the realization that I am just like the son in the video...POWERLESS...HANDICAPPED...INCAPABLE OF RUNNING THE RACE on my own...
BUT...the my FATHER empowers me as His love compels Him to pick me up and carry me through every step of my race.
Friends, God's love is greater than we could ever imagine. He carries us and empowers us to do what we could never do on our own. He puts dreams in our heart and then positions us to fulfill those dreams. He is our REDEEMER and empowers us to do what would otherwise be IMPOSSIBLE to do.
What is your passion? What dream lives in you?
Today, I feel compelled to remind you...ON YOUR OWN...you will NEVER be able to get it done...BUT PRAISE GOD...YOU ARE NOT ALONE. GOD WILL ENABLE YOU. HE WILL EMPOWER YOU. HE WILL PICK YOU UP AND PUSH YOU SAFELY ACROSS THE FINISHING LINE.
He is the Author and Finisher of our faith.
He is the loving Father that does all the work and allows us to feel the JOY of competing and completing HIS MISSION!
So, today, declare with me the truth from Philippians 4:13,
I've seen the video several times, but every time I watch it...I cry...It overwhelms me with the realization that I am just like the son in the video...POWERLESS...HANDICAPPED...INCAPABLE OF RUNNING THE RACE on my own...
BUT...the my FATHER empowers me as His love compels Him to pick me up and carry me through every step of my race.
Friends, God's love is greater than we could ever imagine. He carries us and empowers us to do what we could never do on our own. He puts dreams in our heart and then positions us to fulfill those dreams. He is our REDEEMER and empowers us to do what would otherwise be IMPOSSIBLE to do.
What is your passion? What dream lives in you?
Today, I feel compelled to remind you...ON YOUR OWN...you will NEVER be able to get it done...BUT PRAISE GOD...YOU ARE NOT ALONE. GOD WILL ENABLE YOU. HE WILL EMPOWER YOU. HE WILL PICK YOU UP AND PUSH YOU SAFELY ACROSS THE FINISHING LINE.
He is the Author and Finisher of our faith.
He is the loving Father that does all the work and allows us to feel the JOY of competing and completing HIS MISSION!
So, today, declare with me the truth from Philippians 4:13,
"I can do everything through him
who gives me strength."
PRAYER: Father, thank you for your great love that empowers us to do the impossible. We are NOTHING without You. We can't do anything...except by Your grace and provision...so Father, empower us today. Equip us. And enable us to do ALL You've called us to! And may our lives reflect all the glory back to YOU! In Jesus name, amen.
PRAYER: Father, thank you for your great love that empowers us to do the impossible. We are NOTHING without You. We can't do anything...except by Your grace and provision...so Father, empower us today. Equip us. And enable us to do ALL You've called us to! And may our lives reflect all the glory back to YOU! In Jesus name, amen.
Friday, February 18, 2011
GOD STILL SPEAKS!
I know that it may sound strange...but I like being told what to do! I actually like receiving instruction and direction. Oh I like to have freedom and to be creative...but I also like to be told (exactly) what to do. I'm kind of different (in that) I love to lead...but I also enjoy the privilege of following! When I go on a trip, I like detailed directions and landmarks along the way to help me know I'm in the right place.
When it comes to following after God...and living my life for Him...quite honestly, not much changes.
It seems like I spend most of my days asking, "Lord, what do You will for my life?" "What do You want from me?" ...but how does anyone really know or understand God's voice?
I think for most of us, if God just sent us a letter with detailed instructions highlighting His plan for our life, we would gladly follow.
Want good news? God does!
He actually promises we will hear and know His voice; we will recognize Him. His Word declares in Isaiah 30:21, "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." (NIV)
So, how do we recognize His voice? The key to discerning God’s voice from our own is a living, intimate, relationship with Him. We accurately discern God’s voice and distinguish it from our own, by judging what we hear with: His character, The tone of the message, and The message’s overall balance with Scripture.But what are some practical ways we can discern His voice from all of the other messages that play in our mind...Here are four of my helpful hints to remember (I'd love to hear some of yours, so leave your comments below and share your thoughts):
So, today, take some time to listen. God is speaking. He will give us direction. He will empower us to do ALL He has called us to. Let's DREAM BIG...LAUGH OFTEN...and REMEMBER, GOD'S GOT IT ALL UNDER CONTROL!!!
PRAYER: Father, this world can make hearing You difficult, but You promised we would hear and recognize Your voice! Speak clearly. Empower us to hear you and Equip us to follow! We put our trust in You! IN JESUS NAME, amen!
When it comes to following after God...and living my life for Him...quite honestly, not much changes.
It seems like I spend most of my days asking, "Lord, what do You will for my life?" "What do You want from me?" ...but how does anyone really know or understand God's voice?
I think for most of us, if God just sent us a letter with detailed instructions highlighting His plan for our life, we would gladly follow.
Want good news? God does!
He actually promises we will hear and know His voice; we will recognize Him. His Word declares in Isaiah 30:21, "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." (NIV)
So, how do we recognize His voice? The key to discerning God’s voice from our own is a living, intimate, relationship with Him. We accurately discern God’s voice and distinguish it from our own, by judging what we hear with: His character, The tone of the message, and The message’s overall balance with Scripture.But what are some practical ways we can discern His voice from all of the other messages that play in our mind...Here are four of my helpful hints to remember (I'd love to hear some of yours, so leave your comments below and share your thoughts):
- God’s Voice Redeems—It Doesn’t Condemn
- God’s voice encourages— It Doesn’t Tear Down
- God’s Voice Directs—It Doesn’t Confuse
- God’s Voice Communicates Peace—It Doesn’t Leave us Fearful
So, today, take some time to listen. God is speaking. He will give us direction. He will empower us to do ALL He has called us to. Let's DREAM BIG...LAUGH OFTEN...and REMEMBER, GOD'S GOT IT ALL UNDER CONTROL!!!
PRAYER: Father, this world can make hearing You difficult, but You promised we would hear and recognize Your voice! Speak clearly. Empower us to hear you and Equip us to follow! We put our trust in You! IN JESUS NAME, amen!
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Feel Like You're Drowning?
When I was a kid, I went swimming at our private lake lot. Our family often went to this very small lake about 40 minutes from our home. One particular Saturday, I ventured out a little farther than normal; my legs entangled in weeds that pulled me under. I struggled trying to get free. My mother, who couldn't swim, yelled for my sisters to help. My reaction was to try to kick free from the weeds. I struggled. But the more I tried to kick free the more I got entangled. I hovered underneath the water...bound...drowning. Within seconds my sisters pulled me to safety.
It's amazing how parallel my struggle in the water is to life.
I tend to want to fight and react against things that try to tie me down. When someone cuts me off in traffic, it invokes anger. When someone lashes out at me, I often stand rigid to be strong but eventually break down and cry. When someone shouts accusations against my character, I immediately defend...
Reactions--a response aroused by something...Lately, I've had the opportunity to "React". Computer crashes, damaged hard drives, lost messages, letters, books, and contact lists...launching 2 ministries, hosting upcoming conferences, overseeing endless details...taking care of sick kids and catching a cold myself, and then adding in the normal pressures of every day living...well let's just say...I've discovered how human and fragile I still am. LOL.
When pressures mount around me I tend to fight back and kick around to free myself...
When pressures push me under 6 ft deep and hold me there until I can't breathe...well...I'm left with only 2 choices...
Isaiah 46:4 says, "Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." (NIV)
So, today, if you feel overwhelmed...DON'T REACT...rather choose to take a deep breath...and wait for the Lord. He alone will sustain us...He alone will rescue us...He alone will be faithful to carry us! He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
Aside from trusting God...here is some other very practical advice.
Love you all! So, have an awesome day "DREAMING BIG...LAUGHING OFTEN...KNOWING GOD'S GOT IT ALL UNDER CONTROL!"
PRAYER: Father, help us today. Rescue us. Protect us. And fill us with Your joy, peace, and presence.
It's amazing how parallel my struggle in the water is to life.
I tend to want to fight and react against things that try to tie me down. When someone cuts me off in traffic, it invokes anger. When someone lashes out at me, I often stand rigid to be strong but eventually break down and cry. When someone shouts accusations against my character, I immediately defend...
Reactions--a response aroused by something...Lately, I've had the opportunity to "React". Computer crashes, damaged hard drives, lost messages, letters, books, and contact lists...launching 2 ministries, hosting upcoming conferences, overseeing endless details...taking care of sick kids and catching a cold myself, and then adding in the normal pressures of every day living...well let's just say...I've discovered how human and fragile I still am. LOL.
When pressures mount around me I tend to fight back and kick around to free myself...
When pressures push me under 6 ft deep and hold me there until I can't breathe...well...I'm left with only 2 choices...
- I can continue to struggle on my own and suck down a lot of water, and probably eventually drown...(not a great option) Or...
- I can call out for help!
Isaiah 46:4 says, "Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." (NIV)
So, today, if you feel overwhelmed...DON'T REACT...rather choose to take a deep breath...and wait for the Lord. He alone will sustain us...He alone will rescue us...He alone will be faithful to carry us! He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
Aside from trusting God...here is some other very practical advice.
- Focus on "first things first"--this was a slogan I thought I invented until years later when I read Stephen Covey's book 7 Habits Of Highly Effective People...Pretty cool God revealed the same wisdom to me...too bad I didn't write the book first...ha ha. Anyway...1st things 1st is doing the right thing. Choose to focus on what is most and important and should take priority and do it NOW.
- Remember to rest. We can't do everything, especially when we are worn out...so take some time to let your brain relax.
- Know what you know and ask for help for the things you don't. In over your head? I sure was with my computer...so were about 5 other technicians who helped along the way (with my computer crash this week). But, with the multitude of counselor comes wisdom (and my restored back up discs...praise God!) Let's face it...we all need a little help! Don't be afraid to ask for it.
- When you catch yourself ready to react to whatever "emotional" or "physical" motivator arousing your temptation to react...stop...pray...ask for help...and if necessary...walk away. Give yourself some time to think and process. Remind yourself of the truth. Ask God for wisdom in how to respond appropriately.
- Finally, laughter is medicine for the soul. Don't take life so seriously. Even in the most horrible of situations their can be joy. Oh you may not feel like laughing immediately...but you can rejoice in the Lord...reminding yourself that GOD IS GOOD and HE IS STILL IN CONTROL...and trust that HE WILL see you through this time of stress!
Love you all! So, have an awesome day "DREAMING BIG...LAUGHING OFTEN...KNOWING GOD'S GOT IT ALL UNDER CONTROL!"
PRAYER: Father, help us today. Rescue us. Protect us. And fill us with Your joy, peace, and presence.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Surprised By His Presence
Psalms 119:7-8, The Lord will protect you from all evil; He will keep your soul. The Lord will guard your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forever."
Wow. What a promise. What a great verse to hold close and remember.
Friend, if you are like me, sometimes you get to the place where you aren't sure if you are coming or going. Ever feel overwhelmed by your "to do list"? Ever struggle to balance life?
If so, take a deep breath and rest in the truth you are NOT alone. Psalms 119 promises, the Lord will PROTECT us from ALL evil and GUARD us at all times.
Today, as I waited on the Lord, He reminded me of times He surprised me with His presence...of times He showed up in miraculous ways. He reminded me of a time (a couple of years ago) we felt impressed move away from everything we loved...to sell our home...to quit our job. By the world's standard we were crazy...by my own standards, we were crazy...But, God called, and we followed.
During the process, God sent many "amazing" confirmations. Friends (who knew NOTHING of the decisions we were making) sent letters confirming our decisions. Later, (when God would call us to move again) we received unexpected and miraculous phone calls...that once again confirmed our steps.
Our journey has been quite un-nerving at times...BUT...God has GUIDED and GUARDED each step and PROTECTED us at ALL TIMES.
God reminded me today...He has NEVER and WILL NOT EVER leave me. And friend, He won't leave YOU either.
We are NOT alone. So, I want to encourage you to join me today. Let's remove the stress from our life by doing the following:
PRAYER: Father, help us. Encourage us. Remove our stress. Help us to rest in YOU. Grant us Your favor. Move our mountains. And most of all empower us to bring You glory!
Wow. What a promise. What a great verse to hold close and remember.
Friend, if you are like me, sometimes you get to the place where you aren't sure if you are coming or going. Ever feel overwhelmed by your "to do list"? Ever struggle to balance life?
If so, take a deep breath and rest in the truth you are NOT alone. Psalms 119 promises, the Lord will PROTECT us from ALL evil and GUARD us at all times.
Today, as I waited on the Lord, He reminded me of times He surprised me with His presence...of times He showed up in miraculous ways. He reminded me of a time (a couple of years ago) we felt impressed move away from everything we loved...to sell our home...to quit our job. By the world's standard we were crazy...by my own standards, we were crazy...But, God called, and we followed.
During the process, God sent many "amazing" confirmations. Friends (who knew NOTHING of the decisions we were making) sent letters confirming our decisions. Later, (when God would call us to move again) we received unexpected and miraculous phone calls...that once again confirmed our steps.
Our journey has been quite un-nerving at times...BUT...God has GUIDED and GUARDED each step and PROTECTED us at ALL TIMES.
God reminded me today...He has NEVER and WILL NOT EVER leave me. And friend, He won't leave YOU either.
We are NOT alone. So, I want to encourage you to join me today. Let's remove the stress from our life by doing the following:
- Take a deep breath in, and then breathe it out.
- Remember that GOD, HIMSELF, is with us and according to Psalms 119, is PROTECTING AND GUARDING us...Wow. When everything crashes in around us...when things seem to be failing miserably...when we have more tasks to do in a day than hours to complete them...Isn't it good to remember we are NOT alone.
- In light of #2, let's release every care and worry...let's symbolically hold the stresses of our life in our hands and envision them stretched out toward God...as we do let's choose to release every one of them to Him.
- Another important step to releasing stress is to remember that sometimes our physical bodies (not just our spiritual ones) need a little blessing too. So, let's take time to break up the monotony! Do something nice for ourselves today. (One way I treat myself is a BIG Sonic Sprite with lemon...mmmm...sounds pretty good right now). Change up your routine today and do something a little fun.
- Finally, meditate on the truth of God's Word. Scripture says the Word of God (the Bible) is sharper than a double edged sword...Friends...that's pretty powerful. God's word destroys fear, overcomes every concern, and sets us free. So make sure to join me and take a few extra minutes today to remember and read what God has promised.
PRAYER: Father, help us. Encourage us. Remove our stress. Help us to rest in YOU. Grant us Your favor. Move our mountains. And most of all empower us to bring You glory!
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
In The Midst of Trials
I love a story book ending. One where the knight saves the girl and they live happily ever after. We all do, don't we? We all like when the hero saves the day, or the underdog overcomes huge obstacles and triumphs victoriously.
But...what about the times in our life when things don't turn out like we hoped? What about when we throw the last punch only to plant our chin straight on with our opponents strong right blow and things go black?
Friends, yesterday I worked with a technician to help me un-install 2 programs on my computer. I worked on it by myself for 6 hours and decided I needed help. I called a help line and worked with 2 different technicians for another 7 hours...at 11 pm last night my computer completely went on the blitz...as a writer I have countless "started" projects, proposals, and editions of writings...as a minister I have website designs that I create to maintain up to date blog talk radio broadcasts...as a wife and mother I have pictures pictures and little thoughts recorded on my computer...ALL of which is possibly gone!?!
I have back ups but it was from a over a month to 6 weeks ago...want to talk about a sick feeling! "Oh Lord, I don't have time for this...the conference is a week away...my newest proposal was nearly complete...everything I have worked for for the 6 weeks could be gone...please let it be ok."
I decided to go to sleep. To let it go. To trust God. "MY books...are really HIS." "MY conference coming up and all the preparation I've already done....is HIS. Oh, I know my computer problem really doesn't compare to some of the other monsters we face in life...but TRUST is TRUST....SURRENDER is SURRENDER...So, today, regardless of the outcome, regardless of the obstacles, regardless of the circumstances surrounding our life...GOD IS STILL IN CONTROL.
Friends, do not fear, God is with us. He will never leave us. He will do all He has promised. Scripture promises "He is close to the broken hearted and saves those crushed in spirit." He is the GOD of the impossible, right? He works all things together for our good, right? He stands with us...in the midst of our trials.
So, I don't know about you...but NO MATTER WHAT...I am trusting in Him.
PRAYER: Father, work on our behalf. Work miracles for us. Protect us. Empower us. And give us our happily ever after. We put our trust in you though....NO MATTER WHAT! AMEN.
But...what about the times in our life when things don't turn out like we hoped? What about when we throw the last punch only to plant our chin straight on with our opponents strong right blow and things go black?
Friends, yesterday I worked with a technician to help me un-install 2 programs on my computer. I worked on it by myself for 6 hours and decided I needed help. I called a help line and worked with 2 different technicians for another 7 hours...at 11 pm last night my computer completely went on the blitz...as a writer I have countless "started" projects, proposals, and editions of writings...as a minister I have website designs that I create to maintain up to date blog talk radio broadcasts...as a wife and mother I have pictures pictures and little thoughts recorded on my computer...ALL of which is possibly gone!?!
I have back ups but it was from a over a month to 6 weeks ago...want to talk about a sick feeling! "Oh Lord, I don't have time for this...the conference is a week away...my newest proposal was nearly complete...everything I have worked for for the 6 weeks could be gone...please let it be ok."
I decided to go to sleep. To let it go. To trust God. "MY books...are really HIS." "MY conference coming up and all the preparation I've already done....is HIS. Oh, I know my computer problem really doesn't compare to some of the other monsters we face in life...but TRUST is TRUST....SURRENDER is SURRENDER...So, today, regardless of the outcome, regardless of the obstacles, regardless of the circumstances surrounding our life...GOD IS STILL IN CONTROL.
Friends, do not fear, God is with us. He will never leave us. He will do all He has promised. Scripture promises "He is close to the broken hearted and saves those crushed in spirit." He is the GOD of the impossible, right? He works all things together for our good, right? He stands with us...in the midst of our trials.
So, I don't know about you...but NO MATTER WHAT...I am trusting in Him.
PRAYER: Father, work on our behalf. Work miracles for us. Protect us. Empower us. And give us our happily ever after. We put our trust in you though....NO MATTER WHAT! AMEN.
Monday, February 14, 2011
IF GOD SAID IT...YOU CAN!!!
Remember the age old question, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" My answer changed from year to year but the course remained strangely the same...
"When I grow up I want to be an actress...a movie star...a news reporter like Barbara Walters...a radio broadcaster." I also knew God called me to preach the gospel and knew that whatever I did would be used as a platform to broadcast His truth!
Each year, different people discouraged my ambitions. Their responses dampened my hope; "That's impossible." "That's impractical." "You should try something easier."
I remember teenage girls, cruelly, making fun of a speech I gave on what my future ambitions would be. My heart sank as I overheard them laughing and mocking my dreams.
Their sneers and other's well-intended advice constantly whispered impossibilities!
Today, not much has changed! The enemy of our soul continues to accuse, ridicule, and mock us; doesn't he? He's the voice in our head saying, "Give up." "That's impossible." "That's impractical." He whispers defeat, failure, and impossibilities; he attempts to distract us from God's purpose, devastate our hopes, and destroy our dreams.
BUT...he is a thief...an accuser...and a liar! So, DON'T believe him!!!
Friends, though I often felt defeated, awkward, and often wondered, "Why can't I want what everyone else wants? Why am I so weird? Why can't I settle for 'more practical ambitions'?"...I NEVER gave up!
And, today, I sense God gently reminding us...That HE is the Author and Finisher of our faith. Through His Word he asks us, When I act...who can reverse? He encourages us to remember that when He calls...He empowers! AND NOTHING...ABSOLUTELY NOTHING is IMPOSSIBLE for HIM!
Luke 1:37 says, "Nothing is impossible with God." (NIV)
By His mouth He created the heavens and the earth. He shut the mouths of lions. He calms seas. He opens blind eyes. He sets free those bound in darkness. And, most important, He loves YOU!
So, "What do you want to be when you grow up...More importantly...What is God calling you to?"
Whatever it is...REMEMBER...no matter what anyone else may think...IF GOD SAID IT...YOU CAN!!!
So, NEVER GIVE UP! HOLD FAST TO GOD'S PROMISE! REMEMBER WHO YOU SERVE and Dream BIG! Laugh often; KNOWING God's got it ALL under control!
PRAYER: Father we give you our life. Empower us to live for You. Equip us with Your power, wisdom, and grace! Help us to NEVER give up, but to hold fast to what You say. Help us to do ALL You have called us to do and the wisdom to know what that is. In Jesus name, amen.
"When I grow up I want to be an actress...a movie star...a news reporter like Barbara Walters...a radio broadcaster." I also knew God called me to preach the gospel and knew that whatever I did would be used as a platform to broadcast His truth!
Each year, different people discouraged my ambitions. Their responses dampened my hope; "That's impossible." "That's impractical." "You should try something easier."
I remember teenage girls, cruelly, making fun of a speech I gave on what my future ambitions would be. My heart sank as I overheard them laughing and mocking my dreams.
Their sneers and other's well-intended advice constantly whispered impossibilities!
Today, not much has changed! The enemy of our soul continues to accuse, ridicule, and mock us; doesn't he? He's the voice in our head saying, "Give up." "That's impossible." "That's impractical." He whispers defeat, failure, and impossibilities; he attempts to distract us from God's purpose, devastate our hopes, and destroy our dreams.
BUT...he is a thief...an accuser...and a liar! So, DON'T believe him!!!
Friends, though I often felt defeated, awkward, and often wondered, "Why can't I want what everyone else wants? Why am I so weird? Why can't I settle for 'more practical ambitions'?"...I NEVER gave up!
And, today, I sense God gently reminding us...That HE is the Author and Finisher of our faith. Through His Word he asks us, When I act...who can reverse? He encourages us to remember that when He calls...He empowers! AND NOTHING...ABSOLUTELY NOTHING is IMPOSSIBLE for HIM!
Luke 1:37 says, "Nothing is impossible with God." (NIV)
By His mouth He created the heavens and the earth. He shut the mouths of lions. He calms seas. He opens blind eyes. He sets free those bound in darkness. And, most important, He loves YOU!
So, "What do you want to be when you grow up...More importantly...What is God calling you to?"
Whatever it is...REMEMBER...no matter what anyone else may think...IF GOD SAID IT...YOU CAN!!!
So, NEVER GIVE UP! HOLD FAST TO GOD'S PROMISE! REMEMBER WHO YOU SERVE and Dream BIG! Laugh often; KNOWING God's got it ALL under control!
PRAYER: Father we give you our life. Empower us to live for You. Equip us with Your power, wisdom, and grace! Help us to NEVER give up, but to hold fast to what You say. Help us to do ALL You have called us to do and the wisdom to know what that is. In Jesus name, amen.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Three Potential Killers
Mark 4 records Jesus teaching on the parable of the seed and sower...Today, as I read this passage a few things stood out to me. Jesus shared 3 potential killers of the Word of God from our life:
Friends, how about you? What do you believe? Do you trust Him? Have you ACCEPTED HE is able? Will you take Him at His Word?
Nothing is impossible for God. You are not alone. So don't fear...God can be trusted!!!
PRAYER: Father help us to be like good seed, on good ground, with deep roots. Cause Your favor to shine down on us. May Your Spirit bring for life and cause us to bear good fruit. Help us not to give in to worries and doubt. Empower us to not give in to deceitfulness or desires that would lead us from you. We put our hope in you. Let Your will be done in us and through us on earth as it is in Heaven.
- Satan's mission is to steal, to kill, and to destroy. He is like a roaring lion, prowling about, seeking whom he can destroy. No. I'm not into looking for the devil under every bush...but neither should we fail to recognize he is the enemy of oursoul. He longs to entice us, to lure us, to cause us to doubt. He accuses. He confuses. He questions God's authority. He plagues our mind with worry, fear, and if he had his way...would relish in our undoing.
- A second "potential" killer of God's Word from our life is lack of depth. Nothing destroys our life quicker than NOT being rooted in God. Jesus assured us in this world that we would have many troubles...but he also encouraged us to be of good cheer because HE overcame the world. Friends, if we try to venture through life on yesterday's blessing we will fall away when affliction or persecution arises. We overcome by our hope in JESUS, by maintaining a relationship with HIM, by staying connected to Him. He alone is our hope. His Word is powerful, sharper than any double edged sword. And He invites us to fellowship with Him, to ask Him for ANYTHING in prayer. Without His Word, without prayer, what do we really have???
- Thorns. HMMMM??? THORNS??? What are the thorns of life? Jesus names them as the third thing that chokes us out. Jesus defines possible thorns in verse nineteen..."but the worries of the world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things enter in and choke thew word, and it becomes unfruitful." What calls for our attention?
- Our hope is found in verse 20 of Mark 4. "And those are the ones on whom seed was sown on the good soil; and they hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirty, sixty, and a hundredfold." The key to bearing fruit that remains comes by "HEARING" the word, and "Accepting" the word. If we want to bear fruit we must Hear God's Word. But hearing is not enough. We have to "ACCEPT" God's Word.
Friends, how about you? What do you believe? Do you trust Him? Have you ACCEPTED HE is able? Will you take Him at His Word?
Nothing is impossible for God. You are not alone. So don't fear...God can be trusted!!!
PRAYER: Father help us to be like good seed, on good ground, with deep roots. Cause Your favor to shine down on us. May Your Spirit bring for life and cause us to bear good fruit. Help us not to give in to worries and doubt. Empower us to not give in to deceitfulness or desires that would lead us from you. We put our hope in you. Let Your will be done in us and through us on earth as it is in Heaven.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Hmmmm...What do I believe?
"Mommy, do you think Jesus is coming back in 2012?"
Hmmmmm...What do I believe? MORE importantly, how am I living in the revelation of that truth?
In a world filled with so much unrest, it's easy to become nervous. Wars plague the middle east. Prophecies, of of end time events, foretold in Matthew 24, reflect the evening news. Could it be that we are really living in the last days?
Of course no one knows the actual day or hour Jesus will return, but one thing is for certain; today, we are one day closer than we were yesterday.
Jesus instructed and promised us in John 14:1-4, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am."
Wow! How exciting! Yet, how sobering! One day we (really) will stand before Him. One day we (really) will witness the evidence of our faith! Friends, the only chance we have to live out "Our Faith" is on this side of eternity.
Ephesians 5:15-16 instructs us, "Be very careful, then, how you live — not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity..." (NIV)
So, today, I want to encourage you. Let's make the most of every opportunity. Our marriage. Our children. Our workplace. Our thoughts. The person who cuts us off in traffic. The mailman who delivers our mail. Our interactions. Emails. FB posts. I'm not encouraging us to live "A Forced Fanatical Life" rather "A Grateful Genuine One."
Who we are, and Who we believe Jesus to be, emanates from us.
The challenge ahead of us is to live in such a way that we make the most of every opportunity. My prayer is that each one of us live free from fear...full of joy...walking in peace...knowing in Whom we trust...confident He is able!
Today, I'd like to simply remind you-- YOU, my friend, ARE AMAZING! God has GREAT plans for YOUR life! YOU count! You matter! WHY? Because God designed YOU! So, be encouraged and "Dream Big! Laugh Often! And remember, God's Got It ALL Under Control!" After all, Jesus promised He'd come back...so whether that's today, tomorrow, in 2012, or another far off distant day, let's ENJOY LIFE and make the most of EVERY opportunity !?!
PRAYER: Father, help us to make the most of EVERY opportunity. Thank You for loving us. Empower us to live for You.
Hmmmmm...What do I believe? MORE importantly, how am I living in the revelation of that truth?
In a world filled with so much unrest, it's easy to become nervous. Wars plague the middle east. Prophecies, of of end time events, foretold in Matthew 24, reflect the evening news. Could it be that we are really living in the last days?
Of course no one knows the actual day or hour Jesus will return, but one thing is for certain; today, we are one day closer than we were yesterday.
Jesus instructed and promised us in John 14:1-4, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am."
Wow! How exciting! Yet, how sobering! One day we (really) will stand before Him. One day we (really) will witness the evidence of our faith! Friends, the only chance we have to live out "Our Faith" is on this side of eternity.
Ephesians 5:15-16 instructs us, "Be very careful, then, how you live — not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity..." (NIV)
So, today, I want to encourage you. Let's make the most of every opportunity. Our marriage. Our children. Our workplace. Our thoughts. The person who cuts us off in traffic. The mailman who delivers our mail. Our interactions. Emails. FB posts. I'm not encouraging us to live "A Forced Fanatical Life" rather "A Grateful Genuine One."
Who we are, and Who we believe Jesus to be, emanates from us.
The challenge ahead of us is to live in such a way that we make the most of every opportunity. My prayer is that each one of us live free from fear...full of joy...walking in peace...knowing in Whom we trust...confident He is able!
Today, I'd like to simply remind you-- YOU, my friend, ARE AMAZING! God has GREAT plans for YOUR life! YOU count! You matter! WHY? Because God designed YOU! So, be encouraged and "Dream Big! Laugh Often! And remember, God's Got It ALL Under Control!" After all, Jesus promised He'd come back...so whether that's today, tomorrow, in 2012, or another far off distant day, let's ENJOY LIFE and make the most of EVERY opportunity !?!
PRAYER: Father, help us to make the most of EVERY opportunity. Thank You for loving us. Empower us to live for You.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
"I NEVER Win Anything!"
"I am happy for her!" Joshua sputtered as big raindrop tears poured from his eyes.
My son, who normally rejoices with other's victories, had a tough time last night. We went to dinner to hang out with Bill, our new 84 year old friend, who lost his wife a few years ago to cancer. While we ate, the restaurant did a drawing for a free bike.
Joshua's eyes grew with excitement. Lights flickered on and off. Time for the drawing. The place was packed with eager children in every booth.
"Sommer...Is there a Sommer in the house...woot woot!" The announcer hooted.
"Sommer, you won!" We all started shouting and pointing in her direction. Sommer beamed.
But, while his sister beamed, Joshua lost his excitement. He tried to smile, but He just couldn't do it.
Time for parenting 101 again. My comforting hug didn't help too much. Joshua couldn't overcome his disappointment and exclaimed, "It's just I never win anything!"
I tried to console him, "That's not true, Son."
"Name one time I have ever won anything." Joshua persisted.
"I shared of lollipop drawings and balls he'd won at church camp." But, nothing helped.
Finally, daddy took him aside and worked his magic. Still not sure what he said, but Joshua came back beaming and doing high fives!
Once again, I learned lessons about my own struggles through my children. Sometimes, watching my "brother's and sisters" get somethingI really wanted stings worse than if a stranger had won it. Sometimes, I want to rejoice but inwardly cave; "Why do they always win? I never win anything."
I try to reason with myself to NO avail. I wallow in defeat until my Father works his power, and reminds me of the truth.
James 3:14-16 declares a powerful message; it says, "But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice."
Check out Verse 15; it is so powerful. "Do not boast about it or deny the truth."
James highlights human tendency. Sometimes, when I am disappointed, I "boast" about my feelings. I go on and on about how I drew the short end of the stick. I wallow in pity, wondering why my "sister" always seems to get what she wants, but I never do.
Or, sometimes, I try to "deny the truth" of my feelings. I stuff them away. I hide my tears. I try to pretend I don't envy "her success." James hits it square on, saying, "Such wisdom does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual," and yikes, "of the devil."
So, what do we do with disappointment? What do we do with envy? What do we do with selfish ambition?
Friends, let's rejoice with our "brothers and sisters" when they WIN! Why, because it's all in the family, and when we rejoice from our heart it raises a "harvest of righteousness."
PRAYER: Father thank You for Your blessing and Your favor. Thank You that You have given us everything we need that pertains to life and godliness. BLESS my brothers and sisters with every good and perfect gift! We love You. Grant us Your continued favor! Forgive us where we've been selfish and empower us to rejoice with our family and never envy Your gifts to them!
My son, who normally rejoices with other's victories, had a tough time last night. We went to dinner to hang out with Bill, our new 84 year old friend, who lost his wife a few years ago to cancer. While we ate, the restaurant did a drawing for a free bike.
Joshua's eyes grew with excitement. Lights flickered on and off. Time for the drawing. The place was packed with eager children in every booth.
"Sommer...Is there a Sommer in the house...woot woot!" The announcer hooted.
"Sommer, you won!" We all started shouting and pointing in her direction. Sommer beamed.
But, while his sister beamed, Joshua lost his excitement. He tried to smile, but He just couldn't do it.
Time for parenting 101 again. My comforting hug didn't help too much. Joshua couldn't overcome his disappointment and exclaimed, "It's just I never win anything!"
I tried to console him, "That's not true, Son."
"Name one time I have ever won anything." Joshua persisted.
"I shared of lollipop drawings and balls he'd won at church camp." But, nothing helped.
Finally, daddy took him aside and worked his magic. Still not sure what he said, but Joshua came back beaming and doing high fives!
Once again, I learned lessons about my own struggles through my children. Sometimes, watching my "brother's and sisters" get somethingI really wanted stings worse than if a stranger had won it. Sometimes, I want to rejoice but inwardly cave; "Why do they always win? I never win anything."
I try to reason with myself to NO avail. I wallow in defeat until my Father works his power, and reminds me of the truth.
James 3:14-16 declares a powerful message; it says, "But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice."
Check out Verse 15; it is so powerful. "Do not boast about it or deny the truth."
James highlights human tendency. Sometimes, when I am disappointed, I "boast" about my feelings. I go on and on about how I drew the short end of the stick. I wallow in pity, wondering why my "sister" always seems to get what she wants, but I never do.
Or, sometimes, I try to "deny the truth" of my feelings. I stuff them away. I hide my tears. I try to pretend I don't envy "her success." James hits it square on, saying, "Such wisdom does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual," and yikes, "of the devil."
So, what do we do with disappointment? What do we do with envy? What do we do with selfish ambition?
- Don't boast about our feelings. Don't justify them. Justifying envy only produces more envy.
- Don't deny our feelings. Don't pretend they aren't there. If toxic waste is in our garden, pretending it's not there doesn't make it go away. Eating its produce would produce death.
- Instead, we should take our feeling to our Father, the only One Who can help! Be honest about our feelings and ask Him to change them. And, because of WHO HE IS, He helps us think clearly and come back wholeheartedly smiling and giving high fives.
Friends, let's rejoice with our "brothers and sisters" when they WIN! Why, because it's all in the family, and when we rejoice from our heart it raises a "harvest of righteousness."
PRAYER: Father thank You for Your blessing and Your favor. Thank You that You have given us everything we need that pertains to life and godliness. BLESS my brothers and sisters with every good and perfect gift! We love You. Grant us Your continued favor! Forgive us where we've been selfish and empower us to rejoice with our family and never envy Your gifts to them!
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Buckle Up and Raise Your Hands High
You wanna know something about me, a little secret not everyone knows? I love roller coasters! One of my most favorite places to visit is Cedar Point in Sandusky , OH
Oh I know, by now you’re thinking, remind me to where a seat belt if I ever ride in a car with Julie. But let me assure you, my thrill seeking stops at the amusement park. When it comes to life, I prefer a nice smooth ride. I don’t like surprises, unless they come in the form of an unplanned vacation or flowers from my husband.
I guess I can enjoy roller coasters because I know they’ve been calculated. I take comfort knowing each long drop and the thrill, of feeling your stomach in your throat, is deliberately intended.
But when it comes to life, not seeing that well planned track, catapulting me toward my end destination, often turns my thrill to fear.
Until I remember, my life has been designed, carefully planned, and calculated by the greatest of ALL.
Beloved, every event of our life is designed to bring about our good, Created by a loving Father…So, when life twists, turning our relationships upside down, or the doctors report drops our world out from underneath our feet…when the roller coaster of life jerks us side to side, in what appears uncontrolled motion…let’s hold fast to God’s promise that says, “do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Friend let’s buckle up, raise our hands high, and enjoy the thrill of living. God won’t let us get off track.
Monday, February 7, 2011
How Did I End Up Here?
"Just go west for about 4 miles and you'll come to a 4 way stop. At the 4 way stop you'll need to go north. Then..."
The man mine as well been talking gibberish, I still don't know how to tell north from south and east from west. For some reason, in my mind every direction I"m facing registers north. So, I politely asked him is north, left or right? I wrote down all of his instructions and decided to go back to my car and attempt to follow them.
45 minutes later, my dirt road turned to pasture, and I ended up in the middle of a cow field.
Had I not been so late for my appointment, and had my cell phone reception been functional, the scenario may have seemed more humorous...BUT at the time...all I could think was...HOW DID I END UP HERE? I followed the directions. I did everything I was supposed to...NOW WHAT???
Isn't that how life can be? We follow God's instructions. Think we are making all the right turns only to end up face to face with a field full of cows, wondering to ourselves, WHAT DID I DO WRONG? HOW DID I END UP HERE?
Our marriage fails. Our kids rebel. Our house forecloses. NOW WHAT???
As I came face to face with a bunch of cows, I decided there was only one thing to do. So, I went back to where I started. I retraced my steps. I evaluated my left turns and my right ones, my north's from my south's, and realized, during one portion of my venture I simply didn't go far enough. I turned too soon and gotten off track.
Friends, I want to encourage you today. Sometimes life is tricky. We navigate doing our best to follow God's instructions. Sometimes we follow His instructions precisely and still end up facing an open field, wondering to ourselves...how did I end up here?
The only thing to do, is start over. Go back to where He last spoke. Retrace our steps. See if there is anyway we've gotten off track. Evaluate if we simply didn't go far enough. Sometimes we'll see our error. Sometimes we may need to ask for new instructions. Sometimes, we simply need to wait for the Lord to build a road through the open field. Either way, the best place for us to stay is directly in God's presence.
He directs us. He instructs us. He promises to never leave us. Though we may suffer for a little while, experience adversity, or encounter momentary affliction, God promises us (in Isaiah 30:21) "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." (NIV)
He gives strength to the weary. (Isaiah 40:29)
He increases the power of the weak. (Isaiah 40:29)
He blesses us with peace. (Psalm 29:11)
He goes with us, and will never leave us or forsake us. (Deuteronomy 31:6)
No matter your circumstances...no matter how lost you feel...no matter if your standing eyeball to eyeball with a big brown cow...God is only a breath away.
Psalm 145:18-20 says, "The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them. The LORD watches over all who love him..." (NIV)
Beloved, you are NOT alone. The LORD IS NEAR and HE IS FAITHFUL.
PRAYER: Father help us. Sometimes we feel so lost. Sometimes we can't help but wonder what we've done wrong. Show us if we've taken wrong steps. Redirect us. Position us and empower us to do all you have called us to. And may YOUR WILL BE DONE on earth as it is in HEAVEN.
The man mine as well been talking gibberish, I still don't know how to tell north from south and east from west. For some reason, in my mind every direction I"m facing registers north. So, I politely asked him is north, left or right? I wrote down all of his instructions and decided to go back to my car and attempt to follow them.
45 minutes later, my dirt road turned to pasture, and I ended up in the middle of a cow field.
Had I not been so late for my appointment, and had my cell phone reception been functional, the scenario may have seemed more humorous...BUT at the time...all I could think was...HOW DID I END UP HERE? I followed the directions. I did everything I was supposed to...NOW WHAT???
Isn't that how life can be? We follow God's instructions. Think we are making all the right turns only to end up face to face with a field full of cows, wondering to ourselves, WHAT DID I DO WRONG? HOW DID I END UP HERE?
Our marriage fails. Our kids rebel. Our house forecloses. NOW WHAT???
As I came face to face with a bunch of cows, I decided there was only one thing to do. So, I went back to where I started. I retraced my steps. I evaluated my left turns and my right ones, my north's from my south's, and realized, during one portion of my venture I simply didn't go far enough. I turned too soon and gotten off track.
Friends, I want to encourage you today. Sometimes life is tricky. We navigate doing our best to follow God's instructions. Sometimes we follow His instructions precisely and still end up facing an open field, wondering to ourselves...how did I end up here?
The only thing to do, is start over. Go back to where He last spoke. Retrace our steps. See if there is anyway we've gotten off track. Evaluate if we simply didn't go far enough. Sometimes we'll see our error. Sometimes we may need to ask for new instructions. Sometimes, we simply need to wait for the Lord to build a road through the open field. Either way, the best place for us to stay is directly in God's presence.
He directs us. He instructs us. He promises to never leave us. Though we may suffer for a little while, experience adversity, or encounter momentary affliction, God promises us (in Isaiah 30:21) "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." (NIV)
He gives strength to the weary. (Isaiah 40:29)
He increases the power of the weak. (Isaiah 40:29)
He blesses us with peace. (Psalm 29:11)
He goes with us, and will never leave us or forsake us. (Deuteronomy 31:6)
No matter your circumstances...no matter how lost you feel...no matter if your standing eyeball to eyeball with a big brown cow...God is only a breath away.
Psalm 145:18-20 says, "The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them. The LORD watches over all who love him..." (NIV)
Beloved, you are NOT alone. The LORD IS NEAR and HE IS FAITHFUL.
PRAYER: Father help us. Sometimes we feel so lost. Sometimes we can't help but wonder what we've done wrong. Show us if we've taken wrong steps. Redirect us. Position us and empower us to do all you have called us to. And may YOUR WILL BE DONE on earth as it is in HEAVEN.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Want freedom?
Psalm 139:23-24, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." (NIV)
What a powerful prayer...What amazing self-examination.
Today, as I waited before the Lord, I thought of this verse. Search me, O God...know my heart...test me...know my anxious thoughts. And then thought to myself, Oh the things I think about. The worries I tend to carry. How senseless.
Ever find yourself thinking about things you can't change? Feeling the weight of regret? Or the depravity of hopelessness? Today, my prayer is that each one of us would fully release our anxious thoughts and submit them directly to God. I pray He frees us from every consuming, needless thought that weighs us down.
Today, the message is simple! Want freedom? Nothing will bring greater freedom, than walking before GOD with a clean conscious!
In Psalm 139, the psalmist went on to pray, "See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
The other day, I listened to my middle daughter manipulate her brother. "Joshua, if you let me watch my show then I will let you watch it with me." Joshua loves to be around his sister. Sommer likes to watch iCarly. I watched as Joshua gladly changed the station so he could watch tv with his sister.
Oh how easy it is to spot "manipulation in others", to "recognize their motives". If only it were that easy in our own life. The psalmist recognized that "All a man's ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the LORD." (Prov 16:2, NIV) And prayed, "See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
Today, I'm asking God to show me the hidden motives of my heart. Why I do what I do. Why I say what I say. Why I act like I act...And can I just say...it's been quite revealing...but also liberating.
Have an awesome weekend, and until next week just want to remind you to Dream Big, Laugh Often, Knowing God's Got it ALL under control.
PRAYER: Father, today we simply pray, Psalm 139:23-24, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
What a powerful prayer...What amazing self-examination.
Today, as I waited before the Lord, I thought of this verse. Search me, O God...know my heart...test me...know my anxious thoughts. And then thought to myself, Oh the things I think about. The worries I tend to carry. How senseless.
Ever find yourself thinking about things you can't change? Feeling the weight of regret? Or the depravity of hopelessness? Today, my prayer is that each one of us would fully release our anxious thoughts and submit them directly to God. I pray He frees us from every consuming, needless thought that weighs us down.
Today, the message is simple! Want freedom? Nothing will bring greater freedom, than walking before GOD with a clean conscious!
In Psalm 139, the psalmist went on to pray, "See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
The other day, I listened to my middle daughter manipulate her brother. "Joshua, if you let me watch my show then I will let you watch it with me." Joshua loves to be around his sister. Sommer likes to watch iCarly. I watched as Joshua gladly changed the station so he could watch tv with his sister.
Oh how easy it is to spot "manipulation in others", to "recognize their motives". If only it were that easy in our own life. The psalmist recognized that "All a man's ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the LORD." (Prov 16:2, NIV) And prayed, "See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
Today, I'm asking God to show me the hidden motives of my heart. Why I do what I do. Why I say what I say. Why I act like I act...And can I just say...it's been quite revealing...but also liberating.
Have an awesome weekend, and until next week just want to remind you to Dream Big, Laugh Often, Knowing God's Got it ALL under control.
PRAYER: Father, today we simply pray, Psalm 139:23-24, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Run! Press On! Never Give Up!!!
Run! Press on! Never Give up!!!
Why??? Because, Nothing is impossible for God!!!
Why??? Because, Nothing is impossible for God!!!
Words on a paper for some, but for those of us who have been pressed down, pushed around, and live in the classification of the underdog...these words inspire our soul...igniting our hope.
Today, God placed such a passion in my soul to encourage you to NEVER GIVE UP; what you hope for is NOT in vain. Check out these amazing promises:
- Isaiah 49:23, "...those who hope in me will not be disappointed." (NIV)
- Isaiah 40:31, "those who hope in 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. (NIV)
- Isaiah 54:4, "Do not be afraid; you will not suffer shame. Do not fear disgrace; you will not be humiliated." (NIV)
Friends, the essence of our faith is that God is good, God is able, and God always prevails. So, if we really believe that, then let's run our race, press on no matter what...AND NEVER...EVER.... EVER...GIVE UP!
Let's quit worrying about tomorrow and embrace today. Let's LIVE each day as if it were our last. Let's Laugh in the face of adversity and the impotent threats of the enemy (knowing GOD is GREATER). And, let's LOVE with all the depth of God's spirit that lives in us, extending mercy, grace, and forgiveness.
Today, I encourage you to envision standing before GOD; lift every concern, worry, or fear up to Him; ask Him to take them from you. Thank Him for Who He is. Thank Him for His promises. Thank Him that He is able. Praise Him that HE ALWAYS PREVAILS and that He empowers us to do ALL He has called us to.
And then, Run! Press on! Never Give up!!! Why??? Because, Nothing is impossible for God!!!
Prayer: Father, You alone are our hope. You alone hold our victory. We put our hope in You. Thank You that You love us. Thank You that we can trust in You! Fill us with the power to do all that You have called us to!
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Letting Go of The Fallacy that "It's MINE!"
"It's MINE!"..."No, it's mine!"..."NO! MINE!" My nephew and I, playfully, bantered back and forth.
I'm not sure why I chose to play this way with him or tried to playfully encourage such behavior (so many years ago). There's nothing all that funny about cultivating selfishness or "ownership". But at the time I was 21 and he was four...and it just seemed like a lot of fun.
Isn't it ironic, from little on up, most of us struggle with the desire to "have", "to own", "to be in charge". Some things never change. We all have Dreams. Hopes. Aspirations. Maybe we want to write a book that will change the lives of everyone who reads it. Maybe we want to build a powerful company that uses its resources to impact nations. Maybe we hope to save our marriage...or save a life...or raise our children to love and serve the Lord.
Last night, my husband and I spent time talking about our day, and as many of our conversations go, we ended up talking about God...His Plans...His power...and our struggle to balance "giving it our ALL" and "realizing it's ALL up to Him."
One of the lessons I'm learning is that regardless of what our dreams, hopes, or aspirations look like...one of the keys of fulfilling them...rests in surrendering them.
James 4:13-15 says, "Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." (NIV)
Was James advocating not planning??? Was he scolding people who put plans to action?
At first glance, it may appear that James encouraged haphazard living, flying by the seat of your pants, apathetically excusing away responsibility with..."Well if the Lord wants it to happen then it will"...BUT...looking closer I think James is addressing something much deeper. Something I struggle with. Something God is constantly working out in me.
James addresses "OWNERSHIP". What we do...What we put our hand to...All of our plans must be subjected to GOD.
Friends, God has great plans for each of one of us. He's designed us for a specific purpose. And at the moment we invite Him to be our Savior, we surrender our life to His Lordship. I waste so much time resisting the tendency to clutch my hands around my dreams and fight with the Lord saying "MINE"...but in all tenderness God graciously responds..."No, Julie, it is Mine!"
And quite honestly, when I realize Who bids me to un-pry my tightly clenched fingers, I willingly release it ALL.
How about you? Holding tightly to a failing marriage trying to fix it? God says...give it to me...it is mine! Longing to impact the world...do something profound...leave a legacy to be remembered for generations to come...God says don't bear that weight..."It's mine." Feel strangely alone, like you're carrying the world on your shoulders, feeling overwhelmed by financial strains?...Again...God says..."It's mine."
Friends, we are NOT alone. We have been inscribed on the palm of Jesus' hands. And God whispers to us from His word saying...
(Isa 43:1-3) But now, this is what the LORD says — he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "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)
We have no need to fear. No need to struggle. No need to fasten our ownership to our life...God can be trusted. And I for one, am going to ONCE AGAIN, release my grip, and surrender. Will you join me?
PRAYER: Father, thank You for loving us. Thank You that Your plans are to bless and not harm. I relinquish ALL of my control and submit my life to You. Empower me to do all You have called me to. And to let go of everything else. In Jesus name, amen.
I'm not sure why I chose to play this way with him or tried to playfully encourage such behavior (so many years ago). There's nothing all that funny about cultivating selfishness or "ownership". But at the time I was 21 and he was four...and it just seemed like a lot of fun.
Isn't it ironic, from little on up, most of us struggle with the desire to "have", "to own", "to be in charge". Some things never change. We all have Dreams. Hopes. Aspirations. Maybe we want to write a book that will change the lives of everyone who reads it. Maybe we want to build a powerful company that uses its resources to impact nations. Maybe we hope to save our marriage...or save a life...or raise our children to love and serve the Lord.
Last night, my husband and I spent time talking about our day, and as many of our conversations go, we ended up talking about God...His Plans...His power...and our struggle to balance "giving it our ALL" and "realizing it's ALL up to Him."
One of the lessons I'm learning is that regardless of what our dreams, hopes, or aspirations look like...one of the keys of fulfilling them...rests in surrendering them.
James 4:13-15 says, "Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." (NIV)
Was James advocating not planning??? Was he scolding people who put plans to action?
At first glance, it may appear that James encouraged haphazard living, flying by the seat of your pants, apathetically excusing away responsibility with..."Well if the Lord wants it to happen then it will"...BUT...looking closer I think James is addressing something much deeper. Something I struggle with. Something God is constantly working out in me.
James addresses "OWNERSHIP". What we do...What we put our hand to...All of our plans must be subjected to GOD.
Friends, God has great plans for each of one of us. He's designed us for a specific purpose. And at the moment we invite Him to be our Savior, we surrender our life to His Lordship. I waste so much time resisting the tendency to clutch my hands around my dreams and fight with the Lord saying "MINE"...but in all tenderness God graciously responds..."No, Julie, it is Mine!"
And quite honestly, when I realize Who bids me to un-pry my tightly clenched fingers, I willingly release it ALL.
How about you? Holding tightly to a failing marriage trying to fix it? God says...give it to me...it is mine! Longing to impact the world...do something profound...leave a legacy to be remembered for generations to come...God says don't bear that weight..."It's mine." Feel strangely alone, like you're carrying the world on your shoulders, feeling overwhelmed by financial strains?...Again...God says..."It's mine."
Friends, we are NOT alone. We have been inscribed on the palm of Jesus' hands. And God whispers to us from His word saying...
(Isa 43:1-3) But now, this is what the LORD says — he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: "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)
We have no need to fear. No need to struggle. No need to fasten our ownership to our life...God can be trusted. And I for one, am going to ONCE AGAIN, release my grip, and surrender. Will you join me?
PRAYER: Father, thank You for loving us. Thank You that Your plans are to bless and not harm. I relinquish ALL of my control and submit my life to You. Empower me to do all You have called me to. And to let go of everything else. In Jesus name, amen.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
What is Your Perspective?
Today, I remembered walking in the grocery store when a lady frantically waved her arms in the air and came running in my direction. I smiled, thinking to myself, Who is this woman and why is she so happy to see me? BUT, I waved back with equal enthusiasm and began praying, Oh Lord help me to know who this women is.
After waving back frantically and acting as equally glad to see this young women, she ran passed me to embrace a different person about 5 feet from behind me. I literally laughed out loud and then quickly darted down the next aisle. Talk about embarrassing!
But doesn’t that scenario accurately display the power of Perspective?
How we think shapes and determines our actions. I was convinced this woman singled me out and ran in my direction, and so, I did the same.
As Christians, we need operate from the perspective and the truth of who we are in Christ.
1 John 3:1 says, "How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!..."NIV
Wow. Let that soak in a minute. You and I are really God’s kids!!! And, as a parent, can I just tell you...I would do anything to protect my kids! And, friends, God promises to do the same.
Isa 43:1-3,"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine." NIV
So matter your struggle today, no matter your opposition, no matter how you may "feel"...the truth is YOU ARE NOT ALONE! GOD IS WITH YOU!
Today, ask yourself, "What is my perspective? What am I thinking about? What have I allowed to convince me, concerning my future?"
I challenge you to Remember Who you serve. Believe for the impossible. Trust God. Whether in the valley or on the mountaintop...Because God is faithful!
PRAYER: Father, thank You that we are not alone. Defend us. Provide for us. And fill us with Your precious Presence. Help us to keep our perspective fixed on YOU...NOT our circumstances. In Jesus name, amen.
After waving back frantically and acting as equally glad to see this young women, she ran passed me to embrace a different person about 5 feet from behind me. I literally laughed out loud and then quickly darted down the next aisle. Talk about embarrassing!
But doesn’t that scenario accurately display the power of Perspective?
How we think shapes and determines our actions. I was convinced this woman singled me out and ran in my direction, and so, I did the same.
As Christians, we need operate from the perspective and the truth of who we are in Christ.
1 John 3:1 says, "How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!..."NIV
Wow. Let that soak in a minute. You and I are really God’s kids!!! And, as a parent, can I just tell you...I would do anything to protect my kids! And, friends, God promises to do the same.
Isa 43:1-3,"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine." NIV
So matter your struggle today, no matter your opposition, no matter how you may "feel"...the truth is YOU ARE NOT ALONE! GOD IS WITH YOU!
Today, ask yourself, "What is my perspective? What am I thinking about? What have I allowed to convince me, concerning my future?"
I challenge you to Remember Who you serve. Believe for the impossible. Trust God. Whether in the valley or on the mountaintop...Because God is faithful!
PRAYER: Father, thank You that we are not alone. Defend us. Provide for us. And fill us with Your precious Presence. Help us to keep our perspective fixed on YOU...NOT our circumstances. In Jesus name, amen.
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