Pursue Spiritual Health

Lance Witt writes, "It is a constant battle to pursue spiritual health." I couldn't agree more. Since the fall, our thoughts, our actions, our nature struggles to obtain and then maintain the intimacy that Adam and Eve experienced in The Garden.

The world bombards us with conflicting messages and attempts to distract us to pursue fame, fortune, notoriety, and SELF. Can I be transparent? Sometimes, even with as much as I love God, I find my life inching away from him. I get distracted by good works and well-meaning intentions.

So, how do we pursue spiritual health? Paul wrote, in Philippians 3:13-14: "I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (NIV)

I find a lot of help from this passage. It helps lay a foundation to pursue spiritual health.

• First, I think it's important to recognize that I'm not there yet! The battle will NOT be over until I stand before Him, in Heaven. Until then, I will overcome through the blood of the lamb...JESUS' SACRIFICE...THE HOPE found only in the cross...and the word of my testimony...lining my life up with God daily, aligning my thoughts with His...stepping into HIS plan for my life (DAILY.)
• Prov 16:18 says, "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." (NIV) To think we can do it on our own...to simply "WILL IT UP" is not enough...there are times when my boot straps are broke and NO AMOUNT of SHEER WILL POWER is enough. I NEED Jesus. Dependency on Him is essential. It's His Spirit that empowers us and gives us wisdom and life.
• Third, perspective on the eternal is essential. To remember WHO I SERVE. To Hold fast to His promises. To remember what it's all about. Keeping my eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of my faith, and working diligently to store up treasures in heaven helps me escape earthly distraction and momentary pleasures.
• Finally, forgetting what lies behind reminds me to not dwell in the past (whether good or bad.) I can't live on yesterday's manna and I'm not disqualified from the prize because of my past sins. I must press on toward Jesus. Pursuing Him. Listening.

Today, I want to encourage you to PRESS ON. God has GREAT plans for your life. Pursue Him passionately!

God's Grace Raptures My Soul

Growing up in dysfunction tainted my image of God. Growing up in a legalistic environment caused me to misplace attributes of anger, judgement, and disinterest to God. BUT...all that changed when I truly encountered God's grace.

While running from God and living under heavy condemnation and shame...God demonstrated His love for me. In the midst of my darkness He pardoned my sin. In the midst of making bad decisions He convicted me with His kindness and lovingly drew me near! And, can I just say that quite honestly...God's grace still raptures my soul!

This morning, as I read from Zephaniah 3:17, God reminded me of His incredible love: "The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." (NIV)

WOW! Talk about AMAZING! What an incredible thought...God delights in us...He quiets us with His love...He rejoices over us with singing! WHEW!

Psalm 147:11 declares, "the LORD delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love." (NIV)
Friend, my prayer is that God's love drives my every action...that His love overflows from my life to others...that His love quiets all my fears.

When I think of His love...I live in perfect joy and peace! When I think of His love...I can't help but offer my life back to Him, to be used for Him, to follow after Him, and to live for Him completely!

How about you?

Are you living in fear? --Remember His love.
Are you needing provision? --Remember His love.
Are you hurt, broken, and in need of healing? --Remember His love.

God's love traversed through the trenches of our indifference and pride and nailed the weight of our sin to its final death on the cross. Even when we feel alone He is there.

I pray you are encouraged by God's goodness and love toward you, today! And, encourage you to meditate on Psalm 139:1-18, which says: "O LORD, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise;you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down;you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD. You hem me in — behind and before;you have laid your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,too lofty for me to attain. Where can I go from your Spirit?Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there;if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn,if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me,your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," even the darkness will not be dark to you;the night will shine like the day,for darkness is as light to you. For you created my inmost being;you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;your works are wonderful,I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place.When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body.All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.
How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them,they would outnumber the grains of sand." (NIV)

Victory Over The Voices In My Head

Don't worry...I'm not crazy...but I do hear voices in my head! No. Not the audible ones. Yet the distinctness of their shouts can sometimes drown out my ability to distinguish the truth of God's voice.

You know, voices that whisper, You are going to fail. You aren't good enough. You can't accomplish that. Retreat. Give up! You're going to look like a fool. What were you thinking? Everyone thinks you're crazy!!!

Proverbs 23:7 says (as a man) "thinks in his heart, so is he." (NKJV)

Whew. At times am I ever in trouble! It's a battle, isn't it? What we think about, I mean. Honestly, accept for the grace of God...I would never accomplish or be anything! But...perhaps that's where our victory rests...not in our ability to think positive thoughts...but to realize the truth of WHO GOD SAYS we are.

How do we silence those voices? How do we oppose the lies of the enemy?

There is only one solution! To fill our thoughts with JESUS! GOD'S WORD! And ask for the infilling of the HOLY SPIRIT!

2 Timothy 1:7 promises us that "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." (NKJV)

Scriptures reminds us that "Death and life are in the power of the tongue." (Proverbs 18:21, NAS) WHEW! Again, can I be transparent? Sometimes I whisper things about me that I would never even dream of saying to my enemies.

How about you? Today, I challenge you to monitor your thoughts? What silent messages do you entertain? What whispers have you embraced? Are they good? True? Excellent? Of good report?

Let's live by Philippians 4:8, today: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things." (NIV)

If something impure, unlovely, un-admirable, or a thought enters our mind that lacks excellence or fails to offer God praise...let's refute it with the truth of God's word. Here are a few simple reminders of who God says we are:

We Are...Beautifully and wonderfully made. (Ps. 139:14) Created in the image of the Almighty. (Genesis 1:27) Destined for good works. (Ephesians 2:10) Filled with the same Spirit that raised Christ from the grave. (Romans 8:11) Loved eternally, completely, and are unconditionally accepted. (Romans 8:38-39)Grafted into the family of God through your confession of Jesus Christ. (Romans 8:15-17)

Have a blessed day! May GOD give us the victory over self-defeating thoughts!

Ownership vs Stewardship

A pervading question that balances my life and provides introspection and self examination is am I claiming ownership or practicing stewardship.

Oh, I know...stewardship is often only equated with finances...but to me...stewardship must permeate every area of my life. Allow me to describe the difference of ownership vs. stewardship, as it relates to my life:

Children:

• Ownership causes me to define my worth based off their actions. If they excel...I am proud and feel as if I'm doing a great job. Aren't I an excellent mother. LOL. If they do or say something less than complimentary, I worry...Now what do people think.
• Stewardship relies on God's abilities and wisdom to parent each one of my children, accordingly. When they do something exceptional I thank God for his provision and blessing. When they do something less than expected, I intercede and ask for God's mercy, grace, and Spirit to move on them and lead them in the way they should go.

Finances:

• Ownership causes me to worry whether there is enough or revel when I can give large amounts. Aren't I great because I gave x,y,z to this or that organization.
• Stewardship causes humility, trust, and recognition that all I have has been given as a gift by God. Regardless of the amount large or small, I give out of love and obedience to the one who has given His all for me.

Time:

• Ownership tends to look and concentrate on how people or circumstance conflict with my schedule. Anger or disappointment when things don't go as planned.
• Stewardship embraces "rest" knowing God is in control. I simply show up, make myself available, and trust Him for the timing.

Luke 16:10 encourages us, "Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much." (NIV)

1 Peter 5:2 says, "Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly--not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God."

Today, let our prayer be to be good stewards of the things God has entrusted to us. May we rest in His grace and provision...knowing He is good and Hes is faithful!

God Fulfills His Promises!

Isaiah 55:9-11, "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." NIV

Wow. What an incredible promise!

God's word will not return empty. It will accomplish all that He desires. It will achieve the purpose for which He sent it!!!

I can tell you first hand, God's ways are indeed higher than my own. He never ceases to amaze me! He is a miracle performing God. He scoffs at conventional wisdom and supposed limitations. Impossible??? Ha! Watch this! When He moved the walls of Jericho tumbled down. When He spoke a leper was cleansed in muddy Jordan water. When God moves vast Midianite armes are defeated (by a small group of 300 men)...Red Seas part...Giants fall!

Today, my faith is strengthened by Isaiah 40:28-31, which says:
"Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but 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

Please hear the intent of my heart and message today...we better NEVER run after something lofty and attribute God's name to it just because it defies human reasoning...HOWEVER...WHEN GOD SPEAKS... WHEN WHAT HE CALLS US TO DO lines up with His Word...we better NEVER cower to impossibility!

• When He calls us to serve and put one another's needs above our own...He will meet our needs. (Luke 6:38)
• When all seems lost we can faithfully serve God knowing that we will reap a harvest of good, if we don't give up. (Galatians 6:9)
• When God tells us to build an ark we can know He WILL send the rain, even when its been dry for 100 years! (He did it for Noah!)

What is God calling you to? (As a word of caution, allow me to interject...God will NEVER ask you to do something that defies HIS NATURE or CHARACTER. He will never ask you to do something that opposes the purity of His Word.)

But...when God speaks we can trust Him! As believers, when we align our life with God's character, when we align our life with HIS WORD, we can know that God fulfills His promises!

Today, my prayer is that each one of us will be lead by His grace and do all things for His glory!

Faith or Fear???

Hebrews 11:1 says, "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." (NIV)

What do you do when darkness surrounds you making it impossible to see? When circumstances press against you so hard you feel as if you can't breathe? When despair feels like your daily bread  and hope is no where in sight?

Let's face it! Giants are real. Our Goliath may be sickness, bills, broken relationships. Our Goliath may come in the form of rejection, fear, or insignificance.

Regardless of our age, gender, or size...the truth is...we all face a Goliath at one point or another. So, how about it? How do we defeat Him? How do we step forward when our GIANT shouts impossibilities and inferiority?

Let me get really transparent...I face Goliaths every day. Some days I triumph victoriously and evade getting caught up in his tactics of fear...other days...I'm not so lucky. I lose focus. I feel like retreating. I fall pray to fear and wonder how, when, and why.

So, what separates victorious living from fearful living? Here are a few thoughts that help me align my life with God and avoid the trappings of fear. (I'd love for you to share your own thoughts; leave your comments below:

1. Faith sees the promise fulfilled. Fear sees the problem. (Which consumes your thinking?)
2. Faith focuses on God. Fear focuses on the obstacle. (Which are you focusing on today?)
3. Faith rests in God's provision. Fear relies on self-sufficiency. (Which are you relying on?)
4. Faith trusts in God's character. Fear questions how, when, why? (Who do you really believe God to be? Is He really Your Father. Do you trust His love? Do you believe in His goodness regardless of your circumstances?)
5. Faith waits patiently knowing God will do all He has promised. Fear attempts to cause things to happen in self-timing. (Are you willing to wait for God? Friend, God is good. We can rest in His timing knowing He will never leave us and will always fulfill His promises.)
6. Faith surrenders to God's power and plans. Fear is the result of self made plans and will. (Oh, OUCH! Lord, help me release my agenda for Yours.)
7. Faith aligns life with God's wisdom and promise. Fear aligns life with self-thoughts and conventional wisdom. (Lord, Help us to hear Your voice and know Your will!)

I think it's important to note, that FAITH is NOT conjuring up some NOBLE notion and saying Here I go Lord, now bless. Instead, Faith is hearing God's voice, knowing what He has promised, and then aligning our life with that truth.

Have other thoughts that might help those reading? Leave your comments below.

Avoid Hard Fast Turns

Navigating life is full of challenges.

We all have different areas that get stretched. We all face decisions that require God's supernatural guidance. Personally, lately, my area seems to center on parenting. Currently, each one of my children seems to be at a critical age. Each faces pivotal transitions. It's time for Joshua to NOT be the baby of the family and instead become independent in his thinking. Sommer faces the delicate balance of transition from adolescence to becoming a young teen (arrrrrgh middle school...) Courtney is almost 18 and I sense a ruffling of feathers and flapping of wings, as she prepares to take flight into young adulthood.

This morning, as my husband and I talked, Greg said--we have to avoid making any hard right turns! Such good wisdom. I love him for that.

Don't get me wrong. Sometimes we have to make sharp turns so as to avoid a collision...but most of the time...life is a smoother ride if we bend and move with the changes of the road.

Hard, fast turns most often are uncalled for. Instead, gradual changes, subtle turns are better for everyone involved.

Today, I sense the Holy Spirit saying, Slow down. Trust Me. Rest in My counsel. Allow me to lead.

In John 14:25-27, Jesus promised: "All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (NIV)

I find it interesting that immediately after Jesus announced the promise of the Holy Spirit, He speaks of peace. Oh, how I need His peace, every moment of every day.

How about you?

Friends, in John 10:27-30 Jesus promises, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one." (NIV)

Perhaps the best way to avoid hard fast turns is to:

• Make sure we are listening every day. 
• Take time to ask God for His wisdom and direction. 
• And, surrender our skills of navigation for His by letting go of our agendas to embrace His.

PRAYER: Father, fill us with Your Spirit. Grant us Your wisdom. Navigate us in the right direction. Help us to rest, knowing that You will lead us and provide all that we need, in order that we might serve You with all of our heart. Grant us strength. Peace. And, fill us with Your love. In Jesus name, amen!

The Middle School of Life

Lately, my daughter has been inundated with the cold, cruel, realities of middle school. As a mother, every day I wonder: Will there be another issue today that I'll need to walk her through? What dramatic episode has she encountered? Who said what and what effect will their words have on her?

And then I think, Hmmmm. Sometimes, life seems like an endless chain of middle school events. The "He said." "No, she said." Doesn't stop after 6th grade. And, quite honestly, the enemy's shouts of unworthiness can be wearisome.

How about it? Can you relate? Ever get tired of the battle? Wearied by accusations? Fatigued by trying to measure up?

I guess just goes to show, whether you're in Middle School or leading Corporate meetings, life is filled with challenges! But challenges need NOT crush us. Challenges simply present the opportunity for our faith to be refined. Resistance strengthens and conditions us to be stronger, faster, better!

What challenge do you face today? The truth is: "The task ahead of you is never greater than the power behind you." (Anonymous quote)

We are all students of life. We all face opposition. We all encounter giants...BUT...As believers we've been granted incredible HOPE! Today, let's take some time to meditate on the truth of God's Word and allow Him to talk us through the middle school of life!

John 16:33
"In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."  NIV
James 4:7-8
"Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you." NIV
1 John 4:4-5
"You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." NIV
Finally, Romans 8:28-32
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?" NIV

The Impossible Becomes Possible

Micah 6:8 says, "He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." (NIV)

WHEW! What a powerful verse!

Sometimes the reality of what I can actually offer God is more painfully evident than other times. Lately, I am constantly reminded that the only thing I can really offer God is my love for Him...and even that has been in response to His grace moving in me. But, there's something in that revelation that is incredibly freeing!

Abundant living begins when we realize that:

• God doesn't call us to accomplish and achieve but to surrender and obey.
• He doesn't require us to know ALL the answers, instead He asks us to simply follow.
• He doesn't expect us to come up with a huge lofty vision or conjure up lofty faith, instead He asks us to simply align our life with what He calls us to.

The impossible becomes possible with God!

I don't know about you, but my prayer in this New Year is to live Micah 6:8--by God's grace I will act justly, love mercy, and  walk humbly with my God. I know that apart from God's grace this mission would be impossible...BUT...thankfully Jesus promised, "What is impossible with men is possible with God." (Luke 18:27, NIV)

So, how about you? What do you need to believe God for in this new year? What mountains do you face? What insurmountable opposition or giants hurl impossibilities in your direction?

Friend, whatever they are, remember--YOU ARE NOT ALONE! GOD is NEAR! HE is FAITHFUL! HE is GOOD!

Our impossibles become possible when aligned with God's will!

A Life-Altering Encounter

I know I've shared this story before but felt compelled to share my life-altering encounter with God's grace. It happened in the most unlikely of places...a bar.


I had just finished Bible College as my seven year marriage came to an end. The denomination I was affiliated with didn't allow a divorced person to be credentialed with them, regardless of the reason for the divorce. Realizing all I had been working towards (a life as a minister) was crashing in around me, I began making horrible decisions. One bad decision after another left me stranded, sitting at the edge of a bar, with the intent to drink away the darkness pressing in around me. Until God showed up!

He lovingly filled my mind with this thought, "Julie, there is no where you can run that my grace won't find you still."

Friend, I share this simple story to remind you that YOU ARE LOVED! Yes, you! Right where you are! Flaws and all! Amidst all your mistakes God is lovingly calling you to turn to Him. In Romans 8:34-39, Paul writes: "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? As it is written: "For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (NIV)

Also, YOU ARE NOT ALONE! No matter your circumstances, disappointments, heartaches, bad decisions, or feelings of abandonment...GOD IS NEAR! Deuteronomy 31:5-6, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." (NIV) Jeremiah 31:3 declares God's heart, saying, "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness." (NIV)

The revelation of God's love requires a decision. For me, I left the edge of the bar forever changed. For the first time in my life I really grasped that it wasn't about my righteousness it was about God's grace. His love demanded all of my life...one that I freely offer Him.

How about you? Is there anything keeping you from living in a right relationship? Anything stealing your joy? Anything you've allowed your hope to rest in other than God's grace?

My prayer for you today is that the love of God will permeate your every though and invade your circumstances with the evidence of his unending and passionate love!

I encourage you...Take a few moments today to simply listen. Ask God to speak. Search for His words from His Word (the Bible.)

Do Deserts Mean God's Displeasure?

Matthew 3:16-4:2: "As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased." Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. “(NIV)

WOW! Check out the chain of events contained within this short passage of Scritpure.

In Matthew 3:17 heaven was opened, the Spirit descends on Jesus, and God's voice declares from heaven "this is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased." In Matthew 4:1, the very next verse, Jesus is led BY THE SPIRIT into the desert to be tempted.

WHEW. WOW. There is so much depth in this verse! I find so much encouragement from its message. I can't tell you how many times after God declared incredible promises that I've experience chapter 4 verse 1. I hear God declare the incredible only to find myself in the desert, wondering if I somehow lost his favor or made Him mad. Ever struggle similarly?

I find comfort to see nothing changed about God's opinion of Jesus in the blink of time that existed between verses seventeen of chapter three and verse one of chapter four. Here's what I take away from this short passage of Scripture:

• God was pleased with Jesus.
• Who Jesus was and His mission wasn't changed because of His circumstances.
• Jesus' trial was not a reflection of God's displeasure which means just because we are in the desert doesn't immediately mean God is angry or displeased with our life.
• Sometimes God leads us by HIS SPIRIT into times of trial...not to harm us...not to crush us...not to be cruel or because He is bored...BUT to align our heart with His and to secure our identity in HIM alone. Looking at how Christ was tempted and the lessons in those temptations is really powerful but would take too much time for one blog. Let me just say--if you haven't read Jesus' temptations or asked God their implications you should. Check them out at Matthew 4: 1-11.
• Jesus examples demonstrate how we can overcome--through the truth of God's Word. Jesus used God's Word to combat the lies of the enemy.
• Finally, just as suddenly as God revealed Who Jesus was and then a suddenly as Jesus is tempted, Jesus is just as suddenly ministered to by anges and His desert experience ends. I love when the desert periods of my life come to an end and I can sense God's presence again. Don't you?

So, take comfort. Your desert period will come to an end.

1 Corinthians 10:13, "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it." (NIV)
God has promised to NEVER leave us. He will fulfill His promises. So, stand strong.

Remember the promise found in Deuteronomy 31:6, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." (NIV)

God positions us for His purposes!

I remember after quitting my six figure income feeling at a loss. I wondered: where, when, why and how? At one point,while attending a conference filled with hundreds of people. God surprised me. I didn't feel like attending the event, it seemed like a waste of time. After all, I knew I would leave my job in just a matter of months. But God had a specific plan. During the event, He spoke distinctly within my thoughts. The national speaker called out from the audience, unsolicited, and invited to join him on stage. As I made my way to stage, God spoke very distinctly a thought far greater than my own, saying, I can pick you up and position you where I want you, wherever and whenever I want you.

Friend, rest in that amazing truth! God positions us for His purposes! He moves despite our short-comings. He positions despite our preconceived ideas of what His promise might look like. Check out this verse:

"After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt and said, "Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child's life are dead."
So he got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee, and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets: "He will be called a Nazarene." (Matthew 2:19-23, NIV)

OK. I know nothing particular earth shattering here, on the surface, but look deeper. Joseph set out under the pretense of settling in Judea, specifically. When the angel said go up to the land of Israel, Joseph interpreted the land of Israel to mean Judea. Further, God allowed Joseph to move forward under that pretense. BUT...as Joseph moved closer towards that destination God gave him more insight. He learned Herod's son, Archelaus, reigned in Judea. Joseph's plan and idea was interrupted with deeper clarity. God warned him in a dream to withdraw and to Galilee. Galilee was still the land of Israel. Galilee still lined up with God's original plan but was an entirely different destination than Joseph envisioned.

OH HOW I CAN RELATE. I can't tell you how many times I've headed out under a pretense or notion only to be interrupted by GOD's clarity. God has allowed me to set out with a destination in mind and at just the right time re-directs my steps to align with what He intended all along.

How about you? Ever get re-directed?

Re-direction doesn't mean failure. Re-direction filters through God's grace. God doesn't expect us to know steps A to Z. He lovingly leads us and even allows us to sometimes head out under one pretense based off our paradigms (without feeling the need to give us every piece of information) because He knows at just the right time, He can clarify and keep us safe!

Our job isn't to know ALL the details or even know the final specific destination. God accomplishes ALL of His purposes despite ALL of our misgivings.

So, if you find yourself in the midst of change or in the place where things just didn't turn out like you expected or anticipated...yet feel as thought you've done everything to surrender your steps to Him...don't worry...God is still in control and is working all things together for your good. He may just be making the necessary adjustments to position you to fulfill His purpose!

IN WHAT and IN WHOM will you place your trust?

I used to believe and avidly declare, "Me and Jesus, we can do anything!" NOW, because of where God has taken me...because of the enormous promises and endless possibilities positioned before me...I pray, "Oh God, if You don't show up, none of this can happen!"

There is NO part of me in the equation! I simply need to show up...but the results...the victories...the provision...the EVERYTHING relies on GOD ALONE!

I love the quote from A.C. Dixon, in Evangelism, A Biblical Approach, M. Cocoris, Moody, 1984, p. 108 who writes, "When we rely upon organization, we get what organization can do; when we rely upon education, we get what education can do; when we rely upon eloquence, we get what eloquence can do, and so on. Nor am I disposed to undervalue any of these things in their proper place, but when we rely upon prayer, we get what God can do."

So, how about it? IN WHAT and IN WHOM will you place your trust? Where does your confidence rest?

Some of us face impossible situations...struggling relationships, financial struggles, sickness, grief...but (my dear dear friends) we are not alone!!! God never called us to accomplish. He never required us to be successful. He simply invites us to be obedient and to trust Him to do the impossible.

"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. Watching Mother Teresa minister to these people, feeding and nursing those left by others to die, Hatfield was overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the suffering she and her co-workers face 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." (Beyond Hunger, Beals)


Jesus said, "You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it." (John 14:14)

NOTICE the qualifier of " in my name."

What I realize more fully than ever is that in Jesus name is not a magical word that provides the formula for getting all my selfish desires, rather in Jesus name aligns my faith with the assurance of God's Promise. I can request what He birthed in my heart and know He will cause it to be...I can ask Him for what He has already said is His plan and know that it will come to pass. When I hear His faithful voice leading me through Scripture I can ask for the evidence of His promise.

Friend, God hasn't commissioned us to results, He commissions us to obedience. Let's position ourself to hear Him. Let's qualify all that we feel He has commanded or promised with the truth of His Word. Then, let's boldly follow after Him and demonstrate genuine faith. After all, our only opportunity for faith exists on this side of eternity. In heaven, we will see the evidence of what we hoped for. But true faith trusts regardless of appearances. Genuine faith remembers WHO GOD IS and HOLDS FAST to what HE has PROMISED.

Friend, our FAITH flows from our relationship with God and remains strong by resting in the assurance of God's love. FAITH runs full fledged towards our GIANTS knowing "OH GOD, if YOU DON'T show up...the victory won't happen!"

My prayer for 2012 is that God fills each one of our hearts with a lasting faith, birthed from the confidence founded in His LOVE!

Simple Reminders for Desperate Times

Have you ever noticed that when you finally decide to purchase a house how many houses suddenly came up for sale? Houses right across the street and down the road strangely decided to put up FOR SALE signs overnight? The truth is, as we all know, you get what you focus on.

I love David's abandoned courage as he charged the field towards Goliath, shouting: "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the LORD will hand you over to me, and I'll strike you down and cut off your head. Today I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's, and he will give all of you into our hands." (1 Sam 17:45-47, NIV)

While others focused on Goliath's mass and cowered...David zeroed in on the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel! David focused on God and the giant was no match.

Perspective is everything!

Some of us face HUGE giants today. We may have even at one time felt the same courage as David. We may have rushed forward with full faith against our giant's fury ready to decapitate...but somewhere in the process...when the giant's head didn't immediately sever from his body...our focus turned off of God to the enormous size of our enemy. Our faith diminished. Fear grew.

Friend, I've felt moments where in faith I followed God only to feel like my giant swallowed me whole. I've felt stuck...lodged in my giant's throat...holding on to his uvula crying out "OH DEAR GOD, DON'T LET HIM SWALLOW ME WHOLE! HELP!!!"

The two things we must do in moments like this is--

First, remember the truth of who GOD is:

• God is faithful. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says, "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful ; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it." (NIV)
• God is Good. "Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. (Psalm 106:1, NIV)
• God is Love. 1 John 4:8-10 reminds us, "God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." (NIV)

I don't understand all of my trials. I don't understand the mysteries of God. I don't understand HIS sovereignty...or why He chooses to answer prayers different than I hoped...but one thing I am certain of... (as believers) He is our ABBA FATHER--our DADDY! He loves us passionately! And EVERYTHING HE DOES flows from, through and out of HIS PERFECT LOVE for us!

Second, remember God's promises:

• God promised that He was with us and would uphold us. Isaiah 41:10-11, "So 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. "All who rage against you will surely be ashamed and disgraced." (NIV)
• God promised He would never leave us. Joshua 1:5, "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." (NIV)
• God works ALL things together for our good. Romans 8:28-31, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?" (NIV)

Friend, you may feel lodged in your giants throat and question God, Where are you? If so, if the giant's size has caused you to cower, if you feel depleted, alone, abandoned...my prayer is that you turn your focus back to GOD. I pray that just as houses seemed to pop up overnight with FOR SALE signs in their yard...that the evidence of WHO GOD IS and HIS FAITHFULNESS would surround your life as you turn your focus back on HIM...that HE fills you once again with FAITH, HOPE, COURAGE and STRENGTH to PRESS ON!

See the Size of Those Grapes!

Today, as I sat a my computer and began to pray, a post I shared a year or more ago ran through my thoughts. I hope you find comfort and encouragement by it: Living above our circumstances demands our bravery!

Let's face it, following God doesn't always make sense in the natural.Can you imagine bystanders looking at Gideon, speculating, "You're going to reduce your army of how many thousands to three hundred men?...And God told you to do it?" Or how about David throwing off all conventional methods of battle and running full force, with just a sling and five stones, to slay the feared--Goliath!

David never shrank from the bear or lion NOR die he cower to Goliath. When Saul sought his life, David bravely spared Saul's life, determining to not raising a hand against God's anointed. David trusted God to defend his life and lived above his circumstances. 1 Samuel 16:18 describes David, "One of the servants answered, "I have seen a son of Jesse of Bethlehem who knows how to play the harp. He is a brave man and a warrior. He speaks well and is a fine-looking man. And the LORD is with him." (NIV)

Brave men and women of God step forward when others step back; they press on with others give up; and they follow through regardless of the cost, dismissing the opinions and speculations of bystanders! They understand the true meaning of BRAVERY; bravery isn't recklessly following after every conjured whimsical notion; true bravery simply follows God's voice, knowing He will do what He has promised!

Abraham bravely put Isaac on the altar, trusting in both GOD's character and His ability; he reckoned God could raise Isaac from the dead...he knew God's promise existed through Isaac...he trusted God would fulfill His promise.

When Joshua and Caleb surveyed the land they saw God's promise...I can just imagine their report..."YOU SHOULD SEE what God has waiting for us...milk...honey...grapes. Huh? Giants?? Sure there are giants...but you should see the SIZE of those grapes."

Bravery looks pass conventional wisdom, pass consequences and costs, and simply listens for the still small voice, asking...WHAT HAS GOD SAID?

Living above our circumstances requires BRAVERY...BRAVERY requires faith...And true faith listens for God's voice and trusts His wisdom! So, what has God promised YOU? What has HE called you to do? What does HIS WORD declare about your circumstances?

Deuteronomy 31:5-6 says, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified...for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you." (NIV)

What's YOUR story? HOW can YOU reveal YOUR TRUST in GOD? WHAT is HE CALLING YOU to BRAVELY do?

FRIEND...HE WILL NOT FAIL YOU!

PRAYER: Father, speak to us clearly; direct us; give us the strength to obey! Fill us with faith to live BRAVELY for YOU! IN JESUS NAME we pray, AMEN!

In Loving Memory...

A contagious smile radiated for all to see but it was Jessie's courageous spirit that captivated my heart. Who would have ever known that a 12 year old little girl would impact so many. Jessie learned what so few really ever grasp...that one person really can make a difference.

When Jessie was diagnosed with 2 inoperable brain tumors, instead of cowering, she courageously stepped forward to encourage other kids fighting cancer to never ever give up!

Jessie along with the help of her father, Erik Rees and a team of advisers, formed NEGU, a non-profit organization committed to care for courageous kids fighting cancer. You can learn more about their Mission, Method, Motto and Message at: http://www.thenegufoundation.org/

Yesterday, I read a message on facebook by Jessie's father that truly grieved my heart:

"Dear friends...we have prayed and prayed and prayed for sweet Jessie to be healed here on earth but God's plan was to use heaven for healing. Jessie earned her wings today and is with Jesus now!!! No pain..complete vision...spreading joy. Please pray for our family as we walk out of the valley of death and towards the mountain top. We will let everyone know of her celebration service as arrangements are made. Please join us in carrying on her joyful spirit and Never Ever Give Up attitude. Much love, Erik, Stacey, Shaya and JT"

Jessica Rees born April 8, 1999, went to her eternal home, yesterday, January 5, 2012.

As the Executive Director at Women Inspired and His Love Extended Ministries I am committed to partner with NEGU Foundation to ensure Jessie's dream of giving 50,000 JOY JARS to other courageous kids fighting cancer comes true. Thus 100 % of any financial gift received today at His Love Extended Ministries will go directly to the NEGU foundation. ($20.00 purchases one joy jar. You can make financial contributions by clicking our donate button on the top right of this blog page.
All my love and prayers go out to the Rees family...and though my heart is saddened at Jessie's passing...I celebrate her life! Jessie grasped the truth of EPHESIANS 2:10--"We are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (NIV) And she lived her purpose COURAGEOUSLY!!!

Dear Friends, one day we will all stand before our Lord and God and give an account for our life. I for one want to join with Jessie's courageous message to NEVER EVER GIVE UP (NEGU)! How about you?

Today, regardless of your battle, regardless of your GIANT, I want to encourage you to PRESS ON! God is near. He works ALL things together for our good! THE TRUTH is...He designed you on purpose for a purpose. Take time to discover that purpose and NEVER EVER GIVE UP!

God-Centered If Only's...

For years, I lived in a world of empty if only's. Thinking, If only I would get a chance to...then I would be happy. If only he would love me...then I wouldn't feel so lonely. If only I were taller, smarter, skinnier, then people would respect me. If only I could be like...then I'd be successful.

But, the world of empty if only's left me feeling rejected and discouraged. However, NOT every if only needs to be unfruitful. In Matthew 9:20-22, we can read of an if only that brought healing:

"Just then a woman who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak. She said to herself, "If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed." Jesus turned and saw her. "Take heart, daughter," he said, "your faith has healed you." And the woman was healed from that moment." (NIV)


Can you imagine this woman's sheer exhaustion? She'd searched for healing everywhere...exhausted every resource...yet found no relief. Every hope turned upside down. Every promise turned out empty.

Friend, you may be exhausted. You may feel defeated. You may have felt as though you've tried everything possible...BUT DON'T GIVE UP...God invites each one of us to HIS WONDERFUL WORLD OF IF ONLY'S...

In this New Year, let's change any selfish if only to God-centered if only's. Like the woman in Matthew 9, let's take our brokenness to Him and, in faith, reach out to touch Him. May we never stop.! May we NEVER give up! May we desperately, yet confidently, press in to touch Him, knowing that if only we touch HIM...we will be made whole.

God gave Israel a promise in Deuteronomy 15:4-5 saying, "He will richly bless you, if only you fully obey the LORD your God and are careful to follow all these commands I am giving you today." (NIV)


Will you join me in this New Year to God-centered if only's and in faith resolve to believe, that:

• If only we press past our own insecurities to follow after Him, our life will have meaning.
• If only we surrender all of our rights and die to selfishness, we will find life abundant.
• If only we love unselfishly in all of our relationships, He will satisfy the longings of our heart.
• If only we give all that we have, He will provide for all that we need.
• If only we pursue Him with all our heart, mind, soul and strength, we will discover Him.

PRAYER: Father, in this New Year we want nothing less than Your ALL! All of You. All of Your plans. All of Your wisdom. All of Your presence! Amen.

A Prayer for the New Year!

Father, help me to follow You in this New Year. To go where you call me to go. To step forward even when others step back.

Help me to stand strong, opposing every GIANT in YOUR name. May I never shy away from the challenges before me, knowing that YOU are with me. Thank You that You are greater than the one that is in this world. Thank You that no weapon formed against me will prosper! May every Red Sea be parted. Every lion's mouth be clamped shut. May every towering wall opposing YOU fall to the ground. May every stormy sky be hushed by Your words of peace...as I take up my cross to follow after YOU.

Fill me with your wisdom. Lead me in every decision. Empower me to do all things BY YOUR grace and FOR YOUR glory. Grant me Your favor. Open wide every door You want me to walk through and quickly shut any doors that would keep me from following after YOU.

Fill me with Your love. May I see others with Your eyes and embrace the weak, the weary, and the unlovely. Fill my mouth with words of comfort, healing, and truth. Use my life and testimony to serve as a bridge for others to cross over, into a fuller relationship with You.

You are my hope. My refuge. My strength. My deliverer. I surrender my heart, my mind, my will to YOU. Use me for YOUR glory. Grant me opportunities to glorify and honor you in my relationships, family, and friendships. May others see You in me! May I reflect only what is good, holy, and righteous.

Lord, as I pause to ask what I could possibly offer You, My King. I am humbled to realize I have nothing more than my love and my life. What more could I possibly give You. But I gladly give You ALL that I am. You are indeed the potter, I am the clay. Use me. Mold me. Make me to be a vessel of honor.

I surrender my plans. My agendas. My ambitions. My thoughts. Relationships. Ministry. Family. Friendships. Ideas. MY...MY...MY...for ALL OF YOU!

Fill me with the grace to run after You with ALL of my heart, soul, mind and strength. And as I do, may I find You as You have promised!

My one prayer is that I might KNOW and LOVE YOU more, even as I am fully known and loved by YOU.

A New Year

I love starting a New Year. It's an opportunity of letting go of what was in an exchange for what might be. It provides a new beginning...a fresh start...renewed vision...and revived hope.

Yesterday, we spent time (as a family) sharing our hopes and dreams for the New Year...what we'd like to see happen...and shared a few goals. As we shared, I kept thinking about James 4:13-16, "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)

As we embark on a new year, I am filled with EXPECTATION. I sense 2012 will be a year of FULFILLMENT! I sense a lightness to my spirit. And, I can't wait to see what God does in this New Year. BUT...I also sense a calling to deeper intimacy with Him, a call to greater surrender, and a need to abandon all my plans in an exchange for HIS.

My goal for the New Year is to daily ask God:

• What do you desire from me today?
• What are Your plans?
• Where would You like me to go?
• What would You like for me to do?
• Who would You like me to minister to?
• How can I serve You most effectively (in my marriage, in my parenting, in my job, in my family, in my friendships)?

As I pause before Him today, I am remind of this singular thought: Your story isn't finished yet!

Friend, turbulent waters, vast storms, and seemingly insurmountable obstacles are NO match for our GOD! And...I am NOT called to be SUCCESSFUL, I am called to live SURRENDERED.

How about you? What is the Lord whispering to you in this NEW YEAR? I'd love to hear what He's whispered to your spirit. So, take a few moments to invite GOD to speak and provide you with direction for this New Year...Allow Him the opportunity to renew your strength and remind you...YOUR STORY ISN'T FINISHED YET! (And then share your comments below!)