His Love Extended

Pursue Spiritual Health

2012-01-30T09:01:00.000-05:00

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

2012-01-27T09:47:00.000-05:00

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

2012-01-26T10:07:00.000-05:00

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

2012-01-25T11:12:00.000-05:00

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!

2012-01-24T08:48:00.000-05:00

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???

2012-01-23T09:07:00.000-05:00

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:

Faith sees the promise fulfilled. Fear sees the problem. (Which consumes your thinking?)
Faith focuses on God. Fear focuses on the obstacle. (Which are you focusing on today?)
Faith rests in God's provision. Fear relies on self-sufficiency. (Which are you relying on?)
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?)
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.)
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.)
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

2012-01-19T10:46:00.000-05:00

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

2012-01-18T10:48:00.000-05:00

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

2012-01-17T11:13:00.000-05:00

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

2012-01-16T09:18:00.000-05:00

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?

2012-01-13T10:01:00.001-05:00

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!

2012-01-12T09:28:00.001-05:00

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?

2012-01-11T09:39:00.000-05:00

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

2012-01-10T06:56:00.000-05:00

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!

2012-01-09T10:02:00.000-05:00

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...

2012-01-06T10:39:00.002-05:00

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...

2012-01-05T09:16:00.001-05:00

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!

2012-01-04T08:55:00.000-05:00

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

2012-01-02T10:47:00.000-05:00

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!)

A Childhood Memory...

2011-12-22T08:03:00.000-05:00

My long brown piggy-tails swung back and forth across my shoulders as I quietly snuck behind our Christmas tree, picking up the small, plastic mold of baby Jesus and cried, “Jesus, I’m so sorry I didn’t get you a present. Today is your birthday and I didn’t get you anything.” Tears flowed strongly, as my tender little heart yearned to do something special for Him. I know what I can do. I thought. And, without hesitation I began to softly sing…Happy Birthday to you…Happy Birthday to you…Happy Birthday dear Jesus…Happy Birthday to you.

Ahhhh, if only I could have the innocence of being six years old again.

As I reflect on that endearing Christmas memory, I think how precious I must have appeared to God. So many years have passed since that Christmas morning and unfortunately my passion often wanes by my needs, wants, and wishes. I often find myself asking, interceding, and longing for God to intervene on my behalf and forget to sing Him a simple melody of praise.

Yet, as Christmas Day approaches, somewhere inside me, lays the same tender heart of that six year old little girl who longs to honor God and offer Him a song….a song of thanks, a song of surrender, a song of dedication, a song of humility.

How about you? What are you preoccupied with?

Friend, as we prepare to celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior…the day Jesus, “Immanuel, God with us” came in the flesh, let’s not miss our chance to offer God thanks. Let’s replace our worries, our what if’s, and our endless list of needs with a simple song of thanks.

Psalm 34:1-3, “I will extol the LORD at all times; his praise will always be on my lips. My soul will boast in the LORD; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together.” (NIV)

God longs for our affection. He longs to hear our song of love. So, will you join me? Let’s take a moment to GIVE THANKS for the wonderful hope He’s given us in Jesus. Let's NEVER FORGET the REASON for THIS SEASON CELEBRATION!

Get rid of Stinkin' Thinkin'

2011-12-20T09:10:00.000-05:00

A fowl odor emanated throughout our kitchen. Like a sleuth, I investigated the area trying to ascertain the origin of the smell. It seemed to derive from our pantry.

What is that smell? And where is it coming from? I quickly surveyed the contents of our pantry. At first glance, nothing seemed out of place...

I knew the aroma...but couldn't place the culprit, thus a deeper investigation, a more thorough search, was required...

I began pulling items out from underneath the bottom shelf...ahhhh there it is. How could such a small, single, decaying potato cause such a stink. I quickly disposed its remains in the outside trash...

Sometimes things that seem so small can cause a huge stink...Unpleasant memories... Unfruitful thoughts... Unforgiveness...

At first, things that seem harmless or insignificant can go unnoticed...unchecked motives can slip behind unsuspecting areas of our life...and over time their lasting remains can really "stink up" our lives.

Today, I sensed the Holy Spirit saying its time for a deeper investigation of my thought life. Are there any areas I've allowed "stinking thinking" to corrupt my life? Do I assert my rights? Am I easily offended?

Proverbs 23:7 alludes, as a man thinketh, so he is.

Friend, a principle I've come to embrace is you get what you're looking for. You reap what you sow. If I plant corn...I'm not going to cultivate tomatoes...I'll reap corn. The same principle applies in our marriages, ministries, and life.

So, how about it? Any areas of your pantry needing cleaned out? If so, will you join me in this call to action? It's pretty simple on the surface...but embracing its practicalities will prove powerful.

Pay attention to your thoughts today! And, ask yourself:

Does this thought honor God?
Does this way of thinking believe the best about the person I'm thinking about?
Does this mindset produce life or death?
Where does this rational originate from? God? The enemy?
What will this kind of thinking produce? Is it life giving? Will it result in joy or fear?

2 Corinthians 10:4-6 encourages us with this truth and call to action: "The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." (NIV)

God has incredible plans for your life. Don't let stinking thinking rob you of the joy He's prepared for you!

Participating In God's Miracles

2011-12-19T09:38:00.000-05:00

Every time I read Luke 1:27-38, it takes my breath away.

"The angel went to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you." Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end." "How will this be," Mary asked the angel, "since I am a virgin?" The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God." "I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." Then the angel left her." (NIV)

Today, I wonder at the personal promises God's whispered to me. And (like Mary) question, how is this possible? I point out my insufficiency. And, yet, silently marvel at God's power.

How about you?

Has God invited you to participate in the miraculous? Do impossibilities heighten as you recognize your limitations? Do inadequacies overshadow His promise? If so, you are not alone. God calls us each to a crossroads of faith and reality. Will we trust in our abilities or His? Will we surrender, regardless of the cost?

On the day the angel spoke to Mary, I wonder if she fully realized the weight and burdens that would follow after her? Did she willingly concede, surrendering to God's call knowing the hardships she would endure? Did she envision the ridicule, judgment, sneers and contempt she'd encounter? Did she anticipate the rejection she'd experience from friends and family members? Did she say yes knowing that her community would cast accusing glances and ostracize her from fellowship?

It's hard to say what went through her mind, but her reply "May it be to me as you have said" stirs deeply within me.

Friend, God invites each one of us to surrender and concede to His purpose. He invites us to participate in the miraculous. He calls us to the place where we recognize it's not about our abilities but His. We question, how can this be? And graciously responds, "nothing is impossible with God."

But what does it mean to participate in God's miracles?

Participating in God's miracles means recognizing it's not about our abilities. Mary was a virgin. She couldn't birth life apart from God. And neither can we. It's not by might, nor by our power, but by His Spirit. (Ask Him to birth a miracle in your relationship, finances, ministry, family.)
Participating in God's miracules means saying yes. My prayer is that I will always respond as Mary did. "May it be to me as you have said." Mary didn't ask for her divine assignment, but she willingly embraced it. She recognized God was sovereign...and simply humbled herself to His design.
Finally, participating in God's miracules will cost us everything. Mary endured rejection. Her entire life, dreams, and plans were radically interrupted. And, I can only imagine the questions she faced, as Jesus hung on the cross.

Today, we may face impossibilites. If so, I pray (by His grace) we choose to participate in His miracles:

by recognizing it's not about our abilities,
by saying yes to His plan
and surrendering our life...NO MATTER the cost!

"Do you believe this?"

2011-12-16T10:09:00.002-05:00

The Spirit of God stirred within my soul today, as I read John 11:25-26, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?" (NIV)

Whew. Do I believe that? Really believe that? Without hesitation, I responded. Yes! Yes, of course! God You are the Resurrection and the Life. Yes, I believe one day You will return. In my death, I believe You will resurrect me to eternal life with You! My response resembled Martha's in John 11:23-27 when, "Jesus said to her, "Your brother will rise again." And " Martha answered, "I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day."

But Jesus had something different in mind. He would bring back to life not just in the eternal, but in the immediate! Oh...my soul craves this kind of hope! I don't want to hold on to a one-day, distant kind of hope...but a bonafide miracle in the now! As I read further, I couldn't escape the hidden truths contained within this story.

First, before the miraculous there was death. There was no mistaking Lazarus was gone. He was dead. Buried for 4 days. Mary couldn't bring Lazarus back. No medical attention could heal him. He was GONE! Some of us are in that place right now. That place of complete desolation. That place where no one can provide, heal, or restore...EXCEPT GOD!

As I read further, a second part stood out: Mary and Martha grieved and felt great pain and loss. They mourned the loss of their brother. In John 11:32-44, Mary took her pain to Jesus saying, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died."

"IF!" What a power-packed word. If you had been here...If only I hadn't...If only they would...My heart felt an immediate connection with Mary's. I sense an abandoned trust in this statement. Not accusation. Just a bewildered I wish you would have been here...then this wouldn't have happened. Today, I am painfully aware, not only personally, but through your stories as well, that many of us have feel great loss...bewildered by our broken dreams...shattered relationships...and destroyed hopes...If only God had been present... then ...

Which brought me to my third thought: With God NOTHING is impossible. Furthermore, He is moved with compassion and weeps with us. "When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. "Where have you laid him?" he asked. "Come and see, Lord," they replied. Jesus wept." ..."Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance. "Take away the stone," he said. "But, Lord," said Martha, the sister of the dead man, "by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days." Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" So they took away the stone. Then Jesus ..."called in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" And, "The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face." (John 11:33-44, NIV)

Friend, what impossibilities do you face today? God is able.

He s a miracle working God. Nothing is impossible for Him. The question remains, "Do you believe this?"

True--God is Sovereign. True--He doesn't always give us what we want. But...He is good. He is faithful. And, He invites us to trust Him in the impossible. He encourages us to rest in Him. To ask Him for what we need...

Matthew 7:7-11, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. "Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!" (NIV)

Don't know about you, but I think I'm gonna spend a little extra time in prayer today! Hope you'll join with me!

When Answers Aren't Enough

2011-12-15T10:00:00.000-05:00

Larry's child has been diagnosed with a fatal disease. Marsha's husband's addiction is destroying their marriage. Jack's income isn't meeting his family's needs. Mary's daughter abandoned her once firmly rooted faith and plunged forward in an illicit relationship. Sharon's husband's abusive behavior assaults her safety. Max's wife left him for her co-worker. Beth's results proved malignant...

Let's face it. Sometimes answers just aren't enough. During moments of great crisis no one wants to hear pat answers like, I'm praying for you. Stand strong. Or even trademark quotes, like Dream Big. Laugh often. And remember, God's got it all under control.

Answers like that irritate and cause cynicism. So, how do we stand firm in our faith when our relationships don’t get healed...When the check doesn’t arrive in the mail...Or the prayers we’ve cried seem to bounce off the ceiling and assault our faith?

Where is God when we lose our loved one to a fatal disease? What about when pornography or infidelity destroys our marriage? What do we do then?

I wish there were a 1-2-3 answer...an easy way out...but as my dear friend Sandra Aldrich always says, "Some things in life are so painful we can't OVER-come them, we can only endure them."

You've heard me say many times "Faith that costs us nothing, is NOT yet faith."

In moments where simple answers don't suffice and clichés only add insult to injury…we only have one choice…one solution...TO REMEMBER WHO GOD IS...TO REMIND OURSELVES OF HIS GREAT LOVE...AND TO WILLINGLY CHOOSE TO HOLD FAST TO THE TRUTH that God loved us so much, He sent His Son, Jesus, to traverse through the trenches of our indifference and pride, and to nail the weight of our sin to its final death on the cross…Friend, that kind of love can be trusted!

Jeremiah 31:3-4 says, "The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness. I will build you up again and you will be rebuilt, O Virgin Israel. Again you will take up your tambourines and go out to dance with the joyful." (NIV)

Friend, I won't pretend to have all the answers. I don't understand why some are healed while others are not. BUT one thing I hold fast to...God hears our prayers. He will never abandon us...and His plans are to work ALL things together for our good.

If you are struggling today, here are some steps that have helped me...I hope you find comfort and help too:

Praying Father I don't understand. This hurts so badly. I don't understand why You haven't answered my prayers...please comfort me...grant me Your peace...HELP. I need to know You hear me. I need to know You care. Strengthen me. I CHOOSE to put my trust in You. I acknowledge YOU are God and I am not. I surrender my will to Yours. Move on my behalf. Deliver me I pray. And thank You for Your great love. Thank You that Your plans are to bless and NOT harm. That Your plans are to give me a hope and a future. Let me witness the evidence of that truth. In Jesus name...amen.
Confide in trustworthy counselors. Surround yourself with spiritual giants. People who don't give pat answers but will also stand with you in the fire. Ask for their prayers. Agree together in prayer.
On the practical side, shake things up a little. Change the normal everyday routine. Treat yourself to your favorite meal. Take a few minutes to do something fun. I like Sonic Sprites and walks on the beach...neither cost much...both offer me simple enjoyment.
Finally, speak the truth...out loud. Our mind is a battlefield. Satan's barrage of accusations and discouragement heighted in times of crisis...Declare the truth. Fight the enemy's lies that you are all alone. John 8:32 says, "…you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." Declare God's goodness. Remember His great love. Speak boldly that He will never leave or forsake you...and express your gratitude to Him.

Prayer: Father, grant us your peace, wisdom, and presence. Comfort us in those moments when words fall short. Fill us with joy. Remind us of Your incredible love!

An In-escapable Thought...

2011-12-14T09:26:00.001-05:00

I can't escape this thought, We can't fake genuine character. We can't fool God. He sees the intentions of our hearts. He knows the quality of the relationship we share with Him.

Today, as I bowed my head to pray, I asked God for wisdom, favor, and anointing. As I prayed, I sensed the need to ask Him to reveal any secret motives...to ask if there was anything keeping me from a deeper intimacy with Him. And, to restore the joy of my first love.

I couldn't help but think of His intervention in my life. I was filled with an overwhelming realization of His great love...a love that held nothing in reserve...a love that saved me from myself...forgave me of my sins...and invited me into a relationship with Him.

Jesus emptied himself to the point of death on a cross...His love humbled me as I realized I don't love that unselfishly. I hold on to expectations. I privately hope that people would love me back. I want to make a difference and to see the fruit of my sacrifices. I guess if we are honest, we probably all do. But to truly make a difference, to truly walk in the center of God's will requires one thing...LOVE FOR GOD. To die to selfish gain and simply love Him. It's His love for us that compelled Jesus to die on the cross. It's our love for Him that sustains us amidst trials, disappointments, rejection, or frustrations.

The key to our intimate relationship with God rests in our love for God. No matter how great our discipline, if love isn’t our motivator, our commitment will weaken over time. If we fail to accept God’s love or love him back, we distort our ability to hear God’s voice accurately.

When we first enter into a relationship with God we are giddy at the new experience of emotions and the adventure of a new relationship. Then, adversity surfaces, a struggle emerges between our flesh demanding our way and our willingness to surrender to God’s will. The key to hearing God’s voice and unlocking intimacy with him, is discovered when we surrender our agenda and follow after his.

Today's hint to hearing God's voice is:

Invite God to evaluate and reveal your motives. Proverbs 16:2 warns us, "All a man's ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the LORD." (NIV)
Release any hidden desires that conflict with God's will and ask for forgiveness.
Surrender personal agenda by praying as Christ did in Luke 22:42, "not my will, but yours be done." (NIV)

Jeremiah 29:13 promises, "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." (NIV)

Father, help us to love You completely. To serve unselfishly. To honor You in all we do. Speak to us. Grant us Your wisdom. Fill us with Your love.

Jump In--Listen Closely

2011-12-13T07:56:00.001-05:00

As I climbed higher and higher, I curled my wet wrinkled toes over the grated edge of each stair step. I can’t recall how high the diving board stood, but I do remember the nervous feeling in my stomach as I inched my way, step by step, up the ladder, getting closer and closer to the top. Half way up the stairs, I began coaching myself with, this isn’t so bad—you can do this Julie; but, as I reached the top, positioned between two small rails, standing all alone in the middle of the diving board, my feelings changed.

Wow! It sure is a lot higher from up here, than from down there. As I looked behind me, I saw my very best friend smiling, ready to take her turn. Looks like she’s waiting. I guess there’s no turning back now. I thought. Let’s see what did the life guard say? Oh, yah, “When you get to the top, walk to the edge of the diving board, jump forward, and when you come up, swim straight so you don’t cross in front of the divers to your left or right.” Easy for him to say; he obviously doesn’t know how high it looks from up here. I thought.

I inched my way to the end of the diving board, excitement and fear combined together, slowly rising from my stomach to my throat. I took a deep breath and counted, “One…two…three…here we go” and plunged into the water below. Bubbles swirled up all around me. Wow. This is really deep, I thought. But completely fantastic!

Today, God invites us to take similar steps of faith...to climb higher and higher...to abandon our life to Him...trusting that He will protect and catch us. Friend, many thoughts will attempt to discourage us. The enemy whispers impossibilities. Fear of the unknown will cause us to want to look back. Our only hope remains in our relationship with God and choosing to hear HIS voice. Today, God invites us into a relationship with HIM. To trust Him completely and follow His lead. We aren't in this journey of faith alone. God promises to lead us. To instruct us. To provide and protect us. The key is listening to His voice.

Isaiah 28:23 says, “Listen and hear my voice; pay attention and hear what I say.”

For the remaining days of this week, I hope to share helpful ways that we can listen and hear God's voice.

Today, I want to encourage you to silence your to do list. Shut out distractions. Spend time quietly listening. And invite God to speak. HOW? By simply praying, Lord, please direct me. Speak to me. Confirm your will through your Word (the Bible.) I will listen. Instruct me. Help me to discern your voice.

Where Are God's Miracles?

2011-12-12T08:28:00.000-05:00

Weak. Weary. And living in fear, Gideon hid in a wine press. The Midianite Army plundered Israel's sustenance. So, Gideon tried to separate wheat from chaff in an impossible place. The wine press protected His sustenance from invasion but blocked the wind that provided his sustenance.

Can you capture Gideon's predicament?

If he goes out in the open, the Midianites steal his provisions. If he stays hidden in the wine press all the unwanted, inedible, earth, muck and dirt cant be swept away. What a dilemma. What hopelessness.

In the midst of Gideon's impossibility: "The angel of the LORD came and sat down under the oak in Ophrah that belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, where his son Gideon was threshing wheat in a wine press to keep it from the Midianites. When the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon, he said, "The LORD is with you, mighty warrior."

OK. Stop right there. If I'm Gideon...and trust me...many days I relate with his struggles and wonder at God's promise... I question What? Might Warrior? Ha. The Lord is with me? Then why am I having to hide? Why am I thrashing around helplessly? Why is all my hard work not profiting me anything?

How about you? Ever feel that way?

Gideon did. He responds saying, "if the LORD is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our fathers told us about when they said, 'Did not the LORD bring us up out of Egypt?' But now the LORD has abandoned us and put us into the hand of Midian."

In essence Gideon asks, where are God's miracles? I know He provided for our fathers out of Egypt...but He's no where near us now. He's abandoned us. He' put us in the hands of our enemies.

What a painful place. That place where you feel abandoned. Where you question and wonder God, where are You? That place where you acknowledge His provision for others...but feel NO intervention or relief for yours. That place where you ask, God, are you near? Where you long to see His deliverance but feel stuck in the futility of your efforts.

Amidst all Gideon's doubt. Amidst his questions, "The LORD turned to him and said, "Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian's hand. Am I not sending you?"

God lovingly encourages Gideon. DON'T GIVE UP. I'm with you. I know you are weak. I know you don't have any more strength. But it's time to press on. It's time for your deliverance. I will empower you to overcome and conquer your enemies.

"But Lord," Gideon asked, "how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family." The LORD answered, "I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites together." (Judges 6:11-16, NIV)

"How can I save Israel?" How can I save my marriage? How can I accomplish what You ask of me, Lord? How can I do ...x, y, z....? God provides the solution. His answer remains the same for each one of us..."I will be with you, and you will ..."

Friend, YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Your impossibilities don't escape His notice. You may feel stuck in your own wine press, surrounded by enemies, feeling abandoned by the futility of your efforts...BUT GOD is near. Silence your doubts. Quiet your fears. Dismiss your feelings of fear and inferiority...GOD is able! He accomplishes the impossible. He will NEVER abandon.

God fulfilled His promise to Gideon in such a way that no man received the glory...He defeated the Midianite army with just 300 men.

Today, God will lead us. He will provide our way of escape. We simply need to follow His instructions as Gideon did, by listening, aligning, and following God's lead.

He Alone...

2011-12-09T07:23:00.000-05:00

Faith that costs us nothing is not yet faith.

Think about it. The greatest victories required an abandoned trust.

Moses before the Red Sea, caught between deep, im-passible, waters and a vast, innumerable, Egyptian army. Gideon, the least of the least among Israel's tribe, runs to battle against incalculable Midianite's with only 300 men.

Today, I am fully aware, unless God shows up, on my own I will fail miserably. Before, I always felt me and Jesus, we can accomplish anything. Now, I am completely abandoned and realize, Oh God, if you don't show up, this will never get accomplished.

God's love takes us to the place where there is NO doubt in our mind WHO provides the victory. I've faced insurmountable battles many times in life: my marriage, my parenting, my writing, my ministry, my finances, my relationships, my hopes, my mission, my dreams...my you name it...

Each time, God lovingly positions me to realize HE ALONE provides the victory. HE ALONE provides my hope. HE ALONE heals, sustains, strengthens, delivers...

So, what Red Sea is in front of you today? What Egyptian army closes in behind you?

Faith doesn't conjure up some noble notion and whisper hear I go, Lord, now bless. Instead, faith responds to God by aligning our life up with HIS voice.

IN my marriage, God commissioned me to allow Him to change the things in me that need changed, to focus on what I needed to surrender to Him...and in return He would change in Greg the things that needed to be changed. He instructed me to STOP trying to be Greg's Holy Spirit. :) The result? A marriage I thought destined for divorce was healed by HIS power!

In my ministry, I've experienced innumerable times of impossible circumstances. The vision at times is so big it intimidates and overwhelms me. Each time, God reminds me..."I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you." (Gen 28:15, NIV) He's taught me that (like Abraham) I may never see the full fulfilment of His Promise...but that He will accomplish all that He has said He would. I simply need to remain faithful. He doesn't require me to be successful He simply requires that I live obedient.

Friend, God is with you. You are not alone. He will not leave you until He has done all that He has promised you.

So, join me in this simple prayer: Father I realize "Faith that costs me nothing is not yet faith." So, I offer you all that I am, and all that I have, that I might honor you in all that I do. Empower me to love as you have loved me. Amen!

How will I respond?

2011-12-08T09:17:00.000-05:00

Genesis 25:29-34, "Once when Jacob was cooking some stew, Esau came in from the open country, famished. He said to Jacob, "Quick, let me have some of that red stew! I'm famished!"..."Jacob replied, "First sell me your birthright." "Look, I am about to die," Esau said. "What good is the birthright to me?" But Jacob said, "Swear to me first." So he swore an oath to him, selling his birthright to Jacob. Then Jacob gave Esau some bread and some lentil stew. He ate and drank, and then got up and left. So Esau despised his birthright." (NIV)

Oh, the depths of this passage challenge my heart. Esau's insatiable hunger for immediate gratification sacrificed his birthright. His desire to have his immediate needs met and impatience cost him his future.

Today, I'm challenged once again...

Will I sacrifice God's favor for immediate relief? Pleasure? Gratification? Will I be lured away from God's BEST to pursue after wealth, recognition, and a life of comfort? Will I cave to the pressures of the immediate and seek an easy way out?

In Luke 9:62, Jesus said, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God." (NIV)

Sometimes I feel like the Israelites. Pharaoh's army behind me, the Red Sea in front of me. NO way of escape.

How will I respond?

Like Moses? Or the Israelites?

Will I intercede and follow God's instruction? Lift up my staff and watch the Sea part? Or, will I grumble and complain and wish I could go back to Egypt? Will I idolize what was by the reality of what is? Or will I press on in expectation of what God says will be?

Today, I encourage you to join me. Let's never give up. Let's trust our God to be faithful. Let's hold on to our birthright and eagerly await God's provision.

Who's with me?

Let's abandon our lives for His glory. Here's a couple of passages we can meditate on for today:

Mark 8:36-37 What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul? (NIV)
Luke 9:62, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God." (NIV)
Matt 6:24, "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money." (NIV)

Choosing Jesus

2011-12-07T09:51:00.000-05:00

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

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

BUT...can I share transparently?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Abandoned to Him

2011-12-06T09:41:00.000-05:00

Soul-searching seems to be part of my everyday life. Every morning, as I sit quietly before the Father, the Holy Spirit reveals hidden motives, skewed desires, and selfish ambitions. Each day, I hear Him gently call me away, inviting me to abandon my heart completely to Him.

Today, as I read Matthew 6:19-21, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (NIV)

I quietly reflected and questioned, "Am I truly abandoned to God? Is everything I'm doing by His Grace and for His glory? Or have I allowed fear, worry, or opposition to steal my hope?

In Mark 4:18-20, Jesus talks about seed that was scattered among the thorns. He shares the meaning of the parable with His disciples. "Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful." (NIV)

As much as I love the LORD...with ALL my heart...my propensity for distractions is alarming. How about you? Has the enemy attempted to choke out God's word in any part of your life? Mark chapter four highlights the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth, and the desires for other things.

As many of you know, I left a six figure income to fulfill the work of an evangelist. Sounds noble, right? But...oh the anguish and frustration I have felt along the way. I miss the finer things of life at times. I miss not being able to do whatever, whenever. I know, sounds spoiled, doesn't it? I wish I didn't struggle, but at times(to be quite honest) I'm tempted to look back.

I guess we all are, at times.

So, what do we do to press on and overcome. Here are some helpful hints I implore into my life, each day:

Remember Jesus and confess the TRUTH. Revelation 12:11, "They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death." (NIV)
Align your words, actions, and will with Gods. Submit all that you are and draw near to Him. James 4:7-8, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Come near to God and he will come near to you." NIV
Retreat into the truth of WHO GOD IS. Psalm 46:1, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." (NIV)

I could go on and on, but the key to overcoming is living with complete dependence on God. He alone is our help. He alone holds our victory. He alone is the author and finisher of our faith. His Word provides direction. His Spirit instills life. His love sustains and protects.

Friend, will you join me in this resolution? "By God's grace, I will give ALL that I am, and ALL that I have, that I may HONOR HIM in ALL that I do."

If so, pray this simple prayer. "Father, help me to live for You completely. Empower me. Equip me. And fill me with Your wisdom, that I may faithfully follow wherever You lead. I give You all that I am and all that I have, in order that I may honor You in all that I do. Amen."

Living Intentional

2011-12-05T09:18:00.001-05:00

Do you ever sacrifice exceptional living and settle for the mundane? Ever embrace the status quo because the cost of excellence seems to high? Ever replace God's best by excepting the less resistant path of what seems good?

C'mon. Be honest...I know I sure have.

Sometimes I'm tempted to retreat from all the giants in my path. I shudder at the magnitude of their size. I shrink and cower to the reality of their strength and opposition.

BUT (by God's grace) NOT ANYMORE!

I have determined to LIVE intentional for Christ, knowing full well that intentional living requires complete surrender. And, surrender is not an event. It's a process. A process that demands a commitment to die to my personal agendas, desires, and time lines.

I love the abandon Habakkuk displays in Habakkuk 3:17-18. He writes, "Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior." (NIV)

Today, I feel the challenge to live a life of joy, intentionally.

Notice, Habakkuk doesn't say I will be joyful in my circumstances, oppositions, or fears...RATHER, he writes,"I will be joyful in God my Savior."

Friends, circumstances can deter us. Obstacles can weary us. The enemy's opposition attempts to kill, steal, destroy and immobilize us through indifference. He fills our thoughts with...

Whatever, no one cares any way...
Whatever, like my life really matters...
Whatever, I'll try when he or she starts doing x, y, or z...

STOP and realize indifference is the enemy of intentional living!

God desires that we intentionally declare (as Habakkuk did) "I will be joyful in God my Savior."

Today, I sense God encouraging me to focus on Him. To remember Who I serve. To hold fast to HIS promises.

Will you join me? Will you live intentional? Will you seek to live joyful in God our Savior? If so, here are some helpful hints that you can implement in your life:

Each time a discouraging thought presents itself, declare out loud, I will be joyful in God my Savior.
Thank God for your salvation and that He works ALL things together for our good.
Write down a specific promise that He has given you in His word.
Reflect on His promise throughout the day and remember, He keeps His promises.
Ask, How can I live intentionally for God today in my marriage, parenting, work place, friendships...(etc...)

I'd love to hear your thoughts, insights, or testimonies of how God is speaking to you today. Feel free to leave your comments below.

God Does The Impossible!

2011-12-02T14:04:00.000-05:00

I shuffled through papers, listening to the claims processor explain..."We have an agreement with the lab company. They have agreed to take whatever payment they receive from the insurance companies."

I couldn't believe my ears. For weeks I had mulled through piles of denied insurance claims. The total bill for my routine blood work estimated in at (a little over) $4700.

"What do you mean?" I asked, still unconvinced.

She continued, "You will receive these explanation of benefits but you won't ever get a bill. We have an agreement with the lab companies to take whatever they get from your insurance company."

I couldn't believe it. All the weeks I had spent working with my insurance company...all the frustration I felt about my medical bills was gone...blotted out because of an agreement made.

As I left the doctor's billing department, I smiled. Thank You, God. Thank You! I immediately thought of our sin that was cancelled out because of the agreement made between the Father and the Son. Jesus' sacrifice covered it.

Psalm 103:11-13 says, "For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him." (NIV)

Today, I am reminded once again, God does the impossible!!! He moves mountains. He fights our battles. He delivers us from ALL of our fears. Even more importantly...He blots out the record and penalty of our sins. Our transgressions are covered by His love and sacrifice.

God encourages us to bring Him every concern, every fear, every need...every desire, dream, and passion! We all know that we are here to serve Him...to bring Him glory...Our life is to be spent for Him! BUT the flip side to that is "God is at work in us desires that we might have life and live it abundantly!"

As you go through this weekend, I encourage you to remember--God can be trusted. He hears your prayers. So, Dream Big! Laugh Often! And remember, God has it all under control!!!

Lord, Is This Promise Really For Me?

2011-12-01T08:59:00.000-05:00

Ever wonder if the promises God whispered through His word are really promises you can hold on to? This morning, I silently read: "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9, NIV)

I questioned. "Oh, Lord, is this promise really for me? Will you deliver me? Will you be with me, like you were with Moses, Joshua and all of Israel?

Instantly, God filled my mind with a thought from my past. I was nineteen and going through a really difficult period of time. One evening in particular, I felt completely alone. I whispered a prayer.

"Lord, please let me know you are with me and that I'm not all alone."

I sat waiting for a waitress to take my order.

"What can I get you to drink?" She asked.

"Mmmm. I'd like a Pepsi, please."

She looked to my right, smiled and nodded her head as she turned to leave. Hmmm. She's a strange one. I thought.

A few minutes later, she delivered my soda and sat a glass of water to my right. "I'll give you a few more minutes she said and be back to take your order."

"Thank you." I replied.

I continued to look through the menu. The place was packed. Again, I whispered. "God I feel so alone. Please let me know you are near."

At least ten more minutes went by before my waitress returned. "Did he leave you?" She asked.

"Sorry?"

"Is he coming back?" She reiterated.

"Is who coming back?"

"The young man who was with you."

"Mam. I'm alone. Have been the whole evening."

She laughed.

I stared.

"No, the young man who was with you. Did he leave?"

"Mam. I assure you. I've been alone the whole evening."

She squirmed and looked puzzled. "Ummm. Ok!" There was a long delay and an awkward silence. Finally, she asked, "Well then, can I take your order?"

I offered my order, thinking her extremely odd. But, as she turned to walk away, I recalled my prayer. "Lord, let me know you are near!"

Friend, to this day, I have no idea why my waitress that evening was convinced someone had been with me. I honestly don't know whether she saw someone (physically) sitting to my right. She could have easily confused me with another table. I don't know if God allowed her to see one of the angels that He has surrounding me...

What I do know is...as she turned away God reminded me of my prayer. What I do know is...I instantly felt loved. What I do know is...that circumstance has encouraged me many times throughout life...What I do know is...Psalm 91:11 promises, "For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways..." (NIV)

We may feel strangely alone. We may feel isolated. We may wonder if God is near.

But...my dear friend...God promises, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." (Joshua 1:5, NIV)

So today, I'm going to look for God, EXPECTANTLY! I'm going to trust HIM, no matter what! I'm going to remember...He is NEAR! I hope you will too!

Today, as you go through your day, I encourage you to hold fast to Micah 7:7. It says, "But as for me, I will watch expectantly for the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation. My God will hear me. Do not rejoice over me, O my enemy. Though I fall I will rise; Though I dwell in darkness, the Lord is a light for me."

How has God commissioned you?

2011-11-30T09:09:00.000-05:00

Lately, I've been reviewing past posts. Today, I stumbled across a thought that I'm certain God inspired me to write: "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!"

Today's reflective question: How has God commissioned you?

Ephesians 2:8-10 says, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (NIV)

This scripture verse is one of my favorite passages.

The truth is God saved us by His amazing grace. We can't earn salvation. It is a gift. Our greatest efforts, abilities, and "works" are but filthy rags in comparisons to His omnipotent glory. Yet, as a demonstration of our love, we have the incredible opportunity to live our life to the fullness of HIS GLORY. The promise of Ephesians 2:10 whispers hope to those of us who feel insignificant. It powerfully suggests our unique "PURPOSE."

Friend, God created you magnificently. Your passions, your hopes, your dreams (when surrendered to Him completely) help to point to your purpose. God prepared marvelous works for you to do. Like Jeremiah, He knew you before you were in your mother's womb and He set you apart for a significant task.

If you are like me that mission will be tested. At times you'll wonder if you missed His voice. You'll question the possibility of fulfilling His call...

Which takes us back to where we started..."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!"

Today, I challenge you to simply ask for God's direction. Invite Him into your every day living. And bravely dismiss the opinions and speculations of bystanders and follow Him completely. Test everything with the truth of God's Word...and when He speaks...follow Him relentlessly, know He will do all that He has promised!

As a side note I want to invite you to listen in to today's broadcast:

How do you maintain the joy of celebrating the true meaning of Christmas without being overwhelmed with all the details of entertaining? Listen in for valuable insights on Christian Women Affiliate at 12 PM EST, as Julie Gorman interviews Tammy Maltby, a national speaker with Women Inspired and a mastermind of helping women “Start simply but simply start.” Click this link tomorrow at 12 PM EST to listen LIVE:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cwa-radio/2011/11/30/his-love-extended or listen to the archive (at a later time) at the same link. Not going to be near your computer at that time? No worries. You can listen through your phone (by calling our guest call in number) at: 347-850-8893. And always feel free to ask a question.

When All Is Said and Done...

2011-11-29T09:42:00.000-05:00

I recently celebrated my forty-second birthday. Each year as my birthday rolls around, I reflect over the previous year. I evaluate my goals, my motives, my vision for the future.

Have I honored God? Have I followed Him, faithfully? Where is He leading me next? What is He commissioning me to?

This year, I looked in the mirror, I realized my reflection doesn't lie. (LOL.) The wrinkles are a little more pronounced. The contour of my shape has certainly changed over the years (LOL.) BUT more than physical attributes, I ponder, What is my spiritual reflection?

As a Christian I am called to reflect God's glory. In a world of desperateness...I am called to reflect His love. What do others see when they look at me?

My prayer for this next year is to fulfill 2 Corinthians 3:16-18, which says, "...whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit." (NIV)

I want the Spirit of the Lord to be present in everything I do and in every relationship I encounter. I want His freedom to reign in every situation. I want to (with unveiled face) reflect His glory and be transformed more and more into His likeness, with an ever-increasing glory, which comes by His Spirit.

How about you?

When all is said and done I want to have loved whole-heartedly. Charged forward even when no one else does. I don't want to live a portion of my life for Him...I want to love Him with ALL my heart...I want to press forward. Love unconditionally. Give with and over-abundant generosity. Practice Gratitude and Grace. Live for eternity--not for the here and now. I want to affirm and encourage others, without hesitation. And...love Him with ALL MY HEART, SOUL, MIND, AND STRENGTH.

If that is your prayer, then invite the Holy Spirit to fill you afresh. Ask Him to empower you with His life. After all, "it's not by might, nor by our power, but BY HIS SPIRIT..." Only through Him can we do all things!

As a side note. I want to thank you for being my friends. Thank you for partnering with me in ministry. Thank you for your words of encouragement. I am humbled by God's grace, evidenced through your friendships!

CONSIDER HIM...

2011-11-23T09:26:00.001-05:00

"Oh, LORD, my GOD...MY FATHER....I cry out to you. I'm humbled at YOUR mercy. Encouraged by YOUR goodness. Strengthened by YOUR SPIRIT. Lord, I hear YOUR voice. I sense YOUR call...but at times the task seems TOO LARGE...I feel powerless at times...overwhelmed...UNTIL I consider WHO YOU ARE!"

Ever get distracted by your circumstances? Overwhelmed by their impossibilities? Feel as if you've messed up or missed out on God's promises?

Of course you do. We all do!

The truth is, the enemy seeks to kill, steal, and destroy...The enemy condemns us at every turn. He shouts his accusations and insinuates inevitable failure, every chance he gets.

If we listen to his voice, discouragement will overtake us.
If we look to at impossibilities, they will always overwhelm us.
If we rely on our own strength, our situations will overpower us...

So, the question remains...Who will we look to? Who will we rely on? Whose report will we believe?

Isaiah 43:1-5 echoes with the promises of God. It says, "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;
I give Egypt for your ransom, Cush and Seba in your stead. Since you are precious and honored in my sight,
and because I love you, I will give men in exchange for you, and people in exchange for your life. Do not be afraid, for I am with you..." (NIV)

Friends, we are NOT alone.

GOD sent JESUS so that we might have life abundantly. GOD whispers You are mine. You are forgiven. God promises, I have great plans for you, plans to bless and NOT harm. GOD...opens doors that NO man can shut. He makes rough places smooth. He stands with us in the fire. He never leaves us.

This is my last post until next week. I want to wish you a very HAPPY THANKSGIVING and encourage you to simply CONSIDER GOD. As you face each trial...CONSIDER WHO YOU SERVE. When the enemy shouts accusations...CONSIDER GOD'S LOVE...At every opportunity...CONSIDER HIM!

PS. Don't forget today's broadcast:
Ever struggle with the why's of life? Does your faith get worn out with seemingly impossible obstacles? How do you grab joy...when life just doesn't seem to make sense? If so, join Julie Gorman on today's broadcast as she interviews popular author and speaker, Sandra Aldrich. Sandra is a national speaker for Women Inspired. Listen in for valuable insights on Christian Women Affiliate at 12 PM EST to learn helpful hints on faith and how you can access her exclusive caoching series--Grab the Joy Through Tears with Women Inspired. Simply click here at 12 PM EST or listen later to the archived recording at: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cwa-radio/2011/11/23/his-love-extended

Put On the Garment of Praise...

2011-11-22T09:35:00.003-05:00

Today, as I walked my middle daughter to school, she repeatedly said "I'm going to get into trouble. People are going to laugh at me. This isn't a jersey. I shouldn't have wore it."

I reassured her time and time again. "Sommer, Relax! You're going to be fine. Your shirt is a sweatshirt jersey. You have a shirt to change into if the school doesn't approve of what you are wearing. It's going to be ok."

As she pondered fruitless thoughts of what ifs and other fear-filled scenarios, I became frustrated.

"Sommer, quit worrying. Quit thinking of how everything is going to go wrong, baby doll. You're going to be fine!" As I gave her a reassuring hug and turned to walk back home, God tapped on my shoulder. No, not physically. But, He did get my attention. It was as if I could hear Him say, (clearing His throat) "Ahemmm...Hey, Julie. You need to do the same."

I sighed. "Ahhhhhhhhh. I know, Lord. I know."

He replayed my own words..."Relax. You're going to be fine. Quit worrying! Quit thinking of how everything is going to go wrong, baby doll. You're going to be fine!"

For the last twenty-four hours I've entertained pretty fruitless thoughts.

You see, yesterday was a frustrating day. A month ago, I went in for preventative blood work. I hadn't had a yearly physical for over 8 years. Yesterday, I discovered that my insurance company isn't going to pay! GRRRRRR! So, long story short...I'm out $4700! Yes! $4700. For blood work? You've got to be kidding???

Anyway, the issue has consumed my mind for the last 24 hours. I've contemplated all the "what if scenarios" possible.

Thus, the loving interruption by my Father was extremely welcomed this morning...

God challenged me to get a hold of my thoughts. To not worry about how the monstrosity is going to get paid. He encouraged me to not entertain all the fruitless scenarios attempting to steal my joy. Instead...He lovingly commissioned me to praise HIM--no matter what!

Friends, fear steals our joy! What ifs intimidate our obedience! Bottom line...we have a choice to make. Who's report will we believe?

Satan whispers, It's impossible. You're a failure. You'll never win. You're going to fail. Your faith is futile. You have nothing to offer. Give up...

But, God whispers. I love you. I will not fail you. I will provide for you. I will sustain you. I will work all things together for your good. He calls for our faith to rest in Him...in His abilities...NOT ours.

Faith requires trust. So, today, I'm choosing to trust God. To never give up. To press on. To live obedient to His Voice. To believe in His faithfulness, knowing He will lead me. He will guide me. His LOVE for me will never fail!

How about you?

Are you facing good circumstances? Awesome! Praise Him. And, remember where the blessing comes from.
Are you in the midst of trials? Remember, it's gonna be OK! God is faithful. So, praise Him. Romans 5:3-5 reminds us to "rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." (NIV)

My heart is filled with an old praise song of..."Put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness, lift up your voice to God. Praise in the Spirit and with understanding...Oh magnify the Lord!"

So, will you join with me? Let's declare Psalm 34:1-3 today--NO MATTER WHAT! It says, "I will extol the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips. My soul will boast in the LORD; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together." (NIV)

A Word of Encouragement

2011-11-21T11:27:00.001-05:00

"God, I have never needed you more." I whispered softly.

I felt (as if) the enemy clutched his bony fingers around my neck constricting the passages of air in my throat. My heart tightened. Pressure mounted. I felt powerless.

"Oh, God, are you there?" (It had been a very difficult season of life.) The betrayal I encountered, rendered me helpless.

I curled into a fetal position. "Oh Jesus, I really need to know you are here. Please help me!"

And with that...God's presence curled-in next to mine. His Spirit gently reminded me, "I'm here." "You're not alone."

Though this event happened several years ago, I can still recall the entire event, vividly.

This morning, as I read from Psalm 145, God reminded me that He "is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made. The LORD upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down...The LORD is righteous in all his ways and loving toward all he has made. 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)

Friend, we serve a God who is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. No matter our circumstances, God is near. He has NOT and will NOT abandon!

He faithfully declares (In Isaiah 41:10) "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." (NIV)

He truly is the God Who defeats Goliath and brings down fortified cities. He protects in the midst of fiery furnaces. He parts Red Seas. Nothing is impossible for Him.

So, today, no matter your giant...no matter your fiery furnace...put your hope in Him and remember...His plans are to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you hope and a future. He promises that when we call upon HIM and come and pray to Him, He will listen. And, when we seek Him we will find Him when we seek Him with all our heart." (Jeremiah 29:11-13, NIV)

“What do I still lack?”

2011-11-18T09:37:00.000-05:00

In Matthew 19:16-26, we read: "Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, "Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?" "Why do you ask me about what is good?" Jesus replied. "There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments." "Which ones?" the man inquired. Jesus replied, "'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother,' and 'love your neighbor as yourself.'" "All these I have kept ," the young man said. "What do I still lack?" Jesus answered, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth. Then Jesus said to his disciples, "I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, "Who then can be saved?" Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." NIV

Friends, without love...with out God's mercy and intervention...we’re left asking ourselves the same question the rich young ruler did, "what do I still lack?"

Religious duty always leaves us with a gaping hole because deep within us resides a vacuum that can only be filled with a love from God, that’s reciprocated back to God. The rich young ruler had obeyed all the commandments. He religiously observed all of the law but missed the greatest one—to love the Lord your God with all your heart—and he felt empty.

The same remains true for us. We can determine to pray, setting up rigid schedules, keeping spiritual prayer logs; offering deliberate worship without missing one planned meeting, and still completely miss communicating with God altogether. In the end, we eventually find ourselves asking this same question, “What do I still lack?” We feel like there’s something missing, wondering to ourselves…there’s got to be more to life than this.

Perhaps that’s why Jesus said the greatest commandment was to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Because loving him, truly, passionately, loving him provides the key to experiencing life with him. In passionately pursuing him and losing our life for his purpose, we find our life. If we love God, and love remains the true motive of our heart, then no mountain is too high, no valley is too low, and no cost is too great; nothing will keep us from searching him out.

changes obedience from drudgery to a life source, to an experience filled with exhilaration, and provides moments where we taste of the heavenly, leaving us craving more and more of God’s Presence. Want to genuinely love Him more? If so, here are a few helpful hints:

Love

Ask Him to fill you with a greater revelation of WHO He is. I like to pray, "Father, surprise me with greater revelations of WHO YOU ARE today."
Focus on the cross and thank Him for your forgiveness. When I meditate on the great sacrifice Jesus made for me, I'm compelled to love Him more passionately.
Spend time in His Word, write down what you discover about His character. I like to write down characteristics peppered all through out Scripture. "The Lord is loving toward all He has made." "Compassionate." "Slow to anger." "Defender." "All-powerful." "Faithful." I'm getting excited about Who I serve, just reflecting on these characteristics. How about you?
Ask Him to fill you with His Holy Spirit every day. The Holy Spirit searches the mind of God...oh how desperately we need His presence in this fallen world!
Invite Him to speak to you by simply praying, "Lord, speak...I want to hear You." And then listen. Each morning, I like to silently sit before him and listen. Each morning...He shows up!
Fill Your life with praise. Begin to thank Him for the simple things. Sunshine on your face. Food to fill your body. The love of your family...Oh we have so many things to be grateful for. Don't we?
Remember...what is impossible with man is possible with God. So...ask Him to genuinely fill you with a greater love for Him. It's not by our might, it's not by our power...it's by HIS SPIRIT.

I know today's post is pretty simplistic in approach...but when practice the steps above, daily...they'll change our life.

Withdraw...

2011-11-17T12:49:00.000-05:00

Every night as I tuck my children into bed...and yes...I still tuck them in at ages 17, 12, and 10. Inevitably one of them will say, "Won't you stay just a little longer?"

Today, I sensed that same longing from God...Won't you stay a little longer. As I read Luke 5:16, "Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed" I literally bowed my head and waited. I had so much to do...but I sensed a call from God to remain still.

You see, in the preceding verse of Luke 5:15, I read "the news about him spread all the more, so that crowds of people came to hear him and to be healed of their sicknesses." (NIV)

Demands...Difficulties...Stresses...And strains...all pressed in against Jesus.
Destitute...Deprived...And disadvantaged people...pressed in for His help.

But even Jesus (the Son of God) knew when enough was enough and took time away. Luke 5:16 implies Jesus withdrew often. He escaped away to lonely, isolated, places and prayed.

Today, I felt a stirring in my heart to escape. A gentle reminder from my Father to come away. Jesus understood, that in order to remain effective, He must draw away and pray. How about you?

Friends, we all have demands and difficulties...stresses and strains...sometimes the masses press in and want just one more thing...when is enough, enough? We need to recognize when it's time to withdraw (to our own lonely place) to pray.

Today, I want to encourage you to silence your to do list. Push aside your distractions. And for a few moments...respond to God's invitation to draw away with Him. He is longs to fellowship with you. To answer your questions. To share His secrets.

Psalm 25:14 says, "The LORD confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them." (NIV)

Feeling weary? Worn out? Overwhelmed? Take time to wait before the Lord.

Isaiah 40:31 says, "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)

It's never too late in the day to retreat to prayer!

Toe to Toe

2011-11-16T08:19:00.001-05:00

"If you push him again, you'll have me to deal with...Got it?" My husband constrained his words, reminding himself that he was talking to a kid.

Our son, Joshua, who was about 6 years old, innocently wondered why the twelve year old boy had pushed him to the ground, unprovoked.

Talk about a Father's love. Joshua was powerless to the 12 year old bully. Standing toe to toe, he could never with the fight...BUT...the 12 year old was no match to Joshua's daddy.

Today, as I read Psalm 91:14-16--"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)

Sometimes, my bullies are just too big for me. I don't understand why I've been pushed to the ground. As I compare my size to theirs...standing toe to toe I could never win the fight.

But...they are NO match to my "Daddy."

Psalm 145:20 promises "The LORD watches over all who love him." (NIV)

Friends, what we are powerless to do...what we are powerless to defend...what we are powerless to fight is NO MATCH to our God. He laughs at their wicked plots. (Psalm 2:4) Today, I picture our Father saying, "If you push him again, you'll have me to deal with."

Today, take refuge in God. Declare Psalm 62:1-2. "My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken." (NIV)

I Need Your Help

2011-11-15T09:12:00.001-05:00

I love the passage from 1 Corinthians 12:14-28, "Now the body is not made up of one part but of many. If the foot should say, "Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body," it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body. And if the ear should say, "Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body," it would not for that reason cease to be part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? But in fact God has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, but one body...Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." (NIV)

Over the last couple of years you've allowed me to be part of your journey of faith. You have inspired me to write for God's glory by reading my posts each day and encouraged me with your kind words of affirmation.

Thank you for sharing His Love Extended's posts with your friends and family. Thank you for partnering with me to spread the message God impressed me to share, by posting links to the blog on your social media sites. I am truly blessed to call you my friends!

As my friends, I want to share another juncture of my spiritual journey and mission.

As many of you know, earlier this year, God commissioned my husband and me to launch a ministry called Women Inspired. Women Inspired is a faith based organization that formed for the purpose of strengthening the seven pillars common to every woman’s life. Our passion is to uplift, honor, and inspire Jesus in everyday living and to ignite the incredible influence and life-giving potential of women. As a ministry, we recognize (that long after our conference events) women need on-going inspiration, accountability, and encouragement. Thus, in an effort to offer continued inspiration throughout the year, we designed ongoing Exclusive Memberships to support women in the areas they identified as being the most important: Balance, Purpose, Relationships, Health/Hormones, Identity, Hospitality, and Faith.

As my dear friends, I'd like to share this vision with you and ask for your help. The following video identifies ways you can share the vision and mission of Women Inspired. I hope you'll prayerfully consider how you can partner with us in this mission.

Ephesians 2:10--"We are God's workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works which God prepared long in advance for us to do."You have incredible purpose. God designed you for a purpose on purpose...and I'm so grateful to call you my friends.

And God Granted...

2011-11-14T09:11:00.001-05:00

"God are you there? Can you hear me?" Oh, how many times I've shouted this prayer toward heaven...

"LORD, PLEASE move on my behalf. Let Your favor rest upon me! Grant me peace. Direct me. Deliver me. Restore my strength."

Ever prayed similar prayers?

We all endure seasons of life where trials seem endless and grief accompanies our every breath. Ever feel the physical constriction of grief's tightened clench around your heart? Ever feel like pain is a constant companion that's accompanied by disappointment and fear? If so, you aren't alone.

1 Chronicles 4:10 says, "Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain." And God granted his request." (NIV)

It seems as if grief and sorrow had accompanied Jabez from birth. His mother called him sorrow or grief, saying, "I gave birth to him in pain." (1 Chronicles 4:9, NIV) According to my Hebrew study tool Jabez, or Ya` bets (yah-bates') derived from an unused root probably meaning to grieve or sorrowful. (Biblesoft's New Exhaustive Strong's Numbers and Concordance with Expanded Greek-Hebrew Dictionary. Copyright © 1994, 2003 Biblesoft, Inc. and International Bible Translators, Inc.)

As I read this simple prayer, I wondered: What caused Jabez so much grief? What pain compelled him to pray for God's blessing and favor?

As I silently reflected on this passage, God turned my attention to the latter part of the verse. "And God granted his request."

Whew. AND GOD GRANTED...

God's gentle peace blanketed over me. His Word provided reassurance "I hear you, Julie. You are NOT alone."

Friend, God hears our prayers and in the midst of our pain, He is near. He has NOT and will NOT forget us. We may feel as if we've only known grief...that since birth we've only experienced pain...but amidst all of our grief there is a GOD WHO LOVES us. He understands our sorrow.

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

Today, let your faith be renewed. Psalm 34:19 says, "A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all." (NIV)

Join me in praying Jabez' prayer and ask for God's intervention. "Oh, that you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain."

My prayer for you today is that the Lord will comfort you and reveal His love, mercy, and great favor. That He would lead you and restore your strength. And that YOU would comprehend HIS INCREDIBLE love. In Jesus name, amen.

Today, as the torrents of life blow...remember..."AND GOD GRANTED." Say it over and over. At every obstacle, ask for God's intervention and hold fast to the hope promised in 1 Chronicles 4:10.

Little by Little...

2011-11-11T11:33:00.000-05:00

Lord, PLEASE move on my behalf. Open up doors of ministry. Let me see the evidence of Your promises. Why do you make me wait? Why won't you give me what You've promised?

For years I wondered where God was. I questioned why He didn't move in the way I thought He would. I contemplated if I had misunderstood what His promise was for my life. How about you? Ever wonder why God doesn't move in your time line? Why deliverance doesn't come faster? Why blessing doesn't happen over-night?

C'mon. Be honest. I think if we're honest, we probably all have at one time or another.

At 18 years old, I had no idea it would take 20 plus years before I began to see glimpses of God's promise be fulfilled. Talk about waiting!

I think about Abraham, who waited for 20 plus years before receiving Isaac. Moses wandered through deserts, waiting. Israel waited for their promised Messiah. Today, we await His imminent return.

So, why does God make us wait?

Exodus 23:27-30 reveals a glimpse of our answer. "I will send my terror ahead of you and throw into confusion every nation you encounter. I will make all your enemies turn their backs and run. I will send the hornet ahead of you to drive the Hivites, Canaanites and Hittites out of your way. But I will not drive them out in a single year, because the land would become desolate and the wild animals too numerous for you. Little by little I will drive them out before you, until you have increased enough to take possession of the land." (NIV)

I love the last part of this verse. God's love and wisdom infuses each word. Within the context of this verse, God reveals His plan and answers our "why questions."

Did you catch it?

Why didn't God drive out all of Israel's enemies at once? Because to do so, would overwhelm the Israelites. They would be able to hand the cultivation of the land. The wild animals would have been too many for them to fight off. God's restraint of blessing was for ISRAEL'S well-being. He protected them.

And, little by little, God increased the Israelites size. As they grew, God positioned them to take possession of more and more land.

Personally, I witness God's miracles every day. After 30 plus years of walking with Him, I'm amazed at how much He still has to teach me from His Word. In His mercy, He doesn't give me what I think I need, Instead, He strengthens me a little more each day. He offers me more wisdom through circumstances, people, and His Holy Spirit. And, with each new day, I'm slowly beginning to see how he positions me to take possession of more and more land.

2 Peter 3:9 says, "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (NIV)

Friend, when it comes right down to it...even the difficult seasons of waiting serve a purpose. God is at work to reveal His character and love in our life. He will never abandon us or forsake us. Instead, He is working ALL things together for our good. So, what are you waiting for?

Don't give up HOPE. God fulfills His promises. So, let's DREAM BIG. Let's LAUGH OFTEN. AND, LET'S always remember that GOD has it ALL under control.

Designed For a Purpose On Purpose

2011-11-10T08:18:00.003-05:00

We all hear disqualifying whispers concerning our worth. And, if we aren’t careful, allow circumstances to dictate what we believe about ourselves rather than the truth from God’s Word. Maybe we allow our income, or the lack thereof, to determine our worth. Maybe our abusive childhood memories hinder us from stepping forward. Age sometimes deters: I’m too young…Or I’m too old. I’ve waited too long. I wish I would have…Or I wish I could… Perhaps our appearance causes us to hesitate. We think if only I was taller, smarter, more attractive…then I could…

My ‘disqualifier’ stemmed from my childhood. As a little child, I was taught that ministry was no place for a woman—combine that, later in life, with the fact that I was divorced and remarried…well, let’s just say, I felt doubly disqualified. I cowered before Satan’s disparaging indictments of failure and felt destined to live feeling like I messed up God’s call and missed out on His blessing.

Today, comparing myself to others tends to detour me from God's mission. I think to myself, If only I were more like __________ then I could speak to large crowds and win the masses. If only I could write like ________ then I could stir the hearts of millions to love God passionately.

Last night, I was reminded of 1 Samuel 16:8. "But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." (NIV)

Friend, God chose us and designed us uniquely for a purpose on purpose. The truth is if we rely on our own sufficiency we’re all doomed to failure. If it were up to our ability alone, none of us would ever find purpose. Thankfully, God never leaves us alone. His Word declares our infinite worth and affirms our unique purpose.

So today, I want to challenge you to reflect on this thought and invite the Lord to help you discover its answer: How has God declared my worth and purpose? What has He called me to do? How can I use the gifts He's given me to impact and influence others to love Him?

So, today if the enemy whispers inadequacies in your ear...remind him that Ephesians 2:10 says, “We are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” And, remember that you were designed by God for a purpose; whether you feel that way, or not.

God is Near!

2011-11-09T07:07:00.002-05:00

Cries and crackling coughs travelled down our hallway, shattering my hopes to a peaceful night's rest.

I ran to Sommer's room. "Shshhhhhhshhh. It's OK, baby doll. Mommy's here." I whispered, softly.

I caressed my fingers through her lockets of little blond curls. Yep, as suspected, her fever had spiked, once again.

I picked her up to cradle her in my arms. Time for more Ibuprofen and Gatorade and some soothing snuggles and softly sung songs.

I spent so many nights like this with my daughter. Until, eventually, Sommer's cries softened and she would drift back to sleep.

Today, I'm reminded of Isaiah 49:15-16. "Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me." (NIV)

Friends, no matter your troubles, no matter your obstacles, no matter your pain...GOD is NEAR. He will comfort us. He will uphold us. He will sustain us. AND, He WILL deliver us.

Yesterday, I shared Psalm 34:17-19, "The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all."

Andrew Murray wrote, "Above all, let us hold on tightly to this blessed reality: The secret of prayer in spirit and truth is in the knowledge of the Fatherhood of God, the revelation of His infinite Fatherliness in our hearts, and the faith in His infinite love of us as His children."

TODAY...BE ENCOURAGED! God hears your prayers. Our cries and crackling coughs travel to the very throne room of HEAVEN...and GOD comes running to comfort us and cradle us in His presence. The truth is something powerful happens when we pray in spirit and in truth. God moves on our behalf and imparts His truth in the depths of our mind and soul and restores our hope in HIS FATHERLINESS and FAITHFULNESS.

So, today, take some time to cry out to Him. Hebrews 4:15-16 reminds us, "...we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are — yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." (NIV)

As a quick reminder, we'd love for you to join us on today's broadcast (LIVE) at 12:00 PM EST.

Today's Topic: Are you struggling to keep your life in balance? Have you written that all-important list of priorities but seem to have difficulty applying the list to your life? Join Julie Gorman on today's broadcast as she ... interviews popular author and speaker, Kendra Smiley. Kendra hosts a daily radio show, Live Life Intentionally, heard coast to coast on more than 150 stations, and is a national speaker for Women Inspired. Listen in for valuable insights on balance and an exciting opportunity to access Kendra's exclusive coaching series with Women Inspired.

Listen (LIVE or to the archived version) at: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cwa-radio/2011/11/09/his-love-extended Or you can call in during the LIVE broadcast and listen through your phone at: 347-850-8893.

Five Hints to Overcome Adversity

2011-11-08T09:01:00.000-05:00

Do you have dreams that seem distant? Does adversity weigh you down? Have circumstances muddled your hope?

Today, I am reminded of Psalm 34:17-19, "The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all..." (NIV)

Friend, God is faithful. He will fulfill all He has promised us. We are NOT alone. I want to encourage you today with 5 hints to overcome adversity:

1. Put your hope in God. Remember Who you serve. He parts Red Seas. He heals the sick. He created the heavens and the earth. Nothing is too difficult for Him. God is so much greater than we could ever hope or imagine. He exceeds our greatest expectation. Words can't even begin to describe his holiness, power, or love! It's easy to get wrapped up in our day to day routine and fall into the pattern of casually interacting with God...BUT...in order to PERSEVERE our HOPE...we need to STOP and REMEMBER WHO WE SERVE. He is ALL POWERFUL. Mighty to save. Faithful. He ever lives to intercede for us! He is good and He loves us. He is our Father!

2. Focus your attention on His promises. I will never leave you. (Joshua 1:5) I will do all I have promised. (Genesis 28:15) Nothing is impossible for Him. (Luke 1:37) Friends, what is God's purpose for your life? What has He promised you? What has He whispered during your time of reading His Word? Whatever He has said, don't forget it. Hold it fast. Replay it in your mind. No matter your circumstances remember Who He is and NEVER let go of His promise. His purpose will be fulfilled. In Isaiah 46:10, God says, "I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say: My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please." (NIV)

3. Speak His truth out loud. (Disarm your fears with Scriptural promises) We overcome by the blood of the lamb and the word of our testimony. (Revelation 12:11) Jesus said you shall know the truth and the truth will set you free. Align your thoughts by speaking God's Word out loud. Speaking it out loud offers encouragement and is extremely powerful.

4. Give thanks to God. When we focus on what we do NOT have or what we WANT to have, we set ourselves up to covet and live ungrateful...BUT when we focus on what God has GIVEN and look to help others in need, we rise above our circumstances, increase the gratefulness in our hearts, and allow God to work miracles on our behalf.
5. Press on and never give up. Friends, the essence of our faith is that God is good, God is able, and God always prevails. Remember, Isaiah 49:23, "...those who hope in me will not be disappointed." (NIV) And, 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) So (Isaiah 54:4) "Do not be afraid; you will not suffer shame. Do not fear disgrace; you will not be humiliated." (NIV)

PRAYER: Father, fill us with Your strength. Renew our hope. Thank You that You hear our prayers. Thank You that You deliver us from ALL our troubles. Move on our behalf. And, may everything we do, and everything we say, bring honor to You. In Jesus name, amen.

He Will Not Let You Go

2011-11-07T10:43:00.001-05:00

"I've got you, son! Relax. I won't let you go!"

Joshua (my youngest child) loosened his grip.

"Ok, now breath in and rest. Pretend you're laying on you back against soft cushy pillows."

Joshua relaxed. His stiffened muscles loosened. His fears subsided with the knowledge I was there and that i wouldn't let him go.

Today, I felt God whisper the same assurance to me. No, not the "cushy pillows" part...the "I've got you...I won't let you go" part.

Every time I silence my thoughts, long enough to listen, God speaks. Today was no different. He always knows exactly what to say and when to say it. As I read from Matthew 6:25-34, God encouraged me. "...do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (NIV)

Wow! So often I forget to simply enjoy the moment of sunshine on my face, a hug from my child, or laugh with friends. Instead, I worry about what the future holds, what might be taken from me, or how I might fail...

How silly! I'm not sure why I try to control matters that are out of my reach. Or why I worry about what might be taken instead of practicing gratefulness for what I have. I'm not sure why I stiffen up instead of resting in the knowledge that God's got me; He won't let me go!

How about you? What steals your joy? Do you worry about failure? The what ifs? Do you worry about the future or practice thankfulness for today?

As I read the Scripture written above, The Holy Spirit highlighted "your heavenly Father knows that you need them." Wow. The simple reminder that God is my FATHER lifted my worries.

Think about that simple truth. God is our Father. He is our help in time of need. He is our provider. He is our hope. He know what we have need of. And, as our "Daddy," we can trust Him. When our strength weakens He lifts us up. He carries us. He LOVES us. We are not alone. He will NOT fail us.

Isaiah 43:2 promises, "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you." (NIV)

Friend, God's got us! He's not gonna let us go! Just as I encourage Joshua to rest and trust me...God reminds us..."I'm with you! You're not alone!"

E. Stanley Jones once wrote, "Faith is not merely your holding on to God--it is God holding on to you. He will not let you go!"

So, today, let's dream big...laugh often...and remember God's got it all under control! God will NOT let us go.

Cast Your Net!

2011-11-04T11:10:00.000-04:00

Today, as I read from the Gospel of Luke, God gripped my heart. He filled me with a message that I just KNOW is for MANY MANY MANY of us...not just me! HOPE it ministers to you, like it did to me!

In Luke 5:1-5 I read, "One day as Jesus was standing by the Lake of Gennesaret, with the people crowding around him and listening to the word of God, he saw at the water's edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore. Then he sat down and taught the people from the boat. When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch." Simon answered, "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets."

AHHHHH! As I read this passage, obscure parts captured my attention. It was as if I could feel what Peter must have felt and imagined what he must have thought.

Words leaped off the page as I read, Jesus "saw at the water's edge two boats, left there by the fishermen, who were washing their nets."

Can you imagine how Peter must have felt? Try as he may, there were no results to show for his effort. Cast after cast produced nothing except tangled lines and weary arms. All night long he fished. He did what he was supposed to do. BUT NOTHING! NO RESULTS.

So, fatigued and frustrated he called it a night. His boat was out of the water. His nets were being cleaned. In Peter's mind, it was over.

I can imagine ALL TOO WELL what Peter might have been thinking...No plentiful bounty. No BIG catch. No food. No payment. NOTHING to show for his effort...BUT THEN...there was Jesus.

Again, a seemingly obscure passage gripped me by the heart. I read, "He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little from shore." Here it is. Jesus gets into Simon's boat and says take me out in your boat. Let me speak from your vessel." An invitation I've heard many times. So many times, at the bleakest and most in-opportune moments, God steps in and says let me use what you've got. Let me speak from your vessel.

In my mind I argue, "But God, I'm tired. I'm finished. I'm going home. I have to clean up this mess. My nets are all tangled. They need cleaned." But before I speak, Jesus resolve silences my fears and vanquishes my fatigue.

How could I say no to Him. So...out we go in the boat. I think to myself, I guess I'll clean up the mess later. I'll go along for the ride and then sneak off for a silent retreat...But God doesn't leave me there...Next comes the unimaginable. The command. The test of all tests. "Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch."

Peter had to think...You have to be kidding. We've fished all night. We've spent all our energy. THERE ARE NO FISH! He whispers "Master, we've worked hard all night and haven't caught anything."

Oh how many times I've whispered weary words of I'm DONE! I CAN'T!!! It's IMPOSSIBLE!!! I'm so tired of casting and never catching!!!

BUT...just as I prepare to say NO WAY...a glimmer of hope rises. Faith stirs. A call of obedience wrestles and stirs within me an abandonment to Jesus' voice. I SENSE God's RESOLVE...And, like Peter, I cry out, "because you say so, I will let down the nets."

Friend, the result of obedience invites the miraculous and allows God to do the impossible!

"When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them, and they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus' knees and said, "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!" For he and all his companions were astonished at the catch of fish they had taken..." (NIV)

Peter fell at Jesus' feet. There was no doubt who produced the miracle.

So, what net is God calling you to cast? Is it faithfulness and servanthood within your marriage? How about your call to ministry? Maybe to keep on dreaming? What net is God asking you to cast one more time? What steps of obedience is He calling you to?

Whatever it is...CAST IT!

God does what we are powerless to do. When we've exhausted all our energy...when we have nothing to show for all of our hard work...we have to remember to be faithful.

Don't give up! God does the impossible. So, let's cast our net and entrust GOD with the catch!

Bionic Strength and Golden Lassos

2011-11-03T09:27:00.001-04:00

As a kid, I loved watching bionic woman and wonder woman overpower Super-Villains with their SUPER POWER strength.

"Woo-hoo! Take that!" I'd shout while running through my home, leaping from sofa to chair and then bouncing through the air. I'd tackle my unsuspecting villains with my imaginary bionic strength and golden lasso.

As a kid, I felt invincible...but somewhere between the ages of 8 years old and my early 40's I relinquished my bionic strength and golden lasso. I succumbed to feelings of inferiority and inadequacy.

I guess in many ways we all hesitate and think to ourself, I’m nothing special.

But, today, God reminded me of good news! He filled my mind with this thought: Though the world measures success in terms of dollar signs, achievements, and notoriety, I measure success by your obedience and surrender.

In Mark 12, “Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on."

Like the widow, when we offer God everything we have, it isn’t the amount we give that impresses Him; it’s our willingness to give Him all we have.

FRIENDS...You’re special because GOD made you special. The truth is God determined your purpose long before you ever took your first breath. In Jeremiah 1:5, He spoke to the prophet Jeremiah, saying: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart…” Likewise, God designed us distinctly for a purpose. He equipped us with everything we need to complete His mission. Scripture says, “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness.” (2 Peter 1:3)

So, are you ready for a truth that invokes hope and builds faith? Here it is: God chooses imperfect and implausible people to do the impossible. He really does! When God looks at you, He sees you as a prime target for the miraculous!

As you go throughout your day today, remember this--The same spirit that raised Jesus Christ from the grave now lives in you! His power supersedes imaginary "bionic strength" and is more potent that fictitious "golden lassos."

God has a purpose for each one of us. Let's take a moment and ask Him how He wants to use us for His glory.

3 Tips to Hearing God's Voice

2011-11-02T10:05:00.001-04:00

Lately, I've received a lot of questions surrounding God's voice. Does God really speak to us? How do I know it's His voice? People have written and made comments like, "I want to follow after God, but how do I really know His will?"

Oh my dear friends, GOD STILL SPEAKS! So, allow me to share three tips I've learned to hearing God's voice:

First, relax. As much as you long to hear God's voice and know His will, He longs to speak to you. Jesus promised, as His child, you CAN know and WILL recognize His voice. You are His. No one can snatch you away from Him.

In John 10:27-30, Jesus promised "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)

In Isaiah 30:20-22, God's Word promises "Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. 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)

Second, rest knowing that you WILL find Him when you seek Him with all your heart. How do you seek Him? Simple. Take time to read His Word. The Bible reveals God's character, His love, and provides direction for your life.

Jeremiah 29:13-14 promises "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the LORD..." (NIV)

Matthew 7:7-8 says "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened." (NIV)

Third, and most importantly, focus on having a relationship with Him. Quit worrying about "HEARING" Him and simply spend time with Him.

The more intimate our relationship with God is, the more certain we discern his voice from our own. Our relationship with him makes the difference. After all, think about your closest relationship; what sets it apart from every other? My closest relationship is with my husband. Over the years we’ve exchanged our deepest secrets and learned one another’s idiosyncrasies. We often know each other’s thoughts without speaking a word. How? —relationship.

I remember early in our relationship, Greg would disguise his voice and pretend to be a telemarketer. He would often trick me into believing a telemarketer was calling trying to sell me something silly. Now, it’s not as easy for him. Why?—because over the years I’ve learned his voice. The same is true in our relationship with God.

We can’t formulate a method to hear God’s voice. We either share a relationship with him or we don’t. The more time we spend with God, the easier we recognize his voice. At first it may be difficult to tell his voice apart from our own, but the closer our relationship with God grows the easier it gets.

So, does God speak? Absolutely!

And, if we truly want to identify God’s voice, the key is to live in a relationship with him; there are no short cuts!

Time spent in His presence, reading His Word, and listening for His voice is vital to recognizing Him when He speaks. The more we read his word, the more we understand his character. The more we acknowledge and experience his character, the easier we recognize his voice. The more we experience his voice the easier we discern it from our own. And friend, sometimes, that just takes time.

I want to encourage you to take time to get to know God today! He's longing to speak with you!

Nothing Comforts Quite Like God's Word

2011-11-01T11:51:00.000-04:00

Psalm 119:89-90--"Your word, O LORD, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens. Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you established the earth, and it endures." (NIV)

I'm not sure if it's a sign of the times, a sign of my aging years, or because of the heaviness of the call God has on my life...BUT...Honestly, I need to be replenished every day.

Today was no different. And can I just say, "Ahhhhhh. Nothing comforts my soul like the WORD OF GOD." It silences the accusations of the enemy. It clarifies perspective. It strengthens my weary faith!

Today, I read from Exodus 33:12-14. "Moses said to the LORD, "You have been telling me, 'Lead these people,' but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, 'I know you by name and you have found favor with me.' If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people."

When I read this passage, I felt as if I could feel Moses' concern and maybe even a hint of a slight frustration. Moses desperately needed God's confirmation. He trusted God but needed His re-assurance.

Today, as I read this passage, two things from Moses' prayer stood out.

"Teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you." Friends, in order to fulfill God's purpose for our life we must allow Him to teach us His ways. In order to truly know Him and find favor with Him, we must follow Him. God instructed Moses. He gave him the Ten Commandments. Today, God invites us to "be taught" by Him and know Him through His Word. Hebrews 4:12-13 reminds us that "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." (NIV) If we want to hear God's voice and really know Him...we need to spend time with Him in His Word.
"Remember that this nation is your people." The second part of Moses' prayer demonstrated His surrender and humility. I can almost hear the silent cry whispering behind his words saying...this task you've called me to is too big for me. This is Your mission, God. These are Your people. Again, a great reminder to those of us who want to faithfully follow God. "Lord, my marriage is Yours." "Lord, my children are Yours." "Lord, this ministry is YOURS." "Lord, the impossible task that You've called me to is YOURS."

As I followed Moses' prayer this morning, God reminded me of His response. In Exodus 32:14,"The LORD replied, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest."

In Ex. 32: 14-16, "Moses said to him, "If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?"

Again, Moses response fills my own heart with a cry of unless You go with us Father...please, please, please, don't send us. I don't want to be like the world. I want to be distinguished as YOURS. I want the world to see the difference and to know that my life is YOURS, LORD.

Friend, if that is your cry. I believe God responds to us the same as He did Moses. "And the LORD said to Moses, "I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name." (Ex. 32:17, NIV)
2 Chronicles 16:9 says, "For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him." (NIV)

We are NOT alone. So, today, I want to encourage you to take time to spend time with God in His Word. Surrender everything He's called you to, back to Him. Then, rest in the truth that He is with YOU! He will establish His purposes! NEVER EVER GIVE UP!

I Want to Spend Time with You!

2011-10-31T10:22:00.000-04:00

"Mommy, please come away from your computer. I just want to spend some time with you."

My youngest child, Joshuah, loves to spend time with me. He can never get enough. His primary love language is quality time. At his invitation, I push the pause button on life and steal away to play a game or watch a cartoon; and I'm always glad I did.

This morning, I felt God whisper the same invitation. No. Not the "mommy" part...the part "I just want to spend some time with you."

MMMMMMMMM. What an invitation!

So often I get distracted by other things that call out for my attention. Demands constantly fill my days. Sometimes it's difficult to silence all the noise and distractions of my busy to-do list. I am so grateful when God's love breaks through and lifts the weights I try to carry. I'm grateful that He lovingly calls me and captures my attention.

Today, I simply want to encourage you to put your finger on the pause button. Silence all the noise surrounding your life and spend time in God's Word. Allow Him to refresh you with His Holy Spirit. Take a deep breath and wait silently before Him.

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

Friend, He is lovingly calling you to spend time with Him. So, will you take the challenge?

For the next five minutes, sit silently before Him.
Invite Him to speak to you by praying a simple prayer like: Lord, please speak to me. Help me hear Your voice.
Read a passage of Scripture. Don't know where to read? Try meditating on Isaiah 43, Jeremiah 29:11-14, Matthew 5, John 10, or Romans 8.
Write down what God shares.
Write out your prayer to Him.

So, how about it? Will you take the challenge? Will you put your finger on the pause button? As you take the challenge, I am confident God will meet with you. My prayer is that He will renew your strength and fill you with His presence.

Do Not Fear

2011-10-28T09:52:00.000-04:00

I see them. They're everywhere. Giants tower over me; they whisper: "Give up!" "Play it safe." "You can't!" "You'll never win!" Though naked to my earthly eyes (at times they appear so real) I feel as if I could actually touch them. I feel their breath on the back of my spine...snarling...taunting...intimidating.

Their size alone intimidates me. BUT...amidst all the giants...someone greater calls my name. He reminds me I am not alone. He reveals glimpses of His power that surrounds my life. I breathe in and breathe out, and remember who gave me my breath!

God softly whispers, "If I am for you, who can stand against you?" (Personalized promise from Romans 8:31) "You are mine." (Isaiah 43:1) "No weapon forged against you will prevail." (Isaiah 54:17)

From Isaiah 48:13 God reminds me, "My own hand laid the foundations of the earth, and my right hand spread out the heavens; when I summon them, they all stand up together." (NIV)

Friend, we all have giants...impossibilities...difficult, dreadful, even unbearable circumstances. BUT...MORE IMPORTANTLY...we have a GOD WHO LOVES US and calls us by name. We have a GOD WHO scoffs at the giants and laughs at their powerless taunts. He causes impossibilities to surrender at His command. Fiery accusations drown in the current of His grace. Giants have no choice but to submit to His authority.

So, be encouraged and remember Isaiah 41:9-13: "I have chosen you and have not rejected you. 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; those who oppose you will be as nothing and perish. Though you search for your enemies,
you will not find them. Those who wage war against you will be as nothing at all. 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)

Our Giants Will Fall!

2011-10-27T10:08:00.000-04:00

Today, I was reminded of a post I made over a year ago...I just had to repost it!

"...Who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the Living God?..." 1 Samuel 17:26

While Israel's army measured their size with the giant's, David compared Goliath's power to God's. There was NO contest. Sure Goliath was big...but not big enough. Sure he caused men to shake in the natural, but his size was no challenge to the LIVING GOD? Put side by side, Goliath wasn't even a speck when compared to the all powerful God!

While others cowered to the giant, David remembered God. While others stood powerless to press forward, David ran to the battle. He rejected conventional wisdom of swords and shields, passing them up to trusted weapons experienced while shepherding in pastures--Five smooth stones and a sling would do the trick.

Goliath hurled insults, threatened, and towered over David...but NONE of that mattered.

David, defied his insults, shouting back, "You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied." (1 Samuel 17:45)

David recognized the weapons formed against him. He saw the sword, the spear, the javelin...but NONE of that mattered. David didn't just see his temporal surroundings, he remembered God.

Friends, many of us face huge giants. The battle are very real. We see the enemy's sword, spear, and javelin...but none of that matters! Our giants CANNOT compare to the power of our God.

Sometimes it's good to get good and mad! Sometimes we simply need to put off conventional wisdom and ATTACK the giants hurling insults. We need to remember when our giants threaten us they defy OUR LIVING GOD!

What are your giants? Mounting Bills? An Uncertain Future? Perhaps you battle feelings of insignificance? Sickness? None of that matters!

Don't get me wrong. I have my own giants! I know the temptation to shrink and cower. I've experienced the inability to run headlong into battle. When I compare my size with my giants...there is no contest. There is no way I can win! BUT AGAIN, NONE of that matters Because when I compare my giants with my God...I know I CANNOT FAIL!

Today, will you cower to your giant or will you look to God? What captures your eye?

In 1 Samuel 17:47, David shouts our the key to our victory, "...the Lord does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the LORD'S..." God will give our giants into our hands and bring them to their knees. We come against them in the power and authority of the living God! Declaring, "You come against us with your threats and accusations; you tower over us in the temporal... but we come against you in the name of the Lord of hosts, whom you have defied!"

Will you, along with me, rise to run to battle? Will you, along with me, turn your gaze from your giant to God?

God will bring our giants to their knees!

PRAYER: Father, we look to You. We see the reality of our situation but we choose to remember Your promises. Fulfill Your promises and bring our giants to their knees. Fill us with faith and expectation. We put our trust in YOU! In Jesus name, amen.

It's ALL for YOU!

2011-10-26T11:03:00.001-04:00

Most of my life, I've wandered about like Abraham, trying to follow, but not knowing where I was going.

Hebrew 11:8-9 "By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going." (NIV)

Many of you know I was given a huge promise at the age of 18. A promise that if it relied upon my ability would never be possible. Thank goodness the promise isn't about me--but about HIM! Thank God, for His faithfulness! Today, though twenty three years later, I see a small glimmer of the fulfillment of that promise!

I can hardly stand it! If I had wings I'd be flying! I want to shout "Here we go Jesus. It's ALL FOR YOU!" So...just know... as I sat at my computer this morning...that's exactly what I did!

Why all the excitement? Well, because today is a day of joyful celebration! First, it's my 12 year old daughter's birthday. Second, today marks the birth of a national ministry that God prompted me and my husband to launch--Women Inspired!

As I think back to the birthing process (of my daughter) the thing I remember most is seeing her for the first time! The pain was forgotten! Joy filled my heart! Hope! Laughter! I couldn't help but thank God for His fulfilled promise!

The same is true for Women Inspired.

So, in celebration of my joy today, I want to offer you the opportunity to win an EXCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIP with Women Inspired. (If you are a male you could always give to a female friend.)

Here's how your name can get entered. Simply share this post on FB or Twitter and you will be entered for a drawing to receive a FREE WOMEN INSPIRED EXCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIP. Click Women Inspired's like button on FB at http://www.facebook.com/womeninspired and you will receive an additional entry into the drawing.

Thank you for celebrating with me. Be encouraged! God fulfills His promises. So, even if you feel like Abraham, as if you are stepping out not knowing where you are going...God is near and HE FULFILLS ALL OF HIS PROMISES.

Wanna see a part of what God is doing in my life and learn more about WOMEN INSPIRED'S EXCLUSIVE MEMBER BENEFITS visit our site at: http://www.womeninspired.org/.

Also, listen to today's broadcast as Shannon Ethridge shares more about her Women Inspired Exclusive Coaching Series at: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/profile3.aspx?userurl=cwa-radio. You can listen LIVE at 12 PM EST through the link above. Or call in LIVE at 347-850-8893 and listen through your phone. You can also listen to the archived version at the same link listed above.

H.O.P.E

2011-10-25T11:23:00.000-04:00

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)

During many seasons of life, I've shouted: God, can you hear me? Do you care? Where are you? Like a shipwrecked sailor lost at sea, I searched for a life preserver to cling to. At times, I felt abandoned, isolated, doomed to drown in the dense, dark, murky waters surrounding my life. But each time, God faithfully rescued me.

Today, as I prayed, God reminded me of Romans 5:3-5. Paul writes: "we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us." (NIV)

What is this hope and how can we obtain it?

Hold fast to who God is. He is love (1 John 4:16.) He is faithful (1 Corinthians 10:13.) He is good (Psalm 73:1.) When life doesn't make sense we must remember JESUS sacrifice and hold fast to God's love.
Overcome the enemy's lies with the truth of God's Word (John 8:31-32, Hebrews 4:12.) The enemy whispers accusations. He taunts. He torments. But we will overcome Him with the word of our testimony and the blood of the lamb. In Matthew 4, Jesus left an example for us to follow--it is written!
Pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.) Our prayers invite our Heavenly Daddy to help us, to heal us, to uphold us. "The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; He delivers them from all their troubles." (Psalm 34:17, NIV)
Embrace Ephesians 6:10-18--Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints." (NIV)

Friend, WE ARE NOT ALONE! Though the dark seasons of our life undoubtedly leave their mark, by the mercy and grace of God, they will NOT destroy us. Regardless of how we feel, regardless of our circumstances, regardless of our battles, we are NOT alone.

"Put your hope in the LORD both now and forevermore." (Psalm 131:3, NIV)

3 Hints for a Shaky Faith

2011-10-24T09:32:00.000-04:00

I don't know about you, but it is so easy to get discouraged. Accusations of the enemy taunt me and quietly whisper, "You can't do that! You're going to fail. You're not good enough!" Insecurities try to intimidate me. Comparisons remind me of my insufficiencies. At times, I want to retreat and cower before the impossibilities that oppose me...that is until I remember WHO I serve and determine once again to HOLD FAST to what GOD has promised.

Genesis 28:15 reminds me "...I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you." (NIV)

Wow! What a promise! What assurance!

Friend, since God is omnipotent He is not bound by time or space. He sees past, present, and future simultaneously; thus, when He whispered His promises to us in the past, He's already seen them in their end fulfillment.

So, what is God calling you to? What has He promised?

Whatever it is, don't give up. Be bold in your faith. After all, faith isn't conjuring up some NOBLE notion and saying "Here I go, now bless." Faith is simply hearing God's voice and aligning our life to follow after Him, no matter what.

Feel shaky in your faith? Here are three helpful hints:
1. Release "ownership." Remember WHOSE promise it is. I often pray, "God this is your promise. This is what you said. I refuse to make it about me. I offer you all my life to use as you see fit. Give me the grace and strength to live in complete obedience to you and entrust you to fulfill your promises. I will not pick up the weight of trying to achieve...this is YOURS GOD...and I am YOURS."

2. Reject "opposition." When the enemy whispers impossibilities I remind Him of Jesus' words in Matthew 19:26, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." (NIV)

3. Remember "our God." We are not alone! God fights our battles, and "If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31, NIV)

As we start our week, I want to encourage you to "DREAM BIG. LAUGH OFTEN. AND REMEMBER GOD'S GOT IT ALL UNDER CONTROL."

I Am NOT Called To Be Successful

2011-10-21T09:09:00.000-04:00

Psalm 51:15-17, "O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise. You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise." (NIV)

Wow! What a powerful truth! God desires our obedience not our burnt offerings!

Oh, of course we don't sacrifice lambs or oxen. Our burnt offerings are often a result from man-made check lists and rituals that are often measured in results and achievements.

BUT that is NOT what God is concerned with. I remember several years ago, God prompted me to share my testimony with 1,000 people. Specifically, I felt compelled to write my testimony and distribute it to 1000 people. I couldn't wait to witness the results. I couldn't wait to witness all the lives that would be transformed. BUT WAIT...I DID. I waited and waited...BUT NOTHING! Not even one response. I felt like a failure. I felt like a fool.

I prayed. "God, did I miss you? I thought you prompted me to do this. I am so sorry."

Instead of a lecture of correction, I felt the loving response of my Father. "Well done. I didn't call you to results. I called you to obedience."

"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"

Friend, God hasn't commissioned us to results, He commissions us to obedience. So, position yourself to hear Him. Test all that you feel He commands you to do with the truth of His Word. Then, simply obey knowing that His measurement of success is vastly different than the worlds.

Old Habits are Hard to Break

2011-10-20T10:18:00.002-04:00

"Grandma, can I take Owly home with me?

As a kid, one of my favorite toys at my Grandma's house was a little toy owl that stood about an inch in height.

"No, Julie. You better keep it here. You wouldn't want it to get lost."

After countless attempts, I conceded and continued to play with "Owly" until it was time to go. But instead of returning her to her box, I pocketed Owly, thinking I'll return her next week when I come back.

The following week came and went but during the elapsed period of time, I lost "Owly."

"Grandma, I took Owly and now I can't find it." My stomach felt as if it climbed it's way up my esophagus and settled in my throat. My heart felt as if I had just completed a long relentless sprint.

6 months later, at the end of school, I cleaned out my locker and found OWLY. It was a joyous day when I returned Owly safe to my Grandma.

Ever notice how some struggles are hard to break? Today, I recognize my tendency to still try to possess that which was never intended for me to own, like Ministry, Motherhood, even my Marriage. I tend to struggle and pick up weights that God never intended for me to shoulder. As if it were somehow up to me to accomplish and achieve great things for God.

I guess somewhere between living for God and following after Him I tend to pick up ownership.

How about you? Ever fall prey to thoughts that it's up to you to "FIX" or "CONQUER?" What are the "OWLY'S" of your life? Have you attempted to own what God simply meant for you to enjoy?

My dear, dear friends, God doesn't call us to accomplish or achieve...He simply calls us to obey. So, if your heart is heavy...if you feel overwhelmed by responsibilities...if you question your worth...I want to encourage you to join me today and surrender it (once again) to God.

Psalm 24:1-2 declares that "The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; for he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters." (NIV)

It is a joyous thing to return to God the things He invites us to enjoy but NOT own!

He Is Good

2011-10-19T11:19:00.000-04:00

My husband frequently says, "If you can completely describe God...you serve too small of a God".

Whew. Is that ever the truth! In the last few years I've experienced seasons where I pondered "Who God really was"...I endured seasons of great testing and pain...I even questioned God out loud, "WHY, won't You intervene?" "Why don't You help when You have the power to?" "Don't You care?" "Aren't You suppose to be my Father?" "Doesn't your word say...?"

In these moments, simple, trite answers didn't help...HOWEVER...I also discovered that these moments deepened my faith. Everything I believed about God solidified.

In Joshua 24:14-15, Joshua commissions the Israelites with these words, "fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." (NIV)

The "fear of the Lord" as referred to in the Old Testament was an expression implying to trust, to revere, and to humbly recognize WHO GOD IS and in recognizing WHO HE IS to humbly submit to His Power and His authority.

I love how C.S. Lewis describes Aslan in The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. In chapter eight, directly after dinner, Lucy asks the beavers (concerning Aslan), "Is he—quite safe?"..."Safe?" said Mr. Beaver ... "Who said anything about safe? 'Course he isn't safe. But he's good. He's the King, I tell you." (http://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/The_Lion,_the_Witch_and_the_Wardrobe#The_Lion.2C_the_Witch_and_the_Wardrobe_.281950.29)

Lucy's question to the beavers is the same underlying question we all ask (or contemplate subconsciously): "Does God fit into a nice little package that I can explain and always comprehend?" "Will serving Him keep me free from risk, always bring me blessing, shower me with prosperity?" "Does He surround my life with white picket fences, securing me with promises of happily ever after?" "If I surrender to Him will my life be filled with comfort and ease and all the luxuries of health, prosperity, and wealth?" "Will He always make sense...will I always be able to explain why things happen?...And the list of private contemplations go on and on.

Our answer is the same as the beaver's. "NO!"..."Who said anything about ...(that)" "But He is good!"

Friends, when life doesn't remain wrapped in the nice packaged wrappings of ribbons and bows, when the contents of our life spill out and the ribbons frazzle...when the core of what we believe is tested...the one thing we have to hold fast to...the one thing that silences the deafening accusations of our enemy is the truth that "GOD IS GOOD and His love for us never ends!"

Romans 8:38-39, "I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 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)
Today, more so than ever, I am convinced of the love of God. I am more confident (even in my suffering) that God loves me and He works all things together for my good. I don't always understand...but...I know I can trust Him. His love truly traversed through the trenches of my indifference and pride and stretched his arms wide, nailing the weight of my sin to its final death on the cross.

Jesus suffered, bled, and died for my sins...His sacrifice reveals His LOVE...His GOODNESS. So though our circumstances may cause questions, though our trials sometimes cause pain...one thing remains certain "God loves us and can be trusted!"

PRAYER: Father, thank You that though You hold ALL POWER in Your hands. Though You really are an awesome, incomprehensible, amazing God...Thank You that though it would be a terrifying thought to fall into the hands of (You) THE LIVING GOD, all terror is quieted by Your GOODNESS and LOVE. Today, we put our trust in YOU, knowing You are GOOD and YOUR LOVE endures forever. Move on our behalf. Fulfill Your promises. We put our hope in You. In Jesus name, amen.

Not By Might

2011-10-18T07:14:00.000-04:00

Ever set out to follow after God but along the way your motives get twisted? You take steps of obedience only to discover it's become about you? Or your humility is assaulted by your pride.

I've been reading a lot in 2 Sam 24:1-9. In verse one God's anger burns against Israel and incites David to take a Census.

"Once again the anger of the LORD burned against Israel, and he caused David to harm them by taking a census. "Go and count the people of Israel and Judah," the LORD told him." (2 Samuel 24: 1, NLT)

Depending on most translations, it appears as though God causes David to take a Census of the land...but in 2 Sam 24:10 we read, "David was conscience-stricken after he had counted the fighting men, and he said to the LORD, "I have sinned greatly in what I have done. Now, O LORD, I beg you, take away the guilt of your servant. I have done a very foolish thing." (NIV)

Furthermore, in verses eleven and twelve we read that David is offered to choose between three different punishments for his offense.

As I researched further, I discovered several suggestions for this conflicting story. The one that stood out the most is that though David obeyed God externally, internally his motives became tainted. Matthew Henry Commentary suggest that "It was a proud conceit of his (David's) own greatness in having the command of so numerous a people, as if their increase, which was to be ascribed purely to the blessing of God, had been owing to any conduct of his own." And that "It was a proud confidence in his own strength. By publishing among the nations the number of his people, he thought to appear the more formidable, and doubted not that, if he should have any war, he should overpower his enemies with the multitude of his forces, trusting in God only. God judges not of sin as we do. What appears to us harmless, or at least but a small offence, may be a great sin in the eye of God, who sees men's principles, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. But his judgment, we are sure, is according to truth." (from Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible: New Modern Edition, Electronic Database. Copyright © 1991 by Hendrickson Publishers, Inc.)

As I read David's story in 2 Samuel 24, I felt such a conviction in my own heart...A check in my spirit to remember to walk humbly before my God, to examine my motives, and to always obey while resisting "ownership."

Friend, what has God called you to do? Is there any area where your motives have become self-seeking? Are any of your actions propelled by pride?

Today, I'm recommitting to laying it ALL down and to be extremely aware of my complete and total dependence on Him. Will you join me?

A Sweet Exchange

2011-10-14T08:53:00.001-04:00

Exchanges...We all make them...Compromises...Concessions...

Sometimes we accept what is out of a fear of what may never be.
Or seek comfort in the present, out of a fear the future may hold less promise.

At times, I wonder if I'll ever learn. (How about you?)

Ever forget to live and enjoy the moment out of a fear the moment may be stolen?
Ever embrace tasks and duties instead of taking time to hold those most dear?

I wonder, at the end of our days, what exchange we would make to gain one more hour with the ones that call us mom (or dad)?

Or, if we knew the moment of our last breath, where we would want to spend it. Would we still chase after that which never satisfies or choose to take the time to rest in the arms of the one we love most?

Ok... I know my thoughts are a little more philosophical today than most days but the truth is...we all have a choice before us? We all make exchanges, concessions, compromises...

Jesus said, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it; but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?" Matthew 16:24-26, NAS

Friend, God invites each one of us to a sweet exchange.

He invites us to exchange our life of sin forgiveness found in a life of faith in Jesus.
He bids us to surrender our (unsatisfying) self-centered living in an exchange for a life of found in a life that is lived for Him.

Today as we go through our day, I hope we live each moment as if it were our last...loving those most dear...serving as if there were no tomorrow...laughing...dreaming...and living our utmost for HIS HIGHEST!

What To Do When Faith and Reality Collides

2011-10-12T09:15:00.001-04:00

I remember reading Job 1:8, "Then the LORD said to Satan, "Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil." and naively praying, "Lord, I want to be esteemed that highly by You."

Whew. Seemed like a good prayer in my early 20's...But can I just share...In my early 40's...the reality of my faith being tested was anything but glamorous.

It takes a lot to get to the point where the only thing left standing is a hope and confidence in the truth of WHO GOD IS.

Lest I sound braggadocios, I am in NO way comparing myself to Job. Job lost all of his sons in one day. He was stricken with sickness in his body. All of his companions pointed blame and found fault with him. His spouse told him to curse God...

No...thankfully...I have never experienced those griefs. But I have experienced my breaking point...we all have. The point where our faith is assaulted. The place where everything we believe is tested and the hope we profess collides with the reality of our circumstances.

Oswald Chambers wrote, "Faith for my deliverance is not faith in God. Faith means, whether I am visibly delivered or not, I will stick to my belief that God is love. There are some things only learned in a fiery furnace." (Run Today's Race.)

Today, you may be shouting at the top of your lungs, ENOUGH! You may have hurled accusations toward God, "What is this? Is this just some sick twisted game to You?" Your heart may feel torn apart... broken... void.

So, what do you do when faith and reality collide?

Avoid trying to "figure it out" Instead Remember Who You Serve. Friend, allow me to share just how much I understand. I won't pretend to be so bold as to say I completely understand all the "Whys" or even presume to understand all the decisions God makes...but what I am learning to do...is to trust HIM...to remember HIS LOVE...and to rest in the PROMISE found in: 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)
Hold Fast to His Promises. James 1:2-4 reminds us to "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." (NIV)

I certainly don't understand all the mysteries of heaven. I don't understand all God's reasoning's or decisions...BUT... one thing I remain confident in is that GOD IS FAITHFUL...HIS LOVE ENDURES FOREVER...HIS LOVE RESCUED ME...

And, regardless of all the trials, regardless of all the battles, regardless of all the pain and difficult seasons...I will put my trust in the One WHO died for me.

If you're struggling today, feeling abandoned, alone, wore out...remember God's love for you. "God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners , Christ died for us." (Romans 5:7-9)

That kind of LOVE can be TRUSTED!

God Surprised Me!

2011-10-11T10:08:00.001-04:00

Has God ever surprised you? He sure does me--a lot!

A few years ago, I navigated through difficult raging waters of life. I had just quit my lucrative position with a fortune 100 company and was searching frantically for a life-preserver to wrap my identity around. But the more I resisted God's current that tried to pull me from my "man-made securities"...the more frantic and exasperated I felt. Finally, while driving down the road, I exhaled a deep breath and surrendered. I prayed "Oh Father, please help! I need to know you're near! I need to know I'm not alone! I need to hear your voice!"

Much to my surprise, I heard a small "Hello!" from the back seat. I quickly turned to see my son's stuffed toy parrot peering at me. I let out a loud robust laugh!

I hadn't anticipated such an animated response from God...but that day...God shared His laughter with me. His Spirit comforted me. "Julie, I am near!" He lovingly reminded me "I will never leave you. I will never forsake you."

Friend, God may not use an animated parrot to whisper His love to you today...but His whispers are all around you. His comfort is hidden in within the pages of His Word. His Spirit surrounds you and demonstrates His grace and love in every breath you breathe.

So, today, breathe in deeply and meditate on this promise from Isaiah 41:10, "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." (NIV)

YOU ARE NOT ALONE! God is waiting to embrace you and empower you.

He lovingly reminds (each one of us) to seek Him with all our heart and promises that his "plans are "to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile." (NIV)

So, will you take a little extra time to pause and listen for Him? Will you seek Him with all your heart?

Allow Him to surprise you with His voice!

I Forgive You, Baby Girl...

2011-10-10T09:36:00.003-04:00

I remember a couple years ago a time when my middle daughter sobbed uncontrollably. "Mommy...I...am...so sorry!" Sommer's voice broke, cracked, and revealed such tender brokenness.

My heart ached for her. I knew the feeling of guilt and shame and true repentance. I scooped her up into my arms. "I forgive you baby girl." And in a moment, grace and mercy covered the offense. All was forgiven...and in that moment God revealed a glimpse of His love for me. I thought of the endless times I humbled myself before God, heaving, sobbing, and broken in genuine repentance. I thought of the endless times He scooped me up and whispered the same sweet words of affection, "I forgive you baby girl."

Ever experience moments where the reality of God's unconditional love and grace overtakes you? When the truth of His forgiveness overwhelms you? Where the certainty of His pardon (of your sins) captures your breath?

The older I get the more I recognize...that except for His grace I stand condemned by and convicted of my sins...destined and doomed to death...

But, as Peter writes in 1 Peter 1:3-9, "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade — kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith — of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire — may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls." (NIV)

Today, I want to share a song with you by Sidewalk Prophets. Their song, Lay Down My Life, reminds of the incredible love God has for us and the great sacrifice He paid for our salvation. (You can listen to it at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YYfSJa_GC8)

As we start this week, let's offer a humble prayer of thanks to God for the hope we have in Him.

Freind, our hope is secure in His Love...our future is certain in the truth of His Grace..our sins of hatred, jealousy, anger, bitterness, adultery, idolatry, and every other guilt is blotted out by our confession of faith and our acceptance of Jesus' sacrifice.

So, in light of that truth let's live a life of joy, certain of His gift of salvation. Let's be expended for His purpose and rest in the reality of His great love. Let's remember to dream big...to laugh often...and know that God's got it all under control.

A Place of Comfort

2011-10-07T07:27:00.000-04:00

"Be merciful to me, LORD, for I am faint; O LORD, heal me, for my bones are in agony. My soul is in anguish. How long, O LORD, how long? Turn, O LORD, and deliver me; save me because of your unfailing love. No one remembers you when he is dead. Who praises you from the grave? I am worn out from groaning; all night long I flood my bed with weeping and drench my couch with tears. My eyes grow weak with sorrow; they fail because of all my foes." Psalm 6:2-7

Oh, how many times I've prayed this deeply...searching for hope, help, and healing. We all experience moments of anguish. We question "How long, O LORD, how long"

Today, seems to be another one of those days. Not because anything is necessarily wrong...BUT because the weight of ministry can sometimes weigh heavily on me. At times, God's burdens and the blessing of His favor causes me to wonder if I can really go on...I don't know if I can do it!!

Like David, I bow my head and cry out! And in those moments a transformation takes place. The burdens I've picked up...the weights of impossibilities lifts...my faith is restored...my soul gains comfort! THERE IS NOTHING QUITE LIKE IT!

The amazing power of prayer and fellowship with GOD transforms my thinking, restores my soul, and renews my faith. In prayer, I realize that I can't but God CAN!

David witnessed this same transformation. One verse after praying the Scripture recorded above, David boldly declares, "Away from me, all you who do evil, for the LORD has heard my weeping. The LORD has heard my cry for mercy; the LORD accepts my prayer. All my enemies will be ashamed and dismayed; they will turn back in sudden disgrace." (Psalm 6:8-10)

Something powerful happens when we pray in spirit and in truth. The Holy Spirit infuses GOD'S truth in the depths of our mind and soul and restores our hope in GOD'S FATHERLINESS and FAITHFULNESS.

Andrew Murray wrote, "Above all, let us hole on tightly to this blessed reality: The secret of prayer in spirit and truth is in the knowledge of the Fatherhood of God, the revelation of His infinite Fatherliness in our hearts, and the faith in His infinite love of us as His children."

TODAY...BE ENCOURAGED! Psalm 34:17-19 reminds us: "The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all."

Take time to today to pray...

Change Your Focus

2011-10-06T09:58:00.001-04:00

Joshua's sweeter than cheesecake and as precious and tender as a little boy could ever be...but he is ALL boy. His attention span...well...let's just say is sometimes challenged.

Two words I utter frequently, every day--"Joshua, focus!" Homework time--"Joshua, focus!" Mealtime--"Joshua, focus!" Bedtime--"Joshua, focus!" So, today I laughed when I felt God nudge my spirit--"Julie, focus!"

Sometimes, I'm just like Joshua. I get lost in my own mind, preoccupied with unimportant facts, distracted and focused on things that weigh heavily on my spirit.

God got my attention and filled my thoughts: Why do you doubt? Why do you question? Why do you fear? And realized just how much my focus impacted my thoughts. (Bear with me...I know today's post is a little philosophical.)

But, think about it. Isn't the source of our fear triggered by what we think about? Isn't the source of our discontentment bred in our passion to want more?

Personally, when I focus on all my limitations, impossibilities overwhelm me. When I focus on God's supreme omnipotence, I laugh at impossibilities.

When I focus on my failures, my worth becomes undeniable. When I focus on God's amazing grace, I rest confident in His plan of salvation.

Friend, all our pain, troubles, and tears were placed on Jesus...there was no other way. No other hope. Every bad decision...Every burden...Every sin...was covered by God's LOVE.

John 3:16-17 says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him." (NIV)

Wow. Think about it. Jesus wore our burdens, took our place...there was no other way...He traversed through the trenches of our indifference and pride and stretched his arms wide, nailing the weight of our sins to the cross. HIS LOVE takes my breath away.

So, are you struggling? Feeling beaten down? Weighted by the circumstances of your life?

I want to encourage you to change your focus. Remember WHO you serve. Remember His character. Hold fast to HIS love...His righteousness...His grace.

Today, I felt some may be struggling, questioning God's love...maybe even questioning their salvation. Romans 3:21-24 reveals God's promise of salvation. Paul writes "But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." (NIV)

Friend, Romans 6:23 reminds us that "the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (NIV) Further, 1 John 1:9 promises that "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." (NIV)

Let's keep our FOCUS where it NEEDS to be--on HIM!

Am I truly abandoned to Christ?

2011-10-05T09:23:00.000-04:00

Today, in my time of quiet devotion, questions filled my mind and challenged my faith. I asked myself the following: Am I truly abandoned to Christ? Will I serve Him no matter what? Where will I put my trust regardless of wearing circumstances?

Ever feel like you don't have the strength to press on, yet have no alternative to turn back? C'mon. Be honest. Of course we all do! As I frequently write--Faith wouldn't be faith if it were easy!

In times like these I gain comfort and strength from the testimony of others found in Scripture. Check out these declarations:

In Job 13:15, Job declared: "Though he slay me , yet will I hope in him." (NIV)

Habakkuk writes in Habakkuk 3:17-18: "Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior." (NIV)

Luke records Mary's testimony of faith in Luke 1:38, "I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." (NIV)

Every one of these testimonies declares allegiance and abandonment to God...a "NO MATTER WHAT" in its message...

I want to live that kind of faith...so once again...I bow my head and surrender my will...I choose to serve Him.

How about you? Will you join with me today?

Friend, FAITH is NEVER EASY...BUT I AM CONVINCED (as Paul shared in Romans 8:19) "that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." (NIV) And, am encouraged by the promise of Galatians 6:9: "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)

Let's DREAM BIG...LAUGH OFTEN...and remember GOD HAS IT ALL UNDER CONTROL!

God's Silent Urging of Protection...

2011-10-04T08:08:00.003-04:00

"Let's go! It's time."

Sommer grabbed her roller back-pack.

"I love you baby girl. Have a great day."

"You too, mommy."

As I leaned over to give Sommer one last hug, my eye caught a glimpse of a light colored car, on the street, a couple houses down from ours. Something didn't feel right. I glared directly at it and noticed a man in the driver seat.

"See you later mommy." Sommer exclaimed.

Another uneasy feeling surged through me. "Baby doll, Mommy's gonna walk with you for a while."

As we walked toward the school I realized I was still in my pajamas. "Ok sweetie, I'm gonna head back. Have a good day."

"You too mommy."

I watched for a little longer and then turned toward my home. As I did, again, my eye caught a glimpse of the same light colored car doing a quick u-turn.

A thought rushed through my mind. He's going to go around the opposite way and come up on the other drive. I tried to shake the feeling but couldn't. If I was wrong--no harm--people would just see me in my pj's. If I was right...then I would never forgive myself for not staying with my daughter.

I shouted, "Sommer hang-on...Mommy's gonna walk with you the rest of the way."

We walked a little further...and then...my stomach sank. I couldn't believe it. The light colored vehicle turned sharply, sped past us, did another u-turn and went out our back gate. I ran quickly. Memorized the license plate # and thanked God for His silent urgings.

Friend, we all have an enemy seeking to destroy us. A prowler. A destroyer with evil intent. 1 Peter 5:8-9 warns us, "Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith..." (NIV)

But, we also have an advocate. A protector. A SAVIOR. Jesus encourages us, in John 10:10 He says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." (NIV)

Today, I want to encourage you to listen closely to His voice. He silently instructs us. Prompts us. And stirs within our soul--wisdom and revelation. We are NOT alone.

Isaiah 30:21 promises, "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)

Friend, I'm confident God protected my little girl last week by filling me with inward promptings and I want to encourage you that--You can trust God. He will lead you, too. He will guide you. You can trust and know HIS voice.

PRAYER: Father, thank You for Your protection. Thank You that You sent Jesus to give us a full life. Thank You for Your voice. Thank You that YOU fight our battles and have defeated our enemy. Empower us to live for You. We love You Lord, amen.

Undeserved Favor...

2011-10-03T07:20:00.000-04:00

Sometimes, I still do really stupid things. I spout off at the mouth...get angry...give in to fear...allow circumstances to effect my mood. I don't always meditate on what is good, pure, or lovely. After scaling high towers, I (sometimes) cower before the next set of challenges. I pick up "OWNERSHIP" of things entrusted to me and feel weights NEVER designed for me to carry.

How about you?

Today, once again, God's grace flooded my soul. As I sat silently before the Lord, I thought of Psalm 103:11-13, "For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him." (NIV)

Wow. Unimaginable Grace. Unfathomable Forgiveness. Undeserved favor. Kinda takes your breath away when you really think about it, doesn't it?

Friend, as Christians, we are forgiven. Set free. We are deeply and dearly loved!

Today, I want to challenge you to thank God at every opportunity for the undeserved favor He's granted you. Praise Him for His forgiveness. Embrace the truth of His love. Let it liberate you to live your life passionately, abandoned to His will.

I Just Can't Do This...

2011-09-29T12:05:00.000-04:00

"I can't do this...I just can't go on..." My heart weighed heavy. The onslaught of "to do" lists overtook me. I felt overwhelmed. Dried up. Used up. Fatigued. Frustrated. Cashed out. DONE!!! I was way past a "Pull YOURSELF UP by the boot-straps" pep talk...Ever been there?

What do you do when your energy has been zapped? What do you do when your storage tank is depleted? What do you do when no one seems to run to your aid or offer you help? Well, the only place we can go...to the AUTHOR and FINISHER of our FAITH. OUR 1 SURE FOUNDATION...our HELP IN TIME OF TROUBLE--JESUS!

Matthew 11:28-30 says: "Come to me , all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 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)

So, how do we come to Jesus? What does that look like?

Here are a few helpful hints:

Make time for Him. Be intentional. Spend time sitting silently in His presence.
Pray sincere prayers--simple prayers like: HELP. Lord sustain me. Encourage me. Fill me. Empower me. Give me strength
Renew Your thoughts. Spend time in His Word. Remind Yourself of His promises. Listen to worship. Fill your mind with the truth.
Speak the truth out loud. Messages constantly bombard the weak and weary. Fight back with the truth. Jesus said you shall know the truth and the truth will set you free. Align your thoughts by speaking His Word out loud. Speaking it out loud offers encouragement and is extremely powerful.
Reach out to others. Live transparently. Authentically. I love Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, it says: "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm . But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. (NIV)

Friend, YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Let me know how I can pray for you. Send me an email at: julie@juliegorman.com

Keep pressing on...GOD IS NEAR!

Whatch'a Thinkin' About...

2011-09-28T11:44:00.000-04:00

The other night I begrudgingly headed to the gym with my husband. Thoughts filled my mind: I don't feel like working out. I am so tired. I just want to snuggle up and go to sleep for the night...

4 Minutes on the treadmill felt like an eternity. Ahhhhh, this stinks. I want to be home. I hate being out of shape. I'd rather be eating pizza.

Finally, I decided to listen to some praise music. I played the new CD of one of my new favorite groups (Sidewalk Prophets). As the music played, my pace increased. I got lost in praise. And, as a result my mind turned to this is soooooo much fun.

"As a man thinketh in his heart, so he is." (Proverbs 23: 7, paraphrased)

Friend, what are you thinking about? What thoughts fill your mind? Can I just make the application--God taught me--Your mind doesn't just effect your work outs. It impacts your life. It influences your decisions. Take every thought captive to the cross. Focus on the eternal. And faithfully serve me.

So today, will you join me with hands lifted high, and a mouth filled with praise...will you glory in the one who died for you. No matter my circumstance, no matter my trial...will you offer God your love by filling your mind as Paul urged in Philippians 4:8-9, "...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)

Faith for Today...

2011-09-27T09:01:00.001-04:00

Oh Father, please help me today. Lift the heaviness of my heart. Remove my doubts and the feelings that whisper, "I just can't do this. I can't press on anymore. I just want to go back to bed."

Ever pray similar prayers? Feel weighted at obstacles? Overwhelmed by the circumstances surrounding your life?

If so, may it comfort you to know...You're not alone.

Elijah prayed, in 1 Kings 19:4-5, "I have had enough, LORD," ... "Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors." (NIV)

David prayed, in Psalm 42:5, "Why are you downcast, O my soul?
Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God..." (NIV)

Paul wrote, in Roman 7:24-25, "What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death?" (NIV)

Friends, faith wouldn't be faith if it were easy, if everything ALWAYS lined up perfectly, if EVERY emotion always remained full of joy and bliss.

InJohn 16:33, Jesus said, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." (NIV)

That's where our faith must rest...in Jesus...in the truth of God's love...resting in WHO HE IS...Faith presses on regardless of circumstances, knowing God will never leave.

Oswald Chambers, in Run Today's Race, wrote: "Faith for my deliverance is not faith in God. Faith means, whether I am visibly delivered or not, I will stick to my belief that God is love. There are some things only learned in a fiery furnace."

Friend, what battles do you face? Are you in a "fiery furnace"? If so, take a deep breath. Retreat to the arms of God. Find comfort in the promises of His Word. Pray for the Holy Spirit's comfort.

1 Corinthians 10:13 promises us that "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)

Let me know if there is anyway I can pray for you today by emailing me at: Julie@juliegorman.com

Wanna put an end to the juggling routine?

2011-09-26T14:36:00.000-04:00

Today’s fast-paced society influences our life, distracting us from our mission, attempting to steal our joy. We think...Just one more plate...c'mon now...spin...spin...spin...and then wonder why plates drop all around us, plummeting past our wobbling knees, shattering on the ground by our feet.

Wanna Know The Secret? Wanna put an end to the juggling routine? Me too. But before I tell you the secret, let me just say I don't live it out perfectly; maintaining balance demands our constant attention and deliberate intention.

You see society says, juggle your career, ministry, family, friends, finances; it counsels to segment each part of our life focusing on one thing at a time...but the truth is life isn't categorized...our life can't be sectioned off...life is messy...it overlaps...and balance is an illusion left to "Leave It To Beaver" episodes. If we want balance, Jesus can't be segmented into portions or fractions of our life. We need Him at every moment of every day...seeking His counsel in our parenting...asking for His provision on our finances. We need to determine to listen to Him before we act...request His counsel in our friendships...and wait for His revelation in order to identify HIS PURPOSE and PLANS for our life.

Instead of inviting Jesus into our day...true balance begins when we step into HIS.

Now, that all sounds really nice and neat...but it isn't. You see, sometimes ministry impacts our career, which in turn impacts our finances, which in turn impacts our family, which in turn impacts...well you get the idea. Sometimes, God requires us to surrender our dreams to oversee the needs of our family and sometimes He calls us to put our family on hold for an immediate need in the ministry.

So then...what is the secret? How do we put an end to the juggling routine? Well it should come as No Real Big Surprise. The secret is something we all know we need to do...but have such a difficult time doing..The secret to balance is SURRENDER!

How do you surrender? My advice drop all the plates. (LOL.) I say that jokingly but also seriously...drop the plates...release your control...quit trying to DO IT ALL! Instead, invite God, day by day, minute by minute, into every decision, every action.

I've learned the arrogance of my pride and self-sufficiency can only remain dead while standing in the presence of the Almighty God. It's only in my revelation of His Power, His Authority, and His Sovereignty that I am able to relinquish mine.

Perhaps that is why, when Jesus was asked, "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" He replied: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment." (Matthew 22:36-39) You see, it's only when we seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, we can dare to hope all our other needs will be met. (Matthew 6:33)

If we want to break free from society's ingrained philosophies and the lies of the enemy, we have to step into a different culture, and live in the presence of The One Who empowers us, and reveals the secrets to living life as He intended. Only God can change our paradigms by offering counsel to impact every corner of a our life. If we fail to surrender to Him consistently, one by one we add the plates and begin the process all over.

To truly maintain balance we must relinquish our rights, our dreams, our ambitions, our ideas and exchange them for God's! It isn't ours to carry. It isn't ours to bear.

Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 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." (Matt 11:28-30, NIV)

PRAYER: Father, we know we need to surrender to You...and to the best of our ability we relinquish our rights, our vision, our passion, our power and exchange them for Yours. Fill us with ALL You have for us. In Jesus name, amen.

Don't Give Up--KEEP ON SWIMMING

2011-09-23T11:15:00.000-04:00

Hope is an amazing power: with it, men conquer great feats and overcome insurmountable obstacles...without it; they give in to a slow, agonizing, defeat.

I recently re-read a story about Florence May Chadwick, the first woman who attempted to swim the 26 mile stretch between Catalina Island and the California coastline. Fifteen hours after Florence began her chartered swim, a heavy fog set in, making it impossible to see the shoreline. She told her mother, who followed her in a boat to ensure her safety, that she didn’t think she could make it. She continued to swim for another hour before asking to be pulled out. Sitting in the boat, Florence discovered she was only one mile from her destination.

Friends, today, I want to encourage you to see your "shoreline"...to envision your end destination. Don't ever give up. Remember Who it is that called you. Hold fast to what He promised. Never forget Who you serve.

Romans 8:28-32 says, "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? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all — how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?" (NIV)

YOU are NOT alone. No matter how tired you are...no matter how thick "THE FOG" of your life sets in, attempting to destroy your hope...keep the Lord before you…remember His promises... envision your end destination…press on through your chartered course of life and reach your destined finish line!

DON'T GIVE UP! KEEP ON SWIMMING! God IS FOR YOU! And, IF GOD IS FOR YOU...who can stand against you?

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)

Have a great weekend! And thanks for being my friend.

What is Bravery?

2011-09-22T07:59:00.000-04:00

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!

Stop And Listen!

2011-09-21T11:21:00.000-04:00

In 1 Kings 19, Elijah fled to Horeb, to the mountain of God, hid in a cave, attempting to flee from Jezebel; he was on the run for his life. Tired, worn out, and hungry he sat alone in the cave; the last thing he'd eaten was a bread cake the Lord had prepared for him; the last thing he had requested is that he might die...that the Lord might take his life.

Though I've never fled from an evil, blood thirsty, queen, I have faced many battles with a similar blood thirsty adversary (the devil) and knew I couldn't go back...but (unfortunately) lacked the strength to move forward...Ever face similar struggles?

In situations like that...nothing satisfies except an encounter with the Living GOD.

When I find myself burdened, weighted, weary, and exhausted, I tend to search for God in the miraculous, wanting Him to shout His will from heaven, or to appear in a burning bush.

Elijah was no different...his desperate plea was the same...I JUST CAN'T GO ON! Speak Lord or just let me die! His past encounters with God no longer sufficed...He needed GOD...and he needed HIM NOW!

And...God graciously appeared to him...

But God wasn't found in the wind that blew so fiercely breaking pieces of the rocks of the mountain, nor was He found in the earthquake or the fire that blazed after...God revealed His voice in the gentle whisper that followed...

When confusion fogs our vision, chaos interrupts our mission, and calamity presents itself in every step of our journey...we have no choice but to STOP...WAIT...AND LISTEN! God is speaking but we have to get past the storms that break up our security, the earthquakes shaking loose all our well-laid plans, and the blazing fire of adversity attempting to destroy the foundations of our faith, and patiently listen for the still soft voice God promises will lead us.

Isaiah 30:20-22 says, "Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. 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)

Want good news?

Though Elijah's circumstances didn't change immediately ... God DID appear to Elijah and provided him with clear direction. God's word strengthened Elijah, equipped and empowered Him to press on, and filled with Him with HOPE.

FRIEND...GOD is our firm foundation, our hope and strength, our deliverance! Apart from Him we can do nothing...BUT...with HIM...ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE! He longs to speak to you. Will you incline your heart toward Him, listen intently, and receive HIS LIFE, HOPE and PEACE?

Jeremiah 29:12-13 says, "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." (NIV)

Join me today, stop what you're doing and listen intently! God is near!

PRAYER: Father, help me to never be so distracted by life’s events or the premise of how I think you should speak, that I somehow miss Your voice. I am weak. I am weary. BUT I WILL WAIT ON YOU. Speak Lord; I need to hear Your voice. Guide me. Teach me. Strengthen me. IN JESUS NAME, amen!

My Soul Thirsts for God

2011-09-20T11:25:00.000-04:00

Psalm 42:1-2, "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?" (NIV)

Ever have one of those days where tasks supersede the hours you have available to do? Me too! Take a deep breath! Ahhhhh. In moments like these, I remind myself to PAUSE...to remember What's MOST IMPORTANT. I STOP EVERYTHING and sneak away to allow the LORD to replenish.

I find deep encouragement as God lavishes me with HIS LOVE.

Friend, we can NOT do anything except GOD empower us. Jesus reminded Peter in Luke 18:27, "What is impossible with men is possible with God." (NIV)

Today, as I prayed for you, I felt compelled to pray for STRENGTH and REST. I know many face horrific challenges: cancer, struggling relationship, financial weights, wayward children, sickness, disappointment...and the list goes on and on.

But, NOTHING is impossible with God. And in the midst of our afflictions He supplies us with a peace that surpasses ALL understanding.

This is our one chance to demonstrate our faith...this side of eternity...to put our trust in what is unseen until the day we behold our HOPE. But our hope and faith is a gift of God. Discovered in moments of silence. Experienced when the CREATOR HIMSELF hushes our fears with whispered thoughts greater than our own.

I shared this verse yesterday, but felt compelled to share it again today: In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 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)

Our mission is to live abandoned to Him. To love Him. To serve Him. NOT to DO. NOT to ACCOMPLISH. But to FAITHFULLY FOLLOW and WATCH HIM DO THE IMPOSSIBLE.

So, will you join me, once again, and lay down the weights you've picked up? Surrender concerns? Your brokenness?

Today, take time to sit silent with the Lord...and He will FILL you with His grace, mercy, strength, love and peace.

Our Place of Shelter

2011-09-19T10:22:00.000-04:00

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." (Psalm 91:1-2, NIV)

This morning...Out of no where...a tropical shower poured down.

Oh NO! Sommer! I rushed to my daughter's bus stop, speeding past houses...thinking to myself: Oh! My poor baby girl. She's going to be drenched.

I whisked to the side of the curb. "Jump in!"

My daughter along with 5 other children piled into my car. Ah. She's safe...sound...and sheltered!

I couldn't help but think of God's love for me. The times He ran to my rescue. Searched me out in the storms of life. Provided safety...shelter!

Oh, I know...we are here to serve God. To spend our life for Him. To honor Him. To love Him. And that our purpose...our mission...is to be spent for Him! BUT...I also know that HE LOVES US PASSIONATELY.

His mission...His passion...is to walk with us. Since the Garden of Eden, He has longed to fellowship with man. His purpose is to lavish us with His love. Matthew 1:23 says: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel "-which means, "God with us." (NIV)

Wow. Think of it. God's passion is to demonstrate His love for us...to be near us...to rescue us!

Friend, YOU ARE NOT ALONE! As the storms of life blow in, the Father's heart whisks past all obstacles to search us out and provide shelter! He shares His whispers of love through passages of Scripture, like: Jeremiah 31:3--"I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness." (NIV)

Are you troubled? Overwhelmed? Tired? Or, feel like giving up?

Accept God's open invitation and find shelter for your soul--
Matthew 11:28-30--"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest . 29 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." (NIV)

He is our Place of Shelter. Our hiding place. Our refuge. Our Strength.

We Need Each Other

2011-09-14T10:45:00.000-04:00

Man, I wish I could introduce you to some of my friends. First, there is my husband. He is truly a leader of leaders. He inspires me to excellence. Encourages me when no one else can. Then there is Amy. Amy always seems to know exactly what to say and when to say it. Gotta love friends like that. Then there’s my mother in-law...yes..."in-law"... She sacrifices constantly to help me. Offers encouragement when I feel the weakest. And loves my kids like her own. And the list could go on and on.

I witness the evidence of God’s grace in the friendships He’s granted me.

Matthew 18:19-20 says, "Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them."

In order to truly walk out our God-given purpose we need one another.

This week I'm reminded even more just how important relationships are. So, I want to encourage you to list 2-3 people who have impacted your life. Write them a short word of encouragement.

Hebrew 3:13, "But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. "

Friends, we need one another. I know the thought is simple...but so often we go through life running from one task to another...In Hebrews 3 God's Word instructs us to encourage one another. So today...

Here are a few practical ways to Cultivate Relationships:

Make a list of people who have encourage you.

Make another list of people you feel you should encourage.

Then, very simply make a phone call or send a note to let them know just what they mean to you.

Make a practice of doing this once a day or at least two to three times a week.

After all... "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. (and) A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." Ecclesiastes 4:12

Thanks for allowing me the privilege of calling you my friend!

A Rare Friendship to be Honored...

2011-09-13T09:43:00.001-04:00

Don't you just love friends that "get you." You know, the kind of friend who really knows you but loves you anyway. The kind of friend who sees past all your weaknesses, encourages you, and views you in all your "FINISHED" potential.

Friendships like that are rare. And should NOT be taken for granted. They should be cherished and honored.

Romans 5:7-8, "Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

Friend, God saw us in our sinful state and demonstrated His love for us. He paid the ultimate price. He willingly sacrificed His life so that we could be made NEW. According to 2 Corinthians 5:17...We are a new creation...the old has gone...the new has come.

He believes in us. He has called us. He stands beside us. He willingly gave up His life for us.

A friendship like that is rare. It should NOT be taken for granted. It should be cherished and honored.

Today, if you're like me...you face many obstacles...see all your short-comings...and at times wonder HOW it will all come to pass...Be encouraged. God is near. He will NEVER leave you. AND WITH HIM...ALL THINGS are POSSIBLE. He is a friend that sticks closer than a brother. And in Isaiah He whispers, I will NEVER FORSAKE YOU...see I have inscribed you on the palm of my hands.

Let's honor God with our life. Let's trust Him for WHO He is. Let's believe HIM what He has promised.

Watch Your Giants Fall!

2011-09-09T13:52:00.000-04:00

Isaiah 66:9, "Do I bring to the moment of birth and not give delivery?" says the LORD. "Do I close up the womb when I bring to delivery?" says your God." NIV

"Breathe Julie...c'mon you can do it...only a few more seconds...you should be getting some relief in about five...four...three...two..."

"AHHHHHHHH." I breathed and thanked my husband for helping me through yet another grueling contraction. (My oldest took twenty one hours of tough labor...talk about exhausting.)

We've all heard the old cliche, "It's always darkest before the dawn." Unfortunately, the old cliche gives little comfort when your neck deep in quick sand with no visible life line.

It's tough to "keep your chin up" or "pull yourself up by your boot straps" when your strength is gone, your mind and body drained, and your faith diminished by enormous battles.

The only thing that seems to help me when I'm weak is a good story...like, Israel surrounded by giants; their defeat imminent, until a small boy with a small stone and sling arises from the crowd, decapitating the enemy, and reminding them Who they serve. Or, Gideon's army reduced to 300, yet victory emerges through "lanterns, broken pots, and an amazing God"...Or, what about Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednigo...not spared but thrown into the furnace, only to escape its fury and influence an entire kingdom to be saved.

I don't want to over-simplify your battles...I know the pain and weight of rejection and disappointment...I know what it is to be in hunger... I know how it feels to be "ship-wrecked" by life's storms...but I also know Who we serve.

Today, I want to simply point to Jesus. And remind you...your giants will fall...your war was already won through Jesus...your not alone in your fiery furnace! Jesus is near.

And as my husband coached me through grueling hours of labor, I want to remind you of what you're working for. I want to remind you of your dreams. Remind You of Who you serve and what awaits for you.

Our hope and our confidence rests in the One Who purchased and paid for the penalty of our sins.

God went to a great length to ensure your salvation. He won't fail you now! So endure, persevere, and come against your giants in the name of the Lord of Hosts...And, in due time, you will witness them fall!

Philippians 4:12-13 lets us in on a powerful secret to obtaining contentment; "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. NIV

Prayer: Father give us strength today. Fill us with the truth of who you are and regardless of our present circumstances, help us to know who we are in You! Thank you Lord that YOU are our life line...and when we feel neck deep, sinking in quick sand, You are there to make sure we escape. Fill us with courage remembering the battle is not ours...You've already won it and disarmed every principality and power of the air when Jesus died on the cross. We love You Lord. Fill each one of us with hope. In Jesus name I pray, amen.

Waiting for God

2011-09-08T12:23:00.001-04:00

“And the word of the LORD came to him: "What are you doing here, Elijah?" He replied, "I have been very zealous for the LORD God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, broken down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too." The LORD said, "Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by." 1 Kings 19:9-13

“God, are you there? Do you hear me?” I waited for God’s reply...and waited...and waited.

I listened intently, cleared my mind to receive His thoughts, His spurring, or a feeling of any sort...BUT for a few solid weeks...NOTHING!

I hate foggy moments of silence. Moments when God seems distant and disengaged. Moments when trials torment and circumstances cloud and confuse. Don't you?

Inevitably, as we search to discover God’s purpose, like Elijah, we will probably (at times) feel overwhelmed and seek refuge from life’s circumstances. We may even question: God did I miss You? Have I messed up? Are You still there?

1 Kings 19:9 offers us hope. God does speak—“And the word of the LORD came to him.”

Like Elijah, God has called, equipped, and designed each one of us for a specific purpose and will give us explicit instructions of what to do next.

So, today, as we journey to discover God’s purpose, let's listen closely for His instruction and respond accordingly. Position ourselves to hear His voice by finding a quiet place to pray. Let's ask the Lord to reveal His will for our life and sit quietly for a few minutes; then, wait for Him to guide us.

I want to encourage you...as you do this...be ready and write down any thoughts, verses, or promises He shares.

Prayer:

Father, help us to hear Your direction and know Your will. Give us clarity. Remove all fear and doubt. Invade our thoughts with Yours. Help us know Your will. In Jesus name, amen!

Ever Want to Shout, "DO OVER!"

2011-09-07T09:25:00.003-04:00

As a kid, when we swang hard but missed or ran to kick a ball but instead had it escape underneath our high-kicked leg...we'd shout "DO OVER!"

Oh how I wish life were that simple. Especially lately!

Proverbs 12:18, "Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." (NIV)

I'm not sure what happened between the ages of 39 and (now nearly) 42 but the lock that once securely staid fastened across my lips seems to have been unlatched. I find myself saying things and responding in ways that are at times unattractive.

Why didn't you...Why don't you...Why haven't you...

At times like these I want to shout out "Do OVER!"

Perhaps it's the consequence of getting older, being female, and being over 40...or perhaps...it's because of the busyness of my schedule and the demands of responsibility...or perhaps it's because I'm human and I've let down my guard and allowed the enemy to creep in...

Either way, I silently pray: "Lord, God, guard my speech. Let my words be kind, compassionate, and full of life. Guard my thoughts for out of the overflow of my heart my mouth speaks. Season my words with grace and mercy...especially to my family and those closest to me. In Jesus name, amen!

How about you? Ever struggle with your words? Say things you didn't mean to? Ever want to shout, "DO OVER!"

If so, you may find the following hints helpful as you take advantage of your "DO OVERS!" I know, I (for one) want to make sure I don't make the same mistakes.

Guard your thoughts and what you're thinking about. We may not like it. But the truth is, we speak what we meditate on. Matthew 12:34-35, "For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks." (NIV) Today ask yourself, "What am I thinking on? What do I dwell on? What consumes my emotions?"
Don't just guard your thoughts, control them. Philippians 4:8-9, "...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)
Practice Praise. Proverbs 18:21, "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit." (NIV) I want the evidence of my love for God and others to honor, uplift, and bring life. So much of what we say and do results out of our habits. Ask yourself: Is what I'm about to say uplifting? Does it promote life? Is it seasoned with God's mercy and grace?

I want to invite you to join with me today LIVE at 12 PM EST or listen later to the archived broadcast. Today's Blog-Talk Radio Broadcast is devoted to exploring the ways our words influence, inspire, and impact others at: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cwa-radio/2011/09/07/his-love-extended Hope you can join with us.

I want to encourage you, today--if you've hurt someone with your speech--ask forgiveness--and then make the most of the "DO OVER" they grant you.

PRAYER: Father, fill us with your grace, mercy, and unconditional love. Help us to meditate on what is pure, lovely, and of a "GOOD" report. And season our words with yours. Cause us to reflect your love in all we say. May our speech always inspire life. In JESUS name, amen.

Waiting Patiently...

2011-09-06T10:15:00.000-04:00

I have so much to do. C'mon. I thought.

The school line was exceptionally long.

I hate traffic. C'mon people. Move it! I've got stuff to do! I don't have time for all of this...

There are many places in life that I am "FORCED" to wait. Lines at restaurants, doctors offices, carpool lines at school. Each serve as intrusions, interruptions, and inconveniences that frustrate me.

But, I'm learning that waiting on God can be something entirely different!

Oh, of course I get frustrated...but I'm learning to let excitement grow in me during what seems like "SEASONS of WAITING." Knowing and trusting that God is up to something.

David prayed, "In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation." (Psalm 5:3, NIV)

Today, I want to encourage you. Waiting on God is NEVER a waste of time.

I've shared this quote before, but felt impressed to share it again...G. Campbell Morgan wrote, "Waiting for God is not laziness. Waiting for God is not going to sleep. Waiting for God is not the abandonment of effort. Waiting for God means, first, activity under command; second, readiness for any new command that may come; third, the ability to do nothing until the command is given." (http://www.sermonillustrations.com/a-z/w/waiting_on_god.htm)

I love this quote because it offers underlying encouragement and words of instruction:

Remember, God wastes nothing. Be patient. God is moving. Waiting on God is "activity under command."
Be ready. At any moment, God will share what you need to do next. Isaiah 30:21-22, "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)
Finally, 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)

PRAYER:
Father, fill us with YOUR peace, strength, wisdom, and lead us by the POWER of YOUR HOLY SPIRIT. Help us not be discouraged or distracted. Help us to live fully surrendered to YOUR will and YOUR purpose. Speak clearly that we might obey. Empower us that we might fulfill. And comfort us...with YOUR amazing PRESENCE.

Stop! Drop! Roll!

2011-09-02T10:14:00.000-04:00

Today I travelled back in my memories to my 2nd grade class. Pencils nicely positioned on my desk. I can still envision my steel framed, wood-topped desk and chair.

Remember the fireman drill? The instruction of what to do in case of fire?

C'mon. I know you can say it with me: Stop...Drop...And, Roll?

I've learned to keep this little drill in the back of my mind and have made my own "SPIRITUAL" application for when the trials of life rage against me and circumstances seem overwhelming....

Hope you find meaningful application too! :)

Stop: Grace and mercy are obtained when we wait upon the Lord. "They that wait upon the Lord, will renew their strength!" (Is. 40:31) Take time to pause before God. Remember Who He Is. He is good. He is faithful.
Drop: Weariness fades when we draw near to God and drop the heavy weights that we've picked up. Drop trying to "achieve," "accomplish," or "acquire." We should have one single mission in life to love, serve, and honor God...to seek Him above all other things.
Roll: Roll with the flow of His Spirit. It's not by our might. It's not by our power. It's by His Spirit. And His Spirit breathes forth life. I constantly remind myself to quit trying to live in my own power. It's from Him, through Him, and by Him that all things were created...I am simply called to love Him and faithfully follow where HE leads.

Friend, we have to ask ourselves: Who do I really believe God to be? Do I believe He Is Faithful?

Genesis 17:7-8 declares God's promise: I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you." (NIV)
I want to encourage you today:

STOP being so busy and spend time alone with God.
DROP any fear, worry, or doubts and replace them with the truth of His Word (the bible.)
And, ROLL with the punches of life. Bask in God's GLORY. Know Who HE is and hold fast to His promises.

God is faithful. HE KEEPS HIS PROMISES. So, until next week, Remember to Dream Big. Laugh Often. Know that God has it all under control!

Does God's Silence Equate God's Absence?

2011-09-01T11:05:00.002-04:00

I was reading about the life of Esther. Esther lived during a tumultuous time for the Jews. A man named Haman sought to destroy God’s people. In Esther 3:12-14 we read, “Dispatches were sent by couriers to all the king's provinces with the order to destroy, kill and annihilate all the Jews — young and old, women and little children — on a single day, the thirteenth day of the twelfth month, the month of Adar, and to plunder their goods.” However, God had a different plan and long before Haman sought to completely destroy God’s people, God positioned Esther to win the heart of King Xerxes and become his queen. Esther served God where she had been position and as she interceded and bravely interacted with King Xerxes, God saved an entire Jewish nation from annihilation. As I studied Esther's life, an interesting fact stood out. Esther was taken into King Xerxes palace in the 3rd year of His reign but did not become queen until the 7th year of his reign.

IMAGINE! Four years of silence! Four years of preparation! Surely Esther questioned, "WHY am I in this palace? What is the purpose of all of this?"

As I thought about this time of "waiting." I thought about David. In 1 Samuel we see Samuel anoint David to reign as Israel's future king. But then what happened?

I know I'd be thinking, Woo-hoo...palace here I come! But, according to Scripture, David went back to tending sheep.

Whew. More waiting!

Today, I reflect on my own life. I thought about how easy it is to get side-tracked and discouraged in the "waiting" times of life.

How about you? Ever get discouraged by the in between time? The time in between 'entering the palace and being positioned as queen?' Ever question "Why am I out here with these sheep? Wasn't I supposed to be in the palace?" Oh, we don't ask those specific questions. Ours are more like: "God didn't you promise..." "Didn't you say...." "Then why is .... happening?"

Friend, be encouraged. God's silence DOES NOT equated God's absence. He promises in Jeremiah 29:11-14, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back from captivity."

God is near. His plans are good. He is faithful. So consider this...While David tended the sheep, he learned to kill the bear. A skill that helped bring down Goliath. A 'feat' that ultimately positioned him in the palace.

I have a peaceful feeling that what we consider 'wasted years' actually prepare our character to receive the promise God gave; they refine our way of thinking and teach us to rely on GOD'S power, NOT our own.

A Seemingly Small Revelation...

2011-08-30T12:38:00.000-04:00

In John 1:48-50, Nathanael asked Jesus, "How do you know me?" "Jesus answered, "I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you." Upon hearing Jesus response, "Nathanael declared, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel."

What a strange response. What stirred Nathanael to declare Jesus as the Son of God...the King of Israel...from such a seemingly small revelation?

Was Nathanael hungry for recognition? Was his soul starving for the miraculous? Did he long to know his life mattered? That someone noticed him? That JESUS would single him out and know where he was in the smallest details of his life?

Hard to say what provoked Nathanael to readily declare "YOU are the SON of GOD."

Yet, I know in my own life, its the moments I feel the most insignificant that Jesus surprises me the most. The moments where I feel "unnoticed." The moments that seem common and ordinary...but HE shows up and whispers "I see you. I saw you at the school. I saw you tuck your kids in bed. I saw your slow response to anger. I noticed YOU in the grocery line..." and gently reminds me that HE sees ME! WOW!

Friend, to God...we are NOT obscure. And though our life is here to honor HIM and be spent for HIM (not on our own desires), I am so grateful that HE is intricately intertwined in our "everyday."

Be encouraged. God sees you! He sees you in your marriage. He sees you in your work place. He notices you in your going outs and your coming ins. Your circumstances do NOT escape His notice. May our faith be stirred to know...that we are NEVER alone.

Jeremiah 31:3-4 declares a promise; it says: "The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness. I will build you up again and you will be rebuilt..." (NIV)

My Painful Realization

2011-08-29T11:08:00.001-04:00

Wouldn't it be great to start a support group (like alcholoic's anonymous) and entitle it "Self-a-holic's Anonymous."

We might start by saying, Hi. I'm ___________, and I'm a "SELF-a-holic."

What does a Self-a-holic look like?

Well for me...I see traces of it in the grocery line, when someone has 45 items in the less than 20 item lane. When my kids interrupt my thoughts with "Mommy. Mommy. Mommy." Or, when friends never seem to notice that I need occasional encouragement too." Then there's my neighbors, whose parties interrupt my good-night's sleep...the audacity--and never give a second thought to the condition of their soul!

Self. SELF. SELF! In Genesis 4:7, God warns Cain, "sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must master it." (NIV)

Friend, today, I don't want to be mastered by "SELF." I want to LIVE for GOD. Take up my cross and follow where He leads. Prefer the NEEDS of others over my own. Extend GOD'S love. Demonstrate HIS MERCY (in my family, my workplace, my life)!

As I researched AA'sTwelve Step process this morning, I patterned similar steps that may help us resist our addiction to "SELF."

Admit our powerlessness. Romans 5:6-8, "..when we were still powerless...God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." (NIV)
Believe God can restore. 1 Peter 5:10-11, "And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen." (NIV)
Make a decision to turn our will and life over to God. Matthew 16:24-25, "...If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it." (NIV)
Take an inventory of our tendency to protect, provide, and cater to "self." 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. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded." (NIV)
Admit to God, ourselves, and other the nature of our wrongs. James 5:16, "...confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." (NIV)
Be completely surrendered to allow God to remove our tendency of "self." Joshua 24:15, "...choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve..." (NIV)
Humbly ask God to remove our sins. Matthew 6:9-13, "This, then, is how you should pray: "'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.'" (NIV)
Be reconciled with others. Matt 5:23-24, "Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift." (NIV)
Ask for God's wisdom to make amends whenever possible without causing further injury. James 1:5, "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." (NIV)
Continue to examine our life and when we fail ask for forgiveness. 1 John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." (NIV)
Seek an intimate relationship with God. Pursue Him with all you've got. Jeremeiah 29:13, "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." (NIV)
Finally, carry the hope of Christ to others. 2 Corinthians 4:5, "For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake." (NIV)

Friends, will you join me today, taking up our cross, promoting JESUS, and serving others?

Today, I encourage you to join me with this final word of encouragement and call to ministry:

2 Corinthians 5:17-21 says: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." (NIV)

(You can see AA's 12 step list at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Twelve-Step_Program)

Why???

2011-08-26T08:40:00.000-04:00

The last few years have had its share of unexpected twists and turns. Disappointments. Frustrations. And...occassionally moments of devastation!

Why? WHY? WHHHHHHYYYYYYY?

Oh how many times I've thought, whispered, even shouted this question towards heaven. Today, I'm keenly aware of the hopelessness people feel. I'm painfully aware that many of you are walking through moments of devastation...darkness...feeling helpless and hopeless.

Yesterday, I learned that my uncle took his own life. What led to so much hopelessness? What caused so much despair that he had no hope left? My heart breaks for his wife, his children...

Today, I feel a deeper sense of hurt for the broken and don't want to miss an opportunity to say, JESUS really IS and CAN BE your HOPE.

Friend, I want to encourage you...YOU are NOT alone. GOD IS NEAR. Even at our darkest moments He whispers I will never leave you or forsake you. I am the God that upholds you by My righteous right hand. My mercies are new every morning.

If you are hurting or need prayer, you can email me at julie@juliegorman.com or message me at http://www.facebook.com/juliemillergorman

A verse I've quoted many times throughout my life is found in Psalm 62:5-8; I hope it encourages you: "Find rest, O my soul , in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge." (NIV)

The Essence of Prayer

2011-08-25T09:33:00.000-04:00

"Prayer is the outstretched arms of the child for the Father's help. Prayer is the child's cry calling to the Father's ear, the Father's heart, and the Father's ability. Prayer is the cry that the Father is to hear, the Father is to feel, and the Father is to relieve." (E.M. Bounds, Thy Will Be Done, page 22.)

Like many of you, I didn't have the ideal childhood. Actually, growing up, I endured abuse of every kind. What should have been a place of refuge became a place I wanted to escape.

I viewed a "father-figure" through tainted lenses. Abusive. Angry. Aloof. Easily agitated. At best...Unconcerned.

I knew God was different...but unknowingly equated similar attributes to God. For years, I attempted to "merit" God's love. "Earn" His approval. Capture His affection. I tip-toed trying desperately to walk a "straight-line" and lived beneath the oppressive weight of legalism.

Though I loved God passionately, my relationship with Him was strained by ill-conceived perceptions. But God's love and grace shattered my misconceptions, revealing a love so personal, so intimate, that I couldn't help but bask in "HIS FATHERHOOD."

How about you? How do you view God? Is He distant? Detached? Disengaged?

When you pray do you expect God's interaction and intimacy?

Do you ascribe Him the honor and holiness He deserves? Or do you pray out of obligation, habit, careful to pay particular attention to perfecting "the practice of prayer."

Jesus said, (in Matthew 6:9-13) "This, then, is how you should pray: 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.' (NIV)

As I reflected today on Jesus instructions a couple of things struck me: However, I want to be careful to point out that I am not trying to provide "A MODEL" for prayer as something that needs to be adhered to in the strictest form...Rather I hope to reveal "THE CONFIDENCE" we should have in our prayers.

Matthew 6:9-13 teaches us that:

Praying to the Father necessitates reverence...incites intimacy...and demonstrates that the very essence of our prayers should denote expectations of God's provision, protection, and Presence.
Jesus expresses that as we come to Him, we honor Him for WHO HE IS. Reflecting on His attributes. That He is Holy. Powerful. Yet Personal.
His instructions further demonstrate the need for our submission and surrender. "YOUR kingdom...Your will." Prayer must not be selfish. It changes us. Shapes our desires to align with HIS.
Prayer denotes that GOD will indeed supply for our NEEDS. Scripture is filled with examples, promising us to expect that whatever we ask in His name, in accordance with His will...we should expect God to move on our behalf. If we don't believe that...why on earth would we bother to request His intervention and help?
Jesus model for praying also exposes the condition of our heart and our dependence on God's grace. It reveals who we are in light of WHO GOD IS and in light of His GRACE, HOLINESS, and MERCY...we can't help but respond with forgiveness for others. Recognizing that our response to God's grace should be grace for others.
Finally, prayer invites God's power to overcome! Our Father empowers us to overcome temptations, filling us with His Spirit, changing us to reflect His image.

Friend, God reminded me that prayer is powerful and personal.

So as we pray...let's truly remember to WHOM we are praying. Let's allow Him to align our motives and desires with His. And live expectant knowing that (as Jesus promised) "If (we) believe, (we) will receive whatever (we) ask for in prayer." (Matthew 21:22, NIV)

Does Adversity Equate God's Displeasure?

2011-08-24T10:15:00.000-04:00

Ever get disillusioned by set backs; pushed down by opposing forces; dis-heartened by discouraging circumstances?

If we're honest, we'd all have to shout a resounding, "YES!"

I gain so much comfort from Jesus' words in John 16:33, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

No. I'm not happy about the reality of this verse. Truth be told...I'm rather adverse to "trouble." I'd like to avoid it. But, I gain confidence in knowing that the trials I endure are NOT strange (1 Peter 2:20) and that my hardships will help to develop perseverance and perseverance will help to produce character. (James 1:5)

Today, I felt compelled to remind you that adversity DOES NOT equate God's displeasure.

Sure, sometimes discipline comes as a result of our sin...and in those moments we need to reflect and repent.

But, other times adversity provides the opportunity for our development...our character...and a greater intimacy with God.

Regardless, Jesus' love for us remains. Romans 8:35-39 asks, "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? ... and then replies, "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)

So today, if you encounter "set-backs" or feel as if you are being tested...take a moment to reflect and allow God to reveal the truth. Ask:

Who am I serving? We do well to serve what I affectionately call "The Audience of One." "God." People will always have their opinions. They may misjudge. But if we follow after God and the truth of His Word...remaining faithful to "HIS" call, we can't go wrong.
Have I gotten off track? Is there anything I need to ask for forgiveness for? Am I following God's lead or blundering off in my own direction? Examine. Refocus. And zone in, recommit to GOD'S mission.
WHO am I promoting? Jesus or self? In my relationships...do I demand my own way or prefer others needs over my own?
What do I believe? Have I accepted Satan's 1/2 truths? Bought into his lies that I'm not good enough? Or do I rely on the truth that I can do all things by God's grace and His grace alone?

Finally, in the midst of trials...I have found 2 things that help...2 things that help encourage me when I feel distraught...

Remember Who God is. That He is good. That His love for me endures forever.
Second, Recall what HE has promised. God will accomplish all HE has promised. So...when I become fearful, weighted by my circumstances, or feel overwhelmed...I remind myself of WHAT HE has promised and that He is faithful!

Today, be encouraged...God is near. Adversity doesn't equate His displeasure. If you need to repent...do so. God's love for you is endless. You are NOT alone.

God Chose You!

2011-08-23T08:22:00.000-04:00

Ever feel unworthy? If so, you are not alone. We’ve all hesitated to step forward, at one time or another, thinking, I’m nothing special.

But, there’s good news!

Though the world measures success in terms of dollar signs, achievements, and notoriety; God’s definition of success is defined by obedience and our surrender to Him.

In Mark twelve, “Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything — all she had to live on."

Like the widow, when we offer God everything we have, it isn’t the amount we give that impress Him; it’s our willingness to give Him all we have.

The truth is God determined our purpose long before we ever took our first breath. He spoke to the prophet Jeremiah, saying: "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart…” Likewise, God designed us distinctly for a purpose. He equipped us with everything we need to complete His mission. Scripture says, “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.”

So, are you ready for a truth that invokes hope and builds faith? Here it is; God chooses imperfect and implausible people to do amazing things. He really does! In order to truly embrace our God-given purpose we must surrender counterfeit meanings of success, personal agendas, and prideful passions. We don’t earn God’s love; neither do we earn our purpose. We have purpose because God chose us.

Today, I want to challenge you to step into the design God has for you; remove faulty thinking; and enjoy the life God intended for you! Take a few moments to participate in today's challenge...

Today's Challenge
Answer this question: What thoughts hinder you from stepping out to follow God’s purpose? _______________________________________________________________
Now, replace those thoughts with a truth from God’s Word. _______________________________________________________________

Don't Worry...Choose Life!

2011-08-22T10:04:00.000-04:00

"What'cha thinkin' 'bout, Mommy?"

"Huh?"

"What'cha thinkin' about?" My nine year old repeated.

Now there's a reality check. Endless lists (of what still needed done) echoed over and over again in my mind. The day (meant for fun, sun, and rest) was distracted by thoughts of work.

I hate to admit it, but I sometimes struggle to enjoy what is before me. How about you? Are you ever so future-minded that you fail to enjoy the moment?

I remember being about seven months pregnant (in the heat of summer). My feet swollen...my skin stretched...I was worn-out and ready "to be done." But, in the midst of my frustrations, the thought occurred to me: This will be the last time you get to experience pregnancy; soak in every kick; embrace and enjoy the process!

Today, as I think about "embracing the process" and "enjoying what is before me" I immediately think of Jesus' command, in Matthew 6:31-34, "...do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' ... your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself." (NIV)

In Deuteronomy 30:19-20, Moses said, "This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him." (NIV)

Two great instructions, filled with wisdom and life:

Don't worry. And,
Choose life.

Friend, no matter what we face...God is with us. He equips us. Empowers us. And provides us with wisdom and strength.

So, today, let's choose life. Let's choose to laugh. Love. And, LIVE life to its fullest. Remembering, that with God ALL things are possible.

Let's DREAM BIG. LAUGH OFTEN. And, REMEMBER, God's got it all under control!

Run! Press On! Never Give Up!!!

2011-08-19T13:01:00.000-04:00

Run! Press on! Never Give up!!!

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!

What Does God Require?

2011-08-18T09:06:00.002-04:00

Somewhere between the genuine prayer of my heart that cries out, "Lord, what can I do to demonstrate my love for you? How can I honor you? What is your specific purpose for my life?" and my aspiration of significance and struggle with pride...I pick up a weight that was never mine to carry. If I'm not careful, my tendency is to get preoccupied with "busyness." And strain beneath the weight of "achieved accomplishments."

How about you? Ever get side-tracked "DOING" for God or reduce your devotion to works of service rather than an intimate relationship? Does your ambition to "Do GREAT things for God" ever distract you from embracing the joy of simply walking in a love relationship with Him?

Today, I'm reminded (yet again) that God desires my love, my surrender, my humility. His grace cannot be earned...only appreciated. My service doesn't merit MORE of God's love; it's merely an expression demonstrating my gratefulness.

Micah 6:6-8 reveals what God requires: "With what shall I come before the LORD and bow down before the exalted God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousand rivers of oil? Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? 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)

But, how can I act justly? How can I love mercy? How can I walk humbly WITH my God?

To act Justly--Doesn't acting justly mean to be impartial? To be truthful in all our interactions? To be fair? In all our dealings do we demonstrate genuine righteousness? Do we show more favor towards those who can influence our blessings? Let me break it down a little more transparently...I remember years ago how I demonstrated respect to my employer but struggled to keep from lashing out and nagging my husband. Today, I judge my motives and ask God to reveal the truth...why do I do what I do? Do I demonstrate righteousness in my thoughts? When others look at my life do they see a life devoted to a higher standard? Am I living Philippians 2:3-4 in ALL my relationships (at work, at home, at church, in my family, in my friendships, in ministry)? It says, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." (NIV)

What does it mean "to love mercy"? Doesn't it mean to show com compassion, to extend kindness and offer forgiveness? Again I think to myself, am I demonstrating understanding with those closest to me? Am I generous in overlooking the shortcomings of others? Do I love and offer up prayers for my neighbor or do I judge them and spout off my frustrations at their loud, invasive, late night parties? Am I patient with my children? Benevolent toward strangers? Forbearing with offenses? Do I extend blessing in my thoughts, my words, and in my actions? WHEW!!! Talk about my complete inadequacies!

Which brings me to a position of dependence...and what God really desires--HUMILITY! DEPENDENCE! SURRENDER!

How can we walk humbly WITH our God? For me, it's simply recognizing I CAN'T do ANYTHING without His grace, favor, or empowerment. He is the giver of the very breath I just breathed. It's only by Him, and through Him, that I can do ANYTHING.

So, I humbly pray...

Father help me to be unassuming, unpretentious, and respectful in all my actions. Forgive me for my arrogance in thinking "I" have anything to offer except my complete gratefulness. Empower me to simply serve You in obedience and surrender, submitting to your desires, reverent to You in my thoughts, words, and actions.

LIVE with PASSION!

2011-08-16T10:09:00.001-04:00

Could passion and purpose be synonymous? Could it be that as we press in to God he actually "GIVES" us the desires of our heart?

Psalm 37:4 says, "Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart." (NIV)

I believe the more intimate our relationship with God is, the more we automatically long for what he longs for. The more our love for Him deepens, the more we passionately desire the things He desires.

Matthew Henry's Commentary points out that, "He has not promised to gratify all the appetites of the body and the humours of the fancy, but to grant all the desires of the heart, all the cravings of the renewed sanctified soul. What is the desire of the heart of a good man? It is this, to know, and love, and live to God, to please him and to be pleased in him." (from Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible: New Modern Edition, Electronic Database. Copyright © 1991 by Hendrickson Publishers, Inc.)

In short, it's NOT that God shows up like a "spiritual genie" to grant our three wishes or every desire...but that as we pursue God...seeking Him first...loving Him with ALL our heart...He actually conditions, molds, and changes our desires to walk in step with His.

Want to live with PASSION? LOVE what you do? LIVE fulfilled?

Friend, over the past few years GOD has taught me an amazing truth. OUR PASSION is OUR PURPOSE. As long as we walk surrendered, pursuing God passionately, seeking His favor and presence...the overflow of what we love defines our purpose.

Love to cook? Surf? Construct? Design? How about teach? Write? Sing? Did you know you could use what you love...your passion...what you enjoy...to glorify God?

God filled each one of us with unique gifts. He gave us each different passions so that together we could win the world through our every day witness.

OK, maybe I'm rambling a little...but my point is simple. Today, I challenge you to simply ask: God, how can what I LOVE to do, glorify you? How can I use the natural gifts gave me, the things that come naturally to me, to impact the eternal?

Our purpose shouldn't be a drudgery. We weren't designed to live a miserable existence. Jesus said, "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." (NIV)

Action Steps for Today:

Make God your main pursuit!
Once step one is in place, examine what you LOVE to do.
Ask God how you can use that passion (even if it seems ordinary, too natural, or insignificant) to honor Him.

Friend, you were DESIGNED on purpose for a purpose. So, ask God what it is!

Who's With Me?

2011-08-15T09:23:00.001-04:00

In Habakkuk 3:17-18, Habakkuk declared, "Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. (NIV)

Habakkuk had discovered the only place true joy exists--in God his savior. He understood the secret of contentment and living above life's circumstances is found only in a life centered on God.

If we equate Habakkuk's prayer to make it our own, it might sound something like this. When there isn't anything budding for our future hope, when there is no savings account to fall back on, when our day to day living has failed and all of our hopes and aspirations are crushed, when our plan B fails and we have nothing left to sustain us..."YET WILL WE REJOICE and be JOYFUL in GOD OUR SAVIOR."

Friends, the only way we maintain that kind of hope is by fixing our eyes on Jesus.

Hebrews 12:2-3 encourages us saying, "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." (NIV)

You see, it’s one thing to say we choose Jesus and a whole other thing to live it out.

What do we do when the $ isn’t there? When our loved one doesn’t get healed? When the doctor gives a poor diagnosis? When our children lash out despite our efforts to raise them in a godly home? What then?

Following God and choosing Jesus gets muddled. Jesus isn’t always right up in our face…so many other things vie for our attention. Let's get honest with ourselves and bravely take a spiritual inventory of our lives by asking: What are we running after? What monopolizes our time and energy? What has the potential of stealing our joy? When we face opposition do we try to sort it all out and as a last resort turn to Jesus? Do we reach out to others before we whisper prayers for help? Are we seeking Him first? His kingdom? His righteousness?

If we want to live lives of joy we need intentionally choose Jesus. We do that by:
TIP 1: Every morning choose to live life as if it were our last day. Laugh. Sing. Dance. Spend time with the ones who matter most. Enjoy the breath God gave.

Tip 2: Develop an attitude of gratitude. Learn to say thank you. Express thanks for what we have. Paul shared I have learned to be content. This is a man who was beaten and left for dead 5 times. Imprisoned. Shipwrecked. Yet he wrote, rejoice in the LORD always. Again I will say it, rejoice! An attitude of gratitude looks for the blessings and defies selfish, self-centered living. We need to begin each day with a word of thanks.

Tip 3: We need to monitor what we’re putting into our life...evaluating what we are watching...and reading.

Tip 4: Put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. Every day we need to practice praise and meditate on what is true. Which brings us to our final tip…

Tip 5: Get alone with God in a quiet place and read His Word. If we want to hear God’s voice. We have to spend time with Him. "His word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path."

I sure haven't perfected this; but today, I'm committed to press forward. Who's with me???