from Honey

Shining Night

2012-01-21T19:07:00.000-08:00

At the end of the day, as her eyes see the last rays of sun and lashes catch the first moonlight, she slips into a quiet slumber. A pleasant dream begins on an uninhabited beach with a backdrop of tropical forest. Nothing has ever been as splendid as that cool summer’s eve, a shining night along the shores of the deserted sand. Yet, walking through it, she felt strings of emotions coming from within her, reaching out in search of something.

She stood to watch in awe as the sun brought an end to the day, shimmering bright across the plain of ocean water. Caught for a moment by the systematic sound within the waves as they overtook the shoreline, creating a rhythm in the midst of silence, she felt the beating of a loving heart. The stir of continuous rushing water ended in a pattern of calmness as it blended with the sand. In that pause, she felt a variation of thoughts among strings of separate emotions, an overflow of hidden anxieties sparked by her imagination. Unsettled, she knew that she was there in search of something. She had to find it. Only then, might she be able to find her dream’s answer, possibly even find peace on that shining night.

Her eyes wandered back and forth along the beach. Standing there in sort of a daze, she could seemingly watch the trees grow in their magnificent beauty. They reached effortlessly into the sky, as the long slender leaves swayed in the wind. It was as if each branch were a feather, gracefully taking hold of the air. Force from a sudden strong breeze threw her hair over her shoulders, causing a feeling of captivation to overwhelm her. She could even smell the fresh tropical air in every touch of wind that blew past. As she stood motionless and her feet searched for a permanent position to stand firmly, she remembered why she was there. Sinking slowly into the moist coolness of the sand, the insistence remained with her to continue her journey, to find what she was searching for on that shining night.

As she continued to follow the shore, she heard the cries of seagulls as they flew above to their perches along the rocky cliffs piercing the edge line of trees in the distance. The squawking and hacking brought the appearance of life to the beach. Although evening had begun, both the sun and moon kept her in awe, waiting for her to find what she searched for, from one end of the beach to the other.

Enduring the journey, she stumbled and fell on the stones that were scattered in the sand. The scene was beautiful and captivating, so much that it distracted her from the purpose of the dream. She would stumble and fall, wounded and bruised, regaining her composure. Then, again, stumble and fall. The sense of urgency rose inside, but the ground was unrelenting. She faltered more and more with each stride she took. Recovering her footing, she would only just fall again. This continued, it seemed, forever.

Then, in an instant, she knew she was there. Coming to the end, there were no more beaches or sand to follow, only the last of the moon on that shining night.

Her walk on the beach was not long, but long enough for discovery. On the waves that came into the shore, she saw him walking on the water, a silhouette within a new sunrise. She heard the beat of his heart as each new wave swept onto the shore. She felt his breath in the morning breeze upon her face. In a moment, he cleared a way through the strung out thoughts in her mind. Relief came to her emotions, release from so many tumultuous experiences. She found her peace in that dream with the appearance of her savior and God. The reality of freedom and forgiveness for a lifetime of struggles and sin came in His arms that shining night.

The alarm sounds, harshly awakening her ever-sweet slumber. Warmth glides across her flesh as the sun enters through the window. Although wishing to stay with her pillows and dreams, she realizes she must withdraw the cozy comfort of blankets from atop her. Opening her eyes to see a glimpse of sun rising, forever changed from the very pleasant dream, the evening she found her shining knight.

The Reason... - December Contribution

2011-12-14T16:39:00.000-08:00

We make perfectionist efforts to display our homes just right and to buy the best gifts, remaining hopeful that we’ll receive what we would normally feel guilty buying for ourselves. The discipline of staying true to a budget is overruled by in-the-moment shopping and bill payments get waylaid until the New Year. We can get lost in the elaborate preparation of meals and hors d'oeuvres, desserts and candy. Then there’s the emotions that fly around, in anticipation of the people we have never seen before and of those we’d rather not see at all, like the in-laws and distant cousins reserved for only once a year.

For some, Christmas Eve initiates the first gifts being unwrapped. For others, it begins bright and early Christmas morning. Although the kids may wake early, eager to discover what presents await them, adults are just as curious to see what new toys they got. We fumble through the wrapping paper and boxes, searching for the very last one to be opened. That’s followed by a quick tidying up before we enjoy the company of our families and friends. In the mix, we throw in snowball fights and sledding, everyone getting too wet and tired. At the end of the day, there are slumbering bodies amid the wired ones who had more than their fill of desert. Meanwhile, those who must return to their homes, make a list in their head of the exchanges they’ll be making as they head out the door. Friends and relatives staying over another night are given blankets and pillows for the stay.

Is Christmas just another excuse to get together or are we celebrating something important?

As the angel told Joseph in Matthew 1:21, “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”

"For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son,that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."John 3:16

Whose footprints are in the sand?

2011-07-15T01:00:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 55:8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts,neither are your ways my ways,”declares the Lord.

Most of us has heard that poem of the person walking on the beach, at one point there are two sets of footprints, and yet another point there is only one. Well, what we can gather that the writer is telling us, is that during the most trying times of our lives, the Lord will carry us through.

I was talking to a friend and I realized that sometimes we try to carry God. We can get so into our plans and our ideas about how things should be going that we miss the part that we should be relying on Him. In doing so, we wind up carrying Him instead of the other way around.

This is what I mean:
Although we may be attending church regularly, doing some bible study, and continuing our praying life, we continue our plans in our daily life instead of asking for His. So, in actuality, we fit Him in to our routine. We add Him into our ideas and plans.

Take a moment and ask yourself if you are trusting Him to carry you through every moment, not just the rough times, but everyday life.

Proverbs 14:12 "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death."

“My Ways Are Not Your Ways," Declares the LORD!

2011-07-14T02:00:00.000-07:00

At times in my life, I have found myself standing alone because of my own choices. I compare it to a child who stands in rebellion to authority, fighting change or wanting things their own way. One Saturday morning, spending time with God, He showed me a picture.

I saw the front line of an army, soldiers of the past, like the ones I’ve seen in the movies, with swords and shields and armor. They were in the desert, the line ran as far as I could see to the left and to the right. I stood before them. Then, the Lord took me to another view, I turned around so that I could see what this army was up against. As my perspective changed, I saw that it really was me that stood there with no armor & no weapons, only my hands on my hips saying as a child says in rebellion, “I don’t want to.”

A patient parent will let their child experience consequences for their actions: so did my father with me. I have experienced life my way. In essence, there I stood, saying to God, “I don’t want to do what your asking me to do. I don’t want to change.” Funny thing is, I didn’t have to learn the hard way. Isaiah 55:6 says, “Seek the LORD while he may be found. Call on him while he is near.”

My pride stood in His way. By my own doing, I was stripped of what I thought was real. I was left with only His creation: myself. Once I saw that life always comes back to God and His purpose, I knew I had to change my ways. But I had to go back to where I started. Honestly, that scared me, but was it any worse than what I had already been through? Facing the embarrassment as I took responsibility for my actions seemed far less painful than the hell I had brought myself to.

As Isaiah continues in chapter 55, verses 7-8, “Let wicked people abandon their ways. Let evil people abandon their thoughts. Let them return to the LORD, and he will show compassion to them. Let them return to our God, because he will freely forgive them. My thoughts are not your thoughts, and my ways are not your ways," declares the LORD. "Just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways, and my thoughts are higher than your thoughts." (GW)

My battles have not lessened or grown less frequent. These days, my battles are with my ways and my thoughts, not consumed with placing blame on anyone. As I yield, daily, to His ways, I take up His armor, His weapons, His protection. I change sides and become one with the body of Christ, fighting along side my new family. I am a part of something great.

“So I run—but not without a clear goal ahead of me. So I box—but not as if I were just shadow boxing. Rather, I toughen my body with punches and make it my slave so that I will not be disqualified after I have spread the Good News to others.” 1Corinthians 9:26-27 (GW)

“My ways are not your ways," declares the LORD!

Have You Put Your Armor On Today?

2011-07-13T02:00:00.000-07:00

I’ve been teaching about the armor of God in Ephesians 6:10-18. As I go through this with the children (grades K-3) at church, I am also strengthened and built up. As I also grow and mature as a Christian, I can look back and laugh at how I’ve learned about the armor.

Regarding the spiritual armor we’re supposed to have on at all times, there have been mornings that I have not put my armor on. I have left my belt hanging over a chair and my breast plate was still in the closet. I’ve gone out the door, but my shoes and shield were still sitting by the door from the night before. I set my helmet down on the kitchen counter on the way out and I leave my sword in the car when I get to the office.

As I look back at my spiritual recklessness, I laugh. Just think about how many times I’ve gone out into the world spiritually naked. It’s no wonder why the enemy was right there, ready to take advantage of me. It’s funny, because in my innocence, God was watching the entire time. God has kept a record of all the times the enemy took advantage of my innocence.

Now that I’m a little wiser than before and I know that I’ve been given armor, I have a vision. I am a part of the army of God, a part of a bigger picture. In the part that I play, as a soldier for Christ, I am able to prepare children for daily life, in ways that I never was prepared. I can teach them in ways that no one taught me.

So, have you put your armor on today?

Ephesians 6:10-18 (NKJ)
10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; 18 praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints.

When You've Done All To Stand, Keep Standing

2011-07-12T02:00:00.000-07:00

My previous testimony was one describing the overwhelming favor God has provided for me. He has touched each area of my life, proving once more how great he is.

So, what is my testimony now?

It is: when things are somewhat peaceful, I am being prepared for the storms to come. The more I speak His word, the stronger I become to remain standing.

“'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'” Jeremiah 29:11

Another season has begun in which I can bring the hope that I have been given. It is a confident expectation that He has great things in store for me. This hope is not as strong as it will be, but it is stronger than it used to be.

Can you see the tumultuous waves? Are they crashing down? Has it become dismal with frightening flashes of light and rolls of thunder?

As the howling winds and piercing waves of life beat at me, they do not destroy me. Storm clouds hover, trying to darken my thoughts, yet I keep my mind stayed on Him. Lightning strikes and thunder cracks loud in my ears, but I will not cower in fear. My feet may seem to have an unsure footing, still they are planted on the rock. I stand at the edge of what some may call an uncontrollable force thrashing through my days.

Will you look for the shimmer of light making its way to you through the clouds? Do you see that you are not drowning amid the chaos?

Remain standing.

When I awake each morning, I am reminded:

“Our suffering is light and temporary and is producing for us an eternal glory that is greater than anything we can imagine. We don't look for things that can be seen but for things that can't be seen. Things that can be seen are only temporary. But things that can't be seen last forever.” 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (GW)

Remain standing.

When my head lays upon my pillow at the end of a tiring day, my heart is at peace and my mind is at rest.

“I call aloud to the LORD, and he answers me from his holy mountain. I lie down and sleep. I wake up again because the LORD continues to support me.” Psalm 3:4-5 (GW)

I close with this, “For this reason, take up all the armor that God supplies. Then you will be able to take a stand during these evil days. Once you have overcome all obstacles, you will be able to stand your ground.” Ephesians 6:13 (GW)

When you've done all to stand, keep standing.

Photos: http://www.public-domain-photos.com/

A Warrior to Rise

2011-07-11T06:36:00.000-07:00

A battle begins before I rise each morning. The alarm sounds, harshly awakening my ever-sweet slumber. Warmth glides across my flesh as the sun enters through the window. I realize I must withdraw the cozy comfort of blankets from atop me. Oh, how I wish, at times, to stay with my pillows and dreams; to avoid hardships of this life. Nevertheless, as I open my eyes to see a glimpse of sun rising, I remember that Christ is the reason I live.

So, I strap on my armor, gather up my shield and sword to take on the world as a soldier of Christ. My first battle is one with my flesh. It cries and it screams to remain hidden from that press which calls me to arms, to uphold a cause for Christ.

Each morning that I rise from my bed seeking God first, I win my first battle for the day. Victorious in my response to the promise: as I lay down my life for Christ, He will cause a warrior to rise from within me. Walking in battles Christ already won, I choose to enter this battleground of life. I will enter rest again at twilight with the knowledge that life in Him is my great reward.

At the end of the day, as my eyes see the last rays of sun and catch moonlight in my lashes, I can rest because God comforts me. I will slumber in His peace, acknowledging that the moment I am in is one of renewed strength for the new battle that rages tomorrow.

Scriptures for study:
Mark 8:34-38
Matthew 16:24-28
Luke 9:23-27
Romans 1, 16
1 Corinthians 1
2 Corinthians 10, 11
Ephesians 1, 3, 6:10-20
Philippians 1, 4
Colossians 1, 2
1 Thessalonians 3, 5
2 Thessalonians 2, 3
1 Timothy 2, 4
Titus 3
Hebrews 11, 12, 13
James 4
1 Peter 4, 5
Jude 1

Changed: and Changing

2011-07-04T02:00:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how much God has changed me through the years. I am not the same person I was a year ago. With that said, the further I look back, I can see how my relationship with God is nothing short of a miracle. As I seek God wholeheartedly, not pulling back from Him through experiences this life brings, I grow stronger in all things because it is Christ who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:13)

In 2Corinthians 5:14-19, from God’s Word Version, it says, “Clearly, Christ's love guides us. We are convinced of the fact that one man has died for all people. Therefore, all people have died. He died for all people so that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for the man who died and was brought back to life for them. So from now on we don't think of anyone from a human point of view. If we did think of Christ from a human point of view, we don't anymore. Whoever is a believer in Christ is a new creation. The old way of living has disappeared. A new way of living has come into existence. God has done all this. He has restored our relationship with him through Christ, and has given us this ministry of restoring relationships. In other words, God was using Christ to restore his relationship with humanity. He didn't hold people's faults against them, and he has given us this message of restored relationships to tell others.”

As I continue to “be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord,” I know that in the Lord my labor is not in vain. (1 Corinthians 15:58 GW) I am confident of His love and grace, freely given to strengthen all those who dare to believe in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

The testimony I share is the one of Christ. That God loved everyone so much that He sent His son to die on the cross for our sins; that we may know God and have a personal relationship with Him, instead of calling His name only during crisis. He wants us to rely on His strength daily so that when troubles and trials come, we have the strength to endure and persevere.

Something to think about: when a house starts to burn, we may call the Fire department, but we do not blame them for starting the fire. When floods come, we may call the Red Cross, but we do not blame them for bringing it upon us. God's promise is to change us, mature us, if we will let Him, not to change our circumstances. I encourage you to let Him into your heart and make you that new creation He desires.

I will live for the pleasure of my King, Jesus Christ! Will you?

Where’s the Hope in That?

2011-05-01T01:30:00.000-07:00

“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what you do not see.”

Hebrews 11:1 NIV

Do I spend my days complaining about things in my life? Or do I find joy in the Lord, knowing that He is working out all things for the good of those that love Him? That sure sounds like hope to me, that He’s got things handled.

What about the hope I can find just knowing the strength I can have when I find His joy!

Wow! Perspective is a funny thing; it can take you down or lift you up. So what hope do you have today? The Word is filled with His hope. He promises strength for the weary, provision for the needy, life for the dying, and salvation for the lost. God is healer and provider, savior and life giver: so much more!

Many people don’t know His promises, or how great he is: so where’s the hope in that? We’ve got to be in the Word, reading the bible daily to find out how big our God really is. He wants to give you hope for every day, not just the hope we get when we receive His salvation.

Don’t get me wrong, salvation is huge and not to be taken lightly. But it’s only the beginning. He responds to our faith, that stuff that makes us sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. But what are you believing in?

Are you making things up as you go, according to your needs for the day or are you looking for what he has already promised. I’d recommend looking for His promises, because they are sure, they are right and just. You can’t go wrong because he is faithful to carry them out to completion.

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

Start asking God, seeking Him, and knocking on His door. His promise is that you will receive, you will find Him, and doors will be opened.

My prayer for you:

2010-05-19T12:04:00.000-07:00

"May there be peace within you today, as you trust that your steps are ordered of the Lord. You are exactly where you need to be.

May you remember the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in Christ as you listen to His instructions each day.

May you use the gifts that you have received from God, loving others selflessly as He first loved you; sacrificing His son so that you could be saved.

May you be content in every situation, not living in fear or worry, knowing that God will never leave you or forsake you. He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him and are called according to His purpose.

May you seek Him first and always call upon Him for wisdom.

May you call upon His strength to cast off the old ways of living, the fleshly desires, and remain steadfast and immoveable, always abounding in His work; assured that your labor for the Lord is not in vain.

May you always seek knowledge and let the joy of the Lord rise up so you can sing, dance, praise and love."

A Warrior to Rise

2010-05-02T01:00:00.000-07:00

The battle begins before I rise each morn
As warmth glides across my flesh
Sun entering through my window
Cozy comfort of my blankets
Must be withdrawn from atop me

Alarm sounds, harshly awakening
My ever-sweet slumber
How I wish to stay, at times
To not endure hardships of this life
But as I open my eyes to see
The glimpse of sun rising
I remember...
You are the reason I live

So I strap on my armor
Gather up my shield and sword
To take on the world
As a soldier of Christ
My first battle is one with my flesh
It cries and it screams
To remain hidden from that press
Which calls me to arms
To uphold a cause for Christ

Each morn I rise from my bed
I win my first battle for the day
For I am promised that as I
Lay down my life for Christ
He will cause a warrior
to rise from within me

My battles are already won
As I choose to enter
this battleground of life
I will enter rest again at twilight
With the knowledge that my life in Him
Is my great reward

Then as my eyes see the last rays of sun
And catch moonlight in my lashes
I can rest because He comforts me
I will slumber in His peace
Acknowledge that the moment I am in
Is one to be renewed in His strength
For a new battle rages tomorrow.

Wait a minute. That’s my heart, God.

2010-03-30T22:24:00.000-07:00

God wakes me usually in the early hours of the morning, while my defenses are down and I am most receptive. Sometimes it’s a thought or scripture that I am led to read. But most often it is a vision or an inspiration that I write down. This morning it was both.

This morning I saw myself in a hospital room. It looked like a scene from one of those CSI shows where the doctor has the dead body on a gurney and their chest is cut open. Well, I was the body, but I was alive. I look up and I see that it is actually an operating room, so in that, I am a little assured I will be okay after all. Then I see my surgeon is the Lord. Okay, I feel a little better; after all I am in good hands. But then I realize that I am cut wide open and He is going for my heart with a knife.

“Whoa! Wait a minute. That’s my heart, God. You can’t cut my heart.”

He points to my heart and says, “Look. I have to remove what’s dead. It has become a burden to you.”

I was actually able to look down and see what he was doing and I saw that a part was grey; it looked dead and was not moving. “Oh right then, but I’m starting to hurt. Can I get more anesthesias?”

God said, “You already have all that you need. Just lay back and let me work.”

Well, I started to get impatient, so I leaned forward to see how far He had left to go. I saw that He was removing my whole heart! “What are you doing? You said you were only going to remove a part of my heart. You can’t have the whole thing!”

“I said I have to remove what is dead and that happens to be the whole thing. I have a brand new one right here to replace it.”

“But that’s my heart! You can’t have my heart! Everything I am is in my heart. I will be lost without me! No one will recognize me anymore if you take my heart. All that I am is there!”

I grabbed my heart in my hands, jump off the operating table and began running through the hallways. But no matter where I ran or which way I turned, I always ended up right outside the operating room where God stood by the bed. He was not excited or worried that I was running around with my heart out of my chest. And when I finally looked beside me, there was the Holy Spirit keeping up with me. Running right alongside me wherever I went, watching the heart I held in my hands. He looked at my heart then up at me. “God is waiting for you.”

Finally, I stopped outside the operating room, still not wanting to go inside. “Do I have to start all over? If I give you my heart, do I have to learn what I already know all over again? I mean, there are things that I have learned about being a Christian, God. What about all the things I can do?”

“Stop thinking, rationalizing, and looking for the worst. I want to give you a new heart. I want to replace it with an obedient one. Even as you stand there holding your heart in your hands, you remain disobedient. You prayed that if you could just get someone to help you learn what you never were taught; you would be able to change faster. I am your Father, and I love you.”

There was a pause as I remembered my prayer through tears from just the night before. Reluctantly, “So…I have to give this to you now, don’t I?”

“Yes, you do.”

“But are you going to take away everything I had my hopes set on?”

“Everything will be okay. I love you and I have many things for you to do which you will find joy in. You will find your strength in me.”

With that, I awoke with one word in my mind, “Daily.”

I searched the Word for scriptures:

Psalm 16:7-11
I will praise the LORD, who advises me. My conscience warns me at night. I always keep the LORD in front of me. When he is by my side, I cannot be moved. That is why my heart is glad and my soul rejoices. My body rests securely because you do not abandon my soul to the grave or allow your holy one to decay. You make the path of life known to me. Complete joy is in your presence. Pleasures are by your side forever.

Psalm 68:19
Thanks be to the Lord, who daily carries our burdens for us. God is our salvation. Selah

Ezekiel 36:26
I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you. I will remove your stubborn hearts and give you obedient hearts.

Luke 16:15
But Jesus told them: You are always making yourselves look good, but God sees what is in your heart. The things that most people think are important are worthless as far as God is concerned.

My God Is More Than Enough, He Is El-Shaddai!

2009-11-14T20:31:00.000-08:00

No matter which way you say it, no matter which version of the bible you read it, we’re supposed to spread the Good news. Are the words that I speak “Good News” to those who hear them? Am I speaking words of desperation and defeat or words of victory and faith?

Here is some Good News: “My God is more than enough, He is El-Shaddai!” With that in mind, who am I to say anything that would give any impression that he is less than just that? Am I telling people through words and actions that I am defeated and desperate or do I make the announcement to those I meet that, “Today is a great day because my God is more than enough?” Do I proclaim on the mountain tops that my God is worthy of praise?

We are challenged to proclaim to the world the reality that God is our El-Shaddai. We are not to take hold of the reality that the enemy would like us to believe: that we cannot have more than what life gives us. Each day I lay down my life for the life that has been given to me through my Savior, Jesus Christ. The life he has given me is that of a warrior. I am never to stand without my suit of armor. I am to be prepared and ready to fight whatever enemy might be before me. I stand on the battlefront prepared for the enemy to attack, rather than hiding from my enemy or wandering aimlessly as prey for an ambush.

Those who have known me for a long time, have seen me in the past, cower with fear as life walked all over me. I embraced the lies of that enemy that stood over me. I saw myself as someone who deserved what I got, because I saw my failures. I couldn’t go a day without feeling unworthy to live.

I cannot say that one day I woke up and I felt different. My feelings didn’t change, but I did. God came back into my life. Through a prophet, he looked me straight in the eyes, held my face in his hands and said, “Is this really the life you want to live? Because I am not going to let you die. You will live.” I can tell you story after story of the times he has saved my life. I have had to remember them, not as badges or trophies, but as testimonies of how I got from where I was to where I am. The miracles in my life are countless. What once looked like the enemy trying to take me out, is now the reality of my God saving me—forgiving me.

I am not known as outwardly boisterous, extravagant in my praises. Yet, as I grow closer to my Lord, He is changing me. If he says I am to break the news that all is well, proclaim good times, announce salvation, and tell the world that “My God Reigns!”: He has given me what I need to do exactly that.

So, if you see that someone’s expression seems serious or it looks as if they may have had a bad day, pray for them. Remind them to proclaim His goodness and remember their testimony. We are alive because that’s what we’re here for, to live for Him, not for ourselves. We must also remember that each of us fights our fight of faith daily, and not every day is the same - but God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He directs our path, and we must choose to walk it, daily.

Today, I shout to you, “He is my El-Shaddai.”

Meanwhile:

2009-10-21T00:20:00.000-07:00

We’ve all been there: at a place where it doesn’t matter what anyone says to us. We feel like we have no other choice than to succumb to whatever life dishes out. There’s nothing we can do to change our circumstances. We have lost control and we’ve become helpless.

Meanwhile: God sends this message

Matthew 16:24-26 says, “Then Jesus said to His disciples, If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life shall lose it, and whoever desires to lose his life for My sake shall find it. For what is a man profited if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” (NKJ)

I’ve been there. I’ve wallowed in self-pity. I wouldn’t listen to those who were trying to get me to see the truth. “What about those people I see who seem to never have gone through what I’ve going through. There’s no way they could ever understand. They just don’t know what I feel.” Yet, they are usually the ones trying to help me.

Those people who seem to not be disrupted by situations in life are usually that way because they choose to be, not because they haven’t gone through any tough things themselves. They fight their fight of faith, trusting that God has everything under His control. Trusting that in their weakness, he is made strong.

Meanwhile: God sends this message

Hebrews 3:13 says, “You must encourage one another each day. And you must keep on while there is still a time that can be called "today." If you don't, then sin may fool some of you and make you stubborn.” (CEV)

At any time, if I wanted to, I could see any number of things I have no control of, that might be “tragedies.” Instead, I will turn to God, seek His face, rehearse His Word regarding every circumstance that comes my way. If I need help along the way, I will listen to those who know the truth, because it is the truth that will set me free.

Meanwhile: God sends this message

Psalm 100:1-5 says, “Make a joyful noise to Jehovah, all you lands. Worship Jehovah with gladness; come before His presence with singing. Know that Jehovah, He is God. He has made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise; be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For Jehovah is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endures to all generations.” (NKJ)

Imagine this: to be rescued from your enemies...

2009-10-01T22:48:00.001-07:00

"Death, like ocean waves, surrounded me,
and I was almost swallowed by its flooding waters.

Ropes from the world of the dead had coiled around me,
and death had set a trap in my path.

I was in terrible trouble when I called out to you,
but ... you heard me ...

Earth shook and shivered!
The columns supporting the sky rocked back and forth.

You were angry and breathed out smoke.
Scorching heat and fiery flames spewed from your mouth.

You opened the heavens like curtains,
and you came down with storm clouds under your feet.

You rode on the backs of flying creatures.
You appeared with the wind as wings.

Darkness was your tent!
Thunderclouds filled the sky, hiding you from sight.

Fiery coals lit up the sky in front of you.
...your voice thundered from the heavens.

You scattered your enemies with arrows of lightning.
You roared at the sea, and its deepest channels could be seen.

You snorted, and the earth shook to its foundations.
You reached down from heaven, and you lifted me from deep in the ocean.

You rescued me from enemies who were hateful and too powerful for me.
On the day disaster struck, they came and attacked, but you defended me.
When I was fenced in, you freed and rescued me because you love me."
2 Samuel 22:5-20

This is what my God has done for me!
I praise you, our LORD!
LORD Most High, who heard my prayer.
You are good to me, LORD.

Take a Drive With Me

2009-08-17T20:27:00.000-07:00

If you want to know what a person is really like, just go for a drive with them, but let them take the wheel. Not always will this work, but I have discovered things about people I never knew before, during a simple ride in the car.

I have had the opportunity to ride around town for the last week with someone I thought I knew. It may have been a bad week or they were just abnormally tense, but watching them behind the wheel made me think, “How well do I know them?” Don’t get me wrong, their driving skills were up to par, only their language not so much.

“The speed limit is 45 miles per hour, can we at least make it to 30, please?”
“This is why I don’t like driving through town, people who don’t know how to drive.”
“Oh yeah, sure, you can cut me off. I don’t mind.”
“The light is green and we’re stopping…what’s wrong with these people?”
“You know, if you would scoot over just a little I could actually get in that turn lane they put there for people who actually want to turn.”
“I should make signs that I could hold up to help people understand what the speed limit means…it’s really okay to go 35 in a 35 zone”
“Do you need help figuring out where to go? I would really like to help you with that.”
“Oh, so now I finally get to drive the correct speed and everyone is passing me!”
“There’s no reason to have my radio on since all I can hear is yours”
“See how nice I am…I let you go ahead of me and now you don’t know where you’re going.”
“I’m feeling the love right now for you, feeling the love.”
“Yeah, sure, you can go first, I don’t mind…since you didn’t stop anyway.”
“It’s okay, we’ll use your right, not mine…you can go first.”
“I believe that stop sign was facing your direction.”
“Which way will you go? Which way will you go?”
“Does every light have to turn red?”
“That’s not a turn lane buddy.”
“It’s the peddle on the right…that’s it, you can do it.”

What are their responses to people in other areas of their lives?

I know it’s in the privacy of their car, but do they carry that same attitude with them wherever they go?

I wonder if they respond this way to God?

Funny thing is, I was the only one in the car…

Don't Miss Out On Him

2009-08-01T22:37:00.000-07:00

I saw her. She walked by, graceful in her pose and so elegant, too. Could I ever be that way?

I used to be slim with slender curves and skinny ankles. I joke that I still am thin, it is just hidden somewhere under all the fat. I am so fat my smile even struggles to be seen from beneath my cheeks. Kids even joke that I remind them of an “Umpa-Lumpa”. Aw, it’s okay though because they hear me joke about myself, so I must be okay with it. I know what I look like all too well.

My body aches from the force of gravity pulling at the weight on my bones. Sure, people say that if I do not like what I look like then I should do something about it; go exercise, eat healthier. If I would work out I would not hurt so bad, but I think to myself, it hurts so bad to work out.

Ok, so I am working this job now that is very physical for me. Up and down stairs and ladders with boxes of files, carrying, moving, re-arranging. I deliver them, rotate them, empty and fill them. I feel like the grunt in the attic, sweating in the stifling heat.

I do not refuse a request and keep my complaints to myself. Yet, by the end of the day on my car ride home, my body begins to shut down. When I arrive, I keep going and avoid sitting down. I know if I do, I will not be getting back up. I do what I must for my kids who seem to be thinking that work is hard and why would they want that.

Even now, my hours at work have been cut by half so I have to work harder to get my job done. I started this job thinking I would not be doing it very long, but I am still here. It is work. So the job I have is the one I get to keep doing. It is quite humbling to be at the bottom of the hiring pool, at the same time, how do I keep it from getting to me?

At times, I feel that I am nothing to anyone. Then the physical demands wear at me day in and day out. I know I must press through because I have kids at home who need me to be still be mom. Therefore, I cook and clean, do shopping and laundry, and all the other duties of being important to someone.

I know I am not the only one out there in a position like this. Circumstances may be different, but tough all the same. “God, if the pain would just go away. The physical pain, yes, but the pain in my heart I have from going one step further on the treadmill of life. I am getting stronger but not going anywhere. It looks like I am standing still, yet I feel the evidence of all my work wearing on my body.

So why do I keep going, besides for my children? That reason will only work for a time, until they are grown. Will I give up then?

There are words I carry in my heart that rise up when things seem unbearable, when I am over-rought and dismayed. Here’s just two:

Galatians 6:9 But we should not lose heart in well-doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we do not faint.

Romans 8:11 But if the Spirit of the One who raised up Jesus from the dead dwells in you, the One who raised up Christ from the dead shall also make your mortal bodies alive by His Spirit who dwells in you.

Life is before us. We have challenges and struggles to face whether we believe Jesus is our Lord or not. We face growing up, getting old, and working hard along the way. Our days are numbered – will we live with God as a part of our lives or will we die without Him?

He is who I meet in my quiet place of refuge.
He is where I go to be strengthened as I lift my hands in praise.
He is the one who holds me, loving my soul.
He is ever-present in all my times of trouble.
He is the immovable, unchangeable rock upon which I stand.
He is the ever-quenching, thirsted-after streams of living water.

Life may seem like a long journey but it is too short to miss out on the only life-giver: Jesus Christ.

What Are You Building?

2009-07-13T18:30:00.000-07:00

Noah was given instructions from God to build an Ark, on dry land, over a period of 100 hundred years in order to save his family. He had to listen to God’s instructions, really listen to the details and continue believing no matter what it looked like. We can only imagine what was said to him and how he was treated through the years as he kept up with the notion that God was going to flood the earth. (Genesis 6:13-21)

Nowadays, many of us struggle just to listen to His daily instructions, let alone any greater purpose. Busyness of our own plans keep us from hearing all that God would have us hear. Some may even start out listening, begin “doing”, but something happens along the way. All too often it’s the weariness and fear life brings that holds us back. Besides reminding ourselves that we were not created to be bound by a spirit of fear (2 Timothy 1:7), we must also remember to not be weary in the things we do for God’s purposes because He made the promise of a harvest if we do not give up. (Galatians 6:9)

Are you building a chair only to find a leg missing?
Or a boat, only to find a plank missing from the bottom?
Or a house only to find that you’ve built it on a sandy slope?

Are you listening for ALL God’s instructions, or have you grown weary and submitted to fear?

What are you building?

I am and I Am

2009-07-11T09:35:00.000-07:00

Rounded colors, mingled at a stem.
Swaying softly, carelessly in the wind; I am.
Budding? No…blooming.
Entrancing fragrance; I must focus.
Purpose I may be unsure of,
I must stretch; grow heavenward.
Once small and dead…now, I am.
Radiating from a place deep within.
Expanding and reaching…I am?
A seed birthed; created,
Nurtured by The Creator; I Am.
Found to be beautiful, not lost or unsightly.
Life-breathed; not without purpose,
Replicated in a likeness only I Am could know.
A part of the Great I Am…
Within my fragrance; a part of my color,
Curves mingled within me; part of the whole,
And so, heavenward I will reach,
Stem triumphing; rooted upon the solid rock,
Reaching heavenward; tossed in the wind,
Without a care? Yes…care-less; a feat with I Am.
I am and I Am.

Exodus 3:4-14 (MKJV)
"And Jehovah saw that he had turned aside to see. God called to him out of the midst of the thorn bush, and said, 'Moses! Moses!'

And he said, 'Here I am.'

And He said, 'Do not come near here. Pull off your sandals from your feet, for the place on which you stand is holy ground.' And He said, 'I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.'

And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look upon God.

And Jehovah said, 'I have surely seen the affliction of My people who are in Egypt; I have heard their cry because of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows. And I am coming down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, to bring them up out of that land, to a good land, a large land, to a land flowing with milk and honey, to the place of the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites and the Jebusites. And now behold, the cry of the sons of Israel has come to Me. And I have also seen the oppression with which the Egyptians oppress them. And now go, and I will send you to Pharaoh, that you may bring forth My people, the sons of Israel, out of Egypt.'

And Moses said to God, 'Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring forth the sons of Israel out of Egypt?'

And He said, 'I will be with you. And this shall be the sign to you that I have sent you: When you have brought forth the people out of Egypt, you shall serve God upon this mountain.'

And Moses said to God, Behold, when I come to the sons of Israel, and shall say to them, The God of your fathers has sent me to you, and they shall say to me, What is His name? What shall I say to them?

And God said to Moses, 'I AM THAT I AM.' And He said, 'So you shall say to the sons of Israel, I AM has sent me to you.'

2009-04-28T20:39:00.001-07:00

A Pleasant Dream

I was placed in the midst of a pleasant dream. As all dreams should, it began on an uninhabited beach with a backdrop of tropical forest. Nothing has ever been as splendid as that cool summer’s eve, a shining night along the shores of the deserted sand. Yet, as I began to walk through it, I felt strings of emotions coming from within me, reaching out in search of something.

I stood to watch in awe as the sun brought an end to the day, shimmering bright across the plain of ocean water. I was caught for a moment by the systematic sound within the waves. As they overtook the shoreline, a rhythm was created in the midst of silence which felt like the beating of a loving heart. The stir of continuous rushing water ended in a pattern of calmness as it blended with the sand. Yet, in that pause, I felt a variation of thoughts among strings of separate emotions. Or was it an overflow of hidden anxieties sparked by my imagination? Whether they were emotions or anxieties, I knew that I was there in search of something. I had to find it. Only then, might I be able to find my dream’s answer, possibly even find peace within a dream on that shining night.

I found my eyes wandering back and forth, looking along the beach. Standing there in sort of a daze, I could seemingly watch the trees grow in their magnificent beauty. They reached effortlessly into the sky, as the long slender leaves swayed in the wind. It was as if each branch were a feather, gracefully taking hold of the air. Force from a sudden strong breeze threw my hair over my shoulders, causing a feeling of captivation to overwhelm me. I could even smell the fresh tropical air in every touch of wind that blew past. As I stood motionless, and my feet searched for a permanent position to stand firmly, I remembered why I was there. Sinking slowly into the moist coolness of the sand, the insistence remained with me to continue my journey, to find what I was searching for on that shining night.

As I began to follow the shore, I heard the cries of seagulls as they flew above to their perches along the rocky cliffs that pierced the edge line of the trees in the distance. The squawking and hacking brought the appearance of life to the beach. Although evening had begun, the moonlight had kept me in awe; it waited for me to find what I was searching for.

Continuing on, I stumbled and fell on the stones that were scattered in the sand. Although the scene was beautiful, it captivated me so much that it also distracted me from the purpose of the dream. I would stumble, and then fall. Stumble, and then fall. The sense of urgency rose inside, but the ground was unrelenting. I faltered more and more with each stride I took. Regaining my footing, I would only just fall again.

Then, in an instant, I knew I was there. I came to the end. There was no more beach, no more sand to follow, only the last of what was left to see of the sun on that shining night.

My walk on the beach was not long, but long enough for discovery. On the waves that came into the shore, I saw him walking on the water; a silhouette within a new sunrise. I heard the beat of his heart as each new wave swept onto the shore. I felt his breath in the morning breeze upon my face. In a moment, he cleared a way through the strung out thoughts in my mind. Relief came to my emotions; relief to the turmoil of a lifetime of experiences. I found my peace in that dream. My savior, my God, appeared to me.

Indeed, a very pleasant dream, the evening I found my shining knight.

Will You Answer?

2009-04-27T21:39:00.000-07:00

Dialing the phone, she begins to wonder, “Should I really do this, God? Please help me say what I need to say.” As peace came over her, “Thank you, Lord.”
The phone on the other end began to ring. Her mom answered, “Hello?”
“Ech Hem”, she cleared her throat and blurted out, “Mom, there’s something I have to tell you.”
Cautiously her mom replied, “Honey? Is that you?”
“Yes, mom, it’s me.”
“Should I be worried?”
“Well, no. I really think everything’s going to be alright, but I’ve got to come clean with you.”
There was a moment of silence and then she continued.
“Mom, you know I love you, right?”
“Yeah, I know.”
“I can tell you anything, right?”
A bit of impatience began to stir but remaining cautious, her mom said, “Oh, come on, what could be so bad? Just spit it out and whatever it is, I forgive you.”
“Ech Hem”, once again, she cleared her throat.
“I’ve been living a double life.”
“What are you talking about?”
“I’ve been having an affair, well actually, several affairs.”
Facetiously speaking, “Honey, it’s not called an affair when you’re single.”
“Mom, just listen…” She turned the phone away for a moment and again, she prayed, “Thank you, Lord for giving me the strength to do this.”
“Ech Hem”, she kept feeling this pressure in her throat. “It started when I was young. In the beginning, I didn’t really know what was going on. Actually, it wasn’t until just last night that I realized the seriousness of what I’ve done. It was a new thing and I was curious. I didn’t know it would get as out-of-hand as it has. Then, pretty soon, it began to change my life.”
Although she could not see, her mom sat quietly, speechless, but tears began to form in her eyes. She took a deep breath and continued.
Sensing the uneasiness, “Mom, looking back, I can’t say that there would have been anything you could have done about it. Just hear me out and I really think you’ll understand why I have to tell you this.
“Ech Hem”, clearing her throat again, she holds back her own tears.
“It started out as just one affair, but then I met others. Man, I really learned how to flirt and be a tease. I toyed with them… Well, there was this one guy that just seemed to care more than the rest, but I didn’t want to let him get to me. Yet, every time my heart got broken, I went right to him and he never turned me away. So, anyway, there were a couple of guys who you have met. I didn’t let on that they were a part of anything as serious as an affair. I didn’t have a problem showing them off, though. I was so proud to show off and to say that I was with them. In the end, I got hurt. On the other hand, there have been many times I’ve kept my affairs a secret. Pretty soon, all of them became a secret.”
An air of astonishment passed over the phone as her mom was not quite sure about what she was hearing.
“Are you still there, mom?”
Her mom replied softly, “I’m still here. Go on …”
“It’s funny, but it’s actually my newest relationship that has brought me to this place where I just have to come clean. I have to get it out, especially to you, before you hear it from anyone else.”
“Keep going, its okay”, her mom responded with encouragement, although she felt her own heart sinking lower and lower.
“Okay. Here it goes. You know the one guy I mentioned that cared more than all the rest? Well, recently I began to take a look at who has always been there for me. I mean, besides you, of course. Throughout all my affairs, I always wound up looking for him to pick me up and be my friend, to encourage me. Yet, I have always turned on him. Once a new opportunity came my way, one that looked fun and inviting, I hurt him. I turned my back on him.”
“Ech Hem”, the lump in her throat seemed to become larger the more she spoke. Determined, she just cleared it again, “Ech Hem.”
“Do you remember all the stuff I’ve gone through until now? So much of it was my own fault; and he stood by me, mom. You would have thought I would have chosen him, but I couldn’t even tell people about him. He’s so wonderful, yet over the years, I’ve only mentioned how much he means to me to a chosen few. Even then, it has been like I’ve been embarrassed. You see, the more I realize how much I’ve hurt him, the more I’m tempted to walk away from him again. But when he tells me what he sees in me? … Wow! I melt with each word he speaks. He’s in love with me, mom. He really loves me. He has stood by me even when I chose to walk with someone else for a time.”
“Wow. I don’t know what to say.” Her mom was speechless.
“Can I tell you about him?”
“Of course, I want to hear all about him.”
She turned the phone away for a moment and again, she prayed, “Thank you, Lord for giving me the words to say what you want me to say.”
“Where do I start? He is fabulous. You know he has told me every day since I met him that he loves me… Somehow, I think I’ve grown numb to feeling the same for him. It’s almost like I have been refusing to believe him, yet everything he does shows me how much he really does. I was blinded and so caught up in what would please me. That instant gratification, you know?”
“Boy, do I ever know about that” Her mom began to see her daughter growing up as she continued to listen.
“It’s like he’s been everything I’ve ever needed, but for some reason I didn’t see it. As, the song says, I’ve been looking for love in all the wrong places.”
Laughing, her mom asks, “So who is this guy and is he the only one your seeing right now?”
“Actually, I ended an affair just last night… But before you ask, how can a new relationship become that real overnight? Let me tell you. When the whole thing began last night, I was fighting for the affair to continue, literally trying to convince everyone involved to not let it end. Finally, I had to walk away in order to get my thoughts together. So, of course, you can guess who I went to. Yes, he responded in love and said; you’ve got to let it go. It has taken control of you and you have to let it go before it destroys everyone involved. At that moment, I stopped fighting. Instead, I stayed with him. The silence was deafening, but then I began to weep. I did not just cry, but I wept. Oh, I cried all night it seemed, but this time was different than all the times before. This time, I actually felt his love holding me, reassuring me that I would make it through this. Maybe all the times before, when he comforted me, I only took in enough of his comfort to get me by. Last night, though, it was different. I could see what he saw. I’ve been looking for the wrong thing. I built my identity around those things that never satisfied me anyway. My identity has been tied to all the affairs and what I could gain from them. Now I see that if I walk away from all those things that hurt me, I can walk right into the arms of the one who truly loves me. He wants to take care of me, mom. As of last night, he is the only one. If I ever get tempted again to stray, he promised me he will help me get through it. When I feel afraid and alone, he promises to stay with me.”
The silence permeated the phone line and she began to explain more. “Mom, he wants to be inseparable. We’ve already been together since last night. I really mean it. He wants to be on a date with me all day every day for the rest of my life. Can you believe that?”
“Honey, I don’t know what to say. He sounds absolutely perfect. But don’t you think you’re giving him too much credit? I mean, you still have to go through all of this alone in the end. He can’t be with you every minute or know your every thought. You will still have to fight the good fight of faith.”
“But mom, I’m his Princess. He’s royalty and he promises to take care of everything. He said he will always be faithful. He said he will never leave me alone.”
“I know, Honey, you think of him as your knight in shining armor. But there’s no one who is always faithful. God is the only one who is faithful. And you can’t rely on people to never leave you because something will always happen, life changes all the time and you just have to deal with the loss. It sounds like he’s a pretty lonely guy and he’s a little obsessed with you. You never told me who he was?”
“Mom, he’s not the kind of guy who will cheat on me. I didn’t tell you that he gave up a lot a long time ago just to make sure he would always be able to be there for me. He’s been the giver all these years. He’s not a taker and he’s never hurt me.”
“Well, I’m happy for you, but I just don’t want you to get hurt again. It sounds like you’ve gone through so much more than I could have even imagined. But, you know God forgives you, right? You are a new creation, old things are passed away and all things become new. You believe that don’t you?”
“Yeah mom, more than you know…Well, mom, I’ve got a date him and I have to get ready.”
“Wait. You can’t go without telling me who he is?”
“Well… have you ever had a date with THE King?”
“What? What are you talking about?”
She turned the phone away for a moment and again, she prayed, “Thank you, Lord.”
“You’ve met him before.”
“I have? When?”
“Throughout the years, he’s been there for you, too.”
“You lost me.”
“Mom, are there times in your life when you feel utterly alone?”
“Of course, that’s a part of life.”
“In those times, how do you get by?”
“Honey, I’ve learned that you can’t count on anyone or anything in life. Even God says we will go through trials and tribulations.”
“You didn’t answer the question, how do you get by?”
“In those times, I cry a little and I wait it out. Pretty soon it’s just over. I’ve learned to deal with it.”
“Do you know that’s not how God intended you to live, just dealing with everything on your own?”
“Honey, he says that I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
“Mom, you can use as much scripture as you want but you’re contradicting yourself.”
“How’s that?”
“The word does say that you can do all things through Christ, but in the breath before that you said you’ve learned to just deal with things. How is that working for you?”
“I’m doing just fine. I’m following God at my own pace. He’s not finished with me yet.”
“Maybe that’s because he’s still waiting for you to get on the track and start running.”
“Wait a minute, how did this become about me? You were talking about the affairs you’ve had in your life. Let’s stick to that!”
“Okay, let’s do that. Those affairs I was talking about? Those represent all the things in my life I put before God. When I was young, it was all about me and my desires that I went after. Then it became men and I built my identity around them. When those relationships failed, I turned my thoughts inward and depression and oppression over took me. All that may have led me to a place where I came back to God, but I still was having affairs of the heart for other things. It became my kids and my job. Last night, my son came to me and said he wanted to spend more time with his dad, the man who does not follow after God, but more importantly, the man who hurt me. Now, my son says he’s a great guy and he doesn’t understand why I don’t want him to see him. I talked until I was blue in the face and then an instant, in a quiet moment, God said come, be alone with me. I went into my bedroom and cried myself to sleep… and at sunrise, he woke me. He said, listen to me. I am a jealous God. I am just as jealous of your children as I am of you. I want all of your heart and devotion just as I want the same from them. This is what I long for…your heart. Give me your heart of stone and I will replace it with a heart of flesh. Stop seeking me for the sole purpose that I help them. Seek me because you desire me and nothing else; and I will show you what I can do for each of you.”
She heard a quiet, tender sob on the line and continued on.
“That’s when my cry turned to one of repentance. I cried out through the house, what have I done, Lord? At that moment, I was quieted in my spirit and he said, you are a new creation, old things are passed away and BEHOLD, all things have become new. Don’t look back or it will destroy you. Let me lead you into a life of abundance. They are my children, although you do have them only for a little while. They are still mine. You are mine. I want to be with you every minute of every day. I have plans for us.”
“Ech Hem”, once again, she cleared her throat.
“Mom, I instantly had a desire to go on a date. I took an early morning shower and I talked with him. I sang to him. I enjoyed being with him this morning. When the kids woke up, the old began to tempt me, but I quieted myself and listened for God’s instruction. Sure, when I saw my son I felt like crying, but I did not. I know that he is not mine to hold on to. I must cling tight to the one I call my Lord, my Savior, and my King.”
“Honey, this is a lot for me to take in right now. Can I let you go?”
“Mom, please, I want you to let me go, for your sake and mine. It’s time for me to let you go, too. The King is calling me and it’s about time that I answer. I have a date with the King.”
There was a moment again of silence.
“Mom?”
“Yes…”
“ You’ve got a call coming in. It’s the King and he wants to take you out on a date. Will you answer him?”
“Yes, I think I will.”

Conversation Between Two...

2009-04-20T22:46:00.000-07:00

She said …

To forgive and forget: Wow! That’s a lot to ask me to do. I’ve been betrayed, rejected, mistreated, abused, unloved, and lied to. Boy, I could tell you some stories of things I’ve gone through then you would understand that I’m not sure I can do that.

It started when I was really little, I suppose about four years old. My dad …………
Then my parents divorced when I was still little. That was real hard. The trouble with that was …………
You know, as I grew up, my brothers and sisters didn’t really like me much. They used to ……………
Then, my mom’s third husband, he would do things to me like …………….
When it came to middle school, those were some difficult years. Kids can be mean, like ………………
High school was a challenge. Nothing seemed to go right …………………..
I had this boyfirend, but he broke up with me two weeks before …………
After that, it was hard to trust again. Then I met this really nice guy and we were married …………
I found out he was cheating on me. I stayed because I didn’t want ……………
I didn’t ever want the police to arrest him, but our son saw …………….
Soon we had another baby, but he wasn’t happy about it ………………
Again, he cheated on me and I knew I had to leave ……………..
He had me in the bedroom with a shotgun on the shelf next to …….…….
I found myself half way cross the country, two children and no plan except to get away ………..
I began losing feeling in my legs and arms from time to time and the doctor said I had ………………
I went to see my mom before I headed back to ………………….
I arrived home to find that I was still alone …………..

The story goes on and on. How am I to forgive and forget? How can I forgive with all I’ve gone through?

He said …

Now, I have a story to tell you. There was a time when my son was far away from me. I sent him to war so that he could put an end to the fighting. The enemy had a plan to seize my son and destroy him. The enemy even snuck into that ranks so that my son wound up to be betrayed, rejected, mistreated, abused, unloved, and lied to, even on the battle field.

Yet, …………. I knew the day when my son died. He sent word to me, so I would know when he was leaving. You see, we had a plan before he went to war and he wanted me to know when the orders were completed. His message to me was not written with pen and paper. He did not send a messenger with a note. Yet, …………. I knew the moment when he died. I felt his breath as it left his body, even from the distance we were apart. My son and I have that kind of relationship, because we are one. We will always be together. It’s as if he never left. Yet, …………. I knew the day when my son died. I heard his last words, even to the end. One of the last things he said was, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. “

I have kept that promise, as I said to Jeremiah long before, “I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.” *

I have loved without hesitation, and I have received rejection and betrayal. I have remained faithful to my commitments, but people have continued to mistreat me. No matter how hard I try, I am often unloved and abused. I am lied to daily, although I remain true to my word. My desire is to love. I am always there to be found.

It’s time for you to listen to this, “If you forgive others when they sin against you, I will also forgive you.” **

She replied, “So, when I stop telling my story, then I can begin to forgive? When I stop trying to remember my story, that’s when I can forget? I get it …….. I must tell your story, instead.”

*Jeremiah 31:34b
**Mathew 6:14

My Mirror

2009-02-28T09:54:00.000-08:00

I was praying one evening before bed. I couldn't sleep. I asked God about my growth, you know, “How am I doin’, God?” I was stirred up with thoughts and feelings, having difficulty sorting them out.

Then, He showed me a picture:

I saw myself looking into a mirror. I sensed my own critical attitude. I noticed that I was thinking of the little things God has been changing in me, only from a judgmental perspective. It was as if I was looking into the mirror and saw how God wants me to be, therefore, I saw all my flaws and inconsistencies, my mistakes and imperfections.

I said to myself, “Do you see that right there? You still have to work on that.” And, “Look at that thing over there. That needs to move up to a high priority.” And, “Wow! You haven’t fixed that one yet?”

Then, the mirror rotated around so that I was now looking through the other side, at myself, but the mirror became glass.

God said, “This is what I see. I see flawless perfection, beauty that I created.”

At that moment, I was humbled and began to cry. I remembered that Christ died so that I could come to the father, cleansed from all sin, to be in right standing with Him. It’s through Christ that I am changed and made new.

So, the glass window rotated back to where it was before. It became a mirror once again and I stood in front of it. This time, I saw a reflection of Jesus in place of my own.

God said to me, “This is what I want you to see. No longer should it be you that you see, but CHRIST in you. He already took care of everything.”

With that, I fell asleep.

2 Corinthians 5:17, "So that if any one is in Christ, that one is a new creature; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new."

Romans 8:1-2, "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death."

Wait a minute. That’s my heart, God.

2009-02-09T13:48:00.000-08:00

God wakes me usually in the early hours of the morning, sometimes with a thought or scripture that I am led to read. But most often it is a vision or an inspiration that I write down. This morning it was both.

This morning I saw myself in a hospital room. It looks like a scene from one of those CSI shows where the doctor has the dead body on a gurney and their chest is cut open. Well, I was the body, but I was alive. I look up and I see that it is actually an operating room, so in that, I am a little assured I will be okay after all. Then I see my surgeon is the Lord. Okay, I feel a little better; after all I am in good hands. But then I realize that I am cut wide open and He is going for my heart with a knife.

“Whoa! Wait a minute. That’s my heart, God. You can’t cut my heart.”

He points to my heart and says, “Look. I have to remove what’s dead. It has become a burden to you.”

I was actually able to look down and see what he was doing and I saw that a part was grey; it looked dead and was not moving. “Oh right then, but I’m starting to hurt. Can I get more anesthesia?”

God said, “You already have all that you need. Just lay back and let me work.”

Well, I started to get impatient, so I leaned forward to see how far He had left to go. I saw that He was removing my whole heart! “What are you doing? You said you were only going to remove a part of my heart. You can’t have the whole thing!”

“I said I have to remove what is dead and that happens to be the whole thing. I have a brand new one right here to replace it.”

“But that’s my heart! You can’t have my heart! Everything I am is in my heart. I will be lost without me! No one will recognize me anymore if you take my heart. All that I am is there!”

I grabbed my heart in my hands, jump off the operating table and began running through the hallways. But no matter where I ran or which way I turned, I always ended up right outside the operating room where God stood by the bed. He was not excited or worried that I was running around with my heart out of my chest. And when I finally looked beside me, there was the Holy Spirit keeping up with me. Running alongside me wherever I went, watching the heart I held in my hands. He looked at my heart then up at me. “God is waiting for you.”

Finally, I stopped outside the operating room, still not wanting to go inside. “Do I have to start all over? If I give you my heart, do I have to learn what I already know all over again? I mean, there are things that I have learned about being a Christian, God. What about all the things I can do?”

“Stop rationalizing: looking for the worst. I want to give you a new heart. I want to replace it with an obedient one. Even as you stand there holding your heart in your hands, you remain disobedient. You prayed last night that you if you could just get someone to help you learn what you never were taught; you would be able to change faster. I am your Father, and I love you.”

There was a pause as I remembered my prayer through tears from just the night before. Reluctantly, “So…I have to give this to you now, don’t I?”

“Yes, you do.”

“But are you going to take away everything I had my hopes set on?”

“Everything will be okay. I love you and I have many things for you to do which you will find joy in. You will find your strength in me.”

With that, I awoke with one word in my mind, “Daily.”

Psalm 16:7-11
I will praise the LORD, who advises me. My conscience warns me at night. I always keep the LORD in front of me. When he is by my side, I cannot be moved. That is why my heart is glad and my soul rejoices. My body rests securely because you do not abandon my soul to the grave or allow your holy one to decay. You make the path of life known to me. Complete joy is in your presence. Pleasures are by your side forever.

Psalm 68:19
Thanks be to the Lord, who daily carries our burdens for us. God is our salvation. Selah

Ezekiel 36:26
I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you. I will remove your stubborn hearts and give you obedient hearts.

Scripture taken from the God's Word version of the Bible

On Wings Like Eagles

2008-09-15T14:17:00.000-07:00

He Alone Approved of My Existence

2008-09-10T12:04:00.000-07:00

To begin with, I was validated the day I received Christ. He alone approved of my existence, with a purpose. He loved me.

Indeed, for many years, all I did was search for approval, validation if you will, for who I am to those around me: What do I mean to you? Am I really special to you? Do you love me?

After years of tossing myself around in an empty barrel, called my life, someone heard God and reached into that barrel with an open hand and said, "Are you ready to come out now? Are you ready to come out of the dark and see the life God really has for you?" God drew me once again; this time I responded.

So began a journey of discovery. Perhaps there are moments when old thoughts come to the surface to be removed like old scaly skin. Perceptions reveal themselves as baggage still carried. There may be times that old fear of rejection comes forth like a flood gate opened. Then there’s the desire for approval that repeats itself over and over like a broken record.

What happens when circumstances bring out these things in me? The Holy Spirit comes to confirm God’s purpose, as I draw closer to him and feed on His Word. It is Christ who validates me. He gives me His purpose and His direction.

God placed me into a church body, to grow and mature, to learn to be a disciple of Christ, I must take direction from the leaders there. To validate me? No, but to prepare me for works of service, to be built up until I reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and to become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. (Eph 4:12-13)

At times I get clouded by my own creative imagination, by what I think God gave me as a vision. That is when I write down the vision and say, "What do you think, Pastor?" I guess you can say that I am asking for a validation of sorts, but I see it as a confirmation of what I think I heard from God. After all, I am still learning and growing. Sometimes I want to make sure, “Am I doing this right?” God put apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers in the church for me. They have a purpose, just as I do.

I write because it is what I do. I create because that is what I do. I do not seek validation for these things. I am confident they are gifts God has given me to use for his purposes.

As my blog states, “Insights from my personal journey; a walk through my personal relationship with Jesus", I do not ask anyone to validate what I write, because it is validated by Christ who is doing a good work in me. The Word says we should encourage one another and build each other up, so when I receive comments about how someone was touched by what I wrote, I am built and encouraged along with them. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

God is the one who will complete the good work he has begun in me. (Philippians 1:6) Whether I ever receive a comment from any reader, will I stop writing? Will I ever stop trying to share the hope we have in Christ by the word of my testimony? I don't believe so. I write to share the hope I have found in Christ so that others may also find hope.

Now in the things I am not so confident, do I still seek guidance to make sure I’m on track with our specific church body, under the leadership there? Just as someone steps into things that are new and unfamiliar, then returns to home base to make sure what they are doing is still in agreement with the larger plan, so do I with new things God gives me. As my confidence in God grows, so do I in His plans and purposes.

One day, maybe He will say, “It is time for you to leave the nest and branch off on your own.” Maybe it will be to another place far from here. I do not know. I have a path to walk today. Tomorrow will come soon enough.

In the end, my validation still comes through Christ. Yes, I am amazed every day by how much He really loves me.

My Checklist for a day

2008-09-03T16:26:00.000-07:00

Checklist for the day: He knows the plans He has for me, plans to prosper me, plans to give me hope and a future

Home:
Get out of bed
Pray
Find a melody of praise
Read, memorize, and meditate on the Bible
Put on my armor
Train up my children

Going to work:
Have the joy of the Lord

At work:
Have faith and believe
Forgive
Love my neighbor
Keep that melody of praise
Be humble
Do not be anxious
Do all things as unto the Lord
Find my joy – I think I lost it

Lunchtime:
Pray
Eat
Pray again
Remember that melody of praise?
There it is – I found my joy

Back at work:
Stay reminded of the ways of the Lord
Be encouraging
Continue to do all things as unto the Lord
Keep that melody going
Build myself up

Going home:
Don’t worry about what we’ll eat or what we’ll wear
Trust in the Lord
Consider and spend wisely

Home:
Find that melody again
Be faithful with what I have
Teach my children
Be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to become angry
Be encouraging
Take care of my household
When I’ve done all to stand, keep standing
Read the bible
Pray
The Lord is my Shepherd
Go to bed, keeping one light on

Checklist for tomorrow: do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself…

It Is My Pleasure …

2008-08-07T08:53:00.000-07:00

I have been seeking God, to be closer to Him. “Times are tough, God,” I’ve prayed. There is the reality that money is tight and time is hard to come by. I have one full-time job and trying to work out details of another. There’s full-time parenting, of which I don’t seem to be around for. “Lord, give me wisdom and revelation of the hope that you’ve promised.” So started another journey into who God really is and what he continues to do for me.

I work in an environment of cynical salesmen. My supervisor has even said, “Why do I need God or church?” So, I don’t discuss the truth of Jesus unless prompted, of course. On occasion though, I have found the topic to arise. Our last discussion was about three weeks ago. It became very theological and I could tell he had some knowledge of scripture, regardless of how skewed his perception of it was.

In the end, rather than continuing the discussion, I was prompted in my spirit to make a statement. “There are many opinions and people who interpret scriptures differently, but all that matters in the end is: if they believe that Jesus is the son of God and rose from the dead for the forgiveness of sins, and they decide to follow after him. Until that happens, all the other things you’re talking about don’t really matter. Jesus said, ‘I am the way the truth and the life, no one comes to the father except through me’.” There was an awkward silence. I had ended the discussion in one fail swoop.

The following week I received notice that my rent was increasing nearly $200 a month and my student loans, which had been in deferment, were also coming due for payments of nearly $200 a month. At first, disparity tried to overtake me as it would have in the past. My spirit responded, “Pray.”

The prayers of the Apostle Paul, in Ephesians, came to mind and I began to pray them over myself and my family. I needed some hope and I knew it would only come from God.

The next day, it didn’t really take much to get my student loan payment down to $80, in which I could see the favor of God in the situation. But I knew that was not possible for the rent. So, I called a friend who had helped me recently make a budget and explained my situation. After looking at my options, one thing she suggested was to take the bus to work. There was a time when I would have made excuses to get out of it. But now, I didn’t even give it a second thought. In fact, I said, “I should actually just walk the two miles to work and see if I can get a ride home everyday.”

Once diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, my body aches all the time. I was also diagnosed with Osteoarthritis many years ago, so there’s the joint pain and achy bones. For most people the pain subsides after working out regularly. I have experienced miracles of healing from other physical ailments, but these two things I’ve just lived with. Why am I still suffering when I’ve been healed of others? This must be a chance for me to walk by faith, literally.

I made the determination that I was going to do this; to walk the two miles to work. After all, God has a lot planned for me and I can’t go around huffing and puffing, expecting everything to still get done. I began by praying for myself, out loud before, during and after I walked, according to Romans 8:11, "The same spirit that raised Jesus from the dead resides on the inside of me and quickens my mortal body."

I got a hold of those words AND at the same time I didn't change anything else I did because of exhaustion or pain. It may not seem like a lot, but it’s a start. Just like with anything else we go after, it takes a change. This was my opportunity. I also reminded myself, “by His stripes I have been healed.”

Okay, so I was pumped in the spirit, on one hand, while things have become financially tight. On the other hand, I had this opportunity to buckle down and grow some more.

I asked the Human Resource Manager at work to look into seeing if I could drop my medical insurance because I just couldn’t afford it anymore. As a result, I wound up sitting down to discuss things with my supervisor because the answer came back that I could not. I would have to wait for open enrollment, six months away. He gave me some information on free medical insurance for my kids when the time came and spoke to the HR manager himself about my situation. In doing so, they discovered that due to him becoming my supervisor just recently, I never had my annual review. He decided he would recommend that I receive a $1.00 an hour raise within the next couple of weeks when my review was complete. He complimented me about the astounding job I’ve been doing. He was impressed with how, that no matter what, I continue to take on more responsibility with no complaint.

Then, he asked everyone in the office to help transport me to and from work when they could. For many reasons, he did not want me walking work. At that moment, I had the choice to stop what I started; to stop walking all together. I made the immediate choice to press through. I would make a way to continue my new exercise regimen because it was something I had to conquer. I was looking at this as God making a way for me to walk in health, literally.

The very next week, actually making it this last week, the president of our subsidiary branch of Toshiba (we’ll call him John) came to visit our office. He is a very busy man and has told me several times that he has to keep his time focused on management because he has hundreds of employees and he would not be able to visit with them all. Yet, he was the one who came to Spokane last year and interviewed me for my position. We wound up talking for an hour and a half about unrelated business ideas he and I both have. Since then, he continues to check in with me about what new ideas I have.

Well, towards the end of the day last Thursday he walked in front of my desk, just meandering to the candy dish. I spoke up, “You know, there was something I wanted to talk to you about, but you’ve been too busy.”

“I’m not really busy; I just look like I am. What do you got for me?”

Immediately, I began to tell him about the business I’m starting, knowing brevity was key. When I finished my 5 minute ‘schpeal’, I could see the wheels turning as he stood quiet. That five minutes ended up to be an hour that I gleaned wisdom and insight from a multi-millionaire.

That night, I went home in awe of the greatness of God’s favor. Wow! I was given a great opportunity. I thanked God for answering my prayer: giving me revelation of the hope I have in Him.

Friday: what more could happen? Let me tell you.

As he was walking out to catch his flight, John wished me luck on my business endeavor, adding he would like to get a follow up after it gets going. Then, my supervisor called me into his office. He began by saying that John came up with a plan that he thought I’d like. Also saying that the HR manager may have a problem with it, but John said she would just have to deal with it and make it work.”

There was a pause, then, “I want you to know this won’t change anything about your raise. I’m still going to recommend you get a $1.00 an hour raise. (He pauses again and I’m about to burst with curiosity) John wants you to have a $100.00 expense account each month for gas, just to get you to and from work.”

Can you say, WOW again! My insides were shouting for joy, although I did not know what to say to him. I knew this was God revealing his favor in a place that contained very little hope for anyone working there. In fact, another person turned in their resignation just that morning because of corporate politics and policies.

Yet, there’s me. I am the only one with my specific job position company wide. I've been told many times in the last two years that there is no reason for by position: that my duties could just be delegated to others. And yet, John is the one who personally hired me and I continue to receive so much favor in the midst of everyone else’s despair.

Just before lunch, my supervisor came over to my desk and asked, “What have you done with your kids this summer?” I shared that my kids have gotten tickets to Silverwood for the second summer in a row, but I won’t be able to take them again this year. Seemingly overlooking my situation, he asked, “Why not? It’s only $30.” My response, “First, I’d have to take a day off to go because their tickets are not good for Saturdays and my Sundays are already busy. Plus, I have a budget to follow and if I find an extra $30, I’m going to buy food or clothes, not pay for Silverwood.” Again, I wound up ending the conversation.

Well, later that afternoon about 4:30 he came back to the office after running errands and calls me into his office once again. I’m thinking, What now?

He closes the door and walks up right next to me. I’d say shoulder-to-shoulder, but he’s a bit taller than me. This man, who I have found myself on more than one occasion discussing truths in the bible – yes, the same man who said, “Why do I need God or church?” – this same man stood next to me. He pulled his hand out of his pocket, and as he began to hand me something, he says, “Here’s a ticket to Silverwood and a gas card to make sure you can get there. Oh and don’t worry about scheduling a vacation day yet. Why don’t you just wait and see what the weather is like and tell me when you decide.”

God’s into every big thing in ours lives, making provision, but he also thinks of the little things and sometimes he does it in the least likely ways.

So, what more can I say? Except that it is a pleasure to live for the King.

It Takes a Change

2008-08-01T14:31:00.000-07:00

Have you ever seen a brand new car or a really nice house, one you would really like to have? Have you ever thought you can obtain those things just like the next guy?

If you have, maybe you also realized that things would have to change in order for that to happen. Perhaps you may need some kind of change in your employment status or in how you budget your money. Whatever it is, you decide whether it’s worth it or not.

So, imagine that you decide to go for it and start down the road to get those things you’ve dreamt of.

I have been on that kind of a path for a while. Meanwhile, I began to think of other areas of my life I could go after that most people don’t consider.

What about the pursuit of my health and fitness? Honestly, I’m a bit over-weight and out of shape. I do exercise occasionally, but I never push myself for more. Can’t I have that, too? Is it really possible for me to lose weight and get physically fit?

I began to consider what makes me different from those people who keep themselves in shape and enjoy exercising. Once diagnosed with Fibromyalgia and Osteoarthritis, my body aches all the time. For most people the pain subsides after working out regularly. Their bodies get used to it, until of course, they increase their workout routine.

In the past, I have experienced miracles of healing from other physical ailments, but these two things I’ve just lived with. Why am I still suffering when I’ve been healed of others?

Let me tell you, Romans 8:11 says …
“And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you,
he who raised Christ from the dead
will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit,
who lives in you.”

Read it, say it, realize who resides on the inside of you and see what happens. It’s not a light thing to realize. It is power and life.

Wow! I got a hold of that and I have been walking two miles 3-4 times a week since! AND, at the same time, I have not changed the other things I do because of exhaustion or pain. This may not seem like a lot, but it is HUGE in my life.

Just like with anything else we go after, it takes a change.

I pray this scripture out loud before, during and after I walk. I also pray 1 Peter 2:24 for myself, He himself bore MY sins in his body on the tree, so that I might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds I have been healed. As we set our course to follow him, we must know that he's taken care of many of the things we think we just have to live with, like physical aches and pains.

To sum this up: of all His blessings, remember that he has provided a way for you to walk in health.

"Wherever You Are, Be There"

2008-07-11T13:08:00.000-07:00

Someone once said, "Wherever you are, be there." So I must first ask myself, am I where I’m supposed to be? I would have to say yes. Is it because I have the life I’ve always dreamed of? Is it because I have the best job, the best family, and the best friends? Well, I do have the best friends I could ever have ;) but what about all the other stuff?

I know God said that in my heart I plan my course, but He determines my steps. (Proverbs 16:9) I believe I have a vision with a course and He continues to build upon it. It’s up to me to take the steps he’s given me today and wait for His direction for tomorrow. If my steps take me to work then home again, then that’s what I should do. While I’m there, I must make sure “I’m there”. It’s up to me to take hold of any thought that would distract me from doing what I know to do.

Second, I must ask myself, is my attitude right? There have been times that I thought of looking for a new job just because I didn’t like how things were working out. I’ve really had to determine whether it was my attitude that needed adjustment OR is God giving me a sign I should move on.

In the past, longevity on the job was always a struggle, but now I trust him to direct me each day. Every day I know I must go to work, therefore my attitude must be that whatever I do or say, I’ve got to do it in His name, giving Him thanks all the while. (Colossians 3:17) If I trust Him to determine my steps, how can I dare to hate my job? If I trust Him, how can I complain about where I’m at? Maybe he’s waiting for me to get my attitude straight…THEN He’ll move me. OR Maybe when I change my attitude, I’ll realize I was supposed to be there all along.

It doesn’t mean I’m on the wrong course or that He’s not directing my steps when things are tough. It means there’s something I can learn in every situation.

As this Friday moves slowly on, I am assured that I will be coming to work on Monday.

The Beginning of Knowledge

2008-05-28T15:27:00.000-07:00

At some point in our lives, many of us have wished we knew more. We may have even hoped to learn how to use the knowledge we already had. What about those subjects in school we had to learn but could never see the use of them? What about when you graduated, stepping out into the world with no idea what to do next? Or embarking on a journey to follow a plan for your future only to discover you didn’t really know how to apply all that stuff you learned? Sometimes life carries us away and we get so caught up in our plans or our desire for immediate gratification that we just stop looking for the truth. Some of us may even begin to believe that these are the lives we’re supposed to live, that no matter what we thought we knew, it would never be enough to change our lives.

Many years have passed by and God has reminded me of the Book of Proverbs. Over the years, I have looked through them to find just the right one I needed for a moment. I have memorized some to get me through tough times. I have used them to teach or to minister. But God showed me that I could have so much more than I have today if I would read them more often. As King Solomon wrote, “Proverbs will teach you wisdom and self-control and how to understand sayings with deep meanings. You will learn what is right and honest and fair. From these, an ordinary person can learn to be smart, and young people can gain knowledge and good sense. If you are already wise, you will become even wiser. And if you are smart, you will learn to understand proverbs and sayings, as well as words of wisdom and all kinds of riddles.” (Proverbs 1:1-6 CEV)

Proverbs Chapter 1, verse 7 says, “Respect and obey the LORD! This is the beginning of knowledge. Only a fool rejects wisdom and good advice.”

This was a preface to the rest of the Book of Proverbs. If we would see that it is good to learn many things, but it is God who will help you use that knowledge for Him as we respect and obey Him. We must not think we could live without Him, regardless of what we think we know. No one can measure the wisdom and knowledge of God. No one can understand why he does what he does. Everything that is, is from Him and will return to Him. (Romans 11:33-36)

We are God’s children and He sent Jesus Christ to save us and to make us wise, acceptable, and holy. God has given us his Spirit. The Holy Spirit will show us everything and finds out everything; we must listen to every word it teaches. “People who are guided by the Spirit can make all kinds of judgments, but they cannot be judged by others.” (1 Corinthians 2:10-15)

This is how we are to be, led by the Spirit of God, the same Spirit that is offered to us when we are born again. Once you make Jesus the Lord of your life, believing he is the Son of God, being raised from the dead for the forgiveness of our sins, you are offered the promise of His Spirit. “Christ also brought you the truth, which is the good news about how you can be saved. You put your faith in Christ and were given the promised Holy Spirit to show that you belong to God.” Once we receive Christ as Lord and Savior, he offers us the Holy Spirit and “The Spirit stays in you .... The Spirit is truthful and teaches you everything. So stay one in your heart with Christ…” (1 John 2:27)

Contemporary English Version

Will You Answer?

2008-04-18T13:13:00.000-07:00

He'll Be Waiting

2008-04-12T21:55:00.000-07:00

I was browsing the internet and found a message board that sparked my couriosity. There were discussions about whether there is more than one way to believe in God. The people shared their opinions and experiences to back up what they said. I could not join the discussion, due to the fact I did not want to become a 'member' of that website. Yet, I do want to say something.

Here's my response ...

It’s not about “your” experiences, or even mine. It’s about what God says and what Jesus did. It’s not up to anyone’s interpretation, but by revelation, and that coming from God.

John 14:6
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. PERIOD.

John 3:16-18
“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.
Whoever believes in him is not condemned,
but whoever does not believe
stands condemned already
because he has not believed
in the name of God's one and only Son.

Your choice is to believe or not ...

God says it plainly and if you choose not to believe you're condemned already. When you change your mind and decide to stop discussing it, he'll be waiting. You can stop by your local church, speak to a God-fearing family member or friend, OR get on your knees and pray ...

"God, I believe Jesus is your son. He came to earth to show the way. He died and rose again for the forgiveness of my sins. Come into my heart and show me a better way."

A Story Not Yet Written

2008-03-28T15:37:00.000-07:00

School conferences … I used to look forward to them. Grades are not the part I get uneasy about, it’s the part when the teacher says, “Now let’s talk about their behavior…” They talk too much, distracted or they don’t follow directions; these are normal behaviors for kids throughout growing up. These things I understand and I’m used to dealing with.

It’s when I hear, "they took over the class and the teacher had to remove them in order to get control back" or "they are always the center of attention and it’s difficult to keep the other children focused." Comments like this I dread. It’s usually the same teachers who have the problem, while others have no problem at all. At first, I want to say, “You’re the one who’s supposed to have control, if you lose it why is that my child’s fault?” or “Am I supposed to be here with them to make sure they are behaving – isn’t that your job since you’re the one teaching them?”

Then, I quiet my internal defensiveness to protect and conquer, giving thought to what I should say in response. Usually I confirm what I just heard the teacher say and then lead my child through the whole ‘take responsibility for your actions’ scenario.

On the other hand, as my children get older, I see their behavior as a reflection of my own. When they were younger, it was easier to ‘control’ what consequences they would receive for bad behavior. In hind-sight, and to my discredit, I let too many occasions go by that would have been best handled with discipline, yet my consequence was talking it over: to lead them through the whole ‘take responsibility for your actions’ scenario. A change had to happen in me.

Now, the teachers don’t get to see the discipline I am now acting more responsibly to carry out, instead, they see the results of the years I did not. My kids get to feel the consequences of behavior I should have not allowed. Then there’s me … I get to wipe the dust off my knees and get back on the horse, as they say.

What precipitated this is that I had conferences this week. I felt uncomfortable because I want things to go as smoothly as possible for them when they are at school. Both of the kids are confused about what they are going through and we talk openly about that.

My daughter is a social bug and talks frequently, causing her to not complete assignments often in class. This is her first year hearing this kind of a report and it seems for now encouragement works well for her. Then there’s my son, about three years older. The comments I dread are usually accurate, so I have carried out grounding him for the last week from everything except books. His room is cleaner than it has been for a while. He read “How to Win Friends and Influence People” and he taught himself Geometry from an old workbook I had on the shelf. I don’t get it. He’s so studious when there’s nothing else to do or when he knows he’s in trouble. Yet, when his peers are around, he’s distracted and becomes a distraction.

Yet in the midst of it all, I look at the conferences, mid-year interventions, and teacher correspondence. In review of my own behavior; they are a lot like me. We struggle to be liked, to get approval, and to be understood. We're learning these things together. I loose track of what I’m doing, I try really hard to get people to like me, or I shut off completely to show it doesn’t matter. I flip flop, they flip flop, but each day we try again. In the end, it’s God who keeps us holding on and pushing through. We know where we’ve been and we know where we trying to go, although at times we don’t know how.

I am learning to be the parent God wants me to be. They are learning to be who they want to be; I’m hoping they choose to be who God wants them to be. I’m sure they hope I will choose God’s way, too. Isn’t this often the plight of life for everyone? To figure it out? Sometimes, I think if we could just “BE”, let life fall where it may and take the ride. Then reality reminds me that is what I was doing when I hit bottom, when I realized I needed help to make it through. I get to show my kids how to take part in where God wants to take them, as I do the same. I get to join into a relationship with the one who created me, to follow his lead.

Proverbs 22:6 “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” I pray that God’s grace abound in their lives just as he has in mine, so that my errors as a parent will not supersede his will for them.

We should proof the story of our lives as a story not yet written. Too often we believe that once our preface is written, it cannot be re-written, once characters are chosen and story lines are created, they cannot be re-set. BUT we serve the one who is the author and finisher of the faith and he’s not done with us yet. Just think, once you’re born again, you’re in the sequel of your life. You actually do get more than one draft. So, stay in brainstorm mode yet continue to seek His wisdom for your outline and editing as you go is permitted. Once the page for the day is done, it’s really done: but you get to start a new page tomorrow.

Recognize errors,
Seek counsel to change,
Act in wisdom to carry it out
All in all, walk with integrity

Press through the tough times
With perseverance,
Stand strong against
Adversity with courage,

Relax and enjoy life –

Take things a minute at a time
When you’ve mastered that
Take things by just a few more
Increasing to one day at a time

Keep going – don’t give up
Keep the faith – don’t lose hope
Keep looking at life by each new day
Keep your eyes on what is to come

His word is in you
His light will guide you
His love will hold you
His hand will lift you up

Birthday Wish

2008-03-21T10:16:00.000-07:00

It may sound silly to some, but every year I pray for it to snow on my birthday. I love the snow and I always thought that it would be such a miracle to have snow fall on March 18th, just because I asked. This year I didn't ask, I just thanked him for hearing and answering my prayers, even the ones no one knows I pray for.

Well, this year it snowed and it keeps falling.

Thank you God, for even the little things.

Thank you ...

2008-03-18T09:50:00.000-07:00

To the Pastors, Elders, Teachers, Leaders, and congregation of Spokane Faith Center:

I am grateful to be a part of a church where l always leave knowing what God said. I am excited daily and I look for ways to tell people of the things God is doing. It is not a church where the eloquence of delivery and speech leaves me captivated; indeed, wanting to tell others about it, but only of how the delivery of the message was so good. Instead, I re-enter my daily life armed with words of life from God that, yes, did come through a man, that I happen to call my Pastor.

Everyday that I come into the church building, I enter a gathering place, where I look forward to meeting with my family and friends. It’s a place where we are of like mind. When I serve, it is because I am a part of something I believe in, not because I feel obligated to be doing something. Even considering the things I still struggle in, there's not a pressure from people to change, per se, but a consistent encouragement to pursue God, knowing that he will direct me.

There is an honest belief and trust that God is working in me, instead of the distrust of whether I am really seeking God as much as I should. Although that message has been taught, it’s not the underlying attitude. Instead, there is the promotion of growth that comes from discipleship and maturing in our faith. I have become a willing participant in God’s will for my life and a student of his ways.

Thank you for letting God direct you to the same place he directs me, a meeting place where all of us are in pursuit of a life that pleases our King; Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

Re-posting by request: A Pleasant Dream

2008-03-06T09:24:00.000-08:00

I was placed in the midst of a pleasant dream. As all dreams should, it began on an uninhabited beach with a backdrop of tropical forest. Nothing has ever been as splendid as that cool summer’s eve, a shining night along the shores of the deserted sand. Yet, as I began to walk through it, I felt strings of emotions coming from within me, reaching out in search of something.

I stood to watch in awe as the sun brought an end to the day, shimmering bright across the plain of ocean water. I was caught for a moment by the systematic sound within the waves. As they overtook the shoreline, a rhythm was created in the midst of silence which felt like the beating of a loving heart. The stir of continuous rushing water ended in a pattern of calmness as it blended with the sand. Yet, in that pause, I felt a variation of thoughts among strings of separate emotions. Or was it an overflow of hidden anxieties sparked by my imagination? Whether they were emotions or anxieties, I knew that I was there in search of something. I had to find it. Only then, might I be able to find my dream’s answer, possibly even find peace within a dream on that shining night.

I found my eyes wandering back and forth, looking along the beach. Standing there in sort of a daze, I could seemingly watch the trees grow in their magnificent beauty. They reached effortlessly into the sky, as the long slender leaves swayed in the wind. It was as if each branch were a feather, gracefully taking hold of the air. Force from a sudden strong breeze threw my hair over my shoulders, causing a feeling of captivation to overwhelm me. I could even smell the fresh tropical air in every touch of wind that blew past. As I stood motionless, and my feet searched for a permanent position to stand firmly, I remembered why I was there. Sinking slowly into the moist coolness of the sand, the insistence remained with me to continue my journey, to find what I was searching for on that shining night.

As I began to follow the shore, I heard the cries of seagulls as they flew above to their perches along the rocky cliffs that pierced the edge line of the trees in the distance. The squawking and hacking brought the appearance of life to the beach. Although evening had begun, the moonlight had kept me in awe; it waited for me to find what I was searching for.

Continuing on, I stumbled and fell on the stones that were scattered in the sand. Although the scene was beautiful, it captivated me so much that it also distracted me from the purpose of the dream. I would stumble, and then fall. Stumble, and then fall. The sense of urgency rose inside, but the ground was unrelenting. I faltered more and more with each stride I took. Regaining my footing, I would only just fall again.

Then, in an instant, I knew I was there. I came to the end. There was no more beach, no more sand to follow, only the last of what was left to see of the sun on that shining night.

My walk on the beach was not long, but long enough for discovery. On the waves that came into the shore, I saw him walking on the water; a silhouette within a new sunrise. I heard the beat of his heart as each new wave swept onto the shore. I felt his breath in the morning breeze upon my face. In a moment, he cleared a way through the strung out thoughts in my mind. Relief came to my emotions; relief to the turmoil of a lifetime of experiences. I found my peace in that dream. My savior, my God, appeared to me.

Indeed, a very pleasant dream, the evening I found my shining knight.

Photos from: http://www.freedigitalphotos.net & http://www.freefoto.com

Have Faith and Believe

2008-02-25T21:11:00.000-08:00

The Word of God has more than enough promises to handle anything we will go through in our lives. Besides our initial salvation, God's grace includes many other promises from God. "I will build My church . . . You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free . . . When He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth" (Matthew 16:18; John 8:32; and John 16:13). That truth is the Word of God, the Bible.

The Bible is filled with God’s promises and we must do our part and study the Word to find out what they are. As we do that, we have the choice whether to believe in those promises and act by faith in our daily lives. God’s promises do not happen the moment you hear them, just because you hear them. It is our choice to respond to those promises, to have faith and believe. Romans 1:16-17 says, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes… For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, ‘The just shall live by faith.’

We must respond to His promises by faith. The good news about Jesus Christ is basically, the grace of God told to and experienced by those who will believe: "the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God" (Acts 20:24). There is power in the grace that God gives to each one of us, the power to save our souls. The Word is effective, because it enables us to walk in the righteousness of God if we will trust in Him.

Now, I have repeated the words “faith” and “believe”, not only for you but for myself. All of us must have faith and believe. Just remember that it is the Bible that is going to open the door to so many possibilities, if only we will have faith and believe.

Unsettled

2008-02-19T13:33:00.000-08:00

Have you ever felt that unsettled feeling inside, the kind that puts you out-of-sorts all day, not really knowing why? Well, I have had that feeling today and to no avail, I cannot put my finger on it.

I began to recite what scriptures I could to get my mind off the peculiarity. I had not been anxious, so “be anxious for nothing” didn’t really apply. I wasn’t afraid, so “we are not created with a spirit of fear” didn’t fit either. So what should my confession have been? What scripture could I have stood on to get me through the moment?

As I continued through the day, I found it difficult to concentrate. I was moving from project to project, but not actually completing much of anything. I felt disorganized and my desk was a mess. My day seemed pointless since I wasn’t accomplishing anything accept to be distracted by how I felt. Maybe, “I can do all things”, yet it just wasn’t the right scripture to suit what I was going through. If I were to compare it to times when physical aches and pains distract me, I thought maybe some of those scriptures could help. None fit the moment.

As I filtered through scriptures in my mind, something arose inside me, two perspectives for this peculiar situation. The first was that of, Romans 8:28, “we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose”. In all things, (pondering moment), that means that no matter what the situation, there is something I can learn and or be trained in. Maybe I was losing the battle against distraction. It wasn’t the obvious distraction life can throw at us like tragedy and mishap, but the subtle things that pull our eyes off our purpose long enough for us to forget what we were doing. The other perspective was an offshoot of the first. The enemy knows when the opposition is preparing, equipping themselves for battle. The enemy tries to set ambushes and snares for the smaller companies of soldiers in order to take them out before they can group with the others.

So, with these new perspectives in mind, I take a break and pray, “Lord, what is it I should see. What is it you want me to do at this very moment?”

Honey, do you remember that I said, "Man does not live on bread alone"? I see your efforts to use my word to help you through. But in this case, you skipped breakfast, just go take lunch. You’re hungry.

;)

Just asking, God ... will you answer?

2008-02-07T18:30:00.000-08:00

Why am I feeling withdrawn from you?
I know you are with me, but it's been difficult to draw close to you.

“let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith,

having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience

and having our bodies washed with pure water.”

Why do the things of this life distract me, pull me away from you?
I know you watch over me, but I'm struggling to look towards you.

"And without faith it is impossible to please God,

because anyone who comes to him must believe that

he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."

Why is it difficult to clear my mind of the caos?
I know you bring peace, but I don't think about asking for it.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything,

by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding,

will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

***

I'm tired Lord, I just want to walk with you, forget the cares of this world ...

“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.”

****

As I take a deep breath, I'll let you take over, Lord. I will throw off everything that hinders me and the sin that so easily entangles, and I will run with perseverance the race marked out for me. I choose to see this 'hardship', if you will, as discipline - discipline of those things I still do not know. You are strengthening my feeble arms and weak knees. You are making level paths for my feet, so that I will grow and mature. *****

"Fight the good fight of the faith.

Take hold of the eternal life

to which you were called

when you made your good confession

in the presence of many witnesses."

******

* Hebrews 10:22; ** Hebrews 11:6; *** Philippians 4:6-7; **** Matthew 11:28; ***** Hebrews 12; ****** 1 Timothy 6:12
(www.ebible.com)

Another Conversation Between Two ...

2007-12-25T20:08:00.000-08:00

She said ...

“As our relationship grows closer, I hear myself saying more and more, 'I will do what you ask.' But now you are asking me to do something I just don't think I can do…

I’ve changed …
I’ve given up …
I’ve turned away from …
I’ve committed myself to …
I’ve submitted myself to …
I’ve learned how to …
I’ve practiced and achieved …
I’ve been successful in …
I’ve increased …
I’ve done more …
I’m there to serve when …
I’ve been obedient to you in ...
Why do I have to do that?”

He said ...

“Have you seen the mountain tops, actually from the top? Where the snow is cold and the air is crisp, hard to breathe because the air is so thin?

I can move mountains for you …

Have you felt the wind beneath you? Flown threw the clouds with the birds that fill the air and fill it with beautiful songs?

I will make you soar like an eagle …

Have you been in the middle of a storm, rain pounding on you and the wind ready to carry you away? Feeling as if you would be drowned at any moment?

I have calmed even the most treacherous storm …

Have you felt the water beneath your feet? Letting go of the world as you’ve known it, the safety net of your own understanding no longer in your thoughts?

Come … walk on the water with me …

Be in my presence and know I will bring you safety; with me you will find rest.

Before you do anything for me – do you decide what it is or do you ask me?
Before you give or serve for my sake – do we talk about it?
Before you set out in your life – do you seek me, the giver of your life?

Where is your faith?

I ask you again ... Will you come? Will you walk on water with me?”

("Conversation Between Two ... " - Posted 10/18/07)

Christmas: What IS the Reason for the Season?

2007-12-18T18:22:00.000-08:00

Christmas is coming upon us quickly and so ignites the flurries of the season that will result in a day of celebration. We speak of it as a day for giving, spending time with family, and just an all-over time for enjoyment. Yet, many of us wind up feeling stress, agitation, and anxiety.

We make perfectionist efforts to display our homes just right and to buy the best gifts, remaining hopeful that we’ll receive what we would normally feel guilty buying for ourselves. The discipline of staying true to a budget is overruled by in-the-moment shopping and bill payments get waylaid until the New Year. We can get lost in the elaborate preparation of meals and hors d'oeuvres, desserts and candy. Then there’s the emotions that fly around, in anticipation of the people we have never seen before and of those we’d rather not see at all, like the in-laws and distant cousins reserved for only once a year.

For some, Christmas Eve initiates the first gifts being unwrapped. For others, it begins bright and early Christmas morning. Although the kids may wake early, eager to discover what presents await them, adults are just as curious to see what new toys they got. We fumble through the wrapping paper and boxes, searching for the very last one to be opened. That’s followed by a quick tidying up before we enjoy the company of our families and friends. In the mix, we throw in snowball fights and sledding, everyone getting too wet and tired. At the end of the day, there are slumbering bodies amid the wired ones who had more than their fill of desert. Meanwhile, those who must return to their homes, make a list in their head of the exchanges they’ll be making as they head out the door. Friends and relatives staying over another night are given blankets and pillows for the stay.

Is Christmas just another excuse to get together or are we celebrating something important?

As the angel told Joseph in Matthew 1:21, “She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”

"For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son,
that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
John 3:16

I Believe It's a Miracle

2007-11-19T17:06:00.000-08:00

Some believe it, some do not: in my life, I have experienced it; God’s miracle working power.

For several years, I suffered from different ailments. Pain, numbness, and loss of abilities in my arms and legs were continuously interchangeable. In April of 2003, within a matter of a week, I suffered complete vision loss in my left eye by what is called the “curtain” effect. With this, I was taken to the Oklahoma University Medical Center. My medical coverage didn’t cover most testing, but because it was a training facility, they could do tests on my eyes. After the ordeal, a panel of three doctors made a decision. All I remember was one of them saying to me, “This condition is almost always the early signs of MS. In fact, that is our only experience with this type of vision loss.” I’m sure they said more, but that is all I heard. The next day, I visited my regular doctor, who also was limited to minimal testing by my medical coverage, so no additional testing was done. He made an educated guess that he was 95% sure I was indeed suffering from MS.

Devastated, I did not know what to do. I prayed, but it was not with a believing heart because I knew I had walked away from God. I thought that it must be a punishment. So I made plans to move to Ohio, to be close to my mother. I arrived at her home a few months later, only to feel that I was not supposed to be there. Something told me it was time to go back to the place I had always called home; this was also where my children’s father lived. I thought that it was so that when I could not care for the kids anymore, their father could care for them. I thought my life was ending, after all, I was told MS progresses quickly, especially without treatment (which I couldn’t afford).

When we returned home, my kids began to familiarize themselves with their father and I began seeking doctors to help me. Meanwhile, I also began to attend church again…

It was a Sunday service. I sat towards the back of the church, in an isle seat. I began to feel muscle spasms begin in my right leg as it began to painfully stiffen and stretch out in front of me. My eyes teared up and I thought, “Not here, God.”
As I said that to myself, the Pastor stopped speaking, walked over to me, and asked, “You’re tired of this, aren’t you?”
Crying, I said, “Yes.”
“Do you want it to stop?”
Again, I said, “Yes.”
He leaned into my leg and with his hand on my head, prayed for me. Instantly, my leg loosened and the pain was gone. There was applause, and everyone thanked God with me.

Although in shock, I was able to walk out of church with no help from others that day. That week, I was able to get the correct tests done (this time) and they showed I did not have MS. I have been symptom free for four years.

There are those who want to question the validity of my initial diagnosis because proper testing was not done in the first place. “How can you say you really had MS?” This is the main reason why I am reluctant to share this testimony very often. Yet, as I pray about it, I am reminded: I have had no symptoms arise that, previous to that church service, were there. I am able to walk and use my arms and legs, and I can see. A miracle happened that day, no matter what anyone wants to name it.

My God is a BIG GOD! My God is a HEALING GOD!

1 Peter 2:24
He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.

Isaiah 53:5
But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed.

James 5:16
Therefore 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.

Psalm 103 Of David.
1 Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
2 Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits—
3 who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion,
5 who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
6 The Lord works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed.
7 He made known his ways to Moses, his deeds to the people of Israel:
8 The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.
9 He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever;
10 he does not treat us as our sins deserve
or repay us according to our iniquities.
11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his love for those who fear him;
12 as far as the east is from the west, s
o far has he removed our transgressions from us.
13 As a father has compassion on his children,
so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him;
14 for he knows how we are formed,
he remembers that we are dust.
15 As for man, his days are like grass,
he flourishes like a flower of the field;
16 the wind blows over it and it is gone,
and its place remembers it no more.
17 But from everlasting to everlasting

the Lord's love is with those who fear him,

and his righteousness with their children's children—
18 with those who keep his covenant

and remember to obey his precepts.
19 The Lord has established his throne in heaven,

and his kingdom rules over all.
20 Praise the Lord, you his angels,

you mighty ones who do his bidding, who obey his word.
21 Praise the Lord, all his heavenly hosts,

you his servants who do his will.
22 Praise the Lord, all his works everywhere in his dominion.

Praise the Lord, O my soul.

A Pleasant Dream

2007-11-10T15:04:00.000-08:00

Photos from: http://www.freedigitalphotos.net & http://www.freefoto.com

Take a Drive With Me

2007-10-31T00:24:00.000-07:00

Conversation Between Two...

2007-10-18T12:44:00.000-07:00

A Path and a Trail

2007-10-12T16:57:00.000-07:00

For every step we take,
it is better to have
a goal; a purpose.
A path we are to follow,
with tasks outlined
for us to achieve,
And a trail to show
where we’ve been
and what we have
already accomplished.

I Only Want More of You

2007-10-10T15:50:00.000-07:00

Time

2007-10-03T16:35:00.000-07:00

Time to see the beauty
of that which God created

Time to hear the sounds
that make us laugh and sing

Time to smell the fragrances
perfumes only wish to be

Time for us to taste flavors
none have yet to savor

Time to feel the things
that were made for us to feel

Time to know a love
that can make time stand still

My Glass is Full!

2007-09-27T18:40:00.000-07:00

Do you see your glass as half empty or half full? This is a question that is usually used to reveal a person’s perception of life. When I see a glass, I perceive it as full, neither half empty nor half full.

We do not see the air we breathe but we know it is there. As you blow up a balloon, even a small child can see that air occupies space. It has the strength to stretch the plastic to its capacity. As you put something into a glass, the air must leave since the two cannot share the same space. The fluid is heavier so it will always be at the bottom, but it controls how much air remains in the glass.

Our lives are filled with things that some may perceive as the fluid in the glass. Yet, how many of us even think about the air that makes life worth living. God is working on our behalf as we follow him. That does not mean we will always be aware of his workings.

Our lives are not half of anything but full at all times with what we choose to put in it.Let’s try to do something with what we’ve been given and see that we lack nothing as long as we are looking to Him as our source and supply.

Through the Forest of Trees

2007-09-15T23:10:00.000-07:00

Has something ever happened to you and you just knew that it was because of something someone else did? Or things went wrong and you were sure you were not the one to make any mistakes - it was surely someone else? Or even that you wanted to be named as a person in charge of something because the person currently in charge was not doing it as well as you would?

Well, I have found myself in such a situation. I felt frustrated because I really liked this person, but I believed I could do things better, with plenty of facts to back me up. I prayed and prayed, asking God why I wasn’t being listened to. I made my case, approached the person, hoping to settle this within me. I addressed unresolved fears and angers within myself. I went to them and discussed my feelings and opinions, but still there was no resolve inside me.

Then I received my answer…

“Honey, I can’t make out what you’re saying. What are you asking me to do for you? I can’t hear you through the forest of trees between us. Remove the trees so that I can help.”

Mat 7:3-5 (CEV) You can see the speck in your friend's eye, but you don't notice the log in your own eye. How can you say, "My friend, let me take the speck out of your eye," when you don't see the log in your own eye? You're nothing but show-offs! First, take the log out of your own eye. Then you can see how to take the speck out of your friend's eye.

Point taken … the trees have begun to fall...

Mat 7:1 (CEV) Don't condemn others, and God won't condemn you. God will be as hard on you as you are on others! He will treat you exactly as you treat them.

He Is the Lifter of My Head

2007-09-07T15:32:00.000-07:00

The Lord is a shield around me,
He bestows glory on me,
and He is the lifter of my head.
Psalm 3:3

I choose to believe in the God of my creation.
He is that shield that protects me when I see that I might be destroyed.
He will make me great, allowing His magnificence to flow through me.
When I feel discouraged and strength is hard to come by,
I can remind myself that He will lift my head

We have no idea how many times God has saved our lives.
Car accidents diverted, plane crashes stayed,
and elements of nature God told to be still.
Yet, in our daily lives it’s the simple things that get us all riled up
or worried that they will lead to our demise.

Take a moment to thank the Lord.
Remind yourself that this really is the day the Lord has made
and choose to rejoice and be glad in it.
The Bible doesn’t say,
“I will rejoice only if things are going well today”
So, rejoice in all things
and know that he is God.

Pushing past where I was comfortable...

2007-08-24T10:20:00.000-07:00

I have pushed past what was comfortable and am coming out the other side. I've been in Minnesota for company training this week. I have not been on a trip alone or even on a plane before this trip. I have left my hotel to experience the city, when previously I would not have. God has given me courage where I had none, strength when I needed it, vision to see past my fears, and peace in the midst of it all.

In turn, I have met fabulous people, built relationships, but most importantly I have accomplished more than I ever thought I would. Jesus not only saved and forgave me, but I have truly been redeemed from my past - become a new creation and I'm growing every day.

I want to publicly thank: Pam for her hospitality during my stay, showing me around. I also want to thank TJ, Rod and Ivan for helping me break out of my shell and share my testimony.

Slow Down and Trust Him

2007-08-16T17:02:00.000-07:00

Life is busy for most of us. There are times when things get added to our schedules and we get to shuffle things around a bit to make it work. I’ve had to take a closer look at the things that fill up my time.

How much of it is really from God?

The Word says that we decide our course and He will direct our steps. We must choose the path to follow Him and He’ll let us know how he wants us to get there.

Slow down and trust Him. Know that He knows more about you than you do. Sometimes we want to graduate before we’ve even been through kindergarten. For me, I sometimes feel like I’m working so hard to do what’s right, and a part of me wants to say, “What about me, God? When do I get to put me first?”

Well, I don’t get to put “me” first. I get to trust Him to take care of “me”. His Word says that we must put down our cross and follow Him. That means everything in our lives must be laid down, including our hopes and dreams. We must trust the He truly is the Father that loves us and will not forget about us.

Correction in phrasing of this previous blog:
“Thursday, August 16, 2007 - Slow Down and Trust Him”Previously, I wrote: “His Word says that we must put down our cross and follow Him. That means everything in our lives must be laid down, including our hopes and dreams. We must trust that He truly is the Father that loves us and will not forget about us.”The Word actually says, “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 and for the gospel will save it.” Luke 9:23-24 (NIV)My intention was to convey that we must put His ways before our own, to walk in his ways not our own. I used the term “cross” in a manner that actually combines the latter scripture with, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me … For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV) AND Isaiah 55:8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.

2007-08-15T10:58:00.000-07:00

As things pile up during the day,
in addition to the excess from yesterday,
remember that it's your perspective
through the increase
that will determine how your day ends.

Keep smiling and enjoy your day!

2007-08-13T13:16:00.000-07:00

Pray without ceasing and always encourage one another in love.

Have A Great Day!

Meanwhile:

2007-08-05T09:47:00.000-07:00

"The Most of My Matters"

2007-08-02T16:32:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, I have looked at my life like I would a cup of coffee, seeing only what is at the top. I don’t look to the bottom, at the build-up of muck. Other times, I’ve seen my life as a wineskin, not realizing that it has holes in it until I notice I’m getting all wet. So, I either try not to stir things up, as in the cup of coffee. Or I just don’t use it as often, as in the wineskin.

When I’ve been low and in the midst of despair, I have reached for God. When I’ve sought Him, I have always found Him. He has taken me in His arms and comforted me, as it says in Proverbs 8:17, “I love those who love me, those eagerly looking for me will find me.”

Yet, what do I do when things are going good, when there is no real calamity pounding at my door? Sometimes I find myself distracted and involved in my everyday life.

I work in a busy office and I am responsible for helping everyone else do their job better. In doing so, I must constantly prioritize my duties. Most often, this is by who requires my help, a manager versus a sales person. Usually, I must respond first to the one of higher authority, which means staying in contact with them throughout the day.

How often do I say, “Good Morning, Lord. What would you like for me to do for you today?” Do I place His will as highest priority during each day, because of His position? Do I stay in contact with the Father, my source of everything I have need of, so that I can complete all the tasks He has for me? Am I prepared for His service?

John wrote to the angel of the church of Ephesus in Revelation 2:4, “Nevertheless, I have this against you, that you have left your first love.” I know that I am guilty of missing the mark, forgetting my first love, forgetting what matters most. I have failed to always put God first in my life.

Isaiah 58:2 says, “Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and one who did not forget the ordinance of their God. They ask me of the ordinances of justice; they take delight in drawing near to God.”

I know He has forgiven me and I am able to change my ways today.

Well, my cup may look okay from the top, but I know I still have things sitting at the bottom. My wineskin has been leaking for a while now, so it’s time to get rid of it and start using the one God gave me. Just because things are looking good doesn’t mean I can take a break from seeking Him every moment I can.

I have realized that
if I do not keep God as “the most of my matters”,
He will stop being what matters most.

Keep a Song in Your Heart

2007-07-30T19:15:00.000-07:00

Keep a song in your heart

a whistle on your lips,

and a skip in your step.

The joy of the Lord is our strength!

"Pray Without Ceasing"

2007-07-21T21:22:00.000-07:00

When I see someone hurting, I hurt. When I know someone is struggling in an area of their life, I feel compassion towards them. When it is someone close to me, it is often difficult to separate myself from what they are going through.

I have often prayed, “How can I help them, Lord? Is listening really going to help them?” The Lord answers, “I know more about what they are going through than you could ever imagine. Do you believe that I order their steps just as I order yours? Do you trust that I am working for the good of ALL those who believe? If I am a light to your path, can I be a light to theirs? Let me do my job and you do yours: pray for them”

Prayer is such a powerful thing.

First Thessalonians 5:17, “Pray without ceasing.”

First Timothy 2:8, “Therefore, I desire that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting”.

James 5:16, “Confess faults to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous one avails much.”

Although I listen and I feel compassion, I cannot walk another's walk, but I can carry them. How can I carry them? I will pray and God will do the work.

Romans 8:26, “Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered”.

Have Faith and Believe

2007-07-21T20:46:00.000-07:00

The Word of God has more than enough promises to handle anything we will go through in our lives. Besides our initial salvation, God's grace includes many other promises from God. "I will build My church . . . You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free . . . When He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth" (Matthew 16:18; John 8:32; and John 16:13). That truth is the Word of God, the Bible.

The Bible is filled with God’s promises and we must do our part and study the Word to find out what they are. As we do that, we have the choice whether to believe in those promises and act by faith in our daily lives. God’s promises do not happen the moment you hear them, just because you hear them. It is our choice to respond to those promises, to have faith and believe. Romans 1:16-17 says, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes… For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, ‘The just shall live by faith.’

We must respond to His promises by faith. The good news about Jesus Christ is basically, the grace of God told to and experienced by those who will believe: "the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God" (Acts 20:24). There is power in the grace that God gives to each one of us, the power to save our souls. The Word is effective, because it enables us to walk in the righteousness of God if we will trust in Him.

Now, I have repeated the words “faith” and “believe”, not only for you but for myself. All of us must have faith and believe. Just remember that it is the Bible that is going to open the door to so many possibilities, if only we will have faith and believe.

God...

2007-07-20T00:10:00.000-07:00

GOD MADE THE EARTH,
GOD MADE THE SKY,
HE MADE THE CLOUDS,
FOR YOU AND I,
HE TAKES CARE OF THE SKIES,
HE TAKES CARE OF THE SEAS,
HE TAKES CARE OF ME WHEN I SNEEZE,

written by Moriah Van Winkle - age 10

Around the Copy Machine

2007-07-19T23:51:00.000-07:00

Some of us have heard of the reference to “what you hear around the water cooler” in the workplace. This suggests the place to go for the latest gossip in the office. I find this happening “around the copy machine” in the office where I work.

Today, at work, things transpired that took me out of my norm, my daily routine. Before I knew it, I was contributing to something I had no intention to. As a few of us were gathered around the copier waiting for our print jobs to come through, we began talking. I found that pretty soon, I began to cross the line into gossip, ya know “he said, she said”.

Wow! What do I do? When I realized what I was doing was unproductive and something God says not do, I excused myself. But it made me think, “How many times have I done this and NOT realized it?”

I went to my desk and prayed quietly, “Lord, forgive me. Make it plain to me at the first temptation of sin, so that I might not sin against you.” I want to glorify God in the things I do. I know I am not perfect by any means, but I strive to let God perfect me every day.

As I return to work tomorrow, I will be more aware of the words I speak. If I falter, the Lord will give me the wisdom and strength to press forward. It’s not a matter of always doing everything right, but whether I will recognize and admit when I mess up, ask forgiveness, then change.

Praise God! He’s not finished with me yet.

2007-07-18T23:20:00.000-07:00

artwork by Honey

(song we sing in church - I do not know who the writer is)

Keep Going

2007-07-17T07:48:00.000-07:00

It isn’t over yet.
Keep going, you haven’t lost.
Keep going, push as hard as you can.
Keep going, you still have a chance.
Throw that ball as far as you can.
And receivers don’t stop at the ten.
Come on defense stand strong.
Keep going, and try your best.
Because quitters never Win and Winners never quit.

By Paul VanWinkle - age13

My Glass Is Full!

2007-07-13T15:57:00.000-07:00

Do you see your glass as half empty or half full? This is a question that is usually used to reveal a person’s perception of life. When I see a glass, I perceive it as full, neither half empty nor half full.

We do not see the air we breathe but we know it is there. As you blow up a balloon, even a small child can see that air occupies space. It has the strength to stretch the plastic to its capacity. As you put something into a glass, the air must leave since the two cannot share the same space. The fluid is heavier so it will always be at the bottom, but it controls how much air remains in the glass.

Our lives are filled with things that some may perceive as the fluid in the glass. Yet, how many of us even think about the air that makes life worth living. God is working on our behalf as we follow him. That does not mean we will always be aware of his workings.

Do we know how many times he keeps us seconds away from adversity and disaster, an explosive argument, a failed mishap, or an unintended accident? Do we believe he will work things out for the good of those that love him? Our lives are not half of anything but full at all times with what we choose to put in it.

Let’s try to do something with what we’ve been given and see that we lack nothing as long as we are looking to Him as our source and supply.

Victorious

2007-07-12T09:34:00.000-07:00

I find that there are many times I am tested, disciplined and challenged in the same ways that my children are. Sometimes I have to change at the same time they do. For this reason, I am that much more adamant that they learn now, rather than later. I want to save them the same struggles I’m experiencing as an adult, to change.

As with any lesson we teach our children, we bring into it our personal perceptions and experiences. For myself, there are not only the issues of obedience and of setting aside personal desires to be dealt with. I have years of habits and old ways of thinking that made it “okay” to live the way I have. These habits are not to be used as excuses, but they are evidence of a mind yet to be renewed in that area.

Frustration comes when my children see me doing, or not doing, as I’ve instructed them. When my teenage son sees that I’m not abiding by the same rules I have set for him, he finds reason to point it out. Although it is not his place to correct me, I find that I am stirred up. Defensive at first, then guilt comes. Will I choose to become discouraged? I must choose the right road to walk, to demonstrate God’s perspective on the matter, not my own. So what is God’s perspective?

Paul writes, in Romans 7:19, about the things he knows he should do, but doesn’t do them; instead he does what he doesn’t want to do. He goes on, in chapter 8, to encourage us that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. So, if I fall, repeating what I know I should not do, I must continue to get back up and brush the dust off my hands and knees. When I fall, I land on my hands and knees, my face to the ground. It is as I stand to my feet, I look no longer to that sin that caused my fall, and I take another step. As I walk, no matter how many times I find myself repeating old behaviors, those that hinder my walk with God, I must put aside whatever shame I feel for doing that thing once again. The shame and guilt will cause me to look towards the ground, failure. When I ask for forgiveness, I must look away from what I’ve done, towards the goal he has set before me, to be in right standing with him.

I must demonstrate to my children the courage and strength to continue on against adversity and my own weakness, not to show them that I am perfect. If they see me make mistakes, they must also see that I have asked for God’s forgiveness and that I am able to say, “Okay, let’s try this again.” I may be tempted to look my failure, but they must see my willingness to please the father. Do we listen to the warrior who gets wounded and walks away, or to the wounded warrior who sticks it out to the end?

My children have seen me wounded, but now they will see me victorious.

My Mirror

2007-07-05T11:40:00.000-07:00

With that, I fell asleep.

The Multi-Tasker

2007-07-02T22:10:00.000-07:00

Multi-tasking can be a very important skill. The ability to do different things at one time can come in handy when pressed for time or in keeping with a schedule. I have come to be very good at multi-tasking and it has helped me to succeed on the job. Managing the telephone, filing, faxing, emailing, data entry and all the other things that come up throughout a day, has become something I do well. Still, at the end of the day, I know I have done many things, but I would not be able to tell you too many details.

I have established a way of thinking that says, “Do everything I can in as little time as possible.” Well, I really do not want to live my life like that. Yet, slowing down my thinking has really become the challenge, to actually contemplate and give serious thought to what I do.

I have visions for my future, plans of things I can do, but I have not even been able to get them down on paper. I would like to write a book, but my thoughts become only a few paragraphs. I have ideas, but my outlines are jumbled and incomplete. I have inspirations I want to create, but I seem to be too busy.

I have come to realize: at least I have a vision when I used to see only that day. At least I have something to write when I used to think that nothing I said was important. I can see things in my future even though there was a time when I just existed. Now, I have so many things I want to do, there was a time when I just wanted to be alone.

I must train as an athlete trains, to build endurance and discipline. I know I am in for the long haul with Christ, so I must run with fortitude and diligence. I must not get distracted by the small tasks and the desire to do it all as fast as I can. I must wait upon the Lord, seek Him and His direction. As long as I do that, in the end, I will have done just what He wanted me to do, when it needed to be done.

Am I Where I'm Supposed to Be?

2007-06-29T16:58:00.000-07:00

Am I where I’m supposed to be? I would have to say yes. Is it because I have the life I’ve always dreamed of? Is it because I have the best job, the best family, and the best friends? Well, I do have the best friends I could ever have ;) but what about all the other stuff?

I know that God said that in my heart I plan my course, but He determines my steps. (Proverbs 16:9) I believe I have a vision with a course and He continues to build upon it. It’s up to me to take the steps he’s given me today and wait for His direction for tomorrow. If my steps take me to work then home again, then that’s what I should do. While I’m there, I must make sure “I’m there”. It’s up to me to take hold of any thought that would distract me from doing what I know to do.

There have been times that I thought of looking for a new job just because I didn’t like how things were working out. I’ve really had to determine whether it was my attitude that needed adjustment OR is “God giving me a sign I should move on”.

For me, I know that longevity on the job has always been a struggle, but now I trust him to direct me each day. Every day I know I must go to work, therefore my attitude must be that whatever I do or say, I’ve got to do it in His name, giving Him thanks all the while. (Colossians 3:17) If I trust Him to determine my steps, how can I dare to hate my job? If I trust Him, how can I complain about where I’m at? Maybe he’s waiting for me to get my attitude straight…THEN He’ll move me. OR Maybe when I change my attitude, I’ll realize I was supposed to be there all along.

It doesn’t mean I’m on the wrong course or that He’s not directing my steps when things are tough. It means there’s something I can learn in every situation.

Today, I learned that I will be coming to work on Monday.

Whew! What a Day...

2007-06-28T15:27:00.000-07:00

Ever had one of those days that you’re pulled every direction? You were working in your office or out in the field, demands were placed on you from everyone and you rushed around trying to do it all? The phone rang non-stop and the paperwork seemed endless? Or you were working at home; chores were never ending and there were always needs to be met? You were chauffeur with places to go and people to see.

For me, today has been one of those days, but then … there was a moment.

A still, small voice spoke inside me. “Be still and know that I am God.” Those absolutes I was thinking came to a halt. It was not that everyone was demanding things or that I was required to do it all. It was at that moment I was reminded that, in life, there is only one absolute and that is God. I let the pressures of demands and responsibilities take over until I was thinking in absolutes.

My kids know all too well that when I hear them speak in absolutes like, “everybody” or “everything” or “no one”, they get to re-think how they perceive what’s going on around them. Today was a day that I got to re-think my perceptions. Now, I’m ending my day with joy in my heart and a song on my tongue, because “He has made me glad, He has made me glad, I will rejoice for He has made me glad….”

He Is the Lifter of My Head

2007-06-26T14:10:00.000-07:00

The Lord is a shield around me, He bestows glory on me, and He is the lifter of my head.

I choose to believe in the God of my creation. He is that shield that protects me when I see that I might be destroyed. He will make me great, allowing His magnificence to flow through me. When I feel discouraged and strength is hard to come by, I can remind myself that He will lift my head.

We have no idea how many times God has saved our lives. Car accidents diverted, plane crashes stayed, and elements of nature God told to be still. Yet, in our daily lives it’s the simple things that get us all riled up or worried that they will lead to our demise.

Take a moment to thank the Lord. Remind yourself that this really is the day the Lord has made and choose to rejoice and be glad in it. The Bible doesn’t say “only if things are going well that day I will rejoice”. So, rejoice in all things and know that he is God.

My God Is More Than Enough, He Is El-Shaddai!

2007-06-25T14:09:00.000-07:00