Feeling a little parched? Dry?
Do you feel like David when he cried out "Oh God, you are my God; earnestly I seek You, my soul thirst for You, my body longs for You, in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
I cry Out with David. I say David, "You had this 1000 of years ago and still today some us walk around dry!"
Void of people wanting to praise God out loud, or even talk about Jesus. My blood pumps because of Him and I want to find others who want to talk feel free to say, everything I have is because of Him or I prayed today...or just a simple declaration of Praise God for....!
There is more talk about what celebrities are doing and what this author says about life. I hear less and less, "God said, or God's love, or God's compassion, or God's help."
I challenged me and a friend to read Psalm 136 with the understanding and hope that we would understand and develop the sense of God's love for us. Go deeper! As I read the faith stories of the Israelites I can sense my own personal stories bubbling up within me. I caught myself saying, "od yes, when you got me through this and that, YOUR LOVE DID ENDURE FOREVER. Thus the challenge to pray and ask God to help me make my own Psalm Love endures forever!
Be ready! Once you pray God will delight you with stories popping up all times of the day! That's a Good God! I suggest you put them in a notebook page in you phone, because God really likes this game and the thought of each story continues to come...but make sure each story ends with His love endures forever.
On of my favorites.
My dad's aunt was a nun in a retired convent home and when I visited a nun friend of my aunt asked me, "which daughter are you? (I answer) Oh! yes you are the one with childhood asthma." I had been prayed for my whole life. My aunt updated these sweet nuns regularly and they really prayed for me. I had prayer covering my whole life! Well that explains so much. HIS LOVE ENDURES FOREVER!
Are you getting this game?
Well, I pray you will feel as loved as I do from God. He showed up so many ways through my life.
Amen. Thank you Jesus.
No dry and weary land here.
I am a recycler. Anything God teaches me has never been wasted it has always been recycled for God's glory.
Friday, December 6, 2019
Friday, October 25, 2019
A WAY OUT
"God is faithful." He will not allow the temptation to more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. 1 Corinthians 10:13"
When you want to go off on someone, when you want to quit, when want to give up and also the temptation of addictions.
Problems with relationships, work...etc...
People can pursue you all they want, fill your head with worldly philosophies. Beware! What does God have to say about that. Get out of their company as fast as you can.
When someone comes fast into your life and you think oh maybe I have space for them. Then chaos, confusion and disorder starts showing up in your life. Ask; what does God think about these relationships...is he calling me back to them? You can rationalize and reason all you want, but here are somethings that was brought to my mind lately. (by the way, this is why we should memorize scripture)
"Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, mind your own business (Do you need to know everything someone is going through? All those answers lead to you giving space in your head that you may not even have right now), work with you hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody. 1 Thess. 4:11."
"If it is possible (sometimes it is NOT possible) as far as it depends on you live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18"
You may say, "I can trust them with my heart!" Can you? NO! Never trust anyone with you heart. Your heart was given to you by God. Not out there for someone to mess with. Only trust God to guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:6-7). You can pray that people be gentle with your heart. People fail us.
"Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing (that word meaning is so powerful=formal promise) what is to come.
He has everlasting love for me.
Hands held out facing down, I give each person in these relationships to God.
Hands held out facing up, What do you have to say Jesus?
He helps me find a way out.
You have tried. I see you have tried. Let me take over. I have been trying also. I got this.
"God and stand in the presence of the Lord for the Lord is abut to pass by...he is not in the wind, earthquake or fire (He is not in the problem, struggle, trouble, confusion, chaos, or disorder.
I AM IN THE WHISPER 1 Kings 19:11-12).
I don't know about you, but as I get older my hearing is getting worse. I really have to get quiet to hear.
In John 1:4-5 "In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome."
In this way out journey, light and darkness has been constantly in my mind. Many verses keep popping up about light and dark.
This is so reassuring, "for He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
I sat in my car and felt the light of the sun. Take the time to savor its richness, basking in His golden lights. Yes! Love this image! Know this light!
Exodus 33:14 "My presence will go with you and I will give you rest.
Two times in one day I see this reminder, "Philippians 4:8 Whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, think on such things.
Still sitting in the sun, Isaiah 60:1 "Arise shine, for your light has come, and the glory of he Lord rises upon you."
In Daniels captivity he used him. Daniel was seeing so much. Processing so much. God allowed that. When I am processing, and seeing, God is working it together for good, He is allowing it!
Why is God allowing this all?
For His glory! For our legacy together! For the next generation.
There's the perspective. I now am finally sitting with Jesus in the whisper not in the struggle.
Dear Father, help me to find a way out. Amen.
What's your way out? Journal it. You will be amazed over the course of time of how much God is working.
When you want to go off on someone, when you want to quit, when want to give up and also the temptation of addictions.
Problems with relationships, work...etc...
People can pursue you all they want, fill your head with worldly philosophies. Beware! What does God have to say about that. Get out of their company as fast as you can.
When someone comes fast into your life and you think oh maybe I have space for them. Then chaos, confusion and disorder starts showing up in your life. Ask; what does God think about these relationships...is he calling me back to them? You can rationalize and reason all you want, but here are somethings that was brought to my mind lately. (by the way, this is why we should memorize scripture)
"Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, mind your own business (Do you need to know everything someone is going through? All those answers lead to you giving space in your head that you may not even have right now), work with you hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody. 1 Thess. 4:11."
"If it is possible (sometimes it is NOT possible) as far as it depends on you live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18"
You may say, "I can trust them with my heart!" Can you? NO! Never trust anyone with you heart. Your heart was given to you by God. Not out there for someone to mess with. Only trust God to guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:6-7). You can pray that people be gentle with your heart. People fail us.
"Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing (that word meaning is so powerful=formal promise) what is to come.
He has everlasting love for me.
Hands held out facing down, I give each person in these relationships to God.
Hands held out facing up, What do you have to say Jesus?
He helps me find a way out.
You have tried. I see you have tried. Let me take over. I have been trying also. I got this.
"God and stand in the presence of the Lord for the Lord is abut to pass by...he is not in the wind, earthquake or fire (He is not in the problem, struggle, trouble, confusion, chaos, or disorder.
I AM IN THE WHISPER 1 Kings 19:11-12).
I don't know about you, but as I get older my hearing is getting worse. I really have to get quiet to hear.
In John 1:4-5 "In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome."
In this way out journey, light and darkness has been constantly in my mind. Many verses keep popping up about light and dark.
This is so reassuring, "for He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
I sat in my car and felt the light of the sun. Take the time to savor its richness, basking in His golden lights. Yes! Love this image! Know this light!
Exodus 33:14 "My presence will go with you and I will give you rest.
Two times in one day I see this reminder, "Philippians 4:8 Whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, think on such things.
Still sitting in the sun, Isaiah 60:1 "Arise shine, for your light has come, and the glory of he Lord rises upon you."
In Daniels captivity he used him. Daniel was seeing so much. Processing so much. God allowed that. When I am processing, and seeing, God is working it together for good, He is allowing it!
Why is God allowing this all?
For His glory! For our legacy together! For the next generation.
There's the perspective. I now am finally sitting with Jesus in the whisper not in the struggle.
Dear Father, help me to find a way out. Amen.
What's your way out? Journal it. You will be amazed over the course of time of how much God is working.
Saturday, September 14, 2019
MY PLATE IS FULL
Showering at the park district pool at the same time I was trying to pray and reflect on Jesus. I call it resting my soul. Then it happened!
A song in the air...what a beautiful name...
I'm like the next word is Jesus...sure enough...filling the whole locker room was a very nice rendition of the worship song by Hillsong Worship-What a Beautiful Name...
I began to sing it with her in a whisper. I wasn't going to attempt to try and keep myself on key. For just one moment I thought it would be cool to join in and let her know I was there. It was heavenly. I finally checked around to see if this was real. The person did not see me. I think she thought the locker was empty, but it continued. A gift.
Never saw her and got to talk with her.
Ask yourself does that scripture hold true in Romans 1:20, stating, "For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities-his eternal power and divine nature-have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse."
I see Him in all things. A precious baby born this past week. A little girl, welcomed into the world. She was a 1% baby. Meaning her parents were given a 1% chance of conceiving a baby. !%! They had been trying for years. Did the medical stuff! and the final word from that Doctor was, 1% chance.
Well Jesus had the last word in their lives....
I'm believing each day in the small. MY PLATE IS FULL! Therefore, as I run around and taking time to rest. I need my sweet Jesus. I know He is present...but this is my personal relationship with the creator who wants me to have fun! Fun!, by a person showing up randomly and singing His praises...a taste of heaven...a boost for the day... way way better than a protein power bar!
The name of Jesus.
I can't make this stuff up!
When I think...or even attempt to say...I can't...HE CAN!
Is your plate full?
You can do all things with Christ. You can see Him in the midst.
Men of the bible in John 1:35 saw Jesus. They recognized, turned around, and started to follow Him...Jesus said, "What do you want?" They replied, "Where are you staying?"
Jesus replied, "Come, and you will SEE!"
We can see Him in the small mundane life.
Please remember this today.
Jesus can never be interrupted. You Never bother Him. JESUS ALWAYS HAS TIME FOR YOU.
Reflect: In life the people always...feel as if you are interrupting them, bugging them, (after all they have full plates).
Jesus NEVER feels that way.
Go ahead!
Interrupt Him any time.
He loves you! He is there for you!
Another story:
Been drawing elephants like crazy for a project I am doing. Out of the blue my three year old grandson (he doesn't know about my project, but Jesus does!) As we are drawing on a white board He says, "Oma, draw an elephant!" I reply, "Of course you asked me to draw an ELEPHANT.
Only God.
It meant alot.
Many times I think unhelpful thoughts like, "You can't do anything." Jesus responds by asking me to draw for my grandson what He has commissioned me to do draw a His creature and Elephant. One of the most compassionate and memorable animals God created. If you do the research they cling to those they love for life. They never forget. They have a great memory of others who are kind and they respond to them for LIFE!
Of course...ONLY GOD... do you believe.
Don't be a skeptic. That diminishes the love and passion God wants to give you!
A song in the air...what a beautiful name...
I'm like the next word is Jesus...sure enough...filling the whole locker room was a very nice rendition of the worship song by Hillsong Worship-What a Beautiful Name...
I began to sing it with her in a whisper. I wasn't going to attempt to try and keep myself on key. For just one moment I thought it would be cool to join in and let her know I was there. It was heavenly. I finally checked around to see if this was real. The person did not see me. I think she thought the locker was empty, but it continued. A gift.
Never saw her and got to talk with her.
Ask yourself does that scripture hold true in Romans 1:20, stating, "For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities-his eternal power and divine nature-have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse."
I see Him in all things. A precious baby born this past week. A little girl, welcomed into the world. She was a 1% baby. Meaning her parents were given a 1% chance of conceiving a baby. !%! They had been trying for years. Did the medical stuff! and the final word from that Doctor was, 1% chance.
Well Jesus had the last word in their lives....
I'm believing each day in the small. MY PLATE IS FULL! Therefore, as I run around and taking time to rest. I need my sweet Jesus. I know He is present...but this is my personal relationship with the creator who wants me to have fun! Fun!, by a person showing up randomly and singing His praises...a taste of heaven...a boost for the day... way way better than a protein power bar!
The name of Jesus.
I can't make this stuff up!
When I think...or even attempt to say...I can't...HE CAN!
Is your plate full?
You can do all things with Christ. You can see Him in the midst.
Men of the bible in John 1:35 saw Jesus. They recognized, turned around, and started to follow Him...Jesus said, "What do you want?" They replied, "Where are you staying?"
Jesus replied, "Come, and you will SEE!"
We can see Him in the small mundane life.
Please remember this today.
Jesus can never be interrupted. You Never bother Him. JESUS ALWAYS HAS TIME FOR YOU.
Reflect: In life the people always...feel as if you are interrupting them, bugging them, (after all they have full plates).
Jesus NEVER feels that way.
Go ahead!
Interrupt Him any time.
He loves you! He is there for you!
Another story:
Been drawing elephants like crazy for a project I am doing. Out of the blue my three year old grandson (he doesn't know about my project, but Jesus does!) As we are drawing on a white board He says, "Oma, draw an elephant!" I reply, "Of course you asked me to draw an ELEPHANT.
Only God.
It meant alot.
Many times I think unhelpful thoughts like, "You can't do anything." Jesus responds by asking me to draw for my grandson what He has commissioned me to do draw a His creature and Elephant. One of the most compassionate and memorable animals God created. If you do the research they cling to those they love for life. They never forget. They have a great memory of others who are kind and they respond to them for LIFE!
Of course...ONLY GOD... do you believe.
Don't be a skeptic. That diminishes the love and passion God wants to give you!
Wednesday, August 21, 2019
WHAT DO YOU WANT OUT OF LIFE?
Swimming in my lane I was coming to the wall asking myself, "Where does my peace come from? Do I have it?" Sometimes we ask the Lord questions and it takes time for the answer, but I looked up underwater and on the wall was a BIG black cross. Right there in front of my eyes to my amazement the answer, the cross and yes!
Let me back up to that morning, being still, quiet, reading, waiting, asking questions. The question of the day; What do you want out of life? My answer: PEACE. Definitely not fear of things not getting better, pain to continue, a friend in sorrow, convincing someone who won't listen that things will get better. Lack of peace, depression, anxious unhelpful thoughts.
I read Psalm 37 (NIV). Finished. Now what? Read it again.The teacher in me needs to be taught, so, I get this idea to keep going through the chapter and find the following two things:
Find fifteen things God asks us to do or not do?
My pen scans the chapter in the bible starting at verse one, do not fret or be anxious, continuing through, trust,dwell in the land and enjoy, delight, commit, be still, do not fret, refrain from anger, turn from wrath, do not fret, turn from evil and do good, and wait (hope) for the Lord, keep His way, take refuge.
Find thirty one times what God promises:
He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, inherit the land x 2, (here it is the answer to my question. I must capitalize it.) ENJOY GREAT PEACE, he will laugh at the wicked, uphold the righteous, the days of the blameless will be known to the Lord, inheritance will endure forever, those the Lord blesses will inherit the land, he makes his steps firm, he will not fall, the Lord upholds his hand, never forsaken, never their children begging for bread, their children will be blessed (huge promise), dwell in the land forever, loves the just, will not forsake His faithful ones, protected forever, inherit the land and dwell in it forever, wisdom, tongue speaks what is just, law of God is in your heart, feet will not slip, exalt you and inherit the land, there is a future for the man of peace, the salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord, your stronghold in time of trouble, helps you, delivers from the wicked, saves you.
Can you believe there are thirty-one promises from God?
What I learned.
TRUST. BRINGS.
PEACE.
That peace you feel when you float on your back in water and listen...listen to the silence...OR that still small whisper...it's soothing...not harsh.
I told my son recently you have to tune into the Holy Spirit. Like you tune into a radio. No static or confusion. JUST PEACE.
wait...be quiet.
The connection of my start of my day and swimming is complete. Standing firm now still walking out this journey.
Prayer:
Thank you Lord for hearing my questions, thank you for answering. Thank you for your reassurance. Thank you for your amazing promises. Today and each day...I hold firm to your words..I will not slip...I will not fall...no stumbling...Thank you for peace. Christ you are my all and all. Holy Spirit lead me. Amen.
Let me back up to that morning, being still, quiet, reading, waiting, asking questions. The question of the day; What do you want out of life? My answer: PEACE. Definitely not fear of things not getting better, pain to continue, a friend in sorrow, convincing someone who won't listen that things will get better. Lack of peace, depression, anxious unhelpful thoughts.
I read Psalm 37 (NIV). Finished. Now what? Read it again.The teacher in me needs to be taught, so, I get this idea to keep going through the chapter and find the following two things:
Find fifteen things God asks us to do or not do?
My pen scans the chapter in the bible starting at verse one, do not fret or be anxious, continuing through, trust,dwell in the land and enjoy, delight, commit, be still, do not fret, refrain from anger, turn from wrath, do not fret, turn from evil and do good, and wait (hope) for the Lord, keep His way, take refuge.
Find thirty one times what God promises:
He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, inherit the land x 2, (here it is the answer to my question. I must capitalize it.) ENJOY GREAT PEACE, he will laugh at the wicked, uphold the righteous, the days of the blameless will be known to the Lord, inheritance will endure forever, those the Lord blesses will inherit the land, he makes his steps firm, he will not fall, the Lord upholds his hand, never forsaken, never their children begging for bread, their children will be blessed (huge promise), dwell in the land forever, loves the just, will not forsake His faithful ones, protected forever, inherit the land and dwell in it forever, wisdom, tongue speaks what is just, law of God is in your heart, feet will not slip, exalt you and inherit the land, there is a future for the man of peace, the salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord, your stronghold in time of trouble, helps you, delivers from the wicked, saves you.
Can you believe there are thirty-one promises from God?
What I learned.
TRUST. BRINGS.
PEACE.
That peace you feel when you float on your back in water and listen...listen to the silence...OR that still small whisper...it's soothing...not harsh.
I told my son recently you have to tune into the Holy Spirit. Like you tune into a radio. No static or confusion. JUST PEACE.
wait...be quiet.
The connection of my start of my day and swimming is complete. Standing firm now still walking out this journey.
Prayer:
Thank you Lord for hearing my questions, thank you for answering. Thank you for your reassurance. Thank you for your amazing promises. Today and each day...I hold firm to your words..I will not slip...I will not fall...no stumbling...Thank you for peace. Christ you are my all and all. Holy Spirit lead me. Amen.
Saturday, August 10, 2019
WHY PRAY
Good question. If God knows everything then He'll take care of it, won't He?
I have found that he release of praying to God always, always helps relieve my fears.
Who doesn't have fears?
If you claim to not have fear, maybe you just don't want to use that word, because we all have fears. Maybe the words anxious thoughts or worry resonate better with you.
I have found that he release of praying to God always, always helps relieve my fears.
Who doesn't have fears?
If you claim to not have fear, maybe you just don't want to use that word, because we all have fears. Maybe the words anxious thoughts or worry resonate better with you.
Thursday, August 8, 2019
DO YOU REMEMBER WHEN....
Going through everything in my house was so tedious and exhausting. It was time to purge and clear, isn't the buzz word "Simplify"! (Truth be told as many of you know we moved.) When I to the massive chest I had of photos, I began to slow down on my packing and reflect on the photos. Observing the many places I traveled and remember who I traveled with. Surprisingly, it was easy to throw albums out and pictures. I will not take the time to go through these 40 plus years of old pictures. I have been judged by others for throwing them away...pause...you may agree...let me tell you when I got to the photos that brought me the deepest joy...a soul joy...my heart soared...I raced out to find a way to organize them so that they no longer will be stashed in a box. It was kind of therapeutic.
Why am I telling you this?
The psalmist wrote, "These things I remember as I pour out my soul; how I used to go..." Ps. 42:4.
"I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds Ps. 77:11-12)."
The Psalmist chooses to remember Moses' flight from slavery to freedom, Joseph's release from prison to a high positioned job. God has always been in the business of helping all people feel loved and free.
The Psalmist journeyed through life expressing his emotions through his struggle and ending with the spiritual spin on things. Somewhere in the middle they remember what God said and did in the past and that helped them to come to the conclusion that they will trust God with the results just as the past followers did.
The Psalmist journeyed through life expressing his emotions through his struggle and ending with the spiritual spin on things. Somewhere in the middle they remember what God said and did in the past and that helped them to come to the conclusion that they will trust God with the results just as the past followers did.
So you see saving the inner circle deep remembrance photos and letting go of the rest is freedom.
The remembrance that is my imprint of growth. (growth unfortunately even in size...which always is fluctuating, you know what I mean). It's not throwing away photos to forget, it's just clinging to what brings me joy now. I am traveling lighter!
Beautiful people...through our journey we find out that freedom comes from trusting God.
Take some time to reflect on theses beautiful truths.
Then...
"Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come Ps. 71:18)."
Prayer: Though there have been troubles, many bitter, Lord restore my life bring me up, comfort me once again. I praise you for your faithfulness, help me to tell of your righteous acts all day long. Amen.
Pass it on.
Pass it on.
further quiet time needed?
I recommend you listen to Remember by Lauren Daigle.
Wednesday, June 12, 2019
WHAT AM I LONGING?
What am I longing for?
Well, to be honest if the question was, what food am I longing for I would definitely say "Filet Mignon"!
If it was TV show I would say this BBC MASTERPIECE show called Poldark!
If it was a movie I would say maybe a Spider Man Movie or a good Rom-Com!
We know Americans are obsessed with taking care of our bodies mmm sometimes our mind, but what about the soul?
The first time I realized who HE was. I felt remorse, joy, hope, loved, forgiveness especially peace!
I had missed those feelings. Lately...
When I ask to settle down, to honor Him, to be still...can I get quiet enough? I can and in fact those feelings of hope are here with me.
I felt a stirring in my soul as if I had read this passage for the first time.
Reading...I have full access to knowledge through my relationship with Christ.
Knowledge, understanding, wisdom, will of His, power, strength, able to live a life worthy of bearing fruit, according to His glorious might so that...I can have great endurance, patience and joyfully giving thanks to the Father...
this next part blows my mind because some have said of me, you are weak, she needs help, she can't do that on her own...
but...
He says, "He has qualified me!"
Me...qualified...do you know you are qualified? The prayer to grow in this truth...Colossians 1.
The question comes...what am I longing for in my soul?
What?
I am quiet...
My heart speaks...to please you...I make that into a prayer! Lord I want to please you.
A soft whisper within me gives this reply.
Live a quiet life...mind your own business.
Where is that?
I have read it before.
I Google search it in the bible.
1Thess. 4:11-12
The theme of this chapter is...Teaching concerning development in orderly living.
Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, SO THAT your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.
Please God.
Yes!
How does this pertain to my struggle.
I am qualified.
I have full access.
I will have the peace of God to lead me.
My prayer, will you pray with me.
my soul longs for you, thank you for qualifying me, thank you for the full access to you, lead me. Amen.
Our lives get entangled in so much. So many thoughts...questions like why are they doing that?...or why did they go there? Is it my business. Is this helpful questions or thoughts that I want to get entangled to?
If you catch yourself being more worried, anxious, feeling out of sorts...perhaps you aren't minding your own business.
I'm just sayin!
When we want to lead a peaceful life we (I'm talking to myself) we have to be CARE FULL! We are care about our minds well being and we need to be cautious...Is it FULL of the right thoughts?
Well, to be honest if the question was, what food am I longing for I would definitely say "Filet Mignon"!
If it was TV show I would say this BBC MASTERPIECE show called Poldark!
If it was a movie I would say maybe a Spider Man Movie or a good Rom-Com!
We know Americans are obsessed with taking care of our bodies mmm sometimes our mind, but what about the soul?
The first time I realized who HE was. I felt remorse, joy, hope, loved, forgiveness especially peace!
I had missed those feelings. Lately...
When I ask to settle down, to honor Him, to be still...can I get quiet enough? I can and in fact those feelings of hope are here with me.
I felt a stirring in my soul as if I had read this passage for the first time.
Reading...I have full access to knowledge through my relationship with Christ.
Knowledge, understanding, wisdom, will of His, power, strength, able to live a life worthy of bearing fruit, according to His glorious might so that...I can have great endurance, patience and joyfully giving thanks to the Father...
this next part blows my mind because some have said of me, you are weak, she needs help, she can't do that on her own...
but...
He says, "He has qualified me!"
Me...qualified...do you know you are qualified? The prayer to grow in this truth...Colossians 1.
The question comes...what am I longing for in my soul?
What?
I am quiet...
My heart speaks...to please you...I make that into a prayer! Lord I want to please you.
A soft whisper within me gives this reply.
Live a quiet life...mind your own business.
Where is that?
I have read it before.
I Google search it in the bible.
1Thess. 4:11-12
The theme of this chapter is...Teaching concerning development in orderly living.
Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, SO THAT your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.
Please God.
Yes!
How does this pertain to my struggle.
I am qualified.
I have full access.
I will have the peace of God to lead me.
My prayer, will you pray with me.
my soul longs for you, thank you for qualifying me, thank you for the full access to you, lead me. Amen.
Our lives get entangled in so much. So many thoughts...questions like why are they doing that?...or why did they go there? Is it my business. Is this helpful questions or thoughts that I want to get entangled to?
If you catch yourself being more worried, anxious, feeling out of sorts...perhaps you aren't minding your own business.
I'm just sayin!
When we want to lead a peaceful life we (I'm talking to myself) we have to be CARE FULL! We are care about our minds well being and we need to be cautious...Is it FULL of the right thoughts?
SO MUCH LOVE
I watched them playing and tumbling, just having so much fun. No matter what they do I could sit and watch them for ever.
My grandsons...no matter what I can't get enough. The love is immense.
My heart ponders.
Could it be?
Could my beloved Father in heaven love me this much?
Could He look at me and no get enough?
I have to believe.
I have to!
I picture myself cuddling my grandsons. Sitting them on my lap holding their face in the nape of my neck.
I picture Jesus...holding me and stroking my hair. Removing my hair from my brow. Loving me. Protecting me. Wanting the best for me.
Do I believe?
He must love me...He says He loves me.
He calls me His beloved.
My grandsons...no matter what I can't get enough. The love is immense.
My heart ponders.
Could it be?
Could my beloved Father in heaven love me this much?
Could He look at me and no get enough?
I have to believe.
I have to!
I picture myself cuddling my grandsons. Sitting them on my lap holding their face in the nape of my neck.
I picture Jesus...holding me and stroking my hair. Removing my hair from my brow. Loving me. Protecting me. Wanting the best for me.
Do I believe?
He must love me...He says He loves me.
He calls me His beloved.
Wednesday, May 22, 2019
WHEN NO ONE WATCHES
My mom, grandmother, Dr. Mullen, John all gone ten years ago. Cliche: "Time flies".
Pastor reminds us, "Friends I tell you it is 100% sure that we will all one day die."
This goes through my mind when and no one knows. Time. Really death can occur at any age. What age is acceptable these days? Is the trend anything under 90 is devastating? That is what I'm saying today since my dad is nearing 86.
We moved recently and you can't help but think we could be in this house like twenty-thirty years. Could be? Then my mind goes to something unhelpful. I use the words today to help myself and others...helpful or unhelpful thoughts, which am I or them are choosing to get through a rough patch. My unhelpful thought...mmm ten years went by fast...that is how it will be in this house. Comparing!
It is a snare to compare or even invite this conversation into my head or even your head.
These kind of thoughts just don't help. I think we can all agree with that. If death has and will continue to occur at any age, at any point in our life we could be in fear of death and go down a path of unhelpful thoughts of fear and despair.
This conversation in my head led to the Holy Spirit helping me by reminding me of the scripture Paul wrote, "
Pastor reminds us, "Friends I tell you it is 100% sure that we will all one day die."
This goes through my mind when and no one knows. Time. Really death can occur at any age. What age is acceptable these days? Is the trend anything under 90 is devastating? That is what I'm saying today since my dad is nearing 86.
We moved recently and you can't help but think we could be in this house like twenty-thirty years. Could be? Then my mind goes to something unhelpful. I use the words today to help myself and others...helpful or unhelpful thoughts, which am I or them are choosing to get through a rough patch. My unhelpful thought...mmm ten years went by fast...that is how it will be in this house. Comparing!
It is a snare to compare or even invite this conversation into my head or even your head.
These kind of thoughts just don't help. I think we can all agree with that. If death has and will continue to occur at any age, at any point in our life we could be in fear of death and go down a path of unhelpful thoughts of fear and despair.
This conversation in my head led to the Holy Spirit helping me by reminding me of the scripture Paul wrote, "
Friday, April 19, 2019
GO WEST YOUNG MAN
As I opened my Christmas gift I never imagined that two concerts ticket to see the Newsboys and Michael W. Smith would be so helpful! I can't think of a word "helpful", maybe "insightful", but what I am trying to say is meaningful, with deep meaning.
Let me explain.
We, my husband and I, are in the busiest, most stressful time of our life and then it happened, an alert on our phone calendar "Michael W. Smith Concert." Do we go? Geez the timing tho! Then I say maybe the "pause, time out, be still moment" will be good. Forcing ourselves to slow down for just one night. We would play catch up later to that maddening "To do list." Off we went.
I never imagined the impact this would mean. let me try and write it. It would be a confirmation...mmm...another faith builder. As the Newsboys came on stage and starting singing the songs I knew from the days of youth camp. The memories of students screaming and singing to the song. It took me back to the time my husband and I were youth leaders of our kids and church kids. We would take them to these crazy concerts, wait out on the street and scream when the Newsboys would meet and greet us. Crazy time of joy and laughter!
At the concert, I left my "To do" behind and just rested in the words to the songs, which were filled with scripture and memories. My change in my life needed to happen; scanning my past and remembering that good times will help me to roll forward and remember, it won't always be so tough. Hey! When the song by Michael W. Smith, GO WEST YOUNG MAN, I about fell onto the floor because we had been preparing to do exactly that in the next few days, moving WEST.
A message came through, go west, go in peace, don't look back, you are leaving Egypt (which for Israel was slavery and for me a modern day slavery (bills, congestion, frustration all strangling me and my husband)).
Friends this story carried me long enough till the next story...a better way to say it is the next encounter with Jesus, where I clearly can't deny he is with me and orchestrating my path. Thank you Jesus.
"Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith. NKJV Heb. 12:2"
Let me explain.
We, my husband and I, are in the busiest, most stressful time of our life and then it happened, an alert on our phone calendar "Michael W. Smith Concert." Do we go? Geez the timing tho! Then I say maybe the "pause, time out, be still moment" will be good. Forcing ourselves to slow down for just one night. We would play catch up later to that maddening "To do list." Off we went.
I never imagined the impact this would mean. let me try and write it. It would be a confirmation...mmm...another faith builder. As the Newsboys came on stage and starting singing the songs I knew from the days of youth camp. The memories of students screaming and singing to the song. It took me back to the time my husband and I were youth leaders of our kids and church kids. We would take them to these crazy concerts, wait out on the street and scream when the Newsboys would meet and greet us. Crazy time of joy and laughter!
At the concert, I left my "To do" behind and just rested in the words to the songs, which were filled with scripture and memories. My change in my life needed to happen; scanning my past and remembering that good times will help me to roll forward and remember, it won't always be so tough. Hey! When the song by Michael W. Smith, GO WEST YOUNG MAN, I about fell onto the floor because we had been preparing to do exactly that in the next few days, moving WEST.
A message came through, go west, go in peace, don't look back, you are leaving Egypt (which for Israel was slavery and for me a modern day slavery (bills, congestion, frustration all strangling me and my husband)).
Friends this story carried me long enough till the next story...a better way to say it is the next encounter with Jesus, where I clearly can't deny he is with me and orchestrating my path. Thank you Jesus.
"Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith. NKJV Heb. 12:2"
Wednesday, April 17, 2019
SLAVERY
Holding the children's bible up high for all the three year olds to be able to see I read "They were grumbling and complaining and crying out take us back to Egypt."
It it me hard.
Take them back to SLAVERY! No TLC back there. There was lack of food, provision, violence, beatings, death, disease....
How many times do I ask to go back to something like a bad job or in my case a house I have sold. I can get gripped with fear, fear of the unknown and think well staying here is what I know so it has to be better.
Does it have to be better?
How many times do you catch yourself complaining about a relationship or job and stay in it for fear of having nothing or no one else?
Here is my deal. I prayed the move would happen in the right time. When it was time Lord release us.
You are probably saying but you are not suffering like the Israelites were. In my life, a house to big is a waste. In your life a job that is making you literally miserable (sick even) or a relationship that is not edifying to the Lord is just "Slavery".
You may be thinking, comparing these things to slavery is pretty extreme.
I can't tell you in the moment of reading this story to these kids it hit me like a brick, I catch my self complaining and asking Why? I prayed and it has been a journey, but it is time to move on. It was clear!
I am praying all the scriptures that say for me to not be anxious for nothing.
I repented for the grumbling.
Now my mind is steadfast on the future and I have peace.
God has given me a block of some sort to not go to grumbling, complaining, thinking, asking why. Does that mean I have a picture of the future with all the answers. NO! But I do have peace and I have been sleeping well.
I have my Lord and Savior (and family of course). But I have given up the Stinking thinking.
I have stopped trying to figure it all out.
I am trusting God daily as I get up, I say, here we go again Lord. More packing and purging! He says ok come on, I will give you the love and strength and I reply Ok, Love you too!
Please pray about everything. It makes life better, more peaceful.
Monday, March 25, 2019
REALITY CHECK
While I was sitting in the meeting observing the power of motivation going on in the room for everyone wanted to loose weight. Some of the defeated ones shared, "I had peer pressure and ate things I shouldn't have, I can't do this! This is so hard! I am sick of eating this way! I gained this week! I'm not going to be able to reach the goal!
The theme for the meeting was "Realty Check", lickety-split I realized this could apply to anything in life and God would agree.
You know me and the mind space. You know the place between your two ears. Maria Kondo has the house organization and I have the mind organization. LOL!
I have always taught 2 Corinthians 10:5, in the Message version it states we use our powerful God tools to smash down warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into a life shaped by Christ.
So many warped philosophies for pretty much all our worldly concerns, like loosing weight, self-doubt, self-improvement, addictions...to name a few. We get quick loose thoughts, emotional and impulsive about so many of our struggles. Even in the instance of diet we have to listen to God.
My training is awareness, acceptance, action, available.
Weight watchers asks:
1. What is an unhelpful thought you are having right now?
2. Do a reality check like ask: What would you tell a friend about the unhelpful thoughts? Where did the thought come from? Are you willing to learn to take this opportunity to cope?
3. What will be your new helpful thought?
For the third one I replace my thoughts with reassuring words from Jesus. I discover that in everything He wants to be involved and help. He wants us to trust Him and not give up.
In every day life we will have strong mind space days and weak ones. It's ok! Tomorrow is a new day. Don't give up!
I just loved this and was very excited to get some time to write.
This was a fast track to freedom. Stop, destroying yourself with thoughts. Jesus knows there is a battle and He is willing to help you, bring everything to Him in prayer!
Tuesday, March 5, 2019
GARDEN FULL OF FLOWERS
When I enter a garden in season I expect or want; not sure if I expect or want; both I guess, but anyway,
I want:
A sweet aroma to feel as if I entered a new realm. Yes!
I want:
Vibrant colors; something to look upon that catches my eye. invigorates my heart.
I want:
Intricate flowers that are complex; made up of many patterns. An orchid is an example of intricacy.
Intricacy can be related to size and shape also.
I want:
To see new life. The dead to be pruned out. The green leaves to be vibrant and alive.
What do you like, want, expect?
When I pay money to go into a garden I think they are successful when the weave all of the above into it. I would give a good review on Yelp! lol!
I read today that a visit with God should be like being in a "GARDEN FULL OF FLOWERS"!
The images that popped up in my head; what a great analogy.
A visit with God should not be like entering a field full of stubble.
Stubble; the ugly part of grain left behind when the garden is finished and dead.
I expect or expectantly, want to enter the realm with God, it is a beautiful place to coexist with Him.
In my mind I will have a preconceived idea that no matter what; with God it will be beautiful and a refuge where I regain my strength.
How about you? Do you know this place, have you been there, are you reassured that something magnificent will occur?
Or maybe you are wondering? Does a place like this really exist?
go to youtube.com
Oh Come to the Alter by ELEVATION WORSHIP
Allow the lyrics to take you to your place with God. Where is it? Garden, church, alter, an art gallery, epic coffee shop...where? I just know as I invite you to enter it. It will be a sanctuary; a sacred place!
Lord, help me to find a sacred place where I can renewed!...Amen In Jesus precious name.
"The Lord God is my strength, and He has made my feet like hinds' feet, and makes me walk on my high places (Habakkuk 3:19 NASB)."
I take heart and gain strength. I run like a deer. I feel like I'm king of the mountain! (Hab. 3:19 MSG)
I want:
A sweet aroma to feel as if I entered a new realm. Yes!
I want:
Vibrant colors; something to look upon that catches my eye. invigorates my heart.
I want:
Intricate flowers that are complex; made up of many patterns. An orchid is an example of intricacy.
Intricacy can be related to size and shape also.
I want:
To see new life. The dead to be pruned out. The green leaves to be vibrant and alive.
What do you like, want, expect?
When I pay money to go into a garden I think they are successful when the weave all of the above into it. I would give a good review on Yelp! lol!
I read today that a visit with God should be like being in a "GARDEN FULL OF FLOWERS"!
The images that popped up in my head; what a great analogy.
A visit with God should not be like entering a field full of stubble.
Stubble; the ugly part of grain left behind when the garden is finished and dead.
I expect or expectantly, want to enter the realm with God, it is a beautiful place to coexist with Him.
In my mind I will have a preconceived idea that no matter what; with God it will be beautiful and a refuge where I regain my strength.
How about you? Do you know this place, have you been there, are you reassured that something magnificent will occur?
Or maybe you are wondering? Does a place like this really exist?
go to youtube.com
Oh Come to the Alter by ELEVATION WORSHIP
Allow the lyrics to take you to your place with God. Where is it? Garden, church, alter, an art gallery, epic coffee shop...where? I just know as I invite you to enter it. It will be a sanctuary; a sacred place!
Lord, help me to find a sacred place where I can renewed!...Amen In Jesus precious name.
"The Lord God is my strength, and He has made my feet like hinds' feet, and makes me walk on my high places (Habakkuk 3:19 NASB)."
I take heart and gain strength. I run like a deer. I feel like I'm king of the mountain! (Hab. 3:19 MSG)
Wednesday, February 27, 2019
FEAR LESS; FEARLESS; WE ARE FEARLESS
Any way we put it from this title; is a huge yes, because of JESUS
We may feel surrounded by battles, but really we are surrounded by Jesus.
The true Savior of the world.
Let us praise and worship Him today.
That is how we fight the battles!
PRAISE be to the GOD AND FATHER OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.
Eph. 1:3
We may feel surrounded by battles, but really we are surrounded by Jesus.
The true Savior of the world.
Let us praise and worship Him today.
That is how we fight the battles!
PRAISE be to the GOD AND FATHER OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.
Eph. 1:3
Tuesday, February 19, 2019
HGTV PRAYER-HOUSING PROBLEM
Though the the cash flow is limited,
and many must downsize,
though there is no open floor concept,
the closets are not organized, the yard is not professionally landscaped,
the laundry room is on the lower level, the water is well...
If a modern day Habakkuk (nothing is known of the prophet himself from the bible), name means, embracer, because of His love for God, was writing for HGTV publishers he could write the above.
Habakkuk, 607 years before Christ, wrote, a defense of God's goodness and power in the existence of evil.
Habakkuk 3:17 "Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior."
What would your contemporary heart cry before God today?
I thought about this from so many angles. I have heard of godly mom who cried out about the horror of her slain son in a high school shooting...yet in the of hurt cry she recites something similar to Habakkuk...I will rejoice in the Lord.
Habakkuk's courage to praise because of Faith in God. I asked God today.
Vaccinate me with this courage regarding my own stuff going on, help me to put it into perspective.
Maybe today you could be honest with God about the evil you are seeing all around you and how it affects you...then try and end with I will rejoice in you Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.
Amen.
I am not saying HGTV is like God, but they do help people resolve their housing problems, just as God directs us to have faith, make my heart, Christ's home.
and many must downsize,
though there is no open floor concept,
the closets are not organized, the yard is not professionally landscaped,
the laundry room is on the lower level, the water is well...
If a modern day Habakkuk (nothing is known of the prophet himself from the bible), name means, embracer, because of His love for God, was writing for HGTV publishers he could write the above.
Habakkuk, 607 years before Christ, wrote, a defense of God's goodness and power in the existence of evil.
Habakkuk 3:17 "Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior."
What would your contemporary heart cry before God today?
I thought about this from so many angles. I have heard of godly mom who cried out about the horror of her slain son in a high school shooting...yet in the of hurt cry she recites something similar to Habakkuk...I will rejoice in the Lord.
Habakkuk's courage to praise because of Faith in God. I asked God today.
Vaccinate me with this courage regarding my own stuff going on, help me to put it into perspective.
Maybe today you could be honest with God about the evil you are seeing all around you and how it affects you...then try and end with I will rejoice in you Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.
Amen.
I am not saying HGTV is like God, but they do help people resolve their housing problems, just as God directs us to have faith, make my heart, Christ's home.
MATTHEW OBSERVATION-NOTHING NEW UNDER THE SON
A gunman opened fire inside an industrial complex twenty nine miles from my hometown. The shooter killed five people and injured several others, including five police officers. Across our nation recent tragic stories being reported quite frequently. The reporting for this story went on all day and into the next day. The report on the individuals, what happened, when, where, how, and the shooters personal information including His apartment continues to unfold. Our mass media shot this information across the world. I saw reports on this incident coming out of London.
The plot began...the chief priests and the elders of the people made their plans how to have Jesus executed Matthew 27:1.
Can we just stop here for a minute. This was holy leaders at the time!
They bound Jesus and led him away and handed him over to Pilate the governor.
Holy people conspiring with the Roman government. The chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas to be freed and Jesus executed.
The holy leader, government and the people plotted a execution of a innocent man.
Could this violent injustice occur today?
It gets more insidious!
After Jesus died and was placed in a tomb and that they heavily guarded because they knew what the word on the street was that Jesus would rise from the dead. So Pilate gave orders for the tomb to be made secure.
Death could not hold Jesus down, He rose and the angel rolled the tomb stone and he appeared to the soldiers, they fell on their faces trembling in fear.
The soldiers were paid a sum of money to LIE about what really happened. They were to say, "The disciples came during the night and stole Him away while we were asleep." They were told they would be protected and kept from getting in trouble with the governor if the word got out.
What, What, What?
This would never occur today?!
The truth did pass on to thousands who were eye-witnesses to Jesus.
I just don't know.
People ask why did people not believe.
Maybe this cover-up played a part in it.
People believe the government, holy priests vs. the real truth. Mmmmm! He is risen.
Here is the good news! Jesus, God in the flesh, defied the cover-up and was able to meet and greet thousands and now millions know He was the Messiah, the expected king and deliverer of the Jews.
Our beloved Savior of the world has won.
Yesterday and Today.
My grandmother use to say, "There is nothing new under the sun (son)."
I am anticipating what the Holy Spirit will highlight the next time I visit the gospel of Matthew. Delightful!
The plot began...the chief priests and the elders of the people made their plans how to have Jesus executed Matthew 27:1.
Can we just stop here for a minute. This was holy leaders at the time!
They bound Jesus and led him away and handed him over to Pilate the governor.
Holy people conspiring with the Roman government. The chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowd to ask for Barabbas to be freed and Jesus executed.
The holy leader, government and the people plotted a execution of a innocent man.
Could this violent injustice occur today?
It gets more insidious!
After Jesus died and was placed in a tomb and that they heavily guarded because they knew what the word on the street was that Jesus would rise from the dead. So Pilate gave orders for the tomb to be made secure.
Death could not hold Jesus down, He rose and the angel rolled the tomb stone and he appeared to the soldiers, they fell on their faces trembling in fear.
The soldiers were paid a sum of money to LIE about what really happened. They were to say, "The disciples came during the night and stole Him away while we were asleep." They were told they would be protected and kept from getting in trouble with the governor if the word got out.
What, What, What?
This would never occur today?!
The truth did pass on to thousands who were eye-witnesses to Jesus.
I just don't know.
People ask why did people not believe.
Maybe this cover-up played a part in it.
People believe the government, holy priests vs. the real truth. Mmmmm! He is risen.
Here is the good news! Jesus, God in the flesh, defied the cover-up and was able to meet and greet thousands and now millions know He was the Messiah, the expected king and deliverer of the Jews.
Our beloved Savior of the world has won.
Yesterday and Today.
My grandmother use to say, "There is nothing new under the sun (son)."
I am anticipating what the Holy Spirit will highlight the next time I visit the gospel of Matthew. Delightful!
Friday, February 15, 2019
A POEM
She is almost 102 years old but every time I see her in the past several years she quotes this poem "I think that I shall never see a poem as lovely as a tree. Only God can make a tree."
For our fun outings we go see the trees at the Arboretum.
In the Spring and in the Fall it is spectacular to drive by trees.
Our favorite is the Lilac bushes! Before leaving home for a visit I grab my pruning scissors, because we drive around and when we see a beautiful bush we "borrowing" branches from lilac bushes. LOL!
For our fun outings we go see the trees at the Arboretum.
In the Spring and in the Fall it is spectacular to drive by trees.
Our favorite is the Lilac bushes! Before leaving home for a visit I grab my pruning scissors, because we drive around and when we see a beautiful bush we "borrowing" branches from lilac bushes. LOL!
SONSHINE MOMENT
"I am going to use the angel to make Jesus more real to my Sunday school students", the passionate teacher exclaimed.
The "offer up" experience was completed.The angel sold below:
I made this a business transaction, going through the motions, but what I really got was a dose of sonshine, a cute story that activated my soul. In the midst of moving and being all like rushed to get rid of thing, like I said being all business like, it happened. This lady, who I sold the angel to, entered my house explaining her purpose with such glee and love for Jesus.
Look at the ray of light shining down from heaven in the statue above. Luke was conveying the story of Jesus when he was in the garden of Gethsemane, right before His arrest and crucifixion. The suffering agony of Jesus heart, praying to the Father to let this cup pass...he sweats blood...grapples with the reality of what would occur in a moment...then He wholeheartedly surrenders to the plan of God...God's way of helping after Jesus surrendered His will, was to send an angel to strengthen Him. Luke 22:42-43
Friends, we grapple with life, things happening, but do we withdraw, kneel, pray as Jesus did. Jesus sets the example to lay down our burdens to the Father, praying, If you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done."
Let's pray:
Father in heaven help me....I surrender.........(state what it is)....thank you for the strength that you will give me to proceed. Amen.
We can rush through life with a choice acknowledge the ray of sonshine or miss it completely. The same ray of light that appears on Jesus is the same light available for you and I.
Let's get our sonshine moments on! Let's surrender! Let's submit our life to the Father!
then...
let's receive the strength and courage to carry on. to proceed. to go. to continue. to surrender.
The "offer up" experience was completed.The angel sold below:
Look at the ray of light shining down from heaven in the statue above. Luke was conveying the story of Jesus when he was in the garden of Gethsemane, right before His arrest and crucifixion. The suffering agony of Jesus heart, praying to the Father to let this cup pass...he sweats blood...grapples with the reality of what would occur in a moment...then He wholeheartedly surrenders to the plan of God...God's way of helping after Jesus surrendered His will, was to send an angel to strengthen Him. Luke 22:42-43
Friends, we grapple with life, things happening, but do we withdraw, kneel, pray as Jesus did. Jesus sets the example to lay down our burdens to the Father, praying, If you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done."
Let's pray:
Father in heaven help me....I surrender.........(state what it is)....thank you for the strength that you will give me to proceed. Amen.
We can rush through life with a choice acknowledge the ray of sonshine or miss it completely. The same ray of light that appears on Jesus is the same light available for you and I.
Let's get our sonshine moments on! Let's surrender! Let's submit our life to the Father!
then...
let's receive the strength and courage to carry on. to proceed. to go. to continue. to surrender.
Monday, February 4, 2019
GOSPEL OF MATTHEW OBSERVATION-RECOGNIZE
Driving through Sorrento, Italy everywhere I was seeing lemons and of course tasting different versions of Limoncello! Yum! (When you have a cold take a shot of it! Soothing!)
Visiting other cities that have abundant fruit trees always catches my eye. I love to see the harvest of life. The bright yellow of lemons is so refreshing and in Italy they look like they have taken steroids.The memorable visual picture of Sorrento in my mind, the "Limon". The bright fruit.
Fruit does that, it gives you a visual, a nametag. On the outside it is beautiful, but a times I have cut into a beauty only to find something rotten inside. Yuck! I think that is why the Jesus uses the fruit to describe our heart. From the inside. It's important to him. Matt. 7:16 "By their fruit you will recognize them."
As I peruse through Matthew I am awestruck by the word fruit.
RECOGNIZE, the fruit with in.
Do things that show that you have turned from wrong-doing. Face the fact, we all have some brown spots within us.
Let's get rid of them. Let's ask God to help with the ability to recognize the brown and and turn away and produce beautiful fruit from the inside out.
Amen.
#ejcoffeeart
Visiting other cities that have abundant fruit trees always catches my eye. I love to see the harvest of life. The bright yellow of lemons is so refreshing and in Italy they look like they have taken steroids.The memorable visual picture of Sorrento in my mind, the "Limon". The bright fruit.
Fruit does that, it gives you a visual, a nametag. On the outside it is beautiful, but a times I have cut into a beauty only to find something rotten inside. Yuck! I think that is why the Jesus uses the fruit to describe our heart. From the inside. It's important to him. Matt. 7:16 "By their fruit you will recognize them."
As I peruse through Matthew I am awestruck by the word fruit.
RECOGNIZE, the fruit with in.
Let's get rid of them. Let's ask God to help with the ability to recognize the brown and and turn away and produce beautiful fruit from the inside out.
Amen.
#ejcoffeeart
MATTHEW OBSERVATIONS-JESUS THE LIGHT
Jesus the light of the world. I love how the bible refers to Jesus as the light...139 times in the New Testament. We can be confident of Jesus our power source. It intrigues me that in the book of Revelation tells us that, "The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. By its light the nations will walk, and into it the kings of the earth will bring their glory. Its gates will never be shut at the end of the day, because there will be no night there (Rev. 21:23-25). What an image?
#ejcoffeeartLet's fix our eyes on the greatest source of hope.
Friday, January 25, 2019
THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW-
We know Jesus was a healer, but 15 times it mentions in Matthew that Jesus healed. In addition four times it mentions ALL were healed...not a lucky few!
The word ALL just popped out to me. Like! Wow! Some of the crowds were like one of concerts today, shoulder to shoulder people pressing in on Jesus. He couldn't even get out. He was stuck. That means thousands at a time. Mind blown!
#ejcoffeeart
The people came to Him. He is telling us to come to Him. He is the one and only one for all our needs. When you go to Him things change. He works things together for good.
The word ALL just popped out to me. Like! Wow! Some of the crowds were like one of concerts today, shoulder to shoulder people pressing in on Jesus. He couldn't even get out. He was stuck. That means thousands at a time. Mind blown!
The people came to Him. He is telling us to come to Him. He is the one and only one for all our needs. When you go to Him things change. He works things together for good.
GOSPEL OF MATTHEW -MIND PRAYER PROTECTION
Joseph, "Had in His mind."
I do that to, I look at a struggle or circumstance and form an opinion in my mind.
Joseph's was in regard to finding out Mary was pregnant.
In his mind he did not want to expose her to public disgrace so...in his mind he said...I will divorce her quietly.
After he considered this.
I am thinking Joseph a man after God, prayed.
Do we always prays about everything?
Thank goodness Joseph did and the angel visited him and told him, "Take Mary home as your wife, because the what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.
Sacred!
Lesson learned. Slow down. Sit down. Quiet down. Ask God.
My next fascination is how many times the word "Fulfilled" is in Matthew and the answer is...12 times.
In addition 68 Old Testament references cited. The Jewish leaders knew the word. Jesus a jew...spoke with authority.
"Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him" (Matt. 4:11).
I wish I could have seen what that was like. Think about the covering we have to get through life, before, during and after. All the time. Keep praying!
Pray with me now... Lord fulfill...fight for us...walk with us...now...during...after...forever. Amen.
This is our symphony of prayer, erasing the doubt and the fear.
I do that to, I look at a struggle or circumstance and form an opinion in my mind.
Joseph's was in regard to finding out Mary was pregnant.
In his mind he did not want to expose her to public disgrace so...in his mind he said...I will divorce her quietly.
After he considered this.
I am thinking Joseph a man after God, prayed.
Do we always prays about everything?
Thank goodness Joseph did and the angel visited him and told him, "Take Mary home as your wife, because the what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.
Sacred!
Lesson learned. Slow down. Sit down. Quiet down. Ask God.
My next fascination is how many times the word "Fulfilled" is in Matthew and the answer is...12 times.
In addition 68 Old Testament references cited. The Jewish leaders knew the word. Jesus a jew...spoke with authority.
"Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him" (Matt. 4:11).
I wish I could have seen what that was like. Think about the covering we have to get through life, before, during and after. All the time. Keep praying!
Pray with me now... Lord fulfill...fight for us...walk with us...now...during...after...forever. Amen.
This is our symphony of prayer, erasing the doubt and the fear.
Monday, January 21, 2019
ELEPHANT MEMORY
I wish I could say that I have memory like an elephant, but unfortunately that is not true.
Recently a friend gave me an elephant charm with a tag saying:
Always remember you are special. The charm says:
Elephants always remember, well...that's what they say; and that's why this little charm is coming your way.
Always, remember you're strong,
very loved,
kind and true;
and that you're in my heart
every day the year through.
I know how Jesus wants us to love ourselves.
Are you like me and find yourself struggling doing just that?
I love that this small charm came at the right time to remind me.
Remind me of something God wants me to remember.
I did a little research about elephants after receiving this charm and I never realized how smart the elephant is with their memory.
Elephants with another elephant could get separated for like 23 years, if they are reunited, science shows that they will act as if they recognize each other and it will be like they were never apart.
Interesting facts?! Look it up. Now I want to watch a documentary about elephants.
In our humanness lord help us to be like an elephant, good memory and loyal.
Recently a friend gave me an elephant charm with a tag saying:
Always remember you are special. The charm says:
Elephants always remember, well...that's what they say; and that's why this little charm is coming your way.
Always, remember you're strong,
very loved,
kind and true;
and that you're in my heart
every day the year through.
I know how Jesus wants us to love ourselves.
Are you like me and find yourself struggling doing just that?
I love that this small charm came at the right time to remind me.
Remind me of something God wants me to remember.
I did a little research about elephants after receiving this charm and I never realized how smart the elephant is with their memory.
Elephants with another elephant could get separated for like 23 years, if they are reunited, science shows that they will act as if they recognize each other and it will be like they were never apart.
Interesting facts?! Look it up. Now I want to watch a documentary about elephants.
In our humanness lord help us to be like an elephant, good memory and loyal.
EMMETT THE SHOWMAN
The little peanut, what we call our two year old grandson, went racing down the hallway past the dining room entrance with delight he screams out, "Hello friends!". We yell back laughing, "Hello!". He races back to say it again, "Hello friends", well he loved the attention, but after about 50 times you ask yourself, is he done yet? I didn't want it to end because quite frankly I miss those precious days when my children were being silly, so I just kept replying, "Hello!".
He began to include stunts in the passing, creative little boy, which included lifting one leg and wrapping it around the scooter pole, then lifting his arm in the air as he yelled Hello, finally the most difficult he lifted two legs. Of course after that stunt he kept going and before you know it he crashed into the wall flying off the scooter with a plop landing in a big cardboard box (which was a remnant of our Christmas day gift opening). We held our breath, raced to pick up the pieces thinking there would be a need for damage control, despite our fears, he looked up and lol! We all burst out laughing! Not a cut, bump or bruise, he was okay!
Where am I going with this story?
I actually do not know.
But I love a funny story.
Thought you would like it also.
He began to include stunts in the passing, creative little boy, which included lifting one leg and wrapping it around the scooter pole, then lifting his arm in the air as he yelled Hello, finally the most difficult he lifted two legs. Of course after that stunt he kept going and before you know it he crashed into the wall flying off the scooter with a plop landing in a big cardboard box (which was a remnant of our Christmas day gift opening). We held our breath, raced to pick up the pieces thinking there would be a need for damage control, despite our fears, he looked up and lol! We all burst out laughing! Not a cut, bump or bruise, he was okay!
Where am I going with this story?
I actually do not know.
But I love a funny story.
Thought you would like it also.
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