Off with the Old

No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.
Philippians 3:13-14 NLT

Happy New Year!  Everyone looks forward to a new year. A fresh start. Full of anticipation and so much hope for life to be better than it has been. A new beginning lovingly created by Almighty God who knew our finite selves would need new starts. 

Even though the apostle Paul is not talking about a new year in his letter to the Philippians, he does explain well the hope that is always evident in his life; one we would do well to emulate.  Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on...

In 1st Thessalonians 5:21, Paul tells us to examine everything carefully and to hold fast to that which is good. Keep the faith that has endured through the furnace of affliction, but don't drag the pain into your future. Peter further instructs us to cast all our care on the Lord because He cares for us. Let's do just that as we step into this new year. Off with the old...

In closing, I offer this New Year prayer written by the Reverend Billy Graham in 2008.

Our Father and our God, 

                                       As we stand at the beginning of this new year we confess our need of Your presence and Your guidance as we face the future.
         We each have our hopes and expectations for the year that is ahead of us—but You alone know what it holds for us, and only You can give us the strength and the wisdom we will need to meet its challenges. So help us to humbly put our hands into Your hand, and to trust You and to seek Your will for our lives during this coming year.
         In the midst of life’s uncertainties in the days ahead, assure us of the certainty of Your unchanging love.
         In the midst of life’s inevitable disappointments and heartaches, help us to turn to You for the stability and comfort we will need.
        In the midst of life’s temptations and the pull of our stubborn self-will, help us not to lose our way but to have the courage to do what is right in Your sight, regardless of the cost.
        And in the midst of our daily preoccupations and pursuits, open our eyes to the sorrows and injustices of our hurting world, and help us to respond with compassion and sacrifice to those who are friendless and in need. May our constant prayer be that of the ancient Psalmist: “Teach me, O Lord, to follow your decrees; then I will keep them to the end” (Psalm 119:33).
         We pray for our nation and its leaders during these difficult times, and for all those who are seeking to bring peace and justice to our dangerous and troubled world. We pray especially for Your protection on all those who serve in our armed forces, and we thank You for their commitment to defend our freedoms, even at the cost of their own lives. Be with their families also, and assure them of Your love and concern for them.
          Bring our divided nation together, and give us a greater vision of what You would have us to be. Your Word reminds us that “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord” (Psalm 33:12).
           As we look back over this past year we thank You for Your goodness to us—far beyond what we have deserved. May we never presume on Your past goodness or forget all Your mercies to us, but may they instead lead us to repentance, and to a new commitment to make You the foundation and center of our lives this year.
          And so, our Father, we thank You for the promise and hope of this new year, and we look forward to it with expectancy and faith. This I ask in the Name of our Lord and Savior, who by His death and resurrection has given us hope both for this world and the world to come. Amen.

Complete Sentences

Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did.
1st John 2:6 NLT

You may not have noticed, our Promise for Today is a complete sentence. There are no qualifying phrases such as, "unless they are provoked"; or "if they're not tired"; or "if they want to or feel like it".

Are we living our lives as Jesus did? Direct, immediate obedience to God? No murmuring, no complaining, no arguing with God about circumstances or anything? If not, we must repent.

Repentance is sincere regret or remorse. It's a turning away from. It's hating ANYTHING that separates us from God. 2nd Corinthians 7:10 NLT tells us, For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There’s no regret for that kind of sorrow. But worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance, results in spiritual death. True repentance frees us from sin, enabling us to live as Jesus did. Complete.

Prayer:

Father,

           Turn our hearts toward Your way and Your will, Father. Help us to live as Jesus did. Holy and acceptable unto You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Resolute

You know the times in which we are living. It’s time for you to wake up. Our salvation is nearer now than when we first became believers.
Romans 13:11 God's Word Translation

There's been much talk in the last week about how quickly this year has ended and how much didn't get done because there seemed to be no time to do it. Almost as if someone pulled a month or so out of the calendar year to shorten it. Of course, we know that didn't happen, but it seems that way.

Have you come up with a resolution for the new year? Is it short term or long term? Is it eternal?  According to the University of Scranton, Journal of Clinical Psychology, "People who explicitly make resolutions are 10 times more likely to attain their goals than people who don't explicitly make resolutions." You know, people who are resolute in their resolutions.

If you look up the word 'resolute', it is defined as "admirably purposeful, determined, unwavering, steadfast, unshakable." Do any of those describe the intent behind your resolution?

How many times have you said, "One of these days, I'm going to..."  Think about that for a moment. Then answer this question: Have you done whatever it was that you were going to do "one of these days"?  Nothing will ever just happen "one of these days" - and nothing will ever just change "one of these days" unless we are admirably purposeful and determined.

There are two times that it scares me most to hear "one of these days." One is when we share the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the person's response is "One of these days, I'll do that, but before then, I need to..." or "I want to..." The other is when we get a nudge in our heart to share the Gospel or reach out to someone and we ignore it thinking that we will do it one of these days and it turns out that the person didn't have many more days...

We know the times in which we are living. It’s time for us to wake up. Our salvation is nearer now than when we first became believers.

Prayer:

Father,
           Help us to walk out Your Word in 1st Corinthians 15:58 - to be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in Your work, knowing that our labor is not in vain. Help us to live our lives admirably purposeful for all of our days. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Glow In the Dark

Because of God’s tender mercy, the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us to the path of peace.
Luke 1:78-79 NLT

I am reminded of this Scripture every time I see the sun piercing through the cloud cover as though it were an incredible spotlight behind a curtain with holes and rips and tears. I observe in awe the transformation in appearance of literally anything that the light touches as though it was set free to be alive - truly alive!

Matthew 5, in The Message reads, You're here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We're going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don't think I'm going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I'm putting you on a light stand. Now that I've put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—shine! Keep open house; be generous with your lives.

Okay, so we go to church and we pay our tithes and offerings and we’re not out purposefully sinning every day and we pray. Are we doing enough? Are we? We're here to shine and be generous with our lives!

Well, the question then is, how are we instructed to be generous with our lives? Let’s read in Isaiah 58, beginning with verse 2 (The Message). They're busy, busy, busy at worship, and love studying all about me. To all appearances they're a nation of right-living people— law-abiding, God-honoring. They ask me, 'What's the right thing to do?' and love having me on their side. But they also complain, ‘Why do we fast and you don't look our way? Why do we humble ourselves and you don't even notice?'

God Eternal is quick to tell us:
"This is the kind of fast day I'm after: to break the chains of injustice, get rid of exploitation in the workplace, free the oppressed, cancel debts. What I'm interested in seeing you do is: sharing your food with the hungry, inviting the homeless poor into your homes, putting clothes on the shivering ill-clad, being available to your own families. Do this and the lights will turn on, and your lives will turn around at once. Your righteousness will pave your way. The God of glory will secure your passage. Then when you pray, God will answer. You'll call out for help and I'll say, 'Here I am.'

"If you get rid of unfair practices, quit blaming victims, quit gossiping about other people's sins, If you are generous with the hungry and start giving yourselves to the down-and-out, Your lives will begin to glow in the darkness, your shadowed lives will be bathed in sunlight. I will always show you where to go. I'll give you a full life in the emptiest of places— firm muscles, strong bones. You'll be like a well-watered garden, a gurgling spring that never runs dry .You'll use the old rubble of past lives to build anew, rebuild the foundations from out of your past. You'll be known as those who can fix anything, restore old ruins, rebuild and renovate, make the community livable again.” [emphasis mine]

The Light of the World transforms our lives and we become like Him and we should shine enough light to transform the lives around us. Let's restore, rebuild and renovate - you know, glow in the darkness.

Prayer:

Father,

Shine Your light through us. Let us bring glory to Your Name. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen

When Was the Last Time

"When you say, ‘The altar of God is not important anymore; worship of God is no longer a priority,’ that’s defiling. And when you offer worthless animals for sacrifices in worship, animals that you’re trying to get rid of—blind and sick and crippled animals—isn’t that defiling? Try a trick like that with your banker or your senator—how far do you think it will get you?” God-of-the-Angel-Armies asks you.
Malachi 1:7-8 The Message Bible

God was angry with the worthless sacrifices that were being made by His people. They were bringing less than their best - animals that they were trying to get rid of—blind and sick and crippled animals - abysmal by any standard, just enough to give the appearance of worship. Convenient and certainly cheaper to provide. And it made God furious with them!

We don't do animal sacrifices, so how does that equate to our world today? Hebrews 13:15 reads, Let’s take our place outside with Jesus, no longer pouring out the sacrificial blood of animals but pouring out sacrificial praises from our lips to God in Jesus’ name.

When was the last time we stopped thinking about the bills long enough to enter into worship? When was the last time we had only God on our mind as we worshiped? When was the last time we purposely entered the church with one thought - only one - on our mind - that we were there to worship the King of kings, the Creator of the universe? When was the last time we laid EVERYTHING aside and worshiped at the feet of Jesus?

If we are not pouring out sacrificial praises from our lips to God in Jesus’ name - then what we are pouring out is worthless.

Prayer:

Father,
            Convict our hearts, O God! Change us! Cause us to fall back in love with You - to return to our first love with You. Forgive us for offering You anything less than our all. As You promised in Jeremiah, Father, give us a heart to know You, that You are the LORD: and we shall be Your people, and You will be our God: for we shall return unto You with our whole heart. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Perfectly Strong

And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” 

2nd Corinthians 12:9a NKJV

Are you strong? Are you able to bear up under great stresses and great loads? Do you realize that the only strength you have is what God gives to you for you to accomplish His will and plan? 

I know people who all the time quote, "In my weakness, He is strength," but I'm not sure they realize what they're saying or asking. They think they're proclaiming God will make them even stronger when they feel weak. I don't think it's about that. I think it's about recognizing my weakness and inability to live life, and to do this on my own and in my own strength. 

However, for years I tried to do exactly that. I would confess that Scripture and expect to be fortified with unbeatable strength of mind and will and body. It wasn't until I came to the end of myself, broken and undone, with no hope for tomorrow that I discovered the Truth about the strength of God. I threw myself on the altar, recognizing that I had nothing left. Face down before the Lord, I had to admit there was nothing in me that could do one more day of anything.

In that moment, when I confessed my weaknesses to God, I felt His love and strength. I was no longer full of myself, and in doing that, I had made room for God. His strength is made perfect in my weakness. Recognizing that, taking in the Truth of His Word, I became truly, perfectly strong... but only in God.

Prayer:

Father,

         Shine the Light on Your Word, rightly dividing it for us to ingest and become like You. We love you, Lord. Thank You for being our strength, our strong tower. Help us to walk in Your Truth. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Holding to the Promise on Christmas Day

"The Redeemer will come to Jerusalem to buy back those in Israel who have turned from their sins,”
says the Lord.

"And this is my covenant with them,” says the Lord. “My Spirit will not leave them, and neither will these words I have given you. They will be on your lips and on the lips of your children and your children’s children forever. I, the Lord, have spoken!"

Isaiah 59:20-21 NLT

It's another year closer to the second coming of Jesus. Another year of standing on the promises of God with regard to my family. It's a been a time of celebrating the birth of Christ our Redeemer. 

It's been a great Christmas Day. I have seen my children and my grandchildren and that is always a wonderful time. Even though all are not exhibiting outward signs of following Christ, I trust His Word. And His Word tells us that He works on the heart. That is what I have been witness to this weekend. This is what I know to be Truth. His Word is the one constant that I can count on no matter what I see, hear, or feel. 

For years I have held on to God's Promises in Isaiah 54 - and especially verse 13, All your children shall be taught by the LORD, and great shall be the peace of your children. Taught BY Him. I can already see it coming to fruition, so I have no doubt that His words will be on the lips of my children and my grandchildren forever. And I am rejoicing to see the day!

Prayer:

Father,

          Thank You for giving us Your Word to live by. It truly is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. Thank You for giving us a standard of Truth that does not waiver or change, and yet is alive and powerful. Thank You for the many blessings You have given us and the provision You have made. In the words of the carol, Be near me, Lord Jesus, I ask Thee to stay. Close by me forever and love me I pray. Bless all the dear children with Thy tender care and take us to Heaven to live with Thee there. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Long Before

It was the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God. God chose him as your ransom long before the world began, but now in these last days he has been revealed for your sake.
1st Peter 1:19-20 NLT

Christmas Eve... almost Christmas morning. On Christmas Eve eve, I listened as Amelia, one of my teenaged granddaughters, talked about the anticipation of Christmas morning and how hard it was/is to sleep. As "grownup" as she has become (she graduated from high school six months ago), I saw again the little girl in her who tried hard to be obedient and go to bed on Christmas Eve. I remembered her impassioned plea as a child, "Granna, how am I supposed to sleep?!?" And all the while, her parents needing the children to be asleep to finish their tasks for Christmas morning...

As I listened to Amelia on Sunday, I thought of Christ's words in Matthew 18 about becoming like little children... the anticipation, the adoration, the exuberance, the love; instead of adults who are caught up in the cares of the world and what we think must be done...

Oh, that we would be anticipating the coming of Christ like children anticipating Christmas morning! When we are celebrating the greatest gift ever! Chosen to be given to us long before the world began...

Prayer:

Father,
           I know that people the world over debate about Christmas. Forgive us for our finite thinking of what day or what season based on what calendar so much so that we lose sight of the Truth. The Truth that You did send Your Son to this world so through Him we might be saved. Thank You, Father. Thank You that long before we were ever born You loved us enough to send Jesus as our Christ, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. We pray Your will, Father, that all should come to repentance and that none perish. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

A Good Place for a Miracle

Friends, when life gets really difficult, don’t jump to the conclusion that God isn't on the job. Instead, be glad that you are in the very thick of what Christ experienced. This is a spiritual refining process, with glory just around the corner.
1st Peter 4:12-13 The Message

There are times when life is hard. It seems like trouble comes at us from every side. Sometimes, life feels like an illustrated sermon for 2nd Corinthians 4:8-9, We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed... but at times, it feels like we're getting mighty close to it.

Ever been there? How many times have we prayed for a miracle?

Let me explain something to you. Miracles don't happen for normal. Miracles are required for extraordinary circumstances - extreme needs - seemingly hopeless cases. Have you ever thought about that? Commonplace, ordinary, every day normal doesn't require miraculous intervention... well... for SOME of you, it might, but not normally. Pun intended.

The point is - count it ALL joy. No troubles in your life - praise God! Big troubles - praise God - you're in the breeding ground for a miracle in the making.

Prayer:

Father,
           Help us to see You are always in our business. You orchestrate our lives and the many steps we can take if we will just keep our focus on You and follow where You lead. Give us clear direction, Father. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Time

How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone.
James 4:14

Two days till Christmas. How busy are you? How much do you still have left to be done to be ready for the big day? Which will you run out of first - money or time? 😊 What is your priority?

I was convicted this morning (thank You, Holy Spirit!) that my priorities are out of order. I'm making time for guests and gadding about for shopping tasks, etc, but not making the time for that which should be the most important - time alone with God. All this hustle and bustle and time consumption on other things, when I have no guarantee that I will be here tonight, let alone two days from now.

What is your answer to the ages-old question, "How would you spend today if you knew it was your last day on Earth?"

Prayer:

Father,
           Thank You for the gift of life and for those You have placed in my life to love and cherish in my time here. Forgive me for squandering the precious gift of time You have given me. Forgive me for putting anything before You. Change my heart, Father. Give me the courage and strength to persevere. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen

The Greatest Treasure

Sell what you have and give to those in need. This will fatten your purses in heaven! And the purses of heaven have no rips or holes in them. Your treasures there will never disappear; no thief can steal them; no moth can destroy them. Wherever your treasure is, there your heart and thoughts will also be.
Luke 12:33-34 TLB

During the Christmas season, there are so many different emotions flying on a collision course with the world around us. Some people are like children, they can hardly wait and stars are in their eyes and they break into song at the drop of a hat or jingle of a bell. Others are so sad, remembering the family member or friend who did not live out the year and they break into tears without warning. Still others are angry and frustrated with the stress of trying to buy something for everyone on their list while wondering how they're going to pay for that AND the house bills.

Let me encourage you to take a step back and just breathe in - big breath - and breathe out. Again. Breathe in, breathe out.

Have we lost sight? Perspective? For God so loved the world that He gave... (John 3:16). Jesus loved us so much that He came to earth (Luke 2) so He could lay down His life for us (John 10). Why?!? Because God loves us - we are His treasure - He came to Earth because that's where we are.

Where's your heart? What are your thoughts? Where will your heart and thoughts lead you? Are you selling your inheritance for worldly instant gratification or will you hold fast to the greatest treasure ever given to mankind?

Prayer:

Father,
           Open the eyes of our hearts - we want to truly see You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Considering...

Therefore know this day, and consider it in your heart, that the LORD Himself is God in heaven above and on the earth beneath; there is no other.
Deuteronomy 4:39 NKJV

How many times have we come through a tough time and at the end of it made the remark, "Well, all things considered, I think we came out ahead of the situation." Sometimes we're "ahead" just by being alive. But I have been wondering lately about all the things that we take into consideration and whether or not we take into consideration MORE than what needs to be considered.

Generally, people try to gather the facts regarding a situation before making a decision about it, no matter if it’s a simple purchase or a life-changing event. Just think about how many search engines you can name. However, as I’m fond of pointing out, facts and Truth are not the same and because of that principle, there is a HUGE difference between knowledge and wisdom. For those who may not have considered the difference, let me give you my spin on it. Knowledge would be equivalent to the facts of a situation. Wisdom is the Truth about it.

I remember the story of Baby Ashley who was born in 2009. An ultrasound before Ashley’s birth confirmed that she had NO kidneys. The hospital prepared the family for the worst – and the compassionate ministry of Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep was called in to take special photographs for the family to have after she was gone. Those are the facts – the knowledge of the situation.

When Ashley was born, she was immediately hooked up to life support, etc, to give the family a "little" time. But Joanne (the photographer) had the wisdom to call for prayer. The request went out world-wide through prayer chains. The hospital scheduled the day that they would disconnect life support…then one of the NICU nurses caring for Ashley, in the course of keeping the baby clean, noticed the diaper was wet. Well, basic anatomy will tell you that a baby can’t produce what will wet the diaper without a kidney. They did another ultrasound and found a kidney…

Instead of disconnecting life support for the end of Ashley’s life, it was disconnected so she could go home and grow up with her parents. All of our advanced medical and technical knowledge told them, “No, I'm sorry. Your baby will die.” Wisdom chose Truth. A God who is our Healer. God, our Creator. Maker of Heaven and Earth. Psalm 8: 3-4, When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, The moon and the stars, which You have ordained, What is man that You are mindful of him, And the son of man that You visit him?

When you face seemingly impossible odds – when all the facts point to bad – what does Wisdom founded in Scripture tell you? I’m not talking about name it-claim it, confess it-possess it, blab it-grab it. I’m asking directly - What does Wisdom founded in Scripture dictate?

1st Samuel 24:12 reads, Only fear the LORD, and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you.

Abraham had a promise of a son. But he understood the knowledge about being 100 years old – his wife was 90. And how that even in her so-called best years, she could not conceive… but Scripture tells us in Romans 4:19-21, And not being weak in faith, he [Abraham] did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah’s womb. He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform.

Some things should not be taken into consideration. When all things are considered, what will you include?

Prayer:

Father,
           According to Your Word, the wisdom of Your Truth that we find in Hebrews 10:23-25, Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for You who promised are faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as we see the Day approaching. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen

Which Way (by request)

There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.
Proverbs 16:25 NKJV

God loves us SO much that He will use ANYTHING to get His point across to us! If you try to tell me that He won't use certain things, I'd have to say you've come around too late - I've seen it too many times. Case in point? What I'm about to write...

A few years back, a friend and I were talking about distractions and "oh, shiny!" when she decided to share the lesson God taught her while watching - are you ready for this? - Finding Nemo. Yeah... seriously.

I don't remember the exact detail of the scene, but it was the one where Dory - who is supposed to be leading - loses her focus because one of the other characters tells her to "look over there" so she does and winds up completely distracted and doesn't follow the instructions that were given about catching the EAC. Instead of going through the tough spot - which is also the best shot - she winds up going over it (the path of least resistance) and ends up bouncing top to top, flying high and having a grand old time. However, what seems like so much dancing on air and the easiest way is actually a jelly fish pool. Then one little slip and she's thrust into the deadly tentacles being stung on every side.

More often than not, that is exactly what satan tries with our lives. We're going along, doing our best to follow the Lord, and lead those around us to Him, when someone says, "Oh, look!" and we allow ourselves to get distracted.

A new job may have more money, but also comes with travel and/or more time away from the family - and the next thing you know, we're off course. We follow whatever caught our eye and wind up flying high and having a grand old time - not having to fight the day-to-day challenges. However, what we're bouncing on is not our Sure Foundation. Oh, we may have a good time for a little while, but that one little slip and we're thrust into the deadly tentacles of sin... being stung on every side... facing the death of our soul... and what about those who are following us?

Which way? You choose. Choose wisely... There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death.

Prayer:

Father,
           Please help us to wire the connection to our helmet of salvation with the proper Word of God filters that will effectively filter out distractions and anything that is not of You. Help us to listen AND obey Your words. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

RePost - Fully Occupy

Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead, be very glad—for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world.
1st Peter 4:12-13 NLT

Verse 12 in The Message Bible reads, Friends, when life gets really difficult, don’t jump to the conclusion that God isn’t on the job.

Why is it that's the first thing we do? God doesn't care. He's not watching out for me. He could stop this if He's really God. If I may be so bold… I am reminded of Joseph’s life story. None of it seemed fair. None of it seemed right. Surrounded and afflicted by drama and deceit. Had God forsaken him? Left him in prison to rot? No. But he WAS in prison for years! 

As hard as it is for us to see and understand with our finite mind, God DOES have a plan. And He promises that it is for our good. We just don’t always understand. When you have prayed – begged God - and God has not released you from where you are, then you must trust Him and FULLY occupy the place where God has you until He says, ‘Go!’ 

FULLY occupy is the operative phrase. Re-engage your heart and the passion God gave you to help others. Don’t just show up for work every day. Check your heart. Make sure you have not allowed it to harden in those areas that have experienced hurt and betrayal. 

Forgive. Forgive. Forgive. 

In doing so, you (and those who have sinned against you) can be healed and set free and then God can FULLY occupy your heart.

Prayer:

Father,
           Forgive us as we forgive those who have trespassed against us. Forgive us for our false indictments. Open our eyes and our hearts to see Your Truth in the middle of the trials. Work in us the Christ-like character You desire to see in us.  Help us to know You in Your fullness. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen 

* Losing Your Mind

Don’t be anxious about anything; rather, bring up all of your requests to God in your prayers and petitions, along with giving thanks. Then the peace of God that exceeds all understanding will keep your hearts and minds safe in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7 Common English Bible (CEB)

"I think I'm losing my mind," her voice was subdued in response to my question. She wasn't joking or making light of the inquiry. I knew she was serious. There was no sparkle in her eye; there was only torment. The weight of emotional pain was overwhelming her - body, soul, mind, and spirit.

Have you ever been in that place? Chances are, you may have been at one time or another. Maybe you're there now, wondering what in the world you are going to do. And if that's you, I want to speak directly to you.

I don't know your circumstances or your questions, but God does. I don't have all the answers, but I know the One Who does. I have been in that same place and I am here to tell you - unequivocally - that God will bring you out. Don't give up. Don't quit now. He WILL see you through to the other side of this. What I DO have is the living proof of His faithfulness to make good on the promises in His Word.

You see, I thought I was a goner. I thought dying would be the only way out of the mess I was in. I was so broken and dead inside that I couldn't see any way out. I couldn't keep two coherent thoughts in my head because of the things that overwhelmed me. I was losing my mind. Then I found the verses of our promise for today.

Back then, I didn't know if God had the time or the inclination to hear all my prayers and petitions, but I chose to believe the Truth of His Word over the facts of my circumstances. And now, this many years later, I am here to tell you that God keeps His Word, and if we will choose to keep His Word, too, then we will surely reap the many benefits of His peace that exceeds all understanding and will keep our hearts and MINDS SAFE in Christ Jesus. 

The Word of God tells us if He does it for one person, He'll do it for all, so let me leave you with this encouragement from Psalm 40...    

I waited patiently for the Lord to help me,
    and he turned to me and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the pit of despair,
    out of the mud and the mire.
He set my feet on solid ground
    and steadied me as I walked along.
He has given me a new song to sing,
    a hymn of praise to our God.

Prayer:

Father,
          I pray according to Your Word that Many will see what [You] have done and be amazed, and that they will put their trust in You, Lord. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Sounds of the Season

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Luke 2:13-14, KJV

Christmas music is everywhere. At this time of year, one can hardly tune in without hearing a Christmas song of some sort, Christian or secular. Bells ringing... although gone are the sleigh bells, now, it's mostly Salvation Army. The serenity conjured up by "Silent Night" has been lost in the insanity of last minute shopping and Grandma getting “run over by a reindeer.” The hustle and bustle "as the shoppers rush home with their treasures."

And while we may be tired of hearing nothing but Christmas music, when was the last time we listened to the words of a Christmas carol and actually reflected on their meaning - our spirit moved by the passion and truth in them?

…Let every heart prepare Him room...

…But in Bethlehem's home there was found no room for Thy holy nativity. O come to my heart, Lord Jesus: There is room in my heart for Thee!...

…O lay aside each earthly thing, and with thy heart as offering, come worship…

…The King of kings salvation brings, let loving hearts enthrone Him…

…Born a child and yet a King. Born to reign in us forever…

…Then let us all with one accord sing praises to our heavenly Lord, that hath made heaven and earth of naught, and with His Blood mankind hath bought…Noel, noel…

…Peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled…

…O come, Desire of nations, bind in one the hearts of all mankind: Bid Thou our sad divisions cease, and be Thyself our King of peace…Rejoice! Rejoice!...

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Ah, yes! The sounds of the season…

Prayer:

Father,
           Thank You for loving us enough to send Your Son to save us from our sin and ourselves. Help us to lay aside each earthly thing and with our hearts as offering, come to worship. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

When the Wind Stops

     Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. About three o’clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. When the disciples saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!”
     But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!”
Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.”
     “Yes, come,” Jesus said.
So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted.
     Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?”
     When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped.
Matthew 14:24-32 NLT

Every time I read this story, I am encouraged. Strengthened. I have heard it preached from different viewpoints and they're all good. Can we recognize Jesus? Do we know Him when we are in trouble? Can we recognize God in the midst of the storms in our lives? Do we let the circumstances of our lives overwhelm us? Do we make snap decisions based on fear of our circumstances? Are we keeping our eyes on Jesus?

Some will give us that Peter DID walk on water, but they are quick to make the point that because he took His eyes off Jesus, he began to sink. And that's a great point. It is valid. It is true. However, it's not the whole story.

Let's review a little here. These were disciples in the boat, not your run-of-the-mill followers. It was The Twelve. Hand-picked by Jesus. They weren't the ones who ran out to every event just to see what was going on. They weren't the fringe. They were His disciples. Disciples that had just witnessed the feeding of the 5,000 with a few loaves and fish, and gathered up left-overs... It was THOSE disciples who, at 3 in the morning, fighting heavy waves and a strong wind, who were - what was the word? Terrified. Am I judging them? Absolutely not, I'm just reviewing the facts.

You see, it was ONE of those twelve disciples - Simon Peter. Did you know that the definition of the name Simon is hearing? Simon who Jesus called Peter. Peter which means rock. (I have to ask you - have you ever seen a rock float?) It was THIS Peter - Peter the fisherman - who knew firsthand the danger of heavy waves and strong winds on the water. Peter - the one we know for his blunders - HE is the one who went over the side of the boat into the heavy waves and the strong wind. We know he didn't sink the minute he went over the side because Scripture tells us he walked on the water toward Jesus. The point is Peter listened and he did the impossible because all things are possible through Christ. All things are possible to those who believe (Mark 9:23), but that's another topic for another day.

Truth - Peter walked on the water toward Jesus. 

Truth - When he took his eyes off Christ and looked at the circumstances, he began to sink. 

Truth - Peter cried out to Jesus and Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him and asked why Peter doubted Him. We don't know how far Peter walked. I think that's irrelevant or else God would have included it in His Word, but we know he got close enough that when he did begin to sink, Jesus reached out and grabbed him. It doesn't say Jesus ran to him to snatch him out of the water. It just says He reached out - and that's also another topic for another day. 

Now, here's the part of the miracle that we miss. It doesn't say immediately they were back in the boat. It doesn't say Jesus tossed Peter into the boat or that Jesus carried him back to the boat. Here it is - don't miss it! Whatever distance Peter covered, they walked back because they CLIMBED back into the boat. AND according to Scripture, it was when they climbed back into the boat that the wind stopped.

After the walking. After the climbing. Was that easy? No, I don't believe so. Was it sure? Yes, absolutely! Jesus was there. And because He was, there was no question about whether or not they could walk back, or whether or not, they would climb back into the boat even though they were still in the heavy waves and strong wind.

We pray and we plead and we cry out and nothing seems to change and we wonder where God is. Too often, we believe the lie of satan that Jesus isn't there for us because our circumstances haven't changed. Can we see Him in the midst of our storm? Do we have the faith to step out in response to His bidding? Do we believe He will walk with us? Are we waiting for the wind to stop before we believe?

Prayer:

Father,
            Increase our faith, O God. Forgive us for not looking past our circumstances to see and believe the Truth of Your Word - that You are ever with us, that You never leave us nor forsake us. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Down & Dirty

But Jacob stayed behind by himself, and a man wrestled with him until daybreak. When the man saw that he couldn’t get the best of Jacob as they wrestled, he deliberately threw Jacob’s hip out of joint.

The man said, “Let me go; it’s daybreak.”

Jacob said, “I’m not letting you go ’til you bless me.”

The man said, “What’s your name?”

He answered, “Jacob.”

The man said, “But no longer. Your name is no longer Jacob. From now on it’s Israel (God-Wrestler); you’ve wrestled with God and you’ve come through.”
Genesis 32:24-28 The Message

The name, Jacob, means deceiver. And if you read the book of Genesis, you will discover that he was only one in a long line of deceivers. What Jacob had sown, he had reaped in abundance through Laban's deceit and treachery. And yet, God had a made a promise to Abraham and Isaac and now to Jacob. Jacob who was heading home, hoping against hope that he would not die at the hand of his twin brother, Esau. You may remember that Jacob had manipulated his twin into giving up his birthright and had stolen Esau's blessing, as well.

Now on the eve of what may be his death, Jacob has come face-to-face with who he's been. Deceiver. Manipulator. Mean and hateful. And he realizes unless God intervenes, all is lost. It's what we refer to in this day and age as a "Come to Jesus" moment - where the lies are stripped away and only the Truth remains. He is desperate...

Enter the wrestling match... his hip has been thrown out of joint. Now in great emotional and physical pain, Jacob is on the ground, desperately holding onto the Man, refusing to let go. He has gotten down and dirty. And the Man asks, "What's your name?"

Why? You know that God knows who and what we are. It was to give Jacob the opportunity to know the Truth. The Truth about himself. The Truth about his life - what he's done and how he got to this place. 

“I’m not letting you go ’til you bless me.”

"What's your name?" I am Jacob. I am a heel. A deceiver.

John 8:32, You will know the Truth and the Truth will set you free... And immediately God changed him from down and dirty to a new name and a new nature.

God is no respecter of persons. He will do the same for us when we acknowledge who and what we are without Him.

Prayer:

Father,
           We never tire of asking You to change our hearts, O God! Give us clean hands and pure hearts. Let us walk in holy love toward one another. Rescue us from our sinful ways, Father, In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

It's the Message

Just think—you don't need a thing, you've got it all!

All God's gifts are right in front of you as you wait expectantly for our Master Jesus to arrive on the scene for the Finale.

And not only that, but God himself is right alongside to keep you steady and on track until things are all wrapped up by Jesus.

God, who got you started in this spiritual adventure, shares with us the life of his Son and our Master Jesus.

He will never give up on you. Never forget that.
1st Corinthians 1:7-9 The Message

There are times I just LOVE the Message Bible! Tonight is one of those times. This Scripture passage IS the message. It says it all.

I'm not adding anything else... read it again and again and again... until the Truth of it gets deep in your spirit, and you get the real message.

Prayer:

Father,
           We pray according to Your Word in Psalm 119, O Lord, listen to my cry; give me the discerning mind You promised. Listen to my prayer; rescue me as You promised. Let praise flow from my lips, for You have taught me Your decrees. Let my tongue sing about Your word, for all Your commands are right.
       Give me a helping hand, for I have chosen to follow Your commandments. O Lord, I have longed for Your rescue, and Your instructions are my delight. Let me live so I can praise You, and may Your regulations help me. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen
 

Sayin' It Again

Humans are satisfied with whatever looks good; God probes for what is good.

Proverbs 16:2 The Message

We've heard 'em all...maybe even said 'em... Man! That looks good!  Or this - Girl - you are lookin' good!  Or how about this one - Yeah, but who cares? It looks good, doesn't it? 

What's the best way to sell an old car? Wash it - wax it - clean the interior - spray it with 'new car odor' fragrance - make it LOOK good. People will believe it was cared for and pay more for it. It's a proven statistic...and sad, so sad. If the money spent on the paint job had been spent on the mechanics of the car instead, it would have run better and longer. However, it's largely a superficial society we live in, so if we had invested in the mechanics instead of the aesthetics, we wouldn't have the same resale value.

Christians can be the same way when our priorities for life get out of balance. There can be so much emphasis put on 'being a blessing' or 'being blessed,' that people will put on a mask rather than seek help for an issue because someone might see the dirt in their life. It's not that we don't want everyone to know - it's that we don't want ANYONE to know because we have to keep up our pretend image. We 'gotta look good.'

The truth of the matter is this: If we would look to the mechanics of our soul and spirit, it would reflect in our faces and the true beauty of the Lord would shine through. Do we want to look good in the eyes of the world? Or would we rather hear God say, 'Lookin' gooooooooooood!'

Prayer:

Father,

We humble ourselves before You, Lord, asking You to shine Your light of Truth on all that is not holy and in right standing with You. Help us to see through Your eyes of love that which IS good, not just looking good. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Forever

He keeps every promise forever.
Psalm 146:6b NLT

I don’t know that I’ve ever read that sentence before in the New Living Translation of the Bible. I thought I had, but if I did, I must have had blinders on. Talk about piercing my soul…

Have you ever fully contemplated ‘forever’? Just forever by itself, nothing attached to it. I’ve had a hard time envisioning it. When I was a little girl I fully believed in ‘Happily Ever After.’ That was my version of forever. I just knew someday my prince would come and rescue me and that’s how we would live…forever. I dreamed about it. Hoped for it. Prayed for it…

He keeps every promise forever.
Forever is not about NOT making any promises in order to be able to say we never break promises. That’s a falsehood.

He keeps every promise forever.
The Truth is that forever is much more than just never-ending time. Forever is commitment. Forever is trust, safety, provision.

Forever is making promises AND keeping them.

Why? Because God doesn’t just love us - He IS love.

And when the King of all kings comes for us, we will ride away with Him, and we’re going to live Happily Ever After. Happily Ever After what? This. In John 16:33 (NLT), Jesus says, Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. 

He promised… And He keeps every promise forever. Yes, He does…

Prayer:

Father,
              We will give thanks to You, Lord, for You are good!
According to Your Word, Your faithful love endures forever.
You remember us in our weakness. Your faithful love endures forever.
You saved us from our enemies. Your faithful love endures forever.
You give food to every living thing. Your faithful love endures forever.
We will give thanks to the God of heaven. Your faithful love endures forever. 

Help us to understand Your forever love. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen

You are Here

If I ascend into heaven, You are there;
If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there.
If I take the wings of the morning,
And dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,
Even there Your hand shall lead me,
And Your right hand shall hold me.
Psalm 139:8-10 NKJV

A new girl started working in our building this week. At the beginning of the week, she had a hard time trying to find the different places she needed to be because our building is very similar to a rat maze. Poor thing... she couldn't find the restrooms let alone anything else.

In my part of the building, we created 'You are here' maps for my people and posted them at every corner. So even though all the halls look the same, once you know 'You are here' you can find your way to where you need to go. And if you discover you don't like where you are, you can find your way out. 

It's the same in our Christian walk. Yes, we need to know where we want to go and we need direction to know how to get there, but we can't get to Point B unless we know where we are to begin with. The great news is that no matter if you're in a good place or the worst place of your life - God is there with you. He knows 'You are here.' And He not only knows the way out - He gave us the Way, the Truth and the Life - Jesus Christ. And we can find our way to the Father through Christ our Lord.

You are here. Where do you want to be?

Prayer:

Father,
            How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand; When I awake, I am still with You. Father, I know we'll make it by Your Grace, but for now, it is more than enough that You are here. Guide us, O God. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Making the List

Nothing evil will be allowed to enter, nor anyone who practices shameful idolatry and dishonesty—but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
Revelation 21:27 NLT

During the Christmas season, adults everywhere work from lists. There's the A list and the B list for the gift list, the guest list, the card list, the things-left-to-do list. And children are just as consumed with them, trying especially hard to stay off the naughty list.

We've all made gift lists and invitation lists that have included people who - left to our own devices - we would not have included for whatever reason. Checking it much more than twice to make sure we've gotten everyone we're "supposed" to include. Oh that we would be as consumed with the Master's List! To give as much attention to His detailed instructions. To be sure that everyone gets a personal invitation to His dinner party.

There's one thing I know for sure. Not one name written in the Lamb's Book of Life is written there because it was the politically-correct thing to do. No one is included because otherwise their feelings would be hurt or because if you include this one, then so-and-so has to be included, too. There's only one way to make the Master's List. Do you know how?

Prayer:

Father,
          According to Your Word, we know You loved the world so much that You gave Your one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. We know You sent Your Son into the world to save the world through His death on the Cross paying in full the debt for our sin. Thank You, Father, that we can make Your A list by believing in and following Jesus. We pray for those who do not yet believe in Him. We know it is Your will that none should perish. Give us divine appointments, Father, and the courage and boldness to speak at those times. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Just a Thought on What We Offer

For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.
1st John 2:16-17 NLT

Last night, we had a sleepover at Granna's (that's me). Playing with a 5-year-old means this Granna goes to bed at the same time 😍 so writing was not in the program...
*****************************************
I've been thinking about how easy it is to get caught up in worldly behaviors without being aware. It's a subtlety from the enemy of our soul, and often has nothing to do with blatant sin. It can start with a thought, such as...

"I'm going to go home, put on my pj's, make popcorn, and binge-watch something on TV."

Surfing the Internet, TopHatter, Wish...

"This company doesn't recognize the value of what I bring to the table."

All just thoughts. Yet, if we allow actions and thoughts like these to become commonplace in our lives, we allow worldliness to place a hold in our hearts. Heart Check... If we consume what the world is offering us, what, then, do we have worth offering to God? Just a thought...

Prayer:

Father,
           We pray from Your Word. Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Oh, give me back my joy again; you have broken me— now let me rejoice. Don’t keep looking at my sins. Remove the stain of my guilt. Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Do not banish me from your presence, and don’t take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you. Then I will teach your ways to rebels, and they will return to you. Unseal my lips, O Lord, that my mouth may praise you.
In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen

Giving Gifts

A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.

1st Corinthians 12:7 NLT

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. 

1st Peter 4:10 NIV

At this time of year, we often spend lots of time, energy and resources trying to find just the right gift for our loved ones. It's a great delight for some and a study in frustration for others. Delight has to do with our perspective of the holiday and our love for others; frustration has much to do with how we perceive ourselves as gift finders and probably even more to do with how we think we'll be perceived by those to whom we give gifts.

Step away from all of that for a moment, and let's focus on the best gifts - those we have received from God. The first and best is Jesus Christ, our salvation. Following that is each other - Romans 12:5 tells us ...so it is with Christ’s body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.  So, you're a gift to me and vice versa. Rounding it off are the gifts we've been given to share in serving and helping each other. 

Paul tells us in Romans 12, In his grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well. So if God has given you the ability to prophesy, speak out with as much faith as God has given you. If your gift is serving others, serve them well. If you are a teacher, teach well. If your gift is to encourage others, be encouraging. If it is giving, give generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously. And if you have a gift for showing kindness to others, do it gladly.

Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. 

Oh, that we would be the bearer of gifts that keep on giving what God intended to give!

Prayer:

Father,

           When Your people are in need, give us eyes to see and hearts that will be ready to help them. Let us always be eager to practice hospitality. Help us to bless those who persecute us. Lord, teach us to be happy with those who are happy, and to weep with those who weep. Help us to live in harmony with each other, and to do all that we can to live in peace with everyone. And to use the gifts You have given us to help and serve others. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Getting In Tune

But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice.
John 10:2-4 NTL

At the turn of the century (this one - I've always wanted to use that phrase - LOL),  I worked as an assistant for a man who was brilliant and gifted, but very scattered. My job was not to keep him organized, but to bring organization to his creative chaos. No small task. It took me a while to get the flow of it, but by God's grace and design, I was able to do it. 

My desk was literally two feet outside of his window office. I rearranged it so that when I was at my computer, I could also see him in his office, to observe his work habits and idiosyncrasies. I learned what to expect during specific tasks and could prepare accordingly to have what he needed within his grasp when he needed it. I studied him because - technically speaking - he was my job. After awhile, I could tell what he was looking for just by the way he moved and could anticipate what he would ask for by the way he called my name. He didn't have to call me twice. I could be in the middle of a conversation and I would put it on hold or call them back if I heard or saw he was beckoning. I was in tune to his work needs. 

I have several comic strip clips on my refrigerator. One is a picture of little Billy from Bill Keane's Family Circus ©. He's kneeling by his bed to say his prayers and the caption reads, "Make me be good. And if you don't get through to me the first time, please keep trying 'til I answer." You might be asking yourself, "What does that have to do with being in tune with your boss?" So, I'll tell you...

Confession... Recently, during worship, we sang a song called "Whisper His Name" and during the course of it, I was struck again with the overwhelming reality that God - Creator of the Universe - will answer when I call. Then I was dumbstruck and pierced in my heart with the reality that I did not respond in kind because I have allowed complacency to slip in. 

How many times has God asked something of me and I did not answer? Too many times I have thought, "In a minute, God, just let me finish this..." How and why would I say that to a KING - and not just A king - but the King of kings?!?  I thought about the Billy comic strip and somehow, I don't think that's what God had in mind when He said we need to come as a child. Then I thought about my former boss and I realized I must rearrange my focus to be that intent on GOD - studying, watching, listening, anticipating, and responding. If I'm not in tune with God, how will I hear Him when He calls us home?

Prayer:

Father,
         Forgive me for allowing complacency and distractions to rule, I only want ONE King, One God, One Lord, You. You are all I need. Help me to stay focused and in tune with You. In Jesus' Name I pray.  Amen

Forthwith

As the angel choir withdrew into heaven, the sheepherders talked it over. “Let’s get over to Bethlehem as fast as we can and see for ourselves what God has revealed to us.” They left, running, and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. Seeing was believing. They told everyone they met what the angels had said about this child. All who heard the sheepherders were impressed.
Luke 2:15-18 The Message

This year, as last, I ask God to awaken my heart again to hear the Truth written so purposefully into the Christmas carols we've sung all our lives. 'Hark!' The herald angels sing, 'Glory to the newborn King! Peace on earth and mercy mild - God and sinners reconciled! Reconciled to God!

Have you ever thought about it from the shepherds' viewpoint? Lyrics from While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks - Thus spake the seraph and forthwith appeared a shining throng of angels praising God on high... Can you even imagine what it would be like to have an angel appear in front of you "out of nowhere" - make the proclamation and forthwith a shining throng of them appears?!? I'm surprised the shock didn't kill them. Then what did they do? The Scripture tells us they talked it over, and they left RUNNING to see what God had revealed!

Do we make haste to see what God has revealed to us? Do we even move from our computer chairs to see to what He nudged us about or do we talk ourselves out of it? I don't want to become blasé about the Christmas story. Clouded and shrouded by years of tradition, do we dread the holiday and all the commercialism and man-made stresses, or do we see it for what it really is - God's greatest plan for mankind?

Prayer:

Father,
            Forgive us for dreading the day of celebration for Your Greatest Gift to us. Thank You for sending Your Son. Father, cause our hearts to burn within us so that we tell everyone we meet about this gift! In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Lights and Life

You are the world’s light—a city on a hill, glowing in the night for all to see. Don’t hide your light! Let it shine for all; let your good deeds glow for all to see, so that they will praise your heavenly Father.

Matthew 5:14-16 The Living Bible

I went to spend the weekend with my oldest brother and his wife. Our younger sister drove in, too. We had a great weekend, reinforcing the bonds of love that have endured over the years. The town Ron and Mary live in does a free-of-charge holiday light drive-through park,  They had quite a few motion light displays that I thought were rather spectacular!  For instance - one for each of the twelve days of Christmas; I'd never seen anything like it! 

Halfway through, I almost started laughing at our exclamations of, "Oh, look at that one!" "Did you see that?!?" "That one is so beautiful!!" "Look!!"  My sweet sister-in-law (who is now a great-grandmother) was also like a little girl as we drove through. It was reminiscent of long-ago years and some not-so-long-ago years, but it is one tradition that can be easily outgrown in the hustle and bustle that Christmas has become. 

On the drive home (that should only have been 5½ hours but took 8 because of traffic!), I had plenty of time to think of the parallels of Christmas lights and living the Christian life. These are just a few of my thoughts. 

Christmas lights: As a child viewing light displays, we have no idea how much forethought and work are involved in making it look that beautiful. 

Christian life: Before the foundation of the world - Ephesians 4:1.

Christmas lights: We don't think of what it cost for us (the electric bill). 

Christian life: Mark 8:34-36.

Christmas lights: What it takes to maintain it (the right instructions for best results). 

Christian life: Matthew 19:17-21.

Christmas lights: What it takes to keep the lights burning brightly (proper power supply - protection in the storms of the seasons). 

Christian life: Matthew 7:24-27

Christmas lights: Where and how to place the lights so that they illuminate the path and make the house inviting (so you know the way and you'll want to come back). 

Christian life: Our Promise for Today!

Christmas lights: I'm not turning off my lights just because someone doesn't like Christmas. 

Christian life: I'm not hiding my Light just because someone doesn't like Christians... 

♫♪This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine! ♪♫

And I'm not going to get into debates about the actual date of Christ's birth, or how the date was brought into the church as we know it today. I'm just eternally grateful Emmanuel WAS born so that we could be forgiven to live in His Light and have eternal life with Him!!  

Prayer:

Father,

           Thank You for sending Your Son to be Light and Life for all who will receive Him. Thank You that the invitation is open to whosoever will... Please keep our hearts and spiritual eyes open to see the opportunities to spread Your Light and Life to those who don't yet know You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Going Out of Town

Dear Ones -

I am travelling this weekend, leaving in the morning. I do not know what kind of access I will have to write via this blogspot. Hopefully, it will work out. If not, meet me back here on Monday evening, okay? Blessings to you and yours!

We Didn't Plan It That Way

Long before he laid down earth’s foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love, to be made whole and holy by his love. Long, long ago he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. (What pleasure he took in planning this!) He wanted us to enter into the celebration of his lavish gift-giving by the hand of his beloved Son.
Ephesians 1:4-6 The Message

As we enter into the Christmas season this year, almost everyone has plans of some kind. Plans to shop for gifts for family or friends. Maybe you have plans for friends' parties or the office get-together. Or maybe you're one who just plans to hide out till it's all over.

Maybe you had plans for this year that didn't work out and you haven't reconciled with it. Maybe you suffered the worst - the death of a loved one that no one can plan for. (((💔))) I'm so sorry...

We can plan and save and work but sometimes, it seems our plans are all for naught. Things don't turn out the way we planned them. Listen, I want to encourage you. Don't quit. Don't give up. God's been planning our lives since "long before he laid down earth's foundations... Long, long ago he decided to adopt us into his family through Jesus Christ. (What pleasure he took in planning this!) He wanted us to enter into the celebration of his lavish gift-giving by the hand of his beloved Son." 

God DOES have a plan for each of us. Sometimes, it's very difficult to see. However, if we will work WITH Him instead of against Him, it will work...even if we didn't plan it that way.

Prayer:

Father,
          We don't always understand. It's hard for us to walk out the living Word of  'Your ways and thoughts are so much higher than ours'. We choose to trust You. We choose Your Son, Your will, Your way over everything the world has to offer. Increase our faith, God. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Repeat Reminder!

My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts, says the Lord.  And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.

Isaiah 55:8-9 NLT

I am always driven to these 2 verses when things happen or are happening that I can't understand. Used to be, I would rant and rail at God, explaining to Him all the reasons those things shouldn't be happening and touting what I believed would be a better plan (usually mine...) Thank God, I've finally come to the place that I believe whatever God does is ultimately for our good. Whatever He allows to touch our lives is there to help us grow in faith and love and trust.

I've been sitting here, trying to find the right words to convey the depth of His love in these two verses, but all I keep hearing is Laura Story's song called  Blessings. So that's what I'm sending along. I've included the link, or you can copy and paste it. I've also included the lyrics. Open your heart to the Lord and let this song wash over your spirit.

This is NOT a message of apologetics. It's about a God who doesn't have to explain Himself, but does anyway, because of His great love for us. The question is, can we understand Him?

www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CSVqHcdhXQ&feature=related

We pray for blessings
We pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering

All the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things

‘Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You’re near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

We pray for wisdom
Your voice to hear
We cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love
As if every promise from Your Word is not enough

All the while, You hear each desperate plea
And long that we'd have faith to believe

‘Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You’re near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win
We know that pain reminds this heart
That this is not - this is not our home

It's not our home

‘Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You’re near
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy
What if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are your mercies in disguise

Prayer:

Father,

          We love You and we trust You. Use whatever it takes to get our attention and keep it on You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen