Would you believe that my life has become so absolutely saturated with the Lord's work that I have no time to blog anymore? I am making it one day at a time with His great victory. There is no time for me to ponder. Life is taking all I've got to give. Friends I used to have lunch with kind of regularly are voice mail buddies. We have now added full time care for my dying step mother and my dad, who are both 93 and out of town for me. That added to homeschooling my young friend, (and a visiting granddaughter this week who is almost 3), has me running fast!
We are all dealing with something. We are all in need of God's peace each and every day. Thanks for your brief following. Thanks for your encouragement. Perhaps one day I can pick up again with pondering and writing. This blog has blessed me beyond words. It has help me cement in my mind what God was showing me and how I was to walk each day. Thanks for sharing this piece of the road with me. Let me encourage you to continue to seek God through His word and prayer and waiting on Him to show you the way. If those activities remain daily in our lives, we will never miss the plan or the joy of His journey! Big love in Him alone!
Proverbs 23:4 "Do not weary yourself to gain wealth, cease your consideration of it. When you set your eyes on it, it is gone. For wealth certainly makes itself wings like an eagle that flies toward the heavens." New Living Translation -
Monday, September 20, 2010
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Where did July and August go?
You know it's been too long since you blogged when you have to look up your password! I have had a really good summer, but it has been oh, so busy. I feel the need to get back to "my life" - to the things I know I am called to do and have been distracted from for a while. Routine is a good thing! It truly brings order to the great American chaotic existence!
What do you need to get back to in your life? I need my DAILY quiet time with God - alone. That can be a challange in the midst of loving people, making a living, doing life. But therein is our source of strength and solace. Praying through the day is such a blessing in the midst of the busyness. It is truly my lifeline. But being still before God, studying His Word, and waiting on Him is where we hear His call, His direction, His correction.
Be still and know that He is God. He is waiting for you and me to wait on Him and to know His direction. He is always faithful, always loving, always strong enough to carry us with our burdens, challanges and joys in this life!
What do you need to get back to in your life? I need my DAILY quiet time with God - alone. That can be a challange in the midst of loving people, making a living, doing life. But therein is our source of strength and solace. Praying through the day is such a blessing in the midst of the busyness. It is truly my lifeline. But being still before God, studying His Word, and waiting on Him is where we hear His call, His direction, His correction.
Be still and know that He is God. He is waiting for you and me to wait on Him and to know His direction. He is always faithful, always loving, always strong enough to carry us with our burdens, challanges and joys in this life!
Monday, June 28, 2010
Childhood pictures....soul dreams
I have drawn the same picture all of my life. It is a simple picture of a large tree with fruit on it, a house with smoke coming out of the chimney, flowers, and a bright smiling sun. As far back as I can remember, I would draw that picture whenever given an assignment to draw or even as an adult doodling on paper.
My journey with God has revealed to me over time how that picture has been a dream fulfilled in my life. A few years ago, He showed me that I am the tree, filled with fruit and offering shelter to others. His hand on my life in family, business and friendships has shown me that is true. The house represented a desire I had for a solid, loving, happy home. It also represented my desire for a pretty home, with light shining out its windows and enjoyable company within. For years I passed houses as we traveled from our home to our parents' homes out of town and longed for a house that I felt good about. I was out walking one night a couple of years ago and realized that I now have that home. It is simple. It is a dream home. It is a reflection of our family. The flowers are yet to be here - but I have hope because one of my dear "adopted" sons has started a landscaping business in Atlanta this year, and I know his new interests will help us get more landscaping done!
I have struggled with an intense sense of being a loser a lot of my life. It is an area that satan worked in since my very young years, trying to create a sense of shame about myself. I was ashamed of my face, my status in life (or lack thereof), and frequently had to gulp for some air of truth. Satan worked so hard to spin in my mind a sense of being shameful.
Peace by piece is the name of this blog, because that is exactly what my journey with the Lord has become. Every area of my life that lacked peace is being made whole in my relationship with Jesus. I realized this weekend as a friend and I were sharing our lives how my childhood art was my childhood heart. And now at 58 years old, I realize it is complete. Our home is a healing house. God brings people into our lives to bring them His healing. And very often, He does it right here in our humble abode. I am awed as I think of how true this is. It is a work He has given to me and my husband together. It is a holy thing. We joke that in our life, "flip that house" means change the beds, clean the bathrooms, restock the frig, because new folks are coming! As I prepare for some to leave and new ones to come this week, I delight in the awareness of just how wonderful my life has become.
What about you? What are your dreams? What are the lies you keep believing that hinder your joy? Give it some thought. Talk to God about it. "Down in the human heart, crushed by the tempter, feelings lie buried that grace can restore." (Fanny Crosby, from a hymn entitled, "Rescue the Perishing.")
My journey with God has revealed to me over time how that picture has been a dream fulfilled in my life. A few years ago, He showed me that I am the tree, filled with fruit and offering shelter to others. His hand on my life in family, business and friendships has shown me that is true. The house represented a desire I had for a solid, loving, happy home. It also represented my desire for a pretty home, with light shining out its windows and enjoyable company within. For years I passed houses as we traveled from our home to our parents' homes out of town and longed for a house that I felt good about. I was out walking one night a couple of years ago and realized that I now have that home. It is simple. It is a dream home. It is a reflection of our family. The flowers are yet to be here - but I have hope because one of my dear "adopted" sons has started a landscaping business in Atlanta this year, and I know his new interests will help us get more landscaping done!
I have struggled with an intense sense of being a loser a lot of my life. It is an area that satan worked in since my very young years, trying to create a sense of shame about myself. I was ashamed of my face, my status in life (or lack thereof), and frequently had to gulp for some air of truth. Satan worked so hard to spin in my mind a sense of being shameful.
Peace by piece is the name of this blog, because that is exactly what my journey with the Lord has become. Every area of my life that lacked peace is being made whole in my relationship with Jesus. I realized this weekend as a friend and I were sharing our lives how my childhood art was my childhood heart. And now at 58 years old, I realize it is complete. Our home is a healing house. God brings people into our lives to bring them His healing. And very often, He does it right here in our humble abode. I am awed as I think of how true this is. It is a work He has given to me and my husband together. It is a holy thing. We joke that in our life, "flip that house" means change the beds, clean the bathrooms, restock the frig, because new folks are coming! As I prepare for some to leave and new ones to come this week, I delight in the awareness of just how wonderful my life has become.
What about you? What are your dreams? What are the lies you keep believing that hinder your joy? Give it some thought. Talk to God about it. "Down in the human heart, crushed by the tempter, feelings lie buried that grace can restore." (Fanny Crosby, from a hymn entitled, "Rescue the Perishing.")
Saturday, June 26, 2010
If we only knew....
We have a precious 11 year old in our life. She has been a gift from God to let us have the joy of helping someone who has not had a very good shot at life before now. She is being raised in the innercity housing by her grandmother, who is doing her best to protect her and encourage her life. She has tried twice in her young years to take her life because her mother's problems and the sinful acts of man have been more than she could take. Our enemy who roams around the earth looking for someone to devour has had his sights set on her. But God, who is rich in mercy, has brought her into the lives of His people through a teacher at her school, and her life will never be the same because of Him.
Children who grow up in a survival state don't learn at a normal pace. In some ways, our girl is like a two year old, in need of much affirmation, love, attention and training. She has a deep love for God and a great desire to know and please Him. She prays precious prayers of thanksgiving and confession as she sees things in herself that need to change. Her academic level is lacking, and we are working hard to catch her up for school this fall. Sometimes she simply shuts down because her laziness and fear of failure and low self esteem take over, and she thinks she cannot do third grade work when she is entering the sixth grade this fall. That has been an area where the Lord has shown me much and thankfully given me the wisdom to help her work through. God is an amazing teacher, and He often uses children to teach those who are willing to learn. I think that is because we are children who are not where He desires that we be yet, and He is the perfect, patient parent who has only love for us.
Isaiah 64:4 in the New Living Translation reads, "For since the world began, no ear has heard and no eye has seen a God like you, who works for those who wait for Him!" It is quoted in I Corinthians 2:9 as "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him."
I had to leave Jacques in her "slump" this morning and go about my business for the day to give her time to come around. As I showered and prayed for His leading for her, the Lord brought these scriptures to mind. Jacques has no idea that I have a friend wanting to take her to the beach for a week, and that we are waiting for her grandmother's answer to that request. She does not know I have friends who are praying about her being home schooled in the coming school year to really get her feet firmly under her academically, emotionally and spiritually. She has no idea how much I have in my heart to do for her, to show her, to help her in her growth. She doesn't know how I dream about her high school graduation or college or wedding day. The Lord has given me so many dreams for this precious one, and I look with delight as she grows into a mature, responsible young woman.
Then, of course, I thought of myself. Where am I still refusing to wait for God to change a situation in my life that I am "working on"? What does He have planned for my life that He wants to reveal to me? Do I believe His promises or not? Will I keep my eyes only on Him when things all around scream for attention that offer only a temporary joy?
I remembered recently about something I had "fly through my mind" a few months ago. We were doing our empty nest syndrome ritual of eating dinner and watching Fox News. I asked the Lord, "Is this what we have left to do with our daily lives, just watching TV together? I thought about children who need someone. Would that come our way? Was there something for us to do about a child?" There was indeed someone coming our way. My eyes had not seen her beautiful face, and my ears had not heard her laughter. But God...rich in His mercy....had a plan.
He has plans for you, too! Listen carefully to His loving voice. Stop and listen. He is calling!
Children who grow up in a survival state don't learn at a normal pace. In some ways, our girl is like a two year old, in need of much affirmation, love, attention and training. She has a deep love for God and a great desire to know and please Him. She prays precious prayers of thanksgiving and confession as she sees things in herself that need to change. Her academic level is lacking, and we are working hard to catch her up for school this fall. Sometimes she simply shuts down because her laziness and fear of failure and low self esteem take over, and she thinks she cannot do third grade work when she is entering the sixth grade this fall. That has been an area where the Lord has shown me much and thankfully given me the wisdom to help her work through. God is an amazing teacher, and He often uses children to teach those who are willing to learn. I think that is because we are children who are not where He desires that we be yet, and He is the perfect, patient parent who has only love for us.
Isaiah 64:4 in the New Living Translation reads, "For since the world began, no ear has heard and no eye has seen a God like you, who works for those who wait for Him!" It is quoted in I Corinthians 2:9 as "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him."
I had to leave Jacques in her "slump" this morning and go about my business for the day to give her time to come around. As I showered and prayed for His leading for her, the Lord brought these scriptures to mind. Jacques has no idea that I have a friend wanting to take her to the beach for a week, and that we are waiting for her grandmother's answer to that request. She does not know I have friends who are praying about her being home schooled in the coming school year to really get her feet firmly under her academically, emotionally and spiritually. She has no idea how much I have in my heart to do for her, to show her, to help her in her growth. She doesn't know how I dream about her high school graduation or college or wedding day. The Lord has given me so many dreams for this precious one, and I look with delight as she grows into a mature, responsible young woman.
Then, of course, I thought of myself. Where am I still refusing to wait for God to change a situation in my life that I am "working on"? What does He have planned for my life that He wants to reveal to me? Do I believe His promises or not? Will I keep my eyes only on Him when things all around scream for attention that offer only a temporary joy?
I remembered recently about something I had "fly through my mind" a few months ago. We were doing our empty nest syndrome ritual of eating dinner and watching Fox News. I asked the Lord, "Is this what we have left to do with our daily lives, just watching TV together? I thought about children who need someone. Would that come our way? Was there something for us to do about a child?" There was indeed someone coming our way. My eyes had not seen her beautiful face, and my ears had not heard her laughter. But God...rich in His mercy....had a plan.
He has plans for you, too! Listen carefully to His loving voice. Stop and listen. He is calling!
Monday, June 14, 2010
Free the prisoners!
Jesus came to set the captive free, and those filled with the Holy Spirit are given that same charge. I am amazed at our God. I have been blessed with a bird's eye view of His working in the lives of others lately like never before. Truly, we serve an awesome God. His ways are indeed unfathomable. And so very sweet.
Where does He desire to use you to bless someone else - to watch Him set them free? GO with Him in the journey. Be amazed at His ability to solve all those burdens you want to carry on your own back. Breathe in the peace that passes understanding as you wait upon God to work in the lives of others. That hunch you have that there must be more to this thing called life is right. There is more to life than working for a dollar and either worrying that it will be lost in this economy, stolen by someone or a quandry to figure out how to spend. Open your hand and your heart to someone around you who is less fortunate and feel the joy of sharing in God's heart! His heart is all about love and giving. Life is not about social justice or socialism. It is about finding the amazing joy of living for something greater than yourself or your social status!
We cannot begin to fathom what God would do if we would only believe, only trust, only get out of the boat of our comfortable lives and go with Him. There is no greater joy or treasure than knowing God and feeling the wind in your face as you see His greatness and healing power poured out on others....and the blessing of it splashing back in your face!
Where does He desire to use you to bless someone else - to watch Him set them free? GO with Him in the journey. Be amazed at His ability to solve all those burdens you want to carry on your own back. Breathe in the peace that passes understanding as you wait upon God to work in the lives of others. That hunch you have that there must be more to this thing called life is right. There is more to life than working for a dollar and either worrying that it will be lost in this economy, stolen by someone or a quandry to figure out how to spend. Open your hand and your heart to someone around you who is less fortunate and feel the joy of sharing in God's heart! His heart is all about love and giving. Life is not about social justice or socialism. It is about finding the amazing joy of living for something greater than yourself or your social status!
We cannot begin to fathom what God would do if we would only believe, only trust, only get out of the boat of our comfortable lives and go with Him. There is no greater joy or treasure than knowing God and feeling the wind in your face as you see His greatness and healing power poured out on others....and the blessing of it splashing back in your face!
Friday, May 28, 2010
Clarity
The fact that it has been 20 days since I posted anything on the blog is a clue to how much clarity I have been in need of lately! My adhd brain has been way over stimulated by life, and just this morning do I realize full clarity in all that has been passing through my gray matter at a rapid pace.
There are so many people in need all around us. My friend in Nashville has certainly experienced that as she has lived in the midst of the recent flood and its impact on those around her. Financial needs are obvious in the lives of so many, and in just a week's time, I was approached by 3 different people who were asking for assistance as I went along the path of my life. I had a class to teach at my church about the Holy Spirit that I felt so scattered about teaching, and I was amazed as I saw the Spirit Himself lead me with clarity, timing and peace. There is a young girl who needs a mama desperately, and I know that this summer I will be that mama, and I trust that the Lord is going to make clear each day what to do as my friend and I help her with academics and life lessons that she needs so much to change her world.
I am reading Frances Chan's second book, "Forgotten God", and I highly recommend it for your reading. Pick up a copy as you head for vacation or just a day away from working - or simply some reading each day. The Holy Spirit is living in every person who has given their life to Jesus Christ. He is the promised Comforter that Jesus said would come....and lead and sustain us. Surrender to His sweet leading in your life. You will never be the same!
There are so many people in need all around us. My friend in Nashville has certainly experienced that as she has lived in the midst of the recent flood and its impact on those around her. Financial needs are obvious in the lives of so many, and in just a week's time, I was approached by 3 different people who were asking for assistance as I went along the path of my life. I had a class to teach at my church about the Holy Spirit that I felt so scattered about teaching, and I was amazed as I saw the Spirit Himself lead me with clarity, timing and peace. There is a young girl who needs a mama desperately, and I know that this summer I will be that mama, and I trust that the Lord is going to make clear each day what to do as my friend and I help her with academics and life lessons that she needs so much to change her world.
I am reading Frances Chan's second book, "Forgotten God", and I highly recommend it for your reading. Pick up a copy as you head for vacation or just a day away from working - or simply some reading each day. The Holy Spirit is living in every person who has given their life to Jesus Christ. He is the promised Comforter that Jesus said would come....and lead and sustain us. Surrender to His sweet leading in your life. You will never be the same!
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Perfect Timing
I have spent the last 5 days at 2 different schools pampering teachers and administrators during Teacher Appreciation Week. What a blessing to me it has been! Some came and talked; others just sat quietly; some cried as the release of stress came so sweetly. I am so blessed to be able to love on people with the pampering tools of my trade - and to watch God work. It was in this very setting 3 years ago that God whispered to me as I was pampering strangers that though I did not even know their name I could pray over them as I pampered their hands. It wasn't about what I know or don't know about someone that matters. It is lifting them up to God that matters. Prayer is powerful because it is about God and not us or our list or our words.
It was holy time. When no one came, I was reading. By the grace of God, I was able not to think that my time was being wasted but rather appointed to rest in Him. Two books that have touched my heart so much this week are "The Hole In Our Gospel" by Richard Stearnes, President of World Vision International and "The Same Kind of Different as Me", which is a true story of loving people different from us. Holy time, indeed. God is shaping my heart for something new and yet very familiar, loving people. I am excited, peaceful and scared all at the same time as I wonder what He is up to and where He is leading my life. But I know it is good. So I will wait for the clarity.
I was really amazed at how several times I could have 4 people on the schedule but only 1 would come, and we would have the most amazing time together as she would melt into relaxation and peace. It could not have happened had the others come. It took private time with her. We talked, laughed, cried and worshipped as God allowed me to do His work among fellow humans. I was clearly affirmed by Him through the words of some to know that I know that I know I was right where He wanted me to be, doing what He has called me to do - encourage others in Him.
Peace for sure. Look to God to show you where your sweet spot in service to Him is. We all need to make a living. God has promised to provide that. Move beyond the cash. Look for holiness in your work each day whether you are a young mother at home raising little angels, a powerful executive affecting the lives of many or somewhere in between. It is all about God and all about His glory. Take up a towel and serve someone today. It will bring perfect perspective to your place in this world.
It was holy time. When no one came, I was reading. By the grace of God, I was able not to think that my time was being wasted but rather appointed to rest in Him. Two books that have touched my heart so much this week are "The Hole In Our Gospel" by Richard Stearnes, President of World Vision International and "The Same Kind of Different as Me", which is a true story of loving people different from us. Holy time, indeed. God is shaping my heart for something new and yet very familiar, loving people. I am excited, peaceful and scared all at the same time as I wonder what He is up to and where He is leading my life. But I know it is good. So I will wait for the clarity.
I was really amazed at how several times I could have 4 people on the schedule but only 1 would come, and we would have the most amazing time together as she would melt into relaxation and peace. It could not have happened had the others come. It took private time with her. We talked, laughed, cried and worshipped as God allowed me to do His work among fellow humans. I was clearly affirmed by Him through the words of some to know that I know that I know I was right where He wanted me to be, doing what He has called me to do - encourage others in Him.
Peace for sure. Look to God to show you where your sweet spot in service to Him is. We all need to make a living. God has promised to provide that. Move beyond the cash. Look for holiness in your work each day whether you are a young mother at home raising little angels, a powerful executive affecting the lives of many or somewhere in between. It is all about God and all about His glory. Take up a towel and serve someone today. It will bring perfect perspective to your place in this world.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Reign in the rain
Nashville has experienced an epic flood. Just some 100 miles from our sunny days is a city in devastation. It takes our breath away to see the photos and to think of all the lives being changed forever by one rainy weekend. Lives have been lost, homes have floated away, and we have all witnessed something for the first time in our lives - much of Nashville, Tennessee underwater. Much of Tennessee in great travail.
My prayer is that God will be called upon to reign in the lives of many as they deal with this deluge. He so longs to reign in our lives - to rule our thoughts and motives and actions - to be the absolute authority over all we are and do and have.
My prayer is that He will do that in my life. I want all of me to be gone, making room for more of His Spirit to rule and reign. I know that He is providing an unexplainable peace for all who are looking to Him. I pray that their faith will bring many to salvation.
Send your reign, Oh, Lord!
My prayer is that God will be called upon to reign in the lives of many as they deal with this deluge. He so longs to reign in our lives - to rule our thoughts and motives and actions - to be the absolute authority over all we are and do and have.
My prayer is that He will do that in my life. I want all of me to be gone, making room for more of His Spirit to rule and reign. I know that He is providing an unexplainable peace for all who are looking to Him. I pray that their faith will bring many to salvation.
Send your reign, Oh, Lord!
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
A quieted mind
Isaiah 26:3 reads, "You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is fixed on You because he trusts in You." I have a very busy mind. It races ahead of me in conversation, duty and thought. I have had to learn to exercise great self control over my mind, and God has helped me walk in that. At times it is as natural as breathing to rest in God. At other times, it takes every fiber of my being to stay the course.
What about you? How is your mind today? Scripture is filled with exhortations to trust in God alone, rest in God and find His peace. There are no qualifying times or events in our lives that He tells us to rest. It is an all the time encouragement from Him - in joy and in sorrow; in war and in peace; in fear and in courage. Rest in Him. He is able to hold us up no matter what comes.
The battlefield where we meet satan is our mind. Ephesians clearly shows us in chapter 6 that our battle is with spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places, and that our mind is the battleground. Truth is the power to win. God's truth. It is pictured as a sword - of the Spirit. An entire coat of armor is described in this passage. As a t-shirt I once saw said, "Don't battle naked!"
In Christ alone there is peace and hope and help. Quiet yourself in Him. Get to know Him. Rest in Him. Count your blessings when you cannot sleep. A mind/heart filled with gratitude cannot fear. It brings rest and peace.
" I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety." Psalm 4:8
Great study recommendation: "Lord, I Want To Know You" by Kay Arthur
What about you? How is your mind today? Scripture is filled with exhortations to trust in God alone, rest in God and find His peace. There are no qualifying times or events in our lives that He tells us to rest. It is an all the time encouragement from Him - in joy and in sorrow; in war and in peace; in fear and in courage. Rest in Him. He is able to hold us up no matter what comes.
The battlefield where we meet satan is our mind. Ephesians clearly shows us in chapter 6 that our battle is with spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places, and that our mind is the battleground. Truth is the power to win. God's truth. It is pictured as a sword - of the Spirit. An entire coat of armor is described in this passage. As a t-shirt I once saw said, "Don't battle naked!"
In Christ alone there is peace and hope and help. Quiet yourself in Him. Get to know Him. Rest in Him. Count your blessings when you cannot sleep. A mind/heart filled with gratitude cannot fear. It brings rest and peace.
" I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety." Psalm 4:8
Great study recommendation: "Lord, I Want To Know You" by Kay Arthur
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Little children
Jesus said more than once that entering His kingdom requires becoming as a little child. Have you watched a little child lately? I'm not talking about the kind who are in Walmart late at night (acting like a terrorist) when they should be in bed asleep. I'm talking about a little child who is able to just be a little child. They are full of wonder. They marvel at weeds and call them pretty flowers that smell good. They respect bugs and birds and breezes. They see the glory of God in the beauty of nature.
Little children are peaceful. They live in the moment, not even thinking of their next need. They laugh easily and sometimes cry easily when the need arises. They are not burdened with life or tomorrow. They live now. They trust and believe and love. Little children don't wear watches to hurry about and feel important. They don't keep a calendar. They pray readily, and spend their prayers saying thank you instead of asking for more. They love relationships. They bloom with lots of face time with people who love them. Children rest. They wake renewed and ready to go again.
There's a lot to be learned from a little one. We can't justify our craziness in life. It is chosen. It is repeated. It is even honored - and we train to do more. But Jesus, the Master teacher, says we must become as little children. Think about it. Pray about it. Let go of something that keeps you strained and stressed and worrisome. God will take care of the rest!
Little children are peaceful. They live in the moment, not even thinking of their next need. They laugh easily and sometimes cry easily when the need arises. They are not burdened with life or tomorrow. They live now. They trust and believe and love. Little children don't wear watches to hurry about and feel important. They don't keep a calendar. They pray readily, and spend their prayers saying thank you instead of asking for more. They love relationships. They bloom with lots of face time with people who love them. Children rest. They wake renewed and ready to go again.
There's a lot to be learned from a little one. We can't justify our craziness in life. It is chosen. It is repeated. It is even honored - and we train to do more. But Jesus, the Master teacher, says we must become as little children. Think about it. Pray about it. Let go of something that keeps you strained and stressed and worrisome. God will take care of the rest!
Friday, April 16, 2010
Peace! Be Still!
It started out as a beautiful evening I suspect. Sunset, breeze, gentle flowing water. Jesus and His disciples were in a boat crossing over to another side to teach and bless more people. It was so peaceful that Jesus was laying in the back of the boat asleep. And a storm arose.
Panic stricken, His followers were in a tizzy. Hmmmmm....tizzy. Not sure of the spelling, but certainly familiar with the emotion. Fear, doubt, anxiety, restlessness. You name it - they felt it. But for Jesus, it was so peaceful that He continued to sleep.
They could take it no longer. Master, do you not care that we are perishing? Do YOU not care? Perishing? Jesus slept through the storm. What are you doing in yours?
I've seen so many storms lately. A very sick nephew whose marriage is crumbling; his mother as she waits to see the impact on him; houses facing foreclosure; brain cancer in a 22 year old; businesses unstable; sudden sickness that threatens life; friends who need Jesus in their boat; broken arms; broken hearts; unemployment; and this just names a few of the storms I'm watching right now. Tizzy material for sure.
And what does the Master say? Peace! Be still! He calms the raging sea when it fulfills the Father's plans to show God's glory. He stands with us no matter what, speaking to our personal storm "Peace! Be still!" He is not sleeping. He is waiting for you to cry to Him for help - and trust Him no matter what happens in the storm.
I love this quote from Beth Moore. "The biggest reason why I can trust in the sovereignty of God is because I am so utterly convinced of the sweetness of God." Read the gospels and watch the love of Jesus flow to people in all circumstances. The Holy Spirit lives in every person who has given their life to Jesus. He is called the Comforter. Take a break from rowing the boat and simply sit with Jesus. Wait.....can you hear His whisper? Peace! Be still!
I would like to recommend a study I'm doing right now. It is "Lord, Help Me Grow Spiritually Strong in 28 Days", and it is by Kay Arthur and David Arthur. It will bless and strengthen your "cruise".
Panic stricken, His followers were in a tizzy. Hmmmmm....tizzy. Not sure of the spelling, but certainly familiar with the emotion. Fear, doubt, anxiety, restlessness. You name it - they felt it. But for Jesus, it was so peaceful that He continued to sleep.
They could take it no longer. Master, do you not care that we are perishing? Do YOU not care? Perishing? Jesus slept through the storm. What are you doing in yours?
I've seen so many storms lately. A very sick nephew whose marriage is crumbling; his mother as she waits to see the impact on him; houses facing foreclosure; brain cancer in a 22 year old; businesses unstable; sudden sickness that threatens life; friends who need Jesus in their boat; broken arms; broken hearts; unemployment; and this just names a few of the storms I'm watching right now. Tizzy material for sure.
And what does the Master say? Peace! Be still! He calms the raging sea when it fulfills the Father's plans to show God's glory. He stands with us no matter what, speaking to our personal storm "Peace! Be still!" He is not sleeping. He is waiting for you to cry to Him for help - and trust Him no matter what happens in the storm.
I love this quote from Beth Moore. "The biggest reason why I can trust in the sovereignty of God is because I am so utterly convinced of the sweetness of God." Read the gospels and watch the love of Jesus flow to people in all circumstances. The Holy Spirit lives in every person who has given their life to Jesus. He is called the Comforter. Take a break from rowing the boat and simply sit with Jesus. Wait.....can you hear His whisper? Peace! Be still!
I would like to recommend a study I'm doing right now. It is "Lord, Help Me Grow Spiritually Strong in 28 Days", and it is by Kay Arthur and David Arthur. It will bless and strengthen your "cruise".
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
The Hubble
"The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands." Psalm 19:1 David, the psalmist, inspired by God, wrote these amazing words about the heavens that you and I can see with our eyes alone. They are breath taking. Don't you love to sit on a clear night out away from city lights and just worship God for what He has created that you can see in the sky? I am overwhelmed by its majesty.
And now, we have the Hubble space telescope. I was blessed to sit in an IMAX Theatre and watch the Hubble movie yesterday. WOW. What it has found is beyond comprehension. The film spoke of billions of years - billions of light years away where some of the objects are. I can't get my head around that. My circuits blow just thinking of it.
And then it came to me. God is eternal. He always has been. At some point out of the amazing heavens He decided to form earth. They called it an oasis in the heavens. Hubble went out to see if there was another planet like earth in all the expanse of heaven. There was none to be found. God created this planet and its "unique in the universe" characteristics, making a perfect place for the human to live. The human made in His image. The human who would need water and air and sunshine and all the amazing living things on this earth. And the living things would need man. He created a system of inner dependence to call out to us from the heavens, asking us to depend on Him. He would walk with man. Man would sin and be seperated from God. He would come in the person of Jesus Christ to save man. Jesus would return to God and the Holy Spirit would come and be God livng in us as we journey on this earth. Fellowship with God personally, daily, moment by moment was once again available to those who would stop and be with Him! And all who will put their trust in Jesus will return to God when they leave this place. Just think what the view from God's throne must be!
By faith, I know that one day I will see that view. Paul tells believers in Jesus in Ephesians 2:5, "Even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus..." Chapter 1 tells us that Jesus is sitting at the right hand of God! We will see the view!
Don't get bogged down on planet earth. Look up! Read the Psalms and be blessed to be reminded that God's heavens are amazing - the Hubble has shown us pictures of what we could have never imagined! "Eye has not seen and ear has not heard what God has planned for those who love Him." (I Corinthians 2:9) The reward will be worth any sacrifice your choice for God costs you in this life!
And now, we have the Hubble space telescope. I was blessed to sit in an IMAX Theatre and watch the Hubble movie yesterday. WOW. What it has found is beyond comprehension. The film spoke of billions of years - billions of light years away where some of the objects are. I can't get my head around that. My circuits blow just thinking of it.
And then it came to me. God is eternal. He always has been. At some point out of the amazing heavens He decided to form earth. They called it an oasis in the heavens. Hubble went out to see if there was another planet like earth in all the expanse of heaven. There was none to be found. God created this planet and its "unique in the universe" characteristics, making a perfect place for the human to live. The human made in His image. The human who would need water and air and sunshine and all the amazing living things on this earth. And the living things would need man. He created a system of inner dependence to call out to us from the heavens, asking us to depend on Him. He would walk with man. Man would sin and be seperated from God. He would come in the person of Jesus Christ to save man. Jesus would return to God and the Holy Spirit would come and be God livng in us as we journey on this earth. Fellowship with God personally, daily, moment by moment was once again available to those who would stop and be with Him! And all who will put their trust in Jesus will return to God when they leave this place. Just think what the view from God's throne must be!
By faith, I know that one day I will see that view. Paul tells believers in Jesus in Ephesians 2:5, "Even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus..." Chapter 1 tells us that Jesus is sitting at the right hand of God! We will see the view!
Don't get bogged down on planet earth. Look up! Read the Psalms and be blessed to be reminded that God's heavens are amazing - the Hubble has shown us pictures of what we could have never imagined! "Eye has not seen and ear has not heard what God has planned for those who love Him." (I Corinthians 2:9) The reward will be worth any sacrifice your choice for God costs you in this life!
Choose your master! Choose well!
Jesus was speaking to a multitude of people over two thousand years ago about heart treasure when He told them, "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth." (Matthew 6:24) He had just been talking about heart treasure and how our heart follows what we treasure. He comforts the people with the assurance that God will provide food, drink and clothing to them (and us) just as He does for the birds of the sky.
I have been on a journey for 20+ years trying to understand this truth. I have not been particularly wise about some money decisions. I still have some debt that needs to be paid. It is debt that God's Word offered council to never owe, but I either did not know or listen to His council, depending on my age and the point at which I acquired the debt. But the veracity of the promises of God are not contingent on my wisdom. It is a fact. God will fill my needs and yours if we first seek Him.
I have been trying to decide whether or not to take a class offered by a friend of mine to grow in my business. I have really been in a quandry about it. You might recall a post on the blog a while back about the boundary lines in my life. About satisfaction with your lot in life. Sometimes opportunities to grow are built on a foundation of making one unsatisfied with where they are to motivate them to move to a better place. So the old battle has been going back and forth in my mind for a few months, trying to discern what it is God would have me do. I asked Him for a specific scripture answer to my decision about beginning that class tonight.
And do you know what? He did. I went to my Bible study this morning, and there in the lesson written about giving was first a lesson about money. And of course, about the heart. The very scriptures He used to begin setting me free from this battle 20+ years ago He gave to me again this morning. I was amazed. I was overwhelmed. I wept. I really wept. I denounced the enemy for his lies once and for all.
And now, you're really not going to believe what I saw.
I looked out the window in front of me at a tree that had a year ago bloomed like never before only to die suddenly a few days later. It is still in the ground because my husband had hoped that perhaps it really wasn't dead and would bloom again this year. Behind the tree in the distance farther out in the yard was a beautiful blooming red bud tree (which we had planted as small sticks a few years ago). I looked through the dead tree and saw the living one. It was like a picture of the two masters. One gives life. One gives nothing because it is dead. I was amazed. I was overwheled at my faithful God who confirms His message so that I know without a doubt what I have heard from Him.
And now, you're really, really not going to believe what I saw.
There is a picture on the wall beside the window I was looking through. There was a reflection in the glass of that picture of a tree in our backyard that has also died this year. Behind it, I could see in the distance another beautiful, blooming red bud tree. It took my breath away as I realized I was seeing the picture again of life and death. Life to trust and treasure God and death in the treasure of money because it has no life. Immediately my mind was filled with "you have enclosed me behind and before, and laid Your hand on me." Psalm 139 is an amazing Psalm about how God knows you. Take time to read it and believe that He knows how to quiet your heart and lead your way. Would you want to be anywhere else?
Don't waste your life trying to serve two masters. Seek the treasure of God with all your heart, and truly, all the things you need will be provided.
...and now I've seen Him use our dying trees! God uses whatever He chooses on this earth to teach His children! I LOVE my daddy!
I have been on a journey for 20+ years trying to understand this truth. I have not been particularly wise about some money decisions. I still have some debt that needs to be paid. It is debt that God's Word offered council to never owe, but I either did not know or listen to His council, depending on my age and the point at which I acquired the debt. But the veracity of the promises of God are not contingent on my wisdom. It is a fact. God will fill my needs and yours if we first seek Him.
I have been trying to decide whether or not to take a class offered by a friend of mine to grow in my business. I have really been in a quandry about it. You might recall a post on the blog a while back about the boundary lines in my life. About satisfaction with your lot in life. Sometimes opportunities to grow are built on a foundation of making one unsatisfied with where they are to motivate them to move to a better place. So the old battle has been going back and forth in my mind for a few months, trying to discern what it is God would have me do. I asked Him for a specific scripture answer to my decision about beginning that class tonight.
And do you know what? He did. I went to my Bible study this morning, and there in the lesson written about giving was first a lesson about money. And of course, about the heart. The very scriptures He used to begin setting me free from this battle 20+ years ago He gave to me again this morning. I was amazed. I was overwhelmed. I wept. I really wept. I denounced the enemy for his lies once and for all.
And now, you're really not going to believe what I saw.
I looked out the window in front of me at a tree that had a year ago bloomed like never before only to die suddenly a few days later. It is still in the ground because my husband had hoped that perhaps it really wasn't dead and would bloom again this year. Behind the tree in the distance farther out in the yard was a beautiful blooming red bud tree (which we had planted as small sticks a few years ago). I looked through the dead tree and saw the living one. It was like a picture of the two masters. One gives life. One gives nothing because it is dead. I was amazed. I was overwheled at my faithful God who confirms His message so that I know without a doubt what I have heard from Him.
And now, you're really, really not going to believe what I saw.
There is a picture on the wall beside the window I was looking through. There was a reflection in the glass of that picture of a tree in our backyard that has also died this year. Behind it, I could see in the distance another beautiful, blooming red bud tree. It took my breath away as I realized I was seeing the picture again of life and death. Life to trust and treasure God and death in the treasure of money because it has no life. Immediately my mind was filled with "you have enclosed me behind and before, and laid Your hand on me." Psalm 139 is an amazing Psalm about how God knows you. Take time to read it and believe that He knows how to quiet your heart and lead your way. Would you want to be anywhere else?
Don't waste your life trying to serve two masters. Seek the treasure of God with all your heart, and truly, all the things you need will be provided.
...and now I've seen Him use our dying trees! God uses whatever He chooses on this earth to teach His children! I LOVE my daddy!
Friday, April 2, 2010
Wake up, parents!
I was deeply troubled this week as I watched a 10 year old boy desperately trying to talk with his dad who was too busy to listen to him. There are numerous warning signs in this particular family - screaming at the children, too busy to train and love their children, putting down the children, ignoring the children, just to name a few I observed in my 20 minutes in the home. What in the world happens when no outsiders are there when what I observed seemed so "normal" for the parents.
We all need "face time" with the significant people in our lives. Being in the same room with people does not equal face time - or affirmation of each other. It is like a wicked chain reaction is in place. People who were not loved and nurtured as children often turn in to adults who do the same. Addictions abound in our world, and I really believe they are often born (not always, of course), from some message received in childhood about their personal value. Many hurting adults are still in need of that love and affirmation that God intended they would receive in their childhood.
The good news? God is that perfect parent. Seek me and you will find me; call to me and I will answer; cast your cares on me....just to name a few of His calling out to us in love. I ask you to evaluate your practice of being fully present. Look your little ones in the face as you speak to them. Hold them, love them, assure them of your being there for them. Model for them what love is. And let God do the same for you. Spend time with Him. Let Him heal any missing spots in your soul - and then go and do the same for others.
Time is short, friends. Our world is coming apart because we have been too busy to take care of the most important blessing we have.....our relationships. Turn off the techy stuff - get outside if you must and FOCUS! Give peace to others and you will be blessed!
We all need "face time" with the significant people in our lives. Being in the same room with people does not equal face time - or affirmation of each other. It is like a wicked chain reaction is in place. People who were not loved and nurtured as children often turn in to adults who do the same. Addictions abound in our world, and I really believe they are often born (not always, of course), from some message received in childhood about their personal value. Many hurting adults are still in need of that love and affirmation that God intended they would receive in their childhood.
The good news? God is that perfect parent. Seek me and you will find me; call to me and I will answer; cast your cares on me....just to name a few of His calling out to us in love. I ask you to evaluate your practice of being fully present. Look your little ones in the face as you speak to them. Hold them, love them, assure them of your being there for them. Model for them what love is. And let God do the same for you. Spend time with Him. Let Him heal any missing spots in your soul - and then go and do the same for others.
Time is short, friends. Our world is coming apart because we have been too busy to take care of the most important blessing we have.....our relationships. Turn off the techy stuff - get outside if you must and FOCUS! Give peace to others and you will be blessed!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Anxious today?
"How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand in the path of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night.
He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers.
The wicked are not so, but they are like chaff which the wind drives away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish." Psalm 1
I used to have an anxiety issue that would rise up in me, making me "nervous" as mama used to call it when she felt that way. I do have an adhd streak or two - most of my friends would agree. I've even been diagnosed with essential tremor lately, and now I understand why I have always felt like I was "wired for sound" without any stimulating chemicals! I remember so well learning this Psalm and learning to speak it when I felt anxiety rising up within me. I highly recommend learning it by reading it aloud several times a day for a while. Personalize it by saying "I am like a tree...". It will soon run through your mind like your cell phone ringer does. (Or does your brain do that like mine does?) Nevermind.
It's really an amazing formula for peace. Promises, precious promises to those who will delight in the LORD and His word. It takes avoiding people who mock and scoff as a way of life - who think they are wiser than God Himself. Think of that. How could we possibly think we are wiser than God? Anytime we choose what we think is right above what He clearly says in His Word is right, that's exactly what we are doing. When we jump out of bed in the morning and run fast to fill our calendar's plans without bowing before Him to learn His plans for our day, we are telling God, the creator of this amazing universe, that we are wiser, stronger, more able than He to see ourselves through the day. When we fret and excuse our worrysome ways instead of being anxious for nothing as Philippians tells us, we are saying that we know more than God does! Crazy, isn't it?
As Easter approaches this Sunday and we think what these days of Passover were like for Jesus Christ, let us renew our commitment, (or make it if we have not), to honestly seek our way in Him and in His word, aligning ourselves with His heart about all matters. It will change our lives forever, and truly bring the success we long for in our lives....in absolutely every way. That is what all the crazy busyness in our lives is seeking, isn't it? The world's definition of success. "How blessed is the man.....
He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers.
The wicked are not so, but they are like chaff which the wind drives away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish." Psalm 1
I used to have an anxiety issue that would rise up in me, making me "nervous" as mama used to call it when she felt that way. I do have an adhd streak or two - most of my friends would agree. I've even been diagnosed with essential tremor lately, and now I understand why I have always felt like I was "wired for sound" without any stimulating chemicals! I remember so well learning this Psalm and learning to speak it when I felt anxiety rising up within me. I highly recommend learning it by reading it aloud several times a day for a while. Personalize it by saying "I am like a tree...". It will soon run through your mind like your cell phone ringer does. (Or does your brain do that like mine does?) Nevermind.
It's really an amazing formula for peace. Promises, precious promises to those who will delight in the LORD and His word. It takes avoiding people who mock and scoff as a way of life - who think they are wiser than God Himself. Think of that. How could we possibly think we are wiser than God? Anytime we choose what we think is right above what He clearly says in His Word is right, that's exactly what we are doing. When we jump out of bed in the morning and run fast to fill our calendar's plans without bowing before Him to learn His plans for our day, we are telling God, the creator of this amazing universe, that we are wiser, stronger, more able than He to see ourselves through the day. When we fret and excuse our worrysome ways instead of being anxious for nothing as Philippians tells us, we are saying that we know more than God does! Crazy, isn't it?
As Easter approaches this Sunday and we think what these days of Passover were like for Jesus Christ, let us renew our commitment, (or make it if we have not), to honestly seek our way in Him and in His word, aligning ourselves with His heart about all matters. It will change our lives forever, and truly bring the success we long for in our lives....in absolutely every way. That is what all the crazy busyness in our lives is seeking, isn't it? The world's definition of success. "How blessed is the man.....
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Did you win today?
Maybe its just me, but the reality and attack of satan are very real, usually on a daily basis. I wake up so aware of the Lord, calling to Him for strength, purpose and direction for the day. It almost always begins well. But then somewhere along the way, a struggle begins. I feel like a loser with the large L embedded in my forehead. It might be about my physical being, my financial blunders, lack of more education, a high powered career in the world, or simply a screaming voice of "I can't!" Ephesians 6:12 reads, "Our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places." Hmmmm No wonder it feels so strong, so real, so suffocating. Sometimes the noise is chattering in my head, and I don't even know I'm hearing it. (Okay, no need to call the little men in white coats to take me away.)
Did you know the Greek word for struggle is pale, a wrestling term that means to throw you to the ground and hold you there? What a perfect word Paul used to describe the battle. Talk about no peace! When the battle rages in your mind and heart there is definitly not much peace going on. This is one piece of peace I have to pick up regularly and put into the fabric of my life. TRUTH. It is how I won today and how I will win tomorrow! I'd like to recommend a Bible study for anyone out there reading this blog. It is called "LORD, Help Me Grow Spiritually Strong In 28 Days", and it is written by Kay Arthur and David Arthur and is published by Precept Ministries International. It is full of truth - about God and all He has done to bring us to Himself, and about our part in the journey. It only takes about 20 minutes a day! Go for it! Win your battle with truth. It's the only way to wrestle!
Did you know the Greek word for struggle is pale, a wrestling term that means to throw you to the ground and hold you there? What a perfect word Paul used to describe the battle. Talk about no peace! When the battle rages in your mind and heart there is definitly not much peace going on. This is one piece of peace I have to pick up regularly and put into the fabric of my life. TRUTH. It is how I won today and how I will win tomorrow! I'd like to recommend a Bible study for anyone out there reading this blog. It is called "LORD, Help Me Grow Spiritually Strong In 28 Days", and it is written by Kay Arthur and David Arthur and is published by Precept Ministries International. It is full of truth - about God and all He has done to bring us to Himself, and about our part in the journey. It only takes about 20 minutes a day! Go for it! Win your battle with truth. It's the only way to wrestle!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Drink your water!
We all know how important drinking water is to our health. Life cannot be sustained without water. Get away from it, and it is almost a task to begin consuming again what you need for good health. But once you start drinking it intentionally again, your thirst for more is amazing!
I see God's wisdom in telling us that His Spirit in the life of a believer in Jesus Christ would be like a fountain of living waters that would flow within and from us. His Word is called the living water. It feeds the fountain! It flows from us when it has been received by us. The more you have of it, the more you thirst for it. It is life saving and sustaining. I have found these truths in my own life. How about you?
With even greater urgency than your need for h2O, I urge you, DRINK YOUR WATER! His water will give a glow to your face, a calm in your soul, and a river to flow to others that washes and cleanses and births new life!
Flow, river, flow!
I see God's wisdom in telling us that His Spirit in the life of a believer in Jesus Christ would be like a fountain of living waters that would flow within and from us. His Word is called the living water. It feeds the fountain! It flows from us when it has been received by us. The more you have of it, the more you thirst for it. It is life saving and sustaining. I have found these truths in my own life. How about you?
With even greater urgency than your need for h2O, I urge you, DRINK YOUR WATER! His water will give a glow to your face, a calm in your soul, and a river to flow to others that washes and cleanses and births new life!
Flow, river, flow!
Monday, March 22, 2010
Wish Lists
I was talking to myself about a wish list last August. I had just come home from Dallas and promotions were in the air! What would I like to have? That was a question posed to me while at my convention. I thought of things that others have – fancy houses, fancy cars, lovely yards and such. I actually named a few to the Lord – it seemed like I should have a wish list.
A few hours later, I received a message to call someone. She asked me to come and speak at a women’s prayer breakfast at her church in a few weeks. The date was open, and it was a date I had kept opened for uncertain reasons – perhaps a trip to the beach for our anniversary, perhaps a friend’s wedding, perhaps some other opportunity that was going to come. I wasn’t sure – I just had been holding that date very carefully in my mind and in my date book. She apologized for the short notice. I assured it was no problem. She asked me what amount they would need to pay me. I said, “oh, there’s no charge”. She said “so just what we want to give you?” I said, “Sure, God has a plan working here!” I grinned at the thought of the ways He chooses to provide for me financially.
I hung up the phone and rejoiced over His kindness to me. This was on my heart’s wish list. Sharing God’s love and mercy in my life is what I live for each day. I long to encourage another person in their walk with Him. From deep inside myself I had a deep joy for His provision. I thought of the clear message from Him a couple of weeks before, after I had returned a newly purchased car to its dealer. Peace by piece. That was to be the name of the book, the ministry – no, the message to this small group of women who would hear from me in a few weeks at their first ever prayer breakfast.
He provided the message, the opportunity, the results in the hearts of those who heard. The best wish list for me is just to be about my Father's business. Family business is very important, you know!
A few hours later, I received a message to call someone. She asked me to come and speak at a women’s prayer breakfast at her church in a few weeks. The date was open, and it was a date I had kept opened for uncertain reasons – perhaps a trip to the beach for our anniversary, perhaps a friend’s wedding, perhaps some other opportunity that was going to come. I wasn’t sure – I just had been holding that date very carefully in my mind and in my date book. She apologized for the short notice. I assured it was no problem. She asked me what amount they would need to pay me. I said, “oh, there’s no charge”. She said “so just what we want to give you?” I said, “Sure, God has a plan working here!” I grinned at the thought of the ways He chooses to provide for me financially.
I hung up the phone and rejoiced over His kindness to me. This was on my heart’s wish list. Sharing God’s love and mercy in my life is what I live for each day. I long to encourage another person in their walk with Him. From deep inside myself I had a deep joy for His provision. I thought of the clear message from Him a couple of weeks before, after I had returned a newly purchased car to its dealer. Peace by piece. That was to be the name of the book, the ministry – no, the message to this small group of women who would hear from me in a few weeks at their first ever prayer breakfast.
He provided the message, the opportunity, the results in the hearts of those who heard. The best wish list for me is just to be about my Father's business. Family business is very important, you know!
Friday, March 19, 2010
Boundaries
Boundary lines. We hear a lot about boundaries these days. Really good books have been written about boundaries in marriage, parenting, friendship and the other relationships we humans share.
Far back in my memory is the scripture that says "the boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places. Surely, I have a delightful inheritance from the Lord." The Lord has been leading me to some conclusions about this verse in the last few months. The thoughts simply came to me. I know they are from Him.
I have a space and time in God’s plan. In popular culture, the term settling means one has given up on dreams for a better life in some area and have “settled”. It is rather a negative suggestion when someone says you have settled. You have quit trying, working, creating change in some way in your life. In choosing a mate or choosing to honor your marriage vows, some say one has settled if their life is not just what they had pictured it to be. So people keep working, keep striving, and many keep looking for a person that will make them happy. I’ve learned a new truth. And it is settling to my soul.
I’m not like my friend, Tim, who is an amazing salesman. He is a very successful businessman in his own right, and his lifestyle and business reflect that. Tim is being Tim. He is living in the boundary lines of his life plan, and he blesses many people in his journey. I am successful in my business in many ways. I have a much larger business than any effort I have put forth. I suspect Tim would say the same thing about his business efforts.
Some people are so gifted in decorating or creating or cooking or putting together a wardrobe. They can’t help themselves anymore than I can keep myself from talking to people about their heart needs. We don’t need to duplicate each other – we simply need to be who we have been created to be in our time and space.
I don’t have “wow” success in comparison to many. But I have way more than enough, and that provision by God frees me to live in my boundary lines, which are more about ministry to people than business building. I live in humble surroundings (that I love); I drive a ten year old car (that I delight in requiring no payment); my “exotic” vacation is a few days on the beach with my loved ones (that I love better than the fanciest of dream trips); and I’m not known for any great thing that singles me out above the rest. A simple life is mine.
So Tim gets to be Tim, and I get to be me. And you get to be you. Our lives are different yet the same. We can each be a redeemed sinner who delights in sharing that with others as God gives us opportunity. Some of us do that with words and others simply do that with their life!
With whom do you compare yourself – and come up lacking or elevated? Find your boundary lines. Observe where God is using you or pulling you. Go to those places without comparing yourself to others. Enjoy them. They are pleasant indeed – a delightful inheritance!
Far back in my memory is the scripture that says "the boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places. Surely, I have a delightful inheritance from the Lord." The Lord has been leading me to some conclusions about this verse in the last few months. The thoughts simply came to me. I know they are from Him.
I have a space and time in God’s plan. In popular culture, the term settling means one has given up on dreams for a better life in some area and have “settled”. It is rather a negative suggestion when someone says you have settled. You have quit trying, working, creating change in some way in your life. In choosing a mate or choosing to honor your marriage vows, some say one has settled if their life is not just what they had pictured it to be. So people keep working, keep striving, and many keep looking for a person that will make them happy. I’ve learned a new truth. And it is settling to my soul.
I’m not like my friend, Tim, who is an amazing salesman. He is a very successful businessman in his own right, and his lifestyle and business reflect that. Tim is being Tim. He is living in the boundary lines of his life plan, and he blesses many people in his journey. I am successful in my business in many ways. I have a much larger business than any effort I have put forth. I suspect Tim would say the same thing about his business efforts.
Some people are so gifted in decorating or creating or cooking or putting together a wardrobe. They can’t help themselves anymore than I can keep myself from talking to people about their heart needs. We don’t need to duplicate each other – we simply need to be who we have been created to be in our time and space.
I don’t have “wow” success in comparison to many. But I have way more than enough, and that provision by God frees me to live in my boundary lines, which are more about ministry to people than business building. I live in humble surroundings (that I love); I drive a ten year old car (that I delight in requiring no payment); my “exotic” vacation is a few days on the beach with my loved ones (that I love better than the fanciest of dream trips); and I’m not known for any great thing that singles me out above the rest. A simple life is mine.
So Tim gets to be Tim, and I get to be me. And you get to be you. Our lives are different yet the same. We can each be a redeemed sinner who delights in sharing that with others as God gives us opportunity. Some of us do that with words and others simply do that with their life!
With whom do you compare yourself – and come up lacking or elevated? Find your boundary lines. Observe where God is using you or pulling you. Go to those places without comparing yourself to others. Enjoy them. They are pleasant indeed – a delightful inheritance!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
There's a fungus among us!
I am so ashamed. I have a nasty toenail fungus, and I have two choices. I can either paint my toenails and pretend the fungus isn't there while it grows out of sight or I can leave the nail bare, treat it with an antifungal product and pray that it goes away! Toenail fungus! I've fought some white nail, thick nail and lifted nail issues for a few years, denying where this thing could take me. I took meds a few years ago but stopped when the insurance company denied the claim. I guess I could blame them for all of this, maybe even sue. But then, no amount of money or repayment will take away the fact that I have a toenail fungus and I have to decide to treat it instead of covering it up. I've decided to treat the problem!
What about you? What about life around us? What are we covering up, making it look really good while all the time something ugly is growing in the dark? Debt? Infedelity? Gossip? Anger? Jealousy? Self righteousness? A nation crumbling in its sin while we busy ourselves with idols? A church more focused on our needs than those of the lost world that Jesus died to save?
By the writing of the apostle Paul in I Corinthians 14, the Holy Spirit instructs us to have love as our highest goal. Then he says, "But you should also desire the special abilities the Spirit gives - especially the ability to prophesy." (NLT) He then talks about speaking in words that people can understand. Old Testament prophets were given so many living examples of a spiritual lesson God was speaking to His people. I believe the same is true with my toenail fungus. It has a living message for the people of God. And as His woman, I must choose to share this message, thus fulfilling Paul's calling that each of us have to prophecy - speak for God in the paths of your life.
A huge piece of God's peace comes from transparency before God about our sin, temptations and need for His cleansing grace. Are you "painting over" a growing problem in your heart or your walk in life? Let me encourage you to know it will only become worse with the cover up. Expose it to God - to someone you trust. And be amazed at the cleansing power of truth. The gospels are full of messages of Jesus' heart reaching out to those in sin and saying, "come".
"I know all the things you do, and that you have a reputation for being alive - but you are dead. Wake up! Strengthen what little remains, for even what is left is almost dead. I find that your actions do not meet the requirements of my God. Go back to what you heard and believed at first; hold to it firmly. Repent and turn to me again. If you don't wake up, I will come to you suddenly, as unexpected as a thief." Revelation 3:1-3
Time is short. Treat your fungus!
What about you? What about life around us? What are we covering up, making it look really good while all the time something ugly is growing in the dark? Debt? Infedelity? Gossip? Anger? Jealousy? Self righteousness? A nation crumbling in its sin while we busy ourselves with idols? A church more focused on our needs than those of the lost world that Jesus died to save?
By the writing of the apostle Paul in I Corinthians 14, the Holy Spirit instructs us to have love as our highest goal. Then he says, "But you should also desire the special abilities the Spirit gives - especially the ability to prophesy." (NLT) He then talks about speaking in words that people can understand. Old Testament prophets were given so many living examples of a spiritual lesson God was speaking to His people. I believe the same is true with my toenail fungus. It has a living message for the people of God. And as His woman, I must choose to share this message, thus fulfilling Paul's calling that each of us have to prophecy - speak for God in the paths of your life.
A huge piece of God's peace comes from transparency before God about our sin, temptations and need for His cleansing grace. Are you "painting over" a growing problem in your heart or your walk in life? Let me encourage you to know it will only become worse with the cover up. Expose it to God - to someone you trust. And be amazed at the cleansing power of truth. The gospels are full of messages of Jesus' heart reaching out to those in sin and saying, "come".
"I know all the things you do, and that you have a reputation for being alive - but you are dead. Wake up! Strengthen what little remains, for even what is left is almost dead. I find that your actions do not meet the requirements of my God. Go back to what you heard and believed at first; hold to it firmly. Repent and turn to me again. If you don't wake up, I will come to you suddenly, as unexpected as a thief." Revelation 3:1-3
Time is short. Treat your fungus!
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
The LORD has established His throne in the heavens, and His sovereignty rules over all. Psalm 103:19
Have you any concerns over our nation? The health care bill? The wars? The great distance America has moved from her roots? I was comforted this morning with the truth of Psalm 103:19. His throne is established in the heavens. His sovereignty rules over all. See the word "reign" in the middle of sovereignty? He reigns. Period. We can rest in peace that God is indeed in control. He takes credit in Isaiah 45:7 that "He is the one who forms light, creates darkness, causes well being and creates calamity; I am the LORD who does all these."
So what feels out of control for you today? Rest, it is in complete control of the ONE who made it all, knows all and sees all before you and me. Now that's some peace I can use a regular dose of in my heart and mind. How about you?
So what feels out of control for you today? Rest, it is in complete control of the ONE who made it all, knows all and sees all before you and me. Now that's some peace I can use a regular dose of in my heart and mind. How about you?
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
In need of peace...
I've met several individuals lately who are so in need of peace. Life has hit them hard in various ways, and they just don't know where to begin to find the peace they long for each day. One young woman came yesterday for a spa treatment. She is out of a job, can't pay her rent or car payment, and she suffers from mental illness of some sort. At 8, she was diagnosed and medicated for bipolar disorder only to find last week that she does not have bipolar disorder and has taken meds for 12 years for nothing. She is off those meds and on to others now that the "experts" have decided she suffers from another disorder. Her family calls her constantly - both out of concern for her not doing what she needs to do each day and for the fact that they are paying most of her bills. She said the word suicide last week and ended up in a psych unit for a few days. I assured her I was no doctor but that I knew Jesus healed many people who seemed to be suffering from mental illness. I told her how He has healed my varied disorders in life and how satan works to get people to kill themselves. He authors all lies and constantly seeks to lie to us about ourselves.
How much of our problems are simply born of our failure to apply truth to our lives and walk in responsible ways? A large dose of self control is needed in her life. She calls people any hour of the day and has accepted that she just does that. She sleeps thru the day and is amazed that she cant' sleep at night until the wee hours of the morning. Hello.....get up early and you'll be sleepy that night at bedtime. Just say no when you have an impulse to do something that takes no account into how it will affect others. How could such simple answers allude someone? Because there is so much noise coming from her mouth and the mouths of those around her that she doesn't have an ear to hear what is so obvious.
What about me? What about you? Do you ever dread a task that needs to be done and in your sane mind you know you are going to be the one to do it yet you don't take the needed action? I was recently feeling not so motivated to make salads for my husband's lunches that week. I just did not want to do anything. Yet at some level, it was pressing on me to do. I had bought the good ingredients and had everything I needed to make those lunches I wanted to make. I decided to just get up and do it. Within 20 minutes, I had 5 great salads made for the week and the mess cleaned up in the kitchen. And the "I don't want to go do that" feeling was gone. How simple was that? How simply could all of our non-peaceful thoughts be solved by simply taking action to do what we need to do?
Not so lofty thoughts, but life changing conclusions. The Spirit of God who lives in every believer in Jesus Christ waits to give us peace about even the smallest things in life. Are you listening to His guidance for you? He is called the Comforter for a reason. Listening to Him and following His lead brings comfort....and joy!
How much of our problems are simply born of our failure to apply truth to our lives and walk in responsible ways? A large dose of self control is needed in her life. She calls people any hour of the day and has accepted that she just does that. She sleeps thru the day and is amazed that she cant' sleep at night until the wee hours of the morning. Hello.....get up early and you'll be sleepy that night at bedtime. Just say no when you have an impulse to do something that takes no account into how it will affect others. How could such simple answers allude someone? Because there is so much noise coming from her mouth and the mouths of those around her that she doesn't have an ear to hear what is so obvious.
What about me? What about you? Do you ever dread a task that needs to be done and in your sane mind you know you are going to be the one to do it yet you don't take the needed action? I was recently feeling not so motivated to make salads for my husband's lunches that week. I just did not want to do anything. Yet at some level, it was pressing on me to do. I had bought the good ingredients and had everything I needed to make those lunches I wanted to make. I decided to just get up and do it. Within 20 minutes, I had 5 great salads made for the week and the mess cleaned up in the kitchen. And the "I don't want to go do that" feeling was gone. How simple was that? How simply could all of our non-peaceful thoughts be solved by simply taking action to do what we need to do?
Not so lofty thoughts, but life changing conclusions. The Spirit of God who lives in every believer in Jesus Christ waits to give us peace about even the smallest things in life. Are you listening to His guidance for you? He is called the Comforter for a reason. Listening to Him and following His lead brings comfort....and joy!
Sunday, February 28, 2010
The time is now....
Months ago, I was clearly led in my thoughts to write a book entitled Peace by Piece. Oh, so many times in my life I have experienced God's peace right in the middle of my personal chaos. He is Jehovah Shalom, the God of peace, and lasting peace comes from Him. My dear cousin suggested that I write it via blogging a bit here and there until viola! a book is written. How well she knows her adhd cousin and my challange with seeing the best intentions to fruition. Again, today I felt the strong leading to write; to ponder and share this blessing called peace in the daily stuff. And so I will begin to share what has come to me in my own pursuit of daily peace. Living in peace comes a piece at a time as I better understand myself, my God, and those around me. Most of the work required is within my own mind and my own actions. After all, that is all I have the power to change! So journey with me, and let's help each other really live in peace in the midst of earthquakes and disease and gunfire and just garden variety stress.
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