Thanksgiving

 Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.~Psalm 107:1

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. A day in this country where people pause to give thanks.  I propose that every day is a day that we should give thanks to the One who gives us so much.  May we position our hearts each day in gratitude to the One who is good.  To the God who saves.  

It is an awesome thing to know that we have a Savior who loves us with an eternal love.  It’s humbling to know that God looks beyond our faults and sees our needs, for that I say thank you.

God is good.  He is gracious and kind.  He is merciful and abundant in His love.  It’s His love that spurs praise.  It’s His love that gets us out the way so that we can focus on Him.

I thank You Lord for the breath in my body.  I thank You for eyes to see and limbs that move.  I thank You for a chance to fellowship with love ones.  I thank You for You sweet Jesus.

Regardless of circumstances and in and out of season I say thank You.  Keep me humble before You Lord and my heart overflowing with thanksgiving. Bless this nation and may we give You thanks for things both big and small.   In Jesus name Amen. 

Look up

I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.~Psalm 121:1-2

Look up.  When troubles seem to surround you, look up.  Look up to the Savior who surrounds you with loving care.  Look up to the God who will part your Res Sea.  Know that He exist and that He fights for you(Exodus 14:14).

I am on a high right now because I saw the Lord in action today.  He is always moving, but He allowed me to see His hand.  I know if He did it for me, He will do it for you because He loves us just that much.

Think about it.  God fights for our souls by sending His Son Jesus.  All we have to is believe in Him.  Jesus fought the battle and won.  Because of Him we are no longer condemned.  So when the day looks tough and problems feel like too much, look up to God.  Look up to Creator of heaven and earth.  He is your help.  He is your strength.

Lord,  thank You for always being there for us.  Thank You for being our help.  I personally thank You for the victory You gave me today and bless Your Holy name.  Be with my brothers and sisters.  Strengthen them and comfort them for Your touch is amazing. In Jesus name.  Amen

For the good

 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.~Romans 8:28

I’ve been called back into the classroom to teach.  I can respond with rebellion or expectation for what the Lord is going to do through me.  I choose expectation.  I choose to stand on the truth that God is with me and will be with me every time I step into the room.  He will be with me for every interaction with a young person.  

I choose to believe that He is preparing me for something and whatever that something is will be for my good and His purpose.  Change is not always easy.  I loved my job of supporting schools and building their capacity, but for now students need to be built up.  I choose to lean on God and trust His path. 

 I am not alone in this journey.  Others are taking the same path as me.  I pray that we all use it as an opportunity for growth and to be a light to the youth. I pray that we stay humble as we face different challenges.  I pray for a spirit of cooperation as we remain obedient to His call.

Lord, You know what we stand in need of and what is best.  Help us to trust You.  Help us to build relationships with the youth in our classrooms sharing your love.  Help us to be firm, but fair.  Protect us in the climate of Covid.  Help us to be your ambassador.  In Jesus name. Amen

Loving others

 

8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law. 

9 The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not covet,” and whatever other command there may be, are summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” 

10 Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.~ Romans 13:8-10

Love from God is a great privilege.  Having  the chance to share His love with others is an honor.  Today God gave me a gift of opportunity.  The opportunity to show kindness to a stranger.  It felt good.  It felt good to do even a small thing for someone else.  I'm only sharing this fact because I am grateful for God to have had the chance.  I miss so many opportunities, so when I get another chance I have to give Him praise.  For it is HIs hand that I ultimately seeing move through me.

God tells us to love your neighbor as yourself (Romans 13:9). Our neighbors are our fellow mankind.  The lady or gentleman in the grocery store.  Our physical neighbors and our brothers and sisters in Christ.  Our neighbors include those who don't look or think like us.  That means loving even when its might be hard.  Treating others as you want to be treated.  A smile to encourage. An hello to let them know that they are seen and valued.  It doesn't take a lot.  Sharing a meal. Caring for the less fortunate and praying with someone who is having a challenging time.  It's giving of self.  Loving God through them. 

Want to keep the law?  Want to please God? Love.  Be indebted to love others.  It will change your life.

Father, thank You for the chance to share your love with someone else today. May my small act of kindness make an impact for Your Kingdom.  May I see people as You see them and may I love.  Help us all love each other well, for You love us well.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Putting on the Armor of God

 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.  Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.  ~Ephesians 6:10-11

One day I bemoaning having to put on my mask to go into a store, but I reminded myself that "masking" up is a way of protecting myself.  It's one small simple thing that I can do to add a layer of protection for myself and others.  I put on my mask everywhere.  Then it hit me, I need to be "masking" up spiritually by daily putting on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:11).  I need to be strong in the Lord and protected from the schemes of the enemy.  I need to be just as conscientious and intentional about being protected spiritually.

I need to  have the belt of truth securely around my waist(Ephesians 6:14).  Truth holds things together.  Truth allows me to have light and walk securely in the mist of darkness.  I also need the breastplate of righteousness (Ephesians 6:14) to guard my heart.  Keeping my heart pure and centered on Christ.  

I need to have my feet "fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace." (Ephesians 6:15)  I can be ready to move when God says move and advance against the enemy when I have the gospel of peace.  The gospel that declares that man can be saved if they just believe in Jesus.  Believe that He shed His blood for us that we might be forgiven of our sins and reconciled to the Father.  Believing in the redemptive power of our Lord.  This brings peace between God and man and between mankind (uniting humanity).

I need to take up the shield of faith (Ephesians 6:16) that extinguishes the flaming arrows that the devil throws at us.  We are not defenseless.  We can put out arrows of shame and condemnation. Arrows that would have us forget who we are in Christ Jesus.  Arrows that would try to distract us from the promises of God.

I need to make sure I cover my head with the helmet of salvation, protecting my mind.  Guarding my thoughts.  I also need the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:17) The Word will let me combat the lies of the enemy. And finally I need to pray, always. Pray for myself and for others (Ephesians 6:18). 

God has given me all that I need to be protected from the enemy.  I need to "mask up" on all occasions and put on the full armor of God.

Father, I thank You for giving us all that we need to be protected spiritually.  Thank You for Your strength and Your armor.  Help us to be intentional about wearing it so that we can stand firm when the enemy attacks.  Thank You for love, wisdom, grace, and mercy.  In Jesus name. Amen

Following God

 Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children. Ephesians 5:1

The Fair is in town.  Its annual tradition for my co-workers and I to walk over during lunch and fellowship.  Well today I noticed something as one of my colleagues took the lead in the trek.  I noticed that I followed his steps and movement.  My head was down, but my eyes were on his feet.  He stepped and then I followed suit.  Once we got to the fair, I looked up and kept my eyes trained on him.  I didn't want to loose him in the crowd as he walked ahead.

My awareness today got me to thinking about Jesus and how need to follow Him just that intently.  I need to be purposefully moving when He moves and putting my feet where He orders my steps.  I need to have my eyes on Him and  not loose sight of Him in the day to routines of this life.  I need to follow Him with confidence, knowing that He will lead me safely to my destination.  My trust needs to be in Him.

Lord, let me follow your example.  Your example of extending grace and forgiveness and showing mercy and kindness.  Let me follow your example of how to love my fellow man.  Help me to keep my eyes focused on You, trusting You to direct my path.  May others be drawn to You as I follow You.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Revival

 Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?~Psalm 85:6

Revival.  The dictionary defines revival as an improvement in the condition or strengthening of something.  The KJV dictionary defines revival as the return or recall  to activity from a state of languor; as the revival of spirits. It goes on to describe revival as a renewed and more active attention to religion; an awakening of men to their spiritual concerns.

I need a revival.  A fresh anointing of His Spirit.  Sometimes I feel stuck in a rut, like I can't move forward.  I pray and I read God's word.  I am intent on obeying Him, but I am missing the joy.  And the joy of the Lord is where my strength comes from.  So I need God to revive me.  To quicken my spirit so that I operate in joy and power.

I want to do more than go trough the motions.  I want to be transformed by the power of His Spirit.  I want HIs fire to be shut up in my bones.  It may require a refining, a purge, but I know I need Jesus.  Can't do it in my strength so I ask the Lord will He not revive me again that I may rejoice in You?

This nation needs a revival.  There should be unity in the universal church.  We should be standing on one accord for the things of God.  So let it begin in me.

Father, I love You and am devoted to You.  I want live life reflecting Your love and sacrifice for me. I want others to see You in me.  I want them to know just how good and great You are.  I want more than routines and religion.  I want You.  So revive me Lord.  Revive my heart.  Let me rejoice in You. Revive Your people and may we walk as one.  In Jesus name I pray.  Amen

Trusting God

 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” ~Psalm 91:1-2

Changes are happening and uncertainty looms on the horizon.  It makes me uncomfortable, but the one thing I remind myself of is that God is certain.  His promises to never leave me nor forsake me (Hebrews 13:5).  He tells me in Deuteronomy 31:6 to be strong and of good courage.  I don't have to be afraid because He goes with me.  

So whatever may be coming, I can face it because God goes before me. He is working everything out for my good according to His purpose (Romans 8:28).  His purpose might be for me to exercise my mustard seed of faith and to learn to trust completely in Him.  It might be for me to get some more practice in walking by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7).  To learn how to let go and let God.

Let Him be in control because He is the one that sits on the throne(Psalm 47:8).  To have faith and not be moved by circumstances.  To not be anxious, but rather by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving present my request to Him and let the peace of God which surpasses all understanding guard my heart and my mind in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7).

All I have to do is dwell in the shelter of the Most High, dwell in His presence and soak up His love for me.  Then  rest in His shadow for He is my refuge and my fortress.  He is my God in whom I trust. 

Farther thank You for being my refuge and my hiding place.  Thank You for sheltering me  from storms.  Thank You for holding today and tomorrow in Your capable hands.  When changes come help me to rest in the assurance of You.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Praises going up!

 I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. ~  Psalm 9:1

Today I got a flat tire.  I was just driving along to my destination when the tire pressure light came on.  I watched in panic as the pressure of the tire quickly dropped.  Thankfully the Lord had placed me in a position where I was not far from getting help.  I parked the car with tire almost completely flat.  It could not be repaired I needed a whole new tire.

My plans were derailed or delayed, but as I sit here and wait I have to thank God for His goodness.   This could have happened on the highway where I would have been far from help. I could be in a position where a new tire was not possible.  There are a lot of could haves, but God had me in the right spot.  He alerted my mind where to go and allowed me to get there. He gave me safety.  He deserves praise.  He deserves for His goodness to be declared.

So often we tell of all the bad things that happen, but don’t share the faithfulness of God.  So as the Word says, I will give thanks to the Lord with all of my heart.  I will tell of His good deeds. 

Lord, You watch over me daily and bless me.  You do wonderful things for me daily.  You are my provider.  You are a mighty God, my God.  I love You and thank You.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Rest for our souls

 Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. ~ Psalm 62:5

This week my "happy got bumped'.  I was left feeling wounded and scarred.  My soul was not at rest.  I felt like I was in a tidal wave of emotions that would not spinning.  But God!  I cried out to Him over and over again. I was reaching for my mustard seed of faith.  I found it when I placed  my hope in Him.  Hope for emotional healing. Hope to move forward. Hope to not get stuck in the quicksand of anger and self-pity. 

 As surely as I cried out to Him, He heard me and I finally found rest.  Rest in Him.  The events that rocked me were still present, but they were no longer robbing me of my joy,  The prayers of my sisters in Christ uplifted me and God sustained me.  So I give Him praise for He is a good God.  We can rest in the bosom of His love and find comfort during trying times.  He is God, my shelter, my Rock, and my hope.

My "happy" may have gotten bumped, but my God did not move from His position,  He is still on the throne.  Still working things out for my good according to His purpose.  He used the "bump" to work on me and my faith and my willingness to forgive even when others are not seeking to be forgiven. As a planet we are going through rough terrain, but we can trust God to see us through.  We can trust God with any problem and find rest for our souls  We can know that He is our hope and our promise of better days. 

Jesus, thank You for always showing up and being my side.  Thank You for wiping every tear and being that source of peace and rest.  Thank You for hope,  Thank You for You. In Jesus name.  Amen 

Faith to Move Mountains

  He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” ~ Matthew 17:20

My pastor recently had us examine a mountain and speak out loud to it.  And then he gave us a mustard seed.  It was a powerful sermon for me and really put things in perspective.  I can have giant mountains in front of me, but they can move and I can face them if I just have a little faith.

My faith is not in myself, but in the One who actually does the work- God.  He may move the mountain all together because He has the power to that, if I believe.  Or he may want e to face the mountain just so that I learn to trust Him as I climb.  Having faith in Him assures me that He will give me the strength to get to the top of it and stand in victory.

I carry the seed with me and when problems arise on my job or in my personal life I can think about the faith I need and move forward in God.  I don't have to stay stuck.  I have grace and mercy with me.  All I need is a little faith and I speak to the mountains.  I speak to what's blocking me from access to my Savior and my refuge.  I move those out the way and find peace in His arms.

Lord, thank You for letting us know we only need a little faith to face the challenges of this life.  Thank You for giving us this faith.  Help us to nurture it so that it can grow. Let us be a source of encouragement to others.  We love You Lord.  In Jesus name.  Amen

He's working it out!

 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.~ Romans 8:28

God is a big God, the only God, and He is bigger than any problem or situation that we may be facing.  I love knowing that God is in control and that He is working all things out for my good.  Even when it does not look like it the truth prevails that He is.  He is concerned about what concerns us.  He knows what we have need of before we even ask (Matthew 6:8).  

Things are tough on my job right now.  I want to make an impact, but Covid-19 restrictions and time restraints are acting as barriers.  It is easy to get frustrated, but I have to remember to trust in God,  Trust that He is opening doors that I can't yet see or closing those that I do not need to go through.  He is working it out.  He is teaching me patience and reliance on Him.  My inner man is being strengthened.  Again He is working it out.

Maybe you are dealing with things on your job or in your home.  Just know that God has you and He is making a way out of no way,  He is making it better.  It will be for our good and His purpose. We just have to trust and believe.

Father, thank you for having my back, front, and sides,  Thank You for hemming me in.  Thank You for being in control and working all things out for my good.  Thank You for being God and good.  I love You.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Faith

 Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.~Hebrews 11:1

Recently, I took a road trip that had me travel over some pretty high bridges as well as tunnels.  It hit me that we place a lot of trust in things made by human hands.  We trust to get to the other side safely.  Well as I went up the bridges I prayed and asked God for safety because He is ultimately the One that sees me through.

I couldn’t see the end of the tunnel, I had to trust that the light would soon be revealed at the other end.  I couldn’t panic and stop my car thinking about all the things that could happen I had to trust God and keep going.  

In life we will have bridges we will have to cross and tunnels where we can’t yet see the light, but we can have faith and believe that God is with us.  We can trust that He is working it out for our good (Romans 8:28) and that we will get to to other side even when we can’t see it.

Everyday we live by faith.  We trust God to get us from A to B.  To help us conquer our days.  Everyday He answers and shows up.

Lord, thank You for faith and thank You for You.  Help us to continue to walk by faith for we know that without it is impossible to please You ( Hebrews 11;6) We love You Lord and bless Your Holy Name.  In Jesus name.  Amen 

Battling fear

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you~Psalm 56:3

This week I battled with fear.  A major repair was being done to my home and I was so worried that something was going to go wrong.  I knew I couldn’t put my trust in man so I had to continually put my trust in God.  I asked Him to send competent workers.  I asked Him to help me not to fret, but to trust in His word.

I repeated His word that all things work for the good for those who love the Lord, who have been called according to His purpose(Romans 8:28).  I repeated Psalm 56:3 and asked the Lord to help me not be afraid. In order for the repair to be made some of the bad wood had to be removed and replaced.  Seeing this process made me wonder if it could be done and would it be done.  I had to go back to trusting in God and not what I was seeing.

The repair took longer than expected , but God got it done.  He was patient with me in my fears and had compassion on me.  He didn’t leave my side, but answered all of my prayers.  

Lord, thank You.  Thank You for your compassion and grace.  Thank You for letting me come to You with my concerns and fears Thank You for being a God, the only wise God, that I can trust.  In Jesus name.Amen

Praise Break

 Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours , Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted head over all.~1 Chronicles 29:11

Sometimes I think I get so comfortable with God that I don't take time to really consider all that He is,  He is my comfort and my keeper,  He is my friend, but He is also Hoy and full of power and awesomeness.  So I think it's important to take a praise break and to praise Him for being the only wise God who sits on the throne.  

It all belongs to God.  He is Sovereign and majestic, possessing all power.  He is majestic in all of His splendor,  God is great!  Everything in heaven and earth belongs to God.  He is exalted and is head over all.  He is head over my life.  He has everything under control.

The beauty of God is that He encompasses all.  I can trust in Him because there is nothing good that He is not,  He is all good.  All mighty.  Altogether perfect and worthy of all the praise.  So thank You Lord for being Who You are. Thank You for the opportunity to see You in all your glory.

Father You are all together good and I love You.  Thank You for the opportunity to praise Your Name,  I lift You up knowing that You will draw all men unto Yourself.  Be glorified.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Running the race

 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us,  fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  ~Hebrews 12:1-2

I have found the race to not be a sprint, but a marathon.  It requires a steady pace and rhythm.  It requires commitment  and focus on the One who gives us the breath to run it in the first place.  Today I have struggled, but I am determined not to give up.  I am determined to put one foot in front of the other and mediate on God's grace.  I want to win the prize and with His help I will.  

His Word tells me that I am surrounded by a cloud of witnesses.  I am surrounded by others who have similar struggles, but have overcome by faith.  I have to throw off the sin that would seek to tie my shoe laces together and trip me up.  I have to throw the weight of sin off of my back so that I can run with abandonment to Jesus, my ever present help.

I have to persevere and run the race He has marked out for me.  He brought me to and He will bring me though it.  I have to believe in HIs promises and believe that He is able and willing to do what He said,  He is bigger than any situation, circumstance, or problem.  He is the fuel in my body that propels it forward.  I can't look back.  I have to fix my eye on Jesus the author and perfecter of my faith.  It's not me.  Its bigger than me,  God will keep His word.

So I inhale His love and exhale His grace and take step after step.  Not looking to my left nor right, but straight ahead to Him.  Knowing that He is cheering me on, giving me the victory.  So I encourage myself in Christ and keep moving, staying in the race.  I look to my brothers and sisters and Christ as we run this race together, knowing I am  not alone.  I gain inspiration and courage from others who are ahead of me and I reach back to help those who are behind me for it says in His Word , "let us" ( Hebrews 12:1)

Lord, I thank You for grace, mercy, and love.  Sometimes I want to treat this life like a sprint and I wear myself out, but it is You that refreshes me and tells me to get up when I fall.  It is You who tells me not to give up, but to keep running.  It is You that sets my pace and orders my steps.  It is You that lavishes me in your forgiveness and encourages me to keep my eyes on You an run the race with faith.  It is You that I run toward.  Thank You for being such a good Father and God.  I love You Lord.   I pray for my brothers and sisters who run the race with me.  May we run till the end. In Jesus name

A wake up call

Then the Lord said to Moses, “Leave this place, you and the people you brought up out of Egypt, and go up to the land I promised on oath to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, saying, ‘I will give it to your descendants.’ 2 I will send an angel before you and drive out the Canaanites, Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites. 3 Go up to the land flowing with milk and honey. But I will not go with you, because you are a stiff-necked people and I might destroy you on the way.”  ~Exodus 33:1-3

When I read these verses this morning I was sad and being transparent fearful.  The last thing I would want is for God to remove His presence from me.  The people also mourned this news and immediately repented.  But there are nuggets of God's goodness and faithfulness even in the distressing news.  

First nugget, God keeps His oaths.  He promised Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that their descendants would have the promised land. God had been with the people day and night.  He wanted to dwell with them and for them to dwell with Him.  He wanted relationship, yet as He noted they were stiff necked, stubborn.  Yet, God keeps His promise.  He is going to provide them with an angel to go before them to drive out the people so that they could possess the land.  The people had been faithless, but God remained faithful. By no means am I saying that we should be stubborn and rebellious and expect God to bless us, but the fact remains that we do not get what we deserve.  God is gracious. His faithful character should cause us to examine ourselves and make a change where needed.  

Secondly, God is merciful.  He says He will  not go with them because he might destroy them.  I think this shows God's love.  He knew the people and He wanted them spared because He is a just God and will hold sin accountable. Yet, the removal of His presence should be a wake up call.  Nothing can substitute God, not an angel nor man.  His presence is how we move and have our being.  It is His breathe in our lungs.

Today's passage of versus makes me grateful for His promise that He will never leave nor forsake me (Deuteronomy 13:6 ; Hebrews 13:5).   I am grateful that He knows me.  He perceives my thoughts from afar and is familiar with all of my ways.  He knows what I am going to say before I even speak it.  He hems me in and lays his hand upon me.  Where can I go from His Spirit, where can I flee from His presence? (Psalm139:1-7) 

He knows me and loves me anyway.  He sent His Son to die for me.  His Son Jesus lives and  now I can live too. He lives in me.  His presence is with me.  Its up to me to abide in Him and gain strength from what He offers freely and daily.  Its up to me to not be stiff necked and to yield to His Spirit.  Its up to me to cultivate my  relationship with Him because He has given me the access to do so.  His arms are open and so are mine.

Lord, I thank You for Your word that causes me to examine myself.  I thank You for your truth and faithfulness even when I am not faithful.  I thank You for your compassion and grace and consuming love.  I thank You for being God.

He Keeps Me

 The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. ~Psalm 121:7-8

God kept me.  When I look back over my life I see all the ways that He kept me and is keeping me.  What a blessing to know that God is looking out for me and over me.  He is watching me as I come and go.  God is good and He is a loving Father. 

 He does nothing half way.  He keeps you from all harm.  No matter the circumstance, we can trust that God is in the midst of it working it out for our good according to His purpose ( Romans 8;28)  We know that His plans for us are not to harm us, but to prosper us and give us hope and a future ( Jeremiah 29;11). So the weapons the enemy throws at us will not prosper (Isaiah 54:17).

You may be thinking I have heard this all before, but I challenge you and myself to take a moment to reflect on the many ways that God has protected you and guided you.  Just getting to and from a destination safely or walking away from a car accident unharmed.  Food and other provisions being provided daily.  Good health and access to medical care. Comfort when one is stressed or feeling overwhelmed. New mercies each and every day (Lamentation 3:22-23).

Throughout this pandemic, wearing masks and gloves and constantly sanitizing God has kept us.  We have His breath in our lungs. As one song says, it could have gone another way. That's more than enough reason to praise Him and thank Him for all He does, for keeping us.

Father I thank You for keeping me through it all. I don't deserve it, but You keep me anyway.   Thank You for watching over me and loving me.  Thank You for being my defender.  Thank You for being my peace. Thank You for your grace.  Thank You for love.  Thank You for keeping my family. Thank You for being God.  In Jesus name.  Amen

"Ouch" moments

 Jesus replied: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'~ Matthew 22:37

Have you ever experienced an "ouch" moment with God?  You know when you think every thing is on track and then you hit a bump that causes you to examine yourself.  They are not the best moments to have the, but definitely needed ones.  

This morning I experienced an "ouch" moment with God.  One that caused me to wail on the inside.  I was listening to praise and worship music and the song was talking about desiring Jesus more than silver than gold.  Rather than just sing along with the song, I had to ask myself is this true.  Do I desire Jesus more than silver and gold?  My first thought was surely my answer is yes, but I started thinking about my life in this season.  I am blessed.  God has been seeing me and my family through this pandemic.  I have a good job.  Family is doing well.  I have become comfortable.  These blessings have become my silver and gold.  Do I really want to give that up?

Ashamedly, I had to admit that I have let my comforts come before Jesus.  My blessings have become idols.  So I confessed and am full of gratitude that I serve a God who sees me, knows me and loves me anyway.  I serve a God whom I only need ask for forgiveness and I can receive it ( 1 John 1:9).

It is imperative that I (we) desire Jesus rather than the things He gives us and does for us.  Those things are just icing on the cake,  Jesus is the substance.  Jesus is what it is all about and I ( we) must love Him with everything I (we) have.  I must desire Jesus more than life itself because He is the only way that I have my being (Acts 17:28).

Life will not always be this rosy.  Storms will come as they have been here before and Jesus was the one who saw me through and will see me through.  He is my anchor, not the stuff.  I would hate to go through life without Him being the priority.  For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? _Mark 8:36 (KJV)

Now you know Satan tried to step in have me remain in the "ouch' rather than move forward to repentance and healing, but God would have none of that.  I love the Lord and there is nothing or no one I rather have than Him because He is my everything.  If I didn't have Jesus  I would not be redeemed.  If I did not have Jesus I would have no hope.  It is He who causes me to walk in the light so that I can see the shadows that lurk in my heart and deal with them 1 John 1:7).  So I thank Him for the "ouch" moments.  I thank Him for helping me to guard my heart (Proverbs 4:23)

Lord, you revealed an area of my life where I was lacking and You filled it.  Thank You.  Thank You for being God and thank You for your Son Jesus.  Help us to come to you with the good, bad, and ugly knowing that we can find mercy in our time of need (Hebrews 4:16).  Thank you for your grace.  Forgive me of my sins and help me to turn away from them.  In Jesus name.  Amen

PS.  As I ponder over this post, Job came to mind. and how the enemy was saying that Job was just good with God because He had so much ( paraphrase).  I want to respond like Job and worship the Giver and not the gifts.  Thank You Jesus.

Rest in His Shadow

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 

2 I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”  Psalm 91:1-2

 God is good and perfect in all His ways.  He is my provider, my shelter and my comfort.  His word tells me that I can dwell in His shelter, His love, and find rest in His shadow.  He is where I can go to find solace when my world seems so full of distress.  It is He who will guard me from the enemy and protect me for He is my fortress.  He is my God.  He is the One I trust.

God never fails me.  He never leaves my side.  He is faithful and trustworthy and true.  He is God and He loves me, He is with me in every struggle and gives me the strength to overcome,  He quiets my soul. He gives me a peace that is matchless and surpasses all understanding.  He is my portion and my Rock,  He is my Redeemer, my everything.

Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. ( Psalm 34:8)  I am blessed because of God  and because He is my refuge.   Try Him and see for yourself.

Father, I love You.  Thank you for Your Spirit that allows me to continue taking steps forward.  It is You who allows me to overcome obstacles.  It is You who gives me grace upon grace.  You, Lord, are my lifeline and I thank You. I thank You that I rest in You. I can breathe and draw in Your strength.  Watch over my family and be a hedge of protection around them.  Let us all draw closer to You and worship You for Who You are.  Forgive us when seek to find shelter in temporary things rather than looking to You our eternal Father.  Forgive us of our sins and let us be quick to go to You in confession with a repentant heart.  Draw us close Lord and be our guide.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Longing for God- with open arms

 As the deer pants for streams of water,  so my soul pants for you, my God. ~Psalms 42:1

My soul longed for an experience with God.  To experience His Spirit flowing through me and in me.  I ached for Him and longed to worship Him.  My gracious Father did not leave me panting.  He allowed me to feel His presence and worship Him in all His glory 

 As I drove to work this morning,  song after song spoke the words of my heart as tears streamed down my face.  Tears of joy and gratitude because God heard my cry for Him,  Not for what He could do for me, but just Him.  His word tells us that we will find Him when we seek Him with our whole heart (Jeremiah 29:13) and His word never fails ( Isaiah 55:11).

Father thank You for hearing the cry of my heart and focusing my day on You and your goodness,  Thank You for your joy and peace.  Thank You for Your Spirit.  You are my sanctuary and I love you.  Bless the people of this earth and may we turn away from sin and look to You for You are our healer.  May we humble ourselves so that our land might be healed as we live in communion with You.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Our Good, Good Father

 “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?  If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! ~Matthew 7:9-11

Like any mother, I want the best for my children.  If their is a problem, I want to jump in and fix it or find solutions.  Every day I pray for God to guard their hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.  I want them to have good days and a good life.  An issue arose with my eldest son yesterday and "supermom" wanted to fix it. It was nothing major, but I wanted to make it better for him.  He is a adult, but being a mother never stops. I immediately started praying about the problem.  I went to the Supreme God, my Father.

This got me thinking about how good God is.  The problem at the time had not been resolved, but I thought about how much energy I was putting into trying to make things better for my son and then I thought about all the things that God does daily to make life better for me, His child (1 John 3:1).  The thought brings tears to my eyes because He has already done so much.  He gave His Son for me so that I can have life (John 3:16) and have it more abundantly (John 10:10).

I serve a good, good Father.  He is matchless.  There is none like Him.  He sees every need and He responds.  He gives good gifts and all we have to do is ask ( Matthew 7:11).  I am grateful to report that my son's issue has been resolved.  God answers prayer.  It was just another example of how God the Father is always behind the scenes putting things into place.  Life is not always easy and circumstances are not always smooth, but God is always good.  I have to stand on that truth so that the enemy can't creep in an attempt to rob me of my joy.  I have a good, good Father and I loved by Him.

Good Good Father-Chris Tomlin

Lord, thank You for your love and being a God who cares for Your children.  You are a good, good Father and I praise your Holy name,  Bless your children and help us to look to You. In Jesus name.  Amen

Trust God

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.~Proverbs 3:5-6

Today I was reading about God’s instructions to Moses in Exodus 3:16-22.  God told Moses everything to do.  He told him what to say. He also told Him what the response would be from the elders of Israel and Pharaoh. He told Moses that He would perform wonders and then Pharaoh would let them go.  And when they went they would leave with favor from the Egyptian people. God had laid everything out for Moses.  All Moses had to do was to trust and obey.

God lays things out for us too.  He tells us in His word to trust Him with all our heart and to lean not to our own understanding(Proverbs 3:5). We must trust Him to do what He says He is going to do.  We must believe that His way is best.  His thoughts are far better.  

We must also acknowledge Him in all our ways (Proverbs 3:6) In the NIV translation it says submit.  We must yield our will to His and acknowledge that He is Lord in every area of our lives. When we do that He will direct our path.  He will make our path straight.  He will lay it all out.  We won’t have to worry about the obstacles because God’s got that.  We won’t have to worry about favor because God’s got that too.  We just have to trust and believe and walk in the instructions that gives us remembering it’s for His purpose and glory.  He will accomplish His Word(Isaiah 55:11).

Father, there is peace in trusting You.  Guide out steps and order our thoughts.  Help us to follow the instructions that you have given for our lives daily.  Let us walk in agreement with You.  We love You and honor You for goodness and grace.  There is none like You.  Thank You for being God and a good Father.  In Jesus name. Amen

After Easter

For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. 15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.~2 Corinthians 5:14-15

What is often referred to as Holy Week has ended, but living a life holy unto God has not.  This morning I found myself asking the question “What comes after Easter?  What comes after Resurrection Sunday?”  Life comes!  He lives so now I can live and I live this life for Him.  His love for me demonstrated on the Cross and my love for Him compels me to do so.

It’s the daily living by faith that matters( 2 Corinthians 5:7).  Walking it out.  God has given us everything that we need for a godly life (2 Peter 1:3).  We just have to receive and walk in it.  After Easter also comes the work of sharing the gospel, the good news, of Jesus Christ with others.   The world needs to know what God has done for us.  He has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 5:18-19)  We don’t have to be at odds or separated from His love.  We are forgiven.  We are loved.  We just need to accept His gift.

Easter is not just one day out of the year.  It’s every day.  Our Savior, my Savior lives!

Lord,  thank You for what comes next.  Thank You for life.  Thank You for you banner of love.  Thank You for reconciliation.  Thank You for peace.  May I ( we) live each day with the full knowledge of You and your love for us and may we share it with others.  In Jesus name.  Amen

God's gift

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  ~John 3:16

Tomorrow is Good Friday.  The day that Jesus laid it all on the line for me and the world.  He shed His blood and gave His life that I might be saved; that I might live in the freedom of His love.  I was looking for scriptures that I could share with others to mark this day, but they all seemed so cumbersome.  This is the one God laid on my heart.  For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whosever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life. (John 3:16) 

God loves us.  As messed up as we are God loved us enough to sacrifice His one and only son that we might live and not die,  Jesus took on our sins ( 1 John 2:2) so that we might be reconciled to God (Romans 5:10).  He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. ( 1 John 2:2)

He gave His Son so we can live.  As I think of Good Friday and what it meant for Jesus it sobers me.  Jesus suffered for me and the world.  He died an agonizing death.  He was mocked and beaten.  He hung on a cross.  Yet, even then He asked God to forgive us (Luke 23:34)  That's love.

 Easter is not about Spring Break or Easter Eggs or bunnies. It not about sleeping in late, but it is about restoration.  The restoration I receive because of the gift God gave to me, to all of us.  Christ had to die in order for me to live, but the truth doesn't end there.  I live because He didn't stay in that tomb.  He got up on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:4)  with all power in His hand (Mathew 28:18). I live because my Savior lives. I have a home in heaven because of the love God and His precious gift.  The world does not have to perish, we can choose life by believing in Jesus and accepting His love.

Father, thank You for loving us.  Thank You for looking past our faults and seeing our need.  Our need for You.  Thank You for sacrificing your Son so that we might live.  May we think on the real meaning of this season and give You praise.  In Jesus name.  Amen

My Sustainer

 Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. ~ Isaiah 46:4

What a beautiful blessing and promise of God.  He promises to be with us even to our old age. He is the One who will sustain us and rescue us.  This reminds me to keep my focus on Him and not the troubles of this world.  It settles me into a mindset of gratitude as I think about the goodness of God and all that He has done for me.  

 I am never alone and never without hope because of Christ.  He carries me when I am too weak.  It is He who gets me over the hump and allows me to see the end of a another work week.  It is He who allows me parent and make the tough calls. It is He who rescues me from debt and allows me to be the lender instead of the borrower.  It is He who rescues me from sin and strongholds.  He breaks the chains that would seek to hold me down.  

He is the great I AM ( Exodus 3:13-14).  He is omnipotent and omnipresent.  He is Alpha and Omega.   He is my portion and I am grateful.

Father,  thank You for your promises and love.  Thank you for keeping me.  Thank you for rescuing me from the darkness and bringing me into Your marvelous light.  Forgive me for those times when I think I can do it on my own.  Help me to always look to You, the source of my strength.  Bless my community and the sick among us.  In Jesus name.  Amen

He has overcome so that I can rest in peace

 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,~1 Peter 3:15

God is good and He is good to me.  I do not want this day to go by without thanking Him for His many blessings.  I thank Him for the victories.  I thank Him for already overcoming. "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." John 16:33

Today I learned that my son's school district is preparing to move into Phase 3.  This would cause my son to be in the building 5 days a week.  He has not done this since March of last year.  Immediately all the logistic that come with him being in school popped into my head and I sprang into action trying figure it all out.  There are some concerns that I have.  Growing pains to address as I have to let go more and more, but God brought me back John 16:33.   This world will have trouble.  There will be growing pains and some possible suffering, but I don't have to worry about it because I have peace in Christ Jesus. 

Jesus is not surprised by the events that occur in my life or anyone else's. He knows my troubles and fears, but He has already addressed them.  I just have to trust in Him and know that He is good and His plans for me and my son are good.  

Today's blog was intended to be a testimony and response to the reason for my hope and it still is because my hope is Christ.  Its not just when He saved me.  It's the day to day work that He does in in my life.  The peace that only He can bring.  

Father, thank You for using my everyday life events to be a reminder of  Your sovereignty, goodness, and love.  Thank You for your peace and assurance.  Thank You for the victory.  In Jesus name.  Amen

The Freedom of Grace

 Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, 2 because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you[a] free from the law of sin and death. ~Romans 8:1-2

I think about all of my faults and short comings and then read Romans 8:1 and realize how blessed I am. What amazing gift God has granted me and my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.  We have been set free from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:2) .  We are no longer condemned (Romans 8:1), but rather redeemed.  

In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace. ~Ephesians 1:7  

Just knowing that my sins are forgiven lifts a huge weight off of my shoulders.  I don't have to earn God's love because it has been freely given.   For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. ~Ephesians 2:8-9.

I love God and want to please Him.  I want to be more like Him everyday.  This is a good thing, but I have to be careful to keep a balance and know that my failures don't condemn me.  He doesn't condemn me.  I am not loved because I am perfect, I am loved because I an His. I  have to trust in His word and  know that He who began a good work in me will complete it. (Philippians 1:6)   I am not where I want to be, but God will get me to where He wants me to be.  I have to accept His grace and share that grace with others.

Father, thank You for freeing me from the bondage of sin.  Thank You for not condemning me.  Thank You for loving me unconditionally.  Bless my fellow brothers and sisters and Christ.  Help us to walk in the freedom that You bestow upon us in Christ Jesus.  Help us to prove worthy of your blessings.  In Jesus name.  Amen

Dealing with Anxiety, Praising Him Anyhow

 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ~Philippians 4:6-7

I struggle with anxiety. Maybe you do too. Each morning I wake up with a sense of dread that causes nervous energy that seeks to rob me of my peace. But God's word is steadfast, tried and true.  It is He who provides the cure.  Each morning I give my anxiety to Him. I give every worry or potential worry to the One who knows what I have need of before I even ask (Matthew 6:8)

I present my request to Him with thanksgiving and each day I find myself at the end of the day in peace.  I find myself triumphant at the end of another work week.  I find myself full of joy as I witness blessing after blessing and prayer after prayer being answered.  Prayers like remembering to fix my sons lunch.  My son passing a test on material he was struggling to understand.  A supportive and loving husband who soothes me to sleep when I am struggling to find that comfort spot. Colleagues who make the work day go faster with their willingness to share their time and knowledge, collaborating to get the work done.  Prayers to be a witness for Him.   "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." (Philippians 1:6) Prayers for patience for the unknown things, knowing in due time He will work it out. He answers ALL these things and more.  He  fuels my thankfulness and ushers in peace as I trust in Him.

You know, when I think about it,  God makes it easy to follow Him.  We just have to submit and be that "yes" girl or boy.  He does the work, we only need to rely on the power that lies within which is Jesus Christ, To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me. ( Colossians 1:29) 

Lord, thank You for loving me as I am and providing the answers to my concerns through Your word.  Thank You for allowing me to approach your throne of grace daily with the assurance of your comfort.  Thank you for your peace that allows me to soar rather than crumble.  I love you Lord.  In Jesus name I pray.  Amen

God is good; He hears us

 You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you. Hear my prayer, Lord; listen to my cry for mercy.  When I am in distress, I call to you, because you answer me. ~Psalm 86:5-7

6 It is comforting to know just how good and loving God is.  My sins are ever before me, but He forgives me.  "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9)  and responds to me with love when I call to Him.  He is merciful and He listens to my prayers and cries for mercy.  When I am in distress He answers me. He does not leave me hanging out there.  He never leaves me nor forsakes me (Hebrews 13:5).  

Yes, He corrects me when I am wrong, but He never abandons me.  Rather He reminds me that I am His child.  He holds me close and removes the fears and doubts. He washes me(Psalm 51:10). He fights for me (Exodus 14:14).  When and where I am weak, He is strong (2 Corinthians 12:9).   He is God and He is good.

Father, thank You for opening up Your heart to me.  Thank You for Your loving-kindness and grace.  Thank You for allowing me to come to You and receive comfort.  Thank Your for being a very present help.  Thank You for hearing my prayer.  Bless this land and its leaders.  May our hearts turn to You and call to You.  May we seek You with our whole hearts.  Heal our hearts and our land.  In Jesus name.  Amen