"Nothing... in the whole world will ever be able to separate us from the love of God."
Romans 8:39
The other night I was out jogging. I like to think about God when I am jogging. On lap one I complain about things- including how hard jogging is. On lap 2 I praise God for all he is doing in my life and lap 3 is for requests I have for God. These are not personal requests rather they are requests for guidance or wisdom or prayers in general for my friends.
I remember at the end of lap 3 I looked up at the stars and as I looked up I saw a brilliant shooting star. I know usually when we see shooting stars we are to make a wish. I had a different feeling about this shooting star, I felt God saying my prayers had been heard. It was a nice feeling and I felt humble when I finished my jog.
I am thankful for God's love and provision.
To God be all the glory honor and praise!
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Friday, February 26, 2010
One hundred fify-eight
“There is not a single man in all the earth who is always good and never sins.”
Ecclesiastes 7:20
Sometimes guilt can be torture. In fact it is always torture. I am not free from sin. God took my sin and covered it with the blood of Jesus Christ. God forgave the sin and the sinner.
I think about my brother and his incarceration. He committed a crime and is going to constantly have that be a part of his life. Usually after time served they are released and do not return to the crime. It is a difficult thing for a person who has an addiction to turn from the addiction.
I choose not to immerse myself in my brother’s life. I am able to pray for him and write to him but beyond that I have to put him in God’s hands. He has not been able to beat his addiction.
Thankfully God is a forgiving god.
He will forgive any and all sins.
To God be the glory honor and praise.
Ecclesiastes 7:20
Sometimes guilt can be torture. In fact it is always torture. I am not free from sin. God took my sin and covered it with the blood of Jesus Christ. God forgave the sin and the sinner.
I think about my brother and his incarceration. He committed a crime and is going to constantly have that be a part of his life. Usually after time served they are released and do not return to the crime. It is a difficult thing for a person who has an addiction to turn from the addiction.
I choose not to immerse myself in my brother’s life. I am able to pray for him and write to him but beyond that I have to put him in God’s hands. He has not been able to beat his addiction.
Thankfully God is a forgiving god.
He will forgive any and all sins.
To God be the glory honor and praise.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
One hundred fifty-seven
This morning I an thinking of the Gospel of John. John was an eye witness to Jesus teaching and healing. At Christmas I wanted to see a photo album of Jesus life, to get to know him and make his life more real to me. Of course cameras did not exist, and perhaps he was on the move too much to have anyone paint his portrait. I would like to have seen the people Jesus healed- The before and after photos. Before Jesus someone was lame, a leper, crippled, even Lazareth was dead, and Jesus took away their affiction and made them whole. If such before and after pictures were around, perhaps there would be many more believers in the present. In the book of John he closes the book by saying that if everything Jesus did and that he saw was written down there would be volumes on the life of Jesus.
"Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written."
John 21:25
We have just a few books in our bible on the life of Jesus; we are left with our imaginations to see the total picture that the words are describing. I am thankful that my pastor, David Anderson can make God's word come alive and help me see a clearer picture of Jesus. Every pastor is different, they can take the same passage in the bible and each of their sermons will be unique, but the one constant is the text they read from the bible.
Perhaps you have read the Gospel of John many times. Maybe you can even recite scripture. But do we really know Jesus? Even John the Baptist who was predestined to tell about Jesus before his birth, did not recognize Jesus at first. The heavens opened up at Jesus baptism and came down as a dove and that is how he knew he was Jesus.
When Jesus comes again will we recognize him?
That would be extraordinary!
Grace and mercy to you from God our father.
"Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written."
John 21:25
We have just a few books in our bible on the life of Jesus; we are left with our imaginations to see the total picture that the words are describing. I am thankful that my pastor, David Anderson can make God's word come alive and help me see a clearer picture of Jesus. Every pastor is different, they can take the same passage in the bible and each of their sermons will be unique, but the one constant is the text they read from the bible.
Perhaps you have read the Gospel of John many times. Maybe you can even recite scripture. But do we really know Jesus? Even John the Baptist who was predestined to tell about Jesus before his birth, did not recognize Jesus at first. The heavens opened up at Jesus baptism and came down as a dove and that is how he knew he was Jesus.
When Jesus comes again will we recognize him?
That would be extraordinary!
Grace and mercy to you from God our father.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
One hundred fifty-six
"Faith means being sure of the things we hope for and knowing that something is real even if we don't see it."
Hebrews 11:1
God is real and God is good. That is faith.
I admit that I am struggling,emotionally and financially but I also know that God is here helping me work through some things. There is a reason he has put these trials in front of me. God is testing my faith.
I wake up knowing God is good and I hope each day to find favor with God. Seeking favor through prayer, through worship, through praise, thanksgiving, or my actions. I know I need God all the time.
The way I live my life, am I a person that God needs all the time? I want to tell God I am available. I hope at some time he will tell me he needs me, and I can respond in the way he wants me to. God wants to know that I am loyal to Him.
I am acknowledging God at all times.
I do not know what "the big picture" of God's provision is for my life. I will have faith that God's timing is perfect. I will be thankful in all things.
Last Wednesday Pastor Anderson spoke about the life of Joseph. Joseph had many trials in his life, but he always remained faithful to God.
The more hopeless your circumstance, the more likely your salvation.
The greater your cares, the more genuine your prayers.
The darker the room is, the more the need for light.
God is near and always available to all who seek Him.
Today I am humble. I am a sinner saved by the grace of God. I don't know that God can even use me, but whatever His purpose is for me, I hope He will see something worthy in me and I will bring Him honor.
God is good all the time.
Love and mercy to you from God our father.
Hebrews 11:1
God is real and God is good. That is faith.
I admit that I am struggling,emotionally and financially but I also know that God is here helping me work through some things. There is a reason he has put these trials in front of me. God is testing my faith.
I wake up knowing God is good and I hope each day to find favor with God. Seeking favor through prayer, through worship, through praise, thanksgiving, or my actions. I know I need God all the time.
The way I live my life, am I a person that God needs all the time? I want to tell God I am available. I hope at some time he will tell me he needs me, and I can respond in the way he wants me to. God wants to know that I am loyal to Him.
I am acknowledging God at all times.
I do not know what "the big picture" of God's provision is for my life. I will have faith that God's timing is perfect. I will be thankful in all things.
Last Wednesday Pastor Anderson spoke about the life of Joseph. Joseph had many trials in his life, but he always remained faithful to God.
The more hopeless your circumstance, the more likely your salvation.
The greater your cares, the more genuine your prayers.
The darker the room is, the more the need for light.
God is near and always available to all who seek Him.
Today I am humble. I am a sinner saved by the grace of God. I don't know that God can even use me, but whatever His purpose is for me, I hope He will see something worthy in me and I will bring Him honor.
God is good all the time.
Love and mercy to you from God our father.
Monday, February 22, 2010
One hundred fifty-five
“Love each other like brothers and sisters. Give each other more honor than you want for yourselves.”
Romans 12:10
This month of love I have to admit that I know what love is and that I experienced love. I’ve even felt the loss of love, and the loss of someone I love. I’ve told people that I’ve never told, that I love them, and it’s nice because it is sincere and they tell me back. Love comes from God. Love is extraordinary!
The verse today tells us that we can all benefit from love. It is a hard thing to look at everyone you come in contact with and say, “I love that person.” There are some people in our lives that we cannot love. Love for those people will have to be a work in progress. ( I hope that God can understand that) Love can be one tough cookie!
Just the word, “love” can change someone’s attitude. Love is a powerful thing. Love always wants the best for the other person. It is putting someone else before yourself. Love is completely unselfish. I want to be able to love like God wants me to love others- and I think in that way I am a work in progress.
Corinthians 13:13
13And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
"Think of the purest, most all-consuming love you can imagine. Now multiply that love by an infinite amount—that is the measure of God's love for you." ~ Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Love to you today from God our father.
Romans 12:10
This month of love I have to admit that I know what love is and that I experienced love. I’ve even felt the loss of love, and the loss of someone I love. I’ve told people that I’ve never told, that I love them, and it’s nice because it is sincere and they tell me back. Love comes from God. Love is extraordinary!
The verse today tells us that we can all benefit from love. It is a hard thing to look at everyone you come in contact with and say, “I love that person.” There are some people in our lives that we cannot love. Love for those people will have to be a work in progress. ( I hope that God can understand that) Love can be one tough cookie!
Just the word, “love” can change someone’s attitude. Love is a powerful thing. Love always wants the best for the other person. It is putting someone else before yourself. Love is completely unselfish. I want to be able to love like God wants me to love others- and I think in that way I am a work in progress.
Corinthians 13:13
13And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
"Think of the purest, most all-consuming love you can imagine. Now multiply that love by an infinite amount—that is the measure of God's love for you." ~ Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Love to you today from God our father.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
One hundred fifty-four
“There are many rooms in my Father’s house;… I am going there to prepare a place for you.”
John 14:2
God has a place for each of us in his kingdom. Everyone is welcome there.
Last night I went to dinner at a friend’s house. She made a wonderful dinner. She prepared for me to come over and once I got there I didn’t have to do anything but show up.
I knew I would be late because I needed to pay a bill. I called my friend and told her my circumstance. I did feel bad about being tardy for the party, but just before I finished paying my bill, my daughter called me needing gas money for her car. I was available for my daughter to meet me. I was late for dinner, but instead of feeling frantic, I relaxed and knew I was right where I needed to be. I have faith that God’s timing is perfect.
When I arrived, everyone else had went ahead without me, but they already had a place set for me, I was able to make myself at home. There is great comfort in being in the company of our friends and family. God blessed the evening and we had a great time.
I hope that when I go to God’s home it will be the same feeling of acceptance. God will already know where I’ve been, and be happy that I made it. I want to be seated with Him at His table, welcome in his home. I will know that He already prepared a place for me.
I am experiencing God in the simplest things, like dinner with my friends, and being late. I am noticing these blessing. I have to give God praise for it ALL.
I love my friends and I am blessed to have Christian friends.
I hope that God walks with you today.
Peace and mercy to you from God our father.
John 14:2
God has a place for each of us in his kingdom. Everyone is welcome there.
Last night I went to dinner at a friend’s house. She made a wonderful dinner. She prepared for me to come over and once I got there I didn’t have to do anything but show up.
I knew I would be late because I needed to pay a bill. I called my friend and told her my circumstance. I did feel bad about being tardy for the party, but just before I finished paying my bill, my daughter called me needing gas money for her car. I was available for my daughter to meet me. I was late for dinner, but instead of feeling frantic, I relaxed and knew I was right where I needed to be. I have faith that God’s timing is perfect.
When I arrived, everyone else had went ahead without me, but they already had a place set for me, I was able to make myself at home. There is great comfort in being in the company of our friends and family. God blessed the evening and we had a great time.
I hope that when I go to God’s home it will be the same feeling of acceptance. God will already know where I’ve been, and be happy that I made it. I want to be seated with Him at His table, welcome in his home. I will know that He already prepared a place for me.
I am experiencing God in the simplest things, like dinner with my friends, and being late. I am noticing these blessing. I have to give God praise for it ALL.
I love my friends and I am blessed to have Christian friends.
I hope that God walks with you today.
Peace and mercy to you from God our father.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
one hundred fifty-three
"My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and Earth."
Psalm 121:2
God is ever present.
Psalm 121:2
God is ever present.
Friday, February 19, 2010
One hundred fifty-two
“We also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces character, and character produces hope.”
Romans 5:3-4
I have to remember that these emotionally tough days are going to lead to better days. I am having a bit of reflection and with the reflection come highs and lows. These highs are more prevalent than the lows. It’s tough because I want to experience the highs over and over again, but it seems like the lows are ever present.
The good thing is that when these lows are there I can say a prayer for a little encouragement and God answers that prayer. I feel blessed today, even with my lows.
God is at work in my life.
God is good all the time.
Peace and mercy to you from God our father.
Romans 5:3-4
I have to remember that these emotionally tough days are going to lead to better days. I am having a bit of reflection and with the reflection come highs and lows. These highs are more prevalent than the lows. It’s tough because I want to experience the highs over and over again, but it seems like the lows are ever present.
The good thing is that when these lows are there I can say a prayer for a little encouragement and God answers that prayer. I feel blessed today, even with my lows.
God is at work in my life.
God is good all the time.
Peace and mercy to you from God our father.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
One hundred fifty-one
Psalm 27: 14
“Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”
This verse was discussed last night at Logos Baptist Church and Pastor Anderson read the story of Joseph. Joseph lived an extraordinary life. Sold into slavery at the age of 17, Jailed for being accused of something he was innocent of, and then lived and worked for the king and was able to provide for his family during the famine.
God was with Joseph all the days of his life.
I would like to know that God is sitting here with me right now, while I am writing this. I would like to know he is with me always. I think part of knowing God is with you, is acknowledging God is there.
A few days ago I said I could be co- dependent on God, and question every decision I have to make with God, right down to a silly thing like choosing which hair conditioner to use when I wash my hair. Kinda insane if you think about it, God might not care about my hair conditioner, there are people in the world that don’t have hair conditioner. That’s not my point, my point is that, I acknowledge God in everything I do.
I also question my actions- Would it be pleasing to God?
Yesterday was the start of the Catholic holiday, Lent as they prepare for Easter. To honor Jesus Christ some will fast these 40 days others will sacrifice something. Since my mother is Catholic I sometimes participate in Lent. I will fast during these 40 days for seven days, and I did decide to give up one thing that I love- chocolate. I eat chocolate everyday, but now for the next 40 days each time I am tempted to eat chocolate, I will think of the cross, and my Lord Jesus Christ that gave the ultimate sacrifice for my sins to be forgiven. If you celebrate Lent or not, 40 days can be life changing. Give 40 days to God and see what can happen.
Maybe you can start a 40 day devotional (like this one similar to the name of my blog – www.d365.org/journeytothecross/ ) If you go to the site- press next for more stories.
Here is their devotional: It goes along with what I started this morning about making God choices.
“ The ability - and the responsibility - to choose is a part of what makes us human. The way we make those choices, and the values we use in our decisions, reflect the influence our faith has in guiding us.
Consider now the values that guide and direct you; think about the call of God to follow. How is God shaping you as you walk the path of faith? “
God is good all the time. His timing is perfect. A lot is going on in my life I do not understand, but I am willing to be patient on God.
Grace and mercy to you from God our father.
“Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”
This verse was discussed last night at Logos Baptist Church and Pastor Anderson read the story of Joseph. Joseph lived an extraordinary life. Sold into slavery at the age of 17, Jailed for being accused of something he was innocent of, and then lived and worked for the king and was able to provide for his family during the famine.
God was with Joseph all the days of his life.
I would like to know that God is sitting here with me right now, while I am writing this. I would like to know he is with me always. I think part of knowing God is with you, is acknowledging God is there.
A few days ago I said I could be co- dependent on God, and question every decision I have to make with God, right down to a silly thing like choosing which hair conditioner to use when I wash my hair. Kinda insane if you think about it, God might not care about my hair conditioner, there are people in the world that don’t have hair conditioner. That’s not my point, my point is that, I acknowledge God in everything I do.
I also question my actions- Would it be pleasing to God?
Yesterday was the start of the Catholic holiday, Lent as they prepare for Easter. To honor Jesus Christ some will fast these 40 days others will sacrifice something. Since my mother is Catholic I sometimes participate in Lent. I will fast during these 40 days for seven days, and I did decide to give up one thing that I love- chocolate. I eat chocolate everyday, but now for the next 40 days each time I am tempted to eat chocolate, I will think of the cross, and my Lord Jesus Christ that gave the ultimate sacrifice for my sins to be forgiven. If you celebrate Lent or not, 40 days can be life changing. Give 40 days to God and see what can happen.
Maybe you can start a 40 day devotional (like this one similar to the name of my blog – www.d365.org/journeytothecross/ ) If you go to the site- press next for more stories.
Here is their devotional: It goes along with what I started this morning about making God choices.
“ The ability - and the responsibility - to choose is a part of what makes us human. The way we make those choices, and the values we use in our decisions, reflect the influence our faith has in guiding us.
Consider now the values that guide and direct you; think about the call of God to follow. How is God shaping you as you walk the path of faith? “
God is good all the time. His timing is perfect. A lot is going on in my life I do not understand, but I am willing to be patient on God.
Grace and mercy to you from God our father.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
One hundred fifty
I woke up this morning with thoughts of others on my mind. My prayer list is long this morning. I won’t share the names, but I will tell you the situations and maybe it will bring to mind someone you know in a similar situation and you would stop and say a prayer for the persons you know.
Healing for cancer
Healing for brokenness in a family
Sudden death of a family member and loved one
A co-worker that needs salvation
A friend going through a very lonely time
A divorcing couple – pray for both
A person in the military that is having to face difficult decisions everyday
People who are away from their loved ones
Children that are away from their parents
Survivors in Hati
People need jobs
A husband
A wife
Children
families
Of course this list can include every person we come in contact with acquaintances and strangers. I want to up lift everyone so that they would be in God’s care today and everyday to get through what they are going through. God is good all the time.
I believe in God and His strength to carry each and every person and their situations so that they will glorify God.
I feel like God wants us all to spend this day - everyday - close to Him.
“Continue praying, keeping alert, and always thanking God”
Colossians 4:2
Grace and peace be with you from God our father.
Healing for cancer
Healing for brokenness in a family
Sudden death of a family member and loved one
A co-worker that needs salvation
A friend going through a very lonely time
A divorcing couple – pray for both
A person in the military that is having to face difficult decisions everyday
People who are away from their loved ones
Children that are away from their parents
Survivors in Hati
People need jobs
A husband
A wife
Children
families
Of course this list can include every person we come in contact with acquaintances and strangers. I want to up lift everyone so that they would be in God’s care today and everyday to get through what they are going through. God is good all the time.
I believe in God and His strength to carry each and every person and their situations so that they will glorify God.
I feel like God wants us all to spend this day - everyday - close to Him.
“Continue praying, keeping alert, and always thanking God”
Colossians 4:2
Grace and peace be with you from God our father.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
One hundred forty-nine
“May the Lord bless and protect you; may the Lord’s face radiate with joy because of you; may he be gracious to you, show you his favor, and give you peace.”
Numbers 6:24-26
I woke up early this morning – early like 3:30 AM early -wide awake. I’m adjusting and feeling a little uncomfortable. I am a completely emotional person. I don’t always show my emotions, but there are a lot of insecurities from being alone. I do have the habit of praying when I wake, and this morning at 3:30 it was no different. Every day these verses speak to me about how God is at work.
God is the giver of peace, blessings and protection. I know God is still working on the joy part- not only the giver of joy – but he is working on putting me in a place that will bring him joy.
Each day I seek God for guidance and His will for where he wants me to be. I don’t want to be impulsive, I truly want to know God’s will. I think sometimes I can be led by my impulses and my emotions. I know I am to take everything to God. I really could become co-dependent on God. Here are ten questions I could ask God this morning:
1. Should I wear a sweater or a button-down shirt? Button-down
2. Which hair conditioner would be suitable this morning (I have 5 choices)? the one in the pink bottle
3. Heavy make-up or light make-up? light
4. Should I call someone before 7 because I was thinking about them? no
5. Breakfast at home or on the run? On the run
6. Should I get a hair cut this afternoon and if so, how short? still waiting for the answer
7. If I run today should I run before sundown or after? no running today.
8. I have a writers meeting should I write something new or bring something old? something new
9. I lost a list, should I ask for help to get a copy of it or should I find another resource for my information? ask for help
10. What can I do for you today, Lord? still wating for the answer
Maybe my last question should have been my first. I do live in a “Me, me, me “ world because I live by myself. (which is completely opposite of my personality- I am usually a "YOU" kind of person that puts everyone else before me) Maybe living alone will change soon and God will provide a way for me to be able to afford a two bedroom place so Loren can move in, and it be the perfect place. See, I can be completely co-dependent… Trusting in God for all my needs.
Grace and peace to you from God our father.
Numbers 6:24-26
I woke up early this morning – early like 3:30 AM early -wide awake. I’m adjusting and feeling a little uncomfortable. I am a completely emotional person. I don’t always show my emotions, but there are a lot of insecurities from being alone. I do have the habit of praying when I wake, and this morning at 3:30 it was no different. Every day these verses speak to me about how God is at work.
God is the giver of peace, blessings and protection. I know God is still working on the joy part- not only the giver of joy – but he is working on putting me in a place that will bring him joy.
Each day I seek God for guidance and His will for where he wants me to be. I don’t want to be impulsive, I truly want to know God’s will. I think sometimes I can be led by my impulses and my emotions. I know I am to take everything to God. I really could become co-dependent on God. Here are ten questions I could ask God this morning:
1. Should I wear a sweater or a button-down shirt? Button-down
2. Which hair conditioner would be suitable this morning (I have 5 choices)? the one in the pink bottle
3. Heavy make-up or light make-up? light
4. Should I call someone before 7 because I was thinking about them? no
5. Breakfast at home or on the run? On the run
6. Should I get a hair cut this afternoon and if so, how short? still waiting for the answer
7. If I run today should I run before sundown or after? no running today.
8. I have a writers meeting should I write something new or bring something old? something new
9. I lost a list, should I ask for help to get a copy of it or should I find another resource for my information? ask for help
10. What can I do for you today, Lord? still wating for the answer
Maybe my last question should have been my first. I do live in a “Me, me, me “ world because I live by myself. (which is completely opposite of my personality- I am usually a "YOU" kind of person that puts everyone else before me) Maybe living alone will change soon and God will provide a way for me to be able to afford a two bedroom place so Loren can move in, and it be the perfect place. See, I can be completely co-dependent… Trusting in God for all my needs.
Grace and peace to you from God our father.
Monday, February 15, 2010
One hundred forty-eight
I didn't post yesterday for St. Valentine's Day.
I joked with my friends that it was "Single's Awareness Day!"
I did get up and worshiped (even made it to sunday school) at Logos Baptist Church. Starting my day in worship and singing lifted my spirits and got me through a day I thought would be the pits. I started my day feeling love and shared some love and spent the day with my loved ones. We even traded valentines. I got the most beautiful touching heartfelt cards, the traditional heart shaped box of chocolates,jewelry, and even a stuffed bear. It was a completely mushy day. I had a renewed sense of how strong love is, and how love can grow. I really had a blessed day.
I know this month repeatedly 1 Corinthians 13 has been ever present.
And so this day after the "love" day I will share with you my hope that I got from this verse...
"So these three things continue forever: faith, hope and love. And the greatest of these is love."
1 Corinthians 13:13
I know the love of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love that God gives through mercy, and I was very blessed.
Loving others like we want to be loved has wonderful rewards.
"It doesn't take great wisdom to energize a person, but it does take sixty seconds. That's the amount of time it takes to walk over and gently hold someone we love." - Gary Smalley
I joked with my friends that it was "Single's Awareness Day!"
I did get up and worshiped (even made it to sunday school) at Logos Baptist Church. Starting my day in worship and singing lifted my spirits and got me through a day I thought would be the pits. I started my day feeling love and shared some love and spent the day with my loved ones. We even traded valentines. I got the most beautiful touching heartfelt cards, the traditional heart shaped box of chocolates,jewelry, and even a stuffed bear. It was a completely mushy day. I had a renewed sense of how strong love is, and how love can grow. I really had a blessed day.
I know this month repeatedly 1 Corinthians 13 has been ever present.
And so this day after the "love" day I will share with you my hope that I got from this verse...
"So these three things continue forever: faith, hope and love. And the greatest of these is love."
1 Corinthians 13:13
I know the love of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love that God gives through mercy, and I was very blessed.
Loving others like we want to be loved has wonderful rewards.
"It doesn't take great wisdom to energize a person, but it does take sixty seconds. That's the amount of time it takes to walk over and gently hold someone we love." - Gary Smalley
Thursday, February 11, 2010
One hundred forty-seven
Romans 15:13
“I pray that the God who gives hope will fill you with much joy and peace while you trust in him. Then your hope will overflow by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Joy.
Hope.
Peace.
Trust.
In God we can have all these things. As I am waiting on the Lord , he is giving me a time of renewal. And I have faith that God will sustain me during this fallow time of my life. I seek Guidance and wisdom and confidence that God is still as constant in my life as he always has been. I hope that these verses speak to you as they do each day to me.
God is good all the time.
Grace and mercy to you from God our father.
“I pray that the God who gives hope will fill you with much joy and peace while you trust in him. Then your hope will overflow by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Joy.
Hope.
Peace.
Trust.
In God we can have all these things. As I am waiting on the Lord , he is giving me a time of renewal. And I have faith that God will sustain me during this fallow time of my life. I seek Guidance and wisdom and confidence that God is still as constant in my life as he always has been. I hope that these verses speak to you as they do each day to me.
God is good all the time.
Grace and mercy to you from God our father.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
One hundred forty-six
“People only harvest what they plant”
Galatians 6:7
Plant a seed of something positive. I feel like God’s got me in therapy by the verse selection. That overbearing voice- seeing me in my not –so- sparkly mood and telling me I need an attitude adjustment. Resist negativism. All my doubt about stuff, and my worrying, and insecurity just makes me the opposite of what God wants for me. What God wants for me is for me to have some patience, be optimistic, and forgiving.
I think he also said Love. I’m very sure he said love…
Love Love Love Love repeated.
Grace peace and love to you from God our father.
Galatians 6:7
Plant a seed of something positive. I feel like God’s got me in therapy by the verse selection. That overbearing voice- seeing me in my not –so- sparkly mood and telling me I need an attitude adjustment. Resist negativism. All my doubt about stuff, and my worrying, and insecurity just makes me the opposite of what God wants for me. What God wants for me is for me to have some patience, be optimistic, and forgiving.
I think he also said Love. I’m very sure he said love…
Love Love Love Love repeated.
Grace peace and love to you from God our father.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
One hundred forty-five
"He took our suffering on him and felt our pain for us."
Isaiah 53:4
Sometimes something crushing happens and you long to feel that loving arm around you for a hug, and hear that voice that will tell us everything will be alright. Looking around we realize that we are alone. There isn't someone there giving a hug or whispering all the words we need to hear. It is during these times I strengthen my faith and call out to God. I just begin speaking to God. I don't know God's plan for me. There is nothing I can do except let God be God.
I am trusting in God.
Grace and mercy to you from God our father.
Isaiah 53:4
Sometimes something crushing happens and you long to feel that loving arm around you for a hug, and hear that voice that will tell us everything will be alright. Looking around we realize that we are alone. There isn't someone there giving a hug or whispering all the words we need to hear. It is during these times I strengthen my faith and call out to God. I just begin speaking to God. I don't know God's plan for me. There is nothing I can do except let God be God.
I am trusting in God.
Grace and mercy to you from God our father.
Monday, February 8, 2010
One hundred forty-four
"Oh the joys of those who put their trust in him!"
Psalm 2:12
In the monasteries of ancient Europe, monks walked though dark hallways with candles on their shoes. the candles gave off only enough light to make clear the next step. God only wants us to take life one step at a time. We have to trust in Him that he will make clear our next step.
Trust in God.
Sometimes our emotions will have us to face each difficulty in our lives as a life or death situation. If you are emotional like I am; you die a lot. We will only die once on this Earth in our lifetime. We have to know that it will be in God's time. We have to be assured of our salvation when that time comes.
Trust Me. - GOD
Grace and peace from God our father.
Psalm 2:12
In the monasteries of ancient Europe, monks walked though dark hallways with candles on their shoes. the candles gave off only enough light to make clear the next step. God only wants us to take life one step at a time. We have to trust in Him that he will make clear our next step.
Trust in God.
Sometimes our emotions will have us to face each difficulty in our lives as a life or death situation. If you are emotional like I am; you die a lot. We will only die once on this Earth in our lifetime. We have to know that it will be in God's time. We have to be assured of our salvation when that time comes.
Trust Me. - GOD
Grace and peace from God our father.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
One hundred forty-three
I've been reading Exodus - In thinking about God and the many names He gets called in the bible. He describes himself as "I AM"
Exodus 3:14
"When you go to the people of Israel, tell them, 'I AM' sent me to you."
God doesnT need any other words to go along with "I AM" God simply is. He is unchanging and constant.
Letting God be God, and prayerful in giving my life to him and to His will for my life.
Grace and mercy to you from God our father.
Exodus 3:14
"When you go to the people of Israel, tell them, 'I AM' sent me to you."
God doesnT need any other words to go along with "I AM" God simply is. He is unchanging and constant.
Letting God be God, and prayerful in giving my life to him and to His will for my life.
Grace and mercy to you from God our father.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
One hundred forty-two
Mark 10:27
"God can do all things."
I don't limit God to what he can do. And I am going to let God be God.
To God be the glory honor and praise!
"God can do all things."
I don't limit God to what he can do. And I am going to let God be God.
To God be the glory honor and praise!
Friday, February 5, 2010
One hundred forty-one
Hebrews 6: 18-19
“We who have run for our very lives to God have every reason to grab the promised hope with both hands and never let go. It’s an unbreakable spiritual lifeline, reaching past all appearances right to the very presence of God.”
I have a habit of hanging on to things. I will hang on to clothes like a pack rat. I will hang on to shoes like they are treasures and still only wear one or two on a daily basis. I admit sometimes I will even hang on to a single sock that makes it out of the wash without it’s mate. I must think that sock will just find it’s way back through another load of laundry and they will be a match once again. I’ll I’m doing is collecting clutter.
I realize that I do this with a lot of things. I hold on. I have hope. Optimist? Well, maybe hoarder would be more appropriate. I am learning to take notice of situations that are out of my control and step out, knowing that God is the one in control. I have a lot of thoughts of relationships that I hold on to.
My husband told me that one word that I need to learn how to say is, “NO.” He never had a problem saying it. I heard it often enough.
With my praying hands I reach out to God, and cling to his promise that all of this is temporary. I won’t make it out alive, but I will be alive in eternity. I worship Jesus Christ my lord and savior. To God be the Glory, honor and praise.
God is good all the time. Today I am blessed.
Grace and blessing to you too from God our father.
“We who have run for our very lives to God have every reason to grab the promised hope with both hands and never let go. It’s an unbreakable spiritual lifeline, reaching past all appearances right to the very presence of God.”
I have a habit of hanging on to things. I will hang on to clothes like a pack rat. I will hang on to shoes like they are treasures and still only wear one or two on a daily basis. I admit sometimes I will even hang on to a single sock that makes it out of the wash without it’s mate. I must think that sock will just find it’s way back through another load of laundry and they will be a match once again. I’ll I’m doing is collecting clutter.
I realize that I do this with a lot of things. I hold on. I have hope. Optimist? Well, maybe hoarder would be more appropriate. I am learning to take notice of situations that are out of my control and step out, knowing that God is the one in control. I have a lot of thoughts of relationships that I hold on to.
My husband told me that one word that I need to learn how to say is, “NO.” He never had a problem saying it. I heard it often enough.
With my praying hands I reach out to God, and cling to his promise that all of this is temporary. I won’t make it out alive, but I will be alive in eternity. I worship Jesus Christ my lord and savior. To God be the Glory, honor and praise.
God is good all the time. Today I am blessed.
Grace and blessing to you too from God our father.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
One hundred forty
Matthew 28:20
"Be sure of this- that I am with you always, even to the end of the world."
These are troubling times indeed. I wanted to scream this morning. I wanted to hit something. I wanted to lash out. What set me off? Everything. Nothing. Silence. Emptyness. Fullness. Helplessness.
I'm O.K. really. This is just life and no one said it would be easy. So I sucked it up and didn't express myself in all the ways I wanted. I contained it. Prayed and got out of bed and went on with my day.
Why? Why? Why, could be bouncing around in my head all day long, but instead I made way for other thoughts and pushed through trying to deal with other things.
I don't understand anything.
Thank you God for being here when I am weak and at my worst.
Grace and peace to you from God our father.
"Be sure of this- that I am with you always, even to the end of the world."
These are troubling times indeed. I wanted to scream this morning. I wanted to hit something. I wanted to lash out. What set me off? Everything. Nothing. Silence. Emptyness. Fullness. Helplessness.
I'm O.K. really. This is just life and no one said it would be easy. So I sucked it up and didn't express myself in all the ways I wanted. I contained it. Prayed and got out of bed and went on with my day.
Why? Why? Why, could be bouncing around in my head all day long, but instead I made way for other thoughts and pushed through trying to deal with other things.
I don't understand anything.
Thank you God for being here when I am weak and at my worst.
Grace and peace to you from God our father.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
One hundred thirty-nine
John 16:22
“Now you are sad, but I will see you again and you will be happy, and no one will take away your joy.”
I work in construction and with the economy being like it is, every person is affected. Many construction contractors have had to shut their doors. Many suppliers have had a 60% drop in sales. Even the people who cut wood for lumber and doors are shutting their doors. Our business is very different than it was two years ago. I pray for my friends that are looking for work. I pray for jobs to come available.
I wrote yesterday about hoping to get published, and I know even writers struggle hard making a living within their profession. Submitting for publication is a scary thing. I have to think that God just wants me to start using my talent and He will take it where it is to go. And if nothing works out, I always have heaven to look forward to.
Today I would like to pray for jobs and the families that have been affected by the loss of a job, I pray that God will meet their needs and help to overcome their situation.
Grace and peace to you from God our father.
“Now you are sad, but I will see you again and you will be happy, and no one will take away your joy.”
I work in construction and with the economy being like it is, every person is affected. Many construction contractors have had to shut their doors. Many suppliers have had a 60% drop in sales. Even the people who cut wood for lumber and doors are shutting their doors. Our business is very different than it was two years ago. I pray for my friends that are looking for work. I pray for jobs to come available.
I wrote yesterday about hoping to get published, and I know even writers struggle hard making a living within their profession. Submitting for publication is a scary thing. I have to think that God just wants me to start using my talent and He will take it where it is to go. And if nothing works out, I always have heaven to look forward to.
Today I would like to pray for jobs and the families that have been affected by the loss of a job, I pray that God will meet their needs and help to overcome their situation.
Grace and peace to you from God our father.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
One hundred thiry- eight
2 Timothy 1:7
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
I woke up this morning with a strong will to get some of my stories published. I have written some children’s stories and I am going to get serious about getting them published. I put in a prayer request to God that he will give me some guidance and surround me with people that will help make it a reality.
I feel like I haven’t set any real goals for myself in a long time. My success rate this far has not been anything to brag about.
My daughter has opened up to me talking about injustices she finds in everyday life. Last night we had a talk about how proud I am of her, for seeing injustice and standing up for it. The pride is about her unwillingness to let other people’s standards be good enough for her. Maybe I should have made that choice, of not living up to everyone else’s standards, for myself a long time ago. I know she sees me as an example, and maybe I have let her down, not being able to financially support both of us right now.
I admit I live in a world where conventional conservatism is smiled upon. I grew up in a single parent home, we didn’t have a lot of anything. Everyone else’s standards were not part of my everyday surroundings. Our needs were minimal- roof over our head, food to eat and beds to sleep in, no extra furniture or television. My father and I laugh about the time, when I was about thirteen; I complained to him that we had a living room and no furniture. It never occurred to him that it might have been a necessity, and I know that if I had never went into anyone else’s home, it would not have occurred to me either. He saved up and bought a used couch and love seat that we had until after I moved out on my own and someone else needed it more. One time I even got in trouble in school because for an assignment we were supposed to watch the evening news and write about what we saw. Of course I didn’t do the assignment, and my teacher thought I was being a smarty pants when I said we didn’t have a television. Unconventional and extraordinary.
My daughter is more like me than she realizes. Maybe, in some ways I am not settling for anyone else’s standards in my own life either. I feel like I have been blessed with a wonderful gift to be able to write, and I need to start using it. So what if I write for MMA(mixed martial arts) fights, daily bible devotionals, children’s stories, short story fiction, and current events. Sure, I’m not like other mothers, and in that way I hope I am opening up the world of possibilities that life doesn't have to be cookie cutter and the same as everyone else and maybe that is the best example I can be for my daughter.
I’m making extra effort of including my daughter in things that I do and being more a part of what she is doing. I look forward to the day when she is living with me again and I get to see her first and last of every day. I’m hoping that with God’s help it will happen within the next six months and I get the last two of her High school years with her before she goes off to college.
Having my writing submitted for money is a scary thing. I needed to read today’s verse:
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
It’s time I started looking forward and trusting God even more. I know I am not in control of anything.
God is in control of everything.
Glory, honor and praise to God our father.
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
I woke up this morning with a strong will to get some of my stories published. I have written some children’s stories and I am going to get serious about getting them published. I put in a prayer request to God that he will give me some guidance and surround me with people that will help make it a reality.
I feel like I haven’t set any real goals for myself in a long time. My success rate this far has not been anything to brag about.
My daughter has opened up to me talking about injustices she finds in everyday life. Last night we had a talk about how proud I am of her, for seeing injustice and standing up for it. The pride is about her unwillingness to let other people’s standards be good enough for her. Maybe I should have made that choice, of not living up to everyone else’s standards, for myself a long time ago. I know she sees me as an example, and maybe I have let her down, not being able to financially support both of us right now.
I admit I live in a world where conventional conservatism is smiled upon. I grew up in a single parent home, we didn’t have a lot of anything. Everyone else’s standards were not part of my everyday surroundings. Our needs were minimal- roof over our head, food to eat and beds to sleep in, no extra furniture or television. My father and I laugh about the time, when I was about thirteen; I complained to him that we had a living room and no furniture. It never occurred to him that it might have been a necessity, and I know that if I had never went into anyone else’s home, it would not have occurred to me either. He saved up and bought a used couch and love seat that we had until after I moved out on my own and someone else needed it more. One time I even got in trouble in school because for an assignment we were supposed to watch the evening news and write about what we saw. Of course I didn’t do the assignment, and my teacher thought I was being a smarty pants when I said we didn’t have a television. Unconventional and extraordinary.
My daughter is more like me than she realizes. Maybe, in some ways I am not settling for anyone else’s standards in my own life either. I feel like I have been blessed with a wonderful gift to be able to write, and I need to start using it. So what if I write for MMA(mixed martial arts) fights, daily bible devotionals, children’s stories, short story fiction, and current events. Sure, I’m not like other mothers, and in that way I hope I am opening up the world of possibilities that life doesn't have to be cookie cutter and the same as everyone else and maybe that is the best example I can be for my daughter.
I’m making extra effort of including my daughter in things that I do and being more a part of what she is doing. I look forward to the day when she is living with me again and I get to see her first and last of every day. I’m hoping that with God’s help it will happen within the next six months and I get the last two of her High school years with her before she goes off to college.
Having my writing submitted for money is a scary thing. I needed to read today’s verse:
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
It’s time I started looking forward and trusting God even more. I know I am not in control of anything.
God is in control of everything.
Glory, honor and praise to God our father.
Monday, February 1, 2010
One hundred thirty-seven
Today is Feb. 1. Feb is the month of love. 1 Corinthians 13 will be heard a lot this month. I don't want to be bitter about having it surround me during this time of my life. I've got to tell you that "Love" has really torn me apart for awhile. I want to be open to love and enjoy it a little without feeling overwhelmed by it so much.
Lord, help me to focus on the love you have for me, and may I be able to express love to others.
Lord, help me to focus on the love you have for me, and may I be able to express love to others.
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