A daily inspirational walk of scriptures,thoughts and songs to uplift and encourage your mind and soul.
Friday, April 30, 2010
I Will Be With You Always!
God promises to his children, to never leave or forsake them, from the rising of the sun to the setting, the name of the Lord is to be praised. His promise to us is, "If we abide in him and his words abide in us, we shall ask what we will and it shall be done, but if you forget the Lord your God and walk after other gods ye shall surely perish."
We shall remember the Lord thy God for it is he that giveth us power to get wealth, not of ourselves. Where does our hope come from, maker of heaven and earth. Let us not forget his many benefits in keeping his commandments with grateful hearts, loving and serving him all the days of our life.
Song by Mercy Me, "Here With Me":
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=74CNUExD4I8&feature=related
Thursday, April 22, 2010
The Last Waltz.....
I heard about the wishes of a 94 year old lady, and it was to have a "last waltz". Her sights though currently here, are set to a better place for which I pray we all aspire to go, whether we're 94 or 7, may we understand we are but pilgrims on this earth. Some will have a longer journey than others, but we all have a promise of eternal life. May we enjoy every step and be encouraged to make the most of every step!
Link to her last wish.....http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J_V5jXJjIAk
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
My Redeemer
There is hope for us all, if we believe....Do you know? A beautiful song and video by Nicole Mullen. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9p4G2GbPYQA
Thursday, April 15, 2010
I Am Forgiven...
Like most people it is easy to become fearful, but God's word says we are to rest in his arms and not to fear the things that are going on around us. We are encouraged to recognize trials as a refining period to draw closer to him and rely on his sovereignty to see us through. Nothing happens to you that God does not allow, and if he allowed it then he has a purpose. Romans 8:28 "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". If you are feeling down and discouraged, get in God's word and let him speak to your heart the peace that only he can give, and relax, you are in the arms of God!
Song." Because I'm Forgiven" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGmCsdFKMIk
Friday, April 9, 2010
Love Will Keep Us Together
God's love transcends our love. He is ever loving, gracious, and merciful. His love knows no limits. Psalms Ch 37:23-24, encourages us to love our Lord, all his saint's, with promise to preserve the faithful and plentifully reward the doer. Be of good courage and God promises to strengthen our hearts, all who hope in the Lord.
God not only loves us more than we can imagine, but when we return his love that he gives us so freely, he rewards us and our children, such that everyone around us benefits because Christ's love spills over into their lives as well.
Help us today to be open to God's love and let him fill us up to overflowing. For his love will keep us together! Listen to these songs and think of the words as God's love to children.
A couple of oldes that should bring a smile. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6inwzOooXRU&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjloX_EvYiI
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Get Back Up
Have you ever fallen, gotten discouraged, and felt defeated like you couldn't go on? Well I'm here to encourage you to get back up! God is with you, and He's waiting for you to ask for His help. He's holding out His hand in love. Won't you get back up and trust Him to see you through each step of the way, where on your own it seems impossible?
Song. "Get Back Up" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MX5OqyBYKh4
Saturday, April 3, 2010
The Sabbath
A day of religious observance and abstinence from work, kept by the Jews from Friday evening to Saturday evening, and by most Christians on Sunday. One definition of the sabbath according to the dictionary.
As we have been preparing our hearts and minds through various practices of lent, and subsequent celebrations on Saturday or Sunday, I pray we are drawn closer to Him in a very meaningful way, by reflecting on His ultimate sacrifice for us all.
As in previous years one of our families traditions is to read one of the 4 gospels account of Jesus's death and reflect in writings and drawings on a piece of paper to be saved for a later time, and chronologically reflect on our own growth and thoughts during the Easter season. It then gives us something tangible to remember our journey individually during this time of year.
This year I also had the opportunity to collect sand dollars during a recent vacation, and have decorated our still standing Christmas tree with them. I can't say this was planned, but for those of us who have been too lazy to take down their trees, I found a way to take advantage of it. Most of you are familiar with the story of the sand dollar, but just as a reminder I am including this link. http://legendofthesanddollar.com/
May God continue to shine bright in all of us with a renewed sense of purpose and meaning this Easter season. God Bless!
Front view
Back view
A seldom seen view from the inside of a sand dollar and it's 5 doves, before they came apart
As we have been preparing our hearts and minds through various practices of lent, and subsequent celebrations on Saturday or Sunday, I pray we are drawn closer to Him in a very meaningful way, by reflecting on His ultimate sacrifice for us all.
As in previous years one of our families traditions is to read one of the 4 gospels account of Jesus's death and reflect in writings and drawings on a piece of paper to be saved for a later time, and chronologically reflect on our own growth and thoughts during the Easter season. It then gives us something tangible to remember our journey individually during this time of year.
This year I also had the opportunity to collect sand dollars during a recent vacation, and have decorated our still standing Christmas tree with them. I can't say this was planned, but for those of us who have been too lazy to take down their trees, I found a way to take advantage of it. Most of you are familiar with the story of the sand dollar, but just as a reminder I am including this link. http://legendofthesanddollar.com/
May God continue to shine bright in all of us with a renewed sense of purpose and meaning this Easter season. God Bless!
Front view
Back view
A seldom seen view from the inside of a sand dollar and it's 5 doves, before they came apart
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
I Need God!
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Remember Job in all his affliction and his subsequent complaint to God. How he puffed himself up as to how righteous he was, and what God's reply was.
Interesting that if you have ever had kids, you've seen a similar posture from those that you have raised and protected. At some point they turn around and say hey, "I know more than you". Some would define those as teenage years, when they are coming into their own and suddenly have all the answers, or at least think they do.
To me this is how I see God responded to Job. "You really think you're all that", and precedes to challenge Job on what he can't do. After a short while Job realizes that he can do nothing without God, and it was not his own strength, but that of God's provision that allowed him to be where and who he was. Remember the verse, our righteousness is as filthy rags, compared to God. We are nothing without him, but by grace are we saved, because of his love for us, not of works least any man should boast.
Am I any better than the next person? Do I know more than God? Understanding our place is paramount to our own happiness and peace. We have a God that loves us more than we can imagine, and therefore will discipline us, as any loving parent would do, when we get too big for our britches.
God knows best! Sounds like it would be a good TV series.... Once we accept that, even if we do not understand, life gets easier. It is not in our own power that we were born or anything else. It is God alone, and we can rest in his promises of divine protection and blessing. Hebrews 15:5 "Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Song. You are God Alone. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xPzTSpbYmk
Monday, March 22, 2010
Can You Hear Jesus Calling?
Having just returned from a work conference, I had the pleasure to unwind and enjoy God's creation once again. I am reminded that he is always with us. He speaks to our hearts, and he knows our name. He knows what we need, even when we do not know it ourselves. He is always there, speaking to us in a personal way, that is meaningful.
For some that is a song, a message, a friend or encouragement in any number of ways. For me it is his creation. I am awed and reminded of just how great he is when I can see, taste, and feel his presence in a very tangible way. His ways, his thoughts are so much higher than mine, I can only imagine, the plans he has for you and me, his children.
Can you hear Jesus calling you today? Step out into the unknown, venture beyond your comfort zone, and embrace what he has planned for you. Trust, faith and hope. He is calling you today, and loves you more than you can imagine!
Song. "I Can Only Imagine".http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xwzItqYmII
Thursday, March 18, 2010
You Will Be Safe In His Arm's
I doesn't matter where you are, or what your circumstances look like, His word says you are safe in His arm's. Relax and trust the living God who cares for you, more than you can imagine!
Song:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MdM4CTlQj2A
Song:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MdM4CTlQj2A
Saturday, March 13, 2010
You Are Safe in His Arms
The lack of knowing about anything, job, health, spouse, college, etc. can rob you of your peace. Knowing we can relax because we are safe in God's arms, is more comforting that any unknown out there. Faith as a child. Your heavenly Father knows that you have need of these things. Seek ye first the kingdom of God and all these things Shall be added unto you. Matthew 6:34 "Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof".
Song. "Jesus Calling" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjsUie4gToM
Song. "Jesus Calling" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjsUie4gToM
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Be Strong In The Lord!
Psalm 112. This Psalm is an acrostic poem, full of instruction for us to our benefit, and to our children. I can think of nothing more that I would like to leave my daughter than a Godly heritage. God's word promises favor and protection to the righteous person that reflects God's love to those around them, and trusts in the Lord even when bad things happen, because God is their hope and rock. As God's children we have no reason to be afraid for ourselves, or for our children. God's love shines bright in all we do, and His blessings are upon us and our children.
This song comes to mind and gives me hope when things look impossible and there is no way out, I've learned to look up and I pray you have too. Ephesians 6:10 "The Words I Would Say".http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thLdWPr32yY&feature=related
Monday, March 8, 2010
Lean Not To Thine Own Understanding
Proverbs chapter 3, speaks of trusting God with our whole heart. "In all of our ways acknowledging him and he shall direct our paths. Be not wise in our own eyes, fear the Lord and depart from evil. Honor the Lord with thy first fruits of all thine increase, and find wisdom and understanding".
There are times when we do no know what our next step is, or how something is going to turn out, but we are instructed in God's word to trust him and believe that there is a way. His ways are higher than our ways. We are instructed not to fear, yet those of this world would like us to be fearful in all things, but God's word says the opposite.
Who are we listening to today? Think on these things, "Whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are pure, and the God of peace that passes understanding will keep our hearts and minds fixed on him". Philippians 4:7-8.
What are you waiting for? Tonight is the night to trust your Lord and Savior in all things....
Song. "City On Our Knees". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7x6uPWiEhcs
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
There Is A Way.....
Throughout the bible scripture is given for direction, reproof, and instruction. Below are a few examples that can be found of God's instruction to us, his children, for our good.
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge him, And he shall direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6) and John 14:6 Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me".
"Trust in the Lord". Do not place your trust in evil companions. (Proverbs 1:10), nor precious possessions (Proverbs 1:13), nor brute power (Proverbs 1:11, for they lead to heartache. Do not look on the wine for it is a mocker (Proverbs 23:29-35). Keep yourself far from the harlot (Proverbs 5:3-11) for she will lead to death. Do not trust in these tangible objects, but believe in the invisible, but living God!
"With all of your heart" - Yield the decisions of your life to him. Give God all of your heart. Do not withhold any area of your life from the Lord.
"Lean not on your own understanding". Do not be arrogant for the Lord knows best. Listen to your mother and your father - the voice of experience. (Proverbs 1:8)
Psalm 55:22 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vc9pEb-Ej7U
Monday, February 22, 2010
He Is Mighty To Save
There is nothing you are going through that God doesn't know about. He is preparing a way that is in His perfect timing. Are we acting like a spoiled child and demanding He do "it" on our schedule, or are we trusting in His all knowing wisdom?
Matthew 6:34 "Take therefore no thought for tomorrow, for tomorrow shall take care of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof."
As the old saying goes, "Worry is like a rocking chair, it gives you something to do, but it gets you nowhere". What it does rob us of though, is our peace and enjoyment of the moment, today, right where we are, the journey. God is mighty to save. He will not leave you nor forsake you. Rest in His promises and be His hands and feet today, leaving tomorrow to Him.
Psalm 127:1"Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain".
Song:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sR8rlTIU8_Y
Monday, February 1, 2010
The Great I Am!
Isaiah 61: 1 "The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners, [a]
2 to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the LORD
for the display of his splendor.
4 They will rebuild the ancient ruins
and restore the places long devastated;
they will renew the ruined cities
that have been devastated for generations.
5 Aliens will shepherd your flocks;
foreigners will work your fields and vineyards.
6 And you will be called priests of the LORD,
you will be named ministers of our God.
You will feed on the wealth of nations,
and in their riches you will boast.
7 Instead of their shame
my people will receive a double portion,
and instead of disgrace
they will rejoice in their inheritance;
and so they will inherit a double portion in their land,
and everlasting joy will be theirs.
8 "For I, the LORD, love justice;
I hate robbery and iniquity.
In my faithfulness I will reward them
and make an everlasting covenant with them.
9 Their descendants will be known among the nations
and their offspring among the peoples.
All who see them will acknowledge
that they are a people the LORD has blessed."
10 I delight greatly in the LORD;
my soul rejoices in my God.
For he has clothed me with garments of salvation
and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness,
as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest,
and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
11 For as the soil makes the sprout come up
and a garden causes seeds to grow,
so the Sovereign LORD will make righteousness and praise
spring up before all nations."
Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2Yh4exnBU0
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Sing Unto God
Psalms is a book full of religious songs to God. It encourages the mind and uplifts the soul. If any have ever struggled in the holding pattern of God's timing, his instruction is to worship while we are waiting.
Faith in action. Lord thank you for provision that I know is on the way, answers that I cannot see, divine appointments that I cannot even imagine! We are blessed to be God's children. Let us make sure that we show our appreciation in worship and in song for all he has done for us, and all he is doing, even when we don't see the way.
Psalm 52:9 " I will praise thee forever, because thou has done it, and I will wait on thy name, for it is good before thy saints".
Song:" I Will Worship While I'm Waiting". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bb7TSGptd3Y
Thursday, January 21, 2010
God Of This City....
This song was initially put out in 2006 by a Belfast-modern worship band on a trip to Pattaya, Thailand. Their story and song is below and well worth reading.
Story. http://www.titletrakk.com/music-interviews/bluetree-story-beyond-the-song-feature.htm
Song. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d61LamkXfwk
Story. http://www.titletrakk.com/music-interviews/bluetree-story-beyond-the-song-feature.htm
Song. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d61LamkXfwk
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Sing, Sing, Sing
Psalm 19:14. "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, oh Lord my strength, my redeemer."
Song lyrics, "What's not to love about you, heaven and earth adore you, kings and kingdoms bow down, you are the one we're living for". Powerful words. We have much to sing about. Even in our darkest hour, God is with us, never leaving or forsaking His children.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tGPN2Z-bgS0
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
All Of Me...
"Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God". 1 Corinthians 10:31. Let this be our hearts cry, use all of us, right where we are, in prayer, words and deeds. Use us for your glory. We lift up Haiti in prayer as rescue workers move in, and relief workers seek to help those who are hurt. I pray for comfort to families who have lost loved ones, and salvation to the lost. Hope in a desperate situation! We pray and reach out to help those in need not only in Haiti, but right where we are, today, this moment, use all of us for your glory in Jesus name we pray.
Song. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fh4ac4znuRk
Monday, January 11, 2010
Are We Hungry For More Of God?
I dare say that nothing moves the heart of a parent more than that of humble appreciation from their child. On the flip side I would say nothing disheartens a parent more than an arrogant demanding spirit of their child.
Is it possible that God shares similar views about us? When we learn and come to an understanding of our insignificance and inferiority in the grand scheme of things it demands humbleness. "Our righteousness is as filthy rags". Isaiah 64:6. "I can do nothing without God". John 15. "I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing". Humble, broken, grateful, gratitude melts the heart of a parent , and I dare say God.
Are we in God's way of blessing us, because we want what we think is best? Are we so arrogant that we think we know more than God? Help us to know our frame, that we are but dust. Psalm 103:14, yet we are children of the most high, Psalm 82. Help us to know where our dependence is, Ephesians 2:12 "Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it."
Humble, grateful to our heavenly, loving father. We cannot even begin to imagine the plans he has for us. Help us to understand and repent of our arrogance and lean on him for divine guidance and direction.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6gPbAz4H6ZE&feature=related
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