Oh My God, I Trust In Thee

As we are faced with tighter budgets personally and collectively, it causes us to reflect and to make sure we are being wise stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us. As I read in Matthew 24-25, I am reminded that ultimately tough times will come and the love of many will wax cold, but that he that shall endure to the end SHALL be saved.

Certainly there is encouragement in these scriptures, but there is also warning of consequences for our actions. Jesus talks about the wise and foolish virgins, in a parable about his return when some that prepared and others that did not. He goes on to reward the servant who when given talents multiplied his and admonishes the one that reacted in fear and buried his.

The scripture teaches us not to fear, but to trust God for our provision proving ourselves to be wise stewards of the talents he has given each of us. I pray during these times of belt tightening that we do not forget who the supplier of all our needs is and that he can multiply our tithes and offerings to meet the needs of the world. Let us then strive to be that wise steward, so that God will say "Well done good and faithful servant thou has been faithful over few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of the lord." Matthew 25:21

Song. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vtmMM6w_Kww

I Am Not Letting Go!

Sometimes in life we are tempted to let go of promises and lose hope. Scripture would encourage us otherwise. Whatever you are facing today, and no matter how bleak it looks, remember it is when you are hardest hit that you must not quit! God's word promises to always be with us, and when we are on his team we can expect adversity, because his light that shines within us is a threat to the devil who is seeking whom he may devour. As God's children we do not have to believe his lies or give into fear of the circumstances, because we know that "Greater is he that is in us, than he that is in the world!" I John 4:4. We also know the "rest of the story" and can have the peace that Christ gives us in the midst of lifes' storms, because of that knowledge.

Stand your ground and do not believe the lies of satan. You are a child of the most high! Isaiah 54:17 "No weapon that is formed against you shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against you in judgment you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, said the Lord".

All I need is you, the beginning and the end....Now I am  concluding with a thought provoking video I came across a few years back. Take it from one who likes her morning coffee, it speaks volumes. "Life is Like A Cup of Coffee"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3NgzQ9Pcsg&feature=fvw

How Great Thou Art!

A favorite hymn of all times second only to "Amazing Grace" according to a 2001 "Today's Christian" magazine survey. It was based on a Swedish poem written by Carl Boberg in 1885 and later translated into English by Stuart Hine.

A beautiful worship song that wells up from a heart of gratitude for all Christ did for us and the promise of his return.

Grateful, thankful hearts is music to any person's ears, especially a parent's. We all have much to be grateful for, even in our darkest hour!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=By0iyTukDkQ

Worship His Holy Name!

"When the sun comes up it is a new day dawning".  As I sit and reflect this question comes to mind, how am I living today? Do I live in fear or do I recognize today could be my last wherever I am, numbering my days? Living intentional, deliberate, wisely spending my time? Would I have regrets for things done or not done.

Quiet, contemplative reflection is good for all of us. Time each day to sit quietly and reflect on what we have done and where we are going, making sure to chart our course wisely. The scripture gives divine guidance as well. " In ALL your ways acknowledge the Lord and he shall direct they path." Parent's are also given for correction and instruction to their children as ordained by God. "Honor the mother and father so that your days may be long".

Are we asking, reflecting, listening and willing to be guided? "Be still and know that I am God. I know the plans I have for you to give you a hope and a future". Just a few of his many reminders that he has us in the palm of his hands.

"This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it"! Listen to this song and may we be more intentional with our time here on earth each day, listening and trusting a loving Father to guide us each step of the way.

Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qcgemftnBo4

A New Day

The other day when walking home from work in India, I stopped to say hi to a grandmother and her daughter it appeared, who were in mourning of sorts on the side of the road. We would call them street people in the US, but here they are called the "outcasts".  In my eyes they are in need, period. If I have something I give, if not then I still say hi and listen as they try to tell me their problems as best that I can without really understanding what they are saying.

This particular day I did have some money that I shared and I hugged the grandmother as she cried in my arms and kissed my feet. The mother was bent on telling me something though, so we continued walking down the street as she followed me talking away. As I nodded and tried to understand I was met with another lady coming up the street that asked me if I understood them, as they were hanging onto me and talking. I said not really. She asked me why I put up with them then? I looked at her without understanding and she then yelled at the younger lady to shut up! I was shocked and I guess my face showed it, because within a few seconds the lady left, and I felt compelled for their safety to say goodbye to them as others were looking on as well.

As I walked down the rest of the street to our house I heard explosions representing the Hindu religion  warding off evil spirits or something. I am still not sure of why there are all of these explosions, but they seem to happen on a regular basis and this is what I am told.

Upon my arrival at our house I shared my walk home with my husband and he explained the caste system to me and why no one of my status, being "White American", would dare be seen interacting with the "untouchables". Of course my husband knows me well enough to know that would never stop me and he felt sorry for the lady who was trying to "protect me" from these people as she passed.

This experience caused my husband to reflect and share Jesus's similar experiences with the woman at the well and others that were "untouchables" in his time and the reaction of the "religious". Hmmm....that in turned gave me encouragement to keep pressing on.

I hope you are encouraged in your walk today as well to reach out and help, extend a listening ear, money, whatever it is and be Jesus's hands and feet wherever you go, despite what others may say!

Song. "10,000 Reasons"
http://search.yahoo.com/search;_ylt=Ao_vgpnIWgXw3v6lpLizlGGbvZx4?p=song%2C+bless+the+lord+oh+my+soul&toggle=1&cop=mss&ei=UTF-8&fr=yfp-t-747

God Is Good, All the Time!

Because of his love, we are forgiven, blessed, children of God. As I think about hard times and struggles that we have all had, I think back to the bible's many examples of great men and women of faith that went through incredible hardships, only to be so richly blessed AFTER the suffering. The same could be said of Jesus and the pain he bore for us KNOWING that the end result would be worth it all. That is a perspective as humans we struggle with and need to look back in our own lives when hard times came and the blessings that subsequently followed, if we did not quit or give up.

There are also many bible stories that follow the same pattern. Joseph, Lot and countless others. Could it be that hardships and struggles in life are necessary for us to become what God desires for us, or our loved ones? It is very natural for us to look at tough times as being bad, but are they really? Since we do not know the future and we do not know what lies ahead, how could we possibly understand the whys of our difficulties and those of our loved ones. 

As Christians our lives will not be free of hardships and pains, but there is a common denominator that always prevails. "All things work to good to them that love the Lord." God's word does not return void, his promises are real. Do not take my word for it or even the bible's. Look at your own life and remember your darkest hours and how you felt and where you are today. My guess is that it is in a better place for having been in that hard spot. As my mom use to say " Watch out what you pray for, you just might get it" and how we get "it" is usually through trials and tests that are tough to bear at the time and cause many of us to ask WHY?

Though we may never know the answers, or come to complete understanding in this life, one day we will, so keep the faith and keep pressing on, because things are not always as they seem.

A favorite story of mine about just that. http://www.new-life.net/favrt071.htm

Song. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gt-OouIx8LkGod is good

Be Still....

                                                                    Psalm 46:10

Are you fretting today about your circumstances, the unknown, the troubled waters all around you? May I encourage you today to "Be still".

Settle my restless heart oh God, looking to you the author and finisher of my faith. You are my rock in the storm, my shelter, my deliverer. Hold fast to that which you know, not looking to the situation, but to your Savior. He is the first and the last. Nothing outside of his will can happen to you. If he is allowing it, it serves a purpose. Trust him today and be encouraged to be still, while you wait and trust in his soverignty. Blessings from afar. Listen to his voice and be encouraged today.

“Shall he not also with him freely give us all things?” Paul reasoned (Romans 8:32). Psalm 46:10 encourages us to reflect on what God can do in the face of what we are unable to do.

Spiritual serenity, the psalmist admits, ought to be cultivated in spite of the shaking mountains and agitated waters. This spiritual calm, that God commands, does not come from a lack of troubles; it derives from a steady, deep reflection on the ways God has intervened in history on behalf of his people (cf. Romans 15:4).

So as your world crumbles around you, the call from scripture is: do not flinch in faith in God. Stand still — not because of a self-made confidence, not because you are the most composed person in the face of disaster, not because you have seen it all, but be still because of what you know about God.

It is “God’s past” that provides calm for “our future.” Know that he is God! Know it, not merely intellectually, but practically, spiritually, and emotionally. He is your God. He is the ruler of kingdoms of this earth and the all-powerful Creator of the Universe.

Song:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHATCAvlqQA

You Are the One I Adore!

There is one thing that is more important than anything else and that is serving Christ in all I think say and do. Everything else is a byproduct of that drive. When we live a life that is totally dependent on God's divine provision and we see his hand daily, it is a constant reminder of his sovereignty in all of our situations. The ability to live and let go is a fulfilling way to live. "Not my will but yours be done. He knows the plans he has for us to give us a hope a future". Won't you trust him today and see what he has in store for you?

As I look back over my life I am reminded of the way I saw things and the way God has worked in my life. It invariably is never what I imagined. It is kinda like my sense of direction in travels. I can think this is the way I need to go only to find out it is the complete opposite way! Hopefully your sense of direction is as bad as mine, so that your dependence on God is 100 percent! He will take you places you have never dreamed of! Let go and trust God!

Blessings on your journey today!

Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oh_SXjN-AAs

Dual Natures

We all have 2 natures according to the bible. Flesh and the spirit. One is warring against the other constantly. We are encouraged to die to self daily. Deny the flesh and the lusts thereof. Adopt the fruit of the spirit which is contrary to the flesh. As Peter proclaims his unfailing dedication to Christ just hours before his betrayal. Jesus tells him, "The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak". Jesus goes on to say with man nothing is possible, but with God all things are possible. We are in this body that wars against the spirit, so we must constantly die to self and allow Christ to guide us. Put on the whole armor of God to be able to withstand the wiles of the devil.

II Corinthians 6-7. "For God who commanded the light to shine out of darkness hath shined in our hearts, to give light to the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.7. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God and not us."

Disciplining the body, through deliberate fasting, exercise and or restraint in difficulties we encounter in this life, allows God to shine through us. As we grow stronger in Christ through spiritual discipline of reading the bible, prayer and listening to the still small voice that speaks to us, we then become his hands and feet. As Jesus prays before he is betrayed. "Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee, take away this cup from me, nevertheless not my will, but yours be done." Mark 14:36. 

May we come to the understanding of our role as his children and recognize our strength is in Christ who lives in us.

Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SzOgA2RV6Hs

Something Good is Going to Happen To You!

Recently I have been applying to different job posts for the next year as the international schools start posting their openings. As I begin my search and reflect about using my time wisely I am left with many options. That alone can be confusing, but I have learned the simple prayer of "Lord open and close the doors where you would have me go." What a relief it is when one door closes not to get discouraged, because I know that was not the right path for me.

What I do get excited about now is that when one door closes, that means there is something even better out there for me. Wow! Now that is a kaleidoscope I could never have on my own!

With God all things are possible and his word says, "I know the plans I have for you." He has my next step and my life mapped out, if I am willing to listen to his still small voice and recognize his divine appointments and direction. He desires the best for me, my family and knows all things! What a privilege to rest in his promises and enjoy the ride! I cannot wait to see what God has in store for us in the coming months.

May you be encouraged on your walk today as each door closes know you are one step closer to your God given destiny! Each closed door that looks like a set back is actually a set up for your next assignment. As my daughter would say when she was younger "Dream big Momma, dream big!" Out of the mouth of babes. May we all be encouraged to take the limits off God and dream big!

An old familiar hymn that comes to mind. "Something Good is Going to Happen to You!"
 Blessings abound.,,,,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rIVmTdDuW2o

Walking By Faith

Grateful, thankful hearts, worshiping and trusting in a living God who sees and knows our every care. Take a quick peek at those in distress in the bible. The fiery furnace where Shadrach, Mishach and Abednego who stand firm in their trust in God. David, Job and countless others who do the same. They all rejoiced and stood firm in their distress and God saw them through it. Ways we might not want to respond are also given. The children of Israel when they were faced with hardships on their journey, grumbled and complained at every distress despite their past obvious successes. The spies who scouted the "Promise Land" only to come back with the negative.

A favorite saying of mine when I feel like the children of Israel and other doubters is" If God brought me to it, he will see me through it", which comes from II Thessalonians 5: 24 " Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it."

Are we doubting God and think he has forgotten about us? Well scripture promises his faithfulness in all of our circumstances. Psalm 55:22 " Cast thy burden upon the Lord and he shall sustain thee; He shall never suffer the righteous to be moved." Be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places".

"Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one."

"Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints...." Ephesians 6:10-18.

The word of the Lord, is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. He will go before you in all things. Trust and believe in his word and activate your faith by putting actions to his word that he may prove himself faithful to you today.

Song:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0a9T0UtJBQ
Song. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2nLyfzBfKw

He Walks With You and Me!

 The earth is being watered, yet my preference is to stay dry. The end result is I end up doing things that I might otherwise have put off on a prettier day. My reflection as God's child is that sometimes our discomfort may be to change our attention or direction. We may never understand God's ways, but if we trust him and learn to listen to the "still small voice" that guides us, we can be confident in his sovereign plan for our lives and those around us, even when we do not understand.

Talking to God can be as easy as talking to your best friend. The song I learned as a kid that comes to mind is "He Walks With Me." Listen and see if he is trying to get your attention as well.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=txzOErCuQlo

Blessings abound to all who hear and obey.....

Lord We Wait For You!

Are you going through hardships and struggles where keeping the faith is hard to do? You question and doubt, yet God's word gives encouragement in that struggle. It is in that struggle and uncertainty where God will not only show up, but your faith will grow stronger as a result of your dependence on him.

Isaiah 30: 18-21.
18 Therefore the Lord longs to be gracious to you,
And therefore He waits on high to have compassion on you.
For the Lord is a God of justice;
How blessed are all those who long for Him.
19 O people in Zion, inhabitant in Jerusalem, you will weep no longer. He will surely be gracious to you at the sound of your cry; when He hears it, He will answer you. 20 Although the Lord has given you bread of privation and water of oppression, He, your Teacher will no longer hide Himself, but your eyes will behold your Teacher. 21 Your ears will hear a word behind you, “[e]This is the way, walk in it,” whenever you turn to the right or to the left.

Are you trusting in God to enlighten your path each step of the way, trusting that the road will appear as you keep walking, listening to his still small voice.

I encourage you, as you "wait" upon the Lord, to read his word and be encouraged to hang on wherever life has you.

Psalms 37:9 For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth.

Psalms 37:34 Wait on the LORD, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it.

Psalms 52:9 I will praise thee for ever, because thou hast done it: and I will wait on thy name; for it is good before thy saints.

Psalms 62:5 My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.

Psalms 69:3 I am weary of my crying: my throat is dried: mine eyes fail while I wait for my God.

Psalms 104:27 These wait all upon thee; that thou mayest give them their meat in due season.

Psalms 106:13 They soon forgat his works; they waited not for his counsel:

Psalms 130:5 I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.

Psalms 130:6 My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning.

Proverbs 20:22 Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.

Isaiah 8:17 And I will wait upon the LORD, that hideth his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him.

Isaiah 25:9 And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the LORD; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.

Isaiah 26:8 Yea, in the way of thy judgments, O LORD, have we waited for thee; the desire of our soul is to thy name, and to the remembrance of thee.

Isaiah 30:18 And therefore will the LORD wait, that he may be gracious unto you, and therefore will he be exalted, that he may have mercy upon you: for the LORD is a God of judgment: blessed are all they that wait for him.

Isaiah 33:2 O LORD, be gracious unto us; we have waited for thee: be thou their arm every morning, our salvation also in the time of trouble.

Isaiah 40:31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

Isaiah 59:9 Therefore is judgment far from us, neither doth justice overtake us: we wait for light, but behold obscurity; for brightness, but we walk in darkness.

Isaiah 64:4 For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him.

Jeremiah 14:22 Are there any among the vanities of the Gentiles that can cause rain? or can the heavens give showers? art not thou he, O LORD our God? therefore we will wait upon thee: for thou hast made all these things.

Lamentations 3:25 The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him.

Song:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FaiQ8KiyM8k

I Will Follow You.....

Have you ever been led by a guide, or deferred to someone else's expertise in how to do something or go somewhere? Usually, depending on a guide, creates a sense of relaxation and enjoyment for the one who is being led. When you have placed your trust in the guide, you no longer need to worry about the logistics of the trip. Your primary objective is to enjoy the journey.

Now how closely does this translate to our walk with God? Are we stressed and fretting about the path we are on? Are we worried about getting lost or not having food to eat? What about needing to rest, bathroom breaks, water etc. Seems kinda silly when we put it like that does it not, but is that not the same thing the children of Israel complained about when being led?

If we are truly relying on God's guidance, these concerns and worries are not ours, but his. If we find ourselves fretting about these things it might mean we have gotten ahead of our guide? I am fond of taking inventory and re-evaluating things periodically, but occasionally I get so wrapped up in what I am doing that I forget and find myself hitting my head against a wall, before I look up and ask what is going on? Without realizing it I have gotten off the path and have taken my eyes off God, and or decided I was so good at "x" that I could take it from here, thank you Lord, I've got it.

Now I am sure none of you are like me, but on the off chance you find yourself stressing more than enjoying the journey, and not sharing your enjoyment with those around you, it might mean you are lost or forging ahead without your guide.

My encouragement is to take time to reflect and gauge your stress level. It would be a good indication of where we are on our journey and our relationship with Christ.  Do I really trust him? Do I really believe he has my best interest at heart? Do I really believe his promises? Our joy and peace in all our circumstances speaks volumes..... Who is your guide and are you listening, trusting, obeying, or stressing?

Isaiah 58:11 "The LORD will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring".

Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWJLy3-iRQo

Never Let Go!

  Whatever your storm is today I want to encourage you to never let go, God is there with you! As we learn to trust him with our lives we learn that no matter where we are, or where we go, he is there with us longing to have a relationship with us. When we allow him into our lives and have fellowship with him, he goes before us each step of the way, preparing the road we are walking on.

  Psalm 55:22 " Cast thy burden upon the Lord and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved."

  Wow! What a verse to give hope and encouragement. Stand firm on God's word and trust him to see you through whatever storm life is throwing you today.

Song:" You Never Let Go." http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIAdgLR1ZGw

We Lift Our Voice To You!

Dear Heavenly Father in Jesus Name we come to you with our petitions and prayers asking from unprecedented favor and guidance as we travel. You have promised you would never leave or forsake us and we will move on in acceptance trusting you to open the doors supernaturally because we know that we are more than able to do whatever you have called us to do. Not my will but yours be done. Thank you for blessings and favor untold, in Jesus name I pray.

Song. White Flag http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lk8ue3qN0hg
Song: Oh No You Never Let Go. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ew6y6COVm6A

The First Day ....

Whether we are 1 or 100 this can be the first day of the rest of our lives! There are times when looking back is good, as it gives us a chance to reflect and adjust our actions based on our past results that we want to keep or change, however looking ahead is even more important.

If we keep our eyes on our goals and trust in God's divine provision we are depending on him each step of the way, letting go of past failures and stepping into new provisions. Not fretting, but looking forward to this day! "This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it"! Psalms 118:24.

If we look at each day as the first day of the rest of our lives, we run our race without the baggage of the past with more hope and energy. Letting go and acting "as if" this is the first day, fresh, rested, revived, encouraged to press on!

First days are always so much more exciting, our hope is at its' peak, our energy and enthusiasm is real! Remember your first day of school, your first kiss, your first kid, your first day of summer, your first.....you get what I mean. There is a freshness and expectation that only comes with firsts!

As we start the new week, Lord help us to live each day as the first day of the rest of our lives! Help us to see our blessings each day with a freshness and a newness that only comes from knowing you, shinning your joy and love to all we meet, in Jesus name I pray.

Song. Love Will Keep Us Together.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bau1ItGgYjI&noredirect=1

I'm Alive!

A time to be grateful, a time to celebrate, a time to weep, a time to mourn. The bible reminds us that in this life we will have all of these.

I heard a speaker once that reminded me that there are things we need to forget and things we need to remember. Christ's birth and sacrifice for us was key to what we needed to remember and to keep him center in our lives everyday. He also went on to say that past hurts and failures that tend to drag us down and make us feel less than what God intended us to be, we needed to let go of and forgive ourselves and others so that we could live the joyful lives that God designed for us to live. Profound words to consider.....

The book of Ecclesiastes sums up our time here on earth the best, in my opinion. Read and be inspired today to truly live!

A song that has meant a lot to me during times of hardship and ultimate victory for God's divine provision in my life. May it inspire and encourage you on your walk today as well.
 " I Can Only Imagine" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xwzItqYmII

Modeling God's Love

In looking back at past posts I came across this timely piece that I thought to share again on the heels of Father's Day weekend.

I must confess I have never followed Kathy Grifford's career before, but in an interview she gave a reflection of her life, and it would appear she has been a blessing to many people. She states her purpose in life is to be a blessing and that as long as she has a pulse, God has plans for her and she is eagerly looking for ways to reach out in a kind word or deed to those in her path. She states she took her cue from Paul Newman and shares her journey in her new book, "Just When I Thought I'd Dropped My Last Egg". She unabashedly proclaims God in her life and her role as his child and compares his unfailing love for her as modeled by her earthly father who recently passed away.

Personally I am encouraged to check my course and path after hearing her speak and I pray you are too. May God continue to use each of us with our talents and gifts to be an encouragement to those around us daily, so that we may live richer and more meaningful lives touching others with the love of Christ that is in us.

Blessed To Be A Blessing

Like many of you I have been blessed with health, hope and all that I need with more than my share of necessities and luxuries. I know on my worst day I am 100 percent better off than most I encounter daily.

In the bible, it uses the story of the poor woman who put in two of the smallest coins in the offering box. The disciples with Jesus were not very impressed, but Jesus said this woman has given more than any other today. How could that be? Jesus said it was because it was all she had.

How did the woman think she would buy dinner that night? I would guess because she had nothing it was easy for her to trust God to provide because without him she would not be able to survive. She demonstrated her reliance on God in a way that is hard for most of us. Gratitude, humble and appreciative. Are we? Where is our hope? What do our spending habits say about us?

At our worst we are blessed. May we collectively make a difference each day in the lives of those who have nowhere to turn. I am enclosing a link to check out giving organizations for their credibility, but also realize there are many opportunities right in our own communities and people we meet daily, that we could show the love of God in a very practical way. www.give.org

When in doubt about your role as a Christian, read God's word about giving and let him speak to your heart. http://biblehub.com/drb/luke/12.htm

Lord Have Mercy!

When Job is afflicted he prays to God and his friends turn against him. They look at the storm yet Job looks to God. Job prays for mercy and forgiveness and refuses to compromise his integrity. His friends are quick to throw in the towel and play the blame game!

I think we can all see various players in our own lives in similar circumstances. My hope and prayer for  us is that we become more like Job and trust in a living, loving, omnipresent God that is working all things for our good, even our hardships.

As Jesus asks Peter, do you love me three times, I think Christ asks us the same. Do you trust me? Do you really believe I love you? If so, follow me. I imagine him saying, quit your whining and complaining, and get with the program. Are we going forward or not....

I know in times of leadership it is often frustrating because some in the group always want to point out what is not going right, instead of focusing on moving through the situation to a better place. We all go through hardships and tough times, but if our trust is in Christ we know that better times are ahead and we must keep pressing forward.

Do not quit and listen to your friends who are busy tearing you down about what you cannot do, but keep your eyes on the maker of heaven and earth and keep the faith of God's promises.

" The substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen. For greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world. I will never leave you nor forsake you." His promises are real and relevant in whatever situation we find ourselves.

Psalms Ch. 1-7, continues to speak of God's unfailing provision for those that follow his commandments and trust him. He sustains, saves and protects us from all those that persecute us. His blessing is upon the righteous.

Help us dear Lord to be that faithful and righteous servant that when others persecute us, we stand firm in our trust and faith in God to see us through each step of the way.

Song: "Lord Have Mercy" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eDpp_YdXnqs 

Blessed Assurance

 As Christians we are encouraged to be thankful and humble,"Giving thanks with a grateful heart". As we walk on our journey today help us to be that thankful and grateful servant for all his many wonderful blessings he has so graciously given us.

Help our lives and walk reflect that humility in all we do for his glory. Let our actions speak louder than our words, as we continue on our journey that others might be drawn to him. Let this be our story and song, praising our Savior all the day long.

Song by Alan Jackson:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9XZ_HSquUQ

Standing Firm in Troubled Times

On Christ the solid rock I stand, is a verse that resonates with me. Luke Ch. 6: 47-49. "Whoever comes to me and hears my sayings and does them is like the wise man that built his house on the rock".  Action words. God does not say we will not have troubles in this life, but we are to follow his words and trust in his sovereign provision so that when troubled times come, our house will stand firm. He contrasts that with those who hear his words yet do not do according to them, as a house without a foundation that when the storms came it fell and the ruin of the house was great.

In whatever storm you may find yourself in today, I pray that your hope and trust is solid in God's word and promises.

Song:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQgD_Wg9DG4

Words and story from the song. http://faithalone.org/journal/1998i/Ward.html

Fill Our Cups Lord!

 Fill my cup Lord, I lift it up Lord, come and cleanse this thirsting of my soul. Bread of heaven feed me till I want no more, fill my cup, fill it up and make me whole. Beautiful words to a familiar hymn.

Out of the abundance of our heart our mouth speaks. Luke 6:45. "A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of".

May the words of our mouth and the meditation of our heart be pleasing to those around us. May our cup indeed overflow with your love, hope and healing to those who hear. Help us to be a blessing to those around us each day I pray....

Song: "Fill My Cup Lord" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s4l2yY2r95g

How Great Is Our God!

Sometimes we may be tempted to look at our circumstances and fear, but God's word is there to remind us that he is still in control, no matter how bleak or bad it seems. May we be reminded and encouraged this day through God's word in this song and video. Listen and be reminded of the awesome God we serve!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xi0yLRX4d2M

Waiting Upon God

"Strength arise as we wait upon the Lord. Our hope our strong deliverer." Words to a song that remind us that God's timing is never late or early. He encourages us in our struggles through remembrance of past victories and his word, to wait. He knows our every need, he desires to take care of us as only a loving Father can and sometimes the answer is immediate, yet other times it is to wait, or even no for our own good.

Trusting in our heavenly Father who knows what we need before we even ask, is what is referred to in the bible as faith as a child. Humbly coming to Jesus with thanksgiving for the many blessings he has bestowed on us in the past and letting our request be known to him. His word promises to never leave or forsake us. So even if we are feeling alone today, we need to trust in our knowledge and past experience, not relying on how we feel in the moment.  Look to our heavenly Father and know he cares for you and me as only a parent can!

As a coach, teacher and parent we call this "self talk". What are we telling ourselves today? I encourage you to memorize scripture and repeat it when the devil comes and tempts us to look at the storm and not our Savior! Listen to this song and be encouraged in your struggles today when you are tempted to fear.

Song: Everlasting God. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jP2nz6PG8KM

What Are We Afraid Of?

Do you ever find yourself worrying about your circumstances, fretting the unknown? I think for most of us that is a pretty normal occurrence, yet the bible calls us as Christians
to think differently. Let us look and see what it has to say about how we should think.

Matthew Ch. 6 vs 33-34. "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness." Take no thought for tomorrow, for today is evil enough with promise that says, I will take care of you, I know what you have need of." The gospel of Matthew is full of instruction and encouragement.

I am relieved to know we serve a loving God who knows our every need. Not only are we promised eternal salvation, but the fix is in. We have a winner in our corner, the end has already been determined. We have absolutely NO reason to fear! What more could we ask for in this life, and in our life to come.

We are honored to serve a loving God that knows our every need even before we ask. He desires to give us his best. Let us get out of the way with our small thinking and rejoice! God is working all things for our good. Brothers and sisters in Christ we have reason to be excited!

 The question then is, why are we living in fear, under our circumstances? Do we not believe in his promises, have faith or trust the maker of heaven and earth?

Christ scolds us in Matthew Ch. 6 vs.30, "Oh ye of little faith." With his disciples he does the same. Ch.8 vs. 26. I am sure he must get tired of us with all of our whining."Let us run with patience the race that is before us, looking to Jesus the author and finisher of our faith." Hebrews Ch. 12 vs 1-2.

Song: "Mighty to Save" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sR8rlTIU8_Y

GIve Me Words To Speak.....

A few years back my daughter came home from school and shared what a guest speaker had encouraged them to do. They started by making a bracelet of yarn and every time they complained about something they were encouraged to move it to the other arm. It was a simple exercise to make them aware of how much they might be complaining, often times without even realizing it.

 What if we took the same exercise and moved the bracelet every time we showed gratitude? I wonder how much my own bracelet would move? We all have much to be grateful for even in our most dire circumstances, but sometimes the habit of gratefulness needs to be practiced until we start seeing all God has done for us each day.

Though times are tough and obviously people are concerned about what the future holds, we are asked to be faithful stewards of what we have, and keep our eyes on Jesus and not the storm. Let us hold firm and keep the faith, being good stewards of the manifold of grace that God had gives us each day. Help us to build each other up in words and deed, shinning God's love to those around us in all we say and do. I John Ch. 3-5. 

Thought for the day: If we were convicted of being Christians, would there be enough evidence?
Song:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7Xk6sc62EY

Numbering Our Days.......

For the past couple of days the scriptures that keep popping up when I read are those in Psalms that speak of numbering our days. Psalms, Ch.90, Psalm, Ch.39 vs.4. They speak of knowing our end and measuring our days with an understanding of how frail we are.

I then turn to the New Testament in Matthew Ch. 24, which gives the signs of the end. All of these scriptures are reminders to reflect on our lives and make sure we are living each moment with a scrutiny of it being our last. What if it was our last for whatever reason, or that of our loved ones? We have only to look at the recent news in Oklahoma as a sobering example of just how fleeting life can be.

Just as we assess our daily aspirations and goals, I pray that we are also reminded to ask,"Are we living like we are suppose to today?" Common questions are, what if Jesus was here with us, what if we would never see that person again, what if we knew someone was watching, what if that thought or word was broadcast across the media for all the world to see, what if ?

Is our conscience clear, are we living like it is our last, would we have regrets, would we do things differently, are we making the most of everyday, would Jesus say well done good and faithful servant? Piercing questions that might cause us to cringe, yet if we come to the "light" and pray for him to help us to number our days, help us to know our end and how frail that we are, I dare say we would all make some changes in our decisions right now.

May God speak to our hearts as he continually guides and directs our footsteps. The chorus to a song that is on my heart is "Never once did he make us walk alone. He is faithful. Listen and be encouraged today. Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r2CpU39tM0c

Second Chances...

Some of us will get second chances yet others will not. How do we know? Truth is we do not. What if you were one of the recent tornado victims, what would you say to others in retrospect? "What if" could apply to many situations around us each day. The bible states to number or days. Enjoy your life and leave treasures in heaven, by being a blessing and sharing God's love each day.This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad it in!

The other day in church there was also a life changing event that happened right at the end of service. An older lady passed out and as we stretched her out on the pews, she was "gone". Her eyes starred back at us cold and unmoving. The moment of action seem to have passed. The niece starts to panic as her aunt is just visiting and was in good health, now this. In that very moment the older lady comes back to us, alive. Wow! She wants to sit up but we say no, just lay her for a minute. We check her vitals and called off the ambulance. She is alive!

I must confess that was a first for me and apparently several others in the room as well. As the pastor cleared out the congregation to make way for help we were left with some pretty somber, but happy people. What just happened? We all knew by the look in her eyes that she was gone, some even voiced that fact, yet in that moment of realization she came back. With a niece in tears and everyone gathered around, the lady was startled, shocked, embarrassed. She did not know what we knew. Today could have, should have been her last. She however had a second chance....

How about you? I hope none of us go through that experience or the one in Oklahoma, but if we did would we live differently afterwards? Somber thought, but enlightening as well. 

Song of the day." I'm gonna live for today." By Natalie Grant. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEhn0CQ49Kw

In Warfare With the Devil!

The other day I received an email from my daughter's dad with no explanation just 3 attachments from a hospital where she is traveling in another country with her name on it. Want to talk about a heart racing moment! It was as if I had just started sprinting as fast as I could up hill. My body was screaming danger and was reacting and preparing for the worst! As I tried to open the attachments my fingers were thick and I could not get them opened to see what had happened. In the natural I was panicking, then I remembered to pray. Better late than never I suppose, but boy was I on full throttle as I then tried to calm myself and see what was wrong.

Have you ever been there where you get jabbed and realize just how vulnerable you really are? Now most would and have described me as rock solid and steady. I rarely waver in tough situations or at least outwardly. Whispered prayers come second nature and then I become focused on the task usually very calmly, irrespective of the situation. The other day however was different. Even I was surprised at my immediate physical anxiety! At that moment and in reflection it has created in me more empathy and compassion for others' in their distress, but also an insight into Gods' love for us!

My reflection as a result of that moment was that there is nothing God does not feel when we hurt! I can attest to that based on my own experience the other day. Nothing hits the heart of a parent more than the pain of their child, nothing!

I am pleased to report after I was finally able to open the attachments and read them, that there was good news in the reports that were sent, but the experience did bring me to my knees once again, which is not a bad place to be either....

I am here to tell you that God is on our side, and though Satan may throw us curve balls and try to trip us up, it should get us excited because there is something around the corner he does not want us to get too, so press on harder and keep the faith because together we will come out victorious! "But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world". 1 John 4:4
Enlightening sermon:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-lvpgndRyTY

The Power Of Our Words

Whether we are an adult or child, words have power and how we use them has a profound impact for good or for bad, whether we intend them too or not. I am sure each of us can remember something that was said that was hurtful and how it shaped our view of ourselves to the negative. My hope is that you also have a memory of positive things that were said, that helped and encouraged you. My prayer for each of  us today, is found in Psalm 19:14:
"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer".

Below are a few more examples of what Gods' word has to say about "our" words.

James 1:26 "If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless".

Luke 6:45. "The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks".

Proverbs 29:20 "Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him".

Proverbs 16:23-24 "The heart of the wise makes his speech judicious and adds persuasiveness to his lips. Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body".

James 3:1-12 "Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire"!

Lord, help us to remember your words and make you a proud parent by what we say and do, in Jesus name I pray.

Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKfhlHoemPI

You're A Child Of God

I remember my thoughts, wishes and dreams for my own daughter as she graduated from high school and now college, and I am sure it is not unlike many of yours. As parents we pray our children will grow up and do great things, keeping God first and foremost in their lives, but recognizing that they will have to choose daily the right path to walk on, sometimes uphill and against the crowd. We pray we have prepared them as best we can for what lies ahead with enough hope to persevere in the face of difficulty, yet enjoy the blessings that God has in store for them through it all.

As parents we have the opportunity to model God's love to our children, but also like God, we recognize that they will make their own choices, despite what we do.

The comfort we have as parents is also found in scripture. Proverbs 22:6: "Train a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it."

A touching story I thought to include for all of those facing graduation this year. Blessings.....

http://www.spiritual-short-stories.com/spiritual-short-story-657-A+Bible+For+Graduation.html

Where is Our Hope?

 Faith by its biblical definition, "Is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen". Hebrew Ch.11. The bible also states that faith without works is dead. James Ch.2 vs.26.

The bible has much to say about faith and living for God. Some have taken these scriptures and spun the phrase, that God helps those that help themselves, however this is not biblical, so what is the difference? Hebrews Ch. 11 lists the many examples of the people of faith in the bible and what they did and then what God did as a result of their faith in action. 

The difference in faith and my works is that faith in God is it is his work not mine. He does however require that we jump, walk and move towards the expected deliverance or outcome, without the means or the knowing how, yet trusting in him to provide. By doing this we recognize it is not of ourselves that we are delivered or provided for, but by Christ alone, hence he gets the glory and not us.

When I come up against things that I need help, my first response is a whispered prayer. Help me, I need your guidance and the answer is there immediately. Other times I have to wait and trust. I must confess the waiting is tough, but through the experience my faith grows stronger.

 If you are going through a low point or are asked to walk into the unknown, get excited because God is about to show up! Peter asked to get out of a boat into a stormy sea, and there God called him and met him.

Let us be encouraged today in whatever situation we find ourselves to keep our eyes on Jesus, and trust he will see us through. Jesus after all is "the author and finisher of our faith". Hebrews 12:2.

God's Blessing and Protection For You!

Psalm 3:4, "Salvation belongs unto the Lord; thy blessing is upon thy people. 4:8, I will both lay me down in peace and sleep, for thou Lord only makest me to dwell in safety. 5:12 , For thou Lord will bless the righteous, with favor thou will compass him as with a shield. 6:8-9, Depart from me all ye workers of iniquity; for the Lord hath heard the voice of my weeping. The Lord hath heard my supplication; the Lord will receive my prayer."

If any of you have ever been attacked, discouraged or downtrodden these are powerful words from God. He is with you, he will see you through, you are a child of the most high. Do not surrender your position as a child of God. Satan is a liar and God's promises are true. Keep your eyes on him, the one true God, author and finisher of our faith. Stand strong in the Lord and he will sustain you. Not by might nor by power, but by my spirit sayeth the Lord.

When we get in God's word and study it we are able to stand against the wiles of the devil, putting on the whole armor of God.

Song:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXAqoZuYvyA

A Prayer For Our Children

On the heels of Mother's Day it is no wonder this is on my heart. As I am drawn to Psalm 144:12, I lift up my thanks to God for his divine protection and favor for me and my family. I pray for my daughter as she continues her walk in Christ ,wherever she goes, and pray that she continues to be used of God in a mighty way as his light shines through her in all she does.

As a parent this verse speaks to my heart and I am grateful to be able to pray blessings and favor upon my child. "That our sons in their youth will be like well-nurtured plants, and our daughters will be like pillars carved to adorn a palace” (Psalm 144:12).

I found this excerpt from a sermon on this verse I would like to share. 
"Children like this don’t happen by chance. If we want sons like mighty oaks and daughters like graceful pillars, we must pray for this and we must work for this. Indeed, producing children like this is the work of a lifetime. It is our greatest and highest and noblest work, the finest gift we can give to the world. If we come to the end of life and have done great things (as the world counts greatness), but our children are not walking with the Lord, how will we ever be satisfied? And if we come to the end and our dreams of worldly fame have not come to pass, but our children love Jesus, we can go down to the grave smiling, knowing that our time on earth has not been in vain".

Beautiful words with a call to action. My prayer today is that we be the parents and grandparents that God has called us to be, for our childrens' sake and the hope of the world.

Song: "Somebody's Praying"http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oI_h_IRfRe8

"You Alone Are The Famous One"

A beautiful song of gratitude to the maker of heaven and earth. God has spoiled us with his creation and many blessings. I pray we are accepting the gifts and grace with humble, gratefulness for all he has done, and continues to do for us daily as his children.

Song: "Famous One" by Chris Tomlin  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CxLIFA2aW2A

A Parent's Love...

As parents, moms and dads, I believe this love is the closest we can come to knowing how much God loves us. The scripture reads, "We being evil know how to give good gifts to our children, how much more does our heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him"? Matthew 7:11

A fitting verse for upcoming Mother's day. Psalm 139:13 "For you created my inner most being; you knit me together in my mother's womb."

God created us and fashioned us in his image. He came and died that we might have eternal life.
We are not worthy, yet God loves us, forgives us and calls us his own. What do we do, to earn such love? The answer is nothing, except accept him as our personal savior. John 3:16.

With God all things are possible! What is stopping you from total surrender? He wants to walk with you daily and be your guide, comforter, companion, fill your void and give meaning to this life. He is motivated out of love, and desires the best for you now and for eternity. 2 Peter 3:9.

Don't wait, Jesus is calling you now....

Song: "I Surrender All" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Om4qyTbaHdc

Provisions are Being Made

Have you ever been in a situation and questioned why is this happening?  In the midst of a struggle it is often hard to see that provisions are being made, and sometimes it is not until further on our journey that our eyes are further enlightened to the blessing that is in the fire. May we learn to trust in God's divine provision, even when we do not understand.

 We may never know the whys of some of life's toughest questions, but we can trust in an ever loving God that is working behind the scenes on our behalf. Maybe one day we will get a backstage pass and have full understanding, but today help us as Christians to shine bright in our struggles and trust in the living God who cares for us.

Philippians Ch. 4 vs.5 -7"The peace of God that passes ALL understanding keep our hearts and minds through Jesus Christ. Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving present your requests to God, and the Peace of God that transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Vs. 9 Those things, which you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, Do: and the God of peace shall be with you."

Prayer: I lift up our prayer group and new friendships made, looking to you the author and finisher of our faith to answer their prayers spoken and unspoken, knowing you hear our heart's cry, in Jesus name I pray.

Song:" I Give You My Heart" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rioyt4Qwk3E

Ready Yourselves!

This morning the "Call to Prayer" goes off as I write and I am reminded of the different views and religions we all have around us each day. The question I then pose to myself is, what is my role in all of this? The thought "Ready Myself" comes to mind.

How we live today will and does affect the choices people make around us, whether we intend for it to or not. People cannot help but take note, it is part of human behavior and part of how we learn.

Question. What are we teaching those around us today? Are we toxic or helpful? I do not believe we have a choice to be neutral. I have included a quote that I identify with regularly as of late. When posed with the question of what do I do, this famous quote and song seems to be a good starting point.

Do Good Anyway

People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered;
Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind,
People may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.

If you are successful,
You will win some false friends and some true enemies;
Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank,
People may cheat you;
Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend a year building,
Someone could destroy overnight;
Build anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness,
They may be jealous;
Be happy anyway.

The good you do today,
People will often forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have,
And it may never be enough;
Give the world the best you've got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis,
It is between you and God;
It was never between you and them anyway.
- Mother Teresa.


Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6BW_5WosgA