This Is The Day!

I have started my search for my next teaching post and have had to come up with a list of what is really important in order to get a sense of direction and narrow my search. Is it money, beautiful location, prestige or purpose? A question that helps to center me is, if this was my last post would I have any regrets? As I reflect on that one question my search becomes easier as I set aside the weights that so easily distract me. Hebrews 12:1-2. Therefore, seeing we also are compassed about by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

In the bible it also states that this is the day the Lord has made let us rejoice and be glad in it. My time here is to be used wisely and enjoyed. So the question is what is wisely, what makes me happy? Is it money, relationships, food, family, activities? Obviously the list could go on and on for all of us depending on our current position in life.

For younger people it may be college, careers, marriage, house, car, kids, vacations etc. Where does it all stop? What happens when we achieve all we can, what next? One might say well then I store up plenty and enjoy the rest of my life doing what I want to do. The bible also shares about the gentleman who thought the same and tore down his barns to store his excess. He was called a fool, and told that night his life would end. Ecclesiastes 1-3,Psalm 45,Ephesians 2 NKJV - The Vanity of Life ...
 the writer concludes that all of life is vanity. God says that our life is to be enjoyed. To eat, drink  and enjoy today, for it is a gift from God.

So where does all of this information leave me on my initial question? How am I spending my time? Is it wisely, am I storing up treasure in heaven where moth and dust does not corrupt? If I gain the whole world and lose my soul, is it for not? At the end of each day can I say I have used it wisely, by sharing God's love with someone else?  Today, this moment is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it! I think I have my answer. May your day be as reflective and enjoyable.

Godspeed to all....Song.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tD2pq-Eit1k

Going Through The Motions.....

What if?______ We can all fill in the blank with many things. How many of us ask ourselves that question, before it is too late? Are we living to our fullest potential or just going through the motions? Do we have passion, love, hope, excitement for today, tomorrow in what God has planned for us? Great questions to ponder. God's ways are higher than ours, dare we let go of trying to control everything based on our own understanding and let God direct us in the way he desires? When he speaks to our hearts are we willing to go where he wants us too? Do we trust him enough to say yes Lord, wherever you lead I will follow? What dreams has God placed in your heart today? Are you willing to get out of your comfort zone and say, "yes"?

An awesome song by Matthew West. "The Motions"

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

Choices....

Each day we have choices and based on those choices consequences will follow that leave marks on those we encounter. As Christians we must realize that our daily choices will affect those around us whether for good or bad, we are leaving a mark.

I recently had the privilege of overseeing some college instructors who were just learning to teach. What I found myself sharing with them as they made mistakes, was that the students they were teaching were like fresh play dough. The instructor's words and actions were making an impression on these young kids for better or for worse. Yes they were just teaching a game, but in the process they were impacting them for life about how to be kind, use good language when frustrated, how to persevere, how to win and lose graciously, and to feel good about their efforts.

As Christians we do the same thing in our walk for Christ. We walk daily among those who are less fortunate, need a helping hand, or a kind word. Are we sharing Christ to those in our path with our everyday words and actions?

Lord, open our eyes and help us to see  those who are less fortunate and give a helping hand, a kind word to those who are struggling, share the love of Christ with an attitude of gratitude in all we do, leaving good marks on those we meet, for a good testament to Christ who lives in us.

 Below are some quotes and sayings I found that are guaranteed to make us reflect on our own choices and what those actions are telling others.....

Quotes:

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word,
a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring,
all of which have the potential to turn a life around.
- Leo Buscaglia.

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.

Certainly clumsy, embarrassing, unprincipled, and mean spirited things
do occur in our interactions with other people that would tempt us to take offense.
However, ultimately it is impossible for another person to offend you or to offend me. Indeed, believing that another person offended us is fundamentally false.
To be offended is a choice we make; it is not a condition inflicted
or imposed upon us by someone or something else.
- David A. Bednar.

Every day I live, I am more convinced that the waste of life lies
in the love we have not given, the powers we have not used,
the selfish prudence that will risk nothing and which,
shirking pain, misses happiness as well.
- Mary Cholmondeley.

If we work upon marble, it will perish.
If we work upon brass, time will erode it.
If we rear temples, they will crumble to dust.
But if we work upon men’s immortal minds, if we imbue them
with high principles, with love of God and love of their fellowmen,
we engrave on those tablets something which no time will erase.
and which will brighten and brighten to all eternity.
- Daniel Webster.


Nobody grows old by
merely living a number of years.
People grow old by deserting their ideals.
You are as young as your faith, and as old as your doubt;
As young as your self-confidence, as old as your fear;
As young as your hope, as old as your despair.
.- Douglas MacArthur.

A great many people think they are thinking
when they are really rearranging their prejudices.
- William James.


We must endure the winter, if we would value spring,
and the forest must be silent, . . . before the robins sing.
Flowers lay in darkness, before they bud & bloom,
and the sweetest rays of sunlight shine
after storm and gloom.
- Anonymous (edited by m.m.).

If you change the way you look at things,
the things you look at . . . change.
- Wayne Dyer.

When you come
to the edge of the Light you've known,
and now, must step into the darkness of unknown,
having faith means one of two things: Within the shadows,
there will be solid ground upon which to stand,
or . . . you will be taught to fly.
- Lorraine Ortner-Blake.

With the strength of human bodies that gradually fall apart,
we diligently endure in life's journey, faithfully pulling handcarts
loaded with personal trials and troubles across a vast prairie of opportunity;
where our loving Lord Jesus is ever willing to walk with us; bear each heavy burden,
till we reach the valley of His promise—forgiven and redeemed.
- Matt Moody .

My experience convinces me that optimism is just another word for amnesia—
no matter how bad my life is, I forget about it when the sun rises and I find myself with another chance! "A certain day became a presence to me; there it was, confronting me:
a sky, air, light—a being. And before it started to descend from the height of noon,
it leaned over & struck my shoulder as if with the flat of a sword, granting
me honor and a task. The day's blow rang out, metallic—
or it was I, a bell awakened, and what I heard
was my whole self saying and singing
what it knew . . . . I can.
.- Denise Levertov.

The only real revolution is in
the enlightenment of the mind
and the improvement of character,
the only real emancipation is individual,
and the only real revolutionaries
are philosophers and saints.
- Durant.



You don't drown by falling into troubled waters; instead,
you drown because you don't know how to swim, or
fail to fully apply the ability to swim. There is
always a way out of turbulent waters:
Find it! Learn it! Apply it!
- Matt Moody .

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves,
Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. You're playing small does not serve the world.
There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that
other people won't feel insecure around you.
We are all meant to shine, as children do.
We were born to make manifest
the glory of God that is within us.
It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone.
And as we let our own light shine, we naturally inspire
others to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear,
our shining presence automatically liberates others.
- Marianne Williamson.

A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity;
and optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.
- Winston Churchill.


Excellence versus Winning

If you would hit the mark, you must aim a little above it;
Every arrow that flies feels the attraction of earth.
- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

When an archer is shooting for nothing . . . he has all his skill.
If he shoots for a brass buckle . . . he is already nervous.
If he shoots for a prize of gold . . . he goes blind;
or sees two targets . . . he is out of his mind!
His skill has not changed. But the prize . . . divides him. He cares.
He thinks more of winning than of shooting . . .
and the need to win drains him of power.
- Chuang Tzu, 400 B.C..

Trying to do well and trying to beat others are two different things.
Excellence and victory are conceptually distinct . . . and are experienced differently.
- Alfie Kohn.

Whenever you fall, pick something up.
- Oswald Avery.

There are two ways to live your life.
One as though nothing is a miracle.
The other as though everything is a miracle..
- Albert Einstein.



Four People

This is a story about four people named:
Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody.

There was an important job to be done
and Everybody was sure that Somebody would do it.
Anybody could have done it, . . . but Nobody did it.

Now Somebody got angry about that because it was Everybody's job.
Everybody thought Anybody could do it,
but Nobody realized . . . that Everybody wouldn't do it.

In the end, Everybody blamed Somebody
when Nobody did . . . what Anybody could have done.



Tao of Leadership

When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.
When I let go of what I have, I receive what I need..
By yielding, I endure. The empty space is filled.
When I give of myself, I become more.
When I feel most destroyed, I am about to grow.
When I desire nothing, A great deal comes to me.




For Those Who Have Suffered

I asked God for strength, that I might achieve.
I was made weak, . . . that I might learn humility.

I asked for health, that I might do greater things.
I was given infirmity, . . . that I might do better things.

I asked for riches, that I might be happy.
I was given poverty, . . . that I might be wise.

I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men.
I was given affliction, . . . that I might feel the need for Grace.

I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life.
I was given life, . . . that I might enjoy all things.

I got nothing I foolishly asked for . . .
but received everything I hoped for.

"For God performeth the thing that is appointed for me,
He hath tried me, and I shall come forth as gold." (Job 23:10,14)



For Those Who have Lost Loved Ones

You can a shed tear that she is gone
or smile that she has lived.

You can close your eyes and curse your emptiness
or open your eyes and be filled with the love you shared.

You can turn your back on tomorrow and mourn yesterday
or live for tomorrow . . . because of yesterday.

Your heart can feel sad because you're not with her
or feel glad because she is with God.

You can think of her and only that she's gone
or you can cherish her memory and let it live on.
- David Harkin.




The Birth Called Death

In a beautiful blue lagoon
on a clear day, a fine sailing-ship
spreads its brilliant white canvas in a fresh morning breeze
and sails out to the open sea. We watch her glide away magnificently
through the deep blue and gradually see her grow smaller and smaller
as she nears the horizon. Finally, where the sea and sky meet,
she slips silently from sight; and someone near me says,
"There, she is gone!" Gone where?
Gone from sight -- that is all.
She is still as large in mast and hull and sail,
still just as able to bear her load. And we can be sure that,
just as we say, "There, she is gone!" another says, "There, she comes!"
- Paul Dunn.

Change

They must often change,
who would be constant in happiness or wisdom.
- Confucius.

Not everything that is faced can be changed,
but nothing can be changed until it is faced.
- James A. Baldwin.

This Little Light of Mine....

God's word gives us specific instruction about how to live. If you love me keep my commandments. John Ch. 15 vs. 7 "If ye abide in me and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will and it shall be done." As God's children we are called to be his disciples, and to let his love shine to those who are lost that they might come to know him as their personal Savior.

 As Christians it is important that we are prayed up and filled up with the holy spirit, so that when trials and hardships come, others would see Christ in us and not our human weaknesses. If we are the same as the world, Christ's light is hidden or even put out. Usually it is how we handle our hardships and pain that is our greatest witness for something bigger than ourselves that lives within us, that ultimately draws others to him.

Romans Chapter 12 gives specific instruction of how to handle ourselves as Christians and to walk according to Christ and not the world, blessing those that persecute us and cursing not. Rejoicing with those that rejoice and weeping with those that weep. Patient in tribulation, continuing always in prayer, providing all things honest in the sight of all men.

May we all remember the children's song of  "This Little Light of Mine" and shine bright today.

Romans Ch 15. vs. 13 " Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost."

Song,"Light of the World" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qswhu5QyXgU

I Stand In Awe of You!

This morning in church on our school campus a gentleman from India who works for Gideon bibles spoke about the translation of bibles into the various languages in India and its' distribution throughout the country.

He shared a story of a gentleman that received one of the bibles and read several of the stories where Jesus brought people back to life and he decided that if this was true, then he would bring his mother who died to the local church some miles away and have the church pray for her.

After a long journey with his recently deceased mom he entered the church and told the pastor of his mission. The pastor was taken aback, but promises to come back with the congregation and pray. After a day of praying with the gentleman not being willing to give up, his the mom sits up and asks where  her son has brought her?

This pretty much sums up what I have experienced here in India. God's work is real to these people. They live it and believe it because they depend on it! It is not a fairy-tale or just a nice story to tell. After listening to this preacher I had to reflect to myself. Am I not one of the latter ones, with my western views and comforts that make me less than dependent on God and his word?

I must say after listening to this gentleman it caused me to reflect and to earnestly pray, reminding myself that God's word is true and with confidence I should be praying more earnestly for those on my list! God's word will not return void. He says, "We have not because we ask not".

Do you have radical faith like this man or even that the size of a mustard seed? I think the bible also calls it faith as a child. It really is too simple is it not? If God said it, I believe it and that is that! May God speak to your heart today and encourage you as he has to me, to trust him more completely and truly believe in his word and watch him perform miracles in your life and mine! May God richly bless each and everyone of you.

Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0Qx1e33Ook
:

God Will Make A Way!

For most Psalm Chapter 23 is a well known chapter. God's promise of provision and protection, with ultimate guidance and subsequent blessing. Who would not want these blessings, but as any good parent or teacher knows they come with guidelines. 

Early in the school year I would always let my students know what they could expect from me. I would establish my classroom rules and my expectations. I would then encourage them to follow these rules with the understanding that there were consequences for their choices and as their teacher I promised to be firm, fair and consistent in enforcing those rules. Ultimately the choice was theirs, so I encouraged them to choose wisely. 

God made us with a free will with the ability to think and reason to make our own choices. He also sets out guidelines and provisions with promises and consequences based on our choices. We have hopefully learned that he is indeed firm, fair and consistent with his promises, even more so than the best parent or teacher tries to be. 

As we all seek for justice and fairness in this world we can rest in God's promises to know that ultimately fairness will prevail, both in our lives and others. Let us look inward and make sure we are choosing wisely as God's children today and discipline ourselves to make good decisions so that we might have the confidence in his ultimate protection and blessings that he promises his children. He desires the best for us, but ultimately the choice is ours.

Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zo3fJYtS-o

Psalm 23: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+23 

Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow!

Blessed with a good night's rest, a warm bed, food on the table, health, family and friends! Each day whether we realize it our not we have blessings pouring down from our Creator.

I started a brief exercise with my students, having them write down each day for this week what they were grateful for and to give something to someone else that could not be returned. What I hope they learn from this is that they are energized and happiest when being mindful of their blessings and thus creating a grateful heart and helping others.

I shared my gratitude from my recent trip to the states of how grateful I was for a warm, soft bed, with no noise. I slept forever and loved it when I had a chance to return to the states over the holidays. What I explained is that I had taken that luxury for granted until it was gone. Now that I am back in India though I asked what allows me to be happy on my hard bed when often times I am cold? I shared that as I lie in bed on these times of discomfort I think to the kids and families on the river not far from me who are sleeping on the dirt, with no beds and a modicum of blankets to keep warm. Suddenly my bed seems softer and warmer. See it all depends on my view.....

What I am trying to say is that gratitude does not come from having everything perfect or even everything we want. It comes from seeing what we have as a blessing compared to many around us.

I shared another story when growing up to my students about being told as a kid to eat everything on my plate that kids in Africa were starving. They all kinda laughed and I explained that I never really got it, but after being here I can understand better what they were trying to say.

Sometimes in life we have to go through hardships in order to see the good. My prayer is not to have to go that path, but when and if I do I know I will be a kinder, sweeter person for the journey, loving those around me with more gratitude for each day!

May you be blessed with a heart full of gratitude as you look around to all that you have and let those in your circle know how much you love them and how grateful you are to your Creator for allowing you to have another day to share with them!

Love and blessings to all.....http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/p/r/praisegf.htm

I Will Follow You All of My Days

"I trust in thee oh Lord." Psalm 31. Psalm Ch. 34. "Oh love the Lord, all ye his saints for the Lord preserves the faithful and plentifully rewards the proud doer. Be of good courage and He shall strengthen your heart,all ye that hope in the Lord."KJV.

As I read this passage I am encouraged to get out of my comfort zone and really trust God. If we want to grow we have to stretch our wings, try new things and take risks. Trust, faith and hope really do not hold meaning if they are not put to the test. I can say I trust you, but until I am willing to put my words into action they are merely a belief or thought. I must act, jump, move, or as the scripture says be a doer.

This sure is easier to talk about than to do, but as all goals start with one step, we choose to step into the unknown to grow personally and ultimately in Christ. We understand that if we are not strong then we are in no position to help those around us in any arena, spiritually, professionally, or materially.

So get out of your comfort zone and try something new today that takes you one step closer to your God given destiny. He will take you places you have never dreamed of!

Godspeed to all on your journey.....http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzAUuX5g6KY

Wait Upon The Lord!

The picture of the eagle always reminds me to wait, having learned that its' ability to soar higher than all the other birds is based on their instinct to wait for the right updraft of air that will bring them higher where they are destined to fly! I do not know about you, but waiting is hard for me, yet I am gently reminded every time I see this magnificent bird!

In Psalms 25-27,  just after the famous passage of "The Lord is My Shepherd",  begins a prayer of trusting in God's provision in the midst of turmoil, looking to him for forgiveness and direction. Psalm 25:2, "Oh my God I trust in thee, let me not be ashamed let not my enemies triumph over me", is a chorus that goes with this verse. The chapters conclude in  27:14,  "Wait on the Lord, be of good courage and he shall strengthen thine heart, wait I say on the Lord."

Often times this is easier said than done. The devil attacks and we panic. Things get rough and we lose hope. We look around at the storm and forget God is with us. We try and make it on our own and come up short and get stressed out. His word reminds us to keep the faith, trust, believe and yes sometimes just hold on! He promises to never leave or forsake us. Wait upon the Lord.

I am grateful and humbled by the intimate knowledge of God's constant provision and blessing.  I know, that I know, that I know, no matter the circumstances he is there with us, his children. With that confidence there is a peace that passes understanding, that this world cannot give. For greater is he that is in me,  than he that is in the world. He is working ALL things to good that love him. The word of the Lord.....

May God keep our hearts and minds fixed on the one true God, the author and finisher of our faith, in Jesus name I pray. Song. "Everlasting God" by Chris Tomlin. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TxifqtpW4H4

Where Are You Turning?

I know we have all been there, when life is hitting us from all directions and we do not know which way to turn, what do we do? If you were in the woods and lost, the advice would be to stay put and let the rescuers find you. Is that the same with God? Should we quit struggling, fighting and wait on him to speak to us for divine guidance and direction?

If you are like me there are many times you have been faced with difficulties that left you helpless and merely an actor on the screen being played out before you. The question of "why" naturally pops up, but not far behind I hope is that instant prayer of Lord help me, I cannot make it on my own. As we start each day with prayer and reading of the scriptures seeking his divine guidance, we are better prepared with the full armor of God for each new day and all that it brings.

 God's word is like a compass that gives us direction in our storms. John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Matthew 5:44 "Do not the sinners love their friends, but I say to you love your enemies, pray for those who persecute you, that your light may shine".

Is God using you today to shine bright in your difficult situations? Calling you to be the "light" to those who are lost around you? Like Lot are we being allowed to endure difficulties for our witness for God? Is he allowing hardships for our own growth? We may never know the answers to these difficult questions here on earth, but with faith, hope and belief in the one true God that gives us peace during our most difficult times, we can rest in his word and promises.

Psalms 23:4 "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me".

Hebrews 13:5 "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you".

Where, who or what are you turning to today?

Song. Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nO4uIyz_d90

The Promises Of God!

Deuteronomy Ch. 29 -30, Moses reminds the children of Israel of God's provisions and promises. The consequences of their disobedience and encouragement to obey God's voice. In summary Chapter 30:19-20. " I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse: therefore choose life that both thou and thy seed may live. That thou mayest love the Lord thy God and obey His voice and cleave unto Him, for He is thy life and length of thy days."

                                                              Alex North Photography

As a parent I am perhaps even more conscience of my actions and how they affect my child. The Lord promises blessings to us and our children if we choose wisely. As a parent there is no stronger motivation for me, than that of my child. Cleanse our hearts oh Lord, our minds and our souls that we might receive life and life more abundantly.

Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXDGE_lRI0E

Your Name!

Jesus's name! A strong and might tower. I am so grateful to have the privilege to call on God's name when I am stressed and anxious. What a privilege we are to have God as our Father!

The power of prayer. Rarely a day goes by without a whispered prayer for guidance, healing or hope for myself or those in my path. What a privilege as God's children to be able to go to him in prayer and know he hears our request.

Are you aware of your role as God's child? His word says, you have not because you ask not. 1 John 5:14 "And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him".

May we be ever mindful and grateful, recognizing where our blessings and favor come from, and be like the one leper who was healed and ran back to thank God.

One morning while walking around a lake in India a young girl about 9 or 10 years old ran behind me to catch up to me while I was jogging and asked for money. As I reached in my pocket and gave what I had thought to give to another person further along the way, the child reached up and kissed my cheek. Grateful for another meal, hope for today, with a heart of gratitude.

Is that not what God asks of us? How many of us have asked and prayed, yet when the answer comes we are dismissive and unappreciative and go on as if nothing happened?

Having spent a few years in developing countries, my level of appreciation for everything has magnified! We are so blessed in America and I am so grateful, for what I use to take for granted, because it was so common.

 May we be as bold as this child that ran up to me and asked unabashedly! Then when receiving give gratitude to the one that hears our prayers with hearts of thanksgiving, never taking for granted God's endless mercies as a loving Father.

Song:  "Your Name". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=othYj8jWSwc

Worship His Holy Name

Having returned from the states for an extended holiday, I am reminded of just how blessed we are in a very practical way. I cannot remember a time when I was appreciative of clean water, a soft bed, warmth, ease of transportation, clean food, abundance of everything, not to mention family and friends.
Yet for all we have and as grateful as I am, I reflect on the vast difference in the way people live in other parts of the world and their walk with Christ.

What I see where I am currently, is a lack of physical needs, provisions and what I would call basic necessities, yet I also see an abundance of family, working together, helping each other, gratitude for the simplest of things, an outward expression of faith whether it be Christian, Hindu, Jew, Muslim etc. An acceptance and tolerance of each other without government mandates.

My question then goes to me. How do I choose to live in light of my observations? Do I need to live in a state of deprivation to have my hope and trust in God real? Do I have to do without to appreciate all that I have?

I think my experience has indeed been life changing for me and I hope by extension for others that I have shared, but what do I do with that? Where do I go next? How do I use the information I now have to live more intentional, keeping Christ center in a world of abundance? Thought provoking questions for me that I pray guide me into 2014 and beyond. What about you?

I pray 2014 is a year of reflection and intentional living for all of us as we run the race God has set before each of us. May we all live intentionally, deliberate and reflective in all we do each day!

I love Psalm 56-57, "A Prayer for Deliverance." During times of calamities, injustice and perhaps persecution we can have a confidence in God for deliverance, trusting in a living God that hears our cry. May we be strengthened and encouraged in our walk today as we read his word and may he speak to our hearts and encourage us in all our circumstances of abundance or lack and bring us closer to him and by extension each other in our own country and or around the world.

May God's peace that passes understanding keep our hearts and minds on him, the one true God, and may his love be reflected in all we think say and do each day!

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

Reflections

As I sit waiting for my flight, I was thinking of what really makes a difference in my life, by reflecting on where I have been and where I am headed. Sometimes when I look back I get sad, for loses along the way, then other times I am encouraged by God's provision in my life and those that are close to me.

My thought then takes me to today, this moment that I have. How am I living it?  Do I reflect God's love that lives within me to my family, friends and those that are new to me? What kind of garden am I growing? Am I planting seeds of encouragement, hope and love to all I meet? Have I said yes to those in need, whether it is a kind word or deed?

As we get older I think our steps become more intentional.  Maybe that is wisdom, if we use the lessons we have learned wisely or maybe it is understanding our frailties. According to scripture we are but dust. Many books have been written about our purpose, what it is and how to find it. I find that staying busy sometimes keeps us from reflecting or planning, maybe that is because it is hard and or painful.... 

As we journey into another year may we all reflect on our moments each day. Each day that I close my eyes can I answer one question. Did I use my time wisely today, by reflecting God's love to someone? If I make that a habit of each day then I am looking for opportunities to bless someone with the gifts and talents God has given me each day and at the end of the year I will have been an inspiration to many no doubt, but I dare say the biggest growth will be in me as I strive to become more Christlike in my daily actions. Like all good goal setting or traveling, we have to access where we are and make intentional specific goals for each day to reach our destination, frequently reflecting and making sure we are on course for our intended outcome.

If in our checkpoints we find we are going in the wrong direction, there is nothing wrong with doing a U turn! Recently driving with my daughter has taught me a lot about those. The beauty is she uses them  as much as needed, no hesitations.

How about you. Do you know where you are and where you want to go? Are you on the right path to get there? Do you know the steps that need to be taken to achieve the goal? Are you willing to make a U turn and get on the right path when you find yourself off course? Do you have a friend that can help?

Teaching has taught me a lot about the value of questions, for it causes all of us to think about why we are doing what we are doing and take intentional steps to achieve our goals.

I pray we are all encouraged to take the first step, this moment, each day, keeping our eyes fixed on Christ, the author and finisher of our faith, to reach our final destination.

Blessings and Godspeed to all this upcoming year, one day at a time....

Song:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzAUuX5g6KY

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