In Loving Memory....

I came across a video this morning and wanted to share as it brought back fond memories. May we all remember our older generation each day with empathy and love. In loving memory of Granny, Papa and other loved ones that we were blessed to spend some time with during their aging years. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0sihX98mAw

Somebody's Praying For You......

The song, "Somebody's Praying For You" brings back memories of church camp where we learned to pray for others as intercessors and the fun songs we would sing.

We don't have to know why, but when somebody is place on our heart, or just the generic need to pray, we have an awesome privilege to do so with confidence, that God is working in somebody's life.

I am grateful for a mom that always prayed for her family, and I know there was always a protective covering over me. I hope to continue the example in faithful obedience to his still small voice, even when it is not on my schedule.

Help us all to be prayer warriors for his word says " The prayer of a righteous man availeth much" and he promises to always hear our hearts cry, as the spirit gives us groanings, even when we don't know what to pray. Romans 8:26.

Here is the timeless song by Ricky Skaggs. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MeBMcASoBak

God's Blessings To You

Even in your darkest hour, you are not alone. Listen to this song and be encouraged and start counting your blessings. There is another side to every coin and it is all about our choice. Do we see the storm, or God's hand?

Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjsUie4gToM

Before The Morning

This song has a powerful message of encouragement that I wanted to share.  We have all been there at some level, when we did not think we could go on, but by God's grace we do. Would you dare to believe! Listen and be encouraged today.

Song. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MniOtRnCO9I

God is ....

For those who have nothing, God is everything! One only has to do relief work or outreach of some sort to see this in a very tangible way. For others who have material possessions, wisdom, religion, family and loved ones, it may be harder to trust in God when we are so self-reliant.

On a very practical level it reminds me of the many victims of Hurricane Katrina, that happened in the US, because that is where I grew up, yet others it will remind you of times when you lost loved ones, suffered financial loss or have been devastated for any number of reasons. I think we can all relate at some level, and that empathy creates within us a compassion to reach out and pray for those who are less fortunate.

Hardships have a way of making us better or bitter as the saying goes. When we are able to look back at our progress and see good things that have happened as a result of our tragedy or hardship, then we can reflect with an understanding that we are in a better place now because of it.

Though bad things have happened and will continue to happen here on this earth, we as Christians have a hope and responsibility to reach out with God's love in a very practical way meeting the needs of others as he has called us to be his hands and feet.

 Lord help us to be moved today to lift up those in need through prayer and in very practical ways, so that you will become real to those who are looking and that we will be encouraged as well in our walk with you, in Jesus name I pray.

Song. "You Are Everything".http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X43XXpItGk0

You Are Not Alone

I was once asked what if there is no God and I have believed a lie, how would I feel? My answer was I could not imagine living without God, for he lives within me, and is my confidence in all I do.

 I do however understand that without a personal walk with Jesus one might look to man and to external proof of God's  existence and possibly come up short, even though he is the creator of all we see. Our ability to understand as mere humans is oftentimes beyond our comprehension. His word asks for faith as a child, yet very much like the rich man who relies on his wealth to see him through tough times, the wise man leans unto his own understanding.

God's word is full of promise and provision and I am grateful it is not of ourselves, but God that is guiding and directing our paths. We have access to his promises of protection and blessing with divine guidance that we cannot even begin to understand. So rest in his wings today, knowing he loves you and me, and will take care of us and our loved ones in all situations when we ask him.

A song that will hopefully encourage you today on your walk, especially in your storms.

Song.You are God Alone. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oYCcFtFwcxo

Strength Will Rise as We Wait Upon the Lord

If you are in need of encouragement and hope, this song and scripture is a great spirit lifter to those who are weary. Be encouraged today to stay in the race, your victory is just around the corner!

 "Our hope our strong deliverer.You are the everlasting God, you will not faint, you won't grow weary, the defender of the weak, to comfort those in need." We do serve an everlasting God that knows our every need. He is there in your midst. Talk to him, lean on him, wait on him. Isaiah CH. 40 vs. 29-31,"He gives power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increases strength. vs.30, even the youths shall faint and be weary and the young men shall utterly fail; vs.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." The word of the Lord.....

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

The Broken Road

God you are faithful! Even when our journey is broken by our standards, God in his sovereignty is making a way. His ways are higher than our ways, but he never asks us to walk alone!

"Yeah though I walk through the valley of death I will fear no evil."Psalm Ch. 23 vs. 4. Just as Job recalls his past happiness and favor, he has to assert his integrity among his friends even in his suffering. Job maintains that God is just and is humble in his prayers knowing God hears him despite his current circumstances.

May we all learn from this story and our own, with an intimate knowledge and trust knowing that God is faithful and just, working all things for our good even when we do not understand.

Song: Never Once:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tu1BTmzG1Ac

What Are You Waiting For?

Stepping into the unknown is often scary, but a necessary step to take you to get you where you were made to be. Let God show you his strength today as you step out in faith.

Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcxOkht8w7c

Here I Am Lord

 Psalm 31. "In thee O Lord do I put my trust. vs.3 For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name's sake lead me, and guide me."

As we seek daily guidance, may this scripture speak to our hearts. Recognizing and depending on God to be our fortress, defender, shelter, hope and salvation for his name's sake, daily.

I have always admired and silently cheered the bible stories where the hard headed independent types stood their ground, not on their own merits, but on God's. As some look to super heroes, I look to these heroes of faith as examples of standing and trusting in God for provision and ultimate victory. Some favorites are Daniel and the Lion, right after Shadrack, Meshach and Abednego. Wow! Go God! I admire them because they stood up for what they believed in even when it was not popular and totally trusted in God for his deliverance. 

There are many examples of God's grace, provision and protection throughout the bible that hopefully give each of us encouragement to stand firm in our beliefs and trust God to see us through our trials that we encounter on our walk with him today.

Song: Here I Am Lord. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kiGZ9j3OD88

Are You Living in Fear?

We only have to look at the news or headlines around the world and realize there is ample reason in this world to cause us to fear, not to mention those things in our own families and close friends. The question then is how do we protect ourselves from the message of the world and those around us and not be paralyzed by fear?

God's word and promises however gives us the opposite message. "Fear not for I am with you". Yeah though I walk through the valley of death I will fear no evil".  I did a google search to find out how many times the bible tells us not to fear and I was surprised to find out there is a reference for everyday of the year. That is right, 365 times the bible says, do not fear! Ya think God might know what we are going to be faced with each day?

How many have ever played the child's game of paper, scissors, rock? If not, in this game there is one thing that always trumps the other and allows you to be the winner. We as Christians have the one thing that trumps all, Jesus that lives in us. Are we using that knowledge and putting on the whole armor of God, or are we surrendering our confidence and hope without understanding?

The questions we have to ask ourselves then are who am I going to listen to, where is our hope and are we looking to God to guide and direct our steps? When we can honestly answer these questions our "fear" should take a back seat to the scenes and messages of this world, and we can focus on his promises and blessings each day, even in the midst of lifes' storms.

Today, I encourage you to look to God's word and realize you are more than victorious through Christ Jesus! Claim your place as his child and move forward confidently, looking to the author and finisher of your faith!

Song: "From The Inside Out" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X-afZJ9_TIM

Set Me Apart!

Beautiful praise songs that speak to my current journey as I step out into the unknown, again. I have accepted a teaching post in India to serve in a christian international school, leaving behind all I know. Never having dreamed to be where I am, God continually, gently, guides me, opening doors as he leads me into his will for my life.

Mold me, make me, use me, I give my life to the "Potter's Hands". How about you? Are you willing to walk into the unknown, trusting God to lead you? Listen and be inspired to follow his calling on your life and see if he does not take you places you have never dreamed of! Blessings on your journey...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSKe-gSXjAs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zOJFPa9wLKw&feature=related

Blessed To Be A Blessing.

Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all. Psalm 34:19. We fall down and God picks us up. We are blessed to be a blessing and to be a funnel with the blessings he has blessed us with. Our oil will not run dry. Reach out to those who have fallen and lift them up with the abundance God has given you. His word says we will always have the poor with us and it is our privilege, out of a grateful heart, to help those that are weaker around us. All that we have and all that we are is his. Help us to show his love in all we think, say and do. Deuteronomy 15:10

On the radio one day I heard a saying that is fitting. "Whatever is in the well will come up in the pot". What we are filled up with, will surface in the pot for good or bad. Scripture says, out of the heart the mouth speaks.

Matthew 12:34 "You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks".

Luke 6:45"The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.

Help us to be filled with God's spirit and love, allowing him to fill our pots to overflowing, that we might be a blessing to those around us.

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

What Am I To Do With My Life?

This morning while reading I came across this video that spoke to me. May it speak to your heart as well. Blessings......

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GINNh15cT08

No Greater Love!

As I continue to lift my daughter up in prayer as she embarks on finding "her wings" in her newest adventure, I am brought back to a familiar song that echoes my sentiments. There certainly is no greater joy or blessing to a parent's heart than that of their child, no matter their age. May we see God's love for us by comparison as the bible would encourage us in Matthew 7:11

"So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him."

 I pray we get a sense of our Father's love for us through our own children and know we have an advocate in heaven that loves us more than we can imagine! I hope you are encouraged and enjoy this song as much as I do.

"Find Your Wings"by Mark Harris: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPQ9WvSZnF0

What Is Your Destiny?

What is your destiny? Many people would like to know that, hence the popularity of horoscopes, fortune tellers and the likes. If we look to the bible, God's word, he says, I knew you before you were born, I know the plans I have for you, to give you a hope and a future. I know everything there is to know about you and I am making a way for you. What he does not do, is let us know ahead of time. He asks for faith as a child, trusting in his love that he demonstrated by sending his only son to die on the cross for us. What other proof do we need? He has divine appointments for all of us. You may not know your destiny, but you know who holds your hand, and he desires good things for his children.

Do you hear that still small voice, that urge deep within? Are you asking him to show you the way?Sometimes we do, but then we resist and say no when asked to step out in faith, and often into the unknown? Will you trust him today? Let him show you the way. If you're gonna walk on water, you gotta get out of the boat. An awesome book I recommend as well. What are you waiting for?


Book:http://books.google.com/books?id=KJHqRd5vRrQC&dq=book,+walking+on+water&printsec=frontcover&source=in&hl=en&ei=jJhuS4C8MMiVtgeg8pmEBg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=14&ved=0CEYQ6AEwDQ#v=onepage&q=book%2C%20walking%20on%20water&f=false

Love....

Some do not know what a Father's love is, yet others have been blessed with wonderful earthly dads. As God's children we all have a heavenly Father that loves us and wants to fulfill that longing for acceptance and love deep within us.

Below is a song that captures that essence beautifully. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=17YztR5hP-k&list=UUWF08rsKACrbQme-pH5jCaQ

Come to Jesus!

Come let us worship him. Blessed Redeemer, Emanuel, name above all names, Jesus who died, now glorified, King of all Kings.

I am humbled by his grace, provision and blessing in my life. I have the ability to pray and lay my concerns, hopes and fears at his feet knowing he hears me. I do not have to worry about circumstances or fret the unknown. I commit my life, my loved ones, my circumstances to him daily and look to him for provision, protection, blessing, favor and love...... He hears my every prayer.

Learning to lean, trust in his promises, and let him take the lead in all we do is such a blessing. We do not have to have all the answers, but we can know the one who does and  learn to give him complete control of our ship, our lives.

 Have you hijacked your ship lately or are you letting God lead you? I encourage you to let go and let God take control. Trust is hard for some, but there is no greater peace than knowing you serve a loving God, that holds you in his hands. He is there with us through every storm and is safely guiding our ship home. Deuteronomy 33:27  "The eternal God is our refuge and underneath are his everlasting arms."

Song: "Come to Jesus". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e_4g8_e16dc

Jesus Messiah, Lord of All!

All my hope is in you, Light of The World.

I have not struggled unto death, but Christ did for me. Let us be reminded this day of his sacrifice for us so that we might be saved. Love So Amazing! Listen and be reminded, so that we can go forth this Easter in victory, sharing his love that is now in us.

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

At The Cross

                                              Good Friday Service, Union Church, Istanbul

As we prepare our hearts for a deeper understanding of Christ's love for us, I am ever mindful of God's sacrifice. His atonement for our sins, his humble, personal sacrifice that we remember at this time of the year. A chance to reflect on our own lives and make necessary adjustments. A New Year for Christians, if you will.

Our slate is clean, our sins are washed away, because of the price he paid while we were yet sinners. "Father forgive them for they know not what they do." Hardly the words you or I would speak, with less than being nailed to a cross for something we did not do.

"Greater love hath no man than to lay down his life for his friends."John 3:16 " For God SO loved the world, that he gave his ONLY begotten son, that whosoever believed on him should NOT perish but have eternal life".

Love you and I can only imagine!

A beautiful song by Hillsong. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eOY0mjjmx8Y

Still Making Me Holy

Remember the bumper sticker that says "Don't judge me, God is not finished with me yet." I always liked it as a kid because I dislike being judged by others. As Christians we are also often judged by the world, when our actions do not match up to our words. Have you ever had someone get in your face for no apparent reason, or lie about something just because. These I call "red flag" moments. I have learned to recognize them as tests, trials, obstacles for sure, whether for my refining, or as a witness to someone else.

 Actions speak volumes, and I dare say non-believers who are watching take note. I should react in the natural one way, but with God's grace, his love within me shines through during those tough times of injustice. As a Christian, Gods' word says great is my reward in heaven. I know in the end I come out on top, so I do not feel the need to get upset or seek revenge. Peace, confidence, hope, and love. God's children react differently than those of the world.

In scripture it says," For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms". Ephesians 6:12 Once we understand it is not the person or situation, but the spirit of darkness seeking whom he may devour, then we are not suckered in and duped, losing our witness by our actions. We are able to turn the devil on his head because God within us, allows us to react differently, speaking volumes to the unbeliever.

None of us are perfect, yet God continues the process of making us into his image. With that thought, this song comes to mind. "I'm So Clumsy". I cannot do it on my own, but the good news is, I don't have to. God is right there with me, every step of the way, making me holy...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ip7MaWhfW_g
Psalm 62:
My soul finds rest in God alone;
my salvation comes from him.
2 He alone is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.

3 How long will you assault a man?
Would all of you throw him down—
this leaning wall, this tottering fence?

4 They fully intend to topple him
from his lofty place;
they take delight in lies.
With their mouths they bless,
but in their hearts they curse.
Selah

5 Find rest, O my soul, in God alone;
my hope comes from him.

6 He alone is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.

7 My salvation and my honor depend on God [a] ;
he is my mighty rock, my refuge.

8 Trust in him at all times, O people;
pour out your hearts to him,
for God is our refuge.
Selah

9 Lowborn men are but a breath,
the highborn are but a lie;
if weighed on a balance, they are nothing;
together they are only a breath.

10 Do not trust in extortion
or take pride in stolen goods;
though your riches increase,
do not set your heart on them.

11 One thing God has spoken,
two things have I heard:
that you, O God, are strong,

12 and that you, O Lord, are loving.
Surely you will reward each person
according to what he has done.

Christian Life...... A Journey

How many have ever gotten lost in the woods and could not see the forest for all the trees, or bogged down in a situation, obsessed with an individual event at the exclusion of the whole. Hopefully more so as kids and young adults, but even now I sometimes find myself weighed down in the minutia and lose sight of Gods' grand scheme. Yet we have only to look back and remember our past struggles and victories that we have experienced in our lives, to help us realize God has not abandoned us.

Are you there today, swimming upstream, struggling instead of asking and trusting God to see you through? Often times he requires us to take the long road, so that we learn and grow stronger to be used of him, in his grand scheme of things. Are we strong enough to handle the success he has planned for us? Interesting thought to ponder during our next hardship. Growing up is hard work, but God knows best!

Blessings and prayer....May God that created us continue to work his perfect will in our lives so that we may grow up and be the sons and daughters he has made us to be. Go in peace and may he keep our hearts and minds on the one true God, the author and finisher of our faith, in Jesus name I pray.

Song: Jeremy Camp, "Healing Hand of God" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNqR8btqtwA

Using Our Gifts

As we go through life whether young or old, knowing our gifts and talents are first and foremost to developing them. Gods' word says we are uniquely made and that we all have gifts and talents to be used for his glory.

Now if you are like me, I always thought that meant they had to be used in the church. Well through the years I have learned that my witness for Christ happens every moment, especially when I think no one is looking. When we embrace who we are in Christ Jesus and let him work through us, then everyday our lives are a testament to his love, joy and happiness that is not measured in worldly goods, or achievements, but through Christ alone!

I have recently accepted a teaching post in a village in South India called Kodaikanal starting in July. It is the culmination of a lot of preparation and desire to serve. Though it is nowhere near where I thought I would be, it is "spot on" for who God made me to be. Blessed and awed again for his supernatural provision and blessing in my life and my family. We are all called to serve and be a blessing to those around us, using our unique gifts and talents that God has placed in us.
May you be inspired and challenged to look depth within and see where your India is today?

Song. "All To Jesus". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7x2IpLSfqp8&feature=related

Whatever You Are Doing.....

Yesterday while walking, one of the stray dogs on the street decided to come after me. I was a little surprised because usually they are not an issue, but today was an exception. Buddy this dog was going to get me and he was bearing all teeth and had enlisted a couple of followers as well. As I am backing up screaming in Jesus name get behind me, a guard steps out from one of many boxes that they exist in, in this city and threw a stone at the dogs to get them to leave me alone. Whew... Funny thing is or not so, is that this is a 99 percent muslim country. To say Jesus' name probably got his attention, for any other word made not have had an impact, as they also do not speak english as well. Hmmm.....

Sometimes satan is like that though. Out of nowhere he comes and threatens you, when you least expect it. Whoa! I am glad to be able to kick him in the teeth literally and figuratively, by pleading the blood of Jesus over any and all situations, even those of a stray dog. 1st Peter 5:8 "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour".

 Whatever your "stray dog" is today, be encouraged and know that God is our ever present help in all situations, big and small.

 "Whatever You're Doing" by Sanctus Real.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTjRlUD_cwc

Count Your Blessings, One By One!

What more comes to mind on St. Patrick's Day than counting our blessings! God's word is full of instructions on thanking him for all our many benefits. Fitting for today are some Irish prayers and blessings as well!

I am also remembering a dear friend that went to be with the Lord as he was chosen to be the king in the local St. Patrick's Day for many years before being taken home to be with the Lord. Blessings for the time he shared with us, though short by my standards, God knows better than me. Blessings to his family and friends!

http://islandireland.com/Pages/folk/sets/bless.html
Song:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Ox75f3HWBA

Nothing to Lose, Nothing to Hide.....

Incredible song that speaks to my heart.
Listen and be inspired to give it your all.....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmC5aRFb-Vs

Following Your Calling

Living in faith, walking the walk, and trusting God to see us through, irrespective of what we hear and see from those around us. Easier said than done if you are like me, but what freedom and peace it offers when we can trust him and follow his calling on our life.

This has been a trying two weeks for me personally as I continue to follow God's leading on my heart, it has forced me to take the "road less traveled" in a lot of ways. It has not been the easiest path, but I know it is the right path, because God continues to open the doors and grant unprecedented favor along the way, but not without persecutions too.

What encourages me though is I know it is not of my doing alone, for without God's supernatural provision this path would not be possible. I have learned through the years to see his hand print and know his voice. I am reassured each step as he continually opens doors supernaturally, and offers his protection in the persecution. Each step of victory encourages me to take the next step, and the next, until his will is done in my life.

Often we have two scenarios to know if what we are doing is our will or God's. Are we pushing our own agenda and forcing things to happen, forsaking God's principles in the process, or are we walking in his statues and allowing him to open the doors as we walk the walk of faith shinning as God's children, enduring the unjust persecution and hardship, depending on him to make things right? Both are in fact action based, but one does not reflect well on "Christians", and the other shows God's hand in the midst of complete chaos, when there is divine provision and submission by us.

May our prayer this day be: Lord, give us your heart each day, that we may walk in your counsel, looking to you, depending on your divine direction and provision, listening to your still small voice, with confidence. Not my will but yours be done, in Jesus name I pray.

Song: "You Will Never Walk Alone". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fiE0sZ0rzcs

Valleys and Mountains

Andalsnes, Norway

For those who have ever gone on a hike, you can relate to the metaphor of our walk here on earth as being one of mountain top experiences inevitably followed by valleys. In order to get to the mountain top we often have to endure some pretty steep inclines along the way, fatigue and the likes. For me that also includes getting lost. Occasionally we are able to camp on the plateaus and enjoy the vistas for a season, but ultimately we must continue. God's word promises protection and guidance on our journey, but never encourages complacency. We must continue in order to become all he has called us to be. Rest if you must, but do not quit! God has much in store for us all is we are willing to endure.

Song. "Mountain of God"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgeMHHbFslk

Change My Heart Oh God

I will love the Lord with all my heart, with all my soul, with all my mind, with all my strength. There is nothing more worth living for.  Change my heart oh God.....

Psalm 106:1 "Praise ye the Lord. O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: His mercy endures forever."

What is our heart's cry today? I pray it is for more of God to fill us up, to guide and direct our footsteps, our thoughts, our ways for his glory. Not my will, but yours be done.

He is the Potter, we are the clay, mold us and make us, in Jesus name I pray.

Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZEBOb-H1NbY

Learning to Fly

Experience teaches me that when my nest starts to become uncomfortable, then flying time is coming. God is patient and loving, yet the longer I delay my flight the more uncomfortable my nest becomes. It reminds me of when the mother bird pushes her baby out to fly for her own good, so that she can  become what she was destined to be. God also encourages my growth at times through discomfort in my present circumstances.

Now this does not stand alone, because God will also be speaking to our hearts, but sometimes we put in the ear plugs and tune him out with our busy schedules and he has to get our attention. Through prayer and being still, we can know what God wants us to do. Are we listening, asking, praying, and trusting?

I have learned to pray this daily prayer. "Lord open and close the doors where you would have me go, help me to know your will for my life, speak to my heart, guide and direct my footsteps for your glory, in Jesus name I pray".

If we sincerely, humbly ask for God's guidance he will guide us in a path that only he could provide, and when the rough spots come, we will be encouraged on our journey that he has planned for us. Rest assured, "He is working all things for our good, to them that love the Lord and are called according to his purpose".

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q24z4XcJxnM