Category: choices

Stealing Your Joy

Published on by amylinnea4 Comments

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Philippians 4:4

Why is it that blessings are often overshadowed by disappointment?

You can look at a field full of flowers but instead feel sour thinking of what didn’t transpire.

Of who disappointed you.

Why do we react like that?

Why does our flesh tend to focus on the bad while in the midst of the good?

It can even be rightly justified disappointment. Like the real deal.

I can give you an example.

Recently celebrated my birthday. It was a big one.

Some of the kids celebrated, some did not.

My husband celebrated me.

My mother and in-laws celebrated me.

My friends and even my school children celebrated me, belting out an impromptu happy birthday song first thing when they arrived at school.

So why did my focus choose the disappointments?

I really don’t know. But I do know this. No more.

Let’s concentrate on those who love us.

Let’s focus on the blessings we enjoy instead of the disappointments we mourn.

We cannot change others, so let’s not let the limitations of others steal your joy.

As my grandmother used to say, from the balcony of heaven, will it matter?

I choose to rejoice in the Lord, always. Even if.

Join me?

Photos by Adi Goldstein, Deva Williamson, Jess Bailey, & Lan Gao on Unsplash

Boasting in Weakness

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you. for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9

Ever thanked God for your temptations or weaknesses?

For how you are tempted to sin?

There are many ways we can be tempted in our flesh.

Eating too much, addictions to sugar, alcohol, drugs, or technology.

Reacting in anger, putting others down, or thinking of ourselves always first.

Even wanting to do the right thing, whatever it may be, but instead listening to our flesh, following it instead.

What are your temptations or your weaknesses?

Have you thanked God for them?

Thanked God for being weak?

I know, sounds foreign. Almost like why would I thank God for where I am weak?

When you thank God, you recognize your need for His power through you.

You recognize your need for His strength covering your weakness with His power.

Your need for not only God’s saving grace, but His every day grace transforming you into your new person God created you to become.

When you thank God, you allow His power to shine through your weakness as resisting your temptation is possible through God alone.

2 Corinthians reminds us to boast in our weakness. To recognize them positively.

Because God shines through our weakness, making us strong.

If you had everything all together, all your ducks in a row, why would you need God?

Why would you need to rely on His strength?

You wouldn’t. You’d be fine on your own. You’d never admit your need for a Savior.

We are human. Flawed. Weak.

But when we submit our weak selves unto Almighty God, we are transformed, slowly, into His likeness.

Thank Him today for your flaws. For where you are weak. When temptation knocks at your door.

Then respond with God’s strength. He’ll shut the door for you.

And you’ll rest peacefully, knowing you don’t have to do it all.

Knowing you can’t do it all.

But God can and He will.

Photos by Ýlona María Rybka, Debby Hudson, Ales Maze, & Miglena Georgieva on Unsplash

Fret Not

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil. Psalm 37:8

Would you agree anger is usually a result of not being in control?

Your spouse’s actions, your child’s reaction, someone bumps your car on the road.

When we are not in control, we tend to get angry.

And when we are angry, we become anxious.

And when we are anxious, we sin, which is evil.

That’s what Psalm 37:8 reminds us.

Filling our head with anxiety invites fear – the fear of not being in control the next time.

Almost like we throw open the door, allowing fear to walk right into our mind.

And when fear walks in, he tends to take over. Like take over everything.

Allowing our mind to walk with anxiety comes back to control.

When we are not in control, simply stated, we don’t like it.

Everyone likes to be in control.

Control of the home’s temperature, television choices, dinner menu, division of chores, and more.

When we are not in control of whatever it is, anxiety is born.

If not removed immediately, anxiety can grow as a thorn in your flesh, infecting not only your current mood but beyond.

Anxiety that has taken root in your flesh affects other areas of your life.

Why?

Because fear, which is the root of your anxiety, likes to take over completely.

You begin suspecting others when suspicion is not necessary.

You start to anticipate the worst when the best is yet to come.

Psalm 37 reminds us God wants His children to refrain from anger and worry. He knows it leads only to evil.

And now you do as well.

So what should we think of instead? Whatever is pure, lovely, honorable, and just. Philippians 4:8 reminds us of that.

With God’s help choose to focus on pure and lovely things. Your mind will not worry. Nor will it fret.

Ask God to fill your mind with His thoughts. His wisdom. His peace.

Ask God to remind you of His faithfulness.

He’s always helped you more than you realize.

Give things afresh to Him today, allowing Him to bring you His perfect peace.

Photos by Jason Rosewell, Maksym Kaharlytskyi, & Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Recognizing Jesus

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

Would you have believed?

When Jesus walked the earth, would you have believed He was the Messiah?

Or would you have looked the other way?

Or, even worse, cast a stone in His direction?

We shudder at the thought, yes?

But we are here, over 2,000 years later, looking back.

We know who He was.

The Savior of the World.

Back then, the Jewish people had been looking for generations.

Yet their hearts were hard towards Jesus.

It was more of a miracle for Him to change their hearts then perform physical healing.

Immediate reactions included blasphemy.

Immediate reactions.

Thinking about the Jewish people, some of them believed.

Some saw miracles and believed, some saw Jesus teach and it touched their hearts.

But the majority seemed to not.

Jesus’ own home synagogue threw Him out.

So again, I wonder: what would have been our reaction to the Son of God walking among us?

I like to think we would have been forever changed, following Him to the ends of the earth.

But you never know. We’ll never know.

Jesus was not what the Jewish people were expecting.

Thinking about today, does Jesus’ plan for you look different than what you thought should happen?

Does His purpose for your life match your heart?

When He shows up in your life, do you recognize Him?

The more you become like Jesus, the more you will see His influence in your life.

Look for Him.

Ask Him to align your heart with the great purpose He has just for you.

Photos by Nighthawk Shoots,  Hugo Fergusson, Jon Tyson, & Ben White on Unsplash

Thankful for the Mud

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Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

When you rejoice for the mud, the yuck, you thank God for all things.

For all things, including the yucky parts of life.

God is working for our good and when He works, sometimes there is mud.

Mud on your pants, mud on your hands, mud on your face.

Are you thankful for the mud?

God allows all things in your life. Even the mud.

He is working all things for good, and that includes, sigh, the mud.

Are you thankful?

Thankful for the good times and bad?

God uses life to gain our attention.

Sometimes we need a rude awakening.

Sometimes our family members need it.

God allows things because He loves us so much.

He sees the beginning from the end.

You cannot. All you see is the here and now with maybe a glimpse of the past.

Focusing our prayers on the immediate present, we seek God to intervene.

To stop whatever it is that is tormenting us or our family.

But what if God is allowing it to change us?

To change our family, bringing them into a deeper understanding of God?

To acknowledge we are not in control, but God is?

When we choose to praise God in every circumstance, we are acknowledging God’s sovereignty.

His perfect will for us.

God inhabits the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3).

Will you praise Him for the mud?

Praise Him for everything: the good, the bad, and the ugly.

Remind yourself Who is on the throne, Who is sovereign, and Who holds all things in His capable hands.

God’s got this and more.

So praise Him for all of it.

He’s working all things out for your good.

Photos by Chris Yang, Jess Zoerb, Rupert Britton, & Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash

Ephesians 4:27

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And give no opportunity to the devil. Ephesians 4:27

How many opportunities do you hand the devil?

During the day, how many times do you seek yourself over others?

Your selfish whims over the needs of your family?

How many times do you listen to the lies the devil whispers into your ear?

He’s there, literally all the time, wanting to influence you.

Wanting to fill you with his poison.

Whenever you listen to his lies, you give the devil an opportunity in your life.

Whenever you agree with him, you give the devil an opportunity to influence you.

When you submit to fear, you hand the devil a foothold.

The Bible, God’s precious word to us, asks us to give the devil no opportunity in our life.

And yet we regularly do.

Why?

Because our flesh agrees with the devil.

We agree we are unworthy.

We agree we are unlovable.

We agree we should be number one.

As humans, we are vulnerable to lies from the pit of hell.

But with God, we can withstand the evil onslaught catered specifically for our fears.

God declares we should not give any opportunities to the devil.

Yet we do.

Stop.

Stop agreeing with lies.

Stop agreeing we are weak.

And stop agreeing we are less than.

God has won the war.

God is and was and will be the ultimate victor.

Choose to agree with God.

And choose to give no opportunity to the devil.

Photos by Giulia Bertelli, Tim Mossholder, Nadine Shaabana, Anwaar Ali, & Patrick Fore on Unsplash

Holding Your Tongue

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It’s so easy to defend yourself.

Sometimes, you should.

You must.

But other times, it’s preferable to keep quiet, allowing the other to make a fool of themselves.

We are responsible only for ourselves.

Our actions.

Our words.

Our choices.

When you become agitated with your spouse, pause.

Takes maturity to look at things from their perspective.

Humility.

You could be wrong, you know.

And if you are, own it!

And if you’re not, say your peace in a quiet manner, and leave it.

You cannot convince others of your viewpoint if they refuse to move from theirs.

Remember, it’s their choice to walk in your shoes or not.

Just Iike it’s your choice to view theirs.

Goes for friendships, neighbors, co-workers, and your boss.

When your point of view is negated, your feelings thrown to the wall, you have a choice.

You can participate with the foolishness, upping the ante, or you can choose to walk away with your dignity intact.

I know what Jesus would choose, as he regularly chose it while walking this earth.

He chose the high road.

Make your point and go, feeling a bit of pity instead for their ignorance.

Fasten your crown, and declare once again, “None of this moves me.”

Photos by Shana Van Roosbroek & david laws on Unsplash

A Lying Fool

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

Satan is a master of deception.

In fact, I’d even give him that official title.

But that’s the only thing I’ll give him.

He seeks to destroy life, shoving aside anything and everything in his way.

He cares not a whit for you.

Or those you love.

His goal is to distract you, tempt you, and discourage you from action.

There are many loved ones in my life walking away from God.

Oh, they think I’m the crazy one. The Christian.

They judge my standards, criticizing my thoughts as if they can read them.

Placing me on a pedestal of “the model Christian”, I shatter their perception of Christians each and every day when I fail in my human strength.

Satan uses that ignorance to prove his point – that Christians are not to be trusted.

When slanders fly my way, Satan is pleased.

After all, his goal is to bring me down as well. Me and anyone I love. Which is my whole family.

How did Jesus react when accused? Calmly explained His position.

Oh, I’m guessing not each time, but He never sinned. He simply explained.

Or not. Sometimes He simply left others as He prayed alone with God.

He focused on God’s promises and truth, which brought Him perfect peace.

If arrows fly your way this holiday season, remember Whose you are.

Remember God has promised to protect you fully, walking with you each and every moment.

But you must not let Satan win.

You must not allow the lies to penetrate your brain, giving them any residence whatsoever.

Listen to worship music. Open the Bible to His promises.

And choose to focus on the One who will solve all things.

Submit yourself to God, asking Him to help you love your family as only He can.

And don’t give Satan one inch of satisfaction.

Not even a millimeter.

While you cannot control others, you can control yourself. With God’s help, of course.

Not today, Satan. In fact, not ever. Period.

Photos by Josh Hild, Maria Teneva, Joel Muniz, & Aliane Schwartzhaupt on Unsplash

Living Free

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Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. 1 Peter 2:16

Do you live as if you are free?

Free from sin, death, and the grave?

Free from past shame, burdens, or guilt?

Free from dwelling in fear?

Free from depressing thoughts arresting your mind?

Free from knowing you must do everything in your own strength?

When you live as a servant of God, the Creator of all things, you must. Live free.

God’s power not only saved you for eternity once your earthly breath ceases, but he saved you to live free today.

And tomorrow. And the next day.

He freed you, breaking off the chains which hold you in captivity.

The captivity of past sin, fear, listening to the devil’s lies, and on and on it goes.

But God did not free you to sin.

God’s freedom does not provide a license for evil.

For doing your own thing under the disguise of God’s way.

For wrapping yourself in selfishness while waiting for God to announce His plans for you.

He did not free us to cover up the evil we find on our own.

He freed us for now. To showcase His power.

Live as Scrooge when he discovered his future could be altered by his changed nature. By his newfound kindness and generosity.

When Scrooge discovered he still had Time, he was beside himself with freedom.

And he was never the same, always remembering the freedom he possessed, which he did not deserve.

The freedom Scrooge found through witnessing his future determined by his selfish choices.

And choosing to be different. To be generous. To live as a person freed from this world’s sin. That’s what Scrooge did.

So, what about you? Remember Whose you are.

Remember Whose power courses through your veins.

And remember Whose witness you are to the world He created.

Live as God’s servant, freed by Himself to be a light in His world for those still dwelling in darkness.

Photos by Gabriel Goller, Anita Austvika, Vladimir Fedotov, & Christian Dubovan on Unsplash

Others Focused

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

Do to others as you would have them do to you. Luke 6:31

Do you demand others treat you better than you treat them?

Do you walk like a diva, demanding others serve you?

Or do you put others first, seeking their needs above your own?

Jesus wants us to do just that.

To serve others.

To put others before ourselves.

Think about Thanksgiving.

Were you among the first in line?

Save the best roll for yourself?

Or did you defer to your guests, thinking of them higher than yourself?

How about your home?

Did you help your guests feel welcome?

Or wished they had stayed somewhere else?

When family showed up for dinner, did you demand they remove their shoes?

Or did you welcome them however they came?

Jesus wants us to think of others before ourselves.

Not always easy, but it’s what He asks of us.

My husband’s precious parents are staying with us for a week.

It’s such an absolute treat.

Even if I’m sleeping in the basement.

My time with them is precious because they live hundreds of miles away.

Only see them them once a year.

Family is simply the best.

Seeing my adult children over Thanksgiving was a total joy.

Do you want their memory of you to be full of angst for the next holiday or anticipation for the next time they join you?

Choose Jesus.

Choose people over perfection.

Choose people over performance.

Choose relationship over deadlines.

Jesus invited people into relationship because that mattered over perfect homes.

As you review your plans this holiday season, ask yourself this question: how do you want to be treated?

And treat others how you want to be treated. As kings and queens.

Photos by Virginia Simionato and Gillian Lingard on Unsplash

Psalm 13:1-6

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Ever complain to God?

Out loud with words or crying out within your soul?

David, the man after God’s own heart, did many times.

This Psalm is one example.

He starts by royally complaining.

From the depths of his soul he wonders how long God will forget him.

How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? (verse 1)

He then tries to console himself.

We all do, when we fail to hear from God.

Or we think we don’t.

He forgets he can choose to praise God instead.

He focuses, instead, on his sorrow.

Again, like we all do.

David goes on: How long must I take counsel in my soul and have sorrow in my heart all the day? How long shall my enemy be exalted over me? (verse 2).

David again pleads, sharing with God he will die if his sorrow remains apart from God’s peace.

He desperately wants God to intervene so his enemies don’t take pleasure in David’s weakness.

Consider and answer me, O Lord my God; light up my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death. Lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed over him,” lest my foes rejoice because I am shaken. (verse 3 & 4).

David ends the psalm by choosing to praise God.

He remembers how faithful God has been to him.

That, in turn, helps David realize God will again bring him out of the depths.

But I have trusted in your steadfast love; my heart shall rejoice in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, because He has dealt bountifully with me. (verse 5 & 6).

Maybe David has found the key.

The key to reconnecting our mind, soul, and body to the One who created us.

Praise.

Choosing to praise even in the midst.

Even when every fiber of our being wants to remain wallowing in the pit of self pity.

Praise the Lord even if.

Praise the Lord even if you don’t feel like it.

You will remember how faithful He has always been in every circumstance.

And you will suddenly lift your eyes, knowing He will once again show Himself.

As He will again the next time.

And the next.

Photos by Priscilla Du Preez, Rainier Ridao, Zac Durant, Jon Tyson, & Guillaume de Germain on Unsplash

Eternity

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Jesus. He is all that you need.

He is everything.

He is the beginning and the ending, encompassing everything in between.

You will only win when you submit everything to Him. Jesus.

God created us. In His image, He created us.

Yet we sinned.

We messed up.

Remember Adam and Eve? It could have been us.

We would’ve been tempted just the same.

God created us for relationship.

Adam and Eve walked with God every day. Literally talking with Him.

Can you imagine literally having an audible conversation with God Almighty?

I would so love that.

But God saw how we messed everything up, allowing sin to enter our very selves.

God’s creation was suddenly separated forever from Himself, the very One who created us.

Yet, because of His great love, He sent His only son to die in place of us.

We must pay for our sins. And Jesus covers that for us.

Have you embraced your sinful nature?

Recognized your need for the Savior?

To spend eternity with God, you must acknowledge Jesus.

You can certainly live within yourself, denying God, Jesus, and your need for redemption.

Completely within your right.

But you will regret it.

When your earthly body fails you, you will meet your Maker.

And if you haven’t declared your need for a Savior, it will be too late.

You’ll forever live separated from life, health, and God Himself.

Turn to Him while you still can.

At the very least, consider the consequences if you are wrong.

What then?

Trust in Him.

Now.

He will NEVER fail you. Not ever.

You have everything to lose.

Everything.

But it’s your choice. Completely.

Photos by Davide Cantelli, Chris Flexen, Rod Long, & Tim Wildsmith on Unsplash

Wearing Him

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How do you wear Jesus?

Does your face reflect His peace?

Do your eyes reflect His love?

Are your lips proclaiming His faithfulness?

Is your spirit praising His worthiness?

Is your mind focused on Him?

Aligning your will to His?

Wearing Jesus looks different from one person to the next as we are all created as unique individuals.

Since we are all created in the image of God, reflecting Him will ultimately look similar: peace, joy, love, and patience.

Do you invite Him to cover you with Himself?

Every day?

Each moment?

He will. We beg to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

That’s what He asks of us while soldiering on in this earth.

But that means more than having a servant’s heart.

More than thinking of others before ourselves.

Means aligning your very self with His.

Keeping a running conversation with Him, acknowledging His sovereignty.

And praising Him all the live long day.

Do you thank Him randomly for anything?

You should. Let’s start. Thank you, God, for the sweet air I breathe.

Thank you for the sunshine on my face and the coffee in my pot.

When you praise Him, the devil hates it.

He tends to run when hearing God’s name praised.

Hallelujah! The devil can’t run away from me fast enough.

Am I right?

Wear Jesus well. Show Him to the world. It might be their only glimpse.

Photos by Ben White, Mehdi MeSSrro, Redd, Nathaniel Chia, & Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Setting Your Mind on God

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For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. Romans 8:5-6

God made us human.

Flesh.

And when we have not recognized the need for our Savior, we live according to the flesh.

Ourselves.

Satisfying our every “need”.

Romans says when we set our mind on ourselves, it leads to death.

Death.

Literally the opposite of life.

But when we have recognized our desperate need for God, giving ourselves over to Him, we begin to live according to the Spirit.

That means life.

As Christians, the Holy Spirit dwells within us, helping us to live according to God’s will and plans.

We set our minds on the things of the Spirit.

And that, my friends, brings life and peace. Ahhhh.

But is it possible to choose death instead while living within the Spirit?

Yes, because we are human.

God allows us to make our own choices, choosing between living in the flesh or the Spirit.

It’s easy to tell if you are choosing to live within the Spirit.

Are your words producing life and peace or death?

Are your actions reflecting life or death?

Do your decisions cause others to recoil in death or thrive within life?

Setting one’s mind is critical, God says so.

Means you purposely align yourself to God’s ways through His Holy Spirit.

It’s a choice.

And then it’s a choice to stay fixed on God.

Choose to set your mind on God.

Ask Him to help you and His faithfulness will continually point you to life.

The choice is yours.

Photos by Meizhi Lang on Unsplash

Paying Zero Attention

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“Sir,” asked the demon who was tiny but had a large voice.

“What do YOU want,” demanded the demon in charge whose name escapes me.

“I found someone I can dominate. I’m sure of it. Look.” The tiny demon with the large voice pointed at a man sitting in a comfy chair. The man was starring at his phone. Life swirled around him unnoticed.

“Fine. He’s practically lost anyway. Go,” shouted the demon in charge whose name escapes me.

Demon #2, who was tiny but had a large voice, shrank away, excited to show the demon in charge his moves. He had just learned some new tactics. This man seemed like the perfect opportunity.

Demon #2 crept up to the man who was starring at his phone while life swirled around without him.

Whispering into his ear, demon #2 reminded the man of his failures, disappointments, and poor life choices. Causing the man to become uncomfortable, he suggested a snack even though the man had recently eaten.

The man shuffled to the refrigerator, pulling out some food. Balancing the food with his hands and phone, which he never put down, demon #2 startled the boy who immediately began running into the kitchen, knocking into the man. Food went everywhere. The phone went flying.

The man who usually starred at his phone while life swirled around him found himself yelling at the boy. The boy, who was only four and looked up to the man, began to cry. Instead of comforting his son, the man tried to find his phone. Finding it under the table, the man picked it up and gasped. The screen was broken.

The man who usually starred at his phone while life swirled around him swore as he began cleaning up the mess from the boy.

After cleaning up the mess, the man sank back into his chair, looking at his phone. Thankfully, he realized it really wasn’t broken at all. It was merely scratched. All was well. Demon #2 suggested the man did not need to apologize for yelling at his son. After all, his son was in the wrong!

The man sighed, agreeing with demon #2. Forgetting all about his snack, the man settled his focus once again onto his phone. Life continued to swirl around without him.

Demon #2 found the boy crying in his room. All alone, demon #2 began to whisper lies, confirming the thoughts the boy was having. “Your dad doesn’t really love you. He cares more about his phone than you. He ignores you because you’re boring. You’re not worth his time. You’re so clumsy anyway. You should stay away from him.” The boy sniffled as he listened to the lies from demon #2.

Checking back in on the family later, the woman wondered aloud to the man why the boy was so upset. The man didn’t have any idea, although he barely heard her as he was still on his phone while life swirled around without him. The woman left the room wondering what she had done to the man. The boy continued to feel unloved. The man continued watching his phone as life swirled around without him.

Demon #2 reported back to the demon in charge, whose name escapes me. “Sir,” began demon #2 who was tiny but had a large voice. “I influenced not only the man, confirming his previous believed lies, but I successfully planted new lies into the boy and woman, confirming them with actions from the man.”

Putting down his paper, the demon in charge whose name escapes me, looked up in surprise. “Well, that’s more like it,” he replied. “Maybe you’ll work out down here after all.”

Grinning, the tiny demon with a large voice said, “Yes, sir! Looking forward to more torment, sir!”

Demon #2, the tiny demon with a large voice, revisited that family many times. Over the years, he repeated the unloving lies into the boy, who was now becoming a man. This was almost too easy…

Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me. Psalm 119:133

Photos by Johannes Plenio, Marjan Grabowski, Arifur Rahman, & Gianfranco Grenar on Unsplash

Slapping the Devil

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What situation in your life begs God to enter?

Something you have zero control over?

I know, you have control over your reactions, but not over the actions or responses of others.

You have no control how other people will react or sometimes not even care.

You also have no control over circumstances thrown your way.

Sickness, job loss, inflation, an inconsiderate spouse, ungrateful children, the threat of war.

You can only control your reaction.

What does your flesh immediately do when faced with any of that ugliness?

Become wrapped in self-pity as unloving or fear try to walk back into your mind?

Seems justified, yes, but that choice brings darkness.

Walks you away from God and His love for you.

What if instead, you began to thank God for walking with you, for providing you a continued walk with His peace?

And what if you continued to thank God for your circumstances and His provision for all things we pray?

You’d be slapping the devil in the face for sure.

I don’t know what you think, but to me, when we step out in faith while slammed by life outside our control, there’s a bigger hallelujah sung behind us.

Bigger than when we are simply obeying God through flowery, sun-shiney days.

When we choose to ignore our pity party, celebrating God’s goodness instead, the sting sent the devil’s way is a little more obvious to him.

A little more painful. A wee bit more disappointing.

The devil knows you, knows your weaknesses and vulnerabilities.

Why give him a good time instead of you?

Give him a bad time. An absolutely horrid time.

Keep showing him Who is boss over you. And it’s not him.

While life is often completely unfair, remember God is always kind and just to you.

He’s always with you no matter your attitude. And that’s not fair to God.

So resolve to give the devil a hard time by ignoring your fleshly cries, filling yourself up with God instead.

In return your days and nights will be even better.

The devils’ not so much.

Photos by Nick Page on Unsplash

Running to the Father

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God created you.

He created you perfectly for His purposes.

His purposes are higher than ours, so rest assured, your life is meant for good.

Your life is set up to bring God glory, while influencing others as only you can.

You are unique, designed with a purpose.

When God created you, He set out a perfect plan for your life.

When we choose apart from Him, we mar His plans for us.

But when we yield to Him, submitting our entire selves, we allow His perfect plan to unfold.

God sees you living under His influence, bringing others to Himself.

But it’s our choice.

Keep that in mind the next time you are tempted to live within yourself.

You might be the connection God had in mind for that person.

But you messed it up.

Yes, God can reach anyone through anything at anytime, but you matter.

Your witness matters.

You are in God’s plan as He brings others to Himself.

Will you help or stand in the way?

Photos by Jo Jo & Alexandru Tudorache on Unsplash

Shrink Back or Stand Up

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and preserve their souls. Hebrews 10:39

Do you shrink back when life becomes rough?

When insults are hurled do you recoil?

When you are misunderstood, do you shrink back into nothing?

When you shrink back, you are destroyed.

Not literally, but emotionally and spiritually, it opens wide the door to the enemy.

Shrinking back is not standing up.

Not standing up in the armor of God.

Not standing up in the identity of Who you were patterned after.

When attacked, you have two choices: shrink back or stand up.

People attack out of their own insecurities.

Pain, disappointment, feeling out of control all cause people to react in ugly manners towards usually non deserving people.

So when that arrow is hurled your way, will you allow it to pierce you?

If you do, you’ll curl up into a ball, allowing the poison inside.

Staying in your system, the poison will slowly destroy you.

Doesn’t happen immediately, but over time, if you continually shrink back from your identity as God’s beloved, you’ll be destroyed.

Nothing the enemy would like better.

The enemy cannot keep you from believing in God, but he can and will try to keep you defeated.

Every single day.

Hebrews reminds us we are not those who shrink back and are destroyed, but we have faith.

That’s the difference.

Faith in God preserves our souls.

We know we are not in control. God is.

We know who has won in the end. God has.

We know who has redeemed us from ourselves and others. God does.

And God will continually redeem us from each and every arrow hurled our way.

Pull your armor back up.

Fasten that helmet tight.

And stand under your created identity from God.

Photos by Agnieszka Boeske, Anthony Tori, Luke van Zyl, & JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash

Constant Decisions

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Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7

When you choose to place God in control of your life, He covers you.

His power, love, and grace flow into you when you submit.

Only when you choose to submit, because it’s a choice.

Doesn’t say we only have to submit once, but implies instead a constant decision.

Going on, we must resist the devil.

Once we choose to do that, the devil goes away.

He flees. Why?

Because you decided to resist him.

Fully resisting the devil’s crafty lies and selfish whims happens only when first you submit yourself to God.

Having chosen to submit to God, God’s power helps you resist the devil.

Make no mistake: your choice is still involved.

Even as a saved by grace singing hallelujah Christian, you can still fall into the devil’s traps.

Easily.

The choice is yours.

But when you choose to submit first to God, it’s easier to resist the devil.

Why?

Because you want what God wants for you.

And news flash, it’s not the devil.

Shocking, I know.

Resisting the devil is a constant decision.

The verse doesn’t say you only resist him once, but again implies a continual action.

Seems simple, doesn’t it?

Yet we resist submitting. Instead we want control.

Purpose to submit yourself to God.

Purpose to resist the devil.

The devil will flee and you’ll be left with God by your side.

Today, if your soul’s heavenly selfie was taken, who would be walking by your side?

Photos by Ben White & Kyle Anderson on Unsplash

Measuring Life

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, whom we acknowledge as our apostle and high priest. Hebrews 3:1

What do you measure your life with?

The yardstick of worldly success, fame, or money?

The ruler of putting yourself first?

Counting your possessions, 401k statement or stock market?

Or just God?

When we measure our life, we decide how happy we are or not.

How content we are, how peaceful, or fearful we have become.

Your focus equals your measuring stick.

What you focus on helps determine your level of contentment.

Take your family for example. They are needy, sometimes too much so, and you find yourself in a bad mood with the work load.

You are focusing on what you are unable to do at that moment while stuck helping others.

Focus instead on God and what He has you doing at this moment. Make your work an offering to Him.

Changes your mood.

God must be our first focus, our second, our third, and on and on it goes.

When you change your perspective, your measuring stick disappears.

When you focus on knowing God is always with you, walking beside you every moment, life suddenly brightens.

Remembering your inclusion into the family of God Himself yields the ultimate acceptance.

You don’t need the world’s love. It’s fleeting anyway.

God allows us wonderful times here on earth, but when you focus on those, disappointment is right around the corner.

Focus on God and His love for you.

When you put Him first in all things, you’ll begin to depend upon Him more and more.

And that, my friends, is the best life ever.

Photos by Diana Polekhina, Elisa Michelet, Roberto Sorin, & Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Watching You

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8

I’ve watched him for years.

Actually since birth.

I’ve seen him grow into the young man he is today.

Witnessing his disappointments, I’ve gotten to know his weak spots.

Areas I can press him into walking towards sin.

It’s almost too easy, tempting him.

Take yesterday as an example. Years ago, I assigned self-pity to follow him.

It’s one of my usual tactics as getting people to think only of themselves delivers every single time.

Affects other areas of their lives as well, a bonus for sure.

Getting back to my example, I led him to believe he was the only one not invited to the party.

Began to feed him lies that his friends weren’t really friends, merely tolerating instead his existence.

Reminded him this was proof he actually stood on the outside of the group, instead of the inside.

Self-pity waltzed right in, confirming the lies and bringing up things from the past.

Before long, he was slumped onto the couch, convinced something was very wrong with him.

Took it out on his unsuspecting mother, who had just come home from the store.

His outburst placed a wedge in that relationship, perfectly executing my next step.

People are predictable.

I know how to tempt them for maximum effectiveness.

Why? Because I’m invited. Always around.

I’m invited through selfishness, lies, and the evils of this world.

And believe me, it’s everywhere. I’m everywhere. Me and my followers.

This young man is from a Christian house. Believed the Bible from a young age.

Thankfully, he’s strayed. No longer reads it, shutting out even the sermon in church.

Got him to stop singing there, too, as I told him it’s embarrassing. He believed me!

I have him right where I want him. Only have to worry about his mother.

She’s the one who keeps bringing God into the house through her prayers.

Sometimes I have to leave because the angels are guarding his door.

But other times, his door is open because he invites me in.

The young man happens to like self-pity, living for himself. It’s fabulous.

What door do you keep open? What activities, thoughts, or actions invite me into your life?

Keep your door open. Makes it easier for me and my followers to tempt you.

We can’t wait. In fact, we’re prowling right outside the door. Can we devour you and your family? Our appetite never ends.

Photos by Ingo Stiller, Arnaud Papa, Ihor Malytskyi, chrissie kremer, & Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Justified Sin

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

It’s just the way I am.

It’s how God created me.

Nothing I can do about it.

How do you justify sin in your life?

Could be as simple as overeating or having one too many drinks.

But I deserve it, you might say.

Deserve what? Altering your body size or clarity of mind as a reward?

Confusing.

What if you like stealing. Could be from an actual store, or could be padding the expense report from work.

Again, you deserve it, I get it. Heard that before.

What if you’re attracted to the same sex? Bible calls that sin, too, when you act upon those urges.

But that’s the way I’m made, you say. Can’t help it.

Or even more popular: sleeping with your significant other outside the covenant of marriage.

Any sin can be justified. In our minds, we can satisfy our conscience with putting ourselves at the very top.

Don’t have time for children, so, putting myself first. I’m going for that abortion. After all, it’s my right.

Looking over these arguments, a theme emerges: justification of sin.

If you remove the moral plumb line, God’s decree of right and wrong, moral relativism moves forward.

That’s the notion right and wrong are different for different people who believe different things.

Societies fall when adhering to this philosophy.

And folks, we are close.

I’m justified to assault a judge because they ruled against my “rights”.

I am defacing this historical statue because it stands against my “rights”.

I am attacking a store owner because he won’t give my girlfriend her chips for free. That is her “right”.

Entitilism. Justification of sin. Demands.

All goes back to the moral plumb line of right and wrong.

C.S. Lewis reminds us “conscience is nothing more than the voice of God within our souls; the bridge that links the creature to the Creator.”

Pray with me for our homes, our country, and our world that the conscience of God deep within their souls will once again be heard.

We must return to listening to our conscience, created by God for determining what we know is right and what we know is wrong.

Justifying sin only allows it to continue with normalcy.

We all have tendencies to sin. Some greater than others. But justifying them as simply the way we are doesn’t cut it.

Take back responsibility, aligning yourself to God and the moral plumb line deep within your soul.

Photos by Maksym Kaharlytskyi, Ben Wicks, Jonathan Borba, & Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Slamming Open Doors

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

How often do you slam doors God has opened for you?

Often?

Never?

What does it look like when we slam a door opened by God?

Selfishness.

Pride.

All points back to us, wanting to be in control.

Thinking we know best.

Better than anyone else, including God.

A thought pops into your head to initiate a conversation with that one person.

You refuse the thought because it’s too hard.

Your dream job comes across your desk, but you deem it unavailable as you are past your prime.

Your family becomes distant while you are distracted by selfish gain, ignoring what you know you should do.

Marriage communication stalls as choices to spend time elsewhere grow with importance, because you know better.

But what if those were God’s whisper to you?

Why was prayer not the first point of action upon realizing the nudging of God?

Why decide apart from God without asking Him?

Doors are opened all the time by God.

As we choose how to spend our time, we either focus on our needs or what God wants for us.

Submitting to God with our whole self enables us to walk through doors God has opened for us.

Sometimes they don’t make sense.

But your spirit finds rest in the decision, knowing God is directing you.

Submitting requires humbleness.

Realizing you have zero wisdom apart from God Himself.

Doors can be big or small as each decision differs in size.

Dating the right person, choosing friends or jobs or homes all rank large on the door scale.

Choosing how to spend your time or deciding to talk with a stranger at the store are smaller doors.

Yet they all matter.

When you let God flow through your decisions, you’ll walk through His open doors, ignoring the doors He closes.

Humbly remember He is your everything.

Yet walk confidently as His beloved through the doors He opens.

Still unsure? Confirm those big doors with trusted loyal Christians. People who seek God on your behalf.

Again, requires humility to seek the wisdom of another.

Big or small, don’t ignore the hand of God. He regularly opens doors for you to further His kingdom.

Often we walk right past, distracting ourselves from His very plan for us.

Honor your commitments. Seek God’s will for your short life. And walk boldly into the future He has for you, through the doors He opens just for you.

Photos by Denny Müller, Beto Galetto, Jan Tinneberg, & Roberto Huczek on Unsplash

God’s Perfect Ways

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This God – His way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; He is a shield for all those who take refuge in Him. Psalm 18:30

God’s way is perfect.

His very word proves true.

If His way is perfect, why do we ever stray out on our own?

Because we’re human, wishing to live for ourselves.

The temptation to rely on ourselves sometimes is too much.

We think we can do everything on our own.

But Psalm 18 reminds us God’s way is perfect.

Ours certainly is not. In our own strength, we will fail.

What if we instead ask God to help us walk His path?

Psalm 18 continues reminding us He is our shield.

Shields protect from the onslaught of things hurled at us.

But only if we decide to partner with Him and His ways for us.

Why on earth would we choose to walk separate from God?

Selfishness.

Sinful desires.

Could be simple like eating too much junk, knowing our bodies are God’s temple.

Or sneaking an answer on our essay, copying another’s words because we are lazy.

Or it could be worse – knowingly cheating on a test, our taxes, or (gasp) our spouse.

When we choose to walk with God, God promises we will walk the perfect path He has ordained for us.

Not only that, but He will be our shield, protecting us from the world’s sin.

He will be our refuge.

But we must choose Him.

Choose Him for every little thing.

And when we do, He promises to guide us, protect us, and be our refuge in this messy world.

When you put it that way, how can we not choose Him?

Photos by Grace Galligan, Hasse Lossius, Martin Kallur (IG: @mkallur), & Michanne Lisa on Unsplash

Leaving Our Junk

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:9

What is God calling you to leave behind?

Your identity?

Worry?

Anxiety?

Future fears?

Your health?

Your family?

Control over your surroundings?

When God calls you to Himself, He asks you to leave things behind.

But often, we begin following Him while dragging things along side us.

We drag worry along as we fear the future even though we know God’s got it.

We drag our family as we obsess about their poor choices even though God loves them more.

We drag our health as we demand to be healthy while choosing to inhale junk.

We drag our false identities even though we know who we are as God’s heir.

And we drag control, desperately wanting life to surrender to our every whim instead of surrendering to God’s will.

As God’s child, we need not bring anything on our journey with Him.

All we need is ourselves as God brings everything else.

And He is perfect, holding our perfect plan set before us.

We mess it up when we drag things along.

When we don’t leave all our junk behind.

We are so selfish, wanting to conform our surroundings to fit our whims. Our desires, hopes, and dreams.

But God’s ways are better. His ways are higher than mine. And they are higher than yours.

What is holding you back from running into all God has for you?

Photos by Karsten Winegeart, Jametlene Reskp, Jonathan Borba, & Aaron Owens on Unsplash

Perspective

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

Life is really all about perspective.

Right?

When life bites you, all you want is a small break.

Any relief, really.

More particular.

But when things are smooth sailing, you’re pickier.

At the beach this week, our home was about 12 houses from the ocean.

Twelve.

More like two blocks.

Yet the girls nicely complained about walking to the beach.

They wanted a ride.

It’s perspective.

If you told them back at home, the beach was literally two blocks away, they would have ran down to see it. Often.

Would not have hesitated to use their two feet.

But at the beach home?

It’s perspective.

Do you complain about anything? Your house? Your job?

All the overwhelming choices at the store?

America is the land of the free, home of the brave!

So many people in our world today would happily change places with us if they could.

Instantly. They cannot comprehend our complaining.

Change your perspective.

Me? I absolutely adore the beach. Wish I could plop Omaha right by the ocean.

But what decided to visit me while vacationing? A giant cold. Seriously sneezing.

And no, I’m not allergic to the beach.

But I literally don’t care. I’m where I love best.

What blessings are staring you in the face today?

Might not look like what you pictured.

Might even be used to it, looking for more.

So look again, asking God for His perspective.

He sees you, knows you, and loves you.

He’s got your best in His mind.

So while you seek His thoughts of you, mirror Him with your perspective.

Stop complaining and walk to the beach.

Photos by redcharlie, Petar Jadek, Colton Jones, Sean Oulashin on Unsplash

I Refuse

Published on by amylinnea1 Comment

..to allow my child’s negative attitude bring mine down to their level.

..to participate with fear when it whispers into my ear.

..to give worry any seat at my party when I know God holds my future in His capable hands.

..to withhold forgiveness from those who don’t deserve it.

..to filter life through a negative lens.

..to dwell on justified wrongs from others instead of living within my blessings from God.

..to participate with negative attitudes from those around me.

..to focus on what I don’t have, switching to all the blessings I do have from God.

..to agree with the lies from the pit of hell, instead purposing to agree with who God says that I am.

..to find my worth in ungrateful children who have not matured to what God has given them.

..to rely on the world to give me my worth in their terms.

..to define my value in the world’s unreachable standards.

..to stoop to the devil’s level as he tries to fill my head with destructive thoughts.

..to rely on myself, instead relying on God and His Holy Spirit to fill me with His power and all truth.

..to be a door mat, ignoring my God-given desires, quietly asserting my value within my home.

..to be ungrateful, instead smiling as I remember all the good things God has given to little ole’ me.

..to forget what my salvation has cost my dear Savior who sacrificed everything.

..to define parenthood on the ungrateful whims of children no matter their age.

..to seek my selfish desires above what plans God has for me.

..to expect more of others than they are capable; God is everything, filling in holes created by others’ lack of compassion or thought.

..to keep pursuing my own selfish ambitions, instead asking God what He has for me and my future.

..to listen to the devil as his only purpose is to steal, kill, and destroy all that I hold dear.

May God give us His strength to purpose our thoughts only on Him.

He is all that we need.

May God fill us up with His strength, power, peace, and love as we go forth spreading His purpose to others.

Listen, my friends, to our Lord, ignoring your flesh and the devil’s deception which foil God’s plans for you.

Photos Priscilla Du Preez, Drew Beamer, Miguel Bruna, Clay Banks, Heather Ford on Unsplash

Mommy-hood

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Moms are the most underpaid, under acknowledged, under revered bunch.

Not only do we grow humans from within our bodies, we grow them in our hearts.

Children, whether natural or adopted, are extensions of ourselves.

We ache when they cry. We rejoice when they laugh. We cry when they fail.

I can remember my eldest. I had pre-eclampsia, so my feet were puff balls.

Literally swollen and blue if I stood too long, which means like a few seconds.

He was 2 weeks late and I labored all day and night for him.

Having no drugs, I can remember referencing Eve’s sin while in the throes of labor pains.

But when he was born, it was literally all worth it. The pain evaporated.

Motherhood is like that. Sacrifice. Emptying of ourselves for another.

There is no relationship like it.

When these humans become adults, we let them go. Off into the world, exploring for themselves under the protection of their childhood.

It’s no easier, folks. My eldest recently married the love of his life. Wasn’t there as they privately wed before a judge.

I love them so much, but it hurt not attending their wedding.

But it’s their choice. Sigh.

As mothers, we must do our very best. We continually sacrifice for them, whether it’s when they are small or grown.

Mothers are always there for their children. Not letting attitudes pass, but we are their constant.

Yes, we face multiple disappointments. But we are still there. A constant in their life like God is for us.

What an honor. Thank you God, for allowing us to be your hands and feet to others.

Help us to navigate the waters of motherhood as you would want us to act.

Fill in our cuts and bruises, which seem to reopen with a child’s actions.

Only with Your constant presence may we even begin to excel at this, the toughest job in the world.

For Mother’s Day, we mothers choose to honor God, our loving, constant help.

God, who gives us His strength, when ours is never enough.

God, who gives us His love, when ours is all used up.

God, who gives us His peace, when ours last nerve has been clearly trampled.

God, who hears our every complaint and joy, yet never chooses to leave our side.

God is our constant. Our everything. He will always be your faithful companion as you navigate the calm or troubled waters of motherhood. Give Him your family again today. He will make you a happier mother today.

Photos by Guillaume de Germain, Alexandra Fuller,  Ben White, & Anthony Tran on Unsplash

Sometimes Saying Nothing

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But Jesus said nothing, much to Pilate’s surprise. Mark 15:5

When Jesus was before Pilate, He answered some questions, but He did not give a speech, defending himself.

He didn’t dive into a tirade, justifying His actions.

Jesus knew what He needed to do, and said only what was necessary.

Do you talk too much? Often defend your honorable intentions?

Sometimes we do. Talk too much.

For example with children, we explain ourselves WAY too often. Yes, offer an appropriate explanation, but you never need to defend yourself as a parent.

Why? Because you are the parent. And your child is not. They are the child.

Glad we are on the same page now.

Children enjoy trapping adults into arguments. Children are pros at arguing and whining.

Some regularly win when they keep going, grating on parent’s nerves.

You know you can stop that, right?

Tell the child no. Your only words offered for their benefit will be “because I said so”.

Repeat yourself when they keep asking why.

Then put a stop to their tantrums. Walk away.

While interacting with children is only one example, we sometimes talk too much in other areas.

Work, phone calls, emails, social media, the list goes on and on.

Sometimes saying less is more. Better. In fact, superior.

Let’s practice quiet authority. Not saying every thought that pops into our brain.

Think things through before uttering a word, asking God to help you speak His words of life.

Or, not to speak them…. yet.

Photos by Ilyass SEDDOUG,  Ben Wicks, & Caroline Hernandez on Unsplash

Canceling The Devil

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Ever think about this: the devil knows he’s lost.

He’s going to do everything he possibly can to take you down with him.

Doesn’t care if you’re a Christian.

If the devil can keep you down and depressed, full of fear or self-pity, you’ll infect those around you for him.

For the devil.

Living for yourself, you place a tally on the devil’s side. Score one for him!

Is it worth it?

Are those justified feelings of anger, self-pity, or revenge worth letting the devil have a point?

Nope.

Helps to look at sin from a different perspective.

Never want to let the devil win at anything in my life.

Unfortunately, I let him win daily when I think of myself before others and pride steps in, begging to put self first.

I know it’s unrealistic to think we can always be our best for God.

But if we ask God to help us each moment of every day, we’ll have a winning shot.

And when we ask God’s forgiveness when we mess up, the devil’s point evaporates. Poof!

Purpose your mind on Christ. Give Him yourself again today.

As God helps you, you’ll provide less and less chances for the devil to play the game.

Devil, you’re canceled.

Photos by Michael Dziedzic, Brina Blum, & Masaaki Komori on Unsplash

Succumbing to Temptation

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7

Not only does Satan want to silence your witness, he also wishes to crush your very existence.

He always begins small.

Tiny.

Almost unnoticeable.

Look at this sinful site.

That wasn’t so bad.

Do it again.

And before you know it, you’re craving that sin.

You’ve even rationalized it’s acceptance in your life.

It’s now no big deal.

Happens with lying, cheating, gossiping, stealing – you name the sin, it generally starts small.

How did that happen?

Succumbing to temptation from the pit of hell.

It might not seem like a big deal, but it IS.

We are all human, so when you slip, repent.

Repent and ask God to help you resist.

He will fill you up with Himself, which is the only way to fully resist the devil.

James 4: 7 reminds us of what to do.

Only with God can you resist the devil.

And God is with you when you humble yourself, submitting to God’s authority.

His rules of right and wrong.

Not yours.

Sin begins and, if not squelched, grows.

It grows like a weed, taking over all of the good soil.

Before you know it, the garden is full of seeds, that left untouched, will keep infiltrating the future possibility of goodness.

Allowing sin as parents furthers its demise on our children.

The sin grows, and children begin to accept it as an acceptable alternative to the truth.

Absolutely breaks my heart.

But God is bigger.

And He is above all things.

He has all authority.

Yank out those weeds when they are easy to pull.

Ask God to help you pull out the ones with deep roots.

Submit yourself to God, asking Him to fill you with His power, love, and sound mind.

Your generations will unknowingly thank you for your faithfulness to Almighty God.

Fall on your knees, asking God if there is any sin in your life you have accepted as normal.

Submit yourself to God and He will help you resist the devil each and every time.

Photos by Annie Spratt, Jon Tyson, & Ben White on Unsplash

Locked Up

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The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1

Are you locked up?

Are you paralyzed with fear?

Filled with anxious thoughts, unable to move forward?

When we choose to rely on our own strength, we tend to lock ourselves up, away from everyone and everything.

When that happens, we choose to remain alone.

Stuck.

Separated by God’s peace.

Why do you choose to do that?

Don’t you trust God to help?

When life seems impossible, that’s when God can step in, revealing His purposes.

But only if we let Him.

God gives us a choice.

To move with Him or without.

If we choose to ignore Him, we will become stuck.

Stuck within our selfish strength or stuck within our paralyzing fear.

But if we let God help us, our lock will relent, releasing the door to open.

God promises to enter, but only if we say yes.

How have you said no to God?

What areas of your life are closed or even locked to God?

Time to allow Him to unlock your prison door!

Photos by Beth Macdonald, Shazaf Zafar, Everyday basics, &  Jornada Produtora on Unsplash

Dear God, Help!

Published on by amylinnea3 Comments

The Lord will rescue His servants; no one who takes refuge in Him will be condemned. Psalm 34:22

This is big.

Too big.

Too much.

I can’t even wrap my mind around it, so there’s that.

I’m going to call it simply impossible.

Dead end, that’s where this situation lays.

No literal way out.

My mind is wrapped in anxiety and dread.

Blanketed with fear, causing my stomach to lurch whenever my mind remembers.

Standing at the edge, I throw up my hands in surrender.

God, I can do nothing to help.

I am not in control.

God, please help.

Please take it all away, sweeping in with Your goodness, health, and peace.

I know Your plan is not for evil, but for good.

And I know you created us with the choice to follow Your virtues or not.

While I cannot control the whims of others, I can purpose myself on You.

On Your truth.

On Your wisdom.

On Your peace.

We all face mountains, be them family situations, health, or other, that become defining points in time.

How will your mountain define you?

Turning to God, trusting Him to solve it all?

Or turning into yourself, which will 100% fail you and those you love.

Turn to Him, who created our universe and everything within.

Turn to Him, giving Him every worry, anxiety, and fear.

Turn to Him and let Him hold you, making it all better.

And watch Him work miracles.

Either you’ll see Him solve things as only He can, or you will witness Him providing you with His perfect peace within the storm.

Either way, your front row seat will behold His perfect miracle just for you.

Photos by Phạm Trọng Họ,  Ben White, & Naassom Azevedo on Unsplash

God’s Faithful Path

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All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness, for those who keep his covenant and his testimonies. Psalm 25:10

When you keep walking on the path God has for you, you will experience His love and faithfulness.

No, it won’t always be easy, but you will stay within Him.

You will walk in His love, which is God Himself.

God is always faithful to those who keep His covenant.

To those who keep His commandments, His word.

And when you obey Him, you will stay within His love and faithfulness.

There is nothing better then experiencing God’s love.

His love is perfect.

All encompassing.

All knowing.

His faithfulness reminds you He is always with you.

HIs promises are true.

God’s faithfulness to you is a beacon of hope.

A promise of future security.

A secure dwelling place.

When you choose to walk with God, He will be your faithful friend.

Your heart will be filled with His love.

Your blanks will be filled with Him.

But only when you choose to follow Him, walking hand in hand down His path.

What is stopping you?

Selfish desires?

Do you not know God has your very best interest at heart?

Seek Him with all you have.

Ask Him to fill you with HIs very self.

And in return, you will be reminded of His faithfulness and love for you.

As you keep His covenant, you will be a testimony to God Himself.

What an absolute honor.

Am I right?

God doesn’t need you to fulfill His plan.

But He wants you to join Him.

Take it in all humility, and watch Him work through you.

Become His vessel through which His love and faithfulness is revealed to the world.

Through this choice, you will keep His covenant, showing the world His testimony through you.

What an honor.

Photos by Ars Buchatski, Mick Haupt, Maksim Shutov, & Jan Huber on Unsplash

Zero Opportunity

Published on by amylinnea1 Comment

And give no opportunity to the devil. Ephesians 4:27

That seems like a no brainer, doesn’t it?

Why would we ever want to give the devil an opportunity to reign in our lives?

To take anything over?

Why would we grant the devil a foothold into our lives?

If refusing the devil an opportunity is common sense, why would the Bible need to remind us?

Because we need it.

Constantly.

We are always inviting the devil back into our lives when we sin.

Through our thoughts.

Our actions.

Our words.

Sometimes all three.

Do we consciously invite him?

Like offering him a physical invite?

No.

But we do when we fight with our loved ones.

We do when we cause others to sin.

We give the devil opportunity when we listen to his lies planted into our mind.

Fights with your spouse come to mind.

Ever think the other person acted a certain way when they didn’t intend to?

Calm the heck down and lovingly talk with them.

Or, you can react within yourself, recoiling in anger.

That allows the devil his opportunity.

How about your child’s selfish retort towards your careful cooking?

Into your head pops a lie from the pit.

If you allow that sudden untruth to cement into true reality, you’ve given the devil his opportunity.

Cheating at work?

Or on your taxes?

There are millions of ways we can provide the devil an opportunity to step into our lives.

He’s literally standing right there, simply waiting to jump back.

He can’t wait.

Let’s make him wait.

Purpose in your mind to close the door on his schemes.

It takes God’s strength in you to fight off the earned selfish retorts you could honestly repay others.

When others hurt you, that’s when Satan comes full force as we seem weak.

And we are when we are hurt.

We start believing his lies about our loved ones.

Stop.

Stop giving the devil any opportunity in your life or your relationships.

Praise the name of the Lord instead.

That will send the devil and your self-pity ways screaming down the road.

And oh ya: don’t let the door hit you on the way out 🙂

Photos by Brina Blum, Van Tay Media, Jan Tinneberg, Maick Maciel, & Wolfgang Rottmann on Unsplash

Walking in Wisdom

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Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise, but as wise. Ephesians 5:15

Are you walking wisely through life?

Or are you subscribing to any whim you possess, acting as an unwise person?

God asks us to look carefully how we walk.

He wants us to represent Him as wise people.

When we react unwisely, or as in anger or spite, we unfortunately place God in a bad light.

Are you walking in the flesh, acting on every selfish whim?

Or are you seeking God, walking in a wise manner?

Choosing to walk wisely is difficult at best.

Our flesh cries out for selfish desires.

For literally unwise actions as we seek justice, not God’s desires.

Additionally, we tend to listen to lies from the pit when unwisely, we succumb to self-pity or other sins.

Walking wisely with God requires dedication.

Dedication to God Himself.

Focus as well.

Rejecting selfish thoughts or feelings.

Our flesh cries out for selfish desires.

We feel we must feed ourselves.

But God asks us to walk carefully as wise people.

Wise people seek God.

May we purpose ourselves to reject our selfish natures, aligning ourselves instead to God’s ways alone.

As we walk along God’s path, we will reflect His wisdom, bringing the world His truth.

Our world desperately needs God’s truth.

Keep that in mind as you become HIs witness to our world.

Reflect His wisdom.

If you don’t, you will reflect unwisdom, which may turn others far away from Him.

Your life is a witness.

Reflect Him.

Photos by Syaoran 7,  Alex Lopez, Joel Muniz, Ben White on Unsplash

Teeny Tiny Thanks

Published on by amylinnea1 Comment

You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 2 Corinthians 9:11

Thanksgiving, a time to be thankful.

We have SO much to be thankful to God for.

Life, our very breath breathed from God Himself.

Family, those to whom we would do anything to help.

Another day, pregnant with possibilities.

God, the creator of ALL things, who whispers His love to us every day.

Worship music, which allows us a tiny glimpse of worshipping God in heaven.

Nourishment for our mortal bodies as we keep walking on this earth.

Pure water, filling our teeny cells with life.

The Bible, which, when opened, allows us to see the very heart of God.

Shelter from the storms of life, whether a home, room, or cozy dorm.

Paychecks from our jobs, which allow the bills to be paid on time.

Blessings, which look different for us all, but every single one is precious, nonetheless.

Coffee, the drink from God, which allows us to do all He asks of us.

Kidding, kind’ve.

Wisdom from on High, which helps us choose just what He wants us to do.

Peace from God, which passes ALL understanding when considering what path we sometimes walk.

Pure joy, the fruit of the Spirit most unexplainable.

When we have joy in the midst of life’s sufferings, the world notices.

Joy in the storm proves God is above it all.

And He is.

Above it all.

God is above our wants and desires.

He is above our family.

God is above our past, present, and future.

God is our ultimate thanksgiving prayer.

God, who created ALL things, wants me.

He wants all of us to be His.

Surrender afresh again to Him alone.

And with thanksgiving, give Him your very self.

He will faithfully fill you with enough to not only survive, but thrive.

And thank Him for the hurt.

For the ugly.

For when we are in the midst of the fire, we see You more clearly.

We see Your suffering for us on the cross.

We see our human need for You.

We are humbled once again as we seek Your face.

So, yes, we are thankful, very thankful for the churning seas of life.

Thank you, God, for all You do for us, the good and the ugly.

We could not even breathe without You.

To You, everything we owe.

And we are so very thankful.

Photos by Simon Maage, Volodymyr Hryshchenko, & Ryan Christodoulou on Unsplash

No Condemnation

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. Romans 8:1

There is absolutely zero condemnation when you are His.

God’s.

When you have given your life to God, the world’s condemnation no longer sticks.

It’s no longer your identity.

You are covered, instead, by God Himself.

Chosen.

Loved.

Valuable.

Are you still living under your old identity?

Your old condemned self?

Why?

Whatever for?

Because it’s what you know.

Your old ways are safe.

Known.

When you face trials, you revert to old labels.

Because they are like old familiar blankets.

Wrapping up in self-pity feels normal.

Clothing yourself in anger feels justified.

When you choose to become God’s, you are changed.

Your identity becomes new.

Condemnation falls away.

Fear goes.

Anxiety flees.

But only if you choose to stay under the new identity from God.

The choice is yours.

Romans 8 reminds us God declares we have no condemnation when we are His.

But He gives us free will.

You can choose at anytime, to walk from under His wings.

Out from His identity for you.

Your old identity is out there.

Easily attainable and readily available.

But with it comes the usual fear, anxiety, and angst.

Because it also includes the absence of God’s peace.

Reaching for your old identity results from walking in the flesh.

In your own sinful self.

Romans 8 urges us to walk in the Spirit, not in the flesh.

Because when we walk with God according to His will, we are within His peace.

Not condemned.

Choose every day to walk with God.

Choose every day to refuse the pull of the flesh.

When you do, condemnation will fall away as God Himself remains.

Photos by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Prickly People

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Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Philippians 2:3

You know the type.

Recoils when you give a loving pat.

Or even a loving word.

They shun it, choosing instead to dwell on their own misery.

Their prickles scream stay away or else.

You don’t see them at first.

But after the initial reaction, they are completely obvious.

Well, they are obvious, plus you notice a trickle of blood down your arm from their stab.

Ouch!

What did you do?

Think back.

Anything there?

Maybe if you have a teenager, you looked at them wrong.

Or you limited their freedoms based on their choices.

Or insisted they eat veggies before dessert.

Oh the horror!

Guessing you saw prickles.

Maybe your spouse isn’t themselves, responding to your loving words with apathy.

Or they recoil in horror when you suggest a change.

Ouch!

Maybe your friends have a prickly text response.

Maybe your boss is unapproachable and all you feel are prickles.

How about the checker, assuming you still use a real person.

Through no fault of your own, they might be prickly because of their job or life circumstances.

What should you do when encountering prickles?

If you fight back, deliciously succumbing to fleshly desires, you’ll get pricked.

Stabbed.

Blood will trickle out.

Ouch!

Sometimes, their attitudes have nothing to do with you.

You are simply in the way.

Other times, it is directed specifically at you.

I’ll ask again.

What should you do?

What would Jesus do?

Love them.

Provide grace through strength.

Infuse His peace into the circumstances.

While you must stand firm with adolescent discipline, sprinkle in some grace.

Don’t allow yourself to be wounded with someone else’s pricks.

Those are meant to harm you.

But only if you let them.

Stand tall.

Wear your crown, and declare none of this moves me.

I will stay in His peace as I keep my eyes steadfast on Him.

The author and finisher of my peace.

Photos by NeONBRAND, buddika Gunathilaka, & frank mckenna on Unsplash

The Witness of God

Published on by amylinnea1 Comment

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. Acts 1:8

Are you living in the authority of one whom God has saved?

Are you remembering God’s promises, pointing your very existence to Him?

Are you seeking God’s face for the souls of your family?

Are you asking God to show you how you should serve Him today?

Our eternal salvation is for later.

When we’re standing at the judgement seat of God.

But Jesus saved us for today.

He saved us to be His witness.

He chose us to spread His good news.

He uses us to be His hands and feet to those we meet.

Yes, God died to save us from our sins.

For eternal life praising His name.

But He also saved us from ourselves for today.

Today and tomorrow.

For the world.

The world needs to see your salvation and what that looks like.

Reasons why they should follow you to God.

You are a witness of Almighty God.

Walk in His power.

Stand in His faithfulness.

And show the world just how amazing He is today.

Photos by Silvestri Matteo on Unsplash