God is in control – Amy Linnea

Stunning

Published on May 10, 2025May 10, 2025 by amylinneaLeave a comment

She dresses with strength and nobility, and she smiles at the future. Proverbs 31:25

How tall are you standing?

How often do you smile at yourself in the mirror?

Is your resting face pleasant?

Are you resting in the satisfaction God is in control and you don’t have to be?

Are you walking a little straighter?

You must, so your crown doesn’t fall to the floor.

When will you begin to enjoy the body God gave you?

When you’re dead?

That will be too late.

Life is too short to worry about every imperfection.

Those are dependent upon the whims of society anyhow.

Live within the blessing of God.

Live within the promise of Whose you are.

Live within the image of God.

That’s who you were fashioned after.

Allow God’s peace to wash over you as you stand tall.

Nothing bothers you because God’s got it all covered.

Have you ever really smiled because you suddenly realized how very valuable you are to God?

Think about it. Dwell in it for a moment.

God created you. You. And He doesn’t make mistakes. Ever.

When you allow His love and grace to cover you, your face cannot help but grin loudly.

Grin. Stand tall. And share this grace and love with the others around you.

Talk about stunning.

Photos by Javier González Fotógrafo, Vitaliy Zalishchyker, & Chase Kennedy on Unsplash

Audio Book News!

Published on January 11, 2025January 19, 2025 by amylinnea4 Comments

Surprise! A couple of months ago, I did a little thing. Professionally recorded my entire book!!! It was tons of work, but so much fun! Who knew tummies made that much noise? 🙂 My audio recording of Trusting God with Every Breath is now available on Amazon, Apple Music, Spotify, and other platforms! I had great fun recording it at Tesco Productions (that link will take you to my article on his site!) the end of November. It’s humbling to be asked to record your words, knowing God plans to use each one.

In other news, my publisher shared I sold about 60,000 books on Amazon the past six months! AND- I was in the top FIVE of three categories for about a month, staying as #1 a few days! Super fun, I tell you! Thrilling, actually!!! As God continues to use my book, I am reminded how He is in control, and I am not. God’s plans are higher than ours. Isn’t it delightful to know we are in His thoughts?

I do have a humble request. If you have my book, could you please give it a review on Amazon? My publisher specifically asked for video reviews as the book’s popularity keeps growing. Written reviews work well, too!! I really REALLY appreciate it! A whole lot 🙂

Through all the stuff we do each day, we must remember our Helper, who stays by our side.

Keep your thoughts close to God.

Keep asking Him to guide your ways.

Keep nestling under His protection.

Keep close, allowing Him to fill you with His strength, love, and peace.

Because, He will. 🙂

All the Little Things

Published on May 11, 2024May 10, 2024 by amylinneaLeave a comment

Even to your old age I am He, and even to your advanced old age I will carry you! I have made you, and I will carry you; Be assured I will carry you and I will save you. Isaiah 46:4

Do you recognize the absolute pleasure of watching God take care of you?

We try so hard to control our worlds.

Our environments. Our decisions.

Our current and future moments.

We try, yet fail so often.

We can’t possibly ever reach perfection: perfect control of our worlds.

But that’s not our job. It’s God’s.

God is the one who controls all things.

He ultimately holds our breath in His hands.

When you try to manage yourselves, we rely on our own strength.

Our own wisdom.

Our own humanly flawed brains.

I for one don’t remember all I should. You?

Do you fret about it?

Suddenly become anxious when you, gasp, mess up?

You shouldn’t. Just try your best. God’s got the rest.

Went to a fun Mexican restaurant last weekend with my sweet husband.

For some reason, I used my credit card to pay and we went on our merry way.

The next day, I was first at the register, so I reached into my wallet to pay for our mulch and plants.

My credit card was missing!

My husband paid our bill, and we discussed where the card could possibly be.

At the restaurant from the night before!

Quickly we called and sure enough, it was waiting for me. No extra charges, just a sad, lonely card.

What a relief! I’m coming!!

Here’s where God comes into this picture: I rarely pay a store when the two of us are together.

What if I had not tried to pay for our mulch?

When would I have noticed the missing card?

Probably days later as I am a school teacher, never needing my card during the week.

God prompted me to use it, so I would notice it’s absence.

Isn’t God so kind?

But that’s His heart.

We learn a lesson (take back your card when you pay!), but He gently guides us along the way.

Stop trying everything on your own.

Do your best, and let God do the rest.

He’s much better at it, anyway.

Photos by Luke Ow, Vitolda Klein, Schiba, & Ben White on Unsplash

More Than Able

Published on May 27, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 4:20-21

Are you ready for God to work in your life?

He is.

He is more than ready.

Are you?

Are you willing to put in the work?

Meaning, set yourself aside so God can use you?

You might say yes, but do you understand the cost?

It could cost relationships that are dear to you.

It could bring you confusion at times when you fail to understand His plans.

And it could cost you your very life.

But God is able to do more than we could ever possibly think or imagine.

Imagine allowing Him to use you as He sees fit.

He has great plans for you.

Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us that For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

God’s perfect peace surrounds you when you are within His will.

When you suspend your personal desires for God’s instead.

His plans for you might include simply loving others who utterly dislike your existence.

You can remain peaceful, simply loving, not retorting anger for anger.

Or He might have you react in a kind way when every fiber of your being screams for justice.

God is more than able to provide you the strength only He can to fulfill the plans He has for you.

Big or small, the plans He has for you are so good.

Allow Him full access knowing He is able to do far more than we could possibly imagine.

Apart from God, we are one thing.

But working together with Him is another matter entirely.

Choose Him afresh.

Place your little life into His capable hands.

React how He wants you to react.

Love how He wants you to love.

And live how He wants you to live.

To Him be the glory for ever and ever, amen.

Photos by Marivi Pazos & Margaret Jaszowska on Unsplash

Securely Held

Published on October 15, 2022October 14, 2022 by amylinneaLeave a comment

God holds you tight.

Securely.

Completely tight.

Right within Him, He holds you.

He holds your now, your past, and your future.

Navigating your path, He holds you securely.

Can’t see what’s ahead?

His hand will guide you.

Securely.

Fumbling around like there’s nothing to hold onto?

He’s right behind you, so it’s ok to let go.

Let everything go.

Let your burdens go.

One by one, place them into His capable hands.

Frustrated? Throw them down at His feet.

He doesn’t care how you do it, just give your burdens to Him.

And when you release the burdens, trust Him.

Completely.

Trust Him for your everything.

Here’s a picture of trust.

Recently, I volunteered to harness myself to a high rope, trusting not only the people, but the materials to hoist myself safely high into the air.

Panicking in mid-air, I asked to be let down closer to the ground before choosing to release myself to a safe swinging motion.

I had nothing to hold onto.

I had to let go.

That was the only option to feeling my feet once again on the safe ground.

I let go.

And I was fine.

It’s the same way with God.

Sometimes we have no vision of the future, or solid ground for our feet.

We only have God and trusting His vision for our future.

Your choice is this: to trust and let go or hang on for dear life with your own strength.

Choose to let go and let God have His way.

Yes, it might be scary, but with God next to you, there is absolutely nothing to fear.

Say no to fear and choose to let God be your everything.

I’d much rather choose God then relying on my strength alone.

But it takes guts. Real life guts.

But it’s so worth it.

Face your fears.

Face your what if’s.

Because those are nothing compared to a future with God.

Let go of what is secure and let God hold you instead.

Photos by Kayra Sercan, Elahe Motamedi, Catherine, & Ben White on Unsplash

The Lord Goes Before You

Published on February 5, 2022June 14, 2023 by amylinnea1 Comment

The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Deuteronomy 31:8

When God goes before us, He knows before we do.

He sees things before we do.

He feels things before we do.

He literally clears the path before us.

Picture a shepherd or a warrior.

Taking their weapon, they sweep the weeds, creating a path for you.

Scouting their eyes, they notice dangers.

They note possible wild animals.

Depressions in the earth.

Approaching weather.

Even good things, they notice.

Then He runs back to you, walking by your side.

He’s your protector.

Your shield.

He’s your dad.

Never leaving.

Always available.

For your safety and wellbeing.

How can I ever be afraid or discouraged with God going before me?

Facing an uncomfortable situation?

Picture God already going before you, literally clearing your path.

Picture Him running back to walk with you every step of the way.

He’s got you.

He’s got me.

He’s got this for us and more.

Photos by Emma Frances Logan, JOHN TOWNER, Karl Anderson, Subhadeep Dishant, & tamara garcevic on Unsplash

New Year

Published on January 2, 2021January 2, 2021 by amylinneaLeave a comment

I love New Years.

Do you?

Nothing like a fresh start.

Clean slate.

A reset.

Are you resetting anything?

Wiping anything clean?

Looking back at last year’s goals, I actually did pretty great!

How ’bout you?

I accomplished over half of my goals, plus more.

2020 was a horrible year by many accounts.

If you focus on quarantine, riots, lawlessness, cheating, etc., you could become overwhelmed with negativity.

Understandable.

Totally.

But remember: God is on the throne.

Always and forever.

And I’m choosing to focus on that.

My God has a plan, has had a plan, and always will have His plan.

Speaking of plans, I have decided to read through the Bible chronologically this year.

As a type A personality, it makes me nervous skipping around the Bible, not merely reading in order.

But I’m excited!

Ever read the Bible this way?

Join me!

Find the downloadable plan below:

Chronological Bible Reading Plan Download

This year, let’s focus to place God first in our lives.

Let’s resolve to give Him our absolute everything.

And when we do, 2021 will be a great year despite anything that comes our way.

Hallelujah!

Photos by Jude Beck, Özgür Öztürk, & Tim Mossholder on Unsplash

Controlled by Anger

Published on February 8, 2020June 11, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

And do not give the devil a foothold. Ephesians 4:27

Is it ok to be mad?

Super angry at an uncontrollable situation?

Yes.

It’s ok to be mad.

Just don’t let it control you.

There’s a difference.

A difference between anger and a life dictated by it.

The anger.

Sometimes situations in life have justifiable angry responses.

Literally justified.

But if you hold onto that anger, it controls you every time.

Every time you are reminded of the situation, your body will respond as trained.

In anger.

Blood will boil.

Tempers will flair.

You will lash out at people for no apparent reason.

It’s sin.

Why?

Because the anger controls you.

You have trained your body in that way.

And don’t sin by letting anger control you. Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil. Ephesians 4:26-7

When God talks about letting go of anger, He means just that.

Let it go.

Guess He coined that phrase long before the Norwegian ice princess movie we have all watched way too many times.

Doesn’t mean to forget or allow yourself to be hurt again in the same way.

It simply means to keep your peace.

To surrender the anger, knowing God is in control.

To choose peace over anger, learning instead from the pain.

Giving a foothold to the devil is keeping your anger.

Choosing to wallow in it.

Probably deservedly, yes, but that’s not the point.

Living in freedom with God sometimes defies all logic.

Logically, you should be mad as you know what.

But God wants you to live in freedom.

And you cannot dwell in His freedom if you are shackled by anger’s prison.

Break free and allow God to heal your wounds.

How?

Ask God.

Remember, forgiving is not forgetting.

But it’s freedom.

Ask God to forgive through you.

Then whenever it pops back into your brain (you know the devil will insist on reminding you often!), throw it back to God.

Forgive again and again.

Your body will begin to retrain itself, reacting instead with peace.

The absence of anger will release you from the prison of pain.

Learn from situations, yes.

But don’t keep the anger.

It’s simply not worth your time.

Or your peace.

Photos by Clem Onojeghuo, Kenni Fil , & Lauren McConachie on Unsplash

Interrupting Plans

Published on December 14, 2019June 14, 2023 by amylinnea1 Comment

“for I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

Joseph and Mary had big plans.

They were simple folk with regular plans.

Get married and build a life, working hard to produce an honorable Jewish family.

Probably were going to stay in town, as folks didn’t regularly move away from their communities.

I can imagine Mary collecting recipes from her mother, gathering the skills needed to run her own household.

Joseph, too, honing his carpentry skills, collecting tools, starting on their forever house.

They had plans.

Plans that were normal, thoughtful, accepted, and logical.

Accepted.

Then God stepped in.

He changed their plans.

Radically.

Disrupted their entire future.

Joseph and Mary went from knowing how their future would proceed to trusting God with everything they had.

Went from predictable reliable plans to an unknown, scary future.

Scary, yes, because now they had no one but themselves.

And God.

Their friends probably thought they were crazy.

And their family hopefully believed them, but the Bible doesn’t record their reactions, so who really knows?

All we know is both Mary and Joseph said yes to God.

They trusted His words and each other.

They chose to walk a difficult journey because they KNEW God had ordained it.

They were confident God would be with them always.

That they were IN His plans.

And what about you?

What has God interrupted in your life?

What plans of yours has He changed?

It’s irritating, I know, when things change.

Guessing Mary and Joseph weren’t always in great moods about the whole thing.

But they kept going.

They remembered they were in God’s plan.

That God Himself was in control.

And you, too.

When God interrupts your plans, you fall back into His.

His great plans for your life.

Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Like Joseph and Mary, allow God to interrupt.

Accept His perfect plan for your life.

And take comfort knowing He wants the very best for you, His child.

Photos by Alex Gindin, Roman Kraft, Luca Baggio, & Javier Allegue Barros on Unsplash

Watered Wood

Published on November 30, 2019June 9, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

Then the fire of the Lord fell and consumed the burnt offering and the wood and the stones and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench. 1 Kings 18:38

What watered wood do you have on your alter?

What?

You heard me.

What wet, un-burnable wood do you have on your alter?

Meaning, what unbelievably impossible burdens do you carry?

What disastrous situations are you declaring unsolvable today?

That’s what watered wood is.

Situations that seem utterly impossible.

That’s because they are.

Utterly impossible.

In your strength.

But not in God’s.

God doesn’t care if your wood on the alter is soaked.

He’ll still send the fires of heaven to burn it up.

Accepted.

God does not care just how big your burden is.

Because He is always bigger still.

Always.

Remember Elisha’s altar when he was proving God’s superiority against the enemy’s false gods?

He bet God would burn his sacrifice even with the extreme amounts of water.

Remember, fire and water don’t mix.

And God came through.

He was more than enough, burning everything in an instant.

And He’ll do the same with you.

He’ll take your burden, your seemingly impossible situation and take care of it.

Completely.

But only if you trust Him.

Allow Him to work.

Allow Him by giving everything to Him.

Then watch Him work it all out.

Completely.

Photos by Ramiz Dedaković, Gregory DALLEAU, Joshua Earle, & Nathan Lindahl on Unsplash

No Longer Slaves

Published on October 19, 2019June 9, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

And the hand of the Lord was upon me there. And He said to me, “Arise, go out into the valley, and there I will speak with you.” Ezekiel 3:22

What if you were no longer a slave to fear?

What if you decided not to sit under the rule of anxiety, worry, and doubt?

What if you decided you were not that girl who reacted in fear?

Or you are not that boy who lashes out in anger when wronged?

What if you were no longer sitting in darkness alone?

What if you declared instead your life was now God’s alone?

What if you pushed aside all your fleshly misgivings and plunged forward into what you know God wants for you?

What if you stepped out of the boat and walked in faith into God’s plan for you?

What if you put your strong feet where your mouth has been all these years?

What if you declared today is the day the Lord has made, and I will now rejoice in it?

What if you actually stopped, laid your burdens down, and ran into the arms of Jesus without looking back?

What if today was the first day of the rest of your life trusting God completely instead of your old ways?

I can tell you.

If you do that, you will be forever changed.

You will smile bigger than before.

You will walk freer than ever.

You will be filled with God’s peace, which is beyond understanding.

The what if can only be answered by one person.

You.

Photos by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Undisturbed

Published on September 28, 2019June 9, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

Peace, I leave with you; My peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. John 14:27

Jesus was human.

Fully God, yet chose to be human.

There are many things we could talk about, but let’s concentrate on peace.

Jesus was the epitome of peace.

In the Bible, do you see Him distressing ever?

In the Garden of Gethsemane?

On the boat in the storm?

When Lazarus died?

Serving lunch with 4 loaves and 2 fish?

Or was it 4 fish and 2 loaves?

Doesn’t matter as it wasn’t enough for just His disciples and him!

John 14:27 says, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.”

Through all of that and more, Jesus was not distressed.

Not panicked.

His face was undisturbed.

Look at His face when you lack peace.

Remind yourself He is in control.

Empty yourself of inward-focus.

And focus on Him.

Focus on His undisturbed self.

If God, who created all things and knows all things, is undisturbed, why on earth are you?

Peace, be still.

Photos by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Resist

Published on September 14, 2019June 9, 2023 by amylinnea2 Comments

For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. Romans 8:13

How do you resist God?

With what words or actions do you tell Him no?

He will never insist.

He will never beg.

He simply tells you His truth and waits.

Waits for you to come to Him.

No manipulation.

No threats.

So how do you resist Him?

Ignoring His prompts to share His grace.

Busying your schedule, crowding out time in His Word.

Choosing entertainment before praying for your family.

Deciding against what you know is right, obeying your flesh instead.

Listening to the lies in your head instead of His truth you know.

Succumbing to selfishness instead of serving.

The list goes on and on.

Resisting God equals loving ourselves more.

But what if you invited God to take over?

What if you, instead of focusing on yourself first, asked God what He wanted?

Continually asked God what His plans are for you each and every moment?

What if you considered God all day?

Instead of merely before bed when you pause and pray?

We resist God when we focus on ourselves.

Instead, resist yourself and focus on Him.

Focus on God.

Photos by Nathan Dumlao, NeONBRAND, & Markus Spiske on Unsplash

Purpose

Published on August 17, 2019June 9, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me; Your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of Your hands. Psalm 138:8

What if God’s purposes are for you, not against you?

His purposes you don’t yet understand?

What if God’s ways are higher than yours?

Ways you don’t yet fully see?

What if His allowing trials in your life are for a purpose greater than your very life?

What if His tests are to grow your strength in Him?

To grow your faith in Him?

What if He allows things in order to use you to change others?

What if He plans to use your sorrows through your living, human example of walking through into new life with Him?

Would that make a difference to you?

If you knew that?

That His ways are higher than yours?

Do you trust Him?

Completely?

What if your consistent faithfulness to God in the face of evil is used to glorify Him?

Would that matter?

Would that make a difference?

I think yes.

When we trust God is ultimately in control, our walk is a bit easier.

Steps are easier to take when we know our ultimate purpose is to live for Him.

And the tiny little fact that He is using us.

Using you to bring others to Himself.

You might still step into mud, but you know He is right there to lift you out.

God will use you when you trust in Him.

And it’s just a bit easier to trust Him when you remind yourself of His purpose for you.

To be that light to others.

May your trials be that mush easier as you align your will with His, resting in the knowledge that His purpose will be fulfilled in your precious little life.

Photos by Anita Austvika and Ben Eaton on Unsplash

Today & Tomorrow

Published on August 3, 2019June 9, 2023 by amylinnea2 Comments

Surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off. Proverbs 23:18

Ever heard the phrase “He is already there?”

Meaning, Jesus is already there.

He’s in the past.

He’s here now.

And He’s in the future.

He is already there.

Already preparing for you.

Ready and calm.

It’s comforting, but only if we believe it.

Knowing God already knows and is there comforts us, but only if that’s enough.

And it should be.

God should be enough.

His presence, love, and peace are enough.

But only if we turn ourselves off, wanting to control some part of it.

Take tomorrow for example.

Not sure what is going on, but God is already there.

And He is enough.

Worry or anxiety begin to assert themselves into our situations only when we allow ourselves to regain control.

When I thrust myself and my desires into the plan.

Invading God’s perfect plan.

Yes, God gives us desires and needs, and when those are aligned with His will and not our flesh, we will remain in peace.

But when we decide we must plan for this or that, what we are really doing is removing our trust from God.

Removing our trust.

Not a good idea.

And when we remove our trust from God, we are telling Him he is not enough.

Not enough.

God, who created ALL things is not enough.

Ok, when you spell it out that way, our anxiety does seem a bit ridiculous.

Ya think?

Remember God has your back.

He is with you yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

He is already there.

Already there waiting for you.

Keep placing your trust in Him.

Let Him walk with you each moment.

Tell Him your worries, but allow Him to solve them.

Listen after you speak.

And trust that He is enough.

Because He is.

Photos by Todd Trapani, Ruslan Zaplatin, & Perchek Industrie on Unsplash

Set the Pace

Published on June 15, 2019June 9, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. 1 Corinthians 11:30

How fast do you live life?

At what speed do you spend your minutes?

Fast and furious with a never-ending list waiting to be accomplished?

In a tizzy when things are not completed on the timeline you have declared as law?

Hurriedly completing tasks as you rush past moments that matter?

How’s your mood during all of this?

Fabulously happy and content?

Or are you miserably managing to keep the pace, wearing instead a frown?

If you look around, you will see it all.

All that needs to be done.

I know.

I just moved.

It’s been 3 weeks and I had hoped to be all settled, pictures hung and hot meals on the table from my newly inventoried freezer.

Seriously?

Yep.

It’s laughable.

I mean, yes, I could throw things into nooks, but hubby and I want to literally go through everything, keeping only what we wish.

And that, my friends, is a daunting task as we filled our 920 square foot garage with all of our earthly belongings.

And some were in the house as well.

Gulp.

My pace lately has been busy.

Why?

Because I know it’s a season of settling.

That’s ok.

But I realized something today as I stood for a half hour drinking my coffee.

I felt guilty thinking of sitting, so I was standing.

What?

It’s like I knew I had way more to do, so I stood, thinking I could quickly jump to move something before taking another gulp of my morning liquid gold.

For heaven’s sake, sit down.

In order to accomplish more of what God wants us to do, we must carve out space to sit.

To sit and not do.

To sit and marvel at all we have done.

All God’s done.

Instead of looking at life as a frantic pace with a never ending list, change your focus.

Focus on your priorities: God, spouse, kids, all else.

Yes, organizing my new house affects my spouse and kids, honoring God; however, God never wants you to accomplish His will at the expense of your sanity.

Overall, your pace should reflect God.

Your face should reflect God.

Your life should reflect God.

And God reflects peace.

When your life reflects God, His peace will fill your mind, body, and soul.

When your face reflects God, your body will react to life with peace.

And when your pace reflects God, your schedule and activities will be peacefully attained.

And your list will end, because you’ll allow yourself to sit.

Can I get an amen?

Allow yourself margin to sit.

Sit back and enjoy all the blessings God has given you.

It’s not a guilty pleasure.

It honors God to thank Him.

Thanks, God. 🙂

Photos by Albert S, Kelly Miller, Markus Spiske, & Gaelle Marcel on Unsplash

Our Job

Published on January 26, 2019June 9, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

I have set the Lord always before me; because He is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken. Psalm 16:8

Sometimes I say, “Really, God?”

“Really?”

Sometimes I wonder just what He’s thinking.

Sometimes, I say, “Don’t you want to try this instead?”

“Seriously, don’t you?”

Sometimes I wonder just what He’s doing.

Sometimes, I throw up my hands and say, “I have no idea how You will solve this doozy of a problem.”

“Seriously, how do You plan on fixing it?”

Sometimes, I wonder just what He’s planning.

We wonder because we want to know.

We want to be in control.

We want to give Him input.

May we be reminded that God is God and we are not.

May we ask Him to guide our mouths and every step.

And may we never forget just how much we matter to God.

Our every detail matters to Him.

Nothing is overlooked.

He has already gone before us.

We need only to pray and trust.

Photo credits by George Mihaila & Igor Kasalovic on Unsplash

Simplicity

Published on January 5, 2019June 9, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

The Lord preserves the simple; when I was brought low, He saved me. Psalm 116:6

I’m struck at how simple our faith needs to be.

Just plain simple.

We make Christianity so darn complicated.

We become experts, insistent on our own interpretation of things.

We condemn ourselves from standards of perfection.

We become puddles of insecurity through our lack of faith.

We compare ourselves with the giants of our faith.

We mess up.

We listen to the lies of Satan whispering in our ear.

We bow to the idols of our flesh.

All of this heaps buckets of guilt and condemnation.

Usually topped with feeling our faith is not large enough.

Thinking we must do even more!

Let’s go back to the simplicity of faith in God.

Jesus said we must have faith like a small child.

Just know God is God and He is in control.

That is enough.

We don’t have to perform beyond that.

We don’t have to top anything.

We don’t need to prove our faith to anyone, including ourselves.

Place your trust in God.

Child-like trust.

Claim that.

Then relax and trust that He is good.

He works all things out in His perfect way.

His ways are above yours and mine.

Shrug off the man-made burdens of our faith and simply believe.

We don’t have to know everything about God and His ways to trust Him.

You can choose, though, to keep trusting in yourself instead of God.

He’s given us that choice.

However,

God has not and will not ever let you down if you keep trusting Him.

Simply trust, believe, and rest.

And like a little child, take your peace.

Photos by Johannes Plenio, Marjorie Bertrand, & Melissa Askew on Unsplash

Hope

Published on December 29, 2018June 9, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

I relieved your shoulder of the burden; your hands were freed from the basket. In distress you called, and I delivered you; I answered you in the secret place of thunder. Psalm 81:6-7

What is hope, really?

Knowing the situation will improve.

Seeing signs of improvement.

Signs of hope.

The dictionary defines hope as believing, desiring, or trusting.

Do you have hope?

Doesn’t matter what situation you are thinking of.

Can be big or small.

Hope your child will return their reverence to God.

Hope your boss will recognize your hard work.

Hope your puppy will finally see the big bathroom, which is outside.

Hope your spouse will pick up dinner for you.

Some hope isn’t reasonable.

Hope your child will, on their own, make a fabulous dinner or rub your aching feet.

Hope taxes will forever say goodbye.

Hope winter in Nebraska will stay in the 50’s at the very least.

But real life hope is possible.

Needed, in fact.

If you don’t have hope, you really have nothing.

Deep in winter’s grip, we have hope for spring’s warmth.

During an especially tiring workday, we have hope for the weekend’s rest.

And when children are small, we have hope they will become more and more self sufficient.

As Christians, we have hope for eternal life, living forever with God.

When we continually trust God for things in this life, our hope increases.

When we faithfully ask God to intervene, placing our worries at His feet, our hope increases.

When we realize we are not in charge and thank God that He IS in charge, our hope increases.

Place your hope in Him.

Your belief, desire, and trust as the dictionary defines.

And when doubt comes a knockin’ at your door, don’t answer it.

You don’t need that.

Because you have hope.

Real hope from God above.

Photos by Diego PH, Guilherme Stecanella, Catherine McMahon, Rose Erkul, JOHN TOWNER, Ron Smith, & Nong Vang on Unsplash

Be Still

Published on December 22, 2018June 9, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

To the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen. Jude 25

Lord, what are Your thoughts this morning?

Be still.

Be still and know that I am God.

I am above it all.

Everything, big or small.

I am above your children.

I am above your husband.

I am above your job.

Your health.

Your house.

Remember Who I am.

I am the Great I Am.

I Am means I have always, are currently, and always will be.

As a result, you can be still.

If you choose.

Be still and know that I am God, trusting in My perfect plan chosen specifically for you.

Be still, my child, be still.

I am here.

Photos by Aaron Burden, Emil Vilsek, Donnie Rosie, Denys Nevozhai, & Maria Shanina on Unsplash

Will You?

Published on November 17, 2018June 9, 2023 by amylinnea2 Comments

The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth. Psalm 145:18

Will you keep trusting God when all looks wrong?

Will you keep your faith as it looks like God has turned His back on you?

Remember Job?

Job kept his faith even as his entire life fell apart.

Life as he knew it melted away.

All of his children died.

His business failed.

His home burned.

His possessions were a total loss.

His wife was livid as she blamed Job for it all.

His friends gave him bad advice.

He was alone.

He felt God had turned His back on him.

But Job’s faith never faltered.

He stayed faithful.

He never wavered.

And God restored him.

In God’s perfect timing, Job was completely restored.

Do you have that kind of faith?

If God took away everything in this life, would you trust Him still?

God’s not likely to do just that.

However, life will sometimes look like God is absent.

Gone.

Not with you.

But He is here.

Always.

Rest assured, God is in complete control.

God never lost control in Job’s life.

God simply allowed Satan to test Job.

God had Job’s back.

And God has your back.

Always.

When your life feels as though God has left, will you trust Him still?

You should, because He is faithful.

He restored Job and He will restore you.

Completely.

But you must be faithful.

Trusting.

Completely.

Like Job.

Allow God to work.

And rest in the knowledge that He is sovereign over all.

Even you.

He sees you.

Every little thing.

Hallelujah.

Photos by Marita Kavelashvili, Federico Bottos, Katie Drazdauskaite, & Paweł Czerwiński on Unsplash

Ready and Waiting

Published on September 15, 2018June 9, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10

God is telling us, commanding us to quiet ourselves.

Be perfectly still.

Unmoving.

Motionless.

Silent.

Stationary.

Ready.

Waiting.

Confident.

And know that I am God.

Realize God is God.

Recognize God’s ultimate power.

Fix your eyes on things above.

Resolve your confidence in Him.

Quiet your anxious heart and place your total trust in Him.

Receive His perfect peace.

Every time.

With God in control, there is nothing to fear.

Photos by Krzysztof Niewolny & Carolyn V on Unsplash

Horribly Disappointed

Published on August 11, 2018June 9, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

Return to your stronghold, O prisoners of hope; today I declare that I will restore to you double. Zechariah 9:12

When you are horribly disappointed at something in life…

When there is not a thing you can do about it…

What then?

What is your response?

Wallow in self pity, relishing the mood of despair hanging over your head?

While that might be fun for a moment, it will send your mood straight into the toilet.

There is a better way.

I like to make a list.

A list of my blessings.

I try to keep it updated, but I admit, I do a horrid job at best.

Alternatively, you can also compare your bleak disappointment to something even worse.

That definitely puts things into perspective.

The point is this: switch your focus to the precious things God has given you.

Like that list of blessings we all should have somewhere.

Or encouragement whispered to you from your dear friend or spouse.

Because, when you focus on the blessings instead of the disappointment, you will pass God’s test with flying colors.

And your mood will stay out of the toilet.

In fact, you’ll be quite pleasant.

Respond to life with grace.

Your example will be a stepping stone to God Himself.

A stepping stone to God instead of a stumbling block to Satan.

So, what will your next disappointment turn into…?

Life, or death?

Photos by Casey Fyfe & Matthew Smith on Unsplash

Attitude

Published on June 30, 2018June 9, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done. Psalm 9:1

You will never NOT have trouble.

Let me say that another way.

There will always be something.

Some irritation somewhere.

Why?

Because nothing is always perfect.

Sounds like a downer, doesn’t it?

Sorry!

Just bringing us into reality, folks.

Taking our heads out of the clouds.

Up from burrowing in the sand.

What are some of life’s irritations, you ask?

Oh my, the list is endless.

Cleaning up after other people.

(Who am I kidding: sometimes it’s irritating to clean up after myself! Where’s that maid?)

Not finding what you need at a store.

Leaky faucets.

Unnecessary attitude from ungrateful children.

Going to someone else’s favorite restaurant.

Mosquito bites.

The fact that sugar is bad for you, yet it tastes so amazing in food!

Ants crawling on my kitchen floor.

Horrid influences encroaching on loved ones.

Traffic.

Jesus said we would have trouble in this life.

But to take heart, because He has overcome the world.

He has overcome absolutely everything.

Every irritation.

Every issue.

All of it.

So, what does He ask of us to do in spite of any and all irritations?

To trust Him.

To stay focused on what is important.

How one reacts to daily, even momentary irritation reflects to others your relationship with God.

Woah.

How you react to things that do not go your way will either point people to God or away from Him.

Difficult, I know.

Fully aware.

Just start thinking about that.

When your buttons are pushed, does your attitude reflect God?

Look to Jesus for inspiration.

He was irritated, I’m sure, beyond belief on earth.

Think about that.

Walking around with us, He knew what every person should have been doing to increase life’s satisfaction.

But He left us to our own choices.

He never let any earthly irritation mar the face of God.

Ever get hangry?

Jesus was many times.

That’s an incredible irritation.

Purpose to reflect Jesus in all that you do.

And when you fail, keep trying.

Ask God to help you.

He will and it will get easier and easier to succeed.

Just don’t hand me a sad pizza when I’m hangry.

Because God will not be shining through my face if you do. 🙂

Oh, ok, I’ll work on it too…!

Photos by Clem Onojeghuo ,Ruth Caron ,Anton Darius | @theSollers , Michał Kubalczyk , & Álvaro SF on Unsplash

In the Light

Published on May 5, 2018June 8, 2023 by amylinnea1 Comment

But then I recall all you have done, O Lord; I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago. They are constantly in my thoughts. I cannot stop thinking about your mighty works. Psalm 77:11-12

Live in light of the best moments.

Live with the memory of God’s provision fresh in your mind.

Live as the daughter of the King of Kings.

A valuable favored princess.

His princess.

Live as the son of the Lord of Lords.

A honored warrior prince.

His prince.

Live each moment as if you were high on the mountain of life.

As if all is well.

Because it is.

Even if you cannot see, God is at work.

He is shedding light on the dark spots, guiding your every step.

In the grey days of life, live like it’s a bright sunny day.

Because it is.

God is still on the throne.

He loves you and has your best interests in mind.

Remember Whose power remains in you.

The same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives in you.

You!

So when you’re on a mountain top, thank Him for the view.

And when you’re down in the valley of life, remember.

And live like you’re still mountain high.

Because you are.

Why?

Because of Whose you are.

Photos by Alexandru Tudorache ,Danka & Peter , & Joshua Sharf on Unsplash

Obedience

Published on April 21, 2018June 8, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess. Deuteronomy 5:33

What happens when God closes a door or when He allows it to close?

When it’s slammed in front of you?

He opens a window.

But where’s the window?

Which one do we look through?

Which window will give us the breath of fresh air we so desperately need?

Which window shows us the way God wants us to go?

When we are faithful to trust that God will lead the way, He will open the right window at just the right time.

At just the right time.

However,

Only He knows when.

He made every window.

He even made every door.

Doors are slammed because of our free will.

Or the free will of others.

But He still made them.

Every door.

He is present in every situation.

Ready to guide you to safety.

Holding you in His tender mercy.

His tender love.

When we trust Him from the depths of our toes all the way up to our head,

And when we ask Him to use us for His glory and purpose,

And when we stand in obedience to our God knowing He WILL open a window,

He will generously bestow blessings more abundantly then you could possibly imagine.

And at just the right time, your window will easily open.

Effortlessly.

All because of Him.

Trust His plan.

Because He loves you.

Photos by Annie Spratt , Eduard Militaru , Kiwihug & Weronika Marcińczyk on Unsplash

Beautiful Life

Published on February 3, 2018June 8, 2023 by amylinnea2 Comments

Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:18-19

God is waiting to walk you into your beautiful life.

Already there?

That’s awesome.

Truly a gift.

Some of us aren’t.

We want to, but we can’t.

Why?

Because we are holding onto remnants of the past.

Ashes.

Broken pieces we cannot seem to drop.

These burdens from the past beg us to cling to our old ways of thinking, of acting.

We cling because they are familiar.

Painful, but familiar.

Why is that comforting?

Because it’s the known vs the unknown.

Do you trust me?

God is asking that of us this day.

Do you really trust me?

Because if you do, you’ll give Him those ashes.

The deepest darkest places in your heart.

You’ll grab every last drop of darkness and pour it out into God’s open hands.

He wants your sadness.

He wants your burdens.

He wants your cares.

But do you trust Him?

Does He really have your back?

Has He planned the best for your future?

Yes.

Don’t believe me?

That’s ok.

Look to your details- your blessings in your life.

God is there, was there, and is here yet today.

Oh, and He’s in your future.

Whether it’s job loss, broken relationships, yearnings of your heart, recovery from surgery or anything else, God is waiting to take the worry from you.

He can see far beyond your vision.

Place it all into His hands.

Lean back, and trust Him.

And allow your precious smile to brighten your stunning face.

Welcome to your beautiful life.

Photos by Victoriano Izquierdo & Peter Hershey on Unsplash

Survival

Published on January 27, 2018June 8, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. Psalm 91:14-15

How does one survive without God?

Literally, how does one survive this life?

I have no idea how.

Life can be pretty awful sometimes.

Downright nasty.

And when life is just that, how can one survive without the knowledge that God is still in control?

I’m guessing not very well.

Surviving this life without God, that is.

When life punches you to the ground,

When you can hardly gather your strength to pull yourself back up,

All you have to do is reach out your hand.

Reach out your trembling hand to God.

He is always there to pull you up, gathering you into a big bear hug.

He lifts the burden from your shoulders,

Shakes the dust off your back,

Wipes the tears from your eyes,

And holds your hand as you begin your walk again.

He never lets go.

So, the next time life reduces you into a heap on the floor,

Remember who stands with you.

You might not know where He is taking you,

You might not know His reasons,

You might not even know why He allows certain things.

But you can be certain of One thing: You and your little life matter to our big God.

And that, my friend, is how we survive this life.

And prosper.

Photo by Hannah Morgan on Unsplash

Fairytales

Published on October 28, 2017January 5, 2024 by amylinneaLeave a comment

Once upon a time, there lived a little girl who had a big heart and lots of love to give.

She lived with her sweet parents, younger brother, and 2 kitties.

Her world was her room, which was filled with toys, dolls, and books.

She wanted for nothing.

She had everything.

As she played with her dolls, she dreamed about her future.

Her playmate and her married multiple times in the backyard among stuffed animals as witnesses.

She prayed and asked Jesus into her heart, sang songs at church, and twinkled her toes during dance.

Her fingers began to fly over the keys as music became her companion.

She wanted to be a concert pianist, gymnast, or a fashion designer. As unsure as she was about her job, she knew she wanted to live in a high rise condo in the heart of NYC. Wearing heels to work of course.

Life wasn’t perfect, but it was amazing.

Life was simple. Beautifully simple.

Junior year of high school, she was swept off her feet by a shoemaker who lived in her village.

After years of dating and engagement, she was married during a huge church ceremony with all the trimmings.

She had four beautiful smart children. Life settled down into the mothering role she had always deep down wanted.

She nestled her babies in her lap.

She sang them songs, laughed at their antics, and went on lots of walks.

They collected leaves to press, carved pumpkins, made cookies, and read thousands of stories.

Life wasn’t perfect, but it was amazing.

A few years later, the shoemaker departed, seeking a life elsewhere.

The little girl, now a grown woman, was reduced to tears as she picked up the pieces left.

She was strong for her children and they all worked together to make their home as safe and peaceful as possible.

She knew God was still on the throne and would see them through safely to the end.

Life wasn’t perfect, but it was still amazing.

After awhile, she began to feel lonely. Like part of her soul was missing.

God was there and told her not to worry, that He would take care of it.

And when she least expected it, her Prince Charming rode into town and stopped at her house.

He picked her up for dinner and they were together forevermore.

They became the best of friends and loved the other with all of their heart.

She stood amazed at God’s provision.

God knew exactly what was missing for both her and her Prince Charming.

And He amazed them both.

Looking back at her life, she recounted all of the details God had provided for her.

And as she began to think back over her life, her smile spread over her face.

Even in the darkest of times, God had been there.

He was in the tender care of her parents.

He was in the protection of her shoemaker while he was there.

He was in the sounds of her children as they played and grew into the miracles they were.

He was in the tender love of her Prince Charming.

He was there in the dark of night and light of day.

Every moment of every day.

And life was amazing.

Completely.

And they lived happily ever after.

Master of My Heart

Published on September 30, 2017June 8, 2023 by amylinnea2 Comments

So, I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. Galatians 5:16

Is He?

Master of your heart?

Fully in control?

None of us are perfect in this area.

But if you constantly ask Him to guide your thoughts, words, and actions, then He has the job.

Master of your heart, that is.

When trials or mere irritations arrive at your doorstop, if you go to Him for direction, then He is in control.

Right where He should be.

Irritations can disappear when you return your thoughts to His plan for you.

Your reactions to life are filtered through the lens of God.

His peace and love will permeate all you are AND do.

Oops. I don’t think that’s me.

My reactions aren’t exactly stellar when life smacks me in the face.

Well, something else must be the master of your heart.

When it’s not God, it’s something else.

Most likely- it’s you.

We love to put ourselves number one.

Uno.

First.

When we are masters of our own heart, our desires are first.

What we want goes.

Disappointment regularly follows us around.

Irritation, too.

Nuts.

Enough of that!

Fix it.

Submit yourself to God.

He is the author of all things and will gently guide you into the fullness of life.

Place God as the master of your heart.

Go to Him with all things.

Contentment and peace will follow behind your every step.

Point of Life

Published on June 3, 2017June 7, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. Colossians 3:2

So, what is the point of life?

Why are we here?

What is our purpose?

I’m asking because I’d really like to know.

Do you ever feel as if it just doesn’t matter one bit what we do?

We can pour years into a marriage and they can up and leave or pass away.

We can pour our very life into our children and they can grow up and walk away- from you and every value you placed into their heart.

I’m wondering about material things too.

Yes, I love a nice place just like you…

But it’s all completely temporary.

I think back to my size 4 self who thought it wasn’t enough.

5 pregnancies later and my mom body will never recover.

I can work hard for yet another masters, because I love education.

But I can’t take that with me either.

My only thought about this age old question of ¨what really does matter¨ is this:

It’s not about us.

Our desires.

If you look at my list up there, you’ll see it all points to me.

When we focus on ourselves, when we put all of our life eggs into the one basket of self, we will be disappointed when our basket of eggs is broken.

Or if our basket looks broken, yet is not, because it doesn’t meet our standards.

So why did God even create us?

For love.

For Him.

If we focus on God and what He wants us to do, we will be content.

From the balcony of heaven, will it matter the color of my dining room?

Will it matter if I drive the car of my choice?

No.

How can God use us for His purposes so we can be content?

To give hope to others.

To heap love, too.

We live in a broken world.

But God’s redeeming love surpasses all else.

His never ending mercy and undeserved grace creates security.

Safety.

When people have no hope, they don’t feel safe.

When people don’t have love, they have fear instead.

And they’re not content.

So, what is the point of life?

To generously love others through the power of God.

If we can minister God’s love to others, we will be content.

Ask God who you can bless.

Ask God to be His vessel through which His love can pour out onto His children.

Because the one thing you can take with you to heaven is a friend.

Trust and Lean

Published on May 27, 2017June 7, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord.

You mean trust in my own strength, right?

No, trust in the Lord.

But I know what I want.

Need.

So does God.

In fact, He knows best.

He wants your best, sees your future, and will bring all things into fruition if you trust.

Trust in Him, not in yourself.

With all of your heart.

All of me?

Even that corner that wants to do things my own way?

Yep.

Trust in the Lord with ALL of your heart.

And lean not on your own understanding.

I cannot trust my own understanding of my very own life?

But I know me better than God.

You do?

God created the mind with which you think.

He created your heart that beats, producing life.

He understands you more than you understand yourself.

So lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways, acknowledge Him.

All my ways?

Even when I want to go my own way, because I feel it’s best?

When I want to go down pity’s path?

When I want to follow my sour mood to worry’s house?

Yes. In ALL your ways acknowledge Him.

And He will direct your paths.

Well, I do want Him to direct my paths.

When God directs my paths, He brings His perfect peace.

When I follow my own path, not trusting in Him, worry and dread are my companions.

But when I trust in the Lord with my whole heart, and trust not in my own way, God will walk with me and peace will be my companion.

Remind yourself how faithful God has always been to you.

And begin again, trusting Him every step of the way.

Submit

Published on April 15, 2017June 7, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

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

For the love of God, stop.

Stop acting like you can control life.

Stop pretending you are actually in control.

God is.

He is the author of life.

He numbers our days.

Do you want your numbered days to be filled with worry?

Dread?

Mere panic at the thought of losing control?

Or do you want your numbered days to be filled with the transformational peace of God?

It’s your choice.

Daily, actually.

Yes, God gives us authority to make decisions.

To control our tiny corner of life.

But first, submit to God.

Ask Him how to order your day.

Talk to Him about your every step.

Then the peace of God will guide you.

Will you have trials?

Yes, but you’ll have joy in spite of it, knowing God is still in control.

He knows the beginning from the end.

He is the author and finisher of life.

And He loves you.

Completely.

Without reservation, He loves you.

Submit to God Almighty, who created you and the world in which you live.

Submit to God Almighty, who knew you needed a Savior and provided for you a way to eternal life.

Submit to God Almighty, who wants to lead and protect you, enveloping you in His perfect peace and love.

For the love of God, submit.

Photo by David Beale on Unsplash

God’s Timing

Published on February 18, 2017June 7, 2023 by amylinnea3 Comments

Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him, and He will act. He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and hour justice as the noonday. Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him. Psalm 37:4-7

Keep going.

Pressing forward.

There is a plan – God’s plan.

He will reveal it in His perfect timing.

His timing, not mine.

Not yours.

In the mean time – trust.

Look back at all the details He has put together for you.

Shown you.

Proved to you He notices and is fully present with you.

Grab hold of God’s tender hand.

He will never ever let go.

Photos by Cadabullos Diseño Web & Kosma Kurłowicz on Unsplash

Bless Your Mommy Heart

Published on October 22, 2016June 7, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

He settles the childless woman in her home as a happy mother of children. Psalm 113:9

As mothers, we wear our emotions on our sleeve.

We break our backs for our children, desperately crying out to God for their redemption.

Even if that’s not you and instead you have nieces or nephews or care deeply for other children, we all deeply love.

Sometimes, as soldiers, we become solitary, holding all the burdens in our tired hands.God wants to walk alongside you, helping you every step of the way.You can trust Him completely.

A gentle reminder from God for you this day:

I love your children even more than you can possibly imagine.

They are mine.

I see them.

I know them.

I know their deepest sorrows and greatest joys.

I recognize their desires in life and I am present with them always.

Letting go of them is not easy, but as you do, remember I am God and I am their Father.

I hold them in the palm of My hand.

I will never leave them or forsake them.

When you lift them up before Me in prayer, rejoice that I am already working.

Rest, knowing I love them even more than you are able.

Their joys and sorrows are mine.

And as their future unfolds, I am already there.

Change the Picture

Published on September 24, 2016June 7, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58

Sometimes I ask myself what is God doing?

Why this or that?

We picture life a certain way.

Then our picture changes.

Why?

I remember we’re not supposed to know why yet.

We’re not supposed to know all the answers.

Yet.

We don’t hold the future.

But God does.

His mercy and grace are all around us when we trust Him to lead us through the steps of life.

He knows what to do next.

What lays beyond us on the horizon.

He will always provide the strength we need.

To do what He asks of us.

And He knows why.

Trust Him to take your hand.

He holds the compass and map.

Put on your walking shoes and sunscreen.

It’s a beautiful day for a walk.

Photos by Gantas Vaičiulėnas & Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Rewards of Faithfulness

Published on September 17, 2016June 7, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Proverbs 3:3-4

Obedience.

Completely obeying what you know in your heart should be done.

Even if it sounds nuts.

If it goes against human logic.

Ever pray about something?

Yes, I know you have.

Your answer comes and shockingly, you don’t like it…

So you pray again, thinking you heard God’s answer incorrectly?

And He answers the same as before?

When this happens, listen to Him.

God really wants to share His plan for you if you’ll choose to listen.

We cannot possibly fathom all that He has for us.

If we choose to listen.

If we choose to obey.

Rewarding faithfulness.

That’s the outcome of our humble submission.

His ways are higher than ours.

Learned that again myself just last week.

Confirmation of His love.

That’s what obeying comes down to.

I pray this for many children everyday:

“May they hear Your voice, listen, & obey so they will know the TRUTH that will set them free.”

May this blessing fall upon you as well as you are faithful to God.

Photo by Karen Ciocca on Unsplash

His Perfect Ways

Published on September 10, 2016June 6, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

Lord, You are my God; I will exhale You and praise Your name, for in perfect faithfulness You have done wonderful things, things planned long ago. Isaiah 25:1

God is a good, good Father.

Love that song.

Except something in the song has always bothered me.

Is He really perfect in all of His ways?

Because when life goes down the toilet, it doesn’t seem so.

I become confused about His perfect ways when I think about what all me and my dear husband have gone through.

How is His way perfect when it involves your spouse leaving after 20 years, because someone must be their true self?

How is His way perfect when your spouse dies?

How is His way perfect when you miscarry?

Like I said, it’s bothered me every time I’ve sang this wonderful song.

But then it came to me.

God is perfect.

His ways are perfect.

When sin entered the world, death followed.

We daily choose between life and death.

Why does He allow brokenness?

Or suffering?

Not for me to say.

It’s on my list when I get to heaven.

But when we trust Him to get us through our broken times, His way is perfect.

He is perfectly able and willing to carry us every day through every little thing.

If we’ll let Him.

His answer of peace amidst the storm is perfect.

And His ever present help in trouble.

Call to Me and I will answer.

So yes, His ways are perfect.

And we are thankful.

Photos by Yoonbae Cho & Judith Prins on Unsplash

Worry and Dread

Published on September 3, 2016June 6, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Ever work yourself into a worried frenzy?

Consume your thoughts with worry and then your body simply shuts down?

Worst case scenarios play out in your brain and you are completely convinced all heck will break loose?

Think about the very worst case scenario.

Is it really that bad?

Probably not.

You might have a few days of angst, a few years maybe, but in the end, will it really matter?

From the balcony of heaven, will it matter if this worst case scenario happened?

How does one practically stop themselves from dwelling in the flesh?

How do you keep your brain from worrying?

Sometimes a worry keeps me frozen in fear.

Filled with dread.

Yep, I’m not perfect.

So how do you stop the train wreck?

Refuse to participate with worry and fear.

Wait a minute.

How do you do that?

When you play a thought over and over in your mind, it cements the thought as fact.

You literally trick your brain into thinking a false reality.

Whoah. Really?

Yep.

Reverse it.

Throw your worries back to God.

After all, He’s the one in control, not you.

If you make a mistake, own it, and move on.

Don’t dwell in worry or fear.

Won’t do a bit of good.

Won’t change a thing.

Except your peace.

That will be gone.

Worry and fear.

Not a way to live.

Daily submit yourself to God.

Pray for His guidance to walk you through life.

Then when life throws you a curve ball, you can put on your glove and throw it straight back to God.

He’ll catch it and you’ll be on His winning team.

Photos by Chang Duong & Helena Lopes on Unsplash

Shalom

Published on August 27, 2016June 6, 2023 by amylinneaLeave a comment

The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace. Psalm 29:11

Completeness. Perfectly sound. Intact.

God promises us His peace.

His perfect peace.

His shalom.

When the waters begin to sway your boat, He is there to speak peace over you.

In the stillness of the night, He’s there to cover you, keeping you safe.

How?

It’s a mystery to me, but it’s there.

If you ask for it.

Then after you ask, trust Him.

Trust that He’s got this.

He’s already put His plan into motion.

His perfect plan.

His plan might not look like your plan.

But as long as you seek His face and long to do His will, He’ll be faithful to show up.

To show up and lead the way.

In peace.

So, grab hold of God’s strong hand.

And seek His face.

Don’t ever let go.

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