Tag: God is in control

Layers of Trust

Published on by amylinnea1 Comment

Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love, for in You I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to You I lift up my soul. Psalm 143:8

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Every time a new experience confirms a truth you already know, a layer of trust is laid.

Layer upon layer, trust is built over time and these layers cushion us from the blows of life.

New relationships create layers of trust every time you interact, confirming how they feel about you.

Picture a feather falling down, cradling upon a pile.

Or a thin page gently falling and resting on top of another, creating a gentle pile of layers.

The layers are built over time.

They are used as a cushion to defeat the whispers of doubt or lies that sometimes pop into your head.

Babies begin to place their layers of trust when they are born.

They cry, a need is met, and they feel safe and secure.

Or a child falls down and runs to mommy to kiss the tears away.

The child’s cushion of trust helps to soften the bumps of life.

As adults, we place our trust into the hands of Almighty God.

Layer upon layer, year by year, He fills our lives with details.

Blessings which are personal to our precious hearts.

Trust is built.

Then when the blows of life hit us, we fall back into the cushion of our faith.

Our layers of trust hold us and keep us in the tender arms of God.

Layers of trust.

Every relationship has them.

They grow with time and unfold into strong roots which anchor us in life.

Resist the urge to ignore them, listening to lies instead.

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Anticipation or Expectation

Published on by amylinnea1 Comment

The hope of the righteous brings joy, but the expectation of the wicked will perish. Proverbs 10:28

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Life is full of promise.

Possibilities are brimming at every turn.

Are you cheerfully anticipating God to work in your life, delivering His plan for your days?

Or are you planning things yourself and expecting God to work your plan?

One surrenders, the other demands.

Works in other relationships too, not just under God.

How bout your spouse?

Are you cheerfully anticipating love or blessings whenever they happily fall into your lap, or do you have impossibly high expectations your spouse will continually fail to reach?

Do you expect your spouse to celebrate you in a certain way, or do you allow them the freedom to bless you from their heart in their own way?

How much do you expect your girlfriends to do for you?

Or do you have the attitude of cheerful anticipation void of your measure?

As parents, we must have certain behavior expectations of our children.

That’s our called and sacred duty.

But speaking of giving love, children are notoriously low on the giving scale as they creep up in years.

Are you cheerfully anticipating their love in their time, or do you hold them to high expectations certain to fail your standards of showing love?

There’s a big difference.

It’s grace vs legalism.

Unselfish vs selfish.

Peace vs strife.

When we hold God, our loved ones, our friends, or anything in our life to our own expectation, we will be disappointed.

Guaranteed.

100%

But if we allow God to bless us when we least expect it, our hearts will brim over with joy.

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I remember praying about my birthday a few years back.

It was the first one as a “divorced” woman.

I prayed to have zero expectations, to be pleasantly surprised with each little detail God provided.

The first child to greet me at school loudly proclaimed, “Happy Birthday!”

Then she ran over for a hug.

I walked into my classroom and the sweetest boy began serenading me, personally singing the entire Happy Birthday song in his precious soft voice.

Be cheerfully expectant.

Anticipatorious as my father would say.

Your days will be peaceful, your heart will be filled with love, and your mind will stay at rest.

And your relationships will thrive.

Ahhh, now that’s the life.

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Part of His Plan

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For I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to Him, and to keep His commands, decrees, and laws; then you will live and increase, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess. Deuteronomy 30:16

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God uses us.

Little old us.

Almighty God wants to use us for His work of bringing everyone into abundant life.

To salvation through His Son.

Through us.

We are part of His plan for the salvation of the world.

The world He created.

We are witnesses of His goodness, mercy, and grace.

When people are hurting or confused, we are called to encourage them, offering hope.

God can show Himself however He sees fit.

But He is a personal God, touching people in the details of their lives.

We are those details.

We are the hands and feet of Jesus.

Drip onto others the fragrance of God.

His living water will flow freely from you to them, forever transforming their lives.

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Our Focus

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Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Proverbs 4:25

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It’s not about me

or you.

Life.

Our lives are not to be lived for us.

Really?

Really.

Jesus is our focus.

Our lives should be lived for Him.

To realize His purpose.

To be used for His glory.

Sometimes life throws us a hard choice.

Our flesh screams no, but God’s spirit in us whispers yes.

We know.

Maybe if we remember why God put us here, we will listen to His voice first.

Because He is in every circumstance.

What does He want you to do?

And will you do it?

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Giving God Only Half

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He must increase, but I must decrease. John 3:30

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Ok God.

You can have this area of my life and this one over here, but not that one.

My family needs You, but my job is fine.

I’m doing fabulous with my job – well, actually my 2 jobs, and I don’t want You to change absolutely anything about it.

So, I’ll keep a hold of my job because I want to stay in complete control.

You can choose the books I read, but I want to remain in charge of the tv shows I watch.

I know what I like and I don’t want to change any shows.

I deserve them, because I work hard!

I’ll let You alter my food and eating habits.

I really need You there.

I want to be healthy and in better shape, so I give You control of that area.

You want me to jog during my tv show?

Um, not going to happen.

I love that show.

Let’s see, You can direct my health, the dog, our home, my husband’s job, and our vacation plans.

I’m keeping my pride (really need that for work), selfishness (whose going to look out for me if I don’t), and distrust of everything I haven’t done myself.

Have You seen my dishwasher when I haven’t reloaded the thing?

So thank you for taking control of some things in my life.

I don’t have time to do it all myself, so thank you.

I’ll keep the other things for now as I am doing a pretty great job.

You sure knew what you were doing when you fashioned me!

So relieved we had this talk.

Pastor said we should surrender everything to you – said we’d be happier and more peaceful.

Don’t know how anyone could do that!

It’s too hard!

Not strong enough in my own strength, I suppose!

I love being in control.

Just using the gifts You gave me!

Looking forward to seeing You work things the way I want in the areas I gave You!

Slow Down, Sister

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You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Isaiah 26:3

Have you ever asked God to spend your time?

To fill it with His desires and needs for you?

God has fashioned our brains brilliantly.

Capable of so much.

Sometimes we have many voices, one louder than the next, all clamoring for our attention:

I must not forget my child’s vanilla ice cream for her school party.

Call the insurance adjustor about our hail claim.

Speak to your daughter from the heart, trying to grab what is really going on in her head.

Oh shoot, I’ve neglected the blog.

Why hasn’t someone started the laundry?

Attitudes of the children….what to do, and why did we even have children?

Christmas is only a few months away.

Our family vacation is coming up and with all the work involved, I just may stay home.

Are we on track for retirement?

Feel like I need to pour even more love and wisdom into the children.

My body will never be the same, but I can stop the slide…pencil in exercise and drinking more water!

Love my new dream job…need to build and learn my curriculum, organize the classroom, and read the novels ahead of time.

It’s been way too long since we’ve gone on a date…wait, let’s get away…how fun and necessary…but what to do about the kids…

Am I doing enough as a wife, mother, teacher, and Christian?

God says to ask Him.

Ask Him to guide you with every step you take.

He knows.

Everything.

He sees your darkest fear and hears your greatest joy.

Be still and know that I am God (Ps 46:10).

He tells the sun when to rise and when to fall.

He will silence the voices in your head.

He will remove the worry from your heart.

Simply abandon it all to God.

Give Him control and sit beside Him for the ride of your life.

He will be faithful to fill in every detail.

Take your peace from God.

And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:7

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Loving Your Enemies

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:21

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Jesus says to love your enemy.

Even people you don’t particularly like.

Jesus says to pray for those who persecute you.

People you don’t get along with very well.

Or who do you harm.

Oh, but I’m justified in my disgust.

You don’t know what they’ve done to me.

I could never pray for them.

Jesus is our example.

Jesus could have said many things while standing before Pilot.

He could have yelled at them while being whipped.

Or while the nails were thrust into His hands.

But instead, what did He say while hanging on the cross?

“Father, forgive them….for they know not what they do.”

Didn’t they know what they were doing?

They held the whip and knew it would shred His back.

They held the crown and knew it would pierce His head.

They held the hammer and knew they were going to nail Him to the cross.

However-

they didn’t know Jesus was the Son of God.

The eyes of His accusers could not see who He was.

Their eyes were closed because Jesus had to die for our sins.

They had no idea what they were doing.

 Everyone played their part in God´s plan for our salvation.

Yet instead of hurling insults at His persecutors, Jesus prayed for them.

He could have said many brilliant things to combat their assaults.

But He didn’t.

When you pray for someone you don’t like, pray that God will fill you with compassion for that person.

Notice Jesus didn’t condone His persecutors.

He didn’t welcome their pain.

But He prayed for them.

While hanging on the cross, in more agony then we will ever know, with the weight of the world’s sin on his back, Jesus chose to pray for His enemies.

He wanted God to keep pursuing them.

To bring His enemies into forgiveness.

Your enemies don’t really know what they are doing either.

Just like you don’t know what’s really going on inside of their heads.

People act to protect themselves.

And sometimes, they don’t care who they take down in the process.

We can only forgive our enemies with God’s help.

And with His love pouring through us, we can extend grace to others.

Even those who are mean.

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Faithful Companion

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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

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 I lifted my tear stained eyes and looked upon my sweet Lord’s face.

Compassion dripped from His eyes as He scooped me into His arms.

My child, I love you.

I cover you this day with My peace.

May you lay every worry at My feet and allow Me to take it for you.

May you be filled with joy, knowing My sovereign power is flowing through your precious soul.

May you share this love with others, so all of My children can live with abundant life.  

I know the beginning from the end.

I will order your steps and you will not falter if you trust Me to lead you.

You may not always get your way, but your heart will remain in peace when you trust Me.

I have never failed you and I will not start now.

I long to be your constant companion.

There are so many amazing and profound things I want to share with you.

But you have to come to Me.

I am here, always ready and waiting for you.

I will never leave, because I love you with everything I have.

I created you.

And I never make mistakes.

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Entertaining Doubt

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Why do you doubt me?

Why do you doubt my love?

Why do you doubt my goodness?

Why do you doubt my plan for you, 

my personal love story written just for you?

Are you scared?

Lonely?

Trust me.

Completely.

Perfectly.

Wholly.

You must use My strength to do just that.

But I’m here ready to help.

Do not doubt me.

I am faithful to you right up through the very end of your story.

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Why do we entertain thoughts of doubt?

Because we don’t really believe God holds our life in His hands.

That He has our back.

Little moments of life stir up whispers of fear.

We listen to the whisper.

We think about the whisper.

Doubt creeps back in through our open door.

When we listen to the whispers, we unknowingly fling the door wide open, inviting doubt and fear to join us.

Sigh.

Make a list of your fears.

Now answer each one with God’s matchless truth, breaking the power of each fear.

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The LORD is my strength and my defense ; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father’s God, and I will exalt him.  Exodus 15:2

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.                            Isaiah 41:10

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.   Isaiah 40:28-31

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The next time doubt whispers in your ear, whip out the list and speak the written truth.

Immediately switch doubt into certainty.

Then go on your merry way thinking about something entirely different.

We mustn’t doubt God.

He’s been faithful to me in countless ways and He has been and will continue to be faithful to you.

No doubt in my mind.

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Up to Us

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But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul. Deuteronomy 4:29

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God is here.

He is here in my room at this very moment.

He knows my heart.

He knows my deepest wishes.

He sees every corner – the love for my husband and children…the fragile yet strong self-esteem…the hurt He will wipe away…sin I refuse to give up.

God is ever present – waiting for us to surrender ourselves so He can fill us up.

On our own, our hearts are complicated – disjointed with hurt and love.

When we daily choose to surrender ourselves to God, He comes into our heart and begins to clear away the debris.

But He needs to be invited.

Everyday.

He must be invited to do His work.

He’s always willing and ready.

We simply need to ask.

I know.

It takes time.

Healing, that is.

Why can’t He just sweep us clean with a super vacuum?

Because our hearts have learned things and we must learn new ways of dealing with life.

But the cool thing is this.

God will be faithful to heal every crack and remove every bit of debris if we daily surrender and allow Him to do what He wants.

Trust.

Complete gut wrenching trust.

That’s where God can do His greatest work in us.

When you think about the alternative, it’s relatively easy.

Rely completely on the One who holds every answer to every question known to man.

The Author of our life.

The Creator of all things.

Or…

We could simply rely on worldly wisdom, some of it well meaning.

But then we’re using our own strength and wisdom.

And we’re human and mortal.

We don’t know the future.

We don’t have the stamina or mental capacity to think of all the details in our lives.

I know I cannot possibly orchestrate my life and have peace and happiness.

But if I give it all to God, who does know ALL THINGS, I can rest knowing He’s got this.

He’s got my back.

Not only that, but He’s studied me and fills the details of my life with blessings.

He plans my future for good and surprises me with many daily ‘wows’.

And He’s waiting to do just the same for you.

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Peace or angst.

Clean heart or one full of debris.

Resting in God’s future plans or anxiously worrying about it.

I choose God.

How about you?

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Prickles

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Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly. Proverbs 14:29

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How often do your prickles erupt?

Once in awhile?

When life really goes to pot?

When you’ve finally had enough?

Or too, too often….?

Prickles are easy to spot.

In fact, one can feel them rising to the surface.

They’re ugly.

Painful to others.

And frankly to yourself as well.

They put a barrier between you and the world.

It’s normal to get upset-

Just make sure it’s godly.

What?

Treat little annoyances like water off a duck’s back.

They simply don’t move you.

And when your children need your quick firm stand, be as a gentle bear they cannot move. 

If you react instead to life as someone who quickly sprays quills, you’ll be one of those people.

People who need lots of space for whatever mood they happen to jump into.

And you don’t want that.

To be so unpredictable.

People are scared of porcupines, because their prickles can erupt in an instant.

Don’t be prickly.

Be a quiet gentle giant, standing firm when you must, predictable to life.

You can’t often control your circumstances, but you can always control your reaction.

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Leave It

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Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved. Psalm 55:22

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How many burdens do you keep?

Or…

How many burdens do you take back after you give them away to God?

When you lay your burden down, giving it to God,

don’t pick it back up.

We are not made to carry them.

We are sheep.

But our Shepherd is made for the job.

He’s willing and happy to do it.

But we have to make a choice.

To lay the burden down.

And leave it at the foot of the cross.

Jesus might not carry it like you think He should.

Don’t ask for it back.

When your mind thinks of that burden, you begin to think of ways to fix it.

That, my friends, is scooping the burden back up.

Every time your thoughts return to that burden, give it back to God.

Thank Him for fixing it for you.

Tell Him you can’t wait to see How he solves it.

He will let you know.

Promise.

If you instead, keep musing over that issue,

the burden will climb back onto your shoulders.

Worry and fear will once again join you.

So stop.

Give them to God and stop those thoughts in their tracks.

Smile, knowing God’s in control.

And He has your best in mind.

Photos by Yan Berthemy & Catherine on Unsplash

Saved From More

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Turn to Me and be saved, all the ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other. Isaiah 45:22

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Saved, yes, for all of eternity.

From the punishment we richly deserve.

But I think there’s more.

The Hebrew word “saved” means to deliver.

To help.

To gain victory.

When we look unto God for our daily needs…

When we look to Him to free us from ourselves…

When we look to God to be our everything…

We are saved from fear.

We are saved from sin.

Every day.

Every time we look unto God.

We are saved moment by moment, each and every day.

Yes, thank you God, we are saved from an eternity separated from Our Creator.

But we are also saved from worry and fear, here and now.

But only if we look unto God.

Only if we clear away all else and place our trust in God.

For He is God and there is none else.

CHURCH ROOF AND CROSS

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Redeemer

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The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in His love He will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17

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To regain.

Recover.

Exchange.

God is our Redeemer.

He exchanges our sinful selves for a pure soul worthy of heaven.

Nothing we can do on our own merit.

It’s through trusting in His saving grace.

He redeems our souls, but what about life here?

Does He redeem our situations?

Can He?

Is He able to pick up our mess and exchange it?

Does He make all things new in His timing?

Absolutely.

God is not only the Redeemer of our souls, but He is also the Redeemer of our lives here on earth.

He recovers lost years.

He helps us regain our strength.

Our trust.

He exchanges our brokenness for new life.

When tragedy strikes, He is more than willing to redeem our situation.

How?

By trusting Him.

By placing everything back into His precious lap.

By remembering His goodness and believing He has the very best for us.

Redeem.

To me, it means new life.

New breath.

New opportunities.

He has exchanged my sadness for joy.

Ask Him to do the same for you.

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Jesus Loves Me

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No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and His love is made complete in us. 1 John 4:12

Jesus loves me this I know

For the Bible tells me so

Little ones to Him belong

They are weak, but He is strong.

Do you know Jesus loves you?

Do you really know?

He does.

With everything He has, He loves you.

How can we be certain?

The Bible tells us so.

We are His children and we belong to Him.

Connected.  Joined with Him.

Yes, we are so utterly weak in our own strength, but He is so very strong.

Jesus carries us through life, filling us up with His strength.

Why?

Because we belong to Him.

And because He loves us so.

What a stunning reminder of His faithfulness.

He knows it all.

He’s seen it all.

And He’s not going anywhere.

Because we belong to Him.

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Temptations

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All my longings lie open before you, Lord; my sighing is not hidden from you. Psalm 38:9

What are yours?

Your temptations?

Believing the worst about someone because of your own personal wounds?

Sneaking off early or wasting time at work because you feel you deserve it?

Not correcting the clerk who hands you extra change?

Embracing self-pity if you feel wronged, even if that was not the intention?

Succumbing to fear of the future when you are uncertain of life?

Satan tempts us according to our weaknesses and personality.

However,

When we belong to Jesus, His power in us keeps us from falling into temptation.

But ONLY when we decide.

That’s worth saying again:

God’s power in us keeps us from acting upon our temptation ONLY when we decide not to succumb.

 Satan’s goal is to remove our connection to God through temptation.

When we loose our connection to God, we are of no value to God.

God’s light in us becomes covered by sin.

And He cannot bring others to Himself through us.

Think back to a recent time when you were tempted to let your mood slide into the toilet.

When you succumbed, were you of value to God?

If you lashed out as a result, the opposite is true.

Ouch.

If Satan helps you to become of zero value to God, then what does it matter if you are God’s child?

Yes, your eventual heavenly reward, but I’m talking about our mission here and now.

Your every day life.

Your interactions with family, friends, and the great big world.

Recognize your weaknesses.

Look for Satan’s temptations to slam you to the ground.

And next time, instead of agreeing with the Tempter, declare “but NONE one of these things affect me”. (see post)

Stand instead with God, keeping His power simmering within you,

showing the world His great love.

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Humble Yourself

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Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up. James 4:10

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Are you humbled that God whispers your name?

That the Creator of ALL things even notices you?

He does more than notice you.

He crafted your very existence.

He ordains your days.

He allows you to experience life as He orchestrates the seasons and shows the wonder of His creation.

He opens your heart and fills it with love and companionship through your family and friends.

He fashions you with a great capacity for learning every little thing.

Yet He gave up all His glory for a relationship with you.

You.

That’s how much you matter to God.

I end my middle school classes with a signal for dismissal.

“Don’t ever forget,” I begin.

“We matter to God,” replies the class.

God humbled himself to you in order to reside in your heart.

Humble yourself and let Him.

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Witness God

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you would believe y ou would see the glory of God?” John 11:40

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When faced with complaining, you have an opportunity to witness God’s power.

We cannot behave properly without God, so we must allow Him to work through us.

Disgruntled situations provide freedom to let God move.

But only if we choose to respond with life.

Most of us choose darkness or crabbiness when life smacks us in the face.

When that response feeds our flesh, poison is spread and God’s peace slips away.

What if we responded with love,

with grace,

with the wisdom of God through the power of the Holy Spirit within us?

What if every moment of disappointment was covered with desiring God’s purpose,

His love,

with His grace and mercy?

What if we looked at every distressing situation with the opportunity to experience God’s sovereign help?

To experience God’s power changing us from the inside out?

We have the option to let God work through us.

Each time He does, we are covered with a layer of His mercy and love.

When we choose to bend our ear to His wisdom, He responds with heaps of Himself.

I know it’s not fun to witness disappointment.

But instead of wallowing in self-pity, choose life.

Think about how you now have yet another opportunity to trust God.

To trust your precious Savior who wants what is best for you.

And when you trust Him, He fills you again with His perfect peace.

So the next time disappointment stares you in the face, think instead, “Oh sweet relief!  Here comes more of God to blanket my soul.”

Then choose to depend on Him to keep your attitude holy.

Photos by Євгенія Височина & Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

 

Unbelievable Power

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The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you.   And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, He will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.  Romans 8:11

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He will give life.

To you.

Right now.

So here’s a question:

Why is any Christian walking around defeated?

Full of self pity or poor me?

Why do we let anger drag us down to the pit?

Why do we allow worry to fill our brains with dread?

Why do we become overwhelmed with life?

Because we forget.

We forget whose we are.

Are you wandering aimlessly through life, cowering at every arrow thrown your way?

Or…

Are you walking with purpose in every step, deflecting arrows whenever they fly?

The same power that raised Jesus from the dead.

That’s unbelievable power.

And it lives in you.

Stand taller and be bold.

Don’t let annoyances steal your joy.

  Repeat to yourself: “None of these things move me……!” 

God’s power in you is to be used for His glory.

Pray for others.

Serve others.

Show God’s love to the world.

His power will shine through you if you just ask.

And there’s plenty to go around.

Photos by Jackson David, Guillaume de Germain , & David Banning on Unsplash

How Free Are You?

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God.   1 John 4:15

If you confess with your lips…

If your soul longs for God…

If your heart knows it needs to be forgiven…

When you confess Jesus is Lord,

You are free.

God abides in you.

God is in you, through you, around you.

He is intertwined with you.

Your whole you.

Logically speaking, if God abides in you, why are you not free?

Why do you choose to stay in your old habits?

Your ugly selfish ways?

Why do you even listen to the lies Satan plants into your brain?

Because our free will allows us to choose.

It’s time to choose again.

Next time someone is hostile, abide in God.

Next time something doesn’t go your way, abide in God.

Next time you frown at your mirror’s reflection, abide in God.

The God who created all things sent His only Son to die so He could abide in you.

Unbelievable.

He came to set you free -to live abundantly.

Purpose your mind, heart, and soul to abide in God.

Because as a Christian, God is abiding in you.

 Photos by Joshua Earle & Ankush Minda on Unsplash

What Moves You?

Published on by amylinnea7 Comments

My dear mother shared this verse with me today:

“But none of these things move me….” Acts 20:24

Paul goes on to explain his pristine focus on the mission God had entrusted to him.

Earthly things didn’t move him.

Including death.

How about you?

What moves you?

Or should I rephrase this:  what shouldn’t move you that does?

Moods

Disappointment

Unfairness

Jealousy?

I’m so guilty.

Situations can move us in an instant towards ugliness, selfishness, or (gasp) distrust in Almighty God’s plan for our lives.

“But none of these things move me….” Acts 20:24

Plaster this verse somewhere to retrain your brain.

Try replacing the word “things” with a more personal noun:

None of the children’s moods move me.

None of the sales calls annoy me.

None of the traffic moves me.

(Literally, I’m not moving.)

None of my mindless chores move me to irritation.

None of my unanswered prayers will move me away from God.

Notice the key word repeated in each phrase?

None.

That means ZERO percent of it affects you.

NONE of it dares to move you from living in peace to living with fear or worry.

Wow.

Why is it even possible for none of these worldly things to move us?

Because we’ve already won.

Jesus is victorious.

The power that raised Him from the dead lives in me.

And you.

I’m going to wave my arm like a princess, declaring “But none of these things move me”.

Join me and keep your peace.

Photos by Church of the King, Ales Maze, Esther Ann, Ben White, & Alex Perez on Unsplash

Questioning God

Published on by amylinnea4 Comments

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1

Who am I to question Almighty God?

What gives me that right?

His ways are above mine.

He holds our future in His capable strong hands.

Our job is to trust Him with faith like a child.

Oh we can have conversations.

We must.

We beg Him to explain His purpose.

To explain why.

It will probably turn into a little whining and fussing, and that’s ok.

But we stop at the threshold of why, turning back instead to trust.

You’ll feel better when you share your heart with the One who created it.

Picture God as your big strong daddy.

Tug on His arm and climb up onto His lap.

Let Him hold you in His gentle arms as you tell Him your troubles, your concerns.

All of them.

Let Him dry your tears, reassuring you He’s got it all under control.

He’ll lead you all the way home.

Just walk with Him and trust.

And when He turns a way you wouldn’t, keep your hand in His, never letting go.

He will never lead you wrong. Ever.

Photos by Guilherme Stecanella, Aaron Burden, & Jessica Delp on Unsplash

 

Peace or Panic

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Choose you this day whom you will serve.  Joshua 24:15

Who is your master?

Who are you serving?

God?

The flesh?

Christians are quick to say God, of course.

We do lots of business in God’s name.

And most of it is good.

But – who runs your mind?

Are your thoughts more anxious than peaceful?

Are your actions more unpredictable than steady?

Are your moods all over the place or calm?

We are trained.

It’s how we think or respond to the moments of life.

Is peace our automatic reaction?

Or is it panic?

Choose to serve God.

Choose you this day whom you will serve.

Take every thought and cleanse it with God’s truth.

Every single one.

Retrain your brain.

Serve Him not only in your actions, but also with your thoughts.

Will you choose Him?

Photos by Priscilla Du Preez, Mark Olsen, & Thomas Dewey on Unsplash

Focusing on Jesus

Published on by amylinnea1 Comment

He said, “Come.”  So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. Matthew 14:29

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When life is swirling around you, fix your eyes on Jesus.

Completely.

Step out of the boat and go.

When your focus is Jesus, He will provide all of your strength.

But the moment doubt pores in, you’ll sink.

Your focus will shift to you and your circumstances without God’s help.

Fear and panic will be your guide.

However,

The moment you turn back to Jesus and ask Him to step in, He will.

He will reach out His hand, continuing to guide you to safety.

Rescuing your heart and mind from death.

When Peter stepped out onto the water, his focus was not on the waves, the water, or his inability to walk on water.

His focus was on Jesus.

Only when the Peter began to rationally think about his circumstances instead of trusting Jesus, did he begin to sink.

But when Peter focused back on Jesus to save him, Jesus immediately stepped in.

And He will always do the same for you over and over again.

Every. Single. Time.

Barefoot on the Sand

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Your Speech

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouths of fools pour out folly. Proverbs 15:2

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Our tongues produce life or death.

Mere words are capable of bringing joy or sorrow, pain or comfort.

Words are quick to come, hard to erase.

They are spoken on a careless whim or calculated with extreme precision.

They can be used to manipulate.

Lies are words.

So is truth.

Words have produced World Wars, convinced sin to enter the world, and elected world leaders.

Words have announced the birth of our Savior and condemned Him to death.

Legal documents are filled with words which determine the course of history.

Our Constitution’s words have formed the basis of our freedom.

Words

Are

Powerful.

Speak life.

Pour words of life into the lives of those you touch.

Photos by Matt Botsford, Jackson Schaal, & Tyler Callahan on Unsplash

Right Where You Are

Published on by amylinnea4 Comments

In His hand are the depths of the earth; the heights of the mountains are His also. Psalm 95:4

He has you where He wants you.

Jesus.

He places us in spots where He can use us.

Do you ever wonder why He chose this spot?

I do.

Sometimes things don’t make sense.

Logically.

But that’s not our job.

To make sense of it all.

That responsibility rests on God’s shoulders.

Our job is to trust Him.

Trust that He knows what He’s doing and will cover us with His feathers (Ps 91).

His protection. His grace.

I’ve had quite the journey lately.

My favorite teaching place never materialized.

My first teaching job nicely pushed me out the door.

My “dream” teaching job evaporated.

My first long-term sub job was a mistake.

My next job offer I refused as I knew it wasn’t God’s plan.

But the very next day, God flung wide the door.

It is so right.

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My job doesn’t make any logical sense.

Why?

Because I jumped multiple grade levels.

I’m implementing a new program with a new subject.

And was hired less then a week before school starts.

But I know God’s here.

I’m right where He wants me.

And I know I’ll do an amazing job – ONLY because He will guide me every step of the way.

I don’t have my teacher safety net filling me with lessons from years past.

Everything about this job is foreign.

(might launch into a kindergarten calendar poem with 13 year olds)

The absolutely only thing I can do is rely on Him.

It’s comforting.

Peaceful.

Step out of your comfort zone.

See where God takes you.

And yes, my first day was fabulous.  🙂

Photos by Nadine Shaabana, Priscilla Du Preez, & Anton Sukhinov on Unsplash

Your Precious Little Heart

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. John 14:1

I find this funny.

Funny like haha, yea, right.

Oh wait – is God serious?

How can I possibly ignore life’s troubles?

Well, God didn’t say ignore life’s troubles…

Just don’t let my heart become overwhelmed with them.

Oh.

How in the world can I do this?

I’m still searching for a job.

My child’s faith is lost.

Sometimes my heart still mourns the child in heaven.

My……… (insert anything you could possibly worry and fret over).

Now take a breath and listen.

~~~~~

God knows.

He really does.

He knows and He is above all of it.

He will lead you down the right path.

He will pour wisdom over your brain and quiet your soul.

He will fill every corner of your body with peace.

But you have to decide something.

To let not your heart be troubled.

Trust God will take care of it and you.

Trust, and God will be faithful to fill your mind with His perfect peace.

Ready?

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Photos by freestocks & Joice Kelly on Unsplash

Audience of One

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

“You are the God who sees me.” She also said, “Have I truly seen the One who sees me?” Genesis 16:13

Pulled the chicken out of the oven and assembled the many dinner plates.

Peas, macaroni & cheese, and chicken on my blue dishes looked appetizing.

As I said out loud to thin air, “Good job, Amy”, I knew at that moment God had heard me.

I felt His smile.

Then it hit me.

I work for God.

Who do you work for?

Ok yes, your boss who signs your paycheck.

Your sweet spouse as you help each other tackle life.

Can’t forget the little people who depend on you for continuing their very existence.

We could add friends, church, volunteering, and society.

Let’s face it – we work for many.

Lots of people depend on us.

Too bad the amount of work we do doesn’t equal the thanks flowing to our ears.

What?

Most of what we do is unnoticed.

Unsung.

No thank you’s.

And that’s ok.

Why?

Because God sees it.

He notices.

And He’s the One we work for.

Every time you pull dinner from the oven

Fold sweet smelling laundry

Wipe up spills you never created

Greet a lonely neighbor

Go the extra mile at work

Cut out box tops for your child’s school

Soothe a crying baby

You are noticed.

Next time you do something for someone, remember God is well pleased.

Very pleased.

You helped God smile.

And that, in the end, is all that matters.

Because we work for an audience of One.

“….but as we go on in grace, we find that God is glorifying Himself here and now, in the present minute.  If we have God’s say-so behind us, the most amazing strength comes, and we learn to sing in the ordinary days and ways….”  Oswald Chambers

Photos by Ogulcan Ercal, Andrés Gómez, & Daniil Silantev on Unsplash

Rising From the Dead

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I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1-2

Not literally rising from the dead.

I’m talking about spirit crushed, gut wrenching grief.

When you are overcome with grief from the very depths of your soul and you cry until you cannot cry anymore.

That kind of dead.

Times like those are when you feel like dying yourself.

Life really doesn’t matter anymore.

What’s the point of living when life is so gut wrenchingly painful?

Or maybe you’re dead in other ways: spiritually, emotionally, selfishly, or you’ve become callous towards life.

What’s a person to do to gain freedom from these prisons?

Turn to Jesus for healing.

Restoration.

Sounds simple enough.

But here’s the catch: you must reach out to Him.

He gives us free choice.

We can choose Him or not.

God wants to free us from a life or season of pain, but we have to reach out our hand to His forgiveness and love.

His healing touch.

Remember the man in the Bible with the withered up hand?

Jesus healed him.

But first the man had to stretch out his hand.

The man had to take the initiative.

He had to choose to obey.

Jesus said, “Stretch out your hand”.

As soon as the man did that, Jesus healed him.

Set him free.

So we have a choice.

Do we want to rise from the dead things in our life or not?

Do you want Jesus to fling wide the doors of your prison walls?

Just ask.

Be willing to do the work of whatever He asks of you.

And He will be faithful to heal all of your wounds.

How fast?

Not sure.

But I can promise you God will be faithful to you.

He’s done that with me over and over.

Sometimes I walk right back into those prisons.

Willingly.

Stupidly.

But every time I ask, every time…God shows up and frees me.

Every time.

Photos by Eric Ward, James Cousins, & Floreser on Unsplash

Sovereign

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And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

God is sovereign.

Over all things.

The definition of sovereign includes these words: supreme permanent authority.

Well, that about covers it, doesn’t it?

God has supreme (total) authority (power) and it’s never going away (permanent, here forever).

He holds the world in His hands.

Now you can breathe.

Deeply.

Focus on this: God is never leaving.

He’s constant.

He holds the universe.

Yet He longs to help you.

Everyday.

With everything.

He wants you to give Him all of your burdens, big and small.

Examples?

Well, my large burdens include the children and where I should teach.

Too much to carry on my own.

Small burdens include transportation for kids going everywhere, holiday planning, and the sudden intense need for milk (who forgot to tell me we were low?).

Small burdens can easily morph into boulders if you’re not careful to give them immediately to God.

You’ll simply crumble under the weight!

So if God is sovereign, He’ll fix our burdens, right?

Well, yes and no.

When you give those troubles to God, He’ll take over and increase your dependence on Him.

He will give you just the right amount of strength, wisdom and peace, because you know He is sovereign and taking care of business.

Will He immediately solve your problems?

Probably not.

He might because He can, but He also might use this time in your life to refine your heart.

To make you holy.

Because God is sovereign, He knows best what do with your burdens.

That knowledge should give you peace beyond measure.

God has your back.

He knows the beginning from the end.

Trust Him to finish what He has started.

And enjoy the journey as best as you can, resting in the knowledge of God’s love and concern for you.

Because He is sovereign over YOU.

Sneakers on a Pier3

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Stuck at the Cross

Published on by amylinnea4 Comments

(This guest post is my sweet daughter Linnea’s senior legacy paper)

When thinking about how to sum up what I’ve learned in high school, I struggle to find the words.  There’s so much I’ve learned.  Really, there are like ten different things I could talk about. But when thinking about what to say, it kind of hit me. My experiences – everything I’ve gone through in high school – it doesn’t really matter.  It’s not the point.

Everyone has their stories.  I have mine. I could go on and on about how my depression, self-harm, and parent’s divorce affected me and what God has taught me through all of it; but honestly – that’s not the point. God has brought me through so much.  He’s slowly shaping me to be the person He created me to be.  He’s preparing me for the next life.  In the end, everything that we’ve done on earth isn’t going to matter.  There will be a day where the only thing that matters is whether or not you know and accept Jesus Christ.  High school drama will be completely forgotten.

High school is a very instrumental time in a person’s life because it is then people start discovering themselves.  It’s the perfect opportunity for God to wreck your life for Him – and that’s what He did to me.  I went from being terrified of anything remotely spiritual, to constantly having my heart broken for those who don’t know Christ.  God put this burning desire in my heart to know Him more and share His love with others.  It was almost as if I had been blind and now I could see.

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But it’s not always that easy. Truly trying to follow God is the most difficult thing I’ve ever done.  But it’s so worth it.  Satan will do everything he can to distract you.  He’ll try to re-open wounds and taunt you with temptations.  But don’t be discouraged!  John 16:33 says, “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace.  In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart!  I have overcome the world.” 

One thing I’ve learned is that so many people get stuck at the cross. I know that sounds funny, but let me explain. God wants us to lay ourselves and our burdens down at the cross and receive His grace.  But we aren’t supposed to stay there.  We are supposed to go forth and spread His news once we’ve been forgiven.  Sometimes you’ll have to go back to the cross and lay more burdens down, but you aren’t supposed to live there. Sadly, it seems as if that’s where most Christians are today.  They are all about giving their problems to God and being forgiven, but they don’t actually do anything with it.

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I believe God has so much more in store for us than just wiping away our sin. He wants us to experience the fullness of His love and be rooted richly in His spiritual blessings. He wants us to go out and share His love with urgency. Going into high school, I had the Great Commission on my mind because I had just gone through confirmation and that’s what I had picked for my verse. Matthew 28:19-20 says, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”  I wasn’t really sure why I picked that verse, but I knew it felt right.  Now I can see that God has been changing my heart and how it is a perfect verse for my life – because it describes the desire He has put inside my being.

If I had to leave one piece of advice, I’d say that no matter what, trust in God with all of your heart.  He created you and knows you better than you know yourself.  Life is full of unexpected things and you will never be able to go through it all and come out stronger without leaning on God.  There’s no time to put God on hold.  If you were to die tomorrow, would you be ready?

God Is Bigger

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Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans. Proverbs 16:3

Way bigger.

Than everything, big or small.

Life changing things.

Little annoyances.

He’s bigger than the problems of today.

What do I mean?

God can do anything.

And He will.

He’s promised to protect you.

To carry your burdens.

To guide and direct your very steps when you love Him.

When a mountain seems too impossible to climb, remember God is bigger than any mountain.

He created them.

He can handle it without a second thought.

He has ways around that mountain you cannot even imagine on your own.

And if you must climb it, He’s gonna carry your backpack.

And bring the water for the journey.

What if you’re watching someone you love climb their mountain?

And you can see easier paths but they refuse to listen?

That’s tough.

Hard to see loved ones suffer unnecessarily.

But they must turn to God.

Ask Him personally for help.

Sure we can intercede for others.

We must.

But in the end, we all have a decision to follow God or not.

God loves our loved ones even more than we do.

Hard to believe, but it’s true.

Since God is bigger,

And He loves His children more than we do,

Take your peace and rest knowing God’s got this.

Be faithful in your actions and words and wait.

It’ll happen.

Photos by Dave Hoefler, Joe Dudeck, & Michael Bryant on Unsplash

 

Need New Glasses?

Published on by amylinnea4 Comments

For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and His faithfulness continues to each generation. Psalm 100:5

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How do you choose to view things in your life?

Ugly things

Beautiful things

Uncomfortable situations

If you look at a challenge through worldly eyes, fear will be in control.

You’ll worry

Fret

Obsess

However, if you look at that same challenge through godly eyes, you’ll see an opportunity for God to use you.

For God’s hand to remain in control.

The challenge will become a blessing.

Blessing?

Choosing to let go of a child is a blessing?

Searching through piles of help wanted ads?

Choosing to love the unloving?

Yes.  Because you know God is here.

Present.

God loves that child more than you and your part is to seek God’s will and obey.

He’ll find that job, give you HIs love for that unloving person, and anything else you ever need.

Blessing or curse?

Fear or faith?

Which eyes will you filter your life through?

Photos by Luca Bravo, JOHN TOWNER, & Bud Helisson on Unsplash

Choosing Misery

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For the despondent, every day brings trouble; for the happy heart, life is a continual feast. Proverbs 15:15

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I know someone.

 So full of bitterness, anger, and self pity, she can hardly function.

Slightest incident can set off a torrent of panic.

Fear of losing control.

Of her world.

If  life doesn’t go her way, she pouts.

Complains.

Measures life under the lens of displeasure.

Easy to spot.

Even for kids to see.

Either she doesn’t recognize how she acts, or doesn’t care.

Not sure which it is.

If guilt doesn’t work, she tries punishing those in her path.

It’s sad.

I look at her and am reminded of how not to be.

When I am in fear of losing control, do I react like her?

When someone does something I don’t appreciate, do I throw back poison darts?

It’s unfortunate to have such a symbol of bitterness, yet I am grateful.

Grateful to have the reminder to pray for her.

Grateful to have an example of how not to act.

And grateful I have God who helps me.

From the balcony of heaven, will it matter?

Will your bitterness cover over the blessings of life, fully masking their pleasure?

Will becoming so upset make your life richer?

How many of life’s happiest moments will be experienced without you-

Because you were so stuck in your bitterness you couldn’t see the beautiful life God had loaned you.

Or will your anger cause you to live without having really lived?

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Stepping Into Life

Published on by amylinnea5 Comments

I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you LIFE and DEATH, BLESSING and CURSE.  Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live, loving the Lord your God, obeying His voice and holding fast to Him, for He is your life and length of days. Deuteronomy 30:19-20

Are you ever amazed at the ugliness inside?

At the emotions that pour out of your heart from nowhere?

Where on earth did that come from?

Is that me?

Am I really that selfish?

Am I really that insecure?

Jealous?

Nothing like real life to keep you humble!

We’re so not perfect.

Far from it.

But with Jesus, we can choose life.

Whenever ugly emotions rise up, you can choose to fling them off.

To step onto the other side, grinning from ear to ear.

The devil wants you to be grumpy.

He wants you to dwell in the past or whatever bothers you.

He wants to keep you there.

Stuck.

Why?

Because then you’re useless.

And you’ll sink others down along with you.

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But when you choose life, Jesus lifts you up.

Those ugly emotions evaporate.

I see it in others, and yes, in myself too.

Part of living for God is allowing Him to work through you.

To change you.

To be a witness.

And to give you fullness of life.

Allow Him to pour His living water over you, changing you from the inside out.

He’ll do His part as long as you do yours.

Ask Him to help you choose life.

You’ll need to do this often, but He’ll help you.

Guaranteed.

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Remind me, God

Published on by amylinnea1 Comment

 I love The Lord, because He has heard my voice and my pleas for mercy. Because He inclined His ear to me, therefore I will call on Him as long as I live. Psalm 116:1-2

God hears our voice. Our cries for mercy when things become difficult.

He wants to hear you. He wants to help.

Because He is always ready to listen, we should call on Him as long as we have breath.

God has and always will be present for you, walking with you each and every moment.

Stop and remember. Remind yourself of His goodness to you. Here are His words from Him to you:

Look at all I have done for you.

Look back at where you have been.

Compare that to now.

How faithful have I been?

Completely.

Down to the tiniest detail.

Remember.

Simply remember and be reminded.

I am still here.

And I always will be.

Photos by Vitolda Klein & Artur Aldyrkhanov on Unsplash

You Are Loved

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“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

How does God see you?

As His beloved.

His miracle.

His greatest creation.

As someone worth dying for.

Your thoughts are precious to Him.

Your tears are held in His hands.

Your joys bring Him smiles.

And your praise gives Him delight.

He is constantly watching You, waiting to take Your hand and walk with you with every step you take.

Hand in hand.

Your burdens are His.

Your sorrows are His.

Your joys are His.

He loves you immeasurably more than you can possibly imagine.

After all, you are His beloved.

God says, Believe Me. You are loved. Valuable. Unequaled. Perfectly formed. Made in My image. Believe Me. I am here for you. Always and continually by your side. You are never forsaken by Me. Ever. Believe Me. I have ordained your steps. Your life is safe with me. I know your every move: you’re going out and you’re coming in. Nothing is hidden from Me. Believe in Me. Because I believe in you. Love, God.

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Confusion

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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

Does God ever confuse you?

Leave you baffled?

Speechless?

Or do you make sense of everything He allows?

I don’t.

I can’t possibly make sense of some things.

So I’m left in a confused state.

Left until I decide to trust in God once again.

God surprised us with a gift.

A baby.

The promise of new life.

I was anxious then thrilled once the idea settled into my mind.

But two months later – poof.

Everything changed and I found myself in a puddle of tears.

Longing for the baby I was beginning to know and love.

Why, God?

Simply why?

Sometimes God allows things and we cannot possibly figure out all the answers.

And when we question, that’s ok.

As long as we look back and are reminded of His faithfulness.

His goodness.

I have learned a few things though.

He showed me unconditional love.

He showered me with love from my family, friends, and precious husband (who has the patience of Job).

He reminded me how He is ultimately in control.

And He reminded me not to worry, because He’s got this.

He’s got everything.

He knows the beginning of my story to the end.

My entire life is in His hands.

And He’s got yours too.

Your life is precious to Him.

And He loves you more than you could possibly imagine.

Trust Him with your entire being.

Like your life depends on it.

Because it does.

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Photos by Hu Chen, Naassom Azevedo, & Ben White on Unsplash

Blessings and Details

Published on by amylinnea1 Comment

But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. Jeremiah 17:7-8

Smiling eyes

A helping hand

An opened door from a stranger

A handsome lunch date

Money for groceries

A giant beautiful Christmas tree

My warm cozy house

Baking cookies from my grandmother’s handwritten recipes

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Music that fills the air

The sights and sounds of Christmas

A job I adore

Love from my precious family

Anticipation of a beautiful future

Forgiveness from my God

Blessings from a tiny slice of my life

What are yours? Written them down yet?

God is generously blessing our socks off.

Feast your eyes.

Drink in His goodness.

Make your list of blessings and details.

You’ll be astounded at all God has done for you.

Photos by Rodion Kutsaiev, Osman Rana, & Roman Trofimiuk on Unsplash

 

Obvious

Published on by amylinnea1 Comment

Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. Ephesians 5:1

It should be obvious I am Your child, Lord.

That I spend time with You.

Sweet Jesus, please give me Your eyes.

I want to see things through Your lens.

Your filter.

I want to see things as they really are.

Not as I imagine them to be.

Help me see Your ways working.

Silence the things I imagine as they are not of You.

Allow me to see only what You want me to see.

And Lord, please give me Your ears.

Help me to hear Your thoughts.

Only.

Your ways.

Your ideas.

Your truth.

Only.

Filter out the noise demanding my focus.

Silence the thoughts in my head that question actions and words of others.

Let me hear the pure sound of their love and Yours.

And let them hear mine.

Let me be Your hands and feet.

I want to bless others as You have blessed me.

Put Your hand over my mouth when I’m tempted to speak ill.

Give me words to speak when You have something to say.

Close my ears to lies and open my ears to the truth.

Cleanse me from the inside out.

I have absolutely nothing without You.

But with You, I have everything.

Photos by Wim van ‘t Einde, Natalie Thornley, & Kevin Young on Unsplash