Tag: God

Image Bearer

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So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27

And have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. Colossians 3:10

God created us in His image.

Meaning, unlike the rest of creation, we can make decisions, have thoughts, feelings, dreams, and disappointments.

We are complex, not existing on pure instinct.

As the one creation made in the image of God, we stand higher than all the rest of God’s magnificent creation.

We have God’s image literally stamped on us.

Our capacity for love mirrors God.

Our capacity for jealousy mirrors God.

Our capacity for anger mirrors God.

On the other hand, we are nothing like God, because God is holy.

We live in a sinful world, constantly tempted to listen to our flesh instead of God.

We sin all the time and God is without sin.

However, Jesus took our punishment for our sins.

Because of Jesus, we can restore our relationship to God, our Creator.

We put on our new self, which is renewed in knowledge, bearing the image of God.

When you are God’s child, you put on who you are in His image.

Who you are is love.

Who you are is wanted.

Who you are is valued.

Protected. Safe. Chosen.

A bullet-proof vest against the lies of the enemy.

Oh, they still hurt and sting even, but the lies are not fatal.

They pierce you, but fall away because you are reminded of Whose image you bear.

Place your trust in Almighty God.

Ask God to remove your sins because of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross.

Walk in the freedom He gives you as you clothe yourself in His image.

Allow God’s strength to fill you.

His peace to cover you.

And His love to ground you as you walk as a child of the Most High God.

Photos by Rhendi Rukmana, Alex Lopez, & Laura Rivera on Unsplash

Kerplop

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Though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His hand. Psalm 37:24

The long school year finally came to a close.

Where was I with under an hour till the bitter end?

In a heap on the floor.

After missing the last step while waltzing down the stairs to assembly, I heard my ankle make a weird sound as I fell to the floor.

Happy summer to me!

Lying on the ground with my head on the stairs, I contemplated what had transpired.

Didn’t have to sit alone more than a couple of seconds before my friend came rushing to my side.

Not wanting to throw up or faint, I laid there quietly, unable to do much else.

My friend summoned help and over the next bits of time, I was covered with God’s provision.

While resting on the dirty stairs, I was cared for. All my needs answered.

When I was at my lowest, God never left my side.

He was in the people who came, helping with different things each time.

He was in my husband’s schedule who had not left for a job hours away.

He was in the friend who recommended where to go.

He was in the doctor’s office that helped me in and out in under an hour.

He was in the details.

He always is.

Yes, He allows things. Suffering.

But He’s always right there along with you.

We can have peace amidst our trials because we know Who is with us.

God goes before us, is beside us, and is behind us.

Every single day.

Even when we go kerplop.

We have no idea how blessed we really are.

Photos by Lindsay Henwood, Denys Sudilkovsky, Kelly Sikkema, & Jonathan Borba on Unsplash

Plugged In

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For in Him we live and move and have our being. Acts 17:28a

But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. John 14:26

How closely are you plugged into the Holy Spirit?

God within, who gently nudges you into His will?

When you’re plugged in, you listen to the nudge.

Actually you do more than listen; you act.

First things first.

How do you plug into God?

Reading the Bible regularly.

Praying for yourself and others, lifting your burdens to God.

Praising Him whether you feel like it or not.

Asking God to fill you up with Himself, not relying instead on your own strength.

In a nutshell: surrender.

When you surrender to God, you allow Him to use you how He sees fit.

You extend mercy to others.

You shower them with love and grace.

You become a rock on which to stand with truth.

You act unselfishly, thinking of others before your own comfort.

Recently I was a witness to the power of the Holy Spirit.

As I listened to His whisper, I simply knew beyond a shadow of a doubt what I should do.

And when I obeyed Him, the other person responded with great leaps and bounds towards love.

It was profound.

All because I listened to God.

I was available.

My choice of surrender was my only part.

My obedience opened the gates of heaven.

Yes, certainly God works all the time without us.

But He generously wants us to take part of sharing His love with others.

When God whispers, listen.

Because those gentle nudges might begin to change your corner of the big wide world.

Get ready, because it’s going to be so great!

Photos by Kelly Sikkema, Joel Muniz, & Jon Tyson on Unsplash

All the Little Things

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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

Genesis 2

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Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. And the man and his wife were both naked and were not ashamed. Genesis 2:24-25

Adam and Eve only had each other.

That was it.

Literally.

They had to rely on each other for all conversation, companionship, and love.

They didn’t have a mother or father to leave as they were all there was.

Moses, the author of Genesis, included verses 24-25 as, unlike Adam and Eve, we must choose to leave our parents.

When we marry, we become a new family, needing to rely only on each other instead of others.

That’s the design of marriage.

Becoming the other half.

Selfishness can enter, causing the balance to upend, but knowing we are to live for the other, common decency is expected. Demanded even.

Notice how comfortable they were simply existing with each other alone?

The absence of sin caused their minds to belong only to God and their surroundings, which included each other.

They weren’t distracted by things such as clothing or even work.

Sure, they had to find their food, cutting down the fruit, harvesting the veggies, or whatever they ate, but remember actual work was part of the punishment of sin.

Sin causes us to be distracted.

Not satisfied with what we have.

Always wanting more.

Let’s refocus again on God and what He has for us.

Boil it back down to the basics: God, His purpose for you, and your alignment with Him.

Because it will be good. Very good.

Photos by Isabella Struck, Chris Tyler, & Conscious Design on Unsplash

Forgiveness

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Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord? And who shall stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and pure heart. Psalm 24:3-4a

What does it mean to have clean hands and a pure heart?

It’s one who seeks God. Who seeks God’s will, purpose, and plan for his life.

One who seeks the face of God.

One who lives within the forgiveness of God, extending in turn forgiveness to others who wrong him.

One who lives humbly under the authority of God.

One who stands in awe of God’s power, remembering Who is ultimately in control.

One who walks daily with God, obeying His written word and the promptings within his heart.

Clean hands require God’s grace, mercy, and strength.

There is no possible way to successfully rely on ourselves instead.

We are dependent on God. We must remain dependent on Him.

He gives us strength to obey His word.

He gives us grace for others when we must forgive.

He gives us peace amidst the storm.

He gives us salvation from our sins.

But we must choose to clean our hands.

We must choose to walk with God, asking Him to fill our hands with His plans.

Extending forgiveness to others ranks high on the “later, Lord” list.

But how can we have clean hands and a pure heart when we harbor un-forgiveness?

Even if it’s not deserved, we must.

We must forgive.

Doesn’t mean we are now forgetful or best friends with the offender.

Means we let the offense go, allowing God to heal our hearts.

I did that recently. Someone who has known me a very long time.

I let it go. And you know what? It freed me.

God reminded me how much He has forgiven me.

Immediately I knew it must be extended to others.

My person didn’t deserve it.

But neither do I.

I don’t deserve God’s forgiveness.

Want to ascend the hill of the Lord with me?

God wants us to have clean hands and a pure heart.

Includes forgiveness.

Ask Him to help you, and grab those shoes. The hill looks lovely.

Photos by Joseph Liu, Adrian Jakob, Tim Wildsmith, & Thomas de LUZE on Unsplash

Broken Bars

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I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, that you should not be their slaves. And I have broken the bars of your yoke and made you walk erect. Leviticus 26:13

The Israelites were slaves in Egypt for a long time.

One day is actually too much.

But God rescued them, bringing them out of slavery under Moses’ leadership.

God broke the bars of their yoke, which was incredibly heavy as slaves.

He freed them, causing them to lose not only their yoke, but instead walk completely upright.

They were no longer prisoners.

One can only walk upright without a burden on their back.

Ever tried to carry something heavy or awkward?

We usually stoop at least a bit.

Or what about internal burdens not physically seen?

Those are usually bigger.

The pressures and weight cause us to walk around slightly hunched, eyes downward, gloom written on our faces.

Even our eyes look sad when we are under the yoke of burdens, which become our prison as we constantly feel the pressures, not aware of any escape.

God reminds us in Leviticus of His deliverance from slavery. Of the prison the Israelites were dwelling.

And He also reminds us He has broken the bars of that yoke, allowing us to walk uprightly.

Do you want to walk uprightly as one who has received God’s peace and strength?

Eager to break out of your prison?

Have you given your burdensome yoke to God?

Those pressing situations causing you to stoop over with anxiety or fear?

He wants to break your yoke, allowing you to walk out of your prison, into the freedom He has for you.

As you release all things to God, He will straighten your back, causing a smile to spread across your face.

Walk uprightly. Smile. Look others in the eyes.

You are God’s beloved one. He has your life in His hands.

And He has all the stuff you worry about, too.

When you place your trust in God for not only your salvation, but your life here on earth as well, your prison doors are opened.

Give God your relationships, your jobs, your addictions, your future, and more.

And don’t allow that yoke to reattach as worry and fear begin creeping back into control.

God is more powerful than your burden.

Allow Him to take it off.

He’ll even help you with the transfer.

Now don’t worry about where He put it.

Just pray and trust Him instead.

Doesn’t it feel great to stand tall again?

Photos by Artem Beliaikin, Daniel Born, Daniel Krueger , & Ben White on Unsplash

Scattering Seeds

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And he said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground. He sleeps and rises night and day, and the seed sprouts and grows; he knows not how. Mark 4:26-27

Ever become frustrated by a lack of growth in an area?

Could be yourself, a loved one, or a friend.

God’s timing is not always our timing.

Preaching to the choir, I know.

But our job? It is to remain faithful to the call God has on our lives.

Part of our call is to pray for the lost, asking God to soften their hearts.

Part of our call is to encourage others, pointing them to the One they can trust.

And part of our call is to be His witness.

God’s hands and feet to those we meet.

While we usually don’t see any changes, seeds are scattered. Planted. Watered.

You might be the one who scatters that seed.

Or maybe you planted a seed specifically.

Or maybe your job was to water the seed. Again and again.

We often don’t know what role we play on another’s journey to God.

But as long as we are doing our part, we can anticipate the harvest.

But sometimes we don’t even know we are planting any seeds.

We are unaware people are watching, weighing our words or actions with God’s gentle whispers.

And one day, when that harvest pops through, we are surprised as anyone!

Let me give you an example.

Last year I had two pots of pansies on my front porch.

Not sure what kind, but I know now. How do I know?

I have several little bunches popping out of my mulch in full bloom.

Did I plant them? Nope.

Did I scatter the seeds? No, but the plant did.

And this spring, I am enjoying the harvest.

Plus now I know what kind of pansies I had last year.

As you go about your day, praying for others, think about the seeds you are scattering.

It’s pretty incredible to be a part of someone’s story to Jesus.

May we all keep pursuing Jesus on behalf of others we know and don’t know.

And someday soon, may we see a glimpse of the happy souls we love rejoicing with their faith in God.

Intentional Words

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A gentle tongue is the tree of life, but perverseness in it breaks the spirit. Proverbs 15:4

Are your words gentle and intentional, rich with meaning?

We usually mean what we say, yes?

Or do you spout forth anything which immediately pops into your brain?

For example you might say, “I’m sick to death about it” when asked about a particular situation.

Do you want to be sick literally until the point of death?

That’s what you just said.

No, you didn’t mean that, so don’t say it.

Don’t declare death over yourself.

Or you might say, “I can’t stand my ______”. Could be a body part, your housing, or your job. Sometimes it can even include your family!!!

If you declare you cannot stand something, you are speaking death over it. Utter displeasure. And your body reacts appropriately.

If you cannot stand something, you wish it gone, because you can no longer deal with it.

Isn’t that too extreme to ever use again?

Thinking again about Proverbs 15:4, how gentle is your tongue?

Your words, are they intentional?

When you have a gentle tongue, your words become intentional in a good way.

You speak life with your words so perverse words do not break your spirit.

So how do we proceed? When your brain reverts back to the patterns of worry and fear, speak life instead.

Use your words to declare you fully trust God and are eagerly anticipating God’s plan to unfold. And until then, you are sheltering in the safety of His peace, absent of fear and worry. Why? Because you know He’s got this, you, and everything else.

A gentle tongue from the tree of life produces blessings for the giver and the receiver, erupting into happy bombs inside your head.

Recently while eating a late dinner in an Oklahoma diner, a waitress approached our table. I looked up with my salad question and smiled at her. She immediately gave me the nicest compliment, telling me I was so beautiful. What unexpected, sweet words!

Perverse speech affects us just as much, doesn’t it? Speaking from selfish hearts can bring all of us down real quick. Not what Jesus had in mind when He talked about fellowship with others.

Words are one of the biggest tools Satan uses to produce death in us when speaking over our situations and in others, when speaking to them.

Our words were designed for life. Remember that the next time you open your mouth, which will probably be soon.

Photos by Amador Loureiro, Kyle Glenn, Patrick Tomasso, & wisconsinpictures on Unsplash

All We Need

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Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Psalm 32:1

O sacred Head, now wounded, with grief and shame weighed down,

Now scornfully surrounded, with thorns thine only crown;

O sacred Head, what glory, what bliss till now was thine!

Yet, though despised and gory, I joy to call thee mine.

What language shall I borrow to thank thee, dearest friend?

For this thy dying sorrow, thy pity without end?

O make me thine forever, and should I fainting be,

Lord, let me never, never outlive my love to thee.

Be near when I am dying, O show thy Cross to me!

And, for my succor flying, come, Lord, to set me free.

These eyes, new faith receiving, from thee shall never move;

For he who dies believing, dies safely in thy love.

—————

This hymn, written about 1300 years ago is so familiar during Holy Week.

The monk who penned these words focused on the depths of Jesus’ love for us.

The love Jesus displayed on the cross is unlike anything ever witnessed before or since.

His willingness to give Himself for us, His beloved, shows how deep His love ran and still does.

Jesus has done everything possible to bring us to Himself forever.

He made atonement for our sinful selves, bridging the gap forever.

He came to earth, died for our sins, and rose again.

How can we not respond?

Give Him your love.

Give Him your life.

Give Him your whole self.

Unbelievably, He gave all of Himself for you. For me.

As we reflect on His sacrifice for us, may we long for more of Him.

May it be our joy to call Him mine.

May we never outlive our love for Him.

May our eyes never stop seeking His perfect plans for our lives.

And may our faith ever increase as we accept His love and sacrifice for our continual sinning selves.

Jesus, we are not worthy of you. We are more than grateful of what you did for us on the cross.

We give you our hearts afresh today.

Renew us and free us from the prisons we create.

And one day may our death find us believing, safely in Your love.

Photos by Thanti Riess, Samuel McGarrigle, Pisit Heng, & Patrick Fore on Unsplash

How Much Time?

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Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19

As life moves on, days roll into months and years.

Before you know it, life has passed you by.

Another day. I have another day, yes?

Maybe, maybe not.

God knows the hour of your departure from this world.

Only God.

Could be in ten years, could be in twenty-five, could be tonight.

Are you ready?

Ready to meet your Maker? The Creator of all things?

We only have one go. One life. One gift.

What about your family? Friends? Co-workers?

How much time do they have left?

Only God knows.

God asks to be His hands and feet while we live.

His witness to others here on earth.

Are you? What if your role is to help open their door?

Or that last invitation to God they finally accept?

Open your hands to help others.

Open your hearts to relationship with others.

Open your mouth to share God’s good news.

Not obnoxiously, but allow your life to be a witness. A witness for God’s love, peace, and salvation.

You might be that one person who will share with the other.

Making all the difference, another soul will enter heaven.

Life is short. We must do our part, sharing God’s hope and peace to our broken and desperate world.

As time ticks away, let your humble soul witness the goodness of God.

There is no time to lose. The time is now.

Get up and go forth into our world, sharing the witness of God.

His goodness, His faithfulness, His love.

What else matters? Nothing.

Photos by Andrik Langfield, insung yoon, Claudio Schwarz, & Jonathan Wells on Unsplash

Waiting for You

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Therefore the Lord waits to be gracious to you, and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him. Isaiah 30:18

Morning dawned, and her alarm sounded.

Waking, the girl opened her eyes.

She stumbled out of bed, beginning her day.

Jesus was sitting on a chair by her bed. Waiting.

Returning to her room, she thought of opening her Bible and praying.

She wanted to, but realized she didn’t have the time. She was late.

And Jesus still sat, waiting.

After school the girl returned, but her phone begged for her attention.

Flopping down on the bed, she ignored the thoughts of reading the Bible.

Jesus was still there, waiting.

Dinner came and went. TV shows were watched. Homework completed.

Climbing into bed at the end of the day, the girl glanced at her Bible.

She wanted to read it, but her flesh cried out for sleep.

She mumbled a prayer as she closed her eyes.

And Jesus was still there, waiting.

He waited in her room every day.

He longed for a deeper relationship; He loved her so.

As the years went by, she changed houses and rooms, yet Jesus was always there. Waiting.

She had always grown up believing in Him, asking Him into her heart when she was young.

However, she had never really developed her relationship with God, putting it off even though she felt badly.

But Jesus never left. He was always there, waiting for her.

Did she sit with Him? That all depends. Do you?

Photos by Ben White & Amira Aboalnaga on Unsplash

Your Choice

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When the Lord saw that he had turned aside to see, God called to him out of the bush, “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here I am.” Exodus 3:4

Moses was going about his day.

It was any normal day, aside from the fact there was an unusual burning bush.

The bush was on fire, yet it was not changing. Not consumed by the fire.

It was literally just a bush on fire.

Moses noticed the bush.

Then he stopped and made a choice to approach the bush, investigating further.

God was the flame on the bush.

He was there waiting for Moses.

What if Moses had merely glanced at this phenomenon, continuing instead on his way?

Verse 4 says God revealed Himself after Moses chose to investigate further.

It says when Moses turned aside, then God revealed Himself.

Is God waiting for you in some way?

Are you walking towards God, asking Him to reveal the plans He has for you?

Might require you to walk towards it. To make a choice.

God always gives us a choice.

To recognize our sinful ways, asking God to save us.

To fling off our old destructive patterns, submitting to God instead.

To walk with God every step of the way, sometimes doing things we never thought we could.

God has plans for you, for me.

They might not look like you think they should.

But when God shows up, stop and notice.

That’s what Moses did, but I’m not convinced he knew right away it was God.

Maybe his spirit begged him to investigate.

Or maybe he was naturally curious as God’s creation.

But Moses stopped and turned towards it.

And when he did, God revealed Himself to Moses.

Seek God and walk towards deep in your soul what you know you should do.

Apologize to who you need to.

Speak words of life to those that need it.

And with your whole self, ask God to fill every part with Himself.

Ask Him to help you notice what He asks of you this day.

And when you do, He will faithfully reveal Himself to you, just like He did so many years ago.

Photos by Ndumiso Silindza, Ankhesenamun, Traolách Conboy, & Joel Muniz on Unsplash

Tears

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When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in his spirit and greatly troubled. John 11:33

God takes no pleasure in watching us suffer.

He is moved when we are troubled.

He knows the beginning from the end, yet allows all sorts of things.

Sorrows and joys all filter through His hands before they reach our world.

He knows the moment we will receive news we wish we hadn’t.

He anticipates our gut wrenching grief.

So He prepares us, enfolding us in His loving kindness.

I imagine God knowing before us, watching us receive a sorrow from the depths of our souls.

As our Father, our Creator, He weeps with us when the news turns our insides out.

All He asks is our trust. Our trust in Him. His authority. His sovereignty. His plan.

Knowing He stands by our side in sorrow, keeps our feet moving step by step.

Just as I wish I could take away any of my children’s pain, God’s love for us is even more.

He never wants us to suffer, yet He knows our world is full of it.

And suffer we must. Doesn’t mean He enjoys it. Because He doesn’t.

But He allows life to happen. Because of this, we must keep our trust with Him.

Just imagine how He loves us so.

Wanting to witness our joys, never our sorrows.

He loves us so much He sent Jesus, His Son, to die in our place.

God witnessed the death of His Son.

Because of this, we can rest assured God understands.

He understands pain, and the purpose of pain.

The purpose of sacrifice.

As we identify with God in our pain, allow Him to scoop you into His loving arms.

God, who created you, understands.

He longs for your trust, burden, and your tears.

Allow Him to comfort you. He longs to. Every single time.

Photos by Ingmar H, Jametlene Reskp, Pascal van de Vendel, & Hannah Busing on Unsplash

Trusting God, Still

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You hem me in, behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. Psalm 139:5

Still I trust You, God.

Even when life throws me down.

Still I will trust You, God.

Even when a loved one passes on from this earth.

When my heart tears open once again.

Still I will trust You, God.

When my body betrays me, despite filling it with health.

When we wait for results, which are in the hands of God.

Still I trust You, God.

When life doesn’t make sense.

When I’m too tired to care much anymore.

Still I trust You, God.

When everything certain seems to disappear,

You, God, remain still.

You remain with me every moment of every day.

You hem me in behind, beside, and before.

You order my steps. Then you walk every one with me.

Nothing in this world compares to You.

You’ve always been there for me. And You always will be.

Even when life becomes too hard or very much real.

That’s why I trust You still.

And I always will.

Because Your faithfulness and gentle loving-kindness remind me I have nothing to fear.

Photos by Tomas Hudolin, Arleen wiese, Daiga Ellaby, & David Beale on Unsplash

Smoke Alarm

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Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger. James 1:19

You’re exhausted from a long day at work.

Arriving home, you plop into your chair.

You smell something slightly off, but ignore it.

Doesn’t seem important.

Your spouse comes to you, mentioning the smell.

Since you have decided it’s not important, you inform your spouse it’s nothing.

After all, your authority stands as gospel.

In the middle of the night, you are awakend by a smoke filled room.

Coughing, you can barely breathe.

Together, you both slowly crawl out of the bedroom, barely escaping the raging fire.

Standing in the yard, you survey your house, now engulfed in flames.

You’ve lost everything.

And so has your spouse.

Everything except for each other.

If only you had listened to her, your home would still be standing.

The tiny flame would have been easy to stamp out.

But the tiny flame grew into a total loss.

Nothing left.

Daily we must be on the lookout for smoke. Warnings.

Comes in a variety of ways through your job, finances, habits, and relationships.

Satan does not want your marriage to thrive.

He wants to whisk away your children.

He wants to distract you from your relationship with God.

And he wants to destroy your peace on earth.

Be on alert, reacting with those Holy Spirit nudges.

Takes humility. Perseverance. Strength. Focus.

But God’s here, standing by your side with all the tools you could possibly need.

In fact, when you place your faith and trust daily in Him, He’ll help you smell that smoke the moment it erupts.

May we listen to the hearts of others God uses to speak through.

May we honor the thoughts of our spouse, because then we honor the thoughts of God.

May our habits reflect the nudges of God as we obey His plans for us.

May we cover the flame of conflict with humble godliness before our ignorance causes us to loose everything.

Photos by Kilian Seiler, Steven Weeks, Piotr Chrobot, & Olivia Snow on Unsplash

Selfish Switch

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing. James 3:16

Isn’t the switch too easy?

Usually a moment of pure insanity.

One moment we are living for God…

And the next minute we are focused again on ourselves.

One minute we are speaking life to others…

And before we realize it, we’ve refocused again completely on self.

James reminds us selfishness breeds disorder and every evil thing.

Yuck. Can you picture the ugliness we spread when focused on ourselves?

Ignoring others breeds rejection in their minds.

Always placing your needs first spreads the superiority message.

And that’s just scratching the surface.

What do you generally focus on as you go about your day?

With what lens do you see life?

Your own lens or God’s?

May we stop switching back to our own.

May we look through God’s lens to see what He sees.

And may we choose to focus on what He has for us today.

Come along and make the switch with me.

Photos by Bravingbird on Unsplash

 

His Creation

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. And God blessed them…And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good. Genesis 1:27-28,31

God created us in His image.

We are the only things He created so special.

Yes, everything He created is unique. Amazing. Intricate.

But we are the only creation made literally in His image.

The image of God is stamped upon you.

Let that sink into your incredible brain He created to contemplate!

He also gave us dominion over all living things on this earth.

That includes yourself.

Your flesh.

You, through God’s power, have dominion over your flesh.

Yes, your flesh was created in God’s image.

But sin entered the earth, marring your flesh forever.

The war you have with your flesh is because of sin.

But you can win.

You can win your war over your flesh, because of Jesus.

Finally, God called all of His creation very good.

While I don’t let my students use that word as an adequate adjective, in Genesis “good” refers to beautiful or best.

God created you in His best way.

Created in His image, you are beautiful. The best. So good.

Remember today where God has placed you.

Above all His other creation.

Made in His image.

The very image of God.

Photos by Samantha Sophia & Ben White on Unsplash

Pouring Blessings Out

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers. Psalm 1:1-3

Are you praying for God to bless others?

For others to have great success?

How about those you struggle to love?

Or people you cannot stand?

Shouldn’t we ask God to bless them, too?

Oh wait, they don’t deserve it. Is that it?

Well we don’t either, according to God’s law.

We are no more special than any other person.

What if instead of complaining, we bless?

What if instead of keeping division, we seek peace?

What if instead of walking away from we walk towards?

God is calling us higher.

Followers of God must differ from the world.

Blessing those who curse you is a real difference.

And it’s a great place to start.

Besides, when God begins to hear your heart, He just might bless them.

And they’ll be way less annoying anyhow.

More importantly, your heart will soften.

And don’t we all profess to want to be more like Jesus?

Choose to speak life over others.

The ones who will receive and the ones who will not.

You can start by inserting their name into Psalm 1:1-4, declaring that person is blessed. Like a well watered tree. Producing much fruit.

By speaking life over someone, your irritation will lessen towards them and God just might break through in their lives. And yours.

We cannot pretend to know God’s ways, but we can place our hearts with His, blessing instead of cursing those around us. Especially those who are the most irritating.

Photos by Creative Captures, Fumiaki Hayashi, Blake Cheek, & Sebastian Pichler on Unsplash

Appointed and Annointed

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations. Jeremiah 1:5

How do you see yourself?

Defeated or victorious?

Less than or worthy?

Demoted or honored?

Jeremiah 1:5 reminds us of our value.

Who God says we are.

Before we took our first breath, God set us apart.

God, who made all things, declares our worth.

His word is infinitely more important than the opinion of others.

Do you see this?

Do you see your value?

You must. You must cement it into your precious brain.

Because the firey darts will come.

They will come, trying to spread their poison into your very being.

Lies from others.

Jealous, hurtful words.

Or mere remarks not meant to be for your ears.

The devil will also try his hardest to influence you.

To confirm the fears he plants into your head, bringing your worth equal to a smelly trash heap.

Choose to believe the truth.

Choose to look at yourself through God’s eyes.

God sees you completely protected by His strength, purpose, and love.

Liken it to His armor, worn, yet strong as steel, covering every inch of your vulnerable self.

Pretend you are peeking through God’s armor, which covers you with His value.

His predestined value of you.

God’s protection over you is real.

Just like your truth as His beloved.

Marked to accomplish His work to the nations.

Trust God, obey His declaration, and believe your worth.

Will you partner with God today?

Photos by Yannick Apollon, Evgeni Tcherkasski, Stephen Bedase, & Nik Shuliahin 💛💙 on Unsplash

Your Value

Published on by amylinnea3 Comments

Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. Ephesians 1:4

You are capable. You are confident. You belong here.

Recently shared those words with a loved one, who was questioning her abilities.

When she repeated them, a smile broke out across her face.

She was reminded of her value.

When walking into a new situation, lack of confidence is normal.

You can begin to question if you’re even capable.

If you actually belong.

When we lose the belief in ourself, our outward actions tend to mirror our timidity.

We become shy. We fumble around, grasping at straws. We actually don’t belong when acting like so.

Do you believe who God says you are?

Because that’s where your confidence ultimately rests.

It’s where your words of belonging were born.

Before God made this world, He thought of us.

It’s like God smiled when you entered His mind, before anything on earth existed.

You are that important.

Knowing this, you can live from this truth.

You are capable. You are confident. You belong here.

Now it’s your turn to smile.

Photos by Brendan Beale, Madison Oren, Bethany Laird, & Ben White on Unsplash

Your Closest Friend

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Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. James 1:5

Jesus is as close as you want Him to be or as far away as you choose for Him to be.

He’s always right by your side.

You can choose to let Him into your life, or not.

You can be as intimate as you want.

Jesus would like to be your all in all.

Your closest friend.

But it’s your choice.

If you choose to push Him away, He’ll go.

Not because He wants to, but because of your choices.

But the moment you change your mind, calling to Him, He’ll run right back.

Because He loves you.

Decide today to put God the very first in your life.

Life won’t be easy, but under the umbrella of God’s love, wisdom, and peace, His protection will filter the harsher bites of life and soothe the painful parts, too.

There really is no choice, but God.

Bring God close to you.

It’s why you were created.

For relationship with God Himself.

Photos by James Lee, Giorgio Trovato, Chris Curry, & Andrew Spencer on Unsplash

Holding Onto What?

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And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

What are you holding onto that is keeping you from the promises of God?

What are you keeping closer to your heart than God?

God’s promises are for you.

You. His beloved.

But only when you surrender everything.

Everything you hold dear and everything you hold in place of God Almighty.

So, I ask you again. What are you holding onto that is keeping you from God’s promises?

Are your spouses actions or inactions causing you to resist God’s promises?

Are your children’s attitudes or flaws causing you to stay within yourself?

Are your flaws and failures causing you to calculate without God?

God’s promises for blessings require your dedication to Him.

To Him and Him alone. God, that is.

When your spouse repeatedly disappoints you, should that matter?

When your children fail you, does that reflect your parenting?

When you succumb again to your temptations, do you stay stuck within yourself?

Keep pursuing what God has for you.

Keep placing your trust into His hands.

Keep surrendering your life to Him.

As you repent and place yourself at His feet, His promises will be yours.

All He wants is you.

All of you.

Even the dark parts.

Let Him make everything new.

Determine to make this new year God’s and God’s alone.

Photos by Rolands Zilvinskis, Ant Rozetsky, Katarina Miloševic, & Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

Mary’s Emotions

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But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Luke 2:19

As mothers, we feel deeply.

Natural or adoption, the moment we hold that child in our arms, our hearts forever change.

Mary, the mother of our Lord, was no different.

She had the same emotions we do, ranging from complete joy to absolute sorrow.

Starting it all, she was asked by God Almighty to obey.

And she did.

She obeyed God even though it could have meant banishment from her community, family, and friends.

She didn’t know Joseph would agree to stay.

But God had it all planned.

Mary’s mothering role continued as her relationship with Jesus grew.

Imagine her teaching him how to walk.

How to tie his sandals.

How to politely greet an adult.

Mothers are protective of their children, often to the extreme.

Ever heard the term Mama Bear?

You understand.

Was Mary even more protective of Jesus because of who he was?

Did she know when Jesus would begin his ministry?

I imagine when he began, she helped him when she could.

Mothers are proud of their children, and I’m sure Mary couldn’t have been prouder of the man Jesus became.

Do you think she knew he would have to die on a cross?

Even if she did, I’m sure she was not prepared for the immense grief she experienced, watching her precious boy slowly die in that awful way.

Mary experienced the awe of an angel asking her to obey.

Mary endured the pain of watching her son painfully die.

Mary signed up to be the only mother Jesus had on earth.

I’m guessing she knew what it would entail, yet could not comprehend the depth of emotions she would feel.

But she obeyed, knowing God would always stand by her side.

And just like Mary, God will always stand by your side, too.

Photos by Joshua Reddekopp, M.T ElGassier, Eric Froehling, & il vano on Unsplash

Choosing Joy

Published on by amylinnea1 Comment

Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices; my flesh also dwells secure. Psalm 16:9

I just love Christmas.

Always have.

Love my candles in each window.

They’ve evolved into not only battery operated, but put themselves on and off with their timer.

Absolutely brilliant.

I laugh as the kids and I used to rush around at dusk, plugging in all of our candles.

Numbered in the 30’s at least as we had so many windows on all sides of our classic house.

It took a few minutes, but was well worth the trouble.

The effect was stunning.

Sometimes we’d hear a crash and someone, usually me, would run up with a dust pan and brush, cleaning up the shattered bulb, putting in a new one.

Baking cookies with my grandmother also comes to mind.

We’d spend a Saturday each fall making a few different kinds.

Sampling so much cookie dough, we would barely finish a shared mini pizza for dinner.

Priorities, people.

After my children were born, they’d join us in her kitchen, standing on chairs, spilling sprinkles everywhere.

Christmas Eve services and special sit down dinners are also tops on my list.

Only stayed up one time for the 11 o’clock service with my grandparents.

Happy I did that, but once was enough!

As we gather more and more Christmas memories, time with family becomes even more tender.

Joy spills forth with the mere thought of this time of year.

But what happens when families split or members decline Christmas invitations?

One can tend to pout. To dwell on the one difficult circumstance instead of the hundreds of happy ones.

Yes, it can ruin everything.

So what if your holiday doesn’t look like you want?

Doesn’t look like you pictured or planned?

Will you let that reality steal your joy?

Or will you let the disappointments fall away like water on a duck’s back, concentrating instead on the reason for our Christmas season?

Because Jesus came to earth, you can have pure joy.

Because of Jesus, you can have peace in your heart. Like anytime you ask.

Because Jesus was born and ultimately died for you, you can have life eternal.

Nothing in this world can match the joy of Jesus’ birth and what it signifies for you and for me.

Mere disappointments pale in comparison.

This Christmas, focus on Jesus’ love for you instead.

When you fix your eyes on Him, the cares of this world will fade away.

Not finding the perfect gift, decorating your tree at the last minute, or opening canned cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning do not matter the least little bit.

Only Jesus matters.

Focus on Him, putting your worldly cares and disappointments in their place, beneath the altar.

Let your face reflect your decision to choose joy for this season.

Jesus is born! What more could we possibly need?

Photos by Debby Hudson, Anshu A, Anne Nygård, & Jon Flobrant on Unsplash

Always by Your Side

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

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

He’s here.

Picture Jesus sitting right here.

In the chair beside you.

He’s as near as your very breath.

He’s waiting for you to need Him.

He knows you need Him, more than you even realize, but He gives you that choice.

He knows your heart belongs to Him, but sometimes it wanders away a bit.

When your heart wanders, it seeks after things of this world instead of God.

Jesus is seeking the Father on your behalf.

Always in prayer for you.

Your needs. Your health.

Your very life.

Anticipating your sigh, He looks at you.

Love and sympathy pour from His eyes.

He sees you.

He knows you.

He has a plan for all your days.

Good things, hard things, and everything in between.

He longs to hear your heart.

To carry your burdens, big or small.

As you labor through this life, reach out to Jesus.

Tell Him your joys.

Your sorrows.

Your hopes and dreams.

By the way, He already knows them all.

Reach out to Him afresh today.

He’s right here waiting for you.

Photos by Joshua Lawrence, Andrew Shelley, eduard, & Ben White on Unsplash

Living Within Forgiveness

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Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

What if you lived from a place of forgiveness towards others?

Those who hurt you, often repeatedly?

God, whose faithfulness endures to all generations, is merciful.

He promises to hold you upright as a steadfast Rock.

And He’s forgiven you all of your sin.

All of it.

So what if you lived within God’s forgiveness, granting others grace as well?

You might feel justified withholding compassion or forgivness.

But that’s not for your concern.

Your concern is not doling out justice. That’s God’s business.

If you live without the lens of forgiveness, your disposition, attitude, and even health are affected.

But if you allow yourself to live within God’s forgiveness flowing through you, everything will be different.

Don’t let people walk all over you, but live within the grace of God.

Stand up gracefully for yourself, but allow others to make their own mistakes.

Living within forgiveness frees others.

But the biggest reward is for your heart.

When your heart lets go of bitterness, the ugly parts melt away, revealing the heart of God.

Only possible with God’s love all mixed up with yours.

Would you rather have a heart full of scars and ugly dead parts?

Or a heart with God’s love all mixed up with yours, sending life everywhere it travels?

Ask God for His infusion today.

And run into that freedom He has for you.

The freedom He died to give you when He forgave you all your sins.

Photos by Melanie Stander, Alex Shute, & Joel Muniz on Unsplash

Still Good

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds His people both now and forevermore. Psalm 125:2

Even if, God is still good.

Even if my daughter has cancer, God is still good.

Even if my family looks different than what I planned, God is still good.

Even if holidays are not what I pictured, God is still good.

Even if our country elects the leader I don’t choose, God is still good.

Even if the world erupts in war, God is still good.

Even if I don’t look the way I wish, God is still good.

Even if my parents go their separate ways, God is still good.

How do I know our God is still good even if?

Because in the midst of it all, God holds all things in His hands.

He created all things.

The world and all it contains exists only because of Him.

And when humanity fell apart, He redeemed our broken world through His Son, Jesus.

Because He loves us.

Yes, He allows free choice, which is why there is sin.

And yes, He allows sin to affect us.

But rest assured, He still holds you in His hands.

In fact, He surrounds you with His perfect peace when you surrender it all to Him.

He has plans just for you.

So even if the worst happens, God is still good.

Always and forevermore.

Photos by Jeremy Bishop, Ales Krivec, Steve Carter, & Yannick Pulver on Unsplash

Losing Control

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

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

I hold onto things too tightly.

When I do, I remain in control.

As more and more things climb into my hands, I stumble, dropping everything.

I stand, crestfallen at the mess before me.

Looking up, I see You, my God, are here.

Your arms are reaching down to me, inviting me to come.

To surrender.

I place my hand in Yours as You lift me onto Your lap.

Instantly feeling peace, I rest, knowing You are the great I Am.

I look down at the life I’ve spilled and because of You, the messy pile is gone.

You’ve organized all of it for me.

In it’s place is a nice neat row, everything in a logical place.

You’ve even added Your touch, causing it to look more beautiful than it’s ever looked.

Thank you for reminding me that You, God, are in control.

You are my helper. My shield. My protector.

You are the author of my peace.

My constant shelter in the storms of life.

Remind me to give you my daily moments.

Remind me to let You hold my days as you protect me, allowing my hope to dwell in the future plans You have just for little ole me.

Photos by Sixteen Miles Out on Unsplash

I Am Yours, God

Published on by amylinnea2 Comments

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalm 139:23-24

You know my heart, Lord.

You created it.

You fashioned me in every way.

My talents.

My hopes.

My dreams – all of them are from You.

I want to know You more.

I want to trust You with all that I am.

The moment I wake, may You be on my mind.

When I close my eyes at night, may my thoughts remain on You.

You have my best in mind.

You created me for a higher purpose.

Reveal Your plans to me, O God.

May I recognize Your divine appointments.

May I minister Your peace to those around me.

May I comfort those who are sad.

May I rejoice with those who share.

May I pray with those who need Your touch.

And may I be a living extension of You.

Photos by Rula Sibai, Annie Spratt, Nong, & Gary Yost on Unsplash

God or Our Flesh

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So then, I myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin. Romans 7:25

Can I get a witness?

So true, isn’t it? Our minds long to serve God, yet our flesh longs to serve sin.

Waking up every morning, we once again purpose to walk within God’s plan for our day.

Yet how soon does our flesh rise up to sin?

Reacting with a snarky comment to our spouse.

Thinking of our own needs first instead of others.

Allowing an anxious thought to take root in our mind.

Believing a lie about our identity in Christ.

Lying to get out of a sticky situation.

Ignoring what you know you should accomplish, indulging in your flesh instead.

Becoming grumpy pants whenever things are not going your way.

Dwelling in self-pity or poor me.

Worrying to the point of fear filling your mind.

When we participate with sin, we are serving the law of sin.

Ouch. Do you want to serve sin?

Heck no. I’m not sure we consciously say to ourselves we want to serve sin as we indulge with our flesh.

But that’s what we do when we sin. We serve it. We agree with it because we succumb to it’s temptations.

But God is on the throne, His power to withstand is available to us – we only need to ask and then stand firm. Again and again. And again.

Lord, help us to continue in the mind of Christ, instead of living within the sin of our flesh.

Fill us with your Holy Spirit and help us to remember You with every thought as we go about our day.

Cement in our hearts Your ways, Your peace, and Your presence.

May we long for You more than our flesh.

Only with Your power within us will we ever have a breath of hope.

You are above our sin and we are nothing without You.

You are our God, forevermore reigning for all of eternity.

We praise You for thinking of us, helping us, and wanting us to follow in Your footsteps.

May we live to glorify Your name as we serve you instead of ourselves.

Photos by Karsten Winegeart, Jessica D. Vega, & Silvana Carlos on Unsplash

Belief in the Truth

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Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long. Psalm 25:5

Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name. Psalm 86:11

How often do you believe only what you think is the truth?

How do you know it’s true?

What if it’s only partial truth? Or actually a complete lie?

Here’s an example. The Israel/Palestinian conflict is generations old.

Long-held beliefs passed down within families.

Each side seems justified in their own minds.

But what is their focus? Peace or war?

How do they teach their children to live among their enemies? Love or hate?

Recently, Hamas surprised innocent Israelis, killing civilians, capturing others as hostages.

Most shockingly, babies were found murdered, some with heads and some without.

Many people were required to witness the carnage. It’s almost unbelievable this level of evil exists.

The witnesses were there for one reason: to testify what they saw.

It’s what Allied troops did when liberating concentration camps in WW2.

Witnesses were necessary as people wouldn’t have believed it otherwise. How could they when one couldn’t imagine such evil?

And some don’t, still to this day, believe the holocaust existed.

They want to believe their own narrative instead.

Thinking about the recently murdered Israeli babies, there are protestors who deny this happened.

Say it’s propaganda.

They believe what they want instead

To keep the hate going.

What truth do you refuse to see in your own life?

What addiction, habit, or attitude do you regularly engage in that seeks to block you from seeing God’s truth?

What lies do you believe in your mind about your true identity in Christ?

What lie wraps you in fear, disabling your ability to see the truth?

Evil is real. Satan is real.

And both want to destroy you, the people you love, and any hope of peace in this world.

Oh God, let us see Your truth.

Let us humble ourselves under Your authority in our lives.

May we humbly see the errors of our ways, wanting instead for You to make known Your perfect way, which leads us in Your truth.

Photos by Timothy Eberly, Jeremy Yap, & Carlos Magno on Unsplash

Hairy Vacuums

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Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Psalm 51:10

Does your vacuum become stuck when hair completely wraps around the spinner thing or is it just me?

Smelly rubber wrapped in junk doesn’t move well.

We must stop and dejunk it. Eww.

Grab a coin to open up the bottom.

Lay the vacuum down.

Taking scissors, carefully slice through the thick hair all the way down.

Pull it off in hunks, repeating the action again and again and again, while tossing it into the trash.

Continue until it’s all gone.

Needed to continue the vacuum’s optimal function. Admittedly a bit satisfying, yet completely gross.

How often do you dejunk your heart? Your mind? Your body? Your soul?

It must be a regular thing.

Like literally regular.

Sin can attach to us, causing us to muck up ourselves.

Attitudes creep up.

Fleshly desires become bigger.

And before you know it, back we are as full of junk as our dear vacuums.

Step back today and assess yourself.

What’s your focus? Your level of anxiety? Your resting face?

Choose to refocus on Jesus.

Allow Him to dejunk your heart once again.

Then choose again to focus on Jesus the next moment. And the next. And the next.

Cleaning hairy vacuums isn’t only completed once. It’s done again. And again. And again….

Just like cleaning out your heart. Choose to refocus on Jesus.

The only difference? It gets easier and easier to choose Jesus.

But cleaning out hairy vacuums? It’s disgusting every single time.

Photos by No Revisions, Corina Rainer, Ryan ‘O’ Niel, & Brian Lundquist on Unsplash

Unaffected, Unmoved, Unavailable

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When God created man, he made him in the likeness of God. Genesis 5:1

I will greatly rejoice in the Lord; my soul shall exult in my God, for he has clothed me with the garments of salvation; he has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself like a priest with a beautiful headdress, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. Isaiah 61:10

How affected are you by others?

How often do situations move you into fear?

How available are you to the enemy’s agenda?

Guilty!

I know the truth of who God says I am.

Yet often, I fail to remember.

I know the truth, yet I often forget.

Am I alone in this, or does this happen to you, too?

When I forget, I am affected deeply by the ugliness of others.

When I forget, I am moved to fear or anxiety, sometimes even liking my pity party.

And when I forget, I become available to the devil’s lies. To his schemes. To his agenda.

That’s why we need Jesus, His ever present help.

Why we need the Holy Spirit’s whisper, reminding us of the Bible’s truth.

Only with our continual trust in God can we even hope to thwart the enemy’s plans for us.

One weapon we have is to memorize scripture.

Paste a special one somewhere you’ll see it often.

Continually remind your brain of Who made you. Of Whose image you bear. Of Who loves you.

Let’s try it for a second.

Think about how bad someone recently made you feel.

Feel your mood start to shift downward?

Now confidently speak these words to your brain: You are God’s temple and God’s Spirit dwells in you (1 Corinthians 3:16).

Picture yourself standing tall alongside Jesus, His crown on your head.

Picture yourself standing at the cross, Jesus looking at you, dying just for you.

Picture Jesus standing in front of you as you walk into a tricky situation.

You are protected, loved, and safe.

You are chosen.

The next time you begin to fall back into your poor me, even deserving of the attitude self, picture yourself seated in the high places with Jesus.

He chose you for this time.

He is for you, not against you.

With the Creator of the entire universe by your side, absolutely nothing else matters.

Walking in this world will only last for a short time, when compared to all eternity.

Why let others bring you down?

It’s not worth it.

You’re certainly worth more.

God says so.

Photos by Tim Mossholder, NEOM, & Adam Davis on Unsplash

Faithful in Little Things

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The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it. 1 Thessalonians 5:24

Picture me, my little girl self, about four or five years old.

Hair curled, dress smoothed, hands in my lap listening to my sunday school lesson.

The offering is passed and I reach into my pocket for all of my change.

It’s not much, doesn’t even equal $1.00, but it’s all I have.

I brought it especially for today.

For today’s offering.

Looking back, I cannot remember what it was for, but I’m sure it was for a very good cause.

Anyhow, I cheerfully place all of my change into the offering basket.

A huge grin breaks out onto my face as I hear my change clink against the other coins.

Thinking nothing of it afterwards, a new day dawns.

I put on my big fluffy coat, zipping it all the way up.

Reaching into my pocket, I pull out an entire dollar bill.

“How did this get here?” I ask myself. “Where is this from?”

Suddenly, I recognize I have more now than I did before I gave away all my change.

I am amazed.

Like, for real.

Isn’t it interesting how some memories stand out from years ago?

They stand out from the others. Crystal clear.

I think it’s all part of God’s plan.

We need to remember glimpses of His faithfulness.

His provision.

Proof He sees us. All of us.

He watches over us, smiling when we give our last penny, grinning when we find our new treasure.

God loves to bless us when we give Him our all.

And if you look back, noticing how good He has been to you, you’ll break out in your own smile today.

Every little detail is inspected by God.

Because of this, you can trust Him for your now and your future.

Even if it seems dark, lonely, or sad, your God sees you.

He covers you with His protection and kindness, as He notices every little detail.

Photos by Igor Kyryliuk & Tetiana Kravchenko, Jack B, Luke Porter, & Caroline Hernandez on Unsplash

Setting Your Mind

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

Do you live according to the flesh? If so, that’s what you focus on.

Do you live according to God’s spirit? If so, that’s the lens you view life.

Literal night and day difference.

A few verses earlier, Paul reminds us Jesus paid the penalty for our sin, which is our flesh. We are free from that law of sin because Jesus condemned that sin to death.

We are free if we have invited the Spirit of God to dwell within us.

Through this, we have freedom from our flesh.

But how do you actually live?

Do you live within your flesh?

The Bible says that brings death. Living in the flesh.

Or do you seek the mind of Christ, which brings life and peace?

Not sure we as Christians ever purposely choose to live within the flesh.

But we do. All the time.

Reaching for more food when your stomach is satisfied.

Watching more television then need be.

Scrolling through your phone, neglecting other options.

Pouring out your bad mood onto unsuspecting family members.

Wanting your way and pouting if you fail to get it.

Choosing first the best of the meal before anyone else gets a chance.

Listening to thoughts that are not of God.

Succumbing to fear believed through lies planted in your mind.

Romans 8 reminds us of our choices: we set our mind on the flesh or the Spirit.

Death and fear or life and peace.

Setting your mind means to purpose.

To go a certain way.

Not sure it means little bumps, as long as you redirect your course back to God.

Finally, verse 9 gives us hope as Paul shares we dwell with the Spirit of God when we belong to him.

The Spirit of God is life. Full of life.

So every time your flesh cries out for itself, remember your are not going to live from within your flesh.

Your goal is no longer to please your flesh.

Instead, set your mind on the Spirit, dwelling within His peace and life.

Photos by Kyle Glenn, Jessica Anderson, & Yannick Pulver on Unsplash

Hugged by God

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And He took them in His arms and began blessing them, laying His hands on them. Mark 10:16

Have you ever felt a hug from God? You know, a big bear hug?

Or maybe a little squeeze?

I have.

In fact He gave me a huge hug on Sunday.

How? It was through all the people filtering through my book sale.

The line was so long. And I was afraid nobody would show up!

Their words were so kind. Generous. Made me blush!

One mentioned I am a faithful servant, sharing what God has on my heart.

Another couldn’t get over how beautiful the book was.

Still more were so tickled I signed their books.

Me. Little ole me.

Years ago, God asked me to record His thoughts for our broken world.

I obeyed.

Fast forward two years ago and my publisher knocked on my door.

Producing the book was my second job for awhile, yet I knew God’s purpose was behind it.

Sitting in my house early summer, I also knew I should host a book launch party.

The thought almost terrified me. Me?

Deepest fears emerged such as what if I’m there all by myself?

But I obeyed. Again.

When we obey God again and again, He patiently shows us the way.

Then He shows up, doing what He does.

When folks stood in my book line, I shouldn’t have been the least bit surprised.

God is like that, isn’t He?

He asks us to do something. We obey, and He shows up. Big time.

It’s always been God’s blog.

And now it’s God’s book.

While it’s absolutely not about me at all, He chose me to be one of His vessels.

And I chose to obey.

On Sunday I felt wrapped in a big hug from God.

Like He was saying, “Great job, Amy!”

God is generous with His hugs. He longs to cover us with His peace, joy, and love.

How can you choose to obey God today?

Choose Him and obey. Then sit back for that big ole hug.

When you abide in His will, His peace will remain, wrapping you in His precious hug.

Photos by Joice Kelly, Rajesh Rajput, & Elijah Hiett on Unsplash

Casting Vision

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I pray the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in His holy people, and His incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength He exerted when He raised Christ from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power, and dominion. Ephesians 1:18-22

How do you see valleys in your life?

How do you view circumstances you wish were different?

Strained relationships you wish were closer?

Undelivered dreams or plans you thought were from God?

What if you reread Ephesians 1, applying it to your situation?

God has great plans for us.

Often we cannot see what they are, but Ephesians reminds us God has called us to a great hope.

To the riches of His inheritance to us.

And to dwell within His great power, which raised Jesus back to life.

What if you looked at the broken things in your life in light of God’s power?

Viewing them instead with eyes of hope, promise, and life?

Within our flesh, things can look pretty grim.

And sometimes they continue in that way, but God is always sovereign over all.

But – if you looked instead with heavenly eyes, circumstances and people would look different.

Human reasoning or God’s miraculous power?

Begin to live from the power God has for us.

See relationships healed with God’s strength.

Smile at the future knowing God is in complete control.

Look past your current circumstances, looking forward instead to what God has for you.

Walk with your head high as you contemplate God’s victory instead of casting your eyes downward in defeat.

Yes, God is over everything with complete control.

Yes, we don’t know what He plans with every little thing.

But you can rest assured He wants good things for us, His children.

Good things in our flesh may not always match up with the good He has for us.

But it doesn’t matter.

Because God is with us always.

He goes before us, behind us, and next to us, surrounding us with His peace, strength, and love.

Cast your vision on God’s hope, inheritance, and power.

As His voice becomes louder within, you’ll see life brighter and brighter, royally disappointing the devil along the way.

So instead of shrinking with fear, rejection, and lies, choose instead to shine with God’s hope and infinite power living inside of you.

Photos by Ran Berkovich, Denys Nevozhai, Bud Helisson, & Joel Muniz on Unsplash

Worshipping Even If

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We’re all so different.

Different in personalities, the way our bodies work, and our priorities.

While singing in church last Sunday, I observed three distinct differences.

The congregation rose to worship. All but the man in front of me. Why?

The man in front of me was distracted.

He instead was sitting, reading and typing on his phone’s screen.

Not worshipping at all.

A few rows up, another man stood to worship.

Clapping in time with the music, I noticed his clap was different.

One of his arms was useless. Literally.

Yet he was clapping the best way he could by using his arm and his good hand.

He was engaged, giving his best to our Lord.

Near the alter was a third man.

His mind is not whole like mine, yet he is very sincere and kind.

He was worshipping as he knelt, arms spread wide in submission to God.

Three men. Three different responses. Two engaged, one not.

The man sitting on his phone was missing out.

Funny thing is this: he looked “normal” on the outside.

Normal body. Normal mind.

The two men engaged in worship had something “wrong” with their physical body.

But their focus was on God.

The absence of conflict creates complacency.

When our bodies function, our minds work, and we sit in relative comfort, it’s easy to rely on ourselves.

Why would we need God?

But when life isn’t perfect, or causes us to say ouch, back we rely on Him and His provision.

Let’s keep our focus fixed on God, in good times and bad.

Let’s fully rely on Him, instead of our incapable selves.

Let’s follow the example of the men, who embraced worshipping God, no matter what.

My book releases on Tuesday. Epic event in the short life of me.

But I’m like the men who have something “wrong”.

My life has not been what I pictured.

But I’d rather have my scars, because I can witness to you the faithfulness of God.

Because of the choices of others, I can testify of the goodness of God even if.

Even if life sometimes says ouch, God is still sovereign. Good. He’s the calm amidst the storm.

Our testimonies are richer when we walk with God during life’s storms.

Just like the men who chose to worship even though they looked different, let’s also choose to worship God when life looks different.

God is and was and always will be on the throne of life. Embrace Him always with yours.

Photos by Zac Durant, Guillaume de Germain, Joel Muniz, Ben White, Stephanie Klepacki, & Luis Alberto Sánchez Terrones on Unsplash

Looking Glass

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Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Ever look back at life, admiring it’s beauty?

Memories in the past can look perfect.

Our brains usually remember only the good.

In fact, often we glorify it. Our memories can even become glamorized to the point of embellishment.

At least they do when you compare yourself to today.

Grass was greener, yes?

Actually, it was full of weeds, too, just different kinds.

You complained back then, too, you just don’t remember.

Instead of comparing yesterday to today, concentrate on the good with both.

Yes, back then I had the snuggles of little ones, but now I have friendship.

Back then I looked forward to a few moments of peace and quiet.

Now I wish they’d come over more often.

Be happy with wherever you are in this short life.

Remember with fondness your yesterdays, but smile at your todays.

And as you anticipate your tomorrows, place all of your hope in God.

He will walk with you through it all.

The good, the bad, and even the ugly.

Photos by Ryan Parker, Alfonso Scarpa, Fred Moon, & il vano on Unsplash