Tag: Jesus

Freedom Walk

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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

Are you as free as you can be?

As Christians, we profess to be free from death, sin, and the grave.

Free from eternal damnation.

And yes, that would be correct.

As a Christian, you have placed your trust in Jesus, and He has paid the penalty for your sin.

So, yes, technically, you are free from all of the above.

But what about freedom as we step upon this earth?

Are you walking as if you are free?

Just because you are free from the penalty of sin, does not mean you are free from its effects.

Do you feel pitiful and ugly when someone ignores you?

Do you feel a rush of anger when someone wrongs you?

Do you feel sarcastic while belittling someone who doesn’t understand you right away?

Do you put others down, lifting yourself up instead?

Do you put your needs first, serving your number one above all else?

Do you refuse to look at life through the lens of another, wanting your way instead?

How are you at listening?

Or, gasp, asking for forgiveness when you are wrong?

How are you at even admitting you are wrong?

Do you help others before asked?

Leave the room better than before you walked in?

When we do not clothe ourselves with the fruits of the spirit, walking as Jesus did, we are not free.

When we jump to satisfy ourselves over others, we are not free.

When we listen to lies in our head, we are not free.

When we become defeated in our many mistakes, we are not free.

Only with the power of God, can we break the chains that bind us.

Speak Jesus’ name over what binds you.

Over your flesh that speaks louder than your spirit.

Cancel the enemy’s assignments and send it to the dry desert.

Ask Jesus to cover you with His wisdom, power, strength, and joy.

And remember, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives in you.

That, my friends, is freedom.

Photos by Michael Baccin, Rikke Hembre, Anita Austvika, & Olivia Snow on Unsplash

Not Convenient

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For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. Romans 8:6

If you suddenly found yourself feeling in a way that is opposite of the Bible, would that change things for you?

Justifying this new self you are sporting?

Let’s say you decide you’re now a boy who prefers boys.

You know God’s views.

Do you live out your sin, justifying it as your true self?

Or do you continue to give yet one more thing to God, knowing He will sustain you every time?

Let’s say you grow to detest your marriage.

Do you embrace living alone, justifying your pitiful reasons?

Or do you die once again to self, giving your marriage back to God?

Does Christianity need to fit you or do you need to fit Christianity?

Does your faith change when your flesh cries out for sin?

Or do you cry out to God when your flesh shouts loudly to be satisfied?

Christianity is not built for convenience.

It’s never convenient to put down yourself, honoring others and your commitments.

It’s never convenient to seek God’s will above your own.

It’s never convenient to see others through the lens of God’s love.

It wasn’t convenient for Jesus to die for your sins.

Yet He did.

Even in the midst of your flesh, seek the will of God.

Seek the will of God over the will of flesh.

This life will last but a short time.

And when you die, you’ll suddenly become very aware of how necessary it all was.

Necessary as you look into the eyes of the people who were led to Jesus through you.

Necessary as you see those touched by your testimony.

Necessary as you see your family following you into heaven after praying daily for their salvation.

Following Jesus is never convenient.

But it is necessary. Absolutely necessary.

Our very lives and the lives of others depend upon it.

Photos by Clay Banks, Andrey K, Vasilis Karkalas, & Ben White on Unsplash

Your Crown

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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

Why do we allow others to reduce us to tears?

Why do we allow another’s insecurities to confirm lies in our heads?

Why do we allow another’s foul moods to bring us to our knees?

Why do we let others affect us negatively?

Because we are human.

Flawed, too.

We mess up, going back to that lie we believed about ourselves.

That lie that seems so real such as “I’m not worth it” or “I’m an absolute failure”.

I’m amazed at how immature I am.

Even when I know better.

Instantly how pitiful I can become when reacting to another’s very flawed actions.

It’s in those moments we must stop and straighten up, or our crown will fall from our head.

Remember your crown?

Meaning, remember your place in this world?

You are a child of the Most High God.

THE God. The One who created all things.

The One in charge of your past, present, and future.

The One who causes the sun to rise and set in the evenings.

The One who gave you your quirks, desires, and personality.

The One who gave you dreams and talents to fulfill them in His timing.

Do not let the opinions of others negate who God says you are.

God says you are His daughter. His son. His beloved child worth dying for.

He gave His everything to capture you for eternity.

That means you are priceless.

The next time you find yourself in a less than stellar situation, do not allow yourself to stoop for another’s crumbs.

You are worth more than crumbs.

But if your crown falls off, please stoop to pick it up.

Its place is on your precious little head.

Photos by Ashton Mullins, Nathan Mcgregor, Jametlene Reskp, & Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Remaining Fragrance

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Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. John 12:3

I wonder how long the expensive fragrance lingered on His feet.

If the smell remained days later.

Guessing for a few it did.

After bathing? Probably.

Nard was expensive due to its high quality.

It was usually reserved for royalty, sealed in an equally expensive alabaster jar to preserve the special fragrance.

It was the best money could buy.

Mary poured it out on Jesus because of Who He was.

The Son of God.

Our Messiah.

The King of Kings.

How about 6 days later.

Do you think the fragrance lingered still?

That’s when Jesus was arrested.

Through the trial?

Through the flogging?

Through the agony on the cross?

What if God’s timing allowed the fragrance to whiff here and there while Jesus suffered?

Reminding Him of His purpose and identity.

Whiffs of sacrifice and worship while enduring.

How about you?

Do you recognize when God does that for you?

Notice.

Notice the goodness of God amidst the suffering.

Notice the love of God while enduring.

Notice the fragrance of God, who goes before you, stands behind you, and is always right by your side.

Jesus was fully God, yet fully man.

And God was there for Him, too.

Photos by Elena G, Tom Crew, Alicia Quan, & Danie Franco on Unsplash

Silencing the Tempter

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And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a season. Luke 4:13

The devil will come tempt you when you were at your weakest.

That’s when he comes.

Do you know when he came to Jesus?

After Jesus had fasted for 40 days.

Luke 4:2 says Jesus was hungry.

Probably the understatement of the year after not eating for 40 days am I right?

After fasting 40 days, Jesus was physically weak.

But that’s when the devil came.

When does the devil come for you?

When does he visit, tempting you to sin or simply help you off the straight and narrow?

When you are weak.

When is that exactly?

Is it after certain situations?

After you listen to lies in your head?

Do you feel weak every day?

When the devil tempted Jesus, He rose up in his weakened state and refused every lie the devil threw at Him.

He refuted the devil’s statements with scripture.

God‘s living word.

Every drop of God’s word breathes life with the power of the Almighty behind every single syllable.

God reminds us, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).

Put your name in that.

God’s grace is sufficient for me.

God’s power is made perfect in me.

Absolutely incredible. Looking at verse 10, when we are weak, we KNOW God’s power is working through us.

When I am weak, I am strong because Jesus covers me with Himself.

When I am weak, I am strong because Jesus’ strength literally replaces my weakness.

Replace means exchange, so my weakness is exchanged for the strength of Almighty God.

Reminds me of 1 Peter 5:7 which calls you to cast all your anxiety on Him because he cares for you.

Put your name in there.

I cast all my anxiety on Jesus because He cares for me.

Time to tell the devil enough.

Next time he tempts you, because he will never quit, stop him with the word of God.

You’ll send him packing, wondering if he should return.

Photos by Mike Hindle on Unsplash

Recognizing God

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And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and fell down before him. Mark 5:6

That man? He was severely under the enemy’s thumb.

Filled with many demons, this man was completely controlled by them.

As soon as Jesus stepped out of the boat, this man ran to Jesus.

Actually the demons ran to Jesus as this man was not in control.

The demons immediately recognized Jesus and what was their response?

To cower and run?

No. They immediately went to Jesus.

They begged for mercy.

So Jesus sent them into the pigs, which caused the pigs to drown themselves in the sea.

The man was left completely calm in the absence of enemy control.

I wonder why the demons response was to run to Jesus instead of run from Him?

Clearly the demons had gained control of this man for quite awhile as verses 1-5 describe.

Yet when the Son of God was in view, the demons ran to Him.

They instantly recognized the power of God over them.

So they begged for mercy.

What about us?

Do we recognize the power of God over us?

God’s absolute authority? His soverignty?

If God saw what you did yesterday, would you fall on your knees for mercy?

Or would you justify your actions?

Honestly never thought we’d learn a thing from a demon, yet here we are.

God is the author of life.

He’s the beginning and ending of time.

He created all things.

He has all authority on heaven and earth, yet we seem to forget.

We live like we’re the boss. Like we are in control. Like we can do better.

We even live like we think we are listening to God when we clearly sometimes we do not.

We must do the hard things.

We must forgive. We must love. We must live under the authority of Almighty God.

Ask God to help you as we all have much to learn when recognizing God.

Photos by Annie Spratt, Adrian Infernus, Humble Lamb, & Ben White on Unsplash

Lace Them Up!

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I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called… Ephesians 4:1

Are you lacing up your tennis shoes?

Making sure they are on tight?

Double knot or single?

When you lace up your tennis shoes, you’re getting ready for something.

Something requiring walking, running, or simply going about your day.

I like to put lotion on my feet before I don my socks. You?

When you put on your tennis shoes, you are readying for something more.

You are prepared. You can now walk on legos (ouch!), in the great wide world, or simply in the yard.

Lacing up your tennis shoes is similar to preparing your heart, mind, and soul for the day ahead.

Preparing for the day, we open our Bible.

We read a devotion book (I know a great one if you need it, haha!).

We meditate on scripture.

We pray for God to fill us up with Himself afresh.

We lay our burdens again before the feet of God.

We pour out ourselves, so we can be filled with God’s mercy and strength.

When we begin our day listening to Jesus, we are ready for whatever the day holds.

And you know that could be anything up or down, as we live among a broken world.

But when you purpose to ready yourself, God will help you face whatever comes your way.

It’s like lacing up your tennis shoes.

Your feet are ready to walk on whatever.

And after spending time with Jesus, you are ready for whatever comes your way.

Spend time with Him each morning.

Read His word and pray.

And just sit.

God wants to speak to you.

And when you’re done, your laces will be all tied and ready to go for whatever God has for you this day.

Photos by Lee Campbell, Kristian Egelund, Sophia Kunkel, & Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Is It Well with Your Soul?

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When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, When sorrows, like a sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul.

Tho’ Satan should buffet, tho’ trials should come, Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate, And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

My sin- oh, the bliss of this glorious thought- My sin- not in part but in whole,
Is nailed to His cross and I bear it no more, Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, oh, my soul.

And Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight, The clouds be rolled back as a scroll,
The trumph shall resound, and the Lord shall descend, “Even so”- it is well with my soul.

It Is Well with My Soul by Horatio G. Spafford, 1873

God created us with a body, soul, and spirit.

Our body is temporary. No surprise, but we have an expiration date.

Our soul is our mind, will, and emotions.

It’s our human side that generally drives our decisions.

Works in sync with our body.

We decide to eat poorly (our will) because we’re grumpy, and our body is affected.

Then our mind and emotions feel guilty and we pledge to do better until the next time something annoys us.

Then the cycle continues.

Our spirit is what communicates with God.

It’s what is broken when we have not given ourselves to God.

When you continually ask God to fill you with Himself, your spirit can reign over your mind and soul, transforming them according to God’s plan.

Bringing me back to my original question.

Is it well with your soul?

Your mind, will, and emotions?

You can only be well with your soul if you focus on Jesus.

If you give Him your burdens.

If you allow Him to work through you as we cannot do this on our own.

If you allow Him to give you His peace in the midst of a stormy season of life.

It is well with your soul if you can remain calm when attacks come your way.

It is well with your soul if you can continue loving others when instead they cause you harm.

It is well with your soul if you do not dwell on negative thoughts, but instead praise God even if.

The writer of the hymn, Horatio Spafford, was a Christian, who endured tragedies like Job.

First he lost his son, then his sprawling investments during the Great Chicago Fire, and finally his four daughters on a boat to Europe. Only his wife survived.

While going to rescue his wife in Europe, he wrote the words to the hymn while sailing over the spot his daughters perished.

Enduring the loss of almost everything, his focus remained on God.

His soul was well, meaning his mind, will, and emotions were fixed on God.

Only when Jesus is your single source of peace can it be well with your soul.

Not another human.

Not any circumstance.

Not even yourself.

Only Jesus.

Humans regularly fail us.

We regularly fall short.

But Jesus never has, never does, and never will.

Allow Him to be your all in all as you seek Him first and declare to all it is well with your soul.

Photos by Nani Williams on Unsplash

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

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

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

His Creation

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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. 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

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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

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

Choosing Joy

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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

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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

Still Good

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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

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

Yielding Ourselves

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Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Ephesians 6:10

Ever tried to stop doing something you know you shouldn’t?

Could be eating too much sugar, drowning your sorrows in alcohol, or spending way too much time scrolling through your phone.

Could even be your attitude or reaction when things don’t go your way.

Or choosing to listen only to yourself instead of others.

All of it points to placing, you guessed it – yourself on the throne instead of God, the One who created you and all things.

Yielding to Jesus will break every form of slavery in our human lives.

Food, exercise, exhaustion, perfection, fear, anxiety, or pride.

Anything placed before Jesus can become a form of slavery as we feed that characteristic within ourselves instead of feeding our relationship with Jesus.

Some of those things are super great, like exercise or eating healthy.

But if that desire replaces your desire for God, then that desire has become a god to you, probably rooted in fear if you don’t perform exactly right.

We can only find victory over ourselves through Jesus.

Through Jesus’ peace and strength.

Love this poem from Amy Carmichael, a missionary to India in the early 1900’s:

Before the winds that blow decrease, teach me to dwell within Thy calm; before the pain passed in peace, give me, my God, to sing a psalm. Let me not lose the chance to prove the fullness of enabling love. O love of God, do this for me; maintain a constant victory.

Don’t you just love that phrase: maintain a constant victory.

A plea for God to not only win in our lives, but to keep winning.

Only happens when we yield ourselves over to God, who is infinately more capable than our sinful selves.

Lord, give us a portion of your sweet spirit, spilling out your life and love to others.

As life consumes us, help us to place You on the throne of our heart, wanting only what You want for us.

With You, we will have constant victory, even if we don’t see it.

Because You have already won. You are our constant victory.

Photos by Joshua Earle, Pablo Heimplatz, Guillaume de Germain, & Patrick Fore on Unsplash

Hidden Treasure

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The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Matthew 13:44

Can you imagine finding treasure, hiding it back up, and then buying where it lay with ALL of your money?

You’d have a guarantee of your return.

Immediate investment return.

Happened to me once on a very small scale.

I love thrift stores. Never know what you’ll find!

The ugliest piece of pottery ever created (can I get an amen?) or a replacement dish from a vintage set your grandmother collected.

Love to comb through their books as I regularly find pearls for my classroom library for about a dollar each.

Once, while looking through the books, I found some bibles.

Not unusual to see bibles, but something drew me to choose one.

Flipping through the pages, I briefly saw a hundred dollar bill nestled onto a page.

Thought to myself, “Did I just see that?”

Flipped back and yes, there it was, staring up at me.

A crisp hundred dollar bill.

Unnoticed.

I quickly closed the book and told the children we were buying this bible.

Bought it for a dollar with my treasure inside.

Unbelievable, yes?

There was no way to find the owner as thrift stores constantly have new stock.

Plus, it could have been there for years. Literally.

It wasn’t a particularly nice looking book. Very ordinary.

But it held a treasure.

But you know what’s even better?

Jesus. He has a treasure for us worth His very life.

It’s Himself. Not only His salvation, but freedom here on earth.

When you fully realize all Jesus has for you, you’ll forgo your former ways.

Your new treasure will be way more important as you’ll have peace, joy, and strength for each new day.

Jesus says the man sold everything joyfully. It was his choice and he was so happy about it.

Are you happy about what Jesus has done for you? I sure am.

His peace, wisdom, and strength far surpass anything I could ever do within my own self.

Seek God. Seek a personal relationship with God, who created all things.

When you finally see Him, you’ll joyfully submit your whole self to Him.

But unlike the man in the parable, you can share your treasure with those around you.

And if you’re ever at a thrift store, feel free to thumb through the Bibles.

I still do!

Photos by Jouwen Wang, Michael Dziedzic, Max Böttinger, & Kiwihug on Unsplash

No Dominion

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Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions. Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness. For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace. Romans 6:12-14

Did you catch that?

Sin will have NO dominion over you. Why? Because we are not under the law, but God’s grace.

We are no longer under the law because of Jesus’ payment on the cross for our many sins.

God’s grace covers us, removing the burden of our sin.

But Paul starts this passage with a warning: don’t let sin reign, or have control, in your body here on earth.

He recognizes we all have choices.

Hundreds of times each day, we choose whether to sin or not.

We often obey the passions or wants of our flesh even if they don’t line up with God.

But we don’t have to obey our flesh as sin has no power over us.

God’s power is bigger then the pull of our flesh which leads to sin.

When we choose to sin, we step out of grace.

We step out of what God has for us. What He wants for us, which is way better then what we want.

But when we repent, choosing instead to obey God, we step back into His grace.

We step back into what He has for us.

Recognize your choices.

Purpose to choose life each day.

It’s often incredibly hard as the pull of our fleshly desires is strong.

But sin has no dominion over us because of Jesus.

Live under Jesus’ power and authority over sin, death, and the grave in your life.

He’s your constant Protector, always ready to help when you simply choose Him over all else.

Photos by Sixteen Miles Out on Unsplash

Battle Scars

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He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Psalm 147:3

Scars are inevitable, yes?

You burn your finger age three and the new skin still looks off.

You scrape up your knee pretty badly and if you look close, it’s there.

Your sibling unknowingly slams your two year old pinky in the wooden door and twenty years later, the finger is still shorter.

You survive brain surgery only to have your hand burned from the leaking IV, requiring a skin transfusion.

You have a baby. Or four. Enough said!

What other types of physical scars do you have?

They could be permanent like the ones above.

Or they slowly fade when healed such as a bruise, blackened eye, or sprained ankle.

All of those scars are physical. Seen by everyone who looks.

But what about the hidden scars?

The ones on the inside of our hearts and minds?

Those matter too, but are not readily seen by everyone who looks.

Trauma produces scars.

Losing a spouse, friend, child, or parent produces scars.

Rejection either real or imaginative we repeat within our minds produces scars.

Even losing a job or custody battle produces scars.

As we all have various physical or hidden scars, let me ask you a question.

Do you let them define you?

When you do, it produces boundaries, placing you in a prison of sorts.

Do you allow the boundaries then produced define your steps, mood, or even thoughts?

Psalm 147 reminds us Jesus heals the brokenhearted. The hidden scars.

And He also binds up our wounds. The physical scars.

Don’t allow your scars to define you.

Jesus is our healer, wanting to bring you into freedom from bondage.

Allow Him to change your scars into the marks of Jesus Himself.

Allow Him to reveal His grace and love while closing your wounds.

You might still have the mark, but when touched, you will no longer wince in pain.

Galatians 6:17 declares, From now on let no one cause trouble for me, for I bear on my body the brand-marks of Jesus.

Ask Jesus to heal your scars.

And then live within His freedom from the pain.

Your marks are now badges of honor, touched and healed by Jesus.

Photos by National Cancer Institute, Diana Polekhina, & Olivia Snow on Unsplash

Humility & Sacrifice

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For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many. Mark 10:45

Can you even imagine the love Jesus has for us?

Love so deep He gave us all of Himself.

He willingly came to earth, subjecting Himself to human life where hunger, thirst, and pain dwell.

He walked everywhere, dealt with constant questions, and ungrateful recipients.

His disciples seemed annoying at times and the Pharisees were downright rude.

Jesus didn’t need to put up with any of this. None.

Yet He did, because of you and me.

For our eternal home dwelling by His side.

Upon entering Jerusalem days before He would die, He wept for His city. For His people who could not see the Truth.

Can you imagine how frustrating that would have been for the One who created them?

How hard is it for you when your loved one either cannot see God or refuses?

That’s a tiny fraction of how Jesus felt while weeping for His people.

Praying in the Garden of Gethsemane, His body was in agony.

Luke 22 records drops of sweat as blood, which can happen when a body is under severe stress.

Yet Jesus still stayed, anticipating what was to come, knowing His Father would be with Him.

During His flogging, crown of thorns, and other punishment, He stayed.

Through the torture, which could have killed Him as well, He endured for the purpose of our salvation.

Obedience to His Father’s will came from His love for us.

Love which surpassed His humiliating death.

Hanging on the cross, God turned away as Jesus bore the sin of the world.

Because God is holy, He could not look at the sin dying on the cross.

And Jesus felt alone.

Crying out to God, asking why He had forsaken Him, Jesus was alone.

He became the sacrifice for the sin of the world.

At the moment of crushing pain, Jesus was alone.

But He stayed for you and for me, giving up His last breath.

Upon His resurrection, Jesus conquered sin, death, and the grave forever and ever.

Absolutely incredible. Literally.

I think we have no true reality of what Jesus has really given us.

We can never repay our Savior, but we can share His love, forgiveness, and freedom to our lonely world around us.

Will you do that for Him?

Remember His sacrifice for you and live like it matters. Because it does. For everyone.

Photos by Thanti Riess, Rod Long, Haley Owens, Jon Tyson, & Samuel McGarrigle on Unsplash

Palm Sunday

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Jesus is coming now.

He’s on his way to Jerusalem.

The center of Judaism.

His religious home on earth so to speak.

He’s coming to die for us.

Willingly. He’s literally walking towards his impending death.

He knew.

Yet He still came.

Nobody dragged Him to the city.

Nobody manipulated Him, tricking Him to actually arrive.

He came on His own free will.

He came for you and me.

Imagine His human mind, grasping the coming days.

Leaving His disciples for a few days, knowing what they’d see.

Feeling betrayed by one of His own disciples.

Trying to imagine beyond human capabilities the pain He would endure.

Walking through all this and more, Jesus still set Himself towards Jerusalem.

Are you thankful this Palm Sunday?

Thankful seems so insignificant in comparison to Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins.

Yet it’s a start.

Giving thanks to God for what He did acknowledges our need for His death.

And that’s what’s it’s all about.

He died for us because of our desperate need for salvation.

That’s why He kept walking.

Walking towards His death.

As you anticipate Palm Sunday, Good Friday, and the Resurrection, remember your need for His salvation.

It cost Him everything, but He gained you.

For that I am so very thankful. Are you?

Photos by Syd Sujuaan, Brady Leavell, & Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Turn Your Eyes

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Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you. Proverbs 4:25

Turn your eyes upon Jesus.

What else in the world is there?

What could possibly compare to Him?

Look full in His wonderful face.

Gaze your eyes.

Stop everything else, and look.

For the things of earth will grow strongly dim.

Everything else will fade in comparison to the One who created You and all things.

As my grandmother used to say, “From the balcony of heaven, what will it even matter?”

For in the light of His glory and grace, these things simply won’t matter one bit.

Why do earthly things grow dim?

Because of Him.

His power, His glory, and His grace above all.

God created everything.

He reigns over it ALL.

So, we must turn our eyes upon Him, Jesus.

Because He is our everything.

When you allow your mind to settle on things out of your control, people who do not care, or circumstances you wish would change, peace will leave as fear is invited to stay.

As Proverbs reminds us, focus yourself on Jesus. Leave no room to divert your eyes from Him.

Means you will purpose your mind to focus on Jesus and His truth.

You will focus on His love, protection, and provision for each and every little thing.

Focusing on Jesus means you trust in Him fully.

For your everything, today and tomorrow.

Focus on Jesus, the Author of your story, whose steadfast love and faithful presence will remain with you now and always.

Photos by Anita Austvika on Unsplash

Recognizing Jesus

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Would you have believed?

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

Or would you have looked the other way?

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

We shudder at the thought, yes?

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

We know who He was.

The Savior of the World.

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

Yet their hearts were hard towards Jesus.

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

Immediate reactions included blasphemy.

Immediate reactions.

Thinking about the Jewish people, some of them believed.

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

But the majority seemed to not.

Jesus’ own home synagogue threw Him out.

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

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

But you never know. We’ll never know.

Jesus was not what the Jewish people were expecting.

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

Does His purpose for your life match your heart?

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

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

Look for Him.

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

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

Christmas Morning

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I can hear their whispers.

All four children clamoring down the stairs to celebrate Christmas.

The anticipation.

The presents.

The moment.

I climb out of bed, putting the cinnamon rolls into the oven and popping on the local classical radio station.

As the children open their bulging stockings, carols fill the air while we sniff the first smells of cinnamon.

They delight in their gifts.

Just one more, mama, please, they beg.

They climb onto our laps as we enjoy their stocking gifts with them.

No, not from Santa, but from family, god parents, and others.

The timer goes off and I run to the kitchen, little feet padding after me.

Scooping them onto plates, my helpers carry them to the dining room table.

Toddling to the table, the littlest one climbs up.

We pray. It’s Christmas.

Diving into the sweet goodness, conversation erupts.

As they excitedly discuss their stocking gifts, we point them to the real meaning of the day.

“Why are we celebrating Christmas today, kids?” we ask.

“Because Jesus is born,” one replies.

“Yes!” we respond.

“What should we give Him? All I can give Him is myself. I have no present!” my eldest responds.

“Son, that’s all He wants,” I respond.

Bowing our heads, we pray, thanking God for sending His one and only Son to save us from ourselves.

Fast forward a few years and I think back to times like this. Times when children were small and times were simple.

My eldest gave all of his money the year he was six to purchase bibles for those in need.

Literally all of his money.

This Christmas, think as a little child. A little child thinking only of one thing: Jesus.

May you put Him first as you celebrate His birth.

May you help others see Him as you celebrate this year.

And may you return to your first child like love: Jesus.

May Jesus cover all of your thoughts, purposes, and actions today and always.

Photos by Kira auf der Heide, Erica Marsland Huynh, Max Beck, & Greyson Joralemon on Unsplash

Holding Your Tongue

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It’s so easy to defend yourself.

Sometimes, you should.

You must.

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

We are responsible only for ourselves.

Our actions.

Our words.

Our choices.

When you become agitated with your spouse, pause.

Takes maturity to look at things from their perspective.

Humility.

You could be wrong, you know.

And if you are, own it!

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

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

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

Just Iike it’s your choice to view theirs.

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

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

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

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

He chose the high road.

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

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

Photos by Shana Van Roosbroek & david laws on Unsplash

A Lying Fool

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Satan is a master of deception.

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

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

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

He cares not a whit for you.

Or those you love.

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

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

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

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

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

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

When slanders fly my way, Satan is pleased.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But you must not let Satan win.

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

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

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

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

And don’t give Satan one inch of satisfaction.

Not even a millimeter.

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

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

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

Others Focused

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

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

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

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

Jesus wants us to do just that.

To serve others.

To put others before ourselves.

Think about Thanksgiving.

Were you among the first in line?

Save the best roll for yourself?

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

How about your home?

Did you help your guests feel welcome?

Or wished they had stayed somewhere else?

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

Or did you welcome them however they came?

Jesus wants us to think of others before ourselves.

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

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

It’s such an absolute treat.

Even if I’m sleeping in the basement.

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

Only see them them once a year.

Family is simply the best.

Seeing my adult children over Thanksgiving was a total joy.

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

Choose Jesus.

Choose people over perfection.

Choose people over performance.

Choose relationship over deadlines.

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

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

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

Photos by Virginia Simionato and Gillian Lingard on Unsplash

Too Familiar

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Are you used to Him? to God?

Meaning, the very fact that He is literally right with you does not bring you to your knees in awe?

I am, I’ll admit it. Too familiar.

I take for granted my daily devotions.

My worship time at church and home.

My multitudinous Bibles.

My job, which allows me to speak of His goodness whenever I wish.

I’m not saying that’s all a bad thing.

We should be used to God.

We should be so clothed with His presence and likeness others see Him not us.

We should be familiar with His word, His ways, and how He wants us to conduct ourselves.

But we must remain in awe.

In awe of His goodness.

In awe of His salvation.

In awe of Him.

May we pause to bow before Him, acknowledging our weakness made perfect only in Him.

May we humbly bring our requests only after thanking Him for all He does for us.

May we remember who we are in comparison to God, who created us and all things.

And may we recognize how much we continually need Him.

Thank you, Lord, for closing the separation from You to us through your son, Jesus.

May we remain always humble, recognizing our desperate need from our Savior each and every day.

Photos by Aliane Schwartzhaupt, Joshua Earle, & Alicia Quan on Unsplash

Eternity

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Jesus. He is all that you need.

He is everything.

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

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

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

Yet we sinned.

We messed up.

Remember Adam and Eve? It could have been us.

We would’ve been tempted just the same.

God created us for relationship.

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

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

I would so love that.

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

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

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

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

Have you embraced your sinful nature?

Recognized your need for the Savior?

To spend eternity with God, you must acknowledge Jesus.

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

Completely within your right.

But you will regret it.

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

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

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

Turn to Him while you still can.

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

What then?

Trust in Him.

Now.

He will NEVER fail you. Not ever.

You have everything to lose.

Everything.

But it’s your choice. Completely.

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

Wearing Him

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How do you wear Jesus?

Does your face reflect His peace?

Do your eyes reflect His love?

Are your lips proclaiming His faithfulness?

Is your spirit praising His worthiness?

Is your mind focused on Him?

Aligning your will to His?

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

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

Do you invite Him to cover you with Himself?

Every day?

Each moment?

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

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

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

More than thinking of others before ourselves.

Means aligning your very self with His.

Keeping a running conversation with Him, acknowledging His sovereignty.

And praising Him all the live long day.

Do you thank Him randomly for anything?

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

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

When you praise Him, the devil hates it.

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

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

Am I right?

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

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

Healed

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I’m struggling.

Not been myself for years.

Everyday it’s the same song.

I wake up hoping I’ve been healed.

My Jewish faith has always been central in my family.

I keep the laws, heading to the tabernacle when my sacrifice is due.

We’ve waited for the Messiah my whole life.

Actually for generations now.

Sometimes my condition takes over and I can think of nothing else.

Honestly, I feel so useless.

Always feeling tired, needing to run to the toilet.

My condition also makes me unclean.

So I feel ashamed. Constantly.

I know God can heal me. He just hasn’t yet.

Maybe He won’t. Maybe this will be the way I always live.

I need to accept that if indeed my life will remain the same.

God can still use me.

But I’m so tired. Tend to feel sorry for myself if I’m completely honest.

Where am I standing? I’m in the city streets.

Today is going to be different.

I’ve heard Jesus will be walking through town today.

Heard simply amazing things about Him.

Miracles. Healing. Acceptance.

I need to see Him. He can help me if I can get near enough to Him.

I can feel it in my heart.

I’ve been waiting in this heat for awhile now. I’m so tired.

But I must remain standing. For Him.

Oh, I see a large crowd coming. They are so joyful and loud!

I see Him. Jesus is here! I can recognize Him from His eyes.

He is looking so loving at all of us, the crowd pressing against Him.

Ok, here’s my chance. I’m going to reach out and touch just the edge of His garment. That’s all I need to do.

Wow. I did it! Thank you, God!

Do I feel any different? Possibly? Could it be?

Wait. Jesus has stopped walking.

He has turned around, eyes searching the crowd.

Now He’s speaking, wondering who touched Him.

His disciples are confused as there are many surrounding Him.

But Jesus keeps looking for me. I just know it.

His eyes find me and I step forward trembling. I confess what I did, falling at His feet.

Jesus reaches down and helps me to my feet.

He called me Daughter! And said my faith had made me whole!

My suffering is now finished and I am to go forth in peace.

My body instantly feels completely different. I really am whole!

I am crying like a baby. I am full of overflowing joy and love from this man who noticed me.

This famous man, Jesus, sought me out and noticed me.

Yes, my body is healed, but He also healed my heart.

My identity has changed from unclean to daughter of the Messiah.

I must tell everyone He has come! Our wait is over! Hallelujah!

What do you need from God today?

Do you have faith He will help you, too?

As a Christian, our identity is fixed into God’s family as daughters and sons of the Most High.

Your Father in heaven will fill you with love and peace to overflowing each and every day.

Go to Him like this woman, believing He will help you.

And He will.

Because He loves and notices you.

Just then a woman who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak. She said to herself, “If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed.” Jesus turned and saw her. “Take heart, daughter,” he said, “your faith has healed you.” And the woman was healed at that moment. Matthew 9:20-22

Photos by Alekon pictures, Mario Azzi, Jeremy Bezanger, Priscilla Du Preez, & Alexei Scutari on Unsplash

A Test? Surprise!

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Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 1 Peter 4:12 (ESV)

Do you find yourself surprised when our faith seems to be tested?

Really, are you ever surprised?

I am and I’m guessing you are, too.

But stop and think about something: Jesus allows trials to refine us.

To make us stronger. Finer. More solid.

Doesn’t that sound like a positive outcome?

Let’s flip it to the other side. The dark side.

Does the devil want to cancel you?

100%. If he can cancel you, you’re done. Finished. Don’t matter no more.

If the devil can succeed at tempting you to give up, he wins.

If you pass the test of faith from God, you win. And so does God.

Either way, it really doesn’t matter why you are entering a trial of whatever it is.

Matters how you come out on the other side.

Take God’s wisdom, love, grace, and mercy with you on the way.

Your maturing will enable you to face the next test with some of the answers.

After all, you’ll have one more detail of your life under your belt. A detail God orchestrated in your life.

Expect trials and tests. You’ve got the answers, so sit down and pass. With God’s help you will faithfully pass each time.

Photos by Ben White, Siora Photography, & David Pennington on Unsplash

Sometimes Saying Nothing

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

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

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

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

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

Sometimes we do. Talk too much.

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

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

Glad we are on the same page now.

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

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

You know you can stop that, right?

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

Repeat yourself when they keep asking why.

Then put a stop to their tantrums. Walk away.

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

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

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

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

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

Or, not to speak them…. yet.

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

Paying for our sins

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Easter weekend is a precious time, remembering how our Lord suffered and died for us.

Remembering his death matters as He was without sin. But we are not.

Put yourself there with the others. Read this post from three years ago.

https://amylinnea.com/2018/03/31/last-day/

This weekend, may we be reminded how very much Jesus loves us. Enough to die in our place.

Photo by Dylan McLeod on Unsplash

Hope for the World

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And so, Lord, where do I put my hope? My only hope is in you. Psalm 39:7

Christmas means hope.

Hope for our redemption.

Without Christmas, we have no hope.

No hope for heaven as mere Gentiles.

And the Jewish law was incredibly hard to keep perfectly.

Christmas is our celebration of Jesus’ birth.

His birth ushered in a new era of hope.

Hope for our broken world.

When Jesus came, the world was steeped within itself.

The Jewish people were waiting for the Messiah.

But when He came, many did not believe.

In fact, they crucified Him as an imposter.

He didn’t look like what they expected.

What has God done in your life?

When He answers your prayers, does it look like what you expected?

Is it possibly different than you thought?

Ever feel convinced your answer isn’t God since it looks different?

Keep pursuing Him.

God’s heart poured out on Christmas Day when His Son was born.

His Son, Jesus, was born for you and for me.

He was born to fill the world with the hope of salvation.

And God’s answer to the world looked different than what His people expected.

What type of hope do you need this Christmas season?

Is it material?

Relational?

Physical?

Jesus came to bring Himself into the world.

He came to sever the barrier between God and His people.

He came to crush the neck of Satan.

And He did all of that and more.

Look upon the baby Jesus, sleeping in the manger.

Think about the hope we now have because of Him.

Thank our Father for sending Jesus, keeping us in His thoughts.

God wants the very best for you.

The very best was sending His only Son.

Jesus is simply everything.

Because of Him, we have hope for all things.

Which is everything.

Thank you, God, for pursuing us.

We are incredibly grateful and forever in debt.

May we remember Your hope that spilled at Christmas.

May we remember Your defeat of Satan as you rose from the dead.

And may we always keep You close within our hearts.

Photos by Max Beck, Tanner Mardis, Greyson Joralemon, Yannick Pulver, Inbal Malca, & Sebastian Fröhlich on Unsplash