Tag: life

Embrace Daily Bible Reading

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For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. Proverbs 2:6

How often do you read the Bible?

Do you open His Word every day or only when you happen to have the time?

Have you made devotions a daily habit?

Morning, noon, or evening – whenever you have carved the time each day?

I can remember wishing I wanted to have devotions. This was years and years ago. When the children were small.

I consciously wanted to dive into the Bible, but that desire never materialized as I always pushed it off for later.

About five years before my family fell apart, God mercifully dropped into my head, creating a desperate need to know Him more.

I craved His wisdom. His mercy. His strength.

I began to get up earlier than the others, sitting with God and His word.

Reading through the Bible, I became familiar again with God’s heart and His faithfulness over the ages.

Looking back now almost 16 years later, my time with God has been an anchor during the aching years of my life.

Where would I be without God? Certainly not sitting upright, wearing my crown as God’s daughter.

Come with me this year and read through the Bible.

Journey with me as we navigate His word.

Me, I’m reading straight through. Genesis through Revelation.

Last year I read through choosing some from the Old Testament, a Psalm or Proverb, and a New Testament portion each day.

Other times I’ve read the Bible chronologically.

And another year it was the New Testament only with Psalms and Proverbs.

What’s your decision? Pray about it then jump right in when you know which plan to choose. The year’s still young, so you can easily catch up.

I have many listed on my Media page (link below), but there are hundreds of choices other places. There are even audio versions from the YouVersion Bible app.

The precious Bible is easier than ever to access – you just have to choose to do it. So let’s go!

You won’t regret it. 🙂

Amy’s Bible plans: Click on Media, scrolling down to Bible Plans. Choose from Psalms/Proverbs/NT; Chronological; Genesis through Revelation (Bible straight through); 365 Bible ( OT, Psalm/Proverb, NT).

Photos by Kristaps Ungurs, Aaron Burden, Joel Muniz, & Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

Grateful to Your Toes

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And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you. Ezekiel 36:26-27

A Christmas Carol is a popular Christmas classic penned by Charles Dickens well over a hundred years ago.

One cannot comprehend the panic Scrooge felt as he walked with the Ghost of Christmas Future, unless one has made sinful choices such as Scrooge.

Because Scrooge was so selfish, he was blind to anything but himself.

Increasingly becoming aware of his sin only that night.

The consequences of his actions finally spoke louder to Scrooge than his fleshly habits.

Finding him in the graveyard, he sees the man’s name so ridiculed in death pages before: his own.

Falling on his face, he begs the Ghost of Christmas Future for a second chance.

Scrooge is agonized beyond anything he’s felt before.

He recognizes he is literally doomed.

Doomed forever and ever unless given a second chance.

A second chance as a changed man.

Begging the Ghost, he claims to have changed.

Begs and pleads with all his might.

He finally understands his truly bleak future written by his choices lived his entire adult life.

Stop and imagine yourself. What if that was you?

Do you have sections of your life ugly to God?

So ugly you deserve eternal damnation, too?

We all do. All of us deserve death.

But Jesus. His birth, death, and resurrection bring us hope as we place our trust in Him.

But we’re getting ahead of ourselves.

Let’s return to the question at hand: what ugly parts of your life do you still need to give to God?

Why haven’t you? What’s stopping you? Are you even bothered by them?

Scrooge wasn’t for most of his life. But when his eyes were opened, he was horrified.

Release your fleshly desires to God. Release your sinful ways, hurtful to so many.

Scrooge never cared about hurting others, but he did when he finally got it.

We don’t have the luxury of seeing future consequences of our sin.

But we do have the gift of God’s redemption. And second chances.

When Scrooge finally pried open his hands, he released his bitterness. His anger. His selfishness.

And in return he was given new eyes. And boy was he happy!

Releasing those burdens caused Scrooge to well up with joy unlike anything he had ever felt before.

Just like us, when we are forgiven by God.

Covered by Jesus, we are made new. Forgiven. Hopeful. Loved.

Bring your whole self to Jesus, this Christmas. Ask Him to show you any part you’ve neglected to give to Him.

Gather up your courage, give Him that ugly part, too, and welcome the healing He promises to bring.

Like Scrooge, you’ll be grateful all the way down to your toes.

Photos by Elin Melaas, David Abrams, Jez Timms, & Elliott B on Unsplash

Our Christmas Gift

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For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

Do you find it odd our entire world celebrates Jesus’ birth?

Our secular world who seeks to elevate themselves more often than not?

Sure, you could argue Jesus’ birth has morphed into Santa, presents, and reindeer.

But even Santa is based on Nicholas of Myra, a fourth century bishop who left gifts for poor children.

Maybe the world isn’t totally lost. Yet.

How can you help your friends and family see the baby Jesus instead this Christmas?

Through you. Your witness. Your focus.

Jesus is the reason for the season. Overused phrase, yes, but it’s so true.

When you think for just a moment how deeply God loves you…..

When you ponder why God sent Jesus to earth…..

When you stop and realize how desperately you need our Savior…

You’ll discover the true meaning of Christmas.

Jesus came to earth just for you.

God missed His relationship with you that much.

He missed you and desperately wants that relationship back.

He wants you to trust Him. To love Him. To realize how much you need Him.

Because His plans for you are so good. The very best.

And to communicate that love, God set Jesus’ birth in motion.

That’s how much He loves you. All of you.

Begin to replace the commercialism of Christmas with the celebration of Jesus.

God’s peace on earth will come to your corner.

Your “why” you celebrate will alter everything. Real peace and real joy for once.

Let’s replace all the trinkets nobody needs. The gifts people return. Events we feel compelled to attend.

Replace it all with an increased devotion to Jesus, thanking Him for His gift. Himself.

Rely on Him for your peace as you dwell on the love He has just for you.

Let your celebrations stem from this and all of the gifts, events, and chaos will become worship to God.

While the world has lost the focus of Christmas, let’s keep ours, shifting back our focus to God and His precious gift of Jesus for you and for me.

Photos by Tristan Maness, Max Beck, Matt Botsford, &  Alda González-Cuevas on Unsplash

Genesis 6

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And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart. Noah found grace in the eyes of God. Genesis 6:6,8

God regretted creating man.

The evil, which was ruling man, grieved God’s heart.

Man became so selfish and evil, God actually wished He had not created them.

Verse 5 says “every intention of the thoughts of his (man’s) heart was only evil continually.

Wow.

Like nothing but evil.

Literally.

Imagine living in that world where only evil reigns free and kindness is nearly non-existent.

Nearly non-existent due to the life of Noah.

Noah and his family found favor in God’s eyes.

That’s it. The only family on earth.

Only a few hundred years after God created Adam, He regretted man.

Not only did God want to destroy man, He also cut short future man’s long life which had been the norm.

Noah was 500 when he fathered Shem, Ham, and Japheth (Genesis 5:32).

That’s pretty old!

God declared man would live no more than 120 years in verse 3 as God did not want His spirit to abide in man forever.

You can see why.

God does not condone evil.

Period.

We might not be as bad or evil as the population Noah walked among, but evil is evil.

Sin is sin.

Do you ever stop to think your sin grieves God’s heart?

Sure some sins are worse than others, but any sin at all goes against God.

It goes against everything He is.

Sin is the opposite of God.

Lots of grace for us when we sin, yes, but ask God to help you live only within His ways.

Ask the Holy Spirit to build you up in your mind, body, and soul, as you pursue God and God alone.

Maybe the thought of grieving God’s heart will stop you from sinning.

After all, why would we ever want to cause God any pain ever when He’s done everything and more for us?

Photos by Lucas Dial, Aram, Aaron Burden, & Anne Nygård on Unsplash

Miserable by Choice

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

There once was a miserable lady, who lived in a cottage near the edge of the forest.

She lived by herself and had grown to an old age.

Her many belongings gave her comfort since her relationships were complicated.

Her loneliness was compounded by her attitude as she continued to blame everyone and everything for her misery.

Everyone except herself.

Looking back, she had lived a good life.

She was accomplished, pretty, and comfortable.

On the outside she was the picture of health.

But she was deathly afraid.

Afraid of what, you may ask?

Letting go. Forgiveness. Not being in control.

Surrendering and accepting life.

And change.

To protect herself, she lashed out and declared herself “Mrs. Always Right.”

Her loved ones and friends never spent much time with her, because her bitterness was easily spread.

Her cottage was nestled on the edge of the great forest.

It was so beautiful – once.

Her memory smiled as she recalled all the beautiful years spent in the forest.

Simply lovely.

But her frown would always return and stay firmly planted on her face when she recalled the devastating fire that had swept through her precious forest.

Everything had burned down.

All the trees, flowers, and life.

The forest was like that for years.

Too long, actually.

And when things look bad for years, it’s easy to forget the beauty.

One day, the forest began to regrow.

New life had sprung all over the place.

Months went by and suddenly the forest was beautiful again.

Stunning, actually.

Radiant.

But she could not see it.

When the lady looked at her beloved forest, all she could see was destruction.

She could not see all the beauty.

Her bitterness had changed her forever.

Her eyesight would not allow her to see the goodness.

She refused to acknowledge her new beautiful surroundings, choosing instead to remember the fire and how her forest once had been.

Are you blind, too? Miserable by choice?

Do you only see what once was, refusing to recognize God’s new blessings in your life?

Allow God to enter, letting His new blessings flood your heart with promise and thankfulness.

There is no need to be miserable by choice.

Choose instead to be thankful as God will never leave your side.

His new plans will be great. God says so.

Photos by Chastagner Thierry, Gustav Gullstrand,  kazuend, & Bruce Hong on Unsplash

Wall of Fire

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And I will be to her a wall of fire all around, declares the Lord, and I will be the glory in her midst. Zechariah 2:5

When walking through life, do you feel alone?

Do you feel often overwhelmed by the world’s rubbish thrown your way?

Tired of falling too often towards temptation?

Walk in your authority from God.

He’s with you. He covers you with His strength, protection, and peace.

Psalm 5:12 reminds us: Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.

When feeling overwhelmed by life, picture God surrounding you with HIs favor like a shield.

But it gets even better.

Our verse from Zechariah shares God’s promise of a literal wall of fire.

This wall of fire surrounds you. Nothing can come through.

Picture this wall of fire burning up temptation. Burning up fear. Burning up anything coming your way that is not of God.

Can we still have problems with God as our wall of fire?

Sure. Jesus reminds us we will suffer.

But suffering under God’s plan is different from allowing the world’s rubbish to affect you.

Within God’s plan, suffering looks like glory. Suffering looks like peace. It’s the opposite of how the world defines it.

Paul mentions suffering as a time to boast in God’s strength.

May God surround us as a wall of fire.

May God’s wall of fire burn up anything that comes our way not of Him and Him alone.

May God’s wall of fire burn up our selfish tendencies, placing in us the desire for God alone.

May God’s wall of fire burn up fear when tempted to rely on human knowledge.

And may God’s glory be forever in the midst of us.

Photos by Paul Bulai, Cullan Smith, Olivia Snow, & Zac Durant on Unsplash

What’s Normal?

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Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually! 1 Chronicles 16:11

Ever heard the phrase “the new normal”?

Usually means something bizarre is becoming commonplace.

Normal used to mean a two parent family with a few children, living in the same house for decades.

Normal used to mean church anchored the neighborhood, threading lives together as one.

Normal used to mean children knew their place and it wasn’t in charge of adults.

While we can sit here and debate “normal” social behaviors, I was wondering something completely different.

How often do you think about God?

Does He fill your thoughts most of the day? Or just when there’s nobody else to turn?

Do you talk with Him once a day, maybe as your eyes close?

Or do you talk to Him in a constant chatter about this or that, basically whenever anything comes to mind?

Do you wake with His song on your lips?

What’s your music choice? Whatever it is demands space in your head.

Sometimes I think I’m not normal.

I adore worship music. It’s all I listen to, with the exception of occasional classical music.

My head is filled with God because of it. I regularly wake with His song on my lips.

I think of heaven, too. Life is incredibly short and I hope I’m helping others see the importance of God.

Do you feel an urgency to align your heart to God’s?

What if you don’t wake up tomorrow?

Or what if you have only today to share God with another?

God takes our life seriously. So seriously that He rescued us from eternal separation by sending His son, Jesus, to take our sin for us.

If we really thought long and hard, we’d prioritize filling ourselves with worship to God, seeking His face. We owe Him everything.

So, in the end, normal for Christians should be our never-ending focus on God.

Putting Him first.

Above all else.

And that means above you and me.

As we live God’s purpose for our lives, may we consistently place Him first as we seek Him in all we do and say.

Photos by Doncoombez, Jeremy Thomas, & Taylor Cole on Unsplash

Casting off the Flesh

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Put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires. Romans 13:14

What do you think Paul was talking about in this passage?

Thinking of putting on Jesus, what comes to mind?

Armor of God. Holy Spirit’s influence. Listening to God instead of the enemy’s lies.

It’s intentional. Notice Paul asks us to literally do something. To put on Jesus.

Do you? Do you choose to invite Jesus to fill you each day with more of Himself?

Do you open your Bible to hear the words of God?

Do you worship him on any day besides Sunday?

With what are you filling your mind?

Paul continues to say we must put our flesh beneath us. To make no provision for it.

Why? Because our fleshly desires tend to rule over us.

They tend to take over, don’t they?

They take our focus off of Jesus, putting it back on ourselves.

Our needs. Our wants. Our desires.

Yes, we need to take care of ourselves. So how does it move to gratifying the flesh instead?

Choosing to be lazy instead of exercising or moving.

Choosing to eat junk when we should honor our body with health.

Choosing to spend mindless hours on digital games or social media when we should be reading our Bible, reading books, or learning something new.

Going to substances that numb the world’s pain instead of walking with God to freedom.

A couple of verses before, Romans 13:12 says this: Let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.

Casting off works of darkness is not gratifying the flesh.

Putting on the armor of light is putting on the Lord Jesus Christ.

Because our flesh is often so loud, Paul thinks we should make no provision for it.

Gratifying the desires of the flesh should never usurp what God has called us to be.

And the enemy often comes in sneaky ways, taking an inch at a time.

Today we should take inventory of how our life looks. How we spend our time. What our mind dwells upon.

Is your flesh in charge or is it God?

Cast off the flesh. And put on God.

Photos by Ingmar &  Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash

Acting Like It

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The righteous will rejoice in the Lord and take refuge in him; all the upright in heart will glory in him! Psalm 64:10

Do you ever observe your life as an actor?

Maybe the phrase “fake it til you make it” comes to mind?

I’m not talking about times when you’re genuinely smiling.

Like really enjoying life.

Because that’s when it’s as easy as falling off a log to act happy. Because you are.

But what about the times when you’re not?

Can you choose joy even when you’d rather be anywhere else?

Can you choose love even when you feel anything but?

Yep. Know why? Because God’s strength in you is bigger than your weakness.

Bigger than the flesh that covers you.

Picture yourself in a situation where you really should be nice to someone undeserving.

Approach it as an actor would in their starring role. You can do it, I promise.

And after your performance, you might even feel a bit happier, too.

Yes, we must not pretend everything is always hunky dory.

Yes, we must not let horrible people run over our lives.

But generally in life, if you are needing to keep that fresh face forward, act like it.

Often removing yourself and becoming a happier version keeps relationships humming.

And before you know it, God may help your happy mood become your genuine reaction.

Until then, ask God to fill you with His strength, and jump into that loving actor self.

And give yourself an Oscar! I’ll applaud you!

Now you’re smiling!

Photos by Jon Tyson, Avel Chuklanov, & Nick Fewings on Unsplash

Raised Hands

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But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel. Psalm 22:3

When worshiping the Lord, we often raise our hands.

Why? Absolute surrender. Acknowledging God is God and we are not.

Proclaiming His holiness. Bringing ourselves to Him as an offering.

As we lift our hands to heaven in worship, God comes down.

Psalm 22:3 reminds us God inhabits our praise. Chooses to manifest His glory and power amid our worship.

Picture your hands raised to heaven.

As your voice lifts your song in worship, God reaches down to you.

His hands clasp yours, filling you with Himself.

He receives your worship as His glory comes down to you.

A holy exchange.

That picture jumped into my head today as we worshipped at church.

If I could bring you into my head, you’d get the full picture I wish I could correctly share.

It was beautiful. Comforting. Full of strength.

God longs to fill us with more of Him.

He is so worthy to be praised.

The next time you sing in worship to Him, raise those hands.

Give Him all of you as He reaches down to give you more of Him.

Photos by Jake Hill, Steve Adams, Jametlene Reskp, & Guillaume de Germain on Unsplash

Do Others Know?

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And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again. 2 Corinthians 5:15

Do others know you are the Lord’s?

Is it obvious you follow Jesus?

Is it written on your face as you react to the world?

Is it displayed in your actions as you share Jesus’ gentle touch?

Your words as you bring others God’s voice of life to blanket their soul?

The temperature of the room when you walk in covered with the peace of God?

Or do you quietly live your faith with not one person realizing your alliance to God?

How do you walk the halls of your high school: blending in with the world or standing out for God?

How well do you mimic Jesus as He walked this earth?

Yes, He preached.

Yes, He healed.

Yes, He argued with church leaders while pointing out their errors.

But not every minute of every day.

He lived, moving among us with the heart of God.

He listened.

He hugged.

He made others feel important. Worthy. Valuable.

How about you?

Is it obvious you follow Jesus?

Are you bringing others to Jesus or are you caring not a whit about their future damnation?

Is God in the forefront of your mind?

Do you stand tall for His truth?

Might feel lonely, but there are more of us with you than you realize.

Plus, God is always standing right by your side.

There are those in our world who do dare to stand out.

Who wear their faith on their sleeve, asking others to consider God’s ways.

Charlie Kirk was one of those, and he paid the ultimate price.

Are you willing to be God’s witness, too?

Even if it causes your early death?

Satan will hate your witness.

What is your choice?

Let others know how much you love God.

Let others see His goodness.

Let your words bring others closer to Him.

And let your time on earth cause others to yearn for God exactly as you do.

Our time here is limited. Minutes when compared to eternity.

Will you live today for now or will you live today for then?

Will you live today for yourself or will you live today as God’s witness, knowing today might be your last?

Photos by Tim Wildsmith, Humble Lamb, Tim Wildsmith, & David Banning on Unsplash

New Beginnings

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He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him. Psalm 40:3

God calls us into new beginnings, sometimes several times in our life.

It could be a HUGE new beginning.

Marriage, baby, divorce, death, moving, or a new job.

Or, it could be a small new beginning such as resolving to eat healthy, initiating a new devotional time, determining a new year’s resolution, or updating your children’s chore chart.

New beginnings can be scary, especially if they hit you by surprise.

An unexpected job loss.

A sudden death or divorce.

A child moving out.

It’s all scary and frightening.

 But God is in the details.

What?

He cares about my daily struggles, my new beginnings, big or small?

Yes, He absolutely does.

Not only that, but He wants to hear your heart and help you.

He wants your trust – your unwavering trust in the Provider of Life.

Nothing surprises God. Nothing.

So let your new beginnings include God.

The big ones and the small ones.

Every single one.

Photos by Sushobhan Badhai, Clark Wilson, John McMahon, & feey on Unsplash

Roots

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So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. Colossians 2:6-7

I’m convinced most of our emotional issues stem from fear.

Fear of the future.

Fear of being alone.

Fear of rejection.

We all long for meaningful relationships.

Yet we cannot control others, and what they choose to do.

When rejected, and it will happen to all of us, fear enters.

We worry the next person will do the very same thing.

Or we try too hard to keep the wrong person.

Emotionally, when we interact with fear, our body responds physically.

Tired, achy, moody moments are just the beginning.

When we dwell with fear, our body begins to break down in other ways.

Science shows us dwelling in fear brings anxiety and stress to our hearts, brains, digestive and immune system. All detrimental to our health, especially when holding onto fear longterm.

So what’s the anecdote to all this?

God.

God created us for a relationship with Him.

Remember before Adam and Eve sinned, God talked with them every single day?

Fast foward to Jesus, who was sent to redeem us.

To cancel our sin so we can go back to that relationship with God.

God longs for you so much, that He sent His son, Jesus, to die for you.

So you can talk with God here and now, as well as all of eternity.

The root of all fear, anxiety, and stress, is reliance on anything but God.

Train your brain to respond with God’s truth – His Word when fear dares to enter your mind.

Repeating 1 Timothy 1:7 aloud is a great example: For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.

Respond with worship when your brain begins to dwell on the negative or impossible situations.

Ask God to fill you with Himself when you feel yourself heading down the wrong path again.

God is here. God is ready. God is willing to take all of it for you.

But the choice is yours.

Yank the crud by the root and refocus on God.

Again and again, speak God’s truth when weeds pop up.

Because they will. That’s what weeds do if you don’t keep regularly gardening.

After going to scripture again and again, you’ll begin to notice your reaction doesn’t immediately fall to fear anymore.

Pretty soon you won’t notice as many weeds. They won’t come back so often because the soil – your brain- can’t help them grow.

Colossians reminds us to keep our life rooted in Jesus and built up in him. Strengthen our faith. Overflow with thankfulness.

Relying on God reminds fear Who is in control. God. And His soil will fill your brain with truth.

Photos by Amir Kalhor, Antonio Lapa, Erik van Dijk, & Christian De Stradis on Unsplash

Milestone!

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But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do. James 1:25

Today I bring to you very exciting news. Ready?

My book has officially sold over 100,000 copies!

I know! Incredible!!

The Evangelical Christian Publishers Association is an international network of Christian publishers.

Their award came to me this past week.

It’s a real glass book, engraved with my name and my book’s name. It’s so heavy!

This “bronze” medal also places my book on other lists buyers pick from, gaining even more exposure. It’s been available online everywhere, but we’ll see it more in physical stores. I think it would look perfect at Hobby Lobby or Sam’s Club! Already seen it in Walmart down south.

How did this happen to someone who is unknown?

God. He’s the orchestrator of it all.

Could I have reached this on my own? Nope.

But I obeyed. That was my part. Willing to follow what I knew God wanted me to do.

And He blessed me.

Keep seeking God.

Ask Him what He wants from you. What He wants you to do.

Then when He tells you, obey. You never know where God will lead you.

I certainly had no idea when I began my blog over a dozen years ago.

But God did.

70 times 7

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Then Peter came to him and asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” “No, not seven times,” Jesus replied, “but seventy times seven! Matthew 18:21-22

This is one of the greatest difficulties we face as Christians.

Forgiveness. Releasing the offender from you.

Freeing them from their offense.

Even when they don’t ask.

Especially when they don’t ask.

How many times?

Seventy times seven.

Four hundred ninety times. Unlimited.

What if the person has offended you that many times?

Then for you, it’s four hundred ninety. And counting.

Doesn’t mean you allow abuse to continue. Or offense to keep knocking you down again and again.

But normal daily interactions often yield conflict.

And aside from Jesus asking us to do this, we do have a choice.

We can forgive or not.

If we forgive, we release ourselves from bitterness. From the prison of unjustly behavior revenge.

Is it funner to stay in the prison, stuck and alone? I’ll be the first to admit yes.

It’s where we nurse our wounds unprovoked by others. It’s where we feel justified in making others pay for their deeds. Hard time is what we want.

But the prison of bitterness is also where we stay stuck. Miserable. And you know who is too pleased when we do? The enemy. The father of lies, who tells us our prison is better accommodations than freedom’s path.

The good news is this: God. Not only does God know forgiveness is superior for our relationships, and our physical or emotional health, He helps us through the process.

We don’t have to feel like forgiving. We simply need to choose and obey God.

Ask God to help you forgive the offender. Release them back into the arms of Jesus. Ask God to fill your sense of injustice with peace, replacing the bitterness with joy.

God has promised to right every wrong. He’s the ultimate judge and your defender.

Practice this today as God unlocks your prison of bitterness.

It’s incredibly difficult. But you must trust God more than you trust your bitterness.

We don’t want the enemy happy with our location, do we?

Change your address today. God’s waiting to walk you to freedom.

Oh, and if your well worn path takes your feet right back to the prison out of habit?

Stop and turn. God will help you every single time.

Photos by Lili Popper, Jametlene Reskp, Cody Otto, & Jacob Bentzinger on Unsplash

Never Comes to an End

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The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23

Spent the past week at the beach.

Can I just live there, please?

Watching the waves is so peaceful.

The sound as waves crash onto the sand.

The smell of salty, fresh air.

The feel of fine sand cushioning your feet.

The notice of life brimming all around.

Mussels coming up after a wave recedes, burrowing down again.

Seashells littering the sand begging to be scooped up.

Seagulls daring to come close, curious for scraps.

Standing on the beach, the waves are mesmerizing.

Almost like clockwork, they keep rolling in.

Over and over. They never end.

It’s just like God’s love, which is never ending.

He continually gives you more and more.

It’s just like God’s peace, which is never ending.

He continually gives you more and more.

It’s just like God’s faithfulness, which is never ending.

He continually gives you more and more.

PIcture God’s gifts to you as unending as the ocean waves.

As abundant as the ocean waves.

As predictable as the ocean waves.

God’s mercies are new every morning. They’ll be here tomorrow, and the next day, and every day for the rest of your life.

You simply need to receive them like waves rolling over your toes.

The ocean waves aren’t going away.

God isn’t going away.

But you must choose to see. To want. To accept what God has for you.

God’s abundant mercies are waiting for you.

They are constantly rolling towards you on the sand. Will you choose to get wet?

Pictures by me, Amy Mecham, at South Padre Island, Tx

Goodnight

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

A couple of nights ago, the following tragedy unfolded near San Antonio, Tx.

It’s my friend’s story. Her daughter-in-law’s, actually.

What if it was yours?

She was going to bed for the last time.

Waking in the night, they needed to escape.

Rising waters. Nighttime rescue.

Floating debris. Pitch black darkness.

Her husband holds onto a tree, trying to reach her.

He cannot and off she goes.

He hears her calling his name, but she is beyond reach.

She was swept off to heaven that night.

Not what she thought would transpire after saying goodnight.

A precious life lost. Her family left to grieve.

What about you? Would you have been ready to meet your Maker?

There’s often no time to ready your heart in the midst of a tragedy.

Unfortunately, tragedies do occur, often producing death.

And it can happen in an instant. The blink of an eye.

So, what if it was you? Are you ready?

We never know when God will call us home.

Ready your heart today. Now. Right this minute.

John 14:27 reminds us God give us His peace. His perfect peace.

God doesn’t want our hearts to be troubled, and death is nothing to fear.

Why? Because of Jesus. His great love for you. His precious plan for you.

But here’s the thing: Death is nothing to fear only if you place your hope in Jesus.

In the sacrifice of His life in exchange for yours.

Your sins are forgiven.

Your future is secure.

Only if you are His. Are you?

Nobody plans to say goodnight for the final time.

Make sure your heart is God’s when you say goodnight this evening.

Photos by rachman reilli, Kelly Sikkema, Lukas Hron, and Yevhenii Aihubov on Unsplash

Setting the Mind

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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

Where do you set your mind?

The things of this world?

Things like your bank account, career, and politics?

Or the things of the Spirit?

Things like love, joy, peace, and strength?

Romans 8:6 says death comes from setting your mind on the flesh.

Know why?

Because it’s never enough. Your bank account, expectations, and self-acceptance.

Assigning your mood to our sinful world brings disappointment.

Counting on this world to meet all your needs never lasts.

And these are just when times are good.

Imagine the death in your mind when things go south.

The chains that bind you when choosing the world over God.

Trading your soul for temporary pleasure, like drinking too much, drugs, or stealing.

Romans also says life comes from setting your mind on the Spirit.

Life and peace to be specific.

Why? God is life.

He brings you life.

Life in your mind when He give you HIs perfect peace.

Life in your heart when He gives you His unconditional love.

Life in your body when He gives you His never-ending strength.

Life in your relationships when you serve others more than yourself, modeling after Jesus.

Setting your mind means to focus intently on a goal or decide firmly to achieve something.

To purpose your mind.

What will you set your mind on today?

God’s peace or the absence of it will be your answer.

Photos by Havle Kaya, laura adai, Taylor, &  Humble Lamb on Unsplash

How Dare We

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Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. Matthew 10:29-31

How dare we question God.

Yet we do.

Why? Because we want our own way.

We think we know better than Him.

Do you see how selfish that is?

How arrogant?

Did we create the earth and all it contains?

Did we place the stars in the heavens?

Did we design life with such variety and beauty?

Absolutely not.

We are God’s creation.

God is not our creation.

I get it though. Often our lives seem to turn unexpectedly, down a path we wished to avoid.

We question God. We question because we hate it. The direction we travel.

God allows things.

He created us with the ability to choose, and sometimes people make bad choices.

Or, sometimes it’s our own fault.

Yet God allows it.

We can be assured from Ecclesiastes 9:1 that “… how the righteous and the wise and their deeds are in the hand of God. Whether it is love or hate, man does not know; both are before him.”

All we do are in God’s hands.

We need God. He helps us filter out bad choices when we cannot see what’s right.

Further, we can rest assured God works all things for His purpose.

Romans 8:28 reminds us,” And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

God sees everything.

He sees the good, the bad, and the ugly.

While He might allow circumstances you detest, He will stay by your side.

And He has a plan. Do you trust Him?

You are worth more to God than anything else He created.

He sent His only son to die on the cross for you so you can spend eternity with Him.

Yes, God is holy.

Yes, He created all things.

And no, we are not in charge.

But you can rest assured God is.

God, who created order and beauty, is on the throne.

And when trials come, He will be with you every step of the way.

His ways are higher than ours.

We must not question God, but live peacefully, knowing He cares for all of His creation.

Yet we are of more value than many sparrows.

We are made in His image.

Photos by Marshall Patterson, Mathew Schwartz, Cédric VT, & Nicole Wreyford on Unsplash

Fighting Discouragement

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Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God. Psalm 42:11

I fight discouragement.

Do you?

Same lies in my head.

Unanswered prayers.

Unchanged people.

Who are we to question Almighty God?

We are but a breath in all of God’s created beings.

God’s ways are higher than ours.

Then mine. Then yours.

He is above it all.

Even unanswered prayers.

Even unchanged people.

Even the lies still swirling in your head.

Our job is to submit ourselves to Him, asking Him to make us new.

Then pray for what God lays on our hearts.

After we pray, we are to give it all to God.

The unanswered prayers.

The unchanged people.

The lies in your head.

Now we sit and trust.

Yes, we can pray, of course, we should.

But as you pray, resist the urge to scoop the burden back up.

God’s got it.

He’s got it and all the rest. Why?

Because He knows all things and loves your loved ones even more than you, you must trust Him.

And He loves you more than you know, too.

Those lies in your head?

Give them to God.

Remember Whose you are.

Fully and completely loved.

Repeat scripture aloud, retraining your brain.

Your prayers are not unanswered.

They are answered in God’s timing.

In the mean time, pray, believe, and trust.

God’s got the rest.

Photos by Steve Gribble on Unsplash

Final Curtain Call

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Yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. James 4:14

Ever think about how life is not a rehearsal?

Only get one shot at all of it.

Every milestone.

Every age.

Every day.

Today, for example, you have only these minutes to spend once.

The ones you are spending reading this blog are used wisely.

Good job!

But what’s next?

Yes, life is spent with many mundane things, such as laundry, shopping, and caring for others.

But even the mundane can be exciting when thinking how temporary it all is.

Thinking about your emotions, do you want to spend your only today racked with guilt?

Will you spend your only today filled with self-pity, un-forgiveness, or fear?

You only get today once.

Don’t give it to the devil.

Today, you have a chance to spend your minutes praising God.

Today, you have a chance to spend your minutes praying to the One who created you.

You get the chance to care for those God has entrusted to you or relax with well-deserved rest.

Don’t allow yourself to squelch these precious minutes you can only spend one time.

Don’t give these minutes to the devil by dwelling outside of God’s peace.

Or living only for yourself.

Why? Because minutes turn into days, which turn into years.

Before you know it, you’ll be a decade older and not at all wiser.

Your family might become distant and you’ll find yourself alone.

Bitterness and self-righteousness are not good companions.

So choose to spend your once in a lifetime minutes as God ordained.

Ask God how He would like you to live.

Ask God who He would like you to love.

Ask God who He would like you to influence for His kingdom.

And spend those precious minutes for Him.

Because every minute is only spent once in our final curtain call called life.

Photos by Steve Sharp, Jon Tyson, Gwen King, &  Tony Lomas on Unsplash

Impossible Assignment

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

You don’t understand, Lord.

They hurt me.

Like really bad.

They cut me down, bringing me to my knees.

As a result, I cried.

Ugly crying.

They don’t deserve my forgiveness.

I need to seek revenge somehow.

Something to get them back.

No?

You want me to forgive them?

Why?

Because You have forgiven me?

Yes, I know, but why do I have to forgive them?

I can’t.

You still want me to?

How? With Your strength?

But they hurt me. Deeply. To the core of my being, they hurt me.

You still want me to forgive them?

And give You my pain?

How will that help?

Will you right my wrongs for me?

You will eventually?

You want me to trust You?

With everything?

Even this?

Ok.

Thank you, God, for saving me, forgiving all of my sins.

Please help me to forgive others as they hurt me.

It’s an impossible assignment on my very own.

Help me to release this burdens and those in the future to You.

Help me to forgive as You have forgiven me.

Photos by Elijah Pilchard, Brooke Balentine, Grigorii Shcheglov, & Yannick Pulver on Unsplash

Oceans of God’s Love

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How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings. Psalm 36:7

Ever tried to comprehend the vastness of God’s love for you?

Let’s try.

You and I deserve to be punished for our sin.

Why? Because God is holy.

Because God is holy, sin cannot enter heaven.

Because God created us in His image, we have a spirit, soul, and body.

And with those, we make choices every single day.

To follow God or not.

To bow to our flesh or not.

Because we have chosen sin once and then way more than we’d like to ever admit, we deserve death.

Someone has to pay for our sin.

And that person should be us.

Except for Jesus.

He stepped in and paid it all for us.

He suffered and died in our place.

Why?

Because of His great love for us.

His ocean of love, waiting to surround our very selves.

What will you do?

What is your response?

Will your heart overflow with love and gratitude, spilling onto the lives around you?

Your choices each day either reveal your gratitude to God or showcase your selfish dependence on flesh.

If you really think about God’s enormous love for you, you cannot help but smile.

Are you smiling yet?

Photos by Jamez Picard, Saiph Muhammad, Brett Jordan, & Madison Oren on Unsplash

Assignment

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And God has given us His Spirit as proof that we live in Him and He in us. 1 John 4:13

God speaks to us through the Holy Spirit, the Helper Jesus mentioned.

What is God asking you to do today?

What is God asking you to say today?

Who is God asking you to trust today?

When God nudges you, listen.

When God asks you to do something for Him, obey.

That still, small voice deep inside your head is God.

That decision you know you need to make.

That phone call you should dial.

That friendly hug you should share.

What is your assignment today from God?

If you pause, you just might miss it.

You might miss that blessing God has for you and the other person.

That surprise behind the door of obedience.

Don’t hesitate to obey the whispers of God.

He’s asking you today if you will.

Photos by Skyler Ewing on Unspla

Meant for Us

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Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. Isaiah 53:4-6

Words utterly fail.

It isn’t possible to find adequate words, expressing how grateful we are for your sacrifice, Jesus.

You came to us for this time. Good Friday and Easter.

Your entire life was lived for this purpose.

To suffer and die in our place.

To take our punishment onto your holy and sinless self.

Each drop of spit falling off your face was meant for us.

Each thorn thrust into your head was meant for us.

Each whip lash was meant to tear our flesh, not yours.

Each insulting word was meant to insult us, not you.

Each nail driven into your hands and feet was meant to pierce our flesh.

Not yours.

Not your holy feet who willingly walked this earth, sharing the love of the Father.

Not your holy hands who willingly healed the hurting people clamoring to you.

When you hung on the cross with the weight of our sin, God turned away.

He left you utterly alone.

That should have been us as we are the sinful ones, not you.

We are deserving of death, not you.

Yet you chose to die for us.

You willingly took our pain and suffering away, bearing it all on your own.

But that’s why your death won the victory. Why the devil has been defeated once and for all.

You were and are the spotless lamb.

The Prince of Peace.

The sinless sacrifice for us, Your children.

It’s why we are now set free forever and ever from sin, death, and the grave when we choose You.

When we choose You over ourselves.

When we acknowledge Your sacrifice, cleansing us from our sin.

Reflecting this Easter, it seems impossible.

You, a perfect sacrifice, choosing us over you.

Yet, You did just that. You cancelled our debt for all of eternity.

We are forever grateful.

We are forever yours.

We are forever and ever yours.

Fill us afresh with a new awe of Good Friday. Of your sacrifice.

May we live every day in the shadow of the cross.

And may we live with the hope of Easter, knowing You have indeed conquered it all.

Photos by Alex Noriega, Jon Tyson, Dylan McLeod, & Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Children of the Heavenly Father

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Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken. Psalm 55:22

I love hymns. Do you? They speak such powerful truth in their short verses.

This Swedish hymn is a favorite of our family. I can still hear my grandmother singing it with us.

Children of the heavenly Father safely in his bosom gather; nestling bird nor star in heaven such a refuge e’er was given.

We, as God’s children, are safely settled into His giant arms.

Nothing on earth dares to compare to the safety we experience as His children when gathered up in His arms.

God his own shall tend and nourish; in his holy courts they flourish. From all evil powers he spares them; in his mighty arms he bears them.

God takes care of us, His own. We flourish and grow mightily in His presence.

He shields us from all evil. All evil. Even when surrounded by death and destruction, we are safe. His strong arms hold us. Yes, we may suffer, but God stands with us.

Neither life nor death shall ever from the Lord his children sever; for to them his grace revealing, he turns sorrow into healing.

Nothing in life or death will ever separate us from God. We will abide with Him now and forever.

His grace provides healing for our every sorrow.

God has given, he has taken, but his children ne’er forsaken; his the loving purpose solely to preserve them pure and holy.

God is in control. He gives and He takes away, but He will never leave us alone.

His ways are higher than ours and purpose to only keep us pure and holy.

When we trust God as our Father, He lovingly cares for us – His beloved children.

Forever and ever. Amen.

Hymn writer: Caroline W. Sandell Berg 1832-1903 (Swedish)

Photos by Gianluca Carenza, Derek Thomson,  Priscilla Du Preez, & Natasha Ivanchikhina on Unsplash

Obedience and Surrender

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My son, give me your heart, And let your eyes observe my ways. Proverbs 23:26

What does it look like to obey God?

I mean to really obey what He asks of you?

Does it look like taking control of your fleshly desires?

Exchanging your hopes and dreams for God’s?

Asking Him for His thoughts for your future?

Doing the thing He nudges you to do?

Does your life look like that?

Does it reflect an obedience and surrender to God?

I’m guessing you have parts that do.

The squishy parts that feel good.

Obeying your boss when it feels right.

Giving to charity when you really do have plenty of extra.

Regularly attending a church where you feel continually affirmed.

Loving your child when they love you back.

But what about the ugly parts?

Loving the underserved in your family?

Giving to others out of your poverty?

Pushing aside instant entertainment to drink in the wisdom of God’s word?

Praying for your people even when you’re tired?

Doing the right thing when the rest of the world thinks differently?

Standing for God’s truth even if your loved ones turn away?

We all tend to choose obedience and surrender when we want to. The challenge remains to obey and surrender when we don’t feel like it. When it goes against our flesh.

Obedience to God might look a little different in my life than yours.

God asks things of us that are personal to the impact He has in store for us.

Me? God asked me to start writing down His words of wisdom more than a dozen years ago.

Starting this blog, I was nervous as it seemed I was sharing my bare naked heart.

But I obeyed.

And here we are. My 500th post.

From this blog my book was birthed, selling over 91,000 so far, not including the recent Spanish edition or audio book.

Just signed my contract for a second book – prayers to go with each devotion.

And they are also creating a journal to go with my book.

All because I obeyed. Even though starting the blog felt really weird.

Trust God and obey. Surrender to what He has for you.

It might be a little scary, but when God asks you to do it, He’ll give you all the strength, wisdom, and peace you need.

Can’t wait to hear what He does through your obedience and surrender to Him. 🙂

Photos by Bartłomiej Balicki, joe ting, Tim Marshall, & Marcos Paulo Prado on Unsplash

Rock & Refuge

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I will rejoice and be glad in your steadfast love, because you have seen my affliction; you have known the distress of my soul, and you have not delivered me into the hand of the enemy; you have set my feet in a broad place. Psalm 31:7-8

Isn’t God good? He sees our affliction. He knows our distress, yet He keeps us safe and sound.

Not only does He keep us safe, He sets us in a strong place.

Psalm 31 begins by David declaring refuge in God.

Putting his trust in God, and asking God to rescue him.

David declares “You are my rock and my fortress”, meaning God is his anchor and protection.

He reminds God “You take me out of the net…for You are my refuge”.

God has continually rescued David, like God has continually rescued you.

God has seen all of it. All of your life, God has seen.

Every moment of every day.

He has seen your deep distress wrapping your mind.

He has seen this, that, and every little bit.

But even while afflicted, David was not handed over to the enemy. God did not allow it.

And while you’ve been afflicted, God has not allowed you to be given over to the devil.

What do I mean?

While in deep dispair, are you still alive?

While struggling with the persecution of others, is your soul still rejoicing in the Lord?

While surrounded with impossible situations, are you still placing your hope and trust in God Almighty?

God has protected your soul from leaving the safety of His refuge.

God has kept you with Him, not allowing the devil to take all of you.

It might seem like the devil has had his way, but it could always be worse.

God could abandon you, and He has not.

He will not.

Instead of allowing the devil to take you away, God has set your feet in a broad place.

Meaning, you are safe.

Yes, keep asking God to rescue you.

Yes, keep begging God to redeem your situation.

But in the midst, thank God for His rock of refuge.

Thank God for seeing your affliction and the distress of your soul.

Thank Him for standing with you in his strong fortress.

Paul reminds us we are more than conquerers in Romans 8:37.

Are you?

You are if you keep yourself hidden in God as He works everything out.

We are more than conquerers through Him in all things, not in spite of them, but in the midst of them. (Oswald Chambers).

Photos by Ben Karpinski, Sead Dedić, Tim Oun, & Simon Berger on Unsplash

Purpose Again

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I keep my eyes always on the LORD. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Psalm 16:8

Recently finished a little project.

Sitting behind a large microphone, I read my entire devotion out loud.

Every single one.

Took over 16 hours and boy was it fun!

I’ve always enjoyed acting or reading aloud to my students or at church, so this adventure was right up my ally.

But, it was so exhausting.

Sitting there, wanting each word to portray the correct emotion or meaning does take it out of you. Went to bed at 8:30 two of the nights!

Listening to my voice in the headphones, it almost seemed surreal.

What, God, do you want me to share? How do you want your message conveyed?

As I kept reading month after month, the message became clear.

Tell them how much I love them.

Tell them how faithful I am to them.

Tell them how faithful I always will be to them.

Warn them of the lies they still believe.

Remind them of their choices between life and death.

Tell them I’ll help them, every step of the way.

Tell them life won’t be easy, but I can give them peace.

Only if they choose Me.

God is so good to us, and we often forget Whose we are or Whose power lives in us.

We forget and forge on alone, battling this and that in our human strength alone.

Purpose again to live for Him.

Purpose again to trust only in Him.

Purpose again to put your hand in His, allowing Him to walk you down the path He has specifically just for you.

Photos by Minku Kang, Karine Germain, and Keith Misner on Unsplash

Time to Pause

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Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him. Psalm 37:7

Stop walking forward.

Pause, just for a moment.

Sometimes we push forward, forgetting to look behind us.

To remember. To refocus. To pause.

While you’re stopped, look around.

What do you see?

There are little bits of glory all around you.

Bursts of God’s miracles in your life.

The awe of creation.

The miracle of life.

Things that make you smile, because God knows you.

Now look behind you.

Do you see God’s faithfulness over the years?

There’s a long line of proof God has walked with you.

Some of it is easy to see, other parts are not.

Looking back should re-anchor your feet as your heart fills with hope again.

Hope as you dwell within the promise of God’s continued faithfulness.

Now look forward.

Do you see the hills and valleys laid out before you?

Or maybe you see a mountain, and you’re not sure what waits beyond.

As you keep God’s faithfulness from the past in your heart, reach out and grab His hand.

You are surrounded by God and all He has done for you.

His faithfulness will remain as you continue to seek Him for your future.

Stop, notice, and remember.

As you reflect often, God will continually fill you with His goodness as you purpose to walk with Him alone.

You might face mountains.

You might face valleys.

But as you take God’s hand, remembering His complete faithfulness, you’ll confidently continue forward.

Why? Because God’s faithfulness is never-ending.

Pause. Notice. And keep moving forward with God.

Photos by Joyce G on Unsplas

God’s Ways

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For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:8-9

How can we possibly understand God’s ways?

Why or how He chooses this or that?

Why did the giant tornado coming towards our house decide to disappear, saving our home and destroying others instead?

Why was another friend diagnosed with cancer and I’m still spared?

Why did God allow my former husband to break up our family?

Why does He allow some things and spare others?

I’ve asked myself this many times.

While I’ve asked, I’ve never allowed myself to question God’s love or faithfulness.

I know He allows things for His purposes.

When we walk through the darkness of life with His peace, the world sees our witness.

And sometimes that’s it. The answer. The why to God allowing this or that.

Our world is chaotic when not dependent on God alone.

That’s why our difference as Christians begs the world to watch.

Will you accept the mantel God gives you?

Whether it’s a sickness, death, or a house torn apart, God’s plan is above all earthly things.

We can ask Him why, but we must never question His love or faithfulness through it all.

He promises to walk through all things with us, our mountain tops, valleys, and everything in between, anchoring our witness to Him and Him alone.

Photos by insung yoon  &  Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Directing Your Steps

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In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. Proverbs 16:9

Does God direct your steps?

Do you allow Him to plan your days?

When you wake up, what is your first thought?

Often we decide what is next.

We decide what is on the agenda.

But is that the very best?

When you look back at your life, what steps will be the most memorable?

Which ones will come to mind?

Sure there are big steps like marriage, the birth of children, the death of loved ones.

But even those are made of little steps in between.

The dating years that led up to your wedding day.

The long days of pregnancy, leading up to the birth.

Years of moments with your loved one before their last.

When you think of your childhood, lots of little steps create the emotion you feel when recalling your youth.

The millions of tiny moments with your children create the fond yearning of wishing to hug their little selves just one more time.

Healthy eating, exercising, or any healthy habit consist of directing step after step.

Bad ones, too, unfortunately, arrive just the same way.

Ask God to direct your steps.

He wants the best for you. The very best.

It’s never too late to start.

And today is a great day to begin.

Photos by Lacey Raper, Renaud Confavreux, Samuel Foster, & Jake Hills on Unsplash

Emmanuel

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To the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. 1 Timothy 1:17

What if Jesus never came?

If there was no Silent Night, Holy Night.

No Away in the Manger.

No O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.

No Merry Christmas.

Life would be pretty different, wouldn’t it?

No hope for us as we are Gentiles.

Not under Jewish law, which would most likely still be the case for the Apple of God’s eye.

The Jewish people.

As Gentiles, we’d probably believe in some pagan god.

Like the Romans or Greeks had.

Sounds depressing.

Shall we dive even deeper?

What if God didn’t even exist?

Like literally, God is not here, there, or anywhere?

If all this life is for nothing?

That when we die, that’s it?

Pretty awful, isn’t it.

Let’s try it.

Are you upset today?

Nobody cares. Nobody to help you. Nobody to give you any peace or hope.

Confused about life and need advice?

Again, nobody cares. Nobody to help you. Nobody to give you any advice at all.

Feeling badly and need healing?

Nobody cares. No hope there. You are stuck suffering for quite awhile.

Want people to do what you want?

Try yelling. Whoever yells the loudest gets their way.

Want something?

Push and shove your way to the front. You deserve it.

Hate the truth?

Is there even truth?

Lying is normal because there is no standard of right and wrong.

Diving deeper still, there is no moral absolutes because there is no God creating order out of chaos.

A life where anything goes.

Chaos is the order of the day.

Every man for himself.

I can’t take it anymore.

Aren’t you just relieved?

We don’t ever have to experience a world without the existence of God.

When we are upset, need advice or healing, God is right there.

In fact He’s always with us.

And He paved the way for our eternal salvation when He sent Jesus on Christmas.

Emmanuel. God with us. Forever

Photos by Erwan Hesry, David Beale, Annie Spratt, & Josh Boot on Unsplash

Christmas Crazy

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

What is Christmas?

What is your initial reaction to the word?

Pressure? Joy? Anticipation?

I’m guessing you feel all three.

I’ve always LOVED Christmas, but my word.

Pressure to shop, wrap, and mail the perfect gifts.

Pressure to plan and host multiple large Christmas dinners.

Pressure to keep up traditions like making grandma’s cookies, gather everyone for Christmas Eve church, and find festive holiday wear.

And don’t forget that family photo. Or scheduling everything when kids have very busy schedules.

Ugh.

It’s too much, isn’t it?

Where did this all come from?

All the pressure to perform.

Pleasing people instead of pleasing God.

Christmas plans are not all bad.

In fact, they’re mostly amazing. They’re purposeful. Full of future memories.

Activities, presents, baking, and creating memories are not what’s bad.

Those things become sour when you remove your focus from God to the season’s needs instead.

When you shift your focus from the baby in the manger to the gifts under the tree. Or the lack of gifts under the tree.

If you recognize that sour feeling start to bubble up, it’s time to prioritize your super long and detailed list.

Start by asking God what He wants for you this Christmas.

Think about your gift list, but don’t obsess.

Bake some cookies, but sneak some in from a friend or, gasp, a mix.

Embrace your new holiday meal of lovingly baked premade lasagna or chili from the crockpot.

Do you even remember each gift from your childhood?

Nope. Your kids won’t either.

Memories are created when surrounded by love and family.

If you focus too hard on making everything perfect, the memories might be soured by your attitude. Or lack of joy.

Christmas is a time for joy.

Joy for our Savior’s precious birth.

And joy from our precious families.

When Jesus was born, all he had was his family.

We don’t need all the stuff in order to make Christmas memorable.

All we need is family and Joy to the World the Lord has come.

Really ponder what God has done for us by sending Jesus into our world.

Nothing else even matters.

Photos by David Beale, Dan Kiefer, Josh Boot, & Bruno Martins on Unsplash

Tasting Suffering

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And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 1 Peter 5:10

How do you identify with Christ’s suffering?

Not a fun topic, I know.

Can’t we all just identify with his happy traits instead of his suffering or forgiveness?

Because Jesus came to earth fully human yet fully God, we can identify with Him when our humanness overwhelmes us.

When life on this earth is less than celebratory.

As mamas, we give our bodies over when producing life.

Our bodies are literally changed forever. Marked with our child.

Further, we give ourselves to them for care.

Whether a child grows within your body or heart, you are forever changed by that child’s mere existence.

Jesus gave his body for us.

He willingly gave up his body for our salvation.

Does all of human creation daily cry out songs of thanksgiving for His sacrifice?

Nope. Not even close.

How many have been lost, not clinging to God’s plan for salvation?

Not recognizing Jesus’ human suffering on the cross for us?

What does Jesus think when those who are lost come to mind?

When those who have rejected His sacrifice beg to do life instead all on their own?

He has compassion.

He sees them through love.

He still wants their heart.

And He doesn’t give up. Ever.

Mothers sometimes get the short end of the stick.

But when we do, we must look to Jesus’ example of love.

He keeps loving even when others don’t love Him back.

Even knowing some would reject His willingness to sacrifice for their eternal life, He still went to the cross for them.

As we keep walking forward during the more uncomfortable times of life, may we look to Jesus’ example and love all anyways.

Photos by Camila Damásio, Larm Rmah, JESHOOTS.COM, &  Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Boundary Waters

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Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life. Proverbs 4:23

Boundaries. Do you have them?

We all create boundaries with many things.

Not accepting a call from an unidentified caller.

Staying in our personal space when out in public.

Not interacting with previous flings while in a serious relationship.

Adhering to the law of paying for what you buy.

Obeying the road’s speed limits.

Ok, maybe not that, but you get the point.

Boundaries are necessary to keep us and others safe.

To keep us under the banner of right and wrong.

How about your time?

Do you create time to recharge?

We all have a limit button, and when that’s pushed, we find ourselves on empty.

Mamas regularly find themselves in this camp.

Running on empty, we continue to give ourselves away when our littles are, well, little.

When mine were young, I scheduled a quiet time right after lunch each day.

My welcome hour of relative peace and quiet.

Baby took a nap, and the other three played, read, or slept on their individual beds.

For one blessed hour all were contained.

And the best part? I was alone.

I needed that time to recharge.

That boundary was my sanity saver.

As they came running out after the hour was up, I was super happy to hug them once again.

What about when kids are older?

On normal nights I had a 9:00 kitchen closed rule.

Stay up however late you want, but you’re in your room after 9pm.

Gave me an hour without any fuss before I went to bed.

Finally, as we recharge ourselves, don’t forget your prayer time with God.

That’s when your heart is focused on Him as you read the Bible and pray.

My time is from 6-6:30am.

I’ve already exercised, showered, and my coffee is nice and hot.

As I drink in the goodness of God (and my coffee!), my mind rests on what is truly important.

And if you have a houseful of children while having your prayer time?

Hang a sign on your door that reads, “Mama loves you, but Mama needs time with Jesus to love you best.”

We all have boundaries, and they usually lead to our personalities or preferences.

Certain boundaries are necessary to fully give your best.

As you regularly pour out your life to others, make sure you carve out time for Jesus to pour into yours.

After all, you matter just as much the others you care so very much about.

Photos by Annie Spratt, Sue Winston, Daria Lyalyulina, & Masaaki Komori on Unsplash

Living Within God’s Presence

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Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. 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 25:4-5

Picture living within the blessing of God.

Within His purpose for your life.

What does that look like?

Peace resonating from the depths of your toes.

Comfort knowing you are obeying God’s will for your length of days.

An absence of fear knowing God is right by your side.

Sound good?

Of course it does.

Let’s keep going.

Living within God initiates a constant conversation with Him.

After all, it’s not possible to know Him without talking with Him. Constantly.

You begin to share all the details of your day.

As they happen.

No, you’re not literally talking out loud all the live long day, but you know, in your head.

Constantly referring everything back to God.

Asking Him for wisdom.

Patience.

Mercy and love.

As you are tempted to look within yourself for solutions, fear creeps back.

Like an old weed that never completely dies, it rears its ugly head at the least likely moment.

But when you live within the presence of God, you don’t allow that weed to take root.

You cancel the lie with the truth of God.

You push the worry away as you remind your brain how God is in control.

Your heart remains at peace while you purpose again to focus on God. On His truth.

When you choose to live within God’s presence, it’s a moment by moment choice.

You purpose to focus on God.

And when you forget, you plop yourself back into His arms as you again refocus your brain.

Training yourself takes time.

Retraining your brain that is.

But as you choose God moment by moment, it will become easier and easier.

Before you know it, you’ll react less within yourself when life bumps you.

Our life has so many choices.

Too many if you ask me.

But there’s one choice that is easy to make: choosing to focus on God.

Ask God to help you and He will be more than happy to accommodate you.

After all, He loves you like nothing else.

Photos by Luke Thornton, Pascal Bullan, Elijah Grimm, & Allef Vinicius on Unsplash

Known

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Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. 1 John 4:8

God sees you when you’re ill.

When you’re a lump buried under blankets on the couch, hacking loudly.

God sees you when you’re healthy.

At the top of your game, running this way and that at full speed.

God sees you when you’re sad.

He sits with you, drying your tears with His hand on your shoulder.

God sees you when you’re happy.

He smiles when you break out into hearty laughter, filling the room with joy.

God sees you when you’re afraid.

He walks beside you, covering you with His protection.

God sees you when you’re fearless.

He stands beside you, shielding you from the enemy’s fire.

God sees you every moment of every day.

He sees you in every mood, whim, feeling, or ability.

While we tend to fluctuate wildly, God never does.

His steady hand is always there to bring you peace.

To bring you His peace, strength, and hope.

Healing you when you’re less than and rejoicing with you when you’re good.

Nothing we can do is away from His sight.

How precious it is to be known by God.

Photos by Daiga Ellaby, Travis Grossen, chen lei, & David Beale 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

Minutes in Hell

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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

As we remember September 11th, the iconic images float before us once again.

A tower on fire.

Screaming sirens.

Plane slamming into the other tower.

Confused faces.

Firefighters running towards the chaos.

Blackness engulfing as the towers fall.

Silence and death creeping towards more victims.

We saw it in real time. We witnessed the horror. We try to make sense of the evil we saw.

Can you imagine the terror overtaking those souls as they waited in hell?

47 minutes. How long Flight 11 was in the air before slamming into the North tower.

48 minutes. How long Flight 175 was in the air before crashing into the South tower.

34 minutes. How long Flight 93 knew they were hijacked before crashing themselves to the ground in PA.

56 minutes. How long the South tower was on fire before collapsing to the ground.

100 minutes. How long the North tower was on fire before collapsing to the ground.

Minutes that seemed like eternity.

Minutes lived in uncertainty and fear.

Minutes which became their last.

Those in the planes or towers suffered while waiting.

Waiting for certain death on the plane or the unknown in the tower.

In an instant all went to meet their Maker.

Were they ready?

Were they ready to meet God?

We never know when our last day will arrive.

Could be today, could be tomorrow.

Or maybe in a few years.

Guessing none of these precious people even thought about death that morning before events erupted.

But that didn’t matter, did it.

We must be ready today as God doesn’t guarantee our tomorrows.

As those precious people waited long minutes in hell, their life ended, quitting the turmoil surrounding their end.

But if we are appointed to meet God, and we’re not ready?

Our hell will last for all of eternity.

Those minutes will evolve into hours, days, months, years, and decades, turning onto forever.

Forever separated from God.

Forever living in agony.

Forever living in hell.

We try to imagine the hellish moments endured by those precious people on September 11th.

We cry out from the depths of our souls at the injustice of their suffering.

Yet it will be nothing compared to our eternity apart from God.

The choice is still yours.

Where will you spend eternity?

Choose wisely. God has already chosen you.

Photos by Martina Mainetti, Aidan Bartos, Tim Mossholder, & Ben White on Unsplash