Tag: Trust

Does It Depend?

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And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you. Psalm 9:10

When Jesus doesn’t give you what you want…

When your arms remain empty…

When you fall upon your knees in prayer and God’s reply seems to be no…

What then? What is your response?

Take matters into your own hands because you know better than God?

Trust yourself instead because deep down you believe He doesn’t really care or understand you?

We often stoop to unbelief when unable to see over the horizon.

And when we’re full of ourselves, our eyes seem to fail us.

It’s like we can’t see over the horizon to God’s plans because me, myself, and I get in the way.

But God can and does see it all. Your everything. He made your now, your horizon, and beyond.

Is God’s no because God is so very mean?

Could God be protecting you instead?

Maybe He is going to give you something way better – but we refuse to see that (or even look) because our vision demands to be satisfied in the present. Right this very second.

Either you believe God has your back or He doesn’t.

Look behind at all of His faithfulness demonstrated to you over years and years.

He’s been faithful when you’ve danced for joy before Him and when you’ve pouted in the corner.

He will also prove to be faithful in your wants. Your nows.

Thank Him for giving you His very best.

And keep trusting Him when you like what you see and even when you don’t.

Photos by Alinson torres, Irvin Aloise, Maëva Vigier, & Ugne Vasyliute 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

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

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

Zipping Your Lips

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Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. Philippians 2:14-15

What are God’s purposes for you on this earth? To glorify Him, and you cannot do that while complaining.

You’ll also live caught in the web of self-condemnation, probably in a bad mood most of the time when your speech is perverse.

Subsequently, your witness for God is tarnished.

Sends others off screaming in the other direction.

So how do we glorify God when we feel like complaining?

We praise him anyway.

We choose to push aside the complaining thoughts, praising God instead. Even if.

When we choose to continue trusting God as life tempts us to sour – that’s when our witness shines. That’s when God’s transformation of our very selves shines brighter.

It’s how the world sees the difference God makes in our lives.

So if we choose to complain every time things go south, we’re absolutely no different from the world.

They complain, too.

But if instead you choose praising God in the midst, choosing to trust him instead of your circumstances, you’ll show the world how good God is.

How trustworthy He remains. How much better off you are with Him by your side. How much you need Him as life often deals badly.

Your purpose on this earth is to glorify God, reflecting Him to others.

Draw them today, instead of leading them away.

Photos by Kristina Flour, Jelleke Vanooteghem, Richard Bell, & Naassom Azevedo on Unsplash

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

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

When God Warns You

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When they [the wisemen] had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.” Matthew 2:13

God has plans and warns us in advance.

God’s warning might be a soft whisper, a quickening in your spirit, or a word from another.

Or, God might warn you in a dream, specifically outlining your next move and why.

That’s how God warned Joseph after the wisemen left their visit with Jesus.

God knew Herod’s plans and warned Joseph to escape.

And Joseph obeyed.

Reminds me of a dream I once had.

Living in a ground level apartment, our bedroom had a sliding door.

I had it open with the screen locked for a nice breeze.

Dreamt someone was in our home, stealing whatever they wished.

Woke me up. I stared at the gently blowing curtain.

Getting out of bed, I knew I should shut and lock the door.

Pulling aside the curtain, I saw a man. An intruder.

His hand was on the other side, trying to open it.

He ran away as I immediately slammed the door shut, locking it.

Collapsing on the bed with fright, I thanked God for warning me in my dream.

Can you imagine if he hadn’t? We had an infant in our room. A two-year old next door.

But all was well. God had perfectly protected us.

In life we will have trials due to the world in which we live.

But rest assured God has plans for you.

And if His plans for you need to be protected, He will warn you.

God’s plan could include heartache as you witness to the world God’s grace, mercy and love while enduring what he allows.

It could also include death as many martyrs can attest.

As Joseph trusted God to lead his family, we can trust God to lead us, too.

Lead us, God, into what You have for us.

Protect us from the schemes of the enemy as You foil his plans.

And deepen our trust in You as we fully submit to Your plans for us again and again.

Photos by Tanya Barrow, Brooke Balentine, Inbal Malca, & David Ballew 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

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

Your Reflection

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In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:16

How well do you reflect Jesus?

Does your face reflect His love?

Do your actions replicate His compassion?

Do your words reflect His leadership, wisdom, and grace?

This morning as I looked out my large back window, I noticed something.

Overlooking a large space, I can see for over a mile.

On the horizon was a brilliant burst of sunlight.

Blinding almost.

It was twinkling, extending its rays like when you look at the sun.

But it was tiny as it was far away.

My first thought was, “Oh, the sun is peeking up.”

But immediately I dismissed that thought because the sun rises on the other side of my house!

Then I realized what I was looking at.

A reflection.

A brilliant reflection of the sun.

The sun was hitting this spot just perfectly, lighting it up as if it were the sun.

Which made me wonder about us.

How brilliantly do we reflect Jesus?

When we are selfish, we don’t shine.

When we surround ourselves with misery, we don’t shine.

Walking with self-pity, we certainly don’t shine either.

And when we cling to fear, rejection, and despair, we are pretty dull as well.

Purpose again to praise God especially when walking life’s troubled road.

Trust God when you cannot see the road or even when you can.

Let your light shine so others may see Jesus.

Reflect Him so well, others cannot help but bow their knee to the One who created all things.

Photos by Ivana Cajina, Jonathan Borba, Josh Boot, & Oscar Ivan Esquivel Arteaga on Unsplash

Tired Like a Mama

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And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat……And they went away…..When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them… Mark 6:30-34

Jesus preached and worked all the live long day.

Every day, tirelessly, He fed His sheep.

But even Jesus wanted rest.

But when He tried, the crowds would run to find Him.

And He would begin again, feeding them. Healing them. Helping them.

As mamas, our children tend to find us, too.

We try to get away, but it’s never for more than a few minutes.

You hide in the bathroom.

Pretty soon, you hear the little feet outside your door. A timid knock. You reply, “Just a minute!”

You lay your tired head down to sleep, and your baby awakens, demanding attention.

You try sleeping in past the ungodly hour of 6am, but the dog comes in with a note on its back, asking for pancakes. Pancakes?

When babies are little, you carry them everywhere with you.

Bedtime? They are next to you in a cradle.

Want a shower? You bring them to the floor in a bouncy seat.

Just starting to walk? They are always within view.

Going anywhere? Guess who is coming with you!

Yes, we have moments where they nap.

Yes, we have moments when they’re occupied and you can catch your breath.

But the constant parenting is never ending, even when they’re older.

I’m convinced tired mamas are under God’s wings.

He knows dog tired as He was so many times while walking this earth.

Humans are exhausting.

But here’s the good news: God is never exhausted.

He has unlimited strength to give you.

Jesus experienced human tiredness as He was fully human, yet fully God.

And He remembers.

Ask Him to fill you with His strength. His peace. His joy.

And smile, because He understands tired.

He gets it!

So if you’re in the season of tired mama stuff, take heart.

God understands. And I promise it will end, but not soon enough, I know.

And if you’re plain tired from reasons other than helping tiny humans survive, God’s ready to fill you up with His strength, too.

Because when we are weak, He is strong. So very strong.

Photos by Jon Flobrant, Ephraim Mayrena, Olivia Snow, & Sai De Silva 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

Your Glory

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Good sense makes one slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook an offense. Proverbs 19:11

This verse is not an easy one to read.

It’s way more fun to keep an offense, especially when you’re completely justified.

And we always are justified in our own mind, yes?

Looking at the first part, it’s easy to understand.

When we have good sense, meaning solid countenance or common sense, we don’t get angry often.

We don’t allow anger to grab us when we are in our right minds.

Trouble is, other people cause us to exit our good sense, trying to justify our offense at them.

After all, they wronged us! It’s not fair!

When we have good sense, we focus on Whose we are.

Our feet are solidly planted in our relationship with God first.

We know God is living through us, and we fully trust Him to provide us His strength, wisdom, and peace.

Could even be that we ask God how to react before we do. We train our brain to do just that. Putting God first.

So, back to the ouchy part of the verse: not taking offense.

Proverbs says it’s our glory to overlook an offense.

Means we could be offended, but we choose not to be.

Because we remain peaceful, the glory is still ours.

Our mood isn’t in the toilet.

Clouds are not hanging around.

Others can be down in the dumps, but we’re not.

It’s still sunny where we’re at, because we are choosing not to associate with the other person’s offensive behavior.

It’s their problem, not ours.

Is it more fun to take their offense and make them pay?

Sure.

But in the process, you are robbed of peace. You are robbed of minutes or hours, stewing in what they did to you. You are robbed of God’s glory shining through you.

Jesus could have put people verbally down so many times, but he regularly chose to overlook offenses.

And glory remained His.

You can pity others, if it helps.

You can feel badly they are stuck in the mud of getting back at life.

But don’t stay there or you’ll think of yourself as better than them.

And that’s almost as bad as keeping an offense.

So shrug them off.

Remain steadfast in God’s good sense.

And keep your glory as you overlook the other’s offense.

It’s hard, but it’s completely worth it.

Photos by Ingmar H, Gene Dizon, Patrick Fore, & name_ gravity 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

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

Sneaky Lies

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So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate. Genesis 3:6

Adam and Eve were living in the Garden of Eden.

Spectacular food, unspoiled by death or disease.

Can you imagine how flavorful it was?

Probably beyond our wildest dreams.

Gorgeous scenery.

Lounging animals.

No schedules or work demands.

Talking with God every evening.

Just the two of them in paradise.

For how long had they been enjoying God’s creation?

Not sure. But it definately ended abruptly.

There were two trees alone in their glory: the tree of life and the tree of knowledge of good and evil.

The Bible clearly states the second tree was off limits. Completely.

No eating from the knowledge of good and evil tree.

It was God’s protection over them.

One day a serpent opened its mouth and talked to Eve.

Was that unusual? Having an animal or reptile talk to you?

Eve doesn’t act surprised. In fact she listens to what it has to say.

Eve had all the knowledge of God’s goodness surrounding her each and every day.

She talked with God every day.

Yet she chose to believe the serpent instead.

The serpent told her the forbidden tree would make her wise like God.

When those words were spoken, Eve’s eyes were convinced of its truth.

She saw the tree as good for her.

She saw a lie as truth.

What lies do you see as truth?

Lies about yourself? Others? Your future?

Eve didn’t consult Adam. She merely repeated the lie as fact.

And Adam believed it, too.

Instead of consulting each other and then asking God, who created all things, they believed a lie.

True, they did not understand lies existed, as they lived in a perfectly created world.

But the words went against all God had spoken to them.

Ask God today what lies you currently believe as truth.

Seek His truth over all things in your carnal mind.

We don’t have the luxury of living in the Garden of Eden.

But we do have access to God.

He wants to talk with you every day, too.

Filter your thoughts with His, seeing through Satan’s sneaky lies.

Photos by niko photos, Jeroen den Otter, Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦, & Sixteen Miles Out on Unsplash

Flip It!

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Those who trust in and wait on him will not be put to shame. Psalm 22:5

What crushing disappointment has sent you into despair?

Or maybe it’s just a simple one, causing you to question your entire life?

Or maybe the direction you thought God wanted for you is a clear NO?

Ok, maybe I’m being a bit dramatic. Let’s take it down a notch.

When you are faced with a NO from God, what is your reaction?

Despair? Anxiety? Begging for Him to open the right doors when He’s clearly shut one?

Questioning yourself, your actions, and God’s actions as well?

Scheming how to change the situation so it will fit into God’s plan for your life?

We all do it, right?

But when disappointment stares us in the face, what if we flipped it over?

What if we flipped disappointment over, revealing God’s hope and peace?

As someone who trusts God for your every breath, you want to remain within God’s plan for you, yes?

You want to remain obedient to what God has for you.

And your NO from God is just that. An answer from God.

Your NO is God keeping you right where He wants you.

Underneath His protection, grace, and plans for the amazing future He has for you.

As you patiently seek God, waiting for His YES, smile.

Smile at your disappointment, because God has even better plans for you.

Yes, you might be disappointed for the moment, but you can smile, knowing God is looking out for you.

He’s planning something even better.

The wait will be totally worth it.

Photos by Jonathan Marchal, Wes Hicks, Christopher Machicoane-Hurtaud, & Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Thinking of You

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How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! If I would count them, they are more than the sand. I awake, and I am still with you. Psalm 139:17-18

Before Jesus was born, God was thinking of you.

Deciding to send Jesus to earth, God had you on His mind.

Because God was thinking of you, He sent His son, Jesus, to earth.

For you and for me.

Because He was thinking of us.

He wants us in a relationship with Him.

And because of sin, a relationship with us is impossible.

Except for the sacrifice of Jesus, God’s son.

Jesus died on the cross to pay for our sins.

Our sins separate us from God.

But when we trust Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we are covered by His sacrifice.

Our sins are wiped away.

Completely. Totally. Forever wiped from our record.

Even though you were years away from the time of Jesus, God thought of you before that first Christmas Day.

Over two thousand years before you were born, God thought of you and your eternity with Him forever.

God thought of you when He sent His son to die.

God thought of you that first Christmas morning.

God thought of you when He set the plan in motion.

When Gabriel was talking to Mary, God was thinking of you.

He was thinking of everyone who would be impacted by this earth shaking event.

God thought of you then, and He’s thinking of you now.

You are constantly in His thoughts.

Thoughts for good all the days of your life.

As you embrace this precious Christmas season, turn your thoughts to God.

He’s already thinking of you.

Photos by Pascal Debrunner 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

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

Come On, Let’s Go!

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For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him. Psalm 62:5

My first phrase as a child, was something like, “Come on, group, let’s go!”

I’ve always wanted to keep the move on.

Forget ahead.

Time is wasting!

Are you waiting on God for anything?

Usually we are as we always want something.

Are you waiting for God’s timing on something specific?

Or directions as you know something is about to change?

When waiting on God, we tend to wrap ourselves up in what we want.

What we want when we want it.

And that’s like now, right?

Or yesterday!

But there’s more.

When we are waiting on God, we tend to become anxious or worried as things are not moving fast enough for us.

And we become anxious because we think we know best.

Better than God.

And when we dwell on what we think should happen, and begin to feel anxious as we wait, fear moves right on in.

Worry and anxiety do not reveal God’s plans, instead keeping us bound to fear.

Do you want to see God’s plans?

Keep trusting Him, asking Him to reveal them to you in His perfect timing.

In the mean time, trust.

Trust He’s on the move.

Trust He’s got the plans.

And trust He knows best for you.

He’ll nudge you to move here and there.

And when He does, make sure to pay attention.

Don’t just sit there as a lump on the log, waiting for God to do everything for you.

When you pray and wait, actively participate in His plan. His solution.

Allow Him to work through you as you wait and as you walk into His future planned just for you.

Photos by Scott Higdon, Pawel Tadejko, Max Goncharov, & Daiga Ellaby 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

Bye, Bye Bacteria

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My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26

Well today, I’m a bit grumpy.

Just over two days ago, my face erupted again into a painful bacteria infection.

Folks, it’s ugly inside and out.

The pain and burning is like nothing I’ve ever experienced.

Except for the last time this happened.

Three months ago, was my first time driving down into the depths of you know where with my bacteria enemy.

That time was worse as I did not have medicine right away, and when I finally got some, it didn’t work, leading me into another round a few days later.

Sheer misery.

Like this time.

Except this time, I was able to score the drugs that worked. On the first day!

Still waiting for them to wipe it all away, but I’m thankful.

That was God’s handiwork.

He’s also helped me through friends, knowledgeable in healing me with natural products.

I’ve become a walking experiment.

Oregano oil is really awful, but helps heal wounds and fights bad bacteria.

Worth it.

Coconut oil (not melted as I don’t care anymore) can be eaten instead of swallowed.

Really helps destroy bad bacteria, which I am in dire need of.

I picture the medicine and oils running around my body, searching to destroy the bad bacteria when sighted.

I could go on with a few more examples, but you get the point.

When we are ill, we become desperate for it to end. Yes?

Desperate enough to ingest things I never thought I would!

Makes me wonder how desperate we are for God.

It’s easy to ignore Him when life is expected. Calm.

But those are the times we should continue clinging to Him, expressing our gratitude for all He does for us.

For all He is for us.

So here I sit. Waiting.

Waiting on God to move or use the tools handed to me for relief.

But that’s ok.

Waiting before God begs us to trust Him.

To trust this too shall end.

He will come through.

I know this because of all the ways He’s been faithful to me.

What do you need to lay before the Lord today?

What do you need to trust God with, even when you seem stuck where you are?

Be still and know that He is God. Psalm 46:10

Photos by Kristine Wook, kazuend, &Sixteen Miles Out 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

Broken Bars

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

The Israelites were slaves in Egypt for a long time.

One day is actually too much.

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

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

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

They were no longer prisoners.

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

Ever tried to carry something heavy or awkward?

We usually stoop at least a bit.

Or what about internal burdens not physically seen?

Those are usually bigger.

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

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

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

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

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

Eager to break out of your prison?

Have you given your burdensome yoke to God?

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

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

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

Walk uprightly. Smile. Look others in the eyes.

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

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

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

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

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

God is more powerful than your burden.

Allow Him to take it off.

He’ll even help you with the transfer.

Now don’t worry about where He put it.

Just pray and trust Him instead.

Doesn’t it feel great to stand tall again?

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

Scattering Seeds

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

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

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

God’s timing is not always our timing.

Preaching to the choir, I know.

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

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

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

And part of our call is to be His witness.

God’s hands and feet to those we meet.

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

You might be the one who scatters that seed.

Or maybe you planted a seed specifically.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let me give you an example.

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

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

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

Did I plant them? Nope.

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

And this spring, I am enjoying the harvest.

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

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

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

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

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

Tears

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

God takes no pleasure in watching us suffer.

He is moved when we are troubled.

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

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

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

He anticipates our gut wrenching grief.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Just imagine how He loves us so.

Wanting to witness our joys, never our sorrows.

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

God witnessed the death of His Son.

Because of this, we can rest assured God understands.

He understands pain, and the purpose of pain.

The purpose of sacrifice.

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

God, who created you, understands.

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

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

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

Trusting God, Still

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

Still I trust You, God.

Even when life throws me down.

Still I will trust You, God.

Even when a loved one passes on from this earth.

When my heart tears open once again.

Still I will trust You, God.

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

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

Still I trust You, God.

When life doesn’t make sense.

When I’m too tired to care much anymore.

Still I trust You, God.

When everything certain seems to disappear,

You, God, remain still.

You remain with me every moment of every day.

You hem me in behind, beside, and before.

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

Nothing in this world compares to You.

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

Even when life becomes too hard or very much real.

That’s why I trust You still.

And I always will.

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

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

Smoke Alarm

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

You’re exhausted from a long day at work.

Arriving home, you plop into your chair.

You smell something slightly off, but ignore it.

Doesn’t seem important.

Your spouse comes to you, mentioning the smell.

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

After all, your authority stands as gospel.

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

Coughing, you can barely breathe.

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

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

You’ve lost everything.

And so has your spouse.

Everything except for each other.

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

The tiny flame would have been easy to stamp out.

But the tiny flame grew into a total loss.

Nothing left.

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

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

Satan does not want your marriage to thrive.

He wants to whisk away your children.

He wants to distract you from your relationship with God.

And he wants to destroy your peace on earth.

Be on alert, reacting with those Holy Spirit nudges.

Takes humility. Perseverance. Strength. Focus.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Holding Onto What?

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

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

What are you keeping closer to your heart than God?

God’s promises are for you.

You. His beloved.

But only when you surrender everything.

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

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

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

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

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

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

To Him and Him alone. God, that is.

When your spouse repeatedly disappoints you, should that matter?

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

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

Keep pursuing what God has for you.

Keep placing your trust into His hands.

Keep surrendering your life to Him.

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

All He wants is you.

All of you.

Even the dark parts.

Let Him make everything new.

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

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

Faithful in Little Things

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

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

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

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

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

I brought it especially for today.

For today’s offering.

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

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

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

Thinking nothing of it afterwards, a new day dawns.

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

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

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

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

I am amazed.

Like, for real.

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

They stand out from the others. Crystal clear.

I think it’s all part of God’s plan.

We need to remember glimpses of His faithfulness.

His provision.

Proof He sees us. All of us.

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

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

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

Every little detail is inspected by God.

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

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

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

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

Worshipping Even If

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We’re all so different.

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

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

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

The man in front of me was distracted.

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

Not worshipping at all.

A few rows up, another man stood to worship.

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

One of his arms was useless. Literally.

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

He was engaged, giving his best to our Lord.

Near the alter was a third man.

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

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

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

The man sitting on his phone was missing out.

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

Normal body. Normal mind.

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

But their focus was on God.

The absence of conflict creates complacency.

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

Why would we need God?

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

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

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

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

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

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

My life has not been what I pictured.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rebuilding

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But now, I will heal and mend them. I will make them whole and bless them with an abundance of peace and security. Jeremiah 33:6

It was an incredibly beautiful picture.

Stunning, in fact.

Worth millions.

One day, cracks appeared.

Before you knew it, the picture literally crumbled.

Shattered into a million little pieces.

God allowed it to break.

Your picture. The priceless one.

But when He allows it to break, He doesn’t leave it in a pile of mismatched pieces.

Nope. He helps you put it back together.

Will it look the same? Nope.

Can’t.

But God, through His mercy and grace, has an even better picture for you.

Might take awhile. But rest as it’s all in God’s perfect timing.

Jeremiah reminds us God will make us whole.

And He will do it.

As He builds your new picture, some of the old pieces will fit. Others won’t.

It’s not your job to fashion, as He holds the directions.

He knows. All you have to do is sit back, allowing Him to use whatever tool He deems necessary.

Might be messy. In fact, it will be.

Very messy.

There will be times when you don’t understand the way He is rebuilding your picture.

You might even question it.

But don’t give up.

Don’t walk away with an unfinished picture.

Trust Him fully as He is the only one who can rebuild your picture absolutely perfectly.

He knows where each piece fits.

And He’s got new pieces, too.

The pieces He allows to stay will shine brightly as they have been touched by the hand of God.

Healed by His precious peace.

So keep going. Keep holding out your future to His capable hands.

Bring everything to His feet and He will rebuild your picture so it looks just right.

And you’ll love it, I promise.

Photos by Brigitta Schneiter, sarandy westfall, pine watt, Mauricio Sabino, & Olivia Snow on Unsplash

Allowing Afflictions

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It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes. Psalm 119:71

Are you happy when God allows affliction?

Do you see it is good?

We know God is in control and always has your very best interest in His mind.

When He allows affliction, we learn so much more.

Right?

We learn absolute trust in God when our life falls apart.

We learn to seek His wisdom when nothing makes earthly sense anymore.

And we remember Whose we are when rejected by those we love.

Yes, you can argue, we can know these things during the mountain tops of life.

And I would agree with you.

But in the valley, we need God.

We need God unlike anything else.

We depend upon God in the valley when we cannot see the next step.

We listen for His voice in the valley as confusion seeks to keep us down.

And we cling to His arm, guiding us safely through the storm.

God in His goodness allows afflictions so we may know Him deeper.

Keep trusting Him in the storm as you are merely between miracles.

The sun will soon come out and you’ll walk out holding a deeper relationship with God.

Totally worth it even when it hurts.

Photos by Anthony Tran, Олександр К, & Aaron Burden on Unsplash

More Than Able

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

Are you ready for God to work in your life?

He is.

He is more than ready.

Are you?

Are you willing to put in the work?

Meaning, set yourself aside so God can use you?

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

It could cost relationships that are dear to you.

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

And it could cost you your very life.

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

Imagine allowing Him to use you as He sees fit.

He has great plans for you.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Apart from God, we are one thing.

But working together with Him is another matter entirely.

Choose Him afresh.

Place your little life into His capable hands.

React how He wants you to react.

Love how He wants you to love.

And live how He wants you to live.

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

Photos by Marivi Pazos & Margaret Jaszowska on Unsplash

Hannah’s Submission

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There is none holy like the Lord; for there is none besides you; there is no rock like our God. 1 Samuel 2:2

Hannah proclaimed these words from her lips as she gave up her child back to God.

Her long-awaited child. The child who she longed to have.

She had made a promise to God to give him back.

Was she despondent? Or at least grieving?

Probably. But her lips declared the glory of God.

His holiness. His sovereignty. His steadfastness.

Hannah’s trust in God was more than her desire for earthly pleasures.

In her case, the continued joy of motherhood.

Hannah cared more about her promise to God than the cries of her flesh.

She chose God.

What about you?

What in your life do you need to trust God more fully?

What has God asked of you, yet you ignore, succumbing to your flesh instead?

God is holy. He is omniscient. He is above all things. And He is your rock.

What could be better than that?

Nothing this world offers, I guarantee you.

Remember Hannah’s words.

Lift up your praise to God, who deserves nothing less.

And as you choose His will over yours, He will faithfully fulfill His promises to you.

Guaranteed.

Photos by Liv Bruce, Thandy Yung, Xavier Mouton Photographie, & Volodymyr Hryshchenko on Unsplash

John 10:4

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When He has brought out all His own, He goes before them, and the sheep follow Him, for they know His voice. John 10:4

When we place our lives into God’s hands, He guides us.

We trust Him and in return, He guides us step by step.

Can be comforting when you realize Who is now in control.

Even when He leads you into the dark.

When God guides us into an ugly part of life, what do you think He feels?

Does God seek to cause us pain?

Does He enjoy watching us suffer?

Absolutely not.

It pains God to see us suffer.

But He sees the bigger picture, even when we do not.

He knows what must be endured in order to gain victory.

He knows we must walk through certain things life throws at us.

But when we trust Him through these times, God’s peace remains.

Trusting God in the dark is difficult, but we have help.

Romans 8:34 reminds us that Jesus, too, intercedes on our behalf.

Incredible.

God is Sovereign.

He was in our past, remains in our present, and will always abide with us in our future.

He knows absolutely all things.

As our Father, He blesses us, sometimes allowing pain, knowing the path we must face.

But He is always with us no matter what meets us.

Imagine.

God, who created ALL things, walks with us each and every day.

He longs to know you.

To be your all in all.

As you walk, run, or crawl through life’s days, remember to take His hand.

He will squeeze it with comfort on those ugly days.

And He will grasp it with joy on the beautiful days.

And all the ordinary days in between, He will remain Your most faithful friend.

So cry with God when you have hard times.

And let Him rejoice with you when things are amazing.

Trust Him as He brings you out, guiding you with Himself.

For when you trust Him, you are His sheep, guided by His voice as He goes before you every step.

Photos by Sam Carter, Michelle McEwen, Joe Green, City Church Christchurch, & Mitchell Orr on Unsplash

Warsaw Grit

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

Recently finished a book one of my daughters gave me for Christmas.

Love WW2 historical fiction as it draws me into a time where heroes multiply.

Reading about Dr. Korczak, a teacher who ran his orphanage full of parentless children, was touching to say the least.

While in the ghetto, he began working with another hero Irena Sendler, a Warsaw woman who saved over 2,500 children during the war.

Reading about Irena made me smile as I had just finished a book about her.

I love it when books talk about each other.

Dr. Korczak had to move his orphanage into the Warsaw ghetto, a small section of the city authorities forcefully moved all Jews.

Who was working to smuggle children to freedom?

Irena. The two met regularly, working to save those they could.

Dr. Korczak’s book ends with soldiers marching his orphaned children down the street into the waiting train cars.

He would not leave them.

They needed him. Even unto death.

As they left, he encouraged singing, one boy playing his violin as they emptied the streets of their voices.

Irena saw him go and wept.

While reading Irena’s book, she described the child’s parade out of the ghetto. Extremely moving.

I thought to myself, what an example of pure love.

Dr. Korczak had multiple opportunities to escape the ghetto, forging a new life for himself with a new identity.

But he refused to leave.

He refused to leave his family. His children who counted on him.

They were his family.

While he was unmarried and without natural children, he was a father to hundreds.

A hero.

The love he exhibited was so deep, it touched the hearts of everyone around him.

But you know what? God loves you even more than that.

From the day you were born, He continues to smile at you.

He weeps when you weep.

And He smiles when you smile.

God sees you. The whole you and He loves you so very much.

Creating you for such good things, do you trust Him for your everything?

Release your future into His hands.

Rest in the knowledge that He holds your today, your yesterday, and all of your tomorrows.

Just like Dr. Korczak led his children in good times and bad, God will go to the ends of all the world with you.

Because He loves you just as you are.

Photos by Sixteen Miles Out, Anita Austvika, Piron Guillaume, Andrew Yurkiv, & Caroline Hernandez 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