Thanksgiving Praise

It's been awhile since I managed to update my blog, but that does not mean God ceased working in my life!  And I am so grateful for HIS consistency - even when I'm not!

This morning I was reading in Psalms 50 out of the International Standard Version and a few verses really stood out to me.  This chapter is God speaking to the Israelites:

• "I will no longer accept a sacrificial bull from your household; nor goats from your pens.  Indeed, every animal of the forest is mine . . . " verses 9,10
• "Offer to God a thanksgiving praise; pay your vows to the Most High." verse 14
• "Whoever offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving glorifies me, and I will reveal the salvation of God to whomever continues in my way." Verse 23

When reading verse 9, I realized that I had always thought it was in the New Testament that the sacrificial offerings were discarded, but it sure sounds like He's doing away with them here.  The next verses that stood out to me remind me once again of the importance of gratitude. 

As I contemplated the idea of "a sacrifice of thanksgiving", I realized that in our humanness, it can indeed sometimes be a sacrifice to focus on gratitude.  It seems that in some circles, whining and complaining about life is the "in" thing to do and if instead I am focused on gratitude I don't necessarily fit in very well.  Sometimes the sacrifice is even more personal.  Some days I don't want to give up my own whining.  I want to wallow in it and feel justified for a bad attitude and bad behaviors. 

Father, forgive me!  I am indeed grateful for all you have done in my life and all you continue to do!  I realize that to whine and complain is to speak against your leadership and I am horrified at my foolishness.  Father, I AM grateful for your leadership - despite my foolish grumbling at times.  You are an amazing God and I've seen over and over again that You can be trusted to keep me on the right path and keep my foot from slipping. (Ps. 16:11 and 121:3 among others!)   When I do as you have guided me to do - even when I don't see how it can all work out - I get to watch you perform miracles in my life and I am so grateful!  Thank you that indeed "keep everything running right". (Ps 119:164)

I am reminded of an experience I had last weekend.  I had been kept pretty busy and was feeling pretty overwhelmed at all that needed to be done.  And yet, it was well past time for us to host another "game night" for family and friends.  I've been raised to believe you do your work FIRST, before you play, but God kept telling me "people come first".  So - instead of using that night to get more of my work done, I played games.  The next day as the weight of my deadline loomed, I had to keep reminding myself, "God is in charge and He knows what is best."  And He really came through for me.  He truly is able to make "time stand still" (Joshua 10:13, etc.), and to "make my paths straight" (Is. 42:16, etc).  I saw what looked to be detours turn into straight paths and things take 1/4 of the time they usually would as I was able to complete what needed to be done to meet my deadline!  God is amazing!

Father, you are indeed to be praised!  As the Psalmist says, "Great is our God and greatly to be praised"! (Ps. 48:1)  Thank you for your generous leading.  Thank you that you can be trusted to fulfill your promises and to lead us safely on our journey through life.  I am indeed grateful, Father! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

I CAN do it!

but he has told me, “My grace is all you need, because my power is perfected in weakness.”  - 2 Corinthians 12:9 ISV

Yesterday I awoke with this verse in my head.  I intended to blog about it, but didn't manage to do so.  This morning as I awakened, I remembered there had been something I wanted to blog about but couldn't remember what it was.  I asked God what it was and immediately this verse was once again in my head.  The miracle of that sudden recall was enough to send me directly to my blog to write about it - so here I am.

First the background for this story.  Toward the end of January I was approached about the idea of teaching a beginners class this summer.  Now, the truth for me is that teaching a beginner's class scares me much more than the higher level class I've been teaching. With a higher level class, there are certain assumptions I can make when teaching and because of this the teaching methods are different.  However, I knew that it was important to be open to the possibilities presented to me, so I indicated my willingness to teach the class and was told they would get back to me.

Months went by.  By mid-April I decided I better e-mail them about it because if we were going to advertise a summer class, the advertising needed to be in by early May.  Time passed and I received no reply to my e-mail.  I figured that meant it was not going to happen and I proceeded to begin making other plans.  Then, out of the blue, about a week ago, I received a phone call saying they thought there were enough students and we would need to start right away!  However, we were not available on the night they wanted to hold class, so it STILL wasn't certain.  They said they would check with the students about holding class on a different day, and check with other possible teachers and get back to me.  I heard back a couple of days ago that they indeed wanted me to teach the class starting this coming weekend!

My "to do" list for this week is already so long, with lots of out-of-the-ordinary commitments along with the normal ones - and our weekend is FULL with other commitments!  Though it was clear to me that I needed to be willing to start teaching right away because there was less time available for teaching the class than would be ideal anyway, I was terrified because of the lack of time to prepare.  I want to do a good job!  It was in this frame of mind that I asked for guidance and received the verse at the top of this post.  

To me it was God's voice clearly telling me that despite my feelings that I couldn't do it all, He was in charge and would be there for me.  And, in fact, I started to see how important it was at times for the task before me to feel "too big".  After all, if I felt I could do it, I might be tempted to rest on my laurels rather than turning to God for His strength and guidance!  As it is, I once again find myself thinking words like those of the prophet Jeremiah - "Father, I can't do this.  I'm new at this and don't have time to prepare."  God's answer to Jeremiah is also His answer to me:

"But the Lord said to me, "Do not say, 'I am only a child.' You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the Lord. Then the Lord reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, "Now, I have put my words in your mouth." - Jeremiah 1:7-9 NIV

What a promise! I NEED those words in my mouth! Father, I am SO grateful for your promises!  As I ponder these things, I realize how much God has already prepared me for the task ahead.  Although I didn't  know if the class was a go or not, I spent most of the last week thinking through what would need to be taught and working on lesson plans.  Several times I started second guessing myself.  Why was I spending most of my time focused on something that I wasn't sure was going to happen when I had so many KNOWN things that needed attention?  But God's guidance was clear.  Whether I taught the class this summer or not, I WOULD be teaching such a class at some point so the time would not be wasted and it was what I was to do for now.  

Because of that focus, though plans are far from complete, I have a fair picture of what I need to do at the first few classes (despite on-going fear because some of the necessary teaching methods are so new to me).  Also, the weekend intensive I'll be attending this weekend will have a LOT of components designed specifically to help new teachers know how to teach beginners!  As always, God knew what needed to happen long before I did and ensured that I signed up for this weekend months ago!

I am grateful for God's promises and His work in my life.  It's true - I CAN do it, because:

I can do all things through him who strengthens me. - Philippians 4:13-14 ISV

Thank you, Father, for your guidance and direction in my life!  Thank you for your promises! Thank you for preparing me and giving me what I need to meet the tasks you have set before me!  Thank you for giving me peace and continued guidance as I take the steps you show me to take.  I ask that your will be done in my life, and that I be open to receiving your guidance clearly.  Thank you for working in me both to WILL and to DO of your good pleasure.  Amen.  

Wise as Serpents

It has been brought to our attention that someone with whom we have been dealing has been going behind our backs presenting a mix of facts and innuendo to create a picture that is far from the truth as we see it. And it looks like things may be coming to a head today.  This situation has been very painful for us personally because it was someone we counted as a friend and looked to for guidance.  It may also mean financial difficulty and other difficulties if students believe things about us that are not true.  

As I've prayed for guidance about this matter today, a couple of things have come to mind.  The first is that if we are to follow Jesus' example, despite the always "meek and mild" caricature of him, we see him standing up to the scribes and pharisees in no uncertain terms - even telling them they're like white-washed tombs - looking good on the outside, but inside full of dead men's bones and everything unclean (Mathew 23:27).  Secondly, I keep hearing the words from Matthew 10:16 in my mind - "be ye therefore wise as serpents and gentle as doves".   What does it mean to be wise as a snake?  And when should we be standing up for ourselves, and when should we be turning the other cheek?

As I turned to Matthew 10 to read the context of the "wise as serpents" advice, I found myself reading the passage from The Message Bible:

"Stay alert. This is hazardous work I'm assigning you. You're going to be like sheep running through a wolf pack, so don't call attention to yourselves. Be as cunning as a snake, inoffensive as a dove. Don't be naive. Some people will impugn your motives, others will smear your reputation — just because you believe in me. Don't be upset when they haul you before the civil authorities. Without knowing it, they've done you — and me — a favor, given you a platform for preaching the kingdom news! And don't worry about what you'll say or how you'll say it. The right words will be there; the Spirit of your Father will supply the words." (Matthew 10:16-20 - from THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language © 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson. All rights reserved.)

Today these words seem written just for me.  Stay alert, don't call attention to yourselves, be cunning (the word literally means thoughtful and discrete) yet inoffensive, don't be naive.  Then I come to the words "some people will impugn your motives, others will smear your reputation".  Yep! That has sure happened! Then there's "Don't be upset when they haul you before the civil authorities.  Without knowing it, they've done you - and me - a favor".  As I read these words, I have to chuckle.  No, we haven't been hauled into a civil court, but our names have been hauled before the board of an organization.  I think they count as "civil authorities".  What a promise this is!  No matter the intent, this person has done us, and God, a favor in doing this!  As the impact of that sets in, I find myself grinning and I'm starting to see how one can indeed "count it all joy" when they face various trials (James 1:2).  And then the final promise, "And don't worry about what you'll say or how you'll say it.  The right words will be there; the Spirit of your Father will supply the words."  I came to this passage as I was doing just that - worrying about what I'd say & how to say it, and I have to chuckle again. :)  

As I read these promises, I find myself laughing and feeling true joy!  It's amazing!  While I was open to God's guidance as I faced these trials, I really didn't see how it was possible to "count it all joy", but joy is indeed what I'm feeling! What an amazing thing! And what an amazing God!

Father, I am so grateful for your guidance in these matters.  I know you are not only guiding me, but the events and people around me.  Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for your promises and your continued guidance as I walk through the rest of this day. 

Joy in Trials?

For some time my spiritual curriculum has included a lot about the importance of meeting life with joy as I've been brought to such texts as  "Rejoice in the Lord always" (Phil 4:4) and "The joy of the Lord is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10).  This week I've gained greater understanding of this passage in James:

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you are involved in various trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. But you must let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing."  - James 1:2-4, ISV

We have been facing some challenges of a political nature in our work, and I must admit I have not really followed the advice in these verses in James.  I frankly wanted to run away from it all like Jonah did.  However, I have hung in there and now that we're beginning to see some light at the end of the tunnel, I'm realizing the truth brought out in these verses.  While I still have a ways to go to "consider it pure joy", I have been able to see personal spiritual growth in the way I have handled things and in the support I have received from God - both in my devotional life, and through other people - and this has indeed brought joy. 

While I long for the day when I am so filled with God's perfect love that all fear is cast out (1 John 4:18), I can already see that each time I go through something like this with prayer and active seeking of God's guidance, my faith is strengthened and my ability to face challenges of this nature is increased. While I may not be fully "mature and complete" I definitely see growth and thank God for it.  

I'm learning something about walking through trials.  When I cling to fear, it's like my eyes are shut tight, keeping me from seeing the support all around me.  As I learn to trust and open my eyes through the process, I see more and more of the support that is there for me and it indeed brings joy.

In the case of this recent situation we've been facing, I was given guidance long before the challenges began that has been a touch stone and source of comfort and faith, bolstering my strength and courage.  Various people have also stepped up with words of encouragement and support that have meant so much!  The very fact that I'm seeing this sort of support through these trials shows me that my eyes are more open than they have been in the past. 

As I continue to ponder the idea of endurance, I think of running a marathon.  I expect I am not alone in thinking a marathon is a challenge that I'm not sure I'm up for.  It takes a lot of endurance - and yet, one also hears about the "runner's high" that can be experienced.  It occurs to me that as I face trials in my life, I can experience a spiritual "runner's high" and that perhaps this is what allows me to "count it all joy" as advised in these verses in James.

Father, thank you for the growth I see and for the evidence of your love and care all around me.  While it is still hard for me to "count it all joy" as I go through trials, I am beginning to see the possibility of doing so as I feel the joy that comes from seeing the way you have led and the support you have provided.  While I can't say I look forward to facing trials, I am beginning to understand their value and trust that you are working for my best good and the good of those around me.  Thank you, Father, for your love and guidance and strength!  Thank you for bringing me the lessons I need, even though I don't always greet them with joy and sometimes experience them as painful.  Thank you for working in me both to will and to do of your good pleasure, and for filling my heart with joy as I open more fully to your leading in my life.

Pentecost

For the last couple of weeks we've been facing a work-related challenge that may spell the end of our work in a particular setting.  Changes in policy may create a situation where the income may no longer be there to cover our expenses.  In addition, there is increasing dissension that is making the situation uncomfortable. It has been a painful thing to face the notion that some folks would rather we weren't doing what we've been doing as they see it as taking away from their income. And yet there are others that have made it clear they REALLY appreciate our work.  While receiving these mixed messages and feeling our own feelings about things, we've been actively seeking guidance from God.  How are we to proceed?  

One Bible passage has come to mind over and over again - "the labourer is worthy of his hire", along with the accompanying thought that if our expenses are not going to be met, it may be time to move on.  In looking up this passage, a couple of more instructions jump out at me.  Verses 5-7 suggest we should be seeking to stay only where there is a spirit of peace, and verses 10-12 seem to indicate that if there is a lack of acceptance, it may be time to move on, making sure we do not take any remnants of that situation with us.  Of course, things are often not quite so clear cut and as I've said, the messages we've been getting are mixed.  Yet, the very fact that they are mixed undercuts the "peace" that might be there.  

Another thought has been coming over and over - a reminder of something I wrote about on this blog back on December 18. As indicated there, I had thought (looking through human eyes) that we might need to discontinue our classes in the spring.  At the time I wrote about it in mid-December, it felt like I was receiving guidance that suggested our classes might instead be intended to last until early June.  At the time, I noted the guidance, but didn't understand it because to human eyes it looked like if we made it through spring we'd be good to go for some time.  Nevertheless, I "held these things in my heart", waiting to see what would unfold.  

Today as I remind myself that God is in charge, I watch what is unfolding with interest. I find myself wondering if indeed things will transpire to keep us only "until Pentecost" as it seemed was being hinted at back in December. 

Another thought keeps coming to me as well.  I find myself pondering that instruction in Luke 10:7 about "not moving from house to house".  What does this mean for us?  When I ask that question, it seems what we may be being directed to do is to settle in one place to do our work - a place that is peaceful and accepts us.  I've wondered whether we should be trying to generate and accept all sorts of other engagements to try to make ends meet where we are, but I find myself wondering if this message is instead guidance telling us that we are to move on to a situation that will meet the expenses while giving us a more solid base of operations.  

Father, we seek your guidance and direction and are grateful for it.  Are there doors on which we need to knock and say "peace on this house" to test whether it is the place for us?  Is the time soon upon us when we should be "shaking the dust from our feet" with regard to this one specific situation?  We seek your guidance, Father.  We thank you for the guidance received thus far and the knowledge that you will continue the work you have begun in us.  Thank you for removing the worry from our minds, and filling us with gratitude as we remember the way you have led thus far.  Thank you, Father!

What Others Think

Today I found myself once again reading in the journal of John Wesley.  It is such an interesting look at life back then, and I am greatly inspired by seeing the way he lived his life.  Today, this passage caught my eye:

"Soon after, a gentleman of Merton College, who was one of our little company, which now consisted of five persons, acquainted us that he had been much rallied the day before for being a member of the Holy Club; and that it was become a common topic of mirth at his college, where they had found out several of our customs, to which we were ourselves utter strangers. Upon this I consulted my father again." (from Journal of John Wesley, PC Study Bible formatted electronic database Copyright © 2003, 2006 by Biblesoft, Inc. All rights reserved.)

I can certainly relate to the challenge of folks laughing behind their backs at their customs - that weren't their customs at all.  It can be a challenging thing to deal with people who do not care to find out the truth, but love to pass rumors about you no matter how far-fetched they may be.  But even Jesus experienced ridicule, so I guess we can't be too surprised when we too have to face it on occasion:

"Now the Pharisees, who love money, had been listening to all this and began to ridicule Jesus." Luke 16:14 ISV

And this verse in Luke suggests a reason for it - differing values. Though we might wish it, I suppose we can't always expect respect from those whose values are very different from our own.

Another thing strikes me in this journal entry.  This is not the first time John mentioned getting advice from his father, and it made me think.  Are there times that I neglect to get advice from my Heavenly Father?  And are there others - perhaps including my earthly father - whose advice I should be seeking more often?

Father, thank you for your willingness to guide and direct me!  May I remember to ask for your advice and to listen for your answers to me!  Father, as I face the challenges of life, I also thank you for my husband and the advice I receive from him.  As I face various decisions in my life, if there are those from whom I should be seeking advice, please make that clear to me. Thank you for your love for me.  I love you, Father!

Dangers of Immaturity

"Therefore, leaving behind the elementary teachings about the Messiah, let us continue to be carried along to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead actions, faith toward God, instruction about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment." Hebrews 6:1-2 ISV

For some reason this morning, I found myself reading in Hebrews.  I read about those who instead of growing up to eat solid spiritual food, continued to subsist only on "milk" as though they would be babies forever. Then I came to these verses at the beginning of Hebrews 6.  I've never before realized that this passage is describing what it means to live only on the "milk" (probably another instance of letting the arbitrary division of the bible into "chapters" interrupt the flow and cause me to miss something).

This passage has really given me food for thought.  Am I still needing to be reminded to "repent from dead actions", to have faith, etc.?  If so, I'm still not mature enough for "solid foods".  The next few verses go on to talk about those who instead of allowing God to work in them, continue to behave in a way that causes God to be held up to ridicule.  These immature Christians are warned that if they continue to bring forth briars and thistles instead of the fruit of the Spirit, they are in serious danger. 

Father, what about me?  Am I allowing you to work in my life as I should?  Am I allowing your transforming power to touch each part of my life? Or am I holding some corners back?  Once again this morning, Father, I ask that you work in me to both will and do of your good pleasure.  May I continue to grow and mature in your love, Father.  Thank you!

What Spirit?

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." -2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV

This morning I awoke with this verse in my mind, and I began to recognize that I've been giving in to a spirit of fear lately.  There are changes occurring in my life at the moment, and though I'm fully aware that God does not bring change to me unless it is for my good, and though I didn't want to feel fear about it, I still felt fear.  As I lay in bed praying about it this morning, I just kept hearing this thought in my mind - "God is not the origin of fear", "God has not given me a spirit of fear."

As I ponder those words, I was reminded of James 4:7: "Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." KJV  I've always seen this verse as instruction to me - "Resist those temptations".  Today I recognize it for the promise that it is.  If I resist the devil - that Spirit of fear that does not originate in God - he will FLEE!!!!  What a wonderful promise! 

So, how do I resist this spirit of fear? That verse in 2nd Timothy gives a very strong hint.  Focus on the spirit that DOES come from God - "power, love, a sound mind".  For me today, I got a clearer understanding of what I was to focus on as I read this verse from the New Living Translation:

 "For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline." 2 Timothy 1:7 (Holy Bible, New Living Translation ®, copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers. All rights reserved.)

That little word "self-discipline" jumped out at me.  That is certainly a part of where the fear has been coming from.  I haven't been as self-disciplined in some areas of my life as has been needed, as I've focused on some areas of my life to the exclusion of others.  For example, I haven't always taken the time to prepare healthy meals for myself - being "too busy" to do so. Any time I tell myself "I can't" I'm not living from a spirit of power!  And clearly, if I'm living a life that is out of balance, I am not living a life of self-discipline!  What about the spirit of love?  Is that fully embraced and active in me? 

Father, thank you for your words to me this morning!  Thank you for giving me the guidance and direction I've needed.  Please work in me both to will and to do of your good pleasure, Father, that I may no longer be haunted by the spirit of fear.  Thank you, God!

Seven times each day . . .

Once again I find myself just having to stop and "shout praises for the way" God keeps "everything running right." (Ps 119:164 - the Message Bible).  This weekend brought two very specific opportunities to see how God indeed keeps everything running right.

Opportunity Number 1

My life has gotten so busy!  I know I'm doing what God has asked of me, but I find myself challenged by the number of hours it takes to stay on top of things. I'm doing my best to remember that people come first and to be available to those who cross my path, but there are times when I feel a bit of stress about whether I'll be able to get everything done that I need to do.  At those times, all I can do is affirm my trust in God and His power to keep everything running right. 

This weekend was a case in point.  My schedule is so full right now that adding a bunch of family activities seemed so challenging!  And yet, it was the scheduled weekend for a "game night" and I had family coming for the weekend from out of town.  How was I going to get everything done????   Well, God had it all under control.  A friend needed to earn some money so I was able to help her and at the same time get some help myself by having her do some of the preparation for our house guest and for game night.

Then I wanted to spend time with my guest, but didn't know how I'd get everything done.  I went ahead and spent the time, trusting God to handle things.  Last night, after our guest had left, I discovered that some prep work had been done ahead that I had forgotten about, so I was closer to being ready than I had thought!  Thank you, God!  Spending time with our house guest also played a part in . .  . 

Opportunity Number 2

For some time I've been wanting to get some studio-style mirrors for our dance space, but they are SO expensive!  Last week we discovered that friends of ours were closing a dance studio and had some of these mirrors at a very good price.  Our house guest was able to help in physically getting them, as well as in helping us figure out how best to hang them.  If I had been stingy with my time, I wouldn't have felt good about having him help, but we had had some fun leisure time together and everything just seemed to work out great.  Thank you, God!  In addition, someone at game night had some spare time and was able to help with the mirror installation!

I hadn't even really been praying for the mirrors, but God knew we needed them in order to be the best dance instructors we could be, so He provided.  And the miracles went beyond finding mirrors at a good price and having help to move and install them. It was all managed without breaking any!

Father, I am so grateful for your gifts!  Thank you for continuing to show me how you can ensure that all things work together for good (Romans 8:28) when I continue to allow your love for others to flow through me and to put people first.  Thank you for the blessings of friends and family - and for unexpected mirrors! :)

Thank You

As is probably evident in my inconsistent blogging, I find it difficult at times to blog about my day-to-day walk.  My "daily bread" though nourishing, doesn't always seem like "something to write home about" so to speak.  But then there are times like today where I just HAVE to publicly say "Thank You, God"!

I am very busy working on an ongoing project and today I had some real trouble with it.  In the course of my work, I need to be able to record to my computer, and all of a sudden the system that had been working fine for months wasn't working!  I could see the signal digitally but it was NOT being recorded!  I spent hours seeking the cause, and now understand the system much better than before, but it STILL wasn't working.  

My first inclination at times like this is to get very frustrated.  I had so much work to get done and was just wasting time!  These days, however, VERY closely following that first thought is a prayer - "Father, what is the purpose in this? You've promised that all things work together for good (Rom 8:28). Is there something I'm missing that you want me to hear?  Should I be focusing my attention elsewhere at the moment?  Your will be done, Father!"

Often under such circumstances, I'm re-directed - and I guess I was for a short bit of time - but this project kept calling to me.  I spent more time trying to sort things out - to no avail.  Then I once again took to formal prayer: "Father, if I'm missing something you're trying to tell me, please help me hear your voice!  And if it is within your will, please help me quickly to be able to get back to work doing this recording."  

On my next attempt things were working again!!!  Thank you, God!  

There are times where under such circumstances I'm able to see profound reasons why things happened the way they did.  I can't say that I see that today, but I trust my Heavenly Father.  I don't know if at some future point I will be called upon to help someone else with these sorts of issues, or what other reasons might be.  But for now, I'm able to get back to work, and I am grateful!

Father, thank you for the reminder that you are in control.  Thank you for taking control in my life and keeping that fact in my mind and heart.  Thank you for miracles and progress.  Father, I know you can manipulate time and I ask that if it be your will, I will be able to accomplish the rest of my work much more quickly than usual to make up for the missed productivity earlier today.  Regardless, I trust you Father, and am so grateful for your guidance and direction in my life!

Love

Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. Everyone who has this hope in him purifies himself, just as he is pure.  1 John 3:2-3 NIV
 

Sometimes I find myself feeling discouraged when I see that I am not making the progress I would like to make.  I find myself falling so short of what I feel God would have me be and do.  These words give me courage at times like this. What we will be has not yet been made known but we know that when he appears, we will be like him.  What a promise!  Even when we don't see it, change is occurring.

And yet, as I continue reading, the ideas set out seem SO far from achievable.  How can I possibly live in such a way that I don't continue to sin?  In fact, earlier, even John says that if we say we haven't sinned, we're liars! (1 John 1:8).  Then I come to these words: "Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth. This then is how we know that we belong to the truth, and how we set our hearts at rest in his presence whenever our hearts condemn us. For God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything."  1 John 3:18-20 NIV

This is indeed what Jesus preached.  Jesus wasn't concerned about all the many dos and don'ts that the spiritual leaders of the day said were so important.  His focus was on love for those around him and he clearly demonstrated love with action!
 

"Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God and receive from him anything we ask, because we obey his commands and do what pleases him.  And this is his command: to believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and to love one another as he commanded us."  1 John 3:21-23  NIV

This is what I am called to focus on to believe in the name of Jesus and to love those around me.  Or as Jesus put it when he was asked what God wanted of us, “The most important is, ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord, and you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘You must love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.”  Mark 12:29-31 ISV

A song comes to mind - a verse set to music.  It is Micah 6:8: "He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with thy God?  KJV

I realize that part of believing in God is trusting that He is indeed working in me both to will and to do of His good pleasure as I have asked.  No, I am not perfect, but I can trust the one who is to guide my path.  And instead of driving myself crazy with trying to live up to a bunch of rules and regulations about how to be in this world - what to eat, what to wear, what to see - I can focus on love for God and those around me and this is how I can set my heart at rest in His presence.  This certainly seems a fitting message for Valentine's Day.  Father, please show me how best to express Your love to those around me this Valentine's Day!  

Thank you, Father, for your promises of freedom from sin.  Thank you for your promises that you are molding me to be like you - even when I seem so far from that ideal, Father!  Thank you for continuing to work in me both to will and to do of your good pleasure.  As you fill me with love for you and for those around me, I see that your love does indeed cast out fear, and I am grateful.  May your love shine through me to those around me!  Thank you, Father!

Separation & Choice

Well, this morning I'm once again looking at the creation story.  I woke up this morning feeling unsettled.  I really didn't know what all I was feeling.  I knew I wasn't looking forward to a dental appointment, but this felt like more than that and I didn't know what it was.  I found myself thinking, I need to be able to somehow gather these feelings together so they don't feel so overwhelming and so I can sort out what's really going on.  

Immediately the creation story came to mind - God gathering the waters together so that the dry land could appear.  After all, water can often represent emotion.  So, once again I'm looking at this story to see what guidance God has for me here.

"Then God said, “Let the water beneath the sky come together into one area, and let dry ground appear!” And that is what happened: God called the dry ground “land,” and he called the water that had come together “oceans.” And God saw how good it was.  Then God said, “Let vegetation sprout all over the earth, including seed-bearing plants and fruit trees, each kind containing its own seed!” And that is what happened: Vegetation sprouted all over the earth, including seed-bearing plants and fruit trees, each kind containing its own seed. And God saw that it was good. The twilight and the dawn were the third day." Genesis 1:9-13 ISV

As I re-read the story this morning, I am once again caught by the notion that the waters have to be gathered together for the dry ground to appear, and that vegetation could only grow once that had happened.  Vegetation is so important!  It provides both nourishment and shelter.  This suggests to me that in order to experience the figurative nourishment and shelter I seek in my life, the figurative waters in my life need to be gathered together.   

But how do I do that? This question takes me to the crux of the creation story.  It does not describe God laboring over the waters to get them all to come together in one space!  "God said. . . . And that is what happend"!  A choice was made, a decision finalized, and the results appeared.  

Is this what causes me so much problem in life?  I don't make a clear choice.  I want this, but don't want to let go of that to get it?  I have mixed feelings about what I want so can never clearly say, "Let this be done."?  I think of the passage in James, "But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord." James 1:6-7 KJV  It sure makes sense, doesn't it?  How can you create something if you're spending all your time arguing with yourself about what you want to make? "let him ask in faith, nothing wavering."  These words remind me that I need to ASK!  I think of another passage in James, "ye have not because ye ask not". (James 4:2)

As I re-read this verse, I am drawn to the verses around it, starting with the first verse of the chapter before it:

"And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.  From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members? Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts. Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God."  James 3:18-4:4 KJV

Once again, I see something I haven't seen before.  Though I know the chapters and verses in the bible were, for the most part, something added to the text much later, so often when I read I start at the beginning of a chapter - and miss out on some things that way.  This passage really makes me stop and think when I start with the idea of being a peace maker (last verse of previous chapter).  I can certainly relate to "lusts that war in my members".  Way too often I find myself fighting a battle about food.  I want to eat in a healthy way to best support my body and mind - but things that aren't good for me SOUND so good and I crave them!  And I sometimes I just don't want to take the time to cook a healthy meal, I'd rather grab something fast. It never before occurred to me that this is the foundation of war - these battles within our own bodies; these lustings after things which are not God's will for us because they hurt us. 

Father, forgive me for not fully turning away from those lustful food thoughts, for "committing adultery with them in my heart"! And yet, I know I am not strong enough to be free of them on my own.  Father, I seek a miracle in my life again this morning - that I may be of one mind about my health and choices related to it and that any lusting after things that are not good for me be removed.  May this creation story be exemplified in my life, Father. May the upper and lower waters be separated, and the lower waters gathered into one place so the dry ground can appear and grow vegetation in my life!  I want to bear fruit, Father, and I want the fear gathered together and separated out so that the Fruits of the Spirit can grow healthy and strong in my life.  I want the light separated from the darkness in my life, Father! I know that you can speak and it will be done.  Father, please keep me focused on your will and help me totally discard thoughts that might turn me from your path for me.  As I move through this day, please give me the guidance and power I need.  I look for you to work in my life both to WILL and to DO of your good pleasure (Phil 2:13), Father.  

You remind me that I need to do all things without murmuring or complaining (Phil 2:14), Father.  This too is a tough habit to break, but I see it is often a cause of my troubles.  Instead of just getting in and cooking a healthy meal, I find myself whining, for example, about how much work it is to cook a healthy meal and the time it takes - and then choosing a less healthy alternative.  Father, forgive me.  Grant me the courage and willingness to move forward with your plans for me.  Please let my "eye be single"!  Thank you, Father!

Circumcision

This morning, my reading brought me to one of those passages that can be so hard to understand:

At that time the Lord told Joshua, “Make for yourselves some flint knives and circumcise the Israelis who haven’t been circumcised yet.” So Joshua made some flint knives and circumcised the Israelis at Gibeath-haaraloth.  Joshua circumcised them because all of the males among the people who came out of Egypt—that is, all the warriors—had died during their journey through the wilderness following their departure from Egypt.  Although everyone who had left Egypt had been circumcised, nevertheless all the people born during the journey after their departure from Egypt had not been circumcised.  The Israelis traveled 40 years in the wilderness until the entire nation—that is, the warriors who had departed from Egypt—had perished because they hadn’t listened to the voice of the Lord. The Lord had promised them that he would not let them see the land that he had sworn to give us, a land that flows with milk and honey.  As a result, it was their descendants, whom he raised up to take their place, that Joshua circumcised. They had remained uncircumcised, because they had not been circumcised during their journey.  When the circumcision of the entire nation was complete, they remained in their places within the camp until they were healed. Then the Lord told Joshua, “Today I have rolled the disgrace of Egypt away from you.” That’s why that place is called “Gilgal” to this day.   Joshua 5:2-9 ISV

The practice of circumcision frankly seems rather barbaric.  Why did God require this of them? And what possible meaning does it have for me today?  One thing is certain. With all of their men disabled while they healed, this act would have been a major demonstration of faith as they were surrounded by enemies at the time!  

But if circumcision was so important, why not require it of the Gentiles in Paul's time? (Acts chapter 15 through 21). And why wasn't it done during the 40 years in the wilderness? One thing that strikes me is that IF some of these men decided to make inappropriate sexual advances towards someone, this would be a fairly visible sign of who they were and MIGHT help them make a different choice - though I'm not sure it really would or did.  Certainly, though at times a very visible sign of their covenant with God, it would not be visible under most circumstances.  

Why was the covenant just sealed between God and the men?  And just what was this covenant anyway?  I go back to the story of when circumcision was first prescribed by God.  Genesis chapter 17 tells the story of the covenant between God and Abraham and his descendants. 

The people were to:

• "live in constant awareness" that God was with them
• to be "blameless"
• and the males were to be circumcised

In turn, God promised to:

• make Abraham the father of many nations with many descendants - some of them kings.  
• to be their God
• and to give them the land of Canaan as an eternal possession
• and to give Abraham's 100 year old wife a son.

Though I can't say that I really understand the purpose behind the required circumcision, it certainly seems to be tied to the promise of the land of Canaan - and as such, very fitting in Joshua's day as they are so close to seeing the promise fulfilled.

I note that after the circumcision, God told Joshua, "Today I have rolled the disgrace of Egypt away from you.” Joshua 5:9 ISV  As I look up the meanings of the words in the original language, the meaning of the word "Egypt" jumps out at me.  It comes from the idea of "limitation".  And then I remember the verse from Jeremiah "Circumcise yourselves to the Lord and remove the foreskin of your heart" Jeremiah 4:4 ISV  Is this somehow what this is about?  What could the foreskin of the heart represent? And how does that relate to limitation symbolized by Egypt?

It strikes me that the heart often represents one's deepest beliefs, and that physically circumcising the males in Joshua's time was a clear act of faith - of putting their very lives in God's hand - as ALL of their soldiers were disabled for several days even though they were surrounded by enemies.  Perhaps in a similar way, circumcision of the heart represents excising doubts and acting on a deep-seated belief that God can be trusted.  This indeed moves us beyond limitation as we trust God and open to the possibilities presented as we allow Him to direct our paths.

Father, once again I hear those words in my heart, "Lord, I believe.  Help Thou mine unbelief!" (Mark 9:24).  May I no longer think or behave as though I still live in "Egypt", but instead remember that nothing is impossible with you (Matthew 17:20, Luke 1:37).  May those deep-seated beliefs in limitation that have been a part of my experience in the past be "circumcised" - fully removed so that I trust you fully to the very depths of my soul.  Father, thank you for the many experiences in recent months that have been such concrete demonstrations to me that nothing is impossible with you!  Thank you for the miracles I have seen so far and that I know You continue to perform for me daily.  You are an amazing God, and I am SO grateful!

Take 12 Stones

"Pick up twelve stones from the middle of the Jordan where the priests’ feet were standing, bring them along with you, and put them down where you camp tonight."  Joshua 4:3  ISV

This morning I was reading in the book of Joshua.  I read of how God instructed Joshua to take over where Moses had left off, how Joshua sent spies across the Jordan, and how God parted the waters of the Jordan for the Israelites to pass - just as he had done with the waters of the Red Sea when they left Egypt.  As I think of that moment, I realize that after 40 years in the wilderness, there would have been a whole new generation of people that had not been there for the parting of the Red Sea.  God revealed himself to them that day in a way that would verify the stories they had been told and assure them that God was still with them even though Moses no longer was there.

Then, before the priests stepped out of the Jordan, God told Joshua to have the Israelites choose 12 stones from the riverbed.  So Joshua chose one man from each tribe and told them:

"Cross over again in front of the ark of the Lord your God into the middle of the Jordan River. Then each of you pick up a stone on his shoulder with which to build a memorial, one for each of the tribes of Israel. Let this serve as a sign among you, so that when your children ask in times to come, ‘What do these stones mean to you,’ then you’ll say to them, ‘Because the waters of the Jordan River were cut off in front of the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord. When it crossed the Jordan River, the waters of the Jordan were cut off.’ So these stones will become a memorial to the Israelis forever.” Joshua 4:5-7 ISV

This really struck me.  God knows how easily we can forget the way that we've been led, and how hard it can be for our children to understand what we've been through as God led us.  One thing that can help is to take physical reminders of the journey and create an "altar".  I remember that I had started to do this with my most recent journey.  I have had several VERY concrete examples of God's guidance as I've moved into this new career and wanted to remember them.  But I never finished "gathering my stones and building my altar". 

This happened for two reasons that were closely entwined:

1. I wanted to build something that was rather elaborate.  Instead of simply choosing 12 stones and setting them in place, I wanted to make something more beautiful and striking - more like the altars that had been crafted for the tabernacle than a simple pile of stones.  I wanted my experiences documented in a scrapbook that was beautifully crafted and would draw the eye.
2. I was too busy "possessing the land" to finish my memorial.  I DID start it, but never got it completed because I never had time to create the beautiful "altar" that I wanted to create in the midst of following all the guidance I was receiving regarding my new ventures.

At this point, I'm not sure what to do with regard to this "altar" of remembrance.  For me, is there a significance in choosing 12, like there was for the Israelites?  What would the stones represent for me?  The stones in the story would have been ones that weren't ordinarily seen, coming from the depths of the experience and usually covered by water.  Water can represent many things.   What might it represent for me here?  As I think back to the guidance I received as I contemplated the creation story, I remember water as representing emotions.  What "touch stones" might there be in my experiences that are in danger of being hidden by my emotions?  Where were my fearful emotions held back in a powerful way to allow me to move forward more easily?  Perhaps these are the types of experiences I should look for as I seek to build this "altar of remembrance". 

When I re-read the story, I realized something else.  Perhaps I've been too hard on myself in thinking I should have built the altar before now.  Everyone (except the priests carrying the ark) crossed that river.  THEN the 12 were told to go BACK into the riverbed to choose their stones.  Perhaps now is my time to go BACK to the riverbed and choose my stones?

Father, thank you for the way you have been leading me!  I am so amazed at what you have done in and through me!  And your gentleness, Father!  So often when I start to beat myself up thinking I should have done more or different, you step in and ease my mind as you once again did this morning.  Thank you!  Father, I once again seek your guidance as to how I am to memorialize this experience.  Thank you for guidance in this matter as well as any others that may come up.   I seek your will this day, Father.  May your will be done in my life, I pray.  Thank you, my Father!  Thank you!

Grassy Days

Days seem to just fly by.  And I discover it has once again been several days since I posted on my blog.  I think of the verse from Psalms 103:15-16:

"As for man, his days are like grass, he flourishes like a flower of the field; the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more."  NIV

Sometimes my days do indeed seem like grass.  I work hard, get a lot done, but looking back I wonder what I've really accomplished.  Thinking of grass takes me to this passage from Isaiah:

"The voice said, Cry. And he said, What shall I cry? All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness thereof is as the flower of the field: The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: because the spirit of the Lord bloweth upon it: surely the people is grass. The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever. O Zion, that bringest good tidings, get thee up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, that bringest good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength; lift it up, be not afraid; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God! Behold, the Lord God will come with strong hand, and his arm shall rule for him: behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him. He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young." Isaiah 40:6-11  KJV

It could be easy to become discouraged and depressed by thinking about the seeming futility of human life, but God's promises lift me up.  God indeed feeds me and leads me like a shepherd.  I don't have to be able to see where we are going or know the purpose.  I don't even have to be able to see where I've been.  I can simply trust my Good Shepherd to take loving care of me - leading me in the right paths and directing my feet as He sees best. These verses remind me that it's my time to lift up my voice with strength and not be afraid.  

Today I return to a venue where I can experience a lot of fear, but I can indeed trust my Shepherd.  Father, I choose this day to lift up my voice with strength and not be afraid.  I know this is only possible if YOU do it in me!  I remember that when you ask me to do something you also give me the ability to do it, and I rely on that, Father.  I am so glad you are not one who takes delight in our failings, but instead, keep me from falling as has been said:

"Now to the one who is able to keep you from falling and to make you stand joyful and faultless in his glorious presence, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus the Messiah, our Lord, be glory, majesty, power, and authority before all time and for all eternity! Amen."  Jude 24-25  ISV

 Father, this morning I once ask for you to do for me as the Psalmist has said: 

"You make a broad place for my steps, so my feet won’t slip." Psalms 18:36  ISV

I remember that the "joy of the Lord" is my strength (Neh 8:10) and also remember that in your presence is fullness of joy (Ps 16:11). Father, please keep me in your presence always so that any fears may be fully eradicated and my heart be full of joy instead. May your will be done in my life, Father - this day and every day. Thank you!  Father, I seek your wisdom and guidance this day.  You know my concerns and the tasks that are before me.  As the song says, "Guide me O Thou great Jehovah".

"Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation."   Isaiah 12:2KJV

Thank you, Father!

Great Is Thy Faithfulness

This morning, this song was on my heart - "Great is Thy faithfulness, Oh God my Father.  There is no shadow of turning with Thee.  Thou changest not; Thy compassions they fail not. As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be. Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!  Morning by morning new mercies I see; All I have needed Thy hand hath provided—Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!"  In looking to see what verses in the Bible this hymn might be based on, I found myself in one of the books I haven't read as often - Lamentations.  In the International Standard Version, it reads like this: 

"Because of the Lord’s gracious love we are not consumed, since his compassions never end. They are new every morning—great is your faithfulness!"  Lamentations 3:22-23  ISV  

It is so true!  God is so faithful, and indeed every day I can see new blessings if I look for them.  This past weekend I once again experienced this in a very clear way.  We were scheduled to perform in a state-wide venue and I was really nervous about it.  All sorts of little details threatened my serenity - from what we would wear to concerns about making glaring mistakes.  I sought guidance that morning, and once again asked that God's will be done - knowing that while I WANTED our performance to be free of at least GLARING errors, I had to be willing for His will to be done - even if that meant some rather public mistakes.  I then tried my best to set aside my concerns and just trust that God had everything in hand.  

I had been reading a Christian novel and returned to that to give myself something else to think about.  I was near the end of the book and soon came to the "credits/acknowledgements" page.  I don't always read these, but these particular ones really caught my eye as they were quite different than many I've read with a VERY clear gratitude to God.  As I read the acknowledgments, I came across a reference to Ephesians 3:20 and it just really jumped out at me.  There was no mention of what the verse said, just a reference to the verse.  I just HAD to look it up.  At the time, I had the Amplified Bile with me.  This is what I read:

"Now to Him Who, by the action of His power that is at work within us is able to carry out His purpose and do superabundantly, far over and above all that we dare ask or think - infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams . . . " (brackets removed for easier reading)

As I read this verse, I felt God saying to me "Cheryl, this is my promise to you. Don't be afraid. I am with you."  The words of that verse just jumped out at me.  He was promising to give me far over and above all that I dare ask or think - infinitely beyond my highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes or dreams!  What an amazing promise!  What an amazing God!  

And He's done that not just with the performance Saturday night, but with the class(es) we're teaching too.  He told me He had placed before me an open door that no one could shut - and it is SO clear that has happened!  He is an amazing God, and I continue to praise Him.

Father, thank you for being such a kind, gentle, and GENEROUS Father!  You are amazing and I am so grateful for all you are doing in my life!  Thank you for your guidance, your support, your resources.  Thank you for the open doors - no matter how scary walking through them feels sometimes!  Thank you for granting love and peace that overcomes my human fears!  I love you, Father!

Guide Me

This morning I hear a song running through my head.  "Guide me O thou great Jehovah".  This is what I want.  It is so easy to "lean unto mine own understanding" but I don't want to do that.  I want God's will to be done in my life.  So this morning I turn to these words from the Psalms:

"In thee, O Lord, do I put my trust; let me never be ashamed: deliver me in thy righteousness. Bow down thine ear to me; deliver me speedily: be thou my strong rock, for an house of defence to save me. For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name's sake lead me, and guide me." Psalms 31:1-3 KJV

I seek God's guidance, not because I deserve it, but because of who God is.  It is in His nature to care for me and guide me, despite the fact that I don't deserve it.  I want to be less willful and more open to His guidance.  I know He is indeed my rock and my fortress and I choose to trust His guidance so I will not need to be ashamed.  

Father, you know how challenging it is for me sometimes to even be willing to pause and seek your will - but I want to do it, Father!  I know my own way is not the best and I want to be led by you.  I feel so driven to complete this task that I believe you have set before me, but I do not want to focus on it to the exclusion of hearing any changes you might have for me today.  I recognize the open door you have placed before me and am grateful for it, but I also recognize the futility of laboring without your guidance.  So, Father, once again this morning I ask you to increase my desire for that which is mine to do today and decrease my interest in anything that is not your will.  Thank you, Father!

Amazement

Recently I've found myself so amazed at God's timing and the way He works things out in my life.  But I actually started beating myself up a bit for that!  I said things to myself like: "Of course He worked things out well. He promised to do so didn't He?  Why should I be amazed?  Doesn't that demonstrate a lack of faith?"  It's pretty crazy the way I can cause problems for myself even when things are going well!

As I was reading a Christian novel I came across the following couple of sentences: "I don't know why I'm always surprised when God puts people in the right places at the right time, but I always am.  I hope I never lose my amazement at God's plans." (from the book Cross Country by Jill Penrod)  These two sentences really jumped out at me.  The first was something I had been saying to myself - but in such a negative way!  The second sentence really helped change my perspective.  

"I hope I never lose my amazement at God's plans."  As I contemplated this sentence, I realized what the results would be if I DID lose my amazement.  That would mean I would be taking God and the way He cares for me for granted!  I NEVER want to do that!  God indeed does all things well (Mark 7:37) and I want to praise Him for it. I am so glad for the amazement I feel when I get a glimpse of His handiwork in my life. He even finds a way to help me put things in perspective when I start to beat myself up!  I am so grateful!

Father, thank you for your continued support and guidance, despite my foolish negative thoughts!  Thank you for setting me straight and for giving me Your peace once again.  Father, I once again seek your will in my life and ask that you continue to guide me in the way you see is best.  You are an amazing Heavenly Father and I am so grateful for your continued guidance.  You indeed keep everything running right and I am SO grateful! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!!!

Thank you, God!

This morning I am once again in awe of the way God works.  I prayed to be in His will and to be guided in all my activities and I KNOW I was!  The day ran so smoothly!  His timing is impeccable.  I had figured I needed to stop with one task by a certain time in order to meet an obligation, but He knew it would take longer than I thought and somehow told me quite clearly it was time to stop before I had planned to do so.  I was so close to finishing, and I hate leaving things unfinished, but all of a sudden I just KNEW it was time to stop! Watching His timing unfold throughout my day was just awe-inspiring.  Father, I am so grateful!

I think of passages like the one in Psalms 107 that call for "sacrifices of thanksgiving":

"Let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving and talk about his works with shouts of joy." - Psalms 107:22 ISV

Some days, gratitude may indeed be a sacrifice - on those days where we don't understand why He's led us a certain way.  On those sorts of days cultivating an attitude of gratitude, despite what is occurring, may indeed feel like a sacrifice.  Today, for me, it is no sacrifice!  I am SO grateful for the clarity and guidance He gave me yesterday! What an amazing God!

Of course, today comes with its own set of challenges.  I choose to look forward to this day with joy, eagerly watching for the way God leads as he "keeps everything running right" (Ps 119:164 - the Message Bible).

Father, I thank you for your guidance, and continue to seek it as I move through this day.  I once again ask that you increase my desire to do that which is within your will, and decrease my desire to do those things which are not in your plan for me this day.  I am SO grateful for the way you keep everything running right!  You know the challenges I face this day.  Please give me the wisdom and discernment needed to move forward in the way that you see best.  Thank you, Father!

 

Wisdom

"Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to everyone generously without a rebuke, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith, without any doubts. . . "  James 1:5-6 ISV

Today I am really feeling my "lack of wisdom".  I am in a position of needing to provide services for others in a way that meets their needs - without fully knowing what their needs are.  This morning, this verse reminds me that God DOES know their needs! And since I've been promised that He will give wisdom generously as long as I ask in faith, I see there are only two things I need to do - ask, and have faith. In fact, while I'm at it, I'm going to ask for the faith needed as I ask for wisdom!

Father, you know my situation and the challenges I face.  I need Your wisdom, Father.  I thank you for the guidance received thus far.  You are an amazing Father, and I praise you for your love and care for me.  I simply ask that I continue to receive the guidance I need as I continue to step forward into the work you have given me. Father, I know sometimes my faith wavers - not my faith in you, but somehow my faith in me to hear you clearly.  But isn't even that just doubting your ability to get through to me?  Father, I choose to trust you.  As I go about my tasks this day, I want to do your will.  If the tasks I choose are not the ones in which I should be investing my time, please decrease my desire to do them.  Please increase my inclination to do what you would have me to do, that I may know your will.  And please help me to set aside any personal desires that may get in the way of my hearing your voice clearly.  Thank you, Father!  Thank you for the work you are doing in me and your promise to see it to completion.  I love you, Father!

I Was Afraid

“I heard your voice in the garden,” the man answered, “and I was afraid because I was naked, so I hid from you.” Genesis 3:10 ISV 

This morning I woke up thinking about balloons.  I thought about how much fun it was to pop balloons with a small child - but how you usually had to first train them to think it was funny.  The first time a baby hears a balloon pop, they're likely to startle and cry, but they soon learn it is "fun".  The same thing happens with the game of peek-a-boo.  We're training babies to take unexpected events in stride and even enjoy them.  Why do even babies initially find unexpected events frightening? As I read Adam & Eve's story in Genesis, it sure sounds as though fear was unknown until disobedience and sin entered this world. 

Popping balloons, peek-a-boo - just some of the things we do to train our children to take the unexpected in stride so they can experience joy in life. But how do we do as adults?  How do we handle surprises?  Have we really learned the lessons we try to teach the little ones? Take for instance, a surprise party - how do we react?  Do we enjoy it, or hate it?  What about other unexpected events in our lives?  Do we find joy in the unexpected, or do we react with apprehension?  

As I pondered these things, I realized how often I am apprehensive (if not downright afraid) when unexpected things occur. And many people would even argue that this is quite reasonable.  Loud noises can be indicators of danger (perhaps a gunshot rather than a balloon popping or fireworks).  Unexpected events often can have dangerous consequences.  For instance, what if I suddenly discover (as I did several months ago) that someone has been trying to obtain credit using my personal information?  Identity theft!  A scary thing!  And yet, if I really believe my Heavenly Father loves me and is in charge of my life as I have asked Him to be, wouldn't I trust that unexpected things are designed for my good and to bring me pleasure?  

I think of Jesus' words in Matthew 7:9-12:

“There isn’t a person among you who would give his son a stone if he asked for bread, is there? Or if he asks for a fish, he wouldn’t give him a snake, would he? So if you who are evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who keep on asking him! Therefore, whatever you want people to do for you, do the same for them, because this summarizes the Law and the Prophets.”  ISV

As I think of these things, I imagine what my life would be like if - no matter what unexpected things came my way - I reacted with joy, knowing them to be good gifts from my Heavenly Father.  Isn't this indeed what we are counseled to do?  

"In everything be thankful, because this is God’s will for you in the Messiah Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:18-19 ISV

I think of my nephew when he was little.  He was flying in a plane with his mother who worked for the airlines and had taught him that flying was fun.  On this particular day, the plane hit some pretty heavy turbulence and many of the passengers were afraid.  For my nephew, however, it was like a fun ride at Disney World!  He sat in his seat and every time the plane hit a "bump" he joyfully exclaimed "Wheeee!"

Father, I want to be more like that little child in the way I relate to the unexpected events that come my way.  You have given so many promises of protection and I do believe that you give good gifts to your children!  I don't want to continue to live a life of apprehension when faced with the unexpected, but instead one of joy and thanksgiving - whether expected or unexpected.  I want to fully trust you as a child trusts his parent. 

 

I am indeed grateful at the way you helped insure that I found out about the identity theft as quickly as I did and was able to take timely action.  I am grateful for the many opportunities you have brought my way in my work - and I apologize for the way I faced some of those opportunities with fear. I praise you for the way you care for me so carefully.  You are indeed like a wonderful shepherd, and I am so grateful.  

 

Just as I prepare my students so they will be able to meet the challenges of each new thing I teach them, so you prepare me to meet the challenges of each day.  Thank you, Father! And yet, it is so hard for me to let go of apprehension, Father!  It's like it is ingrained within me.  I ask you to remove all fear and fill me with trust in you.  Thank you for being like a loving Father that plays peek-a-boo with me, teaching me gently that all is okay no matter how unexpected.  Father, I am so grateful for your gentleness!  Once again, today I seek your guidance in my life, that your will may be done in and through me this day.  Thank you, Father, that I know this means GOOD things!  Lord, I believe, help thou mine unbelief as I face the challenges that this day brings.  I love you, Father!

Let There Be Light

This morning I read a story in Guideposts Magazine (Dec 2013) about the power of prayer.  Specifically, it was a story of how God provided light in one home while the surrounding homes remained without power.  It got me thinking about light and the way God lights our way in the darkness - and how when we are without God's light, we are truly "without power" no matter how powerful we may appear in terms of the way the world sees things.

And it takes me back to that first day of creation where God created light and separated it from the darkness (Genesis 1:1-5), and I remember that I blogged about it here.  As I re-read that blog, I am reminded to be patient with the fact that some days I don't seem to get as much accomplished as other days - despite working hard.  I am also reminded of the importance of being JOYFUL!

Father, this morning I once again praise you for your many blessings.  As I thank you for the many material blessings, I am reminded of the challenge we face there and ask that your will be done in this situation.  And I thank you for a quick and easy resolution if that be your will.  I think of the blessings of your guidance and thank you for that.  And most of all I thank you for the spiritual blessings - for my daily bread.  That you, as Lord of the Universe, would want to take the time to commune with me, fill me with joy and love, and gently guide me is a blessing I can hardly fathom - and I am so grateful!  I think how I would feel if a famous expert in the mundane world was willing to take the time to help me - and then I realize how much more famous and expert you are at everything.  Thank you for being that light for my path, Father.  May your will be done in my life this day as you continue to work in me both to will and to do of your good pleasure.  Thank you, Father!

God Cares

This morning I've been doing a little "beating myself up" over the fact that I haven't posted on my blog as often as I had hoped to recently.  In fact, though I hate to admit it, I've found it too easy recently to make excuses about my own devotional time (I've got too much to do, etc.).   I KNOW the TRUTH that the busier I am, the more I need to take the time with God to have Him set my agenda for the day - but it's tempting some days to pretend I don't know that!

This was the way I approached God's throne this morning.  Not with the joyful praises to God for the many many blessings He has sent my way, but with castigation of myself.  I thought about this verse:

But the Lord said to her, "My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her." Luke 10:41,42 Holy Bible, New Living Translation ®, copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers. All rights reserved.

I KNEW I was being "a Martha" in the way I was handling life, and I was NOT happy with myself about it.  I went to my Bible software to re-read the story, and another verse caught my eye instead:

"Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you." 1 Peter 5:7  Holy Bible, New Living Translation ®, copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers. All rights reserved.

What an eye-opener that verse was for me today!  God doesn't want me beating myself up.  He simply wants to lift my burdens! He CARES about me!!!!  Yes, I know this.  I've read this verse and others like it plenty of times.  But today, it was like a direct message from God to me saying, "Please stop beating yourself up!  That is not my plan for you.  You are human and make mistakes and I understand that.  Now I need you to understand how much I love you and want to lift your burdens.  I want you to come to me and find rest for your soul!  That quiet time is my GIFT to you - not an obligation!"

As I write this, tears of gratitude flow.  God is so good to me!  He is such a caring Heavenly Father!  How sad to have started thinking of my time with God as an obligation instead of remembering what a great gift it is!  Father, Thank you for this gift!!! You have once again shown me that you take many steps toward me as I take one step toward you.  You clearly do indeed care about me and I am so grateful!  Thank you for lifting my burdens this day as I once again seek your will in my life.  May my thoughts, words, and actions be in alignment with your will, I pray.  Thank you, Father!  Amen.

A God of Miracles

This morning as I pause to think about things, I am once again so grateful to God for His guidance and power in my life!  Yesterday what I faced felt overwhelming and impossible.  But nothing is impossible with God (Matthew 17:20), and today I am praising Him for the miracles I've seen since my last post 

1. The challenges I was so concerned about yesterday have been faced.  Everything turned out better than I could have hoped (despite the fact that in some ways I prepared for the wrong goal!).  What occurred was exactly right, and I have one more piece of evidence that despite my lack of ability to see the future, God can and does and leads me in the best way.  Thank You, God!!!
2. Today I am feeling much better health wise as well.  Thank you, God!!!

"I will give thanks to the LORD with all my heart, I will declare all your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and exult in you; I will sing praises to your name, Most High!"  Psalms 9:1-2 ISV 

Thank you, Father!  You are so amazing, and I am SO grateful for once again getting a chance to see how powerful you are and how you are able to use me despite all my faults and my mustard-seed faith!

Happy New Year!

Do you make New Year's resolutions?  It's not something I necessarily formally do, but in a new year, my thoughts DO naturally turn to thoughts of how things went over the last year and what I want to see in the new year.  This morning my attention was caught by a quote in the December 2013 Guidepost's magazine.  

"I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he or she handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas lights." - Maya Angelou

What would people learn about me by the way I handle these types of things?  I know the way I would like to handle them.  I'd like to follow God's advice to "in everything give thanks" (I Thessalonians 5:18) and always demonstrate my faith in Him to sort everything out.  I also know that many times I fall far short of doing so.  Today is a good example of that.  I'm not feeling as well physically as I would like, nor am I feeling as well prepared as I'd like to be for the tasks I face today. I wish I could just take the day off and rest, but I have responsibilities to meet. It's tempting to murmur and complain about things, and giving thanks for them is such a foreign concept - yet it's what I'm called to do!

As I contemplated the idea of New Year's resolutions, I remembered some Bible passages that talked about having "resolved" to do something, so decided to use a concordance to look up that word in the New International Version.  Four passages came up:

1. II Chronicles 20:3 - "Alarmed, Jehoshaphat resolved to inquire of the Lord" NIV - Jehosaphat was faced with an army that was much larger than his resources appeared ready to meet, so he gathered the Israelites and they fasted and prayed about the situation.  Then God sent an answer through Jezariel - Zechariah's son.  "This is what the Lord says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's."  2 Chronicles 20:15 NIV  This is what I need to remember.  No matter what it is that I am facing, I need to resolve to inquire of the Lord, and I need to remember that the battle is not mine, it is God's! When I remember this, then I can find a basis for which to indeed meet all challenges with thanksgiving.  They are opportunities for me to really see God's power at work in my life!


2. "I have resolved that my mouth will not sin." Psalms 17:3 NIV   My first thought as I read this verse was of my inclination to complain and the suggestion of a resolve to avoid that. Then as I read the 3rd "resolved" verse (see #3 below), I realized it could also relate to a resolution about healthy eating.


3. "Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way." Daniel 1:8-9 NIV As I read this verse, I realize that indeed, eating rich foods that are not good for me is "defiling myself".  Why would I want to do that? Father, please remove in me any desire for such things!


4. "For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.  I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling.  My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power." 1 Corinthians 2:2-5 NIV  I think this is part of what God wants to see in me as I continually find myself facing situations for which I don't feel I have the energy or resources to meet.  I need to learn to relax and trust that there will be a demonstration of the Spirit's power as I step into what I've been called to do.  I indeed am facing my tasks today with "weakness and fear, and with much trembling" but I know that He that hath begun a good work in me will see it to completion (Phil 1:6). 

Father, like in Jehosephat's story, I see your hand in bringing me to where I am today.  I am grateful for the reminder that the battle is not mine, but yours!  Father, if it is your will, I pray for healing and strength both physically and mentally as I prepare to meet the tasks you have set before me.  Father, at some times, it's hard to see that "open door" you've set before me and said no one can shut. (Rev 3:8-9)  It sure looks like it's closing sometimes!  Father, help me to keep your word and not deny your name!  I remember your many words of wisdom to me, including the reminder that "Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it" (Ps 127:1).  Father, I look to you to do the building.  May I be fully in alignment with your will this day and let you do the battle.  As Jehosephat said in 2 Chron 20:12, I too recognize that I have no power to face what is ahead, and I don't know what to do, but my eyes are upon you, Father.  I need your energy and your strength for this day.  I cannot make it on my own.  Please fill me with your joy as I remember that is where my strength comes from (Neh 8:10).  Thank you, Father!  Amen.