Recently the speed limit on a heavily traveled two lane street in my neighborhood was reduced from 35 mph to 25 mph. Most drivers have seized the opportunity to slow down and relax. However every morning, I can see in my rear view mirror someone who needs on the spot anger management training. Do you know what I’m talking about?
It’s hard to maintain the 25 mph speed on a very long stretch of road. Sometimes my speedometer creeps up to just below 30 mph. I stay within a safe range because I know that there’s an occasional police car hiding on a side street. I’ve also witnessed cars being stopped for speeding. That is not how I want to start my day.
Occasionally I’ve seen someone pass another car which is maintaining the posted speed. It’s totally illegal but the driver is just too impatient to stay in line. I’ve seen lots of interesting facial expressions, steering wheel gripping, hand gestures and flashing of headlights.
The person who rides on my bumper brings me the greatest concern. I usually pull to the curb and let that person pass. I admit that I have reduced my speed even more just to make my point to an obnoxious driver behind me. That’s not my best behavior!
Very seldom do these agitated drivers save any time. I have observed that for all the stress and anger the hurried driver puts himself through, he usually ends up at the red light or stop sign with me right behind him.
So I will continue going the speed limit, ignoring the heated people and occasionally offering a prayer for their day.
Scripture Thought for Today: A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control.
Proverbs 29:11 (NIV)
Read Proverbs 29:11 on Biblegateway
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Monday, November 9, 2009
God's Love Filled to Overflowing
I recently read about a man who turned bitter and helpless when his request for a parking variance on his home was turned down by his neighborhood commission.
His gravel driveway didn’t meet the paved surface required by city code. He had been in a terrible accident and, as a result, health problems had forced him to retire. Although he was sometimes confined to a wheelchair, he still managed to do some work to pay his bills. The 64-year-old needed to park along his fence to use it to support himself while he climbed in and out of his pickup truck.
Everyone wanted to help him out but he didn’t have the money to install a parking pad. One person said he couldn’t get the situation out of his mind. He stepped forward and took action. He called several concrete companies to meet him at the sight, talk about it and come up with a way through the dilemma. The workers, without hesitation, volunteered time and supplies and finished the job in short order.
The man was speechless. He cried. He thought no one really cared.
I don’t know if the man realized it or not but he had experienced God’s love. These were ordinary people who were drawn by the love and caring in their hearts to help someone in need.
God calls us to love Him and to allow His love to overflow into loving others.
Scripture Thought for Today: Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:37-40 (NLT)
Read Matthew 22:37-40 on Biblegateway
His gravel driveway didn’t meet the paved surface required by city code. He had been in a terrible accident and, as a result, health problems had forced him to retire. Although he was sometimes confined to a wheelchair, he still managed to do some work to pay his bills. The 64-year-old needed to park along his fence to use it to support himself while he climbed in and out of his pickup truck.
Everyone wanted to help him out but he didn’t have the money to install a parking pad. One person said he couldn’t get the situation out of his mind. He stepped forward and took action. He called several concrete companies to meet him at the sight, talk about it and come up with a way through the dilemma. The workers, without hesitation, volunteered time and supplies and finished the job in short order.
The man was speechless. He cried. He thought no one really cared.
I don’t know if the man realized it or not but he had experienced God’s love. These were ordinary people who were drawn by the love and caring in their hearts to help someone in need.
God calls us to love Him and to allow His love to overflow into loving others.
Scripture Thought for Today: Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:37-40 (NLT)
Read Matthew 22:37-40 on Biblegateway
Monday, November 2, 2009
Unmasked
Last week I drove by a parade of preschoolers in their Halloween costumes. They were being led around the block by a small band! Some kids were walking on tiptoes; others were stretching arms and legs. They were having so much fun! It was entertaining to watch them pretend to be someone or something they weren’t. Little kids seem to love to fantasize.
I know many adults who are good at pretending. They wear masks as they walk through their day. I’ve seen smiles hide anxiety and constant pain. I’ve recognized anger coming from deep hurts and addictions. I’ve heard excuses meant to cover fears and uncertainties.
Ultimately many adults decide to take off their masks. The realities of life become too difficult to carry and too difficult to hide. For adults it can be a real struggle to reveal personal stories. Being honest can bring consequences. Some consequences are perceived but honesty can also lead to traumatic experiences. What will people think? Will I appear weak or out of control? Who might be affected by what I reveal? How much is too much to tell?
It is not easy to reveal the realities of our lives. It requires us to be honest about where we are in life, what we are doing, what we aren’t doing, what we could be doing, and why we are holding on to things that are taking us places we don’t want to be going. Finding friends for support, to pray with us, and hold us accountable helps us be successful.
For me, honesty starts with the person who is first in my life. Is it me or is it God? Is God leading me or am I going it alone? Am I feeling God’s comfort and peace or am I troubled and sad? When I do the things I don’t want to do, am I remembering that God is present to save me, forgive me and put me on the right path? Do I hold in my heart the One who created me and do I believe that He is THE ONE Who is best to help me get on the path I am to follow? Adjusting my life to more of Him and less of me allows Him to lead me where I should be.
Scripture Thought for Today: Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT)
I know many adults who are good at pretending. They wear masks as they walk through their day. I’ve seen smiles hide anxiety and constant pain. I’ve recognized anger coming from deep hurts and addictions. I’ve heard excuses meant to cover fears and uncertainties.
Ultimately many adults decide to take off their masks. The realities of life become too difficult to carry and too difficult to hide. For adults it can be a real struggle to reveal personal stories. Being honest can bring consequences. Some consequences are perceived but honesty can also lead to traumatic experiences. What will people think? Will I appear weak or out of control? Who might be affected by what I reveal? How much is too much to tell?
It is not easy to reveal the realities of our lives. It requires us to be honest about where we are in life, what we are doing, what we aren’t doing, what we could be doing, and why we are holding on to things that are taking us places we don’t want to be going. Finding friends for support, to pray with us, and hold us accountable helps us be successful.
For me, honesty starts with the person who is first in my life. Is it me or is it God? Is God leading me or am I going it alone? Am I feeling God’s comfort and peace or am I troubled and sad? When I do the things I don’t want to do, am I remembering that God is present to save me, forgive me and put me on the right path? Do I hold in my heart the One who created me and do I believe that He is THE ONE Who is best to help me get on the path I am to follow? Adjusting my life to more of Him and less of me allows Him to lead me where I should be.
Scripture Thought for Today: Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT)
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Choose Your Today
“How are you today?”
I smiled at the clerk and responded, “I am fine. How are you today?”
As my eyes met hers, her face lit up and with enthusiasm she reported that she was doing great.
“I start every day telling myself it’s going to be a great day. I continue telling myself throughout the day that it will be a great day. It works. I always have a great day.”
The clerk showed me the aisle to find what I was looking for as we continued our conversation. She disappeared around the corner.
As I drove home, I kept thinking about our conversation. It is true for me as well. My day goes better when I decide, right at the beginning of my day, that it is going to be a great day.
In the spring and summer when the sun comes through my window, it is easy to greet the day with a smile and a prayer. Now that fall is here and winter approaches, I am missing that sunny reminder. But enjoying an extra few minutes of warmth under the blanket now gives me a perfect place to be thankful for the day.
Scripture Thought for Today: This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24 (NIV)
I smiled at the clerk and responded, “I am fine. How are you today?”
As my eyes met hers, her face lit up and with enthusiasm she reported that she was doing great.
“I start every day telling myself it’s going to be a great day. I continue telling myself throughout the day that it will be a great day. It works. I always have a great day.”
The clerk showed me the aisle to find what I was looking for as we continued our conversation. She disappeared around the corner.
As I drove home, I kept thinking about our conversation. It is true for me as well. My day goes better when I decide, right at the beginning of my day, that it is going to be a great day.
In the spring and summer when the sun comes through my window, it is easy to greet the day with a smile and a prayer. Now that fall is here and winter approaches, I am missing that sunny reminder. But enjoying an extra few minutes of warmth under the blanket now gives me a perfect place to be thankful for the day.
Scripture Thought for Today: This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24 (NIV)
Monday, October 26, 2009
Grandmom's Faith
Growing up I loved spending time with my Grandmother Rachel.
“Everything’s going to be okay because Grandmom says so.”
That’s what I always heard when I shared my fears, sadnesses or hopes with grandmother. She would give me a crushing grandmom hug, make her declaration and that would be the end of our conversation. It was always comforting.
When I left home to go to college, we would talk over the phone. At the end of our conversation grandmom would always tell me that she was praying for me every day.
As an adult I look back and can see the strength of grandmom’s faith. I know that Grandmom was a woman of prayer. She really believed in the power of prayer. As she prayed, she truly believed, she knew, that God would answer her prayer.
Grandmom never talked about her faith. She lived her faith everyday. She was a quiet witness to those who knew her and loved her.
After all these years, there are still times when I hear a voice within me say, “Everything’s okay because grandmom says so.” With a smile I am prompted to take my concern to God in prayer.
Today’s Scripture Thought: Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24 (NIV)
“Everything’s going to be okay because Grandmom says so.”
That’s what I always heard when I shared my fears, sadnesses or hopes with grandmother. She would give me a crushing grandmom hug, make her declaration and that would be the end of our conversation. It was always comforting.
When I left home to go to college, we would talk over the phone. At the end of our conversation grandmom would always tell me that she was praying for me every day.
As an adult I look back and can see the strength of grandmom’s faith. I know that Grandmom was a woman of prayer. She really believed in the power of prayer. As she prayed, she truly believed, she knew, that God would answer her prayer.
Grandmom never talked about her faith. She lived her faith everyday. She was a quiet witness to those who knew her and loved her.
After all these years, there are still times when I hear a voice within me say, “Everything’s okay because grandmom says so.” With a smile I am prompted to take my concern to God in prayer.
Today’s Scripture Thought: Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24 (NIV)
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
God's Blessings
Have you noticed the blaze of color that surrounds you? The leaves on the trees seem to have turned overnight and the cold weather has encouraged them to hang on for a while.
Yesterday I took a shortcut through a neighborhood to get to our home. As I rounded a curve, I was startled by a huge tree. It stood by itself, completely filling a front yard. It thrust a bright sunshine of yellow leaves into the sky. It was breathtaking.
I was driving to make my way home but my eyes were drawn to all of the trees lining the streets and the mixtures of color. I decided to take an extra loop around the neighborhood to enjoy more and give my mind a break from the day’s routine. It was a great distraction and I felt recharged when I pulled into the driveway.
I thank God for putting this display in front of me. This beautiful distraction reminded me to pause in my hectic day and praise Him for His awesome blessings. I need to pause during each day to refresh my heart. I need to thank Him for the blessings I have received and those that are new with each day. God is good to me…all the time!
Scripture for Today: I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. Psalm 86:12 (NIV)
Yesterday I took a shortcut through a neighborhood to get to our home. As I rounded a curve, I was startled by a huge tree. It stood by itself, completely filling a front yard. It thrust a bright sunshine of yellow leaves into the sky. It was breathtaking.
I was driving to make my way home but my eyes were drawn to all of the trees lining the streets and the mixtures of color. I decided to take an extra loop around the neighborhood to enjoy more and give my mind a break from the day’s routine. It was a great distraction and I felt recharged when I pulled into the driveway.
I thank God for putting this display in front of me. This beautiful distraction reminded me to pause in my hectic day and praise Him for His awesome blessings. I need to pause during each day to refresh my heart. I need to thank Him for the blessings I have received and those that are new with each day. God is good to me…all the time!
Scripture for Today: I will praise you, O Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. Psalm 86:12 (NIV)
Monday, October 19, 2009
Loving Your Neighbor
I read in the newspaper recently about a 66 year old man who had seriously injured his knees. He was unable to walk, had surgery, and had to stay in a rehabilitation center. His inability to function within his two-story home kept him from being able to go home.
A neighbor had purchased their home from a handicapped person. When they heard that their elderly neighbor’s recovery depended on his ability to return to a comfortable, easily accessible home, they offered their handicapped friendly ranch home to the man and his wife. The neighbor didn’t have a problem knowing that the man’s recovery could take several weeks or several months. The elderly couple was reluctant at first but eventually accepted the offer. On the day the man was discharged, the neighbors exchanged homes.
The article continues relating how these two couples and other neighbors, who joined in, worked through a very difficult situation together.
Isn’t this an awesome story of loving and caring? The couple, who offered their home didn’t think twice about doing what they did! They said that they just felt it was the right thing to do!
Scripture Thought for Today: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself. 'There is no commandment greater than these." Mark 29:30-31 (NIV)
A neighbor had purchased their home from a handicapped person. When they heard that their elderly neighbor’s recovery depended on his ability to return to a comfortable, easily accessible home, they offered their handicapped friendly ranch home to the man and his wife. The neighbor didn’t have a problem knowing that the man’s recovery could take several weeks or several months. The elderly couple was reluctant at first but eventually accepted the offer. On the day the man was discharged, the neighbors exchanged homes.
The article continues relating how these two couples and other neighbors, who joined in, worked through a very difficult situation together.
Isn’t this an awesome story of loving and caring? The couple, who offered their home didn’t think twice about doing what they did! They said that they just felt it was the right thing to do!
Scripture Thought for Today: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself. 'There is no commandment greater than these." Mark 29:30-31 (NIV)
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Strength, Hope, and Encouragement
I meet a lot of wonderful people in my therapeutic water exercise class. They are such an encouragement and inspiration to me every day.
Margaret has serious heart problems and is on oxygen. She arrives in a wheel chair and enters the pool very slowly. Tubing runs from her oxygen tank to more than the width of the pool.
The first time I met her she had not walked across the width of the pool. As we talked she started walking with me toward the other side of the pool. I’m not sure she was aware of what was happening. When we got to the other side her face lit up with a beautiful smile of accomplishment.
I asked her if she wanted to return to the other side. “Only if you go with me, honey,” she burst out with laughter.
She has continued walking forward and back across the pool each day. She gets tired and moves slowly, sometimes stopping, but she is doing it with an attitude of happy commitment and the support and encouragement of all her new friends.
There are times when we need someone to help lessen our burdens; someone to walk beside us to cheer us on and give us hope and encouragement.
Help comes when we turn to God and trust Him to give us the strength we need for the day, peace and rest.
Scripture Thought: Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT)
Margaret has serious heart problems and is on oxygen. She arrives in a wheel chair and enters the pool very slowly. Tubing runs from her oxygen tank to more than the width of the pool.
The first time I met her she had not walked across the width of the pool. As we talked she started walking with me toward the other side of the pool. I’m not sure she was aware of what was happening. When we got to the other side her face lit up with a beautiful smile of accomplishment.
I asked her if she wanted to return to the other side. “Only if you go with me, honey,” she burst out with laughter.
She has continued walking forward and back across the pool each day. She gets tired and moves slowly, sometimes stopping, but she is doing it with an attitude of happy commitment and the support and encouragement of all her new friends.
There are times when we need someone to help lessen our burdens; someone to walk beside us to cheer us on and give us hope and encouragement.
Help comes when we turn to God and trust Him to give us the strength we need for the day, peace and rest.
Scripture Thought: Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT)
Monday, October 12, 2009
The Voice
Our daughter, when she was about four, was getting into lots of things and testing her limits. My husband called it a lively spirit of scientific exploration. I called it the stage we needed to get out of soon.
One day I pulled her onto my lap.
I said, “Karen, when you start to do something you shouldn’t, stop and listen. If you hear a little voice inside you say “No!” then just don’t do what you are about to do.” She agreed to the plan.
I felt so much power and peace. I was sure that I had solved the whole problem!
NOT! That same afternoon she came running into the house sobbing. She told me the whole story of what she had done.
She took a deep breath in between sobs and said, “Mommy, I heard that little voice just like you said, but I HAD to do it anyway!”
Then my favorite part, she threw her arms around me and warmed my heart with, “I’m sorry, mommy!”
“I love you, Karen,” I whispered.
This story is amusing until we realize that, as adults, we do the same thing. There are times when we ignore what the voice behind us is telling us. We take the wrong path.
We know we can turn toward God and ask His forgiveness. He will be by our side to love us through whatever we have done wrong.
Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it.” Isaiah 30:21 (NIV)
Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. Romans 7:20 (NIV)
One day I pulled her onto my lap.
I said, “Karen, when you start to do something you shouldn’t, stop and listen. If you hear a little voice inside you say “No!” then just don’t do what you are about to do.” She agreed to the plan.
I felt so much power and peace. I was sure that I had solved the whole problem!
NOT! That same afternoon she came running into the house sobbing. She told me the whole story of what she had done.
She took a deep breath in between sobs and said, “Mommy, I heard that little voice just like you said, but I HAD to do it anyway!”
Then my favorite part, she threw her arms around me and warmed my heart with, “I’m sorry, mommy!”
“I love you, Karen,” I whispered.
This story is amusing until we realize that, as adults, we do the same thing. There are times when we ignore what the voice behind us is telling us. We take the wrong path.
We know we can turn toward God and ask His forgiveness. He will be by our side to love us through whatever we have done wrong.
Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it.” Isaiah 30:21 (NIV)
Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. Romans 7:20 (NIV)
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
God is With Me
My Thoughts: It happened in just seconds. Looking out the window of the plane as we were landing, I noticed another plane taking off on the same runway almost below us.
I grabbed my husband’s arm. I managed to say, “We’re not going to…”
My response was cut short by the sharp upward turning of our plane. My ears closed as I felt the pressure inside the cabin increase. The eerie crackle of the plane under the stress of being forced up mimicked my own response to being lifted unexpectedly. I felt my hands grasp the arms of my seat.
As the plane shook, luggage shifted and alarms rang, my attention shifted to a puff of air on my cheek. It was refreshing and comforting in spite of what was happening.
In my head I heard a familiar soft firm voice speak, “It is okay. I am here.”
After what seemed to be forever, the plane leveled off, made a wide circle back to the airport and landed. I noticed how calm, kind, and patient people were as they left their seats to depart from the plane. All was okay. Peace had replaced fear.
The experience confirmed that wherever I am, God is with me to protect me and care for me.
Scripture Thought:
If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. Psalm 139:9-10 (NIV)
I grabbed my husband’s arm. I managed to say, “We’re not going to…”
My response was cut short by the sharp upward turning of our plane. My ears closed as I felt the pressure inside the cabin increase. The eerie crackle of the plane under the stress of being forced up mimicked my own response to being lifted unexpectedly. I felt my hands grasp the arms of my seat.
As the plane shook, luggage shifted and alarms rang, my attention shifted to a puff of air on my cheek. It was refreshing and comforting in spite of what was happening.
In my head I heard a familiar soft firm voice speak, “It is okay. I am here.”
After what seemed to be forever, the plane leveled off, made a wide circle back to the airport and landed. I noticed how calm, kind, and patient people were as they left their seats to depart from the plane. All was okay. Peace had replaced fear.
The experience confirmed that wherever I am, God is with me to protect me and care for me.
Scripture Thought:
If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. Psalm 139:9-10 (NIV)
Monday, October 5, 2009
The Joy and Peace of God's Presence
Thoughts for Today: I listened intently to a 60 year old man telling his story about losing his job. He had recently gotten another job after about a year of interviews. The difficulty was selling his current house. His new job was in another state and that meant purchasing another home. With the depressed real estate market, both he and his wife knew it wasn’t going to be easy. After putting their house on the market, they soon realized that they could sell it, but for a price of $150,000 under what they still owed on their home.
He and his wife shared many of their thoughts as they moved toward a decision. They decided to sell their home at a loss and use retirement funds to pay the difference. In the process, they discovered that they had enough left in their retirement funds to use on the down payment for their new home. They also had money left in their retirement account.
At the end of the interview we see the husband and wife embracing on their deck. They were reassuring each with a quiet, “everything is going to be okay”.
It had to be a difficult year for the couple, but in the end the husband did get another job. They faced the difficult decision of selling their home for less than what they owed, but they had funds to make up the difference with enough left for a down payment on their new home. And they had money beyond that! The couple had what they needed. Seeing one’s lifetime planning and work towards retirement disappear is certainly devastating. They obviously had each other and they were able to do what they needed to do. Certainly they wanted more. Most of us would have wanted more security and reassurance.
As the couple’s story unfolded, it became clear to me that God was creating some good things within the couple’s struggle. I’ve also noticed that whenever bad happens in my life, God reveals some good things to go with it. I have learned to hold on to the good things in my life to get through the bad times. The good amid the bad is not always easy to see. Sometimes it takes me a while to clear the fog so I can look, but I know God is by my side. He’s always with me to help me through each day, good or bad.
I have no idea if the couple I listened to were believers. Were they aware of God’s presence as He protected and cared for them? I wondered if they knew that they were experiencing His reassuring peace as they said, “everything is going to be okay.” I pray that the couple is aware of God’s presence and are thankful for the joy and peace which came from receiving God’s blessings!
Scripture for Today: The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace. Psalm 29:11
He and his wife shared many of their thoughts as they moved toward a decision. They decided to sell their home at a loss and use retirement funds to pay the difference. In the process, they discovered that they had enough left in their retirement funds to use on the down payment for their new home. They also had money left in their retirement account.
At the end of the interview we see the husband and wife embracing on their deck. They were reassuring each with a quiet, “everything is going to be okay”.
It had to be a difficult year for the couple, but in the end the husband did get another job. They faced the difficult decision of selling their home for less than what they owed, but they had funds to make up the difference with enough left for a down payment on their new home. And they had money beyond that! The couple had what they needed. Seeing one’s lifetime planning and work towards retirement disappear is certainly devastating. They obviously had each other and they were able to do what they needed to do. Certainly they wanted more. Most of us would have wanted more security and reassurance.
As the couple’s story unfolded, it became clear to me that God was creating some good things within the couple’s struggle. I’ve also noticed that whenever bad happens in my life, God reveals some good things to go with it. I have learned to hold on to the good things in my life to get through the bad times. The good amid the bad is not always easy to see. Sometimes it takes me a while to clear the fog so I can look, but I know God is by my side. He’s always with me to help me through each day, good or bad.
I have no idea if the couple I listened to were believers. Were they aware of God’s presence as He protected and cared for them? I wondered if they knew that they were experiencing His reassuring peace as they said, “everything is going to be okay.” I pray that the couple is aware of God’s presence and are thankful for the joy and peace which came from receiving God’s blessings!
Scripture for Today: The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace. Psalm 29:11
Monday, September 28, 2009
No Entries This Week
Next entries will begin on Monday, October 5
Please feel free to look through the archives listed in the right column.
Also listed in the right column is my email address if you would like to be in touch regarding what you are reading.
I’d love to hear from you!
God Bless You, Judy
Please feel free to look through the archives listed in the right column.
Also listed in the right column is my email address if you would like to be in touch regarding what you are reading.
I’d love to hear from you!
God Bless You, Judy
Friday, September 25, 2009
Hagar and Sarah - God's Plan
Scripture for this week: Genesis 16:1-16; 21:1-21
My Comments: Hagar was a woman of courage and endurance. She persevered through abuse and a tragic life. God did not abandon her. When Hagar felt death was inevitable for her and her son, God was by their side.
I might create a different ending to the story. It would be an ending where all the bickering would be resolved. What would it look like if, in the end, Sarah and Hagar were forgiving, patient and learning to live together?
I wanted God to fix the mess created by Sarah and Hagar. But God didn’t fix things the way I expected. Much is learned about God here. As the story unfolds, God shows His love for each member of Abraham’s family. God is seen providing care, protection and blessings for each according to their need and according to His plan.
God has a plan for my life and He shows the same love to me. I can think of many times He has taken care of my needs. There was the long awaited phone call to reassure me my daughter had arrived safely home amid a terrible storm. There was the report that my husband would recover from a major stroke. I am still learning not to run off ahead of Him or shut Him out of what’s going on in my life. I know He wants me to turn to Him so He can love me, protect me, and bless me in good times and in bad times. What more could I ask for, what more could I possibly need? God is faithful…all the time!
Scripture for today: 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 (NIV)
My Comments: Hagar was a woman of courage and endurance. She persevered through abuse and a tragic life. God did not abandon her. When Hagar felt death was inevitable for her and her son, God was by their side.
I might create a different ending to the story. It would be an ending where all the bickering would be resolved. What would it look like if, in the end, Sarah and Hagar were forgiving, patient and learning to live together?
I wanted God to fix the mess created by Sarah and Hagar. But God didn’t fix things the way I expected. Much is learned about God here. As the story unfolds, God shows His love for each member of Abraham’s family. God is seen providing care, protection and blessings for each according to their need and according to His plan.
God has a plan for my life and He shows the same love to me. I can think of many times He has taken care of my needs. There was the long awaited phone call to reassure me my daughter had arrived safely home amid a terrible storm. There was the report that my husband would recover from a major stroke. I am still learning not to run off ahead of Him or shut Him out of what’s going on in my life. I know He wants me to turn to Him so He can love me, protect me, and bless me in good times and in bad times. What more could I ask for, what more could I possibly need? God is faithful…all the time!
Scripture for today: 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 (NIV)
Scripture of this week.
Monday - Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. Psalm 27:14 (NIV)
Tuesday - I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8 (NIV)
Wednesday - Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. James 4:7-10 (NIV)
Thursday - May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine upon us. Psalm 97:1 (NIV)
Friday – 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 (NIV)
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Sarah and Hagar - A Family Separated
Scripture for this week: Genesis 16:1-16; 21:1-21
My Comments: As Ishmael grew up he and Hagar continued to harass Sarah and Isaac. Sarah was fearful of the future for Isaac as Abraham’s heir. She caused Abraham great sadness when he had to send Hagar and Ishmael out into the desert where they would die. I was relieved to read about God’s protection of Hagar and Ishmael from Sarah’s hatred. Hagar found freedom and chose a wife for Ishmael from Egypt, which was her homeland.
The details of the resentful struggle between Sarah and Hagar are not told. In my imagination I think of Ishmael spending his time as a young impressionable child amid hatred, jealousy, fear and pride. He probably witnessed his mother being constantly mistreated and his mother reacting with contempt.
I found God’s words regarding Ishmael before he was born very interesting: “He will be a wild donkey of a man; his hand will be against everyone and everyone’s hand against him, and he will live in hostility toward all his brothers.” Was his hostility passed down to him from Hagar and Sarah’s behavior? Later in Genesis, I see that Ishmael handed his hostility down to his sons (Genesis 25:18).
The story of Sarah and Hagar was a sad one for me. Their family became separated because of their hatred for one another. A father, Abraham, was put in the position of choosing between his two sons. Many people, today, have experienced the pain of bickering, blaming and separations within families. Sides are taken and all communication shuts down.
On the other hand I think the story of Sarah and Hagar can bring hope. We can see that God did not condemn one side of a family quarrel and bless the other. Sarah’s Isaac received God’s blessings. Hagar’s Ishmael received God’s blessings as well. In spite of how he came into the world God allowed Ishmael’s descendants to become a nation. What a gracious God!
Scripture for Today: May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine upon us. Psalm 67:1
My Comments: As Ishmael grew up he and Hagar continued to harass Sarah and Isaac. Sarah was fearful of the future for Isaac as Abraham’s heir. She caused Abraham great sadness when he had to send Hagar and Ishmael out into the desert where they would die. I was relieved to read about God’s protection of Hagar and Ishmael from Sarah’s hatred. Hagar found freedom and chose a wife for Ishmael from Egypt, which was her homeland.
The details of the resentful struggle between Sarah and Hagar are not told. In my imagination I think of Ishmael spending his time as a young impressionable child amid hatred, jealousy, fear and pride. He probably witnessed his mother being constantly mistreated and his mother reacting with contempt.
I found God’s words regarding Ishmael before he was born very interesting: “He will be a wild donkey of a man; his hand will be against everyone and everyone’s hand against him, and he will live in hostility toward all his brothers.” Was his hostility passed down to him from Hagar and Sarah’s behavior? Later in Genesis, I see that Ishmael handed his hostility down to his sons (Genesis 25:18).
The story of Sarah and Hagar was a sad one for me. Their family became separated because of their hatred for one another. A father, Abraham, was put in the position of choosing between his two sons. Many people, today, have experienced the pain of bickering, blaming and separations within families. Sides are taken and all communication shuts down.
On the other hand I think the story of Sarah and Hagar can bring hope. We can see that God did not condemn one side of a family quarrel and bless the other. Sarah’s Isaac received God’s blessings. Hagar’s Ishmael received God’s blessings as well. In spite of how he came into the world God allowed Ishmael’s descendants to become a nation. What a gracious God!
Scripture for Today: May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine upon us. Psalm 67:1
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Sarah - Shutting God Out
Scripture for this week: Genesis 16:1-16; 21:1-21
My Thoughts: My thinking has led me back to Sarah today.
At the time in history when Sarah lived, a woman who could not have children was looked down on. I’m sure Hagar, without saying anything, communicated her superiority and contempt to Sarah. I can imagine how Sarah was hurting not only from the reality of not being able to have a child but the reality that someone else could. Sarah also felt the ridicule from how proud Hagar had become to be the one to give Abraham a son.
Sarah seems to forget the part she played in what unfolded between her and Hagar and within Abraham’s household. She chose to take matters in her own hands and shut God out. She allowed her hurt and anger to override her judgment regarding her behavior. She even blamed Abraham! Since Hagar was Sarah’s personal possession, Sarah set out to humiliate her and drive her out her sight. Abraham told Sarah to deal with Hagar as she pleased.
Sarah’s faith was challenged. She set out to humiliate Hagar but the result was her own disgrace. Sarah shows the destruction that can happen within a person when they turn away from God.
Sometimes it is difficult to do what God is asking. Sarah took things into her own hands trying to do what she thought God wanted. Later she had to surrender to God’s plan because He was going to complete it in spite of Sarah’s attempt to shut Him out.
Looking at Sarah’s story has caused me to pause and reflect on my own life. With God’s help, I am looking for places where I may be shutting Him out because of some hurt, anger or desire to just put it out of sight. He wants all of my life to be surrendered to Him.
Scripture for Today: Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. James 4:7-10
My Thoughts: My thinking has led me back to Sarah today.
At the time in history when Sarah lived, a woman who could not have children was looked down on. I’m sure Hagar, without saying anything, communicated her superiority and contempt to Sarah. I can imagine how Sarah was hurting not only from the reality of not being able to have a child but the reality that someone else could. Sarah also felt the ridicule from how proud Hagar had become to be the one to give Abraham a son.
Sarah seems to forget the part she played in what unfolded between her and Hagar and within Abraham’s household. She chose to take matters in her own hands and shut God out. She allowed her hurt and anger to override her judgment regarding her behavior. She even blamed Abraham! Since Hagar was Sarah’s personal possession, Sarah set out to humiliate her and drive her out her sight. Abraham told Sarah to deal with Hagar as she pleased.
Sarah’s faith was challenged. She set out to humiliate Hagar but the result was her own disgrace. Sarah shows the destruction that can happen within a person when they turn away from God.
Sometimes it is difficult to do what God is asking. Sarah took things into her own hands trying to do what she thought God wanted. Later she had to surrender to God’s plan because He was going to complete it in spite of Sarah’s attempt to shut Him out.
Looking at Sarah’s story has caused me to pause and reflect on my own life. With God’s help, I am looking for places where I may be shutting Him out because of some hurt, anger or desire to just put it out of sight. He wants all of my life to be surrendered to Him.
Scripture for Today: Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. James 4:7-10
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Hagar: God Heard Her Heartache
Scripture for this week: Genesis 16:1-16; 21:1-21
My thoughts: Hagar is a slave of Abraham and Sarah. She is a maidservant, which means she must have been helpful and trustworthy to earn this important position. Hagar probably was added to their household during their stop in Egypt. How she must have missed her family! Especially when she suffered through the consequences of an unmanageable situation while in Abraham’s household.
As I read Hagar’s story I become aware that God continuously has His eyes on Hagar. He watches over her and protects her. She has never asked Him into her life. She probably knows little about God. Yet God is there with her talking to her.
Hagar became prideful and paid a high price for her mistake. She chose to leave the unbearable situation. When Hagar ran away from Sarah because of her mistreatment, an angel of the Lord told her to go back and surrender to Sarah. Hagar obeyed. Can you imagine how she had to humble herself and work up lots of courage to turn back toward Abraham’s camp? She knew it was not going to be easy to face Sarah! It was God being available to Hagar that helped her do what He told her to do.
I can imagine Hagar’s fear and her desperation when Abraham sent her and Ishmael away into the desert of Beersheba. When their water was gone, she just sat down and sobbed. God heard her cry and spoke to her telling her not to be afraid. God saw her heartache. He was with her and He provided for her and her son.
I know that God has his eyes on me, watching and protecting me while I’m going about my day. When I was teaching, I was cornered by a young man twice my size, who had hidden in a classroom closet. I remember God sent a man twice his size to rescue me. While driving I stopped in time to allow someone in an opposing lane to come through on a red light. I know God held my car and prevented a tragedy. I have experienced God’s protection many times! He is with me!
If you have fears of the future because of a job loss, loneliness or addictions, God’s promises, His love and His protection are yours! Ask for God’s presence in your life. Get to know Him more each day through prayer and the reading of His Word. Be thankful and keep focused on Him. He hears your heart cry out when you are weak and beaten down. He knows all you are going through. He is available 24/7!
Scripture for today: I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8 (NIV)
My thoughts: Hagar is a slave of Abraham and Sarah. She is a maidservant, which means she must have been helpful and trustworthy to earn this important position. Hagar probably was added to their household during their stop in Egypt. How she must have missed her family! Especially when she suffered through the consequences of an unmanageable situation while in Abraham’s household.
As I read Hagar’s story I become aware that God continuously has His eyes on Hagar. He watches over her and protects her. She has never asked Him into her life. She probably knows little about God. Yet God is there with her talking to her.
Hagar became prideful and paid a high price for her mistake. She chose to leave the unbearable situation. When Hagar ran away from Sarah because of her mistreatment, an angel of the Lord told her to go back and surrender to Sarah. Hagar obeyed. Can you imagine how she had to humble herself and work up lots of courage to turn back toward Abraham’s camp? She knew it was not going to be easy to face Sarah! It was God being available to Hagar that helped her do what He told her to do.
I can imagine Hagar’s fear and her desperation when Abraham sent her and Ishmael away into the desert of Beersheba. When their water was gone, she just sat down and sobbed. God heard her cry and spoke to her telling her not to be afraid. God saw her heartache. He was with her and He provided for her and her son.
I know that God has his eyes on me, watching and protecting me while I’m going about my day. When I was teaching, I was cornered by a young man twice my size, who had hidden in a classroom closet. I remember God sent a man twice his size to rescue me. While driving I stopped in time to allow someone in an opposing lane to come through on a red light. I know God held my car and prevented a tragedy. I have experienced God’s protection many times! He is with me!
If you have fears of the future because of a job loss, loneliness or addictions, God’s promises, His love and His protection are yours! Ask for God’s presence in your life. Get to know Him more each day through prayer and the reading of His Word. Be thankful and keep focused on Him. He hears your heart cry out when you are weak and beaten down. He knows all you are going through. He is available 24/7!
Scripture for today: I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8 (NIV)
Monday, September 21, 2009
Hagar - Considering Sarah
Scripture for this week: Genesis 16:1-16; 21:1-21
My Thoughts: I have been thinking on Hagar. However, my mind is distracted by Sarah’s actions.
So today let’s consider Sarah.
God told Sarah that, although she was beyond childbearing, she would have a son. Sarah takes matters in her own hands. She made a human choice to forge ahead with a proposition to Hagar that was common for childless women in that time. Sarah was impatient and didn’t trust God to do what He said He would do for her. She didn’t ask for God’s blessing on her plan. She couldn’t wait for God’s timing. The time was right now for Sarah.
Abraham just as quickly agreed to Sarah’s plan. Reading the rest of the story, are we surprised to see what disastrous results came from their running ahead of God and doing their own thing?”
I found myself wondering: Could any of the animosity between Sarah and Hagar been resolved or laid aside? It seems ill feelings just bubbled and bubbled until they boiled over and neither one attempted to turn the burner off. It was about Sarah’s lack of faith, her reliance on her own ability and the pride of both women leading to disaster.
We have all waited on God’s timing for something. In some areas of my life I still try to be patient and wait on His timing. I know all the comments about God’s plan always being better, His timing being the RIGHT timing, and His knowing what is best for me. I do believe and have experienced those comments to be true. However, it doesn’t stop me from wanting to know NOW what to do, not to do or say. I get excited to know what insight I will receive from God. I NEED to know the end result! But I know that God’s plan is the best plan…so I wait.
Oh, yes, through the years I have experienced chaos, sadness, and stress as a result of rushing ahead of God just like Sarah. I continue to struggle to keep one great lesson in mind: Never get ahead of God!
Sarah shows us well what happens when one is tempted to get in the way of God and take matters into their own hands. God loved Sarah and allowed His promises to be fulfilled in spite of her actions.
The good news is that He will accomplish His promises through us, as well, in spite of our actions. We can be thankful for God who loves us and can and turn our bad into good.
Scripture Thought for Today: Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. (Psalm 27:14)
My Thoughts: I have been thinking on Hagar. However, my mind is distracted by Sarah’s actions.
So today let’s consider Sarah.
God told Sarah that, although she was beyond childbearing, she would have a son. Sarah takes matters in her own hands. She made a human choice to forge ahead with a proposition to Hagar that was common for childless women in that time. Sarah was impatient and didn’t trust God to do what He said He would do for her. She didn’t ask for God’s blessing on her plan. She couldn’t wait for God’s timing. The time was right now for Sarah.
Abraham just as quickly agreed to Sarah’s plan. Reading the rest of the story, are we surprised to see what disastrous results came from their running ahead of God and doing their own thing?”
I found myself wondering: Could any of the animosity between Sarah and Hagar been resolved or laid aside? It seems ill feelings just bubbled and bubbled until they boiled over and neither one attempted to turn the burner off. It was about Sarah’s lack of faith, her reliance on her own ability and the pride of both women leading to disaster.
We have all waited on God’s timing for something. In some areas of my life I still try to be patient and wait on His timing. I know all the comments about God’s plan always being better, His timing being the RIGHT timing, and His knowing what is best for me. I do believe and have experienced those comments to be true. However, it doesn’t stop me from wanting to know NOW what to do, not to do or say. I get excited to know what insight I will receive from God. I NEED to know the end result! But I know that God’s plan is the best plan…so I wait.
Oh, yes, through the years I have experienced chaos, sadness, and stress as a result of rushing ahead of God just like Sarah. I continue to struggle to keep one great lesson in mind: Never get ahead of God!
Sarah shows us well what happens when one is tempted to get in the way of God and take matters into their own hands. God loved Sarah and allowed His promises to be fulfilled in spite of her actions.
The good news is that He will accomplish His promises through us, as well, in spite of our actions. We can be thankful for God who loves us and can and turn our bad into good.
Scripture Thought for Today: Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. (Psalm 27:14)
Friday, September 18, 2009
Anna, Prayer Continued
This Week’s Scripture: Luke 2:21-40 NIV
My Comments: I had thought I’d be writing something on God’s promises today but as I sit here my thoughts are drawn toward prayer.
Prayer was so important to Anna. I can imagine she poured her heart out to God. She listened and waited for His response. She worshiped Him continually. She was thankful and filled with joy and peace knowing she could trust God for her every need. She also knew what He had promised, He would deliver. She knew that through her experiences living life fully committed to Him.
When prayer becomes a part of a gathering, I have noticed people who are not used to praying with other people. You can see their discomfort with a sinking of their body. Some look for the nearest door and hesitantly give some reason for needing to suddenly leave. Others weakly begin to apologize for not knowing how to “pray right”. They have a panicked feeling that something will happen to them if they don’t “pray right.”
I feel for them as I was one of them. I still feel uncomfortable in certain prayer situations. I’m not really sure why it happens. I just feel intimidated. I lose focus and struggle with what to say and end up chopping my thoughts. Through the years I have learned that pausing and remembering who I am talking to helps me through. I shut everything else out. When I focus on Him letting the thoughts of my heart flow I open up to hearing the prayers of others. God is helping me work on this.
For me, personal prayer is very comforting. I know God isn’t looking for the right words or an order to my prayer. I know He just wants to hear what is on my heart and mind. He wants me to listen and I want to hear what He wants me to know. I look forward to our talks especially when days are not running smoothly. Talking with Him is very freeing. Our relationship grows with each quiet time we share.
Anna prayed to see Christ! God heard; God answered. Remember she waited 84 years! When we pray, we may not get what we request. God may answer with what we ask for, or He may give us something else that is better for us. He might not seem to answer. It may not be the right time for an answer. But God will always answer…in His time and what is best for us.
As we talk with God, He will draw us deeper into a relationship with Him. He will let us know that He hears us, that He will take care of us, love us, guide us, and give us peace and comfort. He wants us to come to Him, and want to spend time with Him. He is pleased when we turn to Him, so He can bless us with His loving promises.
If our prayers are awkward or pitiful we can be assured that He doesn’t mind. He is glad we are there with Him. He wants to listen to our hearts.
Today's Scripture Thought: Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4
Summary of Scripture Thoughts for this week:
Monday: He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. (Psalm 147:3 NIV)
Tuesday: Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. (Luke 2:38 NIV)
Wednesday: Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. (John 4:23)
Thursday: Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. (Romans 12:11)
Friday: Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. (Psalm 37:4)
My Comments: I had thought I’d be writing something on God’s promises today but as I sit here my thoughts are drawn toward prayer.
Prayer was so important to Anna. I can imagine she poured her heart out to God. She listened and waited for His response. She worshiped Him continually. She was thankful and filled with joy and peace knowing she could trust God for her every need. She also knew what He had promised, He would deliver. She knew that through her experiences living life fully committed to Him.
When prayer becomes a part of a gathering, I have noticed people who are not used to praying with other people. You can see their discomfort with a sinking of their body. Some look for the nearest door and hesitantly give some reason for needing to suddenly leave. Others weakly begin to apologize for not knowing how to “pray right”. They have a panicked feeling that something will happen to them if they don’t “pray right.”
I feel for them as I was one of them. I still feel uncomfortable in certain prayer situations. I’m not really sure why it happens. I just feel intimidated. I lose focus and struggle with what to say and end up chopping my thoughts. Through the years I have learned that pausing and remembering who I am talking to helps me through. I shut everything else out. When I focus on Him letting the thoughts of my heart flow I open up to hearing the prayers of others. God is helping me work on this.
For me, personal prayer is very comforting. I know God isn’t looking for the right words or an order to my prayer. I know He just wants to hear what is on my heart and mind. He wants me to listen and I want to hear what He wants me to know. I look forward to our talks especially when days are not running smoothly. Talking with Him is very freeing. Our relationship grows with each quiet time we share.
Anna prayed to see Christ! God heard; God answered. Remember she waited 84 years! When we pray, we may not get what we request. God may answer with what we ask for, or He may give us something else that is better for us. He might not seem to answer. It may not be the right time for an answer. But God will always answer…in His time and what is best for us.
As we talk with God, He will draw us deeper into a relationship with Him. He will let us know that He hears us, that He will take care of us, love us, guide us, and give us peace and comfort. He wants us to come to Him, and want to spend time with Him. He is pleased when we turn to Him, so He can bless us with His loving promises.
If our prayers are awkward or pitiful we can be assured that He doesn’t mind. He is glad we are there with Him. He wants to listen to our hearts.
Today's Scripture Thought: Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4
Summary of Scripture Thoughts for this week:
Monday: He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. (Psalm 147:3 NIV)
Tuesday: Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. (Luke 2:38 NIV)
Wednesday: Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. (John 4:23)
Thursday: Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. (Romans 12:11)
Friday: Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. (Psalm 37:4)
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Anna, An Example From the Past
This Week’s Scripture: Luke 2:21-40 NIV
My Comments: Have you noticed the Scripture quoted in the right column of my blog? For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Romans 15:4
I have enjoyed time thinking and writing on some of the remarkable people in the Scriptures. I have learned a lot from their examples of faith. Anna has been particularly special as she came alive to me within very few words. What a wonderful example of faith and obedience she is!
Although Anna lived a long time ago, she has taught me what happens when someone completely surrenders their life to God. Anna experienced peace, joy, love and victory in her life. God met all of her needs and gave purpose to her life. Anna saw Jesus Christ face to face in her lifetime! God kept His promise giving her the greatest blessing of all.
Can you see why Anna had to tell others? God’s love overflowed within her. She had to let it touch those around her. She needed to give them the hope she had and to know about the Hope that had arrived.
Each of us has a story of how God has taken care of us. How has He called you to trust and obey Him? What example of faith and obedience can you share with those who God puts around you? Who needs to hear about the Hope that will set them free?
Let God’s love overflow in you as it did in Anna!
Today’s Scripture Thought: Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Romans 12:11
My Comments: Have you noticed the Scripture quoted in the right column of my blog? For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Romans 15:4
I have enjoyed time thinking and writing on some of the remarkable people in the Scriptures. I have learned a lot from their examples of faith. Anna has been particularly special as she came alive to me within very few words. What a wonderful example of faith and obedience she is!
Although Anna lived a long time ago, she has taught me what happens when someone completely surrenders their life to God. Anna experienced peace, joy, love and victory in her life. God met all of her needs and gave purpose to her life. Anna saw Jesus Christ face to face in her lifetime! God kept His promise giving her the greatest blessing of all.
Can you see why Anna had to tell others? God’s love overflowed within her. She had to let it touch those around her. She needed to give them the hope she had and to know about the Hope that had arrived.
Each of us has a story of how God has taken care of us. How has He called you to trust and obey Him? What example of faith and obedience can you share with those who God puts around you? Who needs to hear about the Hope that will set them free?
Let God’s love overflow in you as it did in Anna!
Today’s Scripture Thought: Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Romans 12:11
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Anna, A Life Filled With God
This Week’s Scripture: Luke 2:21-40 NIV
My Thoughts: I am humbled and fascinated by Anna’s passionate worship. It was a lifetime commitment to praise and worship God from an ordinary person unaware that God had an extraordinary plan. She opened herself to be used by God. I keep thinking of her praying, fasting and worshiping through every day. The joy she must have experienced spending time with God in the way she did!
Anna filled her days, pretty much her whole lifetime with God! God was all she needed. Anna didn’t merely go through the motions of worship when she felt she needed to be close to God or celebrate special occasions. Anna worshiped God in spite of what was going on in her life. As Anna grew from a young woman to an elderly woman I’m sure she had a lot going on in her mind and body. Because of her faith, prayers, and obedience, God provided for her and allowed her to be a part of what He was doing.
The Spirit opened Anna’s eyes to see and recognize Jesus Christ which further shows that she was certainly a woman of God. God brought Anna and Christ together for a purpose. What did she immediately do when she saw Jesus? She began to praise God for the Messiah. She began to witness about Jesus to those around her right away, right when she met Him! She was not afraid to tell others about Christ and the salvation He would bring. God was working in and through Anna powerfully because she was a willing servant.
Anna’s story fills me with hope. The simple acts of faith, prayer, and obedience is what God is looking to find in my life; living a life as a child of God walking, worshiping and telling others of the freedom Christ can give them. I am definitely a work in progress. But I know God is seeking me as I am seeking Him. Knowing that is what fills me with hope.
Scripture for Today: Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth,for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. John 4:23
My Thoughts: I am humbled and fascinated by Anna’s passionate worship. It was a lifetime commitment to praise and worship God from an ordinary person unaware that God had an extraordinary plan. She opened herself to be used by God. I keep thinking of her praying, fasting and worshiping through every day. The joy she must have experienced spending time with God in the way she did!
Anna filled her days, pretty much her whole lifetime with God! God was all she needed. Anna didn’t merely go through the motions of worship when she felt she needed to be close to God or celebrate special occasions. Anna worshiped God in spite of what was going on in her life. As Anna grew from a young woman to an elderly woman I’m sure she had a lot going on in her mind and body. Because of her faith, prayers, and obedience, God provided for her and allowed her to be a part of what He was doing.
The Spirit opened Anna’s eyes to see and recognize Jesus Christ which further shows that she was certainly a woman of God. God brought Anna and Christ together for a purpose. What did she immediately do when she saw Jesus? She began to praise God for the Messiah. She began to witness about Jesus to those around her right away, right when she met Him! She was not afraid to tell others about Christ and the salvation He would bring. God was working in and through Anna powerfully because she was a willing servant.
Anna’s story fills me with hope. The simple acts of faith, prayer, and obedience is what God is looking to find in my life; living a life as a child of God walking, worshiping and telling others of the freedom Christ can give them. I am definitely a work in progress. But I know God is seeking me as I am seeking Him. Knowing that is what fills me with hope.
Scripture for Today: Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth,for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. John 4:23
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Anna, A Witness
This Week’s Scripture: Luke 2:21-40 NIV
My Comments: Anna, no doubt, knew all the Old Testament writings regarding the coming of the promised Messiah. Can you imagine? For most of Anna’s 84 years on earth she waited to see the Lord. It was her heart’s supreme desire. She persevered in worship, fasting, and prayer night and day, year after year. She believed and trusted that God would do what He said He would do.
Then, one day, the Messiah was right in front of Anna. Even though He was a tiny baby, she recognized Him. The time of waiting was over. What joy must have overcome her heart! Did Anna dare touch Him or hold Him in her arms? Did she speak to Mary and Joseph? We are left only with her, “coming up to them at that very moment”.
I look forward to the joyful celebrations remembering the birth of Jesus every year at Christmas. I can’t imagine waiting almost 84 years to celebrate the arrival of the Good News!
Anna gave thanks and witnessed to everyone who was looking for the Savior who would redeem Jerusalem. She couldn’t possibly keep this news to herself. I wonder what she said and if the people believed her? I have no doubt that some people thought Anna was a crazy old lady. However I think of those who did recognize the truths she spoke and were speechless over what she was saying. What an unbelievable day realizing that the Savior was alive on earth!
Anna waited a long time to come face to face with Jesus. Because of her lifetime of worship, Anna recognized that God’s Promise had arrived as an infant being presented at the temple. Oh, that I could be assured of such a relationship with our Lord! Would I recognize Him? Will I recognize Him when He returns? This is my hope and prayer.
It sometimes takes a long time for someone to see and accept Christ in their life. I remember my grandmother and my mother sharing stories with each other. They didn’t believe in coincidences. It was always referred to as God’s work. They recited favorite verses and sang hymns as they worked around the house. They taught me a lot about the Lord’s presence, prayer, and worship by the way they lived their lives. Do you recognize the Lord’s presence in your life? Do you share God’s love with someone by the way you live? You may not be an Anna but your story can make a difference in someone’s life.
Anna’s entry into Scripture is small and has been retold for 2000 years. I have learned a lot from her story for living my life today regarding prayer and worship, perseverance and trust in the Lord.
Today’s Scripture Thought: Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. (Luke 2:38 NIV)
My Comments: Anna, no doubt, knew all the Old Testament writings regarding the coming of the promised Messiah. Can you imagine? For most of Anna’s 84 years on earth she waited to see the Lord. It was her heart’s supreme desire. She persevered in worship, fasting, and prayer night and day, year after year. She believed and trusted that God would do what He said He would do.
Then, one day, the Messiah was right in front of Anna. Even though He was a tiny baby, she recognized Him. The time of waiting was over. What joy must have overcome her heart! Did Anna dare touch Him or hold Him in her arms? Did she speak to Mary and Joseph? We are left only with her, “coming up to them at that very moment”.
I look forward to the joyful celebrations remembering the birth of Jesus every year at Christmas. I can’t imagine waiting almost 84 years to celebrate the arrival of the Good News!
Anna gave thanks and witnessed to everyone who was looking for the Savior who would redeem Jerusalem. She couldn’t possibly keep this news to herself. I wonder what she said and if the people believed her? I have no doubt that some people thought Anna was a crazy old lady. However I think of those who did recognize the truths she spoke and were speechless over what she was saying. What an unbelievable day realizing that the Savior was alive on earth!
Anna waited a long time to come face to face with Jesus. Because of her lifetime of worship, Anna recognized that God’s Promise had arrived as an infant being presented at the temple. Oh, that I could be assured of such a relationship with our Lord! Would I recognize Him? Will I recognize Him when He returns? This is my hope and prayer.
It sometimes takes a long time for someone to see and accept Christ in their life. I remember my grandmother and my mother sharing stories with each other. They didn’t believe in coincidences. It was always referred to as God’s work. They recited favorite verses and sang hymns as they worked around the house. They taught me a lot about the Lord’s presence, prayer, and worship by the way they lived their lives. Do you recognize the Lord’s presence in your life? Do you share God’s love with someone by the way you live? You may not be an Anna but your story can make a difference in someone’s life.
Anna’s entry into Scripture is small and has been retold for 2000 years. I have learned a lot from her story for living my life today regarding prayer and worship, perseverance and trust in the Lord.
Today’s Scripture Thought: Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. (Luke 2:38 NIV)
Monday, September 14, 2009
Anna, A Life Devoted to Him
This week’s Scripture: Luke 2:21-40 NIV
My Thoughts: After reading today’s Scripture several times, I can’t help but wonder about the words introducing Anna into the happenings: “There was also……Anna.” It was like Anna just happened to be in the temple at the time. The truth is that Anna was a familiar person in the temple.
This week I’m spending time getting to know Anna.
Anna had been a widow for most of her 84 years. She may have lived in one of the rooms in Herod’s temple. We do know that Anna “never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying.” (v. 37) She had nothing to do but worship all day!
I try to always keep prayer and devotions at the beginning of my day before things begin to happen. Like everyone else, my days are crowded with activity. I am doing better at making time for studying Scripture DURING each day. Writing for this blog has certainly helped me stay focused and accountable for spending time in God’s Word each day. I cannot comprehend living a life so free that it could be totally devoted to worship and prayer!
Anna was married for seven years. She and her husband had no children. After only seven years of marriage her husband died. I can only imagine the anguish that Anna must have experienced. In the Jewish tradition she could have returned to her family or a husband’s brother might have taken on the responsibility of marrying her to provide for her and honor his brother. It’s not known what choices Anna had from the Scripture. We do know she chose to turn completely to God.
Instead of taking on an attitude of hopelessness and grief, Anna dedicated her life to God giving Him more attention than herself. I think Anna’s pain was so great that she knew only God could heal her hurts. She was more than willing to trust God to provide for her needs. God provided well for her as she lived a long time!
My heart is humbled by Anna’s devotion to praise and worship God; her trust in Him! Fasting and praying, fasting and praying. She waited patiently trusting that one day she would meet the promised Messiah.
Anna did not let her traumatic circumstances change her faith or her love for the Lord. She put God first and God honored her faith.
From Anna we can see that nothing should get in the way of worshiping God and accepting Jesus. There are no mistakes, sins or life situations that we can not overcome with His help.
Scripture I am thinking on today: He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. (Psalm 147:3 NIV)
My Thoughts: After reading today’s Scripture several times, I can’t help but wonder about the words introducing Anna into the happenings: “There was also……Anna.” It was like Anna just happened to be in the temple at the time. The truth is that Anna was a familiar person in the temple.
This week I’m spending time getting to know Anna.
Anna had been a widow for most of her 84 years. She may have lived in one of the rooms in Herod’s temple. We do know that Anna “never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying.” (v. 37) She had nothing to do but worship all day!
I try to always keep prayer and devotions at the beginning of my day before things begin to happen. Like everyone else, my days are crowded with activity. I am doing better at making time for studying Scripture DURING each day. Writing for this blog has certainly helped me stay focused and accountable for spending time in God’s Word each day. I cannot comprehend living a life so free that it could be totally devoted to worship and prayer!
Anna was married for seven years. She and her husband had no children. After only seven years of marriage her husband died. I can only imagine the anguish that Anna must have experienced. In the Jewish tradition she could have returned to her family or a husband’s brother might have taken on the responsibility of marrying her to provide for her and honor his brother. It’s not known what choices Anna had from the Scripture. We do know she chose to turn completely to God.
Instead of taking on an attitude of hopelessness and grief, Anna dedicated her life to God giving Him more attention than herself. I think Anna’s pain was so great that she knew only God could heal her hurts. She was more than willing to trust God to provide for her needs. God provided well for her as she lived a long time!
My heart is humbled by Anna’s devotion to praise and worship God; her trust in Him! Fasting and praying, fasting and praying. She waited patiently trusting that one day she would meet the promised Messiah.
Anna did not let her traumatic circumstances change her faith or her love for the Lord. She put God first and God honored her faith.
From Anna we can see that nothing should get in the way of worshiping God and accepting Jesus. There are no mistakes, sins or life situations that we can not overcome with His help.
Scripture I am thinking on today: He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. (Psalm 147:3 NIV)
Friday, September 11, 2009
Lydia, A Woman of Influence for God
This week’s Scripture: Acts 16: 6-40
My Thoughts: What I heard Lydia whisper in my ear over and over this week was, “be still.” Lydia had a lot of things going on and carried a lot of responsibilities but she always took time to NOT be busy and meet God in prayer.
There are times when my life gets crowded with things to do, expectations and responsibilities during the day. Although those are the days that I need the strength of time alone with God, the time comes later when things are calmed down. How different those days are when I start off with God’s power and not run through the day on my own power!
My Thoughts: What I heard Lydia whisper in my ear over and over this week was, “be still.” Lydia had a lot of things going on and carried a lot of responsibilities but she always took time to NOT be busy and meet God in prayer.
There are times when my life gets crowded with things to do, expectations and responsibilities during the day. Although those are the days that I need the strength of time alone with God, the time comes later when things are calmed down. How different those days are when I start off with God’s power and not run through the day on my own power!
The story of Lydia is a remarkable one. What a significant part Lydia played – one woman in the right place at the right time with the right heart and right attitude. Because of who she was, and who she became she was a woman of influence for God.
Scripture I am thinking on today: …be still and know that I am God (Psalm 46:10 NIV).
Pray using your own words: What did Lydia whisper in your ear this week? What can God do through you? Take time out of your busy day, everyday, to open your heart, listen, and be obedient to His vision.
Think on this week’s verses. Memorize your favorite.
Monday - But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop. (Luke 8:15 NIV)
Tuesday – That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. (Romans 10:9-10 NIV)
Wednesday – Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV)
Thursday - Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. (Colossians 3:1-3)
Friday – “…be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10 NIV).
NOTE: I encourage you to read Philippians. The book of Philippians is about the first church of Europe. Who could have known what Lydia’s generosity would bring about! Paul was sitting in jail in Rome writing them a note praising them for their support (Philippians 1; 4:10-23).
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Lydia, Business Woman
This week’s Scripture: Acts 16: 6-40
My Comments: Lydia was a very successful business woman. She sold purple cloth that was sought after by people who had the money to purchase the expensive cloth. She managed her business as well as a large household of servants. This seems to indicate that she was strong, competent and intelligent. She also was able to meet and conduct business with people of all levels of life. I think my life is busy. I am impressed when I consider Lydia's life! Lydia must have been warm and caring with a good heart as it seemed her household respected her greatly.
What I am thinking about today is that Lydia had her priorities straight. Although her life was filled with things going on, things to do, and people to care for, she attended prayer meetings on the Sabbath. After her conversion God was certainly a priority! The Spirit moved her powerfully into a new life of service, providing a place for worship, and reaching out to others to honor God.
We don’t know what became of Lydia’s business. We do know that God had given her a new job working for Him. I have no doubt she liked her new boss!
Scripture I am thinking on today: “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. “
Colossians 3:1-3
Pray using your own words: Thank God for the many blessings He has given you. Thank Him for being present in your life. Ask God to help you focus on what really matters in your life, Him. Ask Him to help you let go of anything you have in your life that keeps you from spending more time with Him.
My Comments: Lydia was a very successful business woman. She sold purple cloth that was sought after by people who had the money to purchase the expensive cloth. She managed her business as well as a large household of servants. This seems to indicate that she was strong, competent and intelligent. She also was able to meet and conduct business with people of all levels of life. I think my life is busy. I am impressed when I consider Lydia's life! Lydia must have been warm and caring with a good heart as it seemed her household respected her greatly.
What I am thinking about today is that Lydia had her priorities straight. Although her life was filled with things going on, things to do, and people to care for, she attended prayer meetings on the Sabbath. After her conversion God was certainly a priority! The Spirit moved her powerfully into a new life of service, providing a place for worship, and reaching out to others to honor God.
We don’t know what became of Lydia’s business. We do know that God had given her a new job working for Him. I have no doubt she liked her new boss!
Scripture I am thinking on today: “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. “
Colossians 3:1-3
Pray using your own words: Thank God for the many blessings He has given you. Thank Him for being present in your life. Ask God to help you focus on what really matters in your life, Him. Ask Him to help you let go of anything you have in your life that keeps you from spending more time with Him.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Lydia, Beyond the River
This week’s Scripture: Acts 16: 6-40
My Thoughts: After Lydia was baptized, she was excited about her new faith and her new life. Lydia wanted to help Paul and Silas so she opened her house for their ministry.
When Paul and Silas were in jail, Lydia visited them and took care of their needs. Later when Paul and Silas were released from prison “they went to Lydia’s house, where they met with the brothers and encouraged them. Then they left.” (Acts 16:40) We can imagine that Paul, Silas and Timothy praying and sharing their message with all who would listen.
Through Lydia’s efforts the gospel reached into all parts of society as it does today. I don’t think Lydia would miss an opportunity to share her faith with whoever turned up at her doorstep. I think that Lydia not only practiced hospitality when she wanted, but also at times when someone needed shelter, clothing and food.
Lydia is known as the first European convert. Lydia wanted to spread the Good News. There were no more prayer meetings at the river. Lydia opened her house to the believers in Philippi. The people in Christ met and worshiped Him in her home, the first house opened to Christian outreach and worship in Europe.
We cannot miss God at work in Lydia’s story. Paul’s obedience to do what God was asking of Him led him to Philippi where he met Lydia. Paul allowed God to speak through him to Lydia. When God opened Lydia’s heart, things began to happen in a big way.
Today I have seen the difference that can be made with one person honoring God by telling the Good News. Lydia made a huge difference. Her faith had given her new purpose and she was moving forward with God.
We all need to continually ask God to give us wisdom for using the skills, gifts and influence we have to further His work in the Kingdom. We need to be open to opportunities to share our faith without hesitation. It’s about letting go and trusting God to work through us.
Scripture I am thinking on today: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV)
Pray Using Your Own Words: Thank God for the lessons you have learned from Lydia’s life. Ask him to keep you open, caring and hospitable like Lydia, ready to share your home, time and food with others. Thank God for the blessings He has given you.
Blog Comments: Please leave your thoughts on the blog comments. You can also email me using the contact info on the right column of this blog.
My Thoughts: After Lydia was baptized, she was excited about her new faith and her new life. Lydia wanted to help Paul and Silas so she opened her house for their ministry.
When Paul and Silas were in jail, Lydia visited them and took care of their needs. Later when Paul and Silas were released from prison “they went to Lydia’s house, where they met with the brothers and encouraged them. Then they left.” (Acts 16:40) We can imagine that Paul, Silas and Timothy praying and sharing their message with all who would listen.
Through Lydia’s efforts the gospel reached into all parts of society as it does today. I don’t think Lydia would miss an opportunity to share her faith with whoever turned up at her doorstep. I think that Lydia not only practiced hospitality when she wanted, but also at times when someone needed shelter, clothing and food.
Lydia is known as the first European convert. Lydia wanted to spread the Good News. There were no more prayer meetings at the river. Lydia opened her house to the believers in Philippi. The people in Christ met and worshiped Him in her home, the first house opened to Christian outreach and worship in Europe.
We cannot miss God at work in Lydia’s story. Paul’s obedience to do what God was asking of Him led him to Philippi where he met Lydia. Paul allowed God to speak through him to Lydia. When God opened Lydia’s heart, things began to happen in a big way.
Today I have seen the difference that can be made with one person honoring God by telling the Good News. Lydia made a huge difference. Her faith had given her new purpose and she was moving forward with God.
We all need to continually ask God to give us wisdom for using the skills, gifts and influence we have to further His work in the Kingdom. We need to be open to opportunities to share our faith without hesitation. It’s about letting go and trusting God to work through us.
Scripture I am thinking on today: Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! (2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV)
Pray Using Your Own Words: Thank God for the lessons you have learned from Lydia’s life. Ask him to keep you open, caring and hospitable like Lydia, ready to share your home, time and food with others. Thank God for the blessings He has given you.
Blog Comments: Please leave your thoughts on the blog comments. You can also email me using the contact info on the right column of this blog.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Lydia Listened and Was Eager to Learn
This week’s Scripture: Acts 16: 6-40
My Thoughts: Paul spoke to the women at the prayer meeting by the river on the Sabbath. Lydia listened to Paul speak of his faith. She learned how everyone listening needed to hear his words and accept the Savior about whom he spoke. God opened Lydia’s heart to hear the words and believe. She was quick to respond to Paul’s message. Lydia publicly accepted the life-changing words and confessed she was a believer.
There at the river Lydia listened, heard, believed, and confessed. She was so excited that she immediately shared her saving knowledge of the Lord by witnessing to her whole household! Lydia and the members of her household were baptized. They buried their old life and took on a new life with God in charge.
I am impressed with how quickly Lydia heard and responded to God opening her heart. How often have I listened to a Sunday morning message and known that God was speaking to me and yet I held back from responding. We can learn from Lydia that when God takes a step toward us, our response is to step toward Him!
I can understand Lydia’s eagerness to learn all she could about God. I have the same hunger. I can imagine her quietly leaning in as Paul talked to her group about things she had never heard before. This was about a real person, Jesus. He was the long awaited Messiah. She heard that Jesus died for her sins, was resurrected, and was in Heaven with God to intercede for her. Her hope was now in Christ and His resurrection. Because He lives Lydia could ask for forgiveness and rest on Him for her salvation. The door to God was opened for Lydia and the others. Lydia listened, learned, believed, and acted on her faith. Lydia’s life wasn’t the same as a result of her response.
I feel blessed to know Jesus is my savior. I know I have the Holy Spirit to help keep me on track and to help me with my words when I want to pray and worship. I don’t remember when I first came to know this. But I can imagine how excited Lydia must have been to receive the Good News!
Lydia was the key person to spread the gospel increasing the number of Christians in Philippi and beyond. She was willing to seek God, follow Him, and be obedient to Him. What she did had no limits because God has no limits in what he can accomplish through one person who is willing.
What I learned through Lydia’s story today was that believing and worshiping God is not enough. We must Confess our sins, know and accept Christ; that He paid for our sins once and for all. True worship and fellowship with God begins when the way to God is opened to us through our faith.
Scripture I am thinking on today: That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.
(Romans 10:9-10 NIV)
Pray using your own words: Praise God for Lydia’s faithfulness in being a part of the prayer group at the river and her acceptance of the gospel of Christ. Ask Him to melt your heart like He did Lydia’s so it will be open to what He can do in your life. Ask Him to knock down any walls that prevent God from moving in your life. Ask Him to help you encourage others by telling them about what He is doing in your life and what He can do in theirs.
Blog Comments: Please leave your thoughts on the blog comments. You can also email me using the contact info on the right column of this blog.
My Thoughts: Paul spoke to the women at the prayer meeting by the river on the Sabbath. Lydia listened to Paul speak of his faith. She learned how everyone listening needed to hear his words and accept the Savior about whom he spoke. God opened Lydia’s heart to hear the words and believe. She was quick to respond to Paul’s message. Lydia publicly accepted the life-changing words and confessed she was a believer.
There at the river Lydia listened, heard, believed, and confessed. She was so excited that she immediately shared her saving knowledge of the Lord by witnessing to her whole household! Lydia and the members of her household were baptized. They buried their old life and took on a new life with God in charge.
I am impressed with how quickly Lydia heard and responded to God opening her heart. How often have I listened to a Sunday morning message and known that God was speaking to me and yet I held back from responding. We can learn from Lydia that when God takes a step toward us, our response is to step toward Him!
I can understand Lydia’s eagerness to learn all she could about God. I have the same hunger. I can imagine her quietly leaning in as Paul talked to her group about things she had never heard before. This was about a real person, Jesus. He was the long awaited Messiah. She heard that Jesus died for her sins, was resurrected, and was in Heaven with God to intercede for her. Her hope was now in Christ and His resurrection. Because He lives Lydia could ask for forgiveness and rest on Him for her salvation. The door to God was opened for Lydia and the others. Lydia listened, learned, believed, and acted on her faith. Lydia’s life wasn’t the same as a result of her response.
I feel blessed to know Jesus is my savior. I know I have the Holy Spirit to help keep me on track and to help me with my words when I want to pray and worship. I don’t remember when I first came to know this. But I can imagine how excited Lydia must have been to receive the Good News!
Lydia was the key person to spread the gospel increasing the number of Christians in Philippi and beyond. She was willing to seek God, follow Him, and be obedient to Him. What she did had no limits because God has no limits in what he can accomplish through one person who is willing.
What I learned through Lydia’s story today was that believing and worshiping God is not enough. We must Confess our sins, know and accept Christ; that He paid for our sins once and for all. True worship and fellowship with God begins when the way to God is opened to us through our faith.
Scripture I am thinking on today: That if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.
(Romans 10:9-10 NIV)
Pray using your own words: Praise God for Lydia’s faithfulness in being a part of the prayer group at the river and her acceptance of the gospel of Christ. Ask Him to melt your heart like He did Lydia’s so it will be open to what He can do in your life. Ask Him to knock down any walls that prevent God from moving in your life. Ask Him to help you encourage others by telling them about what He is doing in your life and what He can do in theirs.
Blog Comments: Please leave your thoughts on the blog comments. You can also email me using the contact info on the right column of this blog.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Lydia, Faithful in Prayer and Worship
This week’s Scripture: Acts 16: 6-40
My Thoughts: Though Lydia lived a long time ago there are a lot of life lessons we can learn from her. That’s what we
will be doing this week!
Lydia was someone I would have liked to have known and worked beside. Lydia seemed strong and competent, warm, openhearted and caring. I would have learned a lot about priorities, prayer, worship, and keeping God first in a busy life as well as managing a thriving business, maintaining what must have been a huge home and without hesitation, offering my home to a crowd of strangers.
There isn’t much written about Lydia but I learned a lot about her life and character. As I read about Lydia for this week the fruit of the Spirit popped into my mind: The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
(Galatians 5: 22 NIV).
I could see that Lydia’s life was a remarkable example of someone living in the Spirit!
We are introduced to Lydia on the Sabbath at a gathering of women in prayer. There was no synagogue for worship in the city. The women would gather for prayer and worship a little ways outside the city by the river under the open sky. I can imagine the women gathered in prayer discussing what they had heard about and read from the Scriptures. They probably recited many prayers together not realizing that this day would be different than any other for one of them.
Lydia didn’t fully comprehend who she was worshipping. She believed in and was a faithful worshiper of the one true God but her mind had not yet been opened to the Good News. Paul, searching for a place to pray, sat down, and spoke to the group of women. As a result, Lydia experienced the joy of a brand new faith and would never be the same.
Isn’t it exciting that the Holy Spirit guided Paul to Philippi and upon his arrival he met one special woman at an open air prayer meeting! God is always up to something!
Are you in the right attitude with the right heart, open and ready for God to use you? That is the challenge that I see coming through Lydia’s story today. Being right with God is a life lesson; one that needs attention every day, not just today.
Scripture I am thinking on today: But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.
(Luke 8:15 NIV)
Pray Using Your Own Words: Ask God to open the heart of someone who needs to hear of the hope found in the Good News. Ask Him to help you be open to His asking you to be His messenger to anyone who needs to hear and see Him. Let your eyes and heart be filled with God. Thank God for people like Lydia, who came before us to teach us the importance of being faithful in prayer and worship.
Blog Comments: Please leave your thoughts on the blog comments. You can also email me using the contact info on the right column of this blog.
My Thoughts: Though Lydia lived a long time ago there are a lot of life lessons we can learn from her. That’s what we
will be doing this week!
Lydia was someone I would have liked to have known and worked beside. Lydia seemed strong and competent, warm, openhearted and caring. I would have learned a lot about priorities, prayer, worship, and keeping God first in a busy life as well as managing a thriving business, maintaining what must have been a huge home and without hesitation, offering my home to a crowd of strangers.
There isn’t much written about Lydia but I learned a lot about her life and character. As I read about Lydia for this week the fruit of the Spirit popped into my mind: The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
(Galatians 5: 22 NIV).
I could see that Lydia’s life was a remarkable example of someone living in the Spirit!
We are introduced to Lydia on the Sabbath at a gathering of women in prayer. There was no synagogue for worship in the city. The women would gather for prayer and worship a little ways outside the city by the river under the open sky. I can imagine the women gathered in prayer discussing what they had heard about and read from the Scriptures. They probably recited many prayers together not realizing that this day would be different than any other for one of them.
Lydia didn’t fully comprehend who she was worshipping. She believed in and was a faithful worshiper of the one true God but her mind had not yet been opened to the Good News. Paul, searching for a place to pray, sat down, and spoke to the group of women. As a result, Lydia experienced the joy of a brand new faith and would never be the same.
Isn’t it exciting that the Holy Spirit guided Paul to Philippi and upon his arrival he met one special woman at an open air prayer meeting! God is always up to something!
Are you in the right attitude with the right heart, open and ready for God to use you? That is the challenge that I see coming through Lydia’s story today. Being right with God is a life lesson; one that needs attention every day, not just today.
Scripture I am thinking on today: But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.
(Luke 8:15 NIV)
Pray Using Your Own Words: Ask God to open the heart of someone who needs to hear of the hope found in the Good News. Ask Him to help you be open to His asking you to be His messenger to anyone who needs to hear and see Him. Let your eyes and heart be filled with God. Thank God for people like Lydia, who came before us to teach us the importance of being faithful in prayer and worship.
Blog Comments: Please leave your thoughts on the blog comments. You can also email me using the contact info on the right column of this blog.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Moses
This Week’s Scripture: Exodus 3:1-7:6
Today’s Scripture Reading: Exodus 6:1-13; 6:28-7:6
My thoughts: The Isaraelites were so discouraged and fearful that they couldn’t hear what Moses was telling them. God hardened Pharoah’s heart. Pharoah wouldn’t budge on the request to free the Isaraelites from the land of Egypt.
Moses wondered what he was to do because Pharoah as well as the Israelites weren’t listening. God made it known to Moses he was only being asked to deliver the message to the Israelites and the request to Pharoah. He, God, would free the Isaraelites and be their God. He would perform miraculous signs and wonders through Moses and Aaron before Pharoah to carry His plan to completion. This was so that the Egyptians would know that it was God who freed the Israelites.
I had a lot of “what ifs” to keep me wondering if the commitment of writing and posting day after day on a blog was really going to touch anyone for Him. What if only a few people read the blog? What if I spent a lot of time reading, studying, and writing and no one listens? For eight months I have had no idea how many people have visited my blog. People have commented in passing so I am aware of some people using the site. Friends have mentioned that they have had difficulty posting comments. So I entered my email address. I welcome and am encouraged by the email conversations I have received regarding the daily posts.
Amidst my discouragement God made it clear to me that the blog was not about me and my feelings. Surprise! He is only asking me to do the daily posts. He will do the rest, the touching of hearts of those who come. Further, I have a lot to learn about Him so He will be teaching me as I spend time writing the posts! Now that is exciting!
I clearly heard that He is God and I’m not. Now, I know that and you know that but sometimes we expect ourselves to do it all. We don’t need to. We just need to “be still and know that [He is] God” (Psalm 46:10 NIV).
I shared my story this week with the hope that it may be an encouragement to someone else. When you feel small and inadequate, God sees you and knows you. God loves you and wants you to trust Him. He “will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus”
(Philippians 4:19). I have learned to not hesitate to step out of a comfort zone. He will be there for you!
Meet God in His Word daily. You don’t want to miss what he has to say and even more so, what he has to say TO you. Reading His Words builds faith and is a reminder that He is the same yesterday and today and forever
(Hebrews 13:8 NIV). He took care of Moses and the Israelites in their time and He will take care of YOU now.
I hope you will read the rest of Exodus, the story of how God freed His people from Egyptian bondage through the ministry of His chosen, Moses. There is so much more about Moses we could talk about. I chose to talk about Moses’ struggles with his limitations because I also let my inadequacies get in my way at times. But we can rest in what we know, God is good…all the time!
Think on this week’s Verses. Memorize your favorite.
“…My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV)
Job answered God: "I'm convinced: You can do anything and everything. Nothing and no one can upset your plans.”
(Job 42:2 The Message)
"Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own.Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all."
(Proverbs 3:5 The Message)
“…be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10 NIV).
Pray using your own words: Be thankful for God’s patience when you lose the strength of your faith to trust in Him. Ask Him to help you listen and keep on track with who He wants you to be. Ask Him to help you know in your heart that He will give you all you need; that He will make your imperfections perfect for what He is calling you to do.
Blog Comments: I would enjoy getting a conversation going for those visiting this site. Thank you for persevering through the security process for posting your comment. Security is in place to keep out spam. You can also send me email by clicking on the connection in the right column.
Today’s Scripture Reading: Exodus 6:1-13; 6:28-7:6
My thoughts: The Isaraelites were so discouraged and fearful that they couldn’t hear what Moses was telling them. God hardened Pharoah’s heart. Pharoah wouldn’t budge on the request to free the Isaraelites from the land of Egypt.
Moses wondered what he was to do because Pharoah as well as the Israelites weren’t listening. God made it known to Moses he was only being asked to deliver the message to the Israelites and the request to Pharoah. He, God, would free the Isaraelites and be their God. He would perform miraculous signs and wonders through Moses and Aaron before Pharoah to carry His plan to completion. This was so that the Egyptians would know that it was God who freed the Israelites.
I had a lot of “what ifs” to keep me wondering if the commitment of writing and posting day after day on a blog was really going to touch anyone for Him. What if only a few people read the blog? What if I spent a lot of time reading, studying, and writing and no one listens? For eight months I have had no idea how many people have visited my blog. People have commented in passing so I am aware of some people using the site. Friends have mentioned that they have had difficulty posting comments. So I entered my email address. I welcome and am encouraged by the email conversations I have received regarding the daily posts.
Amidst my discouragement God made it clear to me that the blog was not about me and my feelings. Surprise! He is only asking me to do the daily posts. He will do the rest, the touching of hearts of those who come. Further, I have a lot to learn about Him so He will be teaching me as I spend time writing the posts! Now that is exciting!
I clearly heard that He is God and I’m not. Now, I know that and you know that but sometimes we expect ourselves to do it all. We don’t need to. We just need to “be still and know that [He is] God” (Psalm 46:10 NIV).
I shared my story this week with the hope that it may be an encouragement to someone else. When you feel small and inadequate, God sees you and knows you. God loves you and wants you to trust Him. He “will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus”
(Philippians 4:19). I have learned to not hesitate to step out of a comfort zone. He will be there for you!
Meet God in His Word daily. You don’t want to miss what he has to say and even more so, what he has to say TO you. Reading His Words builds faith and is a reminder that He is the same yesterday and today and forever
(Hebrews 13:8 NIV). He took care of Moses and the Israelites in their time and He will take care of YOU now.
I hope you will read the rest of Exodus, the story of how God freed His people from Egyptian bondage through the ministry of His chosen, Moses. There is so much more about Moses we could talk about. I chose to talk about Moses’ struggles with his limitations because I also let my inadequacies get in my way at times. But we can rest in what we know, God is good…all the time!
Think on this week’s Verses. Memorize your favorite.
“…My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV)
Job answered God: "I'm convinced: You can do anything and everything. Nothing and no one can upset your plans.”
(Job 42:2 The Message)
"Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own.Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all."
(Proverbs 3:5 The Message)
“…be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10 NIV).
Pray using your own words: Be thankful for God’s patience when you lose the strength of your faith to trust in Him. Ask Him to help you listen and keep on track with who He wants you to be. Ask Him to help you know in your heart that He will give you all you need; that He will make your imperfections perfect for what He is calling you to do.
Blog Comments: I would enjoy getting a conversation going for those visiting this site. Thank you for persevering through the security process for posting your comment. Security is in place to keep out spam. You can also send me email by clicking on the connection in the right column.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Moses
This Week’s Scripture: Exodus 3:1-7:6
Today’s Scripture Reading: Exodus 5
My Thoughts: Moses, though reluctant, obeyed and carried out God’s plan with the help of Aaron. We can see the close relationship God and Moses had through their conversations. Although God wasn’t happy about Moses’ reluctance to follow through, He gave Moses what he needed to carry his part of God’s plan through.
I had no idea in mid August where or what I would bring to our reading and thinking. One morning I wanted something different than my usual devotional to start the day. I spotted The Story on my shelf which I had begun reading earlier in the week. I noted a bookmark where I had left off and opened to the page. It was Moses’ story. As I read I began to see my own self in Moses. My struggle with feelings of inadequacy yet my desire to do what I felt I was to do. I began to see how God was working in my life as a result of a slice of Moses’ story.
The thoughts that went through my mind as I read about Moses seemed like a good start for my blog. I have been sharing my thoughts in this week’s blog. It occurred to me that if Moses gave me life lessons then I could discover more life lessons in the lives of other people in the Scriptures. It sounded like a plan was coming together for my blog and one I was excited to plunge in to.
It is exciting when something pops out at me as I read God’s Word. It’s usually words I need to hear and think about. Other people have mentioned the same thing happens to them. Have you heard that you should, “meet God in the scriptures?” What I have described is how God speaks through the scriptures. They are His words. Read the daily passages with me and let me know what thoughts or Scripture God puts on your heart.
Stay close to God as Moses did. You can be assured that when God asks you to do something, He will give you exactly what you need.
Scripture I am thinking on today: Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track.
Don't assume that you know it all.
Proverbs 3:5 (The Message)
Pray using your own words: Thank God that you can trust that He will give you what you need; that He will guide and direct you on the right path, His path. Ask Him to help you find your place to use your gifts to honor Him. Ask Him to help you give up controlling your life on your own and learning to rely more on trusting Him.
Blog Comments: There are many thoughts to consider in the scripture passages we are reading. What message did you receive while reading today’s Scripture? Please email or leave your comments today.
Today’s Scripture Reading: Exodus 5
My Thoughts: Moses, though reluctant, obeyed and carried out God’s plan with the help of Aaron. We can see the close relationship God and Moses had through their conversations. Although God wasn’t happy about Moses’ reluctance to follow through, He gave Moses what he needed to carry his part of God’s plan through.
I had no idea in mid August where or what I would bring to our reading and thinking. One morning I wanted something different than my usual devotional to start the day. I spotted The Story on my shelf which I had begun reading earlier in the week. I noted a bookmark where I had left off and opened to the page. It was Moses’ story. As I read I began to see my own self in Moses. My struggle with feelings of inadequacy yet my desire to do what I felt I was to do. I began to see how God was working in my life as a result of a slice of Moses’ story.
The thoughts that went through my mind as I read about Moses seemed like a good start for my blog. I have been sharing my thoughts in this week’s blog. It occurred to me that if Moses gave me life lessons then I could discover more life lessons in the lives of other people in the Scriptures. It sounded like a plan was coming together for my blog and one I was excited to plunge in to.
It is exciting when something pops out at me as I read God’s Word. It’s usually words I need to hear and think about. Other people have mentioned the same thing happens to them. Have you heard that you should, “meet God in the scriptures?” What I have described is how God speaks through the scriptures. They are His words. Read the daily passages with me and let me know what thoughts or Scripture God puts on your heart.
Stay close to God as Moses did. You can be assured that when God asks you to do something, He will give you exactly what you need.
Scripture I am thinking on today: Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track.
Don't assume that you know it all.
Proverbs 3:5 (The Message)
Pray using your own words: Thank God that you can trust that He will give you what you need; that He will guide and direct you on the right path, His path. Ask Him to help you find your place to use your gifts to honor Him. Ask Him to help you give up controlling your life on your own and learning to rely more on trusting Him.
Blog Comments: There are many thoughts to consider in the scripture passages we are reading. What message did you receive while reading today’s Scripture? Please email or leave your comments today.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Moses
This Week’s Scripture: Exodus 3:1-7:6
Today’s Scripture Reading: Exodus 4:14-31
My Thoughts: God was not pleased with Moses’ hesitation and his request that someone else be chosen to do what God was asking of him. God was patient with Moses and offered an alternative. Aaron, his brother, would go with him and do the talking. Moses would follow through on God’s plans.
I’m sure that God was not pleased with my hesitation over His plan of providing a place for people to come together online to read and study scripture. God has been patiently working through my self-doubts, exploring other directions in my writing and my mind over heart dilemma.
My heart wasn’t at peace during the time I was away from devotional writing. I was searching for something but didn’t know what was missing. The light turned on one morning when I realized that God was what was missing. I enjoyed my quiet time in scripture and the thoughts that flowed as I wrote about what I learned during time with Him. I realized that I didn’t have or want an alternate plan for my writing. The desire to do it my way melted away. I would follow through on what I knew was God’s plan. He was waiting and is giving me what I need to follow through.
I don’t know how long I will be writing this blog and I still struggle to keep going through my time that frequently gets crunched. This evening I had planned to sit and work on this entry. However I ended up spending time with my 14 month grandchild. Now that is always a wonderful welcome interruption! I have no doubt that God didn’t mind that our time was put on hold. Usually this time of night my mind is signed off but He is guiding my thoughts as always. As Moses discovered, nothing gets in the way of His plans.
Scripture I am thinking on now: Job answered God: "I'm convinced: You can do anything and everything. Nothing and no one can upset your plans.”
Job 42:2 The Message
Pray using your own words: Do you sense God asking you to join Him in His work? Thank God for giving you the gifts that you have. Ask Him to help you find your place to use those gifts to honor Him. Ask Him to give you the strength and courage to step out of your comfort area and be willing to be flexible through your day.
Blog Comments: There are many topics to consider in the scripture passages we are reading. What message did you get while reading today’s Scripture? Please email or leave your comments today.
Today’s Scripture Reading: Exodus 4:14-31
My Thoughts: God was not pleased with Moses’ hesitation and his request that someone else be chosen to do what God was asking of him. God was patient with Moses and offered an alternative. Aaron, his brother, would go with him and do the talking. Moses would follow through on God’s plans.
I’m sure that God was not pleased with my hesitation over His plan of providing a place for people to come together online to read and study scripture. God has been patiently working through my self-doubts, exploring other directions in my writing and my mind over heart dilemma.
My heart wasn’t at peace during the time I was away from devotional writing. I was searching for something but didn’t know what was missing. The light turned on one morning when I realized that God was what was missing. I enjoyed my quiet time in scripture and the thoughts that flowed as I wrote about what I learned during time with Him. I realized that I didn’t have or want an alternate plan for my writing. The desire to do it my way melted away. I would follow through on what I knew was God’s plan. He was waiting and is giving me what I need to follow through.
I don’t know how long I will be writing this blog and I still struggle to keep going through my time that frequently gets crunched. This evening I had planned to sit and work on this entry. However I ended up spending time with my 14 month grandchild. Now that is always a wonderful welcome interruption! I have no doubt that God didn’t mind that our time was put on hold. Usually this time of night my mind is signed off but He is guiding my thoughts as always. As Moses discovered, nothing gets in the way of His plans.
Scripture I am thinking on now: Job answered God: "I'm convinced: You can do anything and everything. Nothing and no one can upset your plans.”
Job 42:2 The Message
Pray using your own words: Do you sense God asking you to join Him in His work? Thank God for giving you the gifts that you have. Ask Him to help you find your place to use those gifts to honor Him. Ask Him to give you the strength and courage to step out of your comfort area and be willing to be flexible through your day.
Blog Comments: There are many topics to consider in the scripture passages we are reading. What message did you get while reading today’s Scripture? Please email or leave your comments today.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Moses
I am looking forward to spending time with Moses this week!
This Week’s Scripture: Exodus 3:1-7:6
Today’s Scripture Reading: Exodus 3:1-4:13
My Thoughts: I have no doubt that Moses had a heart that wanted to obey God, but his mind wouldn’t let go of his imperfect speech. He kept focusing on his limitations over and over. He lost the strength of his faith. God gave him signs of His power and still Moses felt he would fail God. Moses was agitated and fearful and at the same time His heart seemed heavy realizing he had to meet God’s expectations. Yet Moses could not get beyond himself to go to Pharoah to ask him to let the Isaraelites leave Egypt.
I have experienced the same mind vs. heart dilemma as Moses. There have been times when my heart wanted to do what God was asking of me and the words rehearsed in my mind made me feel powerfully inadequate.
Instead of being sent to confront Pharoah, I have felt challenged to do this Scripture blog. My mind kept me focused for some time on the knowledge I lacked as I studied and pondered over the scriptures to arrive at a daily post. I kept pressing on, in spite of my self-doubts, as I felt a strong desire in my heart to keep it going. I don’t know when it happened, but God led me to understand that what He wanted was simpler to do than I had envisioned. He was asking me to meet Him in His Word daily and invite someone else to join us. He will be there and He will lead us through.
No matter where we are on our journey through the Scriptures, we can help each other grow in our faith and in our relationship with God. Who do you know that you might invite to join us?
I have learned that God is so much bigger than I allow Him to be in my life sometimes! I need to let go of myself. I can trust God to give me what I need for Him to work through me to accomplish what He wants.
Moses learned this long before me!
Scripture I am thinking on now: “…My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.”
2 Corinthians 12:9
Pray using your own words: Allow God to be bigger in your life! What do you sense God asking of you? What inadequacy do you feel? What keeps you from being or doing less than what God desires of you? Ask God to help you work through your imperfection and strengthen your faith
to trust in His power.
Blog Comments: What message did you get while reading today’s Scripture? Today’s reading has many topics to consider. Please email or leave your comments today.
This Week’s Scripture: Exodus 3:1-7:6
Today’s Scripture Reading: Exodus 3:1-4:13
My Thoughts: I have no doubt that Moses had a heart that wanted to obey God, but his mind wouldn’t let go of his imperfect speech. He kept focusing on his limitations over and over. He lost the strength of his faith. God gave him signs of His power and still Moses felt he would fail God. Moses was agitated and fearful and at the same time His heart seemed heavy realizing he had to meet God’s expectations. Yet Moses could not get beyond himself to go to Pharoah to ask him to let the Isaraelites leave Egypt.
I have experienced the same mind vs. heart dilemma as Moses. There have been times when my heart wanted to do what God was asking of me and the words rehearsed in my mind made me feel powerfully inadequate.
Instead of being sent to confront Pharoah, I have felt challenged to do this Scripture blog. My mind kept me focused for some time on the knowledge I lacked as I studied and pondered over the scriptures to arrive at a daily post. I kept pressing on, in spite of my self-doubts, as I felt a strong desire in my heart to keep it going. I don’t know when it happened, but God led me to understand that what He wanted was simpler to do than I had envisioned. He was asking me to meet Him in His Word daily and invite someone else to join us. He will be there and He will lead us through.
No matter where we are on our journey through the Scriptures, we can help each other grow in our faith and in our relationship with God. Who do you know that you might invite to join us?
I have learned that God is so much bigger than I allow Him to be in my life sometimes! I need to let go of myself. I can trust God to give me what I need for Him to work through me to accomplish what He wants.
Moses learned this long before me!
Scripture I am thinking on now: “…My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.”
2 Corinthians 12:9
Pray using your own words: Allow God to be bigger in your life! What do you sense God asking of you? What inadequacy do you feel? What keeps you from being or doing less than what God desires of you? Ask God to help you work through your imperfection and strengthen your faith
to trust in His power.
Blog Comments: What message did you get while reading today’s Scripture? Today’s reading has many topics to consider. Please email or leave your comments today.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Build Your Personal Relationship with God
There are passages in the Bible where God asked people to write down accounts of happenings so that people generation after generation would hear about them and not forget. On one occasion, Joshua had defeated the Amalekites. During the battle, as long as Moses held up his hands to God for help, the Isaraelites were winning. But Moses’ hands grew tired. They had to be held up by two men until the Amalekites were defeated. What a story!
Then the LORD said to Moses, "Write this on a scroll as something to be remembered and make sure that Joshua hears it.” Exodus 17:14 (NIV)
Do you write down your experiences with God? Write your stories so you will remember. Remembering the hope you have in trusting God by reading your entries of God’s presence in your life can be uplifting when you are going through hard times.
Perhaps each day you might write down the blessings you are thankful for at that time. Again use these entries to hang on to what is good in your life when things in your life are overwhelming.
Don’t like to write or journal? You can enjoy God’s presence by looking around you and taking in the things He has created. Be thankful and happy in the day God has given you by taking opportunities while driving, standing in lines, or waiting to pick up your children to talk with Him. He’s with you all day not just during your daily prayer time, so acknowledge His presence throughout the day.
I am taking time off until September from my daily blog to work on some other devotional projects. My prayer is that you will continue to build your personal relationship with God by reading and studying scripture and daily prayer. Look and listen for God in your day, He is there!
You are welcome to email me using the email address found at the top of the right column. I would love hearing from you.
My blog dates back to December 2008 so check them out by clicking on the archives list.
See you in the Fall! Judy
Then the LORD said to Moses, "Write this on a scroll as something to be remembered and make sure that Joshua hears it.” Exodus 17:14 (NIV)
Do you write down your experiences with God? Write your stories so you will remember. Remembering the hope you have in trusting God by reading your entries of God’s presence in your life can be uplifting when you are going through hard times.
Perhaps each day you might write down the blessings you are thankful for at that time. Again use these entries to hang on to what is good in your life when things in your life are overwhelming.
Don’t like to write or journal? You can enjoy God’s presence by looking around you and taking in the things He has created. Be thankful and happy in the day God has given you by taking opportunities while driving, standing in lines, or waiting to pick up your children to talk with Him. He’s with you all day not just during your daily prayer time, so acknowledge His presence throughout the day.
I am taking time off until September from my daily blog to work on some other devotional projects. My prayer is that you will continue to build your personal relationship with God by reading and studying scripture and daily prayer. Look and listen for God in your day, He is there!
You are welcome to email me using the email address found at the top of the right column. I would love hearing from you.
My blog dates back to December 2008 so check them out by clicking on the archives list.
See you in the Fall! Judy
Friday, July 10, 2009
Recharge Your Faith
The God of Hope
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13
Comments: Read today’s scripture several times. In God is hope and he wants to bless you so you overflow with joy and peace. Where is your hope? Where is your trust? Nurture your hope and trust by the power of the Holy Spirit through prayer, meditation, and reading scripture. Look for the hope God has placed in your life and look for opportunities to lovingly share your story of hope with others. Overflow with hope, spread the good news, and help others discover God’s hope in their lives by telling your personal stories of experiencing God's hope!
Please post or email me your thoughts on this scripture.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Recharge Your Faith
What is Your Story?
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect…
1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)
Scripture Comments: Christians have hope that gives them strength in daily life. You have access to peace and joy in happy times, ordinary times, and hard times. Your hope is noticeable to others. Others will ask you about it. You should be able to explain the reasons for your hope, for being a Christian. What will be your answer for the hope you have when someone asks you?
Comments: In the Bible we learn about God’s love and care, His guidance and direction through many stories of people who experienced God’s presence. They went off to tell others what God had done and people were moved by hearing their stories about God’s presence in their life. Every story was different because every person had their own story.
Have you thought about and acknowledged God’s presence in your life? When have you experienced God’s presence? Look for opportunities that God puts before you to share, in love, your hope through your personal story. God has given you your story because it just might be what someone needs to hear.
Please journal or email your comments on today's scripture.
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect…
1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)
Scripture Comments: Christians have hope that gives them strength in daily life. You have access to peace and joy in happy times, ordinary times, and hard times. Your hope is noticeable to others. Others will ask you about it. You should be able to explain the reasons for your hope, for being a Christian. What will be your answer for the hope you have when someone asks you?
Comments: In the Bible we learn about God’s love and care, His guidance and direction through many stories of people who experienced God’s presence. They went off to tell others what God had done and people were moved by hearing their stories about God’s presence in their life. Every story was different because every person had their own story.
Have you thought about and acknowledged God’s presence in your life? When have you experienced God’s presence? Look for opportunities that God puts before you to share, in love, your hope through your personal story. God has given you your story because it just might be what someone needs to hear.
Please journal or email your comments on today's scripture.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Recharge Your Faith
We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. Hebrews 6:19a (NIV)
Scripture Comments: Think about what an anchor does. It firmly and securely attaches to things. Jesus, through his death on the cross, interceded taking on your sins that separated you from God. His death gave you the way into God’s presence and allowed you to be adopted as His sons and daughters. Hope, confidence in God’s promises, is like an anchor for your soul. You are secure in your Father’s promises.
Comments: God is faithful. God’s Words are powerful and filled with hope. He keeps His promises. This is your hope. Hold on in your heart to what is good. Live so that what God promises will be yours.
Read and meditate on some of God’s promises that are yours:
Psalm 32:8
Isaiah 43:2
John 10:27, 28
Romans 5:8
Romans 8:28-30
1 John 1:9
There are many promises of God in Scripture. Do you have a favorite or one that is special to you?
Post on the comments or email to me.
Scripture Comments: Think about what an anchor does. It firmly and securely attaches to things. Jesus, through his death on the cross, interceded taking on your sins that separated you from God. His death gave you the way into God’s presence and allowed you to be adopted as His sons and daughters. Hope, confidence in God’s promises, is like an anchor for your soul. You are secure in your Father’s promises.
Comments: God is faithful. God’s Words are powerful and filled with hope. He keeps His promises. This is your hope. Hold on in your heart to what is good. Live so that what God promises will be yours.
Read and meditate on some of God’s promises that are yours:
Psalm 32:8
Isaiah 43:2
John 10:27, 28
Romans 5:8
Romans 8:28-30
1 John 1:9
There are many promises of God in Scripture. Do you have a favorite or one that is special to you?
Post on the comments or email to me.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Recharge Your Faith
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV)
Scripture Comments: What cannot be seen or touched, but is eternal and forever really matters. A believer’s hope is not in the present world on earth. Our present world is temporary. Our hope is in Christ who died that we may live and live eternally. Christ cannot be seen or touched but His significance in a Christian’s life is very real.
Comments - Read and Focus on Jesus:
Philippians 2:5-11
John 3:16
Ephesians 2:8-10
Read through either Matthew, Mark or Luke
Pray. Thank God for His mighty Words, His Son, your Savior, and helping you get your heart connected with God, you and your life. Ask God to help you grow in your relationship with Him. Humble yourself making your time with Him less of you and more of Him. Read, listen to and meditate on His Words. Allow God to build your hope and trust in Him.
Have a quiet time set aside with God each day, but every once in a while pray in the grocery store, at work, standing in lines, or walking your dog. Just open yourself to talking and listening to God. Stop worrying and let go and let God. Come near to God and He will come near to you. James 4:8
Please leave your comments today or email me using the link found in the top right column of this blog.
2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV)
Scripture Comments: What cannot be seen or touched, but is eternal and forever really matters. A believer’s hope is not in the present world on earth. Our present world is temporary. Our hope is in Christ who died that we may live and live eternally. Christ cannot be seen or touched but His significance in a Christian’s life is very real.
Comments - Read and Focus on Jesus:
Philippians 2:5-11
John 3:16
Ephesians 2:8-10
Read through either Matthew, Mark or Luke
Pray. Thank God for His mighty Words, His Son, your Savior, and helping you get your heart connected with God, you and your life. Ask God to help you grow in your relationship with Him. Humble yourself making your time with Him less of you and more of Him. Read, listen to and meditate on His Words. Allow God to build your hope and trust in Him.
Have a quiet time set aside with God each day, but every once in a while pray in the grocery store, at work, standing in lines, or walking your dog. Just open yourself to talking and listening to God. Stop worrying and let go and let God. Come near to God and He will come near to you. James 4:8
Please leave your comments today or email me using the link found in the top right column of this blog.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Recharge Your Faith
Paul said to the Ephesians, I ask the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory—to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is he is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for his followers, oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him—endless energy, boundless strength! Ephesians 1:18-19 (The Message)
Scripture Comments: Paul told the Ephesians that God was calling them to do the work He had planned for them. Paul asks God to help them be knowledgeable and discerning so they could clearly see and understand God’s plan. Their personal “heart knowledge” of God would help them be focused and clear on what He was asking of them. Those who trusted in God’s power would be richly blessed with a glorious way of life.
Comments: God has chosen you to be one of His children. He has called you to live a life according to His plan. Do you know what being chosen by God and living according to God’s will means? (Read: Ephesians 1:3-14) Do you read and study His Word? Do you spend quiet time with Him? How well do you know God personally? Do you need to work on your relationship with God?
Start this week recharging your growth in your relationship with God. Pray and listen, meditate, read and study His Word so that you might grow into greater personal (heart) knowledge of God and His ways. Ask God to help guide and direct you along the way by opening your eyes and ears to what He wants you to know about Him and
His plan for your life.
Please let me know your thoughts…
Scripture Comments: Paul told the Ephesians that God was calling them to do the work He had planned for them. Paul asks God to help them be knowledgeable and discerning so they could clearly see and understand God’s plan. Their personal “heart knowledge” of God would help them be focused and clear on what He was asking of them. Those who trusted in God’s power would be richly blessed with a glorious way of life.
Comments: God has chosen you to be one of His children. He has called you to live a life according to His plan. Do you know what being chosen by God and living according to God’s will means? (Read: Ephesians 1:3-14) Do you read and study His Word? Do you spend quiet time with Him? How well do you know God personally? Do you need to work on your relationship with God?
Start this week recharging your growth in your relationship with God. Pray and listen, meditate, read and study His Word so that you might grow into greater personal (heart) knowledge of God and His ways. Ask God to help guide and direct you along the way by opening your eyes and ears to what He wants you to know about Him and
His plan for your life.
Please let me know your thoughts…
Friday, July 3, 2009
Prayer
One Verse, Many Thoughts on Prayer
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. Ephesians 6:18 (NIV)
Scripture Comments: “Pray in the Spirit,” is how we are to pray. God is with us. We are further told to pray “on all occasions” using all different kinds of prayers. Included in the different prayers are our “requests.” Knowing this we come alive and alert in the spirit. We should always pray for all our brothers and sisters in the faith.
Remember that God will help you when you cannot put your thoughts and requests into words. Ask him to help you calm and focus your thoughts. You will be able to put
your requests before Him.
Remember to pray not just for yourself but reach outside yourself to include others you may or may not know. Be especially mindful of others during the current hard times.
God is always with you but he does his most powerful work within you when you are with him. If you haven’t found that quiet place, or haven’t committed to spending time in prayer each day remember the p-word, persistence. Persistence will get you there. God is waiting.
Post your thoughts today…
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. Ephesians 6:18 (NIV)
Scripture Comments: “Pray in the Spirit,” is how we are to pray. God is with us. We are further told to pray “on all occasions” using all different kinds of prayers. Included in the different prayers are our “requests.” Knowing this we come alive and alert in the spirit. We should always pray for all our brothers and sisters in the faith.
Remember that God will help you when you cannot put your thoughts and requests into words. Ask him to help you calm and focus your thoughts. You will be able to put
your requests before Him.
Remember to pray not just for yourself but reach outside yourself to include others you may or may not know. Be especially mindful of others during the current hard times.
God is always with you but he does his most powerful work within you when you are with him. If you haven’t found that quiet place, or haven’t committed to spending time in prayer each day remember the p-word, persistence. Persistence will get you there. God is waiting.
Post your thoughts today…
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Prayer
God Wants Us to Ask So He can Bless Us
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. Matthew 7:7 (NIV)
Scripture Comments: You are to ask, seek and knock and be persistent and constant in prayer. Do you watch for God’s answer to your prayers? Do you give thanks when answers come? This doesn’t mean that you will get everything you ask for, only that God will answer. His answer may be yes, no, maybe, not now, or not in your way. Also, no answer is an answer. You will be blessed with God’s will, not your desires.
Post your thoughts today…
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. Matthew 7:7 (NIV)
Scripture Comments: You are to ask, seek and knock and be persistent and constant in prayer. Do you watch for God’s answer to your prayers? Do you give thanks when answers come? This doesn’t mean that you will get everything you ask for, only that God will answer. His answer may be yes, no, maybe, not now, or not in your way. Also, no answer is an answer. You will be blessed with God’s will, not your desires.
Post your thoughts today…
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Prayer
Paul Instructed Christians to Devote Themselves to Prayer
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.
Colossians 4:2 (NIV)
Scripture Comments: Paul instructed the Colossian Christians to make prayer important in their lives. Further they were to be watchful and thankful anticipating when the Lord would return. How are you doing at setting aside quiet time each day to be with God? This week is about the importance of being persistent, not giving up in prayer, and making prayer an important part of your daily life. Make a commitment to spend time on reordering your life to include more time building your relationship with God.
Post your thoughts today…
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.
Colossians 4:2 (NIV)
Scripture Comments: Paul instructed the Colossian Christians to make prayer important in their lives. Further they were to be watchful and thankful anticipating when the Lord would return. How are you doing at setting aside quiet time each day to be with God? This week is about the importance of being persistent, not giving up in prayer, and making prayer an important part of your daily life. Make a commitment to spend time on reordering your life to include more time building your relationship with God.
Post your thoughts today…
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Prayer
Jesus told His Disciples to Always Pray
Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. Luke 18:1 (NIV)
Scripture Comments: Jesus gave this instruction: pray always and with persistence, to his closest followers. What does this mean to you? Do you schedule time each day to pray? Are you persistent in prayer even when facing hard times and conflict? What can you do to commit more time in your day to talk and listen to God? If you’re not spending time with God each day, what has replaced him in your life? What has become more important? Just as Jesus directed his disciples to “always pray” you are to do the same. How would your day be different if you made more time for prayer as a priority?
Post your thoughts today…
Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. Luke 18:1 (NIV)
Scripture Comments: Jesus gave this instruction: pray always and with persistence, to his closest followers. What does this mean to you? Do you schedule time each day to pray? Are you persistent in prayer even when facing hard times and conflict? What can you do to commit more time in your day to talk and listen to God? If you’re not spending time with God each day, what has replaced him in your life? What has become more important? Just as Jesus directed his disciples to “always pray” you are to do the same. How would your day be different if you made more time for prayer as a priority?
Post your thoughts today…
Monday, June 29, 2009
Prayer
Jesus Prayed in Solitary Places
Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Mark 1:35 (NIV)
Scripture Comments: Do you have a quiet place to pray? Are you willing to get up early in the morning when it is still dark to pray? Have you thought of leaving your house, your friends and family, to find a quiet, solitary place to pray? What would it look like for you to spend quiet time talking and listening to God every day? Don’t wish for the time and place to spend in prayer, make it happen. It is the most important conversation you will have to help you jump over hurdles during your day.
Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Mark 1:35 (NIV)
Scripture Comments: Do you have a quiet place to pray? Are you willing to get up early in the morning when it is still dark to pray? Have you thought of leaving your house, your friends and family, to find a quiet, solitary place to pray? What would it look like for you to spend quiet time talking and listening to God every day? Don’t wish for the time and place to spend in prayer, make it happen. It is the most important conversation you will have to help you jump over hurdles during your day.
Post your thoughts today…
Friday, June 26, 2009
God's Word - YOU Choose Your Attitude
Attitude for Challenges in Your LifeWhen Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, "Do you want to get well?"
"Sir," the invalid replied, "I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me." Note: It was believed that an angel stirred the water. The first person into the water after the water was stirred would be healed.
Then Jesus said to him, "Get up! Pick up your mat and walk." At once the man was cured; he picked
up his mat and walked. John 5:6-9 (NIV)
Jesus made the offer, “Do you want to get well?” The lame man wanted to be healed. He had been unable to walk for a very long time. He didn’t realize who Jesus was. Jesus cured him though the man never asked. The invalid admitted that he needed help. His hopelessness over getting into the water ahead of others is evident. Jesus didn’t hesitate to offer help even though the man lacked faith.
Jesus essentially said that the man could help himself by simply getting up, picking up his mat, and walking. The invalid man chose to immediately get up and walk. He didn’t wait and miss the opportunity. The man chose to help himself; to get up and live.
Facing challenges in your life is about choosing to ask God for help. Take on an attitude of trusting and obeying God to take charge of the decisions and directions in your life. Unlike the invalid in today’s scripture, you know God. You know He stands beside you waiting to help and to perform miracles in your life. Be in the habit of asking, responding, and accepting God’s help with a thankful heart.
You may not always recognize the work God is doing in your life when you are going through difficult times. God will make you strong when you are overwhelmed by life’s situations without you asking. Look for Him when you experience difficulties, you will find Him by your side.
So today take on the attitude of standing in Christ from whom your strength comes when you face challenges
in your life.
Prayer: Thank God for being by your side to help regardless of your situation. Ask Him to help you stay in His Word and in prayer daily to keep your heart and mind focused on Him.
"Sir," the invalid replied, "I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me." Note: It was believed that an angel stirred the water. The first person into the water after the water was stirred would be healed.
Then Jesus said to him, "Get up! Pick up your mat and walk." At once the man was cured; he picked
up his mat and walked. John 5:6-9 (NIV)
Jesus made the offer, “Do you want to get well?” The lame man wanted to be healed. He had been unable to walk for a very long time. He didn’t realize who Jesus was. Jesus cured him though the man never asked. The invalid admitted that he needed help. His hopelessness over getting into the water ahead of others is evident. Jesus didn’t hesitate to offer help even though the man lacked faith.
Jesus essentially said that the man could help himself by simply getting up, picking up his mat, and walking. The invalid man chose to immediately get up and walk. He didn’t wait and miss the opportunity. The man chose to help himself; to get up and live.
Facing challenges in your life is about choosing to ask God for help. Take on an attitude of trusting and obeying God to take charge of the decisions and directions in your life. Unlike the invalid in today’s scripture, you know God. You know He stands beside you waiting to help and to perform miracles in your life. Be in the habit of asking, responding, and accepting God’s help with a thankful heart.
You may not always recognize the work God is doing in your life when you are going through difficult times. God will make you strong when you are overwhelmed by life’s situations without you asking. Look for Him when you experience difficulties, you will find Him by your side.
So today take on the attitude of standing in Christ from whom your strength comes when you face challenges
in your life.
Prayer: Thank God for being by your side to help regardless of your situation. Ask Him to help you stay in His Word and in prayer daily to keep your heart and mind focused on Him.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
God's Word - YOU Choose Your Attitude
Attitude for Planning
In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. Proverbs 16:9 (NIV)
You can make plans for your life. It is a natural thing for you to want to take charge of your life, make decisions, and go out on your own path. However if your heart is in tune with God it will tell you that you cannot succeed on your own.
You need to submit your life plans to God’s direction. You can make plans but God will determine your future and how you will get there. Be careful to search out, through prayer, God’s agreement for any plans you make. Think about the reasons in your heart for doing what you are planning to do. Are they your motivations or God’s insight into the purposes for your life?
God takes your plans personally. He wants to be involved in your life. He can take some of the stresses off planning the path of your life. You need to trust Him.
Your plans will succeed when you have an attitude of humbling yourself and aligning your plans with God’s plans for your life. It will bring great comfort and peace knowing that you are living out God’s plan for your life.
Prayer: Thank God for wanting to be involved in every part of your life plans. Thank Him for creating a life-path for you. Ask Him to help you open your eyes and heart to desire to submit all of your life to His direction.
In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. Proverbs 16:9 (NIV)
You can make plans for your life. It is a natural thing for you to want to take charge of your life, make decisions, and go out on your own path. However if your heart is in tune with God it will tell you that you cannot succeed on your own.
You need to submit your life plans to God’s direction. You can make plans but God will determine your future and how you will get there. Be careful to search out, through prayer, God’s agreement for any plans you make. Think about the reasons in your heart for doing what you are planning to do. Are they your motivations or God’s insight into the purposes for your life?
God takes your plans personally. He wants to be involved in your life. He can take some of the stresses off planning the path of your life. You need to trust Him.
Your plans will succeed when you have an attitude of humbling yourself and aligning your plans with God’s plans for your life. It will bring great comfort and peace knowing that you are living out God’s plan for your life.
Prayer: Thank God for wanting to be involved in every part of your life plans. Thank Him for creating a life-path for you. Ask Him to help you open your eyes and heart to desire to submit all of your life to His direction.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
God's Word - YOU Choose Your Attitude
Attitude for Making Decisions
A simple man believes anything, but a prudent man gives thought to his steps. Proverbs 14:15 (NIV)
Start with prayer. Listen. Trust and obey. Always ask, “Lord, what do YOU want me to do?” If you live with this attitude for making decisions you will allow God to fulfill His purpose in your life. You don’t need to be afraid because God has your best interests in mind. “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 (NIV)
Since He has the plan don’t you think you should talk to Him and listen so He can tell you His plan?
Look for guidance and direction in God’s Word. Identify the important points of your decision and use the concordance of your Bible to find relevant scripture. Read all of the scripture surrounding the verse to get the full picture of what is going on and how it may relate to your situation. Your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. Psalm 119:105 (NIV)
Talk with a mature believer who can encourage you in your faith, offer new insights, address any concerns, and help confirm insights or remove doubts. Ask them to pray with and for you. Remember, they are not making your decision, only helping you make a decision in keeping with God’s will for you. Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. Proverbs 15:22 (NIV)
Act on your decision when your heart is sincere and confident that you are going on the right path, God’s direction. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)
Sometimes you won’t hear God or it’s not clear what God wants you to do. You might have to “just do it” to move forward. If you make a mistake God will help you learn from your mistake, redirect your steps, and move you forward on the right path. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 (NIV)
If you keep an attitude of being in touch with God you will find paths through decisions to go where God wants you in your life.
Prayer: Thank God for caring for you when life seems tough and decisions need to be made. Ask Him to open your eyes and heart to Him to keep your life on the right path.
A simple man believes anything, but a prudent man gives thought to his steps. Proverbs 14:15 (NIV)
Start with prayer. Listen. Trust and obey. Always ask, “Lord, what do YOU want me to do?” If you live with this attitude for making decisions you will allow God to fulfill His purpose in your life. You don’t need to be afraid because God has your best interests in mind. “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 (NIV)
Since He has the plan don’t you think you should talk to Him and listen so He can tell you His plan?
Look for guidance and direction in God’s Word. Identify the important points of your decision and use the concordance of your Bible to find relevant scripture. Read all of the scripture surrounding the verse to get the full picture of what is going on and how it may relate to your situation. Your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. Psalm 119:105 (NIV)
Talk with a mature believer who can encourage you in your faith, offer new insights, address any concerns, and help confirm insights or remove doubts. Ask them to pray with and for you. Remember, they are not making your decision, only helping you make a decision in keeping with God’s will for you. Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. Proverbs 15:22 (NIV)
Act on your decision when your heart is sincere and confident that you are going on the right path, God’s direction. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)
Sometimes you won’t hear God or it’s not clear what God wants you to do. You might have to “just do it” to move forward. If you make a mistake God will help you learn from your mistake, redirect your steps, and move you forward on the right path. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 (NIV)
If you keep an attitude of being in touch with God you will find paths through decisions to go where God wants you in your life.
Prayer: Thank God for caring for you when life seems tough and decisions need to be made. Ask Him to open your eyes and heart to Him to keep your life on the right path.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
God's Word - YOU Choose Your Attitude
Attitude for Thinking
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9 (NIV)
Scripture Comments: It is a familiar thing to think on and rehearse past happenings in our lives. We become frustrated over our mistakes and feelings of inadequacy. We are angry toward someone who mistreated us or bitter about our difficult circumstances. We allow negative thoughts to replay in our minds and hearts. Our thoughts block out God. God cannot work His plans in our lives when our minds and hearts are filled with distractions.
Choose to put into practice Philippians 4:8-9 to turn your thoughts around to Godly things. Plan ahead. Memorize Philippians 4:8-9. When you begin negative thinking, crowd it out, turn your thoughts around with God’s Words. Keep your eyes on God. He loves you and is with you all the time. Let your thinking free your mind and heart allowing God to take over your life.
Prayer: Thank God for His presence in your life. Ask Him to help you free your thoughts of clutter, worry, anger and frustration. Ask Him for insight, power, and perseverance to develop the Philippians 4:8-9 attitude for thinking in your life.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:8-9 (NIV)
Scripture Comments: It is a familiar thing to think on and rehearse past happenings in our lives. We become frustrated over our mistakes and feelings of inadequacy. We are angry toward someone who mistreated us or bitter about our difficult circumstances. We allow negative thoughts to replay in our minds and hearts. Our thoughts block out God. God cannot work His plans in our lives when our minds and hearts are filled with distractions.
Choose to put into practice Philippians 4:8-9 to turn your thoughts around to Godly things. Plan ahead. Memorize Philippians 4:8-9. When you begin negative thinking, crowd it out, turn your thoughts around with God’s Words. Keep your eyes on God. He loves you and is with you all the time. Let your thinking free your mind and heart allowing God to take over your life.
Prayer: Thank God for His presence in your life. Ask Him to help you free your thoughts of clutter, worry, anger and frustration. Ask Him for insight, power, and perseverance to develop the Philippians 4:8-9 attitude for thinking in your life.
Monday, June 22, 2009
God's Word - YOU Choose Your Attitude
Good Morning, God!
This is the day the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24 (KJV)
Scripture Comments: When you wake up in the morning you make lots of choices. Everyday you choose what you are going to wear, what you’ll have for breakfast, IF you will have breakfast, or if you will stop at your favorite coffee shop for a cup of coffee to start your day.
Do you wake up and say “Good morning, God, thank you for this day”? Do you start your day by choosing the attitude you are going to wear throughout your day?
Sometimes circumstances get in the way of the how you approach your day. Look for the good things in your life. Even in rough circumstances you can find good things happening in your life to focus on and help you through!
With God’s help and the right attitude, you can awaken refreshed and your life will be renewed each morning.
Try this, when you wake up in the morning think on
Psalm 118:24 – “This is the day the Lord has made, [I] will rejoice and be glad in it.” YOU can choose your attitude and refuse to let anything or anyone take away the joy the Lord wants to give you for the day.
Prayer Suggestions: Thank God for each day He gives you. Thank Him for the joyful blessings He gives you each day. Ask Him to help you live an attitude of gratefulness and love each day, regardless of your circumstances, so others may see the joy you have in Him.
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