They went in whatever direction the spirit chose, and they moved straight forward in any direction without turning around. Ezekiel 1:12
Don't get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil. Proverbs 4:27
This morning during my quiet time with God I decided to alter my regular reading schedule and instead read in the book of Ezekiel. As a dear friend of mine and I talked this weekend about some things going on right now in our lives, she reminded me of how the story of the Israelites in the book of Ezekiel related to the current situation. In this story one is reminded of the sovereignty of God. No matter what the situation God is always in control and He has a plan. At least 65 times in this one book, God says, "Then they will know that I am the Lord.". With the overall theme being that God always has a plan for deliverance, as one commentator states - it is an ultimate plan for revival, redemption and restoration. The sad part about this story is that while God outlined the way to blessing; he also outlined the consequences that would result from disobedience. Disobedience that comes from following our own voice instead of the voice of the Lord.
The chapter begins with Ezekiel having a vision and at first glance it sounds kind of strange. But as I was reading through the first few chapters my mind kept going back to verse 12. Not only that but as I was reading one of the devotionals that I am subscribed to it talked about how much of a struggle one can cause in his or her own life when fighting against the will of God. Worrying instead of praying. Stressing out instead of trusting. Seeking ungodly advice instead of heeding the urgings of the Holy Spirit. It's real easy to get wrapped up in your own plan for your life. As I sat and meditated on this fact, I thought about my life and how rough things have been when I was not being obedient to the Word of God. The results were never positive.
Verse after verse we are told what the result will be when we 'seek first the kingdom of God'. The Word also tells us that the Holy Spirit is there for us to 'guide us into all truth'. But we do have free will and that's where the problem arises. This year I have decided to 'pray more and worry less', seeking God for every situation no matter how big or small. And because I know the power of God I don't have to worry, because there is nothing too hard for my God. There are very few things in life that have a guaranteed return on investment. Just take a look at the stock market back a few years ago. There is one thing that does have a guaranteed return on your investment and that is having an established prayer life. A clear channel to God, not as a genie in a bottle, but in building a relationship so that when you are faced with those critical moments where you are not sure what direction to go, God's voice drowns out everything else. It's no longer the guessing game...should I do this or that? Instead you learn to stand still until God speaks. There is no need to rush. Remember what I said at the beginning of this post. God's ultimate plan is for your deliverance. Sometimes God needs to remind you that you didn't do it on your own and that is was nobody but God so He make you wait. However, this by no means negates the power of God and His ability to show as soon as you call His name. That is why you must remained focused, ridding yourself of all distractions. Everyone in your life who says they mean you well doesn't. But with that being said your focus cannot be on those individuals. Your focus must be on God. Your thoughts must be pure. Satan is going to send distractions yous way. Remain obedient to the Word. Stand your course. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals. Guard your heart. Watch what you allow to enter into your life. Seek God.
Most Gracious Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the plan you have orchestrated for my life. I know that there have been times that I have whined and grumbled, not understanding Your plan. Forgive me, Lord. Give me a heart to want to be obedient and do your will. Help me to remember that You are in control. I am asking You to remove all distractions from my life that keep me from being focused on You. Help me to go throughout my day thinking on things that are are true, noble, right, pure and admirable so that I can be a vessel to be used by You. I want You to get the glory out of my life, for it is all about You and not about me. In Jesus' Precious Name I pray Amen.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Contentment
Vision is limited, more often than not, when left wandering in the wilderness. When I have personally been in a wilderness experience I find myself focused more on my hurt and pain and discomfort more than anything. All too often I find myself unable to see any relief in sight. That is until I am remember to 'look to the hills from whence cometh my help'. One thing that I am learning and becoming more comfortable in is 'welcoming my wilderness experience', whatever it may be. Just knowing that it is God who has not just allowed, and even led me to this place gives me comfort. Comfort? I see the question mark on your face. Yes, comfort! How? Because as the popular saying goes...'if God brings me to it, He will most certainly bring me through it'. Think about one of the first Bible verses we learn...the 23rd Psalm. Verse 4 which says, 'Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for You are with me'. What you and I have to learn to do is look for the vineyards in the wilderness that God has strategically placed for us right in the path of the wilderness. Have you ever been right smack dab in the middle of a trial, wondering how you were going to make it and suddenly you feel a sense of peace (that's somebody praying for you). Or maybe you take out your Bible and start to read and instantly you feel renewed. Or maybe you are right at your breaking point and you receive an encouraging word from a friend at just the right time. You had decided to stay home from church but something in your spirit said "GO" and you receive a much needed word. Although you may not be able to see the resources of the Lord when we are stuck between a rock and a hard place, you must still trust God. Who else has a proven history of being able to supply water in dry places?
I read a quote on yesterday that said, 'I am no longer afraid of the storm, for I have learned to sail in my ship'. Louisa May Alcott How many times have you heard that your storms serve a purpose? Too many times to count is my response. How many times do you have to hear it before you start believing it? When do you finally stop whining and accept the process? God is the only one who knows how to bring out of you that which is enduring. That kind of stick-ti-tive-ness that made Paul write the words....'for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little.'. Phil. 4:11-12 That is why I am able to smile while riding through the storm. This journey of trust is about knowing that trouble won't last always.. Whether it be 4 minutes, 40 days, or 400 years....stop treating temporary situations as permanent fixtures. Always crying "Woe is me" in every bad situation instead praising God for who He is and what is about to do. That's really what it is all about.
Most Gracious Heavenly Father:
I just want to take a minute to say "Thank you Father for the storm." Thank You that you thought enough about me to not leave me in my current state. Forgive me for those times that I have grumbled and moan blaming you for my pain. Help me to see past my current circumstance and look unto the hills for my help so that You can get the glory out of my life. In Jesus' precious name I pray Amen.
I read a quote on yesterday that said, 'I am no longer afraid of the storm, for I have learned to sail in my ship'. Louisa May Alcott How many times have you heard that your storms serve a purpose? Too many times to count is my response. How many times do you have to hear it before you start believing it? When do you finally stop whining and accept the process? God is the only one who knows how to bring out of you that which is enduring. That kind of stick-ti-tive-ness that made Paul write the words....'for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little.'. Phil. 4:11-12 That is why I am able to smile while riding through the storm. This journey of trust is about knowing that trouble won't last always.. Whether it be 4 minutes, 40 days, or 400 years....stop treating temporary situations as permanent fixtures. Always crying "Woe is me" in every bad situation instead praising God for who He is and what is about to do. That's really what it is all about.
Most Gracious Heavenly Father:
I just want to take a minute to say "Thank you Father for the storm." Thank You that you thought enough about me to not leave me in my current state. Forgive me for those times that I have grumbled and moan blaming you for my pain. Help me to see past my current circumstance and look unto the hills for my help so that You can get the glory out of my life. In Jesus' precious name I pray Amen.
Monday, January 9, 2012
Take Away
Take away any desire in me that hurts you;
Take away anything that stands between me and You.
I want to be what you've created me to be.
It's my desire that you find favor in me
Lord take away anything that displease you.....Yolanda Adams
Sitting in my car at lunch one day last week and listening to my Yolanda Adam's station on Pandora and talking to the Lord, the song above came on and instantly arrested my attention. As the tears begin to flow I realized that there was still alot of work God needed to do on me. I am not where I want to be, but thank God I am not where I used to be. would like to think that after growing up in the church and being saved now for twenty-five years that I would be rid of all those things that are not like God. But truth be told, I am not. There are just some things that I enjoy that I continue to hold on to. It isn't that the Holy Spirit hasn't pointed those things out to me. It's more about me ignoring the Holy Spirit. And not only that, there are times that I feel that God is dragging His heels. He doesn't seem to come to my aide quickly enough. Now don't get me wrong, God always shows up, just not always in a time frame that coincides with what I want. Nevertheless, I can't continue to ignore the voice of the Lord and the urging of the Holy Spirit and expect to be growing in the Lord. Now if you are satisfied with where you are in your relationship with God and don't feel the need for growth then stop reading. But if you are like me and have a strong desire to be everything that God wants you to be and who He created you to be than keep reading.
With that being said what do you do when you recognize things in your life that hinder your relationship with God? Of course SIN is at the top of the list and I will leave it up to you to dig deeper in your personal life and identify those specific things or people that continue to separate you from God. Above everything else in my life, my heart's desire is to live my life pleasing to God. I have learned that first and foremost I must submit and give God supreme authority to make decisions over my life that may at times be painful but very necessary. I must confess that I haven't always made the best decisions for my life. Therefore, because I know me and I understand that I have become comfortable and secure in my way of doing things. (You know, those behaviors that are not necessarily becoming of a child of God.) But I thank God for the piercing power of His Word that brings to my attention those things that I need to change. And because I am a creature of habit and used to trying to control my own life it is not easy to just give those things to the Lord. Instead I have to ask the Lord to 'take away' everything that displeases Him.
The Psalmist said it best, "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See is there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting". (Psalm 139:23-24) This is not a scripture to be taken lightly. When David wrote these words He was asking the Lord to search him thoroughly, till every point of his being is known, and read, and understood; for he is sure that even by such an investigation there will be found in him no complicity with wicked men. This type of request is not for the weak at heart. It is for a thorough investigation, the innermost search. I like the way one commentary put it. 'Read not alone the desires of my heart, but the fugitive thoughts of my head'. That's deep. Total exposure. Nothing is hidden. Even though God already knows our hearts and our innermost thoughts it is showing total trust. Go ahead and try me by the fire, send the flood. I want to better by any means necessary. Singing...I trust you Lord. It's the beginning of the new year and many of us Those of you that have been with me for a while know that I often refer to this life as a journey of trust. Along this journey there should come a time when we stop bucking and fighting against what God wants to do in our lives. I don't make New Year's resolutions but I do take a moment each year to reflect. Upon my reflection this year I determined that the only change I wanted to make was to trust God more. To be the person He created me to be which in turn would make be a better wife, mother, friend, servant. My challenge to you today is that instead of trying to determine what things need to be changed on your own, give that task to the Lord. Pray as David did and give God free reign to make you better. Truly 'take away' those things that hinder your service unto Him.
Most Gracious Heavenly Father,
I thank You for this another day you have granted me. Whatever bad choices I may have made on yesterday, I ask You to forgive me. Some of those things I may have been aware of and some things may be unknown to me. Whatever the case I ask that You see whether there be in my heart, or in my life, any evil habit unknown to myself. If there be such an evil way, take me from it, take it from me. No matter how comfortable I may be in this behavior, if it is contrary to Your will and Your way then please deliver me from it altogether. Take it away from me by whatever means you deem necessary. I truly want to me what You have created me to be so that You can get the glory out of my life. In Jesus' precious name I pray Amen.
Take away anything that stands between me and You.
I want to be what you've created me to be.
It's my desire that you find favor in me
Lord take away anything that displease you.....Yolanda Adams
Sitting in my car at lunch one day last week and listening to my Yolanda Adam's station on Pandora and talking to the Lord, the song above came on and instantly arrested my attention. As the tears begin to flow I realized that there was still alot of work God needed to do on me. I am not where I want to be, but thank God I am not where I used to be. would like to think that after growing up in the church and being saved now for twenty-five years that I would be rid of all those things that are not like God. But truth be told, I am not. There are just some things that I enjoy that I continue to hold on to. It isn't that the Holy Spirit hasn't pointed those things out to me. It's more about me ignoring the Holy Spirit. And not only that, there are times that I feel that God is dragging His heels. He doesn't seem to come to my aide quickly enough. Now don't get me wrong, God always shows up, just not always in a time frame that coincides with what I want. Nevertheless, I can't continue to ignore the voice of the Lord and the urging of the Holy Spirit and expect to be growing in the Lord. Now if you are satisfied with where you are in your relationship with God and don't feel the need for growth then stop reading. But if you are like me and have a strong desire to be everything that God wants you to be and who He created you to be than keep reading.
With that being said what do you do when you recognize things in your life that hinder your relationship with God? Of course SIN is at the top of the list and I will leave it up to you to dig deeper in your personal life and identify those specific things or people that continue to separate you from God. Above everything else in my life, my heart's desire is to live my life pleasing to God. I have learned that first and foremost I must submit and give God supreme authority to make decisions over my life that may at times be painful but very necessary. I must confess that I haven't always made the best decisions for my life. Therefore, because I know me and I understand that I have become comfortable and secure in my way of doing things. (You know, those behaviors that are not necessarily becoming of a child of God.) But I thank God for the piercing power of His Word that brings to my attention those things that I need to change. And because I am a creature of habit and used to trying to control my own life it is not easy to just give those things to the Lord. Instead I have to ask the Lord to 'take away' everything that displeases Him.
The Psalmist said it best, "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See is there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting". (Psalm 139:23-24) This is not a scripture to be taken lightly. When David wrote these words He was asking the Lord to search him thoroughly, till every point of his being is known, and read, and understood; for he is sure that even by such an investigation there will be found in him no complicity with wicked men. This type of request is not for the weak at heart. It is for a thorough investigation, the innermost search. I like the way one commentary put it. 'Read not alone the desires of my heart, but the fugitive thoughts of my head'. That's deep. Total exposure. Nothing is hidden. Even though God already knows our hearts and our innermost thoughts it is showing total trust. Go ahead and try me by the fire, send the flood. I want to better by any means necessary. Singing...I trust you Lord. It's the beginning of the new year and many of us Those of you that have been with me for a while know that I often refer to this life as a journey of trust. Along this journey there should come a time when we stop bucking and fighting against what God wants to do in our lives. I don't make New Year's resolutions but I do take a moment each year to reflect. Upon my reflection this year I determined that the only change I wanted to make was to trust God more. To be the person He created me to be which in turn would make be a better wife, mother, friend, servant. My challenge to you today is that instead of trying to determine what things need to be changed on your own, give that task to the Lord. Pray as David did and give God free reign to make you better. Truly 'take away' those things that hinder your service unto Him.
Most Gracious Heavenly Father,
I thank You for this another day you have granted me. Whatever bad choices I may have made on yesterday, I ask You to forgive me. Some of those things I may have been aware of and some things may be unknown to me. Whatever the case I ask that You see whether there be in my heart, or in my life, any evil habit unknown to myself. If there be such an evil way, take me from it, take it from me. No matter how comfortable I may be in this behavior, if it is contrary to Your will and Your way then please deliver me from it altogether. Take it away from me by whatever means you deem necessary. I truly want to me what You have created me to be so that You can get the glory out of my life. In Jesus' precious name I pray Amen.
Monday, December 5, 2011
But If Not
"If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up." Daniel 3:17-18
There are often times of uncertainty that we all go through in life. Wondering what our next step will be. In the midst of all this we are expected to have faith that in all things God is going to work it out. After all, that is what His Word says. Even now when my life is in a state of flux and wondering what my next move will be, while trying to hold on the midst of it all, I question if my faith is strong enough. Faced with opposition on every side. Individuals who mock the very faith upon which I stand and yet I still have hope. As I think about this I am reminded about the story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the fiery furnace. After reading this story again I find myself asking if I would have had the same kind of faith. It's easy to proclaim to be a child of God when everything is going good around you, while you are surrounded by other believers. But what about in the workplace when you don't know who's a Christian and who's not. Will you still continue to stand up for God? What about while hanging with your friends when conversations turn to gossip and backbiting? Will you continue to stand up for God or just blend in smiling and laughing along in an attempt to fit in? I would like to say that I would do the right thing and 'stand up for God'. But the truth of the matter is I don't know what I would do. I need my job. What if my standing up for what is right causes me to get fired? To I have the faith to say that God will continue to 'supply all my needs according to His riches in glory'. What about when dealing with friendships? These ladies (gentlemen) have been my friends for years. I don't really want to stir up any confusion. And what about when you have been praying about something and you are waiting on God to answer that prayer. Is your faith predicated on if God answers the prayer in the way that you see fit? Or are you able to proclaim boldly that you trust God as the three Hebrew boys did when faced with the danger of being thrown in a fiery furnace?
It makes me think of my current situation and how I am in the process of going through some major changes in my life. Here I am waiting on God to answer my prayer, beginning to see a little light at the end of the tunnel. Watching God work on my behalf and starting to feel hopeful. But in the midst of all this I had to ask myself, "What if the situation doesn't work out the way I would like? Will I be okay with accepting the results as God's will for my life? Will I be able to say 'But even if He does not'? You see, that's the kind of faith I want to have. Life has shown me that things are not always going to work out as I would like it to. That job I may really want may be given to someone else. Someone who I may have thought to be a lifelong friend may turn out to be seasonal. While I may be praying for healing, God may decide to deliver the ultimate healing and take my loved one on up to glory. All these situations could easily shake my faith but God has just been to good to me for me not to accept that He knows what is best for my life. And if He has determined to take me through the fire then bring it on. If I have to be tried by the fire so that my life can be used as a testimony to help someone else then I am going to walk through the fire. And while I may have to go through the fire I have decided to stand up for God. My questions for you today is, " What will your decision be? Daily we are faced with opportunities to be a witness for God. At home, on our job, in the grocery store, at the mall. Will you be that witness?
Most Gracious Heavenly Father,
I come to You today in the humblest way that I know how. Giving you all the praise You so richly deserve. Father I ask today that You forgive me of my sins and cleanse me from all unrighteousness. I know that in times past when faced with a situation of whether or not to stand up for You or blend in with the crowd, I have not always made the best decisions. Today I make a bold declaration of faith. You., alone. are the one, true God and in everything I am going to praise Your name. In Jesus' Precious Name I pray Amen.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Stop Your Complaining
Turn on any television , watch any new program, read any newspaper and you will find a plethora of bad news. Not only that, but if you are anything like me and have a normal life with ups and downs, twists and turns, you don't have to do any of those things to find some bad news. All you have to do is look around you, open the mailbox, listen to your ungrateful child, miss a few hours of sleep, deal with a crazy boss or know-it-all coworkers. And what usually goes along with all of that, complaining. On any given day we could all find something to complain about. But I wonder if every time we felt the urge to complain we actually thanked God, how much better our lives would be.
The Psalmist writes in Psalm 34, 'I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together. I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. (1-4)
Now I was not there when he wrote these words, but I would venture to say that 'all was not perfect in his world'. The Psalmist chose to do something different. Instead of looking upon his circumstance and how dark the night, he chose to look to God. I often turn to the Psalms when I am at a loss for words to pray. How fitting, when all may look bleak around you, to look to the hills from whence cometh your help. That's really what it is all about. The believer and the non-believer should have some distinct differences. One difference is that even when we are tempted to let our heads hang low, it doesn't stay there for long. We don't hope as those who have no hope. Our hope is in God. So stop your complaining and start praising Him. For every reason you might have to complain I bet you have something to be thankful for. There are times in my life where I have a harder time finding those things to be thankful for I have learned that the reason for this is because I find myself looking for the extraordinary instead of finding God in the ordinary. Things that I have started to take for granted like my family, good health, true friendships. All these things that God has blessed me with. When you come to realize that everything you have, you don't deserve, it becomes easier to 'bless the Lord at all times and praise Him continously.
Now maybe you haven't gotten to this point yet. Verse 5 in the text above brings home the most important reason that we don't have to waste time complaining. That reason is prayer. Being able to lay it all out and tell it to God about it is something to be thankful for. You don't have to worry about the perfect words or complete sentence. All you have to do is speak from your heart. And I am hear to tell you that He hears you.
Most Gracious Heavenly Father,
Thank You so very much for the privilege of prayer. There is no greater relief than being able to come to You and pour out my heart, not just with request but in praise. Lord I thank you for everything that you have done in my life. I know there are times when I have taken for granted the blessings you have provided for me. Help me not to develop a spirit of complaining but one of gratefulness. Help me not to be selfish in my prayers but selfless, giving You the honor you so richly deserve. All these things I ask in Your Precious Name Jesus Amen.
The Psalmist writes in Psalm 34, 'I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together. I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. (1-4)
Now I was not there when he wrote these words, but I would venture to say that 'all was not perfect in his world'. The Psalmist chose to do something different. Instead of looking upon his circumstance and how dark the night, he chose to look to God. I often turn to the Psalms when I am at a loss for words to pray. How fitting, when all may look bleak around you, to look to the hills from whence cometh your help. That's really what it is all about. The believer and the non-believer should have some distinct differences. One difference is that even when we are tempted to let our heads hang low, it doesn't stay there for long. We don't hope as those who have no hope. Our hope is in God. So stop your complaining and start praising Him. For every reason you might have to complain I bet you have something to be thankful for. There are times in my life where I have a harder time finding those things to be thankful for I have learned that the reason for this is because I find myself looking for the extraordinary instead of finding God in the ordinary. Things that I have started to take for granted like my family, good health, true friendships. All these things that God has blessed me with. When you come to realize that everything you have, you don't deserve, it becomes easier to 'bless the Lord at all times and praise Him continously.
Now maybe you haven't gotten to this point yet. Verse 5 in the text above brings home the most important reason that we don't have to waste time complaining. That reason is prayer. Being able to lay it all out and tell it to God about it is something to be thankful for. You don't have to worry about the perfect words or complete sentence. All you have to do is speak from your heart. And I am hear to tell you that He hears you.
Most Gracious Heavenly Father,
Thank You so very much for the privilege of prayer. There is no greater relief than being able to come to You and pour out my heart, not just with request but in praise. Lord I thank you for everything that you have done in my life. I know there are times when I have taken for granted the blessings you have provided for me. Help me not to develop a spirit of complaining but one of gratefulness. Help me not to be selfish in my prayers but selfless, giving You the honor you so richly deserve. All these things I ask in Your Precious Name Jesus Amen.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Looking Up
I am often amazed at the different things the Holy Spirit reveals to me in my quiet time with God. How the treasures in the Word of God are numerous. I can read a story in the Bible that I have known since I was a little girl and all of a sudden the verses take on a whole new meaning. This morning I was reading the story of the 'two fish and five loaves of bread'. If you are like me you have probably heard this story all your life. James Cleveland even sang a song about how 'little becomes much when you place it in the Master's hands'.
The setting of this story takes place after Jesus had been teaching and by this time He had quite a large following. Now the disciples still not getting the big picture and realizing the power of the Man with whom they traveled saw all the people and the late hour and just wanted to send them away. I can imagine that they looked around and saw all the people and knew how hungry they were and thought to themselves "How are we going to feed all these people? We better send them away before we insight a riot." I can see their heads hanging low, discouraged, not knowing what to do. They weren't thinking about looking up. In fact, they were probably looking down. It made me think about how I am at times. When all I can see is the situation around me, the bills that keep coming in the mail, the need for a better job, the stress of raising children, and on and on. Instead of looking up to heaven I'm looking all around at what I have and not what God can do with what I have if I would only give it to Him. Case in point: Have you ever had that problem and you decided to pray about it and all of a sudden little things start changing? I have and so I know what a difference looking up to God can make! What an awesome teaching opportunity this situation for Jesus! He knew the secret. And He thought enough of us to share it with us.
You see, it doesn't matter what you have or what your current situation may be. You may be looking at your bank statement wondering what you are going to shuffle around this month just to make it to next month. You might be saying that I have tried everything I can and my spouse still won't act right and I just want to give up. You might be tired of being mistreated on your job but can't quit. You have had about all the disrespect from your child and your family is on one right now trying to run your life. Maybe you have a dream and you don't think you have the resources to make the dream a reality. All you can see from looking around is what you don't have. What is missing. Maybe you are asking yourself, "When is it going to be my turn?" My challenge to you today is that instead of looking down or looking around, try looking up. Looking up has a way of changing your perspective. Realizing your limitations and allowing a limitless God to step in and give you what is missing. Thanking God for what you do have and asking Him to bless it. Your job, your house, your misbehaving child, your spouse. Your family (however crazy they may be). There isn't anything we can do in and of our own strength and when we try we are often disappointed. The time has come for you to trust that God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory. Allow Him to turn your 'little into much' by giving it to Him and placing it in His hands. Not holding on but letting go completely and then being obedient to His will. And then step back and watch God!
Most Gracious Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the awesome privilege of prayer. It is during this time that I can come and share with you everything that is going on in my life. Lord today I want to ask forgiveness. I have been guilty of looking at my current situation more than looking to you. I have been looking around and down, sometimes expecting limited people to meet my need. But no more. I look to You, Heavenly Father. For You are the only one capable of meeting my every need. Thank you for sustaining me even when I didn't realize it. For keeping my mind and giving me peace. I know that with You I can do all things. It doesn't matter what my resources are because you are able to multiply them and make them enough. Help me to be satisfied with 'enough'. In Jesus' Precious Name I pray Amen.
Mark 6:41 says, Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces, he kept giving the bread to he disciples so they could distribute it to the people. He also divided the fish for everyone to share.
The setting of this story takes place after Jesus had been teaching and by this time He had quite a large following. Now the disciples still not getting the big picture and realizing the power of the Man with whom they traveled saw all the people and the late hour and just wanted to send them away. I can imagine that they looked around and saw all the people and knew how hungry they were and thought to themselves "How are we going to feed all these people? We better send them away before we insight a riot." I can see their heads hanging low, discouraged, not knowing what to do. They weren't thinking about looking up. In fact, they were probably looking down. It made me think about how I am at times. When all I can see is the situation around me, the bills that keep coming in the mail, the need for a better job, the stress of raising children, and on and on. Instead of looking up to heaven I'm looking all around at what I have and not what God can do with what I have if I would only give it to Him. Case in point: Have you ever had that problem and you decided to pray about it and all of a sudden little things start changing? I have and so I know what a difference looking up to God can make! What an awesome teaching opportunity this situation for Jesus! He knew the secret. And He thought enough of us to share it with us.
You see, it doesn't matter what you have or what your current situation may be. You may be looking at your bank statement wondering what you are going to shuffle around this month just to make it to next month. You might be saying that I have tried everything I can and my spouse still won't act right and I just want to give up. You might be tired of being mistreated on your job but can't quit. You have had about all the disrespect from your child and your family is on one right now trying to run your life. Maybe you have a dream and you don't think you have the resources to make the dream a reality. All you can see from looking around is what you don't have. What is missing. Maybe you are asking yourself, "When is it going to be my turn?" My challenge to you today is that instead of looking down or looking around, try looking up. Looking up has a way of changing your perspective. Realizing your limitations and allowing a limitless God to step in and give you what is missing. Thanking God for what you do have and asking Him to bless it. Your job, your house, your misbehaving child, your spouse. Your family (however crazy they may be). There isn't anything we can do in and of our own strength and when we try we are often disappointed. The time has come for you to trust that God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory. Allow Him to turn your 'little into much' by giving it to Him and placing it in His hands. Not holding on but letting go completely and then being obedient to His will. And then step back and watch God!
Most Gracious Heavenly Father,
Thank you for the awesome privilege of prayer. It is during this time that I can come and share with you everything that is going on in my life. Lord today I want to ask forgiveness. I have been guilty of looking at my current situation more than looking to you. I have been looking around and down, sometimes expecting limited people to meet my need. But no more. I look to You, Heavenly Father. For You are the only one capable of meeting my every need. Thank you for sustaining me even when I didn't realize it. For keeping my mind and giving me peace. I know that with You I can do all things. It doesn't matter what my resources are because you are able to multiply them and make them enough. Help me to be satisfied with 'enough'. In Jesus' Precious Name I pray Amen.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Better Days
It has been a rough couple of months. Some mornings I just wanted to stay in the bed. All sorts of things running through my head. Every emotion you could possibly imagine feeling, I felt. Usually when I feel this way I can find refuge in going to church, fellowship with other Christians, singing in the choir and hearing the Word of God imparted. This time that didn't work. After the loss of my Pastor I didn't feel much like going to church. My heart was sad and it effected every part of my life. Although I would much rather have taken some time off from life, I couldn't. I still had people who needed me, my husband, my children, family, and friends. You see, one thing that I have learned is that the life of an Encourager is often a lonely one. Everyone is used to you being upbeat, always knowing the right words to say, being that person who is 'able to get a prayer through'. We aren't supposed to be sad or have an off day. Because of this we learn to build up fake walls that eventually come crashing down. Because the truth of the matter is that as strong as our faith may be and no matter how much we love God, we get drained. When this happens we find ourselves looking for those who are able to provide refreshment and pour back into our buckets. We don't set the expectation bar too high because we realize that everyone is going through something so we don't want to become a burden. But because we know this, over the years God has placed people in our lives who we can confide in. Those who will pray for us. The ones who see behind the mask. So you are probably asking yourself why am I telling you all this? Because I know that each and every one of you reading this today sometimes get to the point that you are drained. You are at the crossroads of life. You don't know what direction to take. You get in a 'funk' and you can't seem to shake it. So what do you do?
There is a song that I love that I find myself singing at some of my most difficult moments. The lyrics are as follows: 'When my heart is overwhelmed, my prayer is Lead me to the Rock. Lead me to the Rock that's higher than I Oh Lord, higher than I'. There is something about the words of this song that put me in a place of worship. A place where I am no longer focused on what is going on in my life but instead I am focused on God. And that is a good place for me to be. It is in this place that I find safety. I am free to speak my mind, tell God all about my problems. My soul is rejuvenated. My spirit is refreshed. I often leave this song and move into another song that simply says, 'I'm in His safety, rest in His safety, the safety of the Lord'. Are you starting to see a pattern? As a Christian you simply cannot stay in a depressed, negative state of mind when you keep your mind stayed on Jesus. Don't you know that your Heavenly Father wants nothing more than to bestow bountiful blessings on His children? Some tangible and some intangible. And as for me, while I love those blessings that I can see and touch, I am starting to learn as I grow older and wiser that I would much rather have the intangible blessings. Things like peace and joy. Man can come take all the other things from me but my God is no Indian Giver. 'This joy I have the world didn't give it to me. The world didn't give it and the world can't take it away'. That's good news y'all!
And that's not all... I have also found that it is during this time that God is trying to get your attention. He wants to take you to that next level. Time to go higher in Him! He wants to see what your response will be. Who are you going to run to? Are you going to open up your Bible and let the Lord speak to you through His Word? Are you going to cut back on your tv time to spend more time in communion with the Father? Everything that you need is at your disposal. But as the old saying goes, "You can lead a horse to the water but you can't make Him drink." God is not going to force feed the Word to you. And I am just here to remind you that it is necessary for your survival. If you are still going all week long only reading your Bible on Sunday, it's time to make a change. The Christian needs a steady diet of the Word of God. Prayer is not an option; it is a necessity. Allow God to transform you by the renewing of Your mind. The God we serve is awesome and able to meet your every need. The sky may look dark right now but remember, 'Weeping may endure for a night but joy cometh in the morning'. (Ps. 30:5) 'They that wait on the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and npt faint. (Isaiah 40:30-31)
Most Gracious Heavenly Father,
I come to You today standing in the need. I'm not quite sure what is going on in my life right now. But I know that when I don't know I can come to You for guidance and direction. Help me to dig deeper into Your Word and listen for Your still small voice. Help me not to look not only at my situation but to fix my eyes on You. I am trusting You with every area of my life, submitting to Your will. I love You Lord and I will forever praise Your name because You are Worthy! In Jesus' Wonderfu; Name I pray Amen.
There is a song that I love that I find myself singing at some of my most difficult moments. The lyrics are as follows: 'When my heart is overwhelmed, my prayer is Lead me to the Rock. Lead me to the Rock that's higher than I Oh Lord, higher than I'. There is something about the words of this song that put me in a place of worship. A place where I am no longer focused on what is going on in my life but instead I am focused on God. And that is a good place for me to be. It is in this place that I find safety. I am free to speak my mind, tell God all about my problems. My soul is rejuvenated. My spirit is refreshed. I often leave this song and move into another song that simply says, 'I'm in His safety, rest in His safety, the safety of the Lord'. Are you starting to see a pattern? As a Christian you simply cannot stay in a depressed, negative state of mind when you keep your mind stayed on Jesus. Don't you know that your Heavenly Father wants nothing more than to bestow bountiful blessings on His children? Some tangible and some intangible. And as for me, while I love those blessings that I can see and touch, I am starting to learn as I grow older and wiser that I would much rather have the intangible blessings. Things like peace and joy. Man can come take all the other things from me but my God is no Indian Giver. 'This joy I have the world didn't give it to me. The world didn't give it and the world can't take it away'. That's good news y'all!
And that's not all... I have also found that it is during this time that God is trying to get your attention. He wants to take you to that next level. Time to go higher in Him! He wants to see what your response will be. Who are you going to run to? Are you going to open up your Bible and let the Lord speak to you through His Word? Are you going to cut back on your tv time to spend more time in communion with the Father? Everything that you need is at your disposal. But as the old saying goes, "You can lead a horse to the water but you can't make Him drink." God is not going to force feed the Word to you. And I am just here to remind you that it is necessary for your survival. If you are still going all week long only reading your Bible on Sunday, it's time to make a change. The Christian needs a steady diet of the Word of God. Prayer is not an option; it is a necessity. Allow God to transform you by the renewing of Your mind. The God we serve is awesome and able to meet your every need. The sky may look dark right now but remember, 'Weeping may endure for a night but joy cometh in the morning'. (Ps. 30:5) 'They that wait on the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and npt faint. (Isaiah 40:30-31)
Most Gracious Heavenly Father,
I come to You today standing in the need. I'm not quite sure what is going on in my life right now. But I know that when I don't know I can come to You for guidance and direction. Help me to dig deeper into Your Word and listen for Your still small voice. Help me not to look not only at my situation but to fix my eyes on You. I am trusting You with every area of my life, submitting to Your will. I love You Lord and I will forever praise Your name because You are Worthy! In Jesus' Wonderfu; Name I pray Amen.
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