Thursday's morning drive into work rewarded me with brilliant soft yellow white sun rays shining through moody blue clouds. Moving south I enjoy the warmth of sunrise on my left cheek. It is like being kissed by God. Turning east my eyes glaze in awe of His Masterful Artwork! I had to capture a few clicks to sear it into my memory. Its a feast for my soul as I start a work day.
This Thursday was going to end differently than just another day in and day out. The news I was to receive & process was going make this morning's sunrise a little bit more permanently etched on my soul. At 11:15AM my cousin Jim walked onto Heaven's shores. What? He's only four years older than I! Just should not be!
This Thursday waves of childhood memories flooded my daydreams & my tears released emotions that I could not speak. My cousins are all older than I except one so I generally was in awe of them. I'm finding myself pausing here as the memories again like snapshots flick across my mind. Grandma L kept showing up. My heart bubbled up just thinking of a young Grandma waiting there on Heaven's shores with arms wide open to receive Jim in a ferocious hug right after Jesus. Oh, how I have tears because of this earthly loss! Oh, how my heart aches for his wife's loss & for the son who lost his dad too soon! But behind this pain is a Joy inexpressible!
Being born into the Family of God gives me such an uncontainable & unmeasurable Assurance that death has truly lost its sting. Oh, it still hurts here & its work to keep setting Jesus ever before me when the world does its best to drown Him out.
As another morning dawned, God's Word did too. The Divine Author pens in word pictures that this student leans in for more. Proverb 4:18 says "the path of the Righteous is like the first gleam of morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day." Remembering the previous day's sunrise & remembering Jim, family twice over, I began to fuse these two pictures together...
Always before I stopped the picture at the sunrise because sunrises can be so dramatic with its God-Fingers slicing through the shadows of the trees. Full light of day was like the show was over. I just hadn't fused the two pictures together correctly.
The first gleam of dawn pierces through the shadows & clouds. Isn't that just how it is with the Righteous? God's Sonlight pierces right through our shadows of sin, pain, sadness, & darkness. As a child of God grows more & more like Jesus, the child shines ever brighter. The full light of day came for Jim as he walked onto Heaven's shore. We've seen the special effects so we have an idea but Jim knows full well. The full Light of day consumes all the sin, pain, sadness, & darkness. No more shadows. No more sad tears. No more falling short. No more struggle. The brilliant soft yellow white once gleam is full light so bright for Jim. Its exciting to see new believers grow as Jesus gleams through them but oh, as believers gathers days & years, the shadows seems to grow longer & longer, believers yearn & ache for the God's Perfecting Work in them & for those promising Golden Shores. Full Light of Day.
I will always delight in God's beautiful sunrises but there will be no stopping there for me. I will relish the Light!
When we all get to Heaven
What a day of Rejoicing that will be
When we all see Jesus
We'll sing & shout the Victory!
I'm starting the Rejoicing early...
Salvation =
new creation
Family
a sure Strength
purpose
Victory over death
Heaven
Jesus Christ our Groom
Union
reunions
JOY overload & beyond measure
Showing posts with label fear not. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fear not. Show all posts
Saturday, April 29, 2017
Sunday, November 06, 2016
call to FAITH...
I may be shall be quite emotional Tuesday as I vote because of the great love I have for America and the founding fathers who wanted a land where they had freedom to love and serve God. However this is not my home, I'm just a passing through. I am a child of the Victorious King of kings so why should my soul be downcast? We are to walk triumphantly because we serve and are devoted to the Risen King! This is my Battle Cry; my call to Arms to my faint heart and to my brothers and sisters in Christ. We are joint-heirs. Wipe away the tears! Let's march around those walls! Let's talk back Scriptures in the face of fear! Fortify your FAITH!!! The Battle is the Lord's!!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Let NOT your heart be troubled."
John 14:1
~~~
"The Lord Himself goes before you
& will be with you;
He will never leave you
nor forsake you.
Do NOT be afraid;
Do NOT be discouraged."
Deut 31:8
~~~
"Praise be to the Name of God forever & ever;
Wisdom & Power are His.
He changes times & seasons;
He sets up kings & deposes them.
He gives Wisdom to the wise
& knowledge to the discerning.
He reveals deep & hidden things;
He knows what lies in the darkness,
& Light dwells with Him."
Daniel 2:20-22
~~~
"I will go before you & will level mountains;
I will break down gates of bronze
& cut through bars of iron.
I will give you the treasures of darkness,
riches stored in secret places,
so that you may know that I AM
the Lord, the God of Israel,
who summons you by name."
Isaiah 45:2-3
~~~
"The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD."
Proverb 16:33
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I am going to share the whole passage of Isaiah 33 here. I have found so much peace and solace in this passage. Every time my heart starts to faint I keep going to Isaiah 33. I write in people's names and places of today into this ancient scripture. This is proof that the Ancient of Days is in control yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Challenge yourself to read this every time you find anger or depression eats away at your faith. Wait in the Lord. He is our HOPE & SALVATION!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Isaiah 33
Woe to you, destroyer,
you who have not been destroyed!
Woe to you, betrayer,
you who have not been betrayed!
When you stop destroying,
you will be destroyed;
when you stop betraying,
you will be betrayed.
you who have not been destroyed!
Woe to you, betrayer,
you who have not been betrayed!
When you stop destroying,
you will be destroyed;
when you stop betraying,
you will be betrayed.
2 Lord, be gracious to us;
we long for You.
Be our Strength every morning,
our Salvation in time of distress.
3 At the uproar of your army, the peoples flee;
when You rise up, the nations scatter.
4 Your plunder, O nations, is harvested as by young locusts;
like a swarm of locusts people pounce on it.
we long for You.
Be our Strength every morning,
our Salvation in time of distress.
3 At the uproar of your army, the peoples flee;
when You rise up, the nations scatter.
4 Your plunder, O nations, is harvested as by young locusts;
like a swarm of locusts people pounce on it.
5 The Lord is exalted, for He dwells on high;
He will fill Zion with His Justice and Righteousness.
6 He will be the Sure Foundation for your times,
a Rich Store of Salvation and Wisdom and Knowledge;
the Fear of the Lord is the key to this Treasure.
He will fill Zion with His Justice and Righteousness.
6 He will be the Sure Foundation for your times,
a Rich Store of Salvation and Wisdom and Knowledge;
the Fear of the Lord is the key to this Treasure.
7 Look, their brave men cry aloud in the streets;
the envoys of peace weep bitterly.
8 The highways are deserted,
no travelers are on the roads.
The treaty is broken,
its witnesses are despised,
no one is respected.
9 The land dries up and wastes away,
Lebanon is ashamed and withers;
Sharon is like the Arabah,
and Bashan and Carmel drop their leaves.
the envoys of peace weep bitterly.
8 The highways are deserted,
no travelers are on the roads.
The treaty is broken,
its witnesses are despised,
no one is respected.
9 The land dries up and wastes away,
Lebanon is ashamed and withers;
Sharon is like the Arabah,
and Bashan and Carmel drop their leaves.
10 “Now will I arise,” says the Lord.
“Now will I be exalted;
now will I be lifted up.
11 You conceive chaff,
you give birth to straw;
your breath is a fire that consumes you.
12 The peoples will be burned to ashes;
like cut thornbushes they will be set ablaze.”
“Now will I be exalted;
now will I be lifted up.
11 You conceive chaff,
you give birth to straw;
your breath is a fire that consumes you.
12 The peoples will be burned to ashes;
like cut thornbushes they will be set ablaze.”
13 You who are far away, hear what I have done;
you who are near, acknowledge My Power!
14 The sinners in Zion are terrified;
trembling grips the godless:
“Who of us can dwell with the consuming fire?
Who of us can dwell with everlasting burning?”
15 Those who walk righteously
and speak what is right,
who reject gain from extortion
and keep their hands from accepting bribes,
who stop their ears against plots of murder
and shut their eyes against contemplating evil—
16 they are the ones who will dwell on the heights,
whose refuge will be the mountain fortress.
Their bread will be supplied,
and water will not fail them.
you who are near, acknowledge My Power!
14 The sinners in Zion are terrified;
trembling grips the godless:
“Who of us can dwell with the consuming fire?
Who of us can dwell with everlasting burning?”
15 Those who walk righteously
and speak what is right,
who reject gain from extortion
and keep their hands from accepting bribes,
who stop their ears against plots of murder
and shut their eyes against contemplating evil—
16 they are the ones who will dwell on the heights,
whose refuge will be the mountain fortress.
Their bread will be supplied,
and water will not fail them.
17 Your eyes will see the King in His Beauty
and view a land that stretches afar. {Heaven}
18 In your thoughts you will ponder the former terror:
“Where is that chief officer?
Where is the one who took the revenue?
Where is the officer in charge of the towers?”
19 You will see those arrogant people no more,
people whose speech is obscure,
whose language is strange and incomprehensible.
and view a land that stretches afar. {Heaven}
18 In your thoughts you will ponder the former terror:
“Where is that chief officer?
Where is the one who took the revenue?
Where is the officer in charge of the towers?”
19 You will see those arrogant people no more,
people whose speech is obscure,
whose language is strange and incomprehensible.
20 Look on Zion, the City of our festivals;
your eyes will see Jerusalem,
a peaceful abode, a tent that will not be moved;
its stakes will never be pulled up,
nor any of its ropes broken.
21 There the Lord will be our Mighty One.
It will be like a place of broad rivers and streams.
No galley with oars will ride them,
no mighty ship will sail them.
22 For the Lord is our Judge,
the Lord is our Lawgiver,
the Lord is our King;
it is He who will Save us.
your eyes will see Jerusalem,
a peaceful abode, a tent that will not be moved;
its stakes will never be pulled up,
nor any of its ropes broken.
21 There the Lord will be our Mighty One.
It will be like a place of broad rivers and streams.
No galley with oars will ride them,
no mighty ship will sail them.
22 For the Lord is our Judge,
the Lord is our Lawgiver,
the Lord is our King;
it is He who will Save us.
23 Your rigging hangs loose:
The mast is not held secure,
the sail is not spread.
Then an abundance of spoils will be divided
and even the lame will carry off plunder.
24 No one living in Zion will say, “I am ill”;
and the sins of those who dwell there will be forgiven.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The mast is not held secure,
the sail is not spread.
Then an abundance of spoils will be divided
and even the lame will carry off plunder.
24 No one living in Zion will say, “I am ill”;
and the sins of those who dwell there will be forgiven.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
All I can do is shout HALLELUJAH & AMEN!
"The Lord Reigns."
Psalm 99:1
\( ˆoˆ )/
Sunday, October 19, 2014
tease me again ...
I find it hard to wake up on a Saturday and go into work but is especially hard to find waiting in my work's email inbox a message about the ever popular CFO finding out a massive tumor at the base of his neck effecting the left side of his body. Dread evaded my heart. The air got real thin. He was fine just the day before. He is very personable and finds away to tease every individual working for him in such a way that you feel important and noticed.
What do you do?
I printed out the email requesting for prayer and started to jot down requests and hopes to ask my Heavenly Father. It helps me keep my mind focused and not sunk down in fear and frozen....
• Salvation – always God's Will
• healing here
• eyes to see the Great I AM & His Mighty Works
• journey welll this assignment
• heavily lean into Him / TRUST Him / mind stayed on Him
• run well – finish well
• Resurection Day –
Hope built on nothing less than Jesus's Blood & Righteousness
I was listening to a suffering saint a couple of weeks ago and instead of refering to Job as a source of comfort, he brought to light John 11. Now I too seek out the eleventh chapter of John.
v3 "Lord, the one You love is sick."
v4 When He heard this, Jesus said, "This sickness will NOT end in death. No , it is for God's Glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it."
v40 Then Jesus said, "Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the Glory of God?"
Come Monday when everyone finds the company wide email, I'm sure the mood will have a heavy somber to it. Yet as long as he pestering the nurses, we back at the company will feel much better but longing to have him back teasing us all again...
Sunday, January 22, 2012
investment vs. ball and chain...
No, I am not talking marriage here! Marriage should never be associated with such confinement but rather should be home, a safe place. Talking about a home and I hate to admit it but buying a home is a ball and chain. I just don't see it any other way.
I didn't always feel like that. My little girl dreams always had a home. It just was a matter of fact. That is what adults do. They have a family and a family home. They had a patch of land and of course, a picket fence. Don't forget the pups.
Whoa! My life hasn't ended up that way. I have a single life and lifestyle. I have just gotten to a place where I feel the money is just right. I'm not scraping the barrel. The groceries and the gas has gone up and yet I feel that for the most part that I can get by ok. Yet with the rumors and the uneasiness out there, it is nice to have a cushion. I feel like I have that. Yes, I like to shop and my weekly shopping excursions are my only dependable social entertainment. Of course, I not afraid to spend even though I do pretty well at pinching pennies. I have this new feeling of being able to give money to God above and beyond my tithe. I like this feeling a lot. I don't want to go back. I can't go back.
I am also feeling that Jesus is coming back soon. Do I really need a house? Why sock money into a house when that money could have a better use. But then again, I don't know the time. This world could have a few more spins around the dial even though there is a lot of shaking and rattling. It just isn't the waters and earth giving way but governments, housing, gas, and the economies. No body or country is immune.
I may be hitting the mid life crisis zone but I look young and feeeeeeeeeeeeel like a little girl. Buying a house all by my lonesome is sooooooo out of my league! I admit I am a shy one maybe not so much in my writing, but have a quiet personality and it suits me just right. It is what makes me a goooood listener but when I have something to say aloud, I'm usually not heard or they put their own spin on what they think I am or on what I say. I may be a first born and forge ahead on my own leaving the herds behind, but I have this strong wingman trait and it does NOT like to be a sole pilot in such huge endeavors. Help! This is way too much for me.
Like I said I am single and if I set down roots in brick and mortar then there are no more dreams of wings. I have friends to the west and a couple of friends in other countries. It would be cool to go see them if I could muster up strength in my wings. I do admit that making a home out of a house is a dream too. I love house magazines and blogs for color schemes, storage ideas, and layouts. Having it become a reality is a bit scary. I will have to make a go on my ideas and supposed talent. I know I could never have a dream house, the house must it meet it in a general sense because this house will have to do until the end of my days.
Things have been getting a bit dicey here in my apartment building. Had a bad neighbor in December and things were getting bad. I also deal with cigarette smoke getting into my home and I am allergic to it. Then the apartment dweller below like to leave his bathroom fan on for weeks at a time and I can't stand unnecessary noise. Besides being a crafter makes my little dwelling even smaller. It would be nice to stretch out a bit.
My coworker who has been searching for house herself found me a house she thinks has my name all over it. Argh! So far she is right! It is a condo with a garage. It has a place for a library!!! Something I have dreamed about. The basement is finished so it would take the place of having a cute upper floor. I could see a craft room downstairs. What topped it off because it was unexpected but right down my alley was the flag pole out front.
I need to get my brain and heart under the Great Shepherd's care. The future can keep. I must trade in the fear for trust and obedience. God has proven Himself. He has never forsaken me. Not only has He been there in the little everyday things but He helped my parents with their house and He answered a big prayer of mine. I cannot forget these answered prayers not only because they were huge but also because they are small and everyday. He has been the Partner and the Pilot and I have been treating Him as such. I bring things to Him. I need to let Him drive this adventure and I just relax and go for the ride. If I push or even if I pull (can't believe I just said pull but it is true - I can't pull back), I would usurp God's hold on my life.
always,
keeper
I didn't always feel like that. My little girl dreams always had a home. It just was a matter of fact. That is what adults do. They have a family and a family home. They had a patch of land and of course, a picket fence. Don't forget the pups.
Whoa! My life hasn't ended up that way. I have a single life and lifestyle. I have just gotten to a place where I feel the money is just right. I'm not scraping the barrel. The groceries and the gas has gone up and yet I feel that for the most part that I can get by ok. Yet with the rumors and the uneasiness out there, it is nice to have a cushion. I feel like I have that. Yes, I like to shop and my weekly shopping excursions are my only dependable social entertainment. Of course, I not afraid to spend even though I do pretty well at pinching pennies. I have this new feeling of being able to give money to God above and beyond my tithe. I like this feeling a lot. I don't want to go back. I can't go back.
I am also feeling that Jesus is coming back soon. Do I really need a house? Why sock money into a house when that money could have a better use. But then again, I don't know the time. This world could have a few more spins around the dial even though there is a lot of shaking and rattling. It just isn't the waters and earth giving way but governments, housing, gas, and the economies. No body or country is immune.
I may be hitting the mid life crisis zone but I look young and feeeeeeeeeeeeel like a little girl. Buying a house all by my lonesome is sooooooo out of my league! I admit I am a shy one maybe not so much in my writing, but have a quiet personality and it suits me just right. It is what makes me a goooood listener but when I have something to say aloud, I'm usually not heard or they put their own spin on what they think I am or on what I say. I may be a first born and forge ahead on my own leaving the herds behind, but I have this strong wingman trait and it does NOT like to be a sole pilot in such huge endeavors. Help! This is way too much for me.
Like I said I am single and if I set down roots in brick and mortar then there are no more dreams of wings. I have friends to the west and a couple of friends in other countries. It would be cool to go see them if I could muster up strength in my wings. I do admit that making a home out of a house is a dream too. I love house magazines and blogs for color schemes, storage ideas, and layouts. Having it become a reality is a bit scary. I will have to make a go on my ideas and supposed talent. I know I could never have a dream house, the house must it meet it in a general sense because this house will have to do until the end of my days.
Things have been getting a bit dicey here in my apartment building. Had a bad neighbor in December and things were getting bad. I also deal with cigarette smoke getting into my home and I am allergic to it. Then the apartment dweller below like to leave his bathroom fan on for weeks at a time and I can't stand unnecessary noise. Besides being a crafter makes my little dwelling even smaller. It would be nice to stretch out a bit.
My coworker who has been searching for house herself found me a house she thinks has my name all over it. Argh! So far she is right! It is a condo with a garage. It has a place for a library!!! Something I have dreamed about. The basement is finished so it would take the place of having a cute upper floor. I could see a craft room downstairs. What topped it off because it was unexpected but right down my alley was the flag pole out front.
I need to get my brain and heart under the Great Shepherd's care. The future can keep. I must trade in the fear for trust and obedience. God has proven Himself. He has never forsaken me. Not only has He been there in the little everyday things but He helped my parents with their house and He answered a big prayer of mine. I cannot forget these answered prayers not only because they were huge but also because they are small and everyday. He has been the Partner and the Pilot and I have been treating Him as such. I bring things to Him. I need to let Him drive this adventure and I just relax and go for the ride. If I push or even if I pull (can't believe I just said pull but it is true - I can't pull back), I would usurp God's hold on my life.
Keep me safe, O God,
for in You I take refuge.
I said to the Lord,
"You are my Lord; apart from You I have no good thing."
~ Psalms 16: 1&2
Dear Heavenly Father,
I am going to share with my parents my feelings so that they know my fears but I will also show my Dad the link to that condo. Most importantly You know my fears and dreams. You know my personality and You know what I can handle. This house might not even by mine. You will be there in pain and in
happiness. Your Presence is fullness of JOY. I must stay in Your Arms. I am here for the ride. I am putting in place Your Words to keep my mind stayed on You. Thank You for keeping me.always,
keeper
Friday, June 24, 2011
to be made perfect ...
"God doesn't give you the people you want. He gives you the people you need to help you, to hurt you, to have you, to love you, and to make you into the person you were meant to be."
I saw this quote and wrote it down. I wanted to think about it. Is this true? Is it Biblical?
I have this special person that came into my life. There is such a connection that it indescribable. I've learned so much from him and then he hurt me by his disappearance even though it was not his intention. God taught me so much in those bleak days that the wound isn't something I will give up. It is liked I earned it and painfully. It is mine. I want to remember and never forget because God revealed Himself and I have fallen in love God and His Word. I want to fall more and more in love with God. To be smitten the rest of my days.... Truly Joyfullllllllllllll!
It is true that God brings people into your life. This one was most definitely one I wanted. We had connection and now some history. We are learning to do the 'one anothers' and to being made perfect for His Glory.
Genesis 50:19 But Joseph said to them, “Don't be afraid. Am I in the place of God?20You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.
I saw this quote and wrote it down. I wanted to think about it. Is this true? Is it Biblical?
I have this special person that came into my life. There is such a connection that it indescribable. I've learned so much from him and then he hurt me by his disappearance even though it was not his intention. God taught me so much in those bleak days that the wound isn't something I will give up. It is liked I earned it and painfully. It is mine. I want to remember and never forget because God revealed Himself and I have fallen in love God and His Word. I want to fall more and more in love with God. To be smitten the rest of my days.... Truly Joyfullllllllllllll!
It is true that God brings people into your life. This one was most definitely one I wanted. We had connection and now some history. We are learning to do the 'one anothers' and to being made perfect for His Glory.
Genesis 50:19 But Joseph said to them, “Don't be afraid. Am I in the place of God?20
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Pinch me! Is this for real?
I stood at the shoreline and the great ship slipped from view. Every day I would go down to the docks for it's return but nothing. The days turned into weeks then months then years. It was harder and harder to drag myself down to the water's edge. Who wants to be disappointed day after day? Would this great ship return?
God and I had many discussions over my broken heart. I could not bare being abandoned. I wanted the journey and the adventure. I wanted to belong. By belonging I wasn't a misfit anymore. What more could I have done?
So the Master took me out onto the mighty ocean full of froth and rolling waves. With each massive storm, I would run to the 'sleeping' Christ with my fear. Each time He would still the winds and waves, I would feel the heat rise into the cheeks remembering the Bible story of this very thing. Over time I began to talk back my fear with God's Word and the seas would dissipate and I would find the Heavenly Father's Arms about me.
Then sometimes the sea lessons where gentle reminders to hold the faith. One of my favorite Bible stories is were God gave Joseph a moment to engage his own brothers without them knowing. To see their heart without revealing his. So last Thursday{{June 16th}} noon when J Vernon McGee was talking about Joseph, my ears perked up. He said Joseph was faithful in ALL his relationships. It stung my sensitive heart. I needed to be faithful in my own relationships even with that great ship that disappeared from my horizon.
Who would thought hours later before crawling into bed, God answered my tattered long-suffering prayer. The very prayer I thought would not get answered until I stepped foot in Heaven. That great ship that sailed out view six years ago came back. It gave eminent shock. I was afraid my heart would never be same.
I prayed about this moment. Would I remain soft and loving and welcome back or would I harden the heart? Could I be like Joseph of old?
God and I had many discussions over my broken heart. I could not bare being abandoned. I wanted the journey and the adventure. I wanted to belong. By belonging I wasn't a misfit anymore. What more could I have done?
So the Master took me out onto the mighty ocean full of froth and rolling waves. With each massive storm, I would run to the 'sleeping' Christ with my fear. Each time He would still the winds and waves, I would feel the heat rise into the cheeks remembering the Bible story of this very thing. Over time I began to talk back my fear with God's Word and the seas would dissipate and I would find the Heavenly Father's Arms about me.
Then sometimes the sea lessons where gentle reminders to hold the faith. One of my favorite Bible stories is were God gave Joseph a moment to engage his own brothers without them knowing. To see their heart without revealing his. So last Thursday{{June 16th}} noon when J Vernon McGee was talking about Joseph, my ears perked up. He said Joseph was faithful in ALL his relationships. It stung my sensitive heart. I needed to be faithful in my own relationships even with that great ship that disappeared from my horizon.
Who would thought hours later before crawling into bed, God answered my tattered long-suffering prayer. The very prayer I thought would not get answered until I stepped foot in Heaven. That great ship that sailed out view six years ago came back. It gave eminent shock. I was afraid my heart would never be same.
I prayed about this moment. Would I remain soft and loving and welcome back or would I harden the heart? Could I be like Joseph of old?
Saturday, October 02, 2010
gift of mercy ...
Yikes, another believer from my childhood is nearing this life's finishing line with the same kind of cancer that Cathy died of ... pancreatic cancer. This cancer is a beast. This believer is a grandma with kids my age. Her husband is a big man but this is too much for him. His lower lip and belly quiver with grief. He does not want to let go. My heart goes out to them.
God is trying to teach something as I am trying to grasp it. I went up to see Cathy in a spur of the moment and wasn't sure what to expect. I felt awkward because Cathy was a very tired and drugged up coming back from surgery but I did come away with a better since of how to pray for the family. Praying is something I can do when all else fails me. Then I heard Chuck Swindoll talk a little about the gift of mercy and then in my Bible reading I went through Job.
What grabbed my ears when Swindoll talked about the gift of mercy was that it is displayed in someone when they are quiet and with out words at a sick bedside or a death bed. Now some people have that gift naturally but I think all believers should practice this gift. What I have going for me is that I am naturally quiet and even if I have words, I don't say them because I am very shy. What I don't have going for me is that I feel awkward and feel like a heal for not being able to put others at ease. It doesn't mean my mind is blank. It is going a mile a minute especially leading up to the moment. So maybe God is teaching me how to use my quiet for mercy...
I remember a conversation with a dear one about Job. We agreed that Job was difficult. I left it that the best part was where God is speaking at the end. That was then and this is now. So what is the purpose of Job? Job is a good read when you are sick or dying because he goes into great detail about how his body looks and how horrible he feels. You are not alone. Someone else knows just how you feel physically and even asks what you want to ask emotionally. Job is a good read if you are a friend because you know what NOT to say! Just keep your mouth shut! Job is a good read if you are a spouse and you are experiencing the second hand stress of how your spouse is hurting and you don't know what to do. Be the support and don't tell them to curse God and die. Job is not a book that stands alone. There are other passages that help us in our pain. We are richer for what Job went through but I still have questions .... which is good because my learning isn't done.
Job's misery was not due to sin. Job didn't cause his loss of family or health. You could say it was satan's doing but the real truth is that God allowed this because He knew Job and knew Job would come through this without cursing Him. So why was Job wrong? Job got a real lecture from God in the end. Yes, some of it went to his friends but God really got in Job's face. Wasn't Job just asking why (I know asking why is a huge no-no) and want to hear God? Job was simply tired of hearing silence from the God he worshipped and loved. Aren't we to make our requests to God? Doesn't David ask God in his psalms? I may still struggle with this I still hold to NOT asking why and to always sing above the storm. Praise is beautiful and God inhabits the Praise of His people. I am must trust and obey for there is no other way ...
So back to mercy... there will always be questions .... but it is a waste of time to keep harping on them. It is much better to be still, talk back God's Word for our hearts, and to sing above the storm. The battle is the Lord's. All we have to do is run our race and at the end God's Loving Arms will greet us and hold us up......
God is trying to teach something as I am trying to grasp it. I went up to see Cathy in a spur of the moment and wasn't sure what to expect. I felt awkward because Cathy was a very tired and drugged up coming back from surgery but I did come away with a better since of how to pray for the family. Praying is something I can do when all else fails me. Then I heard Chuck Swindoll talk a little about the gift of mercy and then in my Bible reading I went through Job.
What grabbed my ears when Swindoll talked about the gift of mercy was that it is displayed in someone when they are quiet and with out words at a sick bedside or a death bed. Now some people have that gift naturally but I think all believers should practice this gift. What I have going for me is that I am naturally quiet and even if I have words, I don't say them because I am very shy. What I don't have going for me is that I feel awkward and feel like a heal for not being able to put others at ease. It doesn't mean my mind is blank. It is going a mile a minute especially leading up to the moment. So maybe God is teaching me how to use my quiet for mercy...
I remember a conversation with a dear one about Job. We agreed that Job was difficult. I left it that the best part was where God is speaking at the end. That was then and this is now. So what is the purpose of Job? Job is a good read when you are sick or dying because he goes into great detail about how his body looks and how horrible he feels. You are not alone. Someone else knows just how you feel physically and even asks what you want to ask emotionally. Job is a good read if you are a friend because you know what NOT to say! Just keep your mouth shut! Job is a good read if you are a spouse and you are experiencing the second hand stress of how your spouse is hurting and you don't know what to do. Be the support and don't tell them to curse God and die. Job is not a book that stands alone. There are other passages that help us in our pain. We are richer for what Job went through but I still have questions .... which is good because my learning isn't done.
Job's misery was not due to sin. Job didn't cause his loss of family or health. You could say it was satan's doing but the real truth is that God allowed this because He knew Job and knew Job would come through this without cursing Him. So why was Job wrong? Job got a real lecture from God in the end. Yes, some of it went to his friends but God really got in Job's face. Wasn't Job just asking why (I know asking why is a huge no-no) and want to hear God? Job was simply tired of hearing silence from the God he worshipped and loved. Aren't we to make our requests to God? Doesn't David ask God in his psalms? I may still struggle with this I still hold to NOT asking why and to always sing above the storm. Praise is beautiful and God inhabits the Praise of His people. I am must trust and obey for there is no other way ...
So back to mercy... there will always be questions .... but it is a waste of time to keep harping on them. It is much better to be still, talk back God's Word for our hearts, and to sing above the storm. The battle is the Lord's. All we have to do is run our race and at the end God's Loving Arms will greet us and hold us up......
Saturday, January 16, 2010
love stinks ... teehee
I have a real hard time with Paul when he admonishes the singles to stay single. I think because he seems quite happy to be single and I am not. I think because I have always felt like a misfit and seem to always go against the peer pressure. It just seems that marriage is a place where you can finally breath without looking over your shoulder. So I rather like what Jesus has to say on 'singlehood' in Matthew. It feels more kind and encompasses more singles than those who have no desire for marriage.
Matthew 19:12
For there are eunuchs
who were born thus,
from their mother's womb,
& there are eunuchs
who were made eunuchs by men,
& there are eunuchs
who have made themselves eunuchs
for the Kingdom of Heaven's sake.
He who is able to accept it,
let him accept it.
Well, 40 has brought on me needing to accept singlehood. It is one of the hardest things to do with so many hazards out there sabotaging my every thought. I was going along with my life and my Amigurumi addiction was keeping me level and functioning then I get asked 'if I was married' and 'if I liked boys or not' at a family Christmas function. Then later I get this call if I would like to go on a blind date. This person was well meaning and it was harmless but man, did it send my thoughts in a wild frenzy and I had some low points last week. BTW I said no to a blind date. Good grief! {take deep breath}
I love BNN {worldwide Christian radio} that has great hymns and pastors. With it comes a lot of marriage tidbits and help that I really dig. But after taking stock of my life, I have spent 20 years studying marriage, what a wife is, and what makes boys tick because I wanted to have the best marriage and be the best wife I could be. Now it gets me because singles need help. If a good marriage is a mission field for all those out there with bad ones then being single should be a mission field for all the singles messing around or are walking wounded. Elizabeth Elliot said "our disappointments are God's appointments." This is a good boost for a thought I have been nursing for the past months. Something along the lines of Singlehood Survival .... of course I am not main stream so maybe my survival kit wouldn't help others. If I create this dream and it only helps me to be full joy and vibrant than it is worth it. I know vague on the dream but people like to rain on my parade and fail to shush and truly listen.
Oh, I have thought of a retort for those pesky questions on my marital status and it is Biblical! It is good for those 'talk backs' I need to pack myself when the heart starts to bleed and the mind goes into downward spiral and the tears heave. I might not quote all the verse as it just might blood to boil but parts of it still packs some heat....
Marriage is honorable ...
be content with such things as you have.
For Jesus Himself has said,
"I will never leave you nor forsake you."
So we may boldly say:
"The Lord is my Helper;
I will not fear.
What can man do to me?"
~ Hebrews 13:4-6
If I really need to shut someone up, I would quote all of it but this saids a lot right here. It certainly shuts me up! I do get a killer wicked grin on my face and I get my mind back and the bleeding stops and the tears recede. I am sure I will have dark episodes and that I would be out the woods on this but I have my footing back and I will keep fortifying myself with His Love Letter.
Matthew 19:12
For there are eunuchs
who were born thus,
from their mother's womb,
& there are eunuchs
who were made eunuchs by men,
& there are eunuchs
who have made themselves eunuchs
for the Kingdom of Heaven's sake.
He who is able to accept it,
let him accept it.
Well, 40 has brought on me needing to accept singlehood. It is one of the hardest things to do with so many hazards out there sabotaging my every thought. I was going along with my life and my Amigurumi addiction was keeping me level and functioning then I get asked 'if I was married' and 'if I liked boys or not' at a family Christmas function. Then later I get this call if I would like to go on a blind date. This person was well meaning and it was harmless but man, did it send my thoughts in a wild frenzy and I had some low points last week. BTW I said no to a blind date. Good grief! {take deep breath}
I love BNN {worldwide Christian radio} that has great hymns and pastors. With it comes a lot of marriage tidbits and help that I really dig. But after taking stock of my life, I have spent 20 years studying marriage, what a wife is, and what makes boys tick because I wanted to have the best marriage and be the best wife I could be. Now it gets me because singles need help. If a good marriage is a mission field for all those out there with bad ones then being single should be a mission field for all the singles messing around or are walking wounded. Elizabeth Elliot said "our disappointments are God's appointments." This is a good boost for a thought I have been nursing for the past months. Something along the lines of Singlehood Survival .... of course I am not main stream so maybe my survival kit wouldn't help others. If I create this dream and it only helps me to be full joy and vibrant than it is worth it. I know vague on the dream but people like to rain on my parade and fail to shush and truly listen.
Oh, I have thought of a retort for those pesky questions on my marital status and it is Biblical! It is good for those 'talk backs' I need to pack myself when the heart starts to bleed and the mind goes into downward spiral and the tears heave. I might not quote all the verse as it just might blood to boil but parts of it still packs some heat....
Marriage is honorable ...
be content with such things as you have.
For Jesus Himself has said,
"I will never leave you nor forsake you."
So we may boldly say:
"The Lord is my Helper;
I will not fear.
What can man do to me?"
~ Hebrews 13:4-6
If I really need to shut someone up, I would quote all of it but this saids a lot right here. It certainly shuts me up! I do get a killer wicked grin on my face and I get my mind back and the bleeding stops and the tears recede. I am sure I will have dark episodes and that I would be out the woods on this but I have my footing back and I will keep fortifying myself with His Love Letter.
Saturday, September 05, 2009
Dad's Heart ...
Message received. A value in Dad's heart isn't pumping like it should. Mom said the name. Will have to write it down so I can do some research but my parents have been online (dial-up & cell off) researching themselves so I can't write down the name until tomorrow. All I know is there is surgery and both are meeting with a specialist on Wednesday.
I am not sure what to think or feel. I had a very interesting discussion last night with God. It was good. It was both ways and not just me.
Psalms 27:14
Wait on the Lord;
be of good courage,
& He shall strengthen your heart;
wait, I say, on the Lord!
Psalms 28:7
The Lord is my Strength & my Shield;
my heart trusted in Him & I am helped;
therefore my heart greatly rejoices,
& with my song I will praise Him.
Psalms 31:15 & 24
My times are in Your Hands ...
Be of good courage,
& He shall strengthen your heart,
all you who hope in the Lord.
Psalms 33:15
He fashions their hearts individually ...
Psalms 57:7 & 8
My heart is steadfast, O God,
my heart is steadfast;
I will sing & give praise.
Awake, my Glory!
Awake, lute & harp!
I will awaken the morning.
Psalms 61: 1&2
Hear my cry, O God;
attend to my prayer.
From the end of the earth I will cry to You
when my heart is overwhelmed;
lead me to the Rock that is higher than I.
Psalms 62:8
Trust in Him at all times, you people;
pour your heart before Him;
God is a refuge for us. Selah.
Psalms 73:26
My flesh & my heart fail;
but God is the strength of my heart & my portion forever.
I love the words of King David. What encouragement! God's Word is MIGHTY!
I am not sure what to think or feel. I had a very interesting discussion last night with God. It was good. It was both ways and not just me.
Psalms 27:14
Wait on the Lord;
be of good courage,
& He shall strengthen your heart;
wait, I say, on the Lord!
Psalms 28:7
The Lord is my Strength & my Shield;
my heart trusted in Him & I am helped;
therefore my heart greatly rejoices,
& with my song I will praise Him.
Psalms 31:15 & 24
My times are in Your Hands ...
Be of good courage,
& He shall strengthen your heart,
all you who hope in the Lord.
Psalms 33:15
He fashions their hearts individually ...
Psalms 57:7 & 8
My heart is steadfast, O God,
my heart is steadfast;
I will sing & give praise.
Awake, my Glory!
Awake, lute & harp!
I will awaken the morning.
Psalms 61: 1&2
Hear my cry, O God;
attend to my prayer.
From the end of the earth I will cry to You
when my heart is overwhelmed;
lead me to the Rock that is higher than I.
Psalms 62:8
Trust in Him at all times, you people;
pour your heart before Him;
God is a refuge for us. Selah.
Psalms 73:26
My flesh & my heart fail;
but God is the strength of my heart & my portion forever.
I love the words of King David. What encouragement! God's Word is MIGHTY!
Saturday, April 04, 2009
fear involves torment...
but Perfect Love casts out fear,
because fear involves torment,
but he who fears has not been made perfect in Love.
~ I John 4:18
Whoa! God keeps reminding me about FEAR NOT and I love it! This verse is quite intriguing too. I have been dragging out my little box and climbing on top and shouting on the top of my lungs 'FEAR NOT'. I have been putting the FEAR NOT in my circumstances but had not thought about the FEAR NOT in human relationships.
This is a great verse for mommies and daddies to share with their precious little ones in this big bad world. It answers great questions.... What is fear? torment of the body, mind, heart, & soul. When Love is there fear? NO WAY! So he/she doesn't love me if he/she hits me? NOOOOOO. What is perfect love? Child, the question is WHO is Perfect Love? That would be God your Heavenly Father. So if I fear than I am not made perfect in Love? That is right, Child But I fear sometimes... Yes, I fear sometimes too but it is a feeling that I put away by reading God's Word. The torment flees and I FEAR NOT.
I have been putting FEAR NOT in my relationship with God. It is the only way I can turn from fear. ~It is about either believing the Word of God or the lies of the evil one.~ I test my thoughts against this new and power life phrase I keep front and center. Who else loves to torment besides the evil one? If I FEAR NOT, than the tormentor cannot have his way with me!
Why be tormented?
Saturday, February 28, 2009
rumor ....
I took Friday off and when Mom said that Dad had heard that my work had shut the doors, I couldn't help but feel a bit of a pang. Then I started talking back the Word and the blessings of God took me through it before and He will take me through it again.
I did go the Word for reaffirming of my faith. God is so good because He gives comfort and all I have to do is receive it.
Psalms 61:8
So I will sing praise to Your Name forever, that I may daily perform my vows.
I have told God that when I went through the job loss before I was a child just learning how to possesses JOY. I acted like a child and felt like a child shaking in fear and yet reaching out to God. I want to go through this job loss as a learned adult. I admit I probably will be shaking in my boots but all the while knowing I am in God's Almighty Hand. I will be shouting out God's Word and firmly holding onto His Promises and Blessings. I will not fear. In order to do this? I must praise Him.
Hebrews 10:35
Therefore do NOT cast away your confidence, which has great reward.
Hebrews 11:13-16
'... they were strangers & pilgrims on the earth ... declaring plainly that they seek a homeland ... they desire a better, that is a heavenly country.'
I just couldn't help but my heart did a jump for joy. I am just a passing through! This is not my home. I will not waste my time in fear nor stress. I want that crown of Joy!!! I will not wallow!!!
I did quickly get online to access my work email. Everything looked normal. No big announcement. It is the usual off a week - work a week - wondering when ....
I did go the Word for reaffirming of my faith. God is so good because He gives comfort and all I have to do is receive it.
Psalms 61:8
So I will sing praise to Your Name forever, that I may daily perform my vows.
I have told God that when I went through the job loss before I was a child just learning how to possesses JOY. I acted like a child and felt like a child shaking in fear and yet reaching out to God. I want to go through this job loss as a learned adult. I admit I probably will be shaking in my boots but all the while knowing I am in God's Almighty Hand. I will be shouting out God's Word and firmly holding onto His Promises and Blessings. I will not fear. In order to do this? I must praise Him.
Hebrews 10:35
Therefore do NOT cast away your confidence, which has great reward.
Hebrews 11:13-16
'... they were strangers & pilgrims on the earth ... declaring plainly that they seek a homeland ... they desire a better, that is a heavenly country.'
I just couldn't help but my heart did a jump for joy. I am just a passing through! This is not my home. I will not waste my time in fear nor stress. I want that crown of Joy!!! I will not wallow!!!
I did quickly get online to access my work email. Everything looked normal. No big announcement. It is the usual off a week - work a week - wondering when ....
Thursday, February 26, 2009
one marble ...
You know how a parent or teacher takes a jar full of marbles to help a small child understand the concept of time by having the child take out a marble for each day - maybe there is a big celebration when all the marbles are taken from the jar or someone is coming home after a long absence. Now that child has something visual to understand how much time he has.
This week a radio pastor was talking about how much time an average person has here on earth. He has a jar of marbles and with how much time he has in months sitting on his desk. Every month he takes out a marble. This helps him taking an accounting of his days. Another man has just one marble in the jar.
I have decided to have the one marble in the jar to sit on my desk at work and also have the same reminder at home. But I am adding the verse found in ....
(bummer ... can't find it by googling it ... going through my marked up new testament....)
It is amazing how it changes your decision making and fearing not takes hold. It just might help me be less tentative and more bold. No, I will continue to think because I am a thinker but once I have had a good think it is time to grab that jar with the one marble and talk back the verse in my very intense voice like I mean it. {smiles}
(off to find the verse - brb)
Proverbs 27:1 seems to be the one that I had found a comfort in but I don't remember it the way it is written... but I tend to pray verses out using what I glean ... so maybe I saw it as I just have today - one marble....
''Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.''
This week a radio pastor was talking about how much time an average person has here on earth. He has a jar of marbles and with how much time he has in months sitting on his desk. Every month he takes out a marble. This helps him taking an accounting of his days. Another man has just one marble in the jar.
I have decided to have the one marble in the jar to sit on my desk at work and also have the same reminder at home. But I am adding the verse found in ....
(bummer ... can't find it by googling it ... going through my marked up new testament....)
It is amazing how it changes your decision making and fearing not takes hold. It just might help me be less tentative and more bold. No, I will continue to think because I am a thinker but once I have had a good think it is time to grab that jar with the one marble and talk back the verse in my very intense voice like I mean it. {smiles}
(off to find the verse - brb)
Proverbs 27:1 seems to be the one that I had found a comfort in but I don't remember it the way it is written... but I tend to pray verses out using what I glean ... so maybe I saw it as I just have today - one marble....
''Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.''
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