"Sweet Spot" or "Dry Spot", Part 2

Perseverance.  What did you learn about it last week?  Do you know what it is yet?

Studylight.org gives the definition of perseverance as “steadfastness, constancy, endurance.”  They go on to explain that “in the NT [this is] the characteristic of a man [or woman in our cases] who is not swerved from his deliberate purpose and his loyalty to faith… by even the greatest trials and sufferings.”

Which of those words is meaningful to you?  Steadfastness?  Constancy?  Endurance?  Does someone pop into your mind as you read those words?   Who do you know who has not swerved from his or her purpose and loyalty to his or her faith over the course of life?

How did they get there?  How do we get there? 

I certainly do not have all the answers, but I can share what God placed upon my heart during this season.  Matthew 6:33 says, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

For me, this is how perseverance is developed.  I must first seek God’s kingdom and His righteousness first each and every moment of every day.  It is tough.  I know.  I don’t succeed each day.  I don’t succeed most moments, but the important part is that I stay constant and steady with my attempt.  I don’t give up.  I don’t walk away.  When I fail, I try again.  You’ve heard the saying, “It’s like riding a bike!”  I believe this to be true.

How many times did you fall when you were learning to ride your bike?  How many times did you get back up?  Some of you got back up every time.  Some of you, like me, threw a fit with full drama and said, “I’m never going to learn how to ride this stupid thing!” and gave up.  Some gave up for good, but most of us settled down and tried again.  And with each attempt, we got better.  We persevered through it.  And before we knew it, we were riding a bike!  And if we quit riding our bike for a long time, we found that we could still get back on and ride (albeit a little wobbly at first).

None of us is perfect.  None of us ever will be this side of heaven.  But knowing we have messy lives, doesn’t mean we give up.  We can persevere and keep putting one foot in front of the other because of the hope Jesus gives us.  The hope and promise of freedom.  The hope and promise of a perfect heaven.  The hope and promise of perfect love, joy and peace.  The hope and promise of seeing Him face to face.

Where are you now?  Where do you want to be?

Let me encourage you to move forward today.  Are you in a “sweet spot” with Jesus right now?  Press on.  Are you in a “dry spot” with Jesus right now?  Press on.  Keep talking to God.  Keep reading His Word.  Keep seeking Him.  He promises if we seek Him with all our hearts that we will find Him (Deuteronomy 4:29).

2 Peter 1:5-7 says, “For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith, goodness; and to goodness, knowledge;  and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness;  and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.”

What do we receive if we persevere?  Godliness and in the end love.  Beautiful isn’t it?

Have a very, merry Christmas!

Holly

Are You in a "Sweet Spot" or a "Dry Spot?"

Lately, Chris’ work schedule has been wonderful and he has been home more.  And, the kids are starting to get up earlier in the morning.  So, trying to find time alone with God  – even for a few minutes – is difficult.  But the past few months of writing with Him has been amazing.  I don’t want it to end.  I want to do this each day.  I crave the time to sit in the quiet to think, pray and listen to God.  Everything within me longs for this time…  thinks about it…  strives for it.  And I do not want it to ever go away.

***

Thank you, Father, for the deep desire within to have this time each day.  Thank you for the gentle reminder You daily give me across my heart.  I love longing for You and feeling incomplete until we spend time together. 

I long for you today.  I long for your peace.  I long to see Your hand.  I long for Your presence…  Your strength…  Guide me in the plans You have for me today.

***

My Child,

Perseverance is the Word I want to encourage you with today.  Persevere through your challenges in order to accomplish what I have set before you.  I see your busy schedule and responsibilities.  I have given You many of them.  But do not let them be a distraction from Me. For if you will seek Me first, then everything will fall into place. 

Hide this truth in your heart and live it out each day.  Know I patiently wait for you every day.  And I am thrilled when we have our moments together.  You bring a smile to my face, sweet Daughter.  I have much to tell you, so keep listening.  For I know the plans I have for you.  Persevere, look to Me first in all things, listen.  And  then you will fulfill your calling…  and it is just for you J.

Your Coach in this race

***

I have loved God since I was a little girl.  Life and faith were so simple then.  Some small children talk to imaginary friends, but I always talked to God.  I can remember lining up my stuffed animals and teaching them my Sunday School lesson.  I would talk to God about everything from my parents being “meanies” to Ken and Barbie’s latest troubles. 

As I got older, homework, friends, chores, volunteering, and after school jobs began to invade my time.  The simple life was getting more complicated. 

In Bible college, I had Bible classes and chapels to attend.  They were required.  And although I did have a season of rebellion, I actually enjoyed them for the most part. 

After Bible college, I entered “the real world.”  All the grown up responsibilities began to crowd in around me.  And 8 years later when my first son was born, “my time” became non-existent. 

Time with God had once been so easy.  And now it consisted of “please help my children sleep through the night so I can get some rest.”  I felt lost and disconnected.  I was still in full-time ministry, but I could not figure out how to have the quiet moments with God that I craved.

Have you been there?  Are you there now? 

Over the past few months, you have graciously allowed me to share pieces of my messy life with you.  Here is some more truth from my life. 

Even though I am in full-time ministry, I still have seasons of struggle with spending good, regular, intimate time with God.   The above entry was written on a day when I was in the “sweet spot” with Him.  But shortly thereafter, I hit a “dry spot” where I would open my Bible and not comprehend a word I was reading.  My mind would wander.  I wasn’t connecting.  And I knew it.  I could feel it.  And I didn’t like it. 

At that moment, I knew I had choices to make.  I could persevere through and be even more intentional with making time to pray and read something from His Word, or I could let my busy schedule and huge list of responsibilities take priority and say, “I’ll spend time with God tomorrow.” 

And, to be very transparent, there were days I would persevere and other days I would say, “Tomorrow.” 

Have you been there?  Are you there now?

So how do we stay in the “sweet spot” with Jesus? 

Let me leave you with these passages of scripture for now.  Read them and see what you learn from them.  Next week, we’ll dig in a little deeper and discover it together.

Hebrews 11:27, “It was by faith that Moses left the land of Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger. He kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who is invisible.” (NLT)

Hebrews 12:1-2, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

2 Peter 1:5-7, “For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge;  and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness;  and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.”

Can I Please Have a "Do Over?"

I blew it this weekend.  I really blew it.  What else is there to say?  I was selfish, bitter, and angry.  I had choices to make and many of those did not bring love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.  In fact, I could see the stink in our home rising and the peace fleeing. 

There really wasn’t a remarkable “event.”  There wasn’t any “defining moment.”  The kids and I just all seemed to be grouchy, irritable and argumentative.  And I didn’t find a consistent way to stop the cycle. 

So, now I sit here and wonder what I would do differently if I could go back and get a “do over?”  (Have you ever been there?  Wishing for a “do over”?)

I think I would pull out our Bible and talk to the boys about their behavior.  I would have us work on a verse together.  I would pull out all the stuff in the closet so I could get to the Play-Dough.  I would build a tent for them.  I’m still not sure what I would do differently with Zoe - she is definitely terrible two’s!  But, maybe I would sit with her in her room and read more books.  I would turn the music up and dance with her more.  And with all three I would still keep my voice low. 

I don’t want to live in regrets, but I do want to be prepared for the next time I face a similar weekend.  Thinking through what I did, and what I will do next time, helps me be prepared.  Next time (and I’m pretty sure there will be a next time), I’ll stop with the kids and pray - maybe that is the first step in how to “live by the Spirit” – to putting Galatians 5 in action.

***

Lord, I have been discouraged about the weekend.  The peace fled from our home.  And I did nothing to bring it back.  I let frustration set in.  I did hear You…  I did keep my voice low…  I did have many peaceful responses, but what I lacked was perseverance when the battles kept raging.  I see it so clearly now, Lord!  You prepared me for this – for the time when the storms would get greater.  I just didn’t see it until now.  I did do well, but now I must persevere.  Thank you for opening my eyes and giving me hope! 

***

My Child, I love your excitement when you see and hear Me.  I love how you are truly seeking Me.  Do you realize you avoided Me yesterday?  I want you to see you never need to avoid Me.  I will never condemn you.  I will never harm you.  If you will turn to Me, I will always redeem and restore.  Remember this, for the enemy will try to convince you otherwise.

Dig into scripture with Me, and I will reveal even more mysteries.  Apply what I reveal to you.  Today think about living in the Spirit rather than in the flesh.  For if you live in the Spirit, you will be ruled by the Spirit.  You will not set fleshly expectations.  Instead, you will set heavenly ones.  Remember, I am with you today.  And, My will shall be done. 

Your Author

***

I want to thank you for walking through life with me.  There are about sixty of you who extend grace and encouragement to me weekly.  I don’t know what the future holds for any of us, but I thank God every time I think of you, for joining us together for such a time as this.

I pray you were able to look more closely at the fruits of the Spirit.  We will actually be offering an in-depth Bible study on Thursday mornings from 9-11 a.m. starting January 10 if you want to really dig in.

As you can see from my life story, I’m still working on living in freedom in Christ.  I will until the day Jesus takes me home to heaven with Him.  But until then, I’ll work it out.  I’ll seek and look.  And, I pray you will too.  Let’s break down the next passage God put on my heart from 1 Peter 3:6-11.

“ His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.”

What has God given us by His own divine power?

And through these (everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of Him) what has He given us?

And why has He given us these promises?

What do you think it means to participate in the divine nature?

What corruption in this world do you want to escape?

^“For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.  But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins.”

Because God has given us the opportunity to participate in His divine nature, we should be moved to make every effort to grow.  Read the list again.  Why do you think they are in the order given?

What do you receive if you possess them increasingly throughout your life?

What happens if you do not?

^“ Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”

With God’s gift of walking in His divine nature, and our effort to continually grow in increasing measure, what can happen? 

Can you look back at your life and see times of living in freedom and victory and times of stumbling over sin?  How was your walk with Jesus during these times?  What is the difference?

It is hard for my brain to comprehend, but God tells us we can live in victory and freedom every day.  He has given us everything we need.  We just have to embrace it.  We have to choose it.  We have to walk it. 

It sounds so simple, but it is hard.  I know.  In fact, I’ll share some of my personal hardships as we move into 2013.  But, for now, read through the Galatians 5 passage and the 1 Peter 3 passage again and gage where you are in your walk with Jesus.  Where are you?  Where do you want to be?  Now write out 1 to 3 steps you are going to take this week.  Put them somewhere you can see them.  And, commit them to God.

Where are You Self-Control?

The other night my five and six year-old boys were struggling with poor choices and disobedience which all stemmed from a lack of self control.  I was tired, frustrated and “done.”  But, I kept calm and told them I was tired of correcting them.  I sent them to bed early telling them we would look up scripture on self-control the next morning (yep, I totally skipped the evening bible study – wasn’t that just brilliant?). 

I collapsed into bed yet again knowing things would be better in the morning.  And, guess what?  They were.  Except for the fact that I totally forgot about the scripture I had said we were going to look up.  In fact, I didn’t realize I had forgotten until our Bible study time the next evening.  At that point, I decided the best course of action was to take a shower and let Chris handle the kids (yep, another brilliant move!). 

As I “hid” from my family, my mind drifted toward God, “How can I help them with self-control?”  And, then I realized that I needed help with self-control.  One child may struggle with keeping his hands to himself, but I struggle with keeping my hands away from food and overeating.  Another child may struggle with controlling emotions when tired, but don’t I as well?  Self-control.  I need it too.

***

Lord, I want to be a woman of self-control.  I want my children to be self controlled.  I don’t know how to teach us how to do it, so I look to You.  Teach me how to teach us all Father.

***

Daughter,

You are doing well with bringing all things to Me rather than handling them yourself.  Do you feel the weight being released from you?  Stop and breathe for a moment.  Do you feel lighter?  And do you see that when you give your life to Me and seek Me, that I answer?  I may not give the final answer immediately, but I am working and moving toward the answer.  Trust Me to work in their lives just like I have faithfully worked in yours. 

Focus on the Fruit of the Spirit to learn self-control.  Start with the first and you’ll soon have even the last.

You Answerer 

***

Lately I have struggled with sitting down and reading Scripture.  I’m not focused.  I’m distracted.  I’m reading and I’m not getting it.  I’ll share more of what God is doing through this time as we enter 2013, but because of my own personal struggle, I want to break down the Scripture on the fruit of the spirit with you.  It will help me, and hopefully you as well.  If you find it confusing, though, please feel free to read Galatians 5:16-25 as a whole and ignore my questions and commentary through the breaks below.

 “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.  For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.”

What two parts of us are fighting each other? 

Which one are we to walk or live by?

What happens if we do this?

Think about a rating scale.  If living according to your fleshly desires is a “1” and living according to the  Spirit a “10,” where do you fall?

^“ The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.”

This list can be so appalling that we can rush through it and say, “NOT ME!”  But the truth is that when we live according to the flesh, we can honestly say, “IT IS ME!” 

Have you ever had an outburst of anger?  Flesh

Have you ever put someone, like a relationship, or something else, like money, career, TV show, etc. ahead of God? Fleshly idolatry

Have you ever hated someone?  Flesh

Have you ever wished with all your heart you had what someone else had, whether it be something material or a gift or talent?  Fleshly envy

Have you ever wondered why someone else got someone or something rather than you?  Fleshly jealousy

Have you ever tried to talk someone into defending your side of a conflict? Fleshly dissensions and factions

The list could go on and on, but I’m thinking we can each identify with more than one of these, so I’ll stop.

 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.

This is who I wish I was all the time.  How about you?  

Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.  Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

Those who believe in and call on Jesus as Lord and Savior and surrender their lives belong to Him.  And what do we find about the flesh in those who belong to Him?

Do you see the hope?  Do you see that the flesh has been crucified?  Do you see we do not have to live by the flesh anymore?  Do you see it is possible to live by the Spirit?  This is the hope of Jesus! 

Cling to that hope this week.  Ask God to show you any “fleshly” stuff you are choosing in your life.  Confess them to Him and seek the fruit of the Spirit.  Next week we’ll study more on how we can live in freedom.

What's in Your Purse? 

I’m so amazed at how God works.  How when we seek Him, we do find Him.  And while I am awaiting answers on several things in my life, God gave me one answer today that makes me smile.

I’ve been praying about the posting for the blog this week.  I have something “somewhat” together, but it just didn’t “feel” right to me.  I wasn’t confident it was the right post for this week.  So, I simply prayed.  I prayed throughout the day and throughout the night (I had a sleepless night, so I was praying over everyone and everything!).  This morning, I checked my box in the church office and I found a beautifully written thought from one of our women at First Christian.  With her permission, I share it with you.

***

“Dear Lord, if it weren’t for cleaning out purses!  Ha!  I had a wonderful birthday surprise and laugh this morning.  I had extra time to piddle before work and I thought, ‘I’ll trade out purses to match my outfit!’ since I never have time for that sort of thing. 

While unloading my purse, I found four rocks.  The kids love to collect things and are always picking up rocks from different places.  Oh how I laughed when I realized I had no idea how long I had been carrying around a stuffed purse with extra weight!

I was just about to throw the rocks out when I thought, ‘Oh, I know I am carrying around a lot that doesn’t belong in my life – things that I didn’t even know were there until recently.  I carry them and keep them close.’

So, Lord, please take these ‘rocks’ of mine.  I commit them to you.  You are Lord over them and me.  Help me to trust You with my hurts and fears.  Dear Lord, help me to put you first in all things with open hands.  Take the things that do not belong to me.  Thank you Lord!  Thank you!

I’m using a marker to label these rocks so I can carry them as a reminder for a while.  I want to remember to give my ‘rocks’ to You.  Thank you for showing me they are there.  I look forward to the day my purse is lighter!  Amen!”

***

As I read my friend Lisa’s words and saw her heart, I stopped and thought about my own ‘rocks.’  Some I know I’m carrying…  I’m trying to set them down and leave them.  But I know there are other rocks I am unaware of.  Worries, concerns, fears, stresses that I do not even know are at war in my heart and mind.

So, as I enter the season of Thanksgiving, I’m going to focus on all the many blessings I am surrounded with.  And I’m going to ask God to reveal any ‘rocks’ I’m carrying around with me.  Would you join me?  If so, let me know so we can pray for each other! 

Have an amazing Thanksgiving!  And remember to focus on dwell on all God has blessed you with.

Failed Expectations

 So much for releasing the expectations!  I’m faced once again with the dilemma of knowing what I need to do in my head, but failing miserably with actually doing it.

After a few good days of releasing expectations, I’m sitting here wanting to blow.  I walked into a messy house with three children who didn’t seem to remember how they were supposed to act.  Chris didn’t do the one thing I begged him to remember to do – carry the laundry basket from one room to the other.  Thomas couldn’t sit properly at dinner and was sent to his room after I was tired of correcting him.  Zoe wouldn’t play with anything, but was trying to get into all kinds of other things.  She too went to her room.  And after a Joe and Thomas fight, they found themselves in their room again.  I seriously wish I could have put myself in my room for some “thinking time” for the night! 

It seemed like I was getting attacked from all sides. To top it all off, my back hurts. My legs ache.  I’m tired.  And now I sit here frustrated.  Because even after a few good days of thinking I was releasing expectations, today I didn’t.  Today I’m mad because not a single person in our home met a single expectation I set -  not even me. 

***

Lord, how can the day go from good to so bad?  Oh my!  I’m so grateful for my family, but raising children is so hard.  Zoe won’t sleep through the night.  In fact, we found her sleeping on the floor by the gate across her doorway this morning.  I was so tired I didn’t even have the energy to tell her to get back in her bed last night.  Thomas seems to have lost all sense of self control.  Joe seems tired and emotional and so do I.  Chris is stressed and exhausted from working so many hours.  We are a mess!  A big family mess!

 So I pause, take a deep breath, and I thank you for Jesus.  He cleans up us messy people and makes us white as snow.  He renews our strength each day.  He blesses us beyond measure.  He teaches us how to forgive…  how to love…  how to encourage.  Thank you that our family gets so much practice!  Thank you that sleep is just a few minutes away.

Forgive me for my selfish outbursts today - for those moments when I wanted to throw the temper tantrum.  Forgive me for all the times I made life all about me rather than You.  Teach me how to work through the expectations I’m setting for myself and others.  I know some are okay, but most of them are not.  Please teach me the difference.  I’m ready and listening.

***

You faced a few hours of chaotic battle tonight.  You are in physical pain.  You are tired.  And,  you felt like no one was listening to you.  Yet you are here with Me.  And I am listening.  I always listen.  I see your frustrations and hear your cries.  Tonight you did not look to me when you were unsure of how to discipline the children.  You did not ask Me for help with your pain.  Your goal was to make it to bedtime.  You even glanced over the Bible study time when you could not immediately find the scripture you were seeking.

Do you remember how I reminded you the other night how you need to look to Me in the storms?  Tonight was a testing.  You are listening now, so I know you will be prepared for the next one.  Always remember, I calm the storms.  I calm you.  Look to Me.  Know Me.  Let Me be the one you go to for every single thing every single day.  Sleep well tonight for tomorrow will be here soon enough.  I love you.  Look in my eyes, Daughter, and know I love you.

Your Guide through the Storms

***

How was your week with releasing expectations?  I was doing so well and then BOOM!  It all seemed to explode.  As I think about it now, I’m not sure that I had truly released expectations or if I was simply managing them.  Think about that for just a minute.  What is the difference between releasing expectations and managing them?

To release means, “to set free from restraint, confinement, or servitude; to relieve from something that confines, burdens, or oppresses” (according to Webster’s Dictionary).

To manage means, “to handle or direct with a degree of skill as to make compliant; to work upon or try to alter for a purpose” (according to Webster’s Dictionary).

Read those definitions again with me.  Now think about your week.  Were you totally set free from expectations?  Was the burden gone?  Did the confinement the expectations bring disappear?  OR did you just try to handle the expectations differently?  Did you set them and then try to direct them a different way or alter them for a purpose?

Friends, this is hard stuff.  I admit it!  I’ve been trying to manage expectations rather than release them!  How about you?  How are you doing now? 

What can we do differently this week to release rather than manage? 

1. Pray at the start of each day and ask God to make me aware of expectations I am setting.
2. Rather than “stuff” or “deny” the expectations I battle, I will acknowledge each one and give it to God.
3. I will confess any sin because of uncontrolled and unfair expectations.  I’ll confess to Jesus and to the one I sinned against.

Here is to a new day AND another step toward sweet release!

***

For further study:

Isaiah 43:18-19, “Forget the former things;
                                  do not dwell on the past.
                              See, I am doing a new thing!
                                   Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
                              I am making a way in the wilderness
                                   and streams in the wasteland.”

2 Corinthians 3:16-18, “But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away.  Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.  And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”

Messy Expectations

 Expectations.  I set them for myself.  I set them for others.  I live by them.  Without even realizing it, I have based my life around my expectations.  And I’m imprisoned by them. 

I sin because of expectations.  If I’m tired and want to relax, then I expect my three young children to behave so I can.  If I scrub my floors and wash my windows, I expect my husband to notice and sing my praises.  I expect myself to work hard and do my best and if I fail, then I assume I’m just not good enough.  I expect my hair to lye right, and if it doesn’t I get sooooo frustrated!  I expect my chiropractor to fix my aching back.  I expect my doctor to figure out what is wrong with me.   And I expect Zoe to sit still with me right now as I type even though she is only two.

Setting these expectations leads to my frustration, irritation and sin.  If things don’t go the way I want them to,  if people don’t behave the way I have envisioned, if circumstances don’t play out like I think they should, then I get angry, frustrated, and bitter.  I throw little, or sometimes big, temper tantrums in my head or in front of my family. 

And what does it profit me?  Absolutely nothing.  It robs me of peace.  It steals my joy.  It harms those I love. 

And so I today I thank God for moving me to the next phase of this journey.  I’m releasing the expectations.  I’m being freed from them by my Father.

***

Oh God thank you!  Thank you for revealing a root of my sin this early morning.  Thank you for showing me how the expectations I set knowingly and unknowingly imprison me.  How they are such a huge part of my cycle of sin.  My  brokenness.  Teach me.  Show me. I don’t know how to fix me.  I confess that I can’t fix me.  So open my eyes to what they need to see.  Thank you for the hope I feel within.  You are good, Lord!  You are so good!

***

Good morning Child.  I can’t help but smile today at your excitement at the revelation revealed to you.  Today will be a day of awareness.  I want you to be aware of every expectation you are setting for yourself and for others.  Capture each one and give it to Me.  This is the first step in making them obedient to Christ.  Listen, watch, and look and you will see all I am going to give to you today.

The Revealer of Mysteries

***

Expectations.  We all have them.  What are some of the expectations you set in your life?  Really stop and think about each expectation you set for each of these areas:

Your child(ren)

Your spouse/boyfriend (or ex-spouse)

Your parent(s)

Your boss

Your co-worker(s)

Your friend

Your child(ren)’s teacher(s) and school

Your church

Your pet

Yourself

Now really stop and think about whether or not the expectations can even be met by imperfect people living messy lives. 

Don’t get me wrong, there should be standards and responsibilities we should all meet.  But too often we also set false and unfair expectations.  And, for me, it is because I’m trying to change or manipulate a person to be who I think they should be.  And it is selfish. 

Here are just of the few “cannots” I am proclaiming today:

1.  I cannot expect my husband and kids to fill the empty place inside that only God can fill.

2.  I cannot expect my husband to read my mind and do the things I have never asked him to do.

3.  I cannot expect everyone to think like me, act like me, and be like me (and what a boring world it would be if everyone was just like me!). 

Write out some of your “cannots” and share them with God.  The rest of this week be aware of the expectations you are setting and chat with God about them.  Let Him show you what is realistic and fruitful and what is harmful and meaningless.

For further study:

How can these verses help you stop harmful expectations from consuming your mind?

2 Corinthians 10:5b, “…we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”

Colossians 3:1b-2, “…set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”

Philippians 4:8, “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

Hurting

Monday is here and I’m taking a detour this week from sharing my personal journey.  I thought it was odd that my time to write was continually delayed last week.  Today, I understand.  I believe there is a different message for each of us. 

Usually my typical Monday is much like yours.  It is the start to a new work week and school week.  It is usually busy with meetings, catching up on things and starting new things.  Only today, my Monday looks different.  Although it started out with my usual Monday routine, it took a turn in many of the lives of people I care about.   

-A military wife and mom is anxiously awaiting her husband’s return home while she nurses her sick children back to health.

-A woman dealing with her husband’s addictions and raising three children finds out she has two aneurysms.

-A woman driving all night to reach the bedside of her dying father is awaiting news on his condition.

-A mom is trying to comfort her young children as they awaken in the night from nightmares no child should have.

-A single mom still healing from her husband walking out the door on their family, learns she has breast cancer.

-A woman’s divorce after 20+ years of marriage is finalized on her birthday.

-A beloved wife, mother, and grandmother passes away.

-A family sits in the Emergency Room with no answers for their loved one’s condition.

-A mom has watched another door close as she tries to get the services her special needs child needs.

It is heartbreaking isn’t it?  My heart hurts so badly for each of these people that no words suffice.  I have had to stop, pause, and remember.  I’m pausing to remember who God is in the midst of each of these trials, struggles and challenges.  You see while each of these people have hurts in common, they also have hope. 

Often the word “hope” is used in the same context as “wish.”  I hope it rains today.  I hope dinner turns out well.  But the hope each of these friends of mine hold is not a wish.  It is the true definition of hope from Webster’s Dictionary which means, “to expect with confidence.”  Their hope is in Jesus Christ.  And while the pain, confusion, and hurt is real, they each look to Jesus. 

I realize even in the light of Jesus the hurt is real.  I felt pain and hurt so deeply in 2009 from a devastating loss that I wondered if I could stay in ministry.  But that is where Jesus steps in.  We give Him our hurt and He becomes our comforter if we are willing to receive. 

So, today I stop, pause, and remember in honor of each of my friends’ hurts.  I pause and remember who our Jesus is.  And I pray for Him to meet all of their needs according to His glorious riches (which, by the way, are perfect).

Here are a few Scriptures me and ladies from my Women’s Leadership Team remember as we pause and remember who my God is.  I pray they encourage you today as well.

Psalm 46:10, "Be still, and know that I am God."

Hebrews 13:5, …God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.”

Philippians 4:13, “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Revelation 4:1-11, “After this I [John] looked, and there before me was a door standing open in heaven. And the voice I had first heard speaking to me like a trumpet said, "Come up here, and I will show you what must take place after this."

At once I was in the Spirit, and there before me was a throne in heaven with someone sitting on it. And the one who sat there had the appearance of jasper and carnelian. A rainbow, resembling an emerald, encircled the throne.

Surrounding the throne were twenty-four other thrones, and seated on them were twenty-four elders. They were dressed in white and had crowns of gold on their heads. From the throne came flashes of lightning, rumblings and peals of thunder. Before the throne, seven lamps were blazing. These are the seven spirits of God. Also before the throne there was what looked like a sea of glass, clear as crystal.

   In the center, around the throne, were four living creatures, and they were covered with eyes, in front and in back. The first living creature was like a lion, the second was like an ox, the third had a face like a man, the fourth was like a flying eagle. Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under his wings. Day and night they never stop saying: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come." Whenever the living creatures give glory, honor and thanks to him who sits on the throne and who lives for ever and ever, 10the twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne, and worship him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne and say:
 "You are worthy, our Lord and God,
   to receive glory and honor and power,
   for you created all things,
      and by your will they were created
      and have their being."

My Mess and God's Grace

Today I’m reminded of how it takes time for real change to take root.  I must recognize that I’m on a journey of change. 

When I have time to think about my actions and reactions, I am choosing well.  God’s Word is piercing my mind and heart.  But when in a “gut reaction” situation, I default to my sinful self. 

Tonight a sudden storm developed and quickly raged against our home.  I stopped the show the kids were watching to check the news to see if we were in danger.  I told the boys to be quiet so I could hear the meteorologist.  I heard Joe talking and assumed he didn’t want to be quiet.  He kept talking, so I told him to stop so I could hear the TV.  He talked again.  I raised my voice and snapped at him.  I heard his voice again.  I raised my voice louder and snapped fiercer.  I could hear, “listen to him” in my mind, but I didn’t obey.  I pressed forward straining to hear over the large hail pounding on our home.  He then whispered and I snapped with even greater ferociousness at his lack of obedience. 

I finally heard the weather.  I moved the kids to the bathroom, and I finally listened to my precious five year old son.  With a very timid voice he barely spoke, “Mommy, what time will the storm be over?”  This was what he had been asking all along; a simple question that could have received a simple answer.  But instead of pausing and listening to him for a moment in the midst of the storm, I broke his spirit with harsh words and tone.  I failed.  In those few seconds, I failed.

So now I sit here with tears in my eyes.  I apologized to my five year old boy without any excuses.  I sought his forgiveness.  And, his sweet, growly voice said, “I forgive you, Mommy.”  But all I want to do is sit here in my sorrow.  To wallow in how broken my heart is that I hurt my child with my tone and words.  To speak over and over again, “I don’t want to fail anymore.”

Yet in my despair, I can hear God’s Word offering me hope.  And I praise Him for reminding me of His grace.  His sweet, sweet grace given to me and to every person who invites Jesus to save her.  And I feel hope rising within.  And with a deep breath I remember, that is amazing grace.

***

I failed tonight Lord.  And the worst part is that I failed my children.  The precious, beautiful ones You have given me.  I guess I’m disappointed because I didn’t think I would react that way.  I expected more of myself.   I thought changes had been rooted deeper in me.  Please forgive me.  Please Father, turn me around. 

Plant Your Word deeper within me.  I see so much sin in my life.  I see so many areas that need to be pruned.  And, it is easy to get discouraged.  It is easy to believe the lies that freedom isn’t possible for me.  To believe there will always be a stronghold in my life.

 But Your Word says there is freedom.  So I will continue to seek it with all my heart and let You do the work in me.  Forgive me when I try to fix myself -  when I slip into the mentality that if I just try hard enough then You will love me more…  that if I do more good things then bad that You will bless me more…  that if I am good, then You will have plans for me.  Teach me to live under Your grace.  Your grace that means You give unmerited kindness.  Your grace that is free - there is nothing I can do to earn it.  Your grace that is a gift.  Teach me to relish in the gift from You.  To see You more clearly.  To surrender my whole heart to You 24/7.

***

You struggle with hearing Me tonight, Child.  Your mind is reeling in chaos and confusion.  You are distracted by the storm outside as well as the storm within your heart.  For it is the storms in your heart which bring the distractions you face. 

Remember the lyrics in a song from your childhood, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus.  Look full in His wonderful face.  And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.”  Do you remember?  Do you remember how Jesus calmed the storm with one command?  Look in my eyes, Child.  Look to me.  I see the storm raging around you and My hand is there.  My hand of protection will not let you be swept away.  Look to me and I will sustain you.  I will guide you through it.  I will bring you to victory and freedom.

Do not give up.  Persevere.  Run the race I have marked out for you.  Training your children in the way they should go does not mean you must be a perfect parent.  For if you were perfect, how could they learn about forgiveness and grace?  Who would teach them how to live in this imperfect world?  Use your moments of sin to teach them about repentance, forgiveness, grace and mercy.  This teaches them  who I am.  And trust Me with the plans I have for them and their future.

The One Who Holds You

***

I don’t like to relive this day.  In fact, sharing it with you is even more difficult.  Why?  It isn’t fun to expose sinful messes.  And I have lots of messes. 

What I do love to share is how God loves me (and you) through the messes and redeems every one of them.  That is who He is  - Love and Redeemer.  Will you pause for a moment with me and let that wash over you?  God is Love.  God is Redeemer.  He loves us in our messes.  He’ll redeem every one of them.

Is there something in your life you don’t want to relive?  Is there some kind of ugly, sinful messiness you have yet to deal with?  If so, let me encourage you to stop and talk to God about it.  You don’t have to use fancy words, or speak in a certain way.  Just talk.  Tell Him what you are holding inside. 

If you have dealt with your ugly, sinful messiness and given it to Jesus, have you let it go?  Or are you holding on to it?  Remembering it continually?  And trying to figure out a way to be good enough for Jesus?  If so, let me encourage you to stop.  I totally understand where you are.  It is where I have lived much of my life.  But, it is not where He wants us to live.  He wants us to live under grace; under His sweet love and grace.  Let it go and every time it creeps back into your mind, speak the truth of the following Scriptures, and let them settle in your heart.

I AM LOVED

1 John 3:16, “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.”

1 John 4:10, “This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.”

Ephesians 2:8, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.”

I AM FORGIVEN

Psalm 103:12, “as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.”

I AM FREE

Romans 8:1-2, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.” 

2 Corinthians 3:17, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”

I AM REDEEMED

2 Timothy 2:11-14, “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.  It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.”

Crickets and Fears in My Messy Life

I thought the cricket was gone.

After 5 long nights, I didn’t hear it at the window.  And the sweet sleep I experienced was just what I needed… until the nightmare came. 

I hate nightmares.  I hate waking up drenched in sweat with my heart beating wildly and my breath rapid.  “It was just a dream,” I told myself.  But even though I knew it was a dream, my thoughts kept drifting to what I would do if it was real life.  And, of course, then, I heard every creak and crack in our home.  My mind began wondering, “Is someone there?  Is someone going to harm us?  What would I do?” 

Although only a few minutes had passed since I had awakened from the nightmare, I knew I had to calm myself down.  I had to get control of my thoughts.  So I spoke, “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus…”  The powerful name of Jesus.  I prayed for protection.  I redirected my mind.  And my heart beat slowed.  My breaths steadied.  And, my focus turned only to Jesus.  For He is my Protector.  He is Strength and Might.  He is the One who conquers all evil.  He is my Rescuer and Deliverer.  Ahhhhhh… my sweet Jesus who loves and adores me.  My peace. 

It was then that I could settle snug in my bed again in the wee hours of the morning.  I craved sweet sleep.  I could get another hour in but, it wouldn’t come.  Why?  Because my friendly little cricket was still outside my window with his incessant chirping.  I still do not understand how any creature can make nonstop noise and not grow tired of hearing itself, but apparently I’m not to understand the ways of a cricket!

***

Good morning Lord!  It is early and it is good to be with You.  May I hear Your voice today as loudly as I have heard the cricket each night this past week.  May Your voice pierce my ears and direct my paths.  I’m feeling quite silly today.  Is this a blessing of taking a day of rest?  Maybe today I will laugh more…  dance more…  and play more.  Thank you for the nightmare which blessed me with Your peace.  Thank you for the morning cricket (even though I certainly don’t understand the purpose of him).

***

My Child,

I love giving you My peace and rest.  I love being your Provider.  I love being your Comfort.  And I love when you embrace My Power and you claim My Victory.  I have great plans for you today.  Look to me and I will direct your steps.  And though you may not understand each step just as you do not understand the cricket, you can rest in the truth of who I am and how much I love you.

With thoughts and ways higher than yours,

Your Father

I do wonder what you fear.  I wonder what is in your life that you do not understand (like my cricket).  Do they paralyze you at times? 

Maybe it is spiders or snakes.  Maybe it is clowns. 

Maybe it is the fear every time you say goodbye to your children that it will be the last because they could be in a horrible accident.  Or maybe it is that you will never have a child of your own. 

Maybe it is the fear your marriage will never get better.  Or that you will never find a mate. 

Maybe it is the fear your health will never improve.  Or that the treatment to help will be too difficult to endure.

Or maybe it is that you will never be good enough…  pretty enough…  smart enough.

Regardless of your fears or questions, you have them don’t you?  Stop and think about them for a moment.  And now put them in the light of Jesus. 

Jesus will calm every fear we have if we will call on him.  In Matthew 8:23-27, we read about a horrible storm at sea.  The disciples were terrified.  Jesus was sleeping through it.  But as soon as the disciples cried to him for help, He was up.  He literally calmed the crashing waves.  And the disciples were amazed.

What fears do you need to give to Him?

What is it in your life that you do not understand (like my chirping cricket) that you need to release into His care?  He can calm that one too.

Spend time today speaking the sweet name of Jesus and talking with Him and receive the peace He has to offer.

For further study:

Read Matthew 14:22-32 and think about what you learn about fear and not understanding.

Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.

Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.

But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”

 “Come,” he said.

Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”

 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”

 And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. 33 Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”’

Day 5… July 29, 2012

I awoke throughout the night with the reference “Psalm 67” going through my mind.  As soon as I got up, I quickly turned to see what Word God had given me.   And I read…

 ¹ May God be gracious to us and bless us

and make his face shine on us— ^e

² so that your ways may be known on earth,

your salvation among all nations.

³ May the peoples praise you, God;

may all the peoples praise you.

⁴ May the nations be glad and sing for joy,

for you rule the peoples with equity

and guide the nations of the earth.

⁵ May the peoples praise you, God;

may all the peoples praise you.

⁶ The land yields its harvest;

God, our God, blesses us.

⁷ May God bless us still,

so that all the ends of the earth will fear him. (NIV)

I wasn’t sure why God had given me this Word, so I asked Him, and went about the morning.  Getting me and three children ready and headed to worship actually went smoothly!  It was a busy, but good morning at First Christian Church, Newburgh. 

We decided to eat out which is rare.  The kids were good.  And God protected Zoe when her chair flipped backward.  The day was going well. 

And then the news came that Chris had to go back to work (after having put in at least a 55 hour work week).  The irritation set in.   Everything within me was on edge the rest of the afternoon and evening.  The fatigue took over.  Bitter feelings were reigning toward Chris.  Thoughts raced through my mind, “After being up with Zoe the night before and having a busy day, you are left once again to manage everything on your own…  groceries, meal planning, cleaning up, dinner, and getting the kids ready for bed.” 

To be honest, I wanted to nurture those thoughts.  I wanted a break.  I wanted my husband home.  I wanted to just go to bed and pull the covers up over my head. 

I could feel the frustration rising inside of me as the kids plowed through the house laughing and playing.  I was trying to get the kitchen cleaned up.  Their voices were so loud.  They were being so wild.    I started to fuss at them just like I had before dinner.  Only this time no one was wrestling and accidentally hurting another.  This time there was laughter.  This time they were all smiling and having fun. 

As I stood at the kitchen sink watching them, I wondered, “When was the last time I laughed and had fun?”  I’m always so wrapped up in fulfilling my “responsibilities” that I don’t play with them enough.  I don’t laugh with them enough.  I don’t dance with them enough.  And, I just realized, I don’t thank my husband enough for being such a hard worker. 

***

Lord, I want my view of things to change.  I want to see the good and the beauty when I look in a room or at a situation rather than what is wrong.  I want to see the people rather than the projects and work surrounding them.  Can you change my view?  Will you please open my eyes to see things differently?  Even if it is just for today?  I am so blessed to have so much “work” to do.  For You have given me a home and a beautiful family to care for.  You have blessed us beyond measure.  Forgive me when I let lies take my mind hostage.  Forgive me when I dwell on what I want or think I deserve…  oh forgive me!  Forgive me every time I set a wrong expectation upon someone else because I’m not letting You fill me…  because I’m not letting You come and meet my innermost needs.  For I know You are more than enough.  And for today I will rest in You.

***

My Daughter,

I want you to dance.  I want you to play.  I want you to laugh.  Do you remember that even I rested on the seventh day?  I did so not because I needed the rest, but because I wanted to set an example for you.  I created you.  I wonderfully and fearfully made you.  And, you need rest.  You need to stop all work one day a week and direct all of your attention and energy to those you love.  I want you to stop and appreciate all I have given You.  If you will follow My example and rest, you will be blessed.  Will you “honor the Sabbath” for the next 4 weeks?  If you will let Me, I will show you what day to rest.   I will teach you.  And, I will bless you.

Why, you have asked, did I give you Psalm 67?  So your eyes would turn to praise.  So your view would be changed for today.  So you would see the blessings and offer praise.  For I knew you would struggle today.  I knew all about the frustrations you were going to face, and I prepared you.  Just as I prepare the path for you each day. 

Today was more challenging for you.  And you did well.  You are listening to My voice more and looking for My hand.  You are seeking me and finding me.  Do you see your view is already changing?  There is more I want to show you -  more I will show you.  Take  heart today for you did well.  I am proud of you.

The One Who Gives All Blessings

I wonder how much you rest?  How often you dance?  Play?  Laugh?  I know our lives are different  - our season of life, our circumstances, our responsibilities.  They are as different as each one of us is.  But we all need to rest one day a week to recharge.  We all need to laugh.  And, we need to praise God for all He has given us rather than grumble in our hearts and minds about what we wish was different.  For when the praise ceases, the joy disappears.  But, when the praise increases, the joy cannot be contained.

If you do not rest one day a week, I invite you to join me on a 4 week challenge.  Let’s take one day a week of rest.  You pick the day.  But you must rest.  No working - not even at home.  It means we will probably have to plan ahead and do some extra things the other six days, but the reward is so worth it.  If you are in, will you comment on the blog or email me?  Then I’ll plan on sending you some special encouragement each week.  Oh – and one more thing -  let’s praise the whole day long! 

For further study:

Read these Psalms to learn more about joy, who God is, and to help you get your praise on!

Psalm 65

For the director of music. A psalm of David. A song.

1 Praise awaits you, our God, in Zion;
    to you our vows will be fulfilled.
2 You who answer prayer,
    to you all people will come.
3 When we were overwhelmed by sins,
    you forgave our transgressions.
4 Blessed are those you choose
    and bring near to live in your courts!
We are filled with the good things of your house,
    of your holy temple.

5 You answer us with awesome and righteous deeds,
    God our Savior,
the hope of all the ends of the earth
    and of the farthest seas,
6 who formed the mountains by your power,
    having armed yourself with strength,
7 who stilled the roaring of the seas,
    the roaring of their waves,
    and the turmoil of the nations.
8 The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders;
    where morning dawns, where evening fades,
    you call forth songs of joy.

9 You care for the land and water it;
    you enrich it abundantly.
The streams of God are filled with water
    to provide the people with grain,
    for so you have ordained it.
10 You drench its furrows and level its ridges;
    you soften it with showers and bless its crops.
11 You crown the year with your bounty,
    and your carts overflow with abundance.
12 The grasslands of the wilderness overflow;
    the hills are clothed with gladness.
13 The meadows are covered with flocks
    and the valleys are mantled with grain;
    they shout for joy and sing.

Psalm 126

A song of ascents.

1 When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion,
    we were like those who dreamed.
2 Our mouths were filled with laughter,
    our tongues with songs of joy.
Then it was said among the nations,
    “The Lord has done great things for them.”
3 The Lord has done great things for us,
    and we are filled with joy.

4 Restore our fortunes, Lord,
    like streams in the Negev.
5 Those who sow with tears
    will reap with songs of joy.
6 Those who go out weeping,
    carrying seed to sow,
will return with songs of joy,
    carrying sheaves with them.

Day 4...  July 28, 2012

The peace in me is indescribable.  I thought it would take many, many days before I could see any change.  However, I see a huge change.  Even with working a different schedule, I have been calmer.  That is unusual because when I’m not in the “norm” I usually feel out of control. 

I still have the temptations before me, but I can hear the “warning bells” going off in my head to react in a Godly way.  There are many examples with the children, but I don’t think this is about those situations.  Instead, think it is about the work God is doing in me.  I’ve asked Him for help, and He is intervening.  I’m seeking Him, and He is answering.  I’m heeding His direction, and He is blessing me and my family. 

***

Lord, I see the change in the children and me.  Our home doesn’t feel chaotic;  it feels peaceful.  I know I keep saying this each day, but I’m just so grateful.  And, I’m so amazed at how quickly You have granted it to us.  I know we still have a long journey ahead…  it has only been four days.  I know the temptations will become greater, but I just want to say thank you for these days.  Thank you for being here.  Thank you for the hope You have given to me.  Thank you for blessing me with a new experience with You.

***

My Child,

You are experiencing your faith in action.  You turned to me when you were desperate, doubtful, and discouraged.  You gave each of those to Me, and surrendered.  You hit bottom and were finally ready to give Me all of you.  You have given Me your control…  expectations…  stress…  perfection.  You have given it all to Me, and have listened to My voice.  And, now you have found rest.  The journey is still long…  I have much to teach you… I have much to show you.  Hold tight to the memory of these days.  Cling to them.  Cherish them.  Remember them.  For the memory of these days will help strengthen you in more difficult days to come.  I will not let go of you;  I will not loosen My grip.  Hold fast for the next leg of the journey, and more freedom will be given to you.

Your Faithful Father

I still remember rejoicing over the change I could see in my home and the feeling within me.  I remember the deep gratitude.  And, I wish I could say it stayed forever.  However, you will see in days to come that it didn’t.  The struggle continued on…  continues on…  and it is hard.  It is so hard, in fact, that there were a few days when I made the decision to stop sharing my journey.  I’ve humbly told God I couldn’t do it anymore…  I am too weak…  I am failing…  there is no way these words could encourage another person.  But, each time, He has sent someone to encourage me…  to share her journey with me.  And, I’m realizing that our “messes” and our “stuff” are different, but what is common is that we all have them.  And, often, we each think we are the only one who is a “mess”…  who has “stuff.” 

So, wherever you are right now, I want to encourage you to press on.  Celebrate the good moments.  Thank God for them.  Praise Him for them, and continue pressing on.  When you fall (and you will), share it with God.  He already knows.  Avoiding the fall, talking around the fall, and/or ignoring the fall will not bring healing.  It will only bring more brokenness. 

I have no idea who is reading these posts.  But, today, I pray for each of you.  I pray you will love God more.  I pray He will lift your countenance…  your heart…  your soul.  As I pray, I wonder if you know Jesus.  Do you?  Do you know the Jesus of the Bible (not just what you have heard about Him, but who He says He is)?  I think everyone who is reading this will know of Him, but do you know Him?  If you aren’t sure…  or if you have questions, will you call me at 812-858-5000 or email me at hgillespie@fccn.org, so we can simply chat for a few minutes?

Regardless of who you are and where you are on your journey, God loves you…  He adores you, and He longs to have more and more of you.    

For further study:

Read John 14:6. Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

What does Jesus say about himself? (Note: He doesn’t say He is one of several…  or one of many.  He says he is “the” meaning only.)

Read Hebrews 10:22-25 and 36.  …let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.  36 You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.

Think about your own personal journey.  What truths do you learn from these verses?  What is your hope?  What does God want us to do?  Why do we persevere?