TAKE A DEEP BREATH

Then the Lord God formed man of
dust from the ground, and
breathed into his nostrils the
breath of life; and man became
a living soul.
Genesis 2:7

Any woman who has gone through labor and delivery of their much awaited birth of her baby knows what it means to hear that first cry of her baby upon delivery. That cry may come in a spontaneous way, with some pats on the back of the baby or with more drastic measures if necessary. My babies came before there were sonograms to check pre-birth health issues where now, problems may be detected early. No matter how perfect that baby looks at birth is to no avail if that baby doesn't take it's first breath and that first cry is heard.

At the time of creation when God completed the making of man in His own image, He then breathed into the nostrils of that man and with that breath, brought man to full life. Our breathing to this day is a part of God's original creation of us. Notice in the above verse that man physically was complete physically except for one thing...no breath, no life. If we could only grasp that the breath of God giving physical life began back then and extends to you and me today.

Paul speaks of that holy breath of God while preaching on Mars hill found in Acts 17:25, Speaking of God, he said:

...nor is He served by human hands, as
though He needed anything, since He
Himself gives to all people life
and breath and all things.

There are so many other things to be said about all of this. Books have been written regarding the Pentecost experience with the Holy Spirit descending and indwelling those saints who were that day, but I won't tackle all of that. There is one more verse that is just so precious regarding the Scriptures found in II Timothy 3:16,17 and it reads:

All scripture is given by inspiration of
God, and is profitable for doctrine, for
reproof, for correction, for instruction in
righteousness.

That word “inspiration” I have been taught means “God breathed.” What a wonderful picture of God's working with the authors of Scripture so say exactly what He wants said to us...God breathed. What a picture.

Scripture gives us several areas where God's breath upon or in His people are important, the very activity of God that keeps us alive and functioning. It is one of those wonders that happens when we go to Heaven that our breathing and heart beating cease almost in tandem. Family in attendance always watch for that last breath. However our breathing doesn't stop there. It has been said when we exhale here on this earth, our next inhale will be in Heaven. What a wonderful Heavenly Father is ours Who has provided all we need to faithfully serve Him in the here and now.

Father, You are too wonderful for words. Thank You for every breath you allow me in this life and for the precious privilege of being Your child. Thank You for Your own breathed book that is available to all who choose to soak their lives with it. I love you dearly and Jesus too for his supreme sacrifice. In Jesus' precious name..Amen 

WE ARE BLESSED

For the Lord is good and
His love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues
through all generations.
Psalm 100:5

Who doesn't love birthdays? When very young they were often days l counted days toward...presents, birthday cake, favorite meal, friends and family, etc. Even though we may celebrate those days that are ours or someone elses, bottom line is that for most of us, it' s just a day on another person's calendar. For years now, what I have celebrated,regarding a friend's birthday is it being someone who is a dear part of my life.

Such is how I feel about the birthday of Jesus. I don't object to celebrating December 25 with the frills of it through the years. I said my Christmas “pieces” at church programs, sang in Christmas choirs, decorated trees and shared gifts. I love all of that and perhaps it's my age, but I find myself celebrating Jesus and His life more frequently than just on one day.

If you are a Tennessee voter, you, like Brian and I received a card (not in envelope) that was probably mass printed and sent out to us from our local state senator. Both sides had snow scenes, beautifully done. On one side the picture seemed gray and white...a barn in a lovely area of falling snow but brightly on one side of the barn, a huge American flag in color.

The back of the card showed a Christmas greeting from the gentleman and his wife again with snow a theme. Brian looked at the card first and found the card interesting. Just above the senders names was the Bible verse I have printed above. I looked at the verse and for a moment wondered what it had to do with the season.

Looking at the verse further, it doesn't seem in the least “Christmas-sy” unlike all the lovely Christmas cards we have sent or received with verses that apply to Christmas. I read the verse over and over...how appropriate it is for the day in which we live. When we are surrounded with chaos, bad tidings of questionable joy and our faith being questioned in many areas, here I saw this precious gift of Psalm 100:5.

This card recognizes, yes, that Jesus came to earth. He couldn't be all those things mentioned in that verse if He hadn't. I love celebrating birthdays. I guess that's where I am at this time in my life with the Christmas season...what can I give Him for His birthday. I can't give Him anything to merit my salvation but, I can be Jesus with skin on, serving others in some special ways.

In these days, this “Christmas verse” is a reminder of why Jesus came, who He was and who He continues to be down through the years to where we are in our present day. I am reminded that Jesus is good. That has become such a trite word but it runs deep blending with His love that is a forever thing. I am assured of Jesus' faithfulness that is mine and that extends into my forever.

As a mom, I love remembering my children on their birthdays, however, like other parents I don't just gift my children on their birthdays. I celebrate each of them for who and what they are on many a day. I pray I will also do Jesus that honor, not just on one day of the year but on every day. I'm not downing Christmas. I love the season and the festivities. I guess I just have a personal hope for all of us who love Jesus that we would, in these days, not just think about a Baby, but of a very special Man, a good and loving Man whose faithfulness will endure down through all generations that includes our children, grandchildren and beyond. He will be there for them as He continues to be for us.

Father, thank You for sending Jesus, Your Son, who not only lived for us but died for us as well. Because of His magnificent gift, we are forgiven, loved and promised an eternity with You. Thank You that we can celebrate a Merry Christmas every day of the year because of Jesus. In His precious name...Amen

DON'T YA LOVE IT?

The Lord's lovingkindnesses indeed
never cease, for His compassions
never never fail.

They are new every morning; great
is Your faithfulness.

“The LORD is my portion,” says
my soul, “Therefore I have hope
in Him.”

The LORD is good to those who
wait for Him, to the person who
Him.

It is good that he waits silently for
the salvation of the Lord.

Lamentations 3:22-26

If you don't read another word I write at this time, please...please grab hold of the above verses and squeeze all the spiritual juice you can get out of them. There are times in my reading when I seem to land in a spot in my Bible that is too precious to explain. It may be I had put my pencil or bookmark there with no intention in them being there. I'm not a hide and seek Bible reader. I'm not one to just open my Bible, point on the page and read where my finger lands. I'm not saying God can't lead in that way, but it usually hasn't worked for me. Today, I opened my Bible and there was my pencil, but immediately saw some underlining from time past I had long forgotten about.

I've usually avoided the book of Lamentations as it has seemed to be such a sad book. As I read the underlined verses, I saw a prophet with hope. Times had really been rough to put it mildly and he remembers some of those experiences just above those at the top of this page. In it all, he sees hope, a hope that is based in the mercy of God. I realize this book was written eons ago and would seem to have nothing to do with us in this day. Despite all of the terrible circumstances of his day, Jeremiah still saw God in such a positive light that it is mind boggling. We too should look for God's mercy and goodness in our own day.

I wrote in my Facebook today a statement I had written in the front of my Bible. I have no idea where it came from but helped me in my thinking about Jeremiah's writing. It says:

Until God opens the next door,
praise Him in the hallway.

I believe that statement spells out what Jeremiah was feeling. Circumstances for God's people at the time were terrible with perhaps no light at the end of the tunnel. They had been a people who turned to their own way, not Gods. However, in it all, Jeremiah began to express his own personal feelings about what God meant to him in his own day where sin was abounding.

As I read, I saw words He used with regard to the Lord in his life. Jeremiah lived in a time of sadness but still when he looked at his Lord, he was reminded of His consistent goodness and blessing. He used the words:

lovingkindnesses...compassions...faithfulness...
portion(source of happiness and blessing)...
good...Savior

All of that in the worst of times is how he saw His Heavenly Father. I'm wondering in these days of ours if we ever stop to do the same. God in His mercy has been every one of those things and more in my own life. I'm loving reading those verses over and over, thanking the Lord for the hope He extends me and you as well. We are truly a blessed people.

Father, thank You for how Your word speaks so clearly to our every need. Thank you too for your patience and for the hope You instill in us. In it all, thank You for Jesus and for Your sweet Holy Spirit's presence. In Jesus' precious name...Amen 

ANGRY AT THE WORLD

But now ye also put off all
these; anger, wrath, malice,
blasphemy, filthy communication
out of your mouth
Colossians 3:8

When very young and especially when in grade school, we have all probably heard the words, “I'm mad at you.” Looking back, the reasons were pretty lame compared to adult standards. The anger could be caused by something as simple as refusing to play a game another friend wanted to play. It all looks so simple now. With children, we also know that being mad at another friend didn't last long and play could restart an hour later with anger forgotten.

Several years ago, while reading my Bible and studying the book of Colossians, I came across chapter 3. It's one of those portions where the Holy Spirit stopped me in my tracks. Since that time, I've often invited ladies to join me in periodically using that chapter for a sincere time of spiritual inventory. The chapter contains some “put off and put on's” that are really quite clear. Prior to those, verses 1-4 are wonderful verses of assurance regarding our relationship with Jesus Himself.

I'm recalling the first time though that it dawned on me, the importance of that chapter. I sincerely try to remember when beginning any Bible reading to ask the Holy Spirit to teach me and even stop me where I need to stop and really think. On that particular day, I got down to the above verse. I read through the first phrase and came to “anger.” I paused for a moment wondering why that verse stood out to me. I tried to read on but I kept coming back to “anger.” I recall saying out loud: “I'M NOT ANGRY.” Then I decided to prayerfully ponder the possibility that I was. I realized that through the years so many things had happened in my life that gave me pause to be angry and through those years had just stuffed it all inside.

Anger is a very strong emotion. It can go from a simple annoyance rapidly to anger and perhaps even to hostility. We see it in the news almost on a daily basis. Who could have seen into the future the unkindness shown by the nicest of people. It would never have crossed our minds. As believers, what are some steps we can take to help with any anger we are dealing with? I'm working on these things myself on a daily basis.

*In Proverbs we are cautioned to not make friends with angry people. Good place to start.
*Understand that unbelievers don't have the strength we have to control themselves or even to love others.
*Be quick to pray. When those negative feelings begin to rise up, pray immediately. It doesn't have to take hours, for God can act on our behalf at any time.
*Be in the Word. Satan hates hearing the Word. It was so with Jesus in the wilderness and is the same with us in our wilderness times. Quote or even read Scripture aloud as often as possible
*When anger is building, put it in check quickly. It's something that grows fast and becomes overpowering if not handled in the moment.
*There's nothing wrong with admitting when we're angry...we are human beings. Confess it quickly to the Lord. Anger and guilt is never a good combination.
*Lastly, guard your mind. Don't watch TV news on ANY station. Be careful what you read or who you listen to. This has been among my latest moves and it feels great.

Our world needs our love and prayers more than ever. We musn't under-underestimate the power of acts of kindness, words of friendship/love and expressing words of blessing in another's life. If we aren't Jesus to others who need Him, they may never find Him.

Father, help us to be more in control of our emotions. Lead us to action only with situations where we can make a contribution for good. May Your Holy Spirit continue to remind and prompt us when we need direction and better yet, help us to respond in ways that would please You. In Jesus' precious name...Amen 

BEING EQUIPPED WITH THE WORD

All Scripture is inspired by God and
profitable for teaching, for reproof,
for correction, for training in
righteousness
so that the man of God may be
adequate, equipped for every
good work.
II Timothy 3:16,17

In our day, there are any number of Bible retreats and conferences folks can participate in as often as they would like. Some people attend those things because they are enjoyable and give a quick shot of spirituality. For others it may mean a salvation experience or re-dedication of a life that has perhaps come off of spiritual rails.

A couple of years ago, Brian and I attended a seminar at the Billy Graham Cove. The speaker for almost five days dealt with God's Word in general and our treatment or lack thereof, of it. The first few session really blew me away. Our leader didn't seem to deal with the Bible at all. We started out with our belief in God, how we know there is a God, how God speaks to us and how God spoke through His Son. I must say to you that it had been a very long time I thought in these basic ways, especially talking about how we feel about God. What DO we think about God? I don't mean just listing His attributes. Person to person, what do I think about Him and how engaged am I with Him? Such introspection, I saw, was necessary if one was to benefit from a positive approach to God's Word.

These led us in many ways of looking at the Bible...what it is, what it does and how did we get it in the first place. I know it all seems Sunday school-ish but we got down to some things I hadn't thought of in years.

For instance, our leader, Woodrow Kroll held up his Bible and simply said:

“Since God wrote only one book,
I think He would be pleased to have
us read it.”

During a question/answer time, he was asked the best version of the Bible one can read. Again his answer was simple:

“Read the one you have.”

With that we were challenged to consider that our Bibles are the only way to know God and not reading it is going to affect how we feel about God and how well we know Him. We also heard over and over that the Word is God's spoken Word, actually words from His mouth to the prophets and others in the Old Testament. In the New Testament, He spoke through His Son and Spirit. We're not talking about mental telepathy in the formation of the Bible. God spoke verbally, word by word, what He wanted His Word to say, using Godly men to receive the words, doing what writing God wanted, but spoken words that make up the precious book we call the Holy Bible.

We live in troubling days ...days of insecurity and yes, evil. The only thing that is going to keep us mentally and spiritually sane, is to be in our Bibles as often as we can. We won't benefit from just a light scanning over it. It must be digested and applied in these days. It's the only thing that can grant us the security we desire. His words to us will speak peace and truth to us for He is Truth.

Father, I'm so grateful You SPOKE the words of Your book, that tells me about You. Your book is THE source of my knowing You and learning from You. Thank You for your Holy Spirit, Who teaches all you want me to know about Yourself. May I be willing to walk in obedience and love as I know You desire. In Jesus name....Amen

GIVE THANKS

In every thing give thanks:
for this is the will of God
in Christ Jesus concerning
you.
I Thessalonians 5:18

A flood of memories rush through our minds when we think of Thanksgiving day. The older we are, the more the memories. For the most part, especially for we girls, the thing that comes to mind past or present is food. On that day, growing up for my family was having dinner around noon and then going to our high school Homecoming football game. I think it was the routine of most folks in our small town.

All of my Thanksgivings weren't that routine. I was in fifth grade, my Dad was in the hospital and the day before Thanksgiving, our cupboards were as bare as I had ever seen them. Mother and I knew the problem, but neither of us could say anything. About 10:00 the night before, someone knocked heavily on our front door. Mother called from the back bedroom and said that she would answer the door. She turned on the porch light, opened the door and there on our porch swing were two big boxes of food. Mother had been very private about our circumstances and I know I hadn't told anyone, but there it was. There was everything there for our Thanksgiving dinner the next day and more to do for some days after. I don't think a Thanksgiving passes but what I picture those two boxes sitting on our porch swing, Mother looked teary and I was so very happy with our mysterious bounty. I had just accepted Jesus as my Savior a couple of weeks prior to that evening. I just felt the Lord had given me a special present.

I'm afraid we mostly think of food on Thanksgiving, but are encouraged to think about God's blessings in our lives, especially from the previous year. Brian and I went shopping Friday in preparation for the special day when one of our children will be here. For some of the time I sat in the car while Brian finished up some things and I enjoyed watching many, many people coming and going from the grocery store. I love people watching most any time, but I couldn't help but wonder what their holiday would be like. Would it all be just eating or do people ever give a thought to God's blessings in their lives.

Sitting in the car with my notebook, I started to list some things I know I'm so grateful for that I've probably already thanked the Lord for. What I noticed is that we always seem to think about the really big things and take for granted the smaller things that mean more to us than we even think about. I also felt convicted that I shouldn't have to think of things of gratitude at this time of year when God is just so good to me every day of the year.

For instance, when thinking about little things but really they're not, I first thought of water. It comes into my house through various faucets. I drink it, cook with it, take a bath in it, clean with it, wash clothes in it and thought of some other things. I turn it on without a thought that it might not come through into a sink. My mind went to pictures of folks around the world drinking from muddy pits, no fresh water available. Water...just a simple thing but more than simple, it's God's provision.

I've thought of some other things I take for granted that are important and my list grew writing down simpler things of life I'm so grateful for. Some bigger things that came to my mind among which are people who have meant so much to me this past year. I've had some friends who have gone to Heaven...people who may not know the influence they have been in my life. I've thought of our three children who God is blessing in so many ways and what a joy it is just observing them. Another special blessing is our church staff that works so hard not just on Sunday's, but every day of every week ministering to our church family. I can't thank them enough, but can thank God for each one and their families.

What I'm saying is that perhaps we should get practical this year. God knows our hearts and already knows the blessings He has brought to our lives, but big or small, I think He would appreciate a hearty “THANK YOU FATHER.”

O come, let us sing unto the Lord:
let us make a joyful noise to the
rock of our salvation.
Let us come before his presence
with thanksgiving, and make a
joyful noise unto him with psalms.
Psalms 95:1,2

PS: We never knew who brought those boxes, but to this day, I still feel grateful for those boxes and those who secretly brought them on a cold November night.

Thank You Father for Your goodness in our lives every day. You bless us with not just big things but the small things that add warm touches to our lives. You gave Your best when You gave us Jesus Who means more to us than anything we could think of. Thank You for giving us so much, but mostly Your love. In Jesus' precious name....Amen 

"SAY THE NAME!"

Wherefore God also hath highly
exalted him, and given him a
name which is above every name
Philippians 29:

It's a new phrase we are hearing on the news that is being screamed from the streets by terrorists in sympathy for a person who they feel has been killed by corrupted law enforcement. In anger, such folks will get in the faces of innocent passers-by screaming the command in their faces, ”SAY THE NAME.” No one should die because of unfortunate circumstances, but the yelling goes on and on only to intimidate.

Names are more important than we think. New parents labor over what to call a new baby. The baby may be named after a family member, Bible person or just pulled from a book of names. It is a title every human being is called by so we can't underestimate the importance of ones name. A name should be respected in every way but never misused. Of course, the most precious name for we believers is that of Jesus, God's Son.

For many years in our churches, we sang a hymn that I often sing the chorus to myself:

Jesus is the sweetest name I know
And He's just the same as His lovely name.
And that's the reason why I love Him so
For Jesus is the sweetest name I know.

I understand that there are folks who have a problem with God's/Jesus' name. There are non- believers who don't hesitate using those precious names in their cursing. Even unbelievers know there is power in a name.

Much like protesters, I too want to shout “SAY THE NAME.” It wouldn't be the name they choose to hear, but it's the only name that has any true meaning. His name has power as is especially seen in the book of Acts. The Christian leaders did much in the name of Jesus. His name today is still a powerful one. People find hope and comfort in just saying that name. Having worked in a hospital, I've heard patients in extreme pain saying Jesus' name softly with tears. We call on Jesus who is our mediator in prayer. I've had times when tired or discouraged when trying to pray that all I could say quietly was that precious name.

In these days of despair that is all around us, the last thing Satan wants to hear from us is our saying that precious name even to ourselves. That isn't taking His name in vain...it's calling on the One and only who sees, understands and can act as He sees fit. He loves hearing His name just like as a mom, I love when my children say my title...Mom.

There are a lot of very haughty people who claim no spiritual affiliation or belief in Jesus who will come to realize one day who Jesus has been all along. Philippians 2:10,11 tell us:

That at the name of Jesus every
knee should bow, of things in
heaven, and things in earth,
and things under the earth;
And that every tongue should
confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.

We could never in our day convince unbelievers that such will come about, but when Scripture says it, it's going to be a reality. Meanwhile, we should have such a love for that name. We sing about that name often. One of those small refrains is a special one to me.

Jesus, Jesus, Jesus
Sweetest name I know.
Fills my every longing,
Keeps me singing as I go.

Dear Jesus, how precious is Your name. It reminds us of love, miracles, love, a cross, Your resurrection and yes, love. Thank You for loving us despite our being so undeserving. May we praise and honor you in every way not just because of a name, but because of who You are. We love you....In Your name and Yours only...Amen 

JESUS, OUR PEACE

Peace, I leave with you; My peace
I give to you; not as the world
gives do I give to you.
Do not let your heart be
troubled, nor let it be fearful
John 14:27

Ask any person the one thing right now they would love to have in their lives. The list would result in being lengthy and items varied. Some may list some spiritual qualities and goals but when really looking into the depths of one's own spirit, peace may be an expressed need. However, peace may not be close to the top.

My first acquaintance with the word peace was when very young. My parents spoke of my uncle who was in the Army and would be coming home soon because of the end of the war. They spoke of the enemy as “giving up” and a paper was signed on a ship called the Missouri. I just took it that it was happening somewhere near St. Louis. No matter, it meant no more war and there would be peace.

Since that time and with much maturity, I have learned that peace isn't just a paper signed by two enemies that brings about an end to a war. I've since learned through time and trial that peace can be viewed in different ways. Conflict will always be a part of our lives until Heaven. Peace is not the absence of conflict. For we believers, peace can be a part of our lives despite any conflict we face.

Peace like love is of God. An unbeliever cannot know either of those things without a relationship with Jesus. Looking at the epistles of the apostle Paul, one finds within the first few verses a consistent blessing....”grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” How interesting that in every case, Paul puts grace before peace. The simple fact is that without the grace of God that enables our salvation, there can be no peace.

For us, peace is a gift. Jesus said it's something given to us by Him. At the giving of this promise by Jesus, He was facing death in a short period of time. He knew his disciples were troubled as He spoke of leaving. They were anything but peaceful, but He assured them of a peace He was giving them that the world could know nothing about. His peace is totally different from what the world offers.

The peace of the world is often found in distraction. There are those who find their peace in money, the next new car, friends, a new dress, a few cocktails during one's day, travel, overeating and even drugs. Many folks may use more than one of those things to give moments of what they would call peace. That peace, however, is temporary and soon, other distractions from the pains of life are required.

We are living in world that is crying for peace and many are looking for it in all the wrong places. We are finding the world seeking it's own kind of peace, is affecting us who know what Jesus intends what our peace is to be. Jesus said His peace wasn't anything like what the world's peace. He even suggested the world will try to give us it's peace. I'm afraid we often fall victim to what the world has to offer.

The human mind is a wonderful thing. It's who we are and it will be what we feed it. Jesus gave us instruction...”Do not let ”....your heart (mind) be troubled. Otherwise, we have some decisions to make as to what we feed on that will either be a blessing or cursing. This means we have a control as we focus on the One Who is the source of our peace. When I look away from him, my eye wanders to outside influences. Jesus has provided the peace we need. I wonder how often we even pray for peace in our lives. We're not to be troubled or fearful (both the opposite of peace) as the world is. We aren't meant to be victims but victors through Christ Who loves us and Who is our peace.

These things I have spoken to you,
so that in Me you may have peace.
In the world you have tribulation, but
take courage; I have overcome
the world.
John 16:33

Forgive me, Father, for worrying and being fearful over things out of my control. You've promised me Your peace. I'm sorry for not trusting You to be my peace, rest and contentment. Help me to find my rest in You and Your sovereignty. Please use me to be a witness to Your power, love and yes, peace. Thank You for Jesus Who is our peace. In His precious name...Amen 

ROW, ROW, ROW

...Be of good cheer;
it is I;
be not afraid.
Mark 6: 50B

One of my favorite places on this earth, to this day is the Baptist Camp I got to attend one week each summer through junior high school. I got to be a camp counselor for a couple of weeks each of my high school summers there. Only Heaven will reveal how God worked in my young heart during those days in that place. A city lake touches on a part of the camp so at one point, someone built a dock so that there could be some boating for camp attendees. I recall the first time I was told that as a counselor, I would need to go out in a boat, oar in hand and learn to manipulate myself on the water. Camp kids couldn't go out in a boat without a counselor so I needed to “step up to the boat.” I loved doing it.

In this process, I was reminded of a statement I heard and don't know the source or who said it in my hearing:. The person said, “Every one has row their own boat.” I couldn't figure out for the the life of me what that meant until I found myself in a row boat on a small part of that lake, all by myself. I found with me in that boat alone, that boat wasn't going to get to shore if I didn't do the work. I also realized that process was a real lesson in responsibility. What few times I was alone in the boat, I would have appreciated some company. The rowing would have been so much easier if there was someone to help. There wasn't though and the responsibility was mine to get that boat back to shore and docked properly.

To this day, I must say that as I read incidents of Jesus' disciples finding themselves in a boat during a storm and in real trouble, that it gets my attention every time. Some of those men were experienced in handling a boat because of their prior occupations so there shouldn't have been a problem EXCEPT for storms that could suddenly arise over the water, creating huge winds and waves. All was well until that happened and it's just as true today except in a different context.

Even in every day life, we are responsible to “row our own boats”. That's just the way life is. We can have the fellowship of friends and family, but when storms come, we often feel very alone...worried, nervous, frightened...especially when the “storms” in our lives hit and we wonder how we can possibly survive it all.

Jesus wanting some time alone, asked the disciples to go ahead of Him to the far side of the lake. It wasn't long until Jesus saw the storm that had hit the lake and that the disciples were really struggling. They were trying to row into the wind to get where they wanted to go, but it was only causing real panic. Before the disciples knew it, Jesus came walking on the water to them. They weren't sure at first it was Jesus, but He made Himself known and even got into the boat with them. Immediately the storm ceased and the disciples were shocked. The Scripture finishes with the disciples who should have remembered the feeding of the multitude that had just happened. This miracle in the boat shouldn't have surprised them.

How about us? Our life's boat may be rocking and heaving with the problems of health, finances, family concerns or even concerns for our country. We row and fight the waves wearing ourselves out emotionally. We need to remember that Jesus is in our boats. Remember that God has told us He will never leave or forsake us....that includes Him in our boats. He wants to bring His peace and strength into our lives. We can row ourselves to death and not be able to defeat any of the stormy winds that assault us. We like the disciples underestimate what Jesus can do in the middle of our storms. Worse yet, we forget the miracles and I do mean miracles He has brought about in our own lives.

We, like those disciples, forget the wonders Jesus has worked in our times of difficulty that were miraculous. Jesus has a more than wonderful track record in our lives so how can we forget it all. I recall times of prayer during a really tough time where it seemed like nothing changed. He doesn't change, He's still just as powerful to work on our behalf and better yet...He's in our boats. We still need to do our part in the rowing, but better yet to remember that He is our peace and strength. He's that presence that we can't ignore no matter how the winds and waves beat at our lives. Even if some storms don't cease after praying about them, we still have Jesus in our boat and He can get us through anything.

Dear Jesus, thank You for coming into my very small boat when I was at the age of ten. You have been a faithful presence ever since, especially in the difficult times I've had to face. You have worked in wonderful and miraculous ways and I'm so grateful. Thank You for Your continued presence in my life. I love You. In Your precious name I pray...Amen

SET YOUR MIND

 

For those who are according to the flesh
set their minds on the things of the flesh,
but those who are according to the
Spirit, the things of the Spirit.
For the mind set on the flesh is death,
but the mind set on the Spirit is life
and peace,
Romans 8:5 (NASB)

When I was in elementary school, I really struggled with the multiplication tables. I sometimes still do. I would have loved to have had a nickel for every time I heard,”Glendarae, you can do this if you set your mind to it.” I heard it from parents, grandparents, and teachers. In college there was a professor who loved using that phrase for just about anyone who had lost enthusiasm for a task.

There is something I have since learned about that remark, often made not just to me, but to others as well. It's meant to be a positive, upbeat message to any listener. Any time I was addressed with that comment, I knew the person speaking to me saw something in me I didn't see in myself. They thought I could be a person of accomplishment, and they didn't want me to give up on myself. I was being encouraged whether I realized it at the time or not.

All of us set our minds to accomplish things whether we are aware of it or not. Simply stated, when we set our minds to do something, we've determined to accomplish the whatever that something is. Such determinations might be: cleaning out a closet, washing the car, attending church, doing some grocery shopping, calling a relative, reading a book and more. Most things we get done are done because we have set our minds to do them.

We are very good at accomplishing many things, so why aren't we stronger when it comes to spiritual living. Many times, we don't set our minds to be strong people of faith. I'm looking at Paul talking to the Roman church and as I was reading in Romans 5 and came to the above verses, I thought how simply he presented some things so profoundly to those Roman believers. And yet, those same words now apply to us.

I learned a long time ago that I can't be a good Christian on my own. I can set goals and even force myself to read my Bible, attend church, pray etc. When I do my own planning and goal setting, nothing spiritually pleasing to God is going to occur. He never meant for you and me to live the Christian life on our own. Although born again people, we face the same weaknesses as does the rest of the world. We get tired, ill or discouraged like anyone else does, BUT we have an In-House Being, the sweet Holy Spirit who is ready to empower us to want to do those things that please the Father. When we pray, calling on that power, our spiritual lives become fuller, more satisfying and much more joyful.

Let's determine to set our minds more on the things of God than the things of the world that right now are occupying our minds. Whether we face a pandemic or election and the changes that can come from it all, God will still be our Father who continues to be concerned for us. In the midst of it all, His promises are sure and He's still our Father who will never leave or forsake us. He's already made up His mind about that.

Father, I do love You and want to please You. I long for a closer relationship with You and ask You to speak to me through Your Spirit and His Word. I so appreciate all You've done in my life, especially Your sending Your Son to die for me. In His precious name I pray with much gratitude....Amen

HE KNOWS ME

 

O Lord, You have searched me
and known me,
You know when I sit down
and when I rise up;
You understand my thought
from afar.
You scrutinize my path and
my lying down,
And are intimately acquainted
with all my ways.
Psalm 139:1-3

There was something my Mother did in my growing up years that troubled me greatly. My husband will do it every now just to tease me. In various circumstances, my mother with her right index finger, would point to the back of her left hand and say ,“I know you like the back of my hand.” I may have accepted that when elementary age, but as I got older, I seriously doubted that she or anyone else knew me that well.

It was in college, I was introduced to Psalm 139. It's a wonderful Psalm that speaks of God's sovereignty in every situation that touches our lives. After all, His Holy Spirit dwells in we believers, so God knows us very well...in fact, as well as we can be known. The first verses in Psalm 139 tell us how well He knows us. He knows when we sit or stand. He knows my every thought even at a distance and knows my every need.

In these days, we are facing things of evil like never before. Our culture is in danger of being wiped out...same with our history. We are tired of disease, masks and being at a distance from folks in almost every setting. Nothing is the same as it was just a year ago. I tend to have some days of discouragement and even wonder at times why God doesn't snap His finger or blink an eye to bring it all to some end. Doesn't He see...doesn't He know?

In His case, I'm so glad God knows me perfectly in every way. He knows my every move and mood. He knows how to meet my needs better than anyone else can, all because He knows me so well. In my life, God has so often shown His love and care for me in small ways that means big things to me. They are things that speak in little and big ways all at once.

For instance, He often surprises us in such unexpected ways that are so encouraging. Recently, a package arrive at our door. I was sitting in a bit of a doldrums. Brian retrieved retrieved the package. He thought it was probably the cotton sheets we had ordered. He came with the package and began to open it up. I unwrapped pillow cases while he began separating the cardboard and sheets. All of a sudden, a very small strip of paper fell from one of the sheets. Brian picked up, looked at it and handed it to me. It was probably an inch wide and three inches long. The print on it read:

But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives,
He will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy
peace, patience, kindness, goodness,
faithfulness, gentleness, and
self-control.” Galatians 5:22-23

I don't know if it was the verse itself or that a Word of Scripture dropped onto the floor out of no where. No matter how the Word comes, it speaks and refreshes...it's like a little love pat from the Lord. God knew I needed that little bit of encouragement that seemed so big at the time. The company couldn't have planned that, but God could plan it down to the very day. The Word of God is so powerful and speaks for itself in timely fashion.

How many times has someone come to my mind in a special way and I didn't know why so ignored the prodding. Perhaps that person needed a note from me, a FB message or a call. It doesn't have to be anything long and drawn out...just a touch. It may be a note with no more than “Thinking of you” and writing down a verse of Scripture to bless. God not only knows my sittings, laying, coming and going but knows the very same about everyone else. Now there is Someone who knows all of us like the back of His nail-pierced hand.

Father, I never cease being amazed at how you see to our needs and show us Your love in so many ways...big or small. You so wonderfully show Yourself in our lives by using others to work for You. Thank You for Your love for us and for really knowing us like the back of Your precious hand. In Jesus' precious name....Amen

WHERE DID THAT COME FROM?

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet
and a light unto my path
Psalm 119:105

Not too long ago, I was talking with a dear young lady who was going to appear on a panel having to do with her work. There would be some questions to answer on the spot and no telling what questions or antics anyone on the panel might have to deal with. This lady is a real woman of the Word and in contemplating this event, she said some words from Scripture came to her mind. They were: “Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies.” She wasn't anticipating a problem, but definitely felt the Lord was leading the way in the situation, preparing her for the event. We spoke briefly how Scripture can suddenly “cross our minds” at times without our even thinking about the any Scripture at the time.

So many times during the good and bad of life, there have been times when a verse from Scripture or even just a line without my praying or having a spiritual thought at the time that came to me out of the blue. . Until I matured a little more, I got away from asking “Where did that come from?” Those words would come to me just at the times I needed encouragement. It was such a good day when the Holy Spirit let me in on His secret. It was Him knowing my every step or problem that the He knew when to bring to my mind just the right words from His Word that I needed at a moment's notice.

So often in just lonely or difficult times, I have “recalled” God's assurance that He is with me and will never forsake me. I often feel reassured that my Father holds me in the palm of His hand. At the time I don't know the address of the verse, but the words are real and I am encouraged and comforted.

Some might say that those things don't happen to them. I've had born again ladies who have said as much to me. The young lady I spoke of in the beginning has practically grown up in the Scriptures. If we have an abundance of exposure to the Word, the Holy Spirit has more fuel to use in speaking to us at the appropriate times. So are we in the Scriptures enough to retain verses and phrases from our Bibles the Holy Spirit can use as reminders, encouragement and blessing at the appropriate times of our need?

In these days, we may have extra amounts of time that we can spend in our Bibles. I don't memorize things very well anymore but still in my reading, there are words and phrases that stick. I may not know what to do with them in the moment, but the Holy Spirit knows the when and where's I will need just a few words from Him to lift me up. There's no particular place to read. Just reading the Word is spiritual fuel for the moment that can “come to mind” later. The time spent in the Word will never be a waste. Don't forget in your reading to include the Old Testament. There we see God's dealing with people, His character that is consistent even for us to this day.

The important thing is to recognize these spiritual reminders that cross our minds are not just happenstance. It's the Holy Spirit, who abides in every born again believer Who brings these special blessings to pass. On the spot, we should give Him thanks for His knowing when to speak to us that no one else knows anything about. When we stay spiritually alert in this area, we won't have to ask, “Where did that come from?” We'll know that we know. 

Thank You Father, for Your Word and for Your Spirit Who ministers to us through it. May we read our Bibles in anticipation of what You want to say to us at any given moment. Help us to walk in obedience to what we read. Thank You for Jesus Who made it all possible by His death and our salvation. In His precious name...Amen

CONSIDER JESUS

Therefore, holy brethren, partakers
of a heavenly calling, consider Jesus,
the Apostle and High Priest of our
confession...
Hebrews 3:1

Recently, I was reviewing some things in the book of Hebrews and came across the above verse. You probably can tell the two words that caught my eye...CONSIDER JESUS. That wonderful chapter and book tells us an abundance of wonderful things about Jesus that only serves to reinforce how very wonderful He is in our lives.

Through life, we have “considered” many things for varied reasons. As I have thought of the verse, I've looked at the word and what it has said to me through time. In using that word “consider”, I know I have taken perhaps something new into account...it's meant my thinking seriously about something especially in making decision. For instance: “I'll consider going on a date with Brian. (Many years ago.)...I'll consider taking that job...I'll consider teaching that class”...all required a decision to be made on my part, usually a serious and sometimes life changing one. In every day living, we might consider what we'll fix for supper, what we will wear on a given day, planning a vacation, painting the house...any number of things. We make decisions all the time, most of which is without considering what Jesus might think. We should know that everything about us concerns Him. I'm afraid we don't consider Him in the very small details of life, BUT He is still interested in every little thing that concerns us.

I'm wondering how often we stop and just consider what Jesus really means in our lives or do we just take Him for granted? In considering Him, I believe we are called upon to make Him the vital part in everything in our ordinary days. Sometimes I think we have Him on a handy kind of shelf where we can pull Him down when we need Him. Yes, He's with us always and could really push Himself into our daily living, but He's much too much of a gentleman to do that. He wants to be a part of our decision making down to the most trivial of things. When we do that, our trust in and love for Him are both indicated.

So how do we get back to considering Jesus more than we already do? Not disregarding His death on our behalf on a cross, Jesus wants to be more beyond our salvation experience. He wants to be engaged with us in every day living. This will mean a renewed relationship with Him, perhaps falling in love with Him all over again. This will take time in the Word of God, soaking in it and considering it as we read. Prayer will be that wonderful chain of communication that can bind us to the heart of God. My love and consideration for Jesus should be greater than I have for any other human being.

As I found myself in a serious relationship with Brian and even after his proposal of marriage, I studied him. I wanted to know his favorite food, colors, cars, etc. In idle moments at work, I wrote his name on a piece of paper and then under it wrote what would be my new name just to see what it would look like. I couldn't wait for the next time I would see him, usually at church. He live and worked at a distance so our times together were limited. I know it sounds “teenager-ish” but I believe Jesus would love that kind of attention from us.

I have to ask myself now if I have that kind of love for Jesus...looking forward to time with Him, reading His love letters, wanting to talk to Him often and worshiping Him often in every day life. In the scope of our lives, do we make it a point to CONSIDER JESUS?

Dear Lord Jesus, forgive my negligence in being consistent in my relationship with You. You have provided life for me and an abundance of provision daily. I praise You for Your Word and the privilege of talking to You any time, any place. May I consider You in all of my dailies. In Your precious name....Amen

JESUS IS HERE

Have I not commanded you?
Be strong and courageous! Do not
tremble or be dismayed, for the
Lord your God is with you
wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9

I think I've mentioned this before but my first Christmas “piece” was at our church when I was at the ripe old age of four. I was the youngest participant and greeted the guests with four lines of welcome. All the other kids were big...primary and juniors in their departments. At dress rehearsal, I got up to say my piece and absolutely froze. There were other kids and parents in the auditorium and I was petrified.

Our teacher, seated on the front row, walked up to me. I was standing on a high part of the stage and she on the main floor. Although on the short side, she managed to gently take hold of my ankles and lovingly spoke encouraging words to me that ended with, “Remember Glendarae, Jesus is here.” I thought in my young mind, “You have got to be kidding.” I looked all over that huge room and I didn't see Him anywhere. I knew what he looked like from the pictures on the wall of our Sunday school room. I didn't see Jesus, and so as far as I tell, He wasn't there.

In all of the turmoil we are facing today, I wonder how many times, even the best of Christians have asked themselves, “Where is God in all of this?” We are facing threats on every side: riots, burnings, political conflict, death threats if you don't wear a mask, keep a distance from people, our country's freedoms at risk, education systems a mess...all too much to be hit with at the same time.

We Christians in our sincerity speak firmly regarding our belief in the sovereignty of God. That may mean different things to different folks but bottom line, we know that God is greater than any problem we face. We are used to dealing with people in person, face to face. In general conversation, we prefer person to person contact than by phone or computer. We are used to face to face conversation which is why today's masks are so disturbing. We want to see the real person, the real thing.

When God says in His Word that He will be with us, it's a promise we can count on. As believers, we have abiding in us, His precious Holy Spirit who is with us no matter where we are. Over fifty years ago, I had a brief surgical procedure to remove a small tumor. I had claimed a verse in Isaiah 41:13 for that time. I was single with no family or friends around. I hadn't said anything much to anyone about this so felt very much on my own. That verse reads:

“ I the Lord thy God will hold
thy right hand, saying unto thee,
'Fear not: I will hep thee.'

I recall the surgical nurse beginning the process of an IV to be put in my right arm. I asked her kindly if she could put it in my left arm because I had “Someone” holding my right hand. We knew each other and she understood and complied with my wish. I knew as well as knowing my own name, that the Lord my God would in His own way, hold my hand.

We need to get serious in these days about knowing and relying upon our God of strength and power. Nothing I consider negative can touch my life except it first filter through the fingers of our Heavenly Father. What we see as negative, God may see as a positive for our good. We are not to be people of fear. God hasn't given us the spirit of fear...that's Satan's doing. If I rely on God's promise to be with me, work on my behalf, then fear shouldn't enter my thinking. I have often felt that the more I fear, the more that would be solved. Satan loves that.

Whether saying a Christmas piece or being wheeled into surgery, God has promised us His loving attention and presence is ever with us. He wants us to trust Him no matter the problems or stages of life. Let's remember that God will always be the boss through anything we face.

Thank You Father for the fact that You are in charge. Keep Your hedge of protection around us and strengthen us in mind and spirit in facing the problems and evils of this world we face daily. We praise You for who You are in our lives. Help us to keep trusting. May we find a special peace by basking in Your love and care consistently. In Jesus' precious name...Amen 

GOD KNOWS

For I know the thoughts that I
think toward you, saith the Lord,
thoughts of peace, and not of evil,
to give you an expected end.
Jeremiah 29:11

This year, I celebrated 70 years as a child of God. I'm at an age where I can look back on God's goodness in my life that has come in so many and various ways. He has taught me so much through these years and for some reason, I thought as I aged that He wouldn't have as much to teach me except for those areas where I seem to need a lot of reviewing. However, there are occasions when He seems to blow me away with an old thought with new meaning.

Intimacy is such an important thing, especially with God. I'm not sure how important intimacy is to folks anymore. Nothing seems to be secret or sacred. With all the phones and computers, information about anything or anyone is right at our finger tips. We're often hesitant to be our real selves around people, perhaps even with people we know well. Our culture tends to pull us away of this closeness with others. With this thinking, our view of God is often affected.

As a little girl, the most I was told for a time about God was of His careful observation of me while holding a black crayon in His hand. I was told at home and away from home when I messed up that God would put a big black mark by my name. This told me two things...God always sees me and He was just watching for me to make mistakes so he could use his black crayon by my name.

Recently, our pastor made a comment that stuck in my mind to the point I almost didn't hear the rest of what he said. He was speaking of something I already knew that God sees everything to the smallest detail that affects us. Then he said something that maybe didn't affect anyone else but it sure did me. He said that if we have one cancer cell in our bodies, God is fully aware of that. It might be funny to you, but not to me for I was sitting there with a throbbing knee that was rebelling against being confined to a church pew.

There's not a cancer cell in my body that I know about, but for sure I sat there in stunned silence. The black crayon wasn't what registered with me in this present day. The only thing I could think was that in the privacy of that church pew, I saw with some clarity how God in that moment was concerned about my discomfort, even down to something as insignificant to anyone else as my throbbing knee.

I wonder how many of these “intimacies” of God I've missed in a lifetime. How clearly does He view any moment in our lives?

Neither is there any creature that is
not manifest in His sight: but all
things are naked and opened unto
the eyes of Him with whom we
have to do.
Hebrews 4:13

He sees it all...the big things we expect Him to know about, but also down to the smallest events. I don't know how He does it. I don't know how He tracks all the little things in the lives of His children, but am reassured He knows everything big and small taking place in my life. It's hard to wrap myself around that kind of intimacy and attention that is all based in a love for me that only can come from my loving Father. He does the same for all His children...even minus a black crayon.

Dear Father...just knowing You care about everything in my life is so encouraging. It also puts me in mind of the fact that You are aware of my every need no matter the size. You not only love me in it all but You care very deeply about me in a very personal way. I'm not worthy of that kind of care. I love You. Praying in Jesus' name....Amen

BLESSED IS HE THAT...

The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which
God gave unto him, to shew unto his
servants things which must shortly
come to pass; and he sent and
signified it by his angel unto his
servant John;

Who bare record of the word of God,
and of the testimony of Jesus Christ,
and of all things that he saw,

Blessed is he that readeth, and they
that hear and words of this prophecy, and
keep those things which are written therein;
for the time is at hand.

Revelation 1:1-3

Perhaps about the last book in my Bible I venture toward for an in depth study is the book of Revelation. I've read through it on several occasions and have picked up information from it. I guess I'm not the best theological thinker there has ever been, but I refuse to give up on this book that gives us the hope, encouragement and information regarding final earthly days as well as heavenly ones. Mostly we are shown the complete victory that has been God's all along. Of great importance is seeing the final end of Satan on this earth, and his being confined to his final home.

Recently as I began another read of Revelation, I found right away that I was stuck on the first three verses. I saw an organization to them I hadn't noticed before. That is so like the Holy Spirit, our teacher, who always has new and fresh insights in the Word when we pray, asking His direction.

Verse one speaks of God and His intent on getting the message of this book , the revelation of Jesus...to John...a message having to do with things to come. Verse two then looks at John and his responsibility in extending that message. In verse two, John is referred to as “who.” He was commissioned to pass along God's message he had received through the vision God had given regarding things that were to come.

Verse three then comes down to you and me. We learn here that we are blessed (happy) if we deal with this book as we ought to do. So much more could be said about these three verses, but there is another trio of words that really places a great responsibility on us. It's a threesome that works in tandem with each other, three concepts that can't be separated from each other. In fact, the same three words found in verse 3 that I have underlined above are still words that are a good pattern for us as we delve into any of the other 65 books of Scripture.

The first word stressed is READ. Without that process, there's no real constant with the Bible. We may carry it to church, keep it handy on a bedside table or even carry a copy of it in a tote of some kind. It remains paper, ink and binding like any other book if not read. As we read, the Holy Spirit stands by to teach us what we are reading. One of the biggest mistakes Bible readers make is not inviting the Holy Spirit to teach as one reads.

HEAR is the next word in this trio in our quest for knowing God better and His will for our lives. I have, on many occasions, read my Bible, closed it and walked away with little from what I read that soaked into my mind and heart. John's next exhortation was for hearing the word. This hearing doesn't necessarily refer to the physical act of hearing. It can be hearing the Scriptures read from the pulpit or in a class of some kind. Even then, the Word may not soak into our hearts. As my Mother would say...in one ear and out the other. This hearing referred to is a spiritual, heart-soaking one that makes all the difference

Lastly is the word KEEP. This is where the Word really sticks, is incorporated into our every day living...faith with feet, walking in obedience and in close relationship with the Author of it all. Books have been written regarding a Christians intimate walk with God and being “Jesus with skin on” to the world around us. Unless I read the Word, there isn't going to be much hearing or keeping. I then find myself trying to live the Christian life in my own strength and that usually doesn't work very well. This is a trio of concepts that work together.

Our minds these days are preoccupied with a lot of things...most of which we can humanly do nothing about. God has promised will be a blessing when the Word becomes our mainstay. God delights in blessing His children. He wants an intimate relationship with us. The more we read, the more we will know God better. When we seriously hear, we'll know wonderful spiritual growth and when we keep, we will come to love serving Him like we never dreamed possible. May we be among the blessed that...

Dear Father, I'm so grateful for Your Word even though there are so many parts I have trouble grasping. May I be open to the teaching of Your Spirit and willingly walk in obedience that will please You. Thank You for Your Son Jesus, our Savior Who gave His all for me. In difficult days, may I not lose focus of Him, His love and sacrifice. In His name...Amen 

I GIVE UP

Neither yield ye your members
as instruments of unrighteousness
unto sin: but yield yourselves
unto God, as those that are alive
from the dead, and your members
as instruments of righteousness
unto God.
Romans 6:13

When in early grade school, we neighborhood kids loved playing cowboys and indians. For us, it was the wild west. We had our ropes for lasso's and anything resembling a six-shooter. If fortunate, one might get a cowboy hat or even boots for Christmas. We really didn't need all the trimmings as we trotted along as if on a horse in and out of yards and sidewalks.When a little older, but still in grade school, I was allowed to go to t

he State Movie Theater on Saturday afternoons to see usually two cowboy movies. I came to know all those guys...Lash La Rue, Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, Lone Ranger, Gabby Hayes, Cisco Kid, Hopalong Cassidy and who knows who else. The movies were harmless. Back then, if someone got shot, it was in the arm. Eventually there were some movies involving cowboys and indians and their skirmishes. 

Often, movies had to do with two factions warring against each other. It was during these themes I learned what a white flag meant when it was obvious that one side had completely lost their battle. Usually a couple of “losers” would ride their horses toward the enemy with one of the men holding up a white flag. That's what it was called. It may have been made from most anything, but that was the surrender signal. At that point, all fighting ceased and the losing side yielded to the winners no matter the conditions of the surrender. Sometimes, a defeated person yielded to the winner with hands up and the phrase, “I give up...don't shoot.”

You and I are in a real battle, individually speaking. Such affects our families, churches and even nation. However, our battle is usually one on one with Satan. We don't like to admit that at times in our weakness, Satan seems to win in our skirmishes. What bothers me is to think of the times we have all but waved a white flag in Satan's presence, yielding to his will in a particular fray. Even though we have the power of the God of universe ready to empower us, we still at times give in to the wiles of Satan. I wonder how many white flags Satan has figuratively received from me when I was too weak to stay in the battle.

Perhaps one of the reasons for it all is that we don't think to wave the white flag of surrender to God Himself. Such teams us up with the “good side” and with our perfect Heavenly Father. A white flag we wave before our Father is saying, “I give up...I want to live on Your terms...I don't want to fight whatever Your will is for my life.” With that, our Father accepts our yieldedness with no discussion. The terms of such a surrender are written in His Word. Where some human treaties may fail, no surrender to God is temporary or even fragile from His standpoint.

We have often sung a hymn in church entitled I Surrender All. How many times have we sung the words without the genuine giving of ourselves to our Father. I recall the first verse of that song saying:

All to Jesus I surrender
All to Him I freely give.
I will ever love and trust Him,
In His presence daily live.

As far as God is concerned, those words sincerely sung or spoken is better than any white flag of surrender we could present. He's not looking for a white flag...He desires a loving and yielded spirit on our part, freely given.

Father, forgive the times I have sinned, given Satan a victory without even seeking You and Your strengthening. Thank You for Your patience, forgiveness and love. I want to always be in the very center of Your will for my life. I want to give up only to You. In the precious name of Jesus...Amen

WHAT IF

What then shall we say to
these things? If God is for
us, who can be against us?

He who did not spare His own
on, but delivered Him over for
us all, how will He not also
with Him freely give us all things?
Romans 8:31,32

I don't think I know of any two words that shows our lack of faith like the two words “What if...” We are living through difficult days that are more than trying. Isolation and masks have become very old. We don't know what to believe from any news reports regarding the Virus. Some report one thing while another channel or newspaper can report another. It's more than frustrating for all of us. However, the two featured words I have noted are not just for these days. They are words through our lifetime we may have used on many occasions. Let me give a few examples:

WHAT IF:
I had been a better parent
I had finished school
the stock market crashes
this virus goes on for another year
my blood tests reveal a dire problem
I have a flat tire on the way to church
I get the virus
and on, and on, and on, and on, etc, etc, etc.

Notice our “what if's” can involve not just a future concern, but can also cause us to look back. When working as a social worker with often very abused children, they usually went through testing and therapy when going into foster care. Still to this day, therapists feel the only way of healing is to cause a person to go back and relive past tragedies or horrible events for healing to take place. Most adults have never gone for any kind of psychological therapy sessions but still put themselves through the torture off and on of looking back with blame and depression. In everything listed above, there isn't one single thing from the past that can be changed. Those that look to the future, at best, aren't worth consideration because of the negative outcomes expected. Through the years, when I look at my “what if's”, in all probabilities, in the 90% area, none of my “what if's” came to pass. Only our Heavenly Father sees our futures and by faith, we know He does all things well. We can't have better assurance than the title verse Romans 8:31.

“What's” and “if's” can be positive and encouraging. They can be words of hope and dreams. They are words we mostly say to ourselves and not use in general conversation. God doesn't want to hear “What if I can't do such and such...?.” That's what we have to avoid. Using those words look back at past failures or things we wish we had done differently, shouldn't be a part of forward looking Christians.

A good portion of our “what if's” could be answered with “I can.” Ours is a positive Gospel, positive faith and message in every way. If not careful, we can find ourselves using our “what if's” as we look at God's work or lack of in our lives. “What if God doesn't...” should never cross our mind. We know that always will work all things together for our good. Despite our circumstances, God is the positive in our lives. He will always be our great I AM. With Him there are no “what if's.”

Dear Father, I'm so grateful you are the same yesterday, today and forever...the great I AM. Thank You for the knowledge that You will always do what is in my best interest with no strings attached as the world does things. Thank You for Jesus and Your Spirit who leads and guides in my life. In Jesus precious name...Amen

IT'S A GREAT OFFER

Come unto Me, all who are weary
and heavy-laden, and I will give you
rest.
Take My yoke upon you and learn from
Me, for I am gentle and humble in
heart, and you will find rest for your souls
For My yoke is easy and my burden is light
Matthew 11:28-39

Recently, a friend of mine at my eye doctor's office was sharing with me regarding her recent vacation with her children to Hawaii. I told her the only thing there I would ever want to visit is Pearl Harbor. She began telling me how inspiring everything was from displays to visiting a submarine, ship and of course the Arizona monument. I told her that I was almost three years old when the attack on Pearl Harbor took place. I still remember at a very young age the gloom and doom as well as panic that set in all around me. In those days, we hadn't experienced school shootings, 9/11, terror attacks, political conflict, etc. As a result, that day was a real shaker-upper.

Today, there really isn't much we aren't exposed to as far as negative events are concerned. I feel for very young children who pick up on the fright they see in the adults in their lives with no explanation or comfort. Because of today's cultural and political climate, there isn't much that surprises us, but for me back then, hearing about Peal Harbor was horrible not just for children, but adults alike.

I've been looking today at our church prayer list. I've never seen such a variety of concerns and the list is quite lengthy. There are problems with cancer, dialysis, joint replacements, folks in nursing homes, broken bones, chemo treatments, eye surgeries, brain tumor, and then there is the missionary list with some of them facing real difficulties with illness or government pressures where they are located. 

Even that list doesn't cover the everyday things friends and fellow Christians are facing in their lives. I'm thinking of couples either struggling with their marriages or with children who are breaking their hearts. Some folks are facing financial difficulties or threats of job loss. Many senior citizens who live alone face insecurities and loneliness on an everyday basis. There are school pressures that can be nerve-wracking for students. School also means athletic programs so there is a pressure to perform well on the field or gym. For some students, they may not even be able to attend school right now putting parents in some difficult positions. Top all that with the virus scaring folks, some living in panic and well, for all of us there's nothing worth watching the news.

With all we face, what a comfort the above verses are from the invitation Jesus gives for us to draw near, to accept His comfort and understanding and with His promise to give us the rest we so desperately need. I love His invitation to become yoked up with Him. Yokes in the Bible were used by farmers to hitch a team together to pull plows or whatever needed. The oxen had to work in tandem except when a younger, more inexperienced ox was hooked up with an experienced one. The experienced ox would pull a little extra when the other ox tired out. The yoke required a new ox to go in the same direction with the older one.

Jesus invites you and me to walk in tandem with Him, following where He goes, learning from Him moment by moment. When we become resistant and want to go our own way, Jesus who is our leader and trainer keeps us in step with Him. Straining against His leadership can create problems for us He doesn't intend. We can make the Christian life a very difficult one if we choose to do our own thing and refuse to be teachable; OR we can walk together in step with Jesus. For we Christians, the choice should be obvious.

In our process with Jesus, He has special things to offer us. Recognizing we often carry heavy loads, He wants to give us rest. He offers His gentleness and easing of our burdens. His strength and encouragement are always available. We tend to just want to “plow” on alone, resisting all the benefits God offers to us in times of hardship and difficulty. How foolish of us to keep thinking, “I can handle this.”

Jesus invites...”Come unto me, ALL...” He offers His rest, gentleness and peace no matter the difficulty we face. The problem is that we can resist His wonderful offer and at times may foolishly do just that. God wants to be our burden bearer and comfort. This is an invitation we can't pass up.

Thank You Father for being the Sovereign God You are. You see into our circumstances beyond what we can know. Despite the severity of our difficulties, You always stand ready to be our comfort. May we take advantage of of that comfort. In Jesus' name....Amen 

THIS OLD HOUSE

Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself
from these things, he will be a vessel
for honor, sanctified, useful to the
Master, prepared for every good work.
2 Timothy 2:21

Recently, Brian took me to my hometown for just about 36 hours or a little more for me to revisit some special places that are still meaningful to me. We started with a nearby state park that had been a special place. It was the same for my sister Kay because in our younger years, we visited there often and walked some of the trails. This time, the trek on the trails with my hubby was about 70 years from those days...in a slight rain no less. Thought I would probably meet the Lord there and He'd just take me on Home. The trek got about that desperate.

There were other places...church where I was saved and served, cemeteries where family and friends are interred, city park and so many other places we could drive to. There was one experience I had when five years old when my Mother let me walk by myself from my house to my Grandma Benbrook's house. I asked Brian to drive it to see just how far that was for a little girl to walk alone. It was the way we always went so I had no problem getting myself there.

Along the way, there were friends of my Mother's who would look out and greet me. Later I caught on that it was a set-up on my Mother's part to insure my safety. Tuesday we drove that way I had walked and it turned out to be seven tenths of a mile. Of course, this was back then when children could be out with a great deal of safety.

We drove up a slight hill to view Grandma's house that was just over it. Brian stopped and I took in the view of the house. It's the same house with some of the same features I remembered. We slowly drove to the front of the house...something was wrong. I looked carefully only to see that there it stood, empty. The inside of the windows had that dusty film on them that indicates a lack of care. We drove to the side of the house (It sits on a corner) and the look of the house there was the same. I pointed to the two windows of the living room where my Grandma's casket was placed after her death for the viewing and wake. I viewed the backyard where once was a chicken pen, where I had one time left the gate open and the chickens escaped. There was the yard where Grandma had a huge garden every spring and summer. Now, no life to speak of ...only growing weeds.

Here's my point. At one time, that was an active, loving home where my grandparents lived. They had five children who would come and go for visits. Those family times were full of memories galore and lots of fun. I loved being there at every opportunity. I felt loved there...safe, the calm before the storm of our own immediate family coming into hard times.

The house....old, dirty, not well kept and empty. That wasn't the history of that house, but now, it's different. Many of us are in the aging process or even beyond what we thought we would be in age. Like I read, “Getting old came so quickly.” I guess it did for that house as well. Despite our driving around other places, the picture in my mind of that house stayed with me. I would have loved to see children playing in the yard, a car in the drive and perhaps a big garden in back yard like I remembered. There's no reason it couldn't be like that with some paint and fixing up, but there it sits, looking very sad and alone.

No matter our ages and despite the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in us, there's such a danger like that house of our becoming old in our ways, dirty with sin and no beneficial spiritual life going on in us. The Holy Spirit prompts and tugs at us but we get to the point at times of giving up on ourselves spiritually...cobwebs in the corners, no more light in the windows. It may be that there are times when one may think it's just too much trouble to get up and head for church and Bibles may rest on end tables left unread. The “smallest” of sin can be rationalized while knowing that sin is sin with God and needs to be dealt with. We may draw into ourselves, losing the joy of beneficial contacts with others who may need our touch in their lives. These things can happen for anyone of any age with so much turmoil and worrisome events going on in our day.

My prayer for us is that we wake up to the fact that our bodies are temples for the indwelling Holy Spirit. For we believers who have the Holy Spirit living in us, we have no excuse for becoming run down and of little use spiritually speaking. No matter where we are on life's experience scale, we need to have eyes wide open to the things of God because of time spent in the Word and in prayer. Any cleaning up we need, the Holy Spirit is happy to help us with that Instead of being like an old lonely house, we can be a gleaming and useful temple of the Holy Spirit as God intended for each of us to be

Thank You Father, that in our lives, You are the same yesterday, today and forever. Thank You for the years You have blessed us with, but help us to keep going for You, casting all excuses away from us. Thank You for Your Spirit's prompting, correction and teaching. Thank You for Jesus who came and made our lives so worth living. In His name...Amen