It is only six days until Christmas! It seems like it has come so fast. Even in the cold and snow, everyone is out trying to finish the last of the shopping, looking for that perfect gift. And it feels like everywhere you look, at every store, every commercial on TV, there are racks of Snuggies. Snuggies are apparently THE GIFT of the year for people and pets!
In case you have been hiding under a rock and haven't heard of Snuggies, they are the blankets with arms that you can wear to keep warm and still do other things with your hands! They come in adult sizes, kid sizes, pet sizes. They come in all different colors and prints. They even come in your favorite football teams colors. And they are everywhere! Everyone seems to be making fun of them but they are apparently selling like crazy. People are just embarrassed to admit how much they love Snuggies!
When I look at the Snuggie, I think of how God wraps His arms around us and keeps us warm and safe! God loves each of us no matter our colors, our sizes, our past - He loves us all! And we don't have to be embarrassed by our love for God! We should be out shouting his praises and thanking Him for his love for us.
Lord, thank you for your love and protection. Thank you for wrapping your arms around us and keeping us safe. We love you, Lord. Let us never be ashamed to shout out loud our praises to you and our thanks to you!
Be my rock of refuge, to which I can always go; give the command to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress. Psalm 71:3
Showing posts with label God. Show all posts
Showing posts with label God. Show all posts
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Monday, December 7, 2009
Don't Be Blind to God's Works!
It seems like there has been so much tragedy and illness in our community lately and with people I know and love. There have been tragic deaths, injuries, illnesses. We try to help others in need but often they say "I don't need help. God is in control. He will help me."
Well, that brings to mind a story of a man who was sitting on his roof during a flood. First, a boat came by to take him to safety. He refused help and said he trusted God to save him. Next, another boat came by and tried to take him to safety. He again refused and gave the same response. Finally, a helicopter came and tried to take him to safety. Again he refused, saying he trusted God to take care of him.
Finally, the man drowned and went to heaven. He had one pressing question - "Lord, I trusted in you. Why didn't you save me?" The Lord replied: "I tried - I sent two boats and a helicopter!"
The point to this story is don't be blind to the ways that God may be trying to help you! He may be sending friends your way to ease your load and to rescue you from your problems! And, on the other hand, if you see a way to do good and to help someone. Don't deny God the chance to use you as an instrument for his Kingdom!
Don't be fools; be wise: make the most of every opportunity you have for doing good.
Ephesians 5:16 (TLB)
Well, that brings to mind a story of a man who was sitting on his roof during a flood. First, a boat came by to take him to safety. He refused help and said he trusted God to save him. Next, another boat came by and tried to take him to safety. He again refused and gave the same response. Finally, a helicopter came and tried to take him to safety. Again he refused, saying he trusted God to take care of him.
Finally, the man drowned and went to heaven. He had one pressing question - "Lord, I trusted in you. Why didn't you save me?" The Lord replied: "I tried - I sent two boats and a helicopter!"
The point to this story is don't be blind to the ways that God may be trying to help you! He may be sending friends your way to ease your load and to rescue you from your problems! And, on the other hand, if you see a way to do good and to help someone. Don't deny God the chance to use you as an instrument for his Kingdom!
Don't be fools; be wise: make the most of every opportunity you have for doing good.
Ephesians 5:16 (TLB)
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Thanksgiving for All Things
"Lord, how can I thank you when I am single and I want to be married?" "God, how can I ever be happy when I want to work and I am just not physically able?" "The car needs new brakes and I don't have the money to pay for them, Lord. How am I supposed to thank you?" Have you ever asked these questions, or others? Have you ever felt that you just couldn't be happy due to the circumstances in your life?
As Christians, we are supposed to have happy, contented hearts but how can we when the circumstances in our lives are not what we had planned and when they are out of our control?
But if we are not thankful, what are the alternatives? We become angry and bitter with God. We feel He is not giving us what we "rightfully deserve". If our friends have everything they want, why shouldn't we? Why does He give them what they pray for and refuse our prayers?
If we become bitter and angry with God, we are saying that God is not trustworthy and that He does not desire our good. Instead we should be thankful that God is in control and that He provides for us and works out all the circumstances in the lives of those who love him. He is intimately involved in our lives and works out his purposes through the events in our lives. Even though we might not understand why we have these circumstances, we should be thankful that we worship a God who cares and loves us and only wants the best for us.
God's love for us is not determined by the circumstances in our lives. His love for is steadfast. Our finances may not be what we want them to be, our marital status may change, we may lose our jobs or be unable to work - in spite of these circumstances we should be thankful to God and give Him thanks for His love. We should praise Him for all the wonderful things He has given us. We should be thankful for God sending His son to die on the cross for our sins. What a gift! What a reason to be thankful!
Lord, I am so thankful for the wonderful gift of your son. I am thankful that no matter what the circumstances are in my life that Your love is steadfast. Thank you, Lord, for your grace and mercy. Help us to see your will in all the circumstances of our lives and know that You are in control.
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
As Christians, we are supposed to have happy, contented hearts but how can we when the circumstances in our lives are not what we had planned and when they are out of our control?
But if we are not thankful, what are the alternatives? We become angry and bitter with God. We feel He is not giving us what we "rightfully deserve". If our friends have everything they want, why shouldn't we? Why does He give them what they pray for and refuse our prayers?
If we become bitter and angry with God, we are saying that God is not trustworthy and that He does not desire our good. Instead we should be thankful that God is in control and that He provides for us and works out all the circumstances in the lives of those who love him. He is intimately involved in our lives and works out his purposes through the events in our lives. Even though we might not understand why we have these circumstances, we should be thankful that we worship a God who cares and loves us and only wants the best for us.
God's love for us is not determined by the circumstances in our lives. His love for is steadfast. Our finances may not be what we want them to be, our marital status may change, we may lose our jobs or be unable to work - in spite of these circumstances we should be thankful to God and give Him thanks for His love. We should praise Him for all the wonderful things He has given us. We should be thankful for God sending His son to die on the cross for our sins. What a gift! What a reason to be thankful!
Lord, I am so thankful for the wonderful gift of your son. I am thankful that no matter what the circumstances are in my life that Your love is steadfast. Thank you, Lord, for your grace and mercy. Help us to see your will in all the circumstances of our lives and know that You are in control.
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Monday, November 23, 2009
Seasons Change, God Never Does
Here in West Virginia we had what I think was a pretty easy spring and summer. We only had a few weeks where it was really hot. Now the beautifully colored leaves are falling off the trees and autumn is fading into winter. The seasons always change. I look forward to them every year - okay maybe not the winter so much - but I love looking at all the leaves of autumn, the beautiful flowers in spring and summer. I am so glad that I live in a place where we have the seasons change and we are able to enjoy God's amazing work. And no matter which season we like best, we can never stop the change of seasons. Only God can do that.
There is one thing that I am so grateful never changes and that is God's love. No matter what, God loves us! Our seasons change - we marry and become someone's spouse, we have children and become someone's parent, we lose a parent, we lose a spouse and become a widow, we move and become "the new kid on the block", we become ill and become dependent on others, we change careers, we go off to college and become independent of parents. There are so many changes (seasons) in our lives. But through all of these changes, God's love for us is the one constant. No matter what happens in our lives, He is always there to guide us, to love us, to carry us when we think we can't go on, to share the joyous times in our lives. He is always there. All of these changes are part of human life and we should always remember that God is there to guide us and love us through them all.
Lord, help us to see your will in all of the seasons of our lives. Help us to remember that there is a time for everything and that Your timing is perfect.
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:
a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain,
a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
There is one thing that I am so grateful never changes and that is God's love. No matter what, God loves us! Our seasons change - we marry and become someone's spouse, we have children and become someone's parent, we lose a parent, we lose a spouse and become a widow, we move and become "the new kid on the block", we become ill and become dependent on others, we change careers, we go off to college and become independent of parents. There are so many changes (seasons) in our lives. But through all of these changes, God's love for us is the one constant. No matter what happens in our lives, He is always there to guide us, to love us, to carry us when we think we can't go on, to share the joyous times in our lives. He is always there. All of these changes are part of human life and we should always remember that God is there to guide us and love us through them all.
Lord, help us to see your will in all of the seasons of our lives. Help us to remember that there is a time for everything and that Your timing is perfect.
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:
a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain,
a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Friday, June 13, 2008
KEEPING THINGS IN PERSPECTIVE
Have you heard the story of the young college student who wrote her parents a letter telling them of her new boyfriend? She told them that he had dropped out of college in his junior year to marry his girlfriend but they had divorced about a year ago. She told them that they had been dating for several months and that she had dropped out of college so she could marry him.
On the next page of the letter, the young student told her parents that everything she had told them on the first page of the letter was false. She had, however, failed one of her classes in school!
It was obvious in this letter that this young girl was trying to make her parents keep the fact that she had failed a class in perspective. We should all do that in life. We complain and feel sorry for ourselves and the problems we have. In reality, there are others who would change places with us anytime!! That is not to say that we don't have problems and that there aren't times that we struggle with things in life. But we should keep things in perspective and thank God for the blessings that He has given us!
Thank you, Lord, for the blessings You have given us. Help us to remember our blessings and to keep our problems in perspective. Help us to remember that our struggles can help us grow stronger if we keep our faith and trust in You.
Many, O Lord My God, are the wonders You have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare. Psalm 40:5
On the next page of the letter, the young student told her parents that everything she had told them on the first page of the letter was false. She had, however, failed one of her classes in school!
It was obvious in this letter that this young girl was trying to make her parents keep the fact that she had failed a class in perspective. We should all do that in life. We complain and feel sorry for ourselves and the problems we have. In reality, there are others who would change places with us anytime!! That is not to say that we don't have problems and that there aren't times that we struggle with things in life. But we should keep things in perspective and thank God for the blessings that He has given us!
Thank you, Lord, for the blessings You have given us. Help us to remember our blessings and to keep our problems in perspective. Help us to remember that our struggles can help us grow stronger if we keep our faith and trust in You.
Many, O Lord My God, are the wonders You have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare. Psalm 40:5
Thursday, June 12, 2008
ONE MAN'S TRASH IS ANOTHER MAN'S TREASURE
We have all heard the saying that "One man's trash is another man's treasure". I am finding this more and more to be true as I am starting a new business - an online flea market. I have gone around to different garage sales, flea markets, thrift stores to find items to put on my new website. It is amazing the items that you can find - some are fantastic! I don't think some people realize what they have! And others make you wonder "What were they thinking when they bought that? That is junk!" But I have actually purchased some of this junk and turned it into something wonderful for my home or to sell. You just never know what you could do when you turn your mind to it.
Sometimes we feel like we are junk in God's eyes. We make mistakes. We sin. How could God possibly love us and our junk? But everyday, He takes rebellious sinners and transforms them by His power into something beautiful and valuable!!
Before you give up on yourself or someone else, before you get too discouraged about how your life has turned out, always remember that you have the potential in the hands of God to be turned into something wonderful and valuable!!
He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor.
Proverbs 21:21
Sometimes we feel like we are junk in God's eyes. We make mistakes. We sin. How could God possibly love us and our junk? But everyday, He takes rebellious sinners and transforms them by His power into something beautiful and valuable!!
Before you give up on yourself or someone else, before you get too discouraged about how your life has turned out, always remember that you have the potential in the hands of God to be turned into something wonderful and valuable!!
He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor.
Proverbs 21:21
Friday, June 6, 2008
PRIORITIES IN OUR LIVES
We live in such a hectic world today. Family, work, social activities, church, home -so much to do and it seems like so little time. Sometimes it is hard to decide what we should do and what we should let slide. In other words, it is hard to determine what should be the priorities in our lives.
Obviously, we have to work. We need money to pay our bills, to put food on our tables, to put a roof over our heads.
We need to take care of our families. We need to get our children to school and to their activities. We need time to spend with our spouse or significant others.
We need to have time to spend with our friends. Friends are so important in our lives and it can be so easy to let friendships go by the wayside when we get so busy.
And does there ever seem to be an end to the chores - washing, vacuuming, ironing, cooking, gardening, and the list goes on and on!!
So much to do in life and so little time. Oh, wait, I forgot to mention God!! I really didn't forget - it just seems like sometimes we put Him last on our priority list. We get so busy that we just don't take the time to spend with God - we don't read our Bibles, don't go to church, don't pray. Seems like we get so tired and busy that it is just easier just to let our relationship with God be put to the bottom of our priority list.
In reality, God and our relationship with Him should be NUMBER ONE on our priority list. Absolutely nothing should come before God - not our spouse, our children, our work, NOTHING!! And even though it may be hard at times, when we do make God number one in our lives, we are truly blessed!! Our schedules and lives may still be hectic, we may still be stressed, but we are truly blessed!!
Lord, forgive us for not making you the most important part of our lives. Forgive us for placing others before You. Thank you for always being there for us and for never putting us to the bottom of Your list!!
"You shall have no other Gods before me." Exodus 20:3
Obviously, we have to work. We need money to pay our bills, to put food on our tables, to put a roof over our heads.
We need to take care of our families. We need to get our children to school and to their activities. We need time to spend with our spouse or significant others.
We need to have time to spend with our friends. Friends are so important in our lives and it can be so easy to let friendships go by the wayside when we get so busy.
And does there ever seem to be an end to the chores - washing, vacuuming, ironing, cooking, gardening, and the list goes on and on!!
So much to do in life and so little time. Oh, wait, I forgot to mention God!! I really didn't forget - it just seems like sometimes we put Him last on our priority list. We get so busy that we just don't take the time to spend with God - we don't read our Bibles, don't go to church, don't pray. Seems like we get so tired and busy that it is just easier just to let our relationship with God be put to the bottom of our priority list.
In reality, God and our relationship with Him should be NUMBER ONE on our priority list. Absolutely nothing should come before God - not our spouse, our children, our work, NOTHING!! And even though it may be hard at times, when we do make God number one in our lives, we are truly blessed!! Our schedules and lives may still be hectic, we may still be stressed, but we are truly blessed!!
Lord, forgive us for not making you the most important part of our lives. Forgive us for placing others before You. Thank you for always being there for us and for never putting us to the bottom of Your list!!
"You shall have no other Gods before me." Exodus 20:3
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
WE HAVE NOTHING TO FEAR WHEN WE TRUST IN THE LORD
Fear is a horrible emotion. People have fears of many things - heights, water, spiders - just to name a few. My biggest fear is of fires. I had a friend who died in a house fire when I was only 12 years old, and I have never gotten over that. I am very afraid of fires in my house.
Last night this fear "flared" up. My daughter was drying her hair in the bathroom when the plug starting making noises and sparking. I did not know what to do, other than shut the fuse off. When I did that, however, it also shut off the refrigerator. I had a refrigerator full of food and didn't want it to go bad. So I turned the fuse back on, did not use the plug again, checked all my smoke detectors in my house, and basically stayed awake all night and prayed that my house would not catch on fire. I called the electrician the first thing this morning and he replaced the outlet. Things are fine now but it made me really think.
While we may never be able to completely get rid of our fears, no matter how rational or irrational they may be, we truly have nothing to fear when we trust in the Lord. He is always there for us no matter what. And while I was truly afraid last night and didn't sleep much, I did find some peace in praying to God to protect my daughter and myself through the night. Every time I would roll over and wake up, I would pray to God to protect us and then I was able to go back to sleep. It may have been a long night, but it certainly would have been a lot longer night had I not had His peace and comfort.
Lord, thank you for the peace that you give us through all situations. Thank you for the peace that passes all understanding.
The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1
Last night this fear "flared" up. My daughter was drying her hair in the bathroom when the plug starting making noises and sparking. I did not know what to do, other than shut the fuse off. When I did that, however, it also shut off the refrigerator. I had a refrigerator full of food and didn't want it to go bad. So I turned the fuse back on, did not use the plug again, checked all my smoke detectors in my house, and basically stayed awake all night and prayed that my house would not catch on fire. I called the electrician the first thing this morning and he replaced the outlet. Things are fine now but it made me really think.
While we may never be able to completely get rid of our fears, no matter how rational or irrational they may be, we truly have nothing to fear when we trust in the Lord. He is always there for us no matter what. And while I was truly afraid last night and didn't sleep much, I did find some peace in praying to God to protect my daughter and myself through the night. Every time I would roll over and wake up, I would pray to God to protect us and then I was able to go back to sleep. It may have been a long night, but it certainly would have been a lot longer night had I not had His peace and comfort.
Lord, thank you for the peace that you give us through all situations. Thank you for the peace that passes all understanding.
The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1
Friday, March 28, 2008
FRIENDS AND FAMILY
I went to Atlanta for a few days with my daughter over her spring break. To be honest, I was very nervous. I was afraid to see people I hadn't seen in several years - feared I had aged too much and looked too ill.
In hindsight, how ridiculous that fear was! I had a wonderful time. I got to spend Easter with two families that I care very much for and laughed more than I have in a very long time. It was so good to catch up on old times and make new memories! Although I did not get to see everyone I wanted to because I did not have a car while I was there, even those I did not see were in my heart when I thought about all the wonderful memories.
So much has changed in my life over the last 10 years. Nothing is like it was or like I thought it would be. But, it is how God had it planned, and it is perfect!
Sometimes I wonder how I will make it financially, how I will make it physically and emotionally, but God is always there and always gets me through. He has brought so many wonderful friends in my life who mean more to me than I could ever express, and they are my friends no matter how far apart we are.
I was so grateful that my daughter and her boyfriend let me ride to Atlanta with them because I couldn't have gone by myself. The trip truly helped me realize, once again, that I am right where I am supposed to be but that no matter how far away I am, I truly have friends and family in Atlanta and wonderful friends in West Virginia, and lots of places in between! I truly never have to be lonely - I do have "family"!
Thank you, Lord, for the family you have given me. Thank you for the gift of friends who are just like my family. You have truly blessed me with the most wonderful friends and family to help me through the hard times and to share the good times! I pray that I can be just as good a friend to them as they are to me!
God sets the lonely in families. Psalm 68:6
Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you. Mark 5:19
In hindsight, how ridiculous that fear was! I had a wonderful time. I got to spend Easter with two families that I care very much for and laughed more than I have in a very long time. It was so good to catch up on old times and make new memories! Although I did not get to see everyone I wanted to because I did not have a car while I was there, even those I did not see were in my heart when I thought about all the wonderful memories.
So much has changed in my life over the last 10 years. Nothing is like it was or like I thought it would be. But, it is how God had it planned, and it is perfect!
Sometimes I wonder how I will make it financially, how I will make it physically and emotionally, but God is always there and always gets me through. He has brought so many wonderful friends in my life who mean more to me than I could ever express, and they are my friends no matter how far apart we are.
I was so grateful that my daughter and her boyfriend let me ride to Atlanta with them because I couldn't have gone by myself. The trip truly helped me realize, once again, that I am right where I am supposed to be but that no matter how far away I am, I truly have friends and family in Atlanta and wonderful friends in West Virginia, and lots of places in between! I truly never have to be lonely - I do have "family"!
Thank you, Lord, for the family you have given me. Thank you for the gift of friends who are just like my family. You have truly blessed me with the most wonderful friends and family to help me through the hard times and to share the good times! I pray that I can be just as good a friend to them as they are to me!
God sets the lonely in families. Psalm 68:6
Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you. Mark 5:19
Friday, March 14, 2008
SO TRULY BLESSED!!!!
Sometimes it is so hard to be faithful. Sometimes the circumstances of life make you just want to give up. They make you wonder why you should be faithful and good if only to find yourself in the bad circumstances you are in - bad health, poor finances, lack of relationships.
But then you have one of those days like I have had today where everything seems to be right. I have to admit I haven't felt very well but that just hasn't seem to matter today. I have talked to a friend who is out of town whom I miss a lot when I don't see her. I have done some redecorating of my house - didn't spend much money, must changed things around and it truly feels like home. And I had a truly great financial surprise today - to my benefit. God has truly blessed me!!
While things over the last few years have not been easy, while keeping a good attitude has not always been easy, I have been so richly blessed and instead of giving up, my faith has truly grown stronger. I am a much better and stronger person than I was when this journey that I have been on began. I am so grateful for a God who never gives up on me and blesses me in ways that I don't even see at the time!!
Thank you, Lord, for all your blessings! Help me to keep growing in my faith and in Your word!
A faithful man will be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished. Proverbs 28:20
How Great is Our God, My Savior My God, Wonderful Maker
But then you have one of those days like I have had today where everything seems to be right. I have to admit I haven't felt very well but that just hasn't seem to matter today. I have talked to a friend who is out of town whom I miss a lot when I don't see her. I have done some redecorating of my house - didn't spend much money, must changed things around and it truly feels like home. And I had a truly great financial surprise today - to my benefit. God has truly blessed me!!
While things over the last few years have not been easy, while keeping a good attitude has not always been easy, I have been so richly blessed and instead of giving up, my faith has truly grown stronger. I am a much better and stronger person than I was when this journey that I have been on began. I am so grateful for a God who never gives up on me and blesses me in ways that I don't even see at the time!!
Thank you, Lord, for all your blessings! Help me to keep growing in my faith and in Your word!
A faithful man will be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished. Proverbs 28:20
How Great is Our God, My Savior My God, Wonderful Maker
Thursday, March 13, 2008
PRAYER OF FAITH
God is my help in every need;
God does my every hunger feed;
God walks beside me, guides my way
Through every moment of the day.
I now am wise, I now am true,
Patient, kind, and loving too.
All things I am, can do, and be
Through Christ, the Truth that is in me.
God is my health, I can't be sick;
God is my strength, unfailing, quick;
God is my all; I know no fear,
Since God and love and Truth are here.
---Hannah More Kohaus
God does my every hunger feed;
God walks beside me, guides my way
Through every moment of the day.
I now am wise, I now am true,
Patient, kind, and loving too.
All things I am, can do, and be
Through Christ, the Truth that is in me.
God is my health, I can't be sick;
God is my strength, unfailing, quick;
God is my all; I know no fear,
Since God and love and Truth are here.
---Hannah More Kohaus
Monday, March 10, 2008
RISE AND SHINE AND GIVE GOD THE GLORY!!
"Rise and shine and give God the glory" is a refrain from a popular children's song. Each day as I awake to face the new day, I am so grateful - grateful to be able to wake up and complete whatever God wants me to do with my life for the day! I am grateful for the tasks and grateful for the enjoyments that He has given me, and grateful for another day to share God's love with others.
On those days where I may not feel as well, where times may be more troubled, I am grateful for the blessings that He has given me and that I can turn to the light of God within that illuminates my course.
Lord, help me to let my inner light shine and to share my joy with others in my life. Help me to rise and shine and give You the glory everyday!!
"Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:15-16
On those days where I may not feel as well, where times may be more troubled, I am grateful for the blessings that He has given me and that I can turn to the light of God within that illuminates my course.
Lord, help me to let my inner light shine and to share my joy with others in my life. Help me to rise and shine and give You the glory everyday!!
"Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:15-16
Saturday, March 1, 2008
LISTENING TO GOD
Listening is a magnetic and creative force. The people who listen to us are the ones we move toward , the ones who creates us, make us expand. It is easier for us to speak than it is for us to listen, though.
We should listen to others with affection as they are showing their souls to us. They are showing their true selves.
While we should be good listeners of others, we should listen most to God when He speaks to us. He is telling telling us His will for us, His dreams for us, His affection for us. He is showing who us who He really is and who He wants us to be, if we would only listen! He speaks to us in so many ways - through that quiet voice we hear, through events in our lives, through other people. We just need to listen and be aware of His presence and His word.
Lord, help us to move closer to You and to truly listen to You. Help us to hear what You say and what You want for our lives. It is so much easier to listen to ourselves and what we want, but help us to listen to You and heed Your will.
Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. Deuteronomy 30:19-20
GOD SPEAKING - Marisa
We should listen to others with affection as they are showing their souls to us. They are showing their true selves.
While we should be good listeners of others, we should listen most to God when He speaks to us. He is telling telling us His will for us, His dreams for us, His affection for us. He is showing who us who He really is and who He wants us to be, if we would only listen! He speaks to us in so many ways - through that quiet voice we hear, through events in our lives, through other people. We just need to listen and be aware of His presence and His word.
Lord, help us to move closer to You and to truly listen to You. Help us to hear what You say and what You want for our lives. It is so much easier to listen to ourselves and what we want, but help us to listen to You and heed Your will.
Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. Deuteronomy 30:19-20
GOD SPEAKING - Marisa
Thursday, February 28, 2008
OUR FINAL BILL
I opened my email today and almost had a heart attack! My daughter's electric bill was in my email and it was over $200!! She had actually had a credit for the last several months so it came as quite a shock!
Of course, I immediately suspected the bill was in error so I called the electric company. After having to punch several buttons and then holding for quite a while, my frustration level was growing by the minute! I finally spoke to a representative who seemed to be frustrated that I had called about my bill! Well, after several minutes and frustration on both of our parts, she finally was able to explain that this was a correct bill! The bills from the months before had been estimates and now reality had set in - this was for actual usage!
After praying for God to help me calm down and relax - after all, it is only money!! - I started thinking about how there are people who live their lives like this bill - estimating on how it will turn out and then when the "final bill" comes, they have to face reality!
God is the only one who can give us a wonderful "final bill", the best reality we could ever ask for! Our salvation can only be found in Him! We don't have to guess what our "final bill" will be as long as we have Jesus as our Lord and Saviour!
Thank you, Lord, for giving us a glorious "final bill"! Thank you for giving us the assurance of a blessed eternity with You!
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12
Of course, I immediately suspected the bill was in error so I called the electric company. After having to punch several buttons and then holding for quite a while, my frustration level was growing by the minute! I finally spoke to a representative who seemed to be frustrated that I had called about my bill! Well, after several minutes and frustration on both of our parts, she finally was able to explain that this was a correct bill! The bills from the months before had been estimates and now reality had set in - this was for actual usage!
After praying for God to help me calm down and relax - after all, it is only money!! - I started thinking about how there are people who live their lives like this bill - estimating on how it will turn out and then when the "final bill" comes, they have to face reality!
God is the only one who can give us a wonderful "final bill", the best reality we could ever ask for! Our salvation can only be found in Him! We don't have to guess what our "final bill" will be as long as we have Jesus as our Lord and Saviour!
Thank you, Lord, for giving us a glorious "final bill"! Thank you for giving us the assurance of a blessed eternity with You!
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
THE RIGHT WORDS TO SAY
A friend of mine is going through a really trying time. I don't even know all of the circumstances but I do know that she is hurting. I have tried so hard to be there for her through it all but sometimes I feel like I just don't say the right things, that I sound more like I am preaching.
Lord, give me the right words to say to her. Help me to let her know that even though I am not right beside her physically, I am beside her with my arms around her. Let me be able to show her how much I love her and how much You love her. Give me for the wisdom to know when to speak, what to say, and how to say it.
Lord, thank you for Your love, for your wisdom, for your patience. Help us to remember that no matter what we do, You are always there for us. Help us to show your love and patience to others when they are in need. Help us to always be a friend to others and not judge them, just love them.
A friend is a friend for all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Proverbs 17:17
Lord, give me the right words to say to her. Help me to let her know that even though I am not right beside her physically, I am beside her with my arms around her. Let me be able to show her how much I love her and how much You love her. Give me for the wisdom to know when to speak, what to say, and how to say it.
Lord, thank you for Your love, for your wisdom, for your patience. Help us to remember that no matter what we do, You are always there for us. Help us to show your love and patience to others when they are in need. Help us to always be a friend to others and not judge them, just love them.
A friend is a friend for all times, and a brother is born for adversity. Proverbs 17:17
Sunday, February 17, 2008
WISDOM OR WEALTH???
My daughter is in search of a new car. She loves her truck and will never get rid of it but in light of the high gas prices we are facing, getting about 9 miles to a gallon is getting a little old! She wants to find a cheap car just to get her around her college campus.
I was looking in the AutoTrader for her today and there were lots of cars to choose from. But it is so hard to pick which one would be better for her! Would a Honda, Ford, Chevrolet be the best? Would an older car with low miles or a newer car with more miles? So many choices! Which one would be best??
We are constantly examining items in our lives trying to decide which is better - which is the best fruit to buy at the market, which is the best house to buy, which is the best pair of jeans? We are always having to make decisions and try to make these decisions based on what we believe is bettter. I can't imagine anyone every saying "I am sure this is the worst item, so I'll take it!"
The book of Proverbs is filled with comparisons that point us toward the right things to do in life. The book was written to give us knowledge and wisdom based on the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 1:2 says: "for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight;" and Proverbs 1:7 says: The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
We should always seek what is better in God's eyes! Proverbs 16:16 says: How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding than silver and Proverbs 16:19 says: Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed than to share the plunder with the crowd. Some people may be able to be both wise and wealthy, but if forced to choose between the two, it is clear that we should choose wisdom.
When God's word shapes our thinking and guides our choices, we will discover that His way is always better!
Lord, help us to look for the signs that You give us that say "This is better!" Help us to make the better choices You would have us make in every aspect of our lives!
I was looking in the AutoTrader for her today and there were lots of cars to choose from. But it is so hard to pick which one would be better for her! Would a Honda, Ford, Chevrolet be the best? Would an older car with low miles or a newer car with more miles? So many choices! Which one would be best??
We are constantly examining items in our lives trying to decide which is better - which is the best fruit to buy at the market, which is the best house to buy, which is the best pair of jeans? We are always having to make decisions and try to make these decisions based on what we believe is bettter. I can't imagine anyone every saying "I am sure this is the worst item, so I'll take it!"
The book of Proverbs is filled with comparisons that point us toward the right things to do in life. The book was written to give us knowledge and wisdom based on the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 1:2 says: "for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight;" and Proverbs 1:7 says: The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.
We should always seek what is better in God's eyes! Proverbs 16:16 says: How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding than silver and Proverbs 16:19 says: Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed than to share the plunder with the crowd. Some people may be able to be both wise and wealthy, but if forced to choose between the two, it is clear that we should choose wisdom.
When God's word shapes our thinking and guides our choices, we will discover that His way is always better!
Lord, help us to look for the signs that You give us that say "This is better!" Help us to make the better choices You would have us make in every aspect of our lives!
Friday, February 15, 2008
STAY STRONG IN THE LORD
Discouragement has set in. Have you ever felt that no matter how hard you try at something, it just doesn't seem to be working? You feel like you are doing what God is telling you to do, following His commands, yet your plans don't seem to be working?
My friend, this is the devil working in you. If you truly are following God's word and following what you truly believe He wants you to do, you will succeed. And God will always be with you. 2Chronicles 2:17 says: You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.
God tells us He will give us success if we follow Him. 1Chronicles 23:12 says: Then you will have success if you are careful to observe the decrees and laws that the Lord gave Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged.
My friends, don't be discouraged if things are not exactly going how you had planned. God is with you and will take care of you. Stay strong in the Lord! Just remember the story of Job who was a very righteous man, who after losing everything and suffering from a terrible illness, never lost his trust in God. In Job 42:2, Job says: "I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted."
Don't let anything that you believe is God'w will for you change your plans! Don't let discouragement stop you from doing what you truly believe is God's plan for your life!
My friend, this is the devil working in you. If you truly are following God's word and following what you truly believe He wants you to do, you will succeed. And God will always be with you. 2Chronicles 2:17 says: You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.
God tells us He will give us success if we follow Him. 1Chronicles 23:12 says: Then you will have success if you are careful to observe the decrees and laws that the Lord gave Moses for Israel. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged.
My friends, don't be discouraged if things are not exactly going how you had planned. God is with you and will take care of you. Stay strong in the Lord! Just remember the story of Job who was a very righteous man, who after losing everything and suffering from a terrible illness, never lost his trust in God. In Job 42:2, Job says: "I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted."
Don't let anything that you believe is God'w will for you change your plans! Don't let discouragement stop you from doing what you truly believe is God's plan for your life!
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
I KNOW WHO I AM!!
Do you ever wonder who you are, what you are supposed to do with your life?
The following verses can help you know just who you are and who you belong to!
I KNOW WHO I AM
I am God's child (John 1:12)
I am Christ's friend (John 15:15)
I am united with the Lord(1 Cor. 6:17)
I am bought with a price(1 Cor. 6:19-20)
I am a saint (set apart for God). (Eph. 1:1)
I am a personal witness of Christ (Acts 1:8)
I am the salt & light of the earth (Matt.5:13-14)
I am a member of the body of Christ(1 Cor 12:27)
I am free forever from condemnation (Rom. 8: 1-2)
I am a citizen of Heaven. I am significant (Phil.3:20)
I am free from any charge against me (Rom. 8:31-34)
I am a minister of reconciliation for God(2 Cor.5:17-21)
I have access to God through the Holy Spirit (Eph. 2:18)
I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realms (Eph. 2:6)
I cannot be separated from the love of God(Rom.8:35-39)
I am established, anointed, sealed by God (2 Cor.1:21-22)
I am assured all things work together for good (Rom. 8: 28)
I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit (John 15:16)
I may approach God with freedom and confidence (Eph. 3: 12)
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Phil. 4:13)
I am the branch of the true vine, a channel of His life (John 15: 1-5)
I am God's temple (1 Cor. 3: 16).
I am complete in Christ (Col. 2: 10)
I am hidden with Christ in God (Col. 3:3).
I have been justified (Romans 5:1)
I am God's co-worker (1 Cor. 3:9; 2 Cor 6:1).
I am God's workmanship (Eph. 2:10)
I am confident that the good works God has begun in me will be perfected (Phil. 1:5)
I belong to God. Do you know who you are!?
The following verses can help you know just who you are and who you belong to!
I KNOW WHO I AM
I am God's child (John 1:12)
I am Christ's friend (John 15:15)
I am united with the Lord(1 Cor. 6:17)
I am bought with a price(1 Cor. 6:19-20)
I am a saint (set apart for God). (Eph. 1:1)
I am a personal witness of Christ (Acts 1:8)
I am the salt & light of the earth (Matt.5:13-14)
I am a member of the body of Christ(1 Cor 12:27)
I am free forever from condemnation (Rom. 8: 1-2)
I am a citizen of Heaven. I am significant (Phil.3:20)
I am free from any charge against me (Rom. 8:31-34)
I am a minister of reconciliation for God(2 Cor.5:17-21)
I have access to God through the Holy Spirit (Eph. 2:18)
I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realms (Eph. 2:6)
I cannot be separated from the love of God(Rom.8:35-39)
I am established, anointed, sealed by God (2 Cor.1:21-22)
I am assured all things work together for good (Rom. 8: 28)
I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit (John 15:16)
I may approach God with freedom and confidence (Eph. 3: 12)
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Phil. 4:13)
I am the branch of the true vine, a channel of His life (John 15: 1-5)
I am God's temple (1 Cor. 3: 16).
I am complete in Christ (Col. 2: 10)
I am hidden with Christ in God (Col. 3:3).
I have been justified (Romans 5:1)
I am God's co-worker (1 Cor. 3:9; 2 Cor 6:1).
I am God's workmanship (Eph. 2:10)
I am confident that the good works God has begun in me will be perfected (Phil. 1:5)
I belong to God. Do you know who you are!?
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
LET IT RAIN!
It is pouring down rain today with thunderstorms. I am disappointed because I had some things I wanted to do but now don't feel like going out at all with the weather.
But when it rains like this, I realize that even though my plans may be changed because of the weather, I am truly blessed. I have a roof over my head that keeps me warm and dry. God has truly blessed me. I have a bed that I can curl up in at night and feel safe and warm. I have food that nourishes my body. I have clothes to wear.
And when I think about it, there are certainly things I needed to do inside my home today that I would have put off if it had not rained. So thank you, Lord, for the rain and for changing my plans!
Thank you, Lord, for the beautiful rain. Thank you the roof over my head that you have given me to protect me from the rain. Thank you for all the many blessings you have given me! Forgive me for complaining when the weather doesn't fit my plans - it fits your plans - and Your plans are perfect!
God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect. Hebrews 11:40
RAIN DOWN ON ME - POINT OF GRACE
But when it rains like this, I realize that even though my plans may be changed because of the weather, I am truly blessed. I have a roof over my head that keeps me warm and dry. God has truly blessed me. I have a bed that I can curl up in at night and feel safe and warm. I have food that nourishes my body. I have clothes to wear.
And when I think about it, there are certainly things I needed to do inside my home today that I would have put off if it had not rained. So thank you, Lord, for the rain and for changing my plans!
Thank you, Lord, for the beautiful rain. Thank you the roof over my head that you have given me to protect me from the rain. Thank you for all the many blessings you have given me! Forgive me for complaining when the weather doesn't fit my plans - it fits your plans - and Your plans are perfect!
God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect. Hebrews 11:40
RAIN DOWN ON ME - POINT OF GRACE
Friday, February 1, 2008
THE PROBLEM WITH PAIN!
The problem with pain is that it comes in many forms. Physical pain, emotional pain, financial pain. It can test us to our limits. Pain can overwhelm us at times and plunge us into deep discouragement and despair. We often wonder if we can handle the pain any longer - it is there in the morning, at night - unrelentless pain!
It truly is possible to handle such pain. Sometimes we are so overwhelmed by the pain it seems that we can't even pray. But God is present, close and caring, even if we are unable to ask for His help. He can and will get us through the pain.
God will provide friends to encourage us and pray for us. He will provide doctors and medicines to help heal us. He will give us the faith and strength to conquer whatever we face! In our worst moments, shattered by pain in body, mind and spirit, God has promised not to leave us alone or without comfort.
Thank you, Lord, that in the midst of the pain You are always there to give us the strength to get us through the pain. Thank you for the friends, the doctors, and the courage You give us!
My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26
YOU WILL NEVER WALK ALONE - POINT OF GRACE
It truly is possible to handle such pain. Sometimes we are so overwhelmed by the pain it seems that we can't even pray. But God is present, close and caring, even if we are unable to ask for His help. He can and will get us through the pain.
God will provide friends to encourage us and pray for us. He will provide doctors and medicines to help heal us. He will give us the faith and strength to conquer whatever we face! In our worst moments, shattered by pain in body, mind and spirit, God has promised not to leave us alone or without comfort.
Thank you, Lord, that in the midst of the pain You are always there to give us the strength to get us through the pain. Thank you for the friends, the doctors, and the courage You give us!
My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26
YOU WILL NEVER WALK ALONE - POINT OF GRACE
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)