What Is the Source of Your Strength?

Proverbs 24:10 If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small

Faint: a sudden loss of consciousness

Adversity: a state of hardship or affliction; a calamitous event; distress

Strength: the quality or state of being strong; the power to resist strain or attack

Small: of a size that is less than normal or usual; little; minor in influence, power, or rank

Romans 8:37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

Psalm 18:29 With your help I will run through an army, with help from my God I will leap over walls.

Luke 1:37 For nothing is impossible with God.

In our humanness we scream out, “God, I can’t do this!!”, but in such moments we need to take refuge in Him, the One who can do exceedingly abundantly above all that we can ask or think.  God empowers those whom He calls.  He gives strength to those who feel weak.  It is God that enables us to do those things that seem to be humanly impossible to do.  We are capable of being our strongest when we feel our weakest.   

There are some things that come to us in life that really does seem to be humanly impossible—intellectually and physically—but we must remember that all our tomorrows are passing through God’s inspection line today.  And, as long as He deems it necessary it meets His approval, we can go through whatever we are faced with. 

 

Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Keeping focus on God in spite of trial or hardship, keeps us from sudden loss of spiritual consciousness. People give up there walk with the Lord because they are too focused on themselves.

Focusing our hearts on the ‘here & now’ is what makes us faint of heart. We must die daily to the flesh, thought-process, and preconceived ideas and instead reach for the One that has all things in His control.

The Lord has not made His army for them to be overtaken, destroyed. He has not made each member of His army to be of minor influence or abnormal. But rather, He is the Commander-in-Chief to an army that will prevail.

Strain, trial, hardships, they come. It is a truly vital part of life. But, it is through Christ that we possess the power to resist the strain or attack that would knock us out of eternal fellowship. No matter what we face, as long as we hold fast to HIM, each of our lives can bring HIM glory.

Our lives can be influential regardless how we live. Bad influence or good influence, wicked influence or godly influence. Which will it be for you? Does the source of your strength lie with you, or with God?

True victory comes to those who persevere. With man it is impossible, but with God all things are possible. (Matt. 19:26)

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Today would have been my nephew's 18th birthday.  He was involved in a tragic, fiery accident a year ago this past November.  Through a heart-rending series of events in both our lives, we had not seen one another in years. But in my heart he forever remained my nephew (and still does).  His uncle and I separated in 2001, later divorced in 2003.  Within a short time his parents also separated.  So, after these two events I rarely saw him.  Every time I would see him though, he would still call me "aunt".  I cherish his memory and I miss him very much. 

 

Yes, life is hard.  Unfair even.  BUT...God is always good.  It really is through Him that we can leap over insurmountable walls and have the strength needed to breathe in a new day.  Take heart, my friend.  Always Take Heart.    

God So Loved ~and still does

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

 

Don’t save it all for Christmas Day,

Find a way,

To give a little love every day!

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Christmas, my child, is love in action…When you love someone, you give to them, as God gives to us......Every time we love, every time we give, it’s Christmas! 
--Dale Evans Rogers

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JESUS---He is the King of kings. Every day He blesses us. He is our protection and our guide. He shields and He loves daily. He never tires or sleeps. What a mighty God we serve! Angels bow before Him and all His saints adore Him!! He came to us as a babe and never ceased to be all that He ever was—He’s the God of the Universe, Jesus is His name!

Have a BLESSED Christmas!!!

My God Is Able!

Ephesians 3:14-21  For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner-man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadeth and length, and depth and height; and to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fullness of God.  Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Jesus Christ throughout all ages, world without end.  Amen.

 

Paul asks for several things through prayer. 

1. God grant strength by His Spirit in the inner-man

2. God would dwell in hearts of the saints by faith

3. The understanding of love

4. Know (feel) the love of God

5. Fulfillment to the fullness of God

6. Belief in the Miracle Worker

7. Saints would remember God's glory in the church forever

Most importantly Paul understood that there is power in prayer.  Just think about being strengthened by GOD's great power!  What a wonderful, glorious thought.  God is the Source of strength and endurance for me.  I don't know where I'd be today if it had not been for Him who is on my side.  I dare to think...I'm scared to think...about the possibilities of life without Him and where my life could be if not for Christ. 

I am fortified, built up, toughened aka strengthened by God and His infinite grace!  For this cause I bow my knees unto Him...if not outright physically....it definitely is in spirit and heart.  I bow daily.  It is not of mine own strength and endurance that I face each new day.  God grants me each breath I breathe.  He grants the energy needed for each task I perform.  

I know a love that I can not totally comprehend.  Jesus.  His love surpasses all my understanding.  But I understand enough to know that HE LOVES.  I understand enough to know that He is faithful.  I understand enough to know that He is all powerful and that He is a miracle worker.  I understand enough to know that He works every minute detail...and He does it all for my good. 

Always He is good!

I'm thankful that I'm wrapped in the cradle of His arms.  He's a loving Father. 

Today, my mind has been thinking alot on the children.  And right now I'd like to insert a quote from Stormie Omartian:

Help my child to know the beauty and simplicity of walking with a sweet and humble spirit in obedience and submission to You.

*******

Lord, please protect and keep her always. Wrap her in the cradle of your loving arms. Truly, Lord, You are the Father to the fatherless.  You are hope for the broken.  You are a refuge in trouble.  Your love is what keeps us renewed and soaring above all our struggles. You strengthen us and give us patience to endure all our tribulation.  We love you and we very much thank you for your faithfulness.  Amen.

 





He Was Born

Luke 2:11  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. 

Babies bring a sense of newness to us all.  They bring a feeling that 'life will go on'.  Babies bring a sense of delight, wonder, and new beginnings.  We can’t help but smile when we look at them.  And, we post announcements and pictures letting everyone know about “the new arrival”.

Well, the grandest announcement ever made happened over 2,000 years ago.  This arrival was a great joy for all the world.  Our Savior was born!  He came to be sacrificed for our sin.  He is the Savior who is Messiah and Master of all. 

 

And, a bright and shining angel announced his birth. 

 

The angel said, “This is what you’re to look for: a baby wrapped in a blanket and lying in a manger.”

There is a carol that says:

Do you see what I see, way up in the sky, little lamb? 

A star, a star…with a tail as big as a kite. 

Said the little lamb to the shepherd boy, Do you hear what I hear? 

A song, a song, high above the trees with a voice as big as the sea.

The announcement should still ring far and wide.  Jesus is the Savior! Jesus brings us goodness and life.  Evil is present in this world, but GOD is forever good. 

 

The announcement of our King isn’t shoved into some “junk drawer” somewhere, it is not filed away in a cabinet never to be seen again for a long while, but it shines ever brighter unto that great day.

 

Jesus is the best!!! And His name rings forever in the hearts of whom have made contact with Him!

I’m so thankful that He came!  I’m so thankful that He loved me this much!  His name is the sweetest name I know. 

 

Now go share Jesus with someone today! 

Power In The Name of Jesus

II Timothy 1:7  For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of sound mind. 
Psalm 18:47-49  It is God that avengeth me, and subdueth the people under me.  He delivereth me from mine enemies: yea, thou liftest me up above those that rise up against me: thou hast delivered me from the violent man.  Therefore will I give thanks unto thee, O Lord, amongst the heathen, and sing praises unto thy name.

Truly the Lord is a refuge for us! 

The spirit of fear does not come from Him.  In time of trouble He is the One to go to. 

I am so glad to know the power in the name of Jesus.  There is healing in the name of Jesus.  Power in the name of Jesus.  Hope in the name of Jesus.  And, so much more. 

Live carefully but do not live in fear.  Speak the name of Jesus.  Believe in the power of HIS name.  All fear shall flee.  In Jesus name!  

The 3 Characteristics

Romans 12:12 (NIV)  Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer

I read this verse yesterday.  It spoke a great deal to me.  Then today I got on two different (random) sites and the same scripture pops up.  I believe He's speaking. I pray I'm listening well. 

Yes, no matter the way it seems...or the way it looks...or the way it sometimes feels around here....

I want to fulfill my duties with joy, patience, and faithfulness.

I am so very, very blessed!  Life is good.  Because I serve a God who is good! 

I want to look for the Master in each and every day I am given.  Thinking on Him is sure to make a heavy heart, light.  I am so thankful for the positive vibes I get through this scripture.  I am so thankful that I get the opportunity to grasp hope.  I am so thankful that I have a Friend I can talk with no matter time or day.  Jesus is my bestie.  :) 

And I can't think of a better scripture to celebrate this day 12.12.12 than with this one.  This date will never come again in my lifetime.  I want to serve Him well in it. 

Blessings to all on this clear, cold, crisp day! :) 

Little Among Thousands

Though Thou Be Little Among Thousands…

Micah 5:2 But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from old, from everlasting

 

The prophecy was spoken.  The prophecy was fulfilled. 

Bethlehem—not a place of prestige, not a place where you would think a King would be born—this was the birth place of Christ.  Bethlehem was considered the “runt of the litter”, to the eyes of humanity, not a first pick kind of place for the Ruler of the world. 

But, Behlehem was the place! 

It was no coincidence that Joseph and Mary found themselves there that Holy night.  It was fulfillment of prophecy.

From Bethlehem came the Leader who would rule Israel, even the whole world!  This leader would not be considered a pretender, but his family tree was very distinguished.  Jesus stood tall in His rule by the strength of the Spirit. 

 

Jesus is the very center of majesty.  He is God-revealed!  Jesus is the safe home in which our soul can dwell. 

The whole world should hold Him in respect.  He is our PEACE and in His presence is fulfillment of JOY.

Carol of the Day:
 O Little Town of Bethlehem
 God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen

My Source of Peace

Isaiah 26:3-4 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.  Trust ye in the Lord forever: for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength

JEHOVAH: the eternal, self-existant, unchanging God

So lately I've been quite concerned...ok, worried...about several issues.  The other night I went to God's Word and found this scripture passage.  In short, A God-thing! 

I think about God all the time, but sometimes my trust level is a bit off (or shadowed).  I admit, I do have trust issues.  I'm embarrassed to admit that, but it's nevertheless true.  I have to constantly remind myself that though a lot of circumstance (and people) have let me down in life, God is never changing...He's trustworthy...He's always going to "be there" for me. 

I'm so thankful I read God's Word.  When I read this passage I thought, "so...it's not about me thinking of Him, but it is all about my trusting in Him".  The Bible--it is my source...my weights, so to speak...the source which builds not only my character, but my spiritual strength.  His Word enlightens my darkness.  His Word lifts my spirts. 

COMPLETE peace can only come into the lives of those that put there trust in the Lord. Truly He is everlasting strength to those who put their trust in Him. 

JESUS is the REASON

Luke 1:35  And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shalt come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.

 

Around this time of year we hear phrases like, “get in the spirit of the season”, and I am very grateful (o, so grateful) that the Spirit, the HOLY ONE, did come!!!  I am thankful HE lived, died for my sins, rose again that third day, and is now preparing a glorious eternal home for us all!  He is the REASON for the SEASON. 

I don’t know exactly when He was born, but I sure am glad that there is still a day in which we can freely celebrate His birth and that He did come into the world as our Deliverer.  Oh, what glory divine!!  What a miracle!  What a birth! 

There is no greater gift than this—A Savior for eternal souls.  God robed Himself in flesh, came to be our sacrifice…and still works miracles in our daily lives.  He provides and works out situations for our benefit.  What a good, good God!!

 

Allow the Holy Ghost to come upon you today.  Be overshadowed by His power.  Let Him work a miracle for YOU.  My friend, He makes things that look impossible, possible.  The I Am makes it all possible.  Instead of looking at all the overwhelming impossibilities, look to the One who can fix it all.  He works in such powerful, mysterious, miraculous ways.  Look at your life from a different angle today.  The I Am is present to help.  He is near.

Bask in your relationship with the REASON :) 
SONGS OF THE DAY:
 "First Noel" artists: Josh Grobin/Faith Hill
"Gloria" artist: Michael W. Smith
"Mary's Boy Child" artist: Harry Belafonte

A Baby Changes Everything

Matthew 1:23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

 

Whether you “believe” in Christmas or not, by reading the scriptures we know that the Christ-Child was born to save the world.  In my opinion this scripture is one of the best One-God scriptures there is. 

Because HE came my soul now has a home.  I love Emmanuel more today than ever before.  He is my reason for living.  He is my reason for giving.  He is the King of all kings.  Nobody can hold a light to Him, He is the light of the world!  A baby really did change everything!

I can’t help but wonder how it really must have been for Mary.  How scared she and Joseph must have been…

We seem to over-look the human-ness of the story most of the time.  We don’t really think about what life must really have been like for them through this life-changing experience.  Scholars say Mary was probably only 14 years of age.  She was unwed and a teen.  What?!  Scandal.  I’m sure being pregnant with Jesus was the biggest trial of her life, but was also the biggest blessing of her life. She most assurredly withstood a lot of ridicule.  Yet, she was willing to be a servant of God anyway.  Joseph was too! 

Our human mind says, "what a strange way to save the world", yet our heart tells us, "God can do anything! " He could have chosen to appear with out going this route, but He chose Mary…and Joseph…and allowed them a far more exceeding eternal weight of glory.  And we all got benefited! 

What would you do if an angel came to your bedside and said you were pregnant when you know you hadn’t done anything to get that way??!  Talk about having to get over what people say about ya!  Mary and Joseph sure must have! 

There is a song out now called, “Joseph”.  Jason Crabb sings it.  If you ever get the chance to listen…listen to the words of this song!  Also, Mark Lowry penned words so well when he co-wrote the song “Mary did you know”.  I encourage you to listen to it as well. 

The Blessing in Gifts

" Our blessings are not the fruits of our prayers alone, but those of another praying for us."

 

Luke 6:37-38 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.

Your hardship is not being ignored. God sees…and so do others. 

In time, because of the witness of your tenacity in the hardness, blessings will come to you. Judge not, especially those that do not understand. Condemn them not. Instead, forgive. 

Don’t jump on the failures of others or their lack of understanding, don’t pick on them, or criticize their faults—unless, of course, you want the same treatment. 

Don’t condemn those who are down; that hardness can boomerang.

Be kind, gentle, forebearing one another in love. You’ll find that life is a lot easier when you do this. Choose to give! Give away your life; you’ll find life given back to you—given back with bonus and blessing.

The Gaither Vocal Band sings a song called: Give It Away

If you want more happy than your heart will hold

If you want to stand taller if the truth were told

Take whatever you have, and give it away

If you want less lonely and a lot more fun

And deep satisfaction when the day is done

Then throw your heart wide open and give it away

He was workin' in his garden when I happened by

He waved me over with that look in his eye

And he started breakin' off some ears of corn

Here boy, today this corn is just right

Just boil it up for your supper tonight

I've learned it's true what my pappy used to say

Nothing's quite as good 'til you give it away

(repeat chorus)

There's been a lotta water go over the dam

Since the day in the garden with my Uncle Sam

So I hope you'll hear these words I have to say

There are two kinds of folks-takers and givers

There's gripers and complainers and big hearted livers

It depends on how we choose to spend our days

We can hoard up all we've got, or give it all away

 

None of us get through this life alone—not a one of us, not even the most beggarly of souls. For even the dumpster-divers get their meals from what is thrown out by another. And if that’s all you can do to get a meal…well, keep diving…one day it will pay off and ‘a giver’ will invite you to their table, or pay for you a hot meal. J Aren't you glad that the Giver came to your heart's door?  Aren't you thankful He gave you the gift of eternal life? :) Give Him your faith, your love, your very life.  I promise...you will lack for nothing!
   

Giving, not getting, is the way. Generosity begets generosity

 

 

The Lord Will

Psalm 29:11 The Lord will give strength unto his people; the Lord will bless his people with peace.

In the midst of the storm God shows up!  He shows forth His power and might, and gives strength to those who have none. 

We have the option to fight our battles alone, but when His children depend on Him, He does not allow them to fight all alone. 

His love is real. 

Right in the midst of pain, suffering, struggle and heartache He helps us and stills our hearts so that we may know that He is God! 
 
He rules and reigns forevermore! 
He is Emmanuel. 
He is the HOLY One and His name is JESUS! 
He is Healer, a mender of the broken. 
He is Counsellor, instructing us on our way as we walk the pathway of life. 
He is the Light of the world, lighting our darkest nights, guiding us through to triumph. 
Jesus is God with us. 
Always with us!

Just Think...

Ecclesiastes 3:1  To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.

Here's wishing you the start of a 'Holly Jolly Season'!!! :)  It is my wish that you find snippets of joy in every day of this month. 

Now, here is a little message written by DaySpring co-founder, Roy Lessin.  I hope it will encourage you today.

Just Think...

You're here not by chance, but by God's choosing.

His hand formed you and made you the person you are.

He compares you to no one else--you are one of a kind.

You lack nothing that His grace can't give you.

He has allowed you to be here 

At this time in history

to fulfill HIS special purpose

for this generation.      

Attitude of Gratitude Wrap Up

#23 Grateful to be Living Life as a Stranger
Phil. 3:20  For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ

#24 Being able to do the hard things
Psalm 18:29  For by Thee have I run through a troop; and by my God have I leaped over a wall
Phil. 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me

#25 My Divorce....
yes, I did say that.  I. Will. Be. GRATEFUL. Even. In. This.  It has caused me to be more aware of my relationship with God.
I John 4:18 "...perfect love casteth out fear..."
The One who allows difficulty is the One who loves me more than anyone else does.  I don't have to understand difficult situations to understand that God loves me deeply.

#26 Where I am at this moment in life
I Corinthians 7:17 But as God hath distributed to every man, as the Lord hath called every one, so let him walk.
Contentment is not the fulfillment of what you want.  It is the realization and appreciation of how much you already have.

#27 Mint Chocolate
....can't really find a scripture for this...but I do love it anyway :-D Well, maybe I Tim. 6:6 could work??....LOL...godliness with contentment is great gain....(???) :)  J/K

#28 Joy
Prov. 17:22
A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones

#29 The Hope of U-turns
Proverbs 22:6  Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it.

#30 Safety in God
Proverbs 21:31 The horse is prepared against the day of battle: but safety is of the Lord.
Isaiah 41:10  Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Attitude of Gratitude: Day #22 Happy Thanksgiving!

I am grateful today to be able to have a day, here in America, that is set aside to remember to be thankful for the blessings that God has bestowed on us. 

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!

 

Most of this month I have tried to focus on one thing each day in which to be thankful for. Focusing on having an attitude of gratitude has been so needed for me, especially in recent months. Lots of things have happened to us this year (of which I am sure that we are NOT the only ones.  I am aware that everybody has trials and makes errors), so it has been good for me to try and focus on things that make me happy and/or are good for me. :) Glad I did it!! It prepared me for the most meaningful Thanksgiving.

Today was a special day.  Family and Friends.  Eats and Sweets.  Good times.  I feel that God has blessed me beyond measure.  I'm so grateful that God has met my every basic need.  Food.  Shelter.  Clothing. Truly, as the scripture says in Psalm 23, I shall not want.  I'm so humbled by His goodness and provision.

My prayers are with all those who were involved in the 100 car pile-up on I-10 this morning, especially the families of those that lost loved ones today.  My heart is so saddened by this news.  It makes me more aware that every day...every moment...should count.  None of us are promised tomorrow.  So, not on just one day...or one month...of the year, should we focus on being thankful for every blessing, but every day of our life we should be thankful...and live in gratitude.   

 

Psalms 106:1 Praise ye the Lord, O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: for this mercy endureth forever.

 

Happy Thanksgiving!   

 





Attitude of Gratitude: Day #21

What I'm grateful for today:

#21

Warning Signs

The bridge between home and work is under construction right now. It's kinda a pain...BUT I am glad that it is getting some attention. It's needed it for some time.

I'm grateful that on the days when the construction is going to effect the traffic between my home and the town where I work, I get a phone call...a recording...letting me know that traffic will be delayed.

There are also digital billboards along the interstate that flash information.

It's good to know...

to be in the know...

so that I can make the necessary adjustments.

Attitude of Gratitude: Day #20

What I'm grateful for:

#20

Grace/Mercy/Hope

Tuesday night our congregation had Communion Service. What a fitting week to remember Christ and the sacrifice He made for the world. It was such a fulfilling, yet humbling experience. I am so grateful for the blood that was shed on Calvary!

Many do not understand this concept, but I'm so thankful that I choose to believe.

God has been so gracious to me! I'm thankful all my sins have been covered by the salvation of the blood of the Lamb.

I am also thankful for the Church.

I'm thankful to be able to go to worship service with people of like-minded faith.

People to worship God with.

People to cry with.

People to rejoice with.

People to shout with.

People to pray with.

I'm blessed!

Attitude of Gratitude: Day #19

Proverbs 18:24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

New Living Translation says Proverbs 18:24 like this: There are “friends”who destroy each other, but a real friend sticks closer than a brother.

There is a song that the Crabb family sang, called: I Am A Friend of God. 

Isn’t that such an awesome, and humbling, thought?! God…who is rich in majesty…who knows everything there is to know about me…calls me, friend???!! 

I get excited at the very thought! I also find such peace and contentment in that thought. To know that I can be a friend of God…well, just thinking about that possibility…it settles me somehow….

Today I’m grateful to know Jesus is my friend.

I’m also grateful today for every kind person who has lifted me up in prayer. Precious souls who have taken the time to speak to God concerning my needs. Those precious individuals who have spoken to me with edifying words, and who had the discernment to know when and what to speak (and not) to speak as they’ve walked with me along this life’s pathway. 

Those gentle folks who have been so content to quietly walk along beside me, sometimes hand under my elbow (so-to-speak), and by this letting me know, without ever saying a word, that they indeed “had my back”. Individuals who I can laugh with, talk with, cry with, and be myself with. 

I am richly blessed!

Attitude of Gratitude: Day #18

Psalm 116:1-2 I love the Lord, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live.

We are so comforted to know that God listens to us.   But what about His emotions? How do you think it makes God feel when we listen to Him? I think it makes God happy. Communication is the key that opens the door to any satisfying relationship. Talking and listening to one another =Relationship.

Isaiah 50:4 The Sovereign Lord has given me a well-instructed tongue,to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed. 
 
Proverbs 28:9 (NIV) If anyone turns a deaf ear to the law, even his prayers are detestable.

It’s not enough that God listen to us, but we must listen and perform the duties that He would want [for us] also. 
 
Thank you, Lord, for taking the time to teach me how I must perform in the life that you have so preciously given. I move and breathe because of You. It is You who wakes me morning by morning and it is You who gives me the strength I need to do every daily task. Thank You for the faithfulness you bestow in the relatioship you have with me. It is my desire to bestow the same. Love you so! Amen.

I’m not top-notch regarding this, but I do want to have DISCERNMENT in all my ways.  As I try to discern the times we live in I also want to have the discernment I need in other areas of my life.  What I do and what I say, matters.  I’m so thankful for the Word of God I heard in Sunday school this weekend! 
 

When we call on God, He bends down His ear to listen, as a father bends down to listen to his little child.

—Elizabeth Charles

Attitude of Gratitude: Days #16 & #17

What I'm grateful for on November 16: 

 

CLEANLINESS

Psalm 51:10(NLV) Make a clean heart in me, O God.  Give me a new spirit that will not be moved. 

What I'm grateful for on November 17:

HARMONY

I Peter 3:8(NIV) Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. 

 



#15 Day of Gratitude: Honesty and Fairness

Proverbs 16:11 (NLT) 

The LORD demands accurate scales and balances; he sets the standards for fairness.

 

 

There is priceless value in Honesty and in Fairness

 

So thankful I've been taught and shown these in my life!

 

Day #14 of Graditude: Weight-Loss

Hebrews 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.

Today I am grateful for:

 

Weight-Loss  

 

I'm grateful for weight-loss in the physical...and in the matters of the spirit.  I'm thankful that it is not a must for me to carry around that which weighs me down.  I can give all my cares to Jesus!  Because of HIS HELP I am still sane!! 

 

....and it certainly has helped for me to talk with Him concerning my weight-loss journey this year too!  Because of HIS HELP I am now really close to being 30lbs. slimmer!  Because of HIS HELP my blood sugar and cholesterol levels are far better than what they were this time last year! :-) 

 

 

Day#13 of Graditude: My Friend Jesus

Proverbs 25:13, As the cold of snow in the time of harvest, so is a faithful messenger to them that send him: for he refresheth the soul of his masters

Reliable people, people who do what they say, are like cool drinks in a sweltering heat. 

 

They are so refreshing to the spirit and the mind! 

 

But, among all the faithful friends I have (and I thank God for each one), I'm so thankful for my Friend, Jesus. 

 

He's reliable. He's faithful. He sends a messege right in the nick of time. His showing of love is so  refreshing.  His love quenches the thirsty. 

 

Day #12 of Graditude: Thankful for Good Teaching

Psalms 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

 

Proverbs 6:23 For these commands are a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the corrections of discipline are the way to life,

And here are some of the last words of king David. These words remind me of pastoralship.  I'm so thankful for consistent, steadfast, teachings of God’s Holy Word thoughout my entire life. 

 

And not only of God’s Word, but for parents who've taught me regarding how to live out (in this present world) a balanced life.  I’m so GRATEFUL for the parents that I have!!! God truly shined His Light on me when He gave me those two. I love them!!!!!!

(NIV) II Samuel 23:3-4 When one rules over people in righteousness, when he rules in the fear of God, he is like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, like the brightness after rain that brings the grass from the earth.'

My pastor (and parents) are this!

 

So thankful.  So blessed.   

Day #11 of Graditude: His Word

Proverbs 17:22 A cheerful heart is a good medicine

 

I'm rejoicing in the Savior on this Fall Day today.  I've got so much to thank God for.  I have so many wonderful blessings and He has opened so many doors of love & joy.  Lots of trying times here recently but God is faithful.  I love Him so much! 

30 Days of Graditude

Day #11
I'm so thankful for the WORD of GOD!!!  It is the stablizer of my life. 
Because of the WORD being breathed into my spirit I can have a cheerful heart.
His WORD lifts me up!

What are you thankful for today?



 

 

 

Night Songstress ~

Psalms 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. 

Proverbs 6:23 For these commands are a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the corrections of discipline are the way to life,

I’m so thankful for the light of the Word. It is a light which shines on the road that we all tread, so that we may see the path and that we may see any danger which may be in that path. Man needs such a guide, and the Bible is that guide. I wish I’d have picked up His Word and read it more often in my younger years. But, I’m grateful that little by little, precept upon precept it was “getting in there!” J That is all due to wonderful, Godly examples of parents/teachers/pastoralship/Godly friends. I’m thankful for their work of love. 

   

People who make God’s Word their guide and mark its teachings are not wasting there time. They are doing the right thing. They will be able to mark the road in which they ought to go and to avoid all those by-paths which would lead them astray.

 

So many times those “by-roads” turn off from the main road at a very small angle, (at least it did for me) making it seem to be no divergence for us. However, the Word will cause us to be more apt to see those divergences and get us back on the main road. 

 

The Word helps us see any obstruction which may lie in our pathway. While on this journey I’m on, I’m more apt to see the obstructions when I am walking carefully (as if there are mine-fields everywhere), then when I go full-speed ahead, not paying attention to things I’m passing up. I’ve already passed up precious opportunities. That’s not a good feeling. 

 

The Word shines in a dark night. Those times when we might fall. Trials are dark nights. And, here is where the 2 cross-roads was for me. I’m so thankful God gave me a book full of His love letters and that I had the presence of mind (in my delirium at the second major cross-road) to pick it up and read it. J It’s shone light all around me in my darkest of nights. 

 

His Word keeps me singing like as a nightinggale—It means 'night songstress' J Here is some information I received in my small research of the little bird called the nightinggale.

A nightinggale got it’s name simply for this reason: Its song is particularly noticeable at night…why??...because few other birds are singing. Singing at dawn, during the hour before sunrise, is assumed to be important in defending the bird's territory. Nightingales sing even more loudly in urban or near-urban environments, in order to overcome the background noise.

 

So….yes….I think I’ll keep singing!!! Making my melodies of praise to the One who sees all my chaos, making noise unto the One who knows me thru and thru, and diverting the enemy of my soul—confusing him—when the deafening noise around me (that he is causing) is trying to take over.

 

I will sing unto the LORD!! 

I will keep defending my territory!

I will make melody in my heart and whistle in delight.

I will sing the Psalms and Hymns. 

I will sing His WORD!! 

 

Take that, devil!J Just before the dawn, this is the darkest of night. Joy cometh in the morning! Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. (II Cor. 1:3-4)

 

II Peter 1:19 And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.

 

Psalm 97:11 Light is shed upon the righteous and joy on the upright in heart.

 

Job 11:17 Life will be brighter than noonday, and darkness will become like morning. (spoken from the book of a man that had trial after trial!! The word makes trials more dim and LIFE more worth living).

 

Proverbs 4:18 But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shines more and more unto the perfect day.

 

Psalm 84:7 They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion.

 

Psalm 98:1 O sing unto the LORD a new song; for he hath done marvellous things: his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory.

J Thankful for the Light today! ~md

Election Sure

Daniel 2:20-22  Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his: And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding: He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him.

May the will of our God be done concerning this election and our nation. 

Thy Right Hand

Psalm 16:11 Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.

The Right Hand symbolizes ‘a place of distinction and favor’,‘a place of wisdom’, ‘a place of honor’, ‘a place of protection’, ‘a place of power and strength’. So, as the scripture above refers, at the right hand of God there really are pleasures forevermore!! 

 

To be shown wisdom, honor, protection, strength, grace, mercy…how could a person not be happy in His presence?! Joy is in Jesus. His presence is joy!

I’m so thankful for His leadership! I’m so thankful that God is always ready to guide, to love, to show mercy and grace. He is so dear to me! There is nothing dull and boring about God! Truly He does work in my life in mysterious ways. Oftentimes this year I have been blown away by how He gets a job done. His willingness to show me the path to true living is so compassionate of Him, and it is my job to trust Him in the process to completion. I love Him so much!

Happy Monday! J

The Remedy ~

Psalm 105:3b-4 “…Let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord. Seek the Lord, and his strength: seek his face evermore.” 
 
For a “yucky-mucky” day….There is a remedy!!

And the remedy is? Prayer. 
 
I think we sometimes define “joy” all wrong. With that being said, did I surprise you?! Well...when you think of the word “joy”, do you think of a scenario where “life is one big happy party”? Do you oftentimes grasp for that feeling of euphoria, but it successfully eludes you?
 
I like to think of “joy”, not as euphoria, but as the underground route of the troubled seas---joy is the quiet submarine. 

On the surface it cannot be seen, but it is definitely there. 
 
I don't succeed everytime, but I do try all the time to reach for His joy.  My success is not measured by His accountability, but by my own.  He is always faithful.  No, there is never a shortage where He is concerned.  Sometimes I just lack the faith to believe.  to trust.  to press through.  Sometimes I just allow the "bad day" to overtake me.   

God’s quiet tranquility, His gentle whisper, oftentimes is the ONLY thing that keeps me grounded enough so that I can’t see above water. So that I can’t see into the sheer dark, tumult waves that swelter over me.    Yes, I said, "Can't see".  You see, His joy, it is my protection somehow.  It's not that I don't know the troubles are there.  I know all too well that the troubles and stresses are there, but His joy hides me.  His joy rejuvinates me.  His joy encapsulates me and gives me the strength that is so needed to keep me swimming to the Home-Shore. 

It may not be that "life is sucking you under"...it may be....GOD.  :)  To be encapsulated in His Joy—the Submarine—is to be protected.  'Under' is where the best kept secret treasures oftentimes are.  If you allow yourself, while encapsulated, you can view through the windows of faith all the beauty that no one else above the surface can see. 
  
Those that seek the Lord through hearts of faith have reason to rejoice on anyway.  Don't let the devil, friends...enemies....anyone...steal your joy!  If you're seeking the Lord there is reason to rejoice onward. 

Seek the Lord with your all, and you shall find that His joy is your strength.  Rejoice! 
  
Happy Thursday! J