Monday, September 24, 2012

Never, No, Never Alone

Psalm 139:5-10 Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it. Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me.

No matter how hard humanity may try to escape His presence, they will never be able to. Even if they find the darkest, tiniest cave to hide, it doesn’t exempt them from Him knowing exactly where they are. 
  
No matter how steep the mountain, no matter how deep the valley, no matter how curvy the path God is with you. He will never forsake you. He will always love you. He will always provide for you. His hand will guide you. His strength will support you.  Trust that. 
 
As we walk with Him, our hand in His, we go where His hand leadeth. He places His hand of blessing upon our head when we are willing to humble ourselves and be led. 

Isn’t that an awesome (and sometimes overwhelming) thought?! To think the Master of the Universe would take time to guide usis oftentimes, for me, a thought too great to comprehend. 
 
How mighty, How strong, How faithful our God is!! Blessed is His name. Out of all the happenings around the globe, He takes time to care about the minute details of our personal world. 

God is omnipresent. He’s in front of us, behind us, around us. Our God is everywhere! J Aren’t you glad to know that you are never alone?

I am. 
 
Happy Monday to you!

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Victory In Jesus ~

We can not do battle simply by and through our own whit and intellect.  But we are mighty through God.  It is He who makes us victorious.  It is God who treads down our enemies. 

David said, "lead me to the rock that is higher than I.  For thou has been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy.  I will abide in thy tabernacle forever:  I will trust in the covert of thy wings."  Selah

Psalm 60:12
Through God we shall do valiantly: for he it is that shall tread down our enemies.
 
It is by clinging to God, and not our habits and fears, that we are led to victory.
 
I Chronicles 19:13
Be of good courage, and let us behave ourselves valiantly for our people, and for the cities of our God: and let the Lord do that which is good in his sight. 
 
With God we will gain the victory! 

Monday, September 17, 2012

Rainbows For Me! :-)

Genesis 9:16  And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is upon the earth.

As I was driving to work today I noticed the gray clouds above me.  It seemed as if I could just roll down the car window, reach up, and touch the fluffiness. They were hanging that low.  Seriously.

 Immediately the song “God’s Been So Good to Me” came rolling into my thoughts.  I sang a stanza of one of the verses, “Sometimes the clouds hang low.  And I’d like to see them go.  I ask the question, Lord why so much pain.  But, He knows what’s best for me although I can not see, so I just say Thank YOU Lord I won't complain….”.

God indeed has been so good to me.  Life does not have to be perfect to be good.  In fact, if it were perfect for me I don’t think I’d realize how good I really have it.  ;-)  Through my darkest days that is when I have had the biggest break-throughs, seen the biggest miracles, and seen HIS LIGHT shine more brightly through the dark clouds of my days.  When I think of these moments, I wouldn’t have life any other way (even if I could). 

Those gray clouds that were hovering near and over the interstate felt really close, and I really could have felt suffocated/claustrophobic.  But thankfully they weren’t the really thick kind and I was able to see above them.  Glancing further up, I saw whiter clouds and bits & pieces of blue sky.

Sometimes ya just have to look higher. 

I love it when I see a rainbow!...and love it MORE when there is a double one!  So beautiful.  To me it is God’s sign of peace in the midst of the stormy clouds that hover over us.  It’s a sign that “this too shall pass”.  God makes all gray skies to burst in color.   This is happens in the natural world as well as in the spirit world.  Sometimes you really have to search out the heavens to see the beauty, but when it’s finally spotted, O what victory!
  
I didn’t see a rainbow this morning, but that doesn’t mean that He hasn’t made one.  Today I am feeling that He’s made a rainbow just for me. I feel it in my heart.  Thank you, Jesus!

**I wrote this earlier today (around 10 am) and am just now posting it. I'm glad I waited!

 EXPLAINATION:  I have felt tired all day, but knew I needed to excercise today.  About 6:30pm I got a burst of energy (it seemed) and headed out for my walk.  I pulled into the track parking lot, got out of the car and overheard a lady passing by exclaiming to someone else about a rainbow....
WHAT!? I thought.  I looked up and sure enough!!  There WAS a rainbow!  and not just a rainbow but a DOUBLE rainbow!  :-)  Oh, what a GODWhat.  a.  GOD!!!  I quickly grabbed my camera and took a few shots.  You can't really see the double one on the picture, but I assure you....it was there in the heavens, faintly shining above the one shining so brightly.   
 
 


Thursday, September 13, 2012

He Keeps Me Singing ~

Psalm 28:7  The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.

I read this verse and then I considered.  God is wonderful and so worthy to be praised!  I needed this verse today, and I am so thankful that I came upon it in searching out a promise today.  God knew I needed it and so…He gave.

Upon reading it I decided that I needed to break down some of the key words; to search out definition to each of them.  The explaination below is how I was enlightened.  I hope it helps you also.
   
The Lord is my physical power and energy; It is He who keeps me strong.  He is my protection from danger, risk, and unpleasant experiences.  With all my heart I have firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, and strength of my God; I confide in Him; I hold fast to my faith in Him. God makes all trials easier for me because in everything I do and in everything I go through, He offers me His aid.  Because my soul, my mind, my spirit, and my courage is bolstered by His support and love for me, I can now (by a considerable amount; very much) feel and show great joy and delight. It is only God who  fills me up; it is He who makes me whole.  And because the Lord does all this for me I am able to burst out in songs of thanksgiving.
      
Psalm 18 
I will love thee, O Lord, my strength.  The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.  

I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies. The sorrows of death compassed me, and the floods of ungodly men made me afraid. 

The sorrows of hell compassed me about: the snares of death prevented me.  In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears.
   

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

WWJD

Matthew 9:10-13  And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with him and his disciples. And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth you Master with publicans and sinners?  But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick.  But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy,and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

The New Living Version says verse 12 like this:  When Jesus heard this, he said, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do.” 13) Then he added, “Now go and learn the meaning of this Scripture: ‘I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.’  For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.”

It is always good for each and everyone of us to not think highly of ourselves than we ought to think. For there is NOTHING that is hidden from Jesus.  He knows it all.  Jesus didn’t take too kindly to the Pharisees.  And, I have to say, I really don’t either.  If you find fault in me over this, I hope you'll talk to Jesus about it.  :-) 

So many times humanity forgets where they came from…they forget that they ever have/had a past trial/failure/sin...and it seems that they easily point accusations at others.  Instead of being like Jesus, they choose to not be merciful and they offer sacrifices instead.  By doing so, they are “spinning there wheels”.  Instead of progressing/advancing in God’s Kingdom, they become a whirlwind, wrecking havoc in the lives of others (as well as their own), never really getting the vision of what God, Calvary, and His Bride are all about.  This is so sad.  Really.
 
I’m so thankful Jesus took time out for me.  I'm so thankful that He's willing to sit with me.  To talk with me.  To love me.  And, I’m grateful that I have access to a brand-new-supply of His mercy each day I live.

As for me and my house we serve the living, holy, true, just, and merciful God. He paid all the sacrifice that ever was needed (in full) the day He died on Calvary.  His blood washes, cleanses, and makes people whole.  And what's more....He remembers our sin no more.   Jesus is the Final Judge….He is truly and wholly righteous….yet, He chooses each day to dish out to me His mercy…

not condemnation.

So, if you come upon an issue in your own life, or in the life of someone else, that you don’t think is right, I beg of you....before you act upon anything, ask yourself today, “What would Jesus do?”

Monday, September 10, 2012

A Clean Covering ~

Proverbs 30:5  Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.

Every word of God is pure…
The word Pure is a descriptive word.  Descriptive words give a clearer understanding.  This word is defined like this:  Not mixed or adulterated with any other substance or material; it is without any extraneous and unnecessary elements
Synonyms: clear, clean, sheer, chaste, neat.

He is a shield unto them that put their trust in him….
The object-form (noun) of the word Shield is defined like this:  a broad piece of medal, or another suitable material, held by straps or handle attached on one side, used as a protection against blows.
The action-form (verb) of this word is defined as: Protect (someone or something) from danger, risk, or unpleasant experience. 
Synonyms: screen, cover, shelter, protection, guard

The words that God tells us are not muddied, contaminated, or mixed with confusion.  They are clear, clean, and chaste. The things He whispers into us are filled with love and truth.  The words God speak add no extra undo weight.  They are right on; perfect, pure. 

Our God is valiant in battle.  He is victorious.  He always wins! If we desire to come through anything victoriously we must work with Him and be willing to be guided by Him.  He is our shelter and our peace. 

If anything or anyone comes against us with intention of harming us, they have to go through Jesus first!  He IS a shield unto them that put their trust in Him.  His blood is a covering. 

So whatever circumstance/situation you face, know this: God is right there with you.  Nothing can harm you if you keep Jesus as your shield!!!  He will NEVER forsake you.  He is for you and not against you.  You will come through victoriously because HE is going to make sure that you do. Know this: God works ALL THINGS for good.  So....things that have been hurled at you to destroy you....well rest in God's sufficient grace.....because that thing that was meant for your destruction, in God's hands is just a tool for your perfection. 

The unexpected trials, as well as any trials you face in this life, only lead you closer Home.  Hold on to Jesus.  Don’t let go.  Allow HIM to be your shield.  He means all things for your good. He is your protection, so allow Him the privilege of covering you.  And, believe me, He WILL count it an honor to do so.  He paid it all at Calvary.  He's loved you since before you were forming in your mother's womb.  And, He has a plan for your life. 

Allow yourself to be encouraged in the Lord.  Our Father does not harm His children. 
He protects. 
He loves.
In the midst of the turmoil allow Him to whisper sweet words into your ears, in your heart, and your spirit.  You don't have to understand the details, just trust Him and know He's working His plan.  :-) 

Saturday, September 8, 2012

Week of Miracles

This week has been...
So good.
So hard.
So bitter.
So sweet.
So enlightening.
So surreal.
So miraculous

I have come to learn more greatly the power of God and His workings in my life. He is divine! Oh, what a love!

I have also learned that human perception is not sometimes the true reality. We all must know this. And, with knowing this, should come the workings of the Spirit of God in a Holy Ghost filled soul.  One of the attributes of the Holy Spirit is: Goodness, Temperance which equals....Compassion.

This week I have learned even more clearly (than I ever imagined before) that the actions and words of humanity are edifying or destructive. There really is nothing inbetween.  Our words and actions either uplift or defame. I really thought I knew that already. I didn't. Until this week.

I have learned with upmost certainty that it is GOD that has my back. Funny...how I thought I already knew that. O, but Now....I KNOW. O, how SWEET it is to TRUST in JESUS. Just to take Him at His Word. GOD's GOT IT! He knows exactly what He's doing. He is not confused.

This week I have learned that friendships are nice, but it is the friendship of GOD that means most. That kind of love is precious. sweet. fulfilling. void of error. This kind of friendship will make you whole. will keep you whole. will hold on and keep you together when you feel that you are falling in a zillion pieces. Jesus is a FRIEND that sticks by my side when everyone else cannot be there at the moment or either just too selfish otherwise. My FRIEND--Jesus--His motives are pure. without jealousy.  without resentment.  He knows EVERYTHING...and loves me still.

This week it has become more clear that there is POWER in prayer.  If you want power and miracles and answers, PRAY! 

I only wish I'd allowed myself the privilege to really know this YEARS ago. (Like 25 years ago) :-)
 
Jesus will pick up the shattered brokeness of our life and He lovingly puts it all back together. And, while others seem to think it is their God-given duty to play the role of the Potter, it is HE who is the Potter. And He does all things well.

This week I have learned more clearly--although I still look through a glass darkly---that GOD is The Miracle Worker!!! I have learned that when one finally lets go of their own plan that is the moment when God can step in to show His divine, miraculous plan.

When we let HIM have it that is when HE can begin to fix it! 

Galatians 5:22-23  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

Galatians 6:9  And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap if we faint not.

KEEP ON KEEPING ON!  IT PAYS TO SERVE THE LORD!!!!

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

To Be Like Jesus ~

For the past week or so I have thought of this: Through many toils, dangers, and snares we have already come.  Twas Grace that brought us safe thus far…and Grace will lead us home. Words penned by a man that definitely KNEW what Grace was all about.  The words are a verse from the song “Amazing Grace”.

Grace….Oh, it is amazing, my friend!...and not meant to be taken lightly.  Unmerited favor, oh how sweet it is. It is the Name of Jesus and His precious blood that is our safe haven, but it is Grace that gives the strength needed to whisper us there. 
 
Galatians 5:22-23  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law

When one walks through the orchard they can smell the fragance of the blossom (fruit) that the trees are producing.  So likewise it is when people walk through the garden of our own lives, OR when we walk in theirs.  When we have the Spirit working in our life it affects the senses of others in such a wonderful, and most oftentimes, miraculous way. 

Just as the apples appear on the tree in an apple orchard, when we live God’s way He brings gifts into our lives.  The fruit of the Spirit—the spirit of GOD—will produce in us things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity, a sense of compassion in the heart, and basic holiness convictions that permeates, not only our self, but the things and the people around us.  By God’s help (by His grace) we CAN make a positive difference in our world.   

God will do miracles through a heart that is alined with His Spirit.  And, the miracle seems to shine more brightly when you have a friend to share in its victory.  Jesus has been that friend to us.    

To have a friend is to have one of the sweetest gifts that life can bring; to be a friend is to have a solemn and tender education of the soul from day to day. ---Amy Robertson Brown

All of us desire a friend here on earth, few know how to be one.  To have a solemn and tender education of the soul…daily. That is the class room I want to dwell in.  If we really understood the soul of humanity like our Lord understands it I wonder what kind of friend you and I would be?  To think on this statement is nothing small.  It makes me stand in awe and much gratitude of the friendship of my God. The One who knows all there is to know---the good, the bad, the ugly---yet willingly He sacrificed Himself for me anyway.  Jesus—the God man—fulfilled Galatians 5:22-23, and what an example He is! He LOVES with an infinite love [John 3:16] and He’s a friend like no other [Proverbs 18:24].