His Invitation

The Sweet Call of God

2011-07-27T09:33:00.000-07:00

The other day I walked by a deep red cardinal who began to sing a sweet melody. As I listened, I discovered that another cardinal always responded to him with the same song. Someone told me that cardinals are monogamous and that the male always protects the female. They call to know the location of the other.

I don't know if this is true, but as they continued calling to each other, I thought about how God calls us, saying "Here I am, My beloved! I am here with you just as I promised." With a sweet song God can comfort our hearts, minds and souls. Whenever I see a cardinal, I like to think that it is God letting me know He is with me wherever I go and in spite of what I believe my life, vocation, appearance, etc. are like, all is well. This simple reminder always brings a smile to my face and a prayer of thanksgiving.

For today, I encourage you to take notice of the longing in your heart and soul. What is it crying out for? Ask God to call to you now and reveal His deepest desires for you. He promises to be found when He is sought (Jeremiah 29:13). Trust that He will reveal the longing within you and bless you with joy in its fulfillment (Ephesians 3:16-19). Don't be surprised if He reveals that He simply wants time alone with you. Enjoy!

Throughout His Word, God shares His longing for us and calls us with promises of protection, rest, provision and love - everything we need for living. Imagine His delight when we respond!

For reflection:
"I have summoned you by name; you are Mine. Do not be afraid, for I am with you." Isaiah 43:1

"Come all who are weary and heavy-laden and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

"I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness." Jeremiah 31:3

Missing the Light

2011-06-28T09:52:00.000-07:00

One of our ceiling lights had blown out and as I moved the ladder towards it, I noticed a long cobweb running from it. I thought, how did we miss it in our cleaning? Simple, we didn't look up!

I thought about this in regards to my relationship with God. I am not aware of the light until there is darkness and I am not aware of the cobwebs until I look up. When I look up, remove the dust and darkness there is light.

In living each day, we are more often focused on who or what is at our feet and around us, forgetting to take much needed time to look up. How my perspective changes when I take my eyes off of myself, my desires, needs, wants and circumstances and look to my heavenly Father! I am usually comforted and encouraged because like Motel 6, the light is always on.

May God be the Light you need today. May He comfort and bless you where you are. Receive and rest in His warm embrace.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder to look up to You where I am and with all that I am. You are merciful and loving and as You promised, You can always be found when we seek You. Your children need you more and more every day, Lord. Be the Light we need. In Jesus' name, Amen.

God - The More We Need

2011-06-26T12:04:00.000-07:00

"And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work...Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. " (2 Corinthians 9:8, 10-11)

Church and the fellowship that followed was full of lessons today. For years I have struggled with a lack mentality and once again, came to a point where I begged God to set me free. As usual, spiritual warfare ensued and I could not find relief or peace for the remainder of this past week.

When I arrived at church today, every worship song was about rejoicing in the Lord for all He has done and for who He is - Living Water. After worship, one of our pastors stood up and shared a story about how her children had been graciously and respectfully sharing a bottle of fruit punch. When they got near the end of the bottle, one of her children decided to finish it all which sent the other children into a tizzy. Our pastor kept telling her children to look at her and hear her words. "There is more in the refrigerator." She shared that oftentimes we cling to what we have and hold back in giving because of our lack or fear of loss. But God wants us to know that there is more. He has more for us. He is the More we need. Talk about a different perspective! I needed to see God in a new light as my Provider. I knew He was, but today I had a better understanding of Ephesians 3:20. I know in my head that He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all I could ask or imagine, but I needed to know that truth within me.

Later in the service our senior pastor preached John 4:7-10 about the meeting between Jesus and the woman at the well. Our pastor shared that Jesus will meet us in our dry places and be the tall drink we need. He will stoop deep for us to be filled and at peace. That is why Jesus extended His invitation to rest (Mt 11:28-30). He knew about the dry places, our position in the spiritual tug-of-war and how weak we become in the battle. He is our refuge and He will go to the ends of the earth even if all we can do is cry out, "Help me!" I cried out last night, praying for peace and to be set free from the oppressive stronghold of a lack mentality. I want to be sold out for Him. I want to stand in strength and confidence in Him, but last night I could not where I was. How gracious and merciful He is!

Heavenly Father, thank you for relief, peace, rest and freedom. Thank you for quenching my thirst and for Your promise of more. Know that I am truly grateful for all that You have given me, but know even more, that I love You for You have been what I needed right when I needed it. Be glorified and honored. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Monica

And We Learn to Sing

2011-06-11T13:49:00.000-07:00

"If we have God's assurance behind us, the most amazing strength becomes ours, and we learn to sing, glorifying Him..." My Utmost for His Highest

No matter what circumstances, disappointing or seemingly hopeless situations we encounter, we can learn to sing. We can sing hymns of praise and psalms that speak of our despair or heartbreak and sin. Either way, we can learn to sing.

In the duties of our day, a song comes to mind. Lift it up to Him. When we wake in the morning and there is a song playing in our heads, lift it up to Him. Let it flow. Let it be. It honors Him, comforts and delights Him.

Let us rejoice and sing because of who He is! Let us rejoice and sing because He is always with us! Let us rejoice and sing because He has sustained and delivered us! Rejoice and sing because He showed up and showed off!

Sing, just because...

Monica

Failure - Stay or Grow Forward?

2011-04-24T09:04:00.000-07:00

I was reading John Ortberg's book, If You Want to Walk on Water, You've Got to Get Out of the Boat, for the fifth or sixth time and realized that "failure" is okay. It provides me a choice - I can stay where I am, dreaming of what I could do or be, or I could learn and grow forward.

I have been stuck in a comfort zone for four years. The first two were necessary because I was so burned out from working in the retail industry for 24 years where no matter how hard you try, if you don't achieve the goals set before you, you are not good enough. During that time period, I watched a lot of dreams die, so by the end of those years I had nothing left to give. So I rested and got comfortable. Now, it is time to step out in faith again in my business/ministry, relationships and other areas of my life. I have stepped out in faith before, but things didn't turn out the way I had planned which equals failure in the eyes of many. What Ortberg teaches about failure is that it does not shape us; it is how we respond to it that shapes us (p. 24). This means that when life and plans don't work out, I can choose to give up or I can choose to feel disappointment, hurt and frustration, learn from what didn't work, celebrate what did and grow forward.

Today we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who has given us new life, freedom from unbelief, fear of public humiliation and stuck-itis. Will I choose to follow Him and receive the more He has for me or will I choose to stay safe? I want to be free and experience the joy that comes with living His life for me instead of living in the fear of failure.

Lord, help me nail my shame and fear to the Cross of Christ and leave it there! Move me to step out in faith and if bridges have to be burned or the boat has to sink leaving me no choice but to move forward, so be it. Strengthen me. Help me keep my eyes on You. Help me be who You created me to be for Your glory and honor. In Jesus' name, Amen.

She Speaks Conference

2010-03-22T14:28:00.000-07:00

The She Speaks Conference is an amazing opportunity for women who are called to write, speak or lead a women's ministry. This conference offers time for fellowship, learning and growth in the giftings God has bestowed upon us. Those who coordinate the event even provide scholarships for those who would like to attend, but may not be able to for financial reasons. I love this as I am a big believer in the underdog succeeding! My heart cheers for those, who against all odds (including unbelief from loved ones), not only succeed at what they set out to accomplish, but also come out on top. This requires faith, determination and trust in God and it is a blessing to be associated with a ministry that believes in turning around and helping other women walk out their God-given destiny.

As a full-time seminary student who can only work part-time because of her class schedule, I so want to be a part of this year's conference. I have wanted to attend for the past five years, but have never had the money to attend. Just a few weeks ago, one of my professors challenged me to get my own women's ministry up and running as he believed there was a need to teach women godly beauty, how to discover their spiritual giftings and live out His call on their lives. My seminary and Christian life coaching training are the extra resources and equipping I need to carry out the ministry God has laid on my heart. Attending the She Speaks Conference will give me the training in other avenues that can be used to reach God's girls.

I am madly, deeply in love with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and so want other women to have an intimate relationship with Him as there is nothing like it! The longing to serve the Lord and provide the best for His daughters won't go away. This is something I just have to do because I love Him so.

If God has called you to serve His daughters, I encourage you to check out the Proverbs 31 Ministries She Speaks Conference website located at http://www.shespeaksconference.com/. This will give you details about the conference. If you want to know more about the scholarship, click on http://lysaterkeurst.blogspot.com/2010/03/she-speaks-scholarship-contest.html.

I pray that you will be able to attend and perhaps we can meet to share the ministries on our hearts. In the meantime, be blessed!

Monica

Fear and the Greatness of His Call

2010-02-11T06:37:00.000-08:00

Have you ever reached the point where you know for sure that you are called by God to do something great for Him? Has the call's greatness scared you into paralysis? As you continue to grow in your faith and belief, does God reveal more of what His call is to you? Has He suddenly shown you how great and powerful His call is? Has the magnitude and power of that call brought you to your knees in humility, awe and disbelief? How could He pick you? Why? Is He really sure?

In our love and devotion to God, we want to be everything He has created us to be. There is a deep longing that continually nudges us to seek more of the life He has promised us. For some, it is a nudge that comes once in a while. For others, it is a constant knocking, a sense of urgency that won't leave no matter where you run to. The power of His call is something we cannot escape. It must be surrendered to and accepted.

For those of us who have agreed to pursue the call but are still waiting, debating and analyzing it into paralysis, we gotta go! We cannot turn back because there is no place to go. God has healed our broken places of retreat and like Paul, we have to forget the past and stretch towards the high call of Jesus Christ in all its power.

The hardest part about moving forward (at this point of the journey) is moving into the greatness of the call. It is bigger than we will ever be and we know that in our own ability and strength we cannot do it. Before, there was and still may be that fear of failure - not the kind of failure that comes from the plan not working, but the kind that has humiliation wrapped around it as a result of negative responses from other souls who live in deep need, misery and fear.

As we move closer to God and His plan for our lives, we realize that a new fear surfaces (more?!) from the greatness of the power He gives us. It is going to affect other people! A huge sense of responsibility comes with that and looking at what we believe are our strengths and weaknesses, our instinct is to run or crumble in disbelief. Could God really want me to do something great? Seriously?! Yes, He does and as Oswald Chambers says in My Utmost for His Highest, we must believe that when we answer the call, in each step, God will be the God we know in our most intimate moments with Him.

I have to tell you that I am scared to step completely into His call on my life, yet there is a part of me that longs to be in that place twenty-four hours a day for the rest of my life. The steps are simple, but the decision to fully commit in faith is hard. Those steps require me to be continually transparent, leaving me vulnerable to the heartlessness in this world. Yet, I know that to fully live I have to let go of the side of the boat and move forward. Why do it? Because I don't to disappoint my heavenly Father.

God has called each of us to greatness. My prayer is that each one of us makes two decisions - one to commit to the call, and two, to lovingly encourage each other as we come closer and move into the high calling on our lives.

Be blessed and encouraged.

mts

Follow Me and Change

2010-01-21T12:36:00.000-08:00

Change. It's uncomfortable, different, comes with uncertainty, may cause us to respond in fear, sometimes lets us be in control and other times takes us for a ride. At times it may be necessary for our well being and other times, it may be meant for harm.

Are there some people, situations, beliefs or habits that need to change in your life for your greater well being? Are there places of pain or fear that keep you from changing? Are there needs so deep and painful that they take your breath away when you steal a moment to think about them? Is there a longing so deep within your soul that compels you to cry out because it is the only response you have to give? When you pray for relief, do you believe God has answered your prayers or do you keep saying them out of fear that He has not heard you or that you are not worthy or the need isn't big enough?

When Jesus called the disciples and said, "Follow Me," they did. Why? Was it a compelling command or was their response out of simple human curiosity? By His appearance, did He have something better for them - better than collecting taxes or hauling fish? We now know that His message and works were compelling and still are to this day.

If Jesus said to you, "Follow Me," would you go? Would you leave all that you are clinging to and follow Him? Many of us would say, "But, I have this or that to do. But, I am not ready to go because I don't have this or that or I don't look the part." The apostles went without regard for what they had or did not have or what they were or were not.

With all that you know about Jesus, would you willingly give up all to follow Him? Does knowing who He is and His promises of rest make you consider following instead of leading for once in your life? In the midst of your fear, uncertainty, distrust and pain, did it ever occur to you that "Follow Me," could be the answer to your prayers or fulfillment of your deep need? He gives us invitation after invitation to take His yoke upon us after laying down our heavy burdens, yet we still insist on going our way.

What would happen if you accepted His invitation? What would life be like if you followed Him? What if it was better than it is now? Would it be worth stepping out and away to follow Him?

Think about it.

My Life's Resolution

2010-01-08T10:28:00.000-08:00

Every year, many of us make New Year's resolutions. Some we keep and some we just don't bother with after a few attempts. A few years ago, I decided to stop making resolutions because they were the same every year and my heart wasn't in them. Instead, I prayed and asked God what He wanted of, from and for me each year. A certain word would come to mind such as transform, freedom, or new and fresh. This year, I sense the word commitment. By this I mean being completely immersed in living my life for Christ, doing my best to live out His Word, trusting that He will work it in and through me.

During my devotional time this morning, I read Oswald Chambers' My Utmost for His Highest which talked about being a living sacrifice and what that really means. So I began to reflect on Romans 12:1-2, which led me to Philippians 4:13, 3:10-11 and finally 3:12-14. As I read, reread and meditated on these passages, I began to write them out as to how they would be applied in my life: Philippians 3:12-14 would lead to Philippians 3:10-11 leading to Romans 12:1-2 to Philippians 4:13. I thought this process of living could be my resolution for 2010, but then realized this was my truth and life's resolution.

I am currently attending seminary which I am loving and I am training to be a Christian life coach because of God's call on my life to lead His daughters into a life of freedom from the world's chaos and control. My background has been in image consulting, helping women feel good about themselves by changing their outward appearance. This process is fun and rewarding, but is temporary. At some point the novelty wears off. Having spent twenty-four years in the retail and fashion industries, I watched women shop four and five times a week in the stores I worked in, staring at themselves in the mirror, trying to look younger, prettier, slimmer, taller and buying everything they hoped would make them just right. I grew up feeling the same way and could see the hunger and deep need for love and recognition in their faces. Today, God has called me to a different kind of image consulting - consulting from the inside out, based on His principles, bible study, prayer and reflection, resulting in an intimate relationship with Him where we discover, embrace and celebrate who we are in Him.

I have and still am discovering all that I am in Him and am moving from living in fear of failure, humiliation and disappointment to stepping out and living in freedom. My fear is still with me, but I am making myself take deep breaths, tucking my fear under my arm and moving towards all that God has for me.

I pray you are encouraged as you read, study, reflect, meditate and pray on God's Word. Trust that He will be with you as you discover, embrace and celebrate who He created you to be. Don't settle for what is good, but trust and wait for His best.

Be blessed.

Monica

My Life's Resolution

Philippians 3:12-14

so that I may know Philippians 3:10-11

by being Romans 12:1 and doing Romans 12:2

so that I may live Philippians 4:13.

Write this out for yourself.

The Love of the Father

2008-12-09T07:49:00.000-08:00

"I have loved you with an everlasting love..." Jeremiah 31:3

The love of our Father. Have you ever felt it? Have you ever let Him touch you with His love? To describe it takes words, experience and emotions that are and will be different for each of us. He is greater than human words can express, but you must know Him. For me, He is indescribable at times and at other times, He is sweet, precious, gentle, comforting, faithful, delightful, dependable and the best hugger in the world! I love Him for all these things and so much more.

I pray that others know Him now and that others will be drawn to Him daily. To know His love is to know of One who has the ability to fill every need and longing within us. For whatever you want and for every desire, He is the answer.

How to get His love is too simple for us to accept, but He stands with open arms towards all of us anyway. Some of us will run to Him, others will walk tentatively and others will run in the opposite direction. His love is more powerful than that of any human being, yet it contains all we need. It accepts us as we are with every mistake, failure, loss, indecision, and complaint. It's a love that makes no sense to what is familiar. That's why I want it. It never fails me. When I am in need, which is all the time, I can count on God's love. It fills me, comforts and consoles. It makes me laugh and surprises me with the simple desires of my heart. It completes me. In the chaos of my day or in the darkest moments, I reach for Him, call out to Him and He is there. Always there.

Reach for Him. Seek His face. Take a deep breath and let Him love you. You may think you are the lowest of the low, but in His eyes you are glorious, a display of His splendor. No other human may love you, but He has always loved you. Yes, it's hard to fathom. Why, with all that you have done or not done, would He want to love you? Because He can. Because He wants to. Because you make His heart so full.

My friend, He adores you and wants to give you the world. Take a chance. Let Him into the places where others have trampled and the secret places where no one will ever go. Watch how He loves you then. I promise you a sweet embrace from our heavenly Father. Savor it. Share it. Keep reaching for it.

He's waiting for you.

God Is Good!

2008-11-25T10:20:00.000-08:00

I just have to say that God is good! He has such a way of showing up when we least expect Him and when He does, He is so smooth.

The past few months have been full of work and enemy distractions, but God has been faithful. He kept His promise to never leave me nor forsake me and for that, I am truly grateful. Our heavenly Father opened my eyes to some projects that I had taken on, believing that I needed certain skills and experience in order to serve Him. He kept speaking to my spirit and reminding me that the harvest was not only ripe, but really overripe!

So I gave up some of my projects and responsibilities and decided to make time to sit and listen to Him. Oh, how sweet He is when we wait on Him! What glory and splendor He shows when we delight in Him and seek His face. The effort isn't great, but it is a choice only we can make. He is a mighty God with a warm, gracious and loving heart that wants to simply love us. He wants to touch us, change us and shine through us so that others will know Him and seek His face. He has so much to give and longs for us to run to Him for every need and for every bit of us that is empty. His arms are always open and not a moment goes by where He doesn't think about each one of us. Yes, He thinks about you and me all the time. There isn't a human being on this earth who can do that!

Whether you believe you are worthy of His love and presence doesn't matter. What matters is that He is there waiting for you to come to Him. He has everything you need and is everything you need. Please drop every burden and every care, even if it is just for a few minutes. Give them to Him to work out. It may seem strange at first and you may wonder what to do now that you are not carrying everything. Once that happens, do the oddest thing - rest! Rest and let Him take hold of the reigns. Rest and let Him carry your world for you. When others come to you with their burdens, tell them what you did - accepted Christ's invitation to come, lay down your heavy burdens and rest. You will feel weary once you let go and it may take some time, even months before you feel rested. That only shows how much you have been carrying on your own. But, continue to rest in Him and listen to what He has to say. Listen to His heart. Receive His love and grace. It may be hard to do this, but it is what He has for each one of us because He simply loves us. He loves so simply.

My friends, please let God love you today and watch what happens. Give Him a chance to show He is there for you. Then thank Him. Thank Him for everything you can think of. He will delight in your acknowledgement and will show you so much more of His glory. And He will show you that even you were created to be a display of His splendor right where you are and just as you are. Then thank Him again for He is worthy to be praised!

Be blessed my friends!

Which Way Should I Go?

2008-06-30T09:03:00.000-07:00

"For what I want to do, I do not do, but what I hate I do." (Romans 7:15, NIV)

How the enemy must laugh when we send ourselves into circles believing his lies. The doubt and condemnation is enough to make a person crazy! How many of you set goals for yourselves, make detailed plans to achieve them, then don't do anything with them? How many of you then think that the power and results come from God, so why should I be so concerned? God's plans will come to fruition no matter what I do or don't do. Then we hear the catchy affirmations like, "If it's going to be, it's up to me!"

So what do you believe - the affirmations created by man or the Scriptures created by God? Do we really need to think about this?! My personal desire is to be used by God for His purposes and I know that the desires in my heart are from Him. The toughest part is figuring out how to achieve those dreams and goals. Do I go after them strictly on faith, prayer and God's leading or do I set goals with action steps, time lines and accountability markers to check my "progress"? Can't I simply trust God to open doors for me and walk through them in confidence knowing He has given me everything I need for success? Or, do I have to work and work and work through actions versus work and work and work through prayer, faith and belief in God?

We often hear that our actions show faith in God. So what actions are the right actions for God's plans? His Word says to do with all my might as if I were doing it for Him. Isn't that my whole purpose for living? Aren't my actions to be a reflection of Jesus Christ? So, if I don't have my day planner completely filled with activities and I am not running the gerbil wheel at least twelve hours a day chasing after my dreams, am I not living right? Am I being disobedient to God? Is my "laziness" an offense to Him?

Dear God, tell me which way to go because all I know how to do is my best. Order my steps so that what I do brings You glory. If I am headed in the wrong direction, make your plans clear, close doors and turn me in the way in which I should go. My life is for Your honor. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen.

A New Thing

2008-06-16T08:27:00.000-07:00

"I have summoned you by name; you are mine...See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." Isaiah 43:1,19 NIV

For those of you who check this blog frequently, I apologize for not having written for a while. I began seminary last month and have been adjusting to working full-time and going to school along with the other responsibilities in my life.

God is doing a mighty work within me though, a work that I can only describe as spiritual transformation. The emotional, mental and spiritual battle waging within has been draining. The confusion and frustration drive me to despair at times and I wonder if I am close to what David must have felt when he wrote the psalms. But, "I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me!"

Despite the war within, I am loving my classes and the seminary experience. That might not make sense, but I know the raging battle is because of my obedience to God. The enemy is not happy that I am walking in my destiny, but seminary is where I am supposed to be; it is part of God's call on my life. As long as I seek Him, I will have victory!

So today, let's praise God for Who He is. Praise Him for His love! Praise Him for His promises and blessings! Praise Him just because we can!

Heavenly Father, thank you for choosing me for Your plans. Thank you for ordering my steps and protecting me from the enemy. Thank you for doing a new thing in my life. Help me throughout this journey - in my laying down of self, in standing on Your Word and its promises, in my belief and faith. May You be glorified in all that I do and in all that I am. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

He Really Does Answer Prayer!

2008-05-12T07:13:00.000-07:00

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. I will be found by you,' declares the Lord, 'and will bring you back from captivity.'" (Jeremiah 29:11-14, NIV)

God really does answer prayer! I know it may be hard to believe especially when you are in the middle of a dark, stressful time, but He does come through. If we remember that His ways and thoughts are not the same as ours, we can learn to expect Him at all times.

God has a way of surprising us in the tiniest of details as well as in the big things of life. As God's children, we must believe what He says about His character and promises. It is a choice we must make to trust that He really does know the plans He has for us and in our trusting cast all of our cares in obedience.

When we take a step in faith, God will move mountains for His children. I attended a conference a few months ago and heard a speaker say that, "When we make a decision, God will move the universe!" What an amazing revelation and promise! Despite what I have done or not done in my life, when I make a decision to step out in faith, God will move heaven and earth just for me! Wow!

The beauty of these promises comes from the immeasurable love God has for His children. We don't deserve it and could never earn it, but He freely gives it. Hallelujah! And to think that all we have to do is choose to believe, trust, wait on Him with expectancy and simply delight in Him. Even when we do those simple steps He shows up.

God has mercy for us, grace and wisdom for living each day and power to help us overcome life's circumstances. When there is no hope and we have done all we can do as humans, God can do so much more. I am limited in my own efforts, but with God I can do all things.

If you are in a place that doesn't seem to be getting any better, if you have lost all hope and have done all you can, seek God. Simply ask Him to help you. Believe He will answer your prayers and know that they will be answered in ways that you would never expect. Look for Him in all things and watch His glory unfold.

Lord, may we seek You and seek You with our whole hearts. We often get ourselves in situations that we don't know how to get out of. Help us to remember that You know all things and that You do care about each one of us. Help us believe and trust in You. Remind us to turn to You at all times for all things. Change our hearts, our minds and our ways for Your glory and promises. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Why God

2008-05-08T06:50:00.000-07:00

"And I will walk among you, and will be your God, and ye shall be my people." Leviticus 26:12

Those who do not know the Lord, ask how and why Christians believe in Him. When I look at what He has done in my life and in the lives of other Christians, I can't help but believe in Him. Issues have been resolved, unexplainable blessings have been received and miracles have occurred. None of these could have been accomplished by human hands, only by faith and the power of God.

I have been faced with a challenge or what I would call a challenge and finally met it head on the other day. I was accepted into grad school via an online program with a prestigious Christian university. I am so excited about the opportunity to learn and deepen my faith in the Lord. My biggest fears were paying for school and managing it with work. I have a job that I am grateful for but am not crazy about. I finally shared with my boss, who is also my father, this great opportunity for school. The sharing part went well, but I was finally faced with what to do about a career. I have been praying and asking God to make a way for me to go to school full-time and provide the financial means to pay for it and my personal needs over the next three years. My desire is to focus fully on my school work and some other opportunities that God has laid on my heart.

Over the past two weeks, 2 Corinthians 5:7 ("For we walk by faith, not by sight.") has been repeated many times in passages I have read or in conversations with friends. Some have even said, "If you want to walk on water, you have to get out of the boat!" I am once again at a point where I have to trust God in a mighty way to open doors and bless as He sees fit. Yes, some of the changes and opportunities require effort on my part, but the impossible or miraculous can only come from God. What some people call fate or luck, Christians know is the grace, love and power of Almighty God.

When you are faced with challenges that you have no idea how to resolve or get through and suddenly an opportunity or resolution appears that no human could have performed, you know it has to be God! When doors open and your dream is handed to you so smoothly and effortlessly, it can only be God. When your dreams are achieved, needs are met in greater ways than you planned or expected, it's because God's hand was in it. There is nothing any human can do without the grace of God. We have power, abilities, talents, skills, creativity, wisdom, knowledge and strength because of our Creator. We didn't give any of these to ourselves. He gave us these attributes as gifts for the sole purpose of using them for His glory. God isn't selfish. He, like us, just wants to be received, recognized, accepted and loved.

If you have dreams in your heart or circumstances that you don't know how to handle or resolve, make an attempt to ask God for help. He will help if you ask. You don't have to be perfect. He already knows what we have done or not done and what our intentions are. Almighty God just wants His children, the human race, to trust Him and love Him, and He in turn will bless us in amazing ways.

Lord, there are so many of us who do not know You, are afraid of You or don't believe in You. Forgive us and help us to see You as we need to. Help us come to You with all that we have. Teach us to trust You. Show us how to believe in You. Help us receive Your love and grace. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Life as a Christian

2008-05-07T05:41:00.000-07:00

Do you know Jesus Christ? Do you know anyone who does know Him? What is your impression of their belief and faith? Are you sceptical? Do you have a distaste for what they believe?

Many people believe from experience that being a Christian comes with a holier-than-thou attitude and a distaste for anyone not a Christian. Others think Christians are just fanatics or plain crazy. Do those of us who are Christians even have a desire to set the record straight for those who are not?

Being a Christian has been an amazing journey for me. When I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior twenty-three years ago, I had no idea what I was in for. These have been years of amazing blessings, and overwhelming trials, none of which I would trade. They have made me stronger, a little bolder and a great lover of Jesus Christ.

My life as a Christian has not always been a bed of roses and it never will be. God has taught me that Christianity is simply a relationship with Him. It's sitting with Him in prayer throughout the day. It is reading the Bible and asking Him for wisdom, understanding and guidance. It's learning to surrender to His will and being obedient to His commands and call on our lives. It's getting to know Him and falling madly, deeply in love with Him. And it is sharing this faith and all that He is with others.

The results of a life with Christ are unspeakable joy, unfathomable love, immeasurable grace, and an indescribable sweetness in your life. There are trials, heartache and pain throughout our lives as Christians, but having a relationship with God teaches us how to trust Him, how to wait on Him to help us through each trial, patience, and expecting and receiving victory and blessings.

Many people think you have to be perfect to be a Christian. It ain't so! Perfection is attained as we live our lives as believers in Jesus Christ and it is all done by God. Our part of perfection is being surrendered to God so that He can transform us into the likeness of His Son, Jesus. Our trials and victories are what make us more like Him. We make mistakes. We hurt people and ourselves with our actions and our words and we fail. But because we have a relationship with God and because He loves us more than anything, He gives us more chances to get it right. And as we grow, we learn that living as a Christian can only be done by His power not ours.

I love the Lord, because He sacrificed His Son out of love for me, a sinner. He has accepted me as I am, my mistakes and failures. Yet, He still loves me. Is it possible for someone to love us no matter what we have said and done to ourselves and others? Absolutely! God is the Someone Who can, will and does love us for all that we are. He created us so that He could love us. That is His only motive and all He wants in return is for us to love Him. He is really quite simple! The beauty of being a Christian is knowing that His love exists purely for us and that it is there every moment of everyday.

If you don't know Jesus Christ and would like to find out more, simply ask Him. He would be delighted to hear from you and is actually waiting just for this moment.

Lord, for those who do not know You, I pray that they will seek you today and every day. I pray that they will continue to seek Your face and have a sweet relationship with You. Touch each one of them Lord and direct their steps to where You want them to be. Lead them to those who can help them in their new life's journey. Renew their spirits and fill them with Your glorious love and grace.

For those who do know You Lord, strengthen them and continue to guide them. If they have turned from You or are in such great need, call them near. Help them hear Your voice and find rest and comfort in You. Encourage each one of us to reach out with open arms to those who are searching to be filled. May we be Your shining light and hope for them.

You are the sweetest, most precious gift we could ever have. May we rejoice in all that You are and give You all the glory, honor and praise. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Are You Ready Yet?!

2008-04-25T06:01:00.000-07:00

"Be ready in season and out of season." 2 Timothy 4:2

I just read today's daily devotional from "My Utmost for His Highest." Oswald Chambers talks about being ready all the time to do the work God has called us to do, even when we don't feel like it or feel inspired. It was a gentle thump on my forehead this morning!

For several weeks now, I have not felt inspired to write for this blog. I felt "blocked" and couldn't put in to words what God was doing on the inside of me. After reading Oswald Chambers' devotional, I now know for sure this blog is not for me, but for God. I asked Him last night to let me be a pencil for Him and as He often does, He used His good sense of humor to answer my prayers.

When God gives us a vehicle to use for His plans, we have to work with and through it if we are going to faithfully answer His call. I continually ask Him to use me for His purposes. When the vehicles, locations or situations for use are not to my liking I get upset or disappointed because they are not to my expectations. You know, I really am not my own and the price that was paid for me is worth more than my thinking I am all that and a bag o' chips!

A life lived for Christ takes surrender, preparation and a willingness to do whatever whenever He commands. What I have discovered is that moments of glory for Him come when we are not looking for them (clearly life is not all about us!).

We get to serve a Mighty God Who wants His children to touch every soul in this world and share the Gospel. This command is not an option, but a life long mission. Because Jesus paid the price for our sins, we don't get to decide when we will be used by God. A command was given and must be obeyed at all times, at all costs. That is our price as His disciples. Jesus did what we could never do. How we must grieve Him when we refuse to be used His way!

Lord, forgive me for being so spiritually minded and of no good for You. Change me today. Help me see what You see. Move me to do. Help me love the way You love. I only want to serve You because I love You so much. Be glorified. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

It's All About Jesus

2008-04-18T08:46:00.001-07:00

"I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some." 1 Corinthians 9:22

"For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified." 1 Corinthians 2:2

"But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose this day whom you will serve...But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord!" Joshua 24:15

My work, my labor, my purpose must be to Jesus Christ. I live, I do, I breathe all for His glory. He chose me to be a witness to Him in all the world. My life is His for the using. I may have a list of dreams and desires, needs and wants, but ultimately all that is done, given and endured is for His purpose.

He knows the plans He has for us and they are plans for good. "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." He places visions and desires in our hearts for Him to provide and accomplish. The possibility, the power and authority for achievement come from Him and Him alone.

Our sole mission is to do the will of the Father just as Jesus did while here on earth. How do I live the will of my heavenly Father? Through a surrendered life, obedience to His commands, committing my all to Him, trusting in Him and His promises, having His Word flow through my heart, living in a place of gratitude for being saved from sin and death and being available for Him to move through me so that others will know Him. Allowing God to bend, mold, shape, break and rebuild me makes for a testimony, a witness for His glory.

Lord, I may not understand why you send me where you send me or allow me to go through situations and circumstances that are painful or confusing, but this I do know - You are in control! I do know that I love You and I do know that I want to be used by You. So, as scary as these words are to say, have Your way Lord in every area of my life. Make me who You need me to be and help me trust You more and more as I live each day. I love You so. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Blessed Beyond Measure

2008-04-17T05:36:00.000-07:00

"If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all His commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. All these blessings will come upon you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God: you will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country. The fruit of your womb will be blessed, and the crops of your land and the young of your livestock - the calves of your herds and the lambs of your flocks. Your basket and your kneading trough will be blessed. You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out. The Lord will grant that the enemies who rise up against you will be defeated before you. They will come at you from one direction but flee from you in seven. The Lord will send a blessing on your barns and on everything you put your hand to. The Lord your God will bless you in the land He is giving you. The Lord will establish you as His holy people, as He promised you on oath, if you keep the commands of the Lord your God and walk in His ways. Then all the peoples on earth will see that you are called by the name of the Lord, and they will fear you. The Lord will grant you abundant prosperity - in the fruit of your womb, the young of your livestock and the crops of your ground - in the land He swore to your forefathers to give you. The Lord will open the heavens, the storehouse of His bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands. You will lend to many nations but will borrow from none. The Lord will make you the head and not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom. Do not turn aside from any of the commands I give you today, to the right or to the left, following other gods and serving them." Deuteronomy 28:1-14

This Scripture basically sums up all that we could ever need and the abundance, graciousness and love of our heavenly Father. Just think, all you have to do is obey Him and He will bless you. Just simply obey.

How difficult is obedience? I think it is as difficult as we choose to make it. Life is perception and reality and how we perceive situations, circumstances, people, ourselves and God will determine what we get out of life. If we perceive all of the above as God sees them, we really are heirs, conquerors and a light to the world. If we choose to focus on the hardship of our circumstances, all that is ugly in the world and our failures, we may suffer more than God intended.

I know life isn't easy, but I also know that I want all that God has for me. Can you imagine your life filled with all of the blessings listed in Deuteronomy 28:1-14? What would you do? I know I would be praising Him like never before. I would do all I knew how to do and then some to be sure He gets all the glory, honor and praise. I would believe Him.

Now, why should we wait for those blessings to come before we praise Him and give Him glory? Doesn't His Word tell us to rejoice and be glad in Him, delight in Him, turn away from all other gods, love Him with all that we have and are, love others as we love ourselves and be witnesses to Him in all the world? If we are doing those things along with renewing our minds, can't we be blessed?

Are you doing those things already? Aren't you already obeying those commands and seeking help to be even better today than you were yesterday? Is He giving you help? Is there food on your table? Do you have a roof over your head? Do you have a job or some type of opportunity to learn, grow and give back? Do you have transportation whether it is public, a car or your two feet? Did you wake up this morning? Is there someone or many someones in your life who you love and who love you as well? If you have any of these things, all or more of them, then you are already blessed. Then you are living a blessed life.

Take some time today, even if it is just a few minutes and list all that you have and all that you are grateful for. Then praise God for each and everything you listed as each one is a blessing from Him. Then ask Him to help you see the world, your life and yourself as He sees and watch more blessings unfold. It doesn't matter whether you think you are worthy, what matters is that He is able and willing to bless you exceedingly abundantly above all that you could ask or think simply because He loves you.

The simplicity of it all - He loves you and desperately wants to bless you. All you have to do is obey and receive.

May you be blessed today and every day.

The Pleasure of His Presence

2008-04-11T07:20:00.000-07:00

"Delight in the Lord..." Psalm 37:4

Delight in the Lord for the simple pleasure of His Presence. Not with your own agenda, but just for His company. Quietly listen for Him. Rest in Him. Let Him speak to your heart sweet, sweet somethings.

The simple pleasure of His Presence - a gentle place of surrender. Lay down every care, every need and every dream. Let Him flow through you. Know His joy. His warm embrace - a precious touch.

Take my hand, O Lord and sit with me. Tell me Your secrets, share Your joys. Wrap Your loving arms around me and hold me near. Just love me so. In Jesus' Holy and Precious Name, Amen.

The Glory is His

2008-04-08T06:35:00.000-07:00

"Oh Zion! Put on thy strength. For the glory of the Lord is hidden within thee. Oh Zion! Put on they strength. Be fortified, arise and conquer. Oh Zion!" - Dwell, by Fred Hammond and the Radicals for Christ Jesus

My purpose, our purpose is to glorify the Lord in every area of our lives. Through belief, faith, trust, surrender, humility and patience, we are to seek and honor Him. It is then that we can be used for His purposes so that He, not we, may be glorified. Surrender so that He may freely mold us and transform us into the likeness of His Son, Jesus Christ.

Glory to God! He is glorious! Majesty! All eyes are to be on Him and His majesty, not for what He has done, but for Who He is - I AM WHO I AM. What power and might! And in the midst of that power is a sweet, sweet love for all people.

Bow down and worship Him. Acknowledge Him for all that He is. Have passion for His glory. Have passion for Him, joy in His Presence. Delight in His blessings. Trust in His promises. Do all that He commands for His glory. Commit all that you are and all that you have to Him.

You belong to Him - the glorious One. You are His joy and delight. He will move heaven and earth for you. It is by His grace that you are who you are, that you have what you have and that you are destined to become all that He created you to be. All for His glory!

Lord, may all that I am be for Your glory. May every word and every action bring glory to Your Name. May I be continually humbled by Your grace and used by You so that others may know You. Be glorified Lord! In Jesus' Name, Amen.

All-Consuming Passion

2008-04-02T07:13:00.001-07:00

"For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified." 1 Corinthians 2:2

My soul longs to be in step with Jesus at all times. The time I take with Him is the light of my day and the joy within me. I love sitting in His Presence, learning what He has to teach and hearing Him whisper precious somethings in my ear. What a joy You are my Lord and Savior!

As Paul states in the Scripture above, his sole focus was Jesus Christ and Him crucified. My desire is to live my life in the same way. What changes need to be made in doing this! Yet, the Lord knows my heart and I have chosen to surrender every day so that He can mold me into the character of His Son. I want to be all-consumed. I want to ooze Jesus out of every pore in my body. When I walk, I want the world to see our Savior Jesus Christ. No, I am not perfect, but my God can make me that way. I choose to lay down my life as a sacrifice for His pleasure.

Through constant study, meditation,worship and praise, gratitude on my lips and in my heart, humility and unwavering expectation my transformation will resemble that of Jesus Christ . Fill me with Your light Lord Jesus and let me light up the world for You! When You look down upon this earth, I pray You say the same words You said about King David, "I have searched the land and found this David, son of Jesse. He is a man whose heart beats to my heart, a man who will do what I tell him."

May my heart beat to Your heart. May my dreams and desires be Yours. May I be totally consumed with living my entire life for Your glory. May all that I say and do represent You well. May I know nothing except You Jesus Christ and You crucified!

Desperate for God

2008-04-01T06:12:00.000-07:00

"He said to her, 'Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.'" Mark 5:34

How desperate are you to want God moving in your life? How desperate are you to want your dreams achieved and your needs filled? Are you desperate enough to reach for Him at all costs? Will you turn away from who and what is not working in your life to Him Who will do a mighty work instead? Are you desperate enough to believe Him at His Word?

The woman who suffered an issue of blood for years is a great example of perseverance and faith. She was not going to let Jesus pass by without touching Him. She believed enough to press on to touch just the hem of His garment, hoping for healing.

What are you hoping for? What do you want Him to do in your life? What do you want to be freed from? Do you believe enough to reach out to Him? Do you believe that if you reach just a little bit more that you will touch the hem of His garment? The sweetest words to hear are, " your faith has made you well."

I just finished reading a great book called, "Prepare for Rain" by Micheal Catt. His church members wrote and produced the awesome movie, "Facing the Giants." Both the book and movie feature perfect examples of people desperate for God, people who want to see a move of God in their lives. These people prayed faithfully for change, greater faith, strength, blessings and the abilities and opportunities to reach others for the Lord. They faithfully made plans, sought God's approval, direction and correction and moved when and where He told them to move.

After I finished the book, I asked myself if I was desperate enough to believe and reach for God in the visions and dreams He has given me. I am comfortable in so many areas of my life and know that I am going to have to make some changes in order to walk out God's plans for me. In some areas I am ready to jump out of the boat and in other areas, I want to jump but don't want to leave my safe place. It's hard to jump out and completely let go when you don't know all the details of where you are going and how you are going to get there. But a decision has to be made. Do I love the Lord my God enough to jump out, let go of my boat or comfort zone and do His will? I really want to, but am I desperate enough to jump?

God, it is scary to ask You to change me so that I am desperate enough to seek only You and Your will. I know the comforts of this world are not true and will at some point let me down, unlike You, Who will always be my safety net. Make me desperate enough to reach for You, determined to touch You. Replace any and all fear with boldness and blessed assurance in You. I do want to serve You and see the visions You have placed in my heart come to fruition. Move me to do whatever it takes for Your visions to come to pass. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

You Mean, Even Me?

2008-03-31T05:59:00.000-07:00

"Now to Him Who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us..." Ephesians 3:20

"As it is written, 'No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him..." 1 Corinthians 2:9

I went to an awesome conference this weekend that was so uplifting, exciting and Spirit-filled. One of the speakers said something that I pray I will never forget. She said, "When you make a decision, God will move the universe." Those are powerful words that I have not been able to let go of. They have been working in my spirit all weekend.

Now, I know what God's Word says about His love for me, but would He really move the universe for me? God, when You look at me, do You light up inside? Are You filled with joy when You gaze upon me?

Last night I made some business decisions and took up the courage to ask God, "Would You even move the universe for me?" His answer was, "I have been waiting for you to ask so I could do just that!" Our God is waiting for us to ask Him for the dreams in our hearts. He placed them there. He is the vision giver, the dream giver. Everything that He has shown us and promised us is what is to come. He is just waiting for us to ask.

As I reflect on what this speaker said, I gain a better understanding of the love of God for His children and how badly He wants to give us our hearts' desires. I understand a little bit more about Who He is - a loving, generous Father. We are more blessed than we may ever know. Can you imagine what your life could be like if you asked God to pour out everything He has for you? If I dare to believe, am strong and courageous enough to trust, what would my Lord and Savior have for me?

If you are wondering if God has your desires in store for you, ask Him. Be bold enough or courageous enough to ask. He will answer your prayers.

Heavenly Father, I just love You so. You give me such hope and fill me with such love. Thank Your for choosing me and being forever present in my life. I pray that You will continue to show me how high, how deep, how long and how wide Your love is. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen.

Shall We Dance?

2008-03-28T07:02:00.000-07:00

For fifteen years, I trained as a ballet dancer and often took classes in partnering where you learn to trust your partner to lead. There is a good lesson in this and a hard one for me. When you are used to dancing solo or as part of a group, it is hard to lean on someone else trusting that they will take you where you are supposed to go. Letting go can be difficult. Even though I knew the choreography and the end result, I still had to rely on and work with someone else to help get us to the finale.

It is the same way in a life with God. At some point, we have to let go of the controls so that His visions can come to pass. We may not understand the way He is taking us and may even hate it, but the vision will come because He ordained it. The vision comes when we take His lead.

Lord, change my mindset to one of reliance on You. Help me to trust You with the plans You have for my life. Help me relax and let go and instead of encountering fear, find joy and wonder at every turn. I accept Your invitation to dance Lord and know that we will have an amazing finish. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

My Help

2008-03-27T06:45:00.000-07:00

"I lift up my eyes to the hills - where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip - He who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord watches over you - the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from harm - He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." Psalm 121:1-2

How badly we need the Lord. To live each day, we need His power and grace to handle every moment we live.

Yesterday, I received news that someone I knew lost a loved one. I cannot imagine the heartache and pain that this person feels for her loss. The grace is that her loved one knew the Lord and had been baptized.

God, help us see past ourselves! Like the Apostle Paul, help us be who we need to be that we might save some. You have given us dominion and authority to overcome our circumstances and to press on to Your high calling. Give us constant reminders that our lives are not about ourselves but about loving You and others. Give us wisdom and discernment in knowing when someone is in need and the ways to help them overcome. Move us to step out in love and faith just as Jesus did every day. Help us get over what's in it for me and instead be blessings to others.

People are hungry for You Lord and are in such need. You are our help and strength at all times. You have promised to never leave us nor forsake us and gave us Psalm 31:24 which says, "Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord." Help us to tell others that You are our hope, our strength and the Answer to our prayers. Help us live lives of faith, belief and blessed assurance. Let us rejoice so that we can say Psalm 16:9, "Therefore, my heart is glad and my glory rejoiceth; my flesh also shall rest in hope."

May we find rest and peace in You Lord, the peace that You promised shall surpass all understanding.

Living My "Someday"

2008-03-20T06:48:00.000-07:00

"Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV)

"Jesus replied, 'No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.'" Luke 9:62 (NIV)

I love to dream! I love to imagine what my life will be like when I achieve this goal or am blessed with this dream. Many of us say, "Someday, I am going to take that trip!" or "Someday, I am going to answer God's call on my life!" or "Someday, my life is going to be better!"

For many years, I prayed that God would give me my "someday." I prayed and recited affirmations and worked as hard as I could to achieve the dreams and goals I had wanted. But, then I got tired. I became so worn out that I couldn't believe any more. A bit of hope still remained, but the strength to keep asking, believing and praying was fading. I had worked so hard because I had believed so hard in God's promises. When I had believed and prayed for so many years and saw little to nothing happening, I wondered if maybe those dreams and goals weren't for me. Maybe what I heard as my calling was really a call for someone else. Maybe what I was believing and striving for was for someone else to do. Maybe believing wasn't worth all that I had been doing.

God finally had to get me to a place where I knew that He was in charge and that all things happen by His power. He brought me to a point where I had to let go of my old beliefs, my old ways of doing things, striving, stressing and straining. He had to renew my mind so that I was living and learning His way. Instead of believing, "If it's meant to be, it's up to me," I had to start believing, "If it's meant to be, it's up to God!"

So I decided that I wanted to live my dreams which are the visions God gave me. I decided that I wanted them bad enough to achieve them His way. Once I made that decision, I began living my "someday." I didn't have to focus on past successes and methods of doing things. I now could keep my eyes on the prize in front of me and press towards the mark - His call. I could follow His Word and live my someday all day long.

Now living my someday requires me to get my feet wet, big time! I have to swing both feet over, step into unsure waters and actually pry my fingers off my boat of comfort. Unfortunately for me, my boat of comfort is still tethered to the dock with so many knots that it ain't going anywhere! So if I am going to be the woman God has called me to be, I have to step off the boat and let go every day just as John Ortberg wrote in his book, "If You Want to Walk on Water, You've Got to Get Out of the Boat."

Now what does my someday look like? It looks like all the visions God has given me. It looks exceeding abundantly above all I could ask or think. It looks like the promised land, a land flowing with milk and honey. It's a someday with every nook and cranny filled with God and all that He is. My someday is me actually living the call He has placed on my life in ways that I could not even imagine. What a someday!

If you could live your "someday" what would it look like? What would you be doing? Where would you be? Who would you be with? What would you need to do to live it right now? Who and what would you need to let go of? Could you get out of the boat and let go? Could you or would you answer Jesus' call, "Come," and walk towards His outstretched hands? Why not try?! Why not swing your feet over the side? Why not dip your big toe into the water and then get your feet wet?! Why not reach out one arm to Jesus and then the other? Why not take a step towards Him, your Someday?

Dear Jesus, reach for me. Wrap your arms around me and show me more of my "someday." Help me keep my eyes on You, my Prize, my Someday. Help me live today as my someday so full of Your grace and Presence. May You be glorified, honored and praised. In Your precious Name, Amen.

Soooooo Big!

2008-03-19T05:39:00.000-07:00

"Now to Him Who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us..." Ephesians 3:20 (NIV)

"God said to Moses, 'I AM WHO I AM..." Exodus 3:14 (NIV)

Have you ever read the book, "If You Want to Walk on Water, You've Got to Get Out of the Boat?" I just finished reading it and found it funny, thought-provoking and in some ways, spot-on. The last chapter of the book talks about how big your God is and starts out with an exercise or game we play with toddlers. We often ask them how big they are and their response is to raise their arms over their heads to show how big they are.

The author of this book, John Ortberg asks a question in the last chapter that left me somewhat speechless. His question was, "If your God truly is a big God and you could ask Him to do any one thing in your life, what would it be?" This question brought tears to my eyes because the things I ask of God aren't big enough for Him. It doesn't mean that I think He can't give me what I want or that my desires are insignificant. God is so much bigger than what I want! Could this be what Jesus meant when He said, "in that day you will ask Me nothing?" Could I be at a point that all of the material things I want in life aren't meaningful enough to ask for? Am I at a point in my walk with God where I know what He wants is much greater than anything I could ask or even think?

What then do we ask of God? What does He even want us to ask for? Material things, good health, wealth, peace, safekeeping, the ability to serve Him. C'mon! What else?! He's bigger than those things! When you put all of those things aside, what do you have left to ask for? Once I listed everything I wanted and put them aside, I saw a huge wide open space before me. Its vastness made me think of God Himself. He is even bigger than what I saw. All I could think of to ask at that point was for God Himself. At that point I realized He was all I needed to ask for in the first place!

How big is God to you? How big do you allow Him to be in your life? Will you let Him be sooooo big?

Dear Lord, please help my unbelief. Please increase my faith. Help me to know You and all that You are. Help me put my trust in You and You alone. I know the desires of my heart are important to You because I am important to You, but God, may Your will be done! Today, I am taking the lid off my little box of desires and dreams. Be soooooo big Lord!

Pleasing to God

2008-03-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who currently handles the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15 (NIV)

"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our faith..." Hebrews 12:2 (NIV)

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship." Romans 12:1 (NIV)

Holy and pleasing to God. Am I a sweet sweet fragrance to the Lord? Do I represent Him well? Does He delight in me when I delight in Him? Is He glad when I love His children? Does He rejoice when I receive a revelation that changes my life?

I was chatting with a friend yesterday and shared that I believe God has called me to reach the masses in some way for Him. I have no idea how to do that, but I do know that I must step out in faith to answer His call. Living His call will take courage and faith as well as trust in my Heavenly Father. I have learned that in doing His will I must rely on His power and strength as God does not give us visions to accomplish on our own abilities.

Whatever steps I take, I want them to be steps that are pleasing to God. I am learning that living my life His way means that His work in me permeates my being and every area of my life. I must be a faithful and grateful steward of all that He gives me knowing that what I have is for His purpose and glory. Every resource, gifting and blessing is to be used in service to Him. My actions and words must be a representation of His grace, love, mercy, joy, and wisdom.

My whole life has been spent waiting to hear, "I am so proud of you!" from my earthly father. I can count on one hand how many times I have heard that from him, but have lost track as to how many times my heavenly Father has said those words. I have decided that at the end of my life, all I want to hear is, "Well done my good and faithful servant. Come share in your Master's happiness!" Those words from the Lord will have more meaning than anything else I have ever received or earned. Those words will be more precious than gold. All I want to do is what is pleasing to my Lord and Savior.

So, I recommit myself and all that I have to the Lord. Today I want to know more of His Word and have more of Him. Today I want Him to have His way with my life. May I speak and move in ways that are well pleasing to Him. I want to hear His voice and know what brings Him joy. I want to do what He wants me to do today.

Move through me Lord so that Your will may be done. Do what You have to do for Your light to shine through me. Speak to me. Speak through me. All I want is for You to be known and loved. I will be Your broken bread and poured out wine today if You will let me. Please give me the will to do for Your good pleasure. May all that is said and done be for Your glory, honor and praise. In Jesus' sweet and holy Name, Amen.

My Best for His Glory

2008-03-11T06:36:00.000-07:00

My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers is one of my favorite books. When I first purchased the book in 1994, the devotionals were so over my head. I had no clue as to what Chambers was talking about most of the time, but I persevered and asked God to take me into a deeper understanding of Himself. Now, my copy of My Utmost... is highlighted on every page and the middle pages are falling out, but I also now have the deeper relationship I prayed for.

As I read Chambers' devotional for today, I wondered what is my utmost for God's highest? What is my best? Is what I think the best even good enough for the Lord? I know I was made in His image and likeness and that every day I become more like His Son Jesus Christ, but in all my doing and being, is it the best for His glory?

Today God, I ask You to stretch me to be the best for You. Move me to do and be for Your glory. Open my eyes to see and my ears to hear You. May every word spoken and action performed be a reflection of Your Son, Jesus Christ. May others be drawn to You and may they fall in love with all that You are. This I pray in Jesus' Name, Amen.

Missing You

2008-03-07T05:23:00.000-08:00

Man, I miss talking to You Lord! I miss Your Presence and Your voice. I have been really busy these past two weeks and I miss our time together. I thank You for the opportunities that have been keeping me busy and pray that You will continue to bring more my way. But most of all, I want You by my side. You are the best companion I could ever have and Your love is the greatest treasure.

Let's make up for lost time today. Sit with me, walk with me. Tell me Your heart's desires. Show me what You see. Share Your secrets and surprises. Let me do something to bless You today. When I am focused elsewhere, be in what I see and hear. Open my eyes and ears again to Your glory.

As I write this message, I feel Your loving arms around me. Oh, how I have missed You! Thank you for being with me. Thank you for Your promise to never leave me nor forsake me. Thank you for the gift of Your love.

If You and I get to do only one thing today, let us hold each other near for I have really missed You.

My Bestest Friend

2008-03-06T06:03:00.000-08:00

"I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from My Father I have made known to you." (John 15:15, NIV)

This has been an awesome and busy week for me. God has loaded this week with opportunities and blessings that have kept me flying high with joy. For this I am truly grateful. It's funny, for three years I have prayed and longed to do the will of the Lord. It was at that time that He revealed to me what was needed in order to fulfill His vision for my life. I have spent the last three years working through stuff to get to this point and now He is opening doors to beauty, joy, grace, friendship and love. I love being busy doing what the Lord has called me to do. It is always an amazing time of giving and receiving, learning and growing.

Serving the Lord is an honor, but being with Him is an even greater priviledge. This morning I told Him that I miss when we are not close. I just love when He speaks to me and shares His love and grace. I know He is right here with me which is what prompted me to write today's message. He is the bestest friend I have ever had! If you have a close relationship with Him then you know what I mean. Who else could always take you as you are? Who else could love you no matter what? Who else could give you hope when you are at your wits end? Who could give you strength and lift you up at your darkest hour? And Who could sit with you 24/7 just for the sake of sitting with you?

We are blessed to have such a friend in Jesus. He was courageous enough to teach us Who our Heavenly Father is and to die for us so that we may be free from sin and death. He reaffirmed everything we needed to know to live a life of freedom and His death tore the veil that kept us from reaching our Heavenly Father. Now, we can go to Him at anytime. How many friends do you have that you can call on at anytime and they will always be there to listen and help? There is no greater love than this!

Thank you Jesus for being my friend! Thank you for Your faithfulness to the Father and for Your precious love. Help me to be Your friend and a true friend to others. May You receive all the glory, honor and praise. In Your sweet and holy Name, Amen.

Recognition

2008-03-05T05:21:00.000-08:00

"Well done my good and faithful servant!... Come and share your Master's happiness." (Matthew 25:21, NIV)

Last night, I had an awesome time with friends from my women's fellowship group and my Mary Kay Director. I have become an independent consultant with Mary Kay Cosmetics because I believe and now know for sure that God has called me to educate, edify and encourage women. This company offers a great opportunity for women to grow personally, spiritually, financially and socially. This is my ministry; this is my calling. As we were sharing last night, my director noted that one of the reasons women become independent consultants with Mary Kay Cosmetics is because of recognition. This company is faith based and rewards its consultants in more ways than you can imagine. In the past, I have told myself that I did not need recognition and that I was comfortable in the background going about my day. I know now that all of us hunger for recognition and can do greater things when we have support and belief behind us.

We all work so hard every day for just a little bit of recognition from family, friends, coworkers and bosses and most of the time we live each day without it. Many of you may read this message and think you don't need recognition because you are fine by yourself and know you can be who you want to be without it. I believed that for a long time. I believe in a good work ethic and for years I worked at jobs with all that I had because of that work ethic. I worked late, came in early, rearranged my personal plans and helped other people succeed because I believed that is what we are supposed to do in life - go the extra mile. Most of the time there was very little to no recognition and even when there was, it lasted a minute and wasn't worth a cent the next day. It is hard to strive for a prize and miss it. It is hard to be recognized for failure versus success and it is hard to have someone tell you that after all you have done and all of the years you have worked, you will make a great whatever someday.

I am so grateful for my Heavenly Father, because He recognizes me daily through blessings, answers to prayers, surprises, love from Him and others, teachings, forgiveness and grace. He knows more than anyone else how desperately we need to be recognized for our efforts and promises that no matter what we do, whether we fall short of the goal or rise above our achievements, He will never leave us nor forsake us.

With all the recognition He gives us, how much time do we spend recognizing Him? Do we begin our day with prayer and thanksgiving? Do we surrender the day into His hands so that His will may be done? Do we recognize that all we have and all we are is because of Him? As we plan our days and our lives do we seek His wisdom and guidance first? Do we thank Him and praise Him when the blessings come and when the blessings pass us by? Do we tell Him we love Him no matter where He leads? Do we just sit with Him and ask what He wants us to know and do for Him? Do we even just sit with Him and enjoy His Presence?

As you seek recognition today from those around you, send up a prayer of gratitude to God. Instead of asking Him why something isn't going your way or when He plans to move your mountains, ask Him what He wants for today. Enjoy Him. Love on Him. Recognize our Almighty God and acknowledge Him for all that He is.

Have a blessed day!

Not My Own

2008-03-04T05:50:00.000-08:00

"You are not your own, you were bought at a price." (1 Corinthians 6:19, NIV)

Simple Godly commands versus human nature = the reason for Jesus.

Every day, I want to be more like Christ. Every day I want to be broken bread, poured out wine and used up by my Lord and Saviour. And every day, my self gets in the way. My soul longs to love and nurture people all day long, give them hope and help them know Jesus. I want to live my life as the Apostle Paul and Mother Teresa did, totally devoted to the Lord, knowing nothing else but Jesus Christ and Him crucified. But I also want my comforts of clothing, shelter, food (especially ice cream and chocolate!), nice furnishings, a new car, the bills paid and all of my dreams my way.

Daily I commit my all to serving the Lord and every day, my self gets in the way. Thoughts pop into my head that center around my needs, wants and desires and I begin to fret because I am not where I want to be or don't have what I think I need. The previous sentence reflects that. Look at how many "I's" are in that sentence! Yikes! Me, me, me, me, me! God must really love me to save me and give me a calling and a hope. Look, there I am again!

Thank God, the Lord loves me enough to save me from myself! My human nature always seems to be begging for attention. God tells me not to worry, not to be anxious and to seek His kingdom and its righteousness for every day living. His Word is full of commands for living that I read, yet still seem to struggle with.

Lord, keep me surrendered. Remind me that I am not my own, but Yours to use in whatever ways You see fit. Have Your way and move me to do for Your kingdom and Your purposes. May Your will be done this day and may You and only You receive all the glory, honor and praise! In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.

Staying Plugged In

2008-03-03T12:45:00.000-08:00

"Abide in Me and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me." (John 15:4 NIV)

What do you do to stay motivated, excited, enthusiastic or pumped up to do what God has called you to do? Do you read the Bible or motivational books, listen to music or motivational CD's, recite affirmations or fellowship with other Christians?

As I write this message, I think of all that it takes to keep me motivated for the day. I start with prayer, a devotional and Scripture and sometimes I just sing what precious song comes to my heart at that moment. Throughout the day, I send up prayers to God and always ask Him what He needs me to do or how He wants me to handle a situation. I often check in with several friends throughout the day so that we can lift each other up if and when needed. At the end of my day, I read and meditate on God's Word and ask Him to make Himself plain.

In order for me to live my life I have to stay connected to my Lord and Saviour. Even though I do the actions listed above, there are days when I still struggle to stay fired up. Those days, I know it will take Almighty God to get me through. As I write this message, I hear Jesus saying, "Abide in Me and I in you." The more I want to live the calling God has placed on my life, the more I need to stay plugged in to a Source greater than myself.

God does know who and what we need right when we need them. He has provided the greatest Source we will ever need to live our lives fully for Him. His Holy Word is full of guidance, encouragement, edification and hope. He knew with our waywardness we would need a mighty tool in order to achieve our crown. The love and grace of God is revealed in every page of the Bible, a Book that is as relevant today as it was when each page was first written.

Thank you Lord for knowing Your children so well. Thank you for providing the greatest, most valuable tool we could ever need for success. Teach us to read, study, meditate on and speak Your Word as You wish it to be applied. Help us to follow Your command as it is written in Joshua 1:7-8, "Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful."

The Power of One

2008-02-29T06:03:00.000-08:00

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria and to the ends of the earth." (Acts 1:8, NIV)

The Power of One is an amazing concept. We are practicing this concept in our Mary Kay unit this month and learning how one more step can change a person's life. One more step takes faith and belief. If we take one more step towards our dreams, if we take one more step towards our Lord, if we take one more step to do an act of love and kindness what changes would be made in our lives and in our world?

There is a song that was written years ago called "One is the Loneliest Number" (or something like that) and I always thought that was a sad way to look at things. Now that I am older, I see what the power of one can do. The power of the One and only God can move mountains, cast out demons, raise the dead and heal the sick. The power of One can give hope and cause us to praise in the midst of our circumstances. The power of One can strengthen the weary and give power to the weak. He can renew our strength enabling us to soar on wings like eagles. The power of One saved us from sin and death. The power of One teaches us how to live for eternal life. The power of One teaches us what true love is. The power of One loves us enough to give us the Holy Spirit to be a witness to Him and to all the world.

When you accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour, you were given the power of One. You were given the Holy Spirit, an everlasting power to be a witness to Jesus Christ. As Jesus said, we will do greater things than He did because He gave us the power of the Holy Spirit. This power doesn't have to be forceful or be used in a demonstrative way. Simple acts of kindness come from this power. Stopping to love, listen and do for someone else comes from this power. Doing something nice for someone you don't like or find repulsive for whatever reason comes from this power. Doing what you don't want to do comes from this power. Faith, belief, love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, compassion and passion come from this power. Being humbled, surrendered and faithful comes from this power. The boldness to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ comes from the power of One. Actually, all that you are, all that you do and all that you have comes from the power of One.

Are you being transformed daily by the power of One? Does it have dominion over your life? Is it giving you strength? Is it moving you to live your life for Jesus Christ? Is it moving you to be broken bread and poured out wine for our Lord and Saviour? If not, ask God to fill you once again and lean on this power, the greatest gift you will ever have and watch the Lord transform you into someone He can use for His glory.

Be blessed. Be the power of one.

From a Place of Courage

2008-02-27T08:39:00.000-08:00

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:7-9, NIV)

"Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid." (Matthew 14:27, NIV)

Merriam-Webster dictionary defines courage as the "mental or moral strength to venture, persevere and withstand danger, fear, difficulty." It also states that, "courage implies firmness of mind and will in the face of danger or extreme difficulty."

As I write these definitions, I look at my own life and wonder where courage fits in. It pretty much needs to live everywhere within me. Courage takes faith and surrender. It requires complete trust in God and His promises. It requires us to lay down everything and let Him teach and love on us. It takes waiting on Him, wisdom and knowledge. It requires something, Someone much greater than ourselves. I know I don't have all that it takes to be strong and courageous.

Last night I went through the Bible searching for Scripture focused on God's promises. That pretty much sums up the whole Book! I found such hope and comfort in my search. As God has promised in Jeremiah 29:13, "You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with your whole heart." Knowing that I cannot do what God has called me to do on my own and knowing that in my own strength I cannot remain surrendered, I find comfort in His Word and Presence. Spending time in His Word, spending time in His Presence, loving on Him and letting Him love on me fills me with courage to do what I cannot do. My hope is that He will find a faithful servant and warrior in me.

Choosing to live the life He has destined for me and leaving father, mother, sister, brother and even myself, takes greater courage and greater faith. As I lay down my life, I find that God fills me with more hope, more belief, more faith and more courage to live each day. Learning to let go of even the things I don't want in my life takes a courage that can only come from the Lord. I know I don't have it and living for God will require Him to fill every inch of my being with all that He is. God is going to have to take over my life in order to make His plans happen.

Surrender is the hardest part of Christian life because it requires us to relinquish all that we are to be available for what we don't know. Each step of this journey with Him, requires us to surrender even more than our last moment on the altar. As we grow, He shows us what else He needs for His purposes. There is stuff He wants us to give up including our plans and expectations as to how we are to live this predestined life. Sometimes I feel that all I can do is sit, watch, wait and listen because I don't see anything in front of me to do. You hear so many people say that we can't just sit around and wait on God to move, but that we must do something every day for His kingdom. I have to say that we as humans are always busy doing something because we believe that that is what He wants from us all the time. My heart says He wants us to spend more time being still, praying, reading and meditating on His Word which is one of the greatest acts we can perform for His Kingdom. Then, when He is ready to move, we will be ready as well. We will then have sufficient courage to serve and fight for His kingdom because we will be full of Him.

Today I encourage you to be strong and courageous enough to be still and live in His sufficiency. When we are obedient in this, we will see that the mighty hand of God has moved mountains, strongholds and giants and is more able than we could ever be on our own.

There's a Solution to Your Agitated Funk!

2008-02-25T21:41:00.000-08:00

"I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do... For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do - this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it." (Romans 7:15-20, NIV)

Back and forth and back and forth. Do I take this path or should I follow this one? Should I be still or do what I know to do? Maybe I should pray. I don't even know what to pray for! Oh, how the enemy must be beside himself with glee. But thank God for God! I know I say this at least once a day, but God knows who and what we need right when we need them.

I was in such a funk today. Frustrated, confused with no idea what to pray for. I was so agitated I had to ask the Holy Spirit to pray for me! I couldn't even find words to share on this blog. By the time I got home from work, I was reciting the "I Am Sick and Tired of..." list over and over again.

Normally when this happens, I go through some one's fast food drive-thru and order grease with a large Coca Cola chaser followed by ice cream, preferably heavy on the chocolate. This is followed by frustration and more agitation because I then beat myself up for eating the "comfort" food instead of something healthy. But this time, I walked passed my freezer and went to my women's fellowship meeting.

I am usually not one to talk about my issues, needs and desires with a group of women because I have always felt that my issues are not as big or important as their issues and the issues of this world. This time was different. My precious sisters in Christ comforted me, guided me and encouraged me in such a way that by the time I left the meeting, the agitated funk was gone. I felt a release during our prayer time and God spoke so clearly to me about some things I needed to let go of. My sisters shared Scripture, sage advise and wisdom. On the ride home, I felt joy in my spirit and believed once again, that all things are possible to him that believes.

God has huge plans for each of us and He is working those plans every moment of every day. We may not be able to see the details or the strategy, but we do have to get to the end of ourselves and surrender. The battle for control is a draining battle that we are not going to win. God is in control despite what the enemy whispers in our ear. God has His own paths that make no sense to us. We have to stop fighting Him and discipline ourselves to be faithful, trusting and obedient.

My sisters made many things clear to me tonight. When speaking out my future, speak out God's Word because that is my future. Be true to myself and let go of what no longer brings me joy. Call or email each other for comfort and edification. Don't negate the positive and precious moments in life. Yield to what is happening in my life and ask God for the wisdom and discernment needed for each day.

I am so sorry if you are in a funky place today, especially if there is not chocolate in sight! Know that the Lord really does love you. Rest in the knowledge that He knows where you are and what you are feeling. Call on your sisters and/or brothers in Christ for prayer. If there is no one in your life to call, ask the Lord to bring people into your life who can walk with you on your journey. He will answer that prayer, I promise. He answered mine!

BIDIA (But I Did It Anyway!)

2008-02-22T06:26:00.000-08:00

"Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." (Hebrews 11:1, KJV)

Don't just sit there, move! Do something, anything! How many times have we come to a point in our lives when we are not sure if we have heard from God? How many times have you asked yourself, "Should I stay or should I go?" (reminds me of a song!) when you are at a crossroads?

I have such a difficult time when these moments occur. I know what God has called me to do with my life and I think I know what is needed in order to accomplish the vision, at least from a human standpoint. But I often wrestle with the how because most of what I know how to do costs money that I don't physically have right now. Yes, I am believing God is my Source for all things and that He would not give me a vision without the tools and resources to do it. What I struggle with is the waiting until the resources come. Do I move forward with what I do know how to do or do I wait until He comes with the resources?

Waiting is not one of my favorite tasks in life. Like most humans, patience is a virtue that will probably take all of my life to master! While I wait for Him to drop the next motherload of resources, I must continue to abide in Him or drive myself crazy. The only thing I know how to do well is set goals. What I also seem to be good at is waiting for the motherload instead of moving forward with what I do have. How I wish for once He would just drop down the money needed to do what I think needs to be done. Obviously, He has a different plan for accomplishing His vision. Sometimes I think His "withholding" is a test of my faithfulness and trust in Him. Do you think He knows His children or what?!

So, I decided that I was going to apply the BIDIA strategy which is, But I Did It Anyway. This weekend, I am going to review and implement those goals one more time and revise that business plan, make those phone calls, schedule and hold those appointments. And like Moses, I will stand before whomever I need to be in front of and remember that I AM WHO I AM sent me to do His will. He did command me to be a witness to Him and I did respond with, "Here I am. Send me!" I guess I had better get a move on!

Even if you can't see how God is going to make your dreams happen, take a step of faith. And if you have taken lots of steps in faith and still don't see your vision ahead of you, take one more. Do what you have to do anyway. Sometimes God opens doors as wide as airplane hangars that lead to unimagineable blessings and fulfillment. What's on the other side of your door?

Being Of Any Use to God

2008-02-21T07:05:00.000-08:00

"She has done a good work for me." (Mark 14:6)

"Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!" (Matthew 25:21)

"I believe that if God finds a person more useless than me, He will do even greater things through her because this work is His." Mother Teresa, No Greater Love

My soul longs to spend every waking moment serving the Lord. I believe He has called me to touch the lives of women and children through love, compassion and hope. I don't know exactly how He will use me, but I know this is the work He has called me to do. Where I am now in my life is merely a stepping stone to the next level of service for Him.

Mother Teresa's book, No Greater Love gives us a wonderful glimpse into a life lived in humility and devotion. She loved the Lord so much that she laid down her life for Him. As I study her life, the life of the Apostle Paul and our sweet Savior, Jesus Christ, I realize that surrender and devotion are the only way to live a life of service and humility. We get so caught up in this world trying to meet the expectations of others. We will never measure up to the world's standards of living and we will never fix the wrongs of this world without God. So much time is spent trying to fit in and make people and situations fit into boxes that we miss the wonder and beauty of living; we miss the simplicity of a life with Christ.

As I live, I want to be transformed. I want to be the servant that God can look to and say, "She has done a good work for me." I want to represent Him well. I want to be used up, "broken bread and poured out wine," not when someone says I can, but right when God needs me. My life is to be lived for Him and His good pleasure, not on someone else's terms and time tables. I want to be free for God which entails complete surrender in every moment because I don't know who will need me or where I will need to go. As it is written in Isaiah 6:8, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" I want to be able to say, "Here am I. Send me."

Lord, keep me surrendered and available for Your battles. Live and love through me so that my spirit resonates Your Presence and grace. May all that people see is You. This I pray in Jesus' Name, Amen.

Sufficient Grace for Tough Decisions

2008-02-20T06:13:00.000-08:00

"My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Answering God's call can be a daunting experience for it requires humility, sacrifice, patience, devotion and trust. He gives us visions that we have no idea how to accomplish and allows challenges that confound us to our wits end. Have you heard God's call on your life and accepted it? Has He given you glorious visions that you can't wait to live out? Are you in a place right now where you have no idea how to begin and feel stuck with where you are? I completely understand your situation.

Last night was spent in prayer with regards to an issue I have been struggling with for almost a year. I have no idea what to do except follow my heart. Obedience seems to cause God to open doors and bestow unexpected blessings and today I must make known His calling to someone I love dearly. I am fearful of this person's response because they have their own expectations of me, ones that I cannot follow. I have to go where God leads and for the first time, I know the end result but have no idea how I am to get there.

My prayers to the Lord have been for provision, wisdom and faith in this new journey. He has done that and more. He continually opens doors with blessings waiting on the other side and He always leaves me in awe. The step I need to take today is a big one and the only way I am going to be able to take it is with Him by my side. I continually think about Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane and His prayer to the Father asking that the cup of sacrifice be passed from Him. But Jesus, out of devotion to the Father, bravely and humbly accepted His commission. The step I need to take must also be done out of devotion and obedience to the Lord. I have taken a similar step before and the wrath and pain that followed was heartbreaking. I don't want to relive that experience, but I must be faithful to our heavenly Father. What I really want is the freedom to live for my Savior, but I know that sometimes that freedom comes from doing things we have no desire to do.

So many times I have asked the Lord to help me enjoy the situation I am in and to see it from a different perspective, but that has not come. I have tried to enjoy the opportunity but have no interest in it whatsoever. This makes it more difficult because I know the time spent working on something that I don't enjoy could be spent doing something I know I am called to do.

What do you do in a situation that you don't see a way out of? How can you stay in the situation until the time comes for you to walk out your calling? It has to be by God's grace which He promises is sufficient for all times. Despite outcomes and circumstances, each day is for the Lord, not for me and that all I do must be for His glory. God promises to never leave me nor forsake me and out of love for Him, I must keep my eyes on the prize.

I pray that despite my fear Lord, You will be able to do great things through me for all honor and praise. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Constant Surrender

2008-02-19T06:59:00.000-08:00

"And He said, 'Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me; nevertheless, not what I will, but thou wilt.'" (Mark 14:36, KJV)

"Lord, I am delighted to obey You in this." Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest

Could you say those words to God? Could you lay down your life in pure devotion to Him? I look at those words and realize that I don't know if I could do it His way. In all those times I have told the Lord I loved Him and would serve Him, rarely do I consider that those moments of devotion would ever take me to such a place of sacrifice. Could I really allow God to make me "broken bread and poured out wine" as Oswald Chambers says? My soul longs to do that and there is a hunger in my spirit that wants to reach the masses of unloved, hungry children of the Lord. Yet could I give up my comfort zone to step into the enemy's war zone? I search within me to see if the words "no greater love" are part of my being.

I am madly deeply in love with my Lord, but as I begin to understand the true cost of discipleship I realize I am no where near ready to let go of my comforts. I don't know that I could lift a dying human out of a literal gutter and clean the worms off his body like Mother Teresa did. And there are even days when I don't want to serve within my safe comfort zone. But my heart and soul long to love. There are so many safe ways that we can serve our Lord, but the hunger and need for Him in this world is greater than our comfort zones. The question to ask is, "Do I love You enough Lord to feed Your sheep regardless of who and where they are just as You have commanded?"

There is no way for me to live my life fully surrendered and available without the power and grace of God. Who I am to serve and love is up to Him. True surrender isn't allowing God to use me, but letting go of my self knowing that God will use me in situations that I would not choose and with people that I may not be comfortable with. A choice must be made every day; do I serve Him or do I run? If I have my way, I may run, but as a chosen child of God, I have to trust Him in all things at all times. If I run, I run from the One Who allowed Himself to be nailed to a cross to die a slow death out of love for me.

Keep me surrendered Lord. Help me live Your greatest commandment. Change me from within so that I am available for You to use when and wherever You choose. Help me remember that my life is not for me but for You. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen.

Weakness

2008-02-18T05:28:00.000-08:00

"For when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Corinthians 12:10, NIV)

Just the other day I took the Strengthsfinder 2.0 "test" to determine what my strengths were. A friend had recommended the book several times so I thought I would buy it. The results were interesting and quite true and even one was a bit of a surprise. What I thought was most interesting about this process was that its purpose is to help you discover your strengths and focus less on your weaknesses.

As I finished the process, I wondered what my weaknesses were and realized that I had been so focused on what I knew I could and wanted to do that I didn't think of specific acts that were weaknesses. I do not think that I am perfect at all, but I do believe that my entire life is lived to arrive at perfection through the power of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I realized that my weaknesses really do not matter because what I think is a weakness is based on human beliefs and standards, not God's. I have learned that the glory of living is that I learn to surrender my all to God so that He can use my strengths and weaknesses if, when and where He chooses.

Weaknesses are just as good and as necessary as strengths. My life is not to be lived for myself but for God and others He brings into my life. Weaknesses give others hope. They keep us surrendered to the Lord. The purpose for living is for God's glory, not ours. We must decrease that He may increase.

I am nothing without God and cannot fulfill His plans without His strength, power and might. The authority, dominion, power and greatness that is within me comes from the Holy Spirit Who lives in me. "I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me," because, "greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world.

I encourage you to take what you believe your weaknesses are and turn them over to the Lord along with what you believe are your strengths. Who you are and all that you have are for and from the Lord. Regardless of your beliefs, God can use every bit of you for His purpose. Yield all to Him and watch Him use you to touch someone else.

In His Name, Amen.

The Cost of Vision

2008-02-15T06:20:00.000-08:00

"You shall be witnesses to me..." (Acts 1:8, NIV)

"Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall..." (2 Peter 1:10, NIV)

Pursuing the vision God has given us may cost us the love and support of family and friends. When we make the decision to stand and serve the Lord we find opposition where we least expect it. Those you would expect to agree with you and help you achieve your vision oftentimes are the ones who question your sanity and ability.

Taking up my cross and following Jesus comes with a cost that I do not fully understand until I take that first step of faith. I may be a little to a lot fearful in the endeavor, but out of devotion and love for my Lord, I have to answer His call. The shock, heartache and pain that comes from our loved ones' responses to our endeavors can cause us to stumble. Our only hope is in the Lord.

When I think about my journey with the Lord and the process of preparation that He is taking me through, I try to remember the Apostle Paul. He went through much more than I have and yet he persevered. He loved the Lord so much and was so grateful for his salvation that he did not allow anything or anyone to sway him. As Oswald Chambers says in his book, My Utmost For His Highest, "Nothing other saints do or say can ever upset the one who is built on God." Keeping our eyes on Jesus is the only way to achieve the vision given to us.

Dr. Myles Munroe wrote The Principles and Power of Vision. It is a great book that clarifies what it takes to pursue God's call on our lives and helps to map out a plan to achieve the vision. He asked questions that made me laugh because I know myself well enough to know what my answers would be if I were not madly, deeply in love with the Lord. For example, if you knew beforehand what being a witness for Jesus meant would you do it? Would you press on if you knew that it may cost you the love of family and friends? If you knew God was going to take you through dark and lonely places, would you step out or would you run in the opposite direction? These are good questions to ponder and I can say that having gone through dark and lonely places, living through family ridicule and falling often I will still press on for the love of God. The unspeakable joy of His Presence and His love for me far outway what I have been through.

In my walk, I have learned that even though God has given me a vision of greatness, I cannot run ahead of Him and make it happen. Oswald Chambers says that after God gives us His vision, He then has to take us into the valley to mold and shape us into that vision. Our trials, tribulations, and darkness are times of preparation and the building of a solid foundation in the Lord. This is the time where God wants us to get to know Him and Him alone. This is the time where we consistently read His Word, pray without ceasing, delight in His Presence and learn to walk by faith, not by sight. This is when His Word comes alive. It becomes a part of us until the day we realize that we have been living the vision all along. What God wants us to see is that the vision cannot be accomplished without Him. We can't run ahead of Him, but we can run beside Him. So holding us back, making us wait and even allowing us to fail teach us that we are nothing without Him.

If you are questioning your abilities and decision to serve the Lord, I encourage you to take a deep breath and embrace the vision burning in your heart. It is your gift from God, your birthright. Just because others don't see what you see doesn't mean it will not come to pass. Stay focused on the vision and the One Who created it. Trust and believe that it will happen just as you have been shown. Our God doesn't tease us with dreams, but faithfully gives us all things for His purposes.

Be encouraged, strong and courageous. He will never leave you nor forsake you. You can do this. As a matter of fact, you already are!

True Love

2008-02-14T06:05:00.000-08:00

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails." (1 Corinthians 13:4-8, NIV)

"Jesus replied, 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and will all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.'" (Matthew 22:37-39, NIV)

What a perfect time for God's children to demonstrate true love! He has chosen each of us to be a light to the world and this could not be a better time for us to shine for Him. God proved His love for us in that He sacrificed His Son so that we could be free of sin. Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13, NIV) Take time to love on Him today and let Him renew your heart. Fall in love with Him all over again and nestle in His embrace.

Slow down and take a moment to show kindness and love today. Listen to someone who oftentimes gets on your nerves. Stop long enough to open a door for someone. Buy lunch or a treat for someone who may be struggling financially. Give someone a genuine smile or hug. Tell a loved one that you are proud of them and love them very much.

God is love and greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world. We have love on the inside of us and we may be the first taste of true love to someone today. Let God work the above Scripture through you today and every day so that you may be a blessing to others wherever you go. Be a gift of love.

Who Are You, Jesus?

2008-02-13T07:43:00.000-08:00

"I am the way and the truth and the life." (John 14:6, NIV)

I wanted to write about Jesus today since that is the purpose of this blog. I asked Him what He wanted us to know and wondered what I didn't know. The Bible tells us about the love of God for us, the coming of the Messiah to save us from sin, all of the prophets and faithful warriors of the Lord, Jesus' ministry while He was here on earth and what will happen when He returns. So in all this, who is Jesus? How much time have I spent getting to know Him?

Do you think the disciples really grasped Who Jesus was while they were with Him? Can you imagine spending 1095 days (equivalent of three years) with the Son of God?! The awe and wonder of Him! Every one of those days was spent with the Source of all wisdom, love, power, grace and mercy. That Source became human form for you and me.

A prayer came into my heart as I was thinking and writing this today. I know Jesus and have accepted Him as my Lord and Savior, but I want to know more. I hope you do too!

Jesus, teach me like You taught the disciples. Open my eyes and ears to Who You are. I want to know You, Jesus. I know what You did and why and now I want to really know You. You came so that we could and would turn back to the Father and Your Word says that if we know You then we know Him. Show me more of You, Your character and grace. My life is spent living to become like You. Who are You, Jesus? Sit with me. Speak to me just as You spoke to Your disciples. Reveal to me all that You are. In Your sweet, holy Name. Amen.

In Spite of Loss

2008-02-12T05:22:00.000-08:00

"I'm gonna lift up holy hands in the Presence of the Lord."

My dear friend lost her husband this morning and the only thing I know to do is lift up holy hands to the Lord. Her husband accepted Jesus Christ as His Lord and Savior, reconciled with his estranged daughters and married my friend all in three weeks time. How glorious, magnificient, wonderful, marvelous and mighty is our Lord!

As I got ready for work this morning, I realized how important it is for us to love those God has brought into our lives despite differences, quirks and beliefs and how much we need to lean on God to do this. In spite of our circumstances, frustrations and sorrow, we must trust the Lord to guide us through. He has plans for us and we must press on in pursuit of our passions and the dreams that have been placed in our hearts. We have no idea what God's full plan is for our lives or how long we have to live, but He has promised to never leave us nor forsake us. By trusting in Him, He will order our steps.

I don't know what you may be going through today, but I pray that you will take time to lay everything before the Lord and ask Him for strength one more time. Ask Him for peace, wisdom, understanding and the love of friends and family. And in spite of your trials and tribulations, I pray you will use the strength you have to lift up holy hands in the Presence of the Lord.

Be blessed.

Promises Are Coming!

2008-02-11T08:44:00.000-08:00

"Therefore, my brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." (1 Corinthians 15:58, NIV)

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9, NIV)

Words of strength, words of faith. The Lord knew when He created us that we would need words of encouragement to keep us pressing on and into what we believe. These past few months and even years have been tough for myself and many of those whom I love. We have watched the enemy mess with our loved ones and the dreams we have held on to for so long. I believe in this new year, the enemy will be knocked way back because the Lord is moving through His children.

My spirit tells me that God is moving and getting things in order. His children have suffered long enough in the wilderness and it is time for them to have every promise He has made and then some. His children have prayed, cried out, fasted, studied, prayed and cried out even more. He has heard every prayer, caught every tear and steered His children in the directions they needed to go. It is time to take back what was stolen and the enemy is going to pay!

I am believing God for miracles beginning this year! My spirit tells me that He is going to do things and move in ways that only He can do. He is going to leave His children running, jumping, dancing, singing, and falling out on the floor with His mighty works. Unbelievers are going to know there is a God and a mighty One Who will answer every prayer of His children. We have suffered enough and God is tired of seeing His children in pain.

For those of you who have suffered, are suffering or know of someone who is, press in to the Lord. Let Him hear your cries and your prayers until He moves in your lives. We go through our trials and tribulations so that God can move, show Himself and give others hope. Be prepared, He is about to show up! Know your Word. Know your Lord. Surrender to His commands and let Him continue grooming you for His works. Choose to believe! Decide to be faithful! He has great plans that He promised to fulfill. Whatever heart desires you have, know that God gave them to you before you were born. You are not crazy, but created to do a mighty work by the grace of God.

Step out in faith and put plans together for what God has laid on your heart. Take what steps you know how to take after spending time in prayer with the Lord. Remember that He gave you the dream or desires and the abilities to achieve them, but also remember that even though you have written down plans, be flexible. You may want to go right, but the Lord may be leading you left. Whatever you do, go left and trust the Lord. He knows what He is doing! Dare to believe Him! Dare to take a step of faith! Dare to press pass circumstances because of the power that is within you. Don't let anyone tell you you can't be the dream that God has given you. You don't get to leave this life until you fulfill the purpose God has for you.

Press on, P.U.S.H. (pray until something happens) and watch God move!

Perfection in His Time

2008-02-08T05:44:00.000-08:00

"God has begun a good work in me, and He is well able to bring it to full completion." (Philippians 1:6, NIV)

Whew! The pressure is off! My life as a Christian is not accomplished solely by my efforts. Once I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior, God was able to move a bit more freely in my life. As I learn more about Him and what He has done for all who have sinned against Him, I am able to do more of my part - prayer, worship, praise, surrender and love. He is then able to change me even more, keeping me humble and turning me more into the likeness of His Son, Jesus Christ.

Many people have the wrong impression about Christians. We are expected to be perfect and often come across as overly righteous. So many of us have a rules and regulations or tit-for-tat mentality, believing we have to do certain things in order to be a Christian. We often make mistakes and hurt people because we are still human. That is our nature. To date, Jesus is the only One who ever walked this earth in perfection and our hope is to be in Him.

A relationship with Jesus is a Christian's way of life. Through study of His Word, prayer, worship, praise and just listening to Him, we learn how to live the life He wants us to live. He guides us to those who can help us in our walk as Christians and shows us that we are a work in progress. He gets to decide when we are complete, but we have to decide if this is what we want. Do we want a better life? Do we want joy, peace, prosperity and abundance? Do we want to know more of Him and what He has in store for us?

If you answered yes to any of the questions above, then be comforted to know that He will work with you and through you to achieve perfection His way. He loves each one of us too much to leave us hanging in this lifestyle of faith and perseverance. Continue to seek Him and trust Him. He will show Himself in ways that you would never expect. The awe and wonder of our Lord is priceless!

If you do not know the Lord or have been away from Him for some time, ask Him to come into your heart and forgive you for your sins. Ask Him to love you in the way only He can. Trust that He will lead you to where you need to be and to those who can help you live the life of a Christian. Change takes time and will cause some heartache and pain. The work does not have to be finished at a certain time, it just has to be done. Choosing to live with and for Him can be a bit scary, but I promise your life will be sweeter.

Won't you ask Him today?

A Sweet Sweet Sound

2008-02-07T06:11:00.001-08:00

"I called, You answered. And You came to my rescue and I wanna be where You are."

What beautiful lyrics! This song just keeps playing in my head and on my lips. There is such a truth to the words. We have an awesome worship team at my church and there is a woman who always seems to reach my heart. When she opens her mouth, her soul just sings and it is a sweet sweet sound. I hear her voice when I think of this song and it just puts me in such a place of comfort and peace.

Now, I do not have the best voice in the world and it is best heard in a vehicle moving at a high rate of speed with the windows up! But, the Lord gave me a voice for His pleasure. What is meant to come out of my mouth is a sweetness that gives Him glory and joy. It is a voice that lovingly worships Him out of humility and gratitude.

How excited He must get when we drop all that concerns us and praise Him for Who He is, what He has done and for what He is doing. Glory to the Lord for He is worthy of all honor and praise!

I hope you take some time today to sing a melody to the Lord. You don't have to have the best voice in the world, you just have to open your mouth. Lift up your voice and your heart and sing Him a sweet sweet sound.

Be blessed!

The Goodness of the Lord

2008-02-06T05:53:00.000-08:00

"O taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man that trusteth in Him." (Psalm 34:8 KJV)

Hallelujah! God is good! He answers the prayers of His children just as He promises. How faithful is our God!

We received wonderful news about my uncle today. He is able to move his limbs, talk and turn from side to side. Only God can take bad situations and turn them into miracles. When given the chance He will show Himself in a mighty way.

God longs for us to pray and cry out to Him. He desperately wants us to ask Him for things, changes in situations and His Presence in our lives. He created us so He could give us all things out of devotion to Him. I look at what He has done in my life - all the times He has brought me out of darkness; the moments of joy in each day; His love through Himself and others; answering prayers before they finish on my lips; moments where He uses me to bless someone else; and most importantly, sacrificing His Son so that I may live sin-free. How blessed could anyone be and how could I not be devoted to Him?

How do you thank God when He blesses you with your heart's desires? How do you thank Him for the little surprises throughout the day? How do you express the joy He brings in any moment? I can't help but love You Lord! You are my joy. I am truly grateful that You use me to touch Your children. I don't need anything in return because the joy of blessing fills me up. How You must feel when You give to us.

Years ago, the Lord placed a longing in my heart to do and say things that would make people happy and give them hope. He has filled me with such a strong sense of compassion and discernment that I am often overwhelmed. My sincerest desire is that all of those I encounter each day will see the glory of the Lord. I gladly decrease that He may increase. I gladly tell of how the Lord has blessed, healed and freed those that I know and countless others in the past. I gladly tell the goodness of the Lord so that others may know Him.

Lord, thank you for using me so that Your children may know You. I ask that You live through every inch of my life so that others may know Your touch. Bless me in order that others may be blessed as I know that is the purpose for my life. Keep me surrendered, bold, strong and courageous so that others will know for sure Your goodness. All that I am and all that I have is to simply show who You are. May You and You alone be glorified. In Jesus' sweet holy Name. Amen.

Suit Up!

2008-02-05T05:22:00.000-08:00

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9, NIV)

"Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil... Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand the evil day, and having done all, to stand." (Ephesians 6:10, 13)

The dreaded phone call came. My uncle had been in a serious car accident and his neck may be broken. No one likes to hear bad news and a child of God knows when it is time to go to war. I called a prayer warrior and we lifted my uncle up to the Lord. By the time we were done praying I was pissed. Yes, I used the p-word! The enemy had gone too far and I was done. He had messed with the wrong girl and touched the wrong family for the last time.

I got suited up last night and wore down the living room carpet one more time. (I've been thinking about buying new furniture, but now realize it would cover the path of prayer in my house.) Yes, I called on the Name of Jesus and asked Him to show Himself; to rain down on my uncle, the rest of my family, friends and myself. I asked Him to cover us with His Presence, His grace and His love. It was time for battle. I don't know about you, but I am ready to escort the enemy back to the pit of hell with no ice!

All of us go through times that leave us so heavy and burdened, worn out and weary. For the first time in my life I know joy through the love of God and I am not about to let the enemy take it away. God wants His children to know Him, His love and every promise He has made. It's time to take back, receive and give God glory for all that He is and has promised.

The war is on. If the enemy is on your doorstep, then suit up my friend. Be strong and courageous; it's time to fight. It's time for you to know the joy of the Lord. It's time to take back what the enemy has stolen. It's time to claim your victory in Jesus. It's time to remind the enemy that the battle has been won and he needs to back up and back off! It's time to let him know that he has messed with the wrong men, women and children. He doesn't get us or them because we have Jesus and greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world!

If you have no idea how to suit up or you have been suited up for so long your armor is worn, then find a friend, sister or brother in Christ to help you fight. If they are not available then it's time for you to muster what strength you have and stand in the Lord. If all you know is "The Our Father," then say it. If you only know one verse of Scripture say it. If you only know a few words to a hymn, sing it. If you don't know any Scripture, grab the Bible and read it out loud. If you can't get ahold of a Bible then repeat the Name that is above all Names - Jesus. Keep saying it, keep singing it until you can't speak, take a breath and start all over again. This is the last thing the enemy wants us to do and the most important thing we can do for ourselves and each other.

Today, put on the armor of God. Throw on the garment of praise. Be strong and courageous and when you have done all you can, be still and know that God can and will move your mountains for His glory and His children.

Suit up!

The Cost of Discipleship #2

2008-02-04T05:27:00.000-08:00

During my prayer time yesterday, I asked God to enlarge my territory and as He has been doing lately, He answered my prayer before it left my lips. The phone rang and my immediate response was, "God, You answered that prayer a little too quickly for me!" I didn't recognize the phone number and was afraid to answer the call because I might be asked to do something I didn't want to do. Then I remembered Paul's words about doing what he didn't want to do versus doing what he ought to do. So much for an enlarged territory!

I felt releaved once the phone stopped ringing and no message was left by the caller. Then I beat myself up for walking away from God. Jesus called me to be a witness to Him and I panicked. How could I be a disciple, broken bread and poured out wine while running in the opposite direction? Just call me Jonah!

Sweet Jesus, are You laughing at me or crying? When I accepted You as my Lord and Savior, I didn't realize until now how much my life is not about me and discipleship on my terms. Being Your witness is about doing, living and being what You need, not always about what makes me feel good. Discipleship is no longer hiding in my comfort zone, but being used by You to give someone hope or meet someone's need. It means going places and being with people that I am not comfortable with. It requires me to roll up my sleeves, skin my knees, ruin my manicure and work up a sweat. It's doing things or going places that are inconvenient to me and will require me to learn things I am not interested in learning.

In My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers says we are to have no aim, no purpose and no plans once we are called to be witnesses. I have said this so many times over the past few days and it must be something that God needs to keep bringing to my rememberance - I am not my own. I AM WHO I AM sends me. Those words are much easier to write than to live.

As chosen ones of God, we must be willing to take up our cross at all costs, trusting in Him to guide us through each encounter. It isn't us who love, encourage and care for His children, but Him moving through us to accomplish His will. We were bought at a price and have no choice but to lay down our lives for Jesus. Whether He sends us to dark desolate places or beautiful places of abundance, we must be obedient to His commands.

Sweet Jesus, the thought of stepping out of my comfort zone scares me. I have been here for so long. But, I love You so much and know You have a call on my life to encourage, edify and love Your children. It is obvious that I cannot do this by myself, so move me to do for Your good pleasure and glory. Remove the fear and replace it with faith and courage. In Your sweet holy Name. Amen.

SHE SPEAKS CONFERENCE - SPEAK OUT YOUR FUTURE

2008-02-01T10:32:00.001-08:00

Okay, so I have this amazing opportunity to win a scholarship to the She Speaks Conference sponsored by Proverbs 31 Ministries. I faithfully read the daily devotionals and blogs and have been blessed by the writers and speakers in this ministry. This conference is an amazing opportunity for all women who have been called by God to write, speak or be ministry leaders in their church. There will be professional speakers and editors at this conference who will kindly and gently critique your work so that you can walk out the call of God. Lysa Terkeurst, one of the leaders of Proverbs 31 Ministries listed the contest on her blog. You should see all of the women who want to win this contest!

Our Lord has laid a call in my heart to edify and encourage women. I have had this deep desire for 25 years and know that my years spent as an image consultant and retail manager have all been preparation for such a time as this. More than enough time has been spent in the Wasteland. It is time to enter my Promised Land and encourage women through speaking engagements, seminars, workshops, journals and books on beauty God's way. His beauty through us will draw others near and give us an opportunity to share His life-saving message of redemption. How glorious will it be to see more women walking in His grace, confidence and beauty?! I want to be a speaker with Proverbs 31 Ministries teaching just like Shari Braendel and am hoping to be a part of what we call the P31 Beauty Team.

So, today I speak to my future and claim that God will provide the means (preferably a scholarship!) to the She Speaks Conference for 2008. I know that through training and coaching I will be able to continue my calling as an encouraging mentor to women and coach them in becoming who God created them to be. I believe this conference will provide strength to the foundation God has laid in my life and that it will be an opportunity for fellowship and edification for all those who attend.

If you believe God has placed a call in your life to speak, write or lead, in other words be His voice, I encourage you to check out the Proverbs 31 Ministries website (http://www.shespeaksconference.com/). I have had the pleasure of chatting via email with Lysa Terkeurst and Shari Braendel on several occasions. These women are such an inspiration to me. They call themselves ordinary women, but they bring joy and comfort to those of us who visit with them each day.

May all those who enter this contest be blessed. What an amazing time we will have doing the Lord's work!

Blessings to all.

I Just Want to Thank You!

2008-02-01T05:27:00.000-08:00

"Rejoice in the Lord always!" (Philippians 4:4, NIV)

"Gotcha!" God did it again! He is so good about giving me aha moments. I just love the surprises and the moments of revelation. What joy can be found in Him!

So today I just want to say, "Thank You, Lord!"

Thank You for: Your Presence in my life.
Your mercy and grace.
Your amazing love for me.
Blessing upon blessing.
Your moments of surprise.
Forgiveness of my sins.
The love of my family and friends.
For dreams come true.
Your Holy Word and its promises.
Healing.
Unspeakable joy.
Another day to live for You.
For meeting my needs.
For chances to worship You.
The opportunity to love You.

Thank You Jesus for dying on the cross so that I may have life. You have set me free from the enemy's grip and I am forever grateful.

I pray that all of you who read this blog will take some time to thank the Lord for His faithfulness and love. He is worthy of all our praise and so much more.

Be blessed!

I Call You Friend

2008-01-31T05:39:00.000-08:00

"I no longer call you servants...Instead, I call you friends... You did not choose me, but I chose you..." (John 15:15-16 NIV)

Simple prayer from our deepest longing brings the quickest answers from God. He continually answers those prayers in the most unexpected ways.

Several months ago, I asked God to bless me with new Christian friends since I had just moved to a different city. Funny how I can't have a women's ministry that edifies and encourages women without friends! He answered my prayer in such a way that I am in awe. A women's Bible study at church led to a wonderful small group fellowship to a blog which draws new friends from as far as Singapore (check out the comment to "Tell Your Story.")! I discovered this morning that each of us affects others in ways that we are not aware of and that we really do need each other.

In yesterday's message, "Tell Your Story," I mentioned that I am usually a loner. Even though I enjoy my private time, God is showing me what a wonderful blessing friendship is. It is a gift when you are blessed with people who love you and stand with you. I usually shy away from large displays of affection from friends because I have always believed that I was unworthy of their love. This morning I realized that God has moved through me to touch others in some way and I have no right to isolate myself (thanks Joanne!). I am not my own. I know I keep saying that, but that is what God keeps telling me.

God's call on my life is that of an encouraging mentor to women. My life, my gifts of discernment and compassion, and this blog are some of the tools He has given me to serve His children. Sweet Jesus, I am already living my calling!

To my friends Susie W, Dell R, Joanne R, Leah G, Debbie H, Donna B, Donna D, Norma P, Crystal M, Jennifer B, Nancy K, Lori C, Kimberly DQ, Marsha P, Adrienne V, Patti L, Juliann A and Karen R, I thank you for your friendship and love. To my new friends, Lysa Terkheurst, Shari Braendel and the P31 Beauty Team, Jing Er and others who have visited this blog, thank you for your encouragement and faith.

Jesus, thank you for calling us Your friends. Keep us surrendered, vulnerable and open so that others may draw near to You and Your love. You have chosen us to will and to do for Your good pleasure. May Your will be done. In Your sweet, holy Name. Amen.

Tell Your Story

2008-01-30T05:30:00.000-08:00

"Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it." (Habakkuk 2:2, NIV)

"You cannot not tell your story!" -church sign

Bam! Right between the eyes! Don't you just love when God speaks to you so clearly? I was driving down a busy road last week, feeling discouraged because I didn't feel that the messages for this blog were as rich as God was making them to me. I sent up a prayer asking if I heard His calling correctly or if I should just let it go. I knew what He had laid on my heart and that my sole purpose was to always give others hope. As I passed by a small church, I caught the message on its sign that read, "You cannot not tell your story!" Do you think God knows what we need?!

"Yes!" I told God, "I hear You loud and clear." Our sole purpose in life is to share our testimony. Our trials and tribulations are not for us, but for God's glory and hope for His children. I may not get to write and publish a bestselling novel, but I can and must share my story with others somehow, someway.

Those who know me well know that I am pretty much a loner. I love people and enjoy being around them, but I also need a lot of quiet time to renew. I spent twenty-four years in the retail industry where you are required to be "on" all day with a day lasting eight to twelve hours. That takes a lot of energy and honestly, the grace of God. Now that I am no longer in the industry, I still find that I need a lot of quiet time, but this time is now spent in the Lord's Presence. I can tell you that this has been the sweetest time of my life. Even though I am waiting for the Lord to make His plans clear for my calling, I have the pleasure of drawing near to Him and He drawing near to me.

Bruce Wilkinson, the author of The Dream Giver, calls this time of restoration and transformation Sanctuary. It's a place where God washes away the residue from our time in the Wasteland where we have struggled in our journey and worn ourselves out. God restores us and ambushes us with His Presence. We get to soak in all that He is and all that He has for us. We get Him. What a Gift! In this Gift I have found blessings, love like I have never known and joy for the first time in my life. My Lord is teaching me that every day of my life is preparation for His call.

"You cannot not tell your story," is the confirmation I need. I have to step out of my comfort zone, reach out to others and allow them to reach out to me. I have to write. I have to speak. I have to tell my story so that others may know the goodness of the Lord. The world has to know His love. The world has to know His joy. The world just has to know Him.

You, too have to tell your story. You may not think that you have much to share or say, but your purpose on this earth is to give someone hope. At one point in my life, I went through a deep, dark depression, but my friend Mary Ellen helped me through. When the dark time had passed I told her that I owed her so much for helping me. She said I didn't owe her anything. I just had to turn around and help the next woman along.

I encourage you to take time today to extend a hand to someone, even if it takes you away from what is most important in your life. Your moment of selflessness may be the Jesus someone finally gets to see. You may be their hope for the day. You may even save their life. We are not our own and have been commanded by Jesus to be witnesses to Him.

Sweet Jesus, help us to take our eyes off ourselves as people who are not worthy or qualified to help. Move us to will and to do for Your good pleasure. May You receive all the glory, honor and praise. In Your sweet holy Name. Amen.

Waiting

2008-01-29T05:26:00.000-08:00

"But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing." (James 1:4, KJV)

"Endure until your testing is over. Then you will be mature and complete, and you won't need anything." (James 1:4, GWT)

I hate waiting, especially when I know what is supposed to happen in a situation. I just want it to happen already! Obviously patience is a virtue that the Lord really needs to make complete in me. He has given me visions of what He wants me to do and be and this time in the waiting room is driving me nuts! I just want to be who He created me to be and get on with it. I'm chomping at the bit, wanting to serve the Lord right now in the gifts He has given me.

Waiting, waiting, waiting, waiting. How much longer Lord?! What else do I need to do? Have I done something wrong? Did I really hear Your call on my life? You know God is in control when you can't seem to move in the direction you believe you should go and doors seem to be shut really tight. Then you hear the words, "Be still and know that I am God." Ooops, that's right. This dream is not about me, but all about God. If I am not patient enough to wait on Him, then I am not ready for His vision.

This time of waiting is a time of preparation. It is a time to be still and know Who God is. It is a time of restoration and transformation, surrender and humility. It is God's time to bend, mold and shape us into the visions He has given us. We have no control over the length of our prep time, but must trust in the Lord. His work in us creates a pliable, available and willing servant, one who wills to do for His good pleasure. He chose us and we are not our own. Our lives and all that we have are His for the using.

Even though this time in the waiting room seems to be taking way too long, My Lord is closer than ever. He meets me even when I don't call on Him. He leaves little surprises every day; generous unexpected blessings. Everyday He teaches me something new about Himself and the desires of His heart. I have fallen madly, deeply in love with Him and eagerly look forward to His Presence. What will He bring today? What is in store for tomorrow? His Presence is my hope in the waiting room.

If you are "stuck" in your waiting room, trust that the Lord really has something great He wants you to accomplish. He will bring it to pass. Stop fighting what you don't want and be still before Him. Be teachable. Lean on Him for patience, wisdom and discernment. Ask Him for the grace and joy to live each day His way. "Let patience have her perfect work...," and discover the greatest gift in your waiting - the Lord Himself.

God's Way

2008-01-28T05:34:00.000-08:00

"For I know the plans I have for you..." (Jeremiah 29:11, KJV)

" But when it pleased God..." (Galatians 1:15, NIV)

Surprise! That's what God says to me sometimes when an unexpected blessing or opportunity comes my way. I love that He's like that. He keeps our relationship fresh and exciting. But it also drives me crazy when He does that because that's not what I prayed for.

God has a way of giving us amazing visions of what He wants us to do in our lives and as humans we try to figure out the how in accomplishing those visions. So we pray and plan and pray and plan and cry out in frustration, repent and pray and plan some more. That thing called control (or is it impatience?) keeps getting in the way and we waste time struggling to make the visions happen.

One lesson I am learning is the daily process of surrender to His way of living. I must lay down my plans, ideas and the world's influence to watch, wait and listen for Him. I so want to run and create the vision in the ways that I know how, but this time God's vision is greater than anything I could ever do on my own. This time, I can't even figure out the how! If you read the first chapter of Galatians, the Apostle Paul talks about His transformation into a bond servant for Jesus. He simply states, "When it pleased God...," making it clear that God is in control. At His appointed time, visions will become reality. He will give us the how to our dreams and visions. How else could He get the glory?!

Lord, help me! Help me be patient. Help me watch, wait and listen. Help me stay surrendered, resting in Your promises, remembering that You are always faithful. I know You don't give visions and then take them away. Sit with me and show me what You want me to do, what You want me to know. My desire is for Your glory. In Jesus' sweet and holy Name. Amen.

Oh Tell Me, Tell Me

2008-01-25T06:27:00.000-08:00

"Humble yourselves before the Lord..." (James 4:10, NIV)

God, sit with me today and tell me what You want.
Sit with me today and tell me what You need.
Sit with me today and tell me what can I do for You.
Sit with me today and tell me what brings You joy.
Sit with me today and tell me what grieves Your heart.
Sit with me today and show me what to fix.
Sit with me today and tell me Your plans.

Tell me, could I ever wash Your feet?
Tell me, could I wipe away Your tears?
Tell me, could I touch Your face and give You hope?
Tell me, could I fulfill Your commands and warm Your heart?
Tell me, could I ever wrap my arms around You and love You so?

Lord, could I ever bless You in the ways You have blessed me?

Dreams and Visions

2008-01-24T05:48:00.000-08:00

"You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit - fruit that will last." (John 15:16, NIV)

"I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen of Me and what I will show you." (Acts 26:16, NIV)

That's it! I have decided to answer His call and believe the visions the Lord has given me! I am receiving His call to be a full-fledged image and life coach, speaker and writer on these topics, an event planner and Mary Kay Director. Whew! Speaking out loud is scary, because you can't take the words back. When you know the Lord has a hold on your life to educate, edify and encourage women to be who He created them to be, you don't have a choice but to speak out and do.

I am reading the wonderful book The Dream Giver for the fifth or sixth time and this time every word is bouncing off the pages and speaking to me. When this happens I know it is because the Lord has taken me farther on my journey with Him. Just like Ordinary in The Dream Giver, now is the time for me to live my dream which is really God's dream.

Each one of us has been given a dream or dreams that we wish we could fulfill or are in the midst of fulfilling. For those of you who are just getting started or have not discovered exactly what your dream is, don't lose hope. My journey has taken many years with lots of lessons on life, surrender and living for the Lord and allowing Him to be in control. Some of the lessons have been really difficult and the waiting seems to take forever! We have to trust God's promises and we have to wait on Him or the visions will not turn out right. We are not our own and the visions are not exclusively ours. What is in our hearts was put there by the Lord.

I know this is hard to do, but wait on the Lord and trust Him. He chose you for those dreams and He will bring everything to pass. In the meantime, study and prepare. Learn all that you can about the dream He has laid on your heart. Write the vision on paper as often as you can. You will be surprised at how clear it becomes as He molds and shapes you into the vision He has given you. Study His Word daily, worship and praise Him. Sit with Him and listen to Him. What He teaches you will be needed throughout your journey and in the midst of your dream. Your dream cannot be accomplished without Him because it really is His dream. The joy is that He wants you along for the ride.

Father, I want to encourage those who have dreams in their hearts; dreams that You have given them. Lift them up, teach them in the way they must go. Strengthen them. Open their eyes and their minds to what You need them to know. Teach us all to trust You Lord with everything. In Jesus' sweet and holy Name. Amen.

The Cost of Discipleship

2008-01-23T05:55:00.000-08:00

"If it does not please you to serve the Lord, decide today whom you will serve...As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." (Joshua 24:15, NIV)

What a huge decision to make. What boldness comes with that decision. What fear follows the boldness! God told Joshua to be strong and courageous when leading His people to the Promise Land. I want to live in my Promise Land and have come to a fork in the road where I must choose whom I will serve. I am scared because I know that choosing God will cause disappointment and pain to some family members. I have made decisions like this before and have suffered wrath like I have never seen. It is amazing what the enemy can do through a human being. But our God is a mighty God and He encourages, strengthens and comforts us in every step we take for Him. The Bible says we should not be surprised by trials and tribulations as they are part of the disciple's life.

I am reminded of Ordinary, a precious character in the book, The Dream Giver. I love this book because its main character is me and every single one of us who has a dream that they know they are called to fulfill. Ordinary takes up the courage that the Dream Giver (God) tells him he will need for his journey. Ordinary encounters bullies and giants who try to keep him from fulfilling his Dream Giver/God-given dream. The enemy has a way of doing that in our lives through friends, family and people we don't even know. As it is written in Joshua 24:15, we have to decide who we will serve in our lives. Choosing the Lord requires so much of us, actually all of what we are and with it will come uncertainty, heartache, disappointment, fear, humiliation, and great sorrow. Some may ask why anyone would want to serve the Lord if pain comes with it. The only answer I can give is that like Ordinary, I love the Lord so much, I would risk it all for Him. How startling and frightening those words are. If I choose to do exactly what the Lord wants, there will be many times where I will have nothing and no one to fall back on. But I know that one moment of joy with the Lord is worth more than all other moments put together!

Several years ago, my sister and I packed up her three-bedroom house and moved to Dallas so that she could attend a two-year graduate program. We did this in three weeks time and did not realize what we had done until the plane took off. We looked at each other and said, "What have we done?!" We laughed and cried and realized that it was too late; we were in the air. What I realize today is that God had someone for each of us while we were in Dallas to guide us, love us and strengthen us. My sister's best friend lived in Dallas and was my sister's rock. My nephew who has special needs, was blessed with teachers who adored him and were always prepared for his every need. And God just blessed me with an amazing friend who reflected the Holy Spirit. God showed me that even though we can't see Him, He will always be there for us.

We do not know what lies ahead when we choose to serve the Lord, but if we want to please Him, we have to choose Him. I read a quote by an unknown writer that said it does cost to follow Jesus, but it costs even more not to follow Him.

Lord, I know I am not my own and that Jesus paid a high price for me. Thank you for choosing me. I am fearful of what my choice will cost others, but I know that if I don't follow You, I will hinder Your work in me and in them. Forgive me for my fear and increase my faith. Joshua 1:9 commands us to be strong and courageous and not be terrified. You have promised to never leave us nor forsake us. Help us all to hold fast to Your promises. In Jesus' sweet, holy Name. Amen.

Be Strong and Courageous

2008-01-22T05:44:00.000-08:00

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged...For the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9, NIV)

How comforting it is to know that God will be with us wherever we go. How comforting it is when He tells us not to be terrified or discouraged. God gives us big dreams and huge visions that we know we are not capable of attaining on our own. His sole purpose for doing that is so that we and others may know Him and His full glory.

I made a decision on Sunday evening that I had spent long enough in the wilderness and that I no longer wanted to live in a world of heavy oppression. Our pastor has been teaching about healing and I have to say that when it comes to healing, I usually think of physical healing not spiritual healing. I came across the story of the woman with the issue of blood who had enough faith to touch the hem of Jesus' garment. She knew that if she touched it, she would be healed. Jesus' response to her answered a prayer that I had been praying for so long. He told the woman, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering." (Luke 8:48, NIV) In order for us to be who God created us to be and in order for us to walk in the visions He has given us, we must take our mustard seed of faith and reach out to Him. Success, prosperity, peace and the promises of God, as well as God Himself will only come through faith. The Apostle of Faith, Smith Wigglesworth said, "Faith is an action." We must follow God in faith, by believing Him and His promises.

Faith can be a hard thing to fathom when we have no idea where following Jesus will lead. We have to decide how badly we want to please Him and if that means more than anything in the world, then we must be strong and courageous. We are not given visions for a "someday" down the road. We are given visions in order to help others right where we are. I have a wonderful friend who helped me through a deep, dark depression many years ago. I told her that I owed her so much for helping me through. Her response was that I did not owe her anything, but that I was to turn around and help the next woman with her dreams and struggles. This is my assignment, to encourage and edify women God brings into my life and I am to use the gifts, abilities and power He provides to help them. Just as He helped Moses, He is willing to help me spread the Good News through love and grace.

I am so grateful that I am not my own and that He has chosen me to be a voice for Him. I pray that you will ask God what He wants you to do and that you will trust Him to show you His way. Be strong and courageous! The Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

The Simplicity of God

2008-01-21T05:04:00.000-08:00

"They will be my people, and I will be their God." (Ezekiel 37:23, NIV)

Just the other day I read a beautiful blog message that was so honest, humble and sweet. The writer's message was about taking hold of God's hand and letting Him bless us, not because we have done something, but because He simply loves us. I loved the writer's words because of their simplicity and because I too have learned that God is simple.

Most of us believe we have to be at a certain level in our faith or that we have to do something in order to have God in our lives and to justify His blessings. That is not so. It is a huge day for celebration when one of His children realizes that all God wants is us. He's not looking for specific rituals or accomplishments; He's looking for us. The One who spells His name with three letters, G-O-D, simply wants Y-O-U and M-E to L-O-V-E. That's our call and He extends a simple invitation that says, "Come, and I will give you rest."

I do not know how to encourage you or myself enough to let go of our striving and straining in order to measure up to our beliefs. I am learning through study and prayer that faith is all that is required of us and it can be as small as a mustard seed. Some days that is all I have and yet, He is still before me, beside me and within me. I have to love Him. I have to believe Him. How can I not trust in Someone Who promises so much and never fails? How can I not believe in Him Who has brought me through some of the ugliest times of my life and still blesses me? How can I not be grateful to the One Who continually opens doors to my heart's desires?

There are times when God loves me so much I am left speechless. Omnipotent, Mighty, Glorious, and Wonderful, don't even come close to describing Him. There are no words in any language that can truly express the glory of God and His love. I hope that you will take time out today to be simple before the Lord. Be who you are and let Him be Who He is. Enjoy the sweet, simple communion because that is all He wants.

Be blessed!

P.S. For those of you who are oppressed and seem to be continually bombarded by the enemy, let me give you a bit of encouragement today. My computer "crashed" as I was writing today's message. Note that it has been posted! Our God can and will always make a way for His words to be known! Praise God!!!!!!!!!!

Tell Them

2008-01-18T02:57:00.000-08:00

"As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet:
'A voice of one calling in the desert,
Prepare the way for the Lord,
make straight paths for Him...And all mankind will see God's salvation.'" (Luke 3:4-6)

Whether I am ever published or considered a good speaker does not compare to the compelling call Jesus has on my life. The burden to be a witness to Him and to love for Him is oftentimes so great that I am left speechless. At this point in my life, I don't know what my next career is going to be or what accomplishments I will attain to. All I do know is that Jesus has got a hold on me and I am compelled to write, listen, believe and watch in awe and wonder. I know for sure that He has called me to be His witness. I know for sure that the more time I spend with Him, the more of Him I want and the more of Him I will tell.

I have never been so madly, deeply in love with anyone in my life and no one has ever given me the amount of love that Jesus has. There are times when I can't even fathom how wide, deep, high and long the Lord's love is. It is of such great magnitude that I know I could never do anything or enough of anything to get it.

Most of us have a hard time with simplicity because it is too simple! Yet God, Who only spells His Name with three letters, is simple. All He wants from us is us. I get to come as I am with all that I have and sit with Him. He sits with me, the one who has made many mistakes, has been called a failure and other hurtful names by loved ones and strangers, the one who has been ridiculed and rejected. He loves me enough to tell me, "Everything is going to be alright."

I had a wonderful Bible teacher who knew the Word so well. She is an amazing instructor, so full of history and wisdom. One night, she was teaching on the Song of Solomon and it was a night that I was in deep, dark despair. This night my soul ached and my teacher in her soft sweet voice said she was going to read the last three verses of Song of Solomon and give us her interpretation. She said she might get in trouble for sharing it, but she was willing to take the chance. After reading the verses, she said, "I believe God is saying, 'Oh, don't look at me with those big beautiful brown eyes of yours. For when you look up at me, my heart just melts. I love you so much; I just want to give you the world!'" At that moment, God filled every void and longing in my life. My soul was restored and I discovered my Heavenly Father was all I ever needed. He became my all in all and He wants to be your all in all. So much so, He sacrificed His Son for you and me. Jesus allowed humans, His brothers and sisters, to hammer nails into His hands and feet out of love for the Father and us. We are worth saving! We are worth blessing! We are worth loving!

No matter what you have ever said or done, there is no greater love than the love of Jesus. He commanded us to love the Father and each other. I may not always be able to speak eloquently and my grammar and punctuation may not be perfect, but I pray that I will always speak boldly the words He gives me.

Am I My Brother's Keeper?

2008-01-17T05:16:00.001-08:00

"And whoever welcomes a little child like this in My Name welcomes Me. But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea." (Matthew 18:5-6, NIV)

"Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." (Matthew 19:14, NIV)

God showed me myself last night through someone else. I watched a leader in my church ask someone who had approached him to wait while the leader went to speak to someone else. I realized that I had seen this happen several times before, but last night's scene broke my heart. The person who was asked to wait went and sat at the altar and waited with a look of disappointment, discouragement and unworthiness.

I was reminded of a time when I had done something similar. I believed that I was not responsible for this person's situation because I was not God. The Lord brought me to tears and repentance last night. I wept not because of poor pitiful me, but because my sin grieved my Lord and Savior and probably someone else. Jesus told us not to turn away even the little children. It doesn't matter what my brother or sister has, doesn't have, does or doesn't do. I have been commanded by Jesus Christ to love them as I love myself. When I turn them away, I turn away Jesus.

Now, I understand that I am God's vessel and by choosing to be annoyed or unavailable to any person, I become unavailable to God. He cannot use me in my self-centeredness and I hinder Him from moving in the lives of others. What we do or don't do affects so many lives. We do not know how God plans to use us nor do we know who is watching how we live. Times will come when people will tell us how our actions have affected their lives.

I know for myself that I am always asking God to help me do great things in serving Him and others. I get caught up in my grand visions and often miss God's simple vision for those directly in front of me. I always root for the underdog and last night I realized that I don't get to choose who the underdog is. That is God's job and He gives us the gifts, talents and passion to serve those He places in front of us. How long that service is to last is His call and His alone. All the strength, patience and love we need for service comes from Him. We will not be able to handle the grand visions in our future if we are not available or willing to serve those who are given to us in the present. "When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required." (Luke 12:48, NIV)

When serving the Lord, we do not get to pick and choose whom we serve. As Jesus said, "The servant is no greater than his Lord." (John 15:20, KJV) As God's child, I really am my brother's keeper.

Sweet Jesus, please forgive me for turning away those whom You love. Help me to see all who cross my path as You see them and help me love them, edify and encourage them as You do. In Your sweet and holy Name. Amen.

Simple Obedience

2008-01-16T05:54:00.000-08:00

"Come to me...for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30, KJV)

As I was driving to work today, I encountered one of my travelling pet peeves (yes, a Christian with pet peeves. Thank goodness for God!) - people who cannot merge onto the highway into oncoming traffic. Now I know that it is important to be careful and respectful of other drivers, but merging smoothly and swiftly is probably the best way to be respectful to others on the road, especially if they are moving at a high rate of speed! Attempting to pick up speed or waiting until the roadway is clear are the best ways to be safe and respectful. Slowly merging or stopping and starting are dangerous and can cause serious accidents. Obedience to the flow of traffic and the rules of the road is so important for all those who are travelling.

As I slowed down for the van merging onto the highway this morning, I thought about my obedience to the Lord, especially over the last few months. I decided to surrender my life completely to the Lord a few months ago and consistently reminded myself that surrender takes both Him and me. I let Him work on me - more of Him and less of me. I disconnected the cable TV service in my home and began to spend more time with Him in prayer, Bible study and worship. I went through the wonderful process of water baptism, attended Bible study and women's fellowship at church and began to tithe consistently. The changes that have occurred in my life have been spiritual as well as physical and I am amazed and awed at what simple obedience can do! Duh!

Oh, how I have grieved Him! There must have been (and probably still are!) times when He just bopped Himself on the head because I just couldn't or wouldn't get Him. Bless Him though! He still loves me so and is not holding anything back! How sweet He is! Just as safely merging into traffic requires obedience and respect, so living life requires us to be obedient and respectful to our Lord. He created us just for that and eagerly waits for us to come to Him.

I can tell you that since I made the decisions and changes mentioned above, my life has been smoother and sweeter. There have been great changes in my mindset, my unbelief is turning into full belief and relationships that were truly difficult to be a part of are now better than they have ever been. While He still needs to work greater patience into my life (especially behind the wheel of a moving vehicle!), I can vouch for what simple obedience can bring - blessings big and small and a sweet relationship with the Lord!

Surrender and obedience are not as difficult as we make them to be. We just need to remember that life with God is life with Him, a partnership and that we do not have to live it alone.

May you be blessed!

Humbled Servant

2008-01-15T06:34:00.000-08:00

"He riseth from supper, and laid aside His garments; and took a towel, and girded Himself. After that, He poureth water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith He was girded." (John 13:4-5, KJV)

Having spent twenty-four years in the retail and fashion industry, I have found that there are certain jobs and tasks that just require the most amazing amount of humility. I have always admired those who have worked in the shoe department for what I would call their bravery because, let's face it, feet are not always the prettiest or sweetest parts of our bodies! To sit at some one's feet and help them find shoes that are pretty or comfortable (or in some rare cases, both!) is not an easy task. The position of "shoe servant" requires strength, patience and sometimes the ability to hold your breath for a good length of time!

Now, back when Jesus washed the disciples' feet, they were probably really dusty and dirty and what Jesus did was normally left for a slave or servant to do. In John, chapter 13, we have Jesus, our Lord and King kneeling to wash the disciples' feet. Jesus, the King, knelt to do a servant's job. What are you willing to kneel and do?

Serving the public can be a daunting task and it really does take all the grace of God to be humble in serving others. The world's quotas, deadlines, goals and shoulda, woulda, coulda's require us to be humans "moving faster than the speed of light." Why? Once we have achieved the quotas, deadlines and goals, there are only more waiting. There is no rest at the end; only more expectations that make us believe we are not good enough and that what we have is the best we will ever get or be.

Ten months ago, I left the retail industry worn out, beat down and ragged. I loved the industry and the people, but I was exhausted and burned out. I am still weary. As my pastor taught this past Sunday, some of us have so much oppression heaped on us in our lives that we wouldn't know rest or good health if we saw it. In ten months I have discovered true surrender, rest in the Lord and for the first time in my life, joy. God is renewing me to serve, but this time it is His way. His way is with gratitude, adoration and devotion to Him. His way is based on real rest, real trust, and being exhausted physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually to the point that surrender to God is the only way to survive.

The rest that I have found through my Lord and Savior gives me hope and comfort. I now know that the goals, quotas and expectations no longer need to be met at the speed of light, but can now be accomplished by His power and His might. I don't have to be superhuman and I don't have to strive anymore. I can serve the way I know I was always meant to serve - with love and sincerity. I know there will still be persecution, humiliation and discouragement, but this time, my purpose is different. I work, I serve, I live and I kneel for the Lord. If the King can do it, so can I.

Taste and See!

2008-01-14T05:40:00.000-08:00

"O taste and see that the Lord is good!" (Psalm 34:8, NASB)

Every day, I read a wonderful devotional called My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers. My copy of this book was purchased in 1994 with the last $14.00 I had in my wallet. My best friend and I were unemployed and had just landed jobs when we found this precious book. Back then, I was just learning how to really read and understand the Bible and I thought My Utmost would be a perfect guide. It was the toughest book I had ever read and most of what Oswald Chambers said went right over my head! I kept reading it though, because I knew that I wanted to know who God was and what He expected of me. I am a firm believer that God knows who and what we need in our lives right when we need them.

Today, the middle section of my devotional is coming apart and every page is highligted and starred. I am so grateful that the Lord brought this book into my life because it set a standard for me to attain. This does not mean that I don't read the Bible. It means that this book was for a time, motivation for me to get more of God by studying His Word. Oswald Chambers taught in such a way that I wanted to know God as he knew Him. I wanted to be that close to God. Fourteen years later, I can say that I have a close relationship with my heavenly Father and one that continues to grow.

What I didn't expect from this journey and relationship was a greater hunger for the Lord. It's worse than any food craving! My greatest desire is to sit in His Presence all day long and even that isn't enough! There isn't enough chocolate or fried food in the world to help with this! All I can do is sit with Him, seek Him even more and love Him with all I have.

When I look at what He has done for me, I know that even seeking Him doesn't come close to giving away His Son for death on a cross. My prayers, praise and worship don't compare to ridicule, humiliation, persecution and being nailed to a cross left to die a slow death. Why should I seek Him if what I do isn't enough? Because, there is no greater love than the love the Lord has for me. Once you get a taste of Him, there is nothing in the world, not even chocolate that could satify your hunger. Once you have Him in your life, nothing and no one can take His place. God is the only way you can have your cake and eat it too!

Be blessed!

No Greater Love

2008-01-11T03:43:00.000-08:00

"Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." (John 15:13, NIV)

No greater love = adoration, devotion, humility and sacrifice. Would you be able to handle such a call on your life? Could you live your life knowing that your purpose for living was to die for all people? Throughout our lives, God brings us people to love deeply. Could you and would you die for them? Could you die for people you don't even know? Could you even let someone die for you?

Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ came with one purpose, to die for us so that our sins would be forgiven, forever. He lived for thirty-three years knowing that His entire life was only for death. What faith and devotion to our Father! What an example to follow!

As I write this, I am asking myself these same questions. Could I die for people I love and people I don't know? For what the Lord has done for me? Yes! For how He has changed me? Yes! I know that's huge, but I accepted Jesus into my life and my entire being. Living for His plans and purpose are all that matters. Yes, it is frightening because I have no idea what this truly means nor do I know where He will lead. But He doesn't give us anything we can't bear for He is with us and within us. He has shown me His great love and it rests within my soul. It is a great love that no human could possibly give or take for it is all consuming.

God so wants us all to receive His Son, Jesus Christ, not for title or recognition but for repentance. Our sole purpose must be Him and His will. This is big. It requires a change of plans; a giving up of one's own desires, needs and agendas for a life of unknowns, but also a life full of Him and His blessings. Having accepted Jesus, my life has been a glory of unknowns that leave me in awe and wonder. I have no idea what is next, but I do know that I will do my best and trust Him with the rest of me in order to see what comes each day. I actually long for Him because He brings a power, a presence and a love that is indescribably delicious! Just watching and waiting for Him is exciting. When He sits with you, you become truly aware of a power greater than you and a love like no other.

If there are holes in your life or your life does not feel right, something is missing and you can't put your finger on it, talk to Jesus. You don't have to be fancy or extra polite. I'm not. I just talk to Him as I would a loved one or friend, because that is exactly what He is. He is not looking for perfect people, but people who are honest and real. He made you and already knows all your stuff anyway, so just lay everything at His feet. He can and will take it all and He will sit with you, walk with you, cry and laugh with you if you will let Him. He doesn't care what you have done or haven't done. He just wants you to come so He can love on you and bless you. Won't you come to Him? He is waiting with open arms just for you.

Madly, Deeply

2008-01-10T04:16:00.000-08:00

I read a blog the other day by Lysa Terkeurst of Proverbs 31 Ministries. In it, she describes herself as an ordinary woman who is madly in love with Jesus. For several months I have been trying to find a way to describe my feelings for my Lord and Savior. Madly, deeply in love could not describe it any better! I just love Him so! When I think of Him, I get such a big silly grin on my face. All I can think of is Snoopy from Charley Brown when he dances with such joy. If my feet could spin like his as he glides across the floor, I would be doing some serious dancing for my Lord! Since I trained as a dancer, I know it is not humanly possible to spin my feet like Snoopy, but I do know with God, all things really are possible!

This reminds me of the lyrics,
"I am free to run.
I am free to dance.
I am free to live for You.
I am free!"

In all my life, I have never felt free until now. No, my circumstances are still by my side, but now they have to keep pace if they want to stick around. They can stay or they can go. Either way, I am still madly, deeply in love with Jesus and I have every intention of being with the One I love!

Do you know Jesus? If you do, are you madly, deeply in love with Him? Know that He wants you. Yes, you! He wants to fill you with His love, heal you of a broken heart, wipe away all of your sins and fill you with His Holy Spirit, the power you need to really live.

If you don't know Him or have not been close to Him for some time, accept His invitation. Ask Him to come into your life, your heart, your soul. Ask Him to help you see who and what He sees in you. Ask Him for forgiveness and watch in awe and wonder as He changes you and your life. He's always near. He always loves and He always answers prayer.

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,' declares the Lord, 'and will bring you back from captivity.'" (Jeremiah 29:11-14, NIV)

I pray that you will seek Him and seek Him with your whole heart. When you do, I promise you too, will fall madly, deeply in love.

Be blessed.

Believe Big, Believe Him

2008-01-09T02:02:00.000-08:00

"'If you can?' said Jesus. Everything is possible for him who believes. Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, 'I do believe, help me overcome my unbelief!'" (Mark 9:23-24 NIV)

"'Have faith in God,' Jesus answered. I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." (Mark 11:22-24 NIV)

"Only believe, only believe. All things are possible; only believe." The Power of Faith, Smith Wigglesworth

I woke up at 4:30 this morning after another nightmare. I've been having them for over a month now, actually from the day my beloved cat, PC died. I have had horrible dreams that start out sweet and end up horribly. I have prayed to God to inhabit my dreams and as He always does, He answered my prayers.

My church began the Daniel Fast this week and I decided I wanted breakthrough in many areas of my life. As always, God has other plans as to what He wants us to learn when we choose obedience! Today is only the fourth day of the fast, but God has so spoken to my heart about my unbelief. During my prayer time, He showed me all of the dreams and desires I had prayed for as I was writing in my prayer journal. I was listing what I hoped to receive from Him in fasting and now realize that we don't always get what we want out of a fast or any type of obedience. If we are faithful and pray, we will get what God wants. What's so wonderful about my journey with Him is that I learn what He wants of me. In the past four days I have learned that He wants me to believe big which means I must really believe Him!

I look back over my attempts at success and yes, there are some successes, but they are not long lived and boy, are there some mistakes! I don't like the word "failure" because it means we have quit, but I can now see why my successes didn't last long and my mistakes were so big and painful - because I didn't believe that I could have what I dreamed of having. Even though I have quoted Scripture and recited affirmations, deep down inside I didn't believe that I could achieve my dreams and desires. I believed and still do that I will sabotage them or that they will be taken from me. I have lost loved ones in the past and I believe that through my dreams, the enemy is trying to tell me that he will take away everything that I love and want. Oh, but God loves me! He has shown me His Word,

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God in whom I trust...
He will cover you with His feathers,
and under His wings you will find refuge;
His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
You will not fear the terror of the night,
nor the arrow that flies by day,
nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,
nor the plague that destroys at midday." (Psalm 91:1-2,4-6 NIV)

With God, life is a partnership and all that I do and must do for Him comes by His power not mine. That takes all the pressure off if you let it! God has given me great visions for my future, visions that are huge, overwhelming and in some cases frightening. But I must believe Him and in Him, not just to receive from Him, but also to live each day. I must believe His Word and His promises. The only way I know how to do that is to ask Him for help just as the father did in Mark 9:23-24.

Believing in God takes trust and courage. That too, comes from Him. What's great for us is that He has all that we need; we just have to believe. How do we believe? I am learning that it is through prayer, asking God for help and stepping out despite my fear. Studying His Word has given me confidence and I find that all my confidence really must be in Him because I am human and am afraid I will sabotage His blessings. The enemy does not want us to succeed and I must be so close to or already standing in my promised land for him to keep messing with my dreams. Through belief in God, I know I need not be afraid. My desire is for me to have the greatest faith possible and for God's children to have the same.

Lord, I ask you to help me overcome my unbelief. Please comfort all of Your children and remove their unbelief as well. We are Your called and predestined children. In order for us to be who You created us to be, we must believe. Help our unbelief!

Let Go!

2008-01-08T05:32:00.000-08:00

"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him." (1 Corinthians 2:9, NIV)

For the past few years, I have been struggling and trying to make the visions that God has given me work in my life. I have planned and implemented and done bits of service here and there, but never enough it seemed to make the visions stick. Nine months ago, I moved to be closer to my family and help out with the family business. Little did I know that this would be a time of rest, not just physically, but also spiritually. Little did I know that I would get to meet my Maker in such a way, that He is now my best Friend! I can't imagine my life without Him and I can truly say that, "I am in love with You, my Lord!"

You may ask how I got to this point and how could any human being be in love with Something, Someone sooo big. When God calls His children, at some point they will draw near to Him and become exactly who they were created to be. I had the pleasure of chatting on the phone with my sister last night and we talked about what God is doing in our lives and how we are both embarking on something so big, that God has to come in. What He has shown us is bigger than ourselves and we have to just jump in and run! Why not run?! Neither one of us knows where He will take us, but that is the beauty of the journey.

I am excited about where God is leading. My path seems to be going in a different way than I had planned, which is good since it really wasn't working! What I have learned so clearly from Him, is that all of us must let go of all that we hope for, all that we dream of, all whom we love, and all that we don't want in our lives. If we don't let go, we hinder Him from blessing us and others. When we hold on tightly to those we love because we are believing God for blessing, healing, saving or whatever our desire is, we hinder Him from moving in their lives. He can't work when our hands are shut tight. He can only bless when our hands are open wide.

So since I have moved, I have found the peace that surpasses all understanding. It is in Him. I have found that no matter what my dreams are, He is in control. I have found that as I let go, He just blesses me like I have never been blessed before!

Our God is an awesome God, who has made promises that He intends to keep. The prayers we have sent up, He has heard. The tears we have cried, He has caught. Life with God is a partnership. He is waiting for us to let go so He can move and do only what He can do.

How badly do you want Him to move in your life? Let go so He can move!

If I Sat With You Today

2008-01-07T05:13:00.001-08:00

"Lord, if I sat with You today, would You fix all of my problems?
- make my kids behave?
- stop the dog from chewing on all four legs of my new end table?
- keep the cat off the dog?!
- keep my cranky neighbor from complaining about her ailments?
- make my husband pick his clothes up off the floor and take out the trash before I ask him?
- have my family clean, do the laundry, cook dinner and put themselves to bed tonight?
- help me lose the 20 (or is it 30!) pounds I put on, without diet and exercise?
- finish the project at work that keeps getting revised just as I finish it?
- give me more time to live each day?
- give us more money to pay our bills instead of more month to wrack up bills?!
- give me a vacation?
- and, oh yeah, more time to sit with You?"

"My child, if you sat with Me today, I would have you cast all your cares upon Me.
- I would have you come to Me that I may give you rest.
- supply all of your need according to My riches in glory.
- help you love your neighbor as yourself.
- encourage you to present yourself as a living sacrifice.
- remind you that you have the mind of Christ, a renewed mind.
- that you can do all things through My Son, Jesus Christ Who strengthens you.
- tell you that when you are weak, then you are strong.
- remember that I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and to give you a hope and a future.
- remind you that you were created in My image and likeness.
- gently remove the plank from your eye.
- encourage you to stop fretting and seek My kingdom and its righteousness.
- told you that I would pour out blessings that there shall not be room enough to receive
them.
- and remind you that I am with you always and that I will never leave you nor forsake you.

Oh My child, if only you had sat with Me today..." mts

Dare to Believe!

2008-01-04T05:19:00.000-08:00

"And Jesus said to him, 'If you can? All things are possible to him who believes.'" (Mark 9:23, NASB)

Just the other day I was sitting at a red light thinking about my circumstances and wishing that they would be resolved for the new year. I was thinking how nice it would be to start 2008 with a clean slate and was envisioning what it would be like. As I turned my gaze back to the traffic light I noticed the license plate on the car in front of me. It read, "God Knus." I had to laugh because I find that since I chose to surrender my life to Him, He has answered prayer even before the thought has left my mind or my lips. I was reminded and assured that any and all things are possible to those who believe Him.

Many of us have made resolutions and set goals for this new year. Some of us are not sure how they are going to come about and some of us have detailed plans. I for one, have huge dreams in my heart and on paper and I can tell you that even though this is only the fourth day of the new year, God has answered and blessed me in unexpected and glorious ways.

One of the greatest apostles of our time, Smith Wigglesworth, had an unshakable faith in what God can do. He emphatically stated, "Dare to believe!" He said that God is just waiting for us to take Him at His Word and expect Him to fulfill His promises. All we have to do is ask and believe in prayer.

So, as you look at your goals today and everyday, dare to believe. As a matter of fact, I double dog dare you to believe that with God all things are possible! Ask Him!

Getting to God

2008-01-03T05:36:00.000-08:00

"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30, KJV)

As stated on the side panel of this blog, my sole purpose for writing is to share what God wants His children to know. He's desperate for us! He looks at us with such love and such heartache because we are attempting to live our lives by our own strength, abilities and stuff, forgetting (or not knowing) that all we have and all we are is because of Him.

So, how do we get to Him and Him to us? The answer is really simple - surrender. It's a tough word and an even tougher act, but it can be done. The wonderful thing about surrender is that it is a partnership with God not a sole proprietorship. We take the first step and actually come to Jesus and drop all of our cares at His feet. Staying surrendered is where our Lord and Savior comes in. He does the hard part, not us. This is when we get to rest and I don't mean sit down and strive, but actually rest. Resting really is being still and knowing that God is Who He says He is. Rest is reading His Word and meditating on it. Rest is learning from and listening to Him. Rest is believing what His Word says and being courageous and confident enough to trust Him. Rest is taking small steps in obedience every single day. Rest is getting to a point where you can't wait to be in His Presence and choose to seek Him throughout your day as much as possible. Rest becomes pure delight in the Lord. Rest is knowing that with God all things really are possible.

Come to Him. Ask Him to help you know Him and live your life well. God just wants His children back and that does include you!

New Beginnings

2008-01-02T06:05:00.001-08:00

"For I know the plans I have for you..." (Jeremiah 29:11)

It's a new year, a new beginning and God is the only One who knows what is in store for 2008. I can't wait to see what He has planned! Even though I have written out goals and plans on how to achieve them, I know that I still must surrender them to God and believe that He will bring to pass what is best for me.

I pray that 2008 will be a year of blessings for each of you who visits "His Invitation" and that you will draw near to Him without ceasing to know His will for your life. His plans are for our good and may take us in directions that we are not comfortable with. But this I have learned from Him, no matter what we do or not do, what He unfolds is greater and more wonderful than anything we could ever imagine. For His Word says, "Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him." (1 Corinthians 2:9 KJV)

Surrender your plans to Him and watch with awe and wonder as He takes you on a journey that will be sweeter than anything you may ever know.

Let's Get This Party Started!

2007-12-31T05:33:00.000-08:00

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again; Rejoice!" Philippians 4:4 (NIV)

It's time once again to ring out the old and ring in the new. As most of us do every year, we reflect on accomplishments, blessings and disappointments and make resolutions that we promise this year will be different.

I decided to do something differently this year. I wrote down my goals for 2008 and then I "sent" them to the One who could make them all happen. As I lifted them up to Him, I remembered about a book I once read, The Dreamgiver, by Bruce Wilkinson. The main character of the book, Ordinary, travels on a journey to live his dream and he comes to a point where the Dreamgiver asks him to give up his dream. Of course, this breaks Ordinary's heart because he has waited all his life and traveled so very far to live it. Eventually, Ordinary gives his dream to the Dreamgiver and in so doing, discovers that he loves the Dreamgiver more than his dream and that no matter what happens the love he has is more than enough.

I too discovered that my Dreamgiver, God, is more than enough and if my dreams and goals don't come to fruition this year, that as long as I have God and as long as I can sit with Him, love Him and worship Him, that is the greatest accomplishment I could ever achieve.

So, as 2007 draws to a close, I have decided to celebrate not the year itself, but the One who gave me life and the ability to live it. Yes, I would love to have my dreams come to pass, but more than that, I would love to watch, wait and listen in wonder and awe for my Lord and Savior. He can move mountains, crush circumstances and "pour out blessings that there shall not be room enough to receive them." He can also love like no other and at the beginning of each day to the end of each day, that's all that matters.

So, please help me get this party started! It's time to celebrate, rejoice and give thanks to the One who is and always will be more than enough!

Be Bold!

2007-12-28T05:30:00.000-08:00

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power." (Ephesians 6:10 NIV)

Boldness comes from us decreasing so that He may increase. Boldness comes from faith in Who God is. We can have confidence in God, not because of our strength, but because of His power within us and behind us. Through surrender, faith and obedience, we can believe, "Greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world." With confidence in Him, we can boldly say, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." We can choose to stand firm in confidence and blessed assurance, wrapped in the full armor of God. And, instead of saying, "God, here is my problem," we can boldly say, "Problem, here's my God!"

Despite my circumstances and all that it takes to get through them, this I know for sure, I AM WHO I AM has got my back! Be bold in Him!

Draw Near

2007-12-27T06:40:00.000-08:00

"Draw near to God and He will draw near to you." (NASB)

How badly does God want us to be near Him?! He calls us in so many different ways, yet we get so caught up in our wants and don't wants, our desires, likes and dislikes. Our circumstances suck the life out of us, because we can't see Him for the chaos in front of us. He is in everything at every moment and in every detail. How we must grieve Him!

When I think about the Scripture above, I see Him with outstretched arms waiting for us to run to Him for the promises of comfort and rest. How many of us run to Him? How many of us run to Him every time we have a need, desire or concern? How much more of Him could we have if we not only turned to Him, but faced Him all day long? What would we know? What blessings would we receive and be able to pass on to others? Would we know unspeakable joy? Could we have a taste of grace in every moment of every day?

His Word is an invitation to us to come to Him for Him and all that He has for us. When we struggle, strive, stress and strain, He looks down on us with such heartache because He knows that if we would just accept His invitation, our joy would be full. We would have confidence, blessed assurance in our Almighty Father who loves us so. We would have peace that surpasses all understanding and blessing upon blessing. He would then be our all in all.

He is waiting with outstretched arms for us to run to Him. He so desperately wants to wrap His loving arms around us and give us all things. When we cry out in despair, frustration and defeat, He looks upon us with a melting heart, a heart so full of love. He just wants to give us the world.

I pray that you will visit "His Invitation" often and that you will be encouraged and lifted up. Our Lord has so laid it on my heart that He just wants us to come to Him and stay with Him, trust Him with all things, give Him every bit of who and what we are. He REALLY does want us to cast EVERYTHING at His feet! He REALLY does want us to come, rest, be still and truly know that He is God. There is no longer a need for us to keep taking our "stuff" off the alter and dragging it with us as we go about our lives.

I invite you to accept His invitation, an invitation that never expires.