Coming Alive in Christ

Jesus Calling Feb 12

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 06:00:00 +0000

I am ever so near you, hovering over your shoulder, reading every thought. People think that thoughts are fleeting and worthless, but yours are precious to Me. I smile when you think lovingly of Me. My Spirit, who lives within you, helps you to think My thoughts. As your thinking gores, so goes your entire being.

Let Me be your positive Focus. When you look to Me, knowing Me as God with you, you experience Joy. This is according to My ancient design, when I first crafted man. Modern man seeks his positive focus elsewhere in sports, sensations, acquiring new possessions. Advertising capitalizes on the longing of people for a positive focus in their lives. I planted that longing in human should, knowing that only I could fully satisfy it. Delight yourself in Me; let Me become the Desire of your heart.

"The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call Him Immanuel" (which means "God with us"). ~Matthew 1:23

Take delight in the Lord,
and He will give you the desires of your heart.

~Psalm 37:4

This brings such comfort to me, knowing that he is reading my thoughts. Maybe I’m a weird one but pretty much all day long I am thinking of Him… whether it be in a loving way or just thinking of how I can please Him more. He is always on my mind, I am always longing to do better so I can please my Father. Yes I am sure He is already pleased with me, even on the days I am not so pleased with myself. He’s like that…. loving unconditionally and always there for us! His love for us is so great that He gave us His only Son to teach us and to die for us!! Now that’s love!!!
I do delight in the Lord and He has given me my hearts desire!! Himself, His amazing Son, my loving husband, and energetic wild child!! God is good!

So.. a friend of mine was/is doing a daily devotional called Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. I decided to head on over iTunes and see what they had since I had a gift card for iTunes. They had it so I got it. I really like it. The one I got is more like an app than the audible book but I still like it.

Jesus Calling ~Feb 11

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 15:56:00 +0000

My Peace is like a shaft of golden Light shining on you continuously. During days of bright sunshine, it may blend in with your surroundings. On darker days, My Peace stands out in sharp contrast to your circumstances. See times of darkness as opportunities for My Light to shine in transcendent splendor. I am training you to practice Peace that overpowers darkness. Collaborate with Me in this training. Do not grow weary and lose heart.

In Him was Life, and the Life was the Light of men. And the Light shines on in the darkness, for the darkness has never overpowered it [put it out or absorbed it or appropriated it, and is unreceptive to it]. ~John 1:4-5 (AMP)

Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. ~Hebrews 12:3

His Peace… there is nothing like it. I love when I am having trials and I go to Him, He lets me get it off my chest, cry out and sometimes yell out to Him and then there is always this peace… such calmness that comes over me. It reminds me of being in His arms and He is just holding me whispering that everything will be ok. I love that!!! (here’s another verse that is one of my favorites)

"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. ~ John 14:27"

Jesus Calling ~Feb 10

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 06:00:00 +0000

Trust Me enough to spend ample time with Me, pushing back the demands of the day. Refuse to feel guilty about something that is so pleasing to Me, the King of the universe. Because I am omnipotent, I am able to bend time and events in your favor. You will find that you can accomplish more in less time, after you have given yourself to Me in rich communion. Also, as you align yourself with My perspective, you can sort out what is important and what is not.

Don’t fall into the trap of being constantly on the go. Many, many things people do in My Name have no value in My kingdom. To avoid doing meaningless worked, stay in continual communication with Me. I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you.

"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." ~Luke 10:41-42

I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you.

~Psalm 32:8 (NASB)

How many times have I been too much like Martha? I am still there most days. I need to me a lot more like Mary and sit at His feet and listen to what He has to say! To have Jesus as our Counselor… there is nothing better! No One to trust more than the Lord!!

Jesus Calling ~Feb 9th

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 02:42:00 +0000

Seek My face more and more. You are really just beginning your journey of intimacy with Me. It is not an easy road, but it is a delightful and privileged way: a treasure hunt. I am the Treasure, and the Glory of My Presence glistens and shimmers along the way. Hardships are part of the journey too. I mete them out ever so carefully, in just the right dosage, with a tenderness you can hardly imagine. Do not recoil from afflictions, since they are among My most favored gifts. Trust Me and don’t be afraid, for I am your Strength and Song.

My heart says of you, "Seek His face!"
Your face, Lord, I will seek. ~Psalm 27:8

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us ~2 Corinthians 4:7

Surely God is my salvation;
I will trust and not be afraid.
The Lord, the Lord Himself, is my strength and my defense; He has become my salvation."

~Isaiah 12:2

I do really need to lean on Him more when I am going through trials and not just give up because it is easiest. I need to seek His face, lean on Him, let Him lead me and give me that strength I need!!

Jesus Calling~ Feb 8th

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 06:00:00 +0000

I am above all things: your problems, your pain, and the swirling events in this ever-changing world. When you behold My Face, you rise above circumstances and rest with Me in heavenly realms. This is the way of Peace, living in the Light of My Presence. I guarantee that you will always have problems in this life, but they must not become your focus. When you feel yourself sinking in the sea of circumstances, say “Help me Jesus!” and I will draw you back to Me. If you have to say that thousands of times daily, don’t be discouraged. I know your weakness, and I meet you in that very place.

And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,

~Ephesians 2:6

"Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to You on the water."

"Come," He said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"

Immediately Jesus reached out His hand and caught him. "You of little faith," He said, "why did you doubt?"

And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down.

~Matthew 14:28-32

I am so very thankful that He is there, no matter how many times we cry out, “Jesus, save me!” He is our true Savior then, now and forever more!! Thank you God for giving us your wonderful Son!!

Jesus Calling ~ Feb 7th

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 06:00:00 +0000

Come to Me for rest and refreshment. The journey has been too much for you, and you are bone weary. Do not be ashamed of your exhaustion. Instead, see it as an opportunity for Me to take charge of your life.

Remember that I can fit everything into a pattern for good, including the things you wish were different. Start with where you are at this point in time and space, accepting that this is where I intend you to be. You will get through today one step, one moment at a time. your main responsibility is to remain attentive to Me, letting Me guide you though the many choices along your pathway.

This sounds like an easy assignment, but it is not. Your desire to live in My Presence goes against the grain of “the world, the flesh and the devil.” Much of your weariness results from your constant battle against these opponents. However, you are on the path of My choosing, so do not give up! Hope in Me, for you will again praise Me for the help of My Presence.

We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose. ~Romans 8:28 (AMP)

Why are you in despair, O my soul?
And why have you become disturbed within me?
Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him,
The help of my countenance and my God.

~Psalm 42:11 (NASB)

I love this devotional today! I was just mentioning yesterday in a reply to a comment that the ‘steep hills’ that we must climb are the struggles we must deal with from this world. For those of us that do try to live in His Presence, it seems like the more this world fights us! I am just thankful that God, Jesus and my brothers and sisters are there to help me along the way!!!

Jesus Calling ~ Feb 6th

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 06:00:00 +0000

Come to Me and rest. I am all about you, to bless and restore. Breathe Me in with each breath. The way just ahead of you is very steep, Slow down and cling tightly to My hand. I am teaching you a difficult lesson, learned only by hardship.

Lift up empty hands of faith to receive My precious Presence. Light, Life Joy, and Peace flow freely through this gift. When your focus turns away from Me, you grasp for other things. You drop the glowing gift of My Presence as you reach for lifeless ashes. Return to Me; regain My Presence.

"Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."~Matthew 11:28-30

Therefore I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing~1 Timothy 2:8

Slow down.. how many times have I heard that? And not just from Him. Return to Him and regain His presence! I need to keep a tight grip on His hand and stay focused on Him in everything!!

Jesus Calling ~Feb 5th

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 04:07:00 +0000

Seek My face, and you will find not only My Presence but also My Peace. To receive My Peace, you must change your grasping, controlling stance to one of openness and trust. The only thing you can grasp without damaging your should is My hand. Ask My Spirit within you to order your day and control your thoughts, for the mind controlled by the Spirit is Life and Peace.

You can have as much of Me and My Peace as you want, through thousands of correct choices each day. The most persistent choice you face is whether to trust Me or to worry. You will never run out of the things to worry about, but you can choose to trust Me no matter what. I am an ever-present help in trouble. Trust Me, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.

The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. ~Romans 8:6

God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, ~Psalm 46:1-2

Hmm…think He is trying to tell me something? Stop worrying and trust in ME!!!! How easy is that? Well I guess for me it is harder than I thought. I need to stop worrying so much and trust that He will take care of it. I need to just keep reaching for His hand and let Him lead me!!

Jesus Calling ~ Feb 4th

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 03:56:00 +0000

So.. a friend of mine was/is doing a daily devotional called Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. I decided to head on over iTunes and see what they had since I had a gift card for iTunes. They had it so I got it. I really like it. The one I got is more like an app than the audible book but I still like it.

Bring Me your weakness, and receive My Peace. Accept yourself and your circumstances just as they are, remembering that I am sovereign over everything. Do not wear yourself out with analyzing and planning. Instead, let thankfulness and trust be your guides through this day; they will keep you close to Me. As you live in the radiance of My Presence, My Peace shines upon you. You will cease to notice how weak or strong you feel, because you will be focusing on Me. The best way to get through this day is step by step with Me. Continue this intimate journey, trusting that the path you are following is headed for heaven.

The Lord gives strength to His people;
the Lord blesses His people with peace. ~Psalm 29:11

"'"The Lord bless you
and keep you;

the Lord make His face shine on you
and be gracious to you;

the Lord turn His face toward you
and give you peace."' ~Numbers 6:24-26

But I trust in your unfailing love;
my heart rejoices in your salvation.~Psalm 13:5

Accepting myself is something that is sometimes hard for me to do. So many times I am so hard on myself for not doing things just right, worrying about how the day will go and if I will get things done right and on time. This is a wonderful reminder that I need to stay focused on Him and let Him lead me through my days and trials and believe that I am His child and I am so loved by Him!!! These verses are so very powerful!!

Jesus Calling ~Feb 3

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:06:00 +0000

I am with you and for you. You face nothing alone---nothing! When you feel anxious, know that you are focusing on the visible world and leaving Me out of the picture. The remedy is simple: Fix your eyes not on what is seen but on what is unseen. Verbalize your trust in Me, the Living One who sees you always. I will get you safely through this day and all your days. But you can find Me only in the present. Each day is a precious gift from My Father. How ridiculous to grasp for future gifts when today’s is set before you! Receive today’s gift gratefully, unwrapping it tenderly and delving into its depths. As you savor this gift, you find Me.

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?~Romans 8:31

while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. ~2 Corinthians 4:18

So she called the name of the Lord Who spoke to her, You are a God of seeing, for she said, Have I [not] even here [in the wilderness] looked upon Him Who sees me [and lived]? Or have I here also seen [the future purposes or designs of] Him Who sees me?14 Therefore the well was called Beer-lahai-roi [A well to the Living One Who sees me]; it is between Kadesh and Bered. ~Genesis 16:13-14(AMP)

What a wonderful reminder of how we need to stay focused on Him and not the things of this world. When we are having problems we need to take them to Him and learn to trust in Him, to let Him take it from us and help us walk through it!! And to remember that each day is a gift, to stop worry about tomorrow but just enjoy the gift of today!!!

How’s your filter?

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:12:00 +0000

*image from google search

The other day my daughter came home from school with a cute little crown they made for the 100th day of school. I told her that she looked cute and she told me no she didn’t, that she looked stupid! I asked her where she got that from and she said a couple girls in her class said she looked stupid.

I tried to comfort her and tell her she didn’t look stupid, that she was beautiful and God thinks she is beautiful. She asked why they would say that. I tried to explain to her that kids just say stuff. That sometimes they don’t have a filter.

She asked what that was.. I started to explain it to her and she said, like in the fish tank! I said yep and asked her what it does. She told me it keeps it clean, and I asked how.. she said by taking out the poop and nasty stuff. EXACTLY!!! (man she is so smart!)

I told her that we all, even grownups, need to filter what comes out of our mouths. We need to stop and think before we let it come out our mouths.. filter it. I think she gets it! Anyways I hope she does, as well as any 5 year old can.

So many of us need to work on this, me especially. I am still better than I was but sometimes my ‘filter’ must be a little clogged because it doesn’t always catch everything. So thankful for God’s grace on this and for forgiveness from Him, my loving husband and sweet daughter!!

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen ~Ephesians 4:29

The tongue has the power of life and death" ~Proverbs 18:21

We sent Timothy, who is our brother and God's fellow worker in spreading the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith ~1 Thessalonians 3:2

Therefore encourage each other with these words

~1 Thessalonians 4:18

Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching ~Hebrews 10:25

Jesus Calling ~ Feb 2

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:30:00 +0000

I am renewing your mind. When your thoughts flow freely, they tend to move toward problems. your focus gets snagged on a given problem, circling round and round it in attempts to gain mastery. Your energy is drained away from other matters though this negative focus. Worst of all, you lose sight of Me.

A renewed mind is Presence-focused. Train your mind to seek Me in every moment, every situation. Sometimes you can find Me in your surroundings: a lilting birdsong, a loved one’s smile, golden sunlight. At other times, you must draw inward to find Me. I am always present in your spirit. Seek My Face, speak to Me, and I will light up your mind.

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. ~Romans 12:2 NKJV

Seek the Lord and His strength; Seek His face evermore!~Psalm 105:4 NKJV

Jesus Calling ~ Feb 1st

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:53:00 +0000

Follow Me one step at a time. That is all I require of you. In fact, that is the only way to move through this space/time world. You see huge mountains looming, and you start wondering how you’re going to scale those heights. Meanwhile, because you’re not looking where you’re going, you stumble on the easy path where I am leading you now. As I help you get back on your feet, you tell Me how worried you are about the cliffs up ahead. But you don’t know what will happen today, much less tomorrow. Our path may take an abrupt turn, leading you away from those mountains. There may be an easier way up the mountains than is visible from this distance. If I do lead you up the cliffs, I will equip you thoroughly for the strenuous climb. I will even give My angels charge over you, to preserver you in all your ways.

Keep your mind on the present journey, enjoying My Presence. Walk by faith, not by sight, trusting Me to open up the way before you.

With your help I can advance against a troop;
with my God I can scale a wall. ~Psalm 16:29

For He will give His angels [especial] charge over you to accompany and defend and preserve you in all your ways [of obedience and service]. They shall bear you up on their hands, lest you dash your foot against a stone.~Psalm 91:11-12 (AMP)

For we walk by faith, not by sight. ~2 Corinthians 5:7 (NKJV)

Girlfriends in God

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:23:00 +0000

Can You Love Your Husband and Brad Pitt Too?
Sharon Jaynes
(If you are single, you’re not off the hook here. Keep reading.)

Girlfriends in God

"Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you." 2 Thessalonians 3:16

Jesus Calling Day 31

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 21:05:00 +0000

So.. a friend of mine was/is doing a daily devotional called Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. I decided to head on over iTunes and see what they had since I had a gift card for iTunes. They had it so I got it. I really like it. The one I got is more like an app than the audible book but I still like it. I will be posting my daily devotions for a while too since I have nothing much else to write about lately.

I am your strength and shield. I plan out each day and have it ready for you, long before you arise from bed. I also provide the strength you need each step of the way. Instead of assessing your energy level and wondering about what’s on the road ahead, concentrate on staying in touch with Me. My power flows freely into your through our open communication. Refuse to waste energy worrying, and you will have strength to spare.

Whenever you start to feel afraid, remember that I am your Shield. But unlike inanimate armor, I am always alert and active. My Presence watches over you continually, protecting you from both known and unknown dangers. Entrust your self to My watch care, which is the best security system available. I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go.

The Lord is my strength and my shield;
my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me.
My heart leaps for joy,
and with my song I praise Him.~Psalm28:7

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.~Matthew 6:34

When I am afraid, I put my trust in You.

In God, whose word I praise—
in God I trust and am not afraid.
What can mere mortals do to me?~Psalm 56:3-4

I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you." ~Genesis 28:15

It is so wonderful that the Lord has everything already planned out for us! That He will be there through it all and will never leave us!! Such wonderful promises from our Father!! With Him I can do anything!! I need to stand strong on that and not be so inclined to worry so much because He will never leave me! He will take care of me and only wants the best for me.

Trusting in the our Father is the best thing! He does protect, provide and love us so!!!

Jesus Calling- Day 30

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:46:00 +0000

So.. a friend of mine was/is doing a daily devotional called Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. I decided to head on over iTunes and see what they had since I had a gift card for iTunes. They had it so I got it. I really like it. The one I got is more like an app than the audible book but I still like it. I will be posting my daily devotions for a while too since I have nothing much else to write about lately.

Worship Me only. Whatever occupies your mind the most becomes your god. Worries, if indulged, develop into idols. Anxiety gains a life of its own, parasitically infesting your mind. Break free from this bondage by affirming your trust in Me and refreshing yourself in My Presence. What goes on in your mind is invisible, undetectable to other people. But I read your thoughts continually, searching for evidence of trust in Me. I rejoice when your mind turns toward Me. Guard your thoughts diligently; good thought-choices will keep you close to Me.

They will have no fear of bad news;
their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.

~Psalm 112:7

When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me

~1 Corinthians 13:11

This is something I am still working on.. when I go to pray.. too many times I have other things on my mind. A lot of times it is others I am praying for but I will be praying and then just wonder off from that thought onto something different.

I know that a lot of people do this but I need to get better at being with Him and meditating on His word!! Not what is going on in this world. I need to shut my mind off so I can be more focused and open to what He wants from me.

I am very thankful that He is continually searching my thoughts though.. well sometimes thankful , but He knows my hearts and knows that I am trying.. I am so much better than I used to be!

Jesus Calling–Day 29

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 14:28:00 +0000

So.. a friend of mine was/is doing a daily devotional called Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. I decided to head on over iTunes and see what they had since I had a gift card for iTunes. They had it so I got it. I really like it. The one I got is more like an app than the audible book but I still like it. I will be posting my daily devotions for a while too since I have nothing much else to write about lately.

Keep your focus on Me. I have gifted you with amazing freedom, including the ability to choose the focal point of your mind. Only the crown of My creation has such remarkable capability; this is a sign of being made in My image.
Let the goal of this day be to bring every thought captive to Me. Whenever your mind wanders, lasso those thoughts and bring them into My Presence. In My radiant Light, anxious thoughts shrink and shrivel away. Judgmental thoughts are unmasked as you bask in My conditional Love. Confused ideas are untangled while you rest in simplicity of My Peace. I will guard you and keep you in constant Peace, as you focus your mind on Me.

You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor.~Psalm 8:5

Then God said, "Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground."

So God created mankind in His own image,
in the image of God He created them; male and female He created them.~Genesis 1:26-27

We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. ~2 Corinthians 10:5

You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose mind [both its inclination and its character is stayed on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You, and hopes confidently in You~Isaiah 26:3 (AMP)

Jesus Calling Day 28

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:30:00 +0000

So.. a friend of mine was/is doing a daily devotional called Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. I decided to head on over iTunes and see what they had since I had a gift card for iTunes. They had it so I got it. I really like it. The one I got is more like an app than the audible book but I still like it. I will be posting my daily devotions for a while too since I have nothing much else to write about lately.

I am with you always. These were the last words I spoke before ascending into heaven. I continue to proclaim this promise to all who will listen. People respond to My continual Presence in various ways. Most Christians accept this teaching as truth but ignore it in their daily living. Some ill-taught or wounded believers fear (and may even resent) My awareness of all they do, say, and think. A few people center their lives around this glorious promise and find themselves blessed beyond all expectations.
When My Presence is the focal point of your consciousness, all the pieces of your life fall into place. As you gaze at Me through the eyes of your heart, you can see the world around you from My perspective. The fact that I am with you makes every moment of your life meaningful.

and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." ~Matthew 28:20

1 You have searched me, Lord,
and you know me.

2 You know when I sit and when I rise;
you perceive my thoughts from afar.

3 You discern my going out and my lying down;
you are familiar with all my ways.

4 Before a word is on my tongue
You, Lord, know it completely.

~Psalm 139-1-4

Jesus Calling Day 27

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 14:43:00 +0000

Trust is a golden pathway to heaven. When you walk on this path, you live above your circumstances. My glorious Light shines more brightly on those who follow this path of Life. Dare to walk on the high road with Me, for it is the most direct route to heaven. The low road is circuitous: twisting and turning in agonizing knots. There the air hangs heavy, and dark, ominous clods predominate. Relying on your own understand will weigh you down. Trust in Me absolutely, and I will make your path straight.

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? ~ John 14:1-2

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight ~Proverbs 3:5-6

His Word Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000

There are some days that I just don't have much to say but after reading His Word I have plenty I want to share! So this meme is for His World only. On Fridays I will be sharing something I have read, a verse, passage, chapter, whatever it might be, that just speaks for itself, nothing more is needed...

If you would like to join in, feel free!!!

Button is on the right hand side!

3 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ,4 who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father,5 to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. ~Galatians 1:3-5

~His love~

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 01:00:00 +0000

image from google

The other morning I woke up and had a song playing in my head. It’s a song that someone sang on The Voice and on American Idol the other day.
The part that was in my head was..

‘I just prayed to a God I don’t believe in…
I’m falling to pieces…’

Now these are not in order, but they spoke to me.

I do believe in God.
I do pray to Him.

But what I heard Him saying was, and this hurts, ‘but do you really believe in Me? Really trust Me to take care of the things you pray about? That is why you feel like you are falling to pieces, because when you pray, you don’t really believe I can do it!’

Wow… that hurt! That really got my attention. I can pray for others, believe that He will help them but when it comes to myself… for some reason I don’t always believe.

I don’t know if it is because I feel like I am unworthy, or that my requests are so petty. For small aches and pains, little family arguments… it’s not like I have a severe problem.

I have to remember though that to Him, big or small, all requests are the same.

22b But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.”

²³ “‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.”

²⁴ Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” ~ Mark 9: 22b-24

Sometimes I wonder… ‘who am I to be troubling Him?’ I believe, but wonder why He would take the time for my petty things, but for our Father to keep track of our tears.. to have known us before we were born… that He calls us His children… that shows us how much He loves us! Do we not love our own children? Do we not want to help them with their problems, big or small? That’s exactly how He feels about us!

You keep track of all my sorrows.
You have collected all my tears in your bottle.
You have recorded each one in Your book. ~Psalm 56:8

"I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as My prophet to the nations." ~Jeremiah 1:5

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,21 to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21

Jesus Calling ~ Day 26

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:09:00 +0000

So.. a friend of mine was/is doing a daily devotional called Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. I decided to head on over iTunes and see what they had since I had a gift card for iTunes. They had it so I got it. I really like it. The one I got is more like an app than the audible book but I still like it. I haven’t had it that long but just wanted to share. I will be posting my daily devotions for a while too since I have nothing much else to write about lately.

Give up the illusion that you deserve a problem-free life. Part of you is still hungering for the resolution of all difficulties. This is a false hope! As I told My disciples, in the world you will have trouble. Link your hope not to problem solving in this life but to the promise of an eternity of problem-free life in heaven. Instead of seeking perfection in this fallen world, pour your energy into seeking Me: the Perfect One.

It is possible to enjoy Me and glorify Me in the midst of adverse circumstances. In fact, My Light shines most brightly through believers who trust Me in the dark. That kind of trust is supernatural: a production of My indwelling Spirit. When things seem all wrong, trust Me anyway. I am much less interested in right circumstances than in right responses to whatever comes your way.

"I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." ~John 16:33

Even in darkness light dawns for the upright,
for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous.

They will have no fear of bad news;
their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.

Psalm 112: 4,7

Jesus Calling Day 25

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:22:00 +0000

So.. a friend of mine was/is doing a daily devotional called Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. I decided to head on over iTunes and see what they had since I had a gift card for iTunes. They had it so I got it. I really like it. The one I got is more like an app than the audible book but I still like it. I haven’t had it that long but just wanted to share. I will be posting my daily devotions for a while too since I have nothing much else to write about lately.

Let My love enfold you in the radiance of My Glory. Sit still in the Light of My Presence, and receive My Peace. These quiet moments with Me transcend time, accomplishing far more than you can imagine. Bring Me the sacrifice of your time, and watch to see how abundantly I bless you and your loved ones.

Through the intimacy of our relationship, you are being transformed from the inside out. As you keep your focus on Me, I form you into the one I desire you to be. Your part is to yield to My creative work in you, neither resisting it nor trying to speed it up. Enjoy the tempo of a God-breathed life by letting me set the pace. Hold My hand in childlike trust, and the way before you will open up step by step.

Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.~Hebrews 13:15

But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. ~2 Corinthians 3:18

Nevertheless I am continually with You; You hold me by my right hand. You will guide me with Your counsel, And afterward receive me to glory.

~Psalm 73:23-24

Jesus Calling ~ Day 24

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0000

So.. a friend of mine was/is doing a daily devotional called Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. I decided to head on over iTunes and see what they had since I had a gift card for iTunes. They had it so I got it. I really like it. The one I got is more like an app than the audible book but I still like it. I haven’t had it that long but just wanted to share. I will be posting my daily devotions for a while too since I have nothing much else to write about lately.

My peace is the treasure of treasures: the pearl of great price. It is an exquisitely costly gift, both for the Giver and the receiver. I purchased this Peace for your with My blood. You receive this gift by trusting Me in the midst of life’s storms. If you have the worlds’ peace- everything going your way- you don’t seek My unfathomable Peace. Thank Me when things do not go your way, because spiritual blessings come wrapped in trials. Adverse circumstances are normal in a fallen world. Expect them each day. Rejoice in the face of hardship, for I have overcome the world.

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it. ~Matthew 13:45, 46 (NKJV)

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds,

~James 1:2

"I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." ~John 16:35

Jesus Calling~ Day 23

noreply@blogger.com (Nicole) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 20:32:00 +0000

So.. a friend of mine was/is doing a daily devotional called Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. I decided to head on over iTunes and see what they had since I had a gift card for iTunes. They had it so I got it. I really like it. The one I got is more like an app than the audible book but I still like it. I haven’t had it that long but just wanted to share. I will be posting my daily devotions for a while too since I have nothing much else to write about lately.

It’s all right to be human. When your mind wanders while you are praying, don’t be surprised or upset. Simply return your attention to Me. Share a secret smile with Me, knowing that I understand. Rejoice in My Love for you, which has no limits or conditions. Whisper My Name in loving contentment, assured that I will never leave you or forsake you. Intersperse these peaceful interludes abundantly throughout your day. This practice will enable you to attain a quiet and gentle spirit, which is pleasing to Me.

As you live in close contact with Me, the Light of My Presence filters through you to bless others. Your weakness and wondedness are the openings through which the Light of the knowledge of My Glory shines forth. My strength and power show themselves most effective in your weakness.

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you."~Deuteronomy 31:6

Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight. ~1 Peter 3:4

For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness," made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God's glory displayed in the face of Christ.

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us

~2 Corinthians 4:6-7

But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me!

~2 Corinthians 12:9 (AMP)