True Beauty: Deny Yourself

Once again, I was blessed to be able to work with David C. Cook to review Lisa Chan’s (wife of best-selling author and pastor Francis Chan) 2nd installment of her 3-part True Beauty Series. Last fall I reviewed the first in the series called Be Still and was able to bless one of my readers with a copy. As with last time, I will also be giving away a copy of this new DVD to one lucky reader!  This post was originally shared on my other blog – Mothering Matters, but wanted to share it with you here as well!

We live in a very self-centered, self-satisfaction and gratifying society, and the message that Lisa brings in this new DVD may challenge many people . . . and it should! However, there is a blessing in the challenge (and obedience)!

In the second film of her new series, True Beauty: Finding Your Identity in Jesus (David C Cook/Flannel, March 2013), Lisa Chan–co-founder of the mega-church Cornerstone Community Church in Simi Valley—presents another option for women: Deny Yourself. In this impactful teaching, she demonstrates a way of life that is full of contentedness and joy.

True Beauty Deny Yourself TRAILER from Flannel Staff on Vimeo.

Luke 14:27 – And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.

Lisa was struck by this verse and command from Jesus, and it really challenged her. What does it mean to “carry their cross and follow” Christ? What is it that Christ is asking us to do in our life? How will it affect our lives?

It’s a message that many Christians don’t think about, want to truly think about, or feel that it would even be productive in their life. It’s not the “norm” for how people live in the world today.

However, Lisa (mother of 5) and her husband Francis have definitely taken this command seriously. In 2010 they left their comfortable and familiar surroundings to go on a journey that only God could design! They traveled through Asia, worked with the poor, and landed in San Francisco where they now reside. This would not have happened if they had not followed God’s leading in their lives.

Deny Yourself weaves Lisa’s teaching with the story of Irene, a wife and mother, who, several years ago, was at her wit’s end in her marriage. Ready to divorce her alcoholic husband, God moved mightily in his heart and she was called to forgive him when he come to her with a repentant spirit. In a marriage that’s now thriving, Irene and her husband have been challenged by the biblical command to deny themselves by living out God’s instruction to “care for the orphans.” Together, they have adopted several children into their family.

As in the last DVD, I enjoyed listening to Lisa and her easy-to-approach way she talks with her listeners. Her heart for women to experience a real and ever-deepening relationship with God, compels her to brave even challenging and tough-love type topics. But she does it in a way that you can swallow and are actually drawn in to hear more.

I had to grab my tissues in hearing Irene’s amazing story (and hearing her husband Domingo’s story in the extra snippets on the DVD). It made me want to build a bigger house and adopt more kids (well . . . I already wanted to do that . . . but we’ve maxed out this house with 5 . . . 4 biological and 1 adopted)!

“When I have laid down my life, God fills me up…who cares if we’ve given up some comfort, some possessions and stuff?” Chan asks, with a peaceful steadiness to her voice. “He fills your heart with joy as nothing else can.”

Lisa Chan is a mother of five and co-founder (with her husband, Francis) of Cornerstone Community Church in Simi Valley, California. An accomplished singer, Lisa has recorded three albums, including Endless Beauty. Lisa lives with her family in San Francisco where they are doing inner-city ministry as a family.

Founded in 1875, David C Cook is a leading nonprofit discipleship resource provider based in Colorado Springs, Colorado. For more than 130 years, David C Cook has served the Global Church with life transforming materials from best-selling books and curriculum, to toys and games and small group resources. With additional offices in Elgin, Illinois, as well as Paris, Ontario, Canada and Eastbourne, UK, David C Cook is a global organization whose resources are published in more than 150 languages, distributed in more than 80 countries, and sold worldwide through retail stores, catalogs, and online. Through David C Cook’s music division, Kingsway, over 30% of the top 500 praise and worship songs written by Kingsway artists are sung in churches around the world. For more information visit David C Cook on the Internet at www.davidccook.com.

Flannel is a non-profit ministry that serves as a catalyst for highly creative people to communicate the way of Jesus to the world. Flannel’s primary products are short, creative films designed to start discussions on relevant issues and to deeply resonate on what matters most today. Headquartered in Western Michigan, Flannel’s films have been seen around the world. www.flannel.org.

Giveaway!

How can you get your own copy? Well, I will be giving away a copy to one of my fantastic readers!

If you don’t win – you do have the option of being able to order it HERE. You can order the DVD (to show to your women’s group or with a friend over coffee), download the video or watch it online.

To try and win a copy – please enter through the Rafflecopter below!

Contest open to US residents only.

Giveaway ends at 12:00am on Friday, April 26, 2013

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The post Review & Giveaway: Deny Yourself by Lisa Chan appeared first on Drink From the Deep.

The Action Bible

With 5 kids, we’ve tried out our fair share of Bibles, Devotionals and other Bible-related materials. I am a firm believer in making sure the Bible is understandable and enjoyable, and am not opposed to using Bible “story” books to help make the Bible come alive to my kids at the various ages throughout the years.

I was thrilled when asked to review The Action Bible, as well as the New Testament version, the Devotional book and the Handbook. What I didn’t realize is how hard it would be for me to actually get and keep my hands on these things in our house! My kids (ages 8 – 17) have been devouring this book! I knew my kids liked the Manga Bible we were given years ago, and I knew they loved reading certain graphic novels – but wasn’t sure if they were into DC or Marvel comic-type books.

Well . . . . they LOVED this book!

The Action Bible has over 700 pages of amazing illustrations created by Sergio Cariello (who previously worked for Marvel and DC Comics) that depict 215 stories, put together in chronological order (with references to where they are found in scripture) spanning Genesis to Revelation.

When I asked my kids what they thought of The Action Bible, here is what some of them said:

It’s AWESOME . . . no . . . it’s AMAZING! You know how when you read the Bible it can be kind of boring.  Well. . . I was just reading the Action Bible – and there was part of me that thought ‘I already know these stories, so maybe I’ll stop reading them’, but then part of me that said ‘no way!  I just HAVE to keep reading them because it’s so good!’  – 17 y.o. son

Cool! It’s like the Bible – but more comic-y . . . and with less words! - 10 y.o. son

It really brought the Bible to life and made it easier to visualize and understand. I LOVE comics and I LOVE this book! - 12 y.o. daughter

In the beginning of the Devotional book – it says the same thing . . .

The Bible can be intimidating. It’s okay; you can admit it. I mean, it’s got all those words in tiny print packed across the pages. It’s a good thing the Action Bible came along!

The Action Bible is all about the pictures – cool pictures, comic pictures. And those pictures bring the stories of the Bible to life in whole new colorful ways, without having to use so many words. You can see the action jump off the page. You can understand the stories much more easily. And all that helps you bring the power of the Bible to life in your everyday world.

I think the creators of these books did it right . . . and got their point across . . . because my kids got it!

What did I think?

I have never been a graphic novel kind of person. I can easily get frustrated with the over-stimulation on my eyes in trying to read them – with all the graphics, the unsymmetrical layouts, not knowing which sentence to read next, etc. So – I was leery that I would enjoy this book like my kids would.

However . . . I have to say . . . I got hooked!

It was easy to read and understand, and it truly did make the Bible come alive in a new way. I am very visual – so it’s nice to be able to see the stories instead of just read them.

BUT – what I truly liked about this Bible “story” book . . . is that it doesn’t just cover the common and most well-known stories (Noah, David and Goliath, etc). It has stories based on Job, Isaiah, Acts, Corinthians, Thessalonians . . . even ends in the book of Revelation.

The titles of the stories were cracking me up as well! There were many “punny” titles and several that were the names of TV shows, sayings, books and more. For example – Wife Swap, Touched by an Angel, Spy v. Spy, The Wonderful Win against Og (say it fast . . . sounds like “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”), Eat your Vegetables (Daniel), When in Rome . . . , Why do Bad things happen to good people?, etc.

Again – just another way it appeals to kids and adults alike.

Other Materials

In addition to The Action Bible which covers the Old and New Testament, there is a New Testament only version, a 52 week Devotional, and a Handbook (a dictionary of people, places, things, and descriptions of the books of the Bible). All of them my kids and I have enjoyed.

What is the most exciting superhero comic?

Giveaway!!

Yes – one lucky winner will receive a copy of The Action Bible (retails for $26.99)! Will it be you?!

Beginning today (March 25th, 2013) – Enter below using the Rafflecopter. Come back and enter again each day.

Contest ends at 12AM on April 7th, 2013. Winner will be notified within 48 hours.

In order to receive credit for the optional entries (FB, Twitter), you must leave a comment below in the comments section.(answer the question that is listed in the Rafflecopter box). So – don’t forget!

Giveaway is open to US residents only at this time. Thanks.

Good Luck!

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The post The Action Bible: Review and Giveaway appeared first on Drink From the Deep.

I thought I would share my latest Sunday Sip post from my Mothering-Matters.com blog with you all today.

It was not specifically geared towards just moms – and I felt like there was someone here that needed to hear this.

If that’s you – please let me know! It always encourages me to hear that what I’m pouring out is actually quenching the needs and thirst of others – watering them to bring refreshment, growth, and more!

Enjoy!

Image courtesy of Dee’s Bugaboo Boutique

Why we don’t come near

At 4 years old, my daughter would want to snuggle up next to me, but then would start poking and kicking me trying to hurt me. I would ask her if she really wanted to snuggle. She would say yes, but didn’t have an explanation as to why she was poking me. I believe she was subconsciously testing to see how I would react. Would I still hold her close and snuggle? Would she still receive love even when she was “bad”?

At 5 years old, she would yell “I HATE you” – when she was really just mad about something. Would I return hatred for hatred, anger for anger, or love for both? Would I draw near in love or push her away?

In her tween years she would stomp up the stairs in what looked like an angry fit towards/because of me. But as I gave her some space for a little while, then lovingly pressed in gently – I would find out she was really mad at herself for something she had done, or what had happened to her that day at school. Again . . . deep inside she was wondering and crying out . . . “Will you still love me no matter what?”

How about you?

• Do you feel like God is far away today?
• Has it felt like you are all alone?
• Has God pulled away . . . or have you?
• What’s going on inside . . . in your life . . . and do you believe you will be met with love in return . . . no matter what?

Come Near and God will come Near

The scripture above is comforting . . . that not only can we come near to God (it is our choice) . . . but when we do, God will come near to us.

We will be met by Love in return.

But I want to challenge you to look at the verse in context.

⁷ Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. ⁸ Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

¹⁰ Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.

Many times we blame God for the bad things in our life, crying out “Where are you God? Why are you not helping? Why are you not speaking to me? Why are you not here? Why did you cause this?”

As a mom, I can be in the same room with my kids, watching them, trying to talk to them, praying they not only listen and obey (to keep themselves safe, etc) – but also wanting them to come near . . . to snuggle, to listen to what I want to tell them, to let me hold them when they are hurt and let me comfort them when they are sad. But they don’t always do that – do they?

Kids will often push away – out of anger, out of their woundedness, out of fear, out of self-hatred and low self-esteem (thus believing others won’t and don’t like them or will accept them as well) and other reasons. They will choose to disobey, and might get hurt in the process.

We are no different. Are we?

We get mad at God, we push Him away, we deny his loving arms from surrounding us with comfort and love, and then we stay mad that He’s not doing anything to help us, to fix things, to make us feel better.

But have we followed what this Scripture says?

• Submit yourself to God
• Resist the Devil
• Come near to God
• Wash your hands (what you’ve done)
• Purify your hearts (what you think/believe)
• Humble yourself

And then what will happen? . . . . He will not only come near – but will lift you up! [YAY!]

God is always with us

“. . .And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matt. 28:20b)

Yes . . . He is always with you . . . but are you with Him?

I know that many times in my life, I’ve complained and accused God of not speaking to me anymore, of not being there for me . . . when in fact, I was the one that pulled away . . . either out of anger, out of shame, out of self-pity, out of believing lies about God and his character and natures, and many other reasons.

When I chose to press into and started to believe the truth . . . that God is always there, ready and willing to “come near”, to envelope me with his big loving arms, to comfort me in times of distress, to lift “me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; [to] set my feet on a rock and [give] me a firm place to stand.” (Psalm 40:2) . . . THEN . . . when I came near (to this very safe, loving and perfect Father, Friend and Counselor) . . . He ALWAYS came near to me!

And I have never been the same!

A loving challenge

I want to lovingly challenge you today to examine your life.

• Are you following what the Scriptures say?
• Have you repented of any sin (wrong doing and wrong thinking)?
• Have you resisted the lies and schemes of the enemy?
• What areas in your life are you believing lies – about yourself, about God, about others?

“Any area of your life that does not glisten with hope reveals that you are believing a lie & is a stronghold of the devil.” – Francis Frangipane

This is not meant to stir up condemnation . . . but to lovingly help you and reassure you . . . that no matter what kind of mess your life might be (inside and out) . . . God is ALWAYS here for you! He has never left you nor will he forsake you (Duet 31:6,8).

And when you do decide to fully come near to Him . . . He will not only come near to you . . . but He wants to wrap His big loving arms around you . . . and love you like no one ever has!

Will you come near?

What is one thing that is hindering you from truly drawing/coming near to God today?

Fear? Doubt? Anger? Sin? Confusion? Stubbornness? Hurts and wounds? Other things?

Will you continue to let these things stand in the way and hinder you from coming near to God? Or are you ready to make some changes and choose to come near to Him?

I am praying that you will encounter the love of God like you never have before! There is absolutely NOTHING that can separate you from God’s love through Jesus (Romans 8:39)! That’s the truth!

What are your thoughts about coming near to God? Have you felt Him near to you before?

Dare to share your thoughts in the comments – either of your struggles, or your victories!

Please share this with your friends as well!

I pray you got a Deep Drink today!

- Lori

The post Why we don’t come near to God. appeared first on Drink From the Deep.

Image courtesy of chanpipat / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

On Sunday, December 23rd, 2012 I was sitting in church asking God what He had to say that day . . . for me and my family . . . for the church . . . or anyone around me.

This is not abnormal for me.

I LOVE hearing what my Daddy has to say . . . for me . . . for others . . . for YOU!  He has some amazing thoughts and things to say to all of us!  His love, compassion, wisdom, peace and more always amaze me!  So I will ask Him frequently what He has to say.

I wanted to share with you what He told me this day.  I thought at first it was just for me and my family (as God has been “tilling” our soil – individually, in our marriage, our kids, in every area it seems – digging up the nasty weeds and roots that He no longer wants there . . . so He can do something good with our soil.) – but God said it’s for everyone.  So I guess that means I need to share it! 

I was going to wait until Jan 1st to share this with you all . . . but I feel like some of you need to hear this before the end of the year. 

With all the scary talk about a fiscal cliff, and the negative news and rumors we hear about everything we need to be afraid of, worried about, concerned over, how our world is falling apart, etc . . . I can feel God wanting to comfort His kids, draw them close, protect them, love them, take care of them and show them just how much He loves them and what He wants to say to them!

So here is what He said!

God:  I sure do love my kids!

Lori:  I know you do!

G:   No . . . I REALLY do! 

L:   I know!

G:  2012 has been a year of tilling.  No necessarily a fun year – but a very necessary year!  The ground needs to be free and clear of anything that could hinder a bountiful and beautiful crop and harvest.

But 2013 will be a year of planting seeds and watering.  Where there has been unrest and even pain – there will be a season of rest (for the soil) but also of great growth.

I am depositing things into your lives early this next year – that I will water throughout the year.  Each kind of plant will sprout and grow at different rates, so don’t be discouraged if you see some things sprouting quickly and others seem to take longer.  The ones that sprout quickly are for a shorter season – for a need in that season – and they grow fast to be harvested quickly.  But those that take longer to sprout – are forming a strong, vast and expansive root system before you even see the sprouts beginning to grow.  But once they show themselves, they will start to grow straight up and tall – taller than the quick-sprouting plants – and they will become tall trees – able to carry and produce an abundance of fruit – for a long time! 

So, do not be discouraged if you do not see growth in those areas you deeply desire to see growth in.  Know that I am doing something amazing and vital underneath the soil.  Without the strong root structure – the tall plants would fall – would topple!  So, do not despise the season of waiting – but trust that I am doing what needs to be done – in secret – underneath the soil - in the dark.

2013 will be a banner year!  It will be a year of great growth – but also a year of harvest and celebration!  It will be a banner year!  It will be a year of celebration!

Come celebrate with me – because I am preparing a table – to feast and celebrate at.  I am getting it ready even before the harvest is brought in.  Know that I am preparing a table before you – yes, in the presence of your enemies (Psalm 23:5).  We will feast – no matter what!  We will feast, because the harvest will be plentiful and because I love to feast with my kids!  I love to see them bring in the fruit of their labors, the harvest in their lives – and add it to the harvest and bounty I have provided!  What a feast we will have!

L:  That’s awesome God!  I’m looking forward to it! What else do you want to show me about today, the rest of 2012 or for 2013?  Are these words just for my family or the church in general?

G:  EVERYONE!  I’ve been tilling everyone’s land in different and various ways.  Some have needed an overhaul – and others have only had a few spots where weeks have grown.  It doesn’t matter if I’ve done a little or a lot . . . I’ve tilled them all because I find this ground and land HIGHLY VALUABLE – good soil that is capable of bearing amazing fruit! 

Don’t be discouraged if it feels like your land was hopeless and covered in weeds and rocks.  Underneath it all is some amazing soil!!    I am going to plant, grow and produce such amazing fruit and harvest from this soil!  Do not be discouraged.  Be encouraged . . . because you are worth so much and can produce an amazing harvest and fruit! 

Will you let me finish tilling (don’t hold onto the roots of those weeds I’m trying to pull up!  Let go!!!)?

Will you let me disrupt the soil once more to plant seeds?

And will you let me water and encourage the seeds to grow?

Don’t stop the growth!  Don’t cut down the sprouts when they come up – thinking they are weeds.  Let them grow.  If you see weeds growing up with some of the good plants – don’t worry.  These weeds are small and are not going to affect the growth of the plants.  Pull them up later once the good plants have grown stronger – so as to not pull up the tender sprouts and roots just as they are forming.  Some of the little weeds will even shrivel up and die as the plants out grow them and the roots crowd out the roots of the weeds.  Do not be discouraged – but focus on the plants I’ve sowed.  These will crowd out the little, insignificant weeds that crop up.

L:  Awesome God!  Thank you for sharing this with me!  You are amazing!!  Thank you!

** Banner Year = more than expected, above expectations.  Very good year financially, physically, emotionally, etc.  A good year because something is successful.  Unusually good; outstanding.

2013 – A Banner Year!

I don’t know about you . . . but I am looking forward to enjoying a Banner year!  For us personally, the end of 2012 has already been a Banner season.  God has blessed us with so many unexpected little and big blessings . . . and even our Christmas, which we all thought would not be a very good one (financially) – ended up exceeding our expectations in so many ways!  Wow . . .

God is good . . .

. . . All the time!

I pray that 2013 is truly a year of planting and abundance of harvest/fruit – a BANNER YEAR for you!

Let God continue to till, weed and get your soil ready.  Let go of all that He has been unearthing.  Don’t continue to just chop off the tops of the weeds that have sprouted and shown themselves in your life (the hurts, wounds, ungodly beliefs, sins and other issues) . . . but let God do the deeper work . . . removing the whole weed plant – roots and all!

No – it’s not fun . . . but then end result is worth it!  Then you won’t have to worry about chopping off the weeds or hiding them when they show their ugly leaves . . . but they will be gone once and for good.

A friend of mine would always tell me - “God reveals to heal”.

If something is being revealed in your life, your marriage, your finances, etc . . . trust that God wants to heal it – to set you free – to see you living the abundant life He died on the cross to give you! 

Let Him go in deep – and fully remove those roots!

And then let him begin to plant new seeds in 2013!

He’s about to do something amazing in your life . . . . IF you let Him!

Will you?

Blessings – and Happy New Year!

- Lori

What are you looking forward to in 2013?

The post 2013 – A Banner Year! appeared first on Drink From the Deep.

True Beauty: Be Still

New film helps women who are caught up in the busyness of life.

Press Release, 6/25/2012: Every woman knows the feeling. Regardless of her age, her income, or her family situation, women today are facing the challenges of a busy life and the stress that comes with it. Obligations to children, husband, job, church, friends, committees, and the pressures of everyday life have created a spiritual crisis for women. Because in their efforts to be everything to everyone, women have forgotten the ONE who really should be their everything.

I was blessed to be given the opportunity to view the first film in Lisa Chan’s new series True Beauty: Finding your Identity in Jesus (David C Cook/Flannel, September 2012). The first film is called Be Still and can I say . . . it is a needed word for most (if not all) moms  out there (and anyone really)!

Since God called me to become a SAHM and leave my nursing job, He has been slowly stripping things away and teaching me truly how to “BE” instead of always “DO”, He has been taking the “Martha” out of me and teaching and encouraging me to be a “Mary” – to sit and enjoy being in His presence (without doing things or telling him my wish list of prayer requests)! He has taught me who I am as daughter of the King, that I am beloved and cherished and passionately pursued because of who and whose I am – His daughter, and not because of what I do, how many prayer meetings or Bible studies I attend, how clean my house is, or how well behaved my kids are. He loves me for ME! It has drastically and forever changed my life!

Lisa Chan (wife of best-selling author and pastor Francis Chan) knows all too well the busyness that comes with being a mom and wife. As a mother of 5 kids and co-founder of Cornerstone Community Church in Simi Valley, CA with her husband – you can imagine that she has experienced what it is like to be overcommitted, out of time and overwhelmed. I know I have – and I don’t even have a church to help run!

Be Still is a refreshing cool drink on a hot day, or a warm cup of cocoa on a cold day. It soothes and calms the soul – from the cinematography and the soothing music to the way Lisa talks to you – like a good friend sitting down with her at her kitchen table when you’ve been having a rough day.

This video isn’t too long or too short. It’s just the right length for a mom to pop in her DVD player, download onto her computer or watch it online (over and over again!) – and feel refreshed, encouraged and inspired – to slow down, to get away, to intentionally make time to reconnect, renew, rejuvenate and restore her relationship with God – to go deeper and become more intimate with your heavenly Father, your Creator, your Savior, the one who loves you no matter what!

It was an unplanned, extended time alone with God that fueled Lisa Chan’s desire to encourage every woman to see the beauty of coming before the Lord in stillness. She has seen firsthand that women in the church are suffering from depression, anxiety, and stress at alarming rates—and recognizes that women need to make the choice to find hope and healing and truth from God’s presence and through His Word.

Be Still, which weaves Lisa’s teaching with the story of Susan, an amazing woman who found that being still with God was what she needed in order to overcome her struggle with a broken marriage, is intended to challenge women who are struggling and help them to find power and strength in just being quiet and listening. With this film, Chan comes alongside women in their walk with the Lord to give them the tools they need to be the person God intends them to be. True Beauty: Be Still is foundational and can be life-changing as women are convicted to take stock of their own reasons for not spending time with Jesus.

More films to come!

Be Still is just the first in Lisa Chan’s True Beauty series, and I am looking forward to watching the others. Each of them invite you into a very real conversation with Lisa about the Word of God, spiritual practices and truths of living life in Christ. You will find, in each film, a story of a real woman and what she discovered interlaced with Lisa’s teaching that “true beauty lies in the heart”!

Here are a couple previews for you to enjoy!

Giveaway!

How can you get your own copy? Well, I will be giving away a copy to one of my fantastic readers!

If you don’t win – you do have the option of being able to order it HERE. You can order the DVD (to show to your women’s group or with a friend over coffee), download the video or watch it online.

To try and win a copy – please enter through the Rafflecopter hosted on my other blog – Mothering Matters!  (Hope you win!)

Are you ready to Be Still today?

Do/have you struggled with being still with God? What is your greatest hindrance/challenge in doing this?

Share with me below!

The post Review & GIVEAWAY: Be Still – by Lisa Chan appeared first on Drink From the Deep.

Alone in the dark?

A little girl sits up in her bed, in the dark . . . in the darkest of the dark of the night . . . feeling afraid, feeling alone, feeling hopeless and wondering if she’ll make it till morning . . . thinking, wondering, crying out in the depth of her heart and mind . . .

“Will the morning ever come?  It’s so dark.  It’s so long.  It already feels like this darkness has been here for far too long, and I’m drowning in it . . . surrounded by it . . . overwhelmed by it . . . consumed by it.”

“I’m here my child.  I’m here honey.  I haven’t left you.  Go to sleep.  Rest.  Let me watch over you, protect you and take care of you.  I’ll take care of the night watch. I’ll take care of you in this dark time . . . in the darkness that surrounds.  I’ve got you covered sweetheart.  You are not alone, and I will not leave your side.” says her Father.

“But I can’t see you!  I can’t feel you!  Where are you?” the little girl cries out.

“I’m right here . . . beside you . . . near you . . . standing guard and watching over you, over your life, over this house.  I will not go far, and I will never leave you.  I will watch over you, sing over you, protect you and love you . . . . through all this darkness and into the day.  Do you trust me?”  he lovingly and gently, but firmly, replies with strength – like the strength of a 1000 warriors.

“Are you sure?  Are you sure it’s safe?  Are you sure that you won’t fall asleep . . . or leave . . . or forget?” the little girl tentatively asks . . . wanting to trust . . . but unsure of what’s going to truly happen when she lets go and falls asleep.

“Honey . . . have I ever done that before?” he asks in return.

“No . . . well . . . I don’t know.  I don’t think so . . . but sometimes I can’t feel you here, and I can’t see you . . . so how do I really know?” she asks in return.

“Because I haven’t.  I do not lie.  I cannot lie.  And if I say I have never left you and will never leave you . . . you can put your full trust and faith in that . . . even if you don’t ‘feel’ me.  I am here.  Always.  I am always watching over you, and I love to protect you and take care of you.  Will you let me?  Will you let me be in charge of the night watch?  Will you let me be in charge of this dark time in your life – this darkness that surrounds.  I am here.  I am light in the dark, I am your protector, I am your defender, I am your healer, I am your sustainer, and most importantly . . . I am your Father . . . and because you are my child, my precious, beautiful, amazing, delicate, and strong little girl, and yes, even scared and fearful at times – I will never leave you, forsake you, stop loving or protecting you.

“Now . . . will you go to sleep and trust me to take care of you?  Will you rest from all your striving, fear, worry and control . . . and trust me with your present situation – with the darkness that surrounds and overwhelms you right now?  I can handle it.  I truly can.  And I am not sitting in the dark . . . because I am light – and I can truly see all around, what’s going on, and I have a plan to take care of you . . . if you let me.”

The little girl tried to look towards the sound of her Father’s handsome, strong and reassuring voice – to see what He saw . . . to see Him . . . but it still remained dark.  “I want to Daddy.  I’m trying.  I’m still just feeling very afraid.  What if . . . ”

He cut her off – “Don’t start with ‘what if’s” . . . as I know the answer to them all.  The question is . . . Will you trust me to take care of all the what if’s . . . even if I don’t tell you how I’m going to do it?”

Hmmmm . . . she had to ponder that for a little while.  What if she did trust him?  What if she just decided to let go of the fear, the worry, the ability to know what’s going on . . . and just choose to put her trust in him instead?

Suddenly she remembered something . . . .

A few years back, when she was even younger . . . she didn’t have these fears.  She didn’t doubt that he was there watching over her at night.  She loved going to bed, in the dark, and didn’t mind the dark times in her life as much.  So what happened?  What changed?  Why is she afraid now?

Her Daddy could see her pondering things – and because he knew her so well, he knew what she was thinking about and decided to respond.

“Honey . . . I have always been there . . . been here.  I will never leave.  What happened years ago was this . . . a lie crept in . . . the liar came in and whispered in your heart, whispered in your ears that I was not true to my word.  Your heart had been hurt, it had been vulnerable, and it took in that lie . . . “If your Daddy truly loved you . . . He would have prevented this from happening . . . He would have protected you . . . You wouldn’t have had to go through this.”  But it was a lie sweetie.  My love isn’t dependent upon anything that you do, or what circumstances you are in (or are not in).  My love is dependent on one thing . . . that you are my child! 

“There are things in your life that I didn’t want to happen . . . but I can and am always creating a way to redeem, to restore, to heal and more.  I didn’t want you to run out in the street and almost get hit by a car – but you chose to disobey, and you almost got hit.  I didn’t want you to be afraid of the dark, but you chose to watch that creepy movie on the TV and listen to horror stories.  I didn’t want you to be hurt in any way, and sometimes people have made their own choices that have harmed you . . . but . . . I can heal & redeem anything that has ever happened!

So . . . the question truly is . . . do you trust my love for you?  Do you trust that I truly do love you?  Because if you do – then you will know that I will always be here . . . even when you don’t ‘feel’ me!”

Tears were pouring down her tender little cheeks . . . filled with amazement that her Daddy knew her so well – that He knew her thoughts even.  She was filled with awe at the tenderness and love that he responded with . . . no chastisement in his voice when he talked about her disobedience and choices . . . but truly – just a ton of love!

“Daddy . . . I’m sorry.  I’m sorry for being afraid.  I’m sorry for listening to and believing the lie that you do not truly love me, for putting so much weight and importance and thoughts into the “what if’s” and letting them take over my thoughts . . . making me more and more afraid.

“Daddy . . . I CHOOSE to trust you!  I CHOOSE to believe that you truly do love me . . . and that because you love me . . . you will never leave me – even (and especially) in this time of darkness!  Thank you that you “rejoice over me with singing”, that you protect me, defend me, sustain me, and watch over me.  I love you soooo much!”

She reached up to give him a hug – not knowing just where He was – but knowing that he could see her.

Her arms were immediately filled with the strength of a 1000 warriors!  She felt safe.  She felt comforted.  She felt at peace – and was no longer afraid!

Her Daddy laid her down in bed, tucked her in, kissed her forehead and said “Goodnight my sweet darling.  I love you.  And I’ll be right here when you wake up.  Sleep peacefully.  Sleep well.  Enjoy the dreams that I will give you in this night season!  They will be clues as to what you will do when the ‘sun comes up’!  Pay attention . . . and use everything I teach you in this dark time – to help others who are trapped, feeling hopeless, helpless and alone in the dark!”

And with that – she fell asleep . . . and was at peace throughout the rest of the dark night.

It didn’t shorten the time of this night season, it didn’t change the depth of the darkness that surrounded and enveloped her . . . but it did help her to get through it with peace and with the ability to soak in all that her Daddy had for her – to teach her, to train her, to show her – so that “tomorrow” she could get up and bring light and peace to the dark times of others!  She was no longer afraid of the dark . . . and knew she would be venturing into other dark times . . . with her Daddy holding her hand and lighting the way! 

Are you feeling Alone in a Dark Time?  Are you living in what seems to be a never-ending darkness . . . not knowing when it will end?

You are not alone.  Ever.

Choose to trust and believe, and ask God “Who/what do you want to be for me in this season that you couldn’t in any other season?”  And then listen to what He says.

Your sustainer?

Your deliverer?

Your healer?

Your protector?

He wants to be all these things and more . . . IF you will let Him!

Let Him!

Drink Deeply of His Love – even in the Dark Times!

- Lori

The post Alone in the dark . . . “I’m here my child . . .” appeared first on Drink From the Deep.

I posted this today on my other 2 blogs -Mothering Matters and Empower Network.

I know that lately I’ve been the wrong type of prisoner.

I’m ready to switch “prisons” today! How about you?

“Return to your fortress, O prisoners of HOPE; even now I announce that I will restore TWICE as much to you!”- Zechariah 9:12

Are you a Prisoner?

What are you a prisoner of today?

Hope? or Hopelessness?

Be a “prisoner of Hope” today – in whatever situation you are in!

Remember – hope is an attitude that you choose – not a feeling.

When you choose to partner with hope, instead of hopelessness, it’s like using the diving board into a pool of faith.

You don’t wait to “feel” hope (or faith) – but you “choose” it – you choose to believe God’s words, promises and truth instead of choosing to believe Satan’s lies, struggles, and obstacles he throws your way! When you choose it – it’s like choosing to jump off that diving board – and into faith . . . Faith in what God has promised you; Faith in what God can do; Faith in the Word of God . . . and more!

And what does that word above say? “I will restore TWICE as much to you!”

Did you hear that? TWICE as much . . . restored!

Who are you going to give permission to work in your life today – God or Satan?

Who are you going to believe?

What are you going to choose today?

The post Sunday Sip: Zechariah 9:12 – Prisoner of Hope appeared first on Drink From the Deep.

Happy 4th of July!

I hope and pray you all have a FABULOUS 4th – full of food, friends, family, fireworks and fun!

{How’s that for some alliteration?!}

We typically spend the afternoon at the beach, and stay till the Fireworks show (that is put on right next to us) is over.  We LOVE it!  So relaxing, casual (I don’t have to cook fancy foods! or host/entertain at my house!), peaceful and fun!  (though – we might not make it today for one of 2 reasons . . . storms are predicted later on . . . and my 9 year old just came in our room saying he’s been throwing up.  Yuck.  No fever though.  We’ll see.)

On that fun note . . .   (sorry)

FREE Coffee!

Ok – so maybe this isn’t a “Drink from the Deep” – but it is a yummy “drink” that I thought I would share with you! 

Don’t forget to stop by Starbucks today (the 4th of July, 2012) and get your FREE tall brewed coffee!  No purchase is necessary!

*Thanks Money Saving Mom for this info!

What are you doing to celebrate this 4th of July?

Leave me a comment below!

Oh – and don’t forget to share this with your friends so they can get their FREE coffee as well!

Drink Deeply today!

- Lori

The post Happy 4th of July – Freedom, Independence – and FREE Coffee! appeared first on Drink From the Deep.

David was sick – he had sinned – his friends all avoided him – his enemies were out to see his ruin – these burdens were “too heavy to bear” – he was “utterly crushed” and his heart anguished.

And yet, he declares – “I will wait for you, O Lord, you WILL answer, O Lord my God.” (Ps.38:15) In the end of the Psalm he asks God to “not forsake me . . . not be far . . come quickly . . . help me . . . O Lord my Savior”!

God WILL NOT forsake you. He IS near you today. He loves to help, save, heal, restore, deliver, set free and just love on you passionately. Whatever you are going through . . . “wait” for/on the Lord, cry out to him, believe that He’s there . . . and He WILL answer and help!

Jeremiah 29:11-14 – “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 ON 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. I WILL gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the Lord, “and WILL bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.” (caps for emphasis)

Getting an “Upgrade”!

Ask God today – “What/Who is it that you want to be for me today that you couldn’t be at any other time in my life?”

• Are you going through financial difficulties?  He wants to be your provider.
• Are you feeling weary and tired and “utterly crushed”? He wants to be your sustainer.
• Are you feeling scared, unsafe or vulnerable?  He wants to be your protector.
• Are you feeling like you have to defend yourself constantly – that you are being accused unjustly?  He wants to be your defender.
• Are you sick?  He wants to be your healer.
• Are you feeling unloved?  He wants to love on you (He LOVES doing this!!)

What is it that God wants to be for you today, this week, in this season?  Ask him!

And then find all the scripture you can on it (ie – I printed out verses on God being my sustainer this past week as I was tired and weary of battling some things in my life here) – and then read them every day, meditate on them, allow God to be that for you (ie – let go of your need/right to do it yourself . . . to defend (ie – be quiet and don’t “explain” or defend yourself, your actions, etc), to protect, etc).

Can you do that today?

I challenge you to try it!

Take God for His word . . . He is not a liar . . . so He must truly be able to do what He says He can do.  Let him do/be that for you today!

Graham Cooke once said “Warriors don’t seek to be rescued . . . but to prosper and profit from what they are going through!”

You will get through this season . . . but what “booty” or treasure will you take with you once you leave it behind?  What “upgrades” does God have for you in this season/today?

Prayer for Today

God, Thank you that you never leave or forsake me.  Thank you that you DO, WILL and LOVE to answer my cries for help, for healing, for safety, for security, for deliverance, for forgiveness and more.  Thank you that you are always with me – actively pursuing me, and never leaving me.  Thank you that you are here with me, and for me, today! 

What is is that you want to be for me today that you couldn’t at any other time in my life?  What “upgrade” do you have for me in this season that I’m in?  I choose to accept your help and your upgrades today.  I choose to let you be [whatever He tells you - ie. my sustainer] today and each and every day after it. I hand you [control, my need to defend, my anger, etc].  What do you want to give me in return?

Thank you for loving me so much that you are willing to strengthen, stretch, and be with me in every situation so that I can receive the upgrades you have for me – “to prosper” me and “not to harm” me – “to give [me] a hope and a future”!  Thank you God!  Thank you for being with me today – in the [muck, the mire, the exhaustion, the sadness and depression, etc].  Thank you for your love!

Drink Deep of what God has for you today!

- Lori

The post Psalm 38 – Is your life falling apart? appeared first on Drink From the Deep.

Happy Easter!

On Friday (Good Friday) I talked about how thankful I was for what Jesus did for me.

But that was only HALF the story . . .

Today is an even MORE joyful day!! Why?

No . . . it’s not because the Easter Bunny is going to bring me chocolate eggs and candy.

No . . . it’s not because we got to buy new outfits for church today.

No . . . it’s not even because we can have a scrumptious lunch or dinner with our family.

Today is joyful – because Jesus didn’t just die for my sins . . . but He ROSE FROM THE DEAD and conquered death – for ME!

(How many of you can say you’ve done that?! )

“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. . .” – Matthew 28:6

Without Jesus conquering death by rising from the dead – the payment for our sins would not have been as significant. It would have been just another sacrifice similar to all the other sacrifices made. But in rising from the dead – He overcame the authority that had been given to Satan – took it back – and then gave it to us! He died not only so that we could go to heaven one day – but so that we could have an ABUNDANT LIFE here on earth!

THANK YOU JESUS!

You are truly LOVED today!

Did you know that? Do you know just how much you are loved?! No matter what you did, didn’t do, what your life has been like, how badly you have messed up . . . YOU . . . ARE . . . IMMENSELY LOVED! It’s the truth!

Don’t believe it? Tell me more – tell me why. Ask me about it. Know that I am who I am today ONLY because of the Love of God!! And yes . . . His Love NEVER fails!

I want to end with this video. {I LOVE it!}

“That’s my King! Do you know Him?!”

What are you thankful for this Easter?

The post Happy Easter! appeared first on Drink From the Deep.