Growing closer to Him

Three years

2016-02-28T08:35:00.000-08:00

It's very hard to believe that I haven't posted a thing in 3 years. In that time, part of my non blogging was my inability to navigate the change that was trying to take place with the site. For quite a few months I just couldn't get in to post a thing. When that happened I succumbed to putting it aside. Over time it became but a passing memory? So why the change now? Because change has to start somewhere and it can't start until I take that first step to change. Isn't this how it can be with our walk if we aren't careful; whether or not we are on course or not? At what point do we notice that we started out 1° off track and have now become almost 90° from where we started and are heading in a completely different direction. Maybe it's not that bad for you or others but if you're off course say 10°, even a 1° miscalculation can put you hundreds of miles off course if you're not diligent to stop and take notice of where you are! This is where I've found myself at many points over the past few years and the hardest part was knowing that I was off and had to change direction. (Prov 4:26) At times I was truly unable to do so. A lot has happened over the course of three years. I won't attempt to try and put in all the details but I'll attempt to put together some semblance of reasoning that may help someone, somewhere out of a rut that they're in and hopefully it'll be a helping hand, fore we all need a little help.

The Lord, has allowed me to experience things that I hope to not have to experience again. (James 1:12) Even though I should be counting it as joy fore this is where I grow, and where my faith hits the pavement and is really tested; I'm so very humbled and happy to have been through the worse of it all. There are skeptics who believe that if we go through anything negative or hard in life and we Christains say, "the Lord allowed", then He must be a sadistic, mean spirited and evil god. To understand the Christian faith, is to have to acknowledge that 1) we are created by an intelligent, loving God. 2) Because He loved us and knew that we would be flawed, He still created us with FREE WILL! We were created, with an innate desire to search him out. A sort of built in gps. That little inate part, is what drives all humans to search for something more. Everyone is searching; wether it's Buddah, or Hinduism, or nothing at all, they are still searching for the answer. Even Hawking is still searching, and though people worship every thought that comes out of him, he can't even be sure that what he's searching for is absolutely true and accurate. It's all still a theory! The first time he started searching out the black hole it was to prove that on the other side would be proof that God or an intelligent design was at work and several years later the theory changed to say that if you can prove the Big Bang or beginning of civilization or the other side of the black hole that it will prove that God doesn't exist. I'm not here to say Mr. Hawking is wrong. I'm not against scientist who are out everyday trying to prove their theories right for the betterment of mankind. I'm just trying to explain my faith. It's not blind, and it's not something that was passed on from my parents without careful consideration. I wouldn't want my God in any other way. I wouldn't want to be made to worship him without it being my choice. And if you truly seek it out and research it, you'll see that sin corrupted the most perfect place on the planet; Eden. Sin was there from the beginning and over time it has corrupted man, and the earth, because man is greedy and selfish and in general takes away from the earth and society and only a small percentage care enough to replenish and help out.

Following God isn't as easy as people think it is. I don't think devotion to any one particular religion is truly easy. If your sole purpose is for inner peace and belief in something more than yourself, you will be presented with many obstacles along the way that will make you stumble. I have a good friend who is now a Buddhist. I love him to death, but he's no more at peace now than he was several years ago when he first started practicing. He's more synical that ever before. Some people say it's because he's not really buddahist. I say, NAY! From a worldly view, he won't be able to have peace until he gives up what's eating him and only he knows what that is. From a Christian point of view I say he has an inner struggle with sin. To me sin is anything that takes your focus off God. Anything that says "do me first, you always have time to commune with Him later." The thing is, in doing so we get 1° off here and there till we get to the point where we don't even acknowledge him when things are going real bad. Some Christians that I know will actually say, "then if you ever get that way, then you must have to question whether or not you were truly saved." To those people who feel they should say those words to Christians who are struggling, then I can throw back at them that they should reevaluate their walk as well. We are flawed humans who struggle with things of varying degrees from time to time and sometimes those struggles can be overwhelming. Sometimes our walk can be weak and a trial can come along and totally derail us till we get to the point where we can look past the trees and see the forest! The one constant in it all is that the Father is always there waiting for us to reach out and take his hand if and when we are ready and willing to do so.

Vacationing in the Presence of God

2013-02-07T13:46:00.002-08:00

Can there be such a thing? To vacation in the presence of God? Vacation in the Noah Webster 1828 dictionary says: "6. Leisure; freedom from trouble or perplexity." It's the 6th and last definition. This is what we think about when we are growing weary of the hum-drums of life in our work place or at home. We long for the "tropical island mahn!" To be able to put our feet up and read that book or to just enjoy our children, hoping all the while that when we return back to our lives that we'll have been refreshed anew, ready to tackle anything. Yet after a few days or weeks we're longing to be back at that favorite place of relaxation.

God wants us to do just that. Except where He wants us to rest and relax and feel rejuvenated is right in His presence. At his feet...He wants us to turn to Him for rest. He wants to rejuvenate and refresh us to handle whats coming next. He doesn't want us to be upset with ourselves when we're exhausted and we just don't seem to have the energy to fight the good fight, or to keep on keeping on. In Jesus Calling; the author says "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." I just love how she writes. She writes as if God is talking to us. But this concept to be grasped, of accepting that this is where God intends me to be, isn't an easy thing to hold on to. It should be, because it's an easy concept, but I don't know about you, but I think at times that, "this is not where I'm intended to be" or "that at this trial in my life isn't where I had planned to be"...What a beautiful lie from the enemy huh? Truly it is. He makes us think that we are in control of our lives and we're not. The beauty of the Lord is that we can rest in the fact that he's in control, even when I mess things up. He has a way to make things work for His Glory. We need to get through today, one step at a time allowing God to take the lead. Allowing Him to guide our ways down His path.

Matt 11:28 Come to me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest."

Rom 8:28 AMP "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose."

How many times have we stepped out in front of our children to look and make sure the way was clear and safe. That's what God wants to do except He doesn't have to look to make sure the path is safe. It doesn't matter what type of obstacle is in the way, with God leading the way the path is much clearer and much safer. So the next time you hear "Hootie and the Blowfish's" song; "Take my Hand" think of that as God telling you, "I'm right here. My hand is here. Take it and allow me to take your burdens and make your troubles a little bit easier." So lookey, lookey here my friends; we've come back to TRUSTING God. We have to step out in FAITH, to an "invisible" God and TRUST unconditionally that His way is the safe, tried & true way in life. We can't experience peace, love, compassion, joy, or contentment without truly trusting in God. The worldly version of the above is fleeting at best but what we experience with God is lasting and satisfying.

Psalm 42:11 NASB "Why are you in despair, O my soul? Why have you become disturbed with in me. HOPE IN GOD, for I shall get praise Him, the help of my countenance and my God." (original not bolded)

In my Luke study, one of the ladies says she tell her daughter and those that try & deter her from peace etc., that "I am the daughter of the Most High God." How powerful that statement is. If we rest in God's arms, crawl up in His lap, or in His presence then contentment comes to our situation, or our path. I always wonder if I'm making a difference in anyone's life; from my job, to my family & friends & to my church family. When I get to that point of questionning God is right there patiently waiting, and observing if I'll be still and know that He is God and in control of all my situations. He directs my ways and when I buck Him and try to do it my way, it's comforting to know that He's still there to forgive me and brush me off and place me back on the right path. He knows our ways, we just need to trust and obey and allow Him to lead.

Phil 2:15 "so that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, CHILDREN OF GOD above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world."

Psalm 46:10 "Cease striving and know that I am God"

So lets take solace and rest in the Love and presence of God. Rest in the fact that Jesus sits at the right hand of the Father. That his power is above angels, authorities and powers and that the forementioned are subject to Him. May nothing consume us with fear, or concern or cause us to be weary. God is the only one in whom we shall fear. He has our backs, fronts, and our flanks. He will deliver us from the grasp of our enemies.
1 Pet 3:22 and 2 Kings 17:39 paraphrased by me.

Stay strong my friends. Till next time, Shalom!

The Fight Within

2013-01-31T13:33:00.003-08:00

For a few days now, I’ve been mulling over everything I’ve been reading. The 27^th was about TRUST. Taking the high road and trusting God. When we don’t it’s like staying on the circuitous low path of despair. Well that’s what I’m calling it.

John 14:1-2 and Prov 3:5-6 are both trusting in God and not letting our hearts be trouble or leaning on our own understanding.

The 28^th was about not ignoring the truth that Jesus is with us always. He knows everything that we do and think. I think most of the time when we sin, we’re making a choice to ignore the fact that we’re not hiding anything from Him. How do we get to the point of “total focus” on Him? By concentrating on Him? By barely acknowledging Him? By ignoring His commands and His Word? It’s by understanding that everything we do is to be done for Him. That everything we face, good, bad, or indifferent needs to be placed before Him. How that’s easier said than done. Because this week I’ve been coming to terms with my grandmother’s passing, and emotions that I didn’t know were there, an application deadline for a school along with the financial aid form and the topping on it all, the news of the engagement of my ex-husband. Not that any one of these items on my plate are overly trying in and by themselves, but they have come on their own and it was just enough for that day or more like for those hours before the next one arrived. With my grandmother’s passing though it was inevitable and I had a heads up, I had no clue I would react the way that I did. However, it was all in God’s plan. He answered my prayer from the week before when I opened up to Him about how I felt. When you get that answer it’s so peaceful and nothing can put a smile on your face quicker than understanding that it was in His hands and under His control from the start. That has happened, each and every step of the way in regards to everything that has come up this week. The application went off, and the financial aid form will be done by tonight and submitted. As for the news of the engagement; All, I can do is lift him and his fiancé up to the Lord for guidance and protection. That they’ll find and have a true relationship with the Lord and that they’ll be blessed for many years to come. So keep blessing those who find ways to keep you down, because the Lord will lift you up and help you rise above it.

Matt 28:20 “….I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Psalm 139:1-4 “O Lord, you have searched me and you know me….you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely,…”

The 29^th was all about keeping our focus on Him. To bring EVERY thought captive to Him! I love this! He knows what we’re thinking before we think it, so we need to just take it and say, “Oh, I don’t think so Satan. Lord I give you these thoughts of negativity, or ill will, or revenge, or lying, etc over to you and pray your blessings over _____________, (what ever it may be) Lets rest in the fact that “In His radiant Light, anxious thoughts shrink and shrivel away. Judgmental thoughts are unmasked as we bask in His unconditional love. Confused ideas are untangled while we rest in the simplicity of His peace.” “Jesus Calling”

2 Cor 10:5 “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.”

Isaiah 26:3 Amp “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.”

I love that translation! God’s word is never changing. It’s as solid as He is! Why oh why do I ever stop reading His word when it helps me get through so much in this life? This blog has been so helpful, even though I haven’t had but 1 response. If you’re getting a little closer to God through it, then that’s all I could ever hope. My week has been made less hectic and less heavy while looking up to Him everyday. Resting in his presence is an amazing opportunity, I want more of. I don’t want to stop. His peace makes everything more bearable. So, my harness is readjusted and I may have slipped a few times but He is the straight and narrow. He is my lifeline.

Keep trusting in Him and looking up to Him! Till next time my friends, Shalom!

Lighten Up~~~On Yourself!

2013-01-23T13:46:00.000-08:00

It’s been a few days since I've written anything; however I was searching my heart for how I felt about a particular matter which happened in my family. I was still seeking the Lord, and what He revealed was that "I was to forgive and not to worry about the outcome of these two relatives. Yes, what they did was wrong, but you (me) are to honor your father and in retrospect also his mother, because she is still a mother to you even though she is a generation removed."

Right about now, I’m sort of feeling like I should be in a padded room, so when He thumps me, I can at least bounce off something soft…Ha-ha, all kiddingness aside, it’s not that bad. God is forever gentle with me, even when He’s pulling the light cord for me. At other times, he’s just changing the light bulb.

So for today’s reading: Deut 31:6, 1 Pet 3:4, 2 Cor 4:6-7 and 2 Cor 12:19

In Jesus Calling today, I’ve been reading basically about lightening up on myself. How many times have I been reading the word or through a devotional and my mind has drifted off onto other matters or sometimes it’s initially focused on the Lord, but by the time I realize it, I’m thinking about the trees, or nature etc. I’m harder on myself than the Lord is. Truly! I kill myself for loosing my focus and here He is telling me not to get upset or be surprised. To turn my attention back to Him and put a smile on my face because He knows. It’s not SHOCKING to Him! He wants us to rejoice in His Love for it has no limits or conditions. To know that He will never leave me or forsake me; should be peaceful and soothing to my/our soul. “The light of the knowledge of My Glory shines forth”, through our weaknesses. “My strength and power show themselves most effective in your weakness.”

So I need to be strong and courageous. Not afraid or terrified for the Lord goes with me. He will never leave me nor forsake me. I need to make myself more like Him; that He finds it of great worth to have a gentle and quiet spirit. In 2 Corinthians, God says “Let light shine out of darkness,” may his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. We have this treasure in clay jars to show that this all surpassing power is from God and not us.

God’s light, which is truth, and love is gentle and peaceful. When we are walking in Him, our path is lit and shows the way. One thing to remember from science class; light pushes away darkness. Darkness doesn’t overcome the light. That may be a little hard to wrap a brain around, but when you think about it, it’s true. If the light continues to shine the darkness is pushed away and the only way we can push through and overcome the darkness is to keep our light on; which is to be in the word; be in prayer; be in constant commune with our Lord and Savior.

So be easy on yourself. Forgive yourself for falling short. Give realistic goals for yourself and know that God is always waiting for us to turn to Him for guidance and reliance. He’ll strengthen you when you feel your light fading and He’ll give you fuel to make your light bright.

Till next time my friends, Shalom

The Glory of the Lord

2013-01-16T12:00:00.002-08:00

Jan 16

In today’s little reading, God says to come to Him and rest in His loving presence; to stop trying to think through our difficulties and to remember that He is with us.

When I first read through this, I thought “hmm, I don’t have anything bothering me today, this should be an easy one.” Like getting “t-boned” by a Mack truck, whamo! There it came. Right out of left field, a picture that triggered a memory about major self-doubt, fear of losing that which God has already given me, & insecurity. In a nut shell, when I finally got a grip, I realized I still have a couple of people I need to forgive for some past very painful hurts. I don’t want to “rehearse my troubles again.” I’ve lived through them once and some of them were bad enough. I don’t need to keep going down the same dead end path. Jesus is with me and NO ONE is going to take Him and the peace He gave me away. I’m choosing this day, whom I will serve and I choose Jesus! I choose to relax in His peace and allow Him the opportunity to transform my fear into unequivocal trust.

Matt 11:28

Josh 1:5,9

So, I’m going to allow the “glory of the Lord to rise among us.”

Paul Baloche, Let the Glory of the Lord Rise Among Us.

The enemy wanted to steal my peace today, but the Holy Spirit just said “NO!” I’m so very fortunate in this regard. I have the freedom to worship Him whenever I’d like

Until next time my friends, Shalom!

Shine Upon Me God!

2013-01-15T06:35:00.001-08:00

Jan 15

Yes!! That’s what I’m talking about! Keep shining your “Peace that transcends all understanding” down on me. I’m just so thankful right now for being His child. It feels so good to not just know the principal of casting your cares on Him and focusing on Him, but to actually implement and put into place this very principal as well and to start receiving the fruit.

Right now, I’m just overwhelmed with peace. Can you ever have to much? I don’t think so! I want to continue to bask in these rays of peace. Right now at this moment, I can tell you that my problems haven’t disappeared, they’re still right here looking at me; I’m just choosing to look upward and trust in God. He is the solution to all of them, including the financial ones. He always comes through if we allow Him the time and room to move in our lives in His own way. My way is disgusting and riddled with pot holes and at some times a sink hole appears trying to swallow me up. Not today! Not right now!

Phil 4:7 I’m allowing the “peace of God, which transcends all understanding,” to “guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus.”

God wants us to continually fix our eyes on Him and to laugh at the future. We need to stay close in order to do this.

Will our faith be like Peters who got out of the boat in faith and walked on water or will it be doubting, when we see the wind churning the water? I don’t want to be afraid when troubles start to mount. I’m tired of “crying out, Lord save me!” Don’t get me wrong; I’m human, so I’m going to slip off the trail and I will have to cry out once again for my ABBA! But not right now! Right now, I can do all things, because Christ has given me the strength to do so. I’m feeling a little like wonder-woman! So today, my eyes are fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of my faith, who endured the cross and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

Matt 14:29-30

Heb 12:2

Read Heb once again. What a thought? We crumble under some of our strains and pressures and we cry “woes me Lord!” yet Jesus was able to find the JOY which was set before him in enduring the pains of the cross. I’m actually having a hard time wrapping a thought around that. … “who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Again, very humbling. I’m but a speck of sand in this life, and He cared and loved me that much, to view the pains of the cross with joy.

I may not be perceiving that verse right. I don’t think for one moment that he was jumping around for joy to take up the cross in a celebratory way, but he viewed it as joy. He viewed it as “I’m alright, for I know whom I trust.” He trusted His Father to be doing what was right for Him and for us. That’s how I’m looking at this. Still very humbling!

Well my friends, I’m hoping you all have a joyous day in the Lord. Till next time, Shalom!

Translucency

2013-01-15T05:47:00.001-08:00

Jan 14

This is that amazing concept that I feel I’ve mastered until I read through it once more and the “thump of God” is right there, once again. I allow some people to think I’ve got it all put in order, when I know I’m just as messed up in some areas as others.

I’m reminded of a movie that was semi-cool. I was more enthralled with the house and how it was built than I was with the gore associated with it; but when I think translucency, I think of this house. (ever see 13 Ghosts) This house was designed with glass walls, and gears that moved the walls and floors etc. It was designed to “hold” the horrors of these 13 ghosts. But it’s the intricacy of how this house works, not the horrors I think of whenever someone uses this word in a sermon that reminds me; “that no matter how many walls, doors, traps, or other protective devices I try and throw up to protect me from the enemy or those around me, God still sees through it all. God still penetrates it all. On the flip side, it also helps me to “see” how the armor of God works as well. Satan can’t see my armor, or can he? I have no proof, but I like to believe that the armor of God is also like this translucent house. It’s there protecting me, but he can’t see it. (That’s just my little kid coming out) My armor is my “force field”. Okay, so back on track now. Thanks for venturing down that rabbit hole with me!

We need to be comfortable with the fact that God sees right through us. I can’t convince Him of anything, because He already knows and sees it. There’s also nothing we can DO to separate Him from us.

1 Sam 16:7 reminds us that God looks at our heart. (motives and character.)

Romans 8:39-39 reminds us that there is NOTHING that can separate us from the love of God. Not life or death, not angels or demons, not the present or future, no powers, no height, no depth, or any other thing in creation that can “separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (mostly paraphrased)

I don’t know about you, but it’s only been 14 days into the year and touching back on the truths of the word and putting my trust in the Lord unequivocally, has put my soul, my heart, my mind at such ease and peace. I still have tons of things to overcome, but I truly have a calming, peace about me.

Until next time my friends, Shalom!

Novel Idea!

2013-01-14T05:27:00.002-08:00

Jan 12 & 13

God wants to prepare me for today. He knows what lies ahead of me, where as I have a vague idea based on what I would like to get accomplished. Instead of making my list and venturing out about my day, He wants me to spend time with Him. Seeking Him, and waiting for Him and spending quality time with Him. I need to start the day focused on him, and as I go about my day, through every step that’s taken, I need to redirect my thoughts on Him; to continually keep Him on my mind and by the end of the day, I will have walked with Him. “His abiding presence is the best road map available.

My Saturday didn’t go anyway that I thought it was going to go when I woke up. I had planned a few things to do and was detoured with a friend to head to a rather large mall, about an hour from us. We were there for about 3 hours but away from home for about 5, so needless to say, I was able to get 2 of my 4 items done that day. Normally, I would have really fretted over not getting the other things accomplished. I would have been upset with myself and disappointed. I didn’t read this till later in the evening and it was only then that I realized how much God used me to help my friend more than I thought I was helping. How can anyone be upset for not accomplishing their particular goal for the day when you realize that you accomplished a goal for God?

Ex 33:14 says, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

John 15:4-7 reminds us that we are to “remain in Him, and He will remain in us.” The branches can’t bear any fruit if is doesn’t remain apart of the vine. We need to remember that we are apart of Jesus. He’s the vine and we are the branches. He will bear much spiritual fruit in us, if we remain in Him.

At this time of the year, in Massachusetts residents and farmers are preparing their yards and land for the upcoming spring. They rake up all the dead branches and prune back their shrubs in anticipation of what will be a beautiful garden or a bountiful harvest, but the interesting thing they do is that they don’t just discard all the branches into the woods. They put them in piles and burn them. Those that garden usually try to turn some of the ash into their soil. I’m reminded of this passage many times during this time of year; “If anyone does not remain I me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned.” I want to grow and be healthy in the Lord. So I’m looking forward to being pruned, and trimmed up! It’s time for a healthier, stronger faith in the Lord.

Jan 13^th

To go along with the 12^th’s reading on allowing God to prepare our day; this reading is about trying to view each day as an adventure, which has been carefully planned out by our guide. (Paraphrase- “Jesus Calling”) That we need to be thankful about our day, knowing that it’s a precious gift. We need to continue to learn to trust Him for each and every moment of the day. To resist our own desire to do things our way again, is the hardest thing to overcome, however just knowing that to look through this day through God’s eyes or knowing that He’s right next to me helps me to be ready for any unexpected events that come my way. That’s peace in itself! So, “this is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24

Let’s remember what it was like to be little kids once again. When our father, grandfather or big brother would walk in front of us and we would try to walk in their footsteps. How their steps were so big and far apart, yet with some effort we could step a little bigger, or jump into their steps. I think that’s how we should look at 1Peter 2:21; “knowing that Christ suffered for us, leaving us an example, that we should follow in his steps.” (paraphrased)

Well my friends, I hope you're growing as much as I am. I'm not ordained, just a loving follower who's trying to grow a much deeper faith. Till next time, Shalom!

Trust & Security

2013-01-11T12:54:00.000-08:00

Hello my friends, I'm hoping this day is finding you well and hopefully on the right way to a more peaceful and contented self. Today's Lil devotion is on Trusting God and relinquishing control into His hands.

Psalm 46:10 NASB
"cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
I've looked up 4 different translations and they pretty much say the same. NASB is "cease striving" and ESV, NKJV, & NIV are "be still". Hmm, another command so to speak, telling me to "LET IT GO!!" Give it to Him and rest easy. I need to stop trying to solve the problem, and allow Him to solve it. I may not like the results but a negative result, given from God is probably for my best interest. That's one way to look at it and another way to look at it is, to stop trying to be a better, closer, caring, compassionate Christian and to DO what I need. In other words, I need to stay in His word, meditate on His word, His actions, His righteousness and all the good that He is will start flowing without any effort. It'll just be! My faith will shine through and the more I'm concentrating on Him, the more strength He gives me to continue. I need to exalt him more, in all that I do.

Colossians 4:2 NASB
This reinforces what I've just said. I need to "devote myself to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving." Pray for what I need; give it to God and start thanking Him for an answer. That the answer to my prayer is exactly what I need, even if it's a NO!
Other translations say; "continue steadfastly, and continue earnestly." That's with intention. Another command to be devoted to prayer and to be alert/vigilant/and watchful with thanksgiving. I'm to keep sending my petitions up to the Lord, but I need to also be thankful for what the Lord will do or has already done. This is another one of those moments, where I feel like someone, or something (God) is really trying to get my attention.

In 2 Peter 1:3-4 NASB
We need to see that it's HIS divine power which has been granted to us, ALL things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him, who called us to/by his own glory and excellence/virtue, by which he has granted to us his precious and great promises, so that we may be partakers of the divine nature, escaping corruption that is in this world.

This is more of a couple of translations smooshed together here...To get a tiny brain synapses wrapped around the thought that it was a gift. His divine power which was granted to us, so that we would be able to have the peace of mind that we are escaping or have escaped the sin of this world. Godly living is all panned out for us, right in His word. This should be enough solace to get anyone through the day! We are escaping from the evil desires that the ruler of this world would have us get ensnared in. This is one of the most soothing, caring, and comforting thoughts...My troubles have been melting away, since the beginning of the year. It may be cold outside, but my heart has been enlightened and lightened immensely. How much more can we draw from our Lord? For right now, I'm just going to bask and rest in His love.

Till next time my friends, Shalom!

In God We Trust!

2013-01-10T08:43:00.002-08:00

My main reading was Matt 6:20-21 Where is talks about storing "up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." NASB However, as I kept reading I thought this was just as important as the two scriptures I had just read. This is about storing our TRUST in God. This is more than just a national motto. The more we "deposit" into the Lord, the more he gives back to us. I guess there's a new meaning to "In God We Trust". Hmm, maybe we need to be looking at God like a bank.
The more we "trust in him" and make our deposits of trust in Him, then the more He stores up and returns to us His ABUNDANT BLESSINGS!!

Matt 6:24-34 clearly states that we are not to serve two masters! We'll hate one and love the other, be devoted to one and despise the other, and we cannot serve God and Wealth. (In the literal sense) How true this is in every aspect of our lives. We can't "love" our free time and not give God a part of that free time. If we are truly following God like we claim then we'll feel convicted for not sharing that free time with God. He's only asking for a little of it anyway, right. He gives the rest to us as well. For me it's my free time, for others it could be computer time, cell-phone usage, television, exercising, "playing church", gardening, sports, concerts, and the list could keep going on and on.
It goes on to state imphatically, not to WORRY about this life. Not that we shouldn't "plan", but to be obsessesed or stressed to the edge of who we are? No can do! Worrying adds nothing to our lives. It only takes away from us. Follow me on this little rabbit trail from a medical point of view. Stress on the body leads to " headaches, muscle tension or pain, chest pain, fatique, change in sex drive, upset stomach, and sleep problems". On our mood: it can lead to "anxiety, restlessness, lack of motivation or focus, irritability or anger, sadness or depression". On our behavior: it can lead to "overeating or undereating, angry outbursts where something or someone "gets it", drug or alcohol abuse (elbow therapy), tobacco use or social withdrawal". Our sweet, precious Heavenly Father knows we need the basics. "...seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be ADDED to you." vs 33 NASB

All I can think of is a big vault. (look how thick that door is) Everytime I put my trust in Him, it's (my trust) going into this vault. In return He gives me a little strength and peace, which in turn gives me more patients. It keeps going like this till I decide I've had enough. So how do I keep from stopping my deposits? I need encouragement and never ceasing prayers from any and all of my brothers and sisters in Christ, until this becomes a habit. I trust God with my finances, protection over my children, family, and home, even over myself when I'm on the "floor" at work, or with everyday activities at work, but I don't trust Him with helping me with my weight loss, or with growing in Him, or increasing the hunger in my husband. This is what He has shown me. I've picked and chosen what I will put in His care. Not any more! From now on He gets it all! Every thing. Every last piece of doubt is in his hands.

I'm depositing ALL of my doubts and worry into my Lord. And what I'm going to get in return is peace, joy, love, strength, and many more blessings you can think of.

How about you? Let's do this together. Let me know how this is working for you as well. I'm expecting big returns! I'm already getting more excited, and drawing more strength from Him. These last few days have been absolutely amazing. Till next time my friends. Keep trusting and believing that He'll follow through for you.

Shalom!

Medical quotes were from the Mayo-clinic. You can get more info at: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/stress-symptoms/SR00008_D

Is It Possible To Thank Or Praise God To Much?

2013-01-09T12:38:00.002-08:00

So I was reading on the 7th the following:

Psalm 22:3
Psalm 146:1-2
I Thess 5:18

Honestly, I never thought about whether or not I could or couldn't praise or thank God enough. However, since this question was brought up, then we know the obvious answer is NO. God is infinite. Therefore our praises and thankfullness can be infinite as well. That is, in theory. We are finite people with infinite souls, therefore our praises and thankfullness will go on for eternity, if we are truly following Him. It's just another way of looking at things.

Our missionary to Pakistan, Jonah, said that if we are truly walking with God then we will never have to worry about "disrespect". What he meant was more of a humbling nature. If we are truly walking with God then we'll never have to worry about, the "entitlement" we think we should be getting. It was just the way Jonah was looking at that made sense. As American's we don't necessarily look at it in the way that he saw it.

How many times do I have to be reminded to have a thankful heart or to just praise Him through all my circumstances. We are to count it a joy when faced with trials. Even if it's the same trial over, over, over, and over again. Sometimes I get hung up on my husband's walk and not my own. After all, I go to bible study, sunday morning bible study, sunday service, and play on the worship team when it's our turn, & I pray from time to time, right.WRONG! Again, that's some serious "Stinking thinking" there folks. I don't know my husband's heart. No one knows his heart except for the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit. I was called to be his help mate, and to "RESPECT" him. When I focus on God, my eyes are focused upward and not horizontally toward my husband. When I'm focused on God, things are actually clearer. It's during this refocusing that I can;
"praise the Lord, Oh my soul, I will praise and sing praises all my life." Psalm 146:1-2

& "give thanks in ALL CIRCUMSTANCES, for this is God's WILL for you in Christ Jesus."
I Thess 5:18

Even when it's hard to look up, I have to find the good in whomever I'm having an issue with. That's when I Thank God for that individual in my life. It helps get rid of stinking thinking and helps put a more peaceful spirit about you, that's comforting, loving, caring, & forgiving.

This was a much shorter one, but until next time my friends, walk in His Love and Peace
Shalom!

Enlightenment!

2013-01-09T12:05:00.003-08:00

I'm not a disciplined person, when it comes to being consistant with creating a schedule for the things that matter the most. Why is that? Is it, that I think my little endeavors of, paying bills, taking kids to and fro and working on crocheting are more important than picking up my Bible and pressing into the very arms of God?
Hmmm...that's a question that has been tugging at me, saying "you need to make more time for God” and “no, you do enough for God". Well if that isn't the truth either! It's my human nature than any other thing I can put my finger on.

I find myself so "busy" doing things, that I don't etch out the time I need with God. It's not till weeks or months later when I'm in the hole or hanging on to the side of wall for dear life that I realize, I've put way to much in front of what's really important in my life. Worshipping God is important to me! Now that I've shouted that from the roof top...okay, okay, from my desk top, I can take a look at what I'm doing with my time and ask God to help me organize myself better. I can ask Him to HELP me make time for HIM! He wants me to spend time with Him everyday, as many times a day as I can. From this time spent with him, I'll learn to wait and hear His still, sweet voice. He doesn't shout at me. He doesn't hit me. All He's ever done was LOVE me. Even when He needs to correct me, it's always done out of Love.

So, I've received a devotional for Christmas from my husband. It's by Sarah Young and it's called "Jesus Calling". My friend Becky, recommended it to me, since it seems that for a few years now I've been on the same ride. I want to read the word. I want to pray, not just for my family, and co-workers, but for other friends and those who are sick and abused as well. I do want to get closer, but it seams that I try for a short time and then I turn around and do what I've always done...What kind of craziness is that? How can I truly change my habits if I don't ask God to help me fight through my naturalness to do anything but truly follow Him?

What I've found is this. God is gentle. He speaks to us softly. When we are weak, down, unsure, weary, or feeling lost, He is waiting at the door. He's gently tapping on our shoulder. All we have to do is stop complaining, whining, fretting or wallowing in self-pity long enough to turn and acknowledge Him. So my reading was exactly on this. I must have read Psalm 46:1, Rom 12:12, and Rom 15:13; before I realized this:

If I put my HOPE in HIM then that means I TRUST Him to get me through. But it also means that I don't have the right to keep fretting, whining, complaining, or wallowing in self-pity. Putting my HOPE in Him means; "I'm giving you, (God)(whatever), because I know YOU HAVE THE ANSWER & SOLUTION to what ever my/our need is.

This concept is why I can be "joyful in hope, patient in affliction, & faithful in prayer." Rom 12:12

Rom 15:13 says (paraphrase)
that the more I put my HOPE in GOD, then He fills me w/joy & peace. Which leads to an overflowing of more hope by the power of the Holy Spirit, our helper, our councelor, our comforter!

So God is ALWAYS waiting patiently for us. He allows us to make our mistakes and "live our lives", but He's always waiting, watching, willing to take our hand, to guide us, to lead us, to love us, to FORGIVE us. I'm so grateful that He never leaves me nor forsakes me! I turn my back on Him all the time and I don't ever think I do. It's time to decide! Choose ye this day whom you will serve! I choose you Jesus! I choose you God, my heavenly Father, my creator! Thank you for never leaving me!

Stay well my friends! Never give up! Find something worth doing and give God the credit. Better yet, reconnect, recommit back to your Heavenly Father; He's waiting!

In His Name my friends, Shalom!

Protecting My Hunger

2012-06-03T18:47:00.001-07:00

It's been a few weeks since my last post, however it has been intentional. How can you truly know if you really learned what you've read without putting it into practice. Since my last post I've read through the chapter "Protect Your Hunger" a couple of times, I've looked up all the reference verses, I started a new workout regimen, and also started a "Philippians" study with some women at my church. Now, you might say "wow, isn't she stretching herself to thin?" And to that I'll add a little well placed "hu huh" (breath in fast like Sheldon). This is all well guided for now with my Lord and Savior at the helm, for once in my life.

I'm absolutely committed to following him hard and strong till he tells me to stop. This journey to draw nearer to him has been in the making for quite some time and he's allowed me to make my mistakes, and to go through trials, so I could get to this pivotal point in my faith, where I have had to call out to him and say, "I want more of you Abba. I'm not going to sit idly by and wait for you to touch my heart and help me change, or to wait for you to change my mind, just because I prayed, asking for you to do so." My faith is based on God drawing me; yes, putting desire in my heart; yes but most importantly its about action...I'm not an english person, however I have to classify "faith" as a verb. Faith is believing in what is unseen, however if I don't pick up my bible and read the word everyday, and I don't spend time in prayer and fellowship with my father, my Abba everyday, then I'm not going to grow closer. Proverbs says that the lazy man shall not eat, well the same principle applies to us as well. The lazy christian, shall not grow closer to God if they're not willing to do their part and dig deep into the word. What I've seen and experienced is that God will give us a little kindling, then a little spark to start the fire, but we're responsible to stoke the fire and to add logs in order to maintain a fire. The more we read the word, the more we want to read the word. The more we pray and wait to hear from him, the more we want to pray and draw nearer to him. So on to telling you about protecting my hunger for the Lord.

First I know that my Abba draws me to him. (John 6:44) 2nd: When I draw near to my Abba, He will draw near to me. 3rd: I need to always remember that my soul thirsts for the living God. (Ps 42: 2-4) This is where the insatiable hunger, that I'm looking for comes from. I need to remember and hold onto this fact. It's just a little hard to absolutely grasp it, however, I'm getting there a little at a time, with his help. 4th: In the home group, my husband and I attend, we are studying Philip Clancy's "Prayer". In the last session, (2 weeks ago), he stated that the "satisfied soul loathes the honeycomb". This struck a chord with me, because just a few days before that, I came across the very same verse, regarding protecting your hunger. How can I disregard this verse? (Prov 27:7) If I'm filling my soul, my heart, my every desire with everything of the world, then where is there ever going to be any room for the things of the soul, for the heavenly desires? I need to protect my hunger for the Lord, by putting all things I desire before the throne of God. I like to read from time to time; I need to put what I read before the Lord. Shows I watch, things I do etc, all should be put before the Lord. He will grant me the desires of my heart, however, He wants me to desire him, so why don't I take the time to fill my time with the things of the Lord. I need to be an "addict" for the Lord! Right now, I'm still "doing", what I need to do, but I'm starting to feel my heart softening more and more for him and for the way of righteousness. In God's time, I'll be like a "God junkie", where I won't be able to function without having my time set before him. Some people, may be saying, "Well, make sure you find balance." And to that I will add that I've always followed God. As long as I can remember, however, it's time to say enough is enough. I've lived in the secular world for many years and I've accomplished much in the secular world's view. I'm not rich, financially, but I'm rich eternally. When you've eeked out an existence and you know, you should be further along in your walk and you desire to be closer, then to become a "God junkie", may be exactly what I may need. I've had "balance" for many years. Time for me to tip the scale the other way and be all in for HIM.

My friends, we could very well be living in the "end times". I don't want to be found to be "lukewarm" and spit out of the Lord's mouth. I am standing at the door knocking. The Lord hears me and is opening the door for me to come in. Protect your hunger. Make a stand for God. Put him first and he will draw near, and help you out. Don't be satisfied with what the world has to offer, for what the world has to offer will remain in this world once we are all gone. Lets focus on the prize at the end of the race and lets be found to be worthy and faithful servants. God is helping in many ways. He's helping me realize that my body is his temple. So he's given me the resources and the strength to get up and work out. More importantly, he's given me the desire and will to get up even earlier so I can read his precious word before I "push play and bring it". My days of late have been filled with my eyes set on him and the little things are falling into place, and this out of shape body is slowly becoming a body worthy of being a temple of the Holy Spirit. The healthier I am, the more I'll be able to help God in reaching others, as his willing servant.

Well my friends, till next time. Protect your hunger and guard your heart for the Lord "satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with goodness." (PS 107:9)
Shalom

God's Pursuit of Us

2012-05-17T07:38:00.001-07:00

Wow, what can I say? I'm reading about how God Pursues us. I've been literally mulling this chapter over, over, and over for the past week. Re-reading the chapter and re-reading the verses, which is why there is a lag between posts...I haven't forgotten you my friends. Here we go:

We pursue what we love, whether that's learning how to get better at some hobby like gardening or buying parenting books so we can be the best parents that we can be. We are always doing something; hiking, fishing, crocheting, growing a better lawn, etc. We see it everyday in different people and in ourselves. We are always pursuing the things of this world and as we pursue other "things" or "hobbies", God all the while is and has been pursuing us.

I don't think I totally grasp this particular concept, but I'm starting to understand. My oldest son is 20 years old and a few weeks ago he was faced with a major hurdle in his life, in which all I wanted to do was travel about 1200 miles away to where he was and help him out. However, he's a young man who has to forge his way in this life, whether I want him to forge down a path I would like him to go, versus his decision of a different path. No matter, in this regard, I have to totally rely on God to guide his path for him and I need to encourage and disengage as a mother who wants to help correct and engage in a mother who is encouraging, loving, and always pursuing him. He knows how much I love and care for him, by not giving up on him...EVER! That's what God was showing me. As I longed to reach out and pursue my son in his struggle, I couldn't. 1. He was physically to far away. and 2. My son has to choose to reach out to me. We have to CHOOSE to reach out to God. He isn't that far, it's us, who choose to value other things over Him, which takes us from Him.

I had to take a long hard look at myself...What am I doing that is of more value than God? Now, you can sit back and say, "I would never put anything before God." but I say nay to you, my friends. (In my Sheldon voice) We are human, and as long as we are in these fallible vessels and have our fallible minds, we will choose other things over God. The difference between a professing believer who lives their life for God and those that don't is this...we have the Holy Spirit, our helper, our counselor, our guiding light, to help remind us gently that we're not in the right place, or that what we are messing with "stinking thinking".What God showed me was interesting. I put t.v. before Him, Facebook gets put before Him, the family and all that goes into the family gets put before Him, my job is put before Him, and all the things I think about are put before Him!...SOBERING, all the things I THINK about! That was interesting to say the least. Yes, the things I think about, are not always pure, their not sexual mind you, but if there is something which happens I tend to dwell on it and mull it over. The more I mull it over the more it weaves into the fiber of my life.This isn't necessarily what I'm going through right now, but just a few short weeks ago, I was praying and God showed me that I need to make a choice before adding more "things" into my life. I prayed for His help on waking up earlier than usual to read the word. And he's been faithful to do that, as I've been OBEDIENT to get up and spend time in His word. I've cut Facebook back to almost nothing. He didn't say give it up, he said what am I putting first before Him. He is first in my day and throughout my day, and when I notice that I'm mulling over something that is starting to turn my insides, I pray and I send out a text to my husband to pray specifically for peace over what's on my mind.... EXHILARATING!! This has been such a freeing experience for me. How many more believers are going through the same thing? I wish I can say I'm the only heathenistic (sorry for the bushism) saint out there, but I know many more are struggling.

God is always in pursuit of us. He paid a ransom for us. Just like we pursue what we love, God our Father, our ABBA, pursues us. (John 3:16, Psa 49:8, Eph 1:7 1 Cor 6:20) God pursues what He loves, and that is US. But why would He love me, little ole me? Because He created us to want to choose Him. To have a relationship with us. He is "calling us out of the darkness into His wonderful light." When you can wrap a synapses around that then the freedom that comes with knowing, I can grab my "woobie" and crawl into his lap, is so comforting and reassuring...I'm not saying, I'm a little child who needs her daddy, but how reassuring is it that you can call on your earthly father and know that he cares enough to get in the car in the middle of the night to change your tire, or watch your kids, or whatever else you'd on him for. Well, that is exactly what I'm seeing in my heavenly father, my ABBA. I can go to Him for anything...ANYTHING, and He cares enough to answer me, whether I like his answer or not.

Now, how about this one. God esteems us better than himself. (Rom 12:10) No matter how I try to put this in my own words, I just can't find a better way than to quote the author himself. John Bevere puts it like this; The word says we are to esteem our brother more than us. To which John spoke back to God and said it was meant for the church in which the letter was written to, but God's response was this."I never ask you to do what I, myself will not do." Okay, that blew me away. I'm reading this and I stop! (screech) What do you mean? I thought of so many principles on life listed in the bible and I realized. YAAAH! That is so true. God says what he means and means what he says! He is not wishy-washy. He never, says "Oops, just kidding!", or "I didn't mean that for me. That was only meant for you." His principles have always been, and will always be. He is eternal! He is the Alpha and the Omega!

Shalom my friends, till next time keep pursuing Him!
God Bless!

Revelation

2012-05-06T20:16:00.001-07:00

One of the main reasons for creating this blog, was for accountability. One of my favorite authors is John Bevere. I know a couple of people who don't like him, for they think he's "dominionistic", however, I beg to differ. He's originally an engineer, so his approach to looking at things is from an analytical yet spiritual point of view. I've studied a few of his books and I've learned so much, that those who know me, know that I'm not a "dominionistic" type of a person. I recognized, a couple of years ago, that what I was looking for in my life was a much deeper relationship with the Lord....I was going to church, women's groups, and participating in church activities. All the while I was hoping that doing all these things, a tiny spark would ignite in me about following hard after Jesus. I confided in a couple of close friends and my sister, about how hungry and thirsty I was, but I felt so dry...I got a lot of encouragement and I know prayers regarding this also. But, you know, I would go to bible study and get a cold shoulder or while other people had an opportunity to expound on their thoughts, I would get cut short. So, at first instinct, I almost got offended, but then I realized that, OFFENSES are from the enemy, designed to break down the camaraderie and fellowship of all the women I was in the study with.

It wasn't the leader I was truly offended with, or so I thought, but myself for falling behind in my readings or coming into the study 5-10 min late each week. It was just before this particular study started that I kept calling out to the Lord to HELP me! I found myself perched precariously on the side of the narrow path, in danger of falling further, for I was on very shaky ground. I felt at times, that I was so far down, that I didn't think I would be able to reach for the Lord. It was during this time that the Holy Spirit, reached down, pulled me to a different ledge, which was a bit more sturdy. He told me to head to the Christian book store and He'd show me what He wanted me to read to help me get back on track....I know, I know, I shouldn't need any kind of "self-help" book from anyone, including a christian author. I think many people forget, that sometimes when we get to the point where we've veered off course, and you're dry, sometimes the best encouragement and direction can come from a book on increasing your faith, or how to deal with particular issues....So there, I was in Morning Star, standing in the middle of a section of the store in-between the self-help type books and the bibles; in the middle of a reading area. I just said a little prayer and told God; "Lord, I'm here and I'm waiting for you to guide me. You know my needs and desires for growing closer to you. Please guide me to the book you would like me to read. In Jesus' name." So, I waited and a few moments later, He gave me John Bevere's name. A couple of minutes later I had located, John Bevere's "Drawing Near". Well, I started it. Then put it down. Participated in a year long women's study; picked up the book again and re-read the first chapter, then I put it down again...September rolls around and I'm in another women's study. When that one is over in December, I decide that I need to bite the bullet and just start digging into this book...Where do I start, but back in chapter 1 again, and for the last 8 weeks I was in another study group, but this one was on praying. I didn't push hard into John's book yet. I would read a page and put it down, etc...."Lord, what's wrong with me!" I thought, why is it that every time I try and read this book, do I get side tracked. I WANT TO BE CLOSE TO YOU!!!

Well, I've been going through chapter 1 again. Except this time it's much more deeper than the other times I've attempted it. Why is that? Because God was trying to show me that, just because I know I should be trying to pursue him; there is a difference in knowing and wanting to pursue Him. My mind knew I wanted and needed to pursue Him. My heart, was a different story. My heart, was dry, and at times unloving. I was in a "just there" state of existence. God showed me through the different women at my church that this problem with my heart wasn't an issue with just me, but with many other women also. Women, who love God, but struggle with reading the word on a daily and consistent basis. Women who know they need more of God, but haven't realized that their heart needs to want God...It's more that our SOUL needs to want more of God. My "spirit-man", was wanting me to grow closer to God and my "earthly-man" was all "ya-ya-ya". The more I did this the more I knew I needed to draw near, yet I felt like I couldn't. I didn't have the strength. I was feeling pulled away. When I finally shared this revelation with my husband, he thought about it and then he went to a retreat a couple of weeks later. After the retreat he came back not only refreshed, but said, "It's an attack. God showed me how much the congregation is under attack from the enemy right now...Listen to Him, trust that He has your best interest at heart and just allow Him to lead the way."

Now, I said to myself, self...why couldn't you think of that? To which God replied, because you weren't listening to ME! You had to hear it from someone else. He spoke through my husband, whom I struggle to listen to...Apparently I must be able to hear my husband better than my creator, the one whom I've been calling out to....I can be dense! So...I've been going through chapter one. I've been digging through chapter one! I've read each scripture and cross-reference and different translations to make sure I don't miss anything...did I mention that I'm also using a concordance! NICE!

So that's the big revelation, for me. I needed to get past the point of constantly saying; "I'm dry, or I'm struggling with reading the word daily." blah, blah, blah. Let's face it; if He didn't show me that I just needed to DO, and not attempt, that I would be successful in drawing closer to Him, because He has ALWAYS pursued me. (John 3:16 is proof of his love for me & you. Even Jesus said that God loves us as much as He loved him. John 17:22-24) You can attempt and put effort in, but if the heart isn't willing to surrender ALL to Him, then it's almost all for naught. I've wasted many years of energy, attempting and not putting my will aside and said "here I am Lord, I'm all yours. Mold me into the person you want me to be and I'll DO what I need to DO, because my heart is willing and you will DO the increase.

Until next time, my friends

Shalom, and God Bless us all on our journey to getting closer to Him

Learning to put Him first

2012-05-03T19:42:00.000-07:00

My dear friend at church, whom I always call "smiley" has lost a tremendous amount of weight over the past couple of years. She is such a strong woman of faith. I'm very encouraged by her and her continuing growth in her faith and in her weight loss success. Though she still wants to lose more, we encourage each other to continue to look UP to Him and to keep pushing on.

She recently purchased and started working out to P90X...I've heard so much about this particular program, that I looked into it a couple of weeks ago, when it was posted on facebook. What a motivating video, as a testimony to this young man who was over 400 lbs and it took him 1 1/2 years to loose over 200lbs. INCREDIBLE!! Well, once my friend told me what she was doing, she suggested that if I could afford it to look into in, that it's probably something I would probably enjoy!...that's me! For some reason, I do love things that are challenging and difficult to do....I don't know what I'm trying to prove, honestly, but other than the sense of personal accomplishment, I'm not sure why else to do some of the things I've done before.

Well it really got me thinking. How can I add another thing into my already busy life? I thought of the training I used to do to complete the Firefighters Combat Challenge, which by the way I never completed, but after the third time of doing it, I made it to the mannequin drag! (good enough for me, at that time). I also thought of the "fit-traxx" classes I took at the gym for like $300 a piece till I decided to get 2, 2 month classes and the 3rd class was under 1/2. That class had me up at 4:45 a.m. and in the gym by 5:10 so I could warm up, etc, before the class started at 5:30. Then home, shower, and off to drop the kids off at school and me to work...then the next endeavor, was training for our churches 1st transformational triathlon. All of these very hard areas of working out, brought me to one conclusion. I did all of those with very minimal reliance on God. These weren't all at once, mind you, they were all at various stages from 2002-2011. I admitted to my dear friend that I really couldn't do one more workout in my life till I absolutely put GOD FIRST! I mean REALLY, I can get up before the crack of dawn to punish my body, but I can't get up early to read His precious word!

Well, there's proof that God hears the cries of our hearts, for He started waking me up a little early each day over the past week. I've set the alarm for 5:35 from 5:45 and He woke me at 5:30, then it was about 5 min earlier each day for the past several days...I'm now waking up at 5:10. I'm just trusting in Him whole heartily right now. He's getting me up, and I'm reading everyday before I hop into the shower. My lunches and breakfasts are getting done earlier and we're all leaving on time for school and work. I'm confident that the Lord will continue to help me where He knows I need it.

Jer 29:11 "For I know the plans that I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a home.

Phil 4:19 "And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus"

I don't think God is my "genie", but as I grow in obedience, he is faithful to help me in that growth and in the areas that He knows will help me be healthier, and more balanced.

Luke 12:28 "But if God so clothes the grass in the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, how much more will He clothe you" (literal and spiritual)

The Lord wants to help me respect myself...Now, I have to put this verse in my heart and not just my brain.

1 Cor 6:19 "or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own".....hmmm, I am not my own, but HIS. That means to eat that which my body doesn't need or to much of something just because it tastes good, is not alright!...INTERESTING! Lord, thank you for your continued help and encouragement! You are amazing!

Good night my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ,
Till next time, Shalom

Struggles

2012-05-03T18:08:00.001-07:00

So, I've decided to start this blog, mainly to receive input on how I may be interpreting the word. I'm not an expert in the word, but I am an expert in the form of having struggles and allowing some of the struggles in my life to lead me down some paths, I shouldn't be traveling down. Sometimes it's just a slight slide off the narrow path, and at other times it's a trip and a full on, head over heels tumble off the slope. The only way to stop at those times is to reach out quickly and grab the nearest plant, tree, or possibly some rock. When I come to a stop, I don't have anything broken per SE, but I am battered, bruised and cut up.

I look up at where I was, and realize that the only reason I'm clinging onto the side of the earth is because I lost my focus for what I thought was just a moment, but truly it was more than a moment. It was a slight degree toward sin and then another and another, until I lost all footing and headed down out of control. Clearly, only when I recognize that I can't do anything without my Abba at my side, that I can see that if I swing myself carefully, to a ledge just a little ways from me that I can catch my breath and refocus once again at the help that is already reaching for me...Yes, it's my daddy...my ABBA... he sent his spirit, who is reaching out His hand to help me back on the trail of righteousness. And just like my human dad, he brushes me off, pushes my hair out of my eyes and mouth and makes sure that I'm standing in the middle of the path. He turns me around and shows me that I used to have handrails to keep me from falling, and now my path is smooth, yet well worn from the saints which traveled before me. He shows me that if I'm willing to just trust in HIM and allow him to lead then I won't have to fall like I did. The interesting thing, is that He has also shown me, how many times he has always helped me back to the trail over my life...that he never leaves me nor forsakes me! That at some points along the way on the path of righteousness, I've fallen and climbed back to a ledge and ignored His sweet still voice calling out to me to not panic. But I was so engulfed at the matter right in front of me, I forgot to look UP to where my true help was always coming from.

Acts 26:22 "So, having obtained HELP FROM GOD, I stand to this day testifying both to small and great..."

2 Sam 22:7 "In my distress I called upon the LORD, Yes, I CRIED to my God; and from his temple He HEARD my voice, and my cry for help came into His ears."

So I'm turned around now. My feet have been dusted off and I'm heading in the correct direction once again! Thank you Jesus for rescuing me ALWAYS! You've never left me, even though I think I can do all things with out HE who gives me strength. It's clear that, I can do nothing without my Lord and Savior leading the way. But through HE who gives me STRENGTH, I can do ALL things. Phil 4:13

Thanks for following, until next time.