Journey of the Kaleidoscope Butterfly ®

People, Circumstances, Logic and Peace

2024-04-16T14:33:00.019-04:00

When we truly believe and have faith in the promise of our eternity being clutched in the strong, righteous, loving, just and faithful Lord God Almighty will we really live in peace, no matter what is imploring us to release it?

Obviously, we would like there to be an easy yes or no answer. However, there is a tremendous journey, across treacherous terrine, to discover our individual final answer. Do you think the answer is more fluid than constant? We desire our peace to be this steady, however peace is only as stable as whatever secures it. If we have peace of this world, it is dependent upon us, and all various people and circumstances. If it is the peace of God, He secures us. Our ability to trust and stand firm is secured to what we know, believe and trust. And yet we're told to live by faith not by sight. If all I have securing my peace is what I see, hear, feel around me, I would be overwhelmed when feeling pressures, difficulties, hardships, or pain. In these same type moments, when I begin with God's truth and my faith, my viewpoint begins with hope and connectivity.

What about when things are begging you to let go of peace and God feels as though He's left the building, or planet? That feeling of having no space, yet too much space between me and God. n times such as these, I think about how long ago in the distant past God created life. And from where I am, in that moment, eternity with Him seems like a fairy tale. Yet here I am! And I know He is real, as real as what I am feeling in the present. Then I picture a bridge coming up to me from creation and one out from me leading toward tomorrow. It is here where I feel so small and God feels so BIG!

If I think about the words of Christ, He promised that His kingdom was at hand. God's word tells us Christ left the world in order that we could have His eternal Spirit present within us, right here. 2 Corinthians 5:5 Now He who prepared us for this very purpose gave to us the Spirit as a pledge". So, we believe He is not far away out there somewhere. For the beliefs, we have to become faith, we need to have experiences. And when we experience that His truth is real it becomes trust. It is this trust we’re building that bridges us to Him and other believers.

Maybe rather than seeking black and white answers, we view these matters as our preparation. It is my hope that we enter each experience believing the Spirit is within us as God pledged and trust in His purposes for whatever is happening.

Another creative thought I have, which probably isn't theological, which gives me peace, is thinking of God outside of linear time. Then picturing Him gazing upon all our fluid pieces as if watching the shifting shapes within a kaleidoscope. I instantly become more relaxed and less focused on the troubles. When He is in my thoughts, His peace is allowed to secure me.

Moving With the Spirit within us takes His power, not ours. And knowing, or believing, that truth is not the same as abiding in the Spirit. Yet, God see's us, understands our struggles and loves us in all the same.

I am so grateful for His mercy and grace to continue homeward.

Read 2 Corinthians chapters 4 and 5. Share your thoughts with us all, please.

In Christ,

Candace

Discipline and Button Pushers

2021-06-18T13:50:00.005-04:00

It had been my opinion that some people have been gifted to write, and the rest of us are gifted to read and enjoy their gifts. There are also those who have ideas with desire to write and just keep honing their skills. However, as gifted as some may be, without discipline, writing usually will not not get done. It is my opinion that I fall into the later category and I have allowed the discipline for developing this skill to be replaced by other priorities. Thank you for your grace as I attempt to get going again.

As I pondered these thoughts regarding the written word, thoughts expanded into the words we speak. We do not have to be gifted speakers to talk; however, to do it well takes effort. To speaking the truth in love might be the hardest discipline for most of us.

An individual could be the wisest, most knowledgeable person around. However, if they are attempting to connect with others they must develop some relational skills to accompany knowledge. The bible calls this discipline “speaking the truth in love”. This means we must exercise discernment, empathy, humility, kindness and be peaceable in the character of the Lord God who IS Love.

Of course this can only apply to the children of God, because apart from God, though He loves us, His love is not within us. Also, without God we do not have His peace, nor the help of His Spirit within us to depend upon. It is no wonder there are such relational problems and devastation going on around us. And this is what led me to thinking about how we speak / relate to each other and it being the hardest discipline – in my opinion.

Think about the difference between worldly self-control (controlling ourselves and others to get our desired outcome) and the fruit of the Spirit self-control (controlling ourselves, being obedient to His Ways, through dependency on God and faith in His will for us all). If we join in the work the Father is doing within us, through His Spirit, instead of grieving the Spirit, everyone around us is touched by His power. No doubt, this is the reason we are constantly being challenged in this area; as well as being the challenger at times. How often are we tempted to do the fleshly / emotional thing, throwing love and, dare I say, even total truth out the window.

We know that God does not spin out of control, nor is He caught off guard. Instead He uses what is “intended” for evil, for good. God uses opportunities such as these to test us, grow us and if we persevere, as James says, we will be more mature. The end result will be the growth of the fruit of the Spirit to the Glory of God – these thoughts fills me with great joy; how about you?

All this being said, it is not easy to pause when being emotionally challenged; becoming passive is not the goal either. We should aspire to be active in prayer – asking God to work in the silence, the space between and within us and others. When we do speak, that it is beneficial (truth without drama), and it is His character which carries the truth into the presence of others.

Beyond these moments we must keep our peace and leave matters between others and their m/Master. Trust that God is so much larger and present than the temporary afflictions we face. While some problems are truly enormous that we are going through, most of the problems pressing our buttons are the small things; the things we choose not to navigate with an attitude of forgiveness – even if we cannot be in a fruitful relationship with the person (we will dive into this on another day). God is not allowing others to be in control of His will; we should not either. We can be a child of God with the character of God, no matter who is pushing our buttons.

So today, it is my prayer for us all, that when pressed - we will allow their pressure to be a release button and begin to live liberated in Christ Jesus, our Lord – To Him be all the Glory now and forevermore.

Kisses,

Candace

Scriptures to meditate on – please share any others and your thoughts, experiences etc.

· Book of James - specific verses of note: 1: 2-4, 12- 14, 4:8, 6: 18-21

· 1 John - 3:7, 4:8

· 1 Corinthians – 9:23-27, chapter 13

· 2 Corinthians – 3:17,18, chapter 4

What Do You Think?

2019-12-11T15:28:00.001-05:00

"Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock. Everyone who hears these words of Mind an does not act on them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. The rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and it fell - and great was its fall." Matthew 7: 24-27

Well Hello Everyone!

I hope this finds each of you better than you've ever been.

It has been an extremely long time since I have had the time and space to compile a study topic.
Appreciating that the holidays are busy, with less time to dig into large segments of study; these things you can ponder as you go about, hopefully - at least the goal.
__________________________

If we think about it, each of us believe many things. However, all things we describe as what we believe can be on vastly different plains. For example, I believe if I collect my thoughts and type them in this post, hit save then publish, everyone will have access to the information. Is this a reasonable belief? And Why?

Most things we deem "reasonable" is because we have experienced it. But then there are the things we believe which are Not based on our personal experiences. For instance, the large majority of us have not traveled to the moon, yet most of us believe it is not only possible but has happened. Many of us have not been to all the other countries, but we believe they are there and accessible. I cannot fly a plane but I have been carried by them, very successfully, many times over and I always believe they will get off the ground and land somewhere else.

What we believe is a building process comprising a multitude of influences: parents, environment, community, information and application to name a few. We have been given sensory organs to assist in sight, hearing, touch, taste and a brain to collect and process everything along this fantastic journey called living. So what makes some people believe in the things others determine unbelievable? Can our beliefs change? How does this affect us at our core?

Think of all the things we believe as everything needed for constructing our home, from blue prints to the actual building materials, comforts and aesthetic of our lives. Usually only our core beliefs are used for the blue prints and for actual weight bearing structures. We hire experts for jobs we are not skilled to complete and trust they have done what was asked. These outsourced jobs are beliefs we take on due to a person of influence. Most of us have preferences regarding décor inside or landscaping that is seasonal outside. These items are preferences which are constantly changing as our tastes change, or we get more information. They elements represent our individuality, opinion, and desires or ambitions. Together these things comprise where we dwell, our home, our family, who we are and all our life emanates from it.

Matthew 7 is speaking of the same subject: solid belief systems. It is also speaking of our influence and responsibilities toward others. None of us are able to undo the harmful effects of others upon our lives, but we can adjust and minimize impact moving forward. However, this will not happen and our lives will not change unless we take the time to think about things and do some discovery.

The question then is how do we see what we do not know to question? The answer is: inspect your structure in hopes of uncovering something before it's a problem. Most people realize when something begins to deteriorate - and they look for answers. But why wait? Christ tell us to "Ask and it shall be given to you; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you, for everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it shall be opened." I wonder if that why He mentioned this before He spoke of the foundation issues? (Anyway, probably irrelevant.)

All I am asking you to think about is what do you believe - really believe. Any why? What benefit is it to you, your family, your community and ( if you believe in God ) His Kingdom. Then ask who is ultimately paying the price for what you're constructing.

Whatever you believe I pray it leads you to Christ - if not now, someday...
With Love - Kisses,
C

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc ®

A Real Conundrum

2018-04-17T20:17:00.000-04:00

Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall.

~ 1 Cor. 10-12

You would think that much of my time is spent helping others see their positioning / standing within the things going on in their lives. However, the largest part of my days are actually spent making sure I am positioned and standing......not by my own strength - God help me if I ever feel so secure that I omit this!

Obviously we all have problems, real or perceived. And I am sure it comes as no surprise that it would be unusual for someone to come to me saying "I have a problem; and I am the problem. Can you help me?". Another commonality I find is that most problems are not yet real. What I mean is, the problem that IS real is the panic building in their mind and anxiety in their heart because they perceive they are not going to get something they desire, or be able to prevent an undesired thing from happening. Helping people comprehend that what we think or feel can be distorting reality can be a real conundrum!

Fortunately or unfortunately, I am no different from those I support, when it comes to finding areas where our human nature can override spiritual truths we believe. These distortions in perception are what cause our conflicts - both with others and internally. For instance when a woman comes to me very hurt and conflicted. She tells me she is devastated, heart broken, because her spouse isn't "loving" toward her and she doesn't understand because all her efforts are to make sure they have a strong loving relationship.. But, when I ask her how she is responding to him and she tells me she is stone walling him: hasn't cook dinner and has hardly spoken to him since yesterday. It is obvious there is spiritual, personal and relational perspectives needing reconciliation before we discuss anything else..

Have you ever noticed that we can be truly correct in our truth, but fully incorrect in our standing, or how we carry it out. The conundrum is: how can I be trying to obtain love, working hard toward making opportunities for love and then ending up without "feeling" loved? The problem isn't Love, nor is our biggest problem "how our spouse is acting". The problem is we want something for our self; it is about me, not about them. Do you see that? When we do not get what we want, we will utilize whatever ammunition is at our fingertips to motivate the other person to move toward what we want.. Sadly, God's will is a easy reach to manipulate people. We will discuss this another time.

So how would the conversation go with her, you ask? Usually, I would ask her if she has wondered if her spouse felt loved by her; and not generically, but by her actions. We would discuss how wanting to "be loved" is certainly not the same thing as "desiring to be in a loving relationship". Ending with reading the letter of James, focusing on chapter 4 would be a wonderful place to open up conversations of what she sees happening in herself, her husband, their relationship with God and each other. .

The bottom line here is this: When we say we are not being loved, are we consistently being loving? Do we, will we, take a pause to think about Love before we act / react? I do not know too many people who think they won the Spousal Lottery 24/7 , but please do not live as though they did with you or me. We all are standing on shaky ground, even on a good day. But I praise God that He is able to make us stand when we depend on Him to deal with our little self made conundrums.

Remember, it is all in how you look at things; get yourself out of the way and you can see a much larger picture!

I pray to make it through the end of this day without tripping over myself and I pray the same for you. And I ask that we can see from His perspective instead of our small view.

- In Christ,

Kisses,
C

For more on this topic:
What Do You See
Your Doing It Wrong
How Long Can This Go On

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc ®

Where I Am

2017-12-01T16:55:00.000-05:00

Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing. ~1 Thess 5:11

There have been so many of you asking me where I am and why I have stopped writing or dropped communication with you, that I felt I needed to write everyone at once.

The largest reason is due to the change in how I meet with and support individuals. The writing always alighted with topics we were studying; it gave everyone thoughts to digest and form conversation for the next weeks group.

While the organization was on sabbatical several years ago, I experienced health issues which demanded a change in how I personally supported people in crisis. Strangely enough, while attending a BMI Leadership Coaching Workshop about the same time, Richard Blackaby spoke about the seasons in our lives. (If you have not read The Seasons of God I highly recommend you add it to your library!) Even thought I miss being surrounded by you all: from the women we support to the organizations I advise, train or counseled the changes have been an amazing adventure.

It is not that I have stopped supporting people in crisis, teaching, organizing, studying, breaking down scripture and or writing. The change is how my time is used - more methodically and able to go deeper one-on-one with each person. But this means I have little time for editing and logically composing segment.

Many of the individuals I meet with have asked me to write down the things we discuss; because they would like to think more about it throughout the week and never seem to thoroughly write their thoughts down. "I will try to make that happen, soon." I don't know if others, of you who write, finds it difficult to get back in the saddle or not, but I do. I'm grateful for all of you who have been prodding me. I ask those of you who desire daily, weekly or maybe bi-weekly Spiritual encouragement to pray for the Lord to prepare me, teach me and guide me that He may be glorified.

I desire to get back in the saddle.........it kindles a unity, for me, with each of you and Him, as I think about His truth, grace and love for us all.

Dare I end with "Giddy UP!"

Kisses,
C

Without Regret

2017-04-14T18:19:00.000-04:00

John 19:38 After this, Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus; and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took the body of Jesus.

Recently I was asked to participate with a Stations of the Cross Gallery, and wanted to share what I learned from the experience. Painting while meditating on scripture always takes me on an adventure, it has a way of pulling their world and mine together on one plain for brief moments.

As I began reading through the scene John created, I imagined the lay of the land, the community, and the crosses in the background. The image began building, and the crosses kept slipping farther away. It was, as if the Holy Spirit was leading me to minimize the cross, with all my worldly thoughts of pain, regret, humiliation and think about Spiritual things: the purpose, the people, the life. I could not see Joseph and Nicodemus clearly until I imagined them paused before heading back into the city gate. Everything around them appeared to continue on uninterrupted. I imagined their emotions were of grief, loss and confusion, which made me so very grateful that we have the written word of God. I thought about all He procured for me to live in the freedom of His love without regret.

For a moment, take pause: Picture yourself as a landscape, would you be a dark cave of regret or as the garden holding His body for a time…..each day, the fruit of the spirit blooming a little more and releasing a sweet fragrance glorifying our Lord and Savior.

It is a Great Friday to be alive my friend….a Good Friday to be saved….My prayers are with each of you, in Jesus’ blessed name.

Kisses,

Candace

© 2017 by Candace Huffmaster / Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc ®

Thank you for Asking!

2017-03-03T12:55:00.000-05:00

The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. All the ways of a man are clean in his own sight, but the Lord weighs the motives. ~ Prov 16:1,2

As I have been studying and reviewing information for various things, I couldn't help but notice a common theme among them all: The value of questions. When I was younger, I may not have been the most curious child in a group, but I was certainly in the top 3. Question after question would layer my mind; hence I was probably the most talkative child around. In time, however, my questions brought with them a sense of self consciousness. More often than not, I began to view questions as more of a liability. After all people believe we are smarter when we don't know something and remain silent, or so we are told. This disastrous mindset is pretty much on the same plain as, "children should be seen and not heard". .....But I digress....

Paul David Tripp is the author of a book I have been re-reading. He suggests we are all: influence-ers, interpreters and worshipers. As with all our studies on view points and words, the combination of these three words brought back many thoughts:

How do individuals who care enough to marry each other and build a family together end up wanting, more than anything, to not have to be around each other?
How can jobs, hobbies and friendly relationships become something elevated over spouses and children?
How can we think we know what is best for others when we cannot go many days, our self, without making a poor decision?
Why do we feel the generic things we have to say are more grand than something the next person might desire to speak about?

Considering all these dynamics, it seems that self concern/preservation, and pride may be what we desire to call it; however, due to how common place those critiques of character are today, let's break it down further. Since our topic is "questions" lets look at it from this angle.

The people I speak with on a regular basis, are coming to see me due to crisis in their life. This crisis takes many forms. The commonality begins after a series of conversations where in I get to ask questions regarding something/s that have changed in their life. Surprisingly many people have not simply asked the person/s they are in a relationship with questions about the things. People, for what ever reason, take facts and add onto them their version of reasoning. If it goes on long enough they build story lines supporting their theories. Sometimes they even add characters. It is heart breaking to hear the attempts, of their family and friends, to convince them that what they are thinking is not real. But that is how deceptive thoughts poison our brains first and then bleed out, infecting the good things in our lives.

Part of the reason we do not ask questions, is due to lies we have been told. After so much time of being lied to, people begin to believe that the words of others are not as valid as their own reasoning. The saddest consequences stemming from this is the victim of these situations begins to distrust everyone and depend on their interpretations of life around them. Life is very distorted from this view point. And when you won't listen to anyone there is very little help for correcting what you perceive. It is like watching someone ride a bike, thinking they are on a garden path, when in actuality they are heading toward the edge of a steep cliff. And as you warn them, they wave at first, but as you continue, they begin yelling back at you to be quiet, because you are ruining their enjoyment! reminds me of Proverb 12:15 : The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man is he who listens to wise counsel.

Counsel does not usually begin with answers and people, being short sighted, desire answers. God gives wisdom but rarely treats it like a google search. He takes us on a journey, so that we may grow and become wise, patient people who can love investing in the lives of others. Relationships with good integrity come from investments made. Anyone can have a relationships which feed their emotional and egotistical tanks. We simply fish around till we find someone responsive then cut bait and move to a more happening spot when it fizzles. Please understand the relationship that is giving you what you want is almost never the relationship that is good for you.

If we are not trusting God, how can we find the truth? If we cannot believe the truth of the one who created us, how will we ever find anything which makes lasting sense? Where you are encountering consistent patterns of problems with a person, start listening more and talking less. When you begin talking ask relation-ally invested questions, rather than questions leading toward what you want from the relationship.

When we can ask questions meant to find out how to care for someone, rather than figuring out if they care about us - then maybe people will not avoid communicating with us, but actually thank us for asking!

Have a curiously good day my friends!
Kisses,
Candace

The Power of Words by Paul Tripp

2017-01-18T15:05:00.002-05:00

A friend forwarded me his devotion for today. We all can benefit from understanding this more. It is also relevant to the things we have been thinking about recently. I hope it gives you as much to consider as it did me!

The Power of Words

My two oldest sons are two years apart. They’re adults now, but when they were younger, I remember an argument they had. I can’t specifically remember what the argument was about, something silly and insignificant. It was one of many, like all brothers have.

What I do remember was how harsh their tone was, how their words were laden with accusation, and how their choice of vocabulary was personally damaging. Their sentences were designed to tear down, not find a solution to the conflict.

I had never taught my boys how to speak like this. Had they heard their father speak poorly to their mother? To them? Yes, regrettably. But I never sat them down and said, “Boys, if you want to win an argument and get your way, this is how to do it.”

In this mundane moment, God reminded me: the natural tendency of the human heart is to selfishly employ words to get what we want.

Listening to the same argument, God also opened my ears to hear how powerful words can be. Since I often don’t listen to what I say, or understand how my words are received, God was giving life and breath to the famous passage on the power of words in James 3.

"The tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness ... It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison ... With it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God."

More than 25 years removed, that argument still gets me reflecting today: how often do I naturally employ powerful words to selfishly get what I want? How often do I threaten, manipulate, accuse, guilt, or slander those in my life with what I say?

If you’re anything like me, I know you do the same. Be honest, but don’t be discouraged. God never reveals our hearts to discourage us. Convicting us of sin is one of the most profound ways he demonstrates his love for us.

Additionally, God never sets a lofty standard for our speech and demand that we reach it on our own, sitting back and waiting for us to fail. Rather, he gives us everything we need in life for godly speech (2 Peter 1:3).

How does he do that? He sent the Word – Jesus Christ – to become flesh and blood (John 1:14) and help us with our words. We have power and glorious riches at our disposal through Christ and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.

This week, listen to yourself talk. Take note of how natural it is for you to employ words for selfish gain. Be aware to the powerful vocabulary at your disposal. Grieve and confess how you threaten, manipulate, accuse, guilt, or slander others with words.

But take hope. The Word came to release us from the power of sin. We can experience a new direction with our words!

God bless

Paul Tripp

Reflection Questions

What was the last argument you engaged in? Rewind the audio of that conversation.
Did you attempt to use words to repair conflict, or were your words chosen to "win" at the expense of another?
How can you use powerful words this week to build up and restore?
What practical steps can you take to "dwell" with the Word? How might that help with your words?

www.PaulTripp.com

How Long Can This Go On?

2016-12-23T16:57:00.002-05:00

Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled; that there be no immoral or godless person like Esau, who sold his own birthright for a single meal. Hebrews 12: 14-16

Having been over a month since I have had a moment to continue where I left off, I had to revisit the details of where we were. If you want to review it click this link.

The first question in the random list was: How long can this go on? Length of time under pressure is indeed one of the first culprits which weakens us enough to take pause, when we are heading toward a crisis. It isn't the first thing which happens; usually we have made attempts to under gird and manage our discomfort, but we get frustrated and worn out. Reminds me of the Happy Train analogy we use: Our Happy Train is scooting on down the track and at first there is a bump, then a metal sparking sound and THEN a disastrous flailing of bodies and loose objects slinging around the box car?

Most of us can do well with a bump or two. We are even able to adapt bumps into our everyday life without too much disarray. However, what happens when we are a bit frazzled from "life" and the ride is bumpy for hours? Add to this: everyone around you being pesky, only to have the screeching metal sound shrill the airwaves in a grand crescendo! How would your comfort level be in this moment?

Habakkuk wrote, that it was not of the Lord that we weary ourselves in vain. What does that mean to you? Do you think God desires for us to weary ourselves to the point we are disconnected and tolerating life? What are we pursuing? What are YOU pursuing? Most of us ARE pursing peace....but is it more rightly having what we want, which makes us happy and we deceive ourselves that we are experiencing peace? Even if we are achieving this goal at the moment and no one seems to be grinding the gears of our Happy Train experience, we must realize we've seriously bypassed one of Gods major train stop.

God allows things to go on so that we understand what is going on. The reason I went to Hebrews to address this is because in chapter 11, we were given the great cloud of witnesses legacy. Esau, we are told, sold his birthright to get what he desired to happen. He may have had peace in the moment, worldly peace, but he was not pursing peace with others; it was only about what he wanted. Do you think Jacob was on a Happy Train Ride? What about their parents? Were they happy, did they have peace?

The Christmas Hymn, link above, speaks of peace and goodwill toward men. This is the peace Hebrews 12 was speaking of, not the selfish peace of getting what we want. Sanctification is the only means of experiencing a peaceful journey through life - How long can it go on till you make it? Till
Christ comes again!

Fortunately, as we begin seeing others and caring about the weight of our own wants upon them, God gives us all the mercy and grace to BE different all along the way. This year give something beyond a perfect present, give notice to how you have treated others to get where you are and what you wanted. Give a sincere apology for wrecking their train at times and ask how you might be able to help them find their way back. If possible.......

When we begin living out the long lives we are blessed with in this way, we might feel less days of "How long can this go on?" and more day filled with " How much longer do I get to experience life?"

For God so loved the world, shouldn't we join in?

Merry Christmas to all and to all a marvelous night,

Kisses,
Candace

© 2016 by Candace Huffmaster / Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc ®

Something's......Got to Give

2016-11-18T19:40:00.002-05:00

"Behold, it is not of the Lord of hosts that the peoples labor to feed the fire, and nations weary themselves in vain." ~ Habakkuk 2:13

With everything going on and our current state of affairs, it isn't odd that Habakkuk has come to mind often lately. I never turn away these prompting. I use them to revisit our past studies and retrace the experiences of those long ago. God, always has new insight for us; if we are willing to give Him the opportunity.

To start with, lets consider what Habakkuk was dealing with and find some common ground: We all, at times, encounter situations where the burdens upon our life stem from the stubbornness, or rebellion, of others. A natural response during these experiences can be to carry on a dialogue within our self, attempting to find a sane refuge from the insanity outside us.

Due to many conversations with myself and others I have a few examples below:

How long can this go on?
How long can I put up with this?
Why doesn't God intervene in this situation?
How does God expect me to relate toward the this person; knowing the person was well aware of the consequences to everyone?
Does God consider it selfishness to not have anything to do with those who continue to be selfish?
Would God desire me to suffer silently, in order for Him to work in and through me to reach them?
Is God going to help me in my pain and deal with the things they've stolen from my life?

If you recall, Habakkuk asked questions similar to these. We are going to touch on all these, but not all today. Today our focus is the emotional weight he was experiencing; it had become incredibly burdensome. We do not know all of his thoughts, however it is obvious the dialogue was with God not himself. It is painfully obvious Habakkuk had been crying out to God for a long time....and he had reach the point where something or someone had to give:

“How long, Oh Lord, shall I cry, and you will not hear? Even cry out to You,‘Violence!’ And you will not save.” ~ Habakkuk 1:2

There are so many raw emotions in the words of Habakkuk. Read it again, and picture a man, trying, exhausted, desiring to see God and feel His salvation from the pain of living among all that he was dealing with. From scripture we know he was speaking of imbalance, injustice and the oppression taking place; and he pointedly questioned God as to why He causes him to experience it. Although he questioned God he did so reverently; he never questioned the Sovereignty of God. I do not know if Habakkuk was confidently bold, or broken, and at the end of his rope. However, the last nugget of insight he gave us was this: he was sure he would need to consider, after God spoke, what he would say when corrected.

Have you ever been confident that you could handle something, only to find that it went on way longer than you could have fathomed? Has the torment and confusion of others ever caused you to take solace, in your own conversation and companionship, in hopes of finding clarity? Have you ever, in exhaustion, simply cried out to "God knows who" just to vent? If so, I can honestly tell you you are not alone. However, sometimes it is better to be alone with those things / thought than a group of people, in confusion, considering their own thoughts, and rehashing the debris of life. More often than not, those people find comfort in the commonality of their pain and forget, for a brief moment, the misery coming down on and around them.

Habakkuk could have become discouraged and found solace in social circles; he could have found something to comfort him in his time of desperation. However, when he demonstrated that he only wanted God and would not turn away, God spoke:

Look among the nations and watch - Be utterly astounded! For I will work a work in your days which you would not believe, though it were told you!~ Habakkuk 1: 5

Did you notice how we become more utterly astounded by the hurtful / harmful situations cause by people; we are taken aback; we just cant believe it - And we loose sight of God. Doubtfully, we would have believed it if we had been told beforehand. As the bible says God uses foolishness to confound the wise (my usage is tongue and cheek). God uses our crazy desperate thoughts and conversations to calm, stabilize and encourage us; as well as boldly declare He is Lord and listening! Remember, He is God and does not operate as we think best. He is too loving to allow us to misunderstand what is going on and get in harms way. As in Habakkuk's life, God took time to explain the work He was doing. He was in the process of raising up a bitter and hasty nation to take possession of places that were not their own. He even warned him that they were terrible, even dreadful; their judgment and dignity emanated from themselves. If that wasn't enough, God stated they would be coming for violence and claiming all power, honor and glory for their god.

While all this sound disastrous and unfathomable, in His Sovereignty, He explained that something, was indeed, going to Give. We will stop here for today and I ask for you to consider, when you are in a time of distress, to consider Habakkuk: how he carried his grief to a place of true refuge. He climbed the tower and waited for a reply from his faithful God.

Please note: It is wise to find Godly counsel when you are in a desperate place, but if fear has not yet grabbed hold of you, climb away to a safe space and find solace in the One who is faithful and with you even now. He listens, He speaks and is faithful to save us, if we believe and trust Him.

I pray peace, comfort, joy and the ability to hear His wisdom, over you all.

Kisses,
C

© 2016 by Candace Huffmaster / Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc ®

You Lucky Dog!

2016-08-12T14:02:00.002-04:00

He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you. Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you......And now, I have told you before it come, that when it does come to pass, you may believe..... (John 14: 26,27,29)

Our family once had a dog named Lucky. He was a rescue dog from the Salvation Army. I cannot recall if we gave him his name; he certainly was not a puppy when he came to live with us. Lucky was a beautiful Collie, like the picture I posted here. But being confined to a small fenced area most of his life, he did not know how to use all his energies and strength well. He never learned to run; his head would get too far in front of his front paws and he would tumble.

When a car would come by our yard, Lucky seemed to forget all his awkward inabilities; all he remembered was "I want to GO!". Time and time again he would fall and several times even hit by a car. Finally, Lucky's luck ran out.....Ironic isn't it?

Today, I went back to read over the past 4 months journals of prayers, biblical studies and how God has been using all these throughout my everyday life. What I realized is some of the thoughts and questions I have had, He had already talked with me about. It was all there; did I forget? Did I just get going too fast? Did I not pay attention because something passing caught my eye? Or ....is it all the above, but now I see all the experience, in focus of the journey through it all.

Today, as many other days my focus isn't on the sprint from thing to thing, getting caught up in things passing by me, but on watching all that has gone by and talking with my Creator about what He has planned; what He was accomplishing; where I could see Him and bring His activity to light. These are the reasons we're all alive; to know Him, bring Him glory, and others to Him.

So today, I prayerfully challenge all of us to slow down and stop looking around at what "next thing" we might not catch up with, or miss out on. But instead, to slow down, so that we don't get run over by something in all our awkward attempts - and allow Him and His power some time, space, energy for strength training. Just like Lucky, we have no idea, what He is capable of doing, since we are no longer limited and confined.

Side bar, Lucky was a rescue, as are we. We got Lucky through Salvation army and we are rescued through Salvation in Christ. I could keep going but I will stop with we are not Lucky....we are blessed =D

Kisses,
Candace

© 2016 by Candace Huffmaster / Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc ®

How Could I?

2016-07-05T17:51:00.005-04:00

He who troubles his own house will inherit the wind and the fool will be servant to the wise of heart. ~ Proverbs 11:29

This past month as I was studying some scriptures, which are common to me, they resonated in a unique way. In Genesis 39:9

There is no one greater in this house than I, nor has he kept back anything from me but you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?”

As I was reading through this experience of Josephs', I found myself thinking more of Adam and Eve than Joseph and his master's wife. I began to compare some things between Joseph and Adam. Of course, before Eve, there were no other human beings in relationship with Adam; nor was it just a household given for Adam to tend and manage. The similarity is in there not being anyone whom was given more authority than Adam, and his Creator had not kept back anything from him but the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Genesis 2:15:

"Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it. And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, “Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.”

Both men were tested with a lust through a woman:

Adam, through the wife his Master had given him
Joseph, through his masters wife

As I read Joseph's response I was incredibly humbled: ....." How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?" Can we all pause and examine the tremendous gravity of the sins we have slammed against God?

I cannot begin to imagine what Adams ability to comprehend a never before seen or felt truth might have been; nor would I attempt, beyond this point, to compare these men's actions and intent. However, this one thing I have extensively thought about: How on earth did Adam and Eve so casually disregard, seemingly, how great God is and how inconceivable it was that He would bless them with such splendor and authority - of course at the same moment I reached the end of that though, immediately, my mind envisioned my own reflection many times over, instead of them.

My (our) God is SO great, has blessed me (us) so very much!......How could I ever do wickedness against Him or His precious Son? How can I bare to grieve His Holy Spirit which abides within me, sealing me till the return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ? In closing, I beg of us all to see the lies of the tempter, realizing no one or thing is off limits as a pawn, and respond as Joseph: speak the truth of our Master with great respect and appreciation. Also, no matter how long the trial assaults us, even if day by day as was the case with Joseph, that in the end when the evil will not flee, we will!

Most importantly, it is my prayer that through it all we will believe every word the Lord has spoken is truth; knowing in His perfect timing all will happen just as He states. May we all be weak, yet courageous in Christ, that God alone may be seen as our Might.

Sending Peace and Love in Christ,

Kisses,

Candace

What Do You See?

2016-05-24T17:09:00.004-04:00

From Desktop Nexus

For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark. And they were oblivious...... Matthew 24:38,39...

Having taken some months away, to gain clarity, what I truly gained was liberating. We simply cannot begin to comprehend how oblivious we can be to the things God is attempting to show us. Sometimes it is more lack of understanding, immaturity in Christ, than lack of interest and or rebellion. This is why we are repeatedly instructed to be on the look out for:

For thus says the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: Do not let your prophets and your diviners who are in your midst deceive you, nor listen to your dreams which you cause to be dreamed. For they prophesy falsely to you in My name; I have not sent them, says the Lord. Jeremiah 29:8,9

Then if anyone says to you, "look here is the Christ!" or "There!" do not believe it. For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See....I have told you beforehand. Matthew 24: 23-25

Our view points are nothing much at all, till we discern field of vision. Many times it is too narrow, other times it is too vast, and sometimes we are looking and seeing God on the field. Shouldn't He be seeing us in His field of vision? Park on that thought prayerfully for awhile ~ As we discussed in the past, It isn't about what we see, but rather if we seek Him. If we are holding up our thoughts, hopes, dreams and even what we are learning (ergo:the things which are real to us) to align them with the truth God has laid open before us, then we can have a hope of seeing what really going on.

It is far too easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of "doing life". Most things are impressed upon us as vitally important, but are they? I understand that it appears easier to not rock the boat, but does it ever feel like the boat is heading over Niagara Falls?!? Maybe to jump ship is not as ridiculous as it appears, maybe it is......what do I know?

That is my point, actually: What DO I know? Truthfully....I know absolutely nothing outside of what has affected my own life. And those things, unless I know all the things of God, cannot benefit you and head you in the direction God is leading you, if it is His will, it can: Who am I to say? Somethings may be aligned, others will not. I do not know the desires of your heart, your pain, or all your ways; but God does, and He asks us to trust that He will show us the way in every thing.

Never discount what happens across your path, but also do not put too much weigh in it, with out the Holy Spirit assuring you...this is the way. We have studied Jeremiah 6 in the past where the Lord was speaking regarding everyone being given to covetousness and from the prophet even to the priest they are dealing falsely and having no shame. He tells them and us even now:

"Stand in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths, where the good way is, and walk in it; then you will find rest for your souls.....

But will you?? Do you? What about me, will I? Do I?

So let me ask you, the same question I always ask my self: Whether a thing is good, bad or just a thing, have you thought to hold it up to God before thinking about it any further? If you feel the need to ask a person, do not do so prior to asking the Lord for direction, where He is and what He sees regarding it. People, no matter how careful we are, how much we care, unless we have asked for God's involvement in opening our mouth to offer an opinion, are careless at best. I pray we not be shameful. But "when we are" I pray that we all have the humility to thoroughly blush and ask for forgiveness....and be oblivious no more. (at least regarding that issue :)

In closing, my prayer for us all is to not be so concerned with "what we see" but that we focus on seeking the one who see's all and ask Him, "What do you see that I can comprehend" please lead me through things and thank you for your patience, mercy and grace Every Day. - Amen

Please be sure to extend grace to folks, we need so much!

Kisses,
Candace

© 2016 by Candace Huffmaster / Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc ®

You're Doing It Wrong!

2016-01-29T18:07:00.003-05:00

image from fanpop

Never haughty, or selfish, or rude. Love does not demand its own way. It is not irritable or touchy. It does not hold grudges and will hardly even notice when others do it wrong. ~1 Corinthians 13:5 The Book

How often do we become offended when others are not loving us as we think….we know...at least we think we know God’s truth tell us to love. How often do others blame us for becoming grieved due to their lack of desire to love well? How often are our motives for taking a stand to speak, about their unlovely actions, from a place of love? How often is the compelling force of our speech coming from an unrighteous plot of hardheartedness?

Did you notice in the above passage the words never, does not, is not and there is just one hardly ever mentioned for us to actually take notice of? Don’t we usually find in situations that we condemn others in our own demanded rights to love only as we see fit? After all how can our love be wrong, isn’t it our love to give or not give? Here in is the vital difference: from where is your ability to love emanating?

Worldly love is haughty, selfish and rude because the other people are loved when they give into making the other feel lifted up, special, accepted, supported. It has less to actually do with the actual people; and more to do with their participation in these special feelings; they must stick around to continually feed the otherwise empty love tank. Love cannot be generated from nothing, it must emanate from something. Otherwise it is a delusion, right?

People act the right way to keep others from becoming irritable, touchy, having a reason to hold a grudge……and noticing that they are doing it wrong. But acting loving and being loving are two different relationships. When a person is acting loving and they get their way, having been unloving already toward another; afterward they will become even more unloving if the grieved individual is perceived as irritable or touchy. If they give in and do not get their way they will usually become irritable, touchy and definitely hold a grudge to boast about in the future.

Being loving is quite different. A loving person gives others the benefit and is willing to suffer a perceived loss if it benefits unity, peace and the glory of God. Love emanating out from the love of Christ will always show His heart for others. And if this person becomes haughty, rude and it is noticed I pray it is noticed by the Holy Spirit and there will hardly ever be a time when another person would have to mention it first.

The truth is the only go ahead God has given us to notice and to speak up regarding IS when someone is loving “loving wrong” and claiming to be a follower of Christ. If they are loving wrong something in the list below would have to be the culprit:

Somewhere God isn’t coming first in their life; somewhere their spouse isn’t coming second, after God, in their life; somewhere their children are not coming third, after their spouse under God, in their life; somewhere the actions of their life are not lining up with the character of God, found in Christ Jesus.

If our life is point others away from Christ in any area, at any time then the love and humility of Christ is being overshadowed by our haughty, rude, selfish, demanding, irritable, and touchy human nature. If however we turn to Christ, humble ourselves in the power of His grace, we can love more deeply, be satisfied, and joyful…..even when we do not get our way or feel loved by others well.

We know that this life will someday come to an end, but love goes on forever. In light of this let us examine our love, believing in Him who loved us first. And make sure He is not only the ground we are standing upon, but also the One whom we are defending in love.

May Christ be glorified in all we think, say and do, that God and His Kingdom may be what is honored in our life – Because He lives in us.

Kisses,

Candace

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc ®

Who's Afraid of the Big Bad Wolf?

2015-12-08T16:52:00.000-05:00

Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. We love Him because He first loved us. ~1 John 4:17-19

It is our thoughts which stir up fear, due to a desire to avoid or suppress something undesirable. Fear creates an uneasiness of mind and if left unattended wreaks havoc physically (our body, relationships) and eternally. We have not studied fear as a focus topic since 2010, this is fresh information to benefit our current subject.

Fear:

Definition: an awareness of my lack of control or certainty about a given situation and the possibility of an undesirable outcome, leading to a fight, flight or freeze response in my mind, will, emotions and or body.

We all have to face fearful elements in life; the manner in which we face them is our point here. CS Lewis stated: "Perfect love, we know casteth out fear. But so do several other things- ignorance, alcohol, passion, presumption, and stupidity. It is very desirable that we should all advance to that perfection of love in which we shall fear no longer, but it is very undesirable, until we have reached that stage, that we should allow any inferior agent to cast out fear."

We cope with life, we manage our emotions, habits, jobs and relationships. We attempt to control the things which tempt us to exit our "comfort zone". Because when we are in the zone, there is no fear to speak of. At least nothing so uncomfortable we cannot manage. These coping mechanisms can be destructive, or might I suggest sinful. It is the destructive fears stemming from unrepentant sin in our life, which will be our main focus.

For most individuals the result of fear is either to respond in an aggressive or passive manner. We have discussed those in the past, along with the effects of fear (check archives).
Fear usually falls into one of the following categories and at times several:

1) Fear of loss/needs not being met

a. Relationships end/being alone

b. Financial loss/job, spouse, economy

c. Personal health, attractiveness, meaning
2) Fear of Death, Dying, Judgment
a. The manner in which we pass away & or our remains
b. Spiritual state of life after death
c. Family, assets, reputation/ physical matters left behind
3) Fear of others
a. Losing their good opinion
b. People judging or gossiping
c. Confronting others regarding sin

The great thing about fear is how God can use it for good, as He tells us in Romans 8. In the Old Testament it is often written regarding what was meant for evil God will use for good. The way God uses fear is to start a dialogue with us. We all know fear is trying to tell us something. It tells us something about our self for sure, but Satan wants something deeper: to deceive us regarding God. He would LOVE to lead us away from the clarity and simple-ness of His truth. After all, if he could get the angels to follow him……

Could I get you to consider all this? Maybe even join with God's conversation instead of the demonic one that has been screaming throughout the world. Would it make better sense to sit with God, His word and ask: What is my fear trying to tell me Lord? If you will join us in this, see if you can't tie it, or them, back to one of the categories above and then ask for help, His power and grace to repent and be reconciled to His perfect love. And where He leads you, to ask others for forgiveness confessing where you have sinned against God toward them.

I pray for any and all who sit with this, that you will receive the gift of repentance and that the person or people you are lead to encounter will have already forgiven you long before you ever asked, that the Lord may begin to find joy in His body, as we become one: reconciled and unified unto our Holy God. I know we will not be perfect, but we can continue to be perfected as we walk out this life with each other.

I thank Him for His good plans for us all- may we never doubt His faithfulness!
Because He first loved us,

Kisses C

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc ®

Come On; I'm A Sprinter!

2015-10-07T17:16:00.000-04:00

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. ~ Colossians 3:12-14

We have discussed in the past, that loving others is not an option, we are to love everyone. That being said, thank God we do not have to live with everyone, or it would be much more impossible. Sometimes I jokingly refer to the relationships we don't have to live with, or those not under our roof, as the relational "sprints". The weakest of runners can handle a sprint from time to time. It is easier to grab and pass the baton of light and lovely thoughts, with those who only interact with us during short spurts of time.

At times those relational sprints take place with the same people over a long period of time, building a type of endeared community; however, we cannot compare it as relational apples to apples. There are complexities which those under one roof must endure if they are to remain together. Although the relational sprints we develop can be dear to us, they can also distort an individuals ability to see them selves clearly, regarding those they do have to live with.

For example: The expectation and authentic need of sharing of your feelings, hopes and desires in healthy ways are avoidable,unlike in our homes. We now become liberated to act and say whatever we feel is in our best interest, which encourages the fellow team mates to think we are a super swell individual. So of course, in the community when we act against our public persona, we can claim "we are having a bad day", and everyone moves on easily. Why? Because they do not have the insiders data on us, it is only for a sprint, a pass of the baton.....and then we go home to our real intimate relationships.

Just as love is not optional, for a Christian, neither is the forgiving. Most people do not understand that forgiving a person and having a reconciled relationship are two different things. If someone will not admit there is a problem which needs to be forgiven, then coming to them, in sincerity, to offer a gift of forgiveness is senseless. It would be much like having floor mats custom made, as a gift, and eagerly bringing them to someone who is adamant that the car in their driveway isn't theirs; nor do they ever care to drive a car. This is how wanting to forgive someone who assumedly, unlike yourself, deems themselves cleared on a matter, leaves you stuck in the mud or spinning out.

Fortunately, God dealt with this dilemma. Forgiveness is about what God desires, not man. It began with Him, comes from Him, and displays Him when/if we chose to extend it. In conversations with individuals, they tell me they cannot forget what has happened to them and they can't seem to find it within them selves to forgive. Believe me when I type, I understand this dilemma, the ability to forgive, what cannot be forgotten, is not within my ability either. Yet I have done it, again and again and again and again, because I know the one who forgave me when He was dealing with the dilemma my choices created. It is Him within me, His power, in my inabilities which are the strength offering such a perfectly, loving, kind, generous, undeserved gift.

Understanding the magnitude of this gift, we must talk about this: Just because you chose to forgive someone does not mean you will not remember, grieve loss, become angry about injustice or any other normal expression of wrong done. Forgiveness is not optional, but it is our personal choice

When we desire to forgive and ask God for the ability to repent of any wrong we have done and forgive another person, we will loose the desire to be malicious toward the person. We can speak of things without having to blame or accuse them. Of course we cannot forget something which needs to be addressed, but forgiving them keeps us from injuring our self or others as we continue to live under one roof. We also begin to express the heart of God and Christ's image become more and more visible within our homes and communities.

While being at peace with everyone as far as it depends on us doesn't always accomplish popularity, I pray that God give us all something much more fitting: the ability to ask for our self and others to repent and be reconciled to Him. And IF it be His will, at His perfect time to allow the relationships we have with each other to glorify Him. Maybe even give us all a cross country team t-shirt (just kidding).

Hopefully, we will go deeper into this topic, next time. Only God knows the plans He has for us all!

With love and prayers for us all, in Christ.

Kisses,

Candace

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc ®

Newsflash: Hell Isn't Freezing Over

2015-10-03T20:46:00.000-04:00

We left off with the following thought and question:

What we know to be truth and do not do, whether we are sick, tired or sick & tired, God knows and it does not matter what the rest of the universe knows, thinks, sees or what ever. In the situation, will we be humble enough to request that He multiply and be fruitful regarding His image and likeness, and to constantly subdue our human nature, that we might have a hope of becoming what He Divinely created us to be?

Under-girded by this verse from James 4:16 and Philippians 3:21 ending with the last part of the verse:

Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.

....by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.

In Philippians 3 we are being told not to forget where we are headed, getting stuck in the muck of troubles here on earth. We are to wait eagerly for, set our mind on and remember Christ Jesus. How many times do we get bogged down and hurt waiting on people to do the right thing? How many times do others sit around "waiting on us" to do the right thing?  Maybe we and others do not understand what the right thing is, and maybe we/they do?

As you know, I believe in giving others the benefit of the doubt. Do you realize that some people could care less if I/you do or not? Some are even so bold as to clarify their stance, just in case someone may assume otherwise, by way of statements such as "till hell freezes over". They want to make it clear, I have no doubt about what I have done, or the way I am; I did it, I'm fine with it, I meant it, and know for sure that hell will never be cooler than it is today.

The reason I bring these things up and out is to help the one who would prefer to stand in the gap hoping for resolve. Some times we do not understand what the right thing to do is; and sometimes we do and don't do it. The first thing we need to prevent is someone feeling stuck or responsible due to another persons free will. And the last thing we need is for a person to move on without resolving their position.

When there is much back and forth, spinning out of control and/or running away without direction it causes a heck of a mess. Us and anyone in reach of the slinging icky muck will get splattered. This mud pit wouldn't easily be able to form in our relationships if we understood vital points regarding restoring relationships. Without forgiveness there are only two paths out of the mud slinging: stuff it till the top blows off again, or run far enough away to never see them except in your nightmares.

This is not another conversation regarding forgive and forget. That is in the archives. We are not built to forget important things. We are created for unity, community and love.  But for us
"humans" what we need, what we want, and what we get can be horrible to make peace with; that takes a lot of forgiveness. For this reason, we need to comprehend real forgiveness. Most people never really understand what it looks and acts like.

When a person has tried to be at peace, yet every conversation ends in an argument, it is heavy on the heart, mind and soul. So is defending your position till your head bleeds from banging it on the hard wall other put before you. I do not really think those sounded like forgiveness to any of us; but we become confused regarding what a peacemaker would look like. How do we walk away from the wall and refocus on what moving in a different direction might look like.

James MacDonald and Garrett Higbee's book Christ-Centered Biblical Counseling, had a tidbit which I feel may help many people clarify their position. They state that there are things we should consider on the topic of “if” we should forgive someone. Is the offense too BIG? The larger it is the more quickly we need to get rid of it. Time does not heal all wounds. In fact this is a rather LARGE obstacle regarding getting stuck and spinning out. And over time it simply become tenderer and we protect it from getting bumped. Waiting for someone to say they are sorry is a ridiculous vehicle to depend on to help us dispose of their trash. Think about that for a moment……   As James MacDonald states: Newflash: That person isn’t going to apologize! And if by God’s grace a miracle were to happen and they did, your LARGE obstacle would prevent restoration.

And yes, you may forgive them and they just do it again. That is why Peter was stumped when Christ mentioned how many times we are to forgive the one who comes to us in sincerity asking for our forgiveness. The Good news here is this: saying “sorry” isn’t necessarily asking for forgiveness. Nor is telling someone they must forgive and forget; that not only shows lack of humility and compassion (archive on this), but it deeply, additionally wounds the person.

We must realize how to deal with an unrepentant fellow believer. Your forgiveness is not an open door welcoming multiple offenses. (James MacDonald statement)

This is enough for today, please pray about anything resonating within your heart and mind. Realize that if you have been spinning your wheels, banging your head or slinging some muck, taking it to God is where you need to begin for direction, not the individual. Allow Him to counsel you in the presence of His word.

Read the book of James or 2 Corinthians focusing on chapters 1-5 and we will pick up here next time.

With love and prayers for us all, in Christ.

Kisses,

Candace

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc ®

Well Isn't That Just Perfect!

2015-09-16T21:54:00.001-04:00

These are matters which have, to be sure, the appearance of wisdom in self-made religion and self-abasement and severe treatment of the body, but are of no value against fleshly indulgence.~Colossians 2:23 NASB

The Meridian Dictionary defines self-control as: restraint exercised over one's own impulses, emotions, or desires. Methods for restraining impulses, emotions and desires are trial and error; they have evolved and sometimes digressed over the years. Many times there is a need for medical, spiritual, parental and sometimes other experienced intervention or support as individuals attempt to subdue a created habit, compulsion, deep seated hurt, or lack of healthful discipline. But even then, left to maintain control in and of our self and we have a crisis in the making.

Many of us have been taught: practice makes perfect; but does it? Truth is, repetition does strengthen what we do; that does not mean it is advantageous for us to focus on whatever it is. I believe it is most truthful and correct to understand this, “While God perfectly formed us in our mother’s womb, He did not make us perfect.”, and yet many times we simply are not satisfied with His preferences or finding out what they might mature into.

Most often, we spend our time looking around at the accomplishments of others and decide what WE want to work toward, and thinking we have a plan we devalue God's plan, whether or not it is conscious: James 4:2 you desire because you do not have, you covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. We want what others were given to become and we prefer to strive to obtain the same outcome. Think about if David had of used Saul's armor instead of a sling shot and stone? What made sense to warriors wasn't God's design. David was wise enough to understand he couldn't do it their way, he was created differently.

We cannot discard the subject of devotion to development; when we practice something there will be a type of fruit for our labor to show up. For this reason, we must understand the wisdom of biblical warnings. We are also wisely told to understand that there are many forms of success to be obtained, but there is not but one form which is immortal.

1 Corinthians 9: 24-27 (below) is a great bookend for where we opened:

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it. And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they did it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.

As you think through all these things and the holy spirit merges God’s truth from your heart and mind with them, please prayerfully ask for wisdom, discernment and the gift of submission upon you. He has sealed you with the holy spirit to help you see who He perfectly created YOU to become.

As scary as it can be, if you are willing, to take your eyes off of what he has done in others (except to praise Him and rejoice with them) and away from being discovered, to turn toward Him and realize you do not need to be discovered but UNcovered, and are willing to wait, "He will make what is invisible visible, by the power of His spirit in His time, for His glory. "

Just wait and see!

In Christ,

Kisses,

Candace

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc ®

What's It To You?

2015-08-08T17:44:00.000-04:00

credit to astrobob.areavoices.com

Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren, every good gift and every perfect gift is from above and comes down from the Father of Lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. of His own will He brought us forth by word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of His creatures. ~James 1:16-18

As we all live, learn and grow in what we know, God uses everything to deconstruct our thoughts and past experiences in order to enable us to not give up and quit. It is His will, in time we truly can stop being tempted any longer by evil, because He does not tempt us and He cannot even be tempted. He is trying to help us comprehend this fact: the only way we can be tempted is due to self interest which entice us to do what "we want".

Before, during and after I am being lead to study a topic, God gives me all sorts of experiences to maneuver throughout. These raise up my knowledge, emotions, memories and God's truth, all together. When they intersect I have choices to make; this is true for all of us. I have been praying, for months, for Christ to subdue me unto Himself. I started this when nothing was going on; it was simply and an honest request out of obedience, willingly. I do not desire to wait till I have no other options or it is by force. I'm not that strong - most humans could break me like a pencil ;)

Thus far, this is what I have learned on the topic. I share it just in case someone else is being lead through this same journey. If you have something to add, please contact me or comment and share it with everyone else:

We all are asked to help out with things from time to time, which are not our job or on our agenda. We also just want to help without being asked sometimes. What ever we know about their processes, personality or desired outcome should be taken into consideration; we should attempt to apply, at minimum the same standard they do. If we are not willing to do that, we should be forth coming. If we are doing it unprovoked, we should think it through and chose another task which we"are" willing to fulfill the task as they do.

Not everyone, but most people have a charitable side; they want to help when they have done all they want to do, in their spare time. Our conscience tell us there are needs going unmet. When we serve due to guilt, we cut corners. The reason is simple, we are attempting to quiet our guilt. Bonus is that next time our conscience pricks us we will have ample ammunition to retaliate and silence it.

God's truth is what brings the condemnation upon us. He tells us the universe is aware; the words have gone out since the beginning of time and they will not be silenced. We are to serve others as though we are serving Christ. This means we are to do it with the same conviction, pretense and countenance which He had. His heart longed to express and exemplify whom He was serving: God, our creator, as if He was the one doing it. God does not cut corners, duck out on the yuck work, or withhold any good thing from those who: walk upright, ask without doubt, fear Him. But not just those, He also does good to everyone without being asked to do it.

We must always remember, however, many times people truly ARE simply doing the best they can and it IS a gift! We should accept those gifts with humility and express our gratitude with encouragement toward the giver. However, when a person knows what to do and chooses to carry out a different action, as if no one will know the difference- to that person it is sin. And that sin is toward the other person and against God. After all it is God alone we serve. This verse in James 4 has been weaving in and out all things for months with me:

Therefore, to the one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin.

What we know to be truth and do not do, whether we are sick, tired or sick & tired, God knows and it does not matter what the rest of the universe knows, thinks, see or what ever. Will we be humble enough to request that He multiply and be fruitful regarding His image and likeness, and to constantly subdue our human nature, that we might have a hope of becoming what He Divinely created us to be?

My prayer for our Body is of course to be One; of One Faith. Specifically I desire for us to be kind, tender-hearted toward each other and to just do what we know is right in His eyes ~ for He tenderly loves and cares for each of us with out fail.

In Christ - Kisses,
Candace

He is able even to subdue all things to Himself ~ Philippians 3:10

© 2015 by Candace Huffmaster

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc ®

We've Considered An Agenda Change

2015-07-13T10:59:00.000-04:00

There is a way which seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death. Even in laughter the heart may be in pain, And the end of joy may be grief ~ Proverbs 14:12-13

We all have a reason for everything we do. God calls it the "intent of our heart". Without being confronted, how often will we investigate or control ours? Will we consider our perception regarding: "What is in it for us?" and "What is in it for the other person/s?" When we are utilizing the fruit of the spirit, self control, we will do this on the front end; not when being called on the carpet by another or convicted, as the Holy Spirit is grieved.

We know that God is patient, and His mercy and grace endures forever. Many people believe that there is always time to do what they want today, then just before dying they can repent once and for all. Maybe that is nothing more than putting a selfish spin on Christ dying once for all (1Peter 3:18).When it comes to our perception of God, some of us humanize His character and motivations to justify our ambivalence toward Him.

We pervert the "intent of God's heart" concerning money, time, relationships, decisions and what we do to have fun. We call what we want good and Him too controlling, or evil by doing that. The truth is, He is not interested in placing burdens upon us, no matter what we lie we are willing to plaster on Him. I am not making this stuff up, here are just a couple of ways He tried to tell us:

1 John 5:3: For this is the love of God, that we keep Him commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome.

Matthew 11:29,30 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light?

These scriptures, when overwhelmed sound amazing, that is why we call it "amazing grace". At that point we shout "YES! Hook me up to some Jesus-Amen!" Or maybe it is when we face the end of life in some way; we all are unsettled by death for one reason or another. For some of us there was a time when we were afraid, if we were to die, we would go to hell. For others they have pondered "if" there might actually BE a hell.

However we got to the intersection, the road narrowed and we had a decision to make: Heaven or hell? With no other options on the table but heaven or hell, we could say right or left, accepting Jesus Christ, as savior, just makes good sense, if that is what we chose. When given an option between no more sorrow, death, crying or pain, verses, utter darkness, weeping and gnashing of teeth, who would not chose Heaven over Hell.

Here is what we do not stop to think about: Those travelers only want what they receive from Christ. I would venture as far to say, they would just as soon choose Satan if he handed them a map called Short Cut to "the other entrance". I will even take it a bit further and consider: What if Satan said "We are changing the environment of Hell, misery, torment and eternal damnation are off the agenda now". "But wait, there's more~ AND you can continue to be focused on yourself, And not have to mess with "other peoples" feelings"! Can't you hear people shouting and applauding "I'm in ~ it sounds like a hell of a place!"

What he/Satan doesn't want them to see is this: When all the true Christians are gone, there will be no one they can trust, except when a person will be getting something in return. They will protect you as long as you have something to offer them. But that is not real, if they trust in that they are foolish - so ultimately nothing will be real, not even their own motives. (not to mention, there is not another entrance)

When a person hears the truth of the gospel and understands that Christ came because we had no hope of escaping eternal separation from the Holy One. He, Christ, had to allow us to take everything He was given and giving with no return at all on the front end. His loving kindness and suffering was devalued and counted as nothing. Just like God's love for us, which is what empowered Christ to be able to do this. He/Christ in return values our lives and counts what we've done as nothing in light of the possibilities / Gods mercy and grace. To this day we continue to defend ourselves, distort His character and refuse to accept the gravity of who we really act like. But God is patient, Christ sympathizes and the Holy Spirit, though grieving, keeps on keeping on 24/7, within/ for the one / believer who's focus isn't on being saved, but on knowing the ONE who saves.

It is only these people who will, in fact, BE saved; the others won't have spent time with Him, getting to know Him and changing into the image of the recognized Son of God, as the result of their time together. And it is by His name, character and integrity that we are indeed becoming the Sons of God. Why do you think Christ told us that this conversation will happen:

"Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?' 23"And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you; DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS.'

If I can have just a few more seconds: Please think about what you are here for: Is it that you desire not to be seen in all your shamefulness, or if you see your shamefulness, are you repulsed to the point of giving back all that you've taken plus interest to those whom you've taken from? That is how we demonstrate, as Christ did, that God is at the helm of our life not us.

If not being able share in the spotlight; getting something in return; if it is a struggle to delay getting what you want prior to giving toward something else seems unfair; or if you cannot defend yourself when someone accuses you, but rather, just have to own it for what it is - not being able to at least insert your efforts, can commonly become deal breakers for you ......Then I'd say, "You are in a hell of a place my friend!"

Today, I pray that we may all do more than "know" we are sinners; may we BE ever changing, day by day, till He returns for US. For He is our Father, He is "here for us" and will not be a burden upon us. Amen!

Kisses,
Candace

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc ®

My Own Initiative and Right

2015-07-08T17:53:00.001-04:00

And why do you not even on your own initiative judge what is right? Luke 12:57

Then you will discern righteousness and justice and equity and every good course. For wisdom will enter your heart and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Proverbs 2:9,10

We are still on the topic of God shaking things up, in and around our life. He does this to continually give us the opportunity to find out what we look like and who we intrinsically are outside of "human opinions". Those are never reliable; as my dad said to me "people are only going to tell you what they "want you to know". The rest comes in broken, shattered pieces if we get them at all, more often than not.

God does not come toward us and create trembling situations to cause us to shrink back. We discuss often that He implores us not to shrink back to the destruction of our soul, but as Hebrew 4:16 says:

Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

He continually shows great patients with us as He contends with evil ways. He allows us to do the same things over and over till we know that we know we've done something that is not good. And we know by this point God has given us enough rope to call our actions evil with intent. But God doesn't think like us and Christ is much more gracious than us mere mortals. Instead of calling us on the carpet, when we are His children, He simply addresses an issue without sugar coating yet surprisingly without shaming us.

This is a very familiar story, but from this point of view we just may learn something deeper, Luke 10:38-42

Now as they went on their way, Jesus a entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary.Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”

How much of our attention goes toward thinking about someone else's behavior? How much of our prayer life is spent requesting God's involvement toward the modifications of another person's actions? Why do we not stop and bend our knee before Him, thinking soberly and giving an account of ourselves before His throne?

Most of the time we are anxious and troubled about many things, but not the ONE NECESSARY THING. We through out a lot of distractions, diversions tactics, smoke and false images. Much like the Wizard of Oz, we get good at disguising our true identity. When many people believe our propaganda, we begin to call to claim it; calling what is evil, good....till some brave soul calls us on the carpet.

We are no different with God than we are with humans. In fact, God tells us if we cannot be honest with people we will never be honest with Him, a God we cannot see. It is hard to hide things from easily from most humans, but it is easy to fool ourselves into believing a God we cannot see, cannot see what we think, do and say.

God gave us relationships in a tactile form, in real time to help us, actually to save us. If we will desire those relationships He calls good and call the evil relationships evil and act Godly toward them, then He will surely bless our lives and be a blessing unto them. Let's end today with Romans 14:10-13

Why do you pass judgment on your brother? Or you, why do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God; for it is written,“As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.”So then each of us will give an account of himself to God. Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother.

I pray that each of us approach His throne boldly, bend our knees and give a clear account of our self and then just give amazing thanks for His grace - can we resolve just this one thing?

For Christ and His Glory,
Kisses,
Candace

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc°

My Goody Bag Stinks!

2015-06-24T15:54:00.001-04:00

I searched everywhere, determined to find wisdom and to understand the reason for things. I was determined to prove to myself that wickedness is stupid and that foolishness is madness. ~ Ecclesiastes 7:25 NLT

As a child we are taught what to do and how to do it. It is our parents, or those with whom we are placed helplessly, which form the mesh of moral fiber upholding the weigh of every thought we conceive. It is out from this generational goody bag where we must begin to discern: What goodies do I want from this gift bag or is really a goody bag at all. The truth is most of the stuff we have in our pretty cellophane is nothing more than a mess of broken feelings, opinions and knowledge which have little to do with God's truth. They are memories formed out from good intentions, and possibly, usually, good intentions gone wrong. The fact is, usually when we rely on a goody bag without holding it accountable to God's good ways, it is more of a trash bag in need of being separated into waste and recyclables.

At some point the child becomes the next generation and they are accountable for the gift bags they extend. This maturity / wisdom begins with a grown up perspective: Just because "something" brings me happiness does not mean my feelings are aligned with God's will: if a person, place or thing is really good for me and trust worthy. Neither does it mean that our feelings of unhappiness are accurate in whether something is truly good for us or not. The point is, just like a child, instinctively we do what we believe will make us happy. And what makes all of us happy is to have people around us who enjoy us, see how special we are and won't ask too many questions which make us squirm, or shake us up.

This is where we left off:

Without being shook, we will never realize we can be shaken. If we do not know we have a need, we can not ask for help. When we do not need help, we never look up for God. And with out God we are mere mortals......and mere mortals come to an end in this life.

Let's merge these two tracks: When we are doing what we believe to be good, even expected and we are not receiving the appropriate outcome, it creates confusion. It is as if someone is holding out a "goody bag" but there does not seem to be any good thing within it. Or maybe we feel that the bag is being withheld and given to others, when it rightfully is our turn to have a grab. When our happiness gets interrupted our happy train comes to a halt; because a train cannot run on two tracks. It is at this intersection we must pause and ask: what is the truth here, which way should I pursue. This verse from Jeremiah is a KB cornerstone:

This is what the Lord says: 'stand at the cross road and look, ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls'. But you said, 'we will not walk in it'. Jer 6:16

Usually we do not pause, we go full steam ahead till something causes a major road block. God calls it a stumbling block, the narrow path which we and all our goodies cannot pass through. He lovingly warns us that our words and actions must equal, or we are not being honest with Him, others or our self.

What happens when a persons words and actions do not equal? Well......it hurts others.....and it hurts the relationship. It changes everything: them, you and the good that God had planned for you; because you are not asking what the good is and generously giving it. We hide these things even from our own heart, we allow our heart to become deceived; we harden our hearts to our unrighteousness, paint it pretty, talk it up and point it out with a bit of flair.

If we continue down this path, it will soon become hauntingly ugly. Our efforts must become dedicated toward: deflection, manipulation, creating a distance between the sweet relationships and activities God has blessed us with.....if we want to continue to believe we are doing what He considers good, that is. As long as we are doing something good and can give honor to God is it really manipulation, are we really withholding or stealing their goodies? Is it really something another person should speak up about? What about those who might be benefiting from our motives and who do not really question why they are receiving a goody bag, should it be given elsewhere? Is it their place to question a gift?

We will pause here for the day, I pray for wisdom and discernment in each of our lives. May the grace of God and His Righteousness bear witness to each of us this day.

In Christ, Kisses,
Candace

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc°

Not Again, Are You Kidding ME!

2015-06-02T22:18:00.002-04:00

This expression, "Yet once more," denotes the removing of those things which can be shaken, as of created things, so that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. ~ Hebrews 12:27

As you know it has been almost an entire month since I have been able to pause and post. Each year when the school systems release their students, it is reminds me of a race: the starter shooting his pistol and the runners fleeing their mark for the open lanes. Never-the-less when I do return it is always with matured comprehension of what I felt was already understood. This year has been no less insightful / challenging.

After years of dealing with similar situations, and / or the same families, over this stretch of time, I have come to realize, the crisis is not usually with what's happening, but rather with the individuals thoughts in the midst of what's happening. (Do not confuse this topic with making a safety plan and leaving an abuser. click the Emergency or The Cause Is Love tab on our website for resources.)

As we have discussed often: Usually God does not change our circumstance or environment; he changes us in the midst of a troubled and chaotic world. Think about how similar events continually happen to us. But our frame of mind, attention and environment will be altered in someway every time; much like the movie Groundhog day. Each nuance creates an opportunity; the opportunity we run off the mark for is our choice. God is mindful, merciful and gracious to not allow temptation to overtake us; but we will have another time, if necessary to pass the test. (1 Peter 1:6)

God lovingly put obstacles in the middle of our pathway. These are not because He is mean or angry with us; it is to train us up in the things we can not know otherwise. His ways are not of this world; which means He must find the way which refocuses our attentions toward His kingdom. Obviously, we can have knowledge and think that is enough. But without unpacking it and trying it out we only get to know His words; not the person who said them.

Without regular diverse challenges, we humans have a tendency to become too confident in the assessment of our own proficiency. Without knowing it we go rogue as we try to make it to God. God never intended to make it difficult or dependent on our own abilities to cross into His Kingdom. He sets multiple challenges to give us practice, stretch our faith and trust muscle. It is in the challenges where we realize our natural frailties. If we become weakened to the point of shaking, God just may be given an opportunity to show off His supernatural capabilities. At least that is His will in our time of need.

Without being shook, we will never realize we can be shaken. If we do not know we have a need, we can not ask for help. When we do not need help, we never look up for God. And with out God we are mere mortals......and mere mortals come to an end in this life.

This is enough for today; God rest our souls in His peaceful presence, both now and forever.

Kisses,
Candace

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc°

What Are You Here For?

2015-05-06T17:38:00.002-04:00

Forgive me this wrong! Here for this third time I am ready to come to you, and I will not be a burden to you; for children are not responsible to save up for their parents, but parents for their children. ~ 2 Corinthians 12: 13b,14

As I have been studying these past few months, there have been consistencies which rise to the top of it all. Today, I am attempting to articulate one main thought: What are you here for?

We all have a reason for "everything" we do; there is no skirting the fact. What is yours?
Out from that let me ask you to consider these questions: "What is in it for you?" and "What is in it for the other person/s?"

Some of us think God wants things from us; our money tops the list. Maybe you think he wants your worship, your possessions, you to act right, you to serve Him, charitably. God does not want to burden us. You don't have to believe me, He said many times, in many ways. Here are a couple:

1 John 5:3: For this is the love of God, that we keep Him commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome.

Matthew 11:29,30 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light?

We hear these scriptures, when overwhelmed, and think "YES! Hook me up to some Jesus-Amen!" Maybe it is when we face the end of life in some way; we all are unsettled by death. For some of us there was a time when we were afraid, if we were to die, we would go to hell. For others they have pondered "if" there might actually BE a hell. However we got to the intersection, the road narrowed and we had a decision to make: Heaven or hell?

In that defining moment Heaven or hell, left or right, no other options on the table, accepting Jesus Christ, as savior, just makes good sense; agreed? When given an option between no more sorrow, death, crying or pain, verses, utter darkness, weeping and gnashing of teeth, everyone would snatch the free ticket into the golden gate city.

Here is the thing though: Those travelers only want what they receive from Christ. I would venture as far to say, they would just as soon choose Satan if he had the ticket or said, misery, torment and eternal damnation are off the agenda now. In fact, I think it would seal the deal if he gave the "but wait, that's not all spiel": AND you can continue to be focused on yourself; AND not have to mess with "other peoples" feelings"! I can hear people saying, "I'm in ~ it sounds like a hell-of-a-place!"

What he doesn't want them to see is this: When all the true Christians are gone, there will be no one they can trust, except when that person will be getting something in return. They will protect you as long as you have something to offer. But that is not real, if they trust in that they are fools - so ultimately no one, not even their own motives.

When a person hears the truth of the gospel and understands that Christ came because we had no hope of escaping eternal separation from the Holy One. He, Christ, had to allow us to take everything He was given and giving with no return at all. His loving kindness and suffering was devalued and counted as nothing. He in return values our lives and counts what we've done as nothing in light of the possibilities. To this day we continue to defend ourselves, distort His character and refuse to accept the gravity of who we really act like. But God is patient, Christ sympathizes and the Holy Spirit, though grieving, keeps on keeping on 24/7, within/ for the one(believer) who's focus isn't on being saved, but on knowing the ONE who saves.

It is only these people who will, in fact, BE saved; the others won't have spent time with Him, getting to know Him and changing into the image of the recognized Son of God, as the result of their time together. And it is by His name, character and integrity that we are indeed becoming the Sons of God.

If I can have just a few more seconds: Please think about what you are here for: Is it that you desire not to be seen in all your shamefulness, or if you see your shamefulness, are you repulsed to the point of giving back all that you've taken plus interest to them?

If being second, not being able to have fun if you are second, or maybe never being noticed for your efforts is a deal breaker - as a common thing, I'd say you are in a hell-of-a-place my friend!

May we all do more than "know" we are sinners; may we BE ever changing, day by day, till He returns for US. For He is our Father, He is "here for us" and will not be a burden upon us. Amen!

Kisses,
Candace

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc°

Mere Intent; The Cries Of Our Heart

2015-05-02T10:56:00.000-04:00

Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. ~ Philippians 2:1-4

Our prayers are a showing of the cries of our heart, this is why the psalms are so real throughout all generations. If you have never written out the cries of your heart I would highly suggest doing so. Over the years you will see how your thoughts and feelings morph over time. It also helps us to locate what we have on our center stage - meaning who we are looking after or loving. Sad to say most of the time we are on the stage; but we fool ourselves because we really believe we are doing our best to love others.

It is in our thoughts and prayers which we can see the truth of our intent. It is also a safe space to reflect and feel close to God as we ask for wisdom, discernment and instruction. We must also never forget that His power and life is within us to brace, empower and encourage our unskilled, weak frame as we embark on living it out.

These are my considerations for the day:

Dad,

I truly need your help in discerning my emotions and how I act toward others - I need you to investigate my heart, mind and soul and prosper your spirit in my own life. Help me see the truth of my intentions without holding them in comparison to others actions toward me, or what I see happening around me.
Help my every intention to be holy, lovely and pure. And when attacked, help me to not retaliate in evil ways - but trust that in all I do I am here to do your work, be loved and prospered by you; and ultimately be who you divinely created me to be.
In all things you are Lord! Help me live mindful of where I immaturely act against that truth. Help me to prosper in growing into the maturity that is ours in Christ Jesus. Help me to never turn back to the life I have left behind, but see that all I am moving toward is so much more than any vain pleasures I walked away from.
Thank you for this day, my life, my relationship with you, the activities you have for me to participate in and the family I so dearly love. No matter how I perceive the feelings, thoughts and intents of those closest to me, may I always be above reproach and clearly bringing glory to you. After all it is by your passionate zeal that I am even able to consider these things. And if I can consider them, I can desire them and if I can desire them then you train me up to have the preparedness to use them as the opportunity arises.
You said: I AM THAT I AM and in all things you will be with me - setting all things by your sovereign purposes; may that be active and freely accepted as a perfectly beautiful thing in my heart, mind and soul ~ always in all ways.

For the Love you so richly give to us all,
Kisses,
Candace

Kaleidoscope Butterfly, Inc°