Set Your Heart To Seek God

A Time To Say Good-bye

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 00:05:00 +0000

“To every thing there is a season,

and a time to every purpose under heaven.”

Ecclesiastes 3:1

A time to grow and a time to thrive!

. . . and a time for first steps at a crossroad.

God has asked me to set aside this special, safe place of mine to join Him elsewhere for the Kingdom of God.

Four years ago this March, God asked me to start writing a blog—then He introduced me to what that was! J Seriously! That’s exactly what happened. During this time He has asked me to share openly and honestly with others my faith walk. This was extremely difficult for me, for I am very private by nature.

Here I have cut my teeth on vulnerability.

I have taken the baby steps of transparency.

And I have survived!

Not only survived, but—I have thrived!

He has healed and freed me in multiple ways!

He has pressed against my flesh while pressing me into His heart!

He has brought great conviction and great growth!

He has taught me much while allowing me to teach others!

My heart is full!

I am more desperately in love with Jesus than ever before. And I only want what He wants of me and for me. So in this request of His, I obey.

With some sadness, but no hesitation!

He is a good Father!

And I am hopefully expectant for this new season of my life!

Which is? You may be wondering . . . J

A lot more praying.

A lot more teaching.

A lot more prayer counseling.

A lot more mentoring.

A lot more discipleship.

A lot more trembling . . . with excitement to watch Him work!

Your friendship, your comments, your questions, your emails—your sharpening of my iron has meant the world to me. You have no idea how you have been used by Abba to shape me into who I am today. I am beyond grateful for the impact you have made in my life!

Thank you!

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

Romans 12:12

Soli Deo Gloria!

Robin

Join me on my Facebook page, where I will be sharing daily encouragements as God encourages me!

Remain With Him There!

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 20:32:00 +0000

Create calm and focus within by being transformed by the renewing of your mind.

Let God’s words of truth bring you

peace of mind,

a heart at rest,

with all striving ceased.

Meditate on His words!

Sit, be quiet—think on those things that are good, perfect, honorable, lovely, pure . . . .

Confess out loud truth you have discovered in the quiet of the moment!

Don’t just agree with what you read, actively believe it—

purposefully, with intention to walk in it or live by it!

“Create in me a clean heart, O God. And renew a right spirit within me. Restore unto me, the joy of Thy salvation—and renew a right spirit within me.”

A right spirit is at peace!

A place of rest!

Remain with Him there!

God Is!

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 19:18:00 +0000

He is the First and Last, the Beginning and the End!

He is the Keeper of creation and the Creator of all!

He is the Architect of the universe and the Manager of all times!

He always was, He always is, and He always will be . . .

Unmoved, unchanged, undefeated, and never undone!

He was bruised and brought healing!

He was pierced and eased pain!

He was persecuted and brought freedom!

He was dead and brought life!

He is risen and brings power!

He reigns and brings Peace!

The world cannot understand Him,

The armies cannot defeat Him,

The schools cannot explain Him, and

The leaders cannot ignore Him!

Herod could not kill Him,

The Pharisees could not confuse Him, and

The people could not hold Him!

Nero could not crush Him,

Hitler could not silence Him,

The New Age cannot replace Him, and

Talk show hosts cannot explain Him away!

He is light, love, longevity and Lord!

He is goodness, kindness, gentleness and joy!

He is holy, righteous, mighty, powerful and pure!

His ways are right,

His word is eternal,

His will is unchanging, and

His mind is on me!

He is my Redeemer,

He is my Savior,

He is my Guide, and

He is my Peace!

He is my Joy,

He is my Comfort,

He is my Lord, and

He rules my life!

I serve Him because His bond is love,

His burden is light, and

His goal for me is abundant life!

I follow Him because He is the wisdom of the wise,

The power of the powerful,

The ancient of days,

The ruler of rulers,

The leader of leaders,

The overseer of the overcomers, and

The sovereign Lord of all that was and is and is to come!

And if that seems impressive to you, try this for size—

His goal is a relationship with ME!

He will never leave me,

Never forsake me,

Never mislead me,

Never forget me,

Never overlook me, and

Ever cancel my appointment in His appointment book!

When I fall, He lifts me up!

When I fail, He forgives!

When I am weak, He is strong!

When I am lost, He is the way!

When I am afraid, He is my courage!

When I stumble, He steadies me!

When I am hurt, He heals me!

When I am broken, He mends me!

When I am blind, He leads me!

When I am hungry, He feeds me!

When I face trials, He is with me!

When I face persecution, He shields me!

When I face problems, He comforts me!

When I face loss, He provides for me!

When I face death, He carries me Home!

He is everything for everybody, everywhere,

Every time, and every way!

He is God,

He is faithful!

I am His, and He is mine!

My Father in heaven can whip the father of this world.

God is in control, I am on His side, and

That means all is well with my soul!

Everyday is a blessing . . . for GOD is!

{I adapted this from something I received in 2001. I do not know the author. 10 years later, I believe more fully in every statement made here! Only by His grace, His mercy and His love!}

Thrive . . . Remain . . . Pray!

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 15:58:00 +0000

It’s been quiet here for some time. Nothing like the reality in my own home and heart. So much has been happening, but not every story is my own. I share in the story of others.

This place—this special place of questioning, reflecting, triumphing in Jesus—is a glimpse of my walk seeking His face every day of each season.

But sometimes the walk cannot be written until a few more steps have been taken.

And sometimes, the walk cannot be spoken out of respect for others involved.

That’s where I find myself this morning.

Stretched, worn and lovingly embraced!

But I had to share this verse with you.

Could it be what you needed to hear as well?

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

Romans 12:12 (NIV)

My Greek geek self dug a little deeper into the original language and found a rich reservoir worth drinking from for some time!

Thrive and be well while expecting good . . .

Remain in the pressing while holding fast to your faith . . .

Be constantly in prayer—continually . . .

May God bless you and keep you wherever He takes you walking today!

Soli deo Gloria!

Robin

Needed and Necessary??? Who Me?

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

When I wrote this post a few weeks ago, it sat in the draft area because I didn’t feel the timing was right to put it up.

Saturday morning seemed perfect.

Friday night and all day Saturday, I was one of several speakers sharing at a seminar held at our church. Part of my speaking time included sharing parts of my testimony. Let me tell you—that was NOT a comfortable place for me. Up on the platform of the church sanctuary with microphone in hand was way out of my comfort zone. I even contemplated not wearing my glasses thinking perhaps it would be easier if all the people’s faces were blurry. J

Grace came down in buckets and I survived. I think I was actually understandable in most of what I shared. Afterwards, I had the privilege to pray with a couple ladies and talked with several others about all things Jesus. It was a rich weekend!

I came home and read through the notes some of you had sent about what I posted. After reflecting and smiling a bit I thought, “Only you, Jesus, could ever do anything with the me behind my story! That in and of itself amazes me!”

Then Sunday came.

I sat with my girls in Sunday School as we talked through some of their junior high aged questions given to me anonymously the week before. It was good. God helps me every Sunday answer questions and respond to statements these sweet, innocent, hurting girls have and I know without a doubt that the Holy Spirit is on the job—because I would fail them every time if I was left on my own.

Here is some of what is coming against my girls and other teens in our church:

* Heavy drinking parents.

* Getting sucked into the “emo” world.

* Eating disorders.
* Pornography.
* Fears—fear of failure, of man, of rejection, of being the cause of Dad's anger and his leaving.

* In the midst of divorce with the breaking, fighting and crumbling all around.

* Learning to live life not fearing seizures.

* Love-starved=not just boy crazy, but aggressively seeking attention

* Deep-seeded anger that has become rage and bitterness.
* Abuse—emotionally, physically, sexually.
* Rebellion against authority and contempt—fighting for what they are entitled too.
* Performing/masquerade/going through the motions.
* Crippled by inadequacy.
* Questioning worthiness.
* Emotional Torments.
* Insecurity.
* Deep father wounds.
* Shame.
* Control.

* The ones we only see occasionally, depending on which parent has them.

* And the quiet ones who concern me because I do not know their story.

Sunday I broke!

We were at the tail end of the Missions potluck {I love potlucks, by-the-way!} and one of my sweetest, quietest girls came over to talk to me. It wasn’t what she said—or even what she didn’t say. I can’t explain it, really. But when she walked away—my heart broke and tears burst.

How can I even begin to love these girls well enough?

How can I make a difference in their lives?

How can I love away their hurt?

I feel so inadequate!

And you know what . . . all I CAN do is love them.

I can love them by listening, encouraging, supporting and answering their call for help as best I can by the help and grace of God.

I can pray for them and trust God to work miracles in their heart, mind, emotions, relationships and day-to-day living.

I can battle for them in the spiritual realm by standing in the gap and rebuking the enemy's attacks against them!

I can be present for them and cheer for each one because they are worthy of being cheered for!!!

I can sacrifice my time, energy, money, focus, talents and ability in the kitchen to assure them they are worth the effort to love on.

I can stop expecting from them

and fully offer myself to them.

Who needs you today?

What can you do to love some hurting heart well today?

I’d love a few more ideas myself! J

YOU are needed and necessary

in your sphere of influence!

YES YOU!!!
and me.

Because You Are Needed and Necessary Today!

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 13:30:00 +0000

Your life is like no other!

Your perspective is like no other.

Your words are like no other.

You can reach those no other can—today!

To plant

To fertilize

To water

To weed

To harvest

Today!

No one can touch the hearts God sends your way to love on.

No one can impart truth specifically the way another needs to hear it.

No one can love a brokenness to the place where healing begins.

Quite the way that you can—today!

You are necessary in your place, with your words,

sharing your story because your unique perspective of Jesus

would be profoundly missed if it were missing!

It’s About the Lies

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 13:34:00 +0000

That big fear of mine? It didn’t just come about as my children came of age!

My fear of failing as a mother grew as they grew.

My fear of failing God in my mothering grew as the evidence stacked against me.

What I have learned of our enemy is that he is not creative—he doesn’t have to be. He just has to know human nature. And he does. He has studied us for years. He plays off our weaknesses . . . which he’s figured out while watching us be mistreated over the years.

Sinful people have sinned against us.

Hurting people have hurt us.

And we've reacted.

He saw this young, naïve, hurting-for-attention girl get duped by a man in spiritual authority over her. And the spin he fed her thoughts was that she was a failure to God.

Had he—had anyone—spoken those words to her at the time, she would never have agreed.

“Jesus loves me, this I KNOW!”

But seeds only grow when they are nurtured. And there is enough sun, water and fertilizer in this world to give the fields of failure a bumper crop!

And in me—the harvest was bountiful.

“How have I failed Thee . . . let me count the ways!”

At age 13, the field was plowed.

In my 40’s, I discovered the field flourishing.

We can deny we are in a battle all we want. It does not change the facts. We are. In a battle!

The battle is real.

And it is fierce.

The costs are high.

Spoils for either side.

Souls!

I thought all these insecure thoughts were my own!

Not realizing I had a REAL enemy! An enemy willing to take advantage of my hurt!

I believe now the lie he fed me then was, “You failed God.”

And as I grew older the lie grew with me to, “You will always fail God!”

Every time I did something wrong, or said something dumb, or didn’t accomplish something expected, or made a disaster of something—that failure got filed in the box labeled with the original lie.

Time goes by. Years accumulate. Failures rise.

Babies are born. Children grow. Young adults now stand before me.

And I realize my fear has frozen me.

Can there be enough grace to save the children of such a failure like me?

How could I imagine raising godly children for the Kingdom?

How could I ever foster a close-knit, loving home?

How could I hope to ever win my children’s hearts to myself—let alone God???

I am a failure to God!

I will surely fail at the biggest task He could ever ask me to do!

So the lie goes . . . Until . . .

The darkness collides with Light.

The lie exposed.

The access point revealed.

The repentance of sins and renouncing of untruths.

Not only is the forgiveness sweet, but something big implodes within!

Satan’s control.

His lies are the epicenter of his control within our soul—our minds, wills and emotions!

When Satan's lies are exposed,

his power over us implodes!

So what lies have you believed?

What version of the truth has our enemy fed you?

What hurt from long ago could have given access to thoughts now tormenting you?

Maybe today is the day to ask, seek and knock!

Maybe today is your day for the chains to fall free!

I Have a Fear—A Deep Fear of Failing as a Mom!

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 14:00:00 +0000

I fear I have or I will fail my children.

I fear I have or I will fail God in raising them.

I fear—

What I do or don’t do . . .

What I say or don’t say . . .

What I allow or don’t allow . . .
I fear—

If the “whatever” is not received well by them that in rejecting me, my advice, my council, or my perspective of what is “best for them” . . .

I fear they will reject God.

I fear they will reject God and it will be because of my failure to mother them well.

However “well” looks for each of them as individuals.

This is fresh revelation, but I have seen its evidence.

There are so many things in this life that just. don’t. matter!

Loving my children well is not one of them.

I am crazy gone over my kids!

As much as I’d like to take their choice away, I can’t!

Just as grace drew me to my knees as a 20-something, tired-out, masquerading, Christ-following fake . . .

so grace must draw each one of them.

How I wish I had control!

But I don’t.

All I can do is—

love them,

pray for them,

discipline them,

while discipling them

the best I can with—

what they will receive,

what they will listen to,

with only the wisdom & understanding grace has gifted up to today.

No one can go back.

There are no do-over’s in parenting.

Regret threatens to devour my sanity!

As I cling to my Redeemer—

He loves,

He prays,

He disciplines,

and He disciples me

all the while redeeming—

my mistakes,

my sins,

my poor choices,

my “woulda-coulda-shoulda’s”

and “if only’s”.

Nothing escapes Him.

Nothing is unredeemable for Him.

Nothing reaches beyond His touch.

Fear cannot coincide with Christ!

So I repent and let healing waters of forgiveness rush my soul.

This freedom of forgiveness deepens trust.

Only He can save.

I cannot.

I can release!

I can trust!

I can pray!

I can rebuke!

I can battle!

I can encourage!

I can challenge!

I can correct!

I can question!
I can love!

I can Mother my best and trust God for the rest—cheesy, but truth!

"Thank you, Jesus, that fear is not my destiny—only my chains. It was for freedom that You came—for me as well as for my children. In the power and authority of your name and in your blood, please break these chains threatening to overtake my joy, my hope . . . my peace. You love them so much more than I. You love perfect. Thank you for perfect love casting out all fear! You know my hopes, my dreams, my prayers for them—and I know they are safe within Your care. Abba, I love you! Abba, I belong to you! Abba, I trust you! Abba, You are enough! In this. In everything. You are enough! Amen."

Do you have a fear threatening your faith today?

{Continued in this post on how Satan feeds our thoughts lies . . .}

Five Minute Friday: Unexpected

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 15:25:00 +0000

Only up since that morning, how could I hope one would come so soon to the feeder when I had rarely seen any visit my yard in the five years it had been mine.

In my chair by the window, with book in hand I read the words, “You can trust Me, Robin.” Never is my own name in print. The sun was beginning to go down as I asked once more for a visitor to the bright red nectar.

My thoughts drifted back to August—and the few days of quiet respite at the lake home of a friend. I had not expected the new friends I made on the back patio. Flitting, flirting, flying so close to me and stopping in mid-air to stare me down. These tiny, playful creations—such a gift to a soul weighed down with overwhelming fear and confusion, to the point where putting the “happy” mask on each morning was becoming effort. Under more pressure than the heart was created for, joy burst. They freed sweet joy!

Months and hot, summer days were long gone. Was I looking for the ridiculous or for a life-line? Wasn’t I really asking for grace? He had said I could ask Him anything. Even for a hummingbird?

I read my name, black on white once more . . . looked up—and saw grace perched on red plastic.

*This is my first attempt at Five Minute Fridays after meeting the lovely, Lisa-Jo at Relevant. She gives a topic to write on and we are to write, non-stop for 5 minutes with no backtracking or editing. Wow--was that hard for me! This was more like 7 minutes because at the end of 5 even I was left hanging! :) Hope that was okay.*

Compassion Bloggers-Ecuador 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

The Relevant Conference ended with the hilarious Shaun Groves moving us from laughter to tears as he sang poignant lyrics and told stories with heart impact. Shaun is a spokesman for the wonderful organization Compassion.

I brought his newest CD home and have been playing it pretty non-stop. While visiting one country with Compassion, he was so moved by what the pastor was sharing with him that he wanted to do something, anything, to help. He offered boxes of CD's by himself and all his music buddies. The pastor kindly smiled at him and said that although his offer was generous and his music beautiful, our songs--the music we know and listen to--was not the life they knew and lived {or something like that}. I wasn't taking notes, but I remember being so taken by the words he shared. Although the pastor appreciated this American musicians kind offer---his music, his words did not and could not reflect the lives he and his people lived.

I know not what life is like for the poor of this world!

So Shaun penned these powerful words from what he has seen and experienced . . .

Third World Symphony

Right now, Shaun and some lovely bloggers are in Ecuador with Compassion. Won't you join me in following the stories of their trip in pictures, videos and words?

My Hope Is In You by Aaron Shust

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 17:56:00 +0000

One surprise treat at the Relevant Conference came when Aaron Shust and his wife joined us for lunch one day. Aaron sang this song following the moving testimony of his wife on how they almost lost their small son to illness.

God is our hope!
Our only true, abiding, constant care.

He promises good!
I'm looking for the good promised me today.
It is here!
Past all I see with the natural eye—

within the hard,

the sad,

the struggle,

the insecurity,

the confusion,

the doubt,

the regret . . .

I find His good in the thumbprint of Jesus's image on my soul.

What's the good He's working in your life today?
How is the image of Christ being pressed into your clay?

His Desire vs. My Comfort—Relevant ‘11

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 15:09:00 +0000

How about some more honesty . . . {not like I practice lying here or nuthin’! J}

God loves it when we Sisters are open with one another—honest, transparent . . . vulnerable! But those are usually the furthest comforts away in our comfort-zone.

That is, however, how this little corner of my world got started.

Several friends and I were part of a yahoo group where we shared with each other some of the moments from our day where we verifiably caught Jesus. We would write a little something explaining what was going on and how God showed up. We all passionately loved Jesus and wanted to consciously STOP in our day and take notice whenever we saw God in the moment with us.

After awhile, I seemed to be the only one who was writing. A couple of these friends encouraged me to start a blog. I had never heard the word before! I talked with God about it and waited while He amazingly put confirmations in my heart and by other means. It’s funny when I look back on that memory now. I was so excited about something I knew nothing about!

From the beginning, the vulnerability to write what was going on in my life was difficult. Over time, I had grown quite private. I held my stories to myself. To share with a group of 20 or so gals in a secure corner of Yahoo was one thing! To openly share with whoever happened to come along on the world-wide web was very much another.

I know this is getting long, but hang with me . . . I really am going somewhere with this! J

What has evolved over time has been an openness to share my struggles and what I am learning as I walk with Jesus, but I have neglected to include the road conditions we are walking on!

I am an imperfect, sinful, hurting person living with ~~seven~~ six other {oops . . . that’s right, my sweet oldest moved out!} imperfect, sinful, hurting people. I’m attached to many others through family, church, ministry, Facebook, Homeschool Co-op and run-ins at the neighborhood grocery store and YMCA.

Life is hard and we are busy.

Injustices assault us.

Satan lies and lures.

And we are dust in need of a Savior.

I have been writing about what happens between that Savior and I when bumps happen in the road, when it gets stormy or when the road seems washed out completely. But I haven’t done a very faithful job of including you in on the action behind the quiet with God.

There’s a fine line to this. Those handsome teenage boys of mine do not want their names scratched in this place as part of one of mom’s posts!

But I want to find that line.

I think we both need me to!

I need to become a better storyteller!

The telling of the end result means less when you don’t know how the story begins.

Sometimes I will only be able to jump in during the unfolding—

whatever is best for all.

But I need to start practicing.

I have not been comfortable writing much concerning my husband’s recent stroke.
I opened up a little when I suffered my second miscarriage. I was unconscious at the time and just wrote. As I woke up, I closed up. I’ll need to watch for that again.
I shared some of "my journey from ruins” but, again, grew uncomfortable and stopped.
I have wanted to ask questions of you—to include you in our conversation. Friends can only become when there is equal dialogue! But my fear of silence following the question mark has caused me not to ask.

Transparency in my walk with Jesus has become easier for me.

The vulnerability to openly share the pits and stumbles along the way has not.

All parts of each one’s story is important.

I want to know some of yours.

And I need to share more of mine so we all feel safe in this place.

Some reflections following my week at The Relevant Conference 2011
His Desire vs. My Expectations
His Desire vs. My Agenda
His Desire vs. My Comfort

His Desire vs. My Agenda—Relevant '11

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:00:00 +0000

I want to spend some time being completely honest.

I am holy, chosen, and dearly loved.
I am also weak, sin filled, and self-centered.

When I left for the Relevant Conference last week, I had high hopes of meeting fellow bloggers with the intent to build relationships. I have been writing in this place for 3 ½ years now, but have not really done anything to promote or grow the readership of the blog. I saw Relevant as God’s open door to doing so.

Problem was, I never asked God how He felt about that.

I went to Relevant knowing that a lot of the ladies already knew one another and had been growing relationships online. No imagination could prepare me for the giggling and cackling, the screaming and embracing that accompanied that first evening together. J

I was out of the loop and definitely felt it.

No connections and no voice in a gathering filled with boisterous reunions.

What I was looking for, in some ways, the conference could have delivered . . . but it was not what God wants me focused on. I already knew that! But I chose to ignore it.

I guess I was hoping to grow my blog’s exposure by exposing my wonderful self J—

{Yep, pretty ugly huh!}

God wanted to save me from that . . . so He quieted me.

I could not over talk when I could barely speak.

I could not exalt me when I could hardly chit chat!

I wanted the most for my blog out of this expensive, mostly paid-for-by-others trip. My expectation was that God wanted the same since it was He that had made it possible for me to be there and repeatedly told me to go. Yet, I failed to ask Him ahead of time to lead and bless and reveal His desires for my time on the trip and my learning.

I went with my own agenda and then felt sorry for myself when I realized things would not happen as I had planned.

I have been so tired of “hard” over these past few years. And then something I had expected to be glorious, a bit of a “time-out” from the difficulty of the past couple of months, seemed to turn on me.

The truth is . . .
I’m tired.
I’m sad.
I’m trusting.
I’m believing.
I’m growing.
I’m hurting.
I’m hoping.
And I so desperately wanted Relevant to take away some of the hurt, fix some of the brokenness and shore up some of the weakened places.

What a bit of pressure for those three young ladies in charge! J

Our God is a jealous and protective God!

He protected me from my self and jealously remains

the only One who can gain credit for what He is doing

in this selfish, sinful heart of mine.

“And He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’ Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.”
2 Cor. 12: 9, 10

Some reflections following my week at The Relevant Conference 2011
His Desire vs. My Expectations
His Desire vs. My Agenda
His Desire vs. My Comfort

His Desire vs. My Expectations—Relevant '11

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 16:23:00 +0000

In front of me rests my journal. The lavishly scrolled cover imprinted with this Psalm, “Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.”

Desires are not expectations.

Oh, how often I forget!

For five days this past week I left my family, my home, my routine, and my schedules to gather with a couple hundred ladies doing the same. We met in lovely Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. {At least I am supposing it was lovely. God’s creations are. But I didn’t see much past the view from the Sheraton and the quick drive to and from the airport—made quicker by the hotel’s crazy shuttle driver!}.

I was blessed to be a part of Relevant ’11.

Blessed to meet the loveliest of ladies!

Blessed to hear wonderful, thought-provoking messages!

Blessed to experience sweet moments!

I packed my bags, my hopes and my expectations. And along the way (between Seattle and Chicago, to be exact) I lost my voice. All of it pretty much gone.

For the next couple of days I battled my voice, my necessity, my self—

all while mourning the lost experience I had believed
Relevant would be for me.

Not simply because I had lost my voice.

But simply because I allowed my deepest, truest desires

to be overshadowed by what I thought

and what I wanted.

Sweet time with the Lord since has revealed too much to share in one post today. But one thing is for certain—

His desires for us will always exceed our expectations

while rarely looking anything like them!

I hope you will come visit in the days to come as I re-visit the relevance of my Relevant experience . . . especially those of you who have been visiting here for awhile now. There are some things I’d particularly like to share with you.

Unfortunately, it will have to be without pictures! L I remembered everything I needed to take with me except my camera! (Well—that and my tweezers, but I think I was the only one bothered by that pokey little chin hair!)

Thank you for those who prayed for me and my trip.

God was listening and I am deeply blessed!

Some reflections following my week at The Relevant Conference 2011
His Desire vs. My Expectations
His Desire vs. My Agenda
His Desire vs. My Comfort

Keep Your Soul From Trouble

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000

About 5 years ago, while laying in bed trying to fall asleep, this random thought came loudly and with authority—literally taking my breath away—seizing me in panic!

“You are going to die young!”

For days I walked in a stupor. I had no idea what to make of it, nor what to do with it.

This was before I learned to practice the teaching from scripture, “resist {rebuke} the devil and he will flee from you”. This was also before I fully understood that Satan feeds thoughts into our minds.

For a long time, I wondered if it had been God speaking. Was He warning me I had little time? Why would He say it in such a way to invoke all kinds of fear? Was it God or me or my enemy taking advantage of me? I have since worked through that event and found peace.

And then when I read this devotional entry* for September 22^nd I about leapt off the couch!

“He who guards his mouth and his tongue, guards his soul from troubles.” Proverbs 21:23

Many people have trouble in their soul, which includes the mind, will, and emotions. But God gives the answer right here.

We’ve all dealt with doubts and fears at one time or another. Fear often starts as a single thought. As we dwell on that thought, it produces fear. And if we continue to dwell on fearful thoughts, fear escalates into panic.

The devil likes to attack your mind with fearful thoughts. He may say, I’m going to kill you. You won’t live out your full life. You’ll get cancer and die. Most of the time there’s no basis at all for what the enemy is saying to your mind. He doesn’t care. He just wants you to dwell on his evil suggestions long enough for fear to take over.

I finally realized demonic thoughts come to our minds because the devil isn’t big enough to pull off his schemes on his own. He’s trying to convince us to agree with him so he can operate in our lives.

Cast down the enemy’s thoughts the second they come. How do you stop his thoughts? Well, you can’t think one thing while you’re saying something else. So open your mouth and start confessing, “Glory to God! God sent His Word and healed me and satisfies me with long life. It’s so good to be well!”

When you start speaking God’s Word, thoughts stop and fear leaves. That will keep your soul from trouble.

Confession:

I refuse to allow fear and doubt to control me.

I keep my soul from trouble by speaking God’s Word.

I live a long, healthy life, and God will fulfill the number of my days.

{marks of emphasis are my own}

What fear is paralyzing you?

Has a random thought ever entered your mind causing fear, doubt, anger or confusion?

Are you consciously taking your thoughts captive to Christ?

Once a thought is thought over, entertained and spoken it has taken us captive—for good or for evil. This is how Satan begins the establishment of a stronghold {foothold} in our lives.

Be careful to not passively receive any thought that pops into your mind!

Get active with your thoughts!

Take them over before they take over you!

* Mark Brazee; 365 Days of Healing; page 271.

I Am So Excited!

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 18:05:00 +0000

Wednesday I'm leaving on a jet plane with my friend to Pennsylvania!

Through God’s orchestration—and working through some pretty special people . . .

my husband,

my sister and brother-in-law,

and some pretty wonderful friends

. . . I am blessed to be able to attend,

Perhaps some of you will be there as well?

If so, I would love to meet up with you. Please contact me privately at Robin_McKay at comcast dot net.

God is the Giver of good gifts!

How blessed I am to be on the receiving end!!! J

**and we'll be not too far from the Hershey Chocolate Factory! My mission will be not to drown in one of the scrumptious vats of chocolate!**

A Remedy for Gluttony

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 15:08:00 +0000

Delve into prayer!

Awareness of the spiritual realm

lessens the draw of the physical realms trappings!

I am like others—in love with the pretties of this world.

They are pretty!

And God created me to admire and to desire.

But He also created me capable of withholding affection for the things that do not satisfy.

He satisfies all needs.

He satisfies all desires.

If I come to Him—meet with Him—He will fill me up in a way

no thing,

no food,

no vice,

no temptation

. . . ever could!

First, I must repent my sin of gluttony.

Second, receive the Lord’s gracious forgiveness!

Third, rebuke Satan’s influence to feed my desire for “it”.

Fourth, walk in the opposite spirit.

God wants to fill me up, but I must spend time with Him for that to happen. And I spend time battling in the spiritual realm in prayer!

Prayer fulfills and satisfies and frees . . .

from the bondage of want, envy, covetousness and discontent.

Why not try Him and see?

Taste and see that the Lord is good!

Fear—At its Center—Is a Loss of Control

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 17:21:00 +0000

Most of us do not realize how deeply fear is rooted in our everyday life.
We literally live in a culture of fear.

And fear leads to unbelief in the Word,

Character,

And power of God! *

“For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love and a sound mind.”

2 Timothy 1:7

“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment.”

1 John 4:18

“Fear involves torment.”

Isn’t THAT the truth!

But we, who Believe, have been given a SOUND mind!

The nature of fear is to deceive (mislead by a false appearance or statement; outwit, misrepresent, dupe, misinform, misdirect). When we are fearful, we are vulnerable to exploitation, manipulation, deception, and control. The enemy knows this and uses it to his full advantage. *

Fear distracts us,

making us self-absorbed so we are not effective!

Fear—at its center—is a loss of control!

Did you know that there are 365 references to “do not fear” or “fear not” in the Bible?

So how do we not fear?

Scripture tells us fear is not of God.

Fear is lack of faith—

the root of fear is the result of not knowing

or understanding

or believing

in God’s character and His word.

“Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with My victorious right hand.”
Is 41:10-13

Want NO FEAR?

Want FAITH, WISDOM and UNDERSTANDING in all things Jesus!

“When you have holy fear, you will fear nothing but God!

When you have unholy fear, you will fear everything but God!

Michael Yousseff

* Living Free; Mike Riches; August 2007; pg 70

Trust

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 16:20:00 +0000

“If you are in the habit of sitting at Jesus’ feet, then whatever God says to you, do it with confidence and without hesitation” ~ Kay Arthur

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart,

And do not lean on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him,

And He will make your paths straight.”

Proverbs 3:5-6

I’m getting better at the “with confidence and without hesitation”. My struggle remains in my own addendum to this quote . . . “without looking back!”

Satan can use my looking back to stir up doubt and regret.

Jesus tells us in John 14:27 “Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” One of the meanings for the Greek word “troubled” is to perplex the mind of one by doubt!

Is your mind perplexed—even plagued—by doubt?

The first part of that verse in John says “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.”

He has “cast upon” us His peace and His gift of peace is irrevocable—unlike the worlds which is contingent upon circumstance!

He is with you wherever you go.

Lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him.

He WILL direct your paths!

Think on the things that bring confidence and rest. Like His constant, caring faithfulness. He has never left you—abandoned, rejected or forsaken you—and He never will!

We are so close to completely trusting Him!

Rest and wait!

He will bring you to complete dependence upon Him.

It is coming!

Your reward for diligently seeking Him.

And it will be good—so good!

Walk with Him today with joy in your heart, a smile on your face and peace permeating your being!

“This is the day the Lord has made, Let us rejoice and be glad in it!”
Ps 118:24

Remember Today

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 14:31:00 +0000

Remember today . . .

Whose you are!

Who you are in Christ!

Who God is!

And believe Him, not only IN Him!

Remember today . . .

You belong to God and not this world—

so no envy

no jealousy

no discontent

Remember today . . .

Follow Abba’s guidelines for living—not the world’s

Follow after His heart—not your own

Remember today . . .

To be Holy, as He is holy

To not fear, but trust . . .

and keep on believing!

Remember today . . .

You are holy, chosen and dearly loved!

{Col. 3:12}

Morning Rituals

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 14:47:00 +0000

Do you start your day in the same way. . . every day?

Most of us do.

Even if our spontaneity kicks in later . . .

Even when our schedule fluctuates . . .

Most of us begin the day with at least somewhat of a morning ritual.

Whether it involves drinking coffee or tea, reading the newspaper, checking the computer, exercise, etc. . . . there’s usually some uniformity to it.

Does your morning ritual protect your mind?

Does your morning ritual guard against the evil one?

Does your morning ritual help you focus on Christ?

Some of us have {or try to have} a regular “quiet time” with the Lord. Maybe yours is in the morning or perhaps it works better for you to meet with Him later in the day, before bed even. But what I have learned over time is how crucial it is in the morning to get my mind “stayed on Thee”.

Because I want the perfect peace promised for the rest of my day!

Because I need it! J

“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee; because he trusts in Thee.” Is. 26:3

There’s no right or wrong here—but I’ve learned it’s important to do something!

After doing Beth Moore’s study, Stepping Up, I continued what she taught us with starting my morning on the floor—face to the floor—in worship and personal expression of my need for Him in my life. I then recite this prayer of hers . . .

“Lord, I thank you again this morning that you are still God upon the throne of all creation. You are holy. Mighty beyond comprehension. So worthy of my praise and the outpouring of my life’s energies. Today I gladly give myself to you. I am convinced that you are always for me. Obedience to you will always mean Your very best for me. I’m so grateful that I can come boldly and without shame before Your throne because I pray all these things in Jesus’ name.”

With my face still to the floor, I spend some time in specific adoration and gratitude for all He is doing in my life. I affirm promises I need to affirm.

And I say all of this out loud.

Satan can feed thoughts into our minds,

but he cannot read our minds.

I pray A LOT out loud because I want my enemy to know he is not just messing with me, he is messing with God and me!

I finish my prayer on the ground by taking the power and authority that is mine in Christ Jesus, sealing off my mind to influences of the world, tricks and lies of the enemy and my own thoughts and imaginations. (2 Co. 10:5)

Then I re-affirm the following truths out loud I have written on a 3x5 card. {Some I need to pause over awhile because of what I am currently dealing with or perhaps some repentance is necessary!}

Remember Today . . .

Whose I am

Who I am in Christ

Who God is and believe Him, not only IN Him

I belong to God and not this world—so no envy, jealousy, discontent

Follow Abba’s guidelines for living, not the world’s

Follow after His heart, not my own

To be Holy, as He is holy

To not fear, but trust and keep on believing!

Some days I immediately jump into my prayer journal—because I am desperate to talk with Him more and ask some specific questions, believing for guidance and direction. Other days I turn to scripture or a Bible study. Or I spend all the rest of the morning just praying—laying my heart, my uglies, my children, my concerns, my church, my family, my “whatever” before Him. Sometimes . . . that takes the bulk of my time. But I know that although I may be able to snag some time later in the day to read some scripture—having quiet, undisturbed time just to talk to Him and listen for Him most often is only available in the morning before the rest of the family wakes up.

I encourage you to consider your morning ritual.

Are you leaving yourself vulnerable to the enemy simply because you did not take time in the morning to armor up? (Eph. 6:10-18)

I’ll leave you thinking with this quote of Beth Moore’s . . .

"We can choose whether or not we are warriors,

but we can not choose whether or not we are in a war."

Live Believing God!

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 14:41:00 +0000

A good part of my days lately have been spent reading and responding to emails. From Facebook, the blog and personal. Once again I am reminded—how very beautiful is the Body of Christ!

One dear friend—since our college days—recently sent me this beautiful gift.

Can you make it out? I don’t have the best of cameras and lack all kinds of photo-taking skill. But it is a bracelet with beautiful crystals intermixed with the 3 words—“live your faith”.

If you remember, those were the words I heard from God so distinctly in my prayer time a few days after my husband’s stroke.

Yesterday I received an email from her and several others again asking on the condition of my husband and myself. I’ve also been asked questions about what it really means to “live your faith”. To be honest, I think it will mean different things to each one of us. What it means to me is consistent with my Christian walk thus far—my struggles, my victories, my doubts, my joys . . . . For you, it could and should look quite different.

Your life story is different.

Your faith and how it is lived out is going to look different.

Not the obedience.

But the substance.

Here’s part of my friend’s question followed by some of my response:

How are you doing? How is chuck? I also made myself a bracelet like yours. I keep thinking "Live Your Faith" what exactly does that mean? Believing that God will take care of me no matter what the circumstances, that He knows what's best for me. When it gets hard is trusting in what the best thing is. Or the age old question, "why do bad things happen to good people?" Hope I'm making sense. What do you think living your faith means?

I was having some struggles, but seem to have turned a corner with God yesterday. I've been thinking on this verse a lot lately, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful." John 14:27 His peace is in me. I don't have to ask for peace--I just need to rest in what's already there. I was letting myself feel sad, confused, frustrated, disappointed, discouraged, defeated, like a failure over issues with both Chuck and _____. I realized I was "letting" Satan have free reign over my heart, mind and emotions.

As for the "live your faith"...I kept asking to hear more from Him. I just kept asking Him for answers, just let me hear from you on this...or this...or this.... He did give me a short response of an answer to what I was asking, but that is also when I heard Him say--"you already know what to do from what you've already heard from Me. Keep believing. Keep trusting. You have faith. Live your faith." Satan's main agenda is to get us to doubt God. If we doubt God--His goodness, His love, His power, His ability, His faithfulness, His "whatever"....we are more apt to live in fear, unbelief and self because ultimately we don't/can't trust God so we want to control what we can. We think we can only trust ourselves. So I believe--for me at least--one of Satan's greatest attempts against me is to stir doubt of my faith. That I don't have enough faith or that it's only head knowledge, not heart belief. I know I believe. I know I trust God. I know my faith is real and my faith is deep. I just need to be reminded to rebuke Satan's lies of doubt that stir up fear and/or confusion and/or regret and live my faith that is real.

Phil. 4:4-7 is the ongoing mantra in my mind!

My beautiful friend is a stage 4 cancer survivor awaiting another PET scan next week.

This gal has depths of faith.

I know it.

I know her.

Do you think Satan is going to leave her untouched?

Absolutely not!

She is too powerful for the Kingdom!

Her story is too potent against his!

So whatever it means to you, my friend—live your faith!

Today—just live every moment and make every decision trusting in what you believe to be true.

Live believing God!

** As for an update on my husband . . . we are so grateful for the improvements in his speech and handwriting. His brain is still functioning on overdrive, so he continues to tire quickly. And while he is working, he continues to find new frustrations to work through. Several difficulties remain, but we rejoice in the days to come!
Thank you for your prayers!

Philippians 4:4-7

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 13:08:00 +0000

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say rejoice!

Be glad, be well, THRIVE!

Choose joy!

The word "rejoice" is related to the Greek word for grace— “charis”

As joy is a direct result of God’s grace

Let your forbearing spirit be known to all men.

Be satisfied with less than your due—no rights, no entitlements

A forbearing spirit is gentle, full of sweet reasonableness

The Lord is near.

Abba is at hand—close by!

He does not reign beyond the clouds, but by your side

Be anxious for nothing.

Worried

Full of care

Panicked

Seeking self interests

But in everything by prayer . . .

Worship

Devotion

. . . and supplication . . .

Seek

Ask

Make specific requests

. . . with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

Give thanks for the pressing He has caused or allowed

Look for His thumbprint!

His perfect intent will always result in His glory and your best good!

And the peace of God which surpass all comprehension . . .

The tranquility of a soul assured of salvation

security

safety

& protection—

thus fearing nothing!

. . .shall guard . . .

Inwardly by the Holy Spirit at the hearts door to keep worry out

. . . your hearts . . .

Affections

Passions

Thoughts

Emotions

Desires

. . . and your minds . . .

Understanding

Judgment

Conscience

. . . in Christ Jesus.

By Whom you were brought into this favor!

Through Whom you are preserved in it!

In Whom you possess!

We Are Blessed! Rejoice and Be Glad!

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 16:25:00 +0000

Multiple scriptures profess the steadfast faithfulness of God to remain near us during our time of difficulty. I am tired today and have much to do in my world, so I can’t take the time to look them up and post them for you. But Joshua 1:9 is one that pops to mind quickly in these days . . .

“Be strong and courageous.

Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.

For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Wherever . . . and in whatever!

Four weeks ago today, my life changed in the blink of an eye.

But Abba is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.

He is only faithful!

He is truly merciful!

We are greatly blessed!

We are perfectly loved!

But I am also flesh and blood— and I struggle, I hurt and I am sad.

I am so grateful for a Savior who loves me in the midst of my weakness just as much as when I am responding strong!

“This is the day the Lord has made.

I will rejoice and be glad in it!”

Ps 118:24

My dryer was not drying, now it is fixed—I rejoice and am glad!

My Littles have been sick, but are now well—I rejoice and am glad!

Co-op begins Friday, I am unprepared...but—I rejoice and am glad!

So many have loved & carried us to Abba—I rejoice and am glad!

I do not understand the silence of others...but—I rejoice and am glad!

The medical bills have begun to hit...but—I rejoice and am glad!

I am weepy & struggle to focus on things...but—I rejoice and am glad!

The Fair is on and the Fair is fun—I rejoice and am glad!

We are surrounded by kindness & generosity—I rejoice and am glad!

I miss the voice I have loved hearing since I was 14...but—

I rejoice and am glad!

Affirming Truth vs. Positive Thinking

noreply@blogger.com (Robin McKay) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 16:27:00 +0000

“What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will understand later.” John 13:7

I speak these words today not to convince myself all will work out fine or to look on some “bright” side. This is not me hugging myself while saying over and over again—

"Jesus loves me."

“I know the thoughts that I think toward you,” says the Lord, “thoughts of peace and not evil.” Jeremiah 29:11

“I love those who love Me; and those who diligently seek Me will find Me.” Proverbs 8:17

I affirm truth!

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:8-9
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding." Proverbs 3:5

This is not positive thinking.

This is truth proclamation!

“How precious . . . are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand; when I awake, I am still with You.” Psalm 139:17-18

“Thou hast taken account of my wanderings; put my tears in Thy bottle . . . This I know, that God is for me.” Psalm 56:8, 9

There is a HUGE difference—

“For the Lord your God has arrived to live among you. He is a mighty Savior. He will rejoice over you with great gladness. With His love, He will calm all your fears. He will exult over you with singing {shouts of joy}.” Zephaniah 3:17

Positive thinking only temporarily changes my thought process or perspective until something else happens to stir the pot.

Truth is bound to God’s Covenant!

“For great is Your love toward me.” Psalm 86:13

“Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders which You have done, and your thoughts toward us; there is none to compare with You.” Psalm 40:5

Jesus is always victorious!

Jesus is never defeated!

“Behold, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands.” Isaiah 49:16

I truly am rejoicing in the days to come!

“We have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us.” 1 John 4:16