The Power of Purpose

Has God wired you to be driven by purpose? He has me. Without it I'd be hard pressed to get out of bed in the morning or to focus on anything other than the arthritis that's fusing my joints together.

In my opinion, life without purpose seems meaningless. Facing a day without it seems like hopelessness waiting to happen. Actually, I'm unashamed to confess that it was because of this thing called purpose that I finally asked Christ into my life.

I had been a single mom for 20+ years and during that time I chose to live for my children - totally, completely, utterly. In my mind that kind of sacrifice seemed only right since a single parent family was NOT part of the dream their dad and I had envisioned for them when they were welcomed into this world. (Ah, the power of guilt!)

As you might imagine, when my children grew in age and independence their departure from the nest was nearly more than I could endure. I felt completely empty. Although I had sisters who were willing to be there for me I convinced myself that the heart and soul of who I was, was gone . . . I didn't have a husband - I didn't have my children - I didn't have friends - I was sure that no one needed me and no one wanted me.

And it was there - at the end of myself - that I found my Savior.
He promised me that He would never leave me.
He promised me that HE created me with a purpose and for a purpose.
And praise God, He promised me that I would NEVER be empty again.

How glorious it is to be encompassed by such love.
How wonderful it is to be confident of His faithfulness.
How truly blessed I am to be filled - forever - to overflowing!

Lord Jesus, may You know that my love and gratitude to You for choosing me is beyond expression and may I bring You pleasure as I live every day to fulfill the purpose You created for me in this life.
Amen and Amen
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Grace Grace God's Grace

No Sweeter Thing. Totally Undeserved Favor.

In the peace of the morning, whether in sunshine or clouds
God's grace is all around as I listen to the birds sing
And view the beauty of the colors outside my kitchen window
To know His promises brings hope for the day
To experience His faithfulness is mind boggling.
How is it that He can love me unconditionally?
How is it that He can be so very patient with me?
I am so extremely blessed to serve a living God who is so powerful
so holy, so merciful, so completely perfect.
Thank You, Lord, for allowing me to experience your peace.

Loving -------
Strong yet gentle
Trustworthy
Honest
Faithful
Comforting
Protective
Reassuring
Wise
Loving -------

Unconditional - Everlasting Love
That's what drives Him.
That's what sustains us.

He graces us with HOPE.

Lord, I give you thanks as I praise Your Holy Name.
Jesus - Jesus - Jesus
Amen and Amen.
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Woo & Seek Him

FASTING . . . There are many references to it in the Bible. As a matter of fact, it is written in Matthew 9:14 "Then the disciples of John came to Him, saying, "Why do we and the Pharisees fast but Your disciples do not fast?" And Jesus said to them, " Can the friends of the bridegroom mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? But the day will come when the bridegroom will be taken from them, and then they will fast." So Jesus tells us that we are to fast.

Please note, if you are unable to abstain from eating food, be creative in your obedience . . . try fasting from watching TV or spending time on your computer, or whatever else you might do on a regular basis.

There are many reasons to fast, but in every case we deny the physical for the spiritual. Probably the most incredible reason is just so you can love on God. You deny your own wants and provide for His. You seek Him as you're set apart for pure and holy living. And your heart is warmed as you find ways to lavish Him with incredible love!

But first thing first . . .
In preparation, seek to be equipped with the full Armor of God! This is very important since the evil one surely won't appreciate your efforts to live in Holiness with the Living God.
Then, during the fast . . . woo and seek the Lord;
Communicate and deepen your relationship with Him;
ENJOY HIM;
Take time for confession and ask for forgiveness;
Seek to study the Scriptures He leads you to;
Make time for devotional reading;
Sing praises and worship Him;
Listen - Be still and know that He is God;
Record ideas, insights, directions and instructions He gives you;
Use hunger pangs as a trigger to give thanks and pray;
And remember . . . "man does live by bread alone!"

Your motive is key. Your utmost desire must be to pursue God - not personal gain. God knows your heart so seek Divine intervention as you embark on the fast. Fasting humbles you before the Lord and allows you to focus on what is important to God.

Holy Jesus, Thank You, Lord, for giving us a direct connection to Your heart. Let us love You Lord, with the everlasting love that we've learned from You. And at the end of our day, may we be found worthy of being called one of Your Beloved.
Amen and Amen
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Be Honest - Wouldn't You Be Fearful?

A time of trial/testing/temptation quite often follows a mountaintop experience. So read about the birth of Jesus in The Gospel of Luke . . .
a definite mountaintop experience if ever there was one.
Now read how when Jesus was 8 days old, Mary and Joseph took Him to the temple to be dedicated. There they saw a man named Simeon who told Mary that because of her son, a sword would pierce her very soul . . truly a time to gather fear if there ever was one - wouldn't you agree? A time of trial / testing / temptation? Oh, yeah!
Q. HOW IN THE WORLD COULD MARY WITHSTAND AND OVERCOME THE FEAR OF WHAT WAS PREDICTED?
A. ONLY BY THE AMAZING GRACE OF GOD!
And we, like Mary, can expect that same grace when we trust in the Lord. When we come to know his promises. When we arm ourselves with the sword of His Spirit (which is His Word) for
IT IS WRITTEN - IT IS WRITTEN - IT IS WRITTEN!!!

Help me, Lord, to live in the present - not looking regrettably in the past - not looking unsuredly to the future. Help me to ENJOY the journey knowing that Jesus is preparing my way.

NOTE TO SELF: Remember. . .
"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all of your heart." Jer 29:13
"I know the One in whom I trust, and I am sure that He is able, to guard that which I have entrusted to Him until the day of His return."
2 Tim 1:12
"For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."
Jer 29:11

All Hail to the Prince of Peace.
Amen and Amen
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How Is That Possible?

It is written in John 15:9 "I have loved you even as the Father has loved me." Jesus loves us as the Father loves Him. Jesus loves us as the Father loves Him. Jesus loves me as the Father loves Him. Jesus loves ME as the FATHER loves HIM. Jesus - the only one who is good enough - holy enough - worthy enough. Jesus - The only one who is WORTHY enough to receive love directly from God - directly from the source of all love - that same Jesus loves me to the same degree that the very source of love - the direct source - loves Him. HALLELUJAH!!! John 15:9 "I have loved YOU even as the FATHER has loved ME." Jesus - my provider Jesus - my comforter Jesus - my husband Jesus loves me as though I were holy and perfect and worthy. Because of that kind of love I am in His tender care. Because of that kind of love I am adorned by Him. Because of that kind of love I am guarded & directed & guided & taught as a beloved child. Because of that kind of love I am cared for as you would care for a child who is helpless and dependent and in need of loving arms to hold me and protect me and correct me and look into my eyes and adore me. Because of that kind of love He loves me as though I was an innocent child - WITHOUT fault. Because of that kind of love He loves me as though I was a youngster who He wants to spend time with so He can teach me how to live life. (like a father teaches his children to fish and toss rocks across a pond - enjoying simple peaceful yet exciting things that will develop a quietness in their spirit) Because of that kind of love He loves me as a young person who is discovering who they are. He watches as a parent does - hoping that their child will live in peace and joy. Because of that kind of love He love me as a husband loves his wife - seeking fulfillment. He loves me - He loves me - HE LOVES ME with all goodness in His heart. He loves me all the while hoping that in return I will love Him. . . . and IF I am blessed enough to even consider accepting and returning this love He has His arms stretched opened wide for me to run into - to be consumed by that love . . . by that life . . . pure life . . . that comes from the VINE! The connection is complete - never to be severed. Just as you can never be completely removed from your earthly parents (for it is because of them that you exist) you can also never be disconnected from the one who provided that life through your human parents. THANK YOU LORD - - - Thank you Lord for this time together. You are amazing. You are generous. It is right that the Father loves you for you are worthy of that love but for you to love me - in my imperfect, corruptive state is even greater. How can you do it? - - - it is beyond my comprehension to fathom that kind of unconditional love. I don't understand it - but I thank you for it, Lord. Thank you for being a God that is beyond my ability to comprehend. Amen and Amen. Hallelujah! ALL PRAISE AND HONOR AND GLORY TO YOU, MY GOD AND MY KING. Forevermore. bo

Consider This . . .

"What you focus on ultimately consumes you."
--- Darrell Scott, father of slain Columbine Student Rachel Scott

"You will never change until the pain of staying the same is greater than the pain of change."
--- Unknown

We struggle with fears, hurts, baggage and burdens . . . but I'm here to tell you that victory IS possible. And the freedom is, oh, SO extraordinary. Victory thy name is Jesus! No one but Jesus has the power to overcome. All Glory is His and His alone.

Hallelujah to the Prince of all peace. The Great Warrior! Powerful and Mighty!
Amen and Amen
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What's Your 'Signature' Verse?

Do you have a 'signature' verse of scripture that you claim as 'your own'? A verse that God has brought you back to time and time again? Yep, me too. Mine is Romans 12:2 "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the newing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will."

This verse has relieved many a fear.
It has dried many a tear.
And many a time it has been used to set me back upon the Rock.

And it's amazing to me that He continues to use it over and over again . . . well, I guess what I should be more amazed about is that He NEEDS to use it over and over again. Oh, the distractions of this world! But thankfully, the mere thought of Him saying "Follow Me" brings me back into His loving arms.

I watched the last part of the Matthew DVD again tonight. The final scene depicts Jesus waving us on to follow Him. I sob as it ends - I want to cry out "Come back . . . don't go!" That's when I feel Him tap me on the shoulder and say to me just as he did in Matthew 28:20 "surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Oh, Praise You, Jesus!

Who of us can't take comfort in that? How glorious. How comforting. That is the source of true peace for each of us!!! Thank You, Jesus. Thank You, Lord.
Amen and Amen
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At Loose Ends?

Not sure what scripture to read today?
Let me suggest to you that when you're at loose ends . . .

Praise Him - for as the song says "It's amazin' what praisin' can do"
Psalm 117
"Praise the Lord, all you nations;
extol Him, all you peoples.
For great is His love toward us,
and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever.
Praise the Lord."

Psalm 108:3-5
"I will praise you, O Lord, among the nations;
I will sing of you among the peoples.
For great is your love, higher than the heavens;
your faithfulness reaches to the skies.
Be exalted, O God, above the heavens,
and let your glory be over all the earth."


Worship Him - for worthy is the Lamb
Psalm 29:1-2
Praise the Lord, you angels;
praise the Lord's glory and power.
Praise the Lord for the glory of His name;
worship the Lord because He is holy.

James 4:8
"Come near to God, and God will come near to you."

Psalm 95:6
"Come, let's worship Him and bow down.
Let's kneel before the Lord who made us"

Romans 12:1
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship."

Amen and Amen
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Look Out World - Here We Come!

Mercy and Self-centeredness . . . never the two shall meet.

I have the privilege of knowing a young lady from church (httd://nursedesiree.blogspot.com) who will be leaving in about 4 days for Liberia, Africa to serve as a Registered Nurse on a Mercy Ship. (www.mercyships.org).

The Lord has put her on my heart so I was compelled to check out what she will experience. Merely watching the videos from the ship's website left me speechless. It's amazing to see the needs that are so extensive and yet personally know someone who is willing to make a difference. I am overwhelmed and begin to question the insignificance of my own little world. My 'knee jerk' reaction is to think . . . why aren't we all going with her to do our part? How can we just sit back knowing that the need is so great?

But whether it's in Africa or in our own home town, wherever there are people, the world is full of needs. My heart cries out - WHY - but then I was lead to read where it is written in John 9:1-3, 6 "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind? Neither, said Jesus, but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. Then He spit on the ground, made some mud with saliva, and put it on the man's eyes."

Seldom do we understand completely the suffering that goes on around us. How often it seems to much to manage so we turn away from it and allow only our own lives to consume us. Little do we realize that it is then that our fruit becomes self-centeredness. But not Jesus. Despite the many needs around Him, He was willing to be part of the solution. Just like my friend, Desiree, Jesus reached out and did what God gave Him the power to do. Sometimes it was one person at a time - sometimes it was 5,000 people all at once - but ALWAYS God equipped Jesus so that His glory was on display!!

So how do WE take steps to 'make a difference'? How do we bring the glory of God into the world outside the boundaries we've set up? Well, maybe it's to financially support people like Desiree who will step out and serve countless people on the Mercy Ship or maybe it's merely checking in on a neighbor who is struggling with loneliness. Our part is to make ourselves available. Ask God to prepare your heart to reach out to someone. Ask Him to provide you with knowledge of the needs that are beyond the picket fence that surrounds your life. Ask Him to bring people like Desiree into your life so that you can show others that He loves us to much to leave us where we are today.

It is written in Matthew 28:18 "Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

Yes, Lord. Yes, Lord. Yes, Yes, Lord!!!
Amen and Amen
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Lunch Anyone?

Have you ever had something that 'sticks in your craw'? Big or small it just begins to eat away at you and all the while resentment and animosity are building up.

Recently I allowed this sort of thing to happen to me. The reason for it isn't important but my feelings were hurt and although I didn't want it to, it was really getting under my skin.

In an attempt to lighten my burden I invited the Lord to go to lunch with me. It was a warm day so we sat in the gazebo near my work and we talked as the city bustled around us. I confessed to Him that I was a living example of Romans 7:18, for just like the Apostle Paul, "I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out." I assured Him that I didn't want to let the offense become baggage but my feelings were hurt.

With that said He reminded me that it's not about me. It's about Him. (Oh, how I wish I didn't need to be reminded of that!) He allowed me to understand that not only did He share my pain of the 'offense' but He was also in pain because the offenders were outside of His will for their lives. He, unlike me, took on the pain of both the offender and the offended!

Well, that certainly put a different light on the situation. All of a sudden my hurt feelings were inconsequential. What if they don't confess and ask for forgiveness? Does He hurt until the end of all time? WOW . . . It really IS about Him!!

Compassionately, He then reminded me that I was offended by humans - just like me! He gave me reason and strength to forgive them from my heart. How glorious it is that I have someone who I KNOW I can turn to. Someone who will never offend me, or hurt me, or leave me wanting. How truly blessed I am!!!

Holy Jesus, I give You praise for how truly incredible You are. Lord, how I wish I could begin to realize all the burdens that You carry because of me. I am so thankful that You would allow me the privilege of seeing the fullness of this situation from Your eyes. Thank You for allowing me the opportunity to offer the offenders up to You in prayer rather than present them to You for punishment. Oh, that I would realize how truly great You are.
Amen and Amen
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Plenty Enough

My father was as honest as the day is long. He had integrity, he was a hard, hard worker and above all he loved his 'girls'. My mother ALWAYS 'robbed Peter to pay Paul' but I can't ever remember a time when we went without the necessities of life.

My two older sisters and I had only 16 months between each of us so when I came along, Daddy, who by then was nearly 42 years old, named me 'Plenty Enough'. From the onset I declared myself to be the 'unwanted' child - the one destined for hand-me-downs and love that I had to fight for.

I believe that Daddy saw my eldest sister as an introvert and because of that she found a special place in his heart as he set out to protect her from the world. My other sister was, and still is, very smart so I'm sure that Daddy knew that she would do well as she ventured through life (and thank You, Lord, she has).

I was the mouthy one. As he attempted to quiet me, Daddy use to say, "She's louder than 10 boys". In addition to this charming attribute I was also known for my bullheadedness, and if you look in the dictionary under the word stubborn, you'll see my picture! For years Daddy called me "Little Martha", a 'not so fond' reference to an Aunt who was never able to charm him. He loved to 'get my goat' - 'rile my feathers' - 'make my fur fly' . . . call it what you will, I didn't take to kindly to it so I was determined that he wasn't going to get the 'best' of me - an unfortunate side effect of the 'gift' of bullheadedness.

Not long after Daddy died my marriage of 10 years ended. I'm glad that he was spared the pain that I know he would have felt right along with me. After what I've already mentioned you might wonder why I cared at all whether or not his heart would have hurt along with mine but you see, despite the way in which I chose to depict life, it really wasn't that way at all. And it was only by the Grace of God that I was given insight and discernment to realize that my thinking was wrong. It was only by that precious Grace that I have been able to forgive him for his humanness and in doing so our relationship has been reconciled-even unto death. It is through that very forgiveness that the Lord has not only brought me freedom from the lies that I believed for 50 years . . . but He gave me back the love of my Daddy.

But the best part was yet to come . . . for you see when I was able to once again love my Daddy, I was free also to love my Father. My Abba. Recently as I was crying out to the Lord - worshiping Him for all that He is to me, I heard myself say to Him . . . You are enough - You are plenty enough. And with that the full circle of my life was complete.

How about you? Do you need help to forgive someone? I promise you that if He can move the mountain that I built up over the years, He can help you do the same. It is written in Matthew 19:26 "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible" so why not go and ask Him to help you pour out the forgiveness that you so desperately need to give. Allow Him to restore love in your heart and bring you to a place where you realize that He is 'Plenty Enough'.
THANK YOU JESUS!!!
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"Follow Me"

It is written in Matthew 9:9 "As Jesus went on from there, he saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector's booth. "Follow Me," he told him, and Matthew got up and followed him."

I have a DVD* that is a reenactment of the word for word account of the Gospel of Matthew (which, by the way, I HIGHLY recommend). In the scene that depicts Jesus calling Matthew to follow Him, Jesus approaches the table where Matthew is working. He leans down so as to be eye to eye with Matthew and in a soft, drawing voice He says to him "Follow Me". I have watched this DVD countless times - I put it on in my kitchen and just let it play as I'm going about my day - but I have NEVER been able to get past this part without coming to a complete halt of my busyness. I don't know if it's the look on Jesus' face, or the tone of His voice, or His willingness to bend down to be at Matthew's level but without fail I melt.

Now I've gone back and checked and there are a good number of times in the Gospels that the words 'follow me' appear. But the Lord has allowed this particular encounter to melt my heart. Maybe you would melt when Jesus drew James and John away from their father with those same words. Peter and Andrew were working hard in a smelly fishing boat when they were called - maybe that would tug at your heart but the truth is, no matter who we are or where we are in life, Christ wants to reach into your day and say "Follow Me".

WAIT . . . before you rush away thinking this posting isn't speaking to you because you've already accepted the invitation to follow Christ, consider that His words are more than just an initial invitation. I believe that in these words He is saying to even us, His beloved followers - in our busy day - "Follow Me".

"Follow Me" as you're making decisions.
"Follow Me" as you're disciplining your children.
"Follow Me" as you talk to friends on the phone.

The most important step you'll ever take is to ask Christ into your life but that's not where it ends. Each and every step you take must continue to be in His direction. Listen throughout your day for that 'still soft voice' that says "Follow Me" and do as Matthew did . . . no matter the cost, follow Him.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for giving us every reason to believe that You are with us always - drawing us ever closer to Your side. Open our ears so that we hear Your voice as you call us to follow You. Melt our hearts so that we willingly seek Your will for our lives!

*DVD info: The Visual Bible - Matthew
www.visual-bible.com
Purchased at Arrowhead Parable Bookstore
I have a loaner copy that I'd love to share with you . . . ask and ye shall borrow!
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Only By the Grace of God

I have been a mother for thirty years now. Twenty seven of those years I've been 'on my own'. Yes, I've been single all those years but before you start feeling sorry for me let me stop you . . . I assure you that there are blessings - there is a silver lining. For instance, God rest my mother's soul, she use to give me gifts for both Mother's Day AND Father's Day. And . . . I got the choice of whether I wanted to sit at the head of the table (which is normally Dad's throne) or I could sit on the other end where I could jump up when someone needed extra butter for their bread. I had the best of both worlds.

Oh, don't get me wrong. There were tough times. Like when decisions needed to be made . . . or when both kids were sick at the same time . . . or when little minds needed a reminder of the importance of respecting their mother. A challenge - yes - but, oh, the long ranged rewards that are mine.

Let me illustrate what I mean . . . you will remember from a prior posting (Unspeakable Love) that an important day was recently celebrated in our family. When I spoke to my son about it that day the words that he said will fill me with joy long after I leave this earth. He told me "when I realized what the date was today I told the guys . . . I'll be getting a call later from my mom". I mention that not to highlight the fact that I love talking to him - but because of how it blessed me. He knew - he KNEW that I would call and share in his joy - his accomplishment. He knew that I wouldn't forget. This makes the 'tough' times all worth while. The victory wasn't that I did it - the victory was that God planted gratitude and respect and security and trust in his heart. I couldn't demand it. I couldn't buy it. In order to earn it I had to allow God to work in and through me.

Yesterday, my daughter called. She was stranded. Life was presenting her with a challenge of great magnitude. The prayers went up. The peace reigned down. What a joy it is that it doesn't matter how old they get . . . they still need mom.

It is written in Psalm 23:5 "You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows." I know who fills my cup to overflowing. I pray that Dad will someday come to the same saving knowledge that has so richly blessed my life. He won't ever be able to recover what has been lost over the years but, oh, what richness he would have in his new found treasure!

Thank You, Jesus. Your love and faithfulness leaves me speechless.
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It's True - You DO Reap What You Sow

As I attempt to give encouragement through this blogging, I richly receive that same encouragement back so I need to take a moment and give thanks . . .

• First of all, for the hand of God on these blogs. I know that He is rising up within me and moving my fingers as I work through the postings. I can promise you that I have no knowledge of His truths - no wisdom to pass on - no talents and insights apart from HIM. I praise Him and give Him my heartfelt gratitude for the work He is doing in and through me.
• Now I would like to thank all of you for your kindness and support of this blogging. I can't even begin to tell you how much your encouragement means to me. Prayerfully, with the grace that God affords me, I will do my best to . . . as it is written in Matthew 13:8 "produce a crop that is thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted'.

Thank You, Jesus.
And thanks to all of you. May God richly bless you for the love that you so willingly share.
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Size 9 B

One of the most heartwarming qualities I find in a person is compassion. In my eyes, someone who is blessed with a heart of compassion stands out from the crowd. Truly this is a supernatural - spiritual gift from God.

Compassion isn't pity. Compassion is a willingness to wear someone else's shoes even though they're the wrong size. Even though you run the risk of developing blisters.

It is written in Luke 7:11-17 that when Jesus encountered a funeral procession for a widow's only son "His heart overflowed with compassion. "Don't cry!" He said. Then He walked over to the coffin and touched it."

Why is it that Christ was the walking epitome of compassion? Wasn't His day filled with plans of His own? Wouldn't the distraction be inconvenient? Didn't He realize that there were countless other people who were expecting Him to address their needs?

This story is short enough to whisk through quickly but stop. Put yourself there. Sit down by the side of the road and watch as the procession is approaching. Take your shoes off and offer to put on those of one person who is there. Maybe try on those that are being worn by this young man's best friend. Or better yet, ask God to give you the courage that He gave Christ to wear those worn by the grieving mother.

Look into the eyes of the mother yes, but look too into the eyes of Christ as He encountered this woman. Can you see that His heart is overflowing into His eyes? A mere touch was enough to bring about unspeakable joy. And this is the very same compassion that He willingly extends to each of us!

We all live such busy lives. Family demands. Work, school, relationships. There's no doubt about it, our shoes have high mileage on them but consider how different the widow's life would have been if Christ had not taken the time to give her relief from the shoes she was wearing.

Compassion demands your time and attention but remember also that compassion is a gift from God. One that never fails to bless both the one whose heart receives it and the one whose heart gives it.

Thank You Father for the life giving truth that is ever present in the life that Jesus lived. We come to you now, Abba, seeking 'opportunities' and strength to encounter the life Your Son epitomized. In Your time and with Your power we are willing.
Amen and Amen
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Teach & Learn With Willing Hearts

In verses 3-5 of the second chapter of a letter that the Apostle Paul once wrote to his trusted assistant, Titus, it is written "Teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good. These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands."

I am so excited that a friend of mine is putting the finishing touches on a fall class at church which centers around this verse in God's Word. Appropriately, it will be called, "Titus 2 Women".

Looking back I can see that the most influential woman in my life was my mother. She passed away several years ago now but it is she that I most often quote and it is her teachings that I refer to more than any others. She didn't walk on water or glow like an angel but her teachings were rooted in love and at any given moment she willingly gave of herself to others. And as I've confessed on many occasions . . . the older I get - the smarter she gets!

I believe that each of us - no matter what our age - is to share with other women the truths of God, tenderizing their hearts with His love. We are to be examples, yes, but even more. We are to offer our testimonies so as to develop and deepen their faith. We are to express joy and hopefulness as a means of heightening their desire to be with the Lord. We are to teach purity as a means of ensuring peace within their souls. We are to be mirror images of the incredible compassion and mercy that is Jesus. Selfless. Obedient. Sacrificial.

I am old enough to be able to offer the experience that comes from having made mistakes. But at the very same time I am also young enough to be hopeful to learn new things that will ensure my future growth and continued closeness with Christ.

What an honor it is to grow older and more hopeful for His return!!!
Let us prepare an army of women who are hopeful for His return.
Let us all be found worthy when He arrives!

Come Lord Jesus!
Amen and Amen
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Beyond the Shadow of a Doubt

As millions of other people can concur, the hand of God was on Rick Warren when he wrote the book 'The Purpose Driven Life'. After reading it a few years ago I invested in a second copy for the sole purpose of loaning it out. The motive to my 'madness' isn't noble or inventive - I'm just anxious for everyone to know, beyond the shadow of a doubt, that it's not about us - IT'S ABOUT GOD!

The sun rises and our world is new again every day. We're given another chance to get it right, to make a difference, to bring His love to others. All for His purposes.

And it is written in Hebrews 12:1 "Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us."

He created each and every one of us. There had to be a reason. And the Good News is that there is a reason - we are here to bring glory to His name as He brings people to the saving knowledge that is His Son, Christ Jesus.

We have an 'opportunity' (there's that exciting word again!) to be a part of His plan. To be His hands and His voice and a shadow of His presence within us. May people see Him when they look at us. And may we come to realize how very simple life can be when we live our lives knowing, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that it's not about us - IT'S ABOUT GOD.

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for the honor of serving You for Your purposes.
May I be strengthened for the ultimate in surrender and humility.
May I be found worthy, on the day of Your return, to be part of Your eternal plan.
Amen and Amen
bo

I've Earned This Chip . . . NOT!

Did you know that it is written in 1 Corinthians 13:5 that "Love keeps no record of wrongs".

Yep. Read it for yourself. We are expected - expected - to put our pens down and slip our tally sheets away in a drawer so that we aren't tempted to keep track of the things people do that hurt us or offend us. We are expected to love them as much as we love ourselves. Grudges and attitudes, revenge and retaliation are all out of the question. WOW!

If your spirit is anything like mine, you have to wonder how in the world that could be possible. They've offended me - how could I willingly put it all behind me . . . and act like nothing has happened? I have every right to have an attitude toward them. I've earned this chip on my shoulder.

But we're told in the 'Love Chapter' that we don't have that right. We've read time and time again in the Word that JESUS paid the price that takes away any right that we now claim as our own. If anyone has earned the right to repay someone for the hurts and offenses that came against Him it would be Jesus. I heard a preacher once mention that if he were Jesus, he would have knocked on Pilate's door on Easter morning. I confess that I have to agree, but not our God. He took the punishment - our punishment - willingly! He didn't show any signs of having an attitude. He was beaten and rejected and still He asked the Father to forgive their actions. He was compassionate and merciful. Thank God that the stripes on His back are greater than the chip on my shoulder!!!!!

We have so much to learn and although it won't be easy, oh, how the blessings will flow if we willingly allow an obedient spirit to rule! Do yourself a favor . . . walk the hill of Golgotha and when you reach the top, place your hurts and offended attitudes at the foot of His Cross - then turn and walk away from them. You have no ownership rights to them so leave them there.

Lord Jesus, please help me, Lord. I'm not strong enough to take on this challenge alone. My nature is to fight back with meanness and cruelty. I ask you, Holy Spirit, to give me the strength to lay this down at Your cross and walk away empty handed.

And there is victory in Jesus for it is written in John 8:31 "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free."

Oh, thank You Lord, for Your never ending promises that unite us forever.
Amen and Amen
bo

Opportunity

I have felt for days now that the Lord keeps drawing me to the word 'Opportunity'.

God rest my mother's soul - she always use to say 'M.Y.O.B.' (which you KNEW meant 'Mind Your Own Business') so with that being the general rule around our house I don't normally have much in the way of a curious nature but I must confess that the Lord has stirred something up in me . . . with a mere word! He's given me an air of anticipation. What in the world could He be up to?

As I listen for the soft whisper of His voice I wonder if He has something new in store for me. One of those 'open' doors you're always hearing people talk about.

• Maybe he has a new friend that He wants me to connect with.
  
• He couldn't want me to reach out to an unfriendly person could He?
  
• Maybe it's that He has a small child who needs the touch of my tender heart.
  
• Maybe it's a chance to stand up and tell someone in my world about Him.
  
• Could it be that He wants me to offer compassion to someone who is struggling with a challenge that I've already faced?
  
• Oh heavens, could it be that He wants to stretch me out beyond my area of comfort?
  
• Holy cow - could I be the next President of the United States? (syke - just checking to see if you're paying attention!)
  

With all kidding aside, I have to admit that I'm excited. Even the word - opportunity - lifts your spirits. Rarely do you think of the word 'opportunity' while thinking of the word 'hardship'. No, 'opportunity' gives your spirit a chance to expect something good, or rich. Something encouraging, or a step up.

Oh, I love this word. Living with it drives you to think of positive things. I can see myself checking around the bend or into the next doorway to see, with excitement, what might be waiting for me there. Never would you be looking over your shoulder for an 'opportunity'.

Now, don't get me wrong . . . I'm not one of those 'freaky' people who love it when their piece of cheese gets moved. Noooope, not me! When my piece of cheese gets moved I'm the quiet mouse in the corner wondering when my comfort level is going to return.

But when the Lord Himself gives you the word 'opportunity' it's different. Knowing His nature - His goodness - His compassion - His desires . . . well, you're just so sure that you'll be safe and secure and blessed because you know that you're in His hand - no matter what the 'opportunity' is that He has for you.

May my ears be opened to hear your voice Lord. May my heart be softened to share your compassion. May the baggage I carry contain gems to be lavished on someone rather than boulders to weigh me down.

It is written in Matthew 9:9 "Jesus said, Follow Me, and Matthew got up and followed Him."
Oh, YES, Lord. I will follow You anywhere - anytime!!!!!!!!!!!!

. . . to be continued!! I'll keep you 'posted'. HA! (get it - posted/postings - never mind - remnants from yesterday's humor!)
bo

Postscript to yesterday's meltdown

More laughter filled the air at my house this morning when the Lord reminded me that I was the one who had been asking Him for awhile now if we could present a blog posting that was humorous in nature. Just for something different - ya know, variety in the postings! (how naive am I?!)

Once again it's been proven - be careful what you ask for ladies!!
Thank You, Lord!
bo

Sorry guys, this one's for the gals

If this blog is to be real . . . if it is going to help ANYONE . . . it has to come from my heart and today my heart (and the rest of me) wasn't holding up very well to the daggers of menopause!

For quite some time I have been determined that I was NOT going to be one of those women who allowed the craziness of menopause to affect my life. Noooope - not me.
(note: it's painful to admit but a beloved friend of mine - or at least HE use to be - once told me that the best way to make God laugh is to tell Him that you have a plan for your life!)

So, ok, maybe . . . well probably - ALL RIGHT - ALL RIGHT, DEFINITELY, menopause HAS it's claws in me but that gives me freedom to admit that I'm enjoying - if ever so slightly - the craziness!

Today's melt down on Menopause Lane started out innocently enough as a friend and I caught a matinée of the new musical out called "Mama Mia". (funny . . . the reviews never included a warning that said that menopausal women were to enter at their own risk!) Anyway, I don't want give to much of the movie away just in case you want a chance to see the trigger scenes for yourself so I'll just say that there was a scene where the heart of a mother is exposed as she helps her only daughter get dressed for her wedding (need I elaborate!) and then on to the end of the movie when romance abounds. And that's all it took to snap the menopausal woman who is blessed with 27 years of singleness AND who is a hopeless romantic! Upon exiting this fine film the tears of menopause began to fall and it wasn't until the Lord used humor that those tears finally dissipated.

Whether it's puberty or menopause - male or female - it's amazing what crazy thoughts go through your head when hormones are in control! Case in point - - - 'I know that He's God and He didn't ask my opinion - but man . . . from my vantage point I just have to say . . . the heart of a hopeless romantic in the body of a person blessed with singleness . . . NOT a good mix!'
(respectfully submitted, of course!)

But OH, THANK YOU LORD FOR . . .
. . . Psalm 23 !
. . . Psalm 30:11-12 !
. . . AND Psalm 30:5!!! Hallelujah !

Do you ever think about God has having humor? Being playful? No? Well need I remind you that we were made in His image! And no one will ever convince me that He doesn't at least chuckle a little when He sees how far we'll go before we admit that we're NOT in control!!!

Thank You Lord for giving us the healing power of humor!!
bo

Who Am I ?

Not long after I asked Christ to come and dwell within me I went through an identity crisis. I felt an overwhelming need to figure out who I was. The following is the journey that the Lord lead me on to discover the truth . . .

Well, let's see . . .
I am the daughter of the King of kings and the Lord of lords.
but I'm also the daughter of my earthly parents . . .
and I'm the (baby) sister to my siblings . . .
and I was a wife . . .
and I'm a mother (of two of the most beloved kids on this earth!) . . .
I'm also an Aunt and a friend, and a co-worker, and a citizen . . .

But then I thought - wait----- my earthly parents are both gone now so 'technically' I'm not a daughter anymore so that branch of my family tree leaves me wondering . . .
and when my siblings are gone I won't be a sister any longer so that branch could teeter . . .
and if you notice - I said I WAS a wife - - - enough said . . .
and if something were to happen to my children (GOD FORBID) my Mother's Day cards would stop coming . . .
and if the truth be told - friends come and friends go, jobs never last forever and who knows, even I, the homebody of all homebodies, could move out of this City/State/Country . . .

All of a sudden I realized that the only guarantee I have is that
I AM THE DAUGHTER OF THE MOST HIGH GOD - THE KING . . .
That makes me a Princess. I'm Royalty. I'm sought after and loved beyond my ability to fathom.

And I don't have to do a thing to maintain my royal title - it's mine, FOREVER for it is written in Romans 8:38-39 "For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

It doesn't matter what goes on in this world - everything is subject to change. It's temporary. But the Lord never changes! He is the same today that He was yesterday and His Word promises that He will remain unchanged FOREVER. Hebrews 13:8 paraphrased.

I claim the promise of His eternal love.
I claim the heritage that was mine from the moment He created me.
I claim the inheritance that Jesus willingly sacrificed His life to give me. The riches. The glory. The everlasting Arms.

At the risk of repeating myself, let me once again say . . . Thank You, Jesus. We have countless things to thank You for Lord but first and foremost on my list is the renewal of my kinship with my Father.
My Abba.
Praise be to your name Jesus. You are my Brother, my Husband, my Friend, my Confidant, my Counselor, my everlasting Family.
Amen and Amen
bo

Feast On This

Nearly two years ago, while reading the book "Everybody's Normal Till You Get To Know Them" by John Ortberg, the Lord blessed me beyond measure with an experience that I would now like to share with you. My hope is that you too will experience the fullness of His nature . . .

I must begin by telling you that I was stopped dead in my tracks as I read this statement in the book . . .

• "God could no more forget about you than a nursing mother could forget about her baby."

As statements come and go that one could very easily be glossed over. But if you've ever been a nursing mother you can painfully read between the lines and understand fully what is being said.

Let me try to explain . . .

I breastfed both of my children. My initial efforts involved my son, my firstborn. Although I was challenged at the onset of this new experience, over time the Lord blessed me with an abundance of milk and my son with an abundant appetite. I grew to love the very idea that I was his source of nourishment.

When I read the statement that is quoted above, my mind rushed back to the night, 28 years earlier, to the first 3:00 a.m. feeding that my son slept through. I woke up but he didn't. He was content and satisfied so he had no reason to wake up. I, on the other hand, was literally bursting at the seams! My body was so anxious to provide nourishment that I woke up to a yearning within me to release this source of life sustaining food. My body ached for the chance to feed him.

And as the statement in the book suggests - that is the same degree to which God thinks of us and wants to nourish us. He aches to be our source of refreshment, our source of strength and growth and life itself!!! Think about it . . . God Himself is relieved and satisfied when we come to Him to feast . . . when we come to Him for nourishment.

I was in pain when my son didn't seek nourishment from me and God is equally pained when we don't seek Him. Eventually I was relieved when the very nature of motherhood was fulfilled within me - and God's nature is equally fulfilled as we feast on Him.

And to think that all these years later He used the remembrance of the wee hours of that night to bring me insight into His heart. A place of new understanding and intimacy. I praise Him for holding me together so many years earlier when I wanted to toss aside the whole breastfeeding thing. How incredible it is that He could see that a missed 3:00 a.m. feeding would have such an important impact on my spiritual growth and connection with Him.

And now, a Word of advice from the Apostle Peter . . . "Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good."
1 Peter 2:2
Amen and Amen
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Unspeakable Love

It is written in Romans5:8 "But God demonstrated His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

Have you ever considered all of the blessings that came your way even before you were saved. Have you ever known of someone's sin and yet at the very same time you can see that God blesses them . . . Abundantly!

And even as 'Born Again' Christians - while we are still imperfect - countless blessings come our way! Jesus chose death to show us how much He loves us. And even now, Christ chooses to love us and shower us with incredible blessings even though our actions and attitude separates us from His Holiness.

Today, the 8th anniversary of the toughest day of my life as a mother, I confess that I know personally the fullness of this truth for WHILE I WAS COMPLETELY TURNED AWAY FROM HIM, the Lord brought my child and me through a storm that NEVER would have been possible without His grace. Before that day I completely ignored the Lord - I put everything in my life ahead of Him and STILL in our moment of utter need He was there to spare me from the ultimate hell on earth.

How in the world can I ever show the depth of the remorse that I feel for the way I treated Jesus? How in the world can I ever express the gratitude that I feel for all that He has done for us? - He saved my child - Despite who I am . . . THAT'S WHO MY SAVIOR IS.

Today I rejoice and celebrate the continued hand of God on the life of the 'child' who, as a victorious adult, has emerged from that incredible storm. I humbly apologize for the choices I've made in the past and I give thanks beyond measure for the goodness that Christ has brought into my life.

Christ and Christ alone is worthy of my praise, my honor and my worship.
Amen and Amen.
bo

sniff - sniff - sniff

"Do you smell smoke?"

These are the exact words a cherished friend of mine once said to me as tears streamed down my face. At the time I was recounting for him a situation that I seemed compelled to beat myself up about. No doubt in my own way I was inviting him to the pity party that I was throwing for myself . . . but how blessed I was that he saw past my tears and chose to use this smoke tactic to help me realize that the condemnation that I was experiencing was straight from the pit of hell - for it is written in Romans 8:1 "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus . . ."

No matter what we do Christ will NOT condemn us for it. He will not declare us guilty for something that He has already been punished for. He has already paid the price so now we can be judged as guilt free. Hallelujah! Thank You, Lord Jesus!

If you suspect that condemnation is engulfing you . . . you can be sure that the evil one is in your midst so run for the fire extinguisher - God's Word - it is your ONLY hope!

These days all my friend has to do to bring me back to reality is to point his nose in the air and 'sniff - sniff - sniff'! Recounting the day that he first lead me to this promise of Christ never fails to bring both of us smiles and a roar of laughter!

Someday as I stand before my Lord and Master, Jesus Christ, I will first thank Him for the sacrifice He made that declared me guilt free and then I will thank Him for giving my dearest brother in Christ a good nose for smoke!

Thank You, Jesus!
Amen and Amen
bo

The Shadow

It is written in Psalm 91:1 . . . "Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty."

What does it mean to be in the Shadow of the Almighty?
Let's see . . .
- - You must be close in order to stand within someone's shadow.
- - If you stand close you're protected.
- - Closeness signifies love
- - You glean strength, assurance, comfort, security and trust.
- - Your foe will be frightened away as your protector engulfs them.
- - You can rest knowing that you are being cared for.
- - You will be renewed and strengthened as you rest in the shadow.
- - You realize your meagerness.
- - You feel safe and secure.
- - He is close enough to immediately come to your defense.
- - He is close enough for you to hand Him every concern.
- - He eliminates any need to worry.
- - You are kept from becoming over exposed to the outside world.
- - The perspective you have of the outside world is much clearer.
- - His influence impacts you (more likely to avoid sin) .
- - You strive to remain in this place of peace.

Thank you, Lord Jesus, for allowing us to take refuge in your mighty presence.
Amen and Amen.
bo

A Parent's Serenity Prayer

It is written in 2 Timothy 1:12 . . .
"For I know the One in whom I trust,
and I am sure that He is able,
to guard that which I have entrusted to Him,
until the day of His return."

For all you Parent's out there . . . here's the biggest favor that you could ever do for yourself . . .
1. Entrust your children to Jesus
2. Memorize that verse
3. Courageously recite it at any given moment that a need arises!!!
4. Claim it as the truth
5. Boldly claim the victory that is in Jesus!!!

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for providing us with Your Living Word. Thank You, Holy Spirit, for providing us with determination and courage to stand fearlessly on this incredible truth.

I worship You, Lord, and give You all the glory, honor and praise that only You are deserving of.
Amen and Amen
bo

The Challenge

A couple of years ago, during a Thanksgiving Day service, our Pastor told a story of a woman who, without fail, gave thanks for the daily blessings that she received from the Lord.

One Sunday morning as she was walking to church a storm moved into her area but despite the rain and wind she remained determined to reach her destination. Arriving drenched and weary she was greeted at the door by a fellow church goer who challenged her to find something on that day to be thankful for. But without a moments hesitation the woman replied, "I'm grateful that it doesn't rain like this every Sunday as I walk to church."

Truly, we do have SO much to be grateful for but how many of us look at the circumstance that we're in rather than giving thanks for something we're being spared. So on that Thanksgiving Day our Pastor challenged us to follow that woman's example and for the next year jot down at least one thing each day that we were grateful for.

Determined to meet the challenge, I faithfully took a moment or two each night before turning off the lights to log my thanks in for that day. My blessing came the following Thanksgiving Day as I spent time reading back through the memories I had recorded. Talk about gratitude!!! There in black and white I saw the hand of God in my life in a real and lasting way. His love for me became so obvious. His grace was truly amazing. And thankfully a new appreciation for Him emerged.

So now I challenge you. Start today and for the next 12 months jot down daily at least one thing that you are grateful for. I promise you that it won't be a waste of time. Then, one year from today be prepared to be amazed as you read your year in review!

It is written in Psalm 107:1 "Give thanks to the Lord for He is good! His love endures forever."

Lord Jesus, You shower us with blessings each and every day. May we come to realize the extent of Your incredibly generous nature as we venture through the next 12 months.
Amen and Amen
bo

Ants . . . Who Knew???

One warm Sunday afternoon I was sitting on the swing out in our back yard. As I leisurely soaked up the warmth of the day I caught sight of something moving in the grass by my feet. As I paused to investigate I found that the movement was brought on by a 'band' of ants who were transporting something they obviously thought of as a treasure. As they marched off in what appeared to be a work detail, their valued cargo was being rolled along effortlessly from ant to ant.

This kind of 'excitement' wasn't something that I would normally go looking for but on that warm day I was totally captivated by their ingenuity and resourcefulness. I watched as each ant took his turn - every one of them teaming up to achieve their goal. I was in awe of God's creativity and the instincts that He had given each of them. I also became aware of the fact that at nearly every turn they would run into a wall. A thick blade of grass, a twig, or even some old bird seeds.

As they trudged along I watched. From my vantage point I could clearly see obstacles that would soon be in their path. How in the world, I wondered, were they going to get by that roadblock. As they neared yet another challenge I heard myself saying to them "Just ask me and I'll move it for you. Look up here - ask me - I would love to clear your path for you. But I can't do it unless you ask me to."

Well, it was as though the heavens opened up to me at that very moment and God Himself said "HELLO - that's exactly what I want you to do when you're faced with challenges in your life. Look up. I'm right here just waiting for you to ask me for help. I would love to clear the path that you're on. From my vantage point I can see the roadblock that's ahead of you and I dearly want to help you cross over this one."

It is written in Luke 11:11-13 "You fathers - if your children ask for a fish, do you give them a snake instead? Or if they ask for an egg, do you give them a scorpion? Of course not! If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him."

We serve one truly incredible God!! He meets us where we're at - even when we're just watching ants work! And He's willing to shower us with gifts beyond what we can fathom. How much more wonderful could it possibly get.

A friend of mine reminds me often that He never misses an opportunity to bring glory to His name . . . to which I always reply - AMEN - and rightfully so!!!

I praise You, Lord God, for Your generous out pouring of Grace on us. NEVER have You failed to amaze me.
Amen and Amen
bo

I'm out of balance but I'm in my glory!

Never has there been a time in my life when my focus has been well balanced. I've been an 'all or nothing' person right from the 'get-go' (as my mother would say). I wear my heart on my sleeve and the encourager in me is always more than willing to share my passions with anyone who will listen.

To illustrate, let me explain that I have an over the top passion for my children. The day I realized that I had allowed them to become idols before me - and that the Lord wanted me to "give them up" to Him - was, to say the least, a very humbling day for me. Crying out to the Lord I couldn't get my arms around the fact that HE had given me these two treasures - HE had given me that all consuming agape love for them - how in the world could He tell me now that I was wrong for letting them be my all in all?

As I considered all of this I came to realize that even though I had been blessed with love beyond measure for my children, they had from time to time disappointed me, hurt me, made me cry, and many times I was left wanting for something more in my life. What an eye-opener it was to see that it was not possible for them to be my all in all.

It is written in Matthew 10:37 ". . . anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me."

And it was then that Jesus said to me "I am enough.
Come and be consumed by Me.
Come - I am the Bread of Life and I will nourish you.
John 6:35 paraphrased
Come - drink from the Living Water and you will thirst no more.
John 4:13-14 paraphrased
Come - I will never leave you, I will never forsake you."
Hebrews 13:5
My all in all. Faithful. Honest. Trustworthy. Dependable. My Counselor. My Best Friend. My Husband. My breath. My very life.

To this day I remain 'out of balance' but now Christ in me is the hope of glory. People sometimes make me feel like I'm a 'freak' when it comes to being out of balance about Him. Jesus said to expect that. But little do they know that I fervently pray that they too will someday be consumed and 'out of balance' by the truth that is in Christ Jesus.

Hallelujah, Jesus - Thine the Glory.
Hallelujah, Jesus - Amen
bo

Bouncing Back . . .

It probably won't come as a surprise to most of you that even the heart of an encourager can someones 'take a hit'. Burdens come at all of us and an encourager is not exempt from these attacks. I dare say that it is the encourager himself (or if the shoe fits - herself) who is most shocked by the direct hit. Oh, those rose colored glasses!!!

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

Jesus is promising to be our help in times such as these! If you are good at reading between the lines you'll see that what He's saying is "I am mighty. I am powerful. I am strong . . . so bring it on!" There isn't anything to insignificant - or so heavy that He can't manage it. For you see, these are the burdens that He overcame when He hung on the cross. Truly the weight of the world was on His shoulders - our oppression, our pain, our disease, our sin. He became it all . . . HE OVERCAME IT ALL . . . and He declared "It is finished." John 19:30

Because He knows the weight of what is coming against us, He is willing to partner with us to see it through.
Call on Him. Praise Him. Thank Him.
Lay your burden down - step back away from it - and walk away!
NOOOOO - don't turn back and try to pick it up again - remember you're weak and picking it back up may be hazardous to your health!
As you empty yourself of this unwanted baggage, allow the Holy Spirit to come in and fill you with His joy - experience His peace that surpasses all understanding. (paraphrased Philippians 4:7)

You are not called to go it alone - call on the Name that is above all names. For it is written in 1 John 4:4 "Greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world."
Hallelujah, Jesus!

Thank you, Lord Jesus, for allowing us to trade our sorrows in for your joy!
I am so thankful to confess, Lord, that Your joy is my strength!
I give You praise and honor, and glory, Oh Prince of Peace.
Amen and Amen
bo

The Fam

There's nothing more important in life than your family.
Whether you've developed a good relationship with them over the years or not, there's no getting away from the fact that they are important to who you are.

Being close to them sometimes drives you crazy.
Being distant from them always creates a hole within you.

It is written about Jesus in Matthew 12:47-50 "Someone told Him, "Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you." He replied to him, "Who is my mother, and who are my brothers? Pointing to His disciples, He said, "Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother."

With that, Jesus brought all believers together as the Family of God.

To say that JESUS - as the Son of the Most High God - realized the importance of family is a gross understatement but in addition to that family relationship, He taught us the importance of the kinship with fellow believers.

As I apply this truth to my own life I can recall a time when I had no church family.
I was unsaved and full of myself.
My belief system consisted of 'The Truths According to Bonnie".
I had no one to pray FOR me or with me.
I had no Pastors to stop by and visit me when concerns were mounting.
I had no involvement with ministries that would direct my thoughts and efforts to anyone other than myself.
It was a time of no friends. No fellowship. No life.
I was self-centered . . . self-sufficient . . . self-reliant . . . AND . . . self-destructing.
To say that I was miserable and lonely is yet another gross understatement.

But now, PRAISE GOD, BY HIS GRACE, with two families I am whole and full of life.
I am so blessed to be part of the life of a church family - with people around me who are anxious to teach me about the grace and mercy and forgiveness of our incredible God.
A very special 'family' who helps me fulfill the purposes the Lord has for me.
It took the combined effort of both of my families but finally I have come to know that not only am I not in control . . . but thank You, Lord . . . I know that I don't want to be!!

All hail to You, Lord Jesus!

Thank You, Jesus for the richness of both of my families.
Thank You that I am right where You want me to be.
Thank You for giving me joyous family members who cheer me on, lift me up in prayer and direct Your angels to guard me.
Hallelujah and Amen
bo

He Inhabits the Praises of His People

Together we do battle for those You give us to love, Lord.

Oh, let us praise you, Jesus!
When our hearts are full of joy and when we need You most.
Let us sing of Your goodness and power and love.
You are mighty in battle and gentle in care.
Your soft hands surround us with security.
You are our Rock. Solid - Unmovable.
Your love for us is our lifeline.
Your power, our mighty fortress.
You are the Leader of Heaven's Army.
Strong in battle. A Warrior, second to none.
Arm us, oh Lord, we pray
with assurance and confidence and boldness.
You are our Victor. You are our conquering Hero.
Champion. Freedom Fighter. Triumphant in war.
You are GREAT in loving kindness.
You are Magnificent in strength.
Your tender mercies sustain us.
Your grace is without end.

You overpower our enemies before us.
You are our answer to prayer.
You slay the desires of the enemy.
You defend the upright.
You protect the innocent.
Your compassion and mercy are unfathomable.

Your Blood, Jesus, is our ONLY defense.
Your Blood, Jesus, brings us peace.
Your Blood, Jesus, creates in us a power to overcome.
Your Blood, Jesus, defeats all enemies.

It is Your Blood, Jesus, that was shed - once for all - for You declared
"IT IS FINISHED" John 19:30
. . . So it is written. So let it be done.

Amen and Amen
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Pure Pleasure . . .

In 1 Peter 2:5 it is written "Through the meditation of Jesus Christ,
you offer spiritual sacrifices that please God."

Ahhhhh, meditating on Jesus
. . . The God
. . . the man
. . . the incredible goodness that defines His very nature

How awesome - - -
. . . to experience His compassion
. . . to hear His truths
. . . to be inspired by His humbleness
. . . to realize His wisdom

Have you ever - - -
. . . shared in His victories?
. . . enjoyed His mercy?
. . . basked in His presence?
. . . felt His touch?

Are you - - -
. . . honored by His attention?
. . . thrilled with His boldness?
. . . strengthened by His protection?
. . . overwhelmed by His love?

Have you even considered - - -
. . . His sense of humor?
. . . His playfulness?
. . . His joy?

Can you even - - -
. . . understand His grace?
. . . deserve His forgiveness?
. . . consider His power?
. . . fathom His agony?
. . . imagine standing with Him face to face?
. . . want for ANYTHING but Him?

How could something that is so rich beyond description for me, be so pleasing to my God?
It is written in Genesis 1:27 "So God created man in His own image."
And although we soon fell away, the sacrifice that Jesus made for us reconnected us once again with the Father . . . and once again our pleasures are one with His.

With a grateful heart I praise you, Father, for your loving kindness to us - your chosen ones.
Thank you for the privilege of pondering the indescribable nature that is Your Son.
Amen and Amen
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