So, where are you in trusting God? Is there some area of life that you need for Him to make larger or better? Can you trust Him to do that? Here a few tips for living it out: (Pages 42-45)
1) Know Who it is You are Trusting
Read the Bible and learn about God's character. The more you know about Him the easier it will be to trust Him. You might want to read the Psalms. You'll also want to get to know Jesus, for Jesus said that if we have seen Him, we have seen the Father. See John 14: 9. In fact read all of John. Look at the pages of John, and the other gospels, too, and see Jesus's love, His care, His compassion, and His power. That is who you are trusting. Watch Him as He deals with His sheep, and remember that you ARE one.
2) Decide What Needs to Change, and Define the Steps
Look at the areas of life that you want to be different, and ask yourself how much FAITH you are exercising in those areas. What first step do you need to take? Know that God will always be there to catch you if you fall, and He will always have your best interests in mind.
3) Ask yourself if there was anything from your past that has harmed your ability to trust. Was it people? The church? Did you have a traumatic experience? Find out where you got your "trust map" and begin to rewrite the path of your future. If necessary, get some counseling to help.
4) Share in the Faith Testimonies of Others
The Bible says that what others have done and what God has done in their lives helps our own faith. You will be amazed as you learn what God has done in the world, in our communities, in our circles of friends and family. Trust is a muscle that can grow as you learn to be certain that He can bring about what you cannot see. Of course you can't see it yet! It will only come into being as you take that step, the step of trust. Find a bible study, a prayer group, a community that will share their experiences with you, and you can share yours, too.
Now, I've shared what the key is that opens the door to blessing. Trust is the key.
The rest of this wonderful book is spent looking at some of the secrets God has given us so that it might go well with us in the areas of life that matter to us most: Our emotional well-being, our relationships, and our purpose. We will find that the Creator Himself has told us how to make the life He created work best. And then the final chapter brings you back to some UNRELIGIOUS secret things of God that will ground you and prepare you to live out all the secrets you've discovered in this book.
So see if you can find your book "The Secret Things of God" by Dr. Henry Cloud, and your bible, read them, and Let's go unlock some treasures!
*************************************************************************************
This will be all I'll write on this "book report". I do encourage you to find this wonderful book and your bible and read "the rest of the story". And go on a treasure hunt - you won't be sorry. You'll be "rich".
James 2:17 and Deuteronomy 4:29
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Monday, September 7, 2009
Trust God Even When You Don't Understand
There are so many times when we pray and pray and seek God and what we ask for is not the way it turns out. What then?
There are 3 examples I think of for now: Josi whose life was spared through a miraculous discovery by a dog as she lay in the muddy field face down, unable to move after a terrible car accident that should have taken her life. She was spared. Now 3 years later, she is still fighting to be able to walk, talk, eat - I guess you could say she was spared, but for what purpose? We pray and pray, and nothing changes much. She was only 17 at the time. Our nephew, Mike, suffered with cancer, and died - in the prime of his life - 48 years old! He was a wonderful man, left his young son and wife. So heartbreaking. He is the uncle of Josi. We are very close to that family, and this is so hard for us. My sister, Pat, suffered with bladder cancer and fought the good fight, almost conquering the beast, and then succumbed to it on July 4th last year. We were devastated!
I know Josi has a purpose for her life. Her Dad, Joe, told me that he knows what the purpose is - because of this awful accident and her "miraculous" rescue, it brought his family to the Lord. They came together to pray every day, and God is present in their prayer - they FEEL him there!
It was so hard to understand why God would take Mike at such an important time in his life. And Patsy, too. But when we went to their funerals, pretty heartbroken over their deaths, it was not a gloomy funeral - either of them - it was more like a celebration.
That's because both Patsy and Mike were believers in God and heaven, and people got up and shared mostly about where Patsy and Mike are now, and how they all knew they would see them again. Everyone was sad, and tears flowed, and stuff, we miss them . . . but we were okay with it in another way. I think it's because we truly, really believe we will be with them again. I know that is true.
Because Jesus said he would take anyone who believed in Him with Him to heaven. I know that Jesus lives today, because I have seen him do so much over the years. I can honestly say that I know Him. So, when someone dies, we can know that we will see them again in a very real place just like now. And that is why the Bible says that as believers, we do not 'grieve like people who have no hope.' Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13 - 17. We are sad, but we are certain that it is not over.
Do I ever have doubts? Yes! I used to have lots of doubts, but I am realizing more and more that God the Father, Jesus His son, and the Holy Spirit is REAL! There is a lot I don't understand, especially when bad things happen, like Josi's accident, and Mike and Patsy's death. But I know He is real, and I trust Him with the things I do not understand and take comfort in the fact that He gets it even when I don't.
It's kind of like when my kids and grandkids were little, and things would happen that I understood, but they didn't get it. When they would ask, I'd explain, but they still didn't understand. When they were pre-school and young children they were not yet capable of understanding the things that adults can fully comprehend. So they would say "oh" and ask "when's supper"? Somehow you were all okay with the fact that you didn't get it, but I did. And I guess that's how I am. I don't have a problem with the fact that there are things I do not understand about God or why He allows some things to happen. If I can understand things my kids can't, I can certainly see how an infinite God can understand things that I can't.
When we connect ourselves to the SOURCE of all that's good, we open our lives up to unimaginable blessings. Reflect awhile on this truth and the power of this secret of God. Then maybe you will want to share what this all means to you!
(from pages 40 - 42)
There are 3 examples I think of for now: Josi whose life was spared through a miraculous discovery by a dog as she lay in the muddy field face down, unable to move after a terrible car accident that should have taken her life. She was spared. Now 3 years later, she is still fighting to be able to walk, talk, eat - I guess you could say she was spared, but for what purpose? We pray and pray, and nothing changes much. She was only 17 at the time. Our nephew, Mike, suffered with cancer, and died - in the prime of his life - 48 years old! He was a wonderful man, left his young son and wife. So heartbreaking. He is the uncle of Josi. We are very close to that family, and this is so hard for us. My sister, Pat, suffered with bladder cancer and fought the good fight, almost conquering the beast, and then succumbed to it on July 4th last year. We were devastated!
I know Josi has a purpose for her life. Her Dad, Joe, told me that he knows what the purpose is - because of this awful accident and her "miraculous" rescue, it brought his family to the Lord. They came together to pray every day, and God is present in their prayer - they FEEL him there!
It was so hard to understand why God would take Mike at such an important time in his life. And Patsy, too. But when we went to their funerals, pretty heartbroken over their deaths, it was not a gloomy funeral - either of them - it was more like a celebration.
That's because both Patsy and Mike were believers in God and heaven, and people got up and shared mostly about where Patsy and Mike are now, and how they all knew they would see them again. Everyone was sad, and tears flowed, and stuff, we miss them . . . but we were okay with it in another way. I think it's because we truly, really believe we will be with them again. I know that is true.
Because Jesus said he would take anyone who believed in Him with Him to heaven. I know that Jesus lives today, because I have seen him do so much over the years. I can honestly say that I know Him. So, when someone dies, we can know that we will see them again in a very real place just like now. And that is why the Bible says that as believers, we do not 'grieve like people who have no hope.' Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13 - 17. We are sad, but we are certain that it is not over.
Do I ever have doubts? Yes! I used to have lots of doubts, but I am realizing more and more that God the Father, Jesus His son, and the Holy Spirit is REAL! There is a lot I don't understand, especially when bad things happen, like Josi's accident, and Mike and Patsy's death. But I know He is real, and I trust Him with the things I do not understand and take comfort in the fact that He gets it even when I don't.
It's kind of like when my kids and grandkids were little, and things would happen that I understood, but they didn't get it. When they would ask, I'd explain, but they still didn't understand. When they were pre-school and young children they were not yet capable of understanding the things that adults can fully comprehend. So they would say "oh" and ask "when's supper"? Somehow you were all okay with the fact that you didn't get it, but I did. And I guess that's how I am. I don't have a problem with the fact that there are things I do not understand about God or why He allows some things to happen. If I can understand things my kids can't, I can certainly see how an infinite God can understand things that I can't.
When we connect ourselves to the SOURCE of all that's good, we open our lives up to unimaginable blessings. Reflect awhile on this truth and the power of this secret of God. Then maybe you will want to share what this all means to you!
(from pages 40 - 42)
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Trust God's character - not any particular outcome
What about the times when things don't work out so well? Does this mean that God has let you down?
The Bible is very clear on this: we do not trust God based on particular outcomes we can SEE, Our trust is based on His love for us and His character. The character of God and our journey with Him is what matters. He is pleased by our faith, our trust. It's easy to believe God on the mountaintop; but when we're in the valley and it's dark and we feel all alone, that's when our faith is tested.
As you all know, I Love to go to the mountains and enjoy the smells, the sounds, the sights - but every year when I have to come down from the mountains, I go through a time of darkness, feeling like I wish I could stay there in the mountains forever. Then, I have to pull myself together and get back to my regular life again! That's where I am and what I'm going through right now. It seems to happen every year. So I guess I can relate to what the author is saying about the mountaintop and the valley. The mountain top is when everything is going well, and we can know God loves us, and we experience Him and how He is working in our lives. The valley is when things go wrong. It seems as if God forgot us, like He isn't listening or noticing our needs. When we lose a loved one, a job, our health, or a relationship, these are the times when trusting God is difficult. But - they are also the times when we need him the most. They are the times when we need to know that no matter how bad it is, God is there with us, that He loves us and is going to take us through whatever we face.
If we keep holding on to God during the dark times, we will find that He never ever leaves our side as we walk through the pain and that when we come out on the other side, He is still there beside us and that our faith has been strengthened in the process.
Sometimes He does not deliver us from our difficulty at all, but simply gives us His presence and the presence of others.
Read the book of Job in your bible. Now there is a man who went through everything that could destroy his faith in a God who cares, but He kept holding on to God no matter what. He knew He was the only and true God, that He is a good God, and that He loves us. The same for us - when we have that kind of faith, even when we don't understand it all, we know enough to trust God based on His love for us and His character. He WILL bring us through our difficulties. He DOES care and He loves us!
(from pages 38 and 39)
The Bible is very clear on this: we do not trust God based on particular outcomes we can SEE, Our trust is based on His love for us and His character. The character of God and our journey with Him is what matters. He is pleased by our faith, our trust. It's easy to believe God on the mountaintop; but when we're in the valley and it's dark and we feel all alone, that's when our faith is tested.
As you all know, I Love to go to the mountains and enjoy the smells, the sounds, the sights - but every year when I have to come down from the mountains, I go through a time of darkness, feeling like I wish I could stay there in the mountains forever. Then, I have to pull myself together and get back to my regular life again! That's where I am and what I'm going through right now. It seems to happen every year. So I guess I can relate to what the author is saying about the mountaintop and the valley. The mountain top is when everything is going well, and we can know God loves us, and we experience Him and how He is working in our lives. The valley is when things go wrong. It seems as if God forgot us, like He isn't listening or noticing our needs. When we lose a loved one, a job, our health, or a relationship, these are the times when trusting God is difficult. But - they are also the times when we need him the most. They are the times when we need to know that no matter how bad it is, God is there with us, that He loves us and is going to take us through whatever we face.
If we keep holding on to God during the dark times, we will find that He never ever leaves our side as we walk through the pain and that when we come out on the other side, He is still there beside us and that our faith has been strengthened in the process.
Sometimes He does not deliver us from our difficulty at all, but simply gives us His presence and the presence of others.
Read the book of Job in your bible. Now there is a man who went through everything that could destroy his faith in a God who cares, but He kept holding on to God no matter what. He knew He was the only and true God, that He is a good God, and that He loves us. The same for us - when we have that kind of faith, even when we don't understand it all, we know enough to trust God based on His love for us and His character. He WILL bring us through our difficulties. He DOES care and He loves us!
(from pages 38 and 39)
Friday, September 4, 2009
Dare to be Vulnerable
When I was a 4-H leader, I was privileged to be able to go to a camp in Idaho called "Chatcolab". I learned so much there about myself and that I could, indeed, be lovable and had a lot to offer my circle of people! I started going there before I was baptized in the Spirit. We learned a lot about trusting others and ourselves. One of the "games" we played was to trust someone in back of me to catch me. I stood in front of someone and just leaned back while the other person caught me before I hit the floor. That took total trust! I had a very hard time with it, because I was so afraid that I would fall to the floor and hurt myself or the one behind me. Try it sometime. It takes total trust.
Page 35 of this book:
"If we do not trust, we are limited to our own resources, and we weren't created to do it all on our own." I think of the birth of each of my 7 babies. I was totally in the hands of my Dr. during the births. I could not have done that all on my own. I had to trust the Dr and the nurses that they knew what they were doing to help each of them make their appearance into the world. And then the babies had no choice but to trust me and Dad and all the caretakers in their lives. Because they were cared for and nurtured and trusted those in charge, each of them learned what they needed to learn to stay alive and grow - how to eat, how to walk, how to talk - everything. Because the babies were vulnerable to the ones who provide what is needed, they thrived! The babies could not get those things on their own. They had to trust Dad and I to teach them, to nurture them, to love them enough to do what is good and right for them. They had to trust us to provide for them the food, shelter, clothing, etc., that they needed. Now, as adults, the grown up babies - and us - are the same.
We need to trust, we need to be vulnerable, we need to have faith in the heavenly Father who will always care for us. We just need to trust HIM.
Page 36: "So, what do YOU need to trust God for? Well, pretty much everything, but most of all, the things that you are not able to provide for yourself." On page 37 there is a list that may be helpful to help you see what you can trust him in and for. "Did you go through them with God, or did you try to go it alone? Next time, let Him help you with your needs." (you may want to read the list, or make a list about your own struggles and what you've tried to handle in your life - by yourself). "It's not trust if we have no need. Take a step. Jump in. Dare to believe. God will not let you down!" Maybe you could share ways you've trusted God in situations you could not handle without Him, and how you found He was there. Sometimes we don't see it until we look back and remember situations or times, and then we can say oh, yeah, that was God working in my life!
Some more tomorrow! In the meantime, make your list of what is in your life NOW that you need to trust God for - what is there that you cannot seem to accomplish on your own?
Page 35 of this book:
"If we do not trust, we are limited to our own resources, and we weren't created to do it all on our own." I think of the birth of each of my 7 babies. I was totally in the hands of my Dr. during the births. I could not have done that all on my own. I had to trust the Dr and the nurses that they knew what they were doing to help each of them make their appearance into the world. And then the babies had no choice but to trust me and Dad and all the caretakers in their lives. Because they were cared for and nurtured and trusted those in charge, each of them learned what they needed to learn to stay alive and grow - how to eat, how to walk, how to talk - everything. Because the babies were vulnerable to the ones who provide what is needed, they thrived! The babies could not get those things on their own. They had to trust Dad and I to teach them, to nurture them, to love them enough to do what is good and right for them. They had to trust us to provide for them the food, shelter, clothing, etc., that they needed. Now, as adults, the grown up babies - and us - are the same.
We need to trust, we need to be vulnerable, we need to have faith in the heavenly Father who will always care for us. We just need to trust HIM.
Page 36: "So, what do YOU need to trust God for? Well, pretty much everything, but most of all, the things that you are not able to provide for yourself." On page 37 there is a list that may be helpful to help you see what you can trust him in and for. "Did you go through them with God, or did you try to go it alone? Next time, let Him help you with your needs." (you may want to read the list, or make a list about your own struggles and what you've tried to handle in your life - by yourself). "It's not trust if we have no need. Take a step. Jump in. Dare to believe. God will not let you down!" Maybe you could share ways you've trusted God in situations you could not handle without Him, and how you found He was there. Sometimes we don't see it until we look back and remember situations or times, and then we can say oh, yeah, that was God working in my life!
Some more tomorrow! In the meantime, make your list of what is in your life NOW that you need to trust God for - what is there that you cannot seem to accomplish on your own?
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Trust is the key
On page 28 of this book:
Opening yourself up to the gifts of God means trusting that He loves you and will provide for you. It means daring to be vulnerable with both God and the right people. It often means trusting beyond what you can see. It means believing in the character of God even more than you believe in your desired outcome.
God's blessings await you. You hold the key that unlocks them: trust. Trust is the key that opens the door to blessings.
Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; depend not on your own understanding. Seek HIS will in all you do, and He will show you the path to take."
This secret of trust is the key that opens the door to all the other secrets. Through trust, or FAITH, we connect with God in a way that shows our reliance on Him and our surrender to Him. This is what He desires most from us.
When I first experienced my personal relationship with God, with Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, I had no idea what it meant to trust God, but I soon learned - I had to trust HIM, because there was nowhere else to go. Our home and almost all our belongings were consumed in a house fire. We had our 7 children, and thank God, we were not home when this happened. This was a big clue - that God was at work, and that I could trust Him to continue to take care of us. And He did!
In the book, on page 30, the author talks about an incredible picture of the sunset over an ocean. I have a picture like that in my "prayer room" bedroom. I am also reminded of looking up at the night skies in the mountains and seeing the millions of stars, the babbling and beauty of the creek, the birds with their wonderful melodies, all the beauty of His creation everywhere. Ralph Waldo Emerson had a quote under the author's picture: "All I have seen teaches me to trust the Creator for all I have not seen." I also think of how we are all created with the same parts to our bodies - intricate and perfect! Sharon reminded us of that in a previous post. Look around you. Someone had to have created it all! Someone a lot bigger and smarter than I.
We had to have a creator! He made us! He cares about us! He cares for us! There is the verse, and I'm not sure where it is, but I'll find it and post it here, that if God takes care of the birds of the air, then He can take care of me. This just blows me away - and to think I would have missed it if I hadn't "investigated" - and trusted - and found the key.
So, how do we unlock the secret of trust? The first answer is that we take that very first step of faith. Like the Nike commercial says, we just do it!
We don't always know what's in front of us or what will happen next; (sometimes we'd probably panic if we did know!) but if we know the One who knows, we can trust Him to take care of things because we know He loves us.
This will be all I'll write for today. As you think of these things, and "Trust" and faith, look around you, and count the many blessings God has given you. Thank Him from the bottom of your heart - and keep on trusting Him. He's there, longing to listen and wanting to bless you.
Maybe you could share some times when you had to have that faith in someone bigger and smarter than you - a CREATOR - a time when you trusted God and He directed your path.
I would like to share a bit about an answered prayer. Paul just called. His daughter Sandy and her husband live in Tajunga, Calif - right where the terrible fires were raging. They were in Red Lodge when the fires broke out. All was evacuated all around them, and they didn't know what to expect when they got home on Tuesday. I told Paul I'd be praying - and I did. Sandy called to say the fire had burned all around their subdivision and through some of it. They are the third house down the mountain from the forest that was burning. The fire stopped at the end of their street. Praise God! Some of their neighbors weren't as fortunate, so pray for all of those caught in that awful fire. Today is Sandy and Loren's 26th wedding anniversary!
Opening yourself up to the gifts of God means trusting that He loves you and will provide for you. It means daring to be vulnerable with both God and the right people. It often means trusting beyond what you can see. It means believing in the character of God even more than you believe in your desired outcome.
God's blessings await you. You hold the key that unlocks them: trust. Trust is the key that opens the door to blessings.
Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; depend not on your own understanding. Seek HIS will in all you do, and He will show you the path to take."
This secret of trust is the key that opens the door to all the other secrets. Through trust, or FAITH, we connect with God in a way that shows our reliance on Him and our surrender to Him. This is what He desires most from us.
When I first experienced my personal relationship with God, with Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, I had no idea what it meant to trust God, but I soon learned - I had to trust HIM, because there was nowhere else to go. Our home and almost all our belongings were consumed in a house fire. We had our 7 children, and thank God, we were not home when this happened. This was a big clue - that God was at work, and that I could trust Him to continue to take care of us. And He did!
In the book, on page 30, the author talks about an incredible picture of the sunset over an ocean. I have a picture like that in my "prayer room" bedroom. I am also reminded of looking up at the night skies in the mountains and seeing the millions of stars, the babbling and beauty of the creek, the birds with their wonderful melodies, all the beauty of His creation everywhere. Ralph Waldo Emerson had a quote under the author's picture: "All I have seen teaches me to trust the Creator for all I have not seen." I also think of how we are all created with the same parts to our bodies - intricate and perfect! Sharon reminded us of that in a previous post. Look around you. Someone had to have created it all! Someone a lot bigger and smarter than I.
We had to have a creator! He made us! He cares about us! He cares for us! There is the verse, and I'm not sure where it is, but I'll find it and post it here, that if God takes care of the birds of the air, then He can take care of me. This just blows me away - and to think I would have missed it if I hadn't "investigated" - and trusted - and found the key.
So, how do we unlock the secret of trust? The first answer is that we take that very first step of faith. Like the Nike commercial says, we just do it!
We don't always know what's in front of us or what will happen next; (sometimes we'd probably panic if we did know!) but if we know the One who knows, we can trust Him to take care of things because we know He loves us.
This will be all I'll write for today. As you think of these things, and "Trust" and faith, look around you, and count the many blessings God has given you. Thank Him from the bottom of your heart - and keep on trusting Him. He's there, longing to listen and wanting to bless you.
Maybe you could share some times when you had to have that faith in someone bigger and smarter than you - a CREATOR - a time when you trusted God and He directed your path.
I would like to share a bit about an answered prayer. Paul just called. His daughter Sandy and her husband live in Tajunga, Calif - right where the terrible fires were raging. They were in Red Lodge when the fires broke out. All was evacuated all around them, and they didn't know what to expect when they got home on Tuesday. I told Paul I'd be praying - and I did. Sandy called to say the fire had burned all around their subdivision and through some of it. They are the third house down the mountain from the forest that was burning. The fire stopped at the end of their street. Praise God! Some of their neighbors weren't as fortunate, so pray for all of those caught in that awful fire. Today is Sandy and Loren's 26th wedding anniversary!
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
The Search
I'm sorry I have been so "absent" from my blog for awhile. It's been a busy summer. But now I'm back, and I would like to share a bit of what I read while camping. It spoke so loud and clear to me, and blessed me immensely. I hope it will do the same for you.
I was reading 2 wonderful spiritual books. I read both of them over and over. They aren't very big books, but oh so good. The first one I'd like to share with you is "The Secret Things of God" - 1st Corinthians 4:1. (I gave each of you a copy of this book for Christmas last year. If you haven't read it, you will want to find it and open the pages. Such a good book!)
*************************************************************************************
The first chapter beginning on page 1, is "The Search" - Seek ye first the Kingdom of God AND His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well - Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:33 and 34.
The second chapter beginning on page 15, is "If You Seek God, He Will Show Up". In Jeremiah 29:13 - 14 we read "You will seek me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. I will be found by you, declares the Lord". You do not have to have the biggest faith, or belief, in the world. Just the act of believing enough to SEEK is enough for Him to come to you. (I asked for God, and Jesus showed up - page 21).
This is The secret! To live out this secret means that you will:
1 - Seek Him in the quiet of your heart - go to a quiet place and tell Him you are looking for Him. Pour out your heart. Ask Jesus to meet you and come to you. Ask Him to show up in your life.
2 - Seek Him with another or others. Get together with someone or others who know Him well. It may seem strange, but you will find it one of the most incredible spiritual experiences you can have. Ask that person or persons how he found God and what God does in his life.
3 - Seek Him by reading the bible. He will talk to you there. It is His love letter to you. If you are not one who reads the bible much, start in Psalms and the book of John. Talk to God about what you are reading, and sit still and let Him talk to you.
4 - Seek Him for the answers you need in your life. Relationships, finances, troubles, healing, guidance, kids, or whatever you need help with.
SEEK AND YOU WILL FIND!!!!
On page 14, it says: No matter where you are in your faith journey - whether you are just testing the waters to see if there is anything out there worth believing in or you are a longtime believer desiring a richer, more fulfilling relationship with the Creator of the universe - the starting point is always the same. SEEK!. This is where it all begins.
SEEK AND YOU WILL FIND.
************************************************************************************
This is only the first 2 chapters - very condensed and in my own words. You will want to follow along by reading it yourselves. And be sure to pick up your bible and seek some of the treasures that are in there. Please share here your thoughts and how God is speaking to you through your seeking and listening. If you can't find your book, or I didn't give you one, you will want to go purchase it for yourselves. It's a book that is worth every penny and the time spent in it. The author is Dr. Henry Cloud. Again - the book is "The Secret Things of God" - unlocking the treasures reserved for YOU"
Tomorrow I'll share some more of what is in this wonderful little book. See you then right here!
I was reading 2 wonderful spiritual books. I read both of them over and over. They aren't very big books, but oh so good. The first one I'd like to share with you is "The Secret Things of God" - 1st Corinthians 4:1. (I gave each of you a copy of this book for Christmas last year. If you haven't read it, you will want to find it and open the pages. Such a good book!)
*************************************************************************************
The first chapter beginning on page 1, is "The Search" - Seek ye first the Kingdom of God AND His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well - Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:33 and 34.
The second chapter beginning on page 15, is "If You Seek God, He Will Show Up". In Jeremiah 29:13 - 14 we read "You will seek me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. I will be found by you, declares the Lord". You do not have to have the biggest faith, or belief, in the world. Just the act of believing enough to SEEK is enough for Him to come to you. (I asked for God, and Jesus showed up - page 21).
This is The secret! To live out this secret means that you will:
1 - Seek Him in the quiet of your heart - go to a quiet place and tell Him you are looking for Him. Pour out your heart. Ask Jesus to meet you and come to you. Ask Him to show up in your life.
2 - Seek Him with another or others. Get together with someone or others who know Him well. It may seem strange, but you will find it one of the most incredible spiritual experiences you can have. Ask that person or persons how he found God and what God does in his life.
3 - Seek Him by reading the bible. He will talk to you there. It is His love letter to you. If you are not one who reads the bible much, start in Psalms and the book of John. Talk to God about what you are reading, and sit still and let Him talk to you.
4 - Seek Him for the answers you need in your life. Relationships, finances, troubles, healing, guidance, kids, or whatever you need help with.
SEEK AND YOU WILL FIND!!!!
On page 14, it says: No matter where you are in your faith journey - whether you are just testing the waters to see if there is anything out there worth believing in or you are a longtime believer desiring a richer, more fulfilling relationship with the Creator of the universe - the starting point is always the same. SEEK!. This is where it all begins.
SEEK AND YOU WILL FIND.
************************************************************************************
This is only the first 2 chapters - very condensed and in my own words. You will want to follow along by reading it yourselves. And be sure to pick up your bible and seek some of the treasures that are in there. Please share here your thoughts and how God is speaking to you through your seeking and listening. If you can't find your book, or I didn't give you one, you will want to go purchase it for yourselves. It's a book that is worth every penny and the time spent in it. The author is Dr. Henry Cloud. Again - the book is "The Secret Things of God" - unlocking the treasures reserved for YOU"
Tomorrow I'll share some more of what is in this wonderful little book. See you then right here!
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Monday, June 22, 2009
A Letter I sent to Tiffany awhile back...thought I'd share
Faith vs. Fear
Creflo A. Dollar
Dear Tiffany,
I have been praying for you, and found this fantastic article, and thought of you. I am sending it to you. I will pray that God speaks to your heart through this wonderful message.
I am behind you all the way, girl!!! (You may not remember me…Karen, Lonnie’s daughter…Your mom’s cousin, Your Grandma’s niece) I can’t wait to see you this summer.
Know you are loved and you have an army of prayer warriors in your path!
Love,
Karen Eve Tinnes
Many people think fear is a normal and acceptable part of life. I've even heard some people say, "There's nothing wrong with having just a little fear." Nothing could be further from the truth. Fear is anything but normal. From a natural perspective, fear is associated with simply being afraid. But spiritually speaking, fear is actually twisted faith. It is having faith in the devil and what he can do, rather than having faith in God and His Word.
Fear isn't just a feeling, it's a force. The Word of God defines fear as a spirit that doesn't come from God (2 Timothy 1:7). To live in fear sets you up for disaster because just like faith will connect you to the promises of God, fear will connect you to the things you fear. When you operate from a position of fear, you actually position yourself to receive the very things you are afraid of.
In examining fear and its impact on your life, it is important to consider words and their creative power. Words are spiritual containers that carry either faith or fear. Words of faith are encouraging, hopeful and in line with the Word of God. On the other hand, words of fear are full of doubt, unbelief, dread and despair. Fear–filled words go against what God has said in His Word and will cancel out the good things that He has planned for your life.
It is critical that you align your words with the Word if you want to override the spirit of fear when it tries to attack you. Faith–filled words empower God to move on your behalf.
Fear is designed to stop you from experiencing all that God has promised you in His Word, but the good news is that He has already delivered you from it. If you are in relationship with God, you don't have to be ruled by any type of fear.
Hebrews 2:14, 15 says, "Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage." Fear is the primary tool Satan uses to destroy people's lives. But the ability of the enemy has been annihilated by Jesus Christ. You are no longer subject to fear.
There is a way to flush fear out of your life if you find yourself struggling with it. The key is walking in the love of God and allowing His love to mature in your life. First John 4:18 says, "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love." Every time you walk in love toward others (1 Corinthians 13) and maintain a consciousness of God's love for you, you kick fear out.
Once you get the fear out of your life, your faith "receiver" will be free and clear of all interference. You will then be able to believe God for His promises without hindrances. Allowing the love of God to rise in you will support your faith and position you to receive the blessings of God—healing, deliverance, safety, provision and financial increase.
In the midst of life's trials, refuse fear. I don't care what is going on around you. Resist fear with everything in you. Confess the Word of God over your situation until you begin to see things change. Stand firm on the Scriptures which will help to build your faith. Begin to praise God for what He has already done for you. Have confidence in God and His Word and don't let fear contaminate your faith.
Creflo A. Dollar
Dear Tiffany,
I have been praying for you, and found this fantastic article, and thought of you. I am sending it to you. I will pray that God speaks to your heart through this wonderful message.
I am behind you all the way, girl!!! (You may not remember me…Karen, Lonnie’s daughter…Your mom’s cousin, Your Grandma’s niece) I can’t wait to see you this summer.
Know you are loved and you have an army of prayer warriors in your path!
Love,
Karen Eve Tinnes
Many people think fear is a normal and acceptable part of life. I've even heard some people say, "There's nothing wrong with having just a little fear." Nothing could be further from the truth. Fear is anything but normal. From a natural perspective, fear is associated with simply being afraid. But spiritually speaking, fear is actually twisted faith. It is having faith in the devil and what he can do, rather than having faith in God and His Word.
Fear isn't just a feeling, it's a force. The Word of God defines fear as a spirit that doesn't come from God (2 Timothy 1:7). To live in fear sets you up for disaster because just like faith will connect you to the promises of God, fear will connect you to the things you fear. When you operate from a position of fear, you actually position yourself to receive the very things you are afraid of.
In examining fear and its impact on your life, it is important to consider words and their creative power. Words are spiritual containers that carry either faith or fear. Words of faith are encouraging, hopeful and in line with the Word of God. On the other hand, words of fear are full of doubt, unbelief, dread and despair. Fear–filled words go against what God has said in His Word and will cancel out the good things that He has planned for your life.
It is critical that you align your words with the Word if you want to override the spirit of fear when it tries to attack you. Faith–filled words empower God to move on your behalf.
Fear is designed to stop you from experiencing all that God has promised you in His Word, but the good news is that He has already delivered you from it. If you are in relationship with God, you don't have to be ruled by any type of fear.
Hebrews 2:14, 15 says, "Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage." Fear is the primary tool Satan uses to destroy people's lives. But the ability of the enemy has been annihilated by Jesus Christ. You are no longer subject to fear.
There is a way to flush fear out of your life if you find yourself struggling with it. The key is walking in the love of God and allowing His love to mature in your life. First John 4:18 says, "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love." Every time you walk in love toward others (1 Corinthians 13) and maintain a consciousness of God's love for you, you kick fear out.
Once you get the fear out of your life, your faith "receiver" will be free and clear of all interference. You will then be able to believe God for His promises without hindrances. Allowing the love of God to rise in you will support your faith and position you to receive the blessings of God—healing, deliverance, safety, provision and financial increase.
In the midst of life's trials, refuse fear. I don't care what is going on around you. Resist fear with everything in you. Confess the Word of God over your situation until you begin to see things change. Stand firm on the Scriptures which will help to build your faith. Begin to praise God for what He has already done for you. Have confidence in God and His Word and don't let fear contaminate your faith.
Monday, June 8, 2009
TRAVELING MERCIES
Heavenly Father,
I humbly come before you this night and ask that you grant traveling mercies to ALL family members who are coming to Tacoma this coming weekend. Post your angels around their vehicles, airplanes, trains, rented cars and around them and allow no mishaps to happen. Keep them safe and happy and please allow them to arrive refreshed and ready to enjoy their time here. Please give all who are traveling good weather for their trip and give them the beauty of creation to marvel at as they travel. I love you, Lord. I know you have my loved one's safety and well-being in your hands. Amen.
I humbly come before you this night and ask that you grant traveling mercies to ALL family members who are coming to Tacoma this coming weekend. Post your angels around their vehicles, airplanes, trains, rented cars and around them and allow no mishaps to happen. Keep them safe and happy and please allow them to arrive refreshed and ready to enjoy their time here. Please give all who are traveling good weather for their trip and give them the beauty of creation to marvel at as they travel. I love you, Lord. I know you have my loved one's safety and well-being in your hands. Amen.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Saturday, June 7, 2009 - day of prayer for Brian and Diane
This picture was taken at Diane's parents home in Kuhlmbach, Germany in 2006.
Ecclesiastes 9:7-9 -
"Go eat your food and enjoy it;
drink your wine and be happy,
because that is what God wants you to do.
Put on nice clothes
and make yourself look good.
Enjoy life with the wife you love. Enjoy the work you do here on earth. Whatever work you do, do your best."
and Ecclesiastes 3:13 -
"When you eat and drink and find happiness in your work, this is a gift from God."
God has gifted you - good jobs and all you need.
You are both so wise and lots of knowledge. Thank God for it, and pray for Spiritual Wisdom and Knowledge. "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and all these things will be given unto you."
God has blessed you. He IS blessing you right now.
*********************************************************************************
We know that someday our heavenly Father is going to take all those who follow Him into eternal happiness. It's to that day that we look. It's upon our hope and confidence that He will return that we stand. Our prayer should be that our Father will help us make decisions that will set us on the course of eternal life.
Listen to the Christ rather than to the voices of men. Jesus says you can't please men and still be a servant of God. Those who listen and follow Christ will be received into heaven by the pierced hands of the one who knows the freedom of giving up what you cannot own in order to receive what no one can take from you--eternal life.
Praise the name of Jesus. Lord, may we see the joy that is before us. Would you pull back the curtain and give us just a glimpse into the eternal life? Would you hear the yearnings of our hearts? Will you keep us close to you this day - and always?
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Friday - June 5, 2009 - prayer day for Debbie
In my prayer for Debbie today, I turned to psalm 51: 10-13:
"Create in me a pure heart, oh God,
and make my spirit right again.
Do not send me away from you
or take your Holy Spirit away from me.
Give me back the joy of your salvation.
Keep me strong by giving me a willing spirit,
THEN I WILL TEACH YOUR WAYS TO THOSE WHO DO WRONG,
AND SINNERS WILL TURN BACK TO YOU."
Isaiah 55: 6, 8 - 9:
"Seek Yahweh while He is still to be found.
Call to Him while He is still near.
For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
My ways not your ways - it is Yahweh who speaks."
Psalm 37:7:
Be quiet before Yahweh, and wait patiently for Him."
Psalm 37:23:
"Yahweh guides your steps,
They are sure and He takes pleasure in your progress.
You may fall, but never fatally,
since Yahweh supports you by His hand."
Debbie - While in prayer I felt it is important for you to stay in God's word - daily!
I also think you need to re-join a bible study group. Seek truth. Pray. God wants to use you and will use you in a mighty way soon - TEACHING TRUTH !!!
Revelation 16:15 -
"Be on your guard! I come like a thief. Happy the one who stays wide awake and fully clothed for fear of going naked and exposed for all to see!"
This is speaking of spiritual clothes. Spiritual wisdom and knowledge. Stay clothed (in My word, says the Lord) so you won't be caught naked! Stay awake! (Be ready!)
\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\
The bible is like a treasure hunt. The more we explore and prod and poke around it, the more gems we find. If you want to grow in the Word of God, become a person with a chisel and and chop at the Word--look, explore, seek. Let The Word become Your word, and you will grow.
Father, we're amazed at how practical your Bible is. (Did you know that the word "Bible" means GOOD NEWS? Or the gospel truths? Isn't it better than reading the Bad News?) Who would have thought that daily help could be found in a book so old. Every time we open it we find it's not old at all. Help us to look for your guidance in that precious book. Make us aware of how precious your Word is. Bless those who share this Good News with everyone around them. Thank you, Father, for giving us this source of light and strength, and for giving us the opportunity to uncover the jewels waiting to be discovered in your holy pages.
\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\
Dear Lord - be with Debbie. Be her constant companion. Help her fight loneliness. Thank you for revealing yourself to her daily in her bible pages and her prayer. Thank you for her abilities and gifts to teach. Protect her from all harm.
In Jesus' name we pray - AMEN!
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Tuesday - June 3, 2009 - day of prayer for Linda and family
I couldn't find any recent pictures of the boys all together, so I posted a couple of my favorites. Aren't they the cutest!
June 3rd - 1st anniversary of Dennis destroying everything and going to jail. Linda has been cleaning up all the damages he caused ever since. A very tough year (or 3, really!)
Here is a scripture I found for Linda and her boys:
Isaiah 30:18 - 21
"Yahweh is waiting to be gracious to you, for Yahweh is a just God; happy are all who hope in Him. Yes, Linda and boys - you will live in Great Falls and weep no more. God will be gracious to you when He hears your cry; when He hears He will answer. Dennis - when the Lord has given you the bread of suffering and the water of distress, He who is your teacher will hide no longer. Linda and boys, whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear these words behind you - "this is the way, follow it".
Oh Lord, we all join together in placing Linda and her family at your feet. We praise you and thank you for being their God - for your grace, mercy, and protection!
Protect Joshua from harm in his travels in the Marines. Let no harm come to him.
We pray for Jeremy and Jade during the summer months. They need jobs. Thank you that Jeremy can work for Paul. Now he needs a dependable car to get there. Please provide for them. We pray for emotional healing of all the hurts and memories they've endured.
Prosper Linda in her work. Give her the energy and health she needs to do all she needs to do.
Guard their finances.
Guide them on their paths.
In the name of Jesus we pray! We plead the precious blood of the lamb over them, and over their doorposts, over their cars, their friends. No harm to come near them.
Thank you, Lord!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Day of prayer for Janet and family - June 2nd
From my journal of prayer for Janet, Eric, Arjay and Kailey:
Psalm 46:
God is our protection and our strength.
He always helps in times of trouble.
So we will not be afraid even if the earth shakes,
or the mountains fall into the sea,
Even if the oceans roar and foam,
or the mountains shake at the raging sea.
There is a river that brings joy to God,
the holy place where God Most High lives. (could this be speaking of the Holy Spirt?-
the River of Life?)
God is in that city, and so it will not be shaken. (God dwells in the praises of His people. God IS the Holy Spirit!)
God will help her at dawn.
Nations tremble and kingdoms shake.
God shouts and the earth crumbles.
The Lord All-powerful is with us;
the God of Jacob is our defender.
Come and see what the Lord has done,
the amazing things he has done. (I like to stop here and think of, or share with people, what He has done for me!)
He stops wars everywhere on the earth.
He breaks all bows and spears and burns up the chariots with fire. (weapons of war).
God says, "Be quiet and know that I am God.
I will be supreme over all nations;
I will be supreme in the earth" (I am your God, there is no other).
The Lord All-Powerful is with us;
The God of Jacob is our defender."
This scripture is so wonderful! Such great promises in it. Such hope! God is with us. Such great news.
Let's take a moment to think of some way God has answered prayers - ways He's touched our lives - ways He's let us know He is with us!
I know that God worked out our trip to Washington! We had all these plans made, reservations done, and everything - before we even knew Sharon had cancer. It started out to be just Bev and I going there sometime on the train. Then Mickey and Kay decided we just had to get together with Sharon (Bev and I because it was ages since we'd seen each other). Next thing you know Kay and Debbie decided to go, too. So Mickey suggested we send out invites to everyone and chose the date of June 12-15 because that is the date of their June Family Fun Day. So they did. Then Brian and Diane and Karen made their reservations to be there. Linda didn't want to miss out on seeing them, so she booked a flight too. Chad and Brea decided to come, and so did Rick! Then Bev and Mike got on board, and so did Maria! I do believe that was the work of the Lord. And Mickey and Kay co-operated with His plan. Otherwise it may never have happened. Praise God. (We will definitely miss having the rest of our family there - and the Friede's, but at least we get to be with all these family members!)
Do you have any stories of how God worked or answered prayers in your life? Please share.
Dear Lord - I pray for Janet and her family. I thank you for their jobs. Please keep them working and earning enough money to make it. I thank you for Arjay's abilities to build rockets and be a part of the space program, NASA. Protect all of them from the evil one. Thank you - in Jesus' name we pray - Amen!
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
I believe Psalm 46 is a word for Sharon, too - and all who read this blog.
A word for Sharon and for all of us: (from God)
Relax in My healing, holy Presence. Be still, while I transform your heart and mind.
Let go of cares and worries, so that you can receive My Peace. Cease striving, and know that I am God.
It is through knowing Me intimately that you become like Me. This requires spending time alone with Me. Let go, relax, be still, and know that I am God.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Monday - day of prayer for Karen, Chad, Brea,
This is a picture taken at Dry Wolf campground. We've had so much fun camping together, haven't we. (Sorta looks like they might NEED some prayers, huh)? The picture of Karen is from 2007.
Here is what I had in my prayer for Karen, Chad and Brea yesterday, June 1:
1 John 4:13-16 "We know that we live in God and He lives in us, because He gave us His Spirit. We have seen and can testify that the Father sent His Son to be the Savior of the world. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God has God living inside, and that person lives in God. And so we know the love that God has for us, and we trust that love. God IS love. Those who live in love live in God and God lives in them."
God illustrates perfect love to us. We aren't always sure ourselves when we use the term love. That word has become one of the most widely mis-used words in our language. We use the word love to describe the basest as well as the most exalted of human relationships. We "love" to travel, we "love" to eat chocolate cake, we "love" our new car, or the pattern in wallpaper in our home. Why, we even say we "love" our neighbors--but most of us don't do much more than just say it and let it go at that! No wonder we don't have a very clear idea of what the bible means when it says "God is Love".
Don't make the mistake of thinking that because God is Love that everything is going to be sweet, beautiful, and happy and that no one will be punished for his sins. God's holiness demands that all sin be punished, but God's love provides the plan and way of redemption for sinful man. God's love is the cross of Jesus, by which we can have forgiveness and cleansing. It was the love of God that sent Jesus Christ to the cross!
Never question God's great love, for it is as unchangeable a part of God as His holiness. No matter how terrible our sins, God loves you. Were it not for the love of God, none of us would ever have a chance in the future life. But God IS Love and His love for us is everlasting! (from Peace With God by Billy Graham)
I am not sure why this was where I was led to pray for you guys today. Maybe it is speaking to your hearts. At any rate it is a good "teaching" for you and for all of us today.
Dear Lord, I pray for peace in Karen's heart. Let her feel your radiant light, warmth, peace and love. Give her the moments she needs to just sit in your presence and be quiet before you. Help her experience your throne of grace. And be with Brea in these trying times. And Chad, too. Bless them, Lord, with joy and your abundant love! Thank you, Jesus - in Your mighty name I pray!
A word from God for you:
"When you focus firmly on ME, My peace displaces all fear and worry. They will try to gain entrance, so stay alert. Let trust and thankfulness stand guard, turning back fear and worry before they can gain a foothold. Sit quietly in my light and my SON-shine, while I bless you with my peace and love. Words of a song we sing often are running through my mind - words for you right now: "Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful eyes - and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and love."
Monday, June 1, 2009
Red is the color for rejoicing
I thought this article was well worth printing here. It is excerpted from an article in our Tribune the day before Pentecost Sunday, May 31st. I added a few of my own words and experiences and subtracted a few of her words and experiences so as to make it relevant to our family and friends. Here it goes:
Pentecost remembers the Christian church's long-ago birthday in Jerusalem.
Every Pentecost I think, "Party on, people!" Our scriptures at mass on Sunday were all about the first pentecost. Red is the color of the Holy Spirit. The priest wore, red, the decor was all red. Dad and I wore red shirts to church. I can remember very few Pentecost Sunday masses that were a joyful celebration. And yet, it should be. It was the beginning of Christianity. Many passages in the scriptures say "Celebrate! Clap your hands! Play in praise before your God! Worship Him with stringed instruments, trumpets, tamborines, etc". Peter and the other disciples of Christ became bold after that first pentecost and went out and proclaimed Jesus as Lord without fear! You can read all about in the book of Acts.
The church should bubble with excitement. Often I think church people do not party nearly enough. Some people in church truly do behave as if our spirits are frozen. We sit unsmiling in the pews, annoyed when children bounce or adults clap. That's who I was until the Holy Spirit jerked my hands off my lap and said loudly - "bring 'em together, Lonnie. Raise your hands and receive what I have for you. Raise your hands in praise of me. Show your joy. Jesus Christ has lived for YOU!"
It was a challenge. At first I was all frowns and disapproval. So skeptical. What were these praise songs, singing the same simple lines over and over? "Give me the good old hymns and organ music," I said.
The Holy Spirit kicked me and said "Get a life, Lonnie. Have you bothered to find out what those simple, repetitive lines are? They're scripture. Sing them over and over until their meaning penetrates your hard head."
The Holy Spirit is not always gentle with me. Sometimes He knocks me down because I am being dull, dull, dull. The Holy Spirit, I've concluded, does not like dull. The Holy Spirit likes liveliness, sunshine, people with the energy to dance their faith the way King David did.
The Holy Spirit also loves the tiny, adorable hands of infants, horses running on the range with their manes and tails flying, spring crops pushing out of the ground, and people who love God praying silently in their beds.
Sometimes the Holy Spirit rushes like a mighty wind, as when he descended upon the disciples in Jeruselem that first time, placing tongues of fire on all their heads and allowing them to understand each other no matter what language each was speaking.
Other times the Holy Spirit is silent, or as quiet as a baby bird making its first chirp.
I am so grateful for the Holy Spirit in my life. He picks me up when I am down, cools me when I get overheated, settles me when I'm agitated. He sings me to sleep at night and puts a song in my mouth when I arise.
I am grateful for Pentecost and the coming of the church, and most of all for Jesus Christ, a man of such amazing courage and strength that He was willing to take on the whole world's burdens so that my burdens and yours might become a bit lighter.
I am so grateful. Let's celebrate! The color is red!
Pentecost remembers the Christian church's long-ago birthday in Jerusalem.
Every Pentecost I think, "Party on, people!" Our scriptures at mass on Sunday were all about the first pentecost. Red is the color of the Holy Spirit. The priest wore, red, the decor was all red. Dad and I wore red shirts to church. I can remember very few Pentecost Sunday masses that were a joyful celebration. And yet, it should be. It was the beginning of Christianity. Many passages in the scriptures say "Celebrate! Clap your hands! Play in praise before your God! Worship Him with stringed instruments, trumpets, tamborines, etc". Peter and the other disciples of Christ became bold after that first pentecost and went out and proclaimed Jesus as Lord without fear! You can read all about in the book of Acts.
The church should bubble with excitement. Often I think church people do not party nearly enough. Some people in church truly do behave as if our spirits are frozen. We sit unsmiling in the pews, annoyed when children bounce or adults clap. That's who I was until the Holy Spirit jerked my hands off my lap and said loudly - "bring 'em together, Lonnie. Raise your hands and receive what I have for you. Raise your hands in praise of me. Show your joy. Jesus Christ has lived for YOU!"
It was a challenge. At first I was all frowns and disapproval. So skeptical. What were these praise songs, singing the same simple lines over and over? "Give me the good old hymns and organ music," I said.
The Holy Spirit kicked me and said "Get a life, Lonnie. Have you bothered to find out what those simple, repetitive lines are? They're scripture. Sing them over and over until their meaning penetrates your hard head."
The Holy Spirit is not always gentle with me. Sometimes He knocks me down because I am being dull, dull, dull. The Holy Spirit, I've concluded, does not like dull. The Holy Spirit likes liveliness, sunshine, people with the energy to dance their faith the way King David did.
The Holy Spirit also loves the tiny, adorable hands of infants, horses running on the range with their manes and tails flying, spring crops pushing out of the ground, and people who love God praying silently in their beds.
Sometimes the Holy Spirit rushes like a mighty wind, as when he descended upon the disciples in Jeruselem that first time, placing tongues of fire on all their heads and allowing them to understand each other no matter what language each was speaking.
Other times the Holy Spirit is silent, or as quiet as a baby bird making its first chirp.
I am so grateful for the Holy Spirit in my life. He picks me up when I am down, cools me when I get overheated, settles me when I'm agitated. He sings me to sleep at night and puts a song in my mouth when I arise.
I am grateful for Pentecost and the coming of the church, and most of all for Jesus Christ, a man of such amazing courage and strength that He was willing to take on the whole world's burdens so that my burdens and yours might become a bit lighter.
I am so grateful. Let's celebrate! The color is red!
Sunday, May 31, 2009
A prayer for Sharon
I know you have another chemo treatment on Tuesday. We are all praying for you. This scripture felt like God was speaking it directly to you, Sharon:
Isaiah 49:19
"Yahweh consoles His people (you, Sharon) and takes pity on those who are afflicted.
I will never forget you, My Sharon.
See, I have branded you on the palms of my hands."
(Rest in my arms, My child.)
Isaiah 49:19
"Yahweh consoles His people (you, Sharon) and takes pity on those who are afflicted.
I will never forget you, My Sharon.
See, I have branded you on the palms of my hands."
(Rest in my arms, My child.)
June 1 - Chuck and Deedle's 13th anniversary!
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, CHUCK AND DEEDLE! You are a great couple.
On Thursday, May 21, here is what I had journaled for my day of prayer for you:
Proverbs 23:22, 24, 25
"Listen to your father who begot you, do not despise your mother in her old age. (You do listen to your dad, and you honor your mom in her old age - Thank you!) The father of the virtuous man will rejoice indeed, he who fathers a wise man will have the joy of it. May you be the joy of your father, the gladness of her who bore you." (Indeed, you are!) You are a good man, Charlie Brown!
God, bless Chuck and Deedle. Thank you for their jobs. Thank you, Lord, for blessing both of them with abilities and talents to do your will. Thank you for bringing them together. Guard their finances. Help their house to sell - and sell fast - at the price they need and ask for it! Thank you, Jesus.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
A prayer from the internet of September, 2001.
This prayer is such a good one. As we read it, pray it with all your heart. I am thinking of our upcoming family fun week-end as I pray it. I pray for all of us.
Please take a moment to relax your mind and humble your heart to focus on Christ. Allow God to be the only person on your mind while you read this prayer.
Dear Lord, I thank You for this day. I thank You for my being able to see and to hear this morning. I'm blessed because You are a forgiving God and an understanding God. You have done so much for me and You keep on blessing me.
Forgive me this day for everything I have done, said or thought that was not pleasing to you. I ask now for Your forgiveness. Please keep me safe from all danger and harm.
Help me to start this day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude. Let me make the best of each and every day to clear my mind so that I can hear from You.
Please broaden my mind that I can accept all things. Let me not whine and whimper over things I have no control over. Let me continue to see sin through God's eyes and acknowledge it as evil. And when I sin, let me repent, and confess with my mouth my wrong doing, and receive the forgiveness of God.
And when this world closes in on me, let me remember Jesus' example - to slip away and find a quiet place to pray. It's the best response when I'm pushed beyond my limits. I know that when I can't pray, You listen to my heart.
Continue to use me to do Your will. Continue to bless me that I may be a blessing to others. Keep me strong that I may help the weak. Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others.
I pray for those that are lost and can't find their way. I pray for those that are misjudged and misunderstood.
I pray for those who don't know You intimately. I pray for those that don't believe. But I thank you that I believe.
I believe that God changes people and God changes things.
I pray for all my sisters and brothers. For each and every family member in their households. I pray for peace, love and joy in their homes that they are out of debt and all their needs are met. I pray that every eye that reads this knows there is no problem, circumstance, or situation greater than God. Every battle is in Your hands for You to fight.
I pray that these words be received into the hearts of every eye that sees them and every mouth that confesses them willingly.
This is my prayer. In Jesus' name, Amen
Please take a moment to relax your mind and humble your heart to focus on Christ. Allow God to be the only person on your mind while you read this prayer.
Dear Lord, I thank You for this day. I thank You for my being able to see and to hear this morning. I'm blessed because You are a forgiving God and an understanding God. You have done so much for me and You keep on blessing me.
Forgive me this day for everything I have done, said or thought that was not pleasing to you. I ask now for Your forgiveness. Please keep me safe from all danger and harm.
Help me to start this day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude. Let me make the best of each and every day to clear my mind so that I can hear from You.
Please broaden my mind that I can accept all things. Let me not whine and whimper over things I have no control over. Let me continue to see sin through God's eyes and acknowledge it as evil. And when I sin, let me repent, and confess with my mouth my wrong doing, and receive the forgiveness of God.
And when this world closes in on me, let me remember Jesus' example - to slip away and find a quiet place to pray. It's the best response when I'm pushed beyond my limits. I know that when I can't pray, You listen to my heart.
Continue to use me to do Your will. Continue to bless me that I may be a blessing to others. Keep me strong that I may help the weak. Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others.
I pray for those that are lost and can't find their way. I pray for those that are misjudged and misunderstood.
I pray for those who don't know You intimately. I pray for those that don't believe. But I thank you that I believe.
I believe that God changes people and God changes things.
I pray for all my sisters and brothers. For each and every family member in their households. I pray for peace, love and joy in their homes that they are out of debt and all their needs are met. I pray that every eye that reads this knows there is no problem, circumstance, or situation greater than God. Every battle is in Your hands for You to fight.
I pray that these words be received into the hearts of every eye that sees them and every mouth that confesses them willingly.
This is my prayer. In Jesus' name, Amen
Day of prayer for Kay and Russ - May 28, 2009
Tomorrow, May 29, is their anniversary! Happy day to you.
This is the prayer I journaled today for you:
Read Ecclesiasticus (Sirach) chapter 39. These verses - 39 and 41 - especially stood out as I prayed for you: "All the works of the Lord are good, and He will supply every want in due time. So now, sing with all your heart and voice, and bless the name of the Lord."
Remember when you and Linda and Janet and Yo Yo (Linda's parrot) made that cassette tape for us for Christmas about 20 years ago? At the end of it you read Psalm 103. Read it now - it's so appropriate for you and Russ today! It is a wonderful prayer for you to pray in these tough times. (you and all of us as well)
There is a song we used to sing at prayer meeting that is stuck in my mind as I am praying for you. The words are "The Lord is blessing you right now, right now. The Lord is blessing you right now. You may not be able to see all that the Lord is doing for you, but the Lord is blessing you right now."
Praise you, Jesus. Thank you.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)