Fresh Water

This morning as I was flipping through my favorite new little toy, My Nook.... :) I was reading through a passage of scripture that made me stop and re-read...re-read ... and re-read again.

Isn't it great when God gets a hold of our hearts and captures our attention with the simplest of phrases?

A cup of Fresh Water is enough!

I was asking the Lord to reveal His heart to me regarding something that He has opened the door for me to step through. Feeling so inadequately prepared to confidently stride into the unknown, I came to a place of prayer this morning.... seeking His heart. Asking for His Wisdom and looking for His guiding mercy.

I came upon the scripture in Matthew chapter 10. Jesus is speaking to the disciples... the harvesters... and giving them an overview of what He would advise them to do. He was giving them a "to do" list, if you will.

If you look through this chapter you see that it starts with the power of what was within them to preach, and to heal and to overtake the dominion of darkness in the lives of those whom they were to be meeting in the towns and the cities where they would find themselves as guests.

They were told how to enter each town and what to do when received both in the favorable and unfavorable light.

They were warned to be on guard. To be "wise as serpents and harmless as doves".(vs 16)

He prophesied to them, an admonition of what was to come. He told them to EXPECT it.

Do you EXPECT the bumps in the road which steal your joy?

What about those quick curves which catch you unaware?

He warned them not to be caught unaware because we are like sheep being sent forth among the wolves.

He declared that the student does not rise above his Master, what is done to one... will be done to the other. Yet he told them to Rejoice! It is for a purpose, the testimony that comes from trials serves a purpose that is not measured in earthly bank accounts. It should point back to Him, for His glory.. to reveal truth.

Jesus alone is truth.

The disciples were reminded that they need not be afraid, God knew the number of hairs on their head. He clarified the meaning of losing your lower life to gain your heavenly existence.

The revelation that when people welcomed them, they welcomed Christ. When they rejected them, it was not them but Christ in them.

And here is what was such a blessing to me.

Matthew 10:42 -" and whoever gives even a cup of water,... he shall not lose his reward."

He has sent us out! He sends out in the resurrection power and glory that was exemplified on the cross but... oh, that little word. A connecting word that ties 2 thoughts together..

But, it is that simplified gift of a cup of water which can bring the blessing. There is a time and purpose for the power, for the preaching, for the praying and interceeding. There is a time for the breaking off of the spiritual ropes which tie us down.

Yet, the fresh water, that living water, that comes only from Him. We will never thirst again, because we have the knowledge of the source.

Think of how sweet fresh water is. Think of how welcoming it is to drink when you're throat is parched and dry. Think of the life that is nourished through this resource.

The simplicity of this is so profound that we may just miss it.

The power isn't in the big magnificent display, only. The power is in the beginning, small and purpose-filled steps.

Offer a drink of water. Fresh water, filled from the cistern of which there is no end. Dig deep, drink slow, and be nourished with just one cup.

Mercy pieces.... falling graces... Rain

I have been singing the song by Amy Grant, Better than a Hallelujah recently. It keeps replaying in my heart, my mind, my soul. Reverberating the message of what our lives speak in all circumstances. The chorus continues to play in my memory:

"As we pour out our miseries, He just hears a melody. Beautiful the mess we are, Honest cries of breaking hearts.... Better than a hallelujah."

What do your circumstances sing to God?

If our lives are a melody to Him, what chorus does He hear?

The more time I spend on this celestial orb, the more I find that I crave more of His Presence and less of this worldly reality. The longer I spend in revelation of His goodness, the more I realize how much I need His grace and mercy to continue in this life.

The more I pour of myself out into the cistern of experience, the bigger and wider the space becomes that shows my need for His love to fill me.

He doesn't need my Hallelujahs to validate him. He is validated because of who He is. He doesn't need my perfect life to show as a trophy for the power in His blood. His blood speaks alone and far above any testimony my life can show. He doesn't need a successful woman to be witness to a life lived for God. He already won the fight and stands strong, confident and true at the finish line already.... waiting for me.

It is my need that is apparent. My need for his grace in my imperfections. My need for his mercy in my lack of love. My need for his healing in my brokenness.

His mercy is in his revelation which He gives us. Pieces of truth which are for us to pass on.

Deuteronomy 29:29 - The secret things belong unto the Lord our God; but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law.

The act of sitting in the midst of revealing grace deposits within the soul of the Child of God a seed, a life-seed, which has the potential for resurrection life.

When we are empty before him, hands full of broken shards of a life that is real, He receives our melodies in exchange for the mercy pieces and falling grace that restore and heal, that redeem the years of the locusts in our lives.

I am drawn to Joel chapter 2:23-25,28.
Be glad then... and rejoice in the Lord, your God. For he gives you the former or the early rain in just measure and in righteousness, and he causes to come down for you the rain, the former rain and the latter rain as before. And the threshing floors shall be full of grain and the vats shall overflow with wine and oil. And I will restore to you the years the locust has eaten. And I will pour out my Spirit.


That is what I am awaiting... the Rain. The cleansing, purifying, healing and revealing rain. The Rain which brings forth new life, new awareness, new hope, new faith. Waiting for the substance which hope is made from, the evidence of those unseen things which were already planned before our days were known to us.

Mercy pieces and falling graces followed by the soul drenching rain which brings forth the pouring of his Spirit upon our lives.


Glory be to the King, reigning in all our melodic hallelujahs.

Walking in His steps

What are the steps He directs me to take.....


I am sitting here looking at a beautiful purple and white flower; a gift from a sweet young woman who has blessed me. I think to the moment she presented me with this gift and realize how nice it is to be remembered. Selfishly indulging in the praise she encourages me with, and thanking God for the chance to touch her life....

The gift, a thank you for time spent with her. Time of preparation, time of teaching and encouragement.

And then she presents me with a book. A book, I smile, she took the time to think about what blessed me. I tell her thank you, give her a hug and rejoice that God has crossed my path so specifically in a unique and wonderful way that only He can.




Where are my steps taking me?


I look at the depth of the green now being revealed in the grass outside my window, spattered here and there with tiny bits of ice from the spring storms which are emblazoning a path upon the terrain of the Midwest. I remember to only days ago, driving through a storm and watching with amazement the awesome display of His wonder.


The divine appointment of a meeting of hearts. The journey only He could see before I even began to ponder the effect of its importance in my life. A glimpse of grace. A rare gift of knowing you are a part of His plan to leave a fingerprint on a life.


Where did my steps take me from?





I think of those so dear to me, walking a road only they can walk and bow my head in humility. Nothing can prepare us for the complexity of life, but oh how much joy we have in knowing nothing can separate us from His love. I ponder, I think, I pray...

Where will my steps take me to?

To my knees before the King in honor for WHO He alone is. To a place of humble surrender that in all my life, and in all my ways, He alone is to be honored. He is to be revered. He is to be viewed in awe.

Our steps lead us to our future, away from the past, through our present. His steps, however, show us the way. It is in His steps that we fulfill our destiny, our full calling to live and breathe and have our being completely altered by the presence of the Holy One.

Where have His steps lead me?

To hearts awakened by the whisper of his wind blowing through their lives. To the joy of seeing His magnificence displayed in the smile of a rare and beautiful gift. The eyes of a people who have seen a lifetime, walked through valleys and danced upon mountains. To hear the joy of His praise as others lift Him in joyful exultation. To know the connection of a soul on the same journey and feel His virtue splashing upon my life.

Isaiah 40:3 says " The voice of him that cries in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God."

In the wilderness of my life, as I cry unto my King, His steps prepare the path for me to walk. Looking neither to the right nor to the left but straight and sure. As I walk, I create a new path, a path that is touched by grace... one that is forged by faith... steps that are following yet solidly and persistently moving forward on this pilgrimage.

Steps of faith, bowing to mercy, shielded by grace and covered in the blood.

My steps are no longer my own but have become a path altered and tended by the true gardener. His light shining into the depths, pulling out the weeds which choke, pruning the wooden shoots that have aimlessly wandered, coaxing forth the bud hidden inside to reveal the bloom which magnifies His work.

The steps are a journey..... a grace-filled traveling sojourn directed by the King.

When I yield to His wisdom I see the beauty only the master can weave.

Isaiah 40:31

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

We can walk securely, surely, boldly, with strength for the journey.... solidly in His steps.

This recipe was made for a sweet young woman who inspired me to create. I have named it Blessing Bars because of the blessings she has brought to others by her gentle spirit. However, it was suggested we name it after her so I am including in parentheses.

Blessing Bars( aka Braydyn's Bodacious Bars)

1 c. butter, softened

2 c. brown sugar

2 eggs

2 t. vanilla

2 c. flour

1 t. baking powder

1/2 t. salt

1 c. chocolate chips

Topping:

Chocolate chips

Caramel

Extra:

Whipped Cream and Caramel

Cream the butter and brown sugar. Beat in the eggs and vanilla. Add the dry ingredients and mix well. Stir in the chips. Spread in a 9 x 13 pan.

Bake at 350 for 20-30 min.

When you take the bars out, poke the top of the bars with a knife or fork to create holes. Sprinkle chocolate chips on the hot bars and then drizzle the caramel over the top of the chips. With a spatula, spread the caramel and chocolate together.

Drizzle more caramel over this and let sit.

When you are ready to serve, garnish with whipped cream and caramel topping.

YUMMY! This was so good and everyone really enjoyed the bars. I hope you'll find them just as enjoyable.

Blessings in Christ!

Status: Transforming.....

I couldn't resist sharing this today. As I sat with my own devotions I was reminded of the season of life the Lord has called me to at this time. This post, by Ann Voskamp, is a confirmation of that profound simplicity of the importance of time. It is what we do with our time not how much we get done in the midst of our time which radiates blessed lives. That is not said in a judgmental implication, but a revelation of truth I am learning.

Time, for some, is a love language. It is my love language, I have been told. It is a representation of those things that minister to our heart.

So how does this reflect the depth of what we do with our time. Today my time was to just sit with my King. Do you realize that even in saying Lord, we are proclaiming that He is the master of our lives. We are servant to that master. Yet, so often I have replaced the titles; switched roles of the title Master in my own life.

Isn't it His role to redeem the lost time in our lives, yet I often perceive it is my use of time which dictates a "good" day. A day that I can add to my growing list of pride-filled accomplishments. Ouch! Sometimes I don't realize how far I have fallen from this journey of grace.

Grace.... ah, a gift of a word. Do I live a life filled with grace?
Does grace impart into my time-living?

What is the purpose of time fully spent if we are spent by the end of the day and have failed to be refilled by the sole presence of the expression of infinite time?

The Lord has been challenging me to sit with Him in my mornings. To just sit. How hard would that be for you? I find that in my effort to maximize my time I was fitting Him into a slot which "FIT" me.

So, I am learning the beauty of coffee time with Jesus. Yes.. I said that. I have found my only little place that is just for me, in my home. I fill my vessel and seek that time carved just for me, by Him to just sit with Him. Have you ever done that? Just invited him in for tea, or coffee, or whatever it is that blesses your heart?

I sat there this morning, trying to focus my thoughts on my Savior. Just to learn to rest in Him. I began thinking how I could use this time much more wisely. You know.. get the devotions complete, check. Pray... let's see, who did I say I would pray for??, oh.. yes.. pray, check. Ok, um, what do I need to accomplish today?... Hmmm ... Oh, I am sorry Lord. I forgot. I was suppsed to sit. I was supposed to just sit with you. No talking is necessary at this point in my day. Just sit.

So... I sit.

And I feel his heart touch my own and I cry. Not a condemnation, but a heartfelt hug from the One who truly sees me. He gets us. Do you know that? He sees us. His love for us is real. It is palpable. It is felt. It is transforming and it is full of grace.

Grace! Grace for time redeemed. Grace for time spent in fellowship with the only source which can replenish our souls need to continue.

Do you know what else? It is the only time in the day I can drink a cup of coffee and it stays hot. Isn't that funny? Isn't it a wonder how He does those little things to remind us of His joy in what we enjoy. A cup of coffee.... who'da thunk it?

Then I open my devotinal, look to His word and I read. "These quiet moments with me transcend time, accomplishing far more than you can imagine." ( I am reading from 40 Days with Jesus by Sarah Young.. a devotional for Lent but I can't wait till Lent starts so I read now.)

Again I sit and marvel at the depth of His wisdom. Of his well appointed time, which is always on time. At the way He always meets me. My faithful, true, Lord. My eternal King.

We are coming into a the season of Lent, which has a different look for everyone but it's purpose... that purpose of tradition, truly is meant to draw us to the cross. It is meant to remind us to look up with unveiled faces at the One who gives all good gifts to us. It is a reminder that until the day we are called to His side, he is continually perfecting us. ( Phil 1:6) A sweet remembrance that it is that quiet restructuring that only He can perform, heart surgery if you will, on those ever present heart beats which draw us away from his plan for us.

Even trials are a gift. A gift of learning what His peace is.
Quietness... resting is a gift of letting his Love embrace and fill our hearts so that we are changing from glory to glory.
Trusting though it seems as if we are falling is a gift of knowing that we can rely on His strong arm which is not too short to save us.

2 Corinthians 3:18 says, " And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit."

Psalm 73: 23-24 says, " Yet, I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory."

When we slow down... when we clear our calendar to make time just to sit at his feet... when we push out all that is competing with His voice... we hear Him. We are changed from glory to glory and then see with kingdom eyes. As I sat today meditating on the verses above and realizing how much I actually strive to perfect myself in to the image I have assumed was acceptable, I have eliminated the most important element. The hands that hold the tools must be the hands of the master carver who alone has the wisdom to call forth the finished artwork which He was able to see long before my days were a reality.

Praying your day-timer includes coffee ( or tea or...whatever makes you smile) with the King.


Please go visit Ann at A Holy Experience and read this post:
Why it’s Really Okay: The Need to Slow Down » A Holy Experience

Contentedness.... Thankfulness... Peace

Philippians 4:11-13
Not that I speak in respect of want:for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith, to be content.
I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed bot to be full and to be hungry, bot tho abound and to suffer need.
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Contentedness, that elusive word which brings a pang of envy to my heart. It isn't supposed to do that. We are supposed to find hope in those words, a goal, a reachable end.... but what do you find?

Does being content equate continual gratitude?
Does being content require a state of peace?
Does being content say "I am thankful in all things?"

Noah Webster's 1828 Dictionary says the literal meaning for content is : held, contained within limits, hence quiet; not disturbed; having a mind at peace; easy; satisfied, so as not to repine, object or oppose.

Content comes from the Latin contineor meaning to be held.

As a verb(action word) the the translation is: to satisfy the mind, to make quiet, so as to stop complaint or opposition.
As a noun(naming word)the translation is: rest or quietness of mind in the present condition, satisfaction which holds the mind in peace, restraining complaint, opposition, or further desire , and often implying a moderate degree of happiness.

Content also refers to the things which are being held. ie: the contents of this box are being held by the box.


Contentedness.... add the suffix, -ness, and we find that it is the state of being content.

State of being? What does that represent in my daily life? Have I given control of my being to the One who is the only truth in life or have I taken control and formed my world with the state of my words...the state of my contents... what am I holding on to?

Acts 17:28 tells us that In Him we live and move and have our being.

Our state of being comes from our life in him.
Our content, filled with His life, should reflect our being .... our state of being In Him.

Our contentedness is a result of a life of passivity to our wants and an open embracing to the desires which only He has in mind for us.

Do you ever consider the path your are walking to be your own? Do you wonder if you had made a different choice would you be in a different place?

Yet, contentedness is not just a resignation to be held, to be quiet and and satisfied it is a place of humility before the King of our hearts which calls us to be at rest in Him.

We are are told to Be still and Know that He is the Lord.(Pslalm 46:10)

Be content... Be assured... Be satisfied.. Be at rest... Be at peace.

Rest in Him. Where do we rest? In Him.

What is that? Where does that contentment come from? How do you find rest?

Psalm 121:1-3,5 " I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, maker of heaven and earth. He will not suffer my foot to be moved: he that keeps me will not slumber. .... the Lord is my keeper: the Lord is my shade upon my right hand."

I remember watching my babies fall asleep in my arms after nursing. The sweet look of contentment radiated upon their cherubic faces. The blessed satisfaction of the sigh which escaped as they finally gave way to rest. The deep and unlabored breath which ensued as they drifted to a place of stillness, completed in their fullness. Their desires are satisfied and they have no wants, needs, or urgency other than to be still. To allow their bodies to take in the nourishment of food and rest so that growth occurs. Nestled so perfectly in the center of my core with my arms entwined about them, holding them... keeping them safe.

Consider for a moment where we belong in Christ. He is seated at the right hand of God. He is there on His Throne for all of heaven to see... exalted. Isaiah writes about this in Isaiah chapter 6. He describes the way the angels, the created heavenly beings, surrounded the King of Kings crying Holy, Holy,Holy is the Lord of hosts. Isaiah saw the glory of God filling the earth. In fact, he said...the whole earth is filled. Then he says... "Woe is me, I am undone."

What a place to be ... undone.

Where are we seated.. Ephesians 2:6 tells us that we are seated in heavenly places In Christ Jesus. We are IN Christ, we are settled in the bosom of his love, entwined in the embrace of his arms. His nail scarred hands cradling the focus of his love, his death, his sacrifice in a grip which can not be unfurled.

Do you realize nothing can separate you from His love.... neither height, depth, nor any other creature can separate us from the Love of God, which is IN Christ Jesus.

Where are we seated? IN Christ.

I feel like Isaiah... undone. Completely amazed at my inability to move from that knowing I am captivated by the lover of my soul, the one who nourishes me from the center of his core. The living water which flows and fills and answers my thirst. I breathe the deep sigh of contentment at this knowing. I find my breathing slows to the rate of shallow passive, yet life filling inhalation. I am falling to a place of rest. A place where my healing comes and the growth which changes me from glory to glory.

On my knees I can choose many paths. One of contention.. a place of struggling, strife, a violent effort to obtain something. A place that we must go at times to take back that which has been taken from the Kingdom of God.
Or.. I can choose one of contentedness... a place of rest, relying on the only source which has potential to grow new life in my own.

Or.. I can choose the humble role of a servant, bowing at the feet of my King realizing my worth lies solely in Him.

Or.. I can come weeping, lamenting my own choices;broken before the originator of mercy.

Or..I can come grateful. Thankful that the blood covers me.

Or I can come receiving. Knowing that it is in Him that my fullness is complete.

or.... can I come to this place of resting, of satisfaction..... content in all of the above.


Being content doesn't imply a lack of desire for something more, nor can you equate it with an impassivity which feigns the will to fight. Contentment relies on the author and finisher of our faith, His truth resplendent in our images which reveals the Glory which spills from heaven. Do you see? Can you know? Truly... The heavens can not contain him.. .the Earth and those inhabiting this celestial sphere are recipients of that which heaven's borders must break with the weight of.

Contentment in Christ, alone. This truth makes contentment in this life attainable.

It changes the view of our perception so that when we look at those temporal things in our direct field of vision, the circle of our influence here, we look with Kingdom Eyes.

Contentedness... rest in Him. Be still and Know... Know Him. Know the source of your satisfaction. In His presence there is peace, life, overflow and wholeness.

I invite you to go to "A Holy Experience" and read about Ann's new book. "One Thousand Gifts."

http://www.aholyexperience.com/one-thousand-gifts-book/

Living in His Praise

I am going to be real today and address something that the Lord has been dealing with me on many levels. It is not something you hear many Christian women discuss and I am not sure why. Perhaps we are afraid to say we struggle, perhaps we don't want to show a vulnerability in our walk or our faith, or perhaps we just don't want to acknowledge it is ok to sometimes feel overwhelmed.

I know, too, that in the reality of our situations, God's Word is always the truth. He tells us that in all things He will work them out for our Good. ( Romans 8:28) Praise the Lord for His sure answers at all times. There is relevant truth in His word that is applicable to every situation of our lives. And, more than that there is always room at the Cross. There is always a place to kneel before our Father, the lover of our soul, who knows all we think and feel and need before we say it. ( Matthew 6:8)

As I have taken my own thoughts to the Lord recently I am reminded of the valleys that we walk through and how alone we feel. Sometimes it is at the hand of our own actions, our own deeds and decisions that we find ourselves grieving or pondering our situations. Sometimes it is at the end of a conversation with a friend, a family member or a person we admire and we are left wondering "what was that?". Sometimes, we allow ourselves to be offended at a short word or a misunderstood statement and then we feel hurt. Or, sometimes we completely miss the point and mistake something for something it is not.

Have you ever done that? Felt yourself really questioning your conversations and actions? I mean the Word of God says we are to be above reproach( 1 Timothy 5:7) in what we do and say. We are to always be careful that we choose not to take offense and choose to not be offended.

But what do we do with disappointments? What do we do when the path you planned is not the path you are walking? What do we do when we find that we have lost something we held dear, whether it is a friend, a hope, a dream or a plan?

We rest in Him. We take it to the Cross. We take our realities and exchange them for the reality of His light and love for us. He will never leave us nor forsake us. He will not abandon us to the hurt. He seeks to give us a future that is filled with hope . Jeremiah 29:11 says..." For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you to give you a hope and a future." Not just hope.. and we could spend so much time discussing what His hope really looks like, but A HOPE.. AND A Future. :) Both.

I have learned that we can take God at His Word. No matter what. His timing and mine are not always the same, obviously His is better and in His wisdom I am more prepared by His hand when it is His timing. My flesh doesn't always agree, but my heart knows that I can trust Him.

I was reading a devotional today from Proverbs 31 woman. You can find it here:http://proverbs31devotions.blogspot.com/2010/09/when-people-let-you-down.html

As I processed what was written in this devotion it reminded me of a verse I have really enjoyed meditating on. Zephaniah 3:17. It says, "The Lord thy God in the midst of the is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing."

But I want to go farther in that chapter, all the way to the end. Read the verses starting with 17 and ending at 20.

The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.
I will gather them that are sorrowful for the solemn assembly, who are of thee, to whom the reproach of it was a burden.
Behold, at that time I will undo all that afflict thee: and I will save her that halteth, and gather her that was driven out; and I will get them praise and fame in every land where they have been put to shame.
At that time will I bring you again even in the time that I gather you; for I will make you a name and a praise among all people of the earth, when I turn back your captivity before your eyes, saith the Lord.

This was a good reminder that when we face our feelings about the things in our lives that have brought hurt, looking through the light of His love and the Truth of His Word.... there is a healing that only comes through fellowship with the Father. Sometimes, I know many times, my expectations of others but most specifically myself are more than what they or I can realistically live up to, that is a bit different. But when we find that there is just simply a place of hurt, or a place of walking through a valley it is hard to find the goodness of God.

God is always good, especially in the valleys.

Even more, what I see that in this scripture it is His work in me. Not my own. I can not make anything work out .. .not like He can. I can have a measure of success in this life, but outside of His love, His working, His filling it is merely a shadow of what I have when I yield to His capable hands.

We need to come to God and release our hearts. We need not be afraid ( how many times does it say in the Bible.. Do Not Fear?) to tell him our hurt, our concerns, our hopes and dreams. He is not a parent, like an earthly parent, who will consider what we say frivolous or unnecessary. What you hope for, what you dream.. it is real... it is important. Give them to Jesus. Let him show you through His goodness what that dream can be if given to him.

What you feel and when you hurt is precious to God. Jesus came that we would have life and have it to the full ( John 10:10) The devil comes to steal, to kill and to destroy. ( same verse) We often let that happen when we see the opposite of our dreams as our reality. We are giving fuel to the fire that burns our futures when we see the loss of our dreams instead of the chaff of our flesh on the threshing floor of His granary.

There is a purpose in the hurts in our lives, the redeeming we know as we release them to His hand and I believe that God doesn't waste a hurt. If allowed He will redeem it.

His mercies are new every day and when we need mercy... when we KNOW we need mercy and we all do.. we become much more merciful. When we need grace, again, we all need grace.. that free unmerited and undeserved favor of God in our lives... we then begin to see how to extend grace. And when we walk in our own flesh, allowing judgment to pass, allowing hurt to guide what we say and do, allowing our own destiny to be altered because we forget that He rejoices over us....we forget grace and mercy.

Don't forget that He rejoices over you.
When no one else sees your devotion to your families, he does.
When no one else sees you turn your cheek the other way, he does.
When no one else sees you serve tirelessly, he does.
When no one else sees you take the high road, he does.
When no one else sees your tears, he does.
When no one else sees you gain victory over that emotion, he does.
When no one else sees you choose love, he does.
When no one else sees you grieve, he does.
And.. He rejoices over you with singing.

Don't forget how much love is poured out for you. His banner over you is love. When we set our sights on human beings we will be disappointed.. they fall and they make mistakes. We are imperfect vessels being changed from Glory to Glory. But, Jesus has already won the victory and He has already guaranteed that we are going to finish the race.

Blessings to you!

Practicing the Presence of God

I wanted to mention a resource that I think is a basic essential to those who want to draw closer to the Lord. Obviously.. the Bible is the most important book we can immerse ourself into. However, that said.. I think there are some amazing books that have been written through the years which stand alone for time immemorial.


One such book is called.. "The Practice of the Presence of God" by Brother Lawrence. http://www.amazon.com/Practice-Presence-God-Brother-Lawrence/dp/0800785991

You can find the text written here : http://housechurch.org/spirituality/brother_lawrence.html

This book is significant to me because in a person's search for intimacy with God there has to be a keen awareness of HIM. There must be a true acknowledgement that we are acutely aware of His closeness in every situation and every circumstance of our life...every second of our day, every breath we take. It is that real.

The key here is that when you recognize this.. life is NEVER the same. Just as life is never the same when you have received the new birth.. the gift of salvation and God's grace in your life, so also will you change as you step closer to him in the realization that He is in as much as you let him and always in the middle of everything. Think about it.

This is where there was a clear awakening in my own spirit to not miss one moment with him. There are times when I choose to ignore Him and in doing that I have missed the blessing. That is grievous to me when I realize how that must have hurt Him, but in His amazing grace and mercy He allows me to come to Him, even after I have chosen something over time with Him.

When you begin to "Practice His Presence" your eyes are opened to the enormity of life with God rather than a life that merely acknowledges Him. It causes your prayer time to be a time of power and growth. When you practice being in his presence continually you come to recognize His sweet voice and it is almost overwhelming. The God of Creation, Father of Glory, El Elyon is speaking to you.. However, it is nothing new.. He has been doing it all along the difference is the place where you heart is and the attention you have been giving to hearing, seeking and knowing Him.

There is an article I found where another believer shares about their journey in Practicing the Presence of God. http://net-burst.net/pray/practice_presence_god.htm

I just want to encourage you to open your heart and open your eyes and ears to what He has for you today. Prepare the way for Him and make straight paths that He may come in and do a new work in your heart and make you the vessel He destined you to be !
( Mark 1:3, Matthew 3:3, Luke 3:4 and Isaiah 40:3)


Be blessed!
Dawn

What Summer Break Means to Me

It's that time of year again! Are you thinking " Summer Break! Time to relax, enjoy the beauty of living in the Midwest, read a good book, have fun with the kids, etc."

Yes, it is. :) And a hint, these Spring, Summer and Fall tend to make up for some of those crazy Midwest winters. I wish I could take a picture of the beauty I see when I look out my window. My favorite time is right away in the morning when everyone is quiet, I am all alone and I can sit and enjoy what I see. I can sit and bask in the presence of my awesome Saviour and enjoy the gift of just being alive. I think He gives us those little moments to carry us through the rest of our day. The times of chaotic rumbling which seems to define life for me. Do I ponder the chaos or grow in it? Hopefully, I can grow through and train my children well, but such is the mode right now...growing children, gardens and bees ( and sometimes laundry!) :)

So as I ponder the beauty of creation, consequently how can one ever deny the amazing gift of the Creator when looking upon the demonstration of a sunrise and the massive power of a thunderstorm, the serene beauty in a gentle wind and the tenderness of a timid rain shower.

Genesis 1:1 says " In the Beginning God created the heavens and the earth"

The Bible shows us the awesome power of the creator in a myriad of ways which disproves theories which try to lay claim to an explanation for all we see.

John 1:3 tells us that " Through him all things were made;without him nothing was made that has been made."

As I relax in this time of resting, though that is a term I would never apply to my summer schedule, it is a time of pondering, a time of considering, a time of reflecting and a time of renewed hope.

Hope is a loaded word. I find when my hope is placed in things that are not of God or in plans that are not initiated by His hand, in my life, then my hope becomes deferred.
Proverbs 13:12 tells us that " Hope deferred makes a heart grow sick but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life." Hmm.. think on that for a minute.

Deferred hope detours us from our destined path and reroutes our life towards a time of sickness, loss and perhaps death. Death of dreams, death of desired outcomes, death of desires which were well-springs of life. Yet, when we set our hope on the one who makes our bitter experiences sweet, there is a depth of peace and resilience which can not be deferred, deterred or rerouted.

So many times I have found my own thoughts wandering and allowing my feelings to overtake the truth of His plan, His purpose and the future He has set for me. Jeremiah 29:11 tells us that the plans He has for us are to prosper us and not to harm us, to give us hope and a future. Where in that scripture do we find deferred dreams, detoured highways or rerouted plans?

Does the Lord change our plans, yes.. perhaps "Our Plans" but He does not change and I find a great peace in knowing that He is always good. That there is hope in who He is and there is a profound joy in His presence.

I have known those moments of peace that passes all understanding which gives me a solid foundation to stand on in moments of trial and pressure in the storm. I have been so thankful for the intimate way He will reach down and fill my heart with a hope that is immeasurable knowing that He will work out all things for good to those who love him.( Romans 8:28) I have been reminded of Psalm 103 and how He has redeemed my life from destruction and removed my transgressions, covered me with loving-kindness and tender mercies and given me good things so that my youth is renewed as the eagle's.

Psalm 91 reminds us that we are to hide under the shadow of His wings that no evil would befall us nor calamity come near to our dwelling.

Hiding His precious promises is a hope found in Psalm 119:11 which reminds us of the power of His word, which keeps us from evil.

Back to my summer plans:

I am not someone who enjoys just "sitting". :) I like resting, but I am always thinking. Sometimes the Lord has to sincerely get a hold of me and remind me that He is the author and finisher. :) However, my summer is one of planning.

I love to plan.. I am learning to implement those plans. And learning to be ok with "imperfection" in my plan ( aka...me and my abilities.. but that is an entirely different post for a different day.)

I find though that my plan isn't always doable. Meaning.. I tend to overfill my schedule, my planner, my to-do list as if I was wonder woman and then ponder why I can get it completed. It is times like this I have learned that God has a sense of humor.
Psalm 127:1 reminds us that "Unless the Lord builds the house, they who labor.... labor in vain."

As we enter our 10th year of homeschooling there is so much to "unlearn" and so much to ponder. What have we done right? What can we change? What should we do?

This is how I spend my summer! Seeking His will and planning for our school year. Looking to His heart and asking Him to give me a vision. A vision I can write down and follow. I tend to rebel against a schedule, though I know how helpful one can be.... :) so I have to be careful when I plan that I allow myself room to be spontaneous and fly by the seat of my pants. I seem to be at my very best in that scenario.

side thought... I often wonder after those valuable teaching moments if they are less the poignancy of spontaneity and more the leaning not on my own understanding...the guiding of my path by One who is supreme knowledge and wisdom.... :)


Proverbs 29:18 tells us w/o a vision the people perish and Habakkuk 2:2 tells us to write it down plainly. I will continue this thread in another post about planning and what I have learned. But I must close now.. I have kiddos who are needing their momma, a garden who is needing its caretaker and laundry that is needing to be hung on the line.!

I wanted to leave a little gem with you. I found this company ( a different name then) when I began homeschooling. I still have their catalogs because of the profound wisdom within the pages. They are not homeschooling their children any longer, because they are all grown.. they completed the circle! :) But they still have a wonderful outreach to homeschool families and wisdom that has not expired. http://www.homeschoolmarketplace.com/


Blessings on your day!

Just thinking

I have been spending a lot of time in my flowers this week. It has been such a gift of peace and comfort to my heart. Through the years I have found that I have such a joy in my heart when it is spring, an ability to roll with the punches a little easier than other times. I sincerely think that the time I spend in my garden, time I really try to spend with Jesus, thinking and praying... time well spent.

What is your love language? What is it you value most? The one thing that you find speaks to your heart in a real way?

One thing that truly has been a stumbling block for me is wasted time. The definition of wasted time can change from day to day, but if I feel as though I have really used my time wisely it is pleasing. If, however, I find that my day or my time has been wasted, it is a source of disappointment. Funny as that sounds, I think about the time I have wasted and felt was spent wisely. Time that perhaps would have been better spent in prayer, creating a memory, laughing with my children.

We are at the end of our school year here. We have the next 2 months to relax and enjoy the freedom to spend our time "as we wish", yet I find myself filling our day with "to do" lists and goals to achieve by the end of summer. It makes me laugh at my own little perfectionist heart, and this continual need to fill my time with important things.

Our youngest daughter is reminding me to stop and smile. She is reminding me of the contagious nature of laughter and how easily is spills forth when like a child we view the world around us. She sees summer as days filled with bike rides, swims in the pool and mom's homemade lemonade. She awakes to the day with no burden save the amount of time it will take for her to get outside to enjoy the warmth of the season. She flits about her day with a heart so free and a spirit unhindered from the tethers of life. She reminds me of the person who heeds the Word in 2 Peter 5:7... Casting all your cares upon the Lord for He cares for you. ~


Because pondering things has always been one of my favorite past times..... :) I have been pondering the beauty of resting in His grace and being graceful to those in my life, those in my sphere of influence, and those outside of my sphere. If we are willing God will open those doors for us to walk through.

And since this is summer and it is a much needed break for a homeschool mom to make herself take, especially someone who thinks she needs to fill every minute with something meaningful, here are some of the ways I have been spending my time:

Coffee on the Patio.... so nice because it is warm and quiet

A walk/run while the kids ride their bikes. This helps me get back into those shorts that used to fit last summer.

Working with the bees.... This in and of itself, is surprisingly one of the most relaxing things I do during the spring and summer. Even when I get stung. ;)

Pulling weeds... I love to pull weeds, it is the best therapy in the world. Plus, I have a flower bed that is in serious need of "recreating" so it fills in my little creative niche that all of us have in one way or the other. It is so fun to find new plants in the midst of the chaos of the overgrown weeds. I found 2 tiny lupine plants in my ever expanding Spearmint yesterday. I love it when I find those gems. Oh.... and the best... My rose bush bloomed. I took some pictures and if I can get them to work I will get them on my blog! There is a story with the rose bush that I will share one of these days.

Working in my garden. I love to plan the garden each year. Which plant goes where, what plant would do better next to my tomatoes( for those of you who really want to know.. Carrots Love Tomatoes and Basil is always a wise choice). Just to show my anal retentive nature, I make a map of my garden each year to remind me what was successful, what was a failure, etc. Plus, I usually forget what I plant because I never put the plant stakes in my garden. I tend to run them over and break them, so I just use twigs from the fallen branches. It works for me! ;)

And I think one of the sweetest and I find for me a big help, time with friends. During the summer it is nice to just take an afternoon to visit with our friends. It is so nice to connect, to fellowship and to encourage each other. To make relationships and carve that place in our lives for those important people. To take time for each other and instill in my children's hearts the desire to bless others. As I grow older I am learning to value more the preciousness of my God-friends. :) yes.. not just good friends but my friends in Jesus, those precious women who are sharpening me with the beauty of His light inside of them.

My husband is reminding me of the joy of just being still by encouraging me to not be so busy. I need that reminder, because taking a "break" is not second nature for me. Yet, when we stop... when we slow down... when we pause and think.. Selah.... We hear that still small voice in our ear saying.. " This is the way, walk in it.". ( Isaiah 30:21)




Here is a wonderful fried chicken recipe that I made tonight. Very easy and not so "fried" that it is too greasy.

Enjoy!

Oven Fried Chicken

Optional: Marinade your chicken in Buttermilk seasoned to your taste before you cook atleast 2-4 hours.

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Lightly oil a baking dish, I used a 9 x 13 pan and another small pan because it wasn't big enough.

In a shallow bowl combine:
2/3 c. graged parmesan
1/2 c. dry bread crumbs
1/2 c . cornmeal
3 Tbsp. minced parsley
1 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper

Whisk 2 eggs and 2 Tbsp. melted butter together in shallwo bowl.

Dip chicken in egg and butter then coat in the cornmeal mixture. Arrange chicken, skin side up in baking pan. Drizzle 2-3 Tbsp. of melted butter or olive oil over chicken.

Bake 35-40 min. Serve hot or cold. :)

I served this with Buttery Garlic Green Beans, Cheddar smashed potatoes, and homemade coleslaw. Can't forget the lemonade.. a staple at my house. Here is my recipe:


Lemonade
1 c. sugar
1 c. lemon juice
2-3 quarts of water ( depends on my mood, sometimes I want it sweet, and other times I don't)

Mix well and serve with ice cubes and lemon slices!
** You can blend frozen berries, adding sugar and a little wather to this and make a flavored lemonade. Our favorite is Raspberry! Yummmm!


Blessings to you!

A Time for Everything

There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven:
a time to be born and a time to die,
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance,
a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
a time to embrace and a time to refrain,
a time to search and a time to give up,
a time to keep and a time to throw away,
a time to tear and a time to mend,
a time to be silent and a time to speak,
a time to love and a time to hate,
a time for war and a time for peace.
What does the worker gain from his toil? I have seen the burden God has laid on men. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live. That everyone may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all his toil—this is the gift of God. I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that men will revere him.
Ecclesiastes 3:1-14

I think of this passage when I am in the process of planting my garden each year. Actually, when I am in the garden I can't help but praise the Lord and give thanks for the beauty which He alone created.

I wonder at the majesty that is before our eyes; marveling at the masterpiece we are allowed to be a part of. His glory is manifested each time we step into our day; His creation testifies of The Creator; and I am speechless as I wonder.

There is a song called " Revelation" that comes to mind. The following verses from that song are resounding with in my heart and mind and it so beautifully implies what I think of when I am enjoying the beauty of this time of year.

" Filled with wonder, Awestruck wonder, at the mention of your name!

Jesus your name brings power,

breath and living water, such a marvelous mystery.

Holy! Holy! Holy!

Is the Lord God Almighty,

Who was, and is and is to come.

With all creation I sing,

praise to the King of Kings!

You are my everything

and I will adore you!"

It is so amazing to be alive during this season of new life and hope! God's sweet grace is always for us and His mercy is continually renewed each day.

We planted our garden this weekend. I love my garden.. it brings such joy and peace in my heart as I reflect and work in the light of His love. I often spend my time praying for the people the Lord has laid on my heart and of the things that have been a burden which I need to release to God. That is why gardening is often such a time of therapy. It is a time of reflecting, of solitude and embracing the beauty of God's fellowship as we commune together in all He has made.

I think of the first Garden and how He has given us every tool, every useful thing to be productive and successful, even with the thorns and weeds that poke through. I think of the way that God's Word is true and the effectiveness of seedtime and harvest. When you plant a seed, in the natural, you expect a harvest. If I plant a radish seed, I expect a radish.

Do we see our time of prayer as seeds of eternal weight being planted in fertile soil which has been prepared for the seed?

I think of how the multiplicity of God's annointing and blessing come in our lives when we sow in faith. Always more than we sow is returned to us. Sometimes 30, 60 or even 100 times that which was sown.( Mark 4:20) We can see this magnified in our prayers when we are praying in the fullness of His glory into our lives and His body; there is a revelation of that power when we see prayer as the tool the Lord has given us to pull heaven down to earth.

I started my Lavender Garden today. My hope is to one day have my own lavender farm, but that is a future goal. Right now we just got a good start. I am so excited!

The spring brings rain and flooding here. It is always so amazing to me as I watch the force of nature and the strength water has to overtake the landscape. We have to remind our children of the dangers of the water even though it looks harmless and I see the resemblance in our own life choices. There are some things that as believers we need to realize are dangerous for us, too dangerous for the purpose God has for each of our lives. Things that take away from the destiny we are called to. Things that while they may not be sin, become a focus which pulls us away from time alone with God.

My bees are working hard. I love to watch them. They have a goal and they are not stopped in their pursuit of it. They even die for it, if necessary. Can I say that I'd do that for Christ? Forsake all for him, even my family and friends? My comfort? Everything? He asked us to give up all and follow him. Like the rich young ruler are there things in my life that I value more? Hmm.. humbling thoughts I know I need to take to prayer.

My pastor spoke of a life of unreserved faithfulness, a life which commands change, a life of choice to serve and not be left behind and he mentioned something that my spirit caught a hold of.. bruised knees. Will I be found with bruised knees? Oh, I hope so! I hope I can come to that place where prayer is more important than sleep. A place where pushing through to see Kingdom life planted within the boundaries of earth's atmosphere is an every day occurrence. I see how the bees parallel a faith-filled servant's life. They do not deter from their destiny.

So just a few thoughts from me to you as I ponder the gifts God has blessed me with here. Loving my garden, praising God for the beauty around in many ways and thankful for the chance to share my heart!

Blessings to you!

Praying for Eternity

The Bible tells us in 2 Corinthians 4:18 " While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal."

The words in the Greek text help illustrate the meaning of what "to look" means. In fact, There are 2 verbs meaning to see or to look at in that same verse, skopounton- while looking at with the word not placed before it; blepomena-meaning seen, or to look at). One is describing the act of looking at something while not seeing it. Blepomena is to look at, and the act of being seen.

I find it interesting that the translation for temporal and eternal are also very descriptive in the Greek. Temporal comes from the greek word proskaira- meaning temporal or in season. Eternal in this passage is translated from the greek word aionia- meaning agelong, eternal. Both words are descriptive adjectives from the nominative plural declension. ( They name the subject). The subject is the "seen things".

Ok.. so this little greek lesson I have traveled down is primarily for myself in understanding more of the meaning of God's Word. I believe that we have the right, almost as in imperative command from scripture to seek His Word and find the meaning of what is written.

Lately, the Lord has been convicting my heart regarding the depth of my words. He spoke this world and all we see into creation with Words. His Words, his living and powerful words. ( Hebrews 4:12) And we are his emissaries in this world to bring forth the blessings of heaven.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 tells us to pray continually.

Jesus is our role model where prayer is concerned. Where everything is concerned, in truth. Hebrews 8:1, 7-25 reminds us that we have a High Priest who is able to save those who come to God through him and He always lives to interceed for us. His intercession is continual.

He answered trials with the Word of God. When He was tempted He returned in answer with the Word of God. As I meditate on these I realize I can and never should do any less. Of course, I can do none of this apart from God. It is Christ living in me who is capable.

Do you believe you are an intercessor? Do you believe that you are called to interceed? If Jesus is our role model, is there any question?

Andrew Murray wrote the following quote in his book Stand in the Gap. He writes, "Let continual intercession be your highest aim, joy and experience of wonderful fellowship with the Holy God."

Intercession is just as much for you, for the gifts placed within you as it is for God.

It is the prayers of the saints which move the hands and heart of God. He is sovereign. He alone is Holy. He alone is the only truth that exists which is not subjective to elements, theology or reason. Yet, as His workmen.... as His hands and feet, it is in a continual spirit of divine intercession which the glory of heaven can be pulled into this earthly realm. In Matthew, chapter 6 ,when Jesus was teaching the disciples to pray He instructed them to pray these words. "Thy Kingdom come and thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven".

There is a grace in this life for our "human~ness", but we are not ill-equipped to be possessors of the Kingdom of Glory. When we bow our heads, bend our knees and prostrate our hearts before the King of Glory we are pushing into boundaries that break natural reason. I believe it pleases God when we push in. (Hebrews 11:6) I believe He is emphatically delirious when we invade heaven's gates and take hold of the blessings already waiting and ready for us.( 2 Cor 1:20) Not just for us, for everyone who is in need of a touch from heaven.

Are you praying for eternity? Are you pushing in to the fold and reaching into the glory of God's heavenly blessings? You can.

Let your words be words of faith. Let your prayers be prayers of faith, intercession and boldness. Hebrews 4:16.. "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need."

I believe, with all my heart, that I was prayed into the Kingdom of God. I have had the privilege of knowing one of the precious saints who purposed to put me before the Lord continuously. Revelations 8:3 says " Another angel came.. He was given much incense to offer, with the prayers of all saints, on the golden altar before the throne." I can do no less that to be a intentional prayer-er and heed the voice of the Lord when He calls me to interceed and pray.

"Stand in the Gap.. and realize your holy calling as an intercessor! Pray Continually " ~ Andrew Murray.

Back to the first scripture.. Look not at the things you see here, on this side of glory. Look into eternity.. Pray the in the eternal value, change the seen things, those things for this season, of temporary time weight, and pray in the eternal things.. ageless - agelong truths that carry a weight which knows no bounds.

Blessings in Jesus!

Faithfulness

What is faithfulness? You can find this word at least 91 times in scripture. There are variations of the Greek translation of this word, but one that stands out to me is pistis.

Pistis was used by Paul in the book of Romans chapter 3 where he is talking about the faithlessness of people. He declares even if some have no faith, that (faithlessness) will not jeopardize the faithfulness of God.

What is faith? What is being faithful?

Interestingly in the 91 times of this word occurring in Scripture most often it is related to the faithfulness of God and not that of man. Isn't it amazing how intricately woven throughout this masterful work of art, The Bible.. His love-letter to us, is a constant reminder of who He is.

Constancy is a reflection of faithfulness. He is constant.

Unchanging, another image that reveals His faithfulness. Hebrews 13:8 reminds us God is the same yesterday, today and forever. He never changes.

Righteous. He can not lie ( Rom 3:4) He is incapable of falsehood and can have no part in it, therefore what He says, is righteous.


The hymn " Great is thy Faithfulness" by Thomas Chisholm was written in 1923. The author wrote it to declare the amazing grace of God through is unending mercy. The scripture reference is one so dear to my heart. Lamentations 3:22-23. He writes of the glorious gift of a new mercy each morning, of the faithful light of His love over us and of the one truth we can know is constant.

Not just his Love, Not just his grace, not just the gift of salvation but a prevailing faithfulness that will not end. Psalm 117:2 tells us His faithfulness endures forever.

Not only is it constant, unchanging and righteous, but it is shield ( Psalm 91) and a blessed covering over us.

In my own walk I find that my faithfulness has been faulty but He is faultless.

Over a week ago, my heart was burdened as I had to watch my daughter endure the weight of a chronic illness. Her strength and steadfastness reminded me of the faithfulness of God. Hebrews 11:6 says, "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him."

Faith-full-ness. ful is a suffix, ness is also a suffix. A suffix adds to the base of the word by changing it's original meaning. ful and ness confer a state of being. So, if we were to define the word by it's syntax it would mean full of faith, right?

If we can not please God w/o faith, and it is with faith that we seek Him, will He not also stand by His word and reward us? Oh, so sweet to trust in Him, we can take Him at His word. Doesn't the Bible say that He is the giver of all good gifts? (James 1:17)

Back to my amazing daughter.... as I allowed my heart to be burdened by fear and a deferred hope, she sweetly ministered to my heart. She blessed me with a faith that is not built by any Sunday School lesson or sermon. Her faith is in her Savior. Her faith rests in a true relationship with the author of Love, Hope and Peace. She can smile and have joy because it is filled from above. She rests securely in the arms of grace and mercy and knows what faithfulness means w/o words. What a treasure to be her mom. She has taught me much about strength and perseverance.

Humbly we seek His truth, patiently He waits for us to hear His voice and to know the touch of His hand. Wonderfully He walks us through every valley, over every hill, around each boulder and victoriously He will bring us to the end. Philippians 1:6 says that He will perfect that which He began in us and whether or not my daughter experiences freedom this side of glory doesn't change who He is. It will never diminish the praise He deserves nor lessen the awesome beauty of His faithfulness. And that is where I see the miracle.

In my own lack of faith, He is unchanged and His love is ever constant. His light shines in the darkness of my own heart and reminds me that He is always enough, He is always with us, He will speak to us in the quiet places, in the rushing waters, in the hurts of life and the sweet joys. We can choose to embrace that and see the change made when we allow Him to walk beside us, carry us through... or we can lose the gift when we choose to do it w/o him.

Read through this hymn and let it minister to your heart. Meditate on His faithfulness and let his strength and hope be renewed in your spirit!

"Great is Thy faithfulness,"

O God my Father,

There is no shadow of turning with Thee;

Thou changest not,

Thy compassions, they fail not

As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.
"Great is Thy faithfulness!"

"Great is Thy faithfulness!"

Morning by morning new mercies I see;

All I have needed

Thy hand hath provided—

"Great is Thy faithfulness,"

Lord, unto me!
Summer and winter,

and springtime and harvest,

Sun, moon and stars in their courses above,

Join with all nature in manifold witness

To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,

Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide;

Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,

Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

Blessings to you! ( + 10,000 more. )

The Life in His Word

I read a devotional this morning and the title of this devotional made me stop and do a double-take, as it was surely meant to do. However, as you read on the author makes a very real and honest comment about reading the Word of God.

What amazes me, in my own walk, is when I come to the table to read His Word out of "habit" rather than as one seeking for hidden treasure, answers to my questions, hope for the trials, endurance for the race... shall I say more?

I was convicted that at times I can come to the process of reading His word as something I have to do but I was also encouraged that I don't want that to be the "habit". I want to have the habit of pursuing Christ, His Word and His will for my life because God has so changed the depth of my own heart that living a day w/o it would be a day w/o the life-sustaining breath I need to exist.

One of my very favorite scriptures is Hebrews 4:12. I am reminded of it every time I open my Bible. It says, "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."

In the Hebraic culture, they so value the written word of God as a living breathing entity that when the ink starts to fade on the scrolls they bury it, as we would bury a family member, and consider it a sacred event. They stand when they read it ! They reverence the Word of God as an extension of the creator, the Holy One who has brought life through the creative power of words.
Look at John chapter 1:1-5, 14: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.
There came a man who was sent from God; his name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light. The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.

Then I acutally look at my own Bible.... oh, my. Torn pages, broken spine, ..... I was burdened that I did not honor this treasure I was given.

How many Bibles does the average Christian .. let me restate... American Christian family own? I was convicted there, as well. We have one for each member and I have 3 myself, each in a different version. Yet, there are many people all over the world with scraps of 1 chapter, with verses written on paper to hold and bring comfort. What they would give to have a Bible of their own? Some even being persecuted for owning a Bible.

Where does that leave me? Do I value His Word? Do I give it a place of honor? Do I love the Word as the life-blood to my soul?

I'd like to say, "Yes". I do love it. I love the way the Psalms refresh me in my brokenness. I love the way the Proverbs infuse my mind with wisdom and truth. I love the way the Prophets share boldly the proclamations of the Lord. I love the way the Gospels tell of His amazing Love, the word of my Savior there to read and treasure. I love the way the Epistles encourage us to live a life that is devoted to God. I love the way the Book of Revelation reminds us that He is coming again.

Yet, there are times when I know that I have come to His Word just because I have to. I always leave refreshed, filled and so grateful. Isn't that just like God? He takes the barrenness and replaces with His fullness. However, this is a great reminder for me to run to the Word, to run to His Wisdom, to run into Him. "The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runs into it, and is safe." Proverbs 18:10

Isaiah 40:8 says, "The grass wither, the flower fades: but the word of our God shall stand for ever."

We have an assurance that when we run to his word, we know it is stable, it is enduring, it is lasting. And we have a promise of His love, His grace and His mercy that we can only find when we seek Him through His Word.

I found this devotional very encouraging today and wanted to share it with you.
http://proverbs31devotions.blogspot.com/2010/02/dont-read-your-bible.html




Blessings to you !
Dawn

Busy Times!

Whew! I just realized how long it has been since I have posted. So much has gone on since then. I have traveled to and from Michigan with over 3,000 lbs of peaches and blueberries ( not all mine), canned and put up the harvest from my garden, began school AND began tutoring, and in between all that teaching some amazing women about prayer. I feel like we are often just traipsing through the day w/o even thinking and I find myself exhausted from the bulk of it all. Yet through it all God is always faithful, ever beside me.

Often when I find myself this busy I can easily get in the pattern of starting my day with my mental list of "what-to-do's" and not take that most precious time with the Lord I need. I have been trying to impress this upon my children as we go about our day. I was asked once, "When do you have quiet time?" I had a hard time answering that w/o feeling as if I was not putting everything in its proper place. I responded, " It is not always the same... sometimes, when I get up, sometimes when I find myself in the middle of a situation that I can't handle and I know I missed HIM that day, or sometimes when I am done for the day... And sometimes it is all of the above." What does it mean to have that quiet time?

Right now is a quiet time in the house. I am sitting at the computer catching up on my much neglected writing. My family members are each off doing something that is not requiring me to be with them at the moment. I have a yummy cup of Mocha Coffee sitting next to me and I am sensing the quiet of the day. Quiet.. I love to contemplate the beauty of it. Yet when it is really quiet we sometimes feel unsettled. Quiet before Him, though finds us forever changed by a supernatural peace meant to alter our destiny.

My time with the Lord is meant to be at all times, not just once in the morning or in the middle of my stressful situations or at the close of my day. He wants us to be in continual communion with Him. My quiet time is on-going. It is my breathed prayer with the thoughts of those He brings to rememberance, blessing them and lifting them up as He has called me to do. It is found in the depths of His Wisdom as I read His Word and commit it to memory. I rejoice in the quiet time of praise and worship as I sing a song only to him and lift my hands in praise, bow my head in worship and kneel in wonder and adoration for who He is. The majestic quiet I feel in His peace as He comes and touches my heart and attends to those things which I contend with.

He tells us to Be still and Know that he is God. He is always at work in our situations and His Word does not return to him void. He is masterful and creative in the many ways He grasps our attention and revels in the time we give back to him, just to include Him in our day.

Quiet surrender of my every moment overshadows the need to feel as if I have to devote only fractions of my day to my King. We serve a God of grace and mercy, who does not want to only be a part of our day but for us to want Him to lead it. He is so good and patient that He will wait for us with joy in his heart and sweet blessings in his hands to bestow. My quiet time is every precious second I remember that having Him involved in is a changed moment.


I am eager to share some yummy recipes I have been trying out and I have a fun thought I want to share on Hanging Laundry. But He has my heart and my hands and this was the message I knew I needed to share first. :)
Blessings In Him!