Lions

I received an award at my new job last week. I am very proud of it, but it is a bittersweet thing. You see, I was given the award to "Most likely to 'dive in head first into the lions den.'" I take that as a great compliment because it means I'm doing a great job and I'm fearless at overcoming my tasks.

But the compliment made me think of the Biblical Lion's Den and Daniel. The story is about how some close to the king wanted to get rid of Daniel, so they convinced the king to decree that no one could pray to anyone or anything other than the King for 30 days. Well, Daniel prayed three times daily. The punishment was to be thrown into the lion's den. He was thrown in because he was following God.

I was given a cliche parallel compliment that put me at Daniel's level. I didn't deserve it. I don't do half as much as I should when it comes to following God. The verse that really got to me was this: Daniel 6:22, "My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt."

I am ashamed because I'd probably be eaten. Would I be found innocent? Do I do enough for God? No. I find myself weak in discipline. I am easily distracted by the material things of this world. I don't do enough.

Now, please don't take this as to mean I'm doomed. I know Jesus lives in my heart and I'll spend eternity with him. I won't lose the gift of eternal life because of my lack of focus. I just lose some of my self respect. I know I'm capable of doing so much more. I have a desire to witness and share my good fortune (grace, and a relationship with Jesus) with others, I just let my worldly desires overcome it.

Here is my prayer: Oh God, give me tunnel vision. I want to only have eyes for you. Give me the chance to share my special love and relationship that I have in you with others. I want to dive into the lion's den, because that means I'm willing to give up everything for you. I am willing to give up everything for you. I love you, God. I want to make you proud. Forgive me for my laziness and lack of discipline. Make me stronger in you. I love you. Amen.

Daniel 6: 27, "He delivereth and rescueth, and he worketh signs and wonders in heaven and in earth, who hath delivered Daniel from the power of the lions."

Focusing Life

I have some confessing to do. While I usually confess in the privacy of silent prayers, I feel the need to be held accountable to anyone who reads this, especially my husband and God. I am a selfish person. I've been selfish for a long time, but it has finally caught up with me and I feel like it slapped me across the face today. I have just made several great accomplishments in my life. I officially graduate college next Friday, and I've landed my first job in the career world. I feel alive with success, and I'm very proud of myself. But it doesn't stop there. I have felt the thrill of success and personal accomplishment, and it has blinded me to what is most important in my life: my relationships. A diploma is great, but at the end of the day, it is still a piece of paper. While I have zeroed in on the things I want out of life, I have lost focus of my real purpose. I am not listening to God for direction. I have found a power trip on my own success in choices and I've forgotten to be obedient. For that I am so sorry. 

I've also gotten away from my relationship with my husband. I've always said I wouldn't be the partner in a relationship that meekly follows behind the other. I have always wanted to walk side-by-side with my spouse. Yet, I have drug my husband through all of my desires, caring nothing for his own. I do not want to do things his way. I'd like to say I'm not being the submissive wife, but it goes deeper than that. I wanted to rule the house. I'm not an extreme feminist or a prudent housewife. I'm just me. I have come to realize that I don't want to lead or follow. I want to journey through my life with my husband, holding hands. 

That goes for my relationship with God as well. I don't want to store him in my purse until I need him. To be truthful, I need him every day. 

My world is changing, because I've made a decision tonight. I don't want control of my life, because I feel like I'm missing all of the important things. By giving my life to God and being obedient to his will, I know I'll never miss the important things. I also know he can deepen the enjoyment and love in a marriage better than anyone. 

I can't help but think about how twelve men dropped their entire lives to follow Jesus. I know you can say that Jesus stood right there in front of them and called them to do so, but isn't Jesus standing in front of you now? Can you honestly say you don't feel him tugging at your heart? That is him asking you to take his hand. He wants to walk with you every day. Reach out to him.

Lord, forgive me for focusing myself on me and not the things that are important in life. Help me stick to my decision to refocus my life and show obedience and submission in the areas of my life that need it. I love you, and thank you for loving me even when I'm unlovable. Amen.

It's been a while since I've posted. I get caught up in the world sometimes. There have been a lot of things I've contemplated lately that make me ask myself if I am a poser. What I mean is, how connected to God am I? I find myself worrying about being a name-dropper. I first heard this term while watching a celebrity news channel. It was defined as a person who brags about famous friends to make themselves look better. 

My worry with my spiritual relationship is how real is it? Am I just dropping God's name to make myself look better? I have spent a lot of time pondering this and I've decided that I'm not a poser. I don't drop God's name. I've solidified this by looking at my life. "Two Hands" by Jars of Clay, made me analyze what I do to contribute to my relationship with God. (I am by no means perfect. Just last week, I procrastinated and put my entire Sunday school lesson off until Saturday night. It isn't anything I'm proud of, but I want to stress that I'm not trying to put myself on a pedestal by highlighting my successes. I have just as many failures). With that said, I know my relationship with God is real because I seek it out. I don't keep his name as a reference in my back pocket. I talk to him daily. He is a part of my every-day life. I commute to work, usually a 30-45 minute drive. Most everyone I know feels sorry for me because I have to make that drive, but it is my personal time with God. I set the radio to my favorite Christian radio station, and pour my praise out. 

I do wish I did more for others. God calls us to the great commission, but we should also look at Jesus as an example of how we should live. In every way, Jesus lived his life to serve. I am not happy to admit that I do not serve my fellow men a lot. However, looking at my life, I have realized there is so much I could do. I used to use the excuse that I didn't have the money to do anything for others, but why does help need to require money? I could help a little old lady carry her groceries out. I could help a child reach that button just out of reach. God doesn't say to buy love or help. He says to give it freely, and that doesn't require money.

John 12:26 says, "If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honor." Be close to God, not just another in the masses. Find a way to make a difference in the lives of those around you. It doesn't have to be life-changing, just be sincere.

Lord, thank you for loving us and serving all of our needs. Let us be a loving light to the world, as we try to serve the needs of your children. Give us wisdom and your love as we strive to do your will. Amen.

Getting Through it

I want to tell you about a few things that have made the last few weeks hard.

- My dog, Jade, got run over last Tuesday.

- I owe $1,500 for my last two classes - in 9 days.

- I've recently taken a pay cut.

- My son is going through separation anxiety - which in turn makes my day stressful.

Now, I want to tell you why it doesn't matter.

- God has given me the promise of eternal, perfect life with no trouble or pain.

That is all I need. This life can try my strength and endurance, but God has promised everlasting life to me! Trivial inconveniences and sad events can't bring me down when I visualize myself walking streets of gold with Jesus.

Satan who? Demons what? They can't stand up to my God. They can't take away what God has given to me. See, my God said He would always be there for me, and He has held true to that.

My dog was like my first child. She was my baby girl. She kept me company when I was pregnant, and she always could make me feel better any time I was sad. I thought I'd be distraught, but every time I'd start to lose my cool, God would blanket me with peace and love. David said it best in Psalm 21:13, "... so will we sing and praise thy power." How can I not give God all the praise when he brought me through such a tough time? Psalm 23:4 says, " Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and staff they comfort me."

I understand how people can be overwhelmed with life's situations if they aren't trusting in God's promise. It is easy to find situations stressful when you are trying to do everything on your own. That is why I encourage you to give it all to God. Acts 16:31 says, "Believe on the Lord, Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved." Instead of trusting you can do it all yourself, give the load to God. He will willingly take it so that you can have peace. God will take on anything. What he wants is to give you the gift of eternal life. Trust in him.

God, thank you for always taking care of me. Thank you for loving me and sending Jesus to die for me. I can't imagine giving my son for others. I can't imagine what a sacrifice that was. Lord, you are my greatest comfort and I know I can do anything when you are on my side. Lord, help me be a bright light for you. Help me show those around me how awesome your gift is, and how much hope you offer with your saving grace. I love you, God. Amen.

Sources of Help

It takes my son 10 seconds to walk out of our front door. There is a two-inch step down that separates him from the porch, and he is usually apprehensive of that step. Most days he holds out his hand to me and calls for me to hold his hand. Then it only takes two seconds. Other days he sees me close by and he will crawl on his hands and knees down the step. That is when it takes him a little longer.

My point is each day he goes through the door is a learning experience. Some days he falls out the door and learns that he needs to take his time. Other days he learns that he can do it on his own. Sometimes he learns that he needs a helping hand.

Our relationship with God is very similar to this. Some days we think we have it all figured out and we take off in a dead run, just to trip over our own plans. Other days we know we need Him and we call out to him for help. Sometimes we know he is near and we make the slow and steady choices that he would be pleasing to him.

God had given us the gift of free will. He lets us make our own choices and we must deal with the consequences – good and bad. While this may seem cruel, it really is freeing. I watch my son every time he takes a step out the door. I let him make his decision of how to make it out, ready to help, comfort or congratulate him as the situation requires. It brings me joy to see him want me there, and I know it brings him comfort and happiness to know that I am always there no matter what decision he makes.

Psalm 48:14 says, “for this is God, Our God forever and ever; He will be our guide even to death.” What I like to focus on is that He will be our guide. All we have to do is follow the path that he sets forth. He will always be there showing us the way and watching our steps. It is our choice to make, but he will be there to help us make it.

Lord, thank you for showing us your path. The perfect path. Lord, we may not always choose the right path that you set, but we want to. Forgive us for straying and keep our pride from coming between our relationship. I want to have a close walk with you, Lord. I take comfort in knowing that you will catch me if I fall down. I smile knowing that you love me enough to let me make my own decisions. I choose you.

Weekly Devotional

Matthew 11:28

Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Settling on Contentment

My husband and I have been going through difficult times since he was laid off in January. It has been tough, and we have had to deal with decisions we made too hastily. For instance, we both bought new cars last year. We never thought he would lose his job, so it never crossed our minds that it might be a mistake. Now, we are downsizing. We had gotten grand ideas of the big life we were going to live. I thought it was fine, but we were too focused on fleshly things. Our focus wasn't on God. I ran across a scripture today I had highlighted in my Bible. It brought me back into focus with what my life should be centered on.

Phillipians 4:11 says, "Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content."

To be content, I have to focus on God, not the things I can buy in this very temporary world.

Lord, you are the only thing I need. I bask in your glory, and that is all I need. Thank you for helping us realize the really important thing in this world. It isn't a car, it isn't a house. It is you. I love you, and thank you for all you do, that I don't deserve.

Needing a Moment

I am having a rough day today. This is my last week of school, and I have to work all weekend. I have so many last-minute projects and papers due. Why are there only 24 hours in a day? I don't understand how I'm supposed to do all of this.

Thank goodness God is always there. Proverbs 3:5 says, "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto thine own understanding." 

Lord, thank you for taking my worries from me and allowing me to live in peace. While trials come up against me, I know that I can always lay them at your feet. God, I want to take this moment to dwell in you and let your love and calm wash over me. I know you always provide me with what I need. Thank you God. I love you. Amen.

How many times in your life has your mom or dad given you a hug to make you feel better. Do you ever just go limp, and bask in their love? Well, God gives the BEST hugs. Try his on when you need it. You never have to look like that picture. In the five minutes it took me to write this blog, I already feel God's peace and calm. All better!

It's all About Perspective

Let me start of by saying the Lord is awesome! I've had an amazing day, and I must give Him all of the credit. Today, not to brag on myself too much, I won an award for something I had worked really hard on. I had put a lot of my heart and soul into this something, and it pleased me to be recognized for my efforts. Then I started thinking.

What do we do to compliment all of the hard work God does for us every day? I'm talking about the flowers in the field that he colors, and the beautiful sunsets that he paints - among all of the things he makes possible for us. His art deserves much praise. He has given us a beautiful landscape to inhabit, and we don't tell Him often enough of our appreciation. And if you don't appreciate it, you need a reality check. After months of dreary weather and barren winter lands, it is refreshing to see colors and warmth around us.

Psalm 145:3-5 "Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts. I will speak of the glorious honor of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works."

It is pleasing unto go to know that we see his works and take the time to tell him how great they are. 

Thank you, Lord, for all of your wondrous works. Every flower and tree you have created is a blessing which I cherish. Your works are great and their beauty is unmatched. To you be all of the glory and praise for the fine works of this world. I love you, God, and all that you do. Amen.

Weaknesses

I read something today that really made me think, and I wanted to share it with you. First, let me say I've had a stressful week and I let my temper get the best of me. I work in the restaurant business, where every day I work in a high-stress environment. I do my best to be a calm, Christian person, but I am human and my sinful nature sometimes - and regrettably - gets the best of me.

Okay, so I read a scripture today from 2 Corinthians 12:9-10: "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then I am strong."

Wow! I was weak when I let sinful nature dominate my actions Saturday night at work. I should have leaned on God for comfort and support, for in my moment of weakness, He would have made me strong. I am so excited that I never have to go through trials by myself. All I have to do is lean on God! As good as I try to be, there will always be moments where I'm weak and it is a joy to me to know that I have an infinite source of strength.

Praise God!

Lord, forgive me for my weakness, but thank you for being there for me to make me strong. Even after the fact, I know I am stronger now and I can withstand my sinful nature that much more. I love you so much for everything you freely give. God I lean on you now to make me a strong beacon of your love and life to those around me. Amen.

Sacrifice

Last Friday, my son got sick. We were eating lunch when my husband began telling me how he wouldn't get up that morning. He just lay in my arms limp. We didn't know what was happening, and I felt panic rising up in me as we rushed him to the doctor. It was Good Friday. As we sat in the waiting room I started thinking of the worst-case scenarios and losing my son. My panic rose even more. 

Then a statement hit me from out of nowhere. Jesus died on that very day some 2000 years ago. God had lost his son. No, God had given up his son ... for us. As I thought of losing my son, I couldn't even fathom giving him up. God sacrificed his most prized possession so that we might live forever. As much as I try to live my life right, there is no amount of people that I would give my son's life for. But God did. 

The Bible even tells us that God turned his back while Jesus was on the cross. I could never leave my son in a moment when he needed me. That is how awesome God is: He did whatever it took to ensure our chance at eternal life.

God, thank you for giving up so much for us, and thank you, Jesus, for sacrificing yourself willingly for our benefit. You bore our shame and sin out of love. My heart is full of sadness and shame that I had a part in your death, because I'm a sinner. Thank you for giving me such a perfect example in Jesus to live my life by. Lord, help me live my life right, so Jesus' death was not in vain. Give me a chance to tell your story to others who may not know what you have done for them. I love you. Amen.

Following

My dog, Roxie, has a cute habit of following me around in my house. She lays at my feet wherever I stop. In the bathroom, under my computer desk, on the couch: everywhere. I stopped to think about why she does this, and it occurred to me that I am someone she feels safe with. She follows me around because I take care of her, and she is never alone when with me. 

Isn't it wonderful that God works the same way? We can follow Him every day because we know we can rely on Him to take care of us and never leave us alone. What an awesome comfort! It is a great time to be a follower, if God is the leader. 

Joshua 1:9 says, "Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with the whithersoever thou goest."

God, thank you for always being there for us. It is great to share the joy we experience with you, and lean on you for support. Help us follow you always, as we know where you are is always a safe place. Thank you father for all of your blessings. Amen.

Perseverance

You know, life isn't easy. A lot of times, it really does feel like an uphill battle that has no end. While thinking about this can be overwhelming, I have found the greatest source of comfort. No matter how dark my day may seem, The Great Comforter is always there for me. God has never left my side and I take that as a never-ending blessing. Praise his name for the love and support he gives us. I can't just quote one verse for this, though there is a perfect passage to encompass what God does for us. 

Psalm 23

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leads me beside still waters.

He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for though art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever."

God tells us that he doesn't expect us to do everything alone. He understands that we will need help. While we try to stay strong to our convictions and lead a righteous life, God is gently holding our backs straight and catching us when we slip ... or slip up. His love and mercy are endless. Our job is to make our efforts endless. A good friend of mine always says that God knows our hearts. If we really are trying and are being true to Him, God will know and reward our efforts.

God is amazing. What I like best about that is the ending of Psalm 23. No matter what happens on earth, it is the end result of eternity in a painless, hateless and sinless heaven. I have a merciful, loving world to look forward to for ever.

God, thank you for your gift of an eternal life we can receive. Give us assurance and patience as we wait for the day when we will sit in your glory for ever. Amen.

Making a Mission

I've become pumped about God. He is doing amazing things in my life and I'm excited about it. PRAISE GOD!!! Okay, I know that's a little radical, but honestly, I couldn't describe my feelings any better way. With all of the excitement from Him lately, it is easy for me to fulfill my duties as a Christian. Matthew 28:19 says, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." Of course, this is the Great Commission you hear about. 

What I find fascinating is how easy it is to tell people about God. At one time, I feared even mentioning God's name, worried I might offend someone. But how can I not give credit to the One who blesses me so much? It reminds me of the country song that goes, "I've gotta give credit where credit is due ..." and that is so true. God deserves the credit.

Lord, thank you for your abundant blessings that we are so grateful to receive. Give us the boldness and strength to claim you glory to others. We are servants to you, and only wish to bring you praise. Show us how to capture your wonder in our words so others can see it too. You are amazing and we could never deserve what you do for us, but thank you that it doesn't matter. Give us guidance as we set out on this mission to bring you continuous glory. Amen.

Hearing the Love

For a long time I didn't think God was talking to me. What I mean is, I'd never heard him directly speak to me when I asked him a direct question. I never doubted his word when it said he would always answer prayers and be there for us, but I just couldn't seem to feel it. It wasn't until yesterday at church that I realized I just couldn't see it. A woman sang a special song and her words were encouragement to my heart. I recently subscribed to Today's Christian Woman, a magazine, and each issue seems to address issues that I need help with. It is amazing how each of these nurtured my current needs.

That's when it hit me: God speaks to us through everything. While the magazine was a compilation of writers and their issues, God made it possible for them to be in one place to help the people who read it. That woman at church sang God's words in her song, which is what made it so special. 

All of these things are derivatives of God's Word, the Bible. In each story from TCW, writers quoted scriptures. While their stories were touching, the scriptures were what fed my soul. The singer's song was based on the words from the Bible.  That is why I received such love and blessings from them both. God tells us to read his word. That is how he communicates. Yes, he could whisper to us in person, but he has told us to read the Bible as good children of God, because that is how he wants to speak to us. We speak to him in prayer, and he speaks back in the words written in the Bible.

Colossians 1:4-5 says, "For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of truth of the gospel."

God has spoken to us through his word. God, thank you for speaking to us, even when we don't realized you are doing it. Thank you for nurturing our needs and serving as a great protector and comforter. Your love and affection is divine, and while we don't deserve it, we gladly accept it. Your way is perfect, and we thank you for making us a part of your way. Be with us and continue to speak to us through your word, so we might learn more from you. Amen.

Having a Name

My son's first word was "uh-oh" followed closely by "dada" and "diggy" (his pet name for our dog). I was so proud of him saying new words and learning. I became more and more disappointed, though, with each passing day when he didn't say my name. I wanted to hear him say may name and claim me as his mom.

Well, he finally did say my name. My heart melted and my face could hardly contain my elated grin. He knew who I was! He had called me by name! I know this is something every child does, but my child knew who I was enough to figure out my name. That says something.

It also says something about the way God feels about us. Just like I waited for my son to know my name, God waits for each one of us to call him by name and declare him as our Heavenly Father. Can you imagine how excited he must get? I could barely wait 12 months to hear Blaine say my name, but God sometimes waits decades, even centuries for us to call him Father. How excited he must be that we love him enough to find him and learn his name. Psalm 89:26 says, "He shall cry unto me, Thou art my Father, my God, and the rock of my salvation."

God wants to have a relationship with us and he will always wait for us, never giving up. But what happens if we don't find him in time? He can only wait as long as we are alive. After that, there is nothing he can do. Don't wait too long. He has so much to offer us, including the free gift of eternal life. God wants to be a father to us, he is the father of the fatherless. When we have no one to turn to, we can always turn to him.

God, thank you for giving us love, mercy and hope. Thank you for never giving up on us, even when we are so stubborn. You are truly holy and mighty. God, we want to know you as our salvation. We want to call on you in our times of need and our time of joy. Show us your way, God, so we can learn to follow you. Help us overcome our stubbornness and heal our broken hearts so we can give them to you. Amen.

Finding Comfort

A lady at my church told a story the other day about a rift between her and her daughter. She asked God to give her the right words so that she could connect with her daughter again and He did! God is a mighty force of love and goodness. When this lady told her story it made me think of how much comfort He brought her by reconnecting this woman and her daughter.

God is our great comforter. Psalms 23 is dedicated to how he leads us every step and is there to catch us when we fall. John 14:16 says, " And I will pray the Father and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever." This is Jesus talking about how the Holy Spirit will dwell with us on earth after Jesus goes back to heaven. My Bible's notes say the Holy Spirit is to be here for us every day. Isn't God amazing, to give us a shield of comfort even here on earth. 

When I'm not having a good day or something goes wrong and I need a little love, I turn to God first because he always answers. Whether He offers a blanket of peace to calm my soul or an encouraging word, He is always there. Thank God for his consistent, unrelenting and unconditional love.

God you offer more than we could ever deserve and we thank you for your generosity. Bless you for blessing us and being our Great Comforter every day. We love you and are blessed by your love. Help us show your love and comforting hands to those around us who may need it as well. Be our guide and show us how to live life for you. Amen.

Giving up control

I'm going to hit on a sore subject for me tonight. One of the hardest commands I've had to swallow found in the Bible is about the duties of a wife. Now I love my husband and I'll do just about anything for him, but as he says, I kind of like to wear the pants. So when my Sunday school class touched on the foundations and stipulations of marriage, I cringed a little. Ephesians 5:22 says, "Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord." Then verse 24 goes on to say, "Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing."

I have a hard time with this because my pride tells me that I am right. I don't like to tell my husband that he is right and that I'll do what he says. I'm pretty sure I know better than him, or at least that's what I tell myself. You can see why this is so hard from me. 

Even when I walked into my Sunday school class the day of this lesson, I'd convinced myself that this surely didn't apply to all women, especially in this day. I let my pride take control of me and my marriage and it costs me. Rox and I fight more when I don't go with what he thinks is right for the family. At the very least I need to work on giving in and listening to his ideas. Not only does it make me stubborn and argumentative, but he gets the feeling like he isn't good enough, smart enough, man enough to lead our family. I am saddened that I could ever make him feel this way. 

I am working on my attitude and control issues. After all, Proverbs 16:18 says, "Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." I don't want to destroy my marriage because I had too much pride to listen to my husband and follow his lead.

God, once again, thank you for your excellence guidance that you have given to us in your word. Help us read your word and understand your messages so we can be more like you. Give us the strength to change our ways when we error. Bless us Lord, as we strive to do your will. We give you all of the praise for the success we have on this earth and anticipate the day we get to spend eternity in your presence. Amen.

Finding Love and Acceptance

I think this blog is going to be a little different than the others because it is more of a recently-acquired soap box issue for me. I have found that a lot of my friends are struggling with self-image issues - for a variety of reasons - and I want to offer a word of encouragement to everyone out there who might have low self esteem.

We were ALL created in God's image. Genesis 1:27 "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them." While I don't think this statement was made in the context of looks, it is true. We were made to be beautiful humans on the inside, and that holds higher esteem than any "modelesque" looks. If we hold true to God's image and become beautiful people on the inside then physical beauty become obsolete. 

God doesn't pick favorites on looks. I am going to use myself as an example here. I know God loves me, and no other favor matters because I have the highest love. Now here is where the self esteem comes in: I have been fat, short, freckled, skinny and lanky. When I was pregnant my face swelled up and looked like one of those little watermelons. Now, pregnancy may be an excuse to some but I truly considered myself ugly. Now that I have had a child, my body isn't as pretty as it used to be. I can leave my house and hold my head high, though, because I have found someone who loves me unconditionally: God.

I know everyone says inner beauty is all that counts, but it really is true. Yes, people unconsciously judge outer appearances, but that shouldn't deter anyone. 

Matthew 10:30-31 "But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows." God loves everyone. He isn't picky and I can't stress enough how only God's opinion matters. Everything of this world will fade and not matter, his approval and love is eternal. All you have to do is accept it.

God show us you love and mercy, which we don't deserve. We want to find you favor and we want to dwell eternally in you love and acceptance. Make us strong to withstand the hardships this world presents and give us the confidence to love life. Thank you for all you do for us. Help us be less judgmental as we ask for no judgment from others. Show us how to spread love and end scorn. God we love you too. Amen.

Happiness

Did you know that the word rejoice is mentioned in the Bible 84 times? (Or at least that is how many times it is referenced mine). It must be a pretty significant word to be mentioned so much. 

I actually began thinking of it yesterday on my way home. I was mentally grumbling about the weather. In Arkansas, the day can change from sunny to gloomy, and back again, in a matter of hours. It was looking like one of those days, and I wasn't happy about it. I stopped myself and decided that I shouldn't let the weather ruin my day. After all, God created weather, right? He must have a reason for it. That is when I remembered one of my favorite verses from my childhood. Psalm 118: 24 "This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it." 

This verse spoke to me. It doesn't say "Gladness will come to me" but it says I will choose to be glad and rejoice. Notice that "be" in front of glad. Those are verbs. We must take action and make ourselves glad. With  84 references, it must be something God wants us to have, but he expects us to work for it. 

Lord we are choosing to rejoice in you and in the world you have made for us. Gently remind us of how much we have to be glad about, from all of your blessings. Give us strength to stand against and reject gloom and despair that Satan would have us give in to. We claim contentment and love in you. Thank you for all you have done for us. Praise you name for your mercy on those who don't deserve it. Amen.

Generating Peace

I want to start right off with my verse for today. "The Lord is good to them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh Him." Lamentations 3:25. I was struck by this verse after beginning a study of Lamentations a few months ago and I have kept referring back to it. I am not a patient person. I quickly get moody and irritable when I do not immediately get my way (just ask my husband). I've always been told that patience is a virtue, and that must be true. It does, though, seem to put it just out of reach for people when it is held to such high esteem. I can't help but wonder if some think they cannot achieve patience and just quit trying. This verse has helped me realize that God wants everyone to master patience, and if he expects it of us, then everyone can do it. 

I have been waiting on God to provide for my family since my husband lost his job in January, and I have not waited patiently. Typically when I begin to get impatient I lash out at those around me. God has shown me, through this verse, that when my patience is wearing think I should lean on him and seek his peace and counsel. 

Lord thank you for allowing us to lean on you in our times of need. Teach us patience as you are the greatest example when you tolerate our sinful human behaviors. Show us mercy as we continue to learn your will and follow your teachings. Thank you for sending us the greatest example in your Son, Jesus. Bless our days as we dwell in you. Amen.

God's Day

This will be my last post for the weekend. I'm following in God's example and not working on Sunday. I've spent a glorious day with my son and husband, and I intend to do the same tomorrow. I hope everyone goes to church and gets a little dose of God's grace. 

God, thank you for setting such a great example for us. Bless our preachers and fill them with your spirit and word. Let us all learn something new from you that we can draw that much closer to you. Amen.

Surrendering

I don't like to give up control. I very much like to be in charge of every moment, and that became evident once again today.

My husband and I got into an argument today about - what else - money. We just received our tax refund and we were deciding how to split up the money. It wasn't going well. He had specific plans and I had mine that pulled us in different directions. As we verbally wrestled, trying to tug the other into the pit of compliance, I realized that we weren't working together. 

We were both trying to lead when we only have one Leader, and neither of us qualify for that position. He is gone now and we haven't come to a conclusion, however, I am going to back up and suggest we pray about it. We need to give God control, because he is much wiser than the both of us. Provebs 3:6 says, "In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." I am fighting my husband, and as we circle each other, we go nowhere. If we give God control, he will lead us to His glory.

God be with us today and give us insight as to your will. Show us how you want us to live and how we are to act in your example. Give us the power not to act instinctively with harsh words and snide remarks, but let us turn to you and ask you advice at every turn. Thank you for all of you grace and blessings. Forgive us for our sins. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Finding Inspiration

I've been listening to K-Love a lot lately, and I was especially interested in their "uncommon heroes" contest. I began thinking of who my hero is, and I couldn't think of anything offhand, but then I pictured my son. I am 22 and my son is 13 months. My husband recently lost his job and we have been struggling. My son is my motivation and my life. I can come home at night, and all he wants to do is cuddle or throw his ball. It never crosses his mind that he hasn't received a new toy in weeks, or that we buy the cheaper brands of diapers. He is content. Happy. 

He has shown me a new way to live. Philippians 4:11 says, "Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content." My son is a living example of God's grace and mercy to us. He teaches us from the beginning to be content, and it is only our own self-seeking weakness that leads us away from that.

God bless a child who can teach its teacher. God I pray for love and contentment for all who read this and those who need it most. Thank you, Father for you provisions, even those we take for granted. Your gifts we do not deserve, but let us be grateful for them always. Amen.