"Sing praise to the Lord, you saints of His, And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name.For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning." Psalm 30:4-5 NKJV
There were many nights that first year after Erin's diabetes diagnosis that I wondered if I would ever get a full night's sleep again. Most of the time she and I operated from a place of exhaustion. We survived - and she graduated high school - by taking one day at a time. Those first four months were her last in high school. We had a goal: get to May. Day by day.
I must confess that God and I were not on speaking terms at that time. It was more like me yelling, crying out and asking what we had done to deserve this. Still He never left me because the Bible says we are allowed and even encouraged to bring our questions to our Maker. He can take our anger, our crying, and even in all that He can and does provide. He used the angels in my life--friends--to supply my needs for comfort, for encouragement, for stability, and for joy.
Because even in the middle of the night, when my baby girl was saying she was too tired to try anymore, this disease was too hard, and I held her hand and asked her just to hold on until the morning, I knew joy was still possible. I knew deep in my heart, past the weariness in my body and soul, that God was present and His will would be done. And that He loved me and my child more than I could ever dream or imagine. Somehow, somewhere, some when, there would be relief and joy.
Joy does come in the morning. The light of day does provide perspective for bleary bloodshot eyes. Just a thimbleful of hope can carry us into the day. That and a good cup of coffee!
"You have turned my mourning into dancing, you have stripped off my sackcloth and clothed me with joy. So my heart will sing to you unceasingly, Yahweh, my God, I shall praise you for ever." Psalm 30:11-12 NJB
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Friday, September 9, 2011
What God Gives
"Why do you complain, Jacob? Why do you say, Israel, “My way is hidden from the LORD; my cause is disregarded by my God”? Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak." Isaiah 40:27-29 NIV
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." Matthew 11:28-29 NIV
Weary and in need of rest? How many of us are in this place today? It's hard to be brave when you are tired, when weariness drains your heart, mind, and body dry of all its energy. It's hard to focus. It's hard to be kind, or loving, or giving when you aren't sure you can place one foot in front of the other. God knew we would need His strength. Jesus knew we would need his rest. Personally, I must believe what the Bible says. God will provide the strength I need to do whatever needs doing today, this moment. Then Jesus will provide the rest I need to recover and refresh. Jesus will share my burden, whatever it might be. A burden shared is lighter and easier to bear. And when we come upon a cool shady place on our journey, we can sit and be still in God's presence.
Hear Jesus' voice calling "Come to me" and obey. Allow him to be the Savior he longs to be, the brother he wants to be, the God he is. Accept what God gives to those He calls His own.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." Matthew 11:28-29 NIV
Weary and in need of rest? How many of us are in this place today? It's hard to be brave when you are tired, when weariness drains your heart, mind, and body dry of all its energy. It's hard to focus. It's hard to be kind, or loving, or giving when you aren't sure you can place one foot in front of the other. God knew we would need His strength. Jesus knew we would need his rest. Personally, I must believe what the Bible says. God will provide the strength I need to do whatever needs doing today, this moment. Then Jesus will provide the rest I need to recover and refresh. Jesus will share my burden, whatever it might be. A burden shared is lighter and easier to bear. And when we come upon a cool shady place on our journey, we can sit and be still in God's presence.
Hear Jesus' voice calling "Come to me" and obey. Allow him to be the Savior he longs to be, the brother he wants to be, the God he is. Accept what God gives to those He calls His own.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
God Cares
"Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:6-7 NIV
I love this verse. God cares for me. God cares for you. We often hear about God's love for us in Sunday sermons, but care is a different verb. It means we are under God's protection, in His charge. So not only does He have a deep affection for us, but He is protective of us. So when the anxious days come, when the trials are way beyond our abilities, and we become fearful, we must remember this verse and go to God in prayer. Our God can do way beyond our expectations. When the devil is prowling the earth looking for the weak and defenseless, we can rest in the assurance that though we may be weak, we are NOT defenseless.
Go to God in prayer and turn our concerns over to Him. Remember His promise to be with us ALWAYS. Not sometimes, not every other weekend, but He is with us always. Pray for the strength to handle your present situation and the wisdom to act appropriately. And then thank Him. Thank Him for listening, hearing and acting on your behalf. Thank Him for His care. Thank Him for His love, His mercy and His generosity. Thank Him for acting to answer our prayer before we even finish our thoughts.
Dearest Heavenly Father, be with our family tomorrow morning as my dad goes into surgery. Give the doctors skill and wisdom to heal his back. Give the nurses compassion as they deal with dad and with us. Give us strength and peace as we wait during the surgery. Give us love and compassion for each other. And give us yourself always, and in the days ahead during dad's full recovery to health and strength. In Jesus name. Amen
I love this verse. God cares for me. God cares for you. We often hear about God's love for us in Sunday sermons, but care is a different verb. It means we are under God's protection, in His charge. So not only does He have a deep affection for us, but He is protective of us. So when the anxious days come, when the trials are way beyond our abilities, and we become fearful, we must remember this verse and go to God in prayer. Our God can do way beyond our expectations. When the devil is prowling the earth looking for the weak and defenseless, we can rest in the assurance that though we may be weak, we are NOT defenseless.
Go to God in prayer and turn our concerns over to Him. Remember His promise to be with us ALWAYS. Not sometimes, not every other weekend, but He is with us always. Pray for the strength to handle your present situation and the wisdom to act appropriately. And then thank Him. Thank Him for listening, hearing and acting on your behalf. Thank Him for His care. Thank Him for His love, His mercy and His generosity. Thank Him for acting to answer our prayer before we even finish our thoughts.
Dearest Heavenly Father, be with our family tomorrow morning as my dad goes into surgery. Give the doctors skill and wisdom to heal his back. Give the nurses compassion as they deal with dad and with us. Give us strength and peace as we wait during the surgery. Give us love and compassion for each other. And give us yourself always, and in the days ahead during dad's full recovery to health and strength. In Jesus name. Amen
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Be Brave
"Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love."
1 Corinthians 16:13-14 NKJV
Our dear St Paul addressed this epistle to the problems within the Corithian church. Pointing them calmly, yet firmly, to the correct doctrine, Paul urged them to be imitators of Jesus. This reminded me that our daily challenges don't always come from the world, but sometimes they come from those we call brothers and sisters in Christ, our church community. Division is not new to church comunities, nor to those who are in positions of authority within those churches. Who do we follow? Who do we believe? Where are we spiritual fed the sweet fruit of God's truth? Why do Christians squabble among themselves when together--in unity--we could do so much good for the world?
Watch, be on guard, keep your eyes and ears open, do not become ambivalent or negligent. Hold fast to your convictions, test them against the teachings of the Bible and stand firm against any word or deed that comes against that faith. Be brave, fearless, courageous, valiant, in defending your faith and your family of believers against any that come against it. Be committed, resolute, determined and stand your ground in doing good, loving each other. And with love. Isn't that interesting? St Paul ends this admonition with do everything with love. Speak the truth in love. Act in love. Defend in love. Agape love is a demonstrative love. When dealing with family, friends, fellow Christians, lead with love. If your heart isn't guided by love, step back, pray, and then try again.
It takes a brave heart to follow Christ, to be obedient to God's word the Bible, and show love. Love makes us vulnerable and many of us avoid that state at all costs. Yet in loving we are the most like Jesus. So this week be brave in loving others and each other. Be brave in being faithful to your God. Blessings!
1 Corinthians 16:13-14 NKJV
Our dear St Paul addressed this epistle to the problems within the Corithian church. Pointing them calmly, yet firmly, to the correct doctrine, Paul urged them to be imitators of Jesus. This reminded me that our daily challenges don't always come from the world, but sometimes they come from those we call brothers and sisters in Christ, our church community. Division is not new to church comunities, nor to those who are in positions of authority within those churches. Who do we follow? Who do we believe? Where are we spiritual fed the sweet fruit of God's truth? Why do Christians squabble among themselves when together--in unity--we could do so much good for the world?
Watch, be on guard, keep your eyes and ears open, do not become ambivalent or negligent. Hold fast to your convictions, test them against the teachings of the Bible and stand firm against any word or deed that comes against that faith. Be brave, fearless, courageous, valiant, in defending your faith and your family of believers against any that come against it. Be committed, resolute, determined and stand your ground in doing good, loving each other. And with love. Isn't that interesting? St Paul ends this admonition with do everything with love. Speak the truth in love. Act in love. Defend in love. Agape love is a demonstrative love. When dealing with family, friends, fellow Christians, lead with love. If your heart isn't guided by love, step back, pray, and then try again.
It takes a brave heart to follow Christ, to be obedient to God's word the Bible, and show love. Love makes us vulnerable and many of us avoid that state at all costs. Yet in loving we are the most like Jesus. So this week be brave in loving others and each other. Be brave in being faithful to your God. Blessings!
Monday, August 1, 2011
Fearlessness
"Do not lose your fearlessness now, then, since the reward is so great. You will need perseverance if you are to do God's will and gain what he has promised." Hebrews 10:35-36 NJB
I have looked at several different translations of this scripture since it was pointed out to me in the Bible Study I was doing by Kay Arthur. In most others it says "confidence" instead of "fearlessness". But since I have been seeking verses on fear, I thought it mighty sweet of God to share this one with me. So what does it mean? Still using the imagery of us being in a battle of good and evil, a spiritual battle, then this verse is telling us to hold fast, stand firm, be fearless in the face of whatever the world is throwing our way. How are your circumstances defeating you or frightening you? We can be brave because our Lord God Almighty, our Warrior God, goes into the battle before us. He is always present, so we can draw courage from Him.
Do not lose your fearlessness "now'. I'm sure each generation thinks their decades are the worst. 2011 seems plenty full of frightening uncertainties to me. Our technology allows us access to the tragedies that occur worldwide in hours if not minutes. We see the heartbreak of destruction from war and from weather, from Afghanistan to Japan to Alabama. It seems more imperative --this now. Today, we must be brave, hold our place in the line of warriors, and do God's will. Protect our families, our friends, and the weak, the poor, the orphans, the widows, the unloved, the sick, and love them as He has loved us. Unconditionally. Without restraint. Or as best we mere humans, created in the image of God, can do.
What is the reward? What has He promised? Heaven. A place with no sickness, no pain, no tears, no hatred, no wars, but plenty of joy, peace, love and laughter. I think that is worth being fearless for my God. So when the leaders of this world can't decide right from wrong, and the media appears to be simply there to scare us to death, I remind myself that God is in control. None of this is a surprise to him. And though we may pray for Him to end this spiritual battle now, He knows the time and His goal is to get as many of us to heaven as He can. So let's do our part and hold the line against cruelty and hatred one more day.
I have looked at several different translations of this scripture since it was pointed out to me in the Bible Study I was doing by Kay Arthur. In most others it says "confidence" instead of "fearlessness". But since I have been seeking verses on fear, I thought it mighty sweet of God to share this one with me. So what does it mean? Still using the imagery of us being in a battle of good and evil, a spiritual battle, then this verse is telling us to hold fast, stand firm, be fearless in the face of whatever the world is throwing our way. How are your circumstances defeating you or frightening you? We can be brave because our Lord God Almighty, our Warrior God, goes into the battle before us. He is always present, so we can draw courage from Him.
Do not lose your fearlessness "now'. I'm sure each generation thinks their decades are the worst. 2011 seems plenty full of frightening uncertainties to me. Our technology allows us access to the tragedies that occur worldwide in hours if not minutes. We see the heartbreak of destruction from war and from weather, from Afghanistan to Japan to Alabama. It seems more imperative --this now. Today, we must be brave, hold our place in the line of warriors, and do God's will. Protect our families, our friends, and the weak, the poor, the orphans, the widows, the unloved, the sick, and love them as He has loved us. Unconditionally. Without restraint. Or as best we mere humans, created in the image of God, can do.
What is the reward? What has He promised? Heaven. A place with no sickness, no pain, no tears, no hatred, no wars, but plenty of joy, peace, love and laughter. I think that is worth being fearless for my God. So when the leaders of this world can't decide right from wrong, and the media appears to be simply there to scare us to death, I remind myself that God is in control. None of this is a surprise to him. And though we may pray for Him to end this spiritual battle now, He knows the time and His goal is to get as many of us to heaven as He can. So let's do our part and hold the line against cruelty and hatred one more day.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Spirit of Power
"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind." 2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV
This used to be one of my favorite verses and it had slipped from my mind until I started a new Bible study about 4 weeks ago. When I read it again, I had an "Aha!" moment. How did this get away from me? About 8/9 years ago, when I had a job I really disliked, this verse kept me going daily for about 9 months. I stayed at the job because the hours and the pay were great, and hindsight showed me how God used that time to draw me closer to Him. Most days it was only God and the radio that gave me any semblance of kindness/friendliness/common courtesy. I needed that connection, that scripture, to remind me that in Christ I was strong, loving and wise.
It's time for it again. What about you? I believe the Bible is the active living Word of God. I believe it is His truth to us His children. So, God did NOT give me a Spirit of Fear. This world and the evil in it has created the fear. It is insidious. It has wormed it's way into my heart and I am tired of it. I am created in God's image. He crafted me in my mother's womb. He knows every hair on my head. God gave me power, love and a sound mind. I want to step forth into each day with a passion for life and all it holds. I want to love God and the people I interact with each day using what God has supplied me with. You need to read that again. Under my own power--I will fail. Under my own power, I will get tired, discouraged, frustrated and be less than loving. Abiding in Him, connected, believing that He is my source AND acting as if He is my source will lead to me living the powerful, loving, and wise life that He created me for. Join me!
This used to be one of my favorite verses and it had slipped from my mind until I started a new Bible study about 4 weeks ago. When I read it again, I had an "Aha!" moment. How did this get away from me? About 8/9 years ago, when I had a job I really disliked, this verse kept me going daily for about 9 months. I stayed at the job because the hours and the pay were great, and hindsight showed me how God used that time to draw me closer to Him. Most days it was only God and the radio that gave me any semblance of kindness/friendliness/common courtesy. I needed that connection, that scripture, to remind me that in Christ I was strong, loving and wise.
It's time for it again. What about you? I believe the Bible is the active living Word of God. I believe it is His truth to us His children. So, God did NOT give me a Spirit of Fear. This world and the evil in it has created the fear. It is insidious. It has wormed it's way into my heart and I am tired of it. I am created in God's image. He crafted me in my mother's womb. He knows every hair on my head. God gave me power, love and a sound mind. I want to step forth into each day with a passion for life and all it holds. I want to love God and the people I interact with each day using what God has supplied me with. You need to read that again. Under my own power--I will fail. Under my own power, I will get tired, discouraged, frustrated and be less than loving. Abiding in Him, connected, believing that He is my source AND acting as if He is my source will lead to me living the powerful, loving, and wise life that He created me for. Join me!
Friday, July 22, 2011
Without Fear
“ Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, And whose hope is the LORD.
For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, Which spreads out its roots by the river,
And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green,
And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit."
Jeremiah 17:7-8 NKJV
Given our current temperatures, this scripture seemed appropriate. We know what it feels like when the heat saps our strength, and we sweat, our cheeks pink, our throats parched. We reach for the coolness of ice water and press the glass to our faces, necks and then we drink it down. The water refreshes and cools us. It perks up our wilted selves and we continue mowing the grass or trimming the hedges or watering the tomatoes.
This scripture tells us that when we trust in God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, we are refreshed spiritually with his presence, his strength, and we need not fear what the heat does or how high the temperatures climb. Our daily challenges are no match for our source. When we are rooted in the Lord like this or put another way: “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing." John 15:5 NKJV Then we bloom and grow, producing the fruit of our trust, our hope in the Lord.
For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, Which spreads out its roots by the river,
And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green,
And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit."
Jeremiah 17:7-8 NKJV
Given our current temperatures, this scripture seemed appropriate. We know what it feels like when the heat saps our strength, and we sweat, our cheeks pink, our throats parched. We reach for the coolness of ice water and press the glass to our faces, necks and then we drink it down. The water refreshes and cools us. It perks up our wilted selves and we continue mowing the grass or trimming the hedges or watering the tomatoes.
This scripture tells us that when we trust in God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, we are refreshed spiritually with his presence, his strength, and we need not fear what the heat does or how high the temperatures climb. Our daily challenges are no match for our source. When we are rooted in the Lord like this or put another way: “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing." John 15:5 NKJV Then we bloom and grow, producing the fruit of our trust, our hope in the Lord.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Mighty and Tender
"See, the Sovereign LORD comes with power, and his arm rules for him. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young." Isaiah 40:10-11 NIV
These verses from Isaiah show a God who is both Mighty and also Tender. He comes to rescue us in His power, and then He tenderly holds us in His arms. So when I have days when I am weak from the daily battle, I know I can call upon the Lord God Almighty, the Warrior God, who will go ahead of me and fight my battles for me. Then, when the day is over I can climb up into His lap, next to His heart, and be comforted, cared for, protected and nurtured.
"I have chosen you and have not cast you away:
Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."
Is 41:9b-10 NIV
...and I say thank you for choosing me. Thank you Lord for offering me your strength and your right hand. Amen.
These verses from Isaiah show a God who is both Mighty and also Tender. He comes to rescue us in His power, and then He tenderly holds us in His arms. So when I have days when I am weak from the daily battle, I know I can call upon the Lord God Almighty, the Warrior God, who will go ahead of me and fight my battles for me. Then, when the day is over I can climb up into His lap, next to His heart, and be comforted, cared for, protected and nurtured.
"I have chosen you and have not cast you away:
Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."
Is 41:9b-10 NIV
...and I say thank you for choosing me. Thank you Lord for offering me your strength and your right hand. Amen.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Whom Do I Trust?
"I wanna live with a fearless heart
Courage that's coming from trust in God
It's constantly guiding me though the road may seem dark
I wanna live wanna live with a fearless heart"
I thought it was time to remind myself and you about this verse from Point of Grace. I've researched men and women in the Bible who exhibited courage. I have read the verses that say "Be not afraid" and expressed my understanding of those verses. The song verse above suggests that courage comes from Trust In God. And I thought, whom do I trust?
Trust implies an intimate relationship, a belief that the other person would answer the phone in the middle of the night, would even come get you if needed, someone who knows the best and worst about you and accepts you as you are. I am blessed to have a few of those people in my life. People I believe would give their all for me. Yet I have also trusted a few people who broke that trust. They broke my heart and my trust.
My trust in God was broken when despite my prayers for restoration in my marriage, my attempts at counseling and change, we divorced. I hate to even type it, but it was true. I was praying for the right thing and I believe God does not like divorce. Still, God honored my ex-spouse's right to choose for himself--free will. And though God has taken care of me, and I now love and am loved by a wonderful Christian man, those wounds heal slowly. Will God allow something like that to happen again?
A good friend pointed me to this verse:" Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save."
People are fallible. We are not perfect--not by a long shot. As a people we try to love as God loves, and we long for that love in return, that surety, that guarantee, but there truly is only one source of unconditional love. God. I am not saying you should not trust people. I am saying that people have limits and even the best of us will fail. So where do I find that unconditional acceptance and love and trust? God. So then how do I heal a broken trust? And is the broken trust the source of my fear? I do believe God is good. So let's look at the character of God.
I thought it was time to remind myself and you about this verse from Point of Grace. I've researched men and women in the Bible who exhibited courage. I have read the verses that say "Be not afraid" and expressed my understanding of those verses. The song verse above suggests that courage comes from Trust In God. And I thought, whom do I trust?
Trust implies an intimate relationship, a belief that the other person would answer the phone in the middle of the night, would even come get you if needed, someone who knows the best and worst about you and accepts you as you are. I am blessed to have a few of those people in my life. People I believe would give their all for me. Yet I have also trusted a few people who broke that trust. They broke my heart and my trust.
My trust in God was broken when despite my prayers for restoration in my marriage, my attempts at counseling and change, we divorced. I hate to even type it, but it was true. I was praying for the right thing and I believe God does not like divorce. Still, God honored my ex-spouse's right to choose for himself--free will. And though God has taken care of me, and I now love and am loved by a wonderful Christian man, those wounds heal slowly. Will God allow something like that to happen again?
A good friend pointed me to this verse:" Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save."
People are fallible. We are not perfect--not by a long shot. As a people we try to love as God loves, and we long for that love in return, that surety, that guarantee, but there truly is only one source of unconditional love. God. I am not saying you should not trust people. I am saying that people have limits and even the best of us will fail. So where do I find that unconditional acceptance and love and trust? God. So then how do I heal a broken trust? And is the broken trust the source of my fear? I do believe God is good. So let's look at the character of God.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Living Fearless- In Small Doses
I went to see Alan, my fiance, in Charlotte this past weekend. We had a blast. He rented us a Harley Davidson motorcycle for Saturday and we spent the whole day out and about. If you've never ridden one, it's a total sensory experience. The sights, the smells, the sounds, the feel of the breeze, the smell of fresh cut grass, trees, flowers, the clarity of color without peering through tinted windows, his shoulders beneath my hands. We saw people out on horses and bicycles, at yard sales, and fruit stands. We saw grand and small country churches. We rode through two State Parks and walked around a small lake. Amazing!
"Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture." Psalm 37:3 NIV
And I almost didn't go. I almost called and requested he cancel the reservation. For fear of being hurt-getting injured--because with my dad's extended illness it crossed my mind that I needed to be more careful in case they needed me. Isn't that crazy? They are still taking care of me. I had to have minor surgery in March and it was them who drove me at 6:00 am to the hospital, waited for me, took me home and sat with me. Mom made me a grilled cheese sandwich and Dad took care of my pets. So wonderful, so faithful.
When my time on this earth is done, God will call me home. He knows the day and the time already. I don't need to be foolish, but enjoying a motorcycle ride with proper helmets, proper clothing, boots, and a skilled driver is not foolish. God created this world to be enjoyed. So I will trust and enjoy!
"Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture." Psalm 37:3 NIV
And I almost didn't go. I almost called and requested he cancel the reservation. For fear of being hurt-getting injured--because with my dad's extended illness it crossed my mind that I needed to be more careful in case they needed me. Isn't that crazy? They are still taking care of me. I had to have minor surgery in March and it was them who drove me at 6:00 am to the hospital, waited for me, took me home and sat with me. Mom made me a grilled cheese sandwich and Dad took care of my pets. So wonderful, so faithful.
When my time on this earth is done, God will call me home. He knows the day and the time already. I don't need to be foolish, but enjoying a motorcycle ride with proper helmets, proper clothing, boots, and a skilled driver is not foolish. God created this world to be enjoyed. So I will trust and enjoy!
Sunday, May 29, 2011
SOME DAYS...
...I've been writing about courage and feeling pretty good. But then some days I get blind-sided, I get knocked to the ground, and it's usually something unexpected. I know my weak areas--or most of them--and I've learned to stop and assess if I'm feeling off or out-of-sorts. Did I sleep? Have I taken my meds? Are Erin, Alan, Mom and Dad okay? Am I processing something unexpected? Have I prayed? Have I journaled? What is my spiritual temperature today?
"Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour." 1 Peter 1:8 NLT
I get focussed on one area of my life and my defenses weaken in another area. Before I know it, I am down on my knees, sad, angry or hurting. Then I retreat. And that's okay as long as I retreat to safety, a place to regroup and heal. My physical place is my bedroom. My spiritual place is God's lap. In those places I can allow my emotions to settle, my spirit to calm, and the stress to ease from my tense my body. Surrounded by books and deep in prayer, I can take a deep breath, rest, and prepare to join the dailiness of life again. But right now it's okay to be still and know that He is God and I am His child. He will protect and provide for He is good.
"Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour." 1 Peter 1:8 NLT
I get focussed on one area of my life and my defenses weaken in another area. Before I know it, I am down on my knees, sad, angry or hurting. Then I retreat. And that's okay as long as I retreat to safety, a place to regroup and heal. My physical place is my bedroom. My spiritual place is God's lap. In those places I can allow my emotions to settle, my spirit to calm, and the stress to ease from my tense my body. Surrounded by books and deep in prayer, I can take a deep breath, rest, and prepare to join the dailiness of life again. But right now it's okay to be still and know that He is God and I am His child. He will protect and provide for He is good.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
COURAGE PART THREE
How do I find courage to face each day and bring it into my world to share with others? What I've learned so far in this study of mine is prayer is a never-ending necessity and the first priority. And those prayers need to be directed to someone I know stands with me and will never leave me.
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him. With him is only the army of flesh, but with us is the LORD our God to help us and to fight our battles.” And the people gained confidence from what Hezekiah the king of Judah said. " 2 Chronicles 32:7-8 NIV
Though I am weak, He is strong. Though I am fearful, He is not. Though I am flesh and blood, He is Lord God Almighty. I can go into the day and handle whatever it brings because prayer draws me closer to Him. I can have the same confidence as the people in Judah. Prayer establishes a communication link, an open line, a portal from my heart to His. Before I finish the prayer He is already answering, responding, and meeting my needs. And that confidence is what I can share with others. I have walked the valley, seen my share of darkness, yet here I still am "fighting the good fight" as St Paul would say. Praise God indeed!
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with us than with him. With him is only the army of flesh, but with us is the LORD our God to help us and to fight our battles.” And the people gained confidence from what Hezekiah the king of Judah said. " 2 Chronicles 32:7-8 NIV
Though I am weak, He is strong. Though I am fearful, He is not. Though I am flesh and blood, He is Lord God Almighty. I can go into the day and handle whatever it brings because prayer draws me closer to Him. I can have the same confidence as the people in Judah. Prayer establishes a communication link, an open line, a portal from my heart to His. Before I finish the prayer He is already answering, responding, and meeting my needs. And that confidence is what I can share with others. I have walked the valley, seen my share of darkness, yet here I still am "fighting the good fight" as St Paul would say. Praise God indeed!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Courage Part Two
I keep in my car a devotional written by John Eldredge. I find his insights into living the Christian life thought provoking. On May 10 he quoted Deuternomy 31:6 "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid..."
And of course I am very familiar with this verse. So I was interested in his devotion for the day. He qouted G.K. Chesterton: "Courage is almost a contradiction in terms. It means a strong desire to live taking the form of a readiness to die."
The best example would be a soldier surrounded by the enemy, who is alert and fighting to save his life because of his desire to live, to return to his family and friends, and yet he is willing to give up that life for what he believes is worth more than his life. That is courage. To walk into the battle even when you know there is a chance you will not come back. You go in prepared and willing to do whatever it takes to accomplish your goal AND return alive, yet knowing the possibility is real that you will die.
Deborah in Judges 4 knows there is a chance she will die if she joins the battle, but she also knows that she has to fight for her people. She also knows that God has said the enemy will be defeated. Now that is not a guarantee of life. All battles have casualties. Yet in reading the story I sense that Deborah would have given up her life if she had been asked. Her mother's heart required her to enter the battle.
There is another woman who was courageous like Deborah: "Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” Esther 4:15-16 NIV Esther knew there was a real possibility she would die if she went to the King without being summoned. It was the law. Yet the King was the only one who could also grant mercy if he so chose. And Esther needed to the King's help to save her people.
Now most of us do not have a nation of people who depend upon us. But most of us do have a family or church family or work family that does depend on our strength and courage in these troubling times. It's not just the economy, but also the pervasive lack of kindness, a growing attitude of what-about-me-me-me? I think it takes courage to smile, to listen to others, to come alongside our family as they struggle through our very daily lives. It takes courage to get out of bed everyday and do the best you can to love God and love others. Yet how do I find that courage every morning? How do we bring it to others?
And of course I am very familiar with this verse. So I was interested in his devotion for the day. He qouted G.K. Chesterton: "Courage is almost a contradiction in terms. It means a strong desire to live taking the form of a readiness to die."
The best example would be a soldier surrounded by the enemy, who is alert and fighting to save his life because of his desire to live, to return to his family and friends, and yet he is willing to give up that life for what he believes is worth more than his life. That is courage. To walk into the battle even when you know there is a chance you will not come back. You go in prepared and willing to do whatever it takes to accomplish your goal AND return alive, yet knowing the possibility is real that you will die.
Deborah in Judges 4 knows there is a chance she will die if she joins the battle, but she also knows that she has to fight for her people. She also knows that God has said the enemy will be defeated. Now that is not a guarantee of life. All battles have casualties. Yet in reading the story I sense that Deborah would have given up her life if she had been asked. Her mother's heart required her to enter the battle.
There is another woman who was courageous like Deborah: "Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.” Esther 4:15-16 NIV Esther knew there was a real possibility she would die if she went to the King without being summoned. It was the law. Yet the King was the only one who could also grant mercy if he so chose. And Esther needed to the King's help to save her people.
Now most of us do not have a nation of people who depend upon us. But most of us do have a family or church family or work family that does depend on our strength and courage in these troubling times. It's not just the economy, but also the pervasive lack of kindness, a growing attitude of what-about-me-me-me? I think it takes courage to smile, to listen to others, to come alongside our family as they struggle through our very daily lives. It takes courage to get out of bed everyday and do the best you can to love God and love others. Yet how do I find that courage every morning? How do we bring it to others?
Friday, May 13, 2011
Courage Part One
I did a search on the word courage in the Bible, and from there I went to a list of Personal Bravery scriptures. The usual heroes were there, but one name stood out as I scanned the list. Deborah. My own name. Deborah's story is found in Judges 4 & 5. Deborah was a prophetess and a leader of Israel. God spoke to Deborah and she told a military leader that God said he would turn the enemies over to him. The military leader said he would only go if Deborah went with him. What? This man leading an army of 10,000 men wanted a woman to go with him.
"Barak said to her, “If you go with me, I will go; but if you don’t go with me, I won’t go.”
“Certainly I will go with you,” said Deborah. “But because of the course you are taking, the honor will not be yours, for the LORD will deliver Sisera into the hands of a woman.” So Deborah went with Barak to Kedesh." Judges 4:8-10 NIV
Amazing! Deborah went. She lived approximately 60 miles from the fighting, had her own Palm tree shop set up to settle disputes, and yet she agreed to go with Barak. She was courageous. Why? How?
"Villagers in Israel would not fight; they held back until I, Deborah, arose, until I arose, a mother in Israel."
Judges 5:7 NIV
The commentaries I read focused on the last part of this verse. Her description of herself. She was a mother in Israel...as a mother she had to go when called. As a mother...not only did she nurture and encourage, but protect. For her children.....Israel.....she would brave the journey and the battle because she was a mother and she had listened to God.
Make no mistake, this was a woman who followed her God. She was close to Him. Close enough for God to send instructions through her to others. If Barak doubted her anoiting and was testing her faith in her message, then he was enlightened. God showed up and the enemy was delivered into the hands of a woman. Not Deborah. Another brave woman. Jael.
Where does courage spring from? How could she have been fearless in the face of a battle of tens of thousands? I have found scriptures that say JOY is the cure for fear. That remembering the faithfulness of God will give us courage. Here it is a mother's desire to protect her own, to fight for her children and her people, that gives Deborah the courage to travel many miles from her home and into the battle. Would I do the same? Would you?
"Barak said to her, “If you go with me, I will go; but if you don’t go with me, I won’t go.”
“Certainly I will go with you,” said Deborah. “But because of the course you are taking, the honor will not be yours, for the LORD will deliver Sisera into the hands of a woman.” So Deborah went with Barak to Kedesh." Judges 4:8-10 NIV
Amazing! Deborah went. She lived approximately 60 miles from the fighting, had her own Palm tree shop set up to settle disputes, and yet she agreed to go with Barak. She was courageous. Why? How?
"Villagers in Israel would not fight; they held back until I, Deborah, arose, until I arose, a mother in Israel."
Judges 5:7 NIV
The commentaries I read focused on the last part of this verse. Her description of herself. She was a mother in Israel...as a mother she had to go when called. As a mother...not only did she nurture and encourage, but protect. For her children.....Israel.....she would brave the journey and the battle because she was a mother and she had listened to God.
Make no mistake, this was a woman who followed her God. She was close to Him. Close enough for God to send instructions through her to others. If Barak doubted her anoiting and was testing her faith in her message, then he was enlightened. God showed up and the enemy was delivered into the hands of a woman. Not Deborah. Another brave woman. Jael.
Where does courage spring from? How could she have been fearless in the face of a battle of tens of thousands? I have found scriptures that say JOY is the cure for fear. That remembering the faithfulness of God will give us courage. Here it is a mother's desire to protect her own, to fight for her children and her people, that gives Deborah the courage to travel many miles from her home and into the battle. Would I do the same? Would you?
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Our Shepherd
"Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. " Psalm 23:4 NIV
Psalm 23 is one of the most famous of Bible scriptures. Even those with limited or no church background know these words. What struck me as I read through it this time was, of course, "I will fear no evil". So here I am walking--not running, not scurrying, not strolling--but walking which implies calmly, steadily, one foot after the next foot through the darkest valley. I am journeying "through" not stopping, not loitering, but traveling through a dark time. And yet I will fear no evil. Why not?
Can you imagine a dark time in your life, a time of great trial and challenge? I lived through a dark time of divorce. There were days I was convinced that I would never get through, but I did. There were days I lived in fear. Those fearful days were because I forgot the most important part..."for you are with me". God was with me. God is with me. God is with you. In the midst of that dark time, I couldn't see Him nor hear Him, but looking back now I recognize His daily love and protection. I survived because I was cradled in God's arms and surrounded by His earthly angels.
No matter what is going on in my life. God is with me. If I stand in the middle of a life filled with uncertainty, God is with me. If I am daily bombarded with annoyances, frustrations, and problems He is with me. If the sun shines, flowers bloom, the car starts, the child is safe, and I get eight hours of sleep, God is with me. It is so much easier to believe He is present when the days go smoothly, but I believe we press in so much closer when we are struggling. I still fault my short memory. I'm going to make a new note and I encourage you to make your own also: "God is with me always."
Psalm 23 is one of the most famous of Bible scriptures. Even those with limited or no church background know these words. What struck me as I read through it this time was, of course, "I will fear no evil". So here I am walking--not running, not scurrying, not strolling--but walking which implies calmly, steadily, one foot after the next foot through the darkest valley. I am journeying "through" not stopping, not loitering, but traveling through a dark time. And yet I will fear no evil. Why not?
Can you imagine a dark time in your life, a time of great trial and challenge? I lived through a dark time of divorce. There were days I was convinced that I would never get through, but I did. There were days I lived in fear. Those fearful days were because I forgot the most important part..."for you are with me". God was with me. God is with me. God is with you. In the midst of that dark time, I couldn't see Him nor hear Him, but looking back now I recognize His daily love and protection. I survived because I was cradled in God's arms and surrounded by His earthly angels.
No matter what is going on in my life. God is with me. If I stand in the middle of a life filled with uncertainty, God is with me. If I am daily bombarded with annoyances, frustrations, and problems He is with me. If the sun shines, flowers bloom, the car starts, the child is safe, and I get eight hours of sleep, God is with me. It is so much easier to believe He is present when the days go smoothly, but I believe we press in so much closer when we are struggling. I still fault my short memory. I'm going to make a new note and I encourage you to make your own also: "God is with me always."
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Living the Easter Life
What, some of you may ask, is the Easter life? Or some may say Easter was last week, Deborah, you are a week behind. I ask each of you to recall the story of the women at the tomb or go to Matthew 28:1-10.
"The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.” So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples." Matt 28:5-8 NIV
Easter living is living each day with the surety of Christ's conquering of death. Easter living is living with the confidence that the stone was rolled away and Jesus was not there. Easter living is living with the fear of not comprehending the incredible scope of the power and strength and love of our God and yet being filled with JOY. It's natural to have a fearful awe of what we cannot understand or grasp. And no matter if we spend our whole lives seeking God, studying His Word, and living as He wills, we cannot hope to gain that knowledge. Our human minds were not created to hold that much information. Yet the JOY is what should reign in our hearts.
"fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the JOY set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:2 NKJV
Easter living is getting up Wednesday May 4th or Friday July 22 and living with the surety of Christ's sacrifice for us. He was afraid in the Garden, yet in Hebrews it says for the JOY set before Him he endured the cross. Is JOY then the cure for fear? I must consider that possibility and dig deeper into the Scriptures.
So, no matter what else happens each day, the trials or blessings, Jesus has saved us. HE IS RISEN. He conquered His fear to save us. Shouldn't I be brave enough to live each day with the truth of His life and death and resurrection? Yes, somehow I must. In an earlier post I talked about our short memories. I suggest we all post a sticky note or put a calendar reminder that says "He is Risen" and that we renew it once a week. We move the note to a new location like, the back door, or the car, or in our calendars or journals, so we see it with fresh eyes and are reminded that for the JOY set before Him Jesus endured the cross for me and you. Blessings everyone!
"The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.” So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples." Matt 28:5-8 NIV
Easter living is living each day with the surety of Christ's conquering of death. Easter living is living with the confidence that the stone was rolled away and Jesus was not there. Easter living is living with the fear of not comprehending the incredible scope of the power and strength and love of our God and yet being filled with JOY. It's natural to have a fearful awe of what we cannot understand or grasp. And no matter if we spend our whole lives seeking God, studying His Word, and living as He wills, we cannot hope to gain that knowledge. Our human minds were not created to hold that much information. Yet the JOY is what should reign in our hearts.
"fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the JOY set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:2 NKJV
Easter living is getting up Wednesday May 4th or Friday July 22 and living with the surety of Christ's sacrifice for us. He was afraid in the Garden, yet in Hebrews it says for the JOY set before Him he endured the cross. Is JOY then the cure for fear? I must consider that possibility and dig deeper into the Scriptures.
So, no matter what else happens each day, the trials or blessings, Jesus has saved us. HE IS RISEN. He conquered His fear to save us. Shouldn't I be brave enough to live each day with the truth of His life and death and resurrection? Yes, somehow I must. In an earlier post I talked about our short memories. I suggest we all post a sticky note or put a calendar reminder that says "He is Risen" and that we renew it once a week. We move the note to a new location like, the back door, or the car, or in our calendars or journals, so we see it with fresh eyes and are reminded that for the JOY set before Him Jesus endured the cross for me and you. Blessings everyone!
Monday, April 25, 2011
Ramblings this Easter Monday.....
.....over the last couple of days I have looked up my favorite authors to see what if anything they had to say about fear. Henri Nouwen I quoted in the last post. Max Lucado wrote a whole book "Fearless" with many Biblical quotes. "Fear creates a form of spiritual amnesia. It dulls our miracle memory. It makes us forget what Jesus has done and how good God is." (pg 10) The further into the storm and the longer the battle the weaker our memory is of who our God really is. Again this makes it important to develop a daily practice of prayer and listening. Because as John Eldredge says "We are born into a world at war." The history of the world is a history of the struggle between Good and Evil. And we each have a role to play, a side to choose, a life that matters toward the final outcome. That's why we love to root for the underdog, to cheer our favorite teams to victory, why we love The Lord of the Rings trilogy, and Star Wars, and Narnia, and even James Bond. We want the good guys to win. We want John Wayne to catch the bad guy, lock him up and kiss the girl.
Still, reading these various snippets from wonderful writers did not move me as much as the article from Beth Moore. In her book "So Long Insecurity" she tells the story of how God helped her overcome one of her particular fears. She was praying that God would protect her from this worst thing imaginable---her husband leaving her for a younger prettier woman. It had happened to a couple of their friends. When God asked her what if it did happen? What would she do, how would she feel /react? And Beth describes her pain, her betrayal, her anger and her sorrow and grief beyond measure. And then what, God wanted to know? "Then I'd go facedown before God just as I have a hundred other hard times, accept His grace and mercy, believe Him to take up my cause and work it together for good, and then I would get up and choose to live."
I started this entry talking about how short our memories are when in the middle of trials. Beth's article reminded me that I have to see to the other side of the valley. I know I get tunnel vision in the midst of daily challenges and frustrations. I can only see this thing that is casuing me grief/pain/worry. But if I would look back and see how far I have come, how far God has brought me/carriedme/guided me and then looked into the future knowing God knows already and goes ahead of me into the day or week or test or situation or whatever, then I can choose to get up and live too. I need to remember God has been faithful. In my life I have suffered and survived. I have lost two sisters and both sets of grandparents. I have survived a divorce. I have survived the betrayal of a friend whom I would have died to save. Yet here I stand..still..intact...more generous....more understanding...in some ways weaker, but wiser...battling the fear of letting God down in this battle for good. I want to be courageous for Him, for myself, and for all those I might help along the way. I hope and pray my obedience counts on the good side! Be Blessed!
Still, reading these various snippets from wonderful writers did not move me as much as the article from Beth Moore. In her book "So Long Insecurity" she tells the story of how God helped her overcome one of her particular fears. She was praying that God would protect her from this worst thing imaginable---her husband leaving her for a younger prettier woman. It had happened to a couple of their friends. When God asked her what if it did happen? What would she do, how would she feel /react? And Beth describes her pain, her betrayal, her anger and her sorrow and grief beyond measure. And then what, God wanted to know? "Then I'd go facedown before God just as I have a hundred other hard times, accept His grace and mercy, believe Him to take up my cause and work it together for good, and then I would get up and choose to live."
I started this entry talking about how short our memories are when in the middle of trials. Beth's article reminded me that I have to see to the other side of the valley. I know I get tunnel vision in the midst of daily challenges and frustrations. I can only see this thing that is casuing me grief/pain/worry. But if I would look back and see how far I have come, how far God has brought me/carriedme/guided me and then looked into the future knowing God knows already and goes ahead of me into the day or week or test or situation or whatever, then I can choose to get up and live too. I need to remember God has been faithful. In my life I have suffered and survived. I have lost two sisters and both sets of grandparents. I have survived a divorce. I have survived the betrayal of a friend whom I would have died to save. Yet here I stand..still..intact...more generous....more understanding...in some ways weaker, but wiser...battling the fear of letting God down in this battle for good. I want to be courageous for Him, for myself, and for all those I might help along the way. I hope and pray my obedience counts on the good side! Be Blessed!
Saturday, April 23, 2011
After the First Last Supper.....
Holy Thursday I attended mass to celebrate our Lord's Last Supper. There are 2 things significant in this service. Our priest has 12 people from the congregation come up front and he washes their feet. It was quite touching really. And easy to take that imagination leap to another gathering of 2000 years ago when Jesus did the same for his closest followers. Then at the end of the service the priest holding the Eucharist walks throughout the church in solemn silence, mimicing the walk to the Garden. Then we were dismissed. When I got home I went to Luke 22:39-44 and began to read.
"Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him. On reaching the place, he said to them, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation.” He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground."
Our dear Teacher, Master, fully divine and fully man, Jesus felt human fear, felt anxious at what he knew he was going to sufffer. But where did Jesus go for strength, for courage, but to His Father in prayer. I am seeing a pattern in the Scriptures. When I am feeling the fear rise up to choke out joy, to choke out life, I need to be praying without ceasing. Henri Nouwen said "We are a fearful people....but fear never gives birth to love." And love is what God showed when He sent His son to us. Love is what Jesus displayed courageously walking to His death for us. Fear breeds distrust, anxiety, and gives birth to isolated joyless lives. That is not the life I want to live. Jesus came that we may have life and have it to the full. I'd like my cup overflowing please! :0)
"Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him. On reaching the place, he said to them, “Pray that you will not fall into temptation.” He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground."
Our dear Teacher, Master, fully divine and fully man, Jesus felt human fear, felt anxious at what he knew he was going to sufffer. But where did Jesus go for strength, for courage, but to His Father in prayer. I am seeing a pattern in the Scriptures. When I am feeling the fear rise up to choke out joy, to choke out life, I need to be praying without ceasing. Henri Nouwen said "We are a fearful people....but fear never gives birth to love." And love is what God showed when He sent His son to us. Love is what Jesus displayed courageously walking to His death for us. Fear breeds distrust, anxiety, and gives birth to isolated joyless lives. That is not the life I want to live. Jesus came that we may have life and have it to the full. I'd like my cup overflowing please! :0)
Friday, April 15, 2011
False Evidence Appearing Real
I have seen this explanation for FEAR in several places recently. But my fears are NOT false. My daughter was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes 1 week before her 18th birthday. I live each day with the possibility that something could go wrong with her insulin pump etc. My dad is currently going to the doctor and for 8 plus weeks the tests get progressively more serious without a diagnosis. Through my own error/mistake I was written up at work and it says one more mistake and I will be terminated. This reality has turned me into a nervouse wreck when I get rushed or there is a time crunch-like the end of month billing. My point is that these fears are not false but very real to me. It is my reality.
Yet I still believe that I was meant to live with a fearless heart. Not a pie-in-the-sky happy-go-lucky heart by ignoring the reality or refusing to talk about it or pretending it isn't really happening. I want the courage to look those truths in the eye and say "you are hard, difficult, challenging, scary, but I will not be afraid, because my God, my Jesus, my Mentor stands beside me."
"The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!” He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. “Where is your faith?” he asked his disciples." Luke 8:24-25 NIV
The disciples, in the middle of a storm, were frightened and called on their friend, their Rabbi, their Lord to save them. So, learning from them, on the days when the fears seem to be winning possession of my heart, I need to be in prayer, in the scriptures, have the praise music going and practice crying out to my Jesus, and then waiting expectantly for Him to calm the storm in my heart. It does take practice though. Repetition until it becomes as natural as breathing. But the outcome will be well worth the time and intentional living.
Yet I still believe that I was meant to live with a fearless heart. Not a pie-in-the-sky happy-go-lucky heart by ignoring the reality or refusing to talk about it or pretending it isn't really happening. I want the courage to look those truths in the eye and say "you are hard, difficult, challenging, scary, but I will not be afraid, because my God, my Jesus, my Mentor stands beside me."
"The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!” He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. “Where is your faith?” he asked his disciples." Luke 8:24-25 NIV
The disciples, in the middle of a storm, were frightened and called on their friend, their Rabbi, their Lord to save them. So, learning from them, on the days when the fears seem to be winning possession of my heart, I need to be in prayer, in the scriptures, have the praise music going and practice crying out to my Jesus, and then waiting expectantly for Him to calm the storm in my heart. It does take practice though. Repetition until it becomes as natural as breathing. But the outcome will be well worth the time and intentional living.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Fear Comes in Many Shapes and Sizes
Fear is....waking up at 3:45 am and wondering where your child is. Fear is....test after test without a diagnosis. Fear is....hearing a siren outside your neighborhood at exactly the time you are expecting loved ones home. Fear is....one more mistake and your fired. Fear is....seeing the man on the side of the street with a sign "homeless" and knowing you are one check ahead of that circumstance. Fear is....wondering if anyone will ever love you again after the man who lived with you for 20 years chooses not to anymore. Fear is...feeling the call to get out of boat and walk on the water and being paralyzed. All of these I have felt, lived with or through. I know Peter walked on water while his eyes were lifted to Jesus. Bold, headstrong, eager Peter, climbs out of that boat and onto the waves of the storm to reach his Lord & Savior. Still Peter is human, a simple fisherman, and when the wind howls and waves crash, his focus shifts from Jesus to the storm. Is Jesus more powerful than the storm? Yes! Has Peter seen Jesus perform miracles? Yes! Yet even Peter felt fear. My point is that I should not judge myself too harshly, nor you judge yourselves too harshly when the fear overwhelms us.
The cure of course in this particular story is to keep our eyes on Jesus. Repeat what we know to be true. Does God love my child more than even I do? Yes. Does God use trials to teach us lessons, draw us closer to Him? Yes! Does God know you and I need our jobs to make ends meet? Of course. Does God love me, just as I am, weak yet writing these words in obedience. Yes, yes, yes. Does He love you? Again yes, yes, yes. Whatever your particular fear He knows it and He will provide the courage to overcome. It takes practice to walk on water. Reading His promises. Seeing them in our lives. Taking the next step though the fog is thick and all we can see is the next step. Let us journey together.
"Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong." 1 Corinthians 16:13 NIV
The cure of course in this particular story is to keep our eyes on Jesus. Repeat what we know to be true. Does God love my child more than even I do? Yes. Does God use trials to teach us lessons, draw us closer to Him? Yes! Does God know you and I need our jobs to make ends meet? Of course. Does God love me, just as I am, weak yet writing these words in obedience. Yes, yes, yes. Does He love you? Again yes, yes, yes. Whatever your particular fear He knows it and He will provide the courage to overcome. It takes practice to walk on water. Reading His promises. Seeing them in our lives. Taking the next step though the fog is thick and all we can see is the next step. Let us journey together.
"Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong." 1 Corinthians 16:13 NIV
Thursday, April 7, 2011
In The Beginning...
God created everything, including me and you. God made humans in His own image. The first one He made was Adam. "I heard the sound of you in the garden," he(Adam) replied. "I was afraid because I was naked, so I hid." Genesis 3:10 NJB Adam was afraid of God. Adam knew he had disobeyed. The man God created and walked with in the evening, talking with him, spending time with him, experienced a warranted fear of his God. This is NOT the fear I feel. I have a healthy respect for God/Jesus/Holy Spirit. I know even when I make bad choices and sin, that He never seeks to harm me. God's goal is always to bring me home, to get me back on the right path and journey. Yet I also understand that all sin brings consequences. Adam was put out of the garden, separated from the close fellowship with God that he had enjoyed. When I sin I am not afraid of God punishing me. I have rebelled and experienced the separation from God...that distance is definitely something to be fearful of. The chasm that opens between us and God when we sin is a horrible scary pit. Yet, having reached my 50th year, I have learned to stay close to God. Oh, I still sin, but my repentence comes much quicker. So the fear Adam experienced is not the fear I feel. I will continue my search and study.
"The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?" Psalm 27:1 NIV
"The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear?
The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?" Psalm 27:1 NIV
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Where to Begin
I am a perpetual student. I love books, words, lessons, organized plans for accomplishing something. In the case of this season of my life I want to learn to not be afraid. The question is where to start? The Bible, of course. So I did a search on the word fear, fear not, do not be afraid, and courage, just to start. As I read through the verses that popped up, I was surprised at the good company I am in. Adam was afraid, Joseph was afraid, Joshua, Abraham, Sarah, the apostles, and more. It is an affliction that strikes many, yet they found a way to serve God, to overcome their fears. I will research and study and see what I can learn from those in our spiritual family tree.
"Be of good courage,And He shall strengthen your heart, All you who hope in the LORD." Psalm 31:24 NKJV
"Be of good courage,And He shall strengthen your heart, All you who hope in the LORD." Psalm 31:24 NKJV
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Courage That Comes from Trust In God
I am shamelessly using "Point of Grace's" song Fearless Heart.
"I wanna live with a fearless heart
Courage that's coming from trust in God
It's constantly guiding me though the road may seem dark
I wanna live wanna live with a fearless heart"
For the past several months God has been prepping me to start this blog. First I had to face the fact that I was living in fear. I had to admit it to myself. I had to look at my life choices-what I said I wanted to do and what I actually did. Good intentions just won't do anymore. I had to examine my deep intimate self and ask what was holding me back. I was afraid. Afraid of failing God, myself, doing or saying something that would harm someone else, afraid of putting myself out there and being found lacking. And I already know quite well that I am not perfect, but most of us like to keep a pretty cleaned up persona out there for others to see.
Then I had to get past the fear of putting myself out here--in the world--to be real. I mean really real. The kind of real that will satisfy my God's desire for obedience. Because I am convinced that I am not the only Christian woman living with fear and handcuffed from fulfilling God's purpose because of it. So here I am...Showing up. That was the word for last week's online Bible study with Melissa Taylor of Proverbs 31 ministries. Go check it out. The Bible study was written by Rachel Olsen and is titled "It's No Secret." Someone said that showing up is half the battle. I encourage everyone to examine their own hearts. Are you living in fear? If so, how does that fear cripple you from leading the abundant life Jesus has offered, and keep you from serving Him as He calls you?
Be blessed!
Deborah
Saturday, April 2, 2011
April 2 2011 A Fearless Heart
For the past 4 plus years, God has had me in a position of "Be Still and know that I am God." Now He is ready to kick me back out into the world. It's time to leave safe comfortable harbor and set sail on the adventure I have always longed for yet never pursued. Of course for the longest time I did not know that the adventure I yearned for was with my Father God and my Savior Jesus and my Teacher Holy Spirit. I must confess I am truly more of a "cowardly lion" and not the "fearless heart" I want to be . But in being still the past four years I have learned to look to God and His word. So as I explore the Bible and post verses that give me courage, and as I brave the adventures God puts in my journey, I will post and share here. I pray that my words will encourage you to become "A Fearless Heart" in living a life worthy of our God!
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