Resolutions of the Heart

All those who had knowledge and understanding, are joining with their kinsmen, their nobles, and are taking on themselves a curse and an oath to walk in God’s law, which was given through Moses, God’s servant, and to keep and to observe all the commandments of God our Lord, and His ordinances and His statutes. Nehemiah 10:29 (New American Standard Bible)

I will admit I have already decided on some New Year resolutions but they all involve outward behavior.

As I read today’s verse from Nehemiah I was struck by the seriousness and extent of the decision made. How many of us would attach a blessing and curse to our resolutions? How many of us would proclaim absolute obedience to God’s Word, will, and way as our New Year resolution? That is when it occurred to me that most of us do not make New Year resolutions that have to do with attitudes of the heart

So today I am asking myself what it would be like if my resolutions included such things as speaking kindly and graciously to others, extending forgiveness, relinquishing past hurts and failures, looking to God to meet my needs instead of people, aligning my thoughts with Philippians 4:8, and living with a daily realization that God loves me and wants me to extend that love to others. These things are based on my cooperation with God (a choice) and my dependency upon God (a reality). My flesh, my will, and my thoughts are not up to the challenge but God’s Spirit, Who lives in me, IS!

If I make the decision to live this way it must not be with perfection in mind or dependency upon my flesh. Both will set me up for failure. It is not so much a New Year resolution as a daily decision for cooperation with and dependency on God. Transformation of my heart and life will come as I renew my mind and walk in the Spirit. I am not on my own. The God of the universe will be my enabler, coach, cheerleader, and encourager. He will extend grace and mercy when I fail and reassurances that I will succeed at times. As with any journey it will be one step at a time in His presence.

I am hearing God’s invitation for me to join Him on a different way to live my Christian life. His Spirit stirs within me a longing to link up with Himself. His desire and willingness to supply all I need is evident. He now waits for me (and you) to accept His offer.

Father, with timid hands I reach for You. Birth in me the trust to follow You in every area to which You invite me. May I feel Your hand on me and arms around me. Fill me, free me, and change me at the very center of my being! Amen.

Potter's Hand - Hillsong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6beNoG0H0E0

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Spoken to Me as Well

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (New King James Version)

When I find myself reading Scripture and failing to see that the words are meant for me, today’s passage redirects and corrects my thinking. I lived too many years as a Christian seeing certain passages written only to the people in Bible times and felt left out of the promises and words of encouragement. Lately, that mindset found its way back into my thought life and began to shake me at my core.

This morning as I read from Haggai I found myself struggling to see God’s words through Haggai as not just meant for the people of Israel. The words of Haggai 2:19, “Is the seed still in the barn? Even including the vine, the fig tree, the pomegranate and the olive tree, it has not borne fruit. Yet from this day on I will bless you” were seen as God’s promise to His people. How I longed for those words of blessing to be directed toward me as well! As I read Haggai 2:23 where God tells Zerubbabel, that He would make him like a signet ring, because He had chosen him, I once again could not imagine that I too would be made a signet ring. I somehow had lost the ability to hear God speaking His words to me.

Yet when I read passages from the New Testament or Psalms it was relatively easy to embrace the words. My first thought was, “Why even read the passages that seem to be only for Israel?” Why not just read the New Testament and a few books from the Old Testament? Today’s passage gave me my answer. All Scripture was inspired by God with profit and purpose for me! God’s words were not limited to just the present audience centuries ago. Practically speaking, this means when I read of His promised blessings on Israel I can delight that He has promised to bless me as well. When others are told they will be made a signet ring I can rest in the fact that God will also make me into a signet ring as well. What that looks like I don’t know but my lack of complete knowledge is no reason to doubt!

God’s dealings with me and workings in my life may vary from those who lived in Bible times but as His child, I am free to perk up my ears to the sound of His voice in His written word. The messages are not meant to feel like I am reading someone else’s mail….they are meant for me!

Father, may Your Word never fail to be personally directed toward me and accepted by me. Amen.

Ancient Words - Michael W. Smith
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3vmTkXNpwzs&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

That Which Sets Us Free

The woman said to Him, "Sir, give me this water, so I will not be thirsty nor come all the way here to draw." He said to her, "Go, call your husband and come here." The woman answered and said, "I have no husband." Jesus said to her, "You have correctly said, 'I have no husband'; for you have had five husbands, and the one whom you now have is not your husband; this you have said truly." John 4:15-18 (New American Standard Bible)

Jesus pinpointed the area of struggle and shame in this unnamed woman’s story. It was the turning point of the conversation as well as her life. What she may have had no intention of sharing with a “stranger” was exactly what she opened up about to Him. What was hidden in the well of her heart flowed out with her words. Her sense of freedom, forgiveness, and wholeness was only possible with her honesty. When a person has no more to hide, it is then that they stop hiding and start living. It was true of this Samaritan woman and it is true of us as well.

So knowing this, what makes it so difficult for us to be honest and open with the people in our life? I am pondering that question in the early hours of this morning. One year ago today was my “woman at the well” experience with a trusted friend. The one thing I vowed I would NEVER discuss with her became part of our conversation and I sat in disbelief at what was coming out of my mouth. I was sharing not only a very personal aspect of myself but one that housed me in a robe of guilt, shame, disgust, and cringing. It was my personal demon of struggle and admitting it put me in a place of vulnerability and fear. I felt exposed, weak, defenseless, and susceptible admitting my well guarded secret and I was gripped with fear that sharing it would cause this person to walk away and sever the ties of our friendship. I was prepared for the worst but it never transpired. Instead of rejection I received acceptance. Instead of a lost relationship I received the assurance that we would walk through this issue together with God in the center. Instead of seeing my expectations played out I was given the hope of friendship, freedom, and a fresh start. I feared the worst but got the best and my mind desperately tried to wrap itself around the preciousness of it all. I am not the same person I was a year ago. The friendship has continued and slowly but surely more victories are coming. Neither is possible without honesty.

I learned that fear is my greatest hindrance to living the full life. It hinders me in my relationships, in taking risks, in being adventurous, and in living the life out of each moment. To be ruled by all the “what ifs” that I can think of is imprisonment of the worst kind because it places me behind walls of distrust and lies. Last year, Jesus gave me the key to my own freedom and I used it. Each time I choose to take continual steps forward the result is always best! May I never go back again!

Father, quiet any voices in me that would seek to recapture and imprison me. May Your love continue to cast out any and all fear. Amen.

Who Am I? - Casting Crowns
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VU_rTX23V7Q

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Gaining Control

Therefore my disquieting thoughts make me respond, even because of my inward agitation. Job 20:2 (New American Standard Bible)

Zophar’s words to Job speak volumes to me this morning, for I, too, can find myself responding to my own disquieting thoughts and inward agitations. I am amazed how frequently I can allow those very things to control me, my outlook on life, my view of others, and my opinion of myself. The odd thing about it is that it usually has to do with things I don’t really know for sure but perceive to be true none the less. Case in point, what another people might or might not be thinking of me. Due to my own weaknesses, internal wounds, and inconsistent emotions, I can often decide that others think the worst of me, yet the truth of the matter is that I don’t really know what they are thinking. The enemy loves to see me play mental gymnastics that lead no where but down. He loves for me to draw the conclusion that I am not loved, wanted, or even liked by others, and then proceed to withdraw into my own little world of self loathing, fear, and abandonment. Unmet needs, expectations, and longings become the fodder that I can mentally feed upon and the scene plays out like a tragedy.

A conversation with a friend via the internet last night helped me to see the dangers of this tendency as well as a way to get myself back on the right track spiritually and emotionally. I was reminded of the necessity to let go of past hurts and disappointments, to think on what I know to be true, and by the grace of God, to live out the things God has been teaching me. For me, each of those things become decisions I have to make regarding where I allow my mind to dwell. I cannot afford to review unchangeable history. The whys and what ifs are too numerous and unproductive at best. When I presume to know what another person is thinking I must see that as a form of judging on my part and take myself off the throne upon which only God has the ability to sit. I have to choose to meditate on what God says and thinks about me, which is ultimately where my true identity is based. Freedom and growth will come for me as I implement these things into my life the NEXT time the battle of my mind is raging, I am faced with unfounded perceptions, or I am tempted to withdraw into my own emotional cocoon.

Life is too short and the opportunities to live an abundant life in Christ are too many to continue living in a defeated mode. It is time once again to put on the armor of truth, righteousness, peace, and faith so that I can move forward in my Christian life, enjoy and love the people in my life, and be productive in the kingdom work of my Heavenly Father.

Father, help me to now live what I have just written in this devotional. Help me to make the right choices. The wise choices. The necessary choices. Amen.

JESUS,Lover of my soul (it's all about You)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dD-ZdMOx_HY&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Letting it Show

And Mary said, “My soul exalts the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.” Luke 1:46,47 (New American Standard Bible)

Mary is not waiting until she holds her promised child in her hands to start rejoicing…..she is expressing her praise now! She knows the importance and necessity of giving voice to the truth. Her very words are the expression of the praise already felt in her soul and spirit….the very essence of who she is. I am trying to picture in my mind her body language and facial expressions as she speaks such words of and to her heavenly Father. I picture her to be much like David in the Old Testament who had very lively moments of praise to God.

When we are passionate, excited, and intense about something or someone it shows on our faces. It is seen in the way we walk and talk. It affects our whole demeanor. I often wonder how the same people who are so animated and expressive at sporting events, get togethers, and special activities can be so passive and stoic in a worship service. I realize personality plays a lot into this, but even an introvert will laugh at a good joke, smile at the greeting of a dear friend, and reveal the joy of their heart by the expression on their face.

When you go to church, look around at others. What do their faces tell you? Is there a look of celebration over the goodness of God? Is the joy evident? Is there a hint of a smile? Most of the time? Some of the time? Any of the time? Or does it more resemble a funeral? I don’t say any of this to be harsh or judgmental. I actually say it with sadness and confusion. I really wonder why many worship services have been reduced to such somber and solemn assemblies. If our eyes are truly windows to our souls than our whole face (expressions and all) must be wide open doors!

Each day we should ask God to give us the outward expression that denotes a passionate, excited, and lively internal world that is consumed with Him. I am not talking about a fake, plastered on smile. I am talking about authentic joy spilling out of us in an evident, noticeable way. Take my word for it, people will not only notice it but they will comment on it as well. Why? Because it is so rare out in the world as well as in the house of God. May God help us to change!

Father, may You ignite such a passion in us today that there is a noticeable difference in our expression, words, and countenance. Amen.

Come, Now is the Time to Worship
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELdQ66LK5Qw&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Fulfilling His Word

And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what had been spoken to her by the Lord. Luke 1:45 (New American Standard Bible)

We have many promises made to us in Scripture. Our hope of salvation and spending eternity in Heaven is one such promise. Many are the moments in our life when we remember God’s promises to protect us, never forsake us, carry us, deliver us, work in us, glorify Himself in us, and direct our paths. We are assured that His will and purpose are definitely going to come about in our life. As nice as these are and as much as I rely on them to settle my heart, there is a part of me that envies the people in the Bible who got direct words spoken to them from angels. They were told specific things that would come about and they lived to see the fulfillment of those promises. What a blessing that would be!

While I have never had an angel interrupt my day or my life I did have an experience with God’s Word that I love to revisit from time to time. I went to a ladies’ event in the spring of 2005 which required an overnight stay in a motel room. I had been on my journey with God for about a year and was learning truths that astounded me! When I got to my room that night I knelt by my bed, opened my Bible at random, and without looking at the page I simply rested my head on my Bible and began praying over a number of things. I was hungry to hear something specific for me! I wasn’t in the practice of opening my Bible at random and I was so grateful for the many things God had already been doing in my life. When I did finally look at my Bible I was surprised to see that I had opened it to a part in 2 Chronicles.

My eyes fell on the last phrase of 2 Chronicles 25:9 which says, “The LORD has much more to give you than this.” Although I didn’t know the full ramifications of that phrase for me personally, I took it as a promise none the less. It was my assurance that God would continue to stretch my faith, teach me more about Himself, open up knew opportunities to serve Him, and keep me going on an incredible journey with Him that would only get better. This was over four years ago and I can’t wait to see what the “much more” is for me!

Father, You were so gracious to give me such a special verse. I follow You with abandon and anticipate Your good intentions toward me! Amen.

God Will Make a Way - Don Moen
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zo3fJYtS-o

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

　

From Within the Womb

For behold, when the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby leaped in my womb for joy. Luke 1:44 (New American Standard Bible)

I find this verse to be interesting because it shows me a precious womb experience. In her sixth month of pregnancy, Elizabeth knows that the baby in her womb responds with joy to the sound of Mary’s voice. The greeting that reached her ears reached her baby as well.

I have read how much is being discovered about the experiences of infants in their mother’s womb. There is much that affects them. They react differently to soothing music as opposed to harsh, loud, heavy beat music. The stress or peace of a mother affects them. Just like the food a mother eats, the drugs she takes, the alcohol she consumes, the cigarettes she smokes affects her unborn child so do the emotional environments. It is said that even the feelings the mother has toward her own pregnancy are felt by the infant.

As I study Scripture I see the preciousness of God’s involvement with us when we were still in our mother’s womb. There are numerous verses that tell me that while I was in the womb God called me, held me, carried me, formed me, covered me, guided me, and made mention of my name! This tells me that God has a special message for me to embrace about my own conception and womb experience. I was planned for, wanted, desired, and willed into existence by a loving heavenly Father! That is meant to over ride any negative messages I may have taken in before I took my first breath. In other words, God’s re-parenting skills can even go back to the womb.

While all of this is precious to know I was reminded this morning of how quickly Satan can counterfeit this teaching. I decided to see if the internet had sites pertaining to womb experiences. I had the option of two sites. While they said some interesting things I quickly saw some danger. One site led me to the idea that we don’t need to search for God because we are God. The other wasted no time in introducing the concept of reincarnation. My knowledge of Scripture showed me the error of both schools of thought. I must always compare what I hear and read with the Word of God. Then and only then am I safe.

Father, Your Word remains the litmus test for truth. May I be quick to see the counterfeits that are out there and embrace what You say. Amen.

He Knows My Name - Tommy Walker
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xkw3a4raWfg

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

The Certainty of Departures

And Mary said, “Behold, the bond slave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. Luke 1:38 (New American Standard Bible)

Mary’s questions have been asked, her heart has been settled and the next six words have a profound effect on me. I am not sure how long it took Gabriel to deliver his message, walk through the process of Mary digesting his message, and then depart. It may have just been a few minutes. No longer than it took me to read the thirteen verses that cover the event. But his visit was life changing and life defining for Mary. I wonder how often she replayed this day in her mind and delighted in the uniqueness of it all.

People come and go in our life. For some it is a brief encounter. For others it may span many years. I am one who enjoys relationships! I love to recall how God allowed my path to cross with particular people. My memories of them are sweet and I revel in the times we have shared. I marvel at the many friendships that have come my way. Some have blown my mind! But all are marked with the words found in this verse. Eventually they depart. Whether it is through death, a move, or a change in the relationship our involvement in each other’s life is diminished, altered, or discontinued all together.

As I learn to analyze these moments in my life, I begin to see the patterns each relationship goes through. I am convinced God has specific purposes for the individuals He brings into my life. Many times I may not fully realize the purpose until I look back over the time frame of the relationship. It is then that I can see specific messages they were meant to deliver to me about God, myself, or life in general. I also begin to see the intensity of the relationship is usually for a certain amount of time. I must be as willing to release this person as I was to embrace them. I must come to the place when I can fully accept God’s time frame for their involvement in my life and vice versa. Then they become a gift to be treasured instead of a loss to be grieved. It is a process I have to work on and I don’t always walk in victory, but it is worth it when I embrace the truth of it all.

Each change also reminds me of the constant presence of God. He never departs. As I cultivate my relationship with Him I am more able to fully appreciate the relationships with others in the ways He meant them to be.

Father, thank you for the dear people you have brought into my life. May I see them as Your messengers and hear their messages clearly. Amen.

Love That Won't Walk Away - Kathy Troccoli
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZioqjmmtK3U

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

God's Invitation to Trust

Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. Delight yourself in the LORD; and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He will do it. Psalm 37:3-5 (New American Standard Bible)

Sandwiched between the double use of the word trust are the practical aspects of our trust. Dwelling in the place God has put us. Cultivating faithfulness to Him. Delighting ourselves in Him. Committing our journey to Him. When any of those things is missing from our daily relationship with Him we flounder and stumble.

I find myself struggling the most with the steps of my faith when confronted with my weaknesses and the reality of present heart issues. When the truth of where I am at on my journey is not as far as I would like to be. When my actions and reactions reveal flesh more than faith. Those are the times disappointment in myself becomes my foe and my focus. Those are the times when I need to once again review the heart and character of my heavenly Father.

Last night, one small (seemingly insignificant) item grabbed my attention and caused an aspect of my heart to be revealed. That exposure turned into a battle which played out like so many before it. Disheartened by the heart issue as well as my response to it, I quickly resumed the very attitude I want so badly to avoid. It became a test whereby I had no trouble seeing exactly where I was at spiritually and emotionally. Why? Because God requires truth in the inward parts and unless I see the truth of my internal world I will mistakenly live with a false sense of security and seeming victory. He was simply showing me what He knows to be the true state of my heart. In time, that revelation always brings me back to a fresh awareness of how much I need Him.

This morning, He is calling me to trust Him once again. Trust His unconditional love. Trust His compassions and mercies toward me. Trust His willingness to forgive. Trust His acceptance of me. Trust His ability to bring victory. Trust His promise to never leave me. Trust His readiness to welcome me back. Trust His patience. Trust His methods. Trust His timing. Trust His ability to satisfy. Trust His availability. Trust His heart.

Father, it hurts to see the truth and yet it is the doorway to freedom. Trust is the key that opens that door. Help me to trust You in ways that will bring about the freedom and healing I seek. Amen.

Warrior is a Child / Do I Trust You? - Twila Paris
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Pzu-jWpcdw

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.
　

The Power of Our Stories

And behold, even your relative Elizabeth has also conceived a son in her old age and she who was called barren is now in her sixth month. For nothing will be impossible with God. Luke 1:36,37 (New American Standard Bible)

I love the “she who was _______ is now _______” stories in the Bible! There were so many of them you know. Here are a few: He who was blind now sees. He who was lame now walks. He was deaf now hears. He who was mute now speaks. He who had leprosy is now clean. He who was demon possessed is now free. He who was lost is now found. He who was dead now lives. After a list like that we can truly proclaim with joy, “NOTHING is impossible with God!!!!

The stories of God’s redemptive touch are meant to re-ignite our faith. When I know someone has walked the road I presently travel and I see how God worked in their situation, my view of God is enlarged and my confidence in His ability to work in my situation is increased. That is one reason it is so necessary for us to share our stories! There is power in our stories that can impact lives far more than we ever thought possible.

There is a woman I know whose story continually encourages me in my walk with God. She doesn’t even resemble the person she use to be. What attracted me most to her story was that so much of what she use to be was what I was at the moment. It was like looking in a mirror. I could relate with everything she said about being empty, legalistic, needy, and frustrated. Her former view of God was a mirror of mine. To her, He use to seem harsh, unloving, tolerant, distant, and uninvolved. She too thought she had to somehow earn God’s love for her and acceptance of her. But her story did not end there. Now she is a woman who revels in God’s love, dances in her freedom, and lives her life passionately connected to His heart. So when I look at where I am in my Christian life and where I want to be, she becomes my personal reminder that this too is possible with God.

I want to encourage two different groups today. Some of you have stories that other people need to hear. You will be the one God uses to give them hope in their “hopeless” situation. They will see themselves in you and regain a belief that God can rewrite their story. Others of you need to hear some stories. Ask God to intersect you with just the right person.

Father, may we learn the value of sharing each other’s stories. They possess power far beyond our wildest imaginations. Amen.

With All I Am - Hillsong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMrAafe7Mns

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

A Necessary Exercise

Zacharias said to the angel, “How will I know this for certain? For I am an old man and my wife is advanced in years.” Luke 1:18 (New American Standard Bible)

I am coming back to this verse today because I see an exercise Zacharias could have used to answer his own question. It is an exercise I am learning to incorporate into my own life and it is making a big impact on the way I face situations and difficulties that come my way.

I find it interesting how the stories of Zacharias and Abraham are so similar. Back in Genesis 17, the Lord appeared to Abraham and told him that his wife would bare a son. His response? He falls on his face, laughs, and says to himself, “Will a child be born to a man one hundred years old? And will Sarah , who is ninety years old, bear a child?” God’s response was an emphatic, “it WILL happen” and it did. As a matter of fact, Genesis 17 is a chapter that is full of the “I WILLs” of God. His Word was fulfilled even though Abraham and Zacharias stood in more unbelief than belief.

So here is the exercise Zacharias could have implemented. He could have gone back and reviewed this story of his ancestor, Abraham. It would have reminded him of how nothing is too hard, impossible, or out of reach for God. The exact thing God is promising to do for Zacharias was already done for Abraham.

Scripture is full of countless stories of ordinary people whose lives were forever changed by an extraordinary God. No matter what my own situation is, I can always ask God to bring back to my mind a similar story in Scripture that will help flame the fires of hope in me once again. As I review the stories of my ancestors I am also reviewing the character, ability, power, presence, and involvement of God. These stories come to life for me, empower me to step out on faith, and remind me that God is who He says He is and God can do what He says He can do!

Some of my favorite individuals I look to for encouragement are Joseph, Ruth, Esther, David, Moses, Paul, Isaiah, and Jesus. Their stories serve as reminders to me that God graciously forgives, abundantly provides, faithfully protects, consistently leads, has His hands and eye on me, and is without a doubt IN CONTROL of my life!

Father, You have not changed since the time that You interacted with people in Bible times. I rest in the fact that You are involved in my life as well. Amen.

I Am - Mark Shultz
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hILaSh78yHQ

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Is It Really True?

So that you may know the exact truth about the things you have been taught. Luke 1:4 (New American Standard Bible)

There are many ideas and beliefs people hold to. In order to believe something you had to be told about it first. The "telling" is brought about in many ways. We hear it, see it, read about it, or experience it. Whether it has to do with people, places, things, or ideas they are all introduced to us in one way or another.

If something is believed it is only as real as the truth upon which it is based. Many people seem to start their belief in God on the premise that their belief is true because they believe it. Yet believing in something does not necessarily make it true. Just ask anyone who has been betrayed or deceived if their belief in another's honesty made that person honest. Or think about the last time you believed your were headed the right direction but later discovered you were wrong.

When it comes to our belief in God it cannot be based entirely on what we believe or on what others have told us. We have to go back to Scripture and see what God says. For some people that in itself is a stretch because they do not see the Bible as the unique book that it is. Sadly, they do not draw their conclusions because they have read it. They are simply going by what they have been told. A friend of mine is presently studying with a religious group that is teaching error. I have told her that when it comes to studying the Bible it is important that you are being told the truth. Unfortunately, she does not know what the Bible says about Jesus, salvation, Heaven, etc…. so she is not able to discern what is true and what is untrue in the study. I keep encouraging her to read the Bible for herself and see what it says. My prayer is that God would open her eyes to the truth.

God is not a God who enjoys playing a type of spiritual "hide and go seek." Giving us His Word and sending His Son were both ways to reveal Himself to us. God offers to make Himself known to anyone who really wants to know Him. The journey begins as we lay aside our preconceived ideas and beliefs and in simple faith ask Him to tell us the truth. Be brave enough to shine the light of truth on what you believe . Better to allow God to show you the exact truth about what you have been taught rather than continue to embrace what may be a lie. When I asked God to show me the truth about my beliefs it resulted in many walls coming down…..denominational walls, Bible version walls, music preference walls, and any other walls that presumed to dictate spirituality in myself or others. No matter what, the truth is worth it!

Father, You are Truth and Your Word is absolutely true. I have experienced deception but it has never been from You. Amen.

Ancient Words - Michael W. Smith
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3vmTkXNpwzs&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Alike in Many Ways

Elijah was a human being with a nature such as we have [with feelings, affections, and a constitution like ours]; and he prayed earnestly for it not to rain, and no rain fell on the earth for three years and six months. And [then] he prayed again and the heavens supplied rain and the land produced its crops [as usual]. James 5:17-18 (Amplified Bible)

How easy it is to forget that those who are used of God to do incredible things are still human. They have their own set of weaknesses, areas to battle, issues to face, and hurdles to over come. How easy it is to think they aren’t like us…that they somehow are in a category all their own. To believe that pain doesn’t feel the same to them, that they never grow weary, warn, or weak. Yet Scripture is full of examples that show us how far from the truth that thinking really is.

I am thankful that God chose to include the humanness of people when Scripture was being written. Moses was a doubter, murderer, and given to anger. David was an adulterer and murderer. Jonah was a rebel on the run. Elijah was fearful and given to bouts of depression. Peter was a denier and boaster. Saul was a persecutor of Christians. Naomi was bitter. While many good qualities were seen in their lives and many things were accomplished through them, God knew we needed to see the whole picture. I am glad He did so!

There have been individuals in my life that seemed beyond the struggles. I mistakenly thought they walked in continual victory and their life was filled with only right decisions, good attitudes, and perfection. How easy it was to feel that if I could just be them I would be happier, more successful, and better off. The more I played the comparison game the more discontent and dissatisfied I became until the tears would fall and the thoughts would become clouded. What is interesting is that when this takes place I am mostly comparing my weaknesses with another person’s strengths!

Rather than allow such thinking to continue God wants me to change my focus. It is time to stop the comparison games and discover the similarities! I am God’s creation. I am His child. He has plans and purposes for my life. He is involved in my life. He is working all things out for good in my life. He is using unique circumstances, relationships, and challenges to develop my heart and character. He does not play favorites or have twins. What He allows me to do or not to do is not a sign of insignificance or unimportance but rather a display of His distinctive creativity for me. I am loved, wanted, and accepted just as much as any other child of His. May my mind grasp it, my heart embrace it, and my life demonstrate it fully!

Father, in the secret places of my heart where I stand most in doubt and turmoil, meet me! Amen.

I am a Friend of God - Phillips, Craig, and Dean
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMnMN08sv4k

Happy Thanksgiving to each of you! Thank you for reading and sharing these daily devotionals!!!!

To the Fullest Measure

Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who reside as aliens, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, who are chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure. 1 Peter 1:1-2 (New American Standard Bible)

Written to Christians facing persecution and dispersed throughout many parts of the world, the Apostle Peter started this book of the Bible with some incredibly encouraging words. Right off the bat he wanted his readers to see and embrace the truth of who they were in Christ…..chosen, sanctified, and cleansed. Their true identity was not based on what they did, what they owned, or where they lived, but rather on who they were in Christ. Along with that, he desired for them to possess grace and peace in the fullest measure even though their circumstances were not the best. How encouraging to know that we can allow these verses to be a banner over our own lives.

When do I need grace and peace the most? When I am battling with personal issues. When I am irritated with myself or others. When I am fearful of outcomes that are yet to be seen. When I am over whelmed with a task at hand. When temptation seems stronger than my own resolve to resist. When I have failed. When my expectations are not met. When the doors of opportunity remain closed. When I take one step forward and several steps backward. When the things I most want to change are out of my control. When health fails. When patience wears thin. When others do not understand. When my feelings are hurt. When those I most want to please simply are not pleased. When problems remain unresolved. When I feel backed into a corner. When life happens.

Grace is God-given strength and peace is internal tranquility in the midst of storms and difficulties rather than the absence of them. It is the sense that you are being held together when you don’t feel you have it all together. It sustains you when all seems against you. It is not denial or mere positive thinking. It is available and abundant….ours for the asking. In times when I knew the internal or external storms were brewing I could simply ask God to fill me with His grace and peace. Within moments I was acutely aware of both. The early Christians needed them and so do we.

Father, thank you that You never skimp on the supply of Your grace and peace. Each time life gets difficult, You give me the fullest measure of both. I receive them with praise and thanksgiving. Amen.

It is Well With My Soul - Wintley Phipps
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYFjikyp7mQ

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.
　
　

Looking in the Right Direction

Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. 1 Timothy 6:17 (New American Standard Bible)

Three times, in the first book of Timothy, I came across the phrase to fix my hope on God. To fix has the idea of waiting with joy and full confidence, hopeful trusting in, expectation, and being set. Who I trust in and place my expectation and confidence in is usually the one on whom I have my eyes fixed. Fixing my hope on God (and hence my eyes) is meant to be a continual occurrence. A daily decision. What I find though is how easily I can take my eyes off God as my Source and place them squarely on the individuals He so graciously brings across my path.

Put me in a relationship where I feel cared for and my attention is suddenly struggling to stay fixed on God. From the age of 14, when I trusted Christ as my Savior and experienced the love of the body of Christ, I began to seek to fill the “Swiss cheese holes of my soul” with the nurturing of others. Just as a drug addict looks for that next fix and an alcoholic looks for that next drink, I can often find myself looking for that “high” that comes from a sense that I am loved, welcomed, and wanted. It feels safe. It feels strengthening. It feels right. But if it is viewed as anything but a temporary gift of God, then it is a counterfeit and can leave me in the throws of emotional quick sand.

As much as I enjoy rich relationships, I have come to see that two fears usually crop up when things feel like they are changing. I fear I will lose my place in the relationship and I fear I will eventually lose the relationship. God’s answer? Allow love to cast out the fear…His love for me and His love flowing through me.

Along with that, He gave me a picture through a friend of how I can begin viewing those in my life who minister to me and encourage me so much. Picture each act of kindness as a bouquet of flowers being sent by Him through an individual who is simply His delivery person. When people have sent me flowers or plants, I had no trouble knowing who the true sender was and it wasn’t the delivery person! They played a vital and noticeable role but my attention stayed on the actual sender. May it be no different with the bouquets God lovingly sends. May my heart and eyes not become fixated on the delivery person, but rather on the true Giver of the gifts.

Father, tears have fallen as I have seen this aspect of myself and hope has risen in me as I begin to see Your truths for me to embrace. Help me to live life Your way! Amen.

JESUS,Lover of my soul (it's all about You)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dD-ZdMOx_HY&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Seeing the Advantages

But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. John 16:7(New American Standard Bible)

I marvel at Jesus’ compassion and graciousness. He not only told His disciples that He was going away but He gave the very reason His departure was necessary. Although they could not fully grasp either truth, He still gave it. Sometimes it is hard for us to see the advantages to the losses in our life, until long after the fact. With time and growth comes the realization of all that couldn’t or wouldn’t be possible if change had not been forthcoming and security blankets had not been removed.

I think back to many Bible characters who saw the removal of individuals from their life and also saw the necessity of those removals. God systematically brought people into their life to help prepare them for future ministry and work, and when the time was right, those individuals were removed. It was true of Moses and Joshua, Elijah and Elisha, Samuel and David, Barnabas and Paul, and even Jesus and His followers. Each had grown use to being under their teacher, mentor, and guide. I am sure when the time for departure came, each had to wade through the thoughts of not being ready for the change yet. At the end of their life though they could look back and see all that God intended for them beyond the circumference of their once enjoyed companionship.

These truths minister to me and cause me to meditate on the advantages that came with the removal of one who played a significant role in my Christian life and journey. I would have been content to be under her influence and teaching for the rest of my life and struggled to see any advantage come from the severing of our relationship. For a few years I saw no advantage! After time and growth, however, the advantages are coming into view and I am convinced none of them would be possible without the change. Those advantages? I finally saw the full scope of my emotional dependency, I reached out to God in a way that was not possible before, I began searching for answers to questions I never asked before, I began learning truths about God I never knew before, and I poised myself to connect with God in a way I failed to do when someone of significance was available.

For me, it was a person. For others it may be the removal of health, wealth, or jobs. Whatever the case may be, know that God has advantages to birth through the pain and discomfort that will come. He is not arbitrarily playing with your mind and emotions. He is passionately bringing you to a place intimacy with Himself and usability for His kingdom. He makes no mistakes.

Father, help me to trust You during the times of removal in my life. You give and You take away. Blessed be Your name! Amen.

In His Time - Maranatha Singers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wo-rGzx2OZk

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

A Word for the Weary

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9 (English Standard Version)

While today’s verse is often used to speak of service for others, God made it personal to me last night. I related strongly with the word “weary”. Other translations use words like tired, exhausted, loss of heart, fatigued, and spiritless. It has the idea of fainting and going limp! God knew that was where I was at once again. He knew the cycle of thoughts that were playing over and over in my mind. Thoughts of despair, failure, being a burden, unlovable, in the way, and unchangeable. He knew giving up was an option that kept looking appealing. He knew the perceptions of myself and others that screamed louder than the truth. He knew my feelings of foolishness, shame, and embarrassment. With all that He knew He offered me the words of Galatians 6:9.…”Don’t give up. Don’t quit. Don’t give in to the thoughts. It is worth the fight!”

What’s “the good” He wants me to continue doing? Speaking truth. Taking thoughts captive. Applying Scripture and its principles to my life. Asking for help and prayer. Accepting the gifts of friendship He has blessed me with. Putting on the armor of God. Resisting the Devil, his lies, and his tactics. Reviewing who I am in Christ. Keeping in constant communication with my Father. Living by faith more than feelings and emotions. Getting enough sleep. Eating healthier. Being controlled by His Spirit instead of my flesh. The list of good things that are good for me is endless as is the power that comes from each.

Battles are tiring. As I think back on this most recent one I can very easily beat myself up for not being victorious. I eventually let the wrong thoughts take over and it affected my outlook and demeanor. I shut down and distanced myself from those who would help and pray if I would but ask. When it was all said and done I felt like an isolated mess. Yet God still whispered, “Don’t give up. Get back in the fight. Others are praying for you and believing in my power to change you.”

Do I fear the next battle? There’s apprehension because of my past track record. But with each battle there will be growth and lessons learned. There will be fresh awareness of God’s involvement and assistance at all stages. It is a process. I will see victory one step, one thought, one decision at a time.

Father, each time the battle rages and I fear I’ve lost the fight, You come. I will not make it without You. Amen.

Come to Jesus - Chris Rice
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjZEDg9ZGKQ

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

A Call to Action

Everyone who comes to Me and hears My words and acts on them, I will show you whom he is like: he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid a foundation on the rock; and when a flood occurred, the torrent burst against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built. "But the one who has heard and has not acted accordingly, is like a man who built a house on the ground without any foundation; and the torrent burst against it and immediately it collapsed, and the ruin of that house was great." Luke 6:47-49 (New American Standard Bible)

A parallel verse to today’s passage is James 1:22, “Be doers of the word and not hearers only.” Jesus gave strong and contrasting examples of individuals who do and don’t put into practice His words. The similarities are astounding. Both come, hear, and build. But the outcome is dependent upon what is done with what is heard. Floods come to both as well as torrents, but the one not shaken, the one not left in ruins, is the one who lives out the truths he is taught.

I have no trouble coming to Jesus and taking in what He tells me. I have learned to recognize His voice as well as His Words. But I am shaken to the core when I do not practice the things He tells me. Scripture is full of sound advice to be heeded and applied. In many situations of life I know what to do, but like the Apostle Paul, there are times the doing of it is lacking. When that is the case, my house of emotions is shaken as the storms of life hit. God is reminding me that will not be the case if I will begin doing what He has shown me to do. He honors that obedience with strength, stability, and unshaken faith.

This was the center of a conversation I once had with a friend. She saw my struggles and knew when I was dwelling in dark emotional pits. Her words to me are always the same, “start doing what you know to do.” Each action in the right direction will lay a sturdy foundation for me as well as become a wrung to a needed ladder for rising above my moods and thoughts. There is no pretending or blaming, the choice is mine. But within that choice is the premise that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. I am not left on my own to make the necessary changes. Each decision is accompanied by God’s grace and enabling.

Victory replaces failure when God’s Word goes beyond my ears. All that I desire for my Christian life and all that God desires for me are possible as I daily practice the things He tells me.

Father, I take responsibility for the choices I am making. I trust You to bring about the necessary changes as I obey. Amen.

This is My Desire - Hillsong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-XKxqqhOgVM&feature=fvw

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Out of the Cave

To console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified. Isaiah 61:3 (New King James Version)

It was a year ago that I rear ended a vehicle and found myself in the emergency room with a broken sternum. Pain medication was necessary at first and limits were put on how much I could lift. My duties at work were changed to accommodate my need for healing. Prayers were spoken on my behalf and appreciated tremendously. It took time for the bone to heal and the limitations to be lifted. Eventually the tenderness subsided as well as the thoughts of the incident. Lessons were learned and life went on. Physical restoration can often be more quickly obtained than damage to our emotions.

It was over three years ago that a change in relationship shook my world and the eventual severing of it caused me to crash emotionally. I entered a cave of internal darkness that was profound and seemingly impossible to leave. The loss and questions consumed me for the better part of a year. Enjoyment for life eluded me. It limited my perspective on life and my trust in others. I had come face to face with a pain I had never known before and a view of my own internal world that was not comfortable or pretty. Issues that I had been able to anesthetize through the relationship were exposed and felt. My world as I had known it was forever changed. The “medication” that was needed and applied was Scripture, prayers (mine as well as friends’), and the willingness of an accountability partner to enter the cave and spend two years walking me to the exit.

I don’t know the exact moment that exit was found but recently I realized I was no longer in the cave of darkness and pain. I realized that battles being fought were separate from the loss. Joy and laughter were finding their way back into my life and I was actually finding more and more times free from the consuming thoughts that had been so much a part of me. God had brought about the emotional healing that others had assured me He would but I floundered to believe. This morning, praise and thanksgiving have definitely replaced sorrow and I am delighting in the things I see God doing in other areas of my life.

I share this for two reasons. First, it has been so long in coming that I cannot help but talk about it! He has done a marvelous thing in my life and I HAVE to share it. Second, I know that some who are reading this need a word of encouragement that God will eventually bring them out of the emotional cave of pain they find themselves in presently. For them, it is dark and cold. Life is at a stand still and they are not sure things will ever change. They will change, my friends. I have absolutely no doubt about that….but it will take time. Know that the prayers are being lifted on your behalf and welcome any who will enter the cave to help you.

Father, thank you for what You have done for me and what You will do for others! Amen!!!

Help Me - Kathy Troccoli (one of my "cave" songs)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmSSWHO8ueA

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Sufficient for Them as Well

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. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (King James Version)

When my youngest brother died of Cystic Fibrosis at the age of 9, God’s grace was sufficient. When my mom passed away in a car accident in February of 2000 and left me with the crushing pain of feeling orphaned, His grace was sufficient. When I was asked to resign from teaching and found myself on the outside of a group that once welcomed me, His grace was sufficient. When a mentor saw the necessity to sever a relationship with me and I was not sure I would ever recover from the heartbreak, His grace was sufficient. When my own weaknesses and failures have haunted and taunted me in overwhelming measures, His grace continues to be sufficient.

I need those reminders this morning. Not for myself per se, but for people I love and care for deeply who experience their own heartaches, disappointments, and grief. I want so badly to change the scenarios of their life. I want to take away the pain, make things right, and cause each day to be encouraging for them. I don’t want them to hurt or be sad. I don’t want anyone to mistreat them or be unsupportive of them. Basically, I want only good to come to them.

Yet, if what I wanted came to pass, what Paul is talking about in 2 Corinthians 12:9 would not be their reality. They would not be made strong in their weaknesses. The power of Christ would not rest on them in their infirmities. They would not grow as Christians or deepen their walk with God. They would not see their dependency upon Christ increase. They would not experience God birthing ministry out of their difficulties. They would not seek God’s face, heart, or hands in quite the same way as they do now. They would not have the compassion for others in need. They would be comfortable but no longer striving to be conformed to the image of Christ.

It is imperative that I desire for those I love the same things that God desires for them. To see that God is working all things out for their good and His glory. To see that God has a purpose for allowing the things in their life that I would so easily want removed. The difficulties of their life are truly the chisels He uses to shape and mold them into a masterpiece. Eternity will reveal all that He accomplished for and through them. Until that time, I must speak over their life, “Not my will but yours be done, O, Lord.”

Father, I hurt for others this morning. Thank you for reminding me that they are more precious to You than they are even to me. Thank you for what You are doing out of love. I love them as I entrust them to You. For them Your grace is sufficient! Amen.

His Strength is Perfect - Steven Curtis Chapman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LC_lld_vUCY

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

The Searcher of My Heart

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it? I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, even to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings. Jeremiah 17:9, 10 (New King James Version)

Today’s passage gives the basis behind David’s prayer in Psalm 139:23, 24 where he wrote, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Because we can so easily be deceived by our own hearts, it is imperative that we ask God to do the searching, testing, evaluating, and exposing of that which motivates and drives us. Even the best of actions and wisest of decisions can fall victim to wrong agendas and faulty reasoning. Depending on the needs and longings of our heart, even the aspects of service and the carrying out of God’s kingdom work can become distorted and off base.

I am acutely aware of my ever present need for approval and acceptance. The best thing about that aspect of my life is that it continually reminds me of how much I need God and how much I need to direct my needs toward Him. The answer is not to stop doing the things I am doing until the right motives are in place. The answer is to continually ask God to purify my motives as they are exposed and brought out in the light.

Something as necessary as simply asking another individual to pray for me can be affected by the deceitfulness of my heart. This morning I am questioning the motives of my own prayer requests. The needs are real but the desire for attention is just as real. It can cloud and color any form of asking for help, whether that help is in the form of prayer, counsel, or even friendship. Like Paul, when he battled his flesh, I am torn between my actions and the motives that drive those actions. Ever questioning. Ever wondering.

This is the point whereby I need to discern between truth and the workings of the enemy. Doubt, shame, hiding, denying, withdrawal, and fear are his calling cards. He would want nothing more than to see me stop everything and hibernate spiritually and emotionally until I deem myself strong enough to continue on. Yet God’s Word encourages me to serve Him and seek the prayer support of others. As long as I am aware that things in me need to be brought to Him for correction I can proceed at fully living the Christian life. Now more than ever I need to be in constant communication with the One who can truly search me.

Father, may faith (not fear) be the deciding factor for all aspects of my life. I desire to know the truth about what lies below the surface of my actions. Yours is the only heart I can truly trust. Amen.

Potter's Hand - Hillsong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSKe-gSXjAs&videos=IIKyyugBipo&playnext_from=TL&playnext=1

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

A Fox Hunt

Catch us the foxes, the little foxes that spoil the vines, for our vines have tender grapes. Song of Solomon 2:15 (New King James Version)

I am on a “fox” hunt and those “foxes” are the attitudes of my heart. For most of my adult life, I have blamed many of my personal weaknesses and failures on my upbringing. The scenario would go something like this: I had alcoholic parents and their alcoholism left holes in my heart. Unmet emotional needs sent me on a quest to get those needs met through relationships. Looking to people to give me what only God could give me was a means of survival.

Several years ago I came across the term “emotional dependency” and it became my garment of choice. It was the label I could apply to my life and therefore allow it to define and confine me. It seemed to explain my behavior and the choices that drove the behavior. It also filled me with shame and wreaked havoc on numerous relationships.

While the actions of my parents did have an effect on me and emotional dependency is a personal struggle for me, those are not the foxes that I need to become aware of and catch. Change will come for me only as I take personal responsibility rather than find something or someone to blame for my actions and behavior.

Although I know Christ as my Savior and His Spirit lives in me, I still possess a sin nature and fleshly tendencies. Spiraling moods are just one of the outgrowths of that nature. Until recently, when a shift would take place I went down! Now I am learning that there is a different way to live. Instead of giving in to the mood swing I am beginning to pinpoint the thoughts and feelings that are giving momentum to the mood swing. I am learning to ask myself, “What are you feeling right now?” The answer will identify the fox that needs to be caught and stopped. Yesterday’s foxes included jealousy, fear, feelings of insignificance, shame, and wrong perceptions. As I would identify the heart issue I could then focus my prayer on it. I could confess the jealousy and ask God to help me have an attitude of thankfulness and contentment. If it was fear, I could acknowledge that He is always with me. Insignificance could be met with reviewing the truth of who I am in Christ. Shame would retreat at the flood lights of forgiveness and acceptance. Wrong perceptions could be defeated with truth.

What was actually happening was that I was finally seeing the real enemy within myself and calling each attitude out in the open. I use to feel defeated because the attitudes were still in me. Now I taking a victor’s stance against them and that is changing the vineyard of my heart. It is taking prayer, the use of Scripture, and God’s help to see progress in this area. The fight is on!

Father, shed light on each heart attitude that seeks dominance over me today. Help me to acknowledge what is there at all times. Help me to walk in victory. Amen.

Change My Heart, Oh God - Eddie Espinosa
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEtsHWFE6-w

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

An Insatiable Hunger

A greedy man stirs up dissension, but he who trusts in the LORD will prosper. Proverbs 28:25 (New International Version)

Does God ever pinpoint an area in your life and when He does you have no trouble knowing what He just pinpointed? It just happened to me while reading a devotional by Mary Southerland entitled “Guarding Greed.” She asked and answered a question that shed light on something for me. It went as such, What happens when we live as if He is not enough and He is not all we want? Greed happens. While most of her devotional centered around material greed, God directed my attention toward that for which I tend to display greed.

Greed is that strong desire to have more of something. To acquire or gain more than is necessary or intended. An inordinate desire to have in excess. It’s twins are jealousy, envy, and covetousness. It is a robber of thankfulness and joy. It imprisons one in a shell of selfishness, pride, and continual hunger. When my goal in life is to fully satisfy my need for more I live frustrated, empty, and in a continual state of want. What God wants me to see is that satisfying the greed is impossible but conquering it is not!

As I read Mary’s question, my area of greed quickly came to mind. Relationships. God uses them but greed desires more from them then what is needed or intended. Greed wants more of what is there and when more is given more is desired. I see this played out when it comes to another person’s time, attention, acceptance, and affirmation. One dose is not enough. As soon as I take in what is offered I crave more! I have known this about myself for quite some time but have never seen as an aspect of greed.

Today’s verse sums it up very well. My greed brings about conflict and disruption yet when I place my expectations, hopes, desires, and trust in God He prospers me in more ways than any human relationship is able to do. The bottom line is that what I am craving from people is actually what I need from Him. People are His representatives but I so easily attempt to make them His replacement. His desire is that I would turn my attention and appetite toward Him and I do that one step at a time.

My steps? Acknowledge the truth about my greed. Confess it to Him and receive the forgiveness He offers. Understand that while I may not be entirely free of this tendency in this life, I can certainly walk in victory over it. Through Christ I can control how it affects me. Depend upon Him to show me each time greed stirs within me and how NOT to feed it but rather turn the desires toward Him. Lastly, realize that greed is okay when what I am greedy for is more of Him!

Father, within this heart of mine lies a voracious appetite that seeks to be fed off sources other than You. Help me to walk in victory with a satisfaction found only in You. Amen.

He's Been Faithful - Damaris Carbaugh
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdO2cRXVHII

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

The Possibility of Forgetting

Joseph named the firstborn Manasseh, "For," he said, "God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father's household." He named the second Ephraim, "For," he said, "God has made me fruitful in the land of my affliction." Genesis 41:51, 52 (New American Standard Bible)

The naming of Joseph’s son gave voice to the truths he had come to embrace. I don’t know how long he harbored painful memories of loss and betrayal. I don’t know how often thoughts of his father and the ache of missing him consumed him. I don’t know how frequently his brothers’ actions and attitudes against him reopened wounds of sorrow, anger, and frustration. Yet at some point, Joseph came to the realization that those things no longer hung over his life, clouded his days, or colored his perspective. By the time his sons were born he had truly moved on with his life. No longer dwelling on the past but rather enjoying the beauty of the present. Joseph’s story refreshes my spirit. It reminds me that emotional healing takes time but is possible. It redirects my thinking toward what God is doing. It assures me that God can do the same in me that He did in Joseph.

Although I am not fully there yet, I rejoice in what progress has been made. The enemy of my soul knows this as well and doesn’t give up easily. As recent as yesterday thoughts came that had but one purpose…..to discourage me. My mind began thinking back on painful memories and profound losses. Each minute spent dwelling on those things caused the dull ache inside to grow. When I would fight the thoughts with truth, thanksgiving, and praise their effect and hold lessened. When I gave in to them and fed off them the darkness resurfaced. It doesn’t take long for me to realize when the thinking is once again off track, because it is accompanied by grief, heartache, condemnation, and hopelessness. At the same time, thinking on what is right and truthful is accompanied by peace, restfulness, and strength. It is as profound as switching on the lights in a darkened room.

I don’t know how close I am to being able to say, “God, you have made me to forget my trouble and you have made me fruitful in the place of my affliction,” but it no longer seems like an impossibility. It is no longer a question of “if” God will deliver me from rampant emotions, but rather “when.”

I take that thought with me into a weekend that includes attending a women’s conference in Crown Point, Indiana. God has been preparing me to hear something I have not been able to hear up to this point. I am not sure what it is yet but I am filled with anticipation and expectation.

Father, I sense Your continued work in my life and in that I rejoice! Amen.

Desert Song - Hillsong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JrJuFmuAGo4

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Continuing in Freedom

Thus says the LORD, the God of Israel, “Cursed is the man who does not heed the words of this covenant which I commanded your forefathers in the day that I brought them out of the land of Egypt, from the iron furnace, saying, ‘Listen to My voice, and do according to all which I command you, so you shall be My people, and I will be your God.’ Jeremiah 11:3,4 (New American Standard Bible)

When God brought the children of Israel out of the ‘iron furnace’ of Egypt it was not the end of their story….it was merely the beginning. He brought them out of bondage to teach them how to live in freedom. True freedom comes through obedience and connection with God, not living independent of Him. Seeing their own captivity and being freed from it was wonderful but if they did not continue to listen to God and do what He said they would enter a worse bondage… a self imposed bondage. They would become captives of their own passions, sin natures, and ungodly bents. To read the history of Israel is often like looking into a prophet mirror at ourselves.

Like Israel, my freedom comes in stages. I must be aware of where I am in bondage. What are the mindsets that prevent me from living in complete freedom? What are the addictions, habits, and beliefs that keep my soul locked up? As I identify them, I desire freedom. But desire alone is not what sets me free. My journey to freedom begins and continues as I learn to listen to God and embrace what He tells me. I must acknowledge the truth and live out of that truth.

As I allow Him, God shows me the causes and effects of my personal areas of bondage. I am daily seeing the connection between present circumstances and past events. Because my view of life and God was skewed early on, it affects the way I interpret things today. For me, the biggest area this has impacted is with relationships. I have spent decades looking at relationships through a faulty grid and the result has often been painful. What I desire from others and what I am able to give to others is distorted unless I allow God to bring things into right focus. It becomes a time of exchanges. Exchanging truth for lies and freedom for bondage. The renewing of my mind through Scripture is leading to transformation of my heart and resulting in a change of my words, actions, and thoughts. The freedom I am seeking is only found in cooperation with and trust in my Abba Father.

Sometimes this process is accompanied by individuals God brings into my life but often it is taking place one on one with Himself. He wisely determines which it will be. I profit the most when I trust what He is doing, heed what He says, embrace what He reveals, and obey what He requires. It all comes from His heart of love and in that I rest!

Father, I desire liberty of my heart, soul, and mind. Continue to show me my own captivities and what will lead me to freedom. Amen.

Made Me Glad - Hillsong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0Zc_VWJJoI&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

What to do With the Toxic Thoughts

Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. Colossians 3:2 (New American Standard Bible)

My mother would often say, “You can only think of one thing at a time.” She was right! God’s Word is filled with verses that speak of the importance of meditating on the right things. Today’s verse is one such example. It not only has the idea of focus but also of coming into agreement with. Since a multitude of thoughts play out in my mind daily, it is imperative that I keep them aligned with God and His eternal perspective. There is more to life than merely those things I can experience with my five senses. In the midst of anything I see, feel, or experience, there is a heavenly realm that must be taken into consideration. I must learn to see the whole picture instead of just my limited point of view.

Last night afforded me an opportunity to practice setting my mind on things above. It came in the form of disappointment that someone was given the opportunity to do something I am longing to do but am not able to do at present. I found myself battling thoughts of jealousy as well as feelings of being over looked AGAIN! Fear abounded that God might never open the door for me to serve in THAT capacity. They were self-consuming, self- centered, self-condemning thoughts and they were toxic for all of 10 minutes. That is when I made a conscious decision to review truth and allow it to set me free.

What was the truth I reviewed? God is in control of my life. He has plans for me that He will fulfill. I can trust Him to use me in the ways He chooses at the times He chooses and for the purposes He chooses. He knows what He is doing in each ministry opportunity. I have not been over looked but rather His eyes and attention are constantly on me. My freedom comes in acknowledging God’s right to say where I am to be, what I am to be doing, and how I am to be doing it. He sets the agenda. He maps out the course. He guides and directs. His plans and thoughts are higher than my own.

Do I still have desires and wishes? Absolutely! But they are being laid at the foot of the cross with a heart of submission to and acceptance of what God wants for me. I don’t want to live my life honed in on what I cannot do but rather on all that He allows me TO do. He may still choose to have me serve Him in the place I desire to serve, but it will have to be on His time table. If it never comes about then it was not part of His best for me. I am not being neglected or ignored. I am being loved, cherished, and led by the Lover of my soul!

Father, You know my heart’s desires. As I set my affections on things above, change what needs to be changed, solidify what needs to be solidified, and accomplish Your will for me. Amen.

God Is In Control - Twila Paris
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iQHlKc8DrB4&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Asking for Prayer

I urge you, brothers, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me. Romans 15:30 (New International Version)

Paul had no trouble requesting others to pray for him. It wasn’t that he felt his prayers were not good enough or effective enough but he knew the power of multiple prayers being lifted on his behalf. As he faced prison, persecution, personal failures, and fears he was strengthened by the prayers of others and in turn prayed for others for the things they faced as well.

Prayer support is one of the many privileges and benefits of being in God’s family. It is usually one of the first responses we voice when someone has shared with us a difficulty in their life. When the storms of life hit, prayer is our life line that keeps our head above water with its hope, security, and comfort. The older I get, the more I value the prayers of others and no longer take them lightly.

I know this to be true and yet how well am I doing at requesting prayer during emotionally difficult times? Or times when I am facing personal temptations that I don’t even want to admit I are a struggle for me? Last week, I went through a dark season. People could see it and they indeed were praying for me, yet I was not doing well at actually sharing the struggle with them or the specifics of what I needed the prayers for. I was resistant to admit what had brought on the spiral and the thoughts that kept pulling me downward. Why? Embarrassment and shame….two effective tools the enemy of my soul is very good at using. Looking back now I realize if I had opened up to those I could trust, they would have been able to be more specific in their prayers and the darkness would have ended sooner. As hard as it would have been, as uncomfortable as it would have felt, admitting the truth would have been my first step for freedom and strength.

God used a situation last night to help me see the need to request specific prayer at the on set of struggles. I could sense a temptation coming on that I knew would pull me down if I gave in to it. Before the temptation gained strength or momentum, I called a friend, shared the specifics, and we prayed immediately. The result? This morning the temptation no longer looms over my horizon. So I am asking myself, will the next emotional battle be fought more effectively if I follow the same strategy? Will I see deliverance and victory more powerfully demonstrated as I confide in those whom I know care and will pray? I believe I will and I am asking God to give me the grace, wisdom, and fortitude to so!

Father, break down the resistance in me for sharing honestly and openly with the prayer partners in my life. Help me to set aside the fears, apprehensions, and perceptions that often stop me from voicing my prayer needs to others. Help me to get real! Amen.

I Will Pray for You - Katherine Jenkins
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ju8cy0O4S8U&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Choosing the Good Part

But the Lord answered and said to her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her." Luke 10:41, 42 (New American Standard Bible)

Jesus’ words to Martha were timely and timeless. They followed an invitation into her home and preparations of a meal. In the midst of her “service” for Him, He pin-points an area in her life that needs a reality check. While her hospitality was commendable it was filled with distraction, worry, and bother. I picture her with frayed nerves and ever rising frustration. She reached out for the one thing she thought would be her answer for ease. She asked the Lord to give her the help of her sister. Instead, the Lord gave her an example to follow. Jesus wanted her to see there was a difference between inviting Him into her home and spending time with Him. Martha had a choice to make. Become offended by His answer or learn from it.

Many of us have been where Martha was. Busy “doing” for our Lord with very little “being” with our Lord. Activity fills our life with very little time to sit at His feet and listen to His words to us. While we have the religion of Christianity down pat, we flounder at the relationship aspect. How do you know when that is the case for you?

There is a lack of joy in what you are doing. You house critical attitudes toward others. Your inner world is filled with turmoil and frustration. You feel disconnected from intimately knowing Him. You are on a high mode rather than a rest mode. You sense you have lost a necessary balance in your life. Your activities have left you with very little time to be in the Word or in prayer. When it is all said and done the emptiness is profound.

The answer? Ask God to show you the truth and how to choose the good part of spending time with Him. Not just moments in the morning, but practicing His presence and hearing His voice throughout the day. Give up the “list” for lessons at His feet. Ask Him to make the “doing” an out growth of “being” with Him.

If what you have read today, strikes a chord with you, I understand, for I have been there. Three decades of doing! I found a place at His feet nearly six years ago and now know the preciousness of the good part….it’s Him! It hasn’t left me with nothing to do but rather has impacted and energized me while I do it.

Father, You have engaged my heart once again. May being in Your presence continue to be my passion and place. Amen.

Heart of Worship - Matt Redman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZgPPmtZgS4

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

To Tell the Truth

Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor: for we are members one of another. Ephesians 4:25 (King James Version)

There are times when speaking the truth to others comes easily for me and then there are times when I cringe at the thought. The worst moments for me are when I am struggling emotionally and someone asks me how I am doing. Or they say something like, “Are you okay?” They can see by the blank stare, lack of energy, and silence that something is amiss. They ask out of true concern and yet I end up giving not only a somewhat believable excuse but an out and out lie. Tonight it was, “Just tired. Worked over-time. Long day.” The truth? I was losing a battle of my mind and didn’t want to admit my problem.

Why is it so hard to be honest and open with people? Why is it so hard to tell them the truth when they ask? The answers are as multi-layered as the questions. Shame, fear of losing face, pride, fear of their opinion of me plunging, and ultimately fear of being found out to be less than they think I am. It is the same scenario played out when we don’t want to admit wrong doing on our part.

I can understand Adam and Eve’s attempt to hide when their sin was exposed. Or Achan’s act of hiding stolen goods and then denying it until the very end. Or Aaron blaming the children of Israel for the calf that he himself had fashioned when confronted about it. I understand. I relate. I opt for the same choices when asked how I am doing. Some would say it is no big deal but to God telling the truth IS a big deal.

So what am I to do once I have been dishonest with my answers. Confess it to God for one. Then do what I did a moment ago. Pick up the phone, call the person I spoke to, and apologize. She was gracious and forgiving. Said she knew I wasn’t telling her the whole story and offered to pray for me. Then determine that by God’s grace I will follow His principles of honesty the next time this scenario plays out. Then move on.

Father, I lost a number of battles this evening and yet I stand forgiven. Thank you that your forgiveness will always outnumber my sin. Amen.

What Sin? - Morgan Cryar
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaMIeOKQVDs&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Changing the Unchangeable

Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard its spots? Neither can you do good who are accustomed to doing evil. Jeremiah 13:23 (New International Version)

There are certain things in my life that I am able to change and I praise God for those experiences. My weight has been one such change. It was simply a matter of eating less and moving more. While the number on the scale and clothing sizes went down, I was encouraged. Yet, I find what hasn’t changed (for good) are poor eating habits that have remained. The ability to binge eat is still very much a part of my journey. As much as I want the desire for junk food to subside, it lies just below the surface on many days.

The ability to live life without being in contact with a former mentor has been a change I have seen. Yet, once again, just below the surface are issues I still wade through on a daily basis that remind me that internal, lasting changes have yet to be realized. Spiraling into dark moods and the accompanying behavior still find their way into my weeks. I resolve to do better, and at times succeed. But the failures out number the victories more often than not. The same is true of emotional dependency issues. While I can occasionally modify my behavior, the internal changes still elude me. They are the “skin of the Ethiopian” and the “spots of the leopard” in my life. Unchanging and unchangeable if left on my own.

If that were the end of the story, I would be in trouble. Hopelessness and helplessness would over whelm me and an attitude of futility would quickly set in. That is not the case, though. Rather than allow these areas to discourage me, I can use them to remind me of how truly dependent I must be on my Heavenly Father. Paul’s words of “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” are meant for me. The God of the impossible resides within me in the form of the Holy Spirit and He is the basis for the changes I desire. While I have steps of obedience to take, the actual change is by His hand not my determination. I have fallen flat on my face too many times to assume it is possible through my strength alone.

So where does real, lasting change come from? It is the collective effect of spending time in God’s Word, yielding to His Spirit, renewing my mind, walking in the truth, taking in the wisdom from others, being teachable, and trusting God to complete what He has started in me. While my flesh will always give me trouble in this life, the impact and effect it has on me does not have to continue to be as profound. Through Christ I can experience different actions and attitudes. If I compare who and what I am today to who and what I was a year ago, I can see the changes that have come. Progress is slow much of time but it continues. Christ in me….my hope for continued change.

Father, I so often see the failures while You celebrate the victories. Help me to see that through Christ change will come….slowly but surely! Amen.

Change My Heart, Oh, God
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cUjUvoynGMM

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Making it My Goal

So we make it our goal to please Him… 2 Corinthians 5:9a (New International Version)

What would happen with my day and in my life if I allowed my goal to be “to please Him?” We live in a day when pleasure is a big commodity. Unfortunately, the one we seek to please is often ourselves. Even in the midst of trying to please people, we can ultimately strive to bring pleasure to ourselves. For instance, doing something nice for someone so they will think well of you makes you feel good. It does me! I cringe at the motives that lie within my heart and drive my actions.

Yet, today, I have the opportunity to make pleasing God my goal, my aim, my ambition. Pleasing Him with my words, actions, attitudes, and thoughts. Will I do it to perfection? No. But if I endeavor to make it my goal, I will do better than if it does not even enter my mind. It is not a matter of putting it on my to do list and then checking it off as I accomplish it. It is a daily, moment by moment necessity. It is a never ending pursuit. It is an on going process.

Will I fail? Absolutely! And failure can often cause me to think I should just give up. A lie! Rather, failure is my constant reminder of how much I need His help to please Him. It will not come out of sheer grit and determination on my part. It will come out of reliance upon Him, dependency in Him, obedience to Him, and honesty with Him. It will require letting go of my fleshly pursuits. It will necessitate a constant inspection and inventory of my heart. It will demand a releasing of ideas, desires, and wishes. It will involve reevaluating my relationships and the expectations I hold on to for those relationships. It will entail submission to that which God calls me to, purposes for me, and longs for me.

On a practical level, when a stray comment has rubbed me the wrong way, I must acknowledge it and then let it go. When my moods spiral down and I am tempted to withdraw into a world of silence, I must interact with others nonetheless. When I waste time on mindless activities, I must look around at what really needs to be done and start doing it. When perceptions cloud my thinking, I must state and stand on what is true. When negativity and feelings of resignation consume me, I must find my shelter and restoration in the arms of my loving, Heavenly Father. Impossible tasks? Not at all. Possible, necessary, and worth it!

Father, as You redirect my focus back on to Yourself, let me know the joy of pleasing You. Amen.

Knowing You, Jesus!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Q_YQPa66kk

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.


　

An Essential Part to Being Taught

Teach me, O LORD, the way of Your statutes, and I shall observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may observe Your law and keep it with all my heart. Make me walk in the path of Your commandments, for I delight in it. Psalm 119:33-35 (New American Standard Bible)

David knows right where to go for the instructions of life. I love his prayer! In my own words it would read, “O Lord, teach me Your way, give me understanding, make me walk in the path you have designed for me.” It is asking God to be my Teacher, Counselor, and Guide…..the exact things He has already promised He would be. My job is to take in what He says and make it a part of my life. Daily, He gives me the tools, knowledge, and ability to walk through life. Am I taking advantage of all that He offers? This morning, I picture myself like an arrow in His quiver. Placed in His bow I am directed in a particular direction and sent forth to accomplish His aims and objectives. How well am I doing at staying the course?

In the spring of 2004, I took my first steps on a journey that has been incredible to say the least. I had a veracious appetite for taking in truth and devoured book after book that taught me aspects of the Christian life I had missed prior to that. The Bible came off the shelf to be read consistently with a hunger to learn. I sat under the teaching and advisement of those who walked in wisdom. Constantly searching. Constantly taking in message upon message. Yet while I grew in some areas I was still struggling in others. The problem? Personal application was missing. I was not allowing the truth I was taking in to become a part of me.

For instance, I could be told to look to God and yet find myself still looking to people. Hence, I felt no closer to God. My connection to Him was shaky. While my mental world was growing, my emotional, internal world was stagnating. I have learned the hard way that taking in truth is not complete until I am taken in by the truth. Until I practice what I am taught, there will be little transformation of my mind, will, and emotions.

God is not only attentive to my spiritual needs. He sees and is involved in all the dimensions of my life. He knows how to best balance my world when it comes to finances, relationships, healthy choices, and family dynamics. On a day by day basis He tells me what I should be doing and then encourages me to do it! It is a student/teacher relationship that is like no other!

Father, teach me, transform me, and renew me. Amen.

In His Time - Maranatha Singers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gTQvpMeh1A&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Honesty is Still the Best Policy

The LORD is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth. Psalm 145:18 (New International Version)

When it comes to prayer, God requires the truth, desires the truth, and can handle the truth. I recall times when I would dance all around an issue without really admitting the bottom line to God. That’s not calling on Him in truth. Being evasive will do little for my prayer life. Being honest, open, and sincere will do much! Prayer is not only a dialogue whereby I talk to God and He talks to me, but it must be a truthful dialogue. It must entail the truth about my heart, my motives, my concerns, my attitudes, and my actions. God already knows every fiber of my being and He is passionate about me seeing what He already knows.

Recently I have been struck by my need to come clean with God about what is really going on inside my heart and head. The attitudes of my heart are an open book to Him and He listens as I read the pages to Him. What is written on those pages varies. It may be jealousy, worry, frustration, wrong perceptions, insecurity, non-forgiveness, pride, or any number of things that He wants me to readily admit to Him. It will do no good to point the finger at others. When it comes to Him and me, my heart is the subject at hand. Honest confession is the starting point and forgiveness and freedom are the results.

How does this play out on a practical level? Someone may rub me the wrong way yet I must be honest about my lack of unconditional love for them. Someone’s actions may leave me feeling left out yet I must be honest about my need for attention. Someone may show favor toward another yet I must be honest about my heart of jealousy. I may be wanting to talk to people when I am struggling yet I must be honest with my tendency to look to them rather than God. Those are my starting points with Him. Not only do I experience freedom and His forgiveness as I speak the truth but I come to a fresh realization of His unchanging love for me. The truth of the matter is that He loves me at my best and He loves me at my worst. Nothing I do or don’t do will change that fact!

Call on Him? Absolutely! Keep it honest. Keep it open. Keep it sincere. When it comes to my prayer life, honesty is definitely the best policy!

Father, being honest with You and myself has revolutionized my conversations with You. Amen.

You Rescued Me - Geoff Bulluck
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7FMFDU89-PA&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.


　

Is God in it or Not?

Then He said, “Go out, and stand on the mountain before the LORD.” And behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice. 1 Kings 19:11-12 (New King James Version)

Notice how many things Elijah had to see that God was not in before finally seeing what He was in. This had nothing to do with God’s presence as He is omni-present….all present and everywhere. It had more to do with God’s working, will, desire, and involvement. Henry Blackaby, in his book Experiencing God, implores the reader to see where God is at work and join Him there. We may have to get past a lot of our own preconceived ideas and hopeful expectations to find and hear God’s still small voice of truth.

How good am I at seeing when things are not of God or not His choosing for my life? In my mind, it may be a good plan but is it of Him? It may be a personal ambition, but is He in it? If something does not work out as I wish, am I willing to trust that He has other plans for me? Am I willing to let my own thoughts die so that I may embrace His calling, will, and purpose for my life? Will I dare to live my life according to His schedule, timing, and leading? These are the questions that must be asked and answered each time something does not go the way I want it to go. Each time I am not able to do what I want to do. Each time my plans fail, my projects crumble, and my way is blocked by walls, roadblocks, and detours. They may be good in and of them themselves but if they are not His choosing I must be willing to let go of them.

This morning I am pondering my desires and wishes with a willingness to see whether or not God is in them. If not, I see the necessity to forego the pursuit of them. He has made it clear that His ways and thoughts are higher than my own. Often times they are opposite of my own! When that is the case, it is impossible for me to have it both ways. I can only head in one direction at a time. It is God’s way or mine. God’s will or mine. God’s plans or mine.

I am taking comfort in the fact that if someone refuses my help, God may not be in it. If a particular opportunity never avails itself, God may not be in it. If a relationship is not working, God may not be in it. And if God is not in it, should that really be what my heart follows after? Would it not be better for me to abandon my personal ambitions in order to embrace His?

Father, close doors, hedge me around, interfere with persistence so as to guide my steps in the way You would have me to go. Bring my will and my wishes into alignment with Your own. Make us one! Amen.

Hold On - Twila Paris
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZwelxYavVY&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.