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Enlightened

Ephesians 1:18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength 20 he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, 

As I read the verses above, first I think about what it means to be enlightened. We gain higher knowledge and understanding when (appropriately) the light of the world enlightens us. Later in the verse we read about great power for us who believe. So then I wonder, what is this power for, and what should we do with it? 

Many are the answers to these questions, but one thing I know for sure. When I have taken time to be intentional to ask God to enlighten me, open the eyes of my heart to see what he sees, and give me power and courage to do his will; I have been more blessed than I can explain. Inevitably, today, we will interact with someone in our home, in the store, in traffic, at work, at school, or even online. Let's ask God to open the eyes of our hearts, let's honor one another above ourselves, and let's live enlightened as we embrace this power to be the change we so deeply long to experience in our world.

Lord, we thank you for enlightening us, giving us power to do your will, showing us the needs and opportunities that surround us, and giving us the courage to step out in faith as we love one another today and always.

4/24/2024

Try

Psalm 53

2God looks down from heaven

    on the entire human race;

he looks to see if anyone is truly wise,

    if anyone seeks God.

3 

But no, all have turned away;

    all have become corrupt.[b]

No one does good,

    not a single one! 

If we're destined to fail, why do we even try?

The apostle Paul writes to the believers in Rome:

Romans  3:23 For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. 

The verses above break my heart. I imagine God looking down, searching for anyone truly seeking him, anyone doing good without corruption, anyone without sin, and coming up empty handed. 

BUT keep reading... 

Romans 3:24 Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. 25 For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, 26 for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he makes sinners right in his sight when they believe in Jesus. 

Jesus' sacrifice compels us to try. We desire to seek God in spirit and truth, to walk with Jesus, and to welcome the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

Lord, I pray for each of us, that we would not see our failure as a reason to give up, but rather as a reason to give thanks and to remain faithful for you are full of mercy and grace.

4/17/2024

Breathe

Breathe vs Breath: Though we usually get these right in speaking, sometimes we mix them up in writing.

"Breathe is a verb, meaning to draw air into your lungs and expel it again. To breathe is to inhale air and to exhale it once more.

Breath is a noun, meaning the air brought in and exhaled when breathing." - gingersoftware.com

Mark 5:36 Overhearing[a] what they said, Jesus told him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”

When the ones we love are hurting, its hard to believe. Sometimes it's even hard to breathe. 

Just believe. Jesus' words are so powerful. Whatever it is that you are believing for today, I pray with you. I know God hears our prayers. I know his plans are greater than our plans. I know he loves us and wants more for us than we even dare to think, ask, or imagine. Today is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Breathe in and out; pray. Breathe in and out; believe.

2/21/2024

Surrender

Take a deep breath. Let it out. Close your eyes. Okay, I see your eyes are open now. Were you able to keep them closed for more than a breath? I just want to slow you down for a moment. If you're willing, consider the speed at which your life is currently unfolding. Not yesterday, or later today, or tomorrow, but right now. Are you reading fast? Are you skimming and scanning? Are you multi-tasking? Why do you read this blog? Does it provide a moment of encouragement in a discouraging world? Is it an obligation because you know the author? Do you long to know God's will for you? Whatever you're doing right now, consider single-tasking. Consider allowing the God of the universe to speak to you through his word. When you're ready to do that, read on.

1 Thessalonians 5:15 See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to all people. 16 Always be joyful. 17 Never stop praying. 18 Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

Now that we know the will of God, let us surrender fully to it, and stop holding so tightly onto the things of this world. Stop imagining that you're in control. Let go. Let God do what only God can do.

2/14/2024

Focus

Hebrews 12:2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 

Where is your attention today? You know, the attention you don't really want to give to something, but it keeps sneaking back into your thoughts when you're trying to focus on something else? To put it another way, what's stealing your focus?

Our pastor recently encouraged us to read Acts 2:42-47. This is a section he focuses on at least once each year. It is the foundation of our church mission and vision. During the time described in Acts 2, the early church focused on the most important things. Too often, we focus on petty, selfish, prideful, empty, meaningless things. This behavior pulls our focus away from Jesus where we could find peace, joy and purpose. 

For example: consider a difficult relationship in your life right now. What are you focusing on? Is it his or her faults, what you wish they would do, how you think things should be different, or something else entirely? If you're not focusing on Jesus, try it today. Each time you get distracted by unkind or unhealthy thoughts, take that time to pray. Together, lets ask his Holy Spirit to guide our focus and to lead us in the way everlasting.

2/1/2024

Fellowship

Psalm 55 

12 If an enemy were insulting me,

    I could endure it;

if a foe were rising against me,

    I could hide.

13 But it is you, a man like myself,

    my companion, my close friend,

14 with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship

    at the house of God,

as we walked about

    among the worshipers.

The pain in David is palpable through his choice of words. If you have ever been betrayed by someone close to you, you know what he's talking about. If it was someone who shares your faith, you may feel as if David is speaking for you. Let's look at this from both sides this morning. From David's side we feel deep empathy, maybe even solace knowing we're not alone in this experience. Now let's look at it from the other side - from a mirror. Whether by our choice of words (in person or behind closed doors), our actions, our lack of action, or some other means, have we been the ones to insult, rise against, or fail to stand up for a brother or sister in Christ?

Let us acknowledge our sin, confess it to one another, and then ask for forgiveness from God and those we have injured. Once we have done this, we can also ask God to give us the strength and courage to renew our journey as we walk in his ways. 

Dear Lord, we pray your Holy Spirit will stop us when our tongues are about to misbehave. Let your Holy Spirit prompt us to action when someone is in need. You are always working. Help us discern and follow your will as we love you and love others as you have called us to do.

1/24/2024

Dance

Ecclesiastes 3:4  A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance.

2021 was a time to grieve for our family; and much of 2022, but last year began to open the doors of a new season. I believe God is showing me that today is a time to dance. I am looking at life less in years and more in moments these days. At this moment, I’m enjoying a cup of my favorite tea as the day comes to a close. As I began to go through the process of making the tea, I found myself smiling, just dancing around the kitchen like a goofball, enjoying the moment. There were times I couldn’t comprehend this kind of light-hearted, care-free joy would return to my soul. Don’t get me wrong, there are still so many daily struggles and heartaches, but God is gifting me something so special; awareness of his goodness and his presence. It makes me feel like dancing. As you seek and find him, I hope the joy of our Lord becomes your strength and sets your feet to the music of his everlasting love.

1/16/2024

Honor

1Thessalonians 5:12 Dear brothers and sisters, honor those who are your leaders in the Lord’s work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance. 

Paraphrase 

Paul reiterated this sentiment when he began his letter to Philemon. He wrote to this man not only because he was a dear friend, but also a fellow worker.

Application

Stop to consider who are those leaders working hard among you? Is it a pastor, a nursery leader, a friend? What faces come to mind? Your spouse, the waiter, maybe the driver salting the roads on an icy night? We are called to work hard, to work alongside one another, and to use the gifting God has granted us. We are also called to honor those who work hard among us. Take a moment today to consider one way you might take action to honor someone who is serving. Let them know how their work blesses you, offer to help them with a task they may not have time to compete, or even 'brag' about them to someone else. Ask God to show you how you can obey this instruction from his word.

Prayer

Lord God, you are working all the time. You are working all things together for the good of those who love you and are called according to your purpose. We long to follow Jesus, to walk in his ways, and to have a heart of compassion as he does. Bless our actions inspired by your word that they may plant seeds, water truth, and yield a fruitful harvest for your kingdom.

For further study on honoring your pastors, check out a blog called Sunday Devotional by Colin D. Smith

1/3/2024

Derramada

Spanish: Derramada

English: Poured Out

Confession: I am learning Spanish! I am so excited! Don't worry! My blog will still be in English, (hopefully with Spanish translation at some point in the future) but I'd love to share little bits and pieces with you from time to time as the Lord blesses me with this language journey.

Key Verse

2 Timothy 4:6

English: As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. 

Español: En cuanto a mí, mi vida ya fue derramada como una ofrenda a Dios. Se acerca el tiempo de mi muerte.

Old Testament Reference: 2 Samuel 23:15-17

Paraphrase 

Our intentions with this word...Paul had given all he had to the cause of knowing Christ and making him known. He was content knowing the time of his death was near, yet never content to the point of indifference. He spent every breath working to one end.

Application

We desire in every moment by the power of his Holy Spirit which is poured out onto us, to live our lives poured out to God as though the time of our death is near.

Prayer

Father, your sacrifice inspires us to do the hard things in life like forgive, trust, love, and grow. Your goodness comforts us, and your Holy Spirit empowers us from the inside out. Teach us to pour our lives out in new, meaningful ways during the coming year as we offer all we have to knowing you and making you known.

For further study, I highly recommend this blog post by Larry Stockstill 4 Powerful Lessons on the Blessing of Pouring Yourself Out.

12/28/2023

Pray

Good morning! I missed writing a blog entry for the last two weeks due to finals, but they went well! This entry will be a little longer to catch up. I've been so blessed by Matthew Chapter 14. I believe you will be too! As you read these passages, please consider writing down any personal insights you might have and sharing them with me in the comments section.

Matthew 14:22 Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd.

Immediately after what? Just after Jesus got word of John's death, he withdrew to a solitary place, was followed by the crowds, had compassion on them, healed the sick, fed the 5000, and then...

23 After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone,

I get excited when Jesus is alone to pray. I believe he and his father cook up some powerful plans! Prayer can be many things, but sometimes we forget how often prayer resulted in some wild events in Jesus’ life. As we pray today, let's allow God to guide us to new and exciting ways we might honor him and bless others. Has God ever given you a brilliant idea during your prayer time?

24 and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.

When there's distance between us and Jesus, we begin to feel buffeted by the waves of worry, fear, and the trials of life. What type of winds are trying to blow you around today?

25 Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake.

Try to imagine the conversation our Father and our Savior had just before this when Jesus took time alone to pray. Do you think they smiled knowing how this would go down? Do you think they got excited? Do you ever imagine Jesus having fun? Do you think God might give you exciting ideas in your prayer time alone?

26 When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.

Our immediate response to God's power is often trepidation.

27 But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

Jesus gives courage. He is the ultimate encourager. We do not need to fear if we are trusting in him.

28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” 29 “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.

Peter's faith was bold. I pray for the courage and faith you and I need to step down (humbly) outside of our comfort zones, and closer to Jesus.

30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”

Just like the distance between Jesus and the disciples when he was on land and they were in the boat, as soon as Peter allowed even the distance of his focus to turn from Jesus, he began to fear and sink. Inevitably, we do the same. What do can we do in those moments? (Hint, last 5 words of Matthew 14:30)

31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”

This always made me sad that Jesus called Peter "You of little faith." I mean, he was the only one who got out of the boat, right? As I reviewed this section this week, the words reached out his hand and caught him struck me more than ever before. When we fear and doubt, FIRST, Jesus saves us, THEN he challenges us.

32 And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. 33 Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”

The only logical response to this savior of ours is worship and praise. May God bless you today and always as you get alone with him, get out of your comfort zone, and trust in his saving grace.

12/13/2023

Paraphrase

If you’ve read this blog for a while, you know I have a very unorthodox way of reading scripture. I want to share the paraphrases from the verses I read today. If you have a chance, look up the five verses first, paraphrase one or more in your own words, and later, check out what I’ve shared. It’s not that I have done anything necessarily right or wrong, but I’m sharing for the purpose of looking at a personal paraphrase in action in case it’s something you’ve never tried as you’ve studied scripture. Often, my paraphrase takes context into account and sometimes shifts into prayer, so don’t be surprised if they don’t seem to fit; they’re personal and yours can be too. Enjoy your time with our Father. He longs to spend time with you.

1.       Psalm 51:16

2.       Matthew 14:20

3.       Mark 4:17

4.       John 9:6

5.       Titus 2:7

1) Humility delights my Father. Lord, help me to see clearly.

2) Pick up what is left. Do not waste. I ought to use whatever God grants me to feed his children and love well.

3) When trouble or persecution come because of the word, Lord let me delight in the roots that keep me firmly panted in faith without wavering.

4) I can’t help but wonder if self-righteous people of Jesus’ day didn’t sometimes spit upon the poor and needy especially if they believed their woes were due to sin. If this was the case, wouldn’t it be just like Jesus to use the very same thing that emotionally wounded the man as part of the plan to heal him? Lord, thank you for using my pain to help me see in places where I have been blind.

5) I cannot set an example for others or help to lead anyone if I am not following the one who knows the way. Father, if you allow me to teach, surround me with integrity and keep ever before me, the weight of sharing your Holy word.

There is paraphrase/personalize example from July entitled You below if you'd like to see another example.

11/23/2023 

Ever

Have you ever stopped to take in the beauty of the sunrise?

Once upon a time, I learned it was unhealthy to use words like never, ever and always in relationships. We're supposed to use I statements instead. I'm sure there is much wisdom in that practice, but the Bible uses words like never, ever, and always hundreds of times.

No one ever _______

How would you finish that sentence?

What if I asked you to finish it with something you wish someone would do for you?

No one ever _______

Stop for a moment before you read on and think about it.

Your answer likely depends on your love language and/or your personality as well as recent circumstances. Do any of the following statements apply to your feelings today or on occasion?

Maybe no one ever reaches out to you for a coffee date?

Maybe no one ever offers to help with things you're working on?

Maybe no one ever listens when you have something to say?

Maybe no one ever sends you little gifts or surprises you?

Maybe no one ever tells you you're doing a great job?

Maybe no one ever initiates a hug or physical affection toward you?

Maybe no one ever notices when you're feeling down or even missing from an event?

First, if you're connecting with any of those statements. I'm sorry. I know how that feels sometimes, and it's miserable. You are amazing! You are important. You are doing a great job, and Jesus notices when you're feeling down. He weeps with those who weep. He loves you more than you will ever know. He is the reason we can take the step I'm about to suggest.

As Christians in this world, we need to be willing to be the ones to reach out even when we feel left out, to stand up in faith even when we feel pushed down, to forgive even when we feel forgotten, and to love well even when we feel unloved in return. We need to be the willing ones.

Today, think about one of the ever statements above. Choose someone in your life who could use a little extra TLC today, and be the one to reach out. You can begin a chain reaction by taking the first step (even if you've done it before) because of Galatians 6:9.

John 1:5 The light shines in the darkness,

    and the darkness can never extinguish it.[a] 

Matthew 28:20 Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” 

11/15/2023 

Clean

adjective: free from dirt, marks, or stains.

Psalm 51:7

Purify me from my sins,[c] and I will be clean;

    wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. 

The global personal hygiene market was valued at $508.5 billion in 2020. It's pretty safe to say most of us want to be clean. No one really wants to be dirty, other than occasionally my 2-year-old grandson who is not always a fan of bath-time. We go to great lengths to clean and keep clean the part of us that everyone sees. Jesus once told the Pharisees they were like white-washed tombs - looking good on the outside, but filled with all kinds of impurities.

What are the implications of these words and those in Psalm 51:7 above?

What makes us dirty on the inside?

Who can cleanse us on the inside?

What was the psalmist doing to cooperate with this cleansing?

What would happen if we spent even half the time we spend cleaning the outside, on praying over the inside?

Lord, help us turn our concerns from the way things appear to the way things truly are. Are we hurting, sinning, fighting, drowning? Whatever it is, guide us first and always to you, and then grant us the blessing of one or two other believers in our lives with whom we can be completely open. Slowly, over time, we desire the inside and the outside to look the same; cleansed by Jesus' blood, and ready to love others as you have loved us.

11/01/2023 

Season

noun

1.each of the four divisions of the year (spring, summer, autumn, and winter) marked by particular weather patterns and daylight hours, resulting from the earth's changing position with regard to the sun.

verb

1. add salt, herbs, pepper, or other spices to (food).

2. make (wood) suitable for use as timber by adjusting its moisture content to that of the environment in which it will be used.

1828 Webster's: Verb 5. To fit for any use by time or habit; to mature; to prepare.

Genesis 1:14  Then God said, “Let lights appear in the sky to separate the day from the night. Let them be signs to mark the seasons, days, and years.

Pain and prayer strengthen and prepare. In the fourth chapter of Matthew, Jesus fasts for forty days, is tempted by the devil, resists forms of temptation nearly unimaginable to us, and then is attended by angels. Sometimes we forget the angels, but I think they're important. In the most difficult seasons of life, we can start to feel a bit hopeless, exhausted, even like giving up. Shortly after his time in the dessert, Jesus called his disciples, began teaching, preaching, healing the sick, and continued fulfilling prophesy. If you've just been through a tough season, like I have, consider any ways you may have been attended by angels. Thank God for the growth you've inevitably experienced, and hold on tight to his hand because chances are, he's preparing you for something important. Let the signs of God's light mark your seasons.

10/25/2023 

Integrity

Proverbs 10:9 Whoever walks in integrity walks securely,

    but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out. 

Is there at least one living breathing person with whom we can be 100% honest?

Hmm...

100%?

Do we have relationships with no measure of deception, hiding or self-protection?

Is it even wise to be that honest with another flawed human such as ourselves? Are we the kind of people with whom someone could be that open? Why or why not?

Honesty and integrity are among many logical results of a life surrendered to Christ. When we walk closely in step with Jesus, we still make mistakes. Romans 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,  but we benefit from the confidence, reputation, and courage to admit our mistakes, confess our sins, make amends, and Romans 12:18 do all that we can to live in peace with everyone.

Whether we answered yes or no to all or some of the questions above, a solid place to begin evaluating our own level of honesty and integrity is in our prayer life. God knows all, sees all, and loves us anyway. We can pour out all to him. Let's practice humility and outrageous honesty in his presence. The more honest we are with God and with ourselves, the more likely we will be to see integrity grow in our interactions with those around us.

James 4:6 But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”

Lord, teach us to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth to you first, and with your wisdom, to speak the truth in love with others as we embrace your overwhelming grace.

8/30/2023

Optimism

Matthew 6:34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. 

This verse can actually sound kind of pessimistic if you consider the fact that Jesus did NOT say, today is lovely when you live in the moment. But what he DID say, is that each day has ENOUGH trouble of its own.

I can affirm that statement over 2000 years later here in the 21st century with a solid, AMEN. Today has e-n-o-u-g-h trouble of its own. That is exactly why I have chosen for many years to maintain my stance as an eternal optimist. Optimism can be painful, even scary at times. I've been hurt. I've blamed myself for some trouble that was very possibly enhanced by my naivety. I've considered becoming a realist and at times, even a pessimist in order to protect myself from moments like these.

However, I am going to attempt to make a case for optimism because, all things considered, optimism has brought me far more joy than sorrow. It allows me to be filled with joy in this moment as I anticipate all the good things I know God has in store for me and the ones I love. Optimism also allows me to thank God in the midst of trials for the good I know he will bring out of them.

A pessimist might say, "I'd rather be pleasantly surprised than sorely disappointed."

Me too, but if I walk around assuming the worst all the time, I'm never really pleasantly surprised; only skeptical and suspicious that anything good can quickly turn into a disappointment anyway.

A realist might say, "I plan for the worst and hope for the best."

This seems wise. It's great to be prepared, but I'd rather borrow joy than sorrow from tomorrow. Planning for the worst is sometimes a disguise for anticipating trouble. If the clouds are gathered and I’m going to head out for a long walk, I can take an umbrella, but if I don't, I might just wind up remembering what it feels like to dance in the rain.

My extreme optimism has left me far more joyful, grateful, faithful, and just plain full than any other attitude. When I've experimented with the other options, they seem to leave me empty. There is a time for everything under the sun. We will all go through many seasons, but today, I will take every opportunity to find and anticipate joy in the blessings God has given me.

You are one of those blessings. Thank you for reading. May God bless you with joy today, tomorrow, and always.

8/23/2023

Still

Psalm 46:10

      He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;

    I will be exalted among the nations,

    I will be exalted in the earth.” 

To attempt to be entirely still is to know that God is God. As stillness finds you, you will feel your heart beating in your chest. You will experience the awe of breath entering and exiting your body without your expressed consent. You will know that in all things, seen or unseen, God is at work in us. He is never absent or even tardy.  Romans 8:28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose. No matter what you're going through today, remember God is with you. He is for you, and he will never leave you nor forsake you. Trust him in all your ways and lean not on your own understanding.

8/10/2023

Wisdom

Proverbs 1:8 My child,[a] listen when your father corrects you. Don’t neglect your mother’s instruction. 

A friend reached out yesterday. She is at the end of her rope parenting teens. I know the feeling. I listened, empathized, asked questions, listened some more, and then shared a resource that's been very helpful for my family. She was grateful, but I wished I could do more for her and for their relationships. I wished I could ease the struggle. Some days, parenting brings immeasurable joy while other times it brings unimaginable sorrow. Often, with struggling teens, one day can hold both. The ups and downs can leave us disoriented and even nauseated at times.

As I consider the verse above from a mother's point of view, I see an important directive. If the child is not to neglect the mother's instruction, the obvious implication then, is that the mother must give instruction. I think I was good at this when my children were small. 

"Brush your teeth."

"Be kind to your sister."

The older they get, the more I feel ill-equipped and underqualified for the task of giving instruction.

Nonetheless, I'm called to do it, so what does that look like? Well, often I believe it includes waiting for the right time, loads of listening, mountains of prayer, self-control, and faith.

What do we have that they don't? - A lifetime of experience making good and bad choices. Unknowingly, teens often focus an over-abundance of time, emotion, and brain-space on things that we know really won't matter in the long-run; trivial things that seem like the beginning and the end of the world in their minds due to their lack of life experience to gauge. On the other hand, they can sometimes minimize inevitable and weighty long-term consequences of what seem like small insignificant habits in the moment. (They make mountains out of mole-hills and mole-hills out of mountains.)

I've used this concept with my kids in a loving way to begin the conversation in a listening atmosphere. If you get a chance to do the same, reach out to share your thoughts and experience. I'd love to hear from you.

Father, you know how deeply we love our children. Please help us to instruct them in the wisdom that comes from a lifetime of learning to trust you.

7/26/2023

You

Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

The apostle Paul is writing to the believers in Philippi. Whenever we read scripture, it is important to consider the original audience and the original intention of the message. That, however, does not mean we couldn't (and shouldn't) consider the implications of a verse in our own life. God's word is living and active. He brings particular verses to us at specific times for guidance and direction by the power of his Holy Spirit.

I am reviewing the Personalize It method of Bible study with some faithful friends.  Here's a link to the study if you're interested. Part of Philippians chapter four was assigned to us in this group study recently. For this method, we put our own name in place of the nouns or pronouns and rewrite the passage as though God were saying it directly to us.

I like to take it a step further combining "paraphrase it" along with the "personalize it" method.

Check out the example below and try all or part of it on your own.

Example of paraphrasing and personalizing Philippians 4:4-7

Jen, find joy in me as you think of yesterday, celebrate today, and look forward to tomorrow. This is really important. My gentleness lives in you. Let it take over and shine so everyone you meet can see it. I am closer than you realize. Don't get stressed about finances, Hubby, the kids, school, work, writing, church, extended family relationships, or anything else for that matter. Instead, when you're tempted to worry, turn those circular thoughts into vertical prayers. When you tell me all about what's weighing heavy on your heart, you can prepare for my greatest blessings by thanking me even in the middle of the chaos. My peace doesn't make any sense. It sticks with you. When the whole world says, "you should be freaking out right now," my peace says be still because my son died in your place. Your heart and mind can rest assured the only thing that really matters, salvation, is already secured for you. 

7/19/2023

Clarity

Romans 12:2

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."

Life-changing decisions often get us wondering...

Lord, what is your will?

What a phenomenal question to ask! What a powerful step in your journey of faith, to know you're seeking God's will above your own! But what if God's will can be satisfied either way? 

Doesn't God have a perfect plan?

Indeed he does. He is able to take even the most vile decisions and use them for good. (Genesis 50:20) 

So shouldn't I seek God's will when I make important decisions?

Of course you should, because often, I think the actual-seeking-part is how we do his will. We trust him every step of the way. We slow down and consider what we already know of his word. Rather than a pros-and-cons list, we might make a clarity list. That is, take time to clarify our intentions, motives, and purpose for each side of a big decision. Who will my decision affect? Have I considered their thoughts and feelings? We may not know the whole plan, but we know how to treat people, how to put God first, and how to practice humility; so let's start there. Can you truly love God and others either way? If you take time to pray and deeply consider biblical principles, you may get to choose your heart's desire without worry of missing God's plan.

Today, I pray for you and for me. "Lord, please help us to seek you in all that we do. Help us to surrender to your will in the things we know and understand. Help us to avoid getting stuck in fear of making the wrong decision."

God is bigger than our decisions. He's got this.

Matthew 6:34

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." 

Psalm 37:4

"Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart."

5/31/23

Hope

Psalm 43:5 

Why, my soul, are you downcast?

    Why so disturbed within me?

Put your hope in God,

    for I will yet praise him,

    my Savior and my God.

Put our suitcase in the car.

Put a card in the mail.

Put the pizzas in the freezer.

Put some money in the bank.

Put your hope in God.

I don't know about you, but when I put something in a specific spot, it's usually for a purpose. I trust that the place I've put it is where it belongs; where it will be useful or helpful or safe. We usually put things in certain places in order to move or use them another time. Not so when it comes to putting our hope in God. Quite the opposite really. He becomes the final resting place for our hope. We can put our hope in God, leave it there, and rest assured we will not be disappointed because of Joshua 1:5, Isaiah 9:6, Jeremiah 29:11, Matthew 28:6, John 3:16, Romans 8:28, Revelation 22:5 and the entirety of God's word.

We can try to put our hope in other/flawed humans, the stock market, a certain amount of power or prestige, the latest safety features of a vehicle or home alarm system, but the truth is, all these things will fail, disappoint, or commence eventually. Eternal peace, joy and love come from putting our hope where it belongs. The Psalmist has made it clear. He has spoken, not only to his own soul, but to ours as well. In this moment, let's take a deep breath... and allow our hope in God to bridge the gap between our current struggles and his eternal peace. 

5/10/23

Images

Have you ever taken a good hard look at the images we see day in and day out. I've shared just one example with this post, but our eyes don't always perceive everything there is to see. Consider the Garden of Eden. What happened there? Even if you've never read the Bible, what's the one thing you know about Adam and Eve? 

Right! They bit the forbidden apple. In fact, THAT ONE ACT is the symbol of sin entering the world.

Now, what kind of fruit is typically seen as beautiful and desirable? One with a bite out of it OR a bright, whole, untouched piece of fruit?

Does it seem odd that any company would want "used" fruit as a symbol for their products?

In my humble opinion, this was NOT intentional on the part of the creators. That said, how much sin has come into the world through these products and others like them?

You tell me.

Now, for the GOOD NEWS! 

God created everything. He intended everything he created for good, and even though we have a real enemy who the Bible says *comes only to steal and kill and destroy; still,  **we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose; even the things his adversary attempts to steal, counterfeit, twist and manipulate.

I fasted from my cell phone on and off for a few days as I pondered its impact on my life. The fact is, my device is in my hands every day. I use it to communicate, to learn, to laugh, to capture precious moments, to play encouraging music, to keep track of appointments, to hear the verse of the day, to find my way, and so much more. I will let that symbol remind me each day of the power I hold in my hands. Dear Lord, please guide me always to use any power you have given me for good and not for destruction. Help me to build others up, and always to speak the truth in love.

*John 10:10 **Romans 8:28

4/26/23

Account

1 Timothy 4:16 Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers. (NIV)

Imagine someone invented a uniquely assiduous recording/detection device and used it on you. They hit record when you woke this morning. They recorded your every thought, every intention, your internal dialogue, every move, every word and every deed, even passing thoughts you can barely recall thinking.  Now, what to do with this intimate recoding? Well, they've decide to go public with it. Who can blame them, they want to market this incredible device, and their best bet for boosting sales is a demonstration...

• What would someone learn about you from hearing and seeing this recording?

• Would those closest to you be surprised by any of it? All of it?

• Would you be surprised? Do you pay attention to your thoughts and intentions?

• What would you regret or want to delete?

• Is there anything you'd be proud of? Many things?

2 Corinthians 10:5 5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. (NIV)

Matthew 12:35 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. 36 But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. 37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” (NIV)

I don't know about you, but I am not satisfied with my current recording.

Lord, each day, draw us close to you by the power of your Holy Spirit, teach us to take every thought captive, to store up good in our hearts, to speak life and truth into this broken world, and to shine your light in the dark places; even if those places are sometimes closer than we care to admit.

4/19/2023

Imagine

Somewhere in your morning routine, you check your phone. There's a thoughtful text or message from someone very special to you, maybe even someone you haven't heard from for a while. Stop for a moment. Imagine the face of that person. Imagine them smiling at you, thinking of you, maybe even praying for you. Imagine the way you feel when you open and read that text knowing that person has cared enough to reach out. I don't know you, but for me, that's a big deal. It feels really good. It means the world to me. It blesses my heart. It makes my fondness for that person grow. It inspires me. I want to bless others that way.

I once knew a young lady who would read a message like that and get a pit in her stomach. She assumed anyone being kind to her wanted something in return. She had rarely, if ever, been shown kindness for the sake of love or simple Christian fellowship. A quick text or kind message is a great start, but following it up with loving action, presence, and a true generosity of heart with no expectation or benefit to self - that's walking closer to Jesus. That kind of love can change the world one text at a time. Imagine; something so simple...

3/29/23

Opportunity

You might notice, as you read scripture more and more, that one will remind you of another. I was reading the four verses in my reading plan today, and though they were from all over the Bible, and none of them from Colossians, when I reviewed my compiled notes, they reminded me to make the most of every opportunity. 

Colossians 4:2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. 3 And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. 4 Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should. 5 Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. 

I needed to stop in at a local clinic this morning, and I thought, how can I make the most of this opportunity? How can I bless the people who bless me in their work and their service to the community? The Lord is showing me the answer to that important question. I trust him. What opportunity can you take today to bless the people God puts in your path?

3/22/23

Struggle

This week was a struggle. If we just look at the facts, it was not a bigger struggle than past weeks, but I missed a day in the word. I could feel it. The next day, I turned back to God in a serious struggle with one of my children, he reminded me that he is my provider as he provided a very specific answer to prayer. His word encouraged me to keep writing when I felt defeated. The Psalms inspired me to sing his praises as I cleaned the house yesterday. He guided me in one endeavor to be still and wait, yet in another, he showed me a beautiful plan of action. Walking with God, at his pace, trusting him, and leaning in, does not remove the struggle. It may even make us more aware of some of the battles we're facing, but it does mean we never have to walk alone. He is with us always. As the struggle weighs us down, the world has many false gods we can turn to for comfort, distraction or numbing the pain of life, but those things only add a layer of trouble to our trouble. God is the answer. He is our trust.

Psalm 40:4 Blessed is the man who makes the Lord his trust, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods.

3/17/2023

Follow

Psalm 39:12 - Last night, with a loved one in the hospital, I knelt down at the altar in tears. At first, I felt lost. The longer I prayed, the more I felt myself following David's lead, crying out to God and deeply trusting.

Matthew 10:19 - Recently, my mind was arrested by fear in a situation where my love and acceptance of someONE who does someTHING I don't believe in, was questioned. Jesus' words came to mind. Though I paraphrased, I was able to speak them aloud. “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” It all comes down to love.

John 6:4 - The Jewish Passover Feast was near. I thank God for all the ways he has interwoven pillars of remembrance into our lives. Celebrating and remembering the ways God has provided for other believers and for us in the past bolsters our faith and our convictions as we walk the narrow path that leads to life.

1 Timothy 3:1 – Lord, thank you for those you’ve called to lead. Teach us to pray fervently for them always remembering their human limitations. Help us to lift them up in prayer when they stumble rather than tearing them down. Help us to follow leaders here who are truly seeking to follow you. 

We may not always follow, but God always leads.

3/8/2023

Delight

This morning I find myself delighting in the Lord. I have begun to memorize Chapter 12 of the book of Romans. I stand in the office, welcoming the brilliance of the sun on my face through the window. I breathe deeply of God’s loving kindness. I slowly fold forward to stretch –  feeling the muscles in my neck, shoulders, back, thighs, and calves wake up to a new day. While I am bowed low in humility, I recite the first five verses as smoothly as if they were my address and birthdate, but with an intimate realization. These words have begun to take hold. They are cultivating a powerful change in my day to day, moment by moment, inhale and exhale – life. I’m learning to honor others no matter where they are on their journey. I’m honoring the me God created me to be. I’m honoring God. I’m slowing down. I’m looking up. I’m trusting. This is delight. 

2/15/2023

Failure

I have failed in many ways, but failure is not an ending if we let God use it. Failure is often the beginning of a new chapter. Humility rarely comes without failure. Sometimes it comes gently, by choice when we choose to humble ourselves. Other times it comes by an unwelcome force bringing us to our knees in times of deep grief, sorrow, or pain.

Discipline – Humility – Delight

To delight in the discipline of humility: Practicing consistent habits (discipline) and accepting God’s training (discipline) for cultivating a submissive (humble) heart toward God and a servant (humble) lifestyle toward others inevitably results in not only great joy (delight), but also deep desire for (delight in) embracing God’s perfect plan; the gospel – Ephesians 2:8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Today, Lord, grant us delight in the discipline of humility as we do the good works you prepared in advance for us to do within our circles of influence. We praise you always, in Jesus’ name by the power of your Holy Spirit.

2/8/2023

Confession

In my prayer time this morning I am convicted of, and frustrated by, two half-truths I've told. The Holy Spirit is reminding me that a half-truth is also a half-lie. I find it telling that I want to call lies half-truths when I'VE been deceitful or dishonest, but when others do it, they've LIED to me. Just since Saturday, I've lied to two people who are very important in my life. The actual content was so meaningless it's laughable, but the subject of honesty is no joke. I took time to confess and (in one of the two instances, to apologize as well) for many reasons.

1. Lying is a sin: Exodus 20:16 "No lies about your neighbor." (MSG)

2. We're called to confess: James 5:16 "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." (NIV)

3. I selfishly want a clear conscience. 1 Timothy 1:5 "The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith."

4. I secretly hope it might be a good example for a dear friend or a dear reader.

As I look back on things I've written and conversations I've had over the years, I realize that only when I've truly let God lead, has anything I've shared been truly, powerfully helpful. I reviewed Matthew 9:27 this morning and it struck me funny that the two blind men were hanging out together. I don't know if this was a typical situation in Jesus' day, but I do know he often referred to the pharisees as blind guides. He said in Matthew 15:14 "Leave them; they are blind guides. If the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit.” 

When I try to lead without Jesus, I resemble the blind leading the blind. The two men in Matthew 9:27-29 went together to ask Jesus for his mercy and believed he could heal them. He did! We're all blinded by our sin, the desires of the flesh, the pride of life, and countless other tools the enemy loves to use against us. Let's journey together recognizing, like the blind men, that Jesus is the way the truth and the life. He will be our guide, and we will experience the healing and restoration he gives so freely to all who seek him with a humble heart.

2/1/2023

Psalm 54:6

I will sacrifice a voluntary offering to you; I will praise your name, O Lord, for it is good. www.biblegateway.com

When I think of sacrifice, I don't often think of praise. Have you ever been in a situation that feels hopeless? Have you lost your will to fight? When praising God is the last thing we can imagine, it's the one thing we most need to do. Not long ago I found myself in a church service wanting to sneak out the back door. I was struggling with so many things on a deep level and to make it worse, I didn't care for the particular songs they had chosen that week, everything sounded off in my heart and I just wanted to escape. I can only thank the Holy Spirit, but I chose to lift my hands at that moment. I chose to sing along. I chose to offer a sacrifice of praise. For the first time in my life, I got a glimpse of what Psalm 54:6 looks like in action. I didn't think I could do it. I didn't want to do it. I don't fully even understand why I did it, but I did. 

There was no flash of lightening, no instant or overwhelming sense of peace, no flood of emotion, just a little sip of the living water. It was like, yep, this is the next right thing. It's not everything, but it's a step in the right direction. My circumstances are not always good, but I will praise his name for it is good. 11/15/22

The Power of Words

It doesn't take long to find some powerful words in the Bible. God spoke and there was light only three verses from the front cover. I know God's word is powerful and you probably do too, but what about ours?

Do our words really matter? And what about the ones we don't even speak out loud; the conversations we have in our own heads...do those words have any power?

Power is defined as the capacity or ability to direct or influence.

My self-talk has the ability to direct and influence my courage, my attitude, my faith, my compassion, my motivation, my relationships, my parenting, my work, my friendships and at least one thousand other things.

For me, words are powerful.

My capacity to become and remain aware of the inner dialogue along with my desire to keep that dialogue honest, encouraging, and hopeful are key tools for wielding the power of words carefully.

What are you telling yourself today?

Try on a few of these and see how they fit...

I am loved. I am enough. I am fearfully and wonderfully made. I make mistakes. I am capable. I am strong. I am faithful. I'm awake. I'm alive. I have God-given purpose. I am His. I am growing. God's word, Jesus' words, The Word - as we refer to the Bible... changed the world.

Let's pray.

“May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” Psalms‬ ‭19:14‬ ‭NLT‬‬

What is IT?

There are primarily two types of pride, but one sometimes poses as humility. Check out this illustration...

It = Something truly awesome, completely free, and IT is just for you.

Here IT is!

Take IT!

Pride #1 Says:

Yes, I deserve IT.

Pride #2 Says:

No, I can’t. I don’t deserve IT.

Humility Says:

Thank you. How can I use IT to bless others?

Can you see how Pride #2 is kind of sneaky? It imitates humility, but it is still self-focused.

True humility is others-focused.

Something else to consider: What if IT = salvation?

Can we humbly accept the forgiveness of God through his son Jesus Christ for the truly awesome, completely free gift of salvation? Can we experience profound gratitude for our salvation that inspires us to bless others? Can we live-loved in a world full of hate? Can we let this little light shine in such a dark place? I believe with all my heart that we can.

Dear Lord, let us practice Jesus’ words found in Matthew Chapter 25...

“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭25:34-40‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Prayer: Father, help me to be humble and grateful, to think less about me and more about others as I seek to use the gifts and challenges you have given me to serve others in this life and to grow your kingdom for eternity. Amen.

This post is inspired by one of my favorite quotes: “Humility does not think less of self but thinks of self less.” - Rick Warren

Guilty?

I think I was about 16 years old. I had made so many mistakes, fallen so far from God's plan for my life and tucked my head under the covers of discouragement and despair.

I have no idea how I got to that church pew that day, I cannot remember what spark allowed my heart to finally open or why God used that moment for repentance, but the feelings of peace, forgiveness, mercy, grace, acceptance and a truly fresh start; those I will never forget.

If you've ever experienced repentance, you know exactly what I'm taking about. If you haven't, I'll make a feeble attempt to explain...

We all fall short of the glory of God. We all sin. We all make mistakes. We all hurt others and ourselves. There comes a time when our soul is just fed up with it. Our spirit sees a glimpse of what life could be if we were to fully surrender our filth to God, accept his forgiveness and start again. If that glimpse is enough to pull us in, God can use those feelings of guilt or even shame to show us how deep and how wide his love really is. He can remove a heart of stone and replace it with a heart of flesh beating for him.

I am and will be forever grateful for the many moments of repentance in my life. In his perfect timing, I hope and pray God will spark them in your life as well.

Scripture References

“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” Romans‬ ‭3:23‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ,” Ephesians‬ ‭3:18‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh.” Ezekiel‬ ‭11:19‬ ‭NIV‬‬

“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations‬ ‭3:22-23‬ ‭NIV‬‬