Sometimes I wish my prayers were as deep as the words I type or penciled. Today I stopped and read the words I wrote to The Lord .. even though I know He knows everything in those words and beyond it still felt different. I often re-write words that I've read as its an effective means of meditating on them for me.
Sarah Young's Jesus Calling for Kids today: "Never Stop Praying"
Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances. -1Thes5:16-18
"Never stop praying. How is that even possible? Try thanking me for every blessing you encounter in your day. Not just your meals.. - but when you finish a class, when you get to see your friends, even when you face the 'hidden blessings' of troubles or challenges.
If you are serious about learning to pray at all times, then thank Me in every situation. Don't get hung up on saying the 'right' words - prayer doesn't ave to be fancy or formal. Just say 'thank You' and mean it. This is a great starting point for all your other prayers too.
When you're caught up in thanking Me, you won't have time for worrying or complaining. This will make you much happier. You will be training your mind to keep talking with Me. And that's really what 'never stop praying' is all about.
Come close to God and He will come close to you. <3 [Recognize that you are] sinners, get your soiled hands cleaned; [realize that you have been disloyal] wavering individuals with divided interests, and purify your hearts [of your spiritual adultery]. -Jam4:8 {Convicting}
May the God of your hope so fill you will all joy and peace in believing [through the experience of your faith] that by the power of The Holy Spirit you may abound and be overflowing with hope. <3
Yesterday the question was asked what motivates you. I can give a lot more words to define what it is, of course, but one simple word that came to mind was hope so this really resonantes with me.
Monday, November 25, 2013
Monday, September 2, 2013
Being glad and letting today mark a new adventure (this school year) with Him
But he said to me "My Grace is all you need. My Power is strongest when you are weak." So I am very happy to brag about how weak I am. Then Christ's power can rest on me. Because of how I suffered for Christ, I'm glad that I am weak. I am glad in hard times. I am glad when people say mean things about me. I am glad when things are difficult And I am glad when people make me suffer. When I am weak, I am strong. -2Cor12:9-10
Sarah Young's Jesus Calling for Kids today, An Adventure with Me:
On that day you will realize that I am in the my Father and you are in me, and I am in you. - John14:20
"Living your life while depending on Me is a great adventure. Most people - grown-ups and kids alike - scurry around trying to do things their own way. Some are huge success; others fail miserably. But both miss out on what life is supposed to be - an adventure with Me.
When you give control of your life to Me, I open your eyes so that you can see Me at work in the world. Where others see "coincidences", you see My wonderful work - even miracles at times And where others see only an everyday happening, you see Me.
Live each day just watching for what I will do next. You are in me, And I am in you - and through Me you learn to truly live. This is the amazing adventure I offer you."
"In Him we live and move and exist. As some of your own poets have also said 'We are his children.' "Yes, we are God's children." -Acts17:28-29
You have received Jesus Christ as Lord So keep on living in Him. Have your roots in Him. Build yourself up in Him. Grown in what you believe, just as you were taught. Be more thankful then ever before. - Col2:6-7
What this means to me .. leaving the past school year and camp (negatives in emailed questionnaires despite actual happenings, perceived success, what parents and administrators said, did and decided) and the greater tragedies in my life beyond behind, believing in Him in me, in what He can and will do.
I've got to live this year day by day resting, receiving and reflecting His Joy. I think He's got an adventure in store this year and I'm excited to be in it, not alone, with My Christ .. the Man who loves me and my (His) children like no other ever has or ever will. I am thankful for the all those He has encouraged me through, how He has provided for Grant especially and Sophie too again and has entrusted me with 18 more of His children this year. My daily prayers this year will be for them but also for me to I allow and purpose to show gladness and happiness in all the things I do and say as how I do these stands for more than what I actually do. Yet, working as if working for and serving Him and giving Him control of the rest. Look out, I think we're going to see amazing things!
Sunday, September 1, 2013
What a day
Today was uh, a bit of a roller coaster :T which by the way I found out I can still ride. Well, smaller ones at least since no one would ride bigger ones at Sea World, TX with me. Ok, if I'm being honest it felt more down hill than up.
I was not prepared for what washed over me this morning in church?! I just could not stand/sit there by myself front and center while tears kept coming. I don't think I've walked out of service before but a dear friend ran into me in the restroom and knew exactly where I was. "Heather, are you believing the lie that you are alone?" Her blessing me with the Truth again and letting me soften like a child in her mother's arms was cathartic.
I was still challenged to sing when I went back into service (upstairs in the back .. a place I hadn't been in a long time) but mustered all I could in those moment to get out a few important lines/words of trust and praise. Then I struggled again at home. Talking to my grandmother was hard too .. feels like we are trying to hold on. I took a nap hoping it would help my emotions and immediately asked if He was there when I woke up.
Through out the evening messages uplifted me .. lifting up another in hard times, one from a parent last year hoping to find me well and telling me of her son "having a lot to tell about me" and his success this summer "with all the skills I had taught him". If she only knew everything I've been contending with. Another linking me in .. curious if might be a lead to something else The Lord is working on. We'll see.
Then on the radio tonight as I ran to the store:
"Sometimes the unthinkable happens .. and maybe that husband or wife has walked away .. 'I might not be able to see the plans you have for me right now but I trust You.'"
Next .. something about leaving the past behind.
Finally, tonight from Intouch's devotion for today:
I was not prepared for what washed over me this morning in church?! I just could not stand/sit there by myself front and center while tears kept coming. I don't think I've walked out of service before but a dear friend ran into me in the restroom and knew exactly where I was. "Heather, are you believing the lie that you are alone?" Her blessing me with the Truth again and letting me soften like a child in her mother's arms was cathartic.
I was still challenged to sing when I went back into service (upstairs in the back .. a place I hadn't been in a long time) but mustered all I could in those moment to get out a few important lines/words of trust and praise. Then I struggled again at home. Talking to my grandmother was hard too .. feels like we are trying to hold on. I took a nap hoping it would help my emotions and immediately asked if He was there when I woke up.
Through out the evening messages uplifted me .. lifting up another in hard times, one from a parent last year hoping to find me well and telling me of her son "having a lot to tell about me" and his success this summer "with all the skills I had taught him". If she only knew everything I've been contending with. Another linking me in .. curious if might be a lead to something else The Lord is working on. We'll see.
Then on the radio tonight as I ran to the store:
"Sometimes the unthinkable happens .. and maybe that husband or wife has walked away .. 'I might not be able to see the plans you have for me right now but I trust You.'"
Next .. something about leaving the past behind.
Finally, tonight from Intouch's devotion for today:
If we focus on the sin rather than God’s plan for restoration, then our entire spiritual perspective gets off balance. Emphasizing the sin directs all the attention to self—what I have done, how I have acted, where I have been. This self-centeredness will never lead to the peaceful assurance of salvation that the Lord has provided. When we focus on ourselves, we leave little room for God.
Rom8:6 is .. good .., because the Lord would have us focus not on our problem, but on His solution. The apostle Paul boldly declares that God saw our dire situation and acted on His own initiative to rescue us.
The heavenly Father graciously handed salvation over to us as a free gift. And when the Lord gives a gift, there is no one who can ever steal it away and nothing that can interfere with its permanence (Rom8:35-39). That’s the assurance our God wants us to have.
So thankful for His love .. and that He peruse us and find us wherever we are and speaks.
Saturday, July 6, 2013
Be Thou My Vision
Be Thou my vision,
O Lord of my heart;
Nought be all else to me
Save that Thou art
Thou my best thought
By day or by night,
Waking or sleeping
Thy Presence my light
Riches I heed not
Nor man's empty praise
Thou mine inheritance
Now and always
Thou and thou
Only first in my heart
High King of heaven,
My treasure Thou art
"Jump In with Both Feet"
From 5th actually, but going back to this because was so good to hear ..
Look at the new thing I am going to do. It is already happening. Don't you see it? I will make a road in the desert. I will make rivers in the dry land. -Isa 43:19 [ICB]
Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth; do you not perceive and know itand will you not give heed to it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. [Amplified]
From Sarah Young's Jesus Calling 365 Devotions for Kids:
"You will never be in complete control of your life. It just isn't possible. You want to feel completely safe and secure. But even if you plan out every detail, the world will mess up your plans.
So, just stop trying to be in control. Stop trying to make your life completely safe and predictable - and boring! Instead grab My hand and jump in with both feet. I am the One who loves you completely and wants only the best for you. I want your life to be an amazing adventure - filled with new things. But first you have to let go of old ways of doing things. Then, grab hold of My hand, and look for all the exciting new things I've prepared for you!
Rom8:38-39 (two days in a row, today from Intouch 33-39)
Ps 56:3-4 - What time I am afraid, I will have confidence in and put my trust and reliance in You. By [the help of] God I will praise His word; on God I lean, rely, and confidently put my trust; I will not fear. What can man, who is flesh, do to me.
What's up with the moments when my feet don't follow, much to my chagrin.
Look at the new thing I am going to do. It is already happening. Don't you see it? I will make a road in the desert. I will make rivers in the dry land. -Isa 43:19 [ICB]
Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth; do you not perceive and know itand will you not give heed to it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. [Amplified]
From Sarah Young's Jesus Calling 365 Devotions for Kids:
"You will never be in complete control of your life. It just isn't possible. You want to feel completely safe and secure. But even if you plan out every detail, the world will mess up your plans.
So, just stop trying to be in control. Stop trying to make your life completely safe and predictable - and boring! Instead grab My hand and jump in with both feet. I am the One who loves you completely and wants only the best for you. I want your life to be an amazing adventure - filled with new things. But first you have to let go of old ways of doing things. Then, grab hold of My hand, and look for all the exciting new things I've prepared for you!
Rom8:38-39 (two days in a row, today from Intouch 33-39)
Ps 56:3-4 - What time I am afraid, I will have confidence in and put my trust and reliance in You. By [the help of] God I will praise His word; on God I lean, rely, and confidently put my trust; I will not fear. What can man, who is flesh, do to me.
What's up with the moments when my feet don't follow, much to my chagrin.
I am not good ..
.. at goodbyes, particularly when I care apparently.
They make me nervous/anxious and I turn away, abruptly or possibly even seeming cold
But, it's more like I'm frozen temporarily .. preventing me from looking back ..
Still, waiting .. hoping ..
And yet I keep walking .. trying to listening .. wanting to find reassurance ..
But then .. .. and what if .. and I'm left, thinking ..
I've prayed 'help me not to miss any thing Lord/HS' but still at times my tendencies prevail.
Call me, help me grow beyond this too.
They make me nervous/anxious and I turn away, abruptly or possibly even seeming cold
But, it's more like I'm frozen temporarily .. preventing me from looking back ..
Still, waiting .. hoping ..
And yet I keep walking .. trying to listening .. wanting to find reassurance ..
But then .. .. and what if .. and I'm left, thinking ..
I've prayed 'help me not to miss any thing Lord/HS' but still at times my tendencies prevail.
Call me, help me grow beyond this too.
Friday, June 28, 2013
This week..
It takes me a few days to see where He's going or to get the picture sometimes but reflecting at the end of the week is something I enjoy. This week ..
Monday: From Sarah Young's JC4K: Hold My Hand !!!
I smiled from ear to ear reading this after My favorite things here.
He alone is my rock and salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken. - Ps62:6
"Hold my hand - and trust Me. .. I am the only One who can satisfy those longing deep in your heart."
Fear not, for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My right hand of righteousness and justice. -Isa41:10
My soul wait only upon God and silently submit to Him; for my hope and expectations are from Him. -Ps62:5
And: For my eyes are ever toward The Lord, or He will pluck my feet out of the net. [Lord] turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted. The troubles of my heart are multiplied; bring me out of my distresses. Behold my affliction and my pain and forgive all my sins [of thinking and doing]. -Ps25:15-18
May He grant you out of the rich treasury of His glory to be strengthed and reinforced with mighty power in the the inner man by the [Holy] Spirit [Himself indwelling your innermost being and personality]. May Christ throught your faith [actually] dwell (settle down, abide, make His permenant home) in your hearts! May you be rooted deep in love and founded securely on love, That you may have the power and be strong to apprehend and grasp with all the saints [God's devoted people, the experience of that love] what is the breadth and length and height and depth [of it]
-Eph3:16-18
Tuesday: You Make Me Sing ;) (From Sarah Young's JC4K):
We will rejoice over you with singing. -Zep3:17
"Remember that I take great joy in you - you make Me sing!"
Thursday: For Your Protection (Sarah Young's JC4K):
"Don't worry about what's ahead Don't think about the past or the future. Just focus on right here and right now - with Me.
I created time to protect you. Because I am timeless, I can see your entire life from beginning to end - all at the same time. But I knew that you couldn't bear to see your whole life all at once. So I created time to hide your future from you, to protect you.
You can do nothing about the past, so just let it go. You cannot know the future, so put it aside. Meet me here and now - in this moment in time. Trust that I am with you, watching over you wherever you go."
And behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you may go, and I will bring you back to this land for I will not leave you until I have done all of which I have told you. -Gen28:15
But this I confess to you, however, that in accordance with The Way [of The Lord], which they call a sect, I worship the God of our fathers, still persuaded of the truth of and believing in and placing full confidence in everything laid down in the Law or written in the prophets; Having [the same] hope in God which these themselves hold and look for, that there is to be a resurrection both of the righteous and the unrighteous. Therefore I always exercise and discipline myself [mortifying my body, deadening my carnal affections, bodily appetites, and worldly desires, endeavoring in all respects] to have a clear (unshaken, blameless) conscience, void of offense toward God and toward men. -Acts24:14-16
Friday: I Am Good (Sarah Young's JC4K):
Examine and see how good The Lord is. Happy is the person who trusts The Lord.
-Ps34:8
"I am good. Walk with Me today and see that for yourself. The more time you spend with Me, the more you will see just how good I am. And I promise to do only what is good for you.
When hard times come, many people start to doubt My goodness. But troubles are just part of living in this imperfect world. And I can use your troubles to grow your faith.
I know that doesn't always make sense to you. You won't always understand the 'why' of things. .. When you don't understand, just trust that I Am Good - and that I always work for good in your life."
For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways says The Lord. For as the heavens are higher than your ways and My thought than your thoughts. - Isa55:8-9
Add to that: This charge and admonition I commit in trust to you, Timothy, my son, in accordance with prophetic intimations which I formerly received concerning you, so that inspired and aided by them you may wage the good warfare. Holding fast to faith (that leaning of the entire human personality on God in absolute trust and confidence) and having a good (clear) conscience. By rejecting and thrusting from them [their conscience] some individuals have made shipwreck of their faith. -1Tim1:18-19
But The [Holy] Spirit distinctly and expressly declares that in latter times some will turn away from the faith, giving attention to deluding and seducing spirits and doctrines that demons teach. Through the hypocrisy and pretensions of liars whose consciences are seared (cauterized). -1Tim4:1-2
The latter takes me back to extra challenge today, to walk through with what The Lord had given me. Tried to remain as gentle as Christ and remember what and how He's taught me to pray .. "forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors" especially.
Tomorrow?? <3
Monday: From Sarah Young's JC4K: Hold My Hand !!!
I smiled from ear to ear reading this after My favorite things here.
He alone is my rock and salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken. - Ps62:6
"Hold my hand - and trust Me. .. I am the only One who can satisfy those longing deep in your heart."
Fear not, for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My right hand of righteousness and justice. -Isa41:10
My soul wait only upon God and silently submit to Him; for my hope and expectations are from Him. -Ps62:5
And: For my eyes are ever toward The Lord, or He will pluck my feet out of the net. [Lord] turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am lonely and afflicted. The troubles of my heart are multiplied; bring me out of my distresses. Behold my affliction and my pain and forgive all my sins [of thinking and doing]. -Ps25:15-18
May He grant you out of the rich treasury of His glory to be strengthed and reinforced with mighty power in the the inner man by the [Holy] Spirit [Himself indwelling your innermost being and personality]. May Christ throught your faith [actually] dwell (settle down, abide, make His permenant home) in your hearts! May you be rooted deep in love and founded securely on love, That you may have the power and be strong to apprehend and grasp with all the saints [God's devoted people, the experience of that love] what is the breadth and length and height and depth [of it]
-Eph3:16-18
Tuesday: You Make Me Sing ;) (From Sarah Young's JC4K):
We will rejoice over you with singing. -Zep3:17
"Remember that I take great joy in you - you make Me sing!"
Thursday: For Your Protection (Sarah Young's JC4K):
"Don't worry about what's ahead Don't think about the past or the future. Just focus on right here and right now - with Me.
I created time to protect you. Because I am timeless, I can see your entire life from beginning to end - all at the same time. But I knew that you couldn't bear to see your whole life all at once. So I created time to hide your future from you, to protect you.
You can do nothing about the past, so just let it go. You cannot know the future, so put it aside. Meet me here and now - in this moment in time. Trust that I am with you, watching over you wherever you go."
And behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you may go, and I will bring you back to this land for I will not leave you until I have done all of which I have told you. -Gen28:15
But this I confess to you, however, that in accordance with The Way [of The Lord], which they call a sect, I worship the God of our fathers, still persuaded of the truth of and believing in and placing full confidence in everything laid down in the Law or written in the prophets; Having [the same] hope in God which these themselves hold and look for, that there is to be a resurrection both of the righteous and the unrighteous. Therefore I always exercise and discipline myself [mortifying my body, deadening my carnal affections, bodily appetites, and worldly desires, endeavoring in all respects] to have a clear (unshaken, blameless) conscience, void of offense toward God and toward men. -Acts24:14-16
Friday: I Am Good (Sarah Young's JC4K):
Examine and see how good The Lord is. Happy is the person who trusts The Lord.
-Ps34:8
"I am good. Walk with Me today and see that for yourself. The more time you spend with Me, the more you will see just how good I am. And I promise to do only what is good for you.
When hard times come, many people start to doubt My goodness. But troubles are just part of living in this imperfect world. And I can use your troubles to grow your faith.
I know that doesn't always make sense to you. You won't always understand the 'why' of things. .. When you don't understand, just trust that I Am Good - and that I always work for good in your life."
For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways says The Lord. For as the heavens are higher than your ways and My thought than your thoughts. - Isa55:8-9
Add to that: This charge and admonition I commit in trust to you, Timothy, my son, in accordance with prophetic intimations which I formerly received concerning you, so that inspired and aided by them you may wage the good warfare. Holding fast to faith (that leaning of the entire human personality on God in absolute trust and confidence) and having a good (clear) conscience. By rejecting and thrusting from them [their conscience] some individuals have made shipwreck of their faith. -1Tim1:18-19
But The [Holy] Spirit distinctly and expressly declares that in latter times some will turn away from the faith, giving attention to deluding and seducing spirits and doctrines that demons teach. Through the hypocrisy and pretensions of liars whose consciences are seared (cauterized). -1Tim4:1-2
The latter takes me back to extra challenge today, to walk through with what The Lord had given me. Tried to remain as gentle as Christ and remember what and how He's taught me to pray .. "forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors" especially.
Tomorrow?? <3
A Safe Place
If I had a ?? for every time I have played or sang this song
since finding it this week ... ;)
This is where we'll shake the nightmare free..
Nightmare last night .. unusual for such a season.
I woke/was awakened to declare it to be gone in the name of Jesus
and went back to sleep immediately.
As I woke this morning, I closed my eyes again to keep quiet and listen
(before devotion and prayer).
My mind thrashed a little, back to the dream.
I held my hand out for Him
and heard Jon's In My Arms.
This. is. love.
Writing this brings Bebo's Sing Over Me to mind too.
Sunday, June 23, 2013
The devotion that brought S to tear
and truth be told her Mama too earlier in the day..
Jesus Calling for Kids by Sarah Young for June 23rd:
Waiting to Help
Don't make God's Spirit sad. The Spirit makes you sure that someday you will be free from your sins. -Ephesians 4:30
When you choose not to trust Me, it hurts My heart and I grieve.
It hurts Me to see you struggle alone with problems, when I am just waiting to help you. It saddens Me to see you blindly walking through your day, not even noticing the blessings I have provided for you. And it grieves Me to see you ignore My loving Presence all around you.
But when you walk through your day trusting Me, I am overjoyed! I don't expect your walk with Me to be perfect. I know that there will be times when your thoughts wander away from Me. But when you realize this has happened, just pull your thoughts back to Me. I'll always be waiting.
Read on your own:
But I am like a healthy olive tree. My roots are deep in the house of God. I trust in your faithful love for ever and ever. -Ps 52:8 NIrV
"Be Strong and brave. Don't be afraid of them. Don't be terrified because of them. The Lord your God will go with you. He will never leave you. He'll never desert you." -Deut 31:6 NIrV
S: "It feels like Jesus is really speaking to me, it really touches my heart even though it's really Sarah Young" ;)
Jesus Calling for Kids by Sarah Young for June 23rd:
Waiting to Help
Don't make God's Spirit sad. The Spirit makes you sure that someday you will be free from your sins. -Ephesians 4:30
When you choose not to trust Me, it hurts My heart and I grieve.
It hurts Me to see you struggle alone with problems, when I am just waiting to help you. It saddens Me to see you blindly walking through your day, not even noticing the blessings I have provided for you. And it grieves Me to see you ignore My loving Presence all around you.
But when you walk through your day trusting Me, I am overjoyed! I don't expect your walk with Me to be perfect. I know that there will be times when your thoughts wander away from Me. But when you realize this has happened, just pull your thoughts back to Me. I'll always be waiting.
Read on your own:
But I am like a healthy olive tree. My roots are deep in the house of God. I trust in your faithful love for ever and ever. -Ps 52:8 NIrV
"Be Strong and brave. Don't be afraid of them. Don't be terrified because of them. The Lord your God will go with you. He will never leave you. He'll never desert you." -Deut 31:6 NIrV
S: "It feels like Jesus is really speaking to me, it really touches my heart even though it's really Sarah Young" ;)
My favorite things ..
~ Holding hands
I often close my eyes and put my right hand out and try to imagine mine in His. But for now just my children's.
~ The view as I open my eyes each morning .. my curtain left open just enough so I can immediately gazed upon the rising sun, in this season, my reading lamp which provided light the night before in the sun's absence and the constant reminder above it ..
~ Sleeping with my Bible
Resting my head on its open pages (metaphorically and literally) and the nights my arms have it held to my chest .. as if osmosis is possible for both my heart and mind. Probably why it's falling apart so ;)
~ Hearing Him sing over me in music and doing the same to my children
~ Hearing my daughter say "I feel like Jesus is really speaking to me" and seeing a tear spill from her eye
~ Feeling my young son's tender love and knowing the great man he will be and husband/father if so called
~ Another sensing I really care
.. at least that come to mind today.
I often close my eyes and put my right hand out and try to imagine mine in His. But for now just my children's.
~ The view as I open my eyes each morning .. my curtain left open just enough so I can immediately gazed upon the rising sun, in this season, my reading lamp which provided light the night before in the sun's absence and the constant reminder above it ..
Trust in HIM at ALL times. Psalm 62:8
~ Sleeping with my Bible
Resting my head on its open pages (metaphorically and literally) and the nights my arms have it held to my chest .. as if osmosis is possible for both my heart and mind. Probably why it's falling apart so ;)
~ Hearing Him sing over me in music and doing the same to my children
~ Hearing my daughter say "I feel like Jesus is really speaking to me" and seeing a tear spill from her eye
~ Feeling my young son's tender love and knowing the great man he will be and husband/father if so called
~ Another sensing I really care
.. at least that come to mind today.
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Monday, May 27, 2013
Sunday, May 26, 2013
The Lord's Love, Word and songs..
.. to me for the last few days.
Yesterday..
A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all. Ps34:19
It's true He has. Last Saturday when speaking to another lyrics came to mind .. "So why do I worry? Why do I freak out?"
Last Saturday was perfect example as was Sunday in an entirely different and unexpected way. Yesterday the following superseded as a reminder and of what He had done before I finally let on to another the words that had been meant to harm me from those days and another this week. Was interesting to see expressions and hear response.
So do not be afraid. I am with you.
Do not be terrified. I am your God.
I will make you strong. I will help you.
My powerful right hand will take good care of you.
I always do what is right. Isa41:10 [NIrV]
The Lord your God is in the midst of you, a Mighty One, a Savior! He will rejoice over you with joy; He will rest {in silence and satisfaction} and in His love He will be silent and make no mention {of past sins or recalling them}l He will exult over you with singing. Zeph3:17
I was reminded too of the latter portion of Zeph as I stood outside last night and Friday night by the pond listening to the songs of the birds, over me, and of..
I remember..
Keep on asking and it will be given to you; keep on seeking and you will find; keep on knocking {reverently} and {the door} will be opened to you. Matt7:7
And..
So I say to you. Ask and keep on asking and it shall be given to you; seek and keep on seeking and you shall find; knock and keep on knocking and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asked and keeps on asking receives; and he who seeks and keeps on seeking finds; and to him who knocks and keeps on knocking, the door shall be opened. What father among you, if his son asks for a loaf of brad, will give him a stone; or if he asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent? Or if he asks for an egg will give him a scorpion? If you the, evil as you are, know how to give good gifts {gifts that are to their advantage} to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give The Holy Spirit to those who ask and continue to ask Him! Luke9:11-13
I ask and will continue to..
Yet somehow, for some reason "This Little Bluebird" played in my head .. dumb coincidence?
Today I circumvent..
I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have {perfect} peace and confidence. In the world you will have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer {take courage; be confident; certain; undaunted}! For I have overcome the world. {I have deprived it of its power to harm you and have conquered it for you.}
John16:33
Writing these helps me remember more, more good things, and stay more focused on Him. I am remembering this year is supposed to be about hope ..
Is it time for church yet?! He reminds me: second service today ;)
Yesterday..
A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all. Ps34:19
It's true He has. Last Saturday when speaking to another lyrics came to mind .. "So why do I worry? Why do I freak out?"
Heavenly Father, you always amaze me
Let your kingdom come in my world and in my life
Give me the food I need to live through today
And forgive me as I forgive the people that wrong me
Lead me far from temptation
Deliver me from the evil one
I look out the window the birds are composing
Not a note is out of tune or out of place
I walk to the meadow and stare at the flowers
Better dressed than any girl on her wedding day
So why should I worry?
Why do I freak out?
God knows what I need
You know what I need
Your love is
Your love is
Your love is strong (repeat)
The kingdom of the heavens is now advancing
Invade my heart, invade this broken town
The kingdom of the Heavens is buried treasure
Would you sell yourself to buy the one you've found?
Two things you told me
That you are strong
And you love me
Yes, you love me
Your love is
Your love is
Your love is strong (repeat)
Our God in Heaven
Hallowed be thy name
Above all names
Your kingdom come
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven
Give us today our daily bread
Forgive us weary sinners
Keep us far away from our vices
And deliver us from these prisons
Let your kingdom come in my world and in my life
Give me the food I need to live through today
And forgive me as I forgive the people that wrong me
Lead me far from temptation
Deliver me from the evil one
I look out the window the birds are composing
Not a note is out of tune or out of place
I walk to the meadow and stare at the flowers
Better dressed than any girl on her wedding day
So why should I worry?
Why do I freak out?
God knows what I need
You know what I need
Your love is
Your love is
Your love is strong (repeat)
The kingdom of the heavens is now advancing
Invade my heart, invade this broken town
The kingdom of the Heavens is buried treasure
Would you sell yourself to buy the one you've found?
Two things you told me
That you are strong
And you love me
Yes, you love me
Your love is
Your love is
Your love is strong (repeat)
Our God in Heaven
Hallowed be thy name
Above all names
Your kingdom come
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven
Give us today our daily bread
Forgive us weary sinners
Keep us far away from our vices
And deliver us from these prisons
So do not be afraid. I am with you.
Do not be terrified. I am your God.
I will make you strong. I will help you.
My powerful right hand will take good care of you.
I always do what is right. Isa41:10 [NIrV]
The Lord your God is in the midst of you, a Mighty One, a Savior! He will rejoice over you with joy; He will rest {in silence and satisfaction} and in His love He will be silent and make no mention {of past sins or recalling them}l He will exult over you with singing. Zeph3:17
I was reminded too of the latter portion of Zeph as I stood outside last night and Friday night by the pond listening to the songs of the birds, over me, and of..
Find me, where You can find me
So tired of hiding behind these songs
And take me where You will take me
Back to a place I've known all along
The voice that calms the waves, sing out
And call my name
And sing over me, sing over me
Sing above the noise that I've been making
And sing over me, sing over me
All I ever needed was to hear Your melody
All I ever needed was to hear Your melody
Wake me, come on and wake me
So tired of living like I'm asleep
And hold me the way You hold me
How You unfold all this unbelief
The voice that calms the waves, sing out
And call my name
And sing over me, sing over me
Sing away the silence that is breaking
And sing over me, sing over me
All I ever needed was to hear Your melody
And all I ever needed was to hear Your melody
Sing out, sing out, sing out my love
Sing out, sing out, sing out my love
And sing out, sing out, sing out my love
And sing over me, sing over me
Sing above the noise that I've been making
And sing over me, sing over me
All I ever needed was to hear Your melody
And sing over me, sing over me
Sing away the silence that is breaking
And sing over me, sing over me
All I ever needed was to hear Your melody
All I ever needed was to hear Your melody
All I ever wanted was to hear Your melody
Sing, sing out my love
I remember..
Keep on asking and it will be given to you; keep on seeking and you will find; keep on knocking {reverently} and {the door} will be opened to you. Matt7:7
And..
So I say to you. Ask and keep on asking and it shall be given to you; seek and keep on seeking and you shall find; knock and keep on knocking and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asked and keeps on asking receives; and he who seeks and keeps on seeking finds; and to him who knocks and keeps on knocking, the door shall be opened. What father among you, if his son asks for a loaf of brad, will give him a stone; or if he asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent? Or if he asks for an egg will give him a scorpion? If you the, evil as you are, know how to give good gifts {gifts that are to their advantage} to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give The Holy Spirit to those who ask and continue to ask Him! Luke9:11-13
I ask and will continue to..
Yet somehow, for some reason "This Little Bluebird" played in my head .. dumb coincidence?
Today I circumvent..
I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have {perfect} peace and confidence. In the world you will have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer {take courage; be confident; certain; undaunted}! For I have overcome the world. {I have deprived it of its power to harm you and have conquered it for you.}
John16:33
Writing these helps me remember more, more good things, and stay more focused on Him. I am remembering this year is supposed to be about hope ..
Is it time for church yet?! He reminds me: second service today ;)
Friday, May 24, 2013
Everything will be alright
I have to go for a run.
how long have I
been in this storm
so overwhelmed by the ocean's shapeless form
water's getting harder to tread
with these waves crashing over my head
if I could just see you
everything will be alright
if I'd see you
the storminess will turn to light
and I will walk on water
and you will catch me if I fall
and I will get lost into your eyes
and everything will be alright
and everything will be alright
I know you didn't
bring me out here to drown
so why am I 10 feet under and upside down
barely surviving has become my purpose
cause I'm so used to living underneath the surface
if I could just see you
everything will be alright
if I see you
the storminess will turn to light
and I will walk on water
and you will catch me if I fall
and I will get lost into your eyes
and everything will be alright
and I will walk on water
you will catch me if I fall
and I will get lost into your eyes
and everything will be alright
I know everything is alright
everything's alright
been in this storm
so overwhelmed by the ocean's shapeless form
water's getting harder to tread
with these waves crashing over my head
if I could just see you
everything will be alright
if I'd see you
the storminess will turn to light
and I will walk on water
and you will catch me if I fall
and I will get lost into your eyes
and everything will be alright
and everything will be alright
I know you didn't
bring me out here to drown
so why am I 10 feet under and upside down
barely surviving has become my purpose
cause I'm so used to living underneath the surface
if I could just see you
everything will be alright
if I see you
the storminess will turn to light
and I will walk on water
and you will catch me if I fall
and I will get lost into your eyes
and everything will be alright
and I will walk on water
you will catch me if I fall
and I will get lost into your eyes
and everything will be alright
I know everything is alright
everything's alright
Monday, May 20, 2013
So Apropos
Lord, grant me
serenity
to accept the things I cannot change,
courage
to change the things I can
and
wisdom
to know the difference.
Living one day at a time;
enjoying one moment at a time;
accepting hardship as the pathway to peace.
I remember this prayer being in my grandmother's bathroom actually
but, I had no idea I would need it so.
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Out of darkness and chaos
The Lord has brought us out and is keeping us. I am thankful beyond words I can assemble, especially for peace and joy even as I sat with that which was intended to harm us in plain sight. Father, thank You for delivering and blessing us so .. for working all things for our good!
Friday, May 17, 2013
Captured response
Looking back on the week to see how He's prepared me for the things that have come .. one just before I left school (involving G), another in email from T last night and third earlier in the week with several implications - all unexpected, of course.
Goal: offset thoughts and feelings triggered again today.
Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. -1Pet5:7
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. -1Pet5:6
In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. -1Thes5:18
God can do everything! -Luke1:37
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. -2Cor12:9
"Take Up Your Shield"
In addition to all this take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. -Eph6:16
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. -Jam4:7-8
And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. -Rev12:10
"I Am Lord!"
Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is The Lord's purpose that prevails. -Prov19:21
Whatever may be your task, work at it heartily (from the soul), as [something done] for the Lord and not for men, Knowing [with all certainty] that it is from the Lord [and not from men] that you will receive the inheritance which is your [real] reward. [The One Whom] you are actually serving [is] the Lord Christ (the Messiah). -Col3:23-24
To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. -Luke1:79
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. -Phil4:13
"I never run out"
And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. -Phil4:19
(For we walk by faith, not by sight:) -2Cor5:7
And searching my mind for another .. The Lord will always equip for that which He calls us to do .. Heb13:21 I think/find ..
Jesus will "equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may He work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen."
Better .. was "the straw that broke the.." feeling...
Goal: offset thoughts and feelings triggered again today.
Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. -1Pet5:7
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time. -1Pet5:6
In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. -1Thes5:18
God can do everything! -Luke1:37
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. -2Cor12:9
"Take Up Your Shield"
In addition to all this take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. -Eph6:16
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. -Jam4:7-8
And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. -Rev12:10
"I Am Lord!"
Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is The Lord's purpose that prevails. -Prov19:21
Whatever may be your task, work at it heartily (from the soul), as [something done] for the Lord and not for men, Knowing [with all certainty] that it is from the Lord [and not from men] that you will receive the inheritance which is your [real] reward. [The One Whom] you are actually serving [is] the Lord Christ (the Messiah). -Col3:23-24
To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. -Luke1:79
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. -Phil4:13
"I never run out"
And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. -Phil4:19
(For we walk by faith, not by sight:) -2Cor5:7
And searching my mind for another .. The Lord will always equip for that which He calls us to do .. Heb13:21 I think/find ..
Jesus will "equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may He work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen."
Better .. was "the straw that broke the.." feeling...
Monday, February 18, 2013
Today
Well, I went from feeling really good at church yesterday to spiraling over an email I started with my Dad intended only to be an advise/update. Some words threatened to cut into scar tissue. I did better remaining with The Lord but still struggled with how to honor him (Dad) at the same time. [ROCK>me<HARD PLACE] You know the expression.
So, this morning I woke to the following. I LOVE how He does this!!!..
from Jesus Calling For Kids/Sarah Young
"Count on Me"
The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. - Zeph 3:17
"No one is perfect - not your best friend, not your mom or your dad, not your sports hero or favorite television star. Sooner or later, someone in your life - someone you really counted on - will let you down. You can end up feeling angry, hurt and betrayed. You may feel like you are falling, with no one to catch you or help you up. So who can you count on?
Count on Me. I will never let you down. And when others do let you down, I will be your safety net. I will not let you crash. Not only am I always there with you, but I am holding your hand. And I promise, I won't ever let you go."
Ps 73:23-26: Nevertheless I am continually with You; You do hold my right hand. 24 You will guide me with Your counsel, and afterward receive me to honor and glory. 25 Whom have I in heaven in but You? And I have no delight or desire on earth besides You. 26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the Rock and firm Strength of my heart and my Portion forever.
OK, obviously have to pray more about v.25b. Especially since Saturday was Ps 62:1-2: For God alone my soul waits in silence (I wasn't as obedient to that part as I should have been); from Him comes my salvation. 2 He only is my Rock and my Salvation, my Defense and my Fortress, I shall not be greatly moved.
Then from Trusting God day by day/Joyce Meyers
"God Honors Our Trust in Him"
He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. - Ps 91:15
Ha! My implicit word equation should read:(He is my)Rock>(with)me<(in the)hard place(s)
"Many people have difficulty trusting God because of past hurts. But God is not like the people who have hurt us.
Although God wants to take care of us, His hands are tied by our unbelief and works of the flesh. He is a gentleman and will not just take over without being invited to do so. He waits until we give up the job of self-care and place our trust and confidence in Him. The law of faith, mentioned in 1 Peter 5:7, is this: When you stop trying to take care of yourself, you release God to take care of you! (Paraphrased).
I have discovered that it is very hard to walk in obedience to God and in love with others if my primary interest is that "I" don't get hurt or taken advantage of. However, when I allow God to be God in my life, He honors three distinct promises He makes in Ps 91:15: He'll be with me in trouble, He'll deliver me and He will honor me.
Honor is a place of lifting up. When God honors a believer, He lifts up or exalts that person. When we let go and do not try to care for ourselves, we are admitting that we need God's help. It is an act of humility and that act of faith places us in the direct line of God's exaltation. Peter wrote 'Therefore humble yourselves [demote, lower yourselves in your own estimation] under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you ..' 1 Pet 5:6
When we trust God we are in line for a promotion. God will honor us and reward us as we place our faith in Him In the world's system, you work hard and then get your reward.. In God's economy, you trust Him deeply and then receive your reward.
Trust in Him When we trust in ourselves it leads to strife and shows that we don't trust God to do what He says in His Word - be with us, deliver us and honor us. When we trust God, however, it leads to the reward of peace-peace within ourselves, peace with God and peace with others."
Song phrase pops into my head: "There may be pain in the night but joy comes in the morning", part of our worship at CFC yesterday. Also the following which I love, love, love to sing, even if poorly ;)
So, this morning I woke to the following. I LOVE how He does this!!!..
from Jesus Calling For Kids/Sarah Young
"Count on Me"
The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. - Zeph 3:17
"No one is perfect - not your best friend, not your mom or your dad, not your sports hero or favorite television star. Sooner or later, someone in your life - someone you really counted on - will let you down. You can end up feeling angry, hurt and betrayed. You may feel like you are falling, with no one to catch you or help you up. So who can you count on?
Count on Me. I will never let you down. And when others do let you down, I will be your safety net. I will not let you crash. Not only am I always there with you, but I am holding your hand. And I promise, I won't ever let you go."
Ps 73:23-26: Nevertheless I am continually with You; You do hold my right hand. 24 You will guide me with Your counsel, and afterward receive me to honor and glory. 25 Whom have I in heaven in but You? And I have no delight or desire on earth besides You. 26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the Rock and firm Strength of my heart and my Portion forever.
OK, obviously have to pray more about v.25b. Especially since Saturday was Ps 62:1-2: For God alone my soul waits in silence (I wasn't as obedient to that part as I should have been); from Him comes my salvation. 2 He only is my Rock and my Salvation, my Defense and my Fortress, I shall not be greatly moved.
Then from Trusting God day by day/Joyce Meyers
"God Honors Our Trust in Him"
He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. - Ps 91:15
Ha! My implicit word equation should read:(He is my)Rock>(with)me<(in the)hard place(s)
"Many people have difficulty trusting God because of past hurts. But God is not like the people who have hurt us.
Although God wants to take care of us, His hands are tied by our unbelief and works of the flesh. He is a gentleman and will not just take over without being invited to do so. He waits until we give up the job of self-care and place our trust and confidence in Him. The law of faith, mentioned in 1 Peter 5:7, is this: When you stop trying to take care of yourself, you release God to take care of you! (Paraphrased).
I have discovered that it is very hard to walk in obedience to God and in love with others if my primary interest is that "I" don't get hurt or taken advantage of. However, when I allow God to be God in my life, He honors three distinct promises He makes in Ps 91:15: He'll be with me in trouble, He'll deliver me and He will honor me.
Honor is a place of lifting up. When God honors a believer, He lifts up or exalts that person. When we let go and do not try to care for ourselves, we are admitting that we need God's help. It is an act of humility and that act of faith places us in the direct line of God's exaltation. Peter wrote 'Therefore humble yourselves [demote, lower yourselves in your own estimation] under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you ..' 1 Pet 5:6
When we trust God we are in line for a promotion. God will honor us and reward us as we place our faith in Him In the world's system, you work hard and then get your reward.. In God's economy, you trust Him deeply and then receive your reward.
Trust in Him When we trust in ourselves it leads to strife and shows that we don't trust God to do what He says in His Word - be with us, deliver us and honor us. When we trust God, however, it leads to the reward of peace-peace within ourselves, peace with God and peace with others."
Song phrase pops into my head: "There may be pain in the night but joy comes in the morning", part of our worship at CFC yesterday. Also the following which I love, love, love to sing, even if poorly ;)
(Chorus)
Bless the Lord, O my soul
O my soul
Worship His holy name
Sing like never before
O my soul
I'll worship Your holy name
The sun comes up, it's a new day dawning
It's time to sing Your song again
Whatever may pass, and whatever lies before me
Let me be singing when the evening comes
Chorus
You're rich in love, and You're slow to anger
Your name is great, and Your heart is kind
For all Your goodness I will keep on singing
Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find
Chorus
And on that day when my strength is failing
The end draws near and my time has come
Still my soul will sing Your praise unending
Ten thousand years and then forevermore
(Chorus x2)
Jesus, I'll worship Your holy name
Lord, I'll worship Your holy name
Sing like never before
O my soul
I'll worship Your holy name
Jesus, I'll worship Your holy name
I'll worship Your holy name
O my soul
Worship His holy name
Sing like never before
O my soul
I'll worship Your holy name
The sun comes up, it's a new day dawning
It's time to sing Your song again
Whatever may pass, and whatever lies before me
Let me be singing when the evening comes
Chorus
You're rich in love, and You're slow to anger
Your name is great, and Your heart is kind
For all Your goodness I will keep on singing
Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find
Chorus
And on that day when my strength is failing
The end draws near and my time has come
Still my soul will sing Your praise unending
Ten thousand years and then forevermore
(Chorus x2)
Jesus, I'll worship Your holy name
Lord, I'll worship Your holy name
Sing like never before
O my soul
I'll worship Your holy name
Jesus, I'll worship Your holy name
I'll worship Your holy name
In case you are wondering, I put full versions of what I read/listen to here in case it should speak to you in some other way. I think if I only do excerpts about what it spoke or meant to me, which is apparent when I give a little context like above I think, then this blog will be about me. My intent is for it to be a testament to Him, His faithfulness, how He speaks into my days and gives me joy and peace .. all for His glory. I pray this accomplishes the latter. There's uncertainty/fear .. what feels sacred to me might not to others. However, I feel like He wants to use me more, but I feel more apt to write than speak at present. So, this is toward working on/preparing me to tell the stories of what He's done and doing in my life.
It's also about listening to, obeying and following Him. Initially I'm just inviting folks I trust and love in Him to comment/advise/guide (purposefully or playfully because I need to laugh especially at myself often) and help press me on in my walk. Hopefully you'll share any common threads or personal experiences too. I'm also kind of hopeful for more interactions between Sundays ;) There are only a couple posts here right now because I still hold a lot of heavier ones in draft and occasionally I even revert after publishing. It's a starting point. More to come, similar and different, in accordance with His will I pray.
It's also about listening to, obeying and following Him. Initially I'm just inviting folks I trust and love in Him to comment/advise/guide (purposefully or playfully because I need to laugh especially at myself often) and help press me on in my walk. Hopefully you'll share any common threads or personal experiences too. I'm also kind of hopeful for more interactions between Sundays ;) There are only a couple posts here right now because I still hold a lot of heavier ones in draft and occasionally I even revert after publishing. It's a starting point. More to come, similar and different, in accordance with His will I pray.
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Today is a good day.
I was awakened to the sunrise.
I was awakened to the sunrise.
I felt inspired to post Dancing in the Minefields' on FB as it really sums up a lot .. in the past, present and hopefully again in the future.
"This is harder than what we dreamed but I believe that's what the promise is for .. But to lose your life for another, I've heard, is a good place to begin .. 'Cause the only way to find your life is to lay your own life down and I believe it's an easy price for the life we have found."
You can pretty well gauge how I am doing by
a. if I'm taking and sharing photos
b. if I'm posting on FB, to a lesser degree
Just indicative that I am taking notice of the beautiful things in my life and am stepping beyond my fears to share words, thoughts and feelings.
I think I've decided that I will try to keep FB posts succinct and expound here. Writing helps me process, hear what my heart still needs to surrender and keep my mind accountable when there aren't as many to help with the latter otherwise.
My companions this morning..
one caffeine free, one NOT - Starbuck's MYO double hot chocolate!!
A Christmas treat from parents' of children I teach. I do enjoy chocolate but I have to moderate it. It helped me write weekly newsletter for my class at least and more true to my form than it has been in weeks or even months. Might also explain my accomplished/euphoric feeling, to borrow from another, and sense of rebound/restoration. But, to be true, that comes from The Lord redeeming me yet again this week.
I am so thankful for new devotional from Linnea/Coffee, Tea and Thee/my church - Joyce Meyer's Trusting God day by day. It is the literal reinspiration behind me returning to this aforetitled blog. I started reading TG early, before the the new year. I'm starting to want to write about and feeling more able to tell of this past season and beyond. As one in my bible study class said, the scar tissue needed time to form (paraphrased) much less heal and reconciliation has been a serious journey. To draw parallels, the journey didn't take 11 days as maybe it could have but it hasn't been 40 years thankfully ;) I know definately that this year is all about HOPE and that alone is something to write about, IMHO. I would love to go back and recap the last week or so but I think the title's will suffice to summarize: 14th: "God Will Give You All the Wisdom and Power You Need", 15th: "God's Rest for You", 16th: "Give God Your All", 17th: "There's Nothing God Can't Handle", 18th:"You Have Nothing to Worry About", 19th: "How to Find Rest in Your Soul"!!! Nail hit on the head and I'll leave it at that!
In our class at church it was asked "How do you know that God loves you?" I can't exactly recall my response at the moment except that it was likely and appropriately so something like because He has has seen me thought all "this" (i.e. the last 5+ years). But, it is also music! I hear Him speaking to, drawing me in
and proclaiming His love for me in songs like these.
From Bebo Norman's Lights from Distance Cities, I LOVE:
"She took a broken piece of glass and held it in her hand
Sharp as a razor and a wire from the ground
It was a broken piece of love that she had tried to cover up
And outside her window was the world
..
on the day it fell apart
Just a girl and all the world under the sun
But with a push and a turning lock he had frozen all the clocks
And outside her window was the world
..
So she was singing
Come on, come on set free
All that is a prisoner inside of me
..
And come on, come on set fire
Burn through the wreckage, leave it all behind
..
And no one cried, oh, no one cried for the damage done
..
But on the day she realized that she was stronger than the lies
She broke through her window into the world
..
Hope is rising, hope is rising
oh, my soul is rising, oh, my soul will rise
..
come on, come on set free
All that is a prisoner inside of me
come on, come on set fire
Burn through the pain, set it on fire
..
And all along outside her window was the world"
"Just a glimpse into the deep
Into your love could change everything
..
Can you bring me back, back to the time
..
Open up, open up, open up my heart again
just enough, just enough, just enough to see a glimpse
of everything You are, open up my heart
To just a glimpse
..
And the veil would fall
And all that seemed hidden was here all along
And you’d take me back, back to the start
Lost in your affection, lost enough to find again
The light that steals away the dark
..
Oh, my love, oh, my love
Deep enough to dream with You again
And, oh, my soul, oh, my soul
The toll that time has taken on me
Cannot break the arms that hold me"
Into your love could change everything
..
Can you bring me back, back to the time
..
Open up, open up, open up my heart again
just enough, just enough, just enough to see a glimpse
of everything You are, open up my heart
To just a glimpse
..
And the veil would fall
And all that seemed hidden was here all along
And you’d take me back, back to the start
Lost in your affection, lost enough to find again
The light that steals away the dark
..
Oh, my love, oh, my love
Deep enough to dream with You again
And, oh, my soul, oh, my soul
The toll that time has taken on me
Cannot break the arms that hold me"
"Take these hands and lift them up
For I have not the strength to praise You near enough
For I have nothing, I have nothing without You
Take my voice and pour it out
Let it sing the songs of mercy I have found
For I have nothing, I have nothing without You
All my soul needs
Is all Your love to cover me
So all the world will see
That I have nothing without You
Take my body and build it up
May it be broken as an offering of love
For I have nothing, I have nothing without You
All my soul needs
Is all Your love to cover me
So all the world will see
That I have nothing
But I love You
With all my heart
With all my soul
With all my might
With all the strength that I can find
Take my time here on this earth
And let it glorify all that You are worth
For I am nothing,
I am nothing without You"
K, I have to step away from my laptop and get some things done or I will be kicking myself when the day is gone. Already halfway?! I sound like a half-empty person ;)
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