Some random thoughts this Christmas week...

Just wanted to "touch base" with all of you out there and wish you a wonderful Christmas.

Last time I posted I was headed to the doctor having had some blood tests. After being off medications for about a month, and trying to get to the cause of my ridiculous skin rash it seems like a sulfa based drug has been wreaking havoc with me. I'm off of that, and the rash is gone. Yay, but all this and a monster cold during the whole month of November, has left me feeling not too "Merry" in the Merry Christmas department.

I've received some wonderful comments and emails lately, thanks so much everyone. There are so many of us in the same religious "boat". Just today, someone who reads both my blogs, sent me a note about her life experiences. Church and family life shape us, and unfortunately negative experiences are so lasting. Even though we love and forgive those that have hurt us, it's still difficult to not let those hard things continue to effect our outlook on life.

I haven't been very good at returning emails and comments so please forgive me. It's not that I'm not interested or care, sometimes I just listen and process. I pray for each of you that comment, and for all of you who come by this blog. God directs so many of you here. Please know I appreciate you!

I'm not a big fan of television, but yesterday morning I had on NBC and was watching Hoda and Kathie Lee. (what a pair!) Poor Kathie has had a rough time of late too. She's had a couple of minor injuries, but the sad moment in her conversation came when music came up of her singing Christmas carols from a past album. She has a lovely voice, and I know loves the Lord. She listened for a moment and then said in a sad, "I'm over it" sort of voice. "Oh that was me when I could sing." Maybe not those exact words but that was the thought. Her words of passing on the "busy-ness" and self imposed expectations of Christmas were so telling. "Let's keep Christmas in our hearts each day, but just do Thanksgiving...twice." The older we get the more our hearts can hold the past. Sometimes we find ourselves in a place where "Christmas" isn't the same as in the past.

I know it's so easy to get worn out this time of year. (physically and mentally) I have it pretty easy. I've pared down. I guess what I'm trying to say is this. I know God loves our joy and adoration of the Christmas Season, and children in the house give us a chance to "present" Christmas in a special and magical way. Cooking and baking, attending parties, having a house full of friends and loved ones are all part of the enjoyment of Christmas. I'm trying to let God reveal Himself to me, and how to celebrate the birth of the Savior, individually.

This Christmas has been more low-key for me, and I'm focusing on the fact that the birth of Jesus, was in a "trying time" for the sweet young family. Tired and worn out, away from home, and stressed with the impending delivery, Mary and Joseph were out of their comfort zone, but let God direct them forward. Not really understanding all that they were about to be a part of or witness... The birth of the Savior, and God's Grand Plan in action.

Whatever you may be going through in life, may God's peace, comfort, joy, and strength surround you this Blessed Christmas.

love, in our precious Son of God,
Debra

Just "Do it"!

I remember many years ago when we were in a large church, our girls were young, still at home. We loved this church and it was the center of our lives; family, friends, and social activities included. We loved our pastor and the church; things were great. Then his sermons started becoming "weird". Each week they were judgmental and "fingerpointing". Full of condemnation and talk of God's punishment. Sunday morning in the sanctuary took on a dark, depressive and ominous vibe. It felt like the same sermon over and over, just in a new black package. "What's going on?" we all wondered, and in the meantime he started crumbling...

Fast forward 15 years...

Our older daughter started smoking when she went away to college. I know so many kids do. She started a habit she wasn't happy with, but enjoyed smoking. She knew God wanted her to stop but never actively pursued  the "doing it" part. She spoke to me about it several times and of course I encouraged her to stop. This was before my heart attacks and all of us knowing what kind of hereditary problems lay ahead. Week after week she'd mention it in her phone calls home. "What are you doing to stop?" I asked. "Nothing" she would say. Then one day she called me and said that each time she tried to pray or read her Bible that this stop smoking thing would come up again and she was tired of it. She wanted to speak to God about other matters, but there was a wall there in her prayer time, and she couldn't get past it.

God has been speaking to me for awhile about some of the vast number of medications that I've been taking. When you have cardiovascular disease then the doctors want to throw the whole medicine cabinet at you. Know what I'm saying? this and this, and oh yeah, better take this too. During the summer if you remember, I had to go on a lot more meds because of some sort of something that happened. Anyway, I found myself taking huge amounts of all kinds of stuff...hated it.

I've been better the last month or so and God has told me over and over, "Stop taking this". Then the fear factor set in. I wouldn't do it. I trusted God for my health, but still was hanging on. (These aren't the regular medications for my situation, but above and beyond with dosages that were scary.) Oh yeah, and have I mentioned that I have had some kind of full body rash going on that isn't contact dermatitis. yep, it was getting worse and worse.

OK, so then back in October we went to St. Louis for a long weekend. Well, guess what happened. I accidently left my medications at home. I made it fine, but then when I got home, started back on all the extras despite my knowing God was saying, "You don't need these anymore. Stop taking them." This is all that I was hearing. Each and every time I started to pray or read my Bible it was about these extra medications. I tried to dismiss it...didn't happen.

So then about 3 weeks ago I caught a cold and the rash stepped up into high gear. I got off  the extra medications because I knew I better start listening to what God was saying to me. Sometimes we forget that He sees the "big picture". He may be saying something needs to change because He sees down the road to what's coming. He wants what's best for us. He wants us to avoid something that might be coming if we don't listen. He gives us opportunity to let Him help us change. It's called "conviction". 

Why am I sharing all this? Because God has been insistent that I be transparent here in this blog. He wants me to share what's happening so that it might help someone else.

Is God speaking to you about something that needs to happen or change, and you've been dragging your feet? Has it gotten to the point that you feel the pressure of that decision constantly and either are afraid or reluctant? I'm telling you now that you will have to deal with it. Open up your heart and spirit and let God speak to you about what He's asking you to do. It may be a small thing, like giving up dessert, or maybe it's bigger, but whatever it is, let Him lead you into the change. He can do it, give Him control. He will walk you through whatever it is. He knows the future and the things He calls us to do are for a purpose.

The pastor in the first part of this post...? He was having an affair and God was asking him to stop and ask forgiveness. He didn't, and within a few horrible months the church was torn apart and He lost his ministry. His life went down in flames. We were not there to witness it, God had pulled us out.

My daughter finally gave God permission to help her stop smoking and she did. She and her husband no longer smoke. It wasn't particularly easy, but God gave them the grace and help they needed, to do it.

And  me? I had some blood tests taken last week, we'll see what's going on. I know that God knows. I'll keep you informed.


Ephesians 5:17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is.


James 1:22-25New American Standard Bible (NASB)

²² But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves.²³ For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his^[a]natural face in a mirror; ²⁴ for once he has looked at himself and gone away, ^[b]he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. ²⁵ But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but^[c]an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in ^[d]what he does.

       Love in Jesus,

Set Apart?

Last night my younger daughter and I had a "Girl's Night Out". The hubbs and son-in-law were out in the woods deer hunting so that means she and I get to have a night out just the two of us. When we're alone we always end up talking about spiritual things. She is a young woman who has such a close relationship with the Lord. She's had a lot to walk through in her 31 years, and it's brought great insight and love for her Heavenly Father. We covered many subjects but one thing that we discussed was the fact that none of us are currently attending church on a regular basis. OK, I said it. It's just a period of time that is "in between" and not one that I like to advertise because it can bring a lot of "heat". 


I'm all for belonging to a church or fellowship, wherever God leads, and that's the key. "Where God leads..." I'm going to get honest right now so buckle your seat belts as they say, it may be a bumpy ride. Please don't email me any sermons on the importance of church attendance. I know them all and I totally agree. So hopefully you'll just listen to what I'm saying without feeling the need to lecture me, fair enough?

I've been to a lot of churches in my time for one reason or another. I'm not here to discuss them all, I could write a book about all my experiences...good and bad. My point today is to be doing what God is calling you to at this time. I want to be about God's "business", and my prayer is to do what He asks; where and when. Right now, even though I'm totally open and agreeable to be in a church fellowship, we just have not been led to be there. Many reasons why. I'm not fooling myself on this subject. 


Having said all that, these passages in Luke 4 hold a lot of insight and "mystery" for me concerning this subject. 


Luke 4:1 "Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan (after being baptized) and was led by the Spirit in(to) the desert... and Luke 4:14 "Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit..."


Sometimes the Holy Spirit leads us in a time of separation. That may mean many things, but it's different with different people. Maybe God is calling us apart for preparation, for emotional healing, for physical reasons, or just to rest and be with Him. The thing I've learned over the years is not to say "Well, God just doesn't DO that". (in my best "Church Lady" voice) Judging how God works in our lives and the lives of others is a no no. God works with people in various ways, many times it's contrary to "popular opinion". So I've learned to "zip it". If I have a question about someone's experience I try to take it to the Lord for clarification instead.


I don't want to lose sight of the point of this post and that is the scripture from Luke. Jesus was "filled with the Spirit" after his baptism, and was led out for a time of separation, but when He returned He came back in the POWER of the Holy Spirit. Time apart, listening to God alone, can result in being empowered by the Holy Spirit.


So if God has you in a time of "separation" or you feel like you're in the wilderness, don't let the devil have a field day making you feel guilty. Isn't that funny, the devil doesn't want us in church, but if God is doing something "different" with us, then the enemy will use "guilt" instead. Just be with God every day. Ask for His leading and guidance. Ask for His plan to become clear and savor every moment you have with Him. Because we never know when things will change in life. Who knows... things might change tomorrow.


love in Jesus,
Debra

God is Above All Things

One of the amazing and wonderful things about God's Word, the Bible, is that it speaks to each one of us for whatever it is we are going through. We all have our different issues and problems, needs and desires. For one of us it's finances, another, our children, still another health or relationships...then again some of us have all of these things in our lives to deal with.  Right now the one that's on the "front burner" so to speak is my health. I know... it's been that way for awhile, but I know you can relate. Problems rarely are solved overnight, and sometimes God allows us to walk "through" for a while. Mine has been awhile.

I had a tough summer, but God has been doing some things for me and I'm feeling better pain-wise. (Thank you Lord!) I'm definitely giving Him credit, it wouldn't be happening without His hand on me. I was in a spiral down and it wasn't fun. Medication wasn't helping, and if I looked at the "big picture" of textbook diagnosis and prognosis, mine was crummy to say the least. 


But, with one thing, it always leads to another with God. He may let you sit for a little while, but then He's always there moving you forward once more, stretching your faith, and causing you to get uncomfortable in the place that He last left you. Do you understand what I'm saying? God isn't stagnant and He doesn't want us to be either. So we may have a victory and praise, but before you know it He's knocking on the door again asking us to step out of our comfort zone and go further down the "faith" road.


God sometimes plants me in a particular chapter in the scriptures and leaves me there. I may read something a dozen times before it starts to sink in. Has this happened to you? I go over and over and sometimes frustration happens before enlightenment. Then sometimes He shows me something ahead of time and I find myself realizing I need to pay attention for what's coming. Case in point. John, chapter three. I'm there alot.

What I've been reading over and over is John 3:31 "The one who comes from above is above all". Sounds simple enough to understand. But understanding and putting into practice are two different things. He's asking me to believe and act upon that statement. He's in control. He's the One who makes the decisions. He's the One who can bring the manifestation of healing when no one else can. He's the One that can transition you from head knowledge to actually doing what needs to be done. 


God gives promises and sometimes those promises seem distant and unattainable. Often times they are fraught with difficulty and ditches along the way. But a day comes when things start to change. I'm reminding myself to praise God along the way, and to keep moving forward. He will be there with me each step of the way.


I found this illustration today that says it all!

Wherever you might be in this circle, just let God keep moving you forward.

love in Jesus,

the daily walk

I just love it when God blesses you while you're walking your daily path. It just let's you know you're in the right place and His right timing. It shows He's interested in what we're doing in our daily lives.

Yesterday afternoon, I was at my friend Debra's Fall Open House at Inspirational Home, taking photos for my blog when someone said "hello" to me. I didn't think I had met her, so I walked over and asked if we'd met before. She at first from a distance thought I was the other Debra who owned the store, but when we started talking she realized that I wasn't. She is new to our town, from California, and didn't know many people. I mentioned that I had a blog and she stopped me saying, that she read my blog and knew who I was. She continued telling me that she'd been reading this blog also, and that God had put me on her heart to pray for. Talk about a God moment! What a blessing! We chatted for quite awhile, exchanged cards with phone numbers and email, then we had to have a hug, because it was so evident that this had been a God "setup"!

I used to be so intense when it came to seeking God's will; wanting to know what lies ahead, how to plan, having the future laid out...know what I mean? This last several years I've just asked God to not let me make mistakes in His plan for my life and to make sure I'm doing and being in the place I need to be.

How wonderful to have confirmation in the little things, knowing that each day if I follow God, seeking Him, He makes sure I'm on the path...you just never know who'll you'll meet!

love in Jesus,

Justified

This is a word that's in my head and spirit today. I woke up with the whisper of it in my ear.
"What do you need to say to me, Lord?" I asked.
Again the word came; this time with a thought that I needed to investigate.

Most days starts off fine. A little of this and that. A sit down with a cup of coffee and a blogging session that can sometimes last into the afternoon.  I have household things that need to be done; a load of clothes in the washer, kitchen dishes to be put away. My time is abundant, it's how I choose to use it. "Getting things done" can lead to time spent accomplishing everyday things, but neglecting the one thing that really is of the most importance in my life...my relationship with God, and His desire to work with me.

So what does the word "justification" have to do with what I've said here?

I have time alloted in life, as we all do. What are we as individuals doing that enhances our relationship with the Lord? On a daily basis, what are we doing with our "time" that counts in eternity? Reading daily Bible verses and  time spent praying for others? Although that's good, because praying for others enables the Holy Spirit to work in thier lives, but I'm talking about, what as individuals are we doing to enhance our own relationship with God?

It's about a time spent alone with Him when there's nothing "on the agenda". When it's about quality time, and yes, even quantity. Five minutes can be good, but even fifteen would be better.

Now, on to "justification". This is a word used in many circles to express and define our Christian experience of salvation. Our being made right in the eyes of the Lord. Our sin being paid for by Jesus Christ on the cross.

But the concept of what I'm feeling about "justification " in my spirit today is: How often are we concentrating on God Himself?  He longs to be with us and just see us face to face. Looking at our own loved ones faces brings us great joy. So as our Heavenly Father goes, He feels the exact same way with us. He longs just to spend some one-on-one time with us. I need to put away the prayers for my health, worries about the future, etc. and just concentrate on Him.

By having this alone time with Him, I'm justified , and made right, in His presence. Spending time with Him is what He longs for. Deuteronomy 4:24 says, "For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God." Not jealous in a negative way, but as in strongly desiring our attention. Just like a lover who wants to be with His beloved. In His presence leave the place of our daily "existence" and get away with Him for a moment. It provides the plan for our lives. Just being in His presence enables us to refill and recharge, to receive revelation, and find security in His arms. How to do this? Just ask Him, He wants to show us. Christian music, maybe just quiet and solitude; an open Bible and an open heart.

He's able to take care of all our needs and give us the desires of our heart. He's just reminding me that I need to focus on Him, and let Him become one of my great desires.

love in Jesus,

(If this seems a little "ramble-y" it's because this came straight from my spirit, from God's heart to mine. When He's talking I try not to change much. He loves to communicates with us, just try having a pen and paper with you when you are with Him. Let Him share His thoughts with you.)

I've been thinking...

Yes, I know that can be a dangerous thing for some of us.

Just wanted you to know that I'm still here. I've been thinking about things that have been going on with my life and in my spirit...wanting to talk about some of the things that God has been showing me in these last few months. I've been contemplating the last nine years of my life; trying to make sense of it in the spiritual realm.

I have a tendency to "overthink" sometimes, especially on weighty subjects. And there have been two weighty subjects in my life throughout this time that seemingly contradict themselves. A call to ministry in regard to healing, and then the fact that I was about wiped out with heart disease. It would be easy for me to just feel like they cancel each other out, but God won't let me go there.

I've been thru every emotion under the sun in this last few months, but I haven't given up on getting out of the place I seemingly am stuck in health wise, or the fact that no matter how hard I want to quietly slip away from posting here, God will have none of it.

Playing house at my other blog has given me a distraction. Painting furniture, rearranging things, sewing, having linky parties; God has all approved and basically said, "Go ahead, have some fun, then come back here when I say so."  ...so I'm back...

My husband and I talk alot, he's my best friend, and good thing too. Otherwise living with me might not be such a picnic. God has put something in him that I can only call divine love for me. We've had alot of ups and downs in 38 years of marriage. (Who can be married and not have some ups and downs?) He's a good listener, and always processes what I need to share. I can complain and fuss and whine, and he's always there to pray for me and encourage me. He helps me sort things out and sift thru the junk in my life.

OK, so here's the jest of this post.

I still believe in healing. I have a long history with the Lord on this, so it ain't changin' or going away.
(I know not all of you have this same belief, but God has settled this with me many years ago, so even though I respect your opinion, please don't try to change mine.)
I've done everything I can "do" to show the Lord I mean business. Below are just a few things that God has given me over the many years I've been here.

I've read every book on healing from founding spiritual fathers to current ministries.
I've taken communion every day, as I know that we do this in remembrance of what Jesus has done for us.
I've looked up every scripture on healing and taken it to the Lord in prayer.
I've rebuked the enemy.
I've submitted myself to the Lord.
I've done extensive evaluation led by the Holy Spirit to reveal to me things in my life that I have needed to turn over and let God deal with.
I've forgiven every one who ever did something against me, and I've asked forgiveness of those that I may have harmed.

the list goes on...

you get my drift?

I have faith in God for His will to be done.
I'm believing and standing on the promises.
I'm there.

So when I went back to the Lord this last week about ,
"Is there something I haven't done?,
 Is there something you want from me?
Why is this still continuing?"

I received an answer...
"wait, and call it done."

All the good things that teach us and grow us and reveal God's Word to us can become "works" if we aren't careful.

God knows our heart.
He knows our faith.
He wants us to trust Him.

Then we wait...

love in Jesus,

For Today...

For an update on life as I'm living it, please come visit me at my "other blog",

Common Ground

Still Hangin' In...

I'm still here, I don't know too much other than I've had my medications upped. An improvement in the amount of chest pain I'm having. The medication is handling it, but without it, I'm not functioning too well. So a new beta blocker (slows down the heart pumping action, and keeps blood pressure down) and increased vessel expanders and I'm doing day to day things. I can't carry anything of much weight, but my energy level is still pretty good. I go back to my cardiologist the middle of June, and of course the stand-by option of heading to the emergency room if things take a change for the worse.

To look at me you wouldn't know that I'm having problems. It's always been this way. I don't like to be "down and out" about my health. I'm slowing down on my antique business, having left one store, so now I'm just in one place with several booths. Right now I'm focusing on selling what I have, cleaning out my stashes of "stuff" inside and in the garage, and simplifying life in general.

I love you all and I'm hoping to be back to this soon. I'm taking things day-by-day and I will post when the Holy Spirit gives me the "word" to share. Thank you for all your prayers, and good thoughts. I'm confident in God's healing power and great love, so I'm not in dispair or frightened for my life. Just waiting and listening and thankful that He's there.

love in Jesus,
Debra

What's going on...

I've been putting off this post for awhile, but I just need to let you know that I'm going to take a little time off from this blog. My posts have been fewer and fewer and that's because I've been having more physical issues with my heart. I'm at a place right now where I just want to "listen" to what God is saying to me. I have lots of things going on in my head and spirit, but I just want to "be quiet" while I'll be seeing what's happening with my health.

For those of you who don't know, (many of you do that have been with me for awhile) I have a hereditary type of Cardiovascular Disease. My dad had it, and my brother died at age 44. I had a triple bypass at the age of 49 when I was healthy, energetic, and strong. It didn't have anything to do with my diet, or exercise.  I don't like talking about it because I don't want it to "define me".

Anyway, the point is that I've been feeling generally crummy, and I have a cardiologist appointment tomorrow. I'm hoping meds can take care of what I'm going through. But the one thing I do know is that I'm trusting God for the outcome.

I'll let you know what's going on, and in the between time I would appreciate your prayers so very much.

love you all,
in Jesus,
Debra

What I'm Reading...

Hey Everyone! Several of you have asked about the book I am reading. It's been slow going, and I didn't want to endorse a book that I hadn't read yet, but I'm enough into it to feel comfortable sharing it with you.

The name is  The Big Why by Walter Hallam. It is about his life and his questions after his young daughter was killed in a plane crash. She was only 17 or 18, and was in ministry and college. Such a painful and sensitive subject. He had several encounters with Jesus explaining to him the reasons these kind of things can happen. An untimely death of a child can be life shattering.

As I said, I'm taking my time, because there is a lot of real revelation and thought pondering statements that I am letting sink in. I think the evidence of a Holy Spirit inspired book, is that it not only covers the subject matter well, but speaks to our heart and spirit about other needs. Quite a few statements have given me alot to ponder and pray over. I may share some of with you soon.

(The above link takes you to his church website, but it can also be purchased on Amazon. com.)

Am I willing...?

It seems as if I've been somewhat deliquent, in that I haven't had a new post since before Easter. Maybe deliquent isn't the right word, but in reality, God has been leading me back to something that I haven't done for a while,  and that is reading. "Reading" you may ask...? Since I started blogging I let slide something that I really enjoyed and it was a place where the Holy Spirit would really speak to me and that was in reading spiritual books.

I've taken a lot of heat for this next statement, but it's one I stand on. Not only because God asked me to do this, but I also know that it's best; at least best for me. And that is not reading secular books or fiction. I told God about 16 years ago that I knew I was spending more time reading books than I was with Him. Not only the time factor, but that whatever I was reading would literally "take me over". The characters became friends, and the subject matter and frame of reference of the author permeated my mind. It was addictive, plain and simple. Today, I'm not talking about choice of reading matierial, but about listening to what God is saying for your everyday life.

So...I've been reading "God Books" again. (My older daughter used to refer to my mom's religious book collection in that way) Funny, it was my husband who purchased this current book. He had heard this pastor speak on the radio, and was curious about the book. You'd have to know my husband to understand the rarity of this. He works 6 days a week most weeks. Usually 11 hour days. Reading isn't really on his agenda, so when this book arrived I realized it was going to be up to me to read it then share it with my hubbs.

Today I just want to share a thought that made me realize I needed to get back to this, and that was in the book of Ephesians, chapter 5, verse17:

"Don't be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is."

 Pretty simple and straightforward, huh?

Do you ever feel the nudging of the Holy Spirit, many times over and over, yet you resist doing what He is asking? Maybe you don't even know what He might be asking, but you just resist the thought of finding out what it might be. Been there, done that.

You know, God isn't going to beg you to do anything. He comes to us and asks if we would be willing. He leaves it open for us to respond. You've heard the saying that The Holy Spirit is a "gentleman", and it's so true. He doesn't slap us upside the head, well, not usually, but sometimes He does goes "out of His way" to get our attention. He takes His time as a rule and waits for us. Something that has settled in to my spirit is just to ask the Father, "What is your will?" Today, tomorrow, long term... It doesn't have to be a huge deal, earth changing, or even life changing. Sometimes He just has a plan for us that we might not be seeking. I don't want to miss what God has for me because I'm "too busy" doing other things. I don't want to miss a word from Him, or a blessing, or even a task He has for me.

How about asking, "What's your will, Father?" 
Are you willing?

love in Jesus,
Debra

In His Timing

In  the book of John, chapters 13-17 are all written concerning what took place, and the conversations Jesus had with His disciples, at what we refer to as the Last Supper. It was Passover, and they had gathered in Jerusalem, together to celebrate, and in reality it was their last meal together before Jesus was arrested and crucified.

As I read John Chapter 16 the phrase "a little while" kept jumping out at me.

John 16:17-18

17.Some of His disciples then said to one another, "What is this thing He is telling us, 'A little while, and you will not see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me'; and, 'because I go to the Father'?"
18.So they were saying, "What is this that He says, 'A little while'? We do not know what He is talking about."

Jesus was trying to explain to his disciples that the time was upon them for His death. Even though Jesus had talked to them about it before, they really didn't want to believe it. They just couldn't imagine Jesus leaving this earth in what they felt like would be a defeated way. They didn't understand that His plan was not to "take over the government and kingship" of Israel. They wanted a new world order and even though they knew Jesus was God's Son and the Messiah, they also wanted Him to be an earthly King. Solve all their problems here on earth in their lifetime and make right all the injustices of their existence.

John 16:33
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Their timing was off. The Old Testament refers to a time when Jesus will rule, but it was just not at that time. I think a lot of us get our timing off. I know I have...way off. Things I know God has spoken to me have not yet come to pass. Have I given up? No...it's just not the right time yet.

Jesus says that we will have trouble, and we do. Illness, death, upset, disappointments...we all experience them. But the key here is to realize that in the end we will overcome.

2 Corinthians 4:7-8, 16-18

7. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing greatness of the power may be of God and not from ourselves; 8. [we are] afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; 9. persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed;... 16. Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. 17. For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, 18. while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.

The Holy Spirit directed me to these passages today. Are you needing to see God's timing come to pass? Are you like me and need Him to step in and "make things right"? I think many of us are. I think He's reminding us today as we walk through the week before Easter, that He knows the right time to bring things to pass. What may look like a huge disappointment; something that just cannot be "fixed" or made right to us; He is in control of. He knows the days and times. He knows our needs and desires. He doesn't leave us alone. He's there; working it out. What we see with our own two eyes in the "natural", He has His hand on in the "supernatural".

I know His disciples were devastated at His crucifixion. How could it be that He let this happen, when He, Jesus, had the power to make it different. They just didn't understand the timing...it was to be "a little while" then it would all be clear. Jesus' death on the cross made it possible for our salvation; all mankind's salvation. Otherwise that would not be possible.

What we see now is temporary; what we cannot see is eternal.

Thank you, Jesus, that you are teaching us to walk, not by sight, but by faith.

love in Jesus,
Have a blessed Easter,
Debra

Running in the "Grace" Lane

In life we have many races, but none more important than that of our Christian faith and experience. Our race is not TO salvation, but IN salvation. We continuously put one foot in front of the other; sometimes it's a sprint, other times it's a relay, but always a marathon. It starts at our salvation experience and ends when we come face to face with our Heavenly Father. How are we running that race?

Galatians 5:7,18, 25
"You were running a good race. Who cut in on you, and kept you from obeying the truth? That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you...But if you are led by the Spirit you are not under the law...Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit."

Our writer of Galatians, Paul, frequently used analogies of physical activities, and as the people of this time were familiar with the Greek culture of athletics and races, they understood what Paul was speaking of.

Philippians 3:12-14
12. Not that I have already obtained [it], or have already become perfect, but I press on in order that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. 13. Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of [it] yet; but one thing [I do]: forgetting what [lies] behind and reaching forward to what [lies] ahead, 14. I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

So now we understand that this is a race for the believer; one who believes in and personally knows Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Each day we run. We may not seemingly do anything of "spiritual" value or consequence, but each day we are moving forward, hopefully led by the Holy Spirit. Our attitudes, actions, and beliefs are all part of that race.

What happens when we step on a piece of loose gravel, have a leg cramp, or get distracted by someone in the stands? Do we whine and groan, fall over and give up...or do we keep going? Maybe we have to slow down our pace or tend to an injury, but most important, we cannot give up. Are there hurdles that you didn't see to the last minute...someone else who is down and you lend a helping hand to get them back on track?

Maybe you're lacking stamina and you need to run "in tandem" with another runner for awhile to keep up the pace. Life is like a race. It may not be easy. It may be long, and it may be tiring. One thing for sure is that there is reward in the end. Our salvation race does have a finish line, and at the end, the one who hands us the prize and congratulates us is Jesus Himself.


The Galatian Christians were given the Gospel by Paul years before. They were running a good race, but the Judiazers we not only heckling them from the sidelines, they came out onto the field and were blocking their way. The Judiazers were giving them wrong information about their salvation. Sort of like someone standing in the middle of the lanes that directed the runners off course. And if you get off course in a race you can be disqualified. Wrong information can cause us to not only lose momentum it can keep us off balance and cause us to stumble.


If you haven't read the previous posts here from Galatians, why don't you take some time to find the backstory of the Galatians. They had been told that their belief in Jesus Christ as Savior wasn't enough. These were non-Jewish believers that had been hijacked into believing that salvation came through keeping the Jewish laws and customs. Jesus came to bring Freedom and to release us from captivity of the bondage of rules and regulations that the Jews had based their salvation upon.

Galatians 5:1
It is for Freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.

Freedom from condemnation under the Old Testament Law. Freedom to know Jesus personally. Freedom to live our lives to the fullest without fear. Freedom in mind and heart. Freedom in the Spirit, that our spirit may run fast and strong, not giving up; looking ahead and seeing Jesus at the finish line, arms open and smiling wide. Run in the "Grace" lane.

Where are you in the race?


love in Jesus,
Debra

Waiting for Isaac

Reading scripture has a tendency to get personal. What happened to certain individuals over a thousand years ago can work it's way into our present day hearts and minds. People in the Bible aren't just "stories" or legends. They led lives similar to our own. Hopefully, the lessons they learned the hard way can help us from making those same mistakes. Most probably though, we have to make our own, to really grasp the concept. 

Over the last few weeks I've been "marinating". I am still in Galatians, even though I haven't done a post from that book in a little while. I don't want to leave Galatians until I share a few more things. Important things. The whole book of Galatians really speaks to us about our freedom. Freedom that is found in our relationship with Christ, versus the bondage that the Jewish people had lived in for thousands of years.

Galatians 4:21-23
21. Tell me, you who want to be under law, do you not listen to the law? 22. For it is written that Abraham had two sons, one by the bondwoman and one by the free woman. 23. But the son by the bondwoman was born according to the flesh, and the son by the free woman through the promise. 
 
 

(photo from a book cover by Andrew Murray entitled Waiting On God)

Genesis Chapters 18-21
(Background Scripture)
 
Let me give you the abbreviated version:
 
God called Abram out of a country that was full of idol worshippers, He asked him to take his family to a place as yet undisclosed. Abram and his wife, Sarai, had no children and they were advancing in age. Sarai was beyond childbearing years and because of that they didn't have much hope even though God had promised them an heir and son.
 
After years of waiting, with no child, Sarah and Abraham (as they were renamed by God), decided to take matters into their own hands and use a handmaid to be a surrogate. The child would be Abraham's, but not Sarah's. So this was done without the consent of God. They had been told to believe and wait for their own child, but they did not. Let me state, this isn't a discussion on surrogacy in modern times, or adoption, but about listening for God's specific plan for your life. This goes beyond birthing children, and entails any subject that we have been praying and waiting for God to move in.
 
So Ishmael was born and the trouble started. There was bickering, jealousy, manipulation, disruption...you get the picture. Sarah who thought she was doing herself and her husband a favor created a situation that God did not ordain nor desire. Then "in the fullness of time" as they like to say, i.e. God's timing; Sarah herself miraculously conceived a son and delivered him.
 
Happy ever after...?
ah, ...no.
 
If you think there was trouble before Isaac's birth, it only got worse as time went on.
 
Can we see the "moral of the story"? If God tells you something, believe and wait. Don't get anxious and go try to make things happen yourself. Don't put together Plan B since it looks like Plan A is a washout.
 
How many times have we been guilty of this? Don't think I can count the times...
 
And then the result becomes such a huge mess.We are hurting and we hurt other people. Why didn't I wait? Why didn't I have the faith and stamina to believe what God has said, and stick it out.
 
The good news?
 
God forgives our sin, and has the power to bring change, even when we are at fault. He can take ANY situation and make it better. He's good like that. It doesn't mean that there might not be consequences, but even then, He still knows how to bring good out of a bad situation.
 
So do you have areas of your life that you've taken control of yourself? Areas and situations where you've prayed but seen nothing happen. Situations where you decided it was time to do it yourself because you were tired of waiting for God's promise?
 
Just get before God and ask Him to take over. Admit that you've not followed His direction, and that you are handing it back over to Him. He'll take it. And the pressure will be off you. This is God's Grace. He is totally able. We don't need to "work" to make things happen, not even our salvation.
 
Thank You Father, that you are the One who knows our hearts and minds; who sees our faults and comes to our rescue.
 
Amen.

What's Next

This blog seems to have morphed a little lately. I have been unsure of where I've been going, and what I'm supposed to be doing. I know you all have been hearing that, but I just have to keep it real. I'm not good at putting on a show of things being "hunky dory" when in reality I'm at loose ends.

If you all read my "other blog" Common Ground, then you know a little more about me. I love antiques and the whole flea market/antique mall scene. That's how I got in to blogging in the first place. Buying and selling antiques has been something I've really enjoyed for the last 5 or 6 years; well, really my whole life.

I'm not a good multi-tasker, I'm more of a focused individual preferring to concentrate on one subject at a time. If I'm not careful I can wander around all day not accomplishing anything, so I  have to try to stick to one thing and see some progress. Being focused on one thing can be a problem at times, and in the big picture of life, this little business of buying and selling antiques can be pretty dominating of your time and energy. Anything you really enjoy can have a tendency to "take over", but if it's a business, then whoa, watch out!

I've been saying for awhile how I knew things were transitioning, and recently I've had some feelings and thoughts sort of take shape. I've been praying for guidance on what I'm supposed to be doing with my life and for months I've been stewing over what that might be. Well, seemingly overnight I received an answer. Was it the answer I thought?... no way!

For a little more backstory, having been in the antique business for awhile, I've collected lots of stuff. lots and lots of stuff. I love stuff. I'm not a real "materialistic" person, but I just enjoy old things. And my house and garage are proof. I've asked God in a nice way if He would help me get a handle on paring down my "stuff" and organizing not only my house and garage, but my life. So guess what? The direction that He's put me on isn't what I thought it would be, but one that needs to be dealt with first; some things that have taken a back seat, that now over the last several months I see need to be "cleaned up".

When I thought I might just need to call "the junk man" to come and take everything away, God is now given me the concept of doing myself. In some ways it would be easy just to haul it all out to the street and wave goodbye, but for me I'm taking some personal responsibility to get things in order; find balance; and let go. I've learned in life that God does different things with different people. He knows our strengths and weaknesses. Living life is really just letting God be in charge of things, allowing Him to work on us; molding, shaping and transforming us. I'm the kind of person that likes instant change, to cut through the junk and "getter done". God doesn't always work that way.

So I have some direction right now; not what I thought, but evidently what I need. Posts have been sparse, but I'm still here. Hope you don't mind a little of this head clearing, cathartic type of post sometimes. I know the things I go through, you all do too; at one time or another.

So to get where we're going sometimes is a lengthy process. Putting one foot in front of the other. Listening to the Spirit. Waiting. Being open and available to Him, and yes, putting on the work gloves and getting busy on first things first.

What kind of "junk" do you have in your life... physical or spiritual?

love in Jesus,
Debra

Love Never Fails

Today is Valentine's Day. A day we think of our sweethearts...spouses, loved ones, children. But to really know about love and what it really is, we need to go to the source.

http://web.mac.com/morg24/HiscreationsToday/Verses.html#12

When we are children most of what we know about love comes from, and is directed to, our parents. The needs we have for security, affection, and belonging are found within the family setting. Learning about how to love usually comes from what we learn from our parents example.

I know when I was newly married I thought, that I really loved my young, handsome, husband. When I had my children, I learned about a whole new kind of love. Maternal feelings of love and protection that I really never knew existed, welled up when I held those tiny babies. Love encompasses many relationships, each one different. Love grows, matures, endures, and changes us.

We know that there are four main types of love:

Phileo which is what is usually termed "brotherly love", but is a term for friendship and affection that often requires love and respect to be reciprocated.

Storge which refers to love that is within a family.

Eros which refers to the intimate relationship between lovers, romantic love or "lust".

Agape is the love that defines how God loves us; unconditional

I remember when God first started asking me to pray for other people. I looked at it as something that I should do as a Christian; sort of a responsibility. I was young, had lot's to do, my own family to take care of. With all that I had going on, praying for the needs of others just didn't have a lot of priority. Praying for my own family's needs was all I could manage to get around to, and sometimes I didn't even get that accomplished.

God was asking me to love other people. LOVE other people. Not on a surface level, or with "lip service", but to really regard them as my own self. Put their needs up there at the top of the list. I didn't think I could do that. I had to admit to God one day, that I just really didn't LOVE other people. And with that admission, I knew that deep down inside I didn't really love God the way I should love Him, either.

Pretty hard and harsh reality. This is where God and who He is comes in. God isn't just about love, or that He loves us, it's the fact that He truly is LOVE. God IS Love, and without being inspired by Him and knowing Him we can't ever really get there. He is the author and the finisher. The Alpha and Omega.  He IS Love.

Version: NAS

1 Corinthians 13:4-8

4. Love is patient, love is kind, [and] is not jealous; love does not brag [and] is not arrogant, 5. does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong [suffered], 6. does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; 7. bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8. Love never fails...

Things have been unsettled in my spirit lately. I can't really pin it down, but being in transition. Transition in that I'm on the path, but don't really know the destination. Moving forward, but with my eyes and ears open. I'm listening to the voice of the Father. The scripture about walking by faith, not by sight has been in my head recently.

Walking the path isn't always easy, I'm looking for the roadmap but it's not very clear. I've asked God to not let me make mistakes; costly mistakes that come from being unavailable to Him. "Don't let me fail You, Lord." That's been my desire. "Don't let me fail You. I'm counting on You. I can't do this by myself."
And then I heard His Voice.
"Love Never Fails."
He will never fail us.

love, in Jesus,
Debra

No time like the present...

I want to share a little "thing" going on in my life that happened last week. It's about relationships, friendships, seasons, hearing God's voice...and change.

For the last several months I've been talking about knowing in my spirit; my gut, that things are changing. I'm walking into a new season even if I don't know exactly where that will be. I think we all can feel it when change is around the corner. God starts giving us nuances. They can be feelings, "intuition", emotions, changes in circumstances, etc. Many times it happens in others first, and we're the last to know. You know what I'm talking about. A situation that was good becomes overwhelming, boring, tiresome, too time consuming...as we say in "Christianspeak" the anointing comes off. Any number of emotions and feelings can accompany it. I've had this happen with many situations; God inspired situations, that unbeknownst to me, become out of God's plan or timing. Sort of reminds me of High School dating. One month you're infatuated with the guy sitting next to you in chemistry, the next month you can't get away from him fast enough. Nothing changed on the outside. He's still a great guy, but God leads you in another direction.

So, now to the case in point. First let me tell you that no one did anything "wrong"; it involves a friendship with a "business partner". We're not extremely close, but still good friends. We don't pick up the phone and call each other in the middle of the night to chit chat over a problem, but we enjoy the same design style and "get each other" in that area. We've known each other several years, can have a great laugh, share how God is working, and enjoy each other's company.

People come with all kinds of approaches to life. I'm one that likes to be forthright and upfront. I like to talk things through and know where everyone "is coming from". Pretty transparent. That's just me. I like that in friendships, and business relationships...any kind of "ship". I don't like surprises. I want all the cards on the table, so to speak. I like to know what others are thinking, especially when it has to do with a mutual situation or circumstance. I understand that not everyone is like me. (Actually this trait really annoys some people) Some people like to really get something totally thought out and concrete before it's made "public"...nothing wrong with that...it's just not who I am.

Now back to how God works in people and situations to accomplish His will.

I've known for a while that with having several blogs that my time is pretty much consumed with keeping them current. God led me into them. He set them up and put them together. But at the same time I didn't have time to do the same amount of Bible Study that I had done previously. I've been in a season of making connections through the web, and blogging; meeting wonderful people and having a forum for creativity and expression. Writing, photography (wow, I love this part; who knew???), visiting new places, making friendships etc. But at the same time my "God time" has diminished slightly. I've been in a season.

God doesn't always make things easy for us. Change can be uncomfortable. (Hey, didn't I just say that on my last post or two?) Sometimes He allows things that cause us to have to make decisions; difficult decisions, that require us to rethink priorities, be open to a new outlook, let go of some things. He shuts doors sometimes, and sometimes in those doors shutting our toes get stubbed and our noses get out of joint.

I won't go into detail here, because this situation involves a friend, like I said. We've talked through the outcome of this particular change and are still good friends. We still have a "business relationship", but God has some different things for each of us to do. The key here is that even though it had the potential to end our friendship, God gave us each grace to talk things out and realize that He indeed was calling each of us to do something different. Like I said, change can be devastating if you don't allow God to be in control of all aspects of it. Being led by the Spirit involves listening to Him, allowing Him to give us correct words, attitudes, and the freedom to lead us even when we are like stubborn little mules; angry, mouthy, stubborn little mules. I can be that at times.

So the result is even though I was pushed kicking and screaming through the door of God's plan, I did end up on the other side. He has reminded me that I'm not always right, other people have a say in a relationship, and that I can't always "fix" things. Sometimes things just need to change.

Getting to where God is leading us is not a destination, it's a process. Everyday being available to God. Doing what He asks, and realizing there's a bigger picture out there than what we might be able to see from our current vantage point. Ultimately it took following my own advice from last week. I had to ask God point blank, "is this a goal you want for me, or is this just something I want?" And guess what...He told me.

So, it wasn't the easiest weekend. But now I'm moving forward, one more step in the process to what's coming next.

love, in Jesus,
Debra

Setting Godly Goals

As the new year changed a lot of us were talking about, of course...New Year's Resolutions. And a resolution really is just a desire to attain a goal. Every January it gives me a reason to contemplate, not only my goals, but maybe ask God, "What kind of goals do YOU have for me?"

We all have desires in life, which can sometimes become goals, but every time I have a desire that persists, I have to be ready to submit that to God and ask "Is this really something you want for me, or is this something that I just want?" There isn't anything wrong with wanting and desiring things and situations, but before we jump on board the "Goal Train" I think it's best to view it in light of scripture and God's Word.

Without trying to be uber-spiritual here, I think we honestly have to know that God's desire foremost is for us to know Him as Our Heavenly Father and Savior. Then after that, He desires we "become like Jesus". OK, OK, I know that's impossible for us as human beings, but that should be our desire...to become as much like Jesus as possible. Prayer, Bible Study, just plain contemplating God and His Word gets us in that place of being "transformed".

Romans 12:1-2
1. Therefore, I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.
2. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what God's will is...His good, pleasing, and perfect will.

And then allowing the Holy Spirit to change and transforms us results in a more Christ-like life.

Galatians 5:22
And the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

Please don't let anyone tell you that God doesn't care about where you live, where you work, who you hang out with, or who you marry. That's a way to walk in our own desires. These are all decisions that effect our daily walk, and ultimately our destiny. Just know God has good plans for your life and that He cares about all the details.

I want to share a link with you to a great blog, written and lived by a great, godly gal named Julie Gillies. Some of you may read her (she's on my sidebar). Julie always has timely and great wisdom she shares. I'm going to capsulize a little of what she said, and then I'm going to ask you to go visit her for a more in depth look at making Godly Goals.

How to Pray When You're Setting Goals

1. Allow time for prayerful reflection.
2. Ask for clarity and direction.
3. Ask Him to shape your thoughts
4. Ask for pure motives
5. Ask God to show you the gifts He wants you to use.
6. Ask God to help you prioritize
7. Give yourself a break.


http://www.juliegillies.com/2011/01/how-to-pray-when-youre-setting-goals.html

I'm inviting you to go visit Julie and read this post, it's so on target for giving God the opportunity to instill His desires into our hearts.

I'd love to hear about the goals that you feel God is speaking to you about, and how those are translating into new decision making for 2011!

love, in Jesus,
Debra

Not my will, but God's...

I feel like today I need to share some thoughts with you all. I like transparency in people, myself included. I never want to come off as "holier than thou". Gosh, I REALLY hate that. I can't stand duplicity, deceit, fake, or put on. I do try to put my "best foot forward", but I don't want to try to be something or someone I'm not. I'm not a goody-goody by any stretch of the imagination. I have a lot of flaws. Anyone who thinks they have "arrived" has a big wake up call coming. So often I think we feel isolated, like we're the only ones going through things or dealing with issues. When we can admit, "This is me, and this is what I'm dealing with." then it's easier to let God speak to us, work on the situation and then move forward, with Him.

 So... just sharing today.

I've been in a comfort zone for the last year or so; and to tell you the truth, it's felt pretty good. Not many demands, no one telling me what to do. I get to choose what I do with my time. Not much stress. ( I have a wonderful, godly, loving, supportive husband!) Like I said, it's felt pretty good. Now I'm entering in to a new season where I'm hearing God say that things are changing and honestly it's scary. Yep, I said it. Not scary in that I'm terrified of what God has coming, just scary in the fact that I don't know how well I will physically or mentally adapt to whatever challenge God has coming. I need to switch off the "auto pilot" in my life.

I've reached the age and time in my life where I don't make New Year's resolutions. Not a good track record here. I believe in goals in life, but they have to be "Godly Goals". And to even get to the place where we can have a godly goal, I think we need to be in a place of submission to our Heavenly Father.

The last ten years or so, I've seen what looks to be the fact that all my Godly Goals have crashed and burned along the road of life so to speak. My great desires to work for God have been set aside as I've tried to just wake up every day and put one foot in front of the other. (Yes, those goals and desires were totally put there by God. They weren't something I just dreamed up.)  Living with a medical condition like I have (hereditary cardiovascular disease) is iffy at best. Yuck, I even hate saying it. It sounds old and morbid and defeating. Even though I totally trust God, sometimes I get a little cranky about it and don't mind telling God. Sorry, not a "saint" wannabe here. I believe in healing; that is what God first started teaching me about. My first revelations from God were concerning His desire for us to be healed and whole. The Greek word Sozo, means complete; nothing missing, nothing broken.

So, I believe that while I'm trusting for physical healing, and then moving forward into whatever God has in store, I'm leaning and relying on God to be in control. I'm not in the school of thought that says "suffering for Jesus" means our physical health. That word "suffering" means persecution. Don't want to go there right now, so in great love, please don't tell me it's Gods will for me to be sick. I believe it's God's will for me to be what He's calling me to be, in whatever situation, and place, and season He has me in.

One of my favorite passages about healing and trusting God is found in Luke 17:11-19 (New American Standard Bible)

Ten Lepers Cleansed 
While He (Jesus) was on the way to Jerusalem, He was passing between Samaria and Galilee. As He entered a village, ten leprous men who stood at a distance met Him; and they raised their voices, saying, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!" When He saw them, He said to them, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they were going, they were cleansed. Now one of them, when he saw that he had been healed, turned back, glorifying God with a loud voice, and he fell on his face at His feet, giving thanks to Him. And he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus answered and said, "Were there not ten cleansed? But the nine--where are they? "Was no one found who returned to give glory to God, except this foreigner?" And He said to him, "Stand up and go; your faith [a]has made you well."


I feel like this passage talks about more than just healing. Whatever we are experiencing at the time will be worked out to God's glory if we move forward in faith to step out into whatever God is asking us to do.

Last week I shared a phrase that God put in my heart: "the united state of prayer". When we get into that place of submission to God, we are united in agreement with Him. We're in a place of listening, believing and submitting to His will for our lives. Then He can speak to us. He can present His will and plan to us in a way that we don't run away or refuse it.

In all this, I guess I'm saying that I, Me, We all need to be in a place of submission to whatever God is wanting to do in our lives. Being in a place of stubbornness, hardness of heart, and inflexibility doesn't get us anywhere with God. He loves us and He won't hit us over the head, but it just might keep us from moving forward into God's good plan for our life. And personally, however uncomfortable that might be at this moment, I don't want to miss it. And I don't want you to miss it either! 

Next time, Godly Goals and a link to a great blog.
 
love in Jesus,
Debra