New Year, New Word

I guess I'm a few days late to be having a "New Year's" post. I've read about many blog individual's "word" for this new year,(joy, balance, freedom, etc.) and I can say that I've been feeling the word more than I've been thinking about one particular word. I don't think it's coincidence that as human beings we feel the need to start fresh in the new year. God has seasons and times, and even though His "nature" doesn't change, He does change things up for all of us that know Him.

Last week a blogging friend of mine seemingly called out of the blue. She said she was heading down my direction and would I be available to get together to meet over lunch and maybe do some shopping, aka junking, antiquing, digging, etc. I was thrilled to hear from her and immediately knew that there was more to this plan than either of us might know at the time. No hotels for her. She would stay here at my house.

We sat and talked for hours, first; About our lives, our past, our children, our marriages, and our relationship with God. The more we talked the more we found we had in common, and then God really started moving and we realized that there had been a reason for us to meet. God was giving each of us a word that our lives will be changing. New direction, new opportunities, new partnerships. Through prayer and listening for God's voice we received a mutual direction for our year, and that was that God was taking a calling that had been on our lives; to "take up the mantle", and "reactivate" it.

He has a separate path for us, (hmmm...I'm beginning to think twice about this statement. God may have some surprises up His sleeve!), but one very similar. We are close in age, have married children, are fiercely independent, and each in a place in our spiritual life that we trust God's heart and direction for our lives.

God brought us together to confirm a work He is about to set into place for each of us. If you've been reading this blog for awhile you know that God placed a"call" in me about ten or eleven years ago. I had embarked on His path when suddenly and without warning, I had three major heart attacks and surgery that have literally sidelined me. For years God has asked me to do other things, but that tug has never gone away. Back in October I wrote a post totally directed by God that acknowledged and identified that.

So, now to the nitty gritty. I feel like things are changing with this little Bible Study Blog. I'm not sure how exactly. I've felt a need to re-read and re-study some of the posts that I did last year. As I've read them they have seemed completely new to me. I've come away refreshed and with a new outlook and understanding. That's the great thing about God's Word; it's always new and enlightening. It's living water that refreshes our spirit.

So what I think I'm doing is reposting more of the lessons that God gave me last year. A year ago, God had me writing and posting every day...long in-depth posts. So I'm going to take some of that material and look at it again. I'll be adding some real time comments at the end. If you've been with me for awhile you might have missed some of these. But many of you are new, so join in and we'll take a fresh look. Be sure and comment as the Holy Spirit directs you. I'm still here. Just in a time of prayerful review; listening to what God says will be coming.

I heard a phrase in my spirit a few mornings ago.
 "the united state of prayer".
till next time...

love, in Jesus,
Debra

The Mary Series: Life isn't easy

(originally published November 11, 2009)

Remember the song, "I Never Promised You A Rose Garden"? Ouch 1973.

As I have studied and prayed over this passage in Luke 1 concerning the angel's announcement to Mary of her favor with God, and then the plan that is put before her, I get the feeling poor little Mary must have been one frightened little gal. The angel made a point to say "Fear not" to her. If I was met with a large spiritual being while I was making my bed, or doing the dishes, I would have to say that I definitely would be a little surprised and a lot nervous. But more than just for the momentary excitement, I think the angel needed to let Mary know that what he was about to say to her, could cause her fear.

God had a plan. This was His Big Plan, and He needed someone that trusted Him, loved Him, and revered Him. God needed someone who was willing to lay down their own plan, and pick up the plan that God was laying before them. Mary was just a young teenager, 13 or 14, I have heard. She had met and was engaged to a young man named Joseph. They had a plan. They were going to get married and live happily ever after.

Most young women have a plan similar to that. I know I did. Whether it's a career, or a marriage, or travel (or all of it) we all have dreams and aspirations, that's just part of our human nature...and it's good that we have that. Plans and dreams motivate us. Our plans and dreams may have slight variations, but most include a love story, a family, and a white picket fence. Youth sees things through those rose colored glasses that maturity often requires us to remove.

Version: NAS
Luke 1:30-34

30. And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God. 31. "And behold, you will conceive in your womb, and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. 32. "He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; 33. and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever; and His kingdom will have no end." 34. And Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?"

Luke 1:37-38

37. "For nothing will be impossible with God." 38. And Mary said, "Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; be it done to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her.


Now, back to The Plan. When we become a Christian, we not only ask Jesus into our hearts, spiritually, but in turn we should be willing to hand over our hearts to Jesus. I have said before that when I became a Christian I made Jesus my "Lord and Savior", but it took a long time for me to allow Him to become "Lord of my Life".

Read it again please, not just Saviour but The One Who is in Charge.

So here is Mary with her own plan, and now she has to be willing to say "I am the Lord's servant. May it be to me as you have said."

My life didn't change a lot until I finally got to the place where I said, "Lord, I am willing to put aside what I think and want, and let You show me what You want." That was not an easy time for me. It was a process of letting go of some things. It wasn't a rose garden, but if we do use the analogy, then there were some mighty big thorns and a lot of manure that I had to be forced to deal with.

Mary "signed on" as I said before. She agreed with God for His plan. Now, I'm not spouting doom and gloom here. God has good plans for us.

Jeremiah 29:11-14

11. 'For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. 12. 'Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. 13. 'And you will seek Me and find [Me], when you search for Me with all your heart. 14. 'And I will be found by you,' declares the LORD, 'and I will restore your fortunes and will gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you,' declares the LORD, 'and I will bring you back to the place from where I sent you into exile.'

He has good plans, they may just not always be easy. Remember when James and John's mother came to Jesus. She asked what she thought would be a good question. She asked Jesus if her two son's could sit with Jesus in Heaven. She really didn't know what she was asking.

Matthew 20:20-28

20. Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came to Him with her sons, bowing down, and making a request of Him. 21. And He said to her, "What do you wish?" She said to Him, "Command that in Your kingdom these two sons of mine may sit, one on Your right and one on Your left." 22. But Jesus answered and said, "You do not know what you are asking for. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink?" They said to Him, "We are able." 23. He said to them, "My cup you shall drink; but to sit on My right and on [My] left, this is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by My Father." 24. And hearing [this], the ten became indignant with the two brothers. 25. But Jesus called them to Himself, and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and [their] great men exercise authority over them. 26. "It is not so among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, 27. and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave; 28. just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many."

Mary signed on to become a "servant", a bondslave of the Lord, she was "indebted" to Him. So, even though we may have to lay down our own plan for our life, wouldn't you rather be doing what God has planned for you? I know I would. I'm shortsighted and don't know what's best. I've gotten my own self in lots of ditches over the years. I have found that God has good plans. They may not always be easy, but they are best, and His best for me (and you).

Romans 12:1-2

1. I urge you therefore, 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, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

I would love to hear from you all. What has God asked you to lay down for His plan for your life? How has He taken "your plan" and given it an "overhaul"? I know you all are out there, I'm asking you just to leave a short (or long) comment on these posts, if you feel God nudging you. Let's hear what each other has to share. :)

Be Blessed, Everyone.
love, Debra

God Can Change Our Plan

Paul is giving his personal history to the Galatians once more. He's reminding them of what had happened to him on the road to Damascus, and what took place after that. Let's look at not only the details of that experience, but what happened shortly after to see how it positioned him to be used by God.

Galatians 1:16-24

16. to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with flesh and blood, 17. nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me; but I went away to Arabia, and returned once more to Damascus. 18. Then three years later I went up to Jerusalem to become acquainted with Cephas, (Peter) and stayed with him fifteen days. 19. But I did not see any other of the apostles except James, the Lord's brother. 20. (Now in what I am writing to you, I assure you before God that I am not lying.) 21. Then I went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia. 22. And I was [still] unknown by sight to the churches of Judea which were in Christ; 23. but only, they kept hearing, "He who once persecuted us is now preaching the faith which he once tried to destroy." 24. And they were glorifying God because of me.

Let's take a good look at these words in bold print. After Paul's conversion on the road to Damascus he was "sent by God" into the city and waited there for God's instruction. To understand Galatians, we need to also look at the Book of Acts for the "backstory" of Paul. Let's read the following to get a clear view of what happened to "Saul" as he was nearing Damascus, intent on persecuting Christians there.


Acts 9: 3-9


3. And it came about that as he journeyed, he was approaching Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him; 4. and he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?" 5. And he said, "Who art Thou, Lord?" And He [said], "I am Jesus whom you are persecuting, 6. but rise, and enter the city, and it shall be told you what you must do." 7. And the men who traveled with him stood speechless, hearing the voice, but seeing no one. 8. And Saul got up from the ground, and though his eyes were open, he could see nothing; and leading him by the hand, they brought him into Damascus. 9. And he was three days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.

 My first thought here is that it was not only "Paul" who experienced this flash of light and hearing of the voice of God. It says that those traveling with him also experienced it and that they also heard God's voice. I imagine that it was necessary for the others in the entourage to hear God so that they would be able to assist him in getting to where God wanted him to go. A big change of plans and Paul would need the help and support of those with him. I wonder if the others experienced the same kind of radical salvation as Paul, or were they just terrified? How could you experience this sort of thing and not be changed?

Let's see what God has to say to Paul. He asks him a question. Paul, why are you persecuting me? So often God has a way of getting our attention, that comes in the form of a question. Is God asking something of you right now? Has your life been "interrupted" by God, with something you didn't foresee? Has He asked you to change your plans? Trading our agenda for God's is not always easy. We may not be "persecuting" the Gospel, but are we doing something for God that is part of His plan, and not our own?

Mighty Paul the persecutor of the church was reduced to a blind man, completely helpless and in need of assistance. God told him what to do and even though I'm sure it was difficult in the fact that he was out to get the Christians there, he obeyed the Lord's voice and did as he was told. Being vulnerable and without our own agenda is often times where God will call us to be. That's a place where He has our attention.


Don't you imagine that Paul was fearful of both sides? Jews because he had turned traitor, and Christians because he was now vulnerable? What would happen when the news got out? And out it would be. I'm sure many were wondering what had happened to this persecutor of the Church, was it for real or a hoax; a plot to lure them in by disclosing themselves to this murderer? I'm sure Paul himself had a million questions to ask God.

As Paul was waiting in Damascus blind and helpless, God was also speaking to a Christian in the same city. God was laying out a plan for him to follow also. Both parties were willing and available to hear God, and to be obedient. And isn't that what God asks of all of us? Availability and willingness, to not only hear God speak, but to then follow through even though it might make us feel vulnerable and require a change in our thinking.


Paul stayed in Damascus and in Syria for three years. It was a time of isolation and complete dependence on God. Three years that Paul listened to the voice of God, alone. No other outside influences, no apostles, no other agenda. By himself...alone with God. Sometimes that's where God calls us to be; alone with just Him. Paul had to be prepared for ministry, and even though it might have been the logical thing for him to go back to Jerusalem and be in the midst of the apostles, comforted and protected; he trusted God, listened to Him, studied under the Holy Spirit, and did things God's way.


This isolation is important to understand because Paul's ministry would come under fire from every direction. Who taught him? Who did he study under? Did the apostles approve and endorse him? Important questions that would be asked once Paul came on the scene. It was critical and of most value for Paul to remain in isolation so that it would be clear that he received his "revelation" not from any man, but from Jesus Himself. Paul was an apostle. The disciples had been with Jesus for three years, and so now Paul would be with Jesus for three years. Interesting.


Is God preparing you for something? Let Him be the leader and director. He may ask you to be with Him more often, you may feel a calling and desire for more prayer and/or Bible Study. Follow the lead of the Lord, don't be afraid to be vulnerable. Trust Him, he will protect you. He may have a big plan in store.


love in Jesus,
Debra

Are You Called?

Galatians1:1
"Paul an apostle-sent not from men nor by man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised Him from the dead-and all the brothers with me."

Have you ever considered why and how people are called into the ministry? Do you ever feel God call you to do something specific; something for Him with His stamp of approval on it? I have, and I imagine most of you have also. It doesn't have to be a "ministry" with or at a church. Maybe it's as simple as helping out a neighbor who needs someone to take care of their child if they are sick. To visit an elderly friend with a meal or just to send a card to someone who needs to be thought of. We each are called by God to do big and small jobs for Him. It doesn't have to be one with a salary to make it important. And we don't have to feel intimidated by the life of Paul. A "Damascus road experience" is not required to do God's work.

Matthew 10:42 says "And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is my disciple, I tell you the truth, he will certainly not lose his reward."

There are a lot of philanthropic people and organizations in the world. Last week we were watching television and some heavyweight business moguls were sitting around the table discussing their organizations. Yes, they were doing it from the goodness of their hearts; there was nothing pretentious or condescending in their giving or attitudes, but my first thought was..."are they believers?" We can give and give until we have nothing left but if it's not done in the name of Jesus, it won't receive heavenly recognition. Now I know we don't do things to receive "recognition or reward", but I want to do whatever I do, in the Name of Jesus. That way I at least know it's turned over to Him and He can use it to further the gospel, and bless others in ways that otherwise would or could not happen.

The word "apostle" means "sent one". And in that sense we are all apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ. God has a plan for each one of us to bear witness for Him in a variety of ways. Giving God credit for the things we have received through faith is one way. Living our everyday lives we have opportunity to acknowledge God. Since I've been blogging I've been amazed to find so many Christian women out here that are willing to say the "J" word. JESUS. Not being afraid to admit you are a Christian. We can say that we believe in God, there's nothing "offensive" to the non-believer in that. But when you say Christian, or pray in Jesus' Name, we are all the sudden taking it a step further and out there a little farther on the "plank" so to speak. I've had to overcome being skittish in that area. Say it like it is, and mean it. That doesn't mean beating someone over the head with the Bible, just not being afraid to speak about my faith in Jesus Christ.

And referring to "not being sent from men nor by man", I think we all know the difference. When my husband and I were younger, with a preschooler, we were asked by the educational director at our church to take over the preschool Sunday School leadership. I had taught children before and really enjoyed relating to them, but we were at a time in our lives that we needed to be taught and discipled ourselves. I needed to be in the worship service and have a few minutes away from the 4 year old crowd, not multiplied by 20. She literally hounded us until we gave in. I never felt "called" to do it. I found no "anointing" there and felt out of sync. Each week, even though I enjoyed the children, it was "work" if you know what I mean. I felt no fruit or passion for it. We moved out of town not too long after, and I have to tell you a huge weight was lifted off of me.

I say that, to say this. If God calls you, you will know it. It doesn't always mean it will be easy, but you will know deep down that it is something that you know is right because it just feels right. And fruit will come...and blessing.

I know God is asking me to be willing and ready to be "sent". This Bible Study is part of that. God's been showing me lately that there are "appointed times" for ministry. Certain tasks are laid before us for certain times. Being in the right place at the right time to fulfill a certain purpose. If you've ever read the book of Esther, it is all about this subject.

Ask God this week how He can use you; how He can "send you out", to "preach and teach" the Gospel. I bet you'll be surprised at what He asks you to do. I'd love to hear what God has to say to each of you "apostles" out there. Jesus had the "5-fold Ministry"; apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor and teacher. (Ephesians 4:12). He gives us that ministry also, maybe not like Him exactly, but an anointing to go do the things He call us to do.
Thanks for coming by, this first time in Galatians.
love, in Jesus,
Debra

Finding Significance and Fulfillment

Well, it's been a week or so, and I've had good intentions to do this post, but every day something seemed to have me busy. Poor excuse, so here it is, the company has left, and I'm finally setting down with some peace and quiet. I want to cover the other seven areas of our "Personal Guidelines and Belief System" from the book study on Victory Over the Darkness. I discussed "Success" last post and talked about how my thinking on "success" has changed throughout my life. This post let's take look at significance and fulfillment in God's eyes.

2. Significance. Key Concept: Time


"Significance is a Time issue. What is forgotten in time is of little significance. What is remembered for eternity is of great significance."


Version: NAS
1 Corinthians 3:10-14


10. According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building upon it. But let each man be careful how he builds upon it. 11. For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12. Now if any man builds upon the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 13. each man's work will become evident; for the day will show it, because it is [to be] revealed with fire; and the fire itself will test the quality of each man's work. 14. If any man's work which he has built upon it remains, he shall receive a reward.

How many of us are wives, moms, and grandmothers? Dads and husbands? Do we take care of our homes and families? Do we work outside the home? Do we get up everyday and hop on the hamster wheel and seemingly rarely get off? How many of us feel pretty insignificant in the "grand scheme of things"?  I know this concept of significance is similar to the previous one of success, but that is really the point. Taking the time to ponder our significance in life will eventually cause us to ask the age old question. "Am I a success?" and then, "Am I leading a successful and significant life?"


We've all heard the thought about lying on our deathbed and remembering the times with our family and children, and not the amount of money we made or the material "things" in life. When it all comes down to it, material things don't cut it; success and significance in our life have to come from inside our spirit. Our heart, mind and soul are the determining factors. The old saying of "whoever dies with the most toys wins" is a real joke.

The author, Neil Anderson, recalls a conversation he had with a young pastor who had recently been diagnosed with cancer. He had only been given a few months to live. The young man was greatly concerned about his "significance" in God's eyes and spoke of the fact that he had only led a few hundred people to the Lord. Neil reminded him that each of those people now have an eternity with Jesus. And that each one of those people were influencing others and so on and so on. What we may think of as insignificant, if it is done for God, then has lasting and eternal glory attached.

Version: NAS

Colossians 3:17
And whatever you do in word or deed, [do] all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.

Success and significance are not measured in earthly terms. They are measured in spiritual. Fame is not equivalent to success or significance. How many people out there are famous for their lifestyle, fortune, or No 1. hits at the box office? How many people think they are living the dream when in reality when their time comes to meet Jesus face to face, they too late, will realize all their worldly fame and fortune cannot buy them the most important thing in eternity... the knowledge of our Lord, Jesus Christ.


3. Fulfillment. Key Concept: Role Preference
 Fulfillment in life comes when we realize that God has a specific plan and calling for us; that He has a place where He desires each of us to be for a specific time and purpose. Then as we understand that purpose, fulfillment will come. If we understand our "significance" in life, then we can realize "fulfillment" in our life. And submitting our "goals" to God, will ultimately be the test of our success or failure. I believe the scripture that says "with Christ all things are possible". The key phrase just has to be "with Christ". Are your life plans and goals, "with Christ"? And are they in His proper timing?


1 Peter 4:10
As each one has received a [special] gift, employ it in serving one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

Seeking God for our giftings and plans and goals will make our life make more sense. I've learned that if I'm struggling with something, be it a project or desire or plan, I need to be sure that I've received direction and approval from God concerning it. That doesn't mean it will always be easy or a "piece of cake", but it will mean that you know deep in your heart that God is walking ahead of you through it.

God has a unique place and plan for each of us. Seeking Him for His plan for our life ensures that we will be successful and find the significance we are looking for. And we know that each of us is most precious in God's eyes. He loves us like His own Son. We're the apple of our Daddy's eye.

Love in Jesus,
Debra

Revealing Our Freedom Through God's Word

We have seen from the last post that freedom is clearly a promise. Our old man is dead. We are a new creation in Christ. We know we still sin, but we are no longer called "sinners". We are now "saints". Born again, and given freedom through Jesus' death on the cross. Our new identity "in Christ' will begin to propel us forward on our journey. That is what life is to me; a journey. A path to a new destination. Not only "eternity in Heaven" as a destination, but to me the journey is about conforming to the image of Christ. That is my goal.

Today I want to share with you some scripture about "freedom" and hearing from God through His Word. Spending time reading and studying and meditating on scripture is one of the key elements to begin applying the Truth to your life. Seeing change in our lives, starts with our relationship with Jesus Christ. Salvation is just the start of the journey. He wants to transform and renew our minds and life. Jesus wants to break the chains that have held us captive.

Version: NAS

Luke 4:18-12 (Isaiah 61)
18. "The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, Because He anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim release to the captives, And recovery of sight to the blind, To set free those who are downtrodden, 19. To proclaim the favorable year of the Lord." 20. And He closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant, and sat down; and the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed upon Him. 21. And He began to say to them, "Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing."

To bring freedom to the captives; that was part of Jesus anointing, not only while He walked here on earth, but as He resides with the Father, it is still His ministry; to bring freedom to all who are slaves to sin.

Version: NAS

John 8:32-36
32. and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." 33. They answered Him, "We are Abraham's offspring, and have never yet been enslaved to anyone; how is it that You say, 'You shall become free '?" 34. Jesus answered them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin. 35. "And the slave does not remain in the house forever; the son does remain forever. 36. "If therefore the Son shall make you free, you shall be free indeed.

Knowing the Truth is the key element in finding freedom, Jesus is the embodiment of the "truth". So we must not only know Him, but learn to walk in the truth He reveals to us.

Romans 6:17-18
17. But thanks be to God that though you were slaves of sin, you became obedient from the heart to that form of teaching to which you were committed, 18. and having been freed from sin, you became slaves of righteousness.

Galatians 5:1

1. It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery.

Talking about "Freedom", and Isaiah 61, I want to share a little part of my testimony with you. You may have noticed a time-line in my life; a series of revelations the Lord started giving to me back in the late 90's. Drawing me close to Him and revealing Himself to me through His Word, the Scripture, and then even more definitively for me through experiences.

God started making several passages of scripture "jump off the page" at me. I imagine most of us have had that experience. We will be reading the Bible and all the sudden a passage seems just as if it has our name attached to it. It becomes embedded in our minds and hearts. It becomes a "sign", direction giver, "calling", and road map.

Isaiah 61 was one such passage for me. It seemed that everything I read, heard, and thought about went back to that one chapter in scripture. (books, Christian articles, music, sermons, Christian TV) This was when God was first revealing Himself to me with a call to ministry. I was continually amazed at what God was doing and shared each time when this scripture would "become real"  for me with my husband. We, at that time, started growing in the Lord together. We became "one" in mind, spirit, and heart for the first time in 29 years of marriage. We did Kingdom work together, prayed together, and read God's Word together.

When I had the heart attacks in October of 2002, it was a total surprise. No symptoms, no advance warning. We were totally taken off guard. In fact I thought I had a pinched nerve in my right arm. After a weekend of three "attacks" we finally made it to the ER on a Monday morning at 6 a.m. All I could think about was that my husband would need to be at work shortly and I was going to cause him to be delayed.

When we arrived I was in big trouble, in the middle of another massive heart attack. Bad bad news. They rushed me into the heart cath lab to see what was going on. I don't think they gave my husband much hope, and of course, you have to sign a waiver that they are not responsible if you die while you are in the test. So here he is sitting in the waiting room, completely alone. We had not called family, until we knew what we were looking at. My poor husband sat by himself; confused, shocked, in great fear, and alone. The only one in the waiting room was a young woman doing housekeeping. She was cleaning and dusting and trying not to be obtrusive. She finished her job and laid the Bible back down on the table where she had just dusted. She opened it randomly and quietly left the room. My husband stood up and went to pick up the Bible, needing God's direction and help. There in front of his eyes, as if in letters blazing with God's message, lay Isaiah 61. He knew I would come through this. God spoke to my husband through His Word.

Isaiah 61:1-3
1. The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, Because the LORD has anointed me To bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to captives, And freedom to prisoners; 2. To proclaim the favorable year of the LORD, And the day of vengeance of our God; To comfort all who mourn, 3. To grant those who mourn [in] Zion, Giving them a garland instead of ashes, The oil of gladness instead of mourning, The mantle of praise instead of a spirit of fainting. So they will be called oaks of righteousness, The planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.

If you desire to hear the Lord speak to your heart and have not experienced His revelation in this way, start, by asking God for it. He is more than willing and wants to communicate with you.

Dear Heavenly Father, I know I am your child, and I so desire to know you better. I want to hear from you in a personal way. Please speak to me from your Word, the Bible. I'll be reading and waiting to hear from you.
Thank you,
In Jesus Name,
Amen

Our freedom and transformation begins with accepting Jesus as our Savior. Then we embrace the Bible as God's Word to us. If you don't have a desire to read or study, please include that in your prayer. Ask God to also give you a desire to read and study the Bible. He will gladly do that for you.

I'd love for you to share times and scripture when God has "spoken" to you from His Word. It encourages all of us, when we learn of other peoples experiences in this. Please leave a comment if you feel God is leading you to share.

love in Jesus,

Debra

"Constructing" the Body of Christ

Having raised two girls who are now 29 and 35, I have learned as many lessons as they have. I was a loving parent, but not always a "model" parent. I didn't always approach a situation or react to them in a Godly manner. I'm the first to admit it. Sometimes I was as big a child as they were. I have yet to meet the "Perfect Parent", and looking back on my parenting skills I'd have to say I could have improved in so many areas. I've had to apologize to my girls for my shortcomings during their growing up years. I wish I knew then what I know now. My hind sight might not be exactly "20-20" but it's much better than it was at the time. I refer to this time in my life, because I think back on handling matters with sometimes more negativity than positive ways of handling things. I'm no Dr. Phil, but thank you Lord, that I've learned a few constructive things along the way.


The author of Victory Over the Darkness recounts a conversation he had had with a pastor friend that was bemoaning the congregation of his church. "They are all a bunch of "losers". What can I do to get out of my church?" Dr. Anderson in turn, asked him. "I wonder if they are really losers or if they just see themselves as losers because that's how you see them?"


This brings up such an important fact: How do we perceive others? How do our impressions of other people color our opinions and relationships with them and about them? I used to make snap judgements on people. I think we all have opinions, that is just human nature, but how long do we take to form them? Is it based on their appearance, way they speak, way they dress, job they may have? Are we looking at them through our own eyes or through God's eyes? Just as we talked about in the beginning of this study, we need to view people the same way God sees them; as a child of God, wholly loved and accepted by the Father. I have learned this over the years. I have asked God to show me beyond the surface, to see someone's heart, and to be able to relate to them as He sees them, not just view the outside and the obvious. I guess this is referred to as "putting ourselves in someone else's shoes".


So then, if we see someone as a "loser", and we treat them as such, will that be the image they also see of themselves? What if instead, we see our brothers and sisters in Christ as saints, redeemed, and totally loved in Jesus? Will they then see themselves in this same way and begin to reflect this understanding in their own attitudes, actions, and behaviors? This is where I could have improved as a parent. Speaking positive affirmation more than I did. Frustration with situations I didn't know how to handle, caused me to see the negative instead of seeking God for positive reinforcement with my words.


As stated by the author, "I believe the greatest determinant for how we treat people is how we perceive them. And how do we express our perceptions of people? Primarily by what we say to them... Studies have shown that in the average home, for every positive statement, a child receives 10 negative statements. It's only slightly better in the school environment; 7-1. It's no wonder so many children are growing up feeling that they are losers. Parents and teachers are conveying that perception every day in how they talk to their children...studies go on to say that it takes four positive statements to negate the effect of one negative statement...We affect others significantly by what we say about them, and what we say is significantly determined by how we perceive them."

Version: NAS

Ephesians 4:29
"Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such [a word] as is good for edification according to the need [of the moment], that it may give grace to those who hear. "

The word "edify" means to improve morally or intellectually, enlightenment, guidance in education, to improve information, and knowledge. In other words to be constructive and build someone up, not tear someone down. Our words affect others and bring change. It's better to be positive in our addressing of someone or a situation, rather than to be negative and to ultimately tear down someone; Constructive assessment, instead of negative. It's all in our attitude and perception of others.

Version: NAS

Ephesians 4:11-13
11. And He gave some [as] apostles, and some [as] prophets, and some [as] evangelists, and some [as] pastors and teachers, 12. for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; 13. until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fulness of Christ.

This is the scripture passage that Jesus spoke to me back on June 16, 2001. He said, "This is your call". And it has been my driving force since then. To build up the body of Christ.

Yesterday's post on our salvation was an eventful one for me. Stepping out there to discuss a topic that is very controversial. We all have such varied ideas and thinking. Thank you for the opportunity to see brotherly love at work. I think we all said how we felt about the subject in love, and hopefully no one was offended or changed their minds about anyone. I really hope not. I have seen churches split over matters such as this, end time prophecy, and the baptism of the Holy Spirit, just to name a few. Thank you, that we can all discuss and view what others have to say in respect and love. I could have skipped over this subject, but I chose to dive in instead.

If you would like to read the theology and doctrine with scripture references behind my position on this, please go to the Official Website of the General Council of the Assemblies of God and type in "Security of the Believer" for several articles on this. It's a broad reference to both theories on this topic. It's interesting and nonthreatening no matter what your viewpoint.

( Hope everyone still loves one another.)

Love, in Jesus,

Debra

(concepts taken from Victory Over the Darkness
by Neil Anderson)

Do you have GPS?

If you are a Christian we have one of these nifty little gadgets already installed. You don't have to pay extra, it comes with the package. Yes, we all have a GPS; you know, a "God's Plan System".

"GPS-the Global Positioning System is a U.S. space-based radionavigational, and timing services to civilian users on a continuous worldwide basis -- freely available to all. For anyone with a GPS receiver, the system will provide location and time. GPS provides accurate location and time information for an unlimited number of people in all weather, day and night, anywhere in the world."

Part of learning about God and His Nature is realizing that He cares for us, and that He has a good plan for us. God knows where you are at all times, and has a great plan to get you to your destination. He sees if we are "on course" and knows when we are about to make a wrong turn. He sees what lies ahead and warns, and protects. His timing is perfect and He asks us to stay close. It works all over the world and it's "freely available to all." He will talk us through every step of the way.

I know we've talked about God's plans for us before, but because this aspect of God's nature is so important I want to re-visit these scriptures. They never get old and can always offer us some new insight.

Version: NAS

Romans 8: 28-29
28. And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to [His] purpose. 29. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined [to become] conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the first-born among many brethren.


I've heard unbelievers say "well, I just believe everything works out for the good." While that is an optimistic attitude it's not particularly "truth" for those who are not in relationship with Jesus Christ. As Christians that trust God and live a life according to what He desires, we can be confident that He will take all things that we learn and experience, and make them ultimately turn into "good".

I had a friend many years ago that had lost a son tragically in a car accident. Two years later when I met her, she was still raw and angry at God. She had received this "word" from God over and over, even by people that did not know her and the loss of her son. When the Lord impressed me with this scripture and was adamant for me to speak it to her, she became infuriated and blew up at me.
"How can you say what happened was good?"
Then I showed her that the verse did not say what happened was good, but that God would take it and ultimately make good come from it. As we submit our life and experiences to God, He will heal us from hurt and harm and will take those burdens from us, then He can work supernatural things in our life. But only if we allow Him to do so.

Romans 12: 2
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.


As we allow God to "transform our thinking" we are then able to hear and understand His will. If we are "worldly thinkers" then we will not see God's plan or believe it to be "good".

Ephesians 1:11
NIV In Him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will.
NAS: also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will.

Our inheritance as God's children is to be like Jesus. He has a predestined (thought out in advance, determined and planned in advance) plan for us, and asks us to be available to follow that plan.

Ephesians 2: 10
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

God created good works for us to do here on earth. Each person's works and plans are not the same. God calls each of us to be in His likeness, that way wherever He puts us and whatever He asks us to do, we will be letting Him shine through.

Proverbs 3:5-6
5. Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And do not lean on your own understanding. 6. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.

Going back to that GPS, isn't it easier to read if all you have to do is stick on a major Highway? I'm not particularly good at map reading, but when we go to St. Louis to see our kids, we have a straight path, one highway.

Jeremiah 29:11-14
11. 'For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. 12. 'Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. 13. 'And you will seek Me and find [Me], when you search for Me with all your heart. 14. 'And I will be found by you,' declares the LORD, 'and I will restore your fortunes and will gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you,' declares the LORD, 'and I will bring you back to the place from where I sent you into exile.'

This is one of my favorite scripture passages and I speak this back to God frequently. His plans for us are for good and not calamity. He gives us a future and hope! No matter if we get off course, as these Israelites had done, He promises to bring us back to Him and that He will restore us.

Genesis 50:20
"And as for you, you meant evil against me, [but] God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive.

As Joseph had been sold into slavery by his brother's lack of love and ruthless jealousy, God had a plan all along. He situated Joseph in the Pharaoh's household and gave him access to the wealth of Egypt. So when famine came God would have a plan to build the nation of Israel.

John 10:10
The thief comes to kill, steal, and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

Here Jesus is telling us that He does not kill, steal from you, or plan on destroying you. Please remember this. It is our, enemy, the devil that does these things.

With what is happening in our country today and in our personal lives, stay strong with the power of the Holy Spirit. Remind God of these scriptures, for yourself and family. TRUST Him and ask for His good plan for your life and your loved ones.

He is good and has good plans for us!

love to you all,

Debra

OK, now I "get it"!

I have felt especially "contemplative" lately. I guess that comes with the new year. Given the time to do so, I am generally a pretty deep thinker. I like to roll things around in my head and put them before God, to get his take on things. I have to admit that there are some phrases, song titles, and slang that just make me a little queasy. Case in point, the phrase "bloom where you are planted". No offense, but that phrase has always set me on edge. I guess as a type A- personality, it sounded a bit trite to my ears. I prefer the idea of "bust your buns and do the best you can, and go as far as you can go, and don't settle for less."...that's more like the person I have been. Now?... well, let's just say, I'm rethinking a few of my viewpoints.

The following scripture was written by John the Apostle, probably the closest disciple to Jesus. He is recounting John the Baptist's ministry, who was the "forerunner" of Jesus, and his earthly cousin.

Version: NAS

John 3:22-30

22. After these things Jesus and His disciples came into the land of Judea, and there He was spending time with them and baptizing. 23. And John also was baptizing in Aenon near Salim, because there was much water there; and they were coming and were being baptized. 24. For John had not yet been thrown into prison. 25. There arose therefore a discussion on the part of John's disciples with a Jew about purification. 26. And they came to John and said to him, "Rabbi, He who was with you beyond the Jordan, to whom you have borne witness, behold, He is baptizing, and all are coming to Him." 27. John answered and said, "A man can receive nothing, unless it has been given him from heaven. 28. "You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, 'I am not the Christ,' but, 'I have been sent before Him.' 29. "He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom's voice. And so this joy of mine has been made full. 30. "He must increase, but I must decrease.
 
Look at the scripture in red, because these two thoughts were what God wants to stress today. He is the one that "gifts" us with our abilities. Yes, believe it or not, we all have special "gifts" from God, some being more apparent than others. Hospitality, financial giving, mercy toward others, just to name a few. God gives them out as He sees fit. Have you ever asked God what your "gift" is? I want to address not so much the "gifting" that you may have, but the wise use of whatever it is that God does see fit to hand over to you. Do you use yours wisely?
 
John the Baptist had been gifted with a purpose. A purpose that had been placed upon him by the Holy Spirit from his conception. He was to prepare the way for Jesus and His earthly ministry.
 
John had been given a place and people. He lived in the desert, wore camel hair britches (ouch) and ate wild locusts and honey. Sorry, that doesn't sound like a lot of fun to me. He was a "misfit" and "weirdo" by the world's standard, yet he fulfilled a purpose that had been given to him by God. He was to preach repentance to the people to prepare their hearts for Jesus arrival on the scene. John the Baptist was the "opening act", and Jesus was the "main attraction".

John sees his place in the grand scheme of things. He doesn't get his head all puffed up and lose perspective. He says in so many words, "God has given this to me as my purpose. This is my job, and I'm going to do it His way, in His place and in His timing. I'm fulfilling a purpose for Jesus and that is to start the plan into motion. Then I'm handing it over to Jesus. Because He's the one this is all about."
 
John knew what he was gifted to do and he did it. Even though he was in the "New Testament", John the Baptist, was the last "Old Testament" prophet. He never performed a miracle, but his life and ministry were crucial to Jesus' ministry.
 
Now, back to you and me. God's put something on me, a call if you will, and He's saying to me to be a person who will go out and do what He's asking of me. He's given me a gift, but He has given each one of you a gift also.  Will we use them wisely?
 
Take your gift out of the closet, and let it be known. Start using it. Tell Jesus, "I'm going to let you take over, I give You permission to "increase". My agenda will "decrease". You are the one that this is all about. Use my gifting Lord."

 Less of me, more of Jesus.

 
God has been dealing with me about this. Putting our gifting to good use, whatever it is. OK, now I get it, and now I can say it. Don't squander what God has given you. Don't hide it because of fear or lack of confidence...

"Bloom where you are planted".

 

Debra

 
Word for the day: "The ability to take what I have given you and to make it worthwhile. Don't squander what has been entrusted to you."

Mary's Song

We are all thankful; we have so many blessings in our lives. Even when times are hard, financially, relationally or personally, we all have things to be thankful for. We have gratitude in our heart to God. But sometimes expressing it can be difficult. Let's look at Mary and see and hear her great gratitude and praise that she expressed to God for what she was experiencing and for His plan that was becoming evident in her life.

The following scripture from Luke 1 is a passage that is often overlooked or at least downplayed in many churches. When I was young and in Sunday School, I don't remember this ever really being discussed in our story of Christmas. Nor did I hear this from the pulpit.
Mary was only 13 or 14 years old. How on earth did she come up with this amazing outburst of joy and gratitude? Well, that's the key. Mary herself did not come up with this response. This was a spontaneous outpouring of joy and praise that was orchestrated by the Holy Spirit Himself. God just took little Mary and gave her words that she probably had never thought of before, let alone spoken. And when little Mary opened her mouth to praise God, to thank Him, and show her gratitude, what came out in all it's beauty was a wonderful expression... the "Magnificat", or Mary's Song.

Luke 1:46-55


46. And Mary said: "My soul exalts the Lord, 47. And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. 48. "For He has had regard for the humble state of His bondslave; For behold, from this time on all generations will count me blessed. 49. "For the Mighty One has done great things for me; And holy is His name. 50. "And His mercy is upon generation after generation Toward those who fear Him. 51. "He has done mighty deeds with His arm; He has scattered [those who were] proud in the thoughts of their heart. 52. "He has brought down rulers from [their] thrones, And has exalted those who were humble. 53. "He has filled the hungry with good things; And sent away the rich empty-handed. 54. "He has given help to Israel His servant, In remembrance of His mercy, 55. As He spoke to our fathers, To Abraham and his offspring forever."

I want to talk a little about prayer and praise...and "thanksgiving".

Ephesians 6:18 (New International Version)
18. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.


Romans 8:26 (New International Version)
26. In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.


1 Corinthians 14:15 (New International Version)
15.So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind.


Philippians 4:4-7 NAS
4. Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! 5. Let your forbearing [spirit] be known to all men. The Lord is near. 6. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus

Each of these scriptures indicates that there is the element of Holy Spirit inspired prayer.


Quite some time ago,when God was first calling me to a deeper more intimate spiritual walk, I was involved in a prayer ministry at our church. We had a prayer group that met on Wednesday evenings to pray for church matters and people in our congregation. I really enjoyed that time of seeking the Lord for a deeper prayer life. We had a volunteer prayer group for our church that had a goal of 24 hour prayer coverage. This was not just our small group, but church wide. My time schedule for prayer was at 10:00-11:00 on Wednesday evenings. We called it "the wall". (When you have time you might want to read the book of Nehemiah, especially chapter 1, where he prays for his people and then God leads him back to Jerusalem to rebuild the wall.)


I had a weekly update on things to pray for, but at that time my being able to stay focused in prayer for an hour was a real struggle. (still hard, who am I kidding?) I would find that I would cover all the list in the first 15 minutes, then be left feeling inadequate and spiritually immature. I had a knowledge that prayer was key in expanding my relationship with My Heavenly Father, I just couldn't get there by myself. I will never forget the night it all changed.

Here I was, once again, trying to do justice in prayer for all the people that were ill, church financial needs and requests, and even going the extra mile to pray for individual ministries at our church. That night I promised God that I would stay there until my time was up. That I would not be a slacker and that I would make every minute count. I glanced at my watch every few minutes,...by golly, I thought, I CAN do this! Whew, time was almost up. "I'll just finish up by reading a little scripture" I said to my self.

I opened my Bible to Ephesians  and began to read.

Time's almost up, Yeah, I've made it. I've sat still and concentrated on God for a whole 55 minutes. OK only a minute or two to go... down to the finish line... Gee, I have a lot to do for tomorrow, clothes to iron, a kitchen to clean, cats to feed....lots to do God, but hey, I'm still here, see, I'll give you those few extra minutes!

Then, in the last minute...home stretch... I hit Ephesians 4, Okey dokey, times up!!!

But at that very moment I heard a voice in my spirit, just like I had a phone to my spiritual ear. Very clearly The Voice said, "If you will stay with Me one more hour, I will make it worth your while. I will give you your "call".


Well, I stayed for an extra two, and believe me, my life changed. Not only did He speak to me about what He wanted me to do in my life, but He put something in me that energized and made my prayer life new. He instilled His Holy Spirit into my prayer life, and it's never been the same. Now I depend on Him for direction in prayer. I invited the Holy Spirit to take over my prayer time, and with that came new focus, and new depth of understanding and purpose.

Mary became infilled with the Holy Spirit. He directed her prayer. She uttered words and thoughts that were not from her "conscious" mind, but from her spiritual mind. Her heart and mind submitted to God.


Prayer has many components. We'll talk about those at some later time, but just know if you feel unable to articulate your needs; if you are at a loss as how to communicate in prayer to God, just call upon the Holy Spirit to inspire your prayer time and life. He will gladly do that. He will enrich and renew your prayers with His own mind and heart...and you will connect with God in a whole new way. You will be like Mary, you will open your mouth (yes, praise and worship and give thanks verbally, out loud. God just loves that!) and you will sing...sing your own song of joy, worship, praise, and thanksgiving.

Have a wonderful week in preparation for Thanksgiving.

Let God inspire and refresh you.

Blessings,

Debra

Healing Scripture:

Deuteronomy 7:13-14

13. "And He will love you and bless you and multiply you; He will also bless the fruit of your womb and the fruit of your ground, your grain and your new wine and your oil, the increase of your herd and the young of your flock, in the land which He swore to your forefathers to give you. 14. "You shall be blessed above all peoples; there shall be no male or female barren among you or among your cattle. 15. "And the LORD will remove from you all sickness; and He will not put on you any of the harmful diseases of Egypt which you have known, but He will lay them on all who hate you.

Blessing follows Favor

Favor and blessing. How do these two things connect? What exactly does "blessing" look like? Let's see what the Oxford Dictionary has to say about "blessing". noun: invoking favor, a gift of God, favor of God, advantage, good fortune.

Version: NAS
Luke 1:28-33


28. And coming in, he said to her, "Hail, favored one! The Lord [is] with you." 29. But she was greatly troubled at [this] statement, and kept pondering what kind of salutation this might be. 30. And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God. 31. "And behold, you will conceive in your womb, and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. 32. "He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; 33. and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever; and His kingdom will have no end."

Version: NAS

Luke 1:34-38


34. And Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?" 35. And the angel answered and said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy offspring shall be called the Son of God. 36. "And behold, even your relative Elizabeth has also conceived a son in her old age; and she who was called barren is now in her sixth month. 37. "For nothing will be impossible with God." 38. And Mary said, "Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; be it done to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her.

I keep hearing the phrase, "Blessing follows obedience." It's a concept that I have learned over the years. Not always in an easy way. I'm a pretty bullheaded, stubborn person, in the natural. I have tendency to do what I think is best. I make up my mind and then I can steamroll right over you; that is part of my nature. It is a quality that can be good, especially when things need to be done, but sometimes it doesn't particularly set well with God. It's been a hard lesson for me to be "submissive" to the Lord, He and I have gotten in a tangle of two over the years. Believe me, He is loving and kind, but there are times, He has had to sit on me to get me to pay attention. He's a good parent; a much better parent than I could ever hope to be. I lose my patience, get mad, give in, compromise, (but not in a good way), be harsh, be neglectful,etc. You know what I mean. I'm a human being and sometimes not a glowing example.
 
I believe Mary was a young woman who had learned submissiveness, which resulted in favor, which resulted in blessing. When we talked about the Samaritan woman, I mentioned the scripture from Matthew 11:28-29, concerning taking the yoke that Jesus offers us. If we get in step with Jesus, and go where He wants to go, the "burden" is lifted off of us and we let Him shoulder it.

Jesus wants us to get in step with Him, not running off on our own. How many times that has happened to me, and unfortunately I have paid a heavy price. This is where many people that don't know God would scream that they don't want to become a mindless zombie and be like everyone else. That is a good point. God appreciates our individuality, but He's not asking us to become like everyone else. He's asking us to become like Him. Then our individuality shines through in His likeness.

When we submit to Him and get in step with Him, He can work with us. He takes us under His arm and says, "Great, OK, now we can start to get somewhere. I'm showing you my favor because you are looking to me."

 Version: NAS

Proverbs 3:1-6

1. My son,(and daughters) do not forget my teaching, But let your heart keep my commandments; 2. For length of days and years of life, And peace they will add to you. 3. Do not let kindness and truth leave you; Bind them around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart. 4. So you will find favor and good repute In the sight of God and man. 5. Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And do not lean on your own understanding. 6. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.

Mary was a young woman who kept His commandments in her heart, wore truth around her neck, allowed Him to write them on her heart. The result was that she found favor with God, and man. She trusted in the Lord with all her heart, even though she did not understand how all this could be. She acknowledged Him and the result was He made her path straight.

When we do these things, God "obliges" Himself to watch over us. He favors us, and then blesses us with His powerful Presence. He walks ahead of us on the path, and Blessings follow.
 
Mary had a lot to go through. She had "signed on" for a path that would not be easy. She trusted God, no matter what, and because of that she ultimately received the highest Blessing any woman could seek. She received God's presence in a way that none of us will ever fully know. We may not be able to carry the Son of Man in our "womb", but we can all carry Him in our hearts.
 
And that's where the blessing lies. Not just in material goods, happiness, or fulfillment of our desires, but the blessing of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Then, and only then, will we find our highest and best. Sometimes that includes all the things we reach for in our life here on Earth. Sometimes wealth, fame, and happiness, but true Blessing only comes when it is attached to the Favor of God.

Today, may you each find

 God's Blessing in your life,

 

If you haven't read the last two posts on Mary
please do, they relate to one another,
in this little series of posts.

I'm going to step out here and ask a little
"favor" of you who read this regularly.
This blog is not promoting "me", but hopefully Jesus.
Some of you have this blog listed on your sidebar or blog roll.
Would you please prayerfully consider adding it.
Not as a favor to me, but to spread the Word of God.
Many people come through these blogs everyday.
Sometimes they are searching.
 If even one person finds Jesus in these posts,
it would be such a "blessing".Thank you all,

Debra

"What does "Character" have to do with it?"

I'm a "planner": a person who likes to be prepared and ready. I like to see the road in front of me and have it all laid out. I like to be "in the know" so to speak. God has called me with a gift of "looking ahead". To hear Him and know what He is doing and where He is going. He called me as a "Watchman" long ago. One that "stands on the wall" to see who and what is coming.

John 10:1-5, Mark 13:35-37, and Psalm 119:148.

When I sit down to write these posts I have no "heads up" where they are going. I have asked God to let me know in advance what His plan is for the next post, but He will not let me in on it. I don't know what I'm studying or writing until I sit down at this computer. So having said that, today the Lord said to me, "Let's talk about Mary".
So in my purposeful "shortsightedness", I think we will be looking at this young woman's "call", and how we can learn from her, and incorporate her faith into our daily life.

Luke 1:26-38

Version: NAS

26. Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee, called Nazareth, 27. to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the descendants of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. 28. And coming in, he said to her, "Hail, favored one! The Lord [is] with you." 29. But she was greatly troubled at [this] statement, and kept pondering what kind of salutation this might be. 30. And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary; for you have found favor with God. 31. "And behold, you will conceive in your womb, and bear a son, and you shall name Him Jesus. 32. "He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David; 33. and He will reign over the house of Jacob forever; and His kingdom will have no end." 34. And Mary said to the angel, "How can this be, since I am a virgin?" 35. And the angel answered and said to her, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy offspring shall be called the Son of God. 36. "And behold, even your relative Elizabeth has also conceived a son in her old age; and she who was called barren is now in her sixth month. 37. "For nothing will be impossible with God." 38. And Mary said, "Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; be it done to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her.



Matthew 1:18-19
This is how the birth of Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.



Two thousand years ago, saw a time of corrupt and evil government. The leader of the country, King Herod, was a man of evil intent and maliciousness. He was self-centered to the highest degree. Corrupt, decadent, and evil. He thought only of himself and his perpetuation of power and cared not for the betterment of his country and people. He wanted things his way, without thinking of the well being of others.
Mary was born in this time of corruption, she was a young woman who was loved by her family, as she loved them in return. Safe and secure in a small town life... insulated. I'm sure she was a devout young woman, who had been taught the ways of her Jewish roots. Undoubtedly, she was taught that some day Messiah would come and be not only the Savior, but also the leader of her country.


In this time, strength of character was what God was looking for in a woman. Character as defined in the Oxford dictionary as, moral strength, honesty, integrity and uprightness. Mary was a young woman who was willing to let God lead her, and she submitted to Him. Submission, not only of her thoughts and heart, but also of her very life. And isn't that what God is looking for still? Men and women of character, who are not afraid to bow their knee to their Heavenly Father and say "I am here for you to use, to work with, to shape and mold. Use me Father."

Today, many of us are reluctant to step out in society and share our Christian faith. Is it the times we live in, or is it our own character? This has been a question God has asked me lately. "Are you willing to step out and be used by Me?"

If you would like to read about Mary as a young woman, please do so. I think we will be talking about her for a few days. Put yourself in her place. Look at your life in the context of comparison to Mary's life. Let's see where this takes us. As I have said, I value everyone's opinion and ideas. Don't be afraid to leave a comment and put yourself "out there". This is what it's about. Interactive is what I'm going for here. Please read the comments even if you do not leave one. Many ideas, comments, and thoughts are exchanged. I really love hearing them. You can add things that I have not thought to cover. Your experience and beliefs are so valuable!
I think this study of Mary will be really thought provoking and enriching!

Blessings to you all!

Thanks for traveling the road with me.

Debra