Contentment or Chasing after the Wind . . .
Where do you see yourself in that statement? Are you resting in the contentment of Christ or still chasing the winds of the world ~ seeking satisfaction in every place but Him. King Solomon did a lot of chasing after the wind and what did he discover when all was said and done? Hear his words from Ecclesiastes 4:6, "Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind." Pretty powerful words coming from King David's son who was considered the richest man in the world.
In Strengthening Your Grip, Pastor Chuck Swindoll says, " Great wealth is not related to money. It is an attitude of satisfaction ("enough is enough") coupled with inner peace (an absence of churning) plus a day-by-day, moment-by-moment walk with God. . . . In a word, the secret is contentment."
King Solomon finally realized that it is only in God that we find true contentment and absolute satisfaction.
The apostle Paul recognized this truth as well. "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or want."
Philippians 4:11-12
Father today, help me to focus on the contentment I have in You and not in my circumstances. To rest in the fact that the "secret of being content" is resting in You and Your continued provision for all of my needs.
My grace is sufficient for you. 2 Corinthians 12:9
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Thursday, November 7, 2013
Encouragment for the Journey . . . 2013
Thanking Him for Redemption . . .
Thank you Father that when we put our hope in Your unfailing love there is FULL redemption. Psalm 130:7
Praise the LORD . . . thank You for providing redemption for Your people, ordaining Your covenant forever -- Holy and Awesome is Your Name. Psalm 111:1, 9
Thank You for reminding us that ALL of us are sinners, no one is exempt, ALL of us have fallen short, not measured up to Your glory and never will. Thank You for freely offering forgiveness and redemption through Your Son, Jesus!!! For this we are eternally grateful!!!! Romans 3:23-24
Help us never forget that it was You and You only who rescued us from the dominion, or as the CEV translation says, "God rescued us from the dark power of satan and brought us into the kingdom of His dear Son, who forgives our sins and sets us free."
Colossians 1:13-14
Trusting in His redemption today . . . walking freely in His marvelous grace . . . are you?
But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions -- it is by grace you have been saved.
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith -- and this is not from yourselves, it is from God -- not by works, so that no one can boast."
Ephesians 2:4-5, 8-9
Thank you Father that when we put our hope in Your unfailing love there is FULL redemption. Psalm 130:7
Praise the LORD . . . thank You for providing redemption for Your people, ordaining Your covenant forever -- Holy and Awesome is Your Name. Psalm 111:1, 9
Thank You for reminding us that ALL of us are sinners, no one is exempt, ALL of us have fallen short, not measured up to Your glory and never will. Thank You for freely offering forgiveness and redemption through Your Son, Jesus!!! For this we are eternally grateful!!!! Romans 3:23-24
Help us never forget that it was You and You only who rescued us from the dominion, or as the CEV translation says, "God rescued us from the dark power of satan and brought us into the kingdom of His dear Son, who forgives our sins and sets us free."
Colossians 1:13-14
Trusting in His redemption today . . . walking freely in His marvelous grace . . . are you?
But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions -- it is by grace you have been saved.
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith -- and this is not from yourselves, it is from God -- not by works, so that no one can boast."
Ephesians 2:4-5, 8-9
Monday, September 16, 2013
Encouragement for the Journey 2013
Retreat with Him
Ladies,
In our society today, stillness and silence seem very far away. How often have you said, “If I only had a few minutes of peace and quiet?” As believers we also get caught up with the busyness of life. Our days are filled with countless interruptions. It seems like the last thing we have time for is being “still” before the Lord, our Sovereign Creator.
Retreat with Him has prayerfully and purposely been designed for this very reason. It will encourage and equip you with the tools you’ll need to experience a time of personal retreat with Him. God has graciously provided the place for us this Fall at Ridgecrest Conference Center in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
Date: October 19-20
Location: Ridgecrest Conference Center
Cost: $90 double occupancy/$140 single occupancy. The cost includes lodging, 2 meals, materials, and access to the facilities at Ridgecrest.
To register for this event contact: Dianne Hart ~ hartforhim@nc.rr.com
SPACE IS LIMITED
Ladies,
In our society today, stillness and silence seem very far away. How often have you said, “If I only had a few minutes of peace and quiet?” As believers we also get caught up with the busyness of life. Our days are filled with countless interruptions. It seems like the last thing we have time for is being “still” before the Lord, our Sovereign Creator.
Retreat with Him has prayerfully and purposely been designed for this very reason. It will encourage and equip you with the tools you’ll need to experience a time of personal retreat with Him. God has graciously provided the place for us this Fall at Ridgecrest Conference Center in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
Date: October 19-20
Location: Ridgecrest Conference Center
Cost: $90 double occupancy/$140 single occupancy. The cost includes lodging, 2 meals, materials, and access to the facilities at Ridgecrest.
To register for this event contact: Dianne Hart ~ hartforhim@nc.rr.com
SPACE IS LIMITED
Monday, August 12, 2013
Encouragement for the Journey . . . 2013
Struggles . . .
"Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God. My soul is downcast within me; therefore I will remember You." Psalm 42:5-6
How often do you find yourself struggling with your life's situation? Overwhelmed by your job, children, household responsibilities, projects due, demands placed on you or just too much on our plate. Where/who do you turn to, how do you react?
The answer is found in the verse above ~ "put your hope in God" . . . "remember." Too often we simply complain or whine rather than claiming His promises that are ours in Christ Jesus. Remember you are His treasured possession, if you have trusted in Christ as your Savior (Romans 10:9-10), and He will always lead you in the right direction for His glory. (Psalm 23:1-3) Even when that path seems rocky at times. Cry out to the one who is enough and BIGGER than anything you face. In doing so, your focus is redirected and the self-centeredness, the "Me's", the "I's" disappear.
"You hear, O LORD, the desire of the afflicted; You encourage them, and You listen to their cry." Psalm 10:17
"May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word." 2 Thessalonians 2:16:17
"Everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of Scriptures we might have hope." Romans 15:4
"Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God. My soul is downcast within me; therefore I will remember You." Psalm 42:5-6
How often do you find yourself struggling with your life's situation? Overwhelmed by your job, children, household responsibilities, projects due, demands placed on you or just too much on our plate. Where/who do you turn to, how do you react?
The answer is found in the verse above ~ "put your hope in God" . . . "remember." Too often we simply complain or whine rather than claiming His promises that are ours in Christ Jesus. Remember you are His treasured possession, if you have trusted in Christ as your Savior (Romans 10:9-10), and He will always lead you in the right direction for His glory. (Psalm 23:1-3) Even when that path seems rocky at times. Cry out to the one who is enough and BIGGER than anything you face. In doing so, your focus is redirected and the self-centeredness, the "Me's", the "I's" disappear.
"You hear, O LORD, the desire of the afflicted; You encourage them, and You listen to their cry." Psalm 10:17
"May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word." 2 Thessalonians 2:16:17
"Everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of Scriptures we might have hope." Romans 15:4
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Encouragment for the Journey ~ 2013
"The Lord is my Shepherd . . .
. . . I shall not want."
Psalm 23
~ I praise You my Shepherd that You provide for all my needs ~ spiritual, physical, mental, emotional and financial.
~ I thank You for the times You make me lie down ~ stop ~ when I'm too busy.
~ I praise You for Your quiet, refreshing, Living Water that nourishes my soul.
~ I praise You for always guiding and leading me in Your perfect direction ~ for Your namesake and Your glory!!!
~ I praise You for the dark valleys; for it's in those valleys that I feel Your beautiful presence -- keeping -- sustaining -- protecting me.
~ I praise You for being my comforter and the One who prepares me for times of adversity when the enemy's presence presses in presses down.
~ I praise You for anointing me for service; sharing the love of my Savior -- the Giver of life - my true love -- the lifter of my head.
~ I praise You for abundantly blessing me with Your goodness, mercy and grace -- all undeserved!!!
~ I praise You for the eternal security I have in You.
. . . I shall not want."
Psalm 23
Monday, May 13, 2013
Handling change . . .
First, remember that “God will direct your steps.” Proverbs 16:9 The key is . . . we have to let Him.
For most of us we know ahead of time when change is about to happen. But how do we as believers handle unexpected change? First, be assured it isn’t a surprise to God, but I do believe He watches to see how we handle a situation like this when, or if it arises. The only response that will bring honor to the Lord and fill you with complete joy in the process is to give Him the freedom to move you in the direction He chooses. We also need to let go of any fear that keep us from trusting in Him and Him alone.
First, remember that “God will direct your steps.” Proverbs 16:9 The key is . . . we have to let Him.
For most of us we know ahead of time when change is about to happen. But how do we as believers handle unexpected change? First, be assured it isn’t a surprise to God, but I do believe He watches to see how we handle a situation like this when, or if it arises. The only response that will bring honor to the Lord and fill you with complete joy in the process is to give Him the freedom to move you in the direction He chooses. We also need to let go of any fear that keep us from trusting in Him and Him alone.
There are five sure ways to deal with
change regardless of how it happens.
1.
Pray ~ our immediate response should be, stop,
drop and pray, otherwise we’ll be fanning flames that will quickly get out of
control ~ seek the Lord’s face so we can know His direction ~ being careful to
check our motives that they are pure.
- “Even when you ask you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong – you want only what will give you pleasure.” James 4:3
- “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are attentive to their prayer.” 1 Peter 3:12
- “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Phil. 4:6-7
- “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.” Proverbs 3:5-6
- “Even when you ask you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong – you want only what will give you pleasure.” James 4:3
- “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are attentive to their prayer.” 1 Peter 3:12
- “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Phil. 4:6-7
- “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.” Proverbs 3:5-6
2.
Listen ~ be still before Him (Psalm 46:10a) My
prayer has always been, Lord, let me hear Your voice louder than anyone else.
- [Jesus] says to you, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.” Luke 11:9-10
- “You will call upon me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the LORD. Jeremiah 29:12-14
- [Jesus] says to you, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.” Luke 11:9-10
- “You will call upon me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the LORD. Jeremiah 29:12-14
3.
Wait ~ remember His timetable is different
than ours. (Isaiah 55:8-9) Sometimes He
answers with a quick yes or no, but most often its wait. Waiting, although hard produces a strengthening
of our faith.
- “The wise heart will know the proper time and procedure. For there is a proper time and procedure for every matter.” Ecclesiastes 8:5-6
- “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us – whatever we ask – we know that we have what we asked of Him.
1 John 5:14-15
- “The wise heart will know the proper time and procedure. For there is a proper time and procedure for every matter.” Ecclesiastes 8:5-6
- “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us – whatever we ask – we know that we have what we asked of Him.
1 John 5:14-15
4.
Act ~ follow in obedience to His Word.
- “The unfolding of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” Psalm 119:130
- “To the LORD I cry aloud, and He answers me from His holy hill.”
Psalm 3:4
- “It is the LORD your God you must follow, and Him you must revere. Keep His commands and obey Him; serve Him and hold fast to Him.”
Deuteronomy 13: 4
- If anyone obeys His word, God’s love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know we are in Him.” 1 John 2:5
- “The unfolding of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” Psalm 119:130
- “To the LORD I cry aloud, and He answers me from His holy hill.”
Psalm 3:4
- “It is the LORD your God you must follow, and Him you must revere. Keep His commands and obey Him; serve Him and hold fast to Him.”
Deuteronomy 13: 4
- If anyone obeys His word, God’s love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know we are in Him.” 1 John 2:5
5.
Rest
- “The LORD will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being snared.” Proverbs 3:26
- “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD, is the Rock eternal.” Isaiah 26:3-4
- “My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will never be shaken.” Psalm 62:1-2
“Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to Your name be the glory, because of Your love and faithfulness.” Psalm 115:1
- “The LORD will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being snared.” Proverbs 3:26
- “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD, is the Rock eternal.” Isaiah 26:3-4
- “My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will never be shaken.” Psalm 62:1-2
“Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to Your name be the glory, because of Your love and faithfulness.” Psalm 115:1
Saturday, March 30, 2013
Encouragement for the Journey ~ 2013
Risen Savior, King of Kings
~ ~ ~ He chose the nails for me.
Battered ~ Bruised ~ Mocked and Scorned
~ ~ ~ He chose the nails for me.
Healer ~ Redeemer ~ Prince of Peace
~ ~ ~ He chose the nails for me.
Holy ~ Righteous ~ Son of God
~ ~ ~ He chose the nails for me.
Compassionate ~ Tender ~ Loving Shepherd
~ ~ ~ He chose the nails for me.
Sinless ~ Perfect ~ Pure ~ Messiah
~ ~ ~ He chose the nails for me.
Wanting none to perish ~ WANTING none to perish ~ wanting NONE to perish
~ ~ ~ He chose the nails for me.
God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21
I am the Shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me . . . I lay down my life for the sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. John 10:14,15,27-28
For God so loved the world that He gave His One and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16
~ ~ ~ He chose the nails for me.
Battered ~ Bruised ~ Mocked and Scorned
~ ~ ~ He chose the nails for me.
Healer ~ Redeemer ~ Prince of Peace
~ ~ ~ He chose the nails for me.
Holy ~ Righteous ~ Son of God
~ ~ ~ He chose the nails for me.
Compassionate ~ Tender ~ Loving Shepherd
~ ~ ~ He chose the nails for me.
Sinless ~ Perfect ~ Pure ~ Messiah
~ ~ ~ He chose the nails for me.
Wanting none to perish ~ WANTING none to perish ~ wanting NONE to perish
~ ~ ~ He chose the nails for me.
God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:21
I am the Shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me . . . I lay down my life for the sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. John 10:14,15,27-28
For God so loved the world that He gave His One and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Encouragement for the Journey ~ 2013
God shapes the world by prayer. The more praying there is in the world the better the world will be, the mightier the forces against evil. E.M. Bounds
"I love the LORD, for He heard my voice; He heard my cry for mercy. Because He turned His ear to me, I will call on Him as long as I live." Psalm 116:1-2
"Give us aid against the enemy, for the help of man is worthless. With God we will gain the victory, and He will trample down our enemies." Psalm 60:11-12
"O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.
He said: "Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's.
You will not have to fight this battle. Take your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.' "
2 Chronicles 20:12,15, 17
God shapes the world by prayer. The more praying there is in the world the better the world will be, the mightier the forces against evil. E.M. Bounds
"I love the LORD, for He heard my voice; He heard my cry for mercy. Because He turned His ear to me, I will call on Him as long as I live." Psalm 116:1-2
"Give us aid against the enemy, for the help of man is worthless. With God we will gain the victory, and He will trample down our enemies." Psalm 60:11-12
"O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.
He said: "Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Jerusalem! This is what the LORD says to you: 'Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's.
You will not have to fight this battle. Take your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the LORD will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the LORD will be with you.' "
2 Chronicles 20:12,15, 17
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Encouragement for the Journey ~ 2013
"The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the Word of our God
stands firm forever."
Isaiah 40:8
God's Word . . . Perfect ~ Powerful ~ Prevails!!!
stands firm forever."
Isaiah 40:8
God's Word . . . Perfect ~ Powerful ~ Prevails!!!
Monday, February 11, 2013
Encouragment for the Journey ~ 2013
Reflecting His Peace . . .
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled." John 14:27
"Reflected peace is the proof that you are right with God because you are at liberty to turn your mind to Him. If you are not right with God, you can never turn your mind anywhere but on yourself."
"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139:23-24
"I came not to send peace, but a sword." Matthew 10:34
"Jesus Christ came to send a sword through every peace that is not based on a personal relationship to Himself."
A personal relationship comes by believing on His name and receiving His free gift of salvation. "If you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you with be saved." Romans 10:9
Is your life a reflection of God's peace?
Quotes taken fromTreasures from My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers.
"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled." John 14:27
"Reflected peace is the proof that you are right with God because you are at liberty to turn your mind to Him. If you are not right with God, you can never turn your mind anywhere but on yourself."
"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139:23-24
"I came not to send peace, but a sword." Matthew 10:34
"Jesus Christ came to send a sword through every peace that is not based on a personal relationship to Himself."
A personal relationship comes by believing on His name and receiving His free gift of salvation. "If you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you with be saved." Romans 10:9
Is your life a reflection of God's peace?
Quotes taken fromTreasures from My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers.
Monday, January 28, 2013
Encouragement for the Journey ~ 2013
Seek His face ~ ~ ~
Why? Fills us with His joy and we see His faithfulness
Many are asking, Who can show us any good? Let the light of Your face shine upon us, O LORD. You have filled my heart with greater joy . . . Psalm 4:6-7a
Hear my voice when I call, O LORD; be merciful to me and answer me.
My heart says of You, "Seek His face!" Your face, LORD, I will seek.
Do not hide Your face from me, do not turn your servant away in anger; You have been my helper. Do not reject me or forsake me, O God my Savior.
Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me." Psalm 27:70-10
When? Always
Look to the LORD and His strength; seek His face always. Psalm 105:4
Result? Our faces are radiant and we represent Him well.
Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. Psalm 34:5
~ ~ ~
This is love for God: to obey His commands. And His commands are not burdensome.
1 John 5:3
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Encouragement for the Journey ~ 2013 . . . Confidently Dependent
"Blessed is the man (woman) who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him.
Jeremiah 17:7
During my quiet time with the Lord this morning, I found myself smiling and my eyes brightly shining. As I continued to read His Word, I recognized that the smile was coming from the trust I have in my unfailing Lord and Savior. He alone is the One I cling to, the One I put my complete confidence in. Why? Because HE NEVER FAILS!!! He remains true to His Word. He is "the same yesterday, today and forever." (Hebrews 13"8)
"A saint (a believer in Christ) is never consciously a saint; a saint is consciously dependent on God." "God does not tell you what He is going to do; He reveals to you Who He is." (quotes from Treasures from My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers)
Who or what are you depending and relying on today to sustain you? Where does your confidence come from? Remember the words of John, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man (woman) remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me, you can do nothing." (John 15: 5)
~ "Such confidence as this is ours through Christ before God. Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. He has made us competent." 2 Corinthians 3:4-6
~ "The LORD will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being snared." Proverbs 3:26
~ "The effect of righteousness (having a right standing with God through salvation in Christ Jesus) will be quietness and confidence forever." Isaiah 32:17
~ "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in our time of need." Hebrews 4:16
~ "Do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded." Hebrews 10"35
~ "The LORD Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:8
Praying that in all we do today, we will fully depend on Him!!!
"Blessed is the man (woman) who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him.
Jeremiah 17:7
During my quiet time with the Lord this morning, I found myself smiling and my eyes brightly shining. As I continued to read His Word, I recognized that the smile was coming from the trust I have in my unfailing Lord and Savior. He alone is the One I cling to, the One I put my complete confidence in. Why? Because HE NEVER FAILS!!! He remains true to His Word. He is "the same yesterday, today and forever." (Hebrews 13"8)
"A saint (a believer in Christ) is never consciously a saint; a saint is consciously dependent on God." "God does not tell you what He is going to do; He reveals to you Who He is." (quotes from Treasures from My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers)
Who or what are you depending and relying on today to sustain you? Where does your confidence come from? Remember the words of John, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man (woman) remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me, you can do nothing." (John 15: 5)
~ "Such confidence as this is ours through Christ before God. Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. He has made us competent." 2 Corinthians 3:4-6
~ "The LORD will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being snared." Proverbs 3:26
~ "The effect of righteousness (having a right standing with God through salvation in Christ Jesus) will be quietness and confidence forever." Isaiah 32:17
~ "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in our time of need." Hebrews 4:16
~ "Do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded." Hebrews 10"35
~ "The LORD Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:8
Praying that in all we do today, we will fully depend on Him!!!
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Encouragement for the Journey ~ 2013 . . . Tracks
Yesterday morning I was praying through Ephesians 6:10-19 for our family and co-laborers in Christ. Putting the armor on is something I do everyday. I know how important it is be prepared for the enemy's onslaught that I know will be coming.
Verse 15 stuck out to me in particular as I was praying, "and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace." Someone shared an article with me some time back from Dr. Charles Stanley that I use a guide as I pray. He encourages believers to pray, "Lord, this morning I put on the sandals of the gospel of peace. I am available to You, Lord. Send me where You will. Guide me to those who need encouragement or physical help of some kind. Use me to solve conflicts wherever they may arise. Make me a calming presence in every circumstance in which You place me. I will not be hurried or rushed, for my schedule is in Your hands. I will not leave a trail of tension and apprehension I will leave tracks of peace and stability everywhere I go."
I would love to say I always leave tracks of peace and stability everywhere I go, but I can't. So often I blow it, let's be honest we all blow it from time to time. The Lord brought to mind a few of the types of "tracks" I've left in the past. See if you can identiy.
~ tracks like an elephant ~ heavily (I'm not talking about weight here) tromps on anything in it's path to get to where it's going.
~ tracks like a cat ~ light footsteps but ready to pounce at a moments notice.
~ tracks like a swan ~ gracefully gliding across the water, not bothering anyone or noticing what's around.
~ tracks like Jesus ~ filled with compassion, grace, mercy
Fill me Jesus, full to overflowing with Your ways that I may walk like You today. Tracks of peace . . . tracks of peace . . . tracks of peace . . .
Yesterday morning I was praying through Ephesians 6:10-19 for our family and co-laborers in Christ. Putting the armor on is something I do everyday. I know how important it is be prepared for the enemy's onslaught that I know will be coming.
Verse 15 stuck out to me in particular as I was praying, "and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace." Someone shared an article with me some time back from Dr. Charles Stanley that I use a guide as I pray. He encourages believers to pray, "Lord, this morning I put on the sandals of the gospel of peace. I am available to You, Lord. Send me where You will. Guide me to those who need encouragement or physical help of some kind. Use me to solve conflicts wherever they may arise. Make me a calming presence in every circumstance in which You place me. I will not be hurried or rushed, for my schedule is in Your hands. I will not leave a trail of tension and apprehension I will leave tracks of peace and stability everywhere I go."
I would love to say I always leave tracks of peace and stability everywhere I go, but I can't. So often I blow it, let's be honest we all blow it from time to time. The Lord brought to mind a few of the types of "tracks" I've left in the past. See if you can identiy.
~ tracks like an elephant ~ heavily (I'm not talking about weight here) tromps on anything in it's path to get to where it's going.
~ tracks like a cat ~ light footsteps but ready to pounce at a moments notice.
~ tracks like a swan ~ gracefully gliding across the water, not bothering anyone or noticing what's around.
~ tracks like Jesus ~ filled with compassion, grace, mercy
Fill me Jesus, full to overflowing with Your ways that I may walk like You today. Tracks of peace . . . tracks of peace . . . tracks of peace . . .
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Encouragement for the Journey ~ 2013 . . . Deliverance
Have you ever felt like someone was chasing you? Feeling that you are being relentlessly pursued. That there is someone lurking at every corner, ready to pounce; watching for that moment when you let your guard down. If you are a believer in Christ, I know your answer is an unequivocal, YES. God makes it so clear who is chasing us with the warning given by the apostle Peter, "Be self controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." (1 Peter 5:8) It doesn't get any clearer than that.
The enemy is always lying in wait. Silent. Looking for his prey. Ready to pounce when you least expect it. He'll use whatever/whoever will accomplish his purpose and plan for destruction. Charles Spurgeon, the great theologian said, "He is more cunning than the wisest: How soon he entangled Solomon! He is stronger than the strongest: How fatally he overthrew Samson! Yes, and men after God's own heart, like David, have been led into most grievous sins by his seduction." (page 57, From the Writings of Charles H. Spurgeon, Baker Books) All of us are vulnerable.
"Our enemy, crafty and clever and experienced as he is, knows which lure best attracts each one of us. Our unique inner "itch" longs to be satisfied by that particular outer "scratch." And unless we draw on the all-conquering power of Jesus Christ, we'll yield. We'll bite the bait, and we'll suffer the horrible consequences." (page 1347, The Living Insights Study Bible, Pastor Chuck Swindoll, Zondervan) (see James 1:13-15)
We need to remember that we are conquerors in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:37-39) So, the next time you feel chased and pursued, do exactly what Jesus did when He was being pursued in the wilderness by the enemy. (Matthew 4:1-11) He spoke Truth!!! God's Truth always overcomes!!! We can rely on His faithfulness to deliver us. "I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills His purpose for me. He sends from heaven and saves me, rebuking those who hotly pursue me; God sends His love and His faithfulness." Psalm 57:2-3
Have you ever felt like someone was chasing you? Feeling that you are being relentlessly pursued. That there is someone lurking at every corner, ready to pounce; watching for that moment when you let your guard down. If you are a believer in Christ, I know your answer is an unequivocal, YES. God makes it so clear who is chasing us with the warning given by the apostle Peter, "Be self controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." (1 Peter 5:8) It doesn't get any clearer than that.
The enemy is always lying in wait. Silent. Looking for his prey. Ready to pounce when you least expect it. He'll use whatever/whoever will accomplish his purpose and plan for destruction. Charles Spurgeon, the great theologian said, "He is more cunning than the wisest: How soon he entangled Solomon! He is stronger than the strongest: How fatally he overthrew Samson! Yes, and men after God's own heart, like David, have been led into most grievous sins by his seduction." (page 57, From the Writings of Charles H. Spurgeon, Baker Books) All of us are vulnerable.
"Our enemy, crafty and clever and experienced as he is, knows which lure best attracts each one of us. Our unique inner "itch" longs to be satisfied by that particular outer "scratch." And unless we draw on the all-conquering power of Jesus Christ, we'll yield. We'll bite the bait, and we'll suffer the horrible consequences." (page 1347, The Living Insights Study Bible, Pastor Chuck Swindoll, Zondervan) (see James 1:13-15)
We need to remember that we are conquerors in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:37-39) So, the next time you feel chased and pursued, do exactly what Jesus did when He was being pursued in the wilderness by the enemy. (Matthew 4:1-11) He spoke Truth!!! God's Truth always overcomes!!! We can rely on His faithfulness to deliver us. "I cry out to God Most High, to God who fulfills His purpose for me. He sends from heaven and saves me, rebuking those who hotly pursue me; God sends His love and His faithfulness." Psalm 57:2-3
"My Heart rejoices in the LORD;
in the LORD my horn (strength) is lifted high.
My mouth boasts over my enemies, (that's confidence, my friend)
for I delight in Your deliverance."
1 Samuel 2:1
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Encouragement for the Journey ~ 2013
Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name. For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations. Psalm 100:4-5
This morning I woke up to another gray, gloomy, rainy day. Although I don't mind the rain, it can put a damper on my attitude. I immediately realized I had a choice to either give into the gloominess or choose a garment of praise. (Isaiah 61:3b-c) My choice was a garment of praise. I simply don't want to waste my time complaining. We all know that complaining comes way too easy.
Today I focused on praising the Lord with the following words that describe His character/attributes/what He does, etc. that begin with letter S. Starting my day like this totally changed my attitude and put a song of praise in my heart.
~ Sovereign
~ Sweeps away our offenses like a cloud
~ Sweeps away our sin like the morning midst
~ Shows mercy
~ Searches us
~ Spirit of Truth
~ Savior
~ Salvation
~ Splendor
~ Shield
~ Save by Your right Hand
~ Saving Power
~ Stronghold of my life
~ Strong Tower
~ Saved us by Your shed blood
~ Search our hearts
~ Son of the Most High
~ Shows no partiality
~ Source of our love
~ Security
~ Steadfast love
~ Strong Deliverer
~ Slow to anger
~ Strength
~ Song
~ Supplier
~ Sacrificial Lamb
And this is only one letter in the alphabet and not a complete list of "s" either. Add your own. Look up the words and see where they're found in the Bible. Good way to get rid of the blah's!!! And God loves to hear His name praised!!!
Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Psalm 150:6
This morning I woke up to another gray, gloomy, rainy day. Although I don't mind the rain, it can put a damper on my attitude. I immediately realized I had a choice to either give into the gloominess or choose a garment of praise. (Isaiah 61:3b-c) My choice was a garment of praise. I simply don't want to waste my time complaining. We all know that complaining comes way too easy.
Today I focused on praising the Lord with the following words that describe His character/attributes/what He does, etc. that begin with letter S. Starting my day like this totally changed my attitude and put a song of praise in my heart.
~ Sovereign
~ Sweeps away our offenses like a cloud
~ Sweeps away our sin like the morning midst
~ Shows mercy
~ Searches us
~ Spirit of Truth
~ Savior
~ Salvation
~ Splendor
~ Shield
~ Save by Your right Hand
~ Saving Power
~ Stronghold of my life
~ Strong Tower
~ Saved us by Your shed blood
~ Search our hearts
~ Son of the Most High
~ Shows no partiality
~ Source of our love
~ Security
~ Steadfast love
~ Strong Deliverer
~ Slow to anger
~ Strength
~ Song
~ Supplier
~ Sacrificial Lamb
And this is only one letter in the alphabet and not a complete list of "s" either. Add your own. Look up the words and see where they're found in the Bible. Good way to get rid of the blah's!!! And God loves to hear His name praised!!!
Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Psalm 150:6
Friday, January 4, 2013
Encouragement for the Journey . . . 2013
What are your goals and aspirations for 2013? Your new resolves and resolutions? Those daunting tasks you've been putting off? Will this be the year you succeed in any or all of those areas that you've been setting aside way too long?
All of us have or will make those kinds of goals for ourselves, but what about your personal Spiritual goals? Those things that draw you closer to the Lord. Those things that equip you to do more for His glory ~ touching more lives with His Truth. It goes without saying that we need to saturate our minds with more of His Word ~ purposefully reading it daily. Self help books are fine too, but be careful that you don't read so many that there is no time left for the BEST book of all.
I remember hearing Dr.Leighton Ford, Billy Graham's brother in law, say many years ago, find a few good books that powerfully reveal God's Truth to you and periodically reread them. A few of the books I've found to be helpful with my walk with Him are, The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence; My Utmost for His Highest, by Oswald Chambers and another favorite, the little, but powerful book in challenging me to do more for Him, The Prayer of Jabez, by Dr. Bruce Wilkinson. I use the Jabez prayer daily as I pray for me, my family, friends and co-workers in Christ.
My prayer for each of us in this new year is that He will bless us with more knowledge of who He is, using us "to make a difference for Him that is utterly disproportionate to who we are. (John Piper) "Expand our opportunities and our impact in such a way that we touch more lives for His glory. Let us do more for Him." (Dr. Bruce Wilkinson)
All of us have or will make those kinds of goals for ourselves, but what about your personal Spiritual goals? Those things that draw you closer to the Lord. Those things that equip you to do more for His glory ~ touching more lives with His Truth. It goes without saying that we need to saturate our minds with more of His Word ~ purposefully reading it daily. Self help books are fine too, but be careful that you don't read so many that there is no time left for the BEST book of all.
I remember hearing Dr.Leighton Ford, Billy Graham's brother in law, say many years ago, find a few good books that powerfully reveal God's Truth to you and periodically reread them. A few of the books I've found to be helpful with my walk with Him are, The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence; My Utmost for His Highest, by Oswald Chambers and another favorite, the little, but powerful book in challenging me to do more for Him, The Prayer of Jabez, by Dr. Bruce Wilkinson. I use the Jabez prayer daily as I pray for me, my family, friends and co-workers in Christ.
My prayer for each of us in this new year is that He will bless us with more knowledge of who He is, using us "to make a difference for Him that is utterly disproportionate to who we are. (John Piper) "Expand our opportunities and our impact in such a way that we touch more lives for His glory. Let us do more for Him." (Dr. Bruce Wilkinson)
~ ~ ~
"Jabez cried out to the God of Israel,
"Oh, that You would bless me and enlarge my territory.
Let Your hand be with me, and keep me from harm,
so that I will be free from pain."
And God granted his request."
1 Chronicles 4:10
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