Encouragement . . . for the Journey 2014

Retreat with Him . . .
Sometimes when we think of the word retreat we think of giving up ~ pulling back ~ withdrawing.  But what does retreating with the Lord look like? It's coming near, simply spending time with the One who made you, drew you to Him and wants to show you His love through His Word.

How can something so simple be so hard to accomplish?  We can be so easily distracted and consumed with our "to do" lists that the most important thing is neglected.  If you recall in the story of Mary and Martha (Luke 10:38-42), Martha was totally distracted by the "to do's" so much so, that she neglected to spend time with Jesus her Savior.  Mary on the other hand as Pastor Chuck Swindoll says, "sat at His feet relaxed, content to sit quietly, and listen.  Listening to Him took priority over commonplace household tasks."  "Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."  Luke 10:42

On May 17th, 2014 we have designed a special day for you to come away from your "to do" lists and spend time with your Savior.  A time of fellowship with women and a time to be refreshed and renewed so you can be more effective in accomplishing the tasks God's given you to do.  Jesus often "retreated" to a quiet place with His Father to be built up and renewed.  If Jesus in His humanity did this, how much more do we need this too. 


For registration and details go to www.retreatwithhim.org.

This is what the LORD Almighty says,

 "I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint."
Jeremiah 31:25



   

Encouragement for the Journey . . . 2014

Was watching a program recently about some folks who were purchasing new homes ~ million dollar homes I might add.  I know, seriously.  As the agent was taking the buyers to different properties he kept saying words to them like, "this will truly make you happy."  I had to wonder; happy?  Happy for how long??? 

It's so easy in this day and time to fall into the trap of wanting what will make us happy or give us true satisfaction; regardless of the cost.  The beautiful thing is that God has given all of us the perfect prescription for true happiness and complete satisfaction that no amount of money can purchase and it's totally free ~ absolutely free. True satisfaction can only come from and through Christ.  He alone gives real, lasting satisfaction.

Our part is simply to:

~ Recognize our need for Him and receive His free gift of salvation (Romans 3:23; 6:23; 10:9-10; Ephesians 2:8-9; 1 Timothy 2:3-6; 1 John 5:11-13)

~ Seek Him with all our heart (Psalm 105:3-4; 119:2; Jeremiah 29:12-14; Matthew 6:33; Hebrews 11:6)

~ Walk in all His ways (Psalm 25:4-5; 119:4-5,24.32;  Ephesians 4:22-24; 5:15; Galatians 5:22-25; Colossians 3:1-2) 


Who/what/where are you looking for satisfaction?

The LORD will guide you always;

He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen you frame. 

You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.

Isaiah 58:11

Encouragement for the Journey . . . 2014

Come near to God and He will come near to you.  James 4:8

~ linger in His presence
~ listen to His voice

"Though everything may appear cold, dark, and strained -- may I be faithful in talking with my heavenly Father."

"To reach the place where the Word and prayer each have its undivided right over me, I must be wholly transformed."

Transformed by a Holy God ~ transformed by His grace ~ transformed by the power that is only found in His Son, Jesus.  "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes."  Romans 1:16


"My day will respond to the morning watch time (quiet time) spent with God."Have you lingered in His presence today ~ listened to His voice?  Oftentimes we go through our day, frazzled, falling apart and wondering why; when the very reason is that we didn't start our day with Him. 


No one is without excuse. Whether you work outside your home or your job is in your home. Everyone can spend time with Him ~ the amount of time is between you and the Lord.  I would encourage you to spend time with Him as your days begins, when you are the most fresh.  I've heard it said that waiting until the end of the day to come near to Him is like tuning an orchestra after the concert is over.  Notes were played, but everything was out of tune. 

My kids are grown and have been out on their own for years, so I have plenty of time to linger in His presence.  But what about young Mom's?  First, you can spend time with Him ~ it will simply look a lot different than someone whose kids are grown.  If all you can do is pray while you're holding your baby or child who is clinging to you in your arms ~ then pray.  Rather than get frustrated, ask the Lord to guide your day.  What a great example for our kids/grand kids when they hear us praying and seeking God's guidance. "These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts.  Impress them on your children.  Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."  Deuteronomy 6:6-7


Lord today,
May each of us come near to You ~ linger in Your presence and listen for Your voice.  May we hear Your voice louder than any other.  May we trust in You with all our heart and fully lean on You ~ seeking You and trusting You to guide every step we take. 
 
Note: Scripture is from NIV and all quotes are from Talking with God by Andrew Murray