"I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness." Jeremiah 31:3 (NIV)
Last night I said it right out loud. I had a witness...my husband. I said that I needed to get on a better schedule. With the end of the school year and the beginning of summer, I've fallen into a pattern of staying up late (so not me!) and sleeping late (mmmm, liked that part). The problem was that so much of my most productive part of the day...mornings for me...was being wasted. One of the things that I love so much about summer is leisurely morning time in the Word. I was missing some of the best of that...quiet time before anyone else is up...time when it's just me and God...well and my faithful companion, Cocoa, my little daschund. Yeah, so I said those words, and obviously my hubby wasn't the only one to hear them. God did. And I think He considered it to be a prayer...and He answered! I woke up around 4:30, laid in bed, so nice and cozy...prayed for my family, my pastor, my friends...then I knew I had to do it. I had to get up! God had some things to show me, some things to tell me. I'm so glad I didn't miss the rising of the sun, the songs of praise that the birds raised, the breeze that enveloped me as if it was the arms of God Himself. And then as I opened His Word, he spoke...as the lover of my soul...His whispers of love for me.
I went first to my daily reading in my One Year Chronological Bible, (Yes! I finally caught up!) which I enjoy with my sister of the heart, Wendy, my sweet Mama, and my dear friend, Gloria. At first I was a little disappointed when I saw that the reading would be from The Song of Songs...not what I usually consider to be my favorite manna from the Word. The book of The Song of Songs (or The Song of Solomon) is often preached as a human love story, a romantic encounter...yet sometimes comical to me, when expressing his sentiments about his lover's beauty by comparing her hair to a flock of goats and her teeth to a flock of sheep just shorn. But, as I read in my Disciple's Study Bible introduction, "Later traditions of Judaism and Christianity have used allegorical and typological methods of interpretation to extend the meaning of the Song of Songs to God's love with His people and Christ's love for the church." I read it fresh and with a new perspective...and experienced a love that filled my soul!
This morning "I slept, but my heart was awake, when I heard [the lover of my soul] knocking and calling." (v. 5:2) He said, "Rise up, my darling! Come away with me, my fair one! Look, the winter is past, and the rains are over and gone. The flowers are springing up, the season of singing birds has come, and the cooing of turtledoves fills the air. The fig trees are forming young fruit, and the fragrant grapevines are blossoming. Rise up, my darling! Come away with me, my fair one!" (vs.2:10-13) He reminded me that "[I] have captured [His] heart..." I am His "treasure, [His] bride." (v. 4:9) He loves me. He loves you. He pursues us...passionately...morning by morning. Let's hear His call and Arise!
Lord, Your love is beyond our comprehension. Help us to not only catch a glimpse of the heights and depths of your love, but to see it boldly and clearly and believe it with all of our hearts!
My blogger friends, this morning, I felt that God was also calling me to begin something...that I approach with some fear and trembling, afraid that I won't do it justice...or complete the tasks...but I obeyed today...before this blog post. I started yet another blog...one for brief daily devotions. Pray for me to continue the obedience, to be consistent, to yield to Him. I hope to be much more committed to that daily nugget than I am to this more lengthy writing. Take a peek at Grace for Today-Daily Devotional!!
Friday, June 4, 2010
Friday, May 21, 2010
Lessons from an IPOD...a camera...a computer
"Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life." Proverbs 4:13 (NIV)
My sweet husband gave me an IPOD for my birthday. That was back in October. I still don't know how to use it. With the help of my 10 year old, I have enjoyed some of the music that my 23 year old downloaded...or uploaded...whichever you do...to it. I came across the instructions yesterday as I was looking through a drawer (that's right beside my recliner...close at hand, because I always meant to read them). I hope to get to them soon.
That same generous husband bought me a camera a couple of years back...before a family trip to New York City. I have probably about 1500 pictures on that little disk-y thing that you put in it. I have printed a few...up- or downloaded some...again with the help of my daughters. I do know how to use the delete button on it. I've managed to take some really good pictures...but all on the same setting, because I didn't read the instruction booklet. I think it is in the cabinet in my den. I have actually taken the booklet with me on a couple of trips, really intending to read it.
I was given my laptop by an amazing group of parents at a school where I taught a few years back. They were thrilled to be an avenue of provision on my journey to becoming a writer. I'm embarrassed to say that the instruction book is "somewhere"...unread...I really thought I'd get to it. As with the IPOD and the camera, my precious daughters have taught me how to do most of what I know how to do...including setting up my blogsite.
I have three amazing tools available to enhance my life, preserve memories, equip me for tasks. They are effective...and used often, well, except the IPOD...I've really got to learn how to use that thing! Yes, I enjoy them, but could use them to their full potential if I would just take the time to read the instruction books.
You know, the most important instruction book is God's Word. It won't tell me how to work my IPOD, camera, or computer...but it does tell me to heed instruction. I think a lot of times we keep our Bibles close by...planning to read them, but perhaps not being intentional about it. I must confess something. I started out the year reading through the Chronological Bible led by my dear sister in Christ, Wendy Pope at Proverbs 31 ministries (her link is on my favorite blog list). I was mostly consistent until a few weeks ago when some areas of my life turned a little upside down. I know in my head that when things go crazy God's Word is the thing you need. However, I let busy-ness...the pit...and reality TV (to escape my own!) rob me of the encouragement I needed. I was even reminded by my Mama and my precious friend, Gloria (who knows all about how to use her camera) of the way God was speaking right to my needs...but I still got behind. Now I still went to church. I still had my devotion time each day. I even went to the Women of Joy conference...God's plan way before I knew that would be just what I needed. But in all of those days I missed God's words to me...His voice of encouragement and call to persevere...to be encouraged...to have joy. I pledge today to start my program of catching up and getting back on track so that I don't miss what He has to say to me.
This morning as I read from a beautiful devotion book that my daughters gave me for Mother's Day, this message was driven home. It is from Sarah Young's book Jesus Calling.
"I, the Creator of the universe, am with you and for you. What more could you need? When you feel some lack, it is because you are not connecting with Me at a deep level. I offer abundant Life; your part is to trust Me, refusing to worry about anything.
It is not so much adverse events that make you anxious as it is your thoughts about those events. Your mind engages in efforts to take control of a situation, to bring about the result you desire. Your thoughts close in on the problem like ravenous wolves. Determined to make things go your way, you forget that I am in charge of your life. The only remedy is to switch your focus from the problem to My Presence. Stop all your striving, and watch to see what I will do. I am the Lord!"
The most important instruction that I need is to seek Him first. (Matt. 6:33) In His Word He teaches me how to love...to forgive...to pray...to endure...to trust...the importance of Godly presence and counsel of friends. I'm thankful to have a lot of His Words hidden in my heart...and Christian music playing in my head...to speak to me at all times, even when I'm not being faithful to spending quality time in His Word.
I've gotta run...to the Father...to His Word. I've got some catching up to do!
Father God, thank You for Your Word. Help me to daily "Accept instruction from [Your] mouth and lay [Your] words upon my heart." Job 22:22 (NIV) My hope is in You.
My sweet husband gave me an IPOD for my birthday. That was back in October. I still don't know how to use it. With the help of my 10 year old, I have enjoyed some of the music that my 23 year old downloaded...or uploaded...whichever you do...to it. I came across the instructions yesterday as I was looking through a drawer (that's right beside my recliner...close at hand, because I always meant to read them). I hope to get to them soon.
That same generous husband bought me a camera a couple of years back...before a family trip to New York City. I have probably about 1500 pictures on that little disk-y thing that you put in it. I have printed a few...up- or downloaded some...again with the help of my daughters. I do know how to use the delete button on it. I've managed to take some really good pictures...but all on the same setting, because I didn't read the instruction booklet. I think it is in the cabinet in my den. I have actually taken the booklet with me on a couple of trips, really intending to read it.
I was given my laptop by an amazing group of parents at a school where I taught a few years back. They were thrilled to be an avenue of provision on my journey to becoming a writer. I'm embarrassed to say that the instruction book is "somewhere"...unread...I really thought I'd get to it. As with the IPOD and the camera, my precious daughters have taught me how to do most of what I know how to do...including setting up my blogsite.
I have three amazing tools available to enhance my life, preserve memories, equip me for tasks. They are effective...and used often, well, except the IPOD...I've really got to learn how to use that thing! Yes, I enjoy them, but could use them to their full potential if I would just take the time to read the instruction books.
You know, the most important instruction book is God's Word. It won't tell me how to work my IPOD, camera, or computer...but it does tell me to heed instruction. I think a lot of times we keep our Bibles close by...planning to read them, but perhaps not being intentional about it. I must confess something. I started out the year reading through the Chronological Bible led by my dear sister in Christ, Wendy Pope at Proverbs 31 ministries (her link is on my favorite blog list). I was mostly consistent until a few weeks ago when some areas of my life turned a little upside down. I know in my head that when things go crazy God's Word is the thing you need. However, I let busy-ness...the pit...and reality TV (to escape my own!) rob me of the encouragement I needed. I was even reminded by my Mama and my precious friend, Gloria (who knows all about how to use her camera) of the way God was speaking right to my needs...but I still got behind. Now I still went to church. I still had my devotion time each day. I even went to the Women of Joy conference...God's plan way before I knew that would be just what I needed. But in all of those days I missed God's words to me...His voice of encouragement and call to persevere...to be encouraged...to have joy. I pledge today to start my program of catching up and getting back on track so that I don't miss what He has to say to me.
This morning as I read from a beautiful devotion book that my daughters gave me for Mother's Day, this message was driven home. It is from Sarah Young's book Jesus Calling.
"I, the Creator of the universe, am with you and for you. What more could you need? When you feel some lack, it is because you are not connecting with Me at a deep level. I offer abundant Life; your part is to trust Me, refusing to worry about anything.
It is not so much adverse events that make you anxious as it is your thoughts about those events. Your mind engages in efforts to take control of a situation, to bring about the result you desire. Your thoughts close in on the problem like ravenous wolves. Determined to make things go your way, you forget that I am in charge of your life. The only remedy is to switch your focus from the problem to My Presence. Stop all your striving, and watch to see what I will do. I am the Lord!"
The most important instruction that I need is to seek Him first. (Matt. 6:33) In His Word He teaches me how to love...to forgive...to pray...to endure...to trust...the importance of Godly presence and counsel of friends. I'm thankful to have a lot of His Words hidden in my heart...and Christian music playing in my head...to speak to me at all times, even when I'm not being faithful to spending quality time in His Word.
I've gotta run...to the Father...to His Word. I've got some catching up to do!
Father God, thank You for Your Word. Help me to daily "Accept instruction from [Your] mouth and lay [Your] words upon my heart." Job 22:22 (NIV) My hope is in You.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Reality Check
"Choose this day whom you will serve....as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." Joshua 24:15 (KJV)
I was shocked! I simply could not believe it! Lacey got voted off American Idol last night! She was my favorite...especially once I found out she was a preacher's kid (I am and my children are.) She was beautiful...in a really bold way...red (the color of a crayon) hair, heavy makeup, and a unique style of dress. (Now, I'm not saying that's how I dress...or want my children to dress...or color their hair.) But her smile was so sweet, her eyes so sparkly, and her voice was very appealing. Yes, shocked...and sad. Well, as much as you can be over a TV show. The thing was, as much as I hated it, I was a part of the cause. I didn't do my part. I didn't vote. I made a choice to sit on the sidelines, enjoy the show, and not take a stand for my choice.
Yes, at my house, we enjoy reality TV...American Idol...Survivor...Amazing Race. Now we don't approve of all of the music...or language...or social statements, but there's excitement in seeing people reach for their dream...take on great challenges...battle the odds...see the world. I guess for us, it's some encouragement for us to consider our dreams...an escape from the odds we battle in our daily lives...a chance to experience risk taking from the safety of our recliners...and to travel vicariously through those strangers.
You know, I will choose to root for some other contestant on American Idol. I probably still won't vote. I head straight to bed when the show is over. But this has surely caused me to think about choices...and acting upon them.
God's Word makes it very clear that there are some critical choices we must make and actions that we must take...choices and actions that will impact our lives...and God's blessing on our lives. Yesterday, He brought to my mind the verse in Joshua 24:15, "Choose this day whom you will serve...." Everyday I have to make a choice. Not for salvation...that was settled long ago, when I was seven. But I must choose daily whom I will serve...who I will live for...who I will revere...who I will reflect.
Lately I have been reading from Deuteronomy. Repeatedly we, as God's chosen, are commanded to choose...obedience that brings blessing...or disobedience that brings cursing. (By the way, speaking of choices...He chose us!!! He made a choice for us to become His very own treasured possession! And His choice was one that came at great cost...to Him, not to us. He showed grace. No matter what we've done, no matter where we've been, no matter how much we've hurt Him, He died in our place. He gave it all. It was a sacrifice. It hurt. Yet, His love was that great! 1 Peter 2:9 says, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.) And He gives us a choice...black and white...choose Him...or not.
Back to Deuteronomy, hear it straight from His Word. "Now what I am commanding you today is not too difficult for you or beyond your reach. It is not up in heaven, so that you have to ask, "Who will ascend into heaven to get it and proclaim it to us so we may obey it?" Nor is it beyond the sea, so that you have to ask, "Who will cross the sea to get it and proclaim it to us so we may obey it?" No, the word is very near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart so you may obey it. See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction. For I command you today to love the LORD your God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his commands, decrees and laws; then you will live and increase, and the LORD your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess. But if your heart turns away and you are not obedient, and if you are drawn away to bow down to other gods and worship them, I declare to you this day that you will certainly be destroyed. You will not live long in the land you are crossing the Jordan to enter and possess. This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the LORD is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob." Deuteronomy 30:11-20 (NIV)
That's reality. Reality that matters. What's your choice?
Lord, I'm casting my vote! I choose You! I want my life to be about You. I want Your blessing...for me and my household. Help me daily to walk in obedience to Your commands. I am in awe that You would choose me. My heart overflows with gratitude for Your love...unfailing love...for Your sacrifice...for me. I love you.
I was shocked! I simply could not believe it! Lacey got voted off American Idol last night! She was my favorite...especially once I found out she was a preacher's kid (I am and my children are.) She was beautiful...in a really bold way...red (the color of a crayon) hair, heavy makeup, and a unique style of dress. (Now, I'm not saying that's how I dress...or want my children to dress...or color their hair.) But her smile was so sweet, her eyes so sparkly, and her voice was very appealing. Yes, shocked...and sad. Well, as much as you can be over a TV show. The thing was, as much as I hated it, I was a part of the cause. I didn't do my part. I didn't vote. I made a choice to sit on the sidelines, enjoy the show, and not take a stand for my choice.
Yes, at my house, we enjoy reality TV...American Idol...Survivor...Amazing Race. Now we don't approve of all of the music...or language...or social statements, but there's excitement in seeing people reach for their dream...take on great challenges...battle the odds...see the world. I guess for us, it's some encouragement for us to consider our dreams...an escape from the odds we battle in our daily lives...a chance to experience risk taking from the safety of our recliners...and to travel vicariously through those strangers.
You know, I will choose to root for some other contestant on American Idol. I probably still won't vote. I head straight to bed when the show is over. But this has surely caused me to think about choices...and acting upon them.
God's Word makes it very clear that there are some critical choices we must make and actions that we must take...choices and actions that will impact our lives...and God's blessing on our lives. Yesterday, He brought to my mind the verse in Joshua 24:15, "Choose this day whom you will serve...." Everyday I have to make a choice. Not for salvation...that was settled long ago, when I was seven. But I must choose daily whom I will serve...who I will live for...who I will revere...who I will reflect.
Lately I have been reading from Deuteronomy. Repeatedly we, as God's chosen, are commanded to choose...obedience that brings blessing...or disobedience that brings cursing. (By the way, speaking of choices...He chose us!!! He made a choice for us to become His very own treasured possession! And His choice was one that came at great cost...to Him, not to us. He showed grace. No matter what we've done, no matter where we've been, no matter how much we've hurt Him, He died in our place. He gave it all. It was a sacrifice. It hurt. Yet, His love was that great! 1 Peter 2:9 says, "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.) And He gives us a choice...black and white...choose Him...or not.
Back to Deuteronomy, hear it straight from His Word. "Now what I am commanding you today is not too difficult for you or beyond your reach. It is not up in heaven, so that you have to ask, "Who will ascend into heaven to get it and proclaim it to us so we may obey it?" Nor is it beyond the sea, so that you have to ask, "Who will cross the sea to get it and proclaim it to us so we may obey it?" No, the word is very near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart so you may obey it. See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction. For I command you today to love the LORD your God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his commands, decrees and laws; then you will live and increase, and the LORD your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess. But if your heart turns away and you are not obedient, and if you are drawn away to bow down to other gods and worship them, I declare to you this day that you will certainly be destroyed. You will not live long in the land you are crossing the Jordan to enter and possess. This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the LORD is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob." Deuteronomy 30:11-20 (NIV)
That's reality. Reality that matters. What's your choice?
Lord, I'm casting my vote! I choose You! I want my life to be about You. I want Your blessing...for me and my household. Help me daily to walk in obedience to Your commands. I am in awe that You would choose me. My heart overflows with gratitude for Your love...unfailing love...for Your sacrifice...for me. I love you.
Friday, March 12, 2010
A Light in the Darkness
"For God, who said, 'Let light shine out of darkness,' made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ." 2 Corinthians 4:6 (NIV)
A beautiful blown-glass angel sits on my dresser. She holds a tiny candle on her delicate hands...usually. The point of connection is so minute, that it comes off frequently. Fortunately, because of the position of her hands, I can place it right back and it will stay...until the next time it is disturbed.
This morning I laid something beside the angel and it bumped her slightly. The candle fell off.
It felt like me.
In recent days it seemed like my "light" was knocked off. Circumstances have threatened to cast me into darkness. I know all of the right stuff in my head...but my heart was troubled...and ruling my spirit. Now, I carried on with life...and in God's strength walked through days that I really felt like just staying in the bed. I prayed...sought encouragement in His Word...and prayed...offered a sacrifice of praise...and prayed some more.
Today He gave me these words in 2 Corinthians 4.
Treasures in Jars of Clay
1Therefore, since through God's mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. 2Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. 3And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. 4The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 5For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake. 6For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness,"[a]made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.
7But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. 11For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. 12So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.
13It is written: "I believed; therefore I have spoken."[b]With that same spirit of faith we also believe and therefore speak, 14because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you in his presence. 15All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.
16Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
He is faithful.
Lord, I'm believing You...in Your strength and Your all-surpasing power! Help me in my unbelief. Help me to keep my eyes fixed on You...and not just on what I can see. Help me to walk in Your light...and to allow You to keep my light burning. Thank You for Your love and grace. I love You.
A beautiful blown-glass angel sits on my dresser. She holds a tiny candle on her delicate hands...usually. The point of connection is so minute, that it comes off frequently. Fortunately, because of the position of her hands, I can place it right back and it will stay...until the next time it is disturbed.
This morning I laid something beside the angel and it bumped her slightly. The candle fell off.
It felt like me.
In recent days it seemed like my "light" was knocked off. Circumstances have threatened to cast me into darkness. I know all of the right stuff in my head...but my heart was troubled...and ruling my spirit. Now, I carried on with life...and in God's strength walked through days that I really felt like just staying in the bed. I prayed...sought encouragement in His Word...and prayed...offered a sacrifice of praise...and prayed some more.
Today He gave me these words in 2 Corinthians 4.
Treasures in Jars of Clay
1Therefore, since through God's mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. 2Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. 3And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. 4The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 5For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake. 6For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness,"[a]made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.
7But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. 11For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body. 12So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.
13It is written: "I believed; therefore I have spoken."[b]With that same spirit of faith we also believe and therefore speak, 14because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you in his presence. 15All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.
16Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
He is faithful.
Lord, I'm believing You...in Your strength and Your all-surpasing power! Help me in my unbelief. Help me to keep my eyes fixed on You...and not just on what I can see. Help me to walk in Your light...and to allow You to keep my light burning. Thank You for Your love and grace. I love You.
Monday, February 22, 2010
I'm thinkin'...He loves me!
"...His banner over me is love." Song of Solomon 2:4 (NIV)
In my quiet time a few days ago (in Beth Moore's Praying God's Word Day by Day devotional book...which I use year after year...soooo powerful), I came across a verse that stuck with me ever since...primarily because it was made into a song that has played over and over in my head. Do you remember singing that chorus repeatedly in youth group or summer camp?? "His banner over me is love. His banner over me is love...His banner over me is love (2 syllable love)." So, I couldn't get it off my mind...which caused me to ponder the meaning...and try to picture it in my mind. I asked my smart hubby about it...about banners in the Bible and such. I prayed about it, asking the Lord to help me to grasp the meaning. I don't know if it was God or just odd that those obnoxious Arby's commercials came to me. You know the ones where someone is in the middle of something real important...like a business meeting...or a wedding...and the bright red Arby's logo pops up over their head and somebody says, "I'm thinkin' Arby's."
Well, I think God's banner is waaayy cooler (and much more beautiful) than that goofy Arby's hat logo! And what it means to me is waaayy more important than a roast beef sandwich! Just imagine, when God looks at me...and you...He sees His own hand-woven brilliant, spectacular banner over our heads...embroidered in the finest of fabric and thread with one word written on it. LOVE.
That's all He sees. He doesn't see our faults. He doesn't see our failures. He just sees LOVE.
He doesn't flip the banner...or switch it with another...ever. He always sees LOVE.
So, yeah, I'm thinkin' He loves me. Now that is bliss.
Lord, I pray to walk worthy of that banner. Help me to love...as You first loved me. Thank You for Your love that never fails. Thank You for the Love that paid the price for my sin...so that the banner of LOVE is all You see. I love You.
In my quiet time a few days ago (in Beth Moore's Praying God's Word Day by Day devotional book...which I use year after year...soooo powerful), I came across a verse that stuck with me ever since...primarily because it was made into a song that has played over and over in my head. Do you remember singing that chorus repeatedly in youth group or summer camp?? "His banner over me is love. His banner over me is love...His banner over me is love (2 syllable love)." So, I couldn't get it off my mind...which caused me to ponder the meaning...and try to picture it in my mind. I asked my smart hubby about it...about banners in the Bible and such. I prayed about it, asking the Lord to help me to grasp the meaning. I don't know if it was God or just odd that those obnoxious Arby's commercials came to me. You know the ones where someone is in the middle of something real important...like a business meeting...or a wedding...and the bright red Arby's logo pops up over their head and somebody says, "I'm thinkin' Arby's."
Well, I think God's banner is waaayy cooler (and much more beautiful) than that goofy Arby's hat logo! And what it means to me is waaayy more important than a roast beef sandwich! Just imagine, when God looks at me...and you...He sees His own hand-woven brilliant, spectacular banner over our heads...embroidered in the finest of fabric and thread with one word written on it. LOVE.
That's all He sees. He doesn't see our faults. He doesn't see our failures. He just sees LOVE.
He doesn't flip the banner...or switch it with another...ever. He always sees LOVE.
So, yeah, I'm thinkin' He loves me. Now that is bliss.
Lord, I pray to walk worthy of that banner. Help me to love...as You first loved me. Thank You for Your love that never fails. Thank You for the Love that paid the price for my sin...so that the banner of LOVE is all You see. I love You.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Below the Surface
“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”- Romans 8:35,37 (NIV)
I had a bit of a shocking surprise last weekend. I was visiting at my parents' home...precious, sweet memories...well, all but one. You see, at my house in the master bath we have raised sinks. They are nice for several reasons...less bending over when washing my face or brushing my teeth. I'm not getting lazy...just less flexible. They provide a comfortable resting place when leaning over to look in the mirror and apply my mascara (as I battle to find the right distance to meet the needs of my near-sightedness in combination with the far-sightedness that has come with increasing age). Okay, so I had just gotten out of the shower and started the make-up process and it happened...in a bathroom with a standard height sink. I saw my thighs! Yikes! Ugh!!! What had happened??? When did that all go south??? I couldn't believe what had been hiding below the surface of my sink.
I haven't gotten over that harsh realization. (I guess I'd better get back on the treadmill...or walking in the neighborhood....Yes, I "fell off the wagon.") As I mulled over this matter of relative insignificance, God whispered words that I felt worthy of sharing...whether my own frightening experience was or not.
He reminded me that we need to be aware of things that are going on "below the surface" in people's lives...of unsightly circumstances, hearts bulging in brokenness...and share His love. It's often crystal clear that someone is bearing a burden...the cranky lady in the checkout line, the tearful Mom you saw at school today, the gruff old man at the park. But many times a smile masks turmoil that bubbles and boils inside. We need to be less hasty in our judgements...even the ones that believe someone "has it all together." We need to be more compassionate. We need to look through the eyes of our Heavenly Father who loves...lavishly...no matter what He sees on the outside or within. We need to take time to share a smile, an encouraging word, an act of kindness. As Matthew 25:40 tells us, "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' " (NIV)
Lord, open our eyes to see the needs around us. Give us wisdom and discernment to assess what You would have us do to be Your arms of comfort, Your words of refreshment, Your means of tangibly meeting a need. Help us to share Your love...to the greatest...to the least...to the happy...to the sad...to those who openly share their pain and to those who hide it below the surface. Love through us.
I had a bit of a shocking surprise last weekend. I was visiting at my parents' home...precious, sweet memories...well, all but one. You see, at my house in the master bath we have raised sinks. They are nice for several reasons...less bending over when washing my face or brushing my teeth. I'm not getting lazy...just less flexible. They provide a comfortable resting place when leaning over to look in the mirror and apply my mascara (as I battle to find the right distance to meet the needs of my near-sightedness in combination with the far-sightedness that has come with increasing age). Okay, so I had just gotten out of the shower and started the make-up process and it happened...in a bathroom with a standard height sink. I saw my thighs! Yikes! Ugh!!! What had happened??? When did that all go south??? I couldn't believe what had been hiding below the surface of my sink.
I haven't gotten over that harsh realization. (I guess I'd better get back on the treadmill...or walking in the neighborhood....Yes, I "fell off the wagon.") As I mulled over this matter of relative insignificance, God whispered words that I felt worthy of sharing...whether my own frightening experience was or not.
He reminded me that we need to be aware of things that are going on "below the surface" in people's lives...of unsightly circumstances, hearts bulging in brokenness...and share His love. It's often crystal clear that someone is bearing a burden...the cranky lady in the checkout line, the tearful Mom you saw at school today, the gruff old man at the park. But many times a smile masks turmoil that bubbles and boils inside. We need to be less hasty in our judgements...even the ones that believe someone "has it all together." We need to be more compassionate. We need to look through the eyes of our Heavenly Father who loves...lavishly...no matter what He sees on the outside or within. We need to take time to share a smile, an encouraging word, an act of kindness. As Matthew 25:40 tells us, "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' " (NIV)
Lord, open our eyes to see the needs around us. Give us wisdom and discernment to assess what You would have us do to be Your arms of comfort, Your words of refreshment, Your means of tangibly meeting a need. Help us to share Your love...to the greatest...to the least...to the happy...to the sad...to those who openly share their pain and to those who hide it below the surface. Love through us.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
You Can Take It, But Can You Dish It Out??
"For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required." Luke 12:48 (NKJV)
So, did you read my title and think that I've got it backwards??? Yes, I did take some liberty with that cliche. However, it must be turned around to make the point that God is pressing into me...somewhat painfully, I might add. You know how He is the potter and we are the clay? Well I feel like He is turning me every which way but loose today!
There are many things that are easy to "take" from God. We gladly accept His love...obliviously, at times, not realizing just how lavish His love is. We accept His forgiveness...even when we flippantly utter "forgive me of my sin"...often forgetting the price that was paid. We expect God to be patient with us...to wait until we're ready to accept Him, to listen to Him, to make time for Him, or to obey Him. We enjoy the benefits of grace...unmerited favor. We are accepted, loved, forgiven, and even favored by the God of the universe. Ponder that a minute. Astounding, don't you think?
"Amazing Grace...how sweet the sound...that saved a wretch like me."
I am so unworthy. I don't deserve His love...His forgiveness...His patience...and surely not His favor. I've neglected Him, at times even walked away from Him. I've disobeyed Him and sinned against Him. I've questioned Him and been impatient with Him. Yet, He shows me mercy and grace...and I "take" it.
But can I dish it out? I must confess before Him...and to you, that I'm struggling. Showing love, forgiveness, patience, and grace sometimes seems beyond my realm of capability. But I must keep reminding myself that it is not beyond His...and that "to whom much is given...much is required."
Lord, I know that in my weakness You are strong. I'm bowing at Your feet, asking forgiveness, and yielding to you. Work in my heart. Transform me. Thank you for Your grace. Help me to not only take it, but to give it. I want to be like You. Mold me and make me.
So, did you read my title and think that I've got it backwards??? Yes, I did take some liberty with that cliche. However, it must be turned around to make the point that God is pressing into me...somewhat painfully, I might add. You know how He is the potter and we are the clay? Well I feel like He is turning me every which way but loose today!
There are many things that are easy to "take" from God. We gladly accept His love...obliviously, at times, not realizing just how lavish His love is. We accept His forgiveness...even when we flippantly utter "forgive me of my sin"...often forgetting the price that was paid. We expect God to be patient with us...to wait until we're ready to accept Him, to listen to Him, to make time for Him, or to obey Him. We enjoy the benefits of grace...unmerited favor. We are accepted, loved, forgiven, and even favored by the God of the universe. Ponder that a minute. Astounding, don't you think?
"Amazing Grace...how sweet the sound...that saved a wretch like me."
I am so unworthy. I don't deserve His love...His forgiveness...His patience...and surely not His favor. I've neglected Him, at times even walked away from Him. I've disobeyed Him and sinned against Him. I've questioned Him and been impatient with Him. Yet, He shows me mercy and grace...and I "take" it.
But can I dish it out? I must confess before Him...and to you, that I'm struggling. Showing love, forgiveness, patience, and grace sometimes seems beyond my realm of capability. But I must keep reminding myself that it is not beyond His...and that "to whom much is given...much is required."
Lord, I know that in my weakness You are strong. I'm bowing at Your feet, asking forgiveness, and yielding to you. Work in my heart. Transform me. Thank you for Your grace. Help me to not only take it, but to give it. I want to be like You. Mold me and make me.
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