Pray! God Knows!
I was recently looking through the Victory Call archives and I came across a number of them that were written by our dear sister Dottie Noel, who went home to be with Jesus on May 21st of last year. I miss her sweet spirit in this place!
As I read through a number of the Victory Call devotions she had written my heart and soul were blessed and I thought, "Why not share the blessing with all of our Victory Call subscribers?"
God is all-knowing! He knows our need to communicate with Him. He allows us to talk to Him through prayer and adds His response to us as we read His Word. I once heard these words concerning prayer: "The power is His, the privilege is ours." What a privilege prayer is to me; and what power it has!
In Matthew 26:36-45 we find Christ, himself, praying to the Father before His crucifixion.
In Luke 11 we read a model prayer He gave to His disciples - and to us.
Philippians 4:6 instructs us that He is here for us in everything.
Before opening His Word to read, pray. Ask God to make His Word clear to you.
Do you want to experience a special prayer time? Make one of thanksgiving. We often pray for wants and forget the thanks. When you come to Him with a thankful heart filled with love and gratitude, you will realize the blessings you have. We like to hear "thanks"; the Lord does, too.
Pray for people by name. During a past surgery, I had a trachea. I couldn't speak and was having trouble adjusting to the respirator - trying to breathe on my own. God helped me to adjust in this way: I would let the machine breathe for me, and then I'd pray for five people by name. I would again allow the forced air from the machine, and then prayed for five more. If I knew you back in the late '60's, you probably were prayed for many times - by name! Today, I breathe on my own, and still love to pray for requests by name.
Pick up your Bible and read: He speaks!
For all your requests and thanks, pray! He listens! Communicate with the Lord today. What a privilege!
Dottie
Submitted by Stephanie Paul
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Encouragement From One Who Has Gone Before-1
I was recently looking through the Victory Call archives and I came across a number of them that were written by our dear sister Dottie Noel who went home to be with Jesus on May 21st of last year. I miss her sweet spirit in this place!
As I read through a number of the Victory Call devotions she had written, my heart and soul were blessed and I thought, "Why not share the blessing with all of our Victory Call subscribers?"
I quickly picked up the phone to call my boss and was given permission to re-feature these treasures so that you might be encouraged and edified as I was. So for the next 4 Victory Call Devotionals be encouraged to live in visible victory COREM DEO (before the face of God) by one who now sits at His feet! May the LORD bless you today as you let your light shine for His glory and honor!!
Let Brotherly Love Continue
As a child, I remember my mother submitting a poem (unknown author) to the radio program, "The Breakfast Club". The poem remained with me as I memorized it as a teen. The title was "The Master Is Coming." God brings it to my mind as I need to be reminded of its message: "too busy for others".
It begins: "the Master is coming to honor the town today and no one can tell at whose house or home the Master will choose to stay".
The woman in the poem is dreaming that the Lord would choose her home. She begins by saying, "Straightway I turned to toiling to make my home more neat". She even decorated her house with flowers to make her home more sweet! But in her busy toiling, she is 'interrupted' by a woman who needed to share her sorrows and receive comfort. The toiling woman was too busy. Next was a little child needing her help, and then a crippled lady. Each time she replied, "I am truly sorry, but I can not help you today, I have greater things to attend to" - and the visitors went away.
Later in her dream this woman is upset that the Lord never visited her home. She had toiled so hard to have things ready for His visit! As you can guess, His reply was this: "Three times I came to your home today, and three times you turned me away!"
This poem brings tears to my eyes as I remember, not just the words, but my mom! She had time for everyone. Our home was open to her friends, children, and also many strangers. The Lord was honored as Mom was the true example of her life verse, Matthew 5:16, "Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven." She passed this example of God's love to my sister and me. Our prayer is: "Please, God, let us be there for others as Mom was."
How often does the Lord try to visit your home, but you miss the blessing, because you are "too busy?"
Hebrews 13:1-2, "Let brotherly love continue. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels."
Dottie Noel
Submitted by Stephanie Paul
As I read through a number of the Victory Call devotions she had written, my heart and soul were blessed and I thought, "Why not share the blessing with all of our Victory Call subscribers?"
I quickly picked up the phone to call my boss and was given permission to re-feature these treasures so that you might be encouraged and edified as I was. So for the next 4 Victory Call Devotionals be encouraged to live in visible victory COREM DEO (before the face of God) by one who now sits at His feet! May the LORD bless you today as you let your light shine for His glory and honor!!
Let Brotherly Love Continue
As a child, I remember my mother submitting a poem (unknown author) to the radio program, "The Breakfast Club". The poem remained with me as I memorized it as a teen. The title was "The Master Is Coming." God brings it to my mind as I need to be reminded of its message: "too busy for others".
It begins: "the Master is coming to honor the town today and no one can tell at whose house or home the Master will choose to stay".
The woman in the poem is dreaming that the Lord would choose her home. She begins by saying, "Straightway I turned to toiling to make my home more neat". She even decorated her house with flowers to make her home more sweet! But in her busy toiling, she is 'interrupted' by a woman who needed to share her sorrows and receive comfort. The toiling woman was too busy. Next was a little child needing her help, and then a crippled lady. Each time she replied, "I am truly sorry, but I can not help you today, I have greater things to attend to" - and the visitors went away.
Later in her dream this woman is upset that the Lord never visited her home. She had toiled so hard to have things ready for His visit! As you can guess, His reply was this: "Three times I came to your home today, and three times you turned me away!"
This poem brings tears to my eyes as I remember, not just the words, but my mom! She had time for everyone. Our home was open to her friends, children, and also many strangers. The Lord was honored as Mom was the true example of her life verse, Matthew 5:16, "Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven." She passed this example of God's love to my sister and me. Our prayer is: "Please, God, let us be there for others as Mom was."
How often does the Lord try to visit your home, but you miss the blessing, because you are "too busy?"
Hebrews 13:1-2, "Let brotherly love continue. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels."
Dottie Noel
Submitted by Stephanie Paul
Monday, February 27, 2012
A Simple Reminder
I recently purchased my 2012 calendar and on the back of the cardboard insert was this:
Thank you for purchasing a 2012 Dayspring Calendar.
When the time was right,
The sea parted,
The walls fell down,
The lions went hungry,
The sun stood still,
The star appeared,
The waves were calmed,
The stone was rolled away,
The Lord ascended...
And when the time is right,
The King of Kings will return.
God is never early and He's never late -
He's always right on time and His plans for you are good.
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord,"plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
A simple reminder to encourage your heart today.
Diane Hunt is part of the ministry team at America's Keswick. She is a regular writer for Victory Call and one of the authors of Crossing the Jordan Bible Study. Diane has been married to her husband John over 27 years. She has 2 adult children and 3 grandchildren and 3 adult step-children with 7 grandchildren making 10 in all. She delights reading and teaching, but mostly laughing at the funny things her grandchildren say and do.
Thank you for purchasing a 2012 Dayspring Calendar.
When the time was right,
The sea parted,
The walls fell down,
The lions went hungry,
The sun stood still,
The star appeared,
The waves were calmed,
The stone was rolled away,
The Lord ascended...
And when the time is right,
The King of Kings will return.
God is never early and He's never late -
He's always right on time and His plans for you are good.
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord,"plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
A simple reminder to encourage your heart today.
Diane Hunt is part of the ministry team at America's Keswick. She is a regular writer for Victory Call and one of the authors of Crossing the Jordan Bible Study. Diane has been married to her husband John over 27 years. She has 2 adult children and 3 grandchildren and 3 adult step-children with 7 grandchildren making 10 in all. She delights reading and teaching, but mostly laughing at the funny things her grandchildren say and do.
Friday, February 24, 2012
That's Impossible!
What is it in your life that is just simply impossible? That issue that, unless God shows up won't, can't happen? Think big. When was the last time you prayed faith-stretching, faith-building prayers? Well, recently during our Staff/Board retreat, I was reminded that God does the impossible. So I, in turn, am reminding you.
Let's just think about some of what God has done:
God created the world - out of nothing - Ex Nihilo. In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1
God made a donkey talk - Then the LORD opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said to Balaam, "What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?" Numbers 22:28
God made an axe head float - But as one was felling a log, his axe head fell into the water, and he cried out, "Alas, my master! It was borrowed." Then the man of God said, "Where did it fall?" When he showed him the place, he cut off a stick and threw it in there and made the iron float. 2 Kings 6:5-6
God made the sun stand still - And the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, until the nation took vengeance on their enemies. Is this not written in the Book of Jashar? The sun stopped in the midst of heaven and did not hurry to set for about a whole day. There has been no day like it before or since, when the LORD heeded the voice of a man, for the LORD fought for Israel. Joshua 10:13-14
God made a virgin give birth - Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel. Matthew 1:23
God the Son turned water into wine - So he came again to Cana in Galilee, where he had made the water wine. John 4:46 (see also John 2)
God the Son healed the leper - And a leper came to him, imploring him, and kneeling said to him, "If you will, you can make me clean." Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand and touched him and said to him, "I will; be clean." And immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean. Mark 1:40-42
God the Son made the blind see - And he took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village, and when he had spit on his eyes and laid his hands on him, he asked him, "Do you see anything?" And he looked up and said, "I see people, but they look like trees, walking." Then Jesus laid his hands on his eyes again; and he opened his eyes, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. Mark 8:23-25
God the Son fed 4000 people with a few fish and loaves - And he took the seven loaves, and having given thanks, he broke them and gave them to his disciples to set before the people; and they set them before the crowd. And they had a few small fish. And having blessed them, he said that these also should be set before them. And they ate and were satisfied. And they took up the broken pieces left over, seven baskets full. And there were about four thousand people. Mark 8:6-9
God the Son raised the dead - When he had said these things, he cried out with a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out." The man who had died came out, his hands and feet bound with linen strips, and his face wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, "Unbind him, and let him go." John 11:43-44
So let's go back to my original question. What is that impossible thing in your life? God is the same today as He was back in Bible times. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). What impossible thing will you ask God for this year?
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is part of the ministry team at America's Keswick. She is a regular writer for Victory Call and one of the authors of Crossing the Jordan Bible Study. Diane has been married to her husband John over 27 years. She has 2 adult children and 3 grandchildren and 3 adult step-children with 7 grandchildren making 10 in all. She delights reading and teaching, but mostly laughing at the funny things her grandchildren say and do.
Let's just think about some of what God has done:
God created the world - out of nothing - Ex Nihilo. In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1
God made a donkey talk - Then the LORD opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said to Balaam, "What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?" Numbers 22:28
God made an axe head float - But as one was felling a log, his axe head fell into the water, and he cried out, "Alas, my master! It was borrowed." Then the man of God said, "Where did it fall?" When he showed him the place, he cut off a stick and threw it in there and made the iron float. 2 Kings 6:5-6
God made the sun stand still - And the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, until the nation took vengeance on their enemies. Is this not written in the Book of Jashar? The sun stopped in the midst of heaven and did not hurry to set for about a whole day. There has been no day like it before or since, when the LORD heeded the voice of a man, for the LORD fought for Israel. Joshua 10:13-14
God made a virgin give birth - Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel. Matthew 1:23
God the Son turned water into wine - So he came again to Cana in Galilee, where he had made the water wine. John 4:46 (see also John 2)
God the Son healed the leper - And a leper came to him, imploring him, and kneeling said to him, "If you will, you can make me clean." Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand and touched him and said to him, "I will; be clean." And immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean. Mark 1:40-42
God the Son made the blind see - And he took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village, and when he had spit on his eyes and laid his hands on him, he asked him, "Do you see anything?" And he looked up and said, "I see people, but they look like trees, walking." Then Jesus laid his hands on his eyes again; and he opened his eyes, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. Mark 8:23-25
God the Son fed 4000 people with a few fish and loaves - And he took the seven loaves, and having given thanks, he broke them and gave them to his disciples to set before the people; and they set them before the crowd. And they had a few small fish. And having blessed them, he said that these also should be set before them. And they ate and were satisfied. And they took up the broken pieces left over, seven baskets full. And there were about four thousand people. Mark 8:6-9
God the Son raised the dead - When he had said these things, he cried out with a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out." The man who had died came out, his hands and feet bound with linen strips, and his face wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, "Unbind him, and let him go." John 11:43-44
So let's go back to my original question. What is that impossible thing in your life? God is the same today as He was back in Bible times. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). What impossible thing will you ask God for this year?
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is part of the ministry team at America's Keswick. She is a regular writer for Victory Call and one of the authors of Crossing the Jordan Bible Study. Diane has been married to her husband John over 27 years. She has 2 adult children and 3 grandchildren and 3 adult step-children with 7 grandchildren making 10 in all. She delights reading and teaching, but mostly laughing at the funny things her grandchildren say and do.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Female for the Glory of God
Today's Victory Call is inspired by television commercials. My observation has been that over and over again, women are depicted in a most unsettling way. And, if I didn't understand sin and the heart of man apart from Holy God, I'd easily be shocked and surprised.
Any casual observer can't help but notice that women are in charge. In most sitcoms and commercials, etc., we get the last word; we are the wiser, smarter, dare I say, dominant. We prevail and not without a cost.
Men: our fathers, brothers, sons and especially, our husbands, are shown to be idiots, losers, sluggards, stupid, unintelligent buffoons. And it's us, women, who are communicating this. Loud and clear we tell men they are incompetent, inadequate and less than capable of meeting our ever-changing, ever-increasing, ever-demanding needs.
I wish I could say that this behavior is nonexistent among us in the household of faith, but I can't. We, too, have been shaped by the culture we live in and today my challenge to all of us is to decide - decide that we will no longer live as if the curse is real. Instead we will choose to live free in Christ, allow His Spirit, in and through us, to transform and change our stinking thinking.
Remember the garden?
To the woman he said, "I will surely multiply your pain in childbearing; in pain you shall bring forth children. Your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you." ~ Genesis 3:16 ESV
Since I can't say it any better than John Piper; here is what he said:
"In other words the result of sin and the curse of our age is conflict between the sexes. This verse is not a description of the way things should be. This is a description of the cursed way things are going to be while sin reigns. Dominating men and devious women. This is not the meaning of male and female in God's image. It is the ugliness of sin."1
"Peter says in 1 Peter 3:7, that a Christian husband and wife are 'fellow heirs of the grace of life.' What does this mean? It means that in Christ men and women recover what was meant by being created male and female in God's image. It means that together as male and female they are to image-forth the glory of God and together as fellow-heirs they are to inherit the glory of God."2
So dear sisters, our challenge today is simple: will we choose to go forth and image Christ, forsaking any modicum of resemblance to that ruling, controlling woman whom the culture has tricked some of us into imitating? Let's choose to step into the grace and beauty that is ours to behold in Christ alone. May we be fully female for the glory of God!!
Stephanie
1 ttp://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/Sermons/ByTopic/49/679_Male_and_Female_He_Created_Them_in_the_Image_of_God/
2 Same as previous
Any casual observer can't help but notice that women are in charge. In most sitcoms and commercials, etc., we get the last word; we are the wiser, smarter, dare I say, dominant. We prevail and not without a cost.
Men: our fathers, brothers, sons and especially, our husbands, are shown to be idiots, losers, sluggards, stupid, unintelligent buffoons. And it's us, women, who are communicating this. Loud and clear we tell men they are incompetent, inadequate and less than capable of meeting our ever-changing, ever-increasing, ever-demanding needs.
I wish I could say that this behavior is nonexistent among us in the household of faith, but I can't. We, too, have been shaped by the culture we live in and today my challenge to all of us is to decide - decide that we will no longer live as if the curse is real. Instead we will choose to live free in Christ, allow His Spirit, in and through us, to transform and change our stinking thinking.
Remember the garden?
To the woman he said, "I will surely multiply your pain in childbearing; in pain you shall bring forth children. Your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you." ~ Genesis 3:16 ESV
Since I can't say it any better than John Piper; here is what he said:
"In other words the result of sin and the curse of our age is conflict between the sexes. This verse is not a description of the way things should be. This is a description of the cursed way things are going to be while sin reigns. Dominating men and devious women. This is not the meaning of male and female in God's image. It is the ugliness of sin."1
"Peter says in 1 Peter 3:7, that a Christian husband and wife are 'fellow heirs of the grace of life.' What does this mean? It means that in Christ men and women recover what was meant by being created male and female in God's image. It means that together as male and female they are to image-forth the glory of God and together as fellow-heirs they are to inherit the glory of God."2
So dear sisters, our challenge today is simple: will we choose to go forth and image Christ, forsaking any modicum of resemblance to that ruling, controlling woman whom the culture has tricked some of us into imitating? Let's choose to step into the grace and beauty that is ours to behold in Christ alone. May we be fully female for the glory of God!!
Stephanie
1 ttp://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/Sermons/ByTopic/49/679_Male_and_Female_He_Created_Them_in_the_Image_of_God/
2 Same as previous
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Grown Up Perspective
I am just about finishing the first month of reading through the Bible for 2012. It is said that 30 days makes a habit. I hope they are right! I have finished Genesis and made my way into Exodus, just about completed Proverbs for the first time this year and put a good dent into Matthew! Yippy!
This past week's reading brought back an odd memory. While reading about the plague of frogs in Exodus, I could still see in my mind the pictures that were in my Bible Storybook as a child: A picture of Pharaoh and A LOT of frogs on glossy paper. I share this memory because I believe by the end of the year I will see some things I haven't seen before. I believe I will find promises that I have read before but now speak to my heart in a new and real way. I believe my recall of passages will be sharpened. I believe that I will have scripture written on my heart and in my mind. I believe I will be amazed, as I forge ahead, at the new insights that will come to mind as I read stories I have "known" for years. New pictures will be filed away to be brought back to my memory even years from now.
I wonder if I pulled out that old Bible Storybook, would the picture be as I remember? Maybe that picture of Pharaoh wouldn't be as handsome as I recall. Maybe those frogs would not look so slimy in that glossy picture. The difference: Growing up! Aren't you excited that as we grow we will know Jesus and His Word more and more? I am sure it has happened to you, too. A familiar verse all of a sudden is new because you are reading with adult eyes. And that picture you have of who Jesus is? Well, you just saw Him, the real HIM, not the Jesus you made up in your head long ago! It is exciting to see things in a grown-up perspective but there is only one way to see differently - continue to be in the Word and get to know Jesus!
What's going on in your world this morning? I pray that you will see Jesus today in the midst of it all. Don't just rely on your memory but get a fresh glimpse of Him today.
John 14:26-27 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
Blessings,
Kathy
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
This past week's reading brought back an odd memory. While reading about the plague of frogs in Exodus, I could still see in my mind the pictures that were in my Bible Storybook as a child: A picture of Pharaoh and A LOT of frogs on glossy paper. I share this memory because I believe by the end of the year I will see some things I haven't seen before. I believe I will find promises that I have read before but now speak to my heart in a new and real way. I believe my recall of passages will be sharpened. I believe that I will have scripture written on my heart and in my mind. I believe I will be amazed, as I forge ahead, at the new insights that will come to mind as I read stories I have "known" for years. New pictures will be filed away to be brought back to my memory even years from now.
I wonder if I pulled out that old Bible Storybook, would the picture be as I remember? Maybe that picture of Pharaoh wouldn't be as handsome as I recall. Maybe those frogs would not look so slimy in that glossy picture. The difference: Growing up! Aren't you excited that as we grow we will know Jesus and His Word more and more? I am sure it has happened to you, too. A familiar verse all of a sudden is new because you are reading with adult eyes. And that picture you have of who Jesus is? Well, you just saw Him, the real HIM, not the Jesus you made up in your head long ago! It is exciting to see things in a grown-up perspective but there is only one way to see differently - continue to be in the Word and get to know Jesus!
What's going on in your world this morning? I pray that you will see Jesus today in the midst of it all. Don't just rely on your memory but get a fresh glimpse of Him today.
John 14:26-27 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, He will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.
Blessings,
Kathy
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Beloved
"I am my beloved's And his desire is for me" Song of Solomon 7:10.
God's love is of holiness and purity; it is my protection. He sent His Son to demonstrate His love by being the example of living in this world and showing us to enter the narrow gate. God's Son was without sin and did the will of God, that I may have life.
Lord, you laid down your life and called me. In my own flesh and selfishness I would not have sought you. Lord, your love is so majestic it overwhelms my soul with all of my needs which you continuously keep. You invite me to partake of your bread and wine to give thanks. Having the bread of truth and the blood of forgiveness, to teach me to give thanks in all things. "Even before there is a word in my tongue, Behold, O Lord, Thou dost know it all" Psalm 139:4. As I want to share my thoughts and concerns, you are always there to listen. You encourage me to pray more because You are truly hearing me and giving back the truth of life. Lord, You give your joy which makes me rejoice and worship with You. When I am sad and sorrowful, you are gently teaching me something important of truth I need to learn. As I learn You quietly bring me closer to You. "The Lord's lovingkindnesses, indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail" Lamentations 3:22. You whisper softly I am the sovereign God; please trust Me. When tears are falling down my face You manage to put a smile on my face and reassure all is not lost, You are the resurrection. The fellowship we have is precious, nothing can compare to Your love. You amaze me with your plans, I would not have thought of it! When I least expect it, You surprise me with something I love, it's very simple. With Your love You give me new visions and revelations that awe me. You know me too well, Lord. You teach me the value of knowing Christ my Lord and having faith in Him knowing I need this faith to keep on going towards You. Throughout the day Your love makes me laugh at how silly I can be and yet You still love me. Your love gives me the strength to do what You have called me to do. My offering of thanksgiving for Your love for me is not enough. My Lord, I love You.
"Give thanks to the Lord of lords, for his lovingkindness is everlasting" Psalm 136:1
Glory to God!
Sandra Roman
Staff Member - WOC Graduate
God's love is of holiness and purity; it is my protection. He sent His Son to demonstrate His love by being the example of living in this world and showing us to enter the narrow gate. God's Son was without sin and did the will of God, that I may have life.
Lord, you laid down your life and called me. In my own flesh and selfishness I would not have sought you. Lord, your love is so majestic it overwhelms my soul with all of my needs which you continuously keep. You invite me to partake of your bread and wine to give thanks. Having the bread of truth and the blood of forgiveness, to teach me to give thanks in all things. "Even before there is a word in my tongue, Behold, O Lord, Thou dost know it all" Psalm 139:4. As I want to share my thoughts and concerns, you are always there to listen. You encourage me to pray more because You are truly hearing me and giving back the truth of life. Lord, You give your joy which makes me rejoice and worship with You. When I am sad and sorrowful, you are gently teaching me something important of truth I need to learn. As I learn You quietly bring me closer to You. "The Lord's lovingkindnesses, indeed never cease, For His compassions never fail" Lamentations 3:22. You whisper softly I am the sovereign God; please trust Me. When tears are falling down my face You manage to put a smile on my face and reassure all is not lost, You are the resurrection. The fellowship we have is precious, nothing can compare to Your love. You amaze me with your plans, I would not have thought of it! When I least expect it, You surprise me with something I love, it's very simple. With Your love You give me new visions and revelations that awe me. You know me too well, Lord. You teach me the value of knowing Christ my Lord and having faith in Him knowing I need this faith to keep on going towards You. Throughout the day Your love makes me laugh at how silly I can be and yet You still love me. Your love gives me the strength to do what You have called me to do. My offering of thanksgiving for Your love for me is not enough. My Lord, I love You.
"Give thanks to the Lord of lords, for his lovingkindness is everlasting" Psalm 136:1
Glory to God!
Sandra Roman
Staff Member - WOC Graduate
Monday, February 20, 2012
We Become What We Behold
Jeremiah 2:5b "...they...went after worthless things and became worthless."
The Lord spoke these words to "all the clans of the house of Israel..." about their forefathers through the prophet Jeremiah.
It is a reminder to us that we become what we behold.
To behold: to gaze upon (http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behold)
2 Corinthians 3:18 "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another: For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit."
It gives us pause to seriously consider what we behold. What captures our attention? What holds our gaze? Are we going after worthless things like the Israelites of old or are we beholding the Greatest Treasure, The Beautiful One, The One True God, The Eternal One, The Lover of our soul, The Lifter of our chin, our Maker?
Friend, "Behold your God." Is 40:9
Diane
Diane Hunt is part of the ministry team at America's Keswick. She is a regular writer for Victory Call and one of the authors of Crossing the Jordan Bible Study. Diane has been married to her husband John over 27 years. She has 2 adult children and 3 grandchildren and 3 adult step-children with 7 grandchildren making 10 in all. She delights reading and teaching, but mostly laughing at the funny things her grandchildren say and do.
The Lord spoke these words to "all the clans of the house of Israel..." about their forefathers through the prophet Jeremiah.
It is a reminder to us that we become what we behold.
To behold: to gaze upon (http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/behold)
2 Corinthians 3:18 "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another: For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit."
It gives us pause to seriously consider what we behold. What captures our attention? What holds our gaze? Are we going after worthless things like the Israelites of old or are we beholding the Greatest Treasure, The Beautiful One, The One True God, The Eternal One, The Lover of our soul, The Lifter of our chin, our Maker?
Friend, "Behold your God." Is 40:9
Diane
Diane Hunt is part of the ministry team at America's Keswick. She is a regular writer for Victory Call and one of the authors of Crossing the Jordan Bible Study. Diane has been married to her husband John over 27 years. She has 2 adult children and 3 grandchildren and 3 adult step-children with 7 grandchildren making 10 in all. She delights reading and teaching, but mostly laughing at the funny things her grandchildren say and do.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Friendship
You may have many friends but only a few intimate ones. A friend is someone who you may go to the mall with or just hang out at the deli to share lunch. Whatever the case may be you want to share your life with them. Sometimes it may be a telephone call to ask "how are you", or it may be to just be there with them while going through a crisis in their lives.
There was a time in my life, many years ago, when God used my friends to come alongside of me in a crisis situation: they just needed to be there. Their presence was enough. Some of these friends have gone home to the Lord, others have moved away, and some still live nearby. I thank God for the friends He has put in my life and the ones that He still plans on crossing my path. The Lord has shown me the benefits of using our redeemed past circumstances to benefit others. In 2 Corinthians 1:3,4 we read, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God (ESV).
King David's friendship with Jonathan: "A person who went the distance for his friend was Jonathan. His friendship with David is one of the most outstanding and moving stories in all of Scripture, perhaps in all of literature. . . . Few are the people blessed enough to know a committed friendship such as Jonathan's. David calls Jonathan his brother, reminiscent of the verses from Proverbs. Jonathan was closer to David than a brother. Commitment is the word that unlocks the real meaning of friendship." You can read about David and Jonathan in I Samuel 19 and 20.
Real friendships don't just happen, and they aren't maintenance-free. Ask yourself and your friend questions like these:
"How would you describe our friendship?"
"What is God doing in each of us, separately and together?"
"How can we help each other become all God wants us to be?"
Seeking another person's highest good: that's being a true friend.
The best friend we can ever have is the One who paid the penalty for our sins on the Cross of Calvary, Jesus the One and Only. He is always with us!
Pat Spies
Women's Ministry Volunteer
There was a time in my life, many years ago, when God used my friends to come alongside of me in a crisis situation: they just needed to be there. Their presence was enough. Some of these friends have gone home to the Lord, others have moved away, and some still live nearby. I thank God for the friends He has put in my life and the ones that He still plans on crossing my path. The Lord has shown me the benefits of using our redeemed past circumstances to benefit others. In 2 Corinthians 1:3,4 we read, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God (ESV).
King David's friendship with Jonathan: "A person who went the distance for his friend was Jonathan. His friendship with David is one of the most outstanding and moving stories in all of Scripture, perhaps in all of literature. . . . Few are the people blessed enough to know a committed friendship such as Jonathan's. David calls Jonathan his brother, reminiscent of the verses from Proverbs. Jonathan was closer to David than a brother. Commitment is the word that unlocks the real meaning of friendship." You can read about David and Jonathan in I Samuel 19 and 20.
Real friendships don't just happen, and they aren't maintenance-free. Ask yourself and your friend questions like these:
"How would you describe our friendship?"
"What is God doing in each of us, separately and together?"
"How can we help each other become all God wants us to be?"
Seeking another person's highest good: that's being a true friend.
The best friend we can ever have is the One who paid the penalty for our sins on the Cross of Calvary, Jesus the One and Only. He is always with us!
Pat Spies
Women's Ministry Volunteer
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Imperceptible Compromise
People often ask us at Keswick, "What do you do after the hustle of the Summer Conference season?" Believe me, we never get bored; there is always much to do.
One morning I was preparing for our volunteers (whom we love and appreciate) to come in to gift wrap 150 devotional books. So I set out to prepare things in an orderly manner so as to make the process as efficient as possible (that's the Human Factors engineer in me - my first career). So - I set out the stacks of books, and put a tape dispenser at each work station. When I got all set up, I proceeded to pre-cut the gift wrap into the size that would fit the book. I cut the first one (which was just right) and used it as a guide for the second. Then I used the second to cut the third, and the third to cut the fourth, etc. After cutting about 20-25 sheets I took a book and attempted to wrap it.
That 25th sheet of gift wrap was 2 inches too big and made wrapping the book clumsy and awkward; much too large to do a neat job.
I then realized my error. I did not keep using my original sample sheet to cut all the other 24 and gradually, over time I unknowingly added 2 inches to the width of the paper.
Apparently what happened was that with each new sheet I added just a tiny bit to the width which seemed so insignificant, but over time - it was significant.
I immediately thought of our walk with Christ - unless we regularly check or align ourselves with the Christ, the One True God, we will adapt and adjust, compromise as it were, imperceptible amounts until over time we are significantly off our target.
Are you sticking with the truth? Are you regularly reading the Word? Are you looking to Jesus Christ for your standard of righteousness or are you comparing yourself to others and getting drawn off course a little at a time?
How can a young man (woman) keep his (her) way pure? By guarding it according to your word. Psalm 119:9
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is part of the ministry team at America's Keswick. She is a regular writer for Victory Call and one of the authors of Crossing the Jordan Bible Study. Diane has been married to her husband John over 27 years. She has 2 adult children and 3 grandchildren and 3 adult step-children with 7 grandchildren making 10 in all. She delights reading and teaching, but mostly laughing at the funny things her grandchildren say and do.
One morning I was preparing for our volunteers (whom we love and appreciate) to come in to gift wrap 150 devotional books. So I set out to prepare things in an orderly manner so as to make the process as efficient as possible (that's the Human Factors engineer in me - my first career). So - I set out the stacks of books, and put a tape dispenser at each work station. When I got all set up, I proceeded to pre-cut the gift wrap into the size that would fit the book. I cut the first one (which was just right) and used it as a guide for the second. Then I used the second to cut the third, and the third to cut the fourth, etc. After cutting about 20-25 sheets I took a book and attempted to wrap it.
That 25th sheet of gift wrap was 2 inches too big and made wrapping the book clumsy and awkward; much too large to do a neat job.
I then realized my error. I did not keep using my original sample sheet to cut all the other 24 and gradually, over time I unknowingly added 2 inches to the width of the paper.
Apparently what happened was that with each new sheet I added just a tiny bit to the width which seemed so insignificant, but over time - it was significant.
I immediately thought of our walk with Christ - unless we regularly check or align ourselves with the Christ, the One True God, we will adapt and adjust, compromise as it were, imperceptible amounts until over time we are significantly off our target.
Are you sticking with the truth? Are you regularly reading the Word? Are you looking to Jesus Christ for your standard of righteousness or are you comparing yourself to others and getting drawn off course a little at a time?
How can a young man (woman) keep his (her) way pure? By guarding it according to your word. Psalm 119:9
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is part of the ministry team at America's Keswick. She is a regular writer for Victory Call and one of the authors of Crossing the Jordan Bible Study. Diane has been married to her husband John over 27 years. She has 2 adult children and 3 grandchildren and 3 adult step-children with 7 grandchildren making 10 in all. She delights reading and teaching, but mostly laughing at the funny things her grandchildren say and do.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
A GUIDE FOR FAMILY LIVING
"Any enterprise is built by wise planning, becomes strong through common sense, and profits wonderfully by keeping abreast of the facts" Prov. 24:3(TLB).
Some people seem to wonder if God still keeps His promises. Is He trustworthy?
Many years ago, I was sitting on an airplane, heading for Chicago, reading the Living Bible Translation. As I read this verse, I thought "That's what we have done. This should be our life verse, and it is even in a three point outline!"
Wise planning: God blessed us with Dr. Henry Brandt as our Sunday school teacher and personal friend. He taught us to plan ahead. We had discussed so many things before we were married: Whether I would work outside of the home; who would handle the money; how many children we hoped to have; at what age we would allow our children to date; and even the fact that we wanted all of our children to take piano lessons for at least two years. We discussed many other issues as well.
Common sense: Dr. Brandt observed that most parents already had common sense on their side, and if left to their own devices, would make the right decisions. They were simply afraid to depend on common sense for solutions because their solutions just seemed too simple. So they paid a counselor to give them similar, common sense guidance. Today common sense seems so "profound." We often try to complicate the answer because we expect life to be very complicated.
Keeping abreast of the facts: I often told my family that I could handle most anything as long as they were the ones to tell me. I didn't want to get the news from a neighbor or a "friend." We have a motto at our house, No Secrets! We have tried keeping secrets from each other and it has not gone well. I am constantly amazed when I hear of 20- or 30-year or even lifetime secrets in a family. Secrets take so much effort to maintain.
Well, there is the three point outline contained in that one verse. I am so impressed that with His help, God never asks too much of us. And He keeps His suggestions very simple so that we can understand His directions and follow them. His promise is that we will become strong and we will profit by following His directions. He is faithful, and will keep His word.
Marilyn Willett Heavilin
Marilyn is a wife and mother, author, and international conference and retreat speaker. She and her husband Glen serve as Counselors-in-Residence at America's KESWICK during the summer months.
Some people seem to wonder if God still keeps His promises. Is He trustworthy?
Many years ago, I was sitting on an airplane, heading for Chicago, reading the Living Bible Translation. As I read this verse, I thought "That's what we have done. This should be our life verse, and it is even in a three point outline!"
Wise planning: God blessed us with Dr. Henry Brandt as our Sunday school teacher and personal friend. He taught us to plan ahead. We had discussed so many things before we were married: Whether I would work outside of the home; who would handle the money; how many children we hoped to have; at what age we would allow our children to date; and even the fact that we wanted all of our children to take piano lessons for at least two years. We discussed many other issues as well.
Common sense: Dr. Brandt observed that most parents already had common sense on their side, and if left to their own devices, would make the right decisions. They were simply afraid to depend on common sense for solutions because their solutions just seemed too simple. So they paid a counselor to give them similar, common sense guidance. Today common sense seems so "profound." We often try to complicate the answer because we expect life to be very complicated.
Keeping abreast of the facts: I often told my family that I could handle most anything as long as they were the ones to tell me. I didn't want to get the news from a neighbor or a "friend." We have a motto at our house, No Secrets! We have tried keeping secrets from each other and it has not gone well. I am constantly amazed when I hear of 20- or 30-year or even lifetime secrets in a family. Secrets take so much effort to maintain.
Well, there is the three point outline contained in that one verse. I am so impressed that with His help, God never asks too much of us. And He keeps His suggestions very simple so that we can understand His directions and follow them. His promise is that we will become strong and we will profit by following His directions. He is faithful, and will keep His word.
Marilyn Willett Heavilin
Marilyn is a wife and mother, author, and international conference and retreat speaker. She and her husband Glen serve as Counselors-in-Residence at America's KESWICK during the summer months.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
LOVE LETTERS
I am not, as anyone who knows me will attest, a techie-type person. I don't have a cell phone and I don't do texting, iphones and ipads, etc., etc. I am of the "old" school who loves to send and receive handwritten notes and letters - yes, even those one- or two-page newsy letters that we sometimes receive in our Christmas cards. I read them with interest and save them throughout the year so that when I get ready to sit down and send off a letter, I can re-read it and be reminded of the joys and sorrows my friends have been dealing with.
I guess some of this has to do with being trained as an English Major and teaching English in high school and college in my earlier years. I truly value the printed word and enjoy the various nuances of the language and sometimes marvel at how our language has changed over time. And then there is the abbreviation of so many words to accommodate our texting society, things like LOL. BTW, YKN, etc.
My boss recently gave me a copy of a sort of abbreviation dictionary so I could decipher what I was getting in my emails from time to time.
However, of all the letters I have ever received, it is the love letters that have meant the most to me and the ones that I have saved over the years. Letters from a dear friend during a long-time relationship, letters from my mom and dad during times of joy and sadness. But love letters nonetheless - filled with expressions of such deep caring that reading them again after many years still brings both smiles and tears.
God's love letter to us, His Holy Word, elicits the same response. When we read His love letter to us we are reminded that "we love Him because He first loved us" (I John 4:19). Not that everything that comes into our lives is always joyous - we all know that isn't the case. But we know that because of His great love for us, everything that comes into our lives will be for our ultimate good and that is what allows us to smile and have great joy even in the midst of tears. And, unlike the writers of the love letters in my own life who are now gone, God never departs, never goes away without any way for me to "get in touch" with Him. He is always as close as picking up my Bible and reading how great is His love for me.
This is the month that we celebrate human love during Valentine's Day and the days surrounding it. But as you wait for that card or letter or gift to come in the mail (or be sent to you via Facebook) remember that God's love letter to you is as close as opening His Word and being reminded that His great gift - Jesus' sacrifice on the cross - is the greatest expression of love that the world will ever know.
Lynn Randall
Lynn Randall is the Director of Human Resources at America's KESWICK. She is active in her church and is a gifted planner and organizer. She has a real heart for people as evidenced by her care, concern and practical encouragement.
I guess some of this has to do with being trained as an English Major and teaching English in high school and college in my earlier years. I truly value the printed word and enjoy the various nuances of the language and sometimes marvel at how our language has changed over time. And then there is the abbreviation of so many words to accommodate our texting society, things like LOL. BTW, YKN, etc.
My boss recently gave me a copy of a sort of abbreviation dictionary so I could decipher what I was getting in my emails from time to time.
However, of all the letters I have ever received, it is the love letters that have meant the most to me and the ones that I have saved over the years. Letters from a dear friend during a long-time relationship, letters from my mom and dad during times of joy and sadness. But love letters nonetheless - filled with expressions of such deep caring that reading them again after many years still brings both smiles and tears.
God's love letter to us, His Holy Word, elicits the same response. When we read His love letter to us we are reminded that "we love Him because He first loved us" (I John 4:19). Not that everything that comes into our lives is always joyous - we all know that isn't the case. But we know that because of His great love for us, everything that comes into our lives will be for our ultimate good and that is what allows us to smile and have great joy even in the midst of tears. And, unlike the writers of the love letters in my own life who are now gone, God never departs, never goes away without any way for me to "get in touch" with Him. He is always as close as picking up my Bible and reading how great is His love for me.
This is the month that we celebrate human love during Valentine's Day and the days surrounding it. But as you wait for that card or letter or gift to come in the mail (or be sent to you via Facebook) remember that God's love letter to you is as close as opening His Word and being reminded that His great gift - Jesus' sacrifice on the cross - is the greatest expression of love that the world will ever know.
Lynn Randall
Lynn Randall is the Director of Human Resources at America's KESWICK. She is active in her church and is a gifted planner and organizer. She has a real heart for people as evidenced by her care, concern and practical encouragement.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Praying Through
Today I need an extra measure of faith, don't you? I read from Matthew 15 and I can relate to the Canaanite women who found Jesus and brought to Him her most urgent need. She comes with a request for her demon-possessed daughter to be healed. Verse 23 says, "But He answered her not a word." I want to stop here because I know we all have an urgent need that has been presented to the Lord. I also believe we all have experienced God's silence. Warren Wiersbe's NT commentary explains that Jesus is not being cruel but that Jesus is building up the woman's faith. I would venture that you and I don't take times like these as faith-building exercises but rather get angry, give up or assume the silence means "no." Simply, we are quick to lose faith.
As we read on, the example of this mother grieving her daughter's situation continues despite the disciples' apparent desire to dismiss her. She continued through the silence and the obstacles that stood in her way to again simply plead for her daughter's restoration. "Lord, help me!" Let's note that Jesus inclines His ear to our simple cries of help. Not that He didn't hear her the first time, but this seemingly small act of faith and worship got a response. She was persistent. She knew that Jesus had the answer. She didn't quit.
I have been reading "The Circle Maker" by Mark Batterson, a wonderful book on prayer. Currently, I am reading the chapter called "Long and Boring." Here a few of my highlighted passages from this chapter.
"Praying through is long and boring, but it is the price you pay for miracles."
"Drawing prayer circles often feels like a long and boring process, and it can be frustrating when you feel like you've been circling forever. You start to wonder if God really hears; if God really cares. Sometimes His silence is deafening. We circle the cancer. We circle the children. We circle the dream. But it doesn't seem to be making a difference. What do you do? My advice: Stop, drop and pray. Keep circling. Circle for seventy years if you have to! What else are you going to do? Where else are you going to turn? What other options do you have? Pray through."
"We live in a culture that overvalues fifteen minutes of fame and undervalues lifelong faithfulness. Maybe we have it backward. Just as our greatest successes often come on the heels of our greatest failures; our greatest answers often come on the heels of our longest and most boring prayers. But if you pray long and boring prayers, your life will be anything but boring. Your life will turn into the spiritual adventure it was destined to be. It won't always get you where you want to go, but it will get you through."
I love a little saying I saw awhile back - "I'd give up chocolate but I ain't no quitter!" Today let's not give up on our long and boring prayers. Let's not be quitters. Let's have the faith to know that the results of our persistent prayers are miracles!
Blessings,
Kathy Withers
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
As we read on, the example of this mother grieving her daughter's situation continues despite the disciples' apparent desire to dismiss her. She continued through the silence and the obstacles that stood in her way to again simply plead for her daughter's restoration. "Lord, help me!" Let's note that Jesus inclines His ear to our simple cries of help. Not that He didn't hear her the first time, but this seemingly small act of faith and worship got a response. She was persistent. She knew that Jesus had the answer. She didn't quit.
I have been reading "The Circle Maker" by Mark Batterson, a wonderful book on prayer. Currently, I am reading the chapter called "Long and Boring." Here a few of my highlighted passages from this chapter.
"Praying through is long and boring, but it is the price you pay for miracles."
"Drawing prayer circles often feels like a long and boring process, and it can be frustrating when you feel like you've been circling forever. You start to wonder if God really hears; if God really cares. Sometimes His silence is deafening. We circle the cancer. We circle the children. We circle the dream. But it doesn't seem to be making a difference. What do you do? My advice: Stop, drop and pray. Keep circling. Circle for seventy years if you have to! What else are you going to do? Where else are you going to turn? What other options do you have? Pray through."
"We live in a culture that overvalues fifteen minutes of fame and undervalues lifelong faithfulness. Maybe we have it backward. Just as our greatest successes often come on the heels of our greatest failures; our greatest answers often come on the heels of our longest and most boring prayers. But if you pray long and boring prayers, your life will be anything but boring. Your life will turn into the spiritual adventure it was destined to be. It won't always get you where you want to go, but it will get you through."
I love a little saying I saw awhile back - "I'd give up chocolate but I ain't no quitter!" Today let's not give up on our long and boring prayers. Let's not be quitters. Let's have the faith to know that the results of our persistent prayers are miracles!
Blessings,
Kathy Withers
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
Friday, February 10, 2012
You Snooze, You Lose
Lately, the Lord has been impressing upon my Spirit the following words from His Word: awake, aware, watchful.
"Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." I Peter 5:8
"...be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints." Ephesians 6:18
"...be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray." I Peter 4:7
"We must pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away." Hebrews 2:1
When we are in the midst of a trial, we are ready, prepared, with spiritual weapons in hand, because we know that we are in a battle. Our time with the Lord in His Word, in prayer, in worship, and our fellowship with other believers is our lifeline; we know how very much we need Him.
But when life is calm, peaceful, comfortable -- are we still seeking Him with the same urgency? Or do we slowly become complacent, apathetic, unaware, sleepy? The Lord has been teaching me that whether I am in a battle, or enjoying a time of peace, He needs to remain my first priority. I need to always remain alert, clear- minded, self-controlled, paying careful attention, so that I will not inadvertently become easy prey for the enemy.
I don't know about you, but I certainly don't want to be blind-sided by the enemy. I need to always remember that I need the Lord desperately EVERY day -- good days, bad days, in between days. I need Him for my every breath. I need to have daily, desperate dependence on God. When I lose that, I am on very shaky ground, and there becomes a very strong possibility that God will allow something difficult in my life to remind me just how much I need Him.
Sisters, join me in keeping Christ of first importance. Let's stay awake, alert, aware, and if we see a brother or sister in Christ snoozing, maybe it's time, with grace, to give them a little wake-up call. And let's be ready to receive and respond well to a wake-up call that we may be in need of.
Stacey Poplawski
WOC Graduate
"Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." I Peter 5:8
"...be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints." Ephesians 6:18
"...be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray." I Peter 4:7
"We must pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away." Hebrews 2:1
When we are in the midst of a trial, we are ready, prepared, with spiritual weapons in hand, because we know that we are in a battle. Our time with the Lord in His Word, in prayer, in worship, and our fellowship with other believers is our lifeline; we know how very much we need Him.
But when life is calm, peaceful, comfortable -- are we still seeking Him with the same urgency? Or do we slowly become complacent, apathetic, unaware, sleepy? The Lord has been teaching me that whether I am in a battle, or enjoying a time of peace, He needs to remain my first priority. I need to always remain alert, clear- minded, self-controlled, paying careful attention, so that I will not inadvertently become easy prey for the enemy.
I don't know about you, but I certainly don't want to be blind-sided by the enemy. I need to always remember that I need the Lord desperately EVERY day -- good days, bad days, in between days. I need Him for my every breath. I need to have daily, desperate dependence on God. When I lose that, I am on very shaky ground, and there becomes a very strong possibility that God will allow something difficult in my life to remind me just how much I need Him.
Sisters, join me in keeping Christ of first importance. Let's stay awake, alert, aware, and if we see a brother or sister in Christ snoozing, maybe it's time, with grace, to give them a little wake-up call. And let's be ready to receive and respond well to a wake-up call that we may be in need of.
Stacey Poplawski
WOC Graduate
Thursday, February 09, 2012
"The light makes all the difference"
Last week, Robert and I were attending a Sunday school class in an old church building with beautiful stained glass windows. It was a crisp sunny morning and the windows were beautiful. We marveled at the craftsmanship, the details in the glass, and the vibrant colors. When the class was over we walked outside and looked up at those same windows. They were dull and lifeless, nothing to comment about. I said to Robert, "The light makes all the difference."
So it is with our lives. What makes us beautiful, different from everyone else is the light of Christ shining in us that allows people to see the beautiful intricacies: all that is good and right and true of who God, the Artist/Creator, made us to be. If Christ is in us, we have access to the power to turn on the lights, but if we don't draw on the power, flip the switch, open our Bibles, talk to our Father, we remain dark and lifeless. Turn the lights on in your life; allow Christ to reflect in you.
Ephesians 5:8,9 for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light; (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true). ESV
Joyce Hayes
Artist-in-residence at America's Keswick
So it is with our lives. What makes us beautiful, different from everyone else is the light of Christ shining in us that allows people to see the beautiful intricacies: all that is good and right and true of who God, the Artist/Creator, made us to be. If Christ is in us, we have access to the power to turn on the lights, but if we don't draw on the power, flip the switch, open our Bibles, talk to our Father, we remain dark and lifeless. Turn the lights on in your life; allow Christ to reflect in you.
Ephesians 5:8,9 for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light; (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true). ESV
Joyce Hayes
Artist-in-residence at America's Keswick
Wednesday, February 08, 2012
What is in a Name?
I am not a "Kathleen" or a "Katherine." I was named after my grandmother whose name was "Kate." I had always wanted to be called "Kate" but there are few who call me by that name. "Kathy" just always seemed common and boring. Although "Kate" never really stuck as my nickname there are other names that I have been called: names that have stuck because they are painful. Childhood names were plunged into my heart and have taken a long time for me to put into perspective.
In Genesis 32:24 Jacob's name is changed to Israel. Jacob, which means "heel," is derived from a verb meaning "trip up, "or "over reach." We know that Jacob was a deceiver and with the help of his Mom he was able to get his brother's birthright. When Jacob finds himself in a wrestling match with the Lord he is asked, "What is your name?" It is noted in Warren Wiersbe's commentary that the last time Jacob had been asked that question he told a lie to his father and claimed to be Esau. At the end of the wrestling match the Lord gives Jacob a new name. He is to be called Israel.
I simply want us to remember that we are no longer the names that we were given or labeled before we came to know Christ. We've been told, "Sticks and stones can break our bones but names will never hurt us." Well, names do hurt us. But God has re-named us. Our identity is now found in Him. He doesn't lie. He doesn't give us names that are hurtful. He uses names such as forgiven, beloved, My child, and many others. Names are important so as we read Scripture take note when you see a name change, a definition associated with a name, or when a name of God appears. It is apparent that names mean a lot to our God. He knows the names we have been called and He no longer wants us to live with them.
In Genesis 39:9-11 God once again appears to Jacob and reminds him of his name. Maybe you need to be reminded today that those "names and labels" are not who you are. For a great read on names and the importance they have in our lives I would recommend that you read "My Secret Name" by Kary Oberbrunner. This book was given to me and helped me to understand the effects of negative names that I was still wrestling with, and also helped me learn a name that was especially for me from God.
Well, I left out a small detail of the story of my name. For all the kidding I will receive, I will share it with you. When I asked my Mom why I couldn't have been named "Kate" after Grandma she informed me that "Kate" was Grandma's nickname but her real name was "Cornelia." So, I am okay with plain old "Kathy."
Blessings to you,
Plain Kathy with a "K" and a "Y" but Jesus calls me Accepted
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
In Genesis 32:24 Jacob's name is changed to Israel. Jacob, which means "heel," is derived from a verb meaning "trip up, "or "over reach." We know that Jacob was a deceiver and with the help of his Mom he was able to get his brother's birthright. When Jacob finds himself in a wrestling match with the Lord he is asked, "What is your name?" It is noted in Warren Wiersbe's commentary that the last time Jacob had been asked that question he told a lie to his father and claimed to be Esau. At the end of the wrestling match the Lord gives Jacob a new name. He is to be called Israel.
I simply want us to remember that we are no longer the names that we were given or labeled before we came to know Christ. We've been told, "Sticks and stones can break our bones but names will never hurt us." Well, names do hurt us. But God has re-named us. Our identity is now found in Him. He doesn't lie. He doesn't give us names that are hurtful. He uses names such as forgiven, beloved, My child, and many others. Names are important so as we read Scripture take note when you see a name change, a definition associated with a name, or when a name of God appears. It is apparent that names mean a lot to our God. He knows the names we have been called and He no longer wants us to live with them.
In Genesis 39:9-11 God once again appears to Jacob and reminds him of his name. Maybe you need to be reminded today that those "names and labels" are not who you are. For a great read on names and the importance they have in our lives I would recommend that you read "My Secret Name" by Kary Oberbrunner. This book was given to me and helped me to understand the effects of negative names that I was still wrestling with, and also helped me learn a name that was especially for me from God.
Well, I left out a small detail of the story of my name. For all the kidding I will receive, I will share it with you. When I asked my Mom why I couldn't have been named "Kate" after Grandma she informed me that "Kate" was Grandma's nickname but her real name was "Cornelia." So, I am okay with plain old "Kathy."
Blessings to you,
Plain Kathy with a "K" and a "Y" but Jesus calls me Accepted
Kathy's on staff at America's KESWICK in the Development Department. Kathy has been married to her husband Dave for 26 years. They have two adult children. Kathy is active in her local church and has previously served as a Teaching Director for Community Bible Study. Her passion is to encourage women to deepen their walk with Jesus Christ by finding and living out the truths of God's Word.
Tuesday, February 07, 2012
Prayer for Today
I recently came across this prayer that went perfectly with yesterday's Victory Call. Be encouraged.
In thy fellowship is fullness of joy,
Beneath thy smile is peace of conscience,
By thy side no fears disturb,
No apprehensions banish rest of mind,
With thee my heart shall bloom with fragrance;
Make me meet, through repentance, for thine indwelling.
Nothing exceeds thy power,
Nothing is too great for thee to do,
Nothing is too good for thee to give.
Infinite is thy might, boundless thy love,
Limitless thy grace, glorious thy saving name.
Let angels sing for sinners repenting, prodigals restored,
Backsliders reclaimed, Satan's captives released,
Blind eyes opened, broken hearts bound up,
The despondent cheered, the self-righteous stripped,
The formalist driven from a refuge of lies,
The ignorant enlightened,
And saints built up in their holy faith.
I ask great things of a great God.
The Valley of Vision (pg. 6)
Diane Hunt is part of the ministry team at America's Keswick. She is a regular writer for Victory Call and one of the authors of Crossing the Jordan Bible Study. Diane has been married to her husband John over 27 years. She has 2 adult children and 3 grandchildren and 3 adult step-children with 7 grandchildren making 10 in all. She delights reading and teaching, but mostly laughing at the funny things her grandchildren say and do.
In thy fellowship is fullness of joy,
Beneath thy smile is peace of conscience,
By thy side no fears disturb,
No apprehensions banish rest of mind,
With thee my heart shall bloom with fragrance;
Make me meet, through repentance, for thine indwelling.
Nothing exceeds thy power,
Nothing is too great for thee to do,
Nothing is too good for thee to give.
Infinite is thy might, boundless thy love,
Limitless thy grace, glorious thy saving name.
Let angels sing for sinners repenting, prodigals restored,
Backsliders reclaimed, Satan's captives released,
Blind eyes opened, broken hearts bound up,
The despondent cheered, the self-righteous stripped,
The formalist driven from a refuge of lies,
The ignorant enlightened,
And saints built up in their holy faith.
I ask great things of a great God.
The Valley of Vision (pg. 6)
Diane Hunt is part of the ministry team at America's Keswick. She is a regular writer for Victory Call and one of the authors of Crossing the Jordan Bible Study. Diane has been married to her husband John over 27 years. She has 2 adult children and 3 grandchildren and 3 adult step-children with 7 grandchildren making 10 in all. She delights reading and teaching, but mostly laughing at the funny things her grandchildren say and do.
Monday, February 06, 2012
God does nothing half-heartedly
To see the generous nature of God we don't have to go any further than the very first chapter of the first book of the Bible. God created the heavens and the earth. He could have created it just large enough so that it would go as far as we could see. We can see about 1000 to 3000 stars on a clear night in this area but God created 10,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 stars (I'm not even sure how to say that). Earth is part of the Milky Way galaxy but it is one in an array of hundreds of billions of galaxies in the universe. God "is able to do far more abundantly than all we ask or think" (Eph 3:20). He is not a stingy God. His creation is simple evidence of his abundant generosity.
Think of the example in Matthew 14 when Jesus feeds the 5000 (plus women and children) with 5 loaves and 2 fish. When everyone had eaten and were satisfied there were 12 leftover full baskets. He did far more abundantly than was necessary. The Message paraphrase says, "God can do anything, you know - far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams!"
The Salvation offered to us by Jesus Christ is a finished work, not half-hearted effort. "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin." 1 John 1:7 - As forgiven children of God, saved and sealed for redemption, God cleanses us from all sin. On the cross, Jesus said, "It is finished" John 19:30. He did not say, "I've done my part - now they can work their way to heaven."
IF God creates a universe billions of times larger than we can see or imagine, how much more will HE make provision for your needs beyond what you imagine or think?
What difficulty are you facing today? God is not holding out on you. He desires to bless you beyond what you can imagine or think.
Is God enough for your problems? Are you believing and asking for great things from a Great God?
He desires to bless you beyond anything you know, not with material things but with Himself. Will you receive Him?
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is part of the ministry team at America's Keswick. She is a regular writer for Victory Call and one of the authors of Crossing the Jordan Bible Study. Diane has been married to her husband John over 27 years. She has 2 adult children and 3 grandchildren and 3 adult step-children with 7 grandchildren making 10 in all. She delights reading and teaching, but mostly laughing at the funny things her grandchildren say and do.
Think of the example in Matthew 14 when Jesus feeds the 5000 (plus women and children) with 5 loaves and 2 fish. When everyone had eaten and were satisfied there were 12 leftover full baskets. He did far more abundantly than was necessary. The Message paraphrase says, "God can do anything, you know - far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams!"
The Salvation offered to us by Jesus Christ is a finished work, not half-hearted effort. "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin." 1 John 1:7 - As forgiven children of God, saved and sealed for redemption, God cleanses us from all sin. On the cross, Jesus said, "It is finished" John 19:30. He did not say, "I've done my part - now they can work their way to heaven."
IF God creates a universe billions of times larger than we can see or imagine, how much more will HE make provision for your needs beyond what you imagine or think?
What difficulty are you facing today? God is not holding out on you. He desires to bless you beyond what you can imagine or think.
Is God enough for your problems? Are you believing and asking for great things from a Great God?
He desires to bless you beyond anything you know, not with material things but with Himself. Will you receive Him?
Blessings,
Diane
Diane Hunt is part of the ministry team at America's Keswick. She is a regular writer for Victory Call and one of the authors of Crossing the Jordan Bible Study. Diane has been married to her husband John over 27 years. She has 2 adult children and 3 grandchildren and 3 adult step-children with 7 grandchildren making 10 in all. She delights reading and teaching, but mostly laughing at the funny things her grandchildren say and do.
Friday, February 03, 2012
WAITING ON HIM
Psalm 39:7 And now, Lord, what wait I for? My hope is in thee.
Have you ever heard someone say, "Well, what are you waiting for?" It seems I have spent much of my life waiting...for what? Well, as a child, I was waiting to grow up, to go to college and to eventually get married.
After my marriage, I was waiting for children. Then, I was waiting for my children to grow up, graduate from high school, from college, and get married. Then I waited for them to have children and the cycle continues to go round and round. Now I'm waiting for my grandchildren to be married and have children.
Oh yeah, I forgot to mention the worry that occasionally would rear its ugly head along with the waiting. Then I read the verse that says, Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself (Psalm 37:7). This verse says I'm supposed to REST and WAIT patiently! Besides resting and waiting I'm not supposed to fret. Can you believe it? Is that even possible? Yes, I think it is.
Many times as I have been writing my prayers in my prayer journal, I have written Fret Not. It's as though the Lord is saying to me, "Don't worry, Marilyn. I've heard your request. I will supply your needs. Just WAIT on Me."
While you may be waiting for Mr. Right, a child, or a specific prayer to be answered, He is saying that very same thing to each of you.
Psalm 37:7 Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself.
Marilyn Willett Heavilin
Marilyn is a wife and mother, author, and international conference and retreat speaker. She and her husband Glen serve as Counselors-in-Residence at America's KESWICK during the summer months.
Have you ever heard someone say, "Well, what are you waiting for?" It seems I have spent much of my life waiting...for what? Well, as a child, I was waiting to grow up, to go to college and to eventually get married.
After my marriage, I was waiting for children. Then, I was waiting for my children to grow up, graduate from high school, from college, and get married. Then I waited for them to have children and the cycle continues to go round and round. Now I'm waiting for my grandchildren to be married and have children.
Oh yeah, I forgot to mention the worry that occasionally would rear its ugly head along with the waiting. Then I read the verse that says, Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself (Psalm 37:7). This verse says I'm supposed to REST and WAIT patiently! Besides resting and waiting I'm not supposed to fret. Can you believe it? Is that even possible? Yes, I think it is.
Many times as I have been writing my prayers in my prayer journal, I have written Fret Not. It's as though the Lord is saying to me, "Don't worry, Marilyn. I've heard your request. I will supply your needs. Just WAIT on Me."
While you may be waiting for Mr. Right, a child, or a specific prayer to be answered, He is saying that very same thing to each of you.
Psalm 37:7 Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself.
Marilyn Willett Heavilin
Marilyn is a wife and mother, author, and international conference and retreat speaker. She and her husband Glen serve as Counselors-in-Residence at America's KESWICK during the summer months.
Thursday, February 02, 2012
Blessing - Part 2
Yesterday we talked about how important "blessing" is to God. If you are not experiencing the blessings God's Word promises then let's take another look at scripture. You see, blessings come when we learn to humble ourselves and obey His commands and walk in His ways.
Let's take a look at Psalm 1:1-3
Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
And in His law he meditates day and night.
He shall be like a tree
Planted by the rivers of water,
That brings forth its fruit in its season,
Whose leaf also shall not wither;
And whatever he does shall prosper.
It would appear that blessing comes to those who meditate on His word and allow their lives to come into unity with His timing and His purposes. It is not a matter of saying the right prayer or going to the right church, or fasting or making a big donation to the right charity. Rather the Lord says we need to be careful who we seek counsel from. Are we going to someone who knows the Word and will lovingly tell us the truth? Does our life come into unity with choices that sinners would take rather than those who love the Lord? Do we like to point a finger at others rather than looking into our own heart? Do we delight in being a doer of the Word, which we read and mediate upon faithfully? Although we are not under the law as in the time before Christ, I believe we are called to the greater challenge and that is to choose to delight in growing in Christlikeness.
My dear sisters in Christ, may I challenge you and I? Are we among the many who give lip service to "believing in the Bible" but pay little attention to what the Bible says? Are we influenced more by traditions than an intimate relationship with our Savior? Do we read a chapter a day yet have no actual understanding of the passage we read? Are we seeking God as to how the passage we read may change our life?
My challenge to you and I this year is this: let's go deeper; let's go all the way to the blessing. One day at a time......let us not just read words, let us meditate upon the Word until God reveals the meaning for us personally. Let us thank God each day for moving us to a deeper richer relationship with Him.
My prayer is that you and I will accept this challenge and experience the fullness of Psalm 1. That we will walk in the fullness of the blessing described in Psalm 1 and be like that tree planted by rivers of water. Not just any water, but rather living water that will fill us and nourish us so that we will bear good fruit at just the right time. The fruitfulness of our lives will not wither and whatever we do will prosper.
It is time to advance......and be blessed.
Patricia L. Wenzel
WOC Graduate
Some material taken from: A Time to Advance by Chuck Pierce with Robert and Linda Heidler Available through Glory of Zion, Inc., PO Box 1601, Denton, TX 76202 www.gloryofzion.org
Let's take a look at Psalm 1:1-3
Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
And in His law he meditates day and night.
He shall be like a tree
Planted by the rivers of water,
That brings forth its fruit in its season,
Whose leaf also shall not wither;
And whatever he does shall prosper.
It would appear that blessing comes to those who meditate on His word and allow their lives to come into unity with His timing and His purposes. It is not a matter of saying the right prayer or going to the right church, or fasting or making a big donation to the right charity. Rather the Lord says we need to be careful who we seek counsel from. Are we going to someone who knows the Word and will lovingly tell us the truth? Does our life come into unity with choices that sinners would take rather than those who love the Lord? Do we like to point a finger at others rather than looking into our own heart? Do we delight in being a doer of the Word, which we read and mediate upon faithfully? Although we are not under the law as in the time before Christ, I believe we are called to the greater challenge and that is to choose to delight in growing in Christlikeness.
My dear sisters in Christ, may I challenge you and I? Are we among the many who give lip service to "believing in the Bible" but pay little attention to what the Bible says? Are we influenced more by traditions than an intimate relationship with our Savior? Do we read a chapter a day yet have no actual understanding of the passage we read? Are we seeking God as to how the passage we read may change our life?
My challenge to you and I this year is this: let's go deeper; let's go all the way to the blessing. One day at a time......let us not just read words, let us meditate upon the Word until God reveals the meaning for us personally. Let us thank God each day for moving us to a deeper richer relationship with Him.
My prayer is that you and I will accept this challenge and experience the fullness of Psalm 1. That we will walk in the fullness of the blessing described in Psalm 1 and be like that tree planted by rivers of water. Not just any water, but rather living water that will fill us and nourish us so that we will bear good fruit at just the right time. The fruitfulness of our lives will not wither and whatever we do will prosper.
It is time to advance......and be blessed.
Patricia L. Wenzel
WOC Graduate
Some material taken from: A Time to Advance by Chuck Pierce with Robert and Linda Heidler Available through Glory of Zion, Inc., PO Box 1601, Denton, TX 76202 www.gloryofzion.org
Wednesday, February 01, 2012
Blessing - Part 1
According to a book I read recently, A Time to Advance by Chuck Pierce with Robert and Linda Heidler, the word "bless" or "blessing" is used in the scripture 474 times. That would surely indicate that blessing is important to the God we serve.
The first mention of blessing is found in the very first chapter of the Bible. Genesis 1:22 reads, God blessed them, saying, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth" (NAS). It would appear that God's idea of blessing is to release increase, prosperity and the multiplication of all that is good and pleasant in life.
Further into the scripture in Gen. 24:1 it tells us that God blessed Abraham "in all things". Yes, blessing appears to be significant to the God we serve.
I have always loved the blessing recorded in Deut. 6:24-26, The LORD bless you, and keep you; The LORD make His face shine on you, And be gracious to you; The LORD lift up His countenance on you, And give you peace. WOW!! Now that is surely a blessing!!
Why is it then that in this world our lives are filled with tough battles? The author of the book I am reading took me to the story of Joseph. Joseph was hated by his brothers, sold as a slave, falsely accused, and thrown in prison. Hardly what one could call a blessed life. But God.........you see the blessing of God actually interfered with the plans of men and the enemy of God's people. Under the power of blessing Joseph rises above each and every curse on his life. Divine appointments seem to just happen, supernatural connections are made, doors opened to a future he could not have fully imagined possible. In fact, Joseph saves the nation of his forefathers. He is in the exact right place, at the perfect time.
Dear one, you may be in the midst of an incredible battle of life but I tell you the truth, if you would meet with your God, walk humbly and obediently before Him, He will turn your mourning into dancing(Psalm 30:11). With all my heart I believe the Lord longs to bless you (Isaiah 30:18). Jesus came that you and I might have life (John 10:10).
Stay tuned.......part 2 is tomorrow.
Blessings,
Patricia Wenzel
WOC Graduate
Some material taken from: A Time to Advance by Chuck Pierce with Robert and Linda Heidler Available through Glory of Zion, Inc., PO Box 1601, Denton, TX 76202 www.gloryofzion.org
The first mention of blessing is found in the very first chapter of the Bible. Genesis 1:22 reads, God blessed them, saying, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth" (NAS). It would appear that God's idea of blessing is to release increase, prosperity and the multiplication of all that is good and pleasant in life.
Further into the scripture in Gen. 24:1 it tells us that God blessed Abraham "in all things". Yes, blessing appears to be significant to the God we serve.
I have always loved the blessing recorded in Deut. 6:24-26, The LORD bless you, and keep you; The LORD make His face shine on you, And be gracious to you; The LORD lift up His countenance on you, And give you peace. WOW!! Now that is surely a blessing!!
Why is it then that in this world our lives are filled with tough battles? The author of the book I am reading took me to the story of Joseph. Joseph was hated by his brothers, sold as a slave, falsely accused, and thrown in prison. Hardly what one could call a blessed life. But God.........you see the blessing of God actually interfered with the plans of men and the enemy of God's people. Under the power of blessing Joseph rises above each and every curse on his life. Divine appointments seem to just happen, supernatural connections are made, doors opened to a future he could not have fully imagined possible. In fact, Joseph saves the nation of his forefathers. He is in the exact right place, at the perfect time.
Dear one, you may be in the midst of an incredible battle of life but I tell you the truth, if you would meet with your God, walk humbly and obediently before Him, He will turn your mourning into dancing(Psalm 30:11). With all my heart I believe the Lord longs to bless you (Isaiah 30:18). Jesus came that you and I might have life (John 10:10).
Stay tuned.......part 2 is tomorrow.
Blessings,
Patricia Wenzel
WOC Graduate
Some material taken from: A Time to Advance by Chuck Pierce with Robert and Linda Heidler Available through Glory of Zion, Inc., PO Box 1601, Denton, TX 76202 www.gloryofzion.org
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