Is God There?

Is God There?
"After attending church one Sunday morning, a little boy knelt at his bedside that night and prayed, "Dear God, we had a good time at church today--but I wish you had been there." -- Source Unknown
When I read this statement today, it was for me a pause and think moment. Right away I felt something that resonated with that phrase. I can think of countless times when I've sat in church and had the same longing, "I wish God was here!"
I also thought about the dozen or so conversations I've had with people who wish they could stay here at Keswick and never go home. Why? Because they all had a perception about Keswick wherein they concluded that "God was here" and if being here meant I could "feel" God, then why leave.
The older I get in the Lord, the more experiences I have which fit into both of the scenes mentioned above -wishing God was wherever I felt He wasn't, and wishing I could sit still forever where I felt His presence to be.
Praise God for the wisdom and knowledge that only time can bring. Thank God I have learned that He is way bigger than my feelings. Walking closer and closer to God is teaching me that He is never, not near and He is always present in the Holy Spirit who lives and breathes in me. Halleluiah!!!
The surest way that I know that I can feel and know that God is near is to praise Him. He inhabits the praises of His people!!
"But You are holy, Enthroned in the praises of Israel" -Psalms 22:3
The truth is we long for heaven. The longing we have to feel Him, to feel nearer to Him, to feel connected to Him can and will never be fully satisfied until we are home with Jesus. What we can do until then is to praise Him in the midst of every triumph and every single trial, no matter how rough it is. Praise Him, not only for what He has done but oh, dear one, praise Him for Who He Is!!

He didn't leave us to settle for a sometimes feeling of His Presence, in church, or at any other place. As sure as He is who He says He is -He, the Lord of the Ages, has left us with a tangible Presence in the Person of the Holy Spirit. In this Presence we can know that we know that we know that He is here.

Encouragement:
Whatever trouble is present in your today, trust that He is in it and Praise Him, in spite of it.

Stephanie

. . . love thinks no evil

. . . love thinks no evil
(I Corinthians.13:5 - NKJ)

Nearly everyone is familiar with the great "love chapter", I Corinthians 13. We've heard it many times at wedding ceremonies, couple's conferences, preached from the pulpit on special occasions, and have read it on plaques and greeting cards in Christian bookstores.

The words become so familiar, that we almost seem to forget that these are words spoken by the Spirit of the Most High God. They are more than mere sentiment or a beautifully written poem. We forget that this chapter is God's instruction to believers about how to love one another; how to love as Christ loves the Church; how to love as Jesus loves.

Are we really being disobedient to the will of the Lord when we violate this teaching, or are we just so familiar with the words, that we overlook the true meaning of God's instruction and life application?

As the Lord began to reveal the importance of Chapter 13 in my life, my focus rested upon verse 5 . . . love thinks no evil. Four simple words presenting themselves to me as a life challenge.

The Lord's example to me was a simple one. My husband met a colleague for lunch. This meeting was in the center of town, at a very popular restaurant, the meeting time was 12:00 noon when the restaurant was filled with customers, the table that he chose to sit at was in the middle of the restaurant. I was aware of the lunch meeting; however, I was unable to attend.

Sometime during that lunch meeting, my husband was observed in the restaurant eating with his colleague (which happened to be a female) . . . the observer never approached my husband to greet him and to be introduced to the unknown woman, if he had, this would have satisfied his curiosity and any possible evil thinking would have been extinguished.

The lunch appointment was innocent enough to me, my husband, and his colleague, however, not so to the observer. It was obvious that the integrity of the meeting was in question as the observer passed the information along to a friend (what happened to verse 5 . . . love thinks no evil) who confronted my husband a few days later.

This incident caused me to evaluate my own thinking and obedience before the Lord. It brought up many questions . . . how many times had I misjudged a person's motive and/or behavior? How many times was my thinking in violation of 1 Corinthians 13:5, thinking evil of another brother or sister in Christ? How many times did I gossip about a person who was above reproach . . . "much damage can be done to a person's character with only a little suspicion"? As I continued to meditate on the Corinthians passage, I began to think about the man I meet every week for brunch.
I meet this man at a diner near the end of town, a sort of an out-of-the-way place, but conveniently located between both of our homes. We meet at an off time, when the restaurant is less crowded; we plan this around our working hours. We sit at a booth far from other customers so we can talk and laugh and share what's happened in our lives throughout the week. We greet each other with a kiss, and leave each other with a kiss as well. We are attentive to each other and the expression on our faces shows that we love each other and enjoy our time together. This man is only 18 years younger than myself (I have friends who have husbands the same age), he is someone whom I love spending time with. (Are you starting to get a little nervous . . . well read on!)

This wonderful, intelligent, handsome, blonde-haired, blue-eyed young man (have you guessed yet?) is none other than my beloved son, Jamie, a blessing I received from the Lord almost 35 years ago. How much purer can that be, but yet, the integrity of our mother-son brunches could be questioned by those who violate verse 5 "love thinks no evil". Just like my husband's situation, an observer could avoid greeting me and meeting my son. They could question my character and call their friend and pass that information on to them.

Some might say we are to avoid the appearance of evil, and that is true, we should not intentionally put ourselves in situations that can be easily misinterpreted. However, Titus 1:15 tells us "to the pure all things are pure . . ." are we then living obediently to God's Word when we slander others by thinking evil rather than good?

I say, we as Christians should step up to the plate and be obedient to the Lord. We should be obeying God's Word and love as He instructs us to love. God's Word is alive and it should be living through us, that my friend is the VICTORIOUS CHRISTIAN LIFE.

I am practicing to "think no evil" and I'm learning to love the way Jesus loves. How about you?

Carole

Jehovah Jireh ~ "The LORD Will Provide"

Jehovah Jireh ~ "The LORD Will Provide"

Up to this point we have looked at the compound names of God beginning with "EL", the abbreviation for "Elohim". It's time to turn to the compound names of God beginning with "Jehovah" meaning self-existent or ever-present. Jireh is the Hebrew word meaning "will provide".

This name was used in the connection with the ultimate test of Abraham's Faith - the sacrifice of Isaac. Let's look at Genesis 22, because not only is this when we are introduced to Jehovah Jireh, but to a few other words.

1. This is the first time the word "love" is mentioned in the Bible - concerning Abraham's love for Isaac.

2. We are introduced to the words "only son" at the same time in reference to Isaac. This becomes the picture of what event recorded in John 3:16?

3. We are also taught the word "worship" here as Abraham's sacrifice of Isaac is a picture the act of worship. When we worship God, we are acknowledging His important, divine status, as He is revealed through His names.

4. Gen. 22 is also the first mention of the word "obeyed" in the Bible. "In your seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice." (vs. 18) True obedience is when we do what God says when it goes against the grain of our selfish nature. Hebrews 11:19 tells us that Abraham obeyed because he believed God could raise him. This is the first time in the Bible that anyone has faith in the resurrection power of God (John 8:56).

What God did for Abraham and Isaac is available to us through the cross of Calvary. God loved his only son, who obeyed his father and laid down his life for us and was raised again so that we might live. Christ is our sacrifice... God provides! God provided Christ can you trust him to provide "all" your needs? (Phil. 4:19)

God's provision comes when we like Abraham love, sacrifice and obey HIM. When you know God as "Jehovah Jireh" then you can believe in the promises of Matthew 6:33. Then you need not worry (Matt. 6:34) because you trust in the God that will provide.

Do you need to go to your Mount Moriah and say to God that you want to know Him, love Him and obey Him as Jehovah Jireh? Place those things on the altar that are squeezing God out of your life and let Him do what He chooses in your life. I know this is a terribly tough thing to do - you may want to say... Not that LORD! God says obey me and I will more than provide for you. Abraham gave up His Son and God gave Him back to Him. God asks for our love, worship, and obedience... are you ready to totally give those things to Him?

LDJ

Isn't sorry enough?

Isn't sorry enough?

Sometimes sorry just isn't enough. Have you ever been sorry about something, and tried to make it right and couldn't? When I say make it right I don't mean in the sense of erasing the words or actions but repairing a relationship that has been damaged. I know I have people in my life, one in particular that I have hurt and wish I could have the forgiveness of that person and a restored trust.
Since coming to Christ and receiving the ultimate forgiveness, I am by God's grace able to forgive as I have been forgiven. Don't get me wrong, I do struggle with this from time to time, but I have power that I never had before coming to Christ. I know what it is to be forgiven before I even knew I needed to be! I also realize that my past choices have consequences that could remain for a lifetime. Having someone's forgiveness doesn't guarantee a restored relationship and in some cases it may be wise not to restore a relationship. However, there are some cases that deserve that chance.
A friend recently shared that he was estranged from his sister for some time due to his past. The brother is now living for Christ and is not the same person she once knew. She however is still without Christ, living a very comfortable lifestyle and chooses estrangement. What I find amazing is that this woman seems to have "everything" yet nothing of true value. She has money, a home etc..., it would seem she possess very little.
Not only has God forgiven his sins, HE has also forgotten them. Although the relationship has yet to be restored, God has given my friend eyes to see and ears to hear, a treasure that neither moth nor rust can destroy. He has also given him many brothers and sisters in the Lord. And while we wait for prayers of restoration to be answered, we can rejoice in the perfect love that hopes all things.

Sorrow is meant to lead us to repentance. And that is enough for the Lord.

Sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.
2 Corinthians 6:10 (NIV)

Words to Bless

I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
My soul makes it's boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad.
O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together!
Psalms 34:1-3

The subject of words has been the topic of many conversations of late and I don't think it's by accident that I read about words in my morning study. I'm going to share a bit of that with you for the purpose of prayer and Holy Spirit examination. But first, I humbly ask you to purposefully commit the area of your words to prayer, and ask God to show you the stark reality of your own mouth speak and then set about taking your soul to task to bring your words under the submission of Christ Jesus. Why do I say this so emphatically? Because I know that my own harshly spoken words have been cutting instruments far too many times. And were it not for God's compassionate grace and the Spirit's changing work in my life I would not be here, doing what I do to encourage others to hope for better; to pursue change, trusting in the transforming work of Perfect Grace.
What I was reading this morning referred to a study done by marital researchers in order to uncover the processes that destroy marital unions. Couples were studied over the course of years, even decades to retrace their steps all the way back to their wedding day. What happened different in those who stayed together over those who did not? The researchers were surprised by their findings.
It was not how much they loved each other or how much they fought or what they fought about that determined their durability. What they were surprised to discover had the most significant impact was the use of words. Yep, you read correctly - WORDS.
And I quote, "Among those who would ultimately stay together, 5 out of every 100 comments made about each other were putdowns. Among couples who would later split, 10 of every 100 comments were insults. That gap magnified over the following decade, until couples heading downhill were flinging five times as many cruel and invalidating comments at each other as the happy couples. Hostile putdowns act as cancerous cells that, if unchecked, erode the relationship over time...In the end, relentless unremitting negativity takes control and the couple can't get through a week without major blowups." (U.S. News & World Report, February 21, 1994, Page 67.)

Oh sisters, let the mouth that we open to bless the Lord, be a mouth that uses words to bless each and every one God gives us opportunity to use our words on. May we all be stunned silent before we open our mouths ever again to utter any form of put down -even the ones that are so pervasively common that we tend to excuse as "just kidding" comments. You know what I'm talking about.
I guarantee you this is going to be hard to do. But as God is sanctifying you and refining you, others will see, and God will be glorified.
Stephanie

El Olam ~ "Everlasting or Eternal God"

El Olam ~ "Everlasting or Eternal God"

This name for God suggests the permanence of Deity - He is God of Past, Present, or Future. Malachi 3:6 fully confirms this name where we read that "I am the Lord, I do not change; therefore you are not consumed, O Sons of Jacob." I could end the devotional here and we could just ponder the statement: "I do not change". See, we as humans we are constantly changing our thoughts and actions. Abraham first declared God as Eternal.

Genesis 21:33, "Then, Abraham planted a tamarisk tree in Beersheba, and there called on the name of the Lord, the everlasting God."

This name was used to sum up what Abraham had learned about God in Genesis 21. Genesis 21 tells the story of Sarah's request to have Hagar and Ishmael sent away. Abraham is shocked to have God confirm this request and ask him to send away his son. Why did God make such a request?

1. It is the preparation for the Sacrifice request of Isaac in chapter 22. If Abraham still had Ishmael when asked to sacrifice Isaac, it would not have required so much faith - he would have still had another son.

2. It is a revelation about God that some things cannot be fully understood at the time the request is made by God. We later learn the understanding in Galatians 4. At that time it is explained to us that it is not natural birth that makes us God's people, it is a miraculous birth. "We are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free." (Galatians 4:31) Abraham knew none of this - he just had to trust in the eternal God. Abraham came to know that as long as he did right for today, he could trust in El Olam for tomorrow.

The most recognized passage that we know regarding El Olam is Isaiah 40:28-31. Take time to read that passage again now. If you know God as El Olam, you can wait on Him or trust Him with tomorrow. This means that through prayer you can turn the future over to Him and then you can live (soar) above life.

Are you living as if God is Everlasting and In Charge? What do you need to turn over to him about your future? You can experience God's peace (Phil. 4:7) by turning over your life to El Olam.

LDJ

Embrace your pain?

Embrace your pain?

As I was reading Stephanie's Victory Call from yesterday, it recalled to my mind a counseling conversation I had with Marilyn Heavilin (author of Roses in December) this past summer. Marilyn and I had teamed up to counsel a woman who had recently lost her husband in a tragic accident. I figured I would call in the big gun to help and at the same time take the opportunity to glean from Marilyn's experience (having lost 3 sons), insight and wisdom. I was able to observe Marilyn in action.
I mostly listened as Marilyn counseled, comforted and spoke truth into this young woman's life. Periodically, I would ask a question on behalf of the woman to get greater clarification. I remember Marilyn saying to her, "Embrace your pain". After a few moments of trying to envision what that looked like, to no avail, I asked just what exactly did that mean.
I so appreciated Marilyn's answer. I believe that it has value to all of us that are or have experienced suffering. Her answer basically was to not avoid things that remind you of your loss. Now, I don't think that is to say you should seek out those things that remind you of your loss, but by avoiding them it prolongs the process of healing. We tend to avoid those memories because they cause our heart to hurt. In other words, it causes pain. By avoiding those areas of pain, we can create areas of bondage in our lives.
As flesh and blood humans our natural instinct is to flee or avoid suffering. When we find ourselves in a season of suffering, we tend to focus our mental energy and efforts to get out of it as fast as possible.
As Stephanie said yesterday, in our suffering God is at work. He is up to something in your life. He is never malicious nor without a purpose. Your suffering may be due to your own choices and decisions or perhaps through no fault of your own. Either way God does not waste your suffering.

Isaiah 61:1-3, "The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, because the LORD has anointed Me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the broken hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of or God; to comfort all who mourn, to console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified."

Diane

Learning Through Suffering

Learning Through Suffering

For a few days we are going to pitch our tent on the subject of suffering -in and through- trials and tribulations.
I'll begin by sharing a phrase I read today. The author is encouraging us to learn from our trials and writes, "Don't waste your pain." The idea conveyed is to invest it rather than waste it. Hmm? Not a new lesson, but a way of saying it that I'd never heard before. "Don't waste your pain. The encouragement is for us to invest our pain in personal/spiritual growth and then, moving beyond ourselves, help someone else who may be struggling through suffering in their own life.
I had the privilege, recently of gathering with a group of people to pray. Some of us were indeed suffering in spirit over circumstances occurring in our lives that were having a significant impact, spiritually, emotionally and physically.
The question on my mind is "what is God up to?

Elizabeth Elliot calls suffering a gift.
Paul says, "Unto us it is given, not only to believe, but to suffer."
In my little brain, suffering is one of those words that I am not all that comfortable with. That might be true for most of us. For sure, we don't want to experience it on any level -especially not the kind that strips away all our defenses, all our arguments, all our self-righteous thinking, all our comfort and ease.
Suffering forces us to the only place we can or will grow from -The Cross. Suffering like this is not really on the register of our conscious thinking. Who imagines or dwells on that kind of suffering?

As believers we all encounter it at least once at the moment of salvation. In that moment we saw ourselves as sinners deserving of death, deserving eternal separation from a Holy God and we catch a glimpse of the suffering sinless Savior.

The movie released last year, "The Passion of the Christ", was as close as most of us have ever come to viewing a fraction of His true suffering.
What was the point of all that suffering? The simple point was and is to restore us to right relationship with a Sovereign Holy God; relationship which He designed for us from the beginning.
So again, I ask the question, "What is God up to?" He's up to the same thing He always is. It is in our suffering that God gets our attention. It is in our suffering that we cry out to Him with fervor and passion. "Lord, rescue us! Lord save us; deliver us!" Lord, release us from this trial and restore us to our former days when everything felt so much better and all was right in our world."
Sisters, are any among you suffering? You can be sure that God has something He wants to say to you. Something, that is for your good. As I shared in a previous Victory Call, God showed me through a recent season of suffering that it was time to let go of my hopes and dreams for my children and let Him be God in their lives. Big Mama had to decrease wanting to be all and everything and trust God to be Father.
Slow down, stop and listen. Don't waste your pain!
Stephanie

A Preacher's Wife

A Preacher's Wife

I recently had the privilege of joining some ladies for dinner who happen to hold the above title. I really enjoyed being with them. They all were very different yet in some ways very much alike. It's interesting to see them with their hair down, so to speak. Now I'm not a pastor's wife, or even a wife at the moment; but I am in ministry and I understand there are times when it can be difficult to just relax. The funny thing is they were the ones telling us Keswick ladies it was ok to let our hair down with them! Ironic, they usually hold the position of ministering and yet here we were doing that for them. They were very gracious and appreciative.
I couldn't help but think of my own Pastor and his wife, how great they have treated me all these years. How many times I have asked for prayer or have needed them in some way and there they were. Not that they could fix everything but for support, prayer, encouragement, teaching and love. That's what I picked up on that night; they loved what they do for Jesus.
As usual I had a very loaded question rolling around in my mind. So of course I posed it to them: What is the best thing about being a pastor's wife? In essence they all gave the same two answers!
First: it was their husbands. Being able to minister beside them, work with them toward the same goal, and spend their time together not just at home but often at work. What was really cool was the look on their faces when they spoke of their husbands; I saw adoration, appreciation, love, pride, thankfulness and above all respect. One of the ladies put it this way; she said; "When I watch him preaching and he's really going for it and giving it his all, it's just the best." I was really pleased to hear that and I told her to make sure she often tells him that, she said; "Oh, I do." They said the second best thing is when they pour their hearts out to someone and love them in Christ and they respond, and lives are changed. However, the other side of that coin when they pour out their hearts and it is not fruitful. Or when someone they have tried to love returns that love with unkindness, gossip or turning away.
I was sharing a special story with them about my own pastor and his wife and how good it makes me feel that they are so much in love and it shows. I would be discouraged if they had difficulty there. But one of these wise pastor's wives reminded me of something very true, she said; "just remember they are not perfect, only human." So true! I can sometimes forget that we are all works in progress, me included. I do believe in holding each other accountable especially if you have been called to lead. The enemy works hard at attacking those in leadership, and we need to pray for them. How quick we are to call on them for help and should when we need to but how often we do we neglect to encourage our pastors and their wives as they serve. When was the last time I prayed for them, brought them a meal, sent them a card or called just to say hi or ask, "how are you guys doing"? When was the last time you did? Today would be a good day to let them know they are appreciated.

Romans 10: 14-15,
How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written:
"How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things!"
Dina

Sweeter than honey to my mouth

Psalm 119:103, "How sweet are Your words to my taste, Sweeter than honey to my mouth!"
Do you yearn for the word? Do you immerse yourself in it as often and as long as possible? For some of us that might be moments stolen through the day, for others we have the freedom to sit for extended periods of time and read to our hearts content. Do you look forward to being in the word as much as you look forward to that sticky bun?
I remember as a kid, more than a few years ago, when I knew mom had made her famous caramel buns; I found it easier to get out of bed in the morning. In fact, you couldn't keep me in bed when I knew one of mom's sticky, gooey caramel rolls was waiting for me. I have long since given up eating sticky buns, but I still remember being motivated to get up because of them.
Are God's words sweet to your taste? Do you sit and savor every bite? Are you enticed to get out of bed, or to forgo television or your favorite novel to nourish your soul with the very words of God? Do you find your endeavor satisfying even satiating to your soul hunger?
Jeremiah 31:14, "I will satiate the soul of the priests with abundance, and My people shall be satisfied with My goodness, says the LORD."
Deuteronomy 8:3, "...man does not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the LORD."
Psalm 34:8, "Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good;"
Psalm 63:1, "O God, You are my God; early will I seek You; my soul thirsts for You; my flesh longs for You In a dry and thirsty land where there is no water."
I have found that the more time I spend in the Word, the more time I want to spend in the Word and the less time I spend in the Word, the less time I want to spend in the Word.
How are you doing with your pursuit of Christ through the Word?
Diane

JOY COMES IN THE MORNING

Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. Psalm 30:5b

Are you going through a season of suffering in which you find your heart weeping? One of the difficulties when we are in the midst of suffering is that we begin to believe the lie that it will never end. Every day seems just like the day before and tomorrow is sure to be more of the same. Is that about where you find yourself today? Do not lose hope.
Suffering always has a purpose. Whether you brought it on yourself or it is through no fault of your own, God can redeem it. God's timing is perfect and you will not be in this season one week longer, nay one moment longer that God determines.
If you are a child of God, redeemed by the Blood of the Lamb, your suffering is temporary. One day, either on this side of heaven or the other, joy will rise in your heart and overwhelm you with its delight. On the other hand, for those that have not yet surrendered their heart and life to Jesus Christ, this suffering will pale in comparison to the eternal suffering that awaits those who through refusal or neglect fail to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ to be saved.
In some 15 years counseling, I have found that, that which breaks our hearts is for a season and either through a change of circumstance or a change of heart, our weeping turns to joy. I have walked through my own time of suffering and through suffering with many, many others (that the nature of my call to ministry); and without exception, those that submitted to the Hand of God in their life, found that joy came in the morning.
Typically when we are suffering we are looking for a way out. We want delivered. I like what Beth Moore says in her book: Praying God's Word, "Never forget that God is far more interested in our getting to know the Deliverer than simply being delivered." (pg. 128)
Can you look forward with hope, that the time will come that your heart will sing and soar with joy, once again, if only because of Jesus?

The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places

"The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; Yes, I have a good inheritance." Psalm 16:6
I was going through a season of sinful discontentment in my life when God used this very verse to redirect my thinking.
It is so easy, natural and fleshly to see and focus on the negative things in life. Let's face it, we all have those things. After a while, it can become all we think about and surely it affects our entire attitude and behavior. We process all of life's events through the grid of discontentment. It becomes a burden that robs us of our joy.
I remember reading Psalm 16:6, "The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; Yes, I have a good inheritance." As I sat back in my chair, it occurred to me that truly I had a good life with many positive and good things to be thankful for.
I have not met a person yet that didn't have something to be thankful for; in fact, many things to be thankful for. However, I have met many people who were discontent. I think for most of us, it is a matter of where or what we choose to set our thoughts on.
Discontentment is not only dissatisfaction with our situation or circumstance; it is ultimately displeasure with God's provision for you.
Our focus can change in a moment when we call to mind God's abundant provision on our behalf. "I will sing to the LORD, because He Has dealt bountifully with me." Psalm 13:6; "He also brought me out into a broad place; He delivered me because He delighted in me."
Where is your focus today? Can you believe together with me that our boundary lines have fallen in pleasant places?

Diane

Recall the Gentle Guiding Hand of Jesus

"Show me Your ways, O LORD, teach me your paths; guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are God my Savior, and my hope is in You all day long." (NIV)
Psalm 25:4-5

I don't even remember setting out to commit these verses to memory but over the years it has some how become one in my repertoire of verses. I find myself praying them frequently, sometimes without even realizing it. I love these two verses. They express my hearts desire, in my spirit.
Why is it then that far too often I live contrary to that longing? Why do I often seek my own ways and try to get others to get on my path? Why do I know God's truth but fail to apply it and hear God's teaching but prefer my own way of doing things? Why do, at times, I act like I had anything to do with my salvation? Perhaps worst of all, to outside observers, it is likely to appear at times as if my hope is in myself all day long? See, in my flesh, I do not seek God, I do not desire His way, His will or His salvation. In my flesh, I want what all of us want and that is my own way.
I am so thankful that Jesus came and things can be different. "Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires." Romans 8:5

It is my heart's desire to know and follow the ways of God. I eagerly seek Him for the guidance of His truth. He is a wonderful, gentle teacher. "Come to me, all you who are wary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30
Oh, how my heart soars when I recall the gentle guiding hand of Jesus. I remember asking Jesus over and over again, "What lesson do you have for me today?" He is always faithful, always gentle, and always true. I truly have found that my hope is in Him all day long.

Diane

CULTIVATING A DELIGHT

Many years ago, I was in a women's Bible study with my friend, mentor and instructor Joann. She was sharing about a woman friend of hers that was in her 80's that she had recently visited in a nursing home. This dear woman's health was failing and she wasn't able to do much but Joann shared how she delighted in reading and having the Psalms read to her. They brought her such peace and comfort. It was Joann's next statement that I never forgot. She said, "My friend did not develop her delight in the Psalms in her 80's, she started cultivating that comfort in her much younger years so that now in her 80's they are her delight." I remember making a mental post-it note, "cultivate a delight in Psalms early." Well, not much happened for about 15 years. In 2003, during a year of preparation to do a retreat on "Intimacy with God: Delighting in our Heavenly Husband" I immersed myself in the Psalms. That entire weekend retreat was taught out of Psalms except for 2 verses.
Just recently I was back reading through the book of Psalms and was reminded once again the depth of meaning, truth, and relationship nestled within. So, we are going to meander through the Psalms this week.
Psalm 119 is one of my favorite Psalms. Let me just share a few excerpts from the longest Psalm with 176 verses. "I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies, as much as in all riches."(119:14); "Your testimonies also are my delight and my counselors." (119:24); "Behold, I long for Your precepts; revive me in Your righteousness." (119:40); "And I will delight myself in Your commandments, which I love." (119:47); "Remember the word to Your servant, upon which You have caused me to hope. This is my comfort in my affliction, for Your word has given me life." (119:49-50); "Let Your tender mercies come to me, that I may live; for Your law is my delight." (119:77); "Oh, how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day." (119:97); "how sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" (119:103); "Your testimonies I have taken as a heritage forever, for they are the rejoicing of my heart." (119:111); "Therefore I love Your commandments more than gold, yes, than fine gold!" (119:127); "Consider how I love Your precepts; revive me, O LORD, according to Your lovingkindness."(119:159); "I rejoice at Your word as on who finds great treasure." (119:162); "My soul keeps Your testimonies, and I love them exceedingly." (119:167);

Let us join the Psalmist in delighting in God and His word.

Diane

The Church with the Lighthouse

The Church with the Lighthouse

Isaiah 42:6
"I, the LORD, have called You in righteousness,
And will hold Your hand;
I will keep You and give You as a covenant to the people,
As a light to the Gentiles,
Last month we celebrated Valentine's Day. I really like this holiday because it reminds me of so many people I love. Growing up in my family all the kids got boxes of chocolates shaped like hearts and usually a stuffed animal. I knew I was loved but the outward signs are still nice. Nothing wrong with affirming your love for someone, whether it is your kids, parents, friends or spouse, but maybe especially your spouse. Recently a pastor's wife shared with me that she loved lighthouses and that her husband had the steeple removed from their church and built a lighthouse in its place. How cool is that! Talk about an affirmation of love!
It turns out that the Lord not only used this in their lives but in the lives of the community they live in. People who never attend the church comment often on how nice it looks, how they look out their window from home and can see "The Church with the Lighthouse." They hope to one day renovate the foyer so that people can see up into the lighthouse from inside the church and how awesome it would be to actually have a beacon of light in there.
You never know what will draw a person to Christ. One thing that drew me to my church was the sign they had out front; it read "No Jesus No Peace, Know Jesus Know Peace." I'd been reading that sign as I drove by for weeks but when it came time to choose a place for help I remembered the church with the sign outside. I was saved there five years ago and I can say the sign was true! If the lost can be drawn in by a symbol of light imagine when they see the True Light in the eyes of a believer how great that light will be! I'm sure the Lord is using "The Church with the Lighthouse" to be as the Word says; "As a light to the Gentiles."
Dina

EL Shaddai - The God who can do anything

EL Shaddai - The God who can do anything

Genesis 17:1 "When Abram was ninety-nine years old; the Lord appeared to Abram and said to him, I am Almighty God; walk before me and be blameless."

He God must introduce himself as the God who can do anything because he is about ready to tell him that He would give them a child and that Abram would be the father of a nation. You must believe that God can do anything to believe that! And they did - when the finally trusted in God he gave them Jacob. Yes, they tried to do it their own way through Hagar, but when we fall, God does not fail. See God holds us His promises even when we don't hold up our end. We have to quit trusting in ourselves too and trust our lives with the God who can do anything.

As long as we depend on our own skills, abilities, and intellect, we will never know the power of "El Shaddai". But when we do completely depend upon God, we can experience the truth of 2 Corinthians 12:9 - we can have "the Power of Christ".

I know in my life I have often relied on my own strength, my own knowledge and figured I could get through life just fine because of my abilities. Unfortunately God taught me through some tough times, even literally taking away my "physical" strength that I needed Him. No matter how much I think I know - I don't know enough to make it through life without "El Shaddai" working in my life. Note in Genesis God tells Abraham to walk before Him - remember El Roy? This is a direct reminder that you are never out of His sight and therefore He can take care of anything. Then God says "be blameless" - living a life above reproach. That is all that is required if you can the power of God in your life.

God blessed Abraham with a son - Isaac, who had a son Jacob. It is through Jacob's sons that God established his Nation. In Genesis 35:10-11 God changed Jacob's name to Israel because the name Israel means "having power with God". Could God call you Israel? Do you have the power of God in YOU? You can - just get out of the way and let him be the strength and power in your life.

LDJ

EL Roy - "The God Who Sees"

EL Roy - "The God Who Sees"

Genesis 16:13 "Then she (Hagar) called the name of the Lord who spoke to her, You are the God Who Sees; for she said, "Have I also here seen Him who sees me?"

We read in Job 34:21 that His eyes are on us and He sees our steps. In Psalms 33:13-14 we are told that He looks from Heaven. God is looking at US! He sees you every minute of everyday. He knows what is going on in your life. Most of all He knows what life is doing to you. Please note that God sees everyone - not just those people that are noticed by the world. God sees the lowly, the insignificant, the nobodies, the ordinary, the plain - no one is missed by God. You may feel unnoticed or unimportant in your job, your family, your community - but not to God - HE NOTICES YOU!
The most exciting thing about Him noticing me is that He can then care for me.

Do you sometimes get discouraged in the ministry? Are you a faithful behind-the-scenes worker? Do you wonder if anyone really knows what is going on in your life? Do you sometimes wish you could be an "upfront" person? Remember 1 Samuel 16:7; God sees the heart, not the outward appearance.

Have you been hurt or struggle with being abused - He knows. Nothing we do is missed by Him, even if no one else sees. We are introduced to these verses by Hagar who was hurt by Sarai. God saw, God responded and God took care of Hagar. He will do the same for you. Deut. 32:10 reminds us that God guards and protects us with His eyes.

If you need a reminder of all God does for you read Psalms 18 - Our God misses nothing in our lives - He is there for us, because He is the "God who Sees".

LDJ

Letting Go and Letting God

Letting Go and Letting God

To "let go and let God" is a phrase that you either have said, or may be likely to hear at some point in your faith walk. "Just let go and let God". When I first heard it, I had some inkling of what it meant and on occasion I even heard myself using it. More often than not it irritated me because it always came across as sounding smug or trite to my ears. It's been many years now and I can't even remember the occasions I would have shared those words. But for today I have found new meaning in them.

On the way to work today I was listening to a brief radio broadcast about a particular family of birds. I was instantly struck by the imagery of my own home/nest and how similar yet different the process of nesting is.
The bird spoken of in the story built her nest once and she built it well, her goal being to provide a safe place to lay her eggs and raise her babies. Any of us who are moms can relate to that. Most of us are nesters. We've taken great effort to provide an environment of safety and care for our children and a place for our husbands to come home to, night after night. It's a great feeling.
One big difference between me and the bird however, is that she didn't continue to keep her nest a comfy, cozy, welcoming place. Nature takes its course and she follows that course as she was designed to. Her grown birds have to go. She has to allow them to get pushed out of the nest, up on to the edge, where they either fly or die. Sounds harsh, doesn't it?
Nonetheless, from the moment she laid her eggs she was preparing them to leave it. She nestled, nourished and nurtured them to maturity. And since she hadn't moved bigger and better, the nest was soon way too crowded. And one by one, the birdies hop up on the edge to be pushed off the edge or fly away. Well, all, that is, except one. This one decided to linger in all that extra space for a few extra days, after his siblings "flew the coup" and let his mom continue feeding him.
But instead, "Mama got disgusted with her nest-addicted child and she quit feeding him. First, there was a lot of squawking and fussing, and then even he abandoned the nest to finally touch the sky."
What's the point of this story? For me it was a loud and clear confirmation to "let go and let God". There comes a time when the nest needs to not be so comfortable, that to keep it so, is to cripple the one you are trying to care for. It's okay to let them go, to release them to the Father's care. There is tremendous comfort in knowing that as my Father cares for the sparrows, He cares tenfold for His children and He will care for the ones He has given me. So as hard as it is, I will "let go and let God".

My question for you today:
Is there anything you are holding on to that God is asking you to hand over to Him?

Stephanie

Making Music Again

Making Music Again,

I was having lunch with a much loved girlfriend of mine and what a good time we had! It�s amazing to me how much two women can talk and eat at the same time! We chatted about our kids, our health, our work etc� and before your knew it lunch was over and it was time to head back home. But not before she gave me a �Victory Call�! Boy was this ever a true Victory! First let me say I was honored that she trusted me yet again with something so personal, but I�m glad she knows she can do that and I in turn feel that I can do the same with her and have, it�s a safe place to open our hearts. She said; �Hey, Guess what I got for Christmas?� I gave two smart mouth guesses and was wrong on both! What she got was a clarinet. Well, I started cracking up because I had no clue she could carry a note in a bag let alone play an instrument! She went on to explain that she had played for a very long time starting out as a child and on into young adulthood and apparently was really good at it. She tried to tell me something about first, second and third chair positions; it could be musical chairs that�s how much I know about this stuff! But never the less the girl was good! I don�t think I have seen her face light up about anything in this way before. She was truly passionate about her music. It was like an old friend that had gone away was back in her life again. She said how much she just loved to play. Sadly, she had stopped years ago and her passion to play and love for the art had been temporarily buried. There was unfortunately and awful experience for her that prevented her from continuing to play. In essence through no fault of her own she had been, to use her words; robbed. Jesus says in John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
Are you ready for the Victory! Here it is-
To her delight and amazement her memory of the skills to play had come right back! When picking up the instrument the sleeping gift was awakened again and her hands and fingers took their rightful place on the instrument and she began to make music again. She also found in storage her old music books. She hopes to look into spending some time sharpening her gift. It truly is a gift from the Lord to be able to make beautiful music. The greater gift is the joy it can fill her heart and spirit with. And although it may have had a brief intermission, she can have that joy back in her life and have it to the full. I look forward to hearing her play.

1 Samuel 2: 1b
�My heart rejoices in the LORD; in the LORD my horn is lifted high.
My mouth boasts over my enemies, for I delight in your deliverance.

Dina

Where are you today?

As we have been gathering together the last few days of this week, I have invited you to join me in the throne room that together we may just sit and enjoy being the very presence of God. I have been challenged and hopefully have passed that challenge on to you to set my affections upon Christ.
I was recently spending my morning Bible reading time when it struck me that I needed to confess to the Lord, that far too many days that is exactly what I am doing. I am spending time reading the Bible. I have often referred to that time as my devotions. Honestly, that doesn't really describe what I am doing. To me if I was having devotions, my time would be characterized with heart-felt devotion to Jesus Christ, with sitting and gazing into the eyes of My Lord. I have also referred to my morning time as "spending time with God". Well, that doesn't really describe my time either. I have to confess that far too many days; "reading my Bible" best describes my activity during that time.
I found myself praying that morning, "Lord, I really want to experience You during this time. I want to spend this time in pure, unadulterated heart-devotion to You. When I walk away from my desk, I want to know I have spent time with You. Teach me Lord. Show me Lord."
I was touched that very week by a selection in Halliday and Travis' devotional book, How Great Thou Art.
"Hearts that are 'fit to break' with love for the Godhead are those who have been in the Presence and have looked with opened eye upon the majesty of Deity...They had been in the Presence of God, and they reported what they saw there. They were prophets, not scribes, for the scribe tells us what he has read, and the prophet tells what he has seen.
The distinction is not an imaginary one. Between the scribe who has read and the prophet who has seen, there is a difference as wide as the sea. We are today overrun with orthodox scribes, but the prophets, where are they? ...the church waits for the tender voice of the saint who has penetrated the veil and has gazed with inward eye upon the Wonder that is God..." A.W. Tozer
I want to be a prophet as Tozer describes here. I want to gaze upon the beauty of God and experience Him in my inner man, so that I may go and share with others what I have seen, the One True Living God.

Where are you today? Are you 'reading your Bible" or "Spending time with God"?
Are you a scribe sharing with others what you have read or a prophet sharing what you have seen? May we all pursue the Presence of God.

Diane

Set your affections upon Jesus Christ

Yesterday, we considered what it meant to set our affections upon Jesus Christ. I shared this recently with a woman who looked at me quizzically, "What does that mean, to set my affections upon Jesus Christ?" I tried various descriptions but none were really getting my point across. Then it occurred to me. I said, "Let's put it in a framework that I can, and perhaps you can identify with. Food. Imagine that I invited you out for a juicy steak dinner for Friday night. My guess is you would think about that steak on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Come Thursday, you would probably think about our night out a couple of times during the day with a little excitement about that steak. By Friday, chances are you would begin to anticipate our going out to have that steak and really look forward to it." In a sense, you have set your affections upon that meal. You look forward to it. You anticipate it. You spend time thinking about it. Forgive my somewhat primitive illustration - but you know what? She understood what I meant when I said, "we need to set our affections upon Jesus Christ."
I was recently reading in a devotional by A.J. Russell, God Calling. Since my initial reading of this text, I have read, and reread this selection several times. It challenged my heart and hope it encourages yours. It is written as if Christ Himself is speaking to us.
"...Think of the multitudes, who thronged Me, when I was on earth, all eager for something. Eager to be healed, or taught, or fed.
Think as I supplied their many wants, and granted their manifold requests, what it meant to Me, to find amid the crowd, some one or two, who followed Me just to be near Me, just to dwell in my Presence. How some longing of the Eternal Hart was satisfied thereby.
Comfort Me, awhile by letting Me know that you would seek Me just to dwell in My presence, to be near Me, not even for teaching, not for material gain, not even for a message-but for Me. The longing of the human heart to be loved for itself is a something caught from the Great Divine Heart." (February 6, Pg. 38-39)
Set your affections upon Jesus Christ, simply because of who He is. Come and tarry a while just to spend time in His presence. Don't ask for anything, just sit a spell with Him and delight to be in His presence.

Where have you set your affections?

I was a fairly new Christian back in the late 1980's when I was having
a conversation with my sister about what it meant to be saved or born-again.
These words were foreign to our childhood denominational background. I did
my best (meager attempts) to explain God's plan of salvation to her. The
conversation went on for close to an hour and she stopped me dead in my
tracks when she said, "I believe all that you are telling me. I believe
that Jesus is the Son of God. I believe He died on the cross for my sins.
I believe His death paid the penalty for my sins. Etc. I believe all that
you believe. So what makes you different from me? Why are you saved and
I'm not?" In my new found faith, I knew in my head the difference but
could not sufficiently explain it to her. It was one of those rare moments
in my life that I was speechless.

At this point I have been a Christian for almost 23 years and I have
had multiple opportunities to share the gospel with individuals and groups
of people. On one hand we desire for people to "make a commitment"; "Ask
Jesus into their hearts"; "Receive Christ"; "make a decision"; or "pray the
sinner's prayer". We have so many ways of describing the moment of
regeneration in the heart of a sinner. On the other hand, have we not all
met people who have "made a commitment, received Christ, made a decision or
prayed the sinner's prayer" that have absolutely no evidence in their life
that they have been changed one iota?

One day, John Piper and I were chatting. Okay, not really chatting, I
was reading his book, The Dangerous Duty of Delight. The light went on for
me when he said, "Perhaps you can see why it is astonishing to me that so
many people try to define true Christianity in terms of decision and not
affections. Not that decisions are unessential. The problem is that they
require so little transformation. Mere decisions are no sure evidence of a
true work of grace in the heart. People can make 'decisions' about the
truth of God while their hearts are far from Him."

So the answer to my sister's question and to those individual's that
have "made professions" but have no evidence in their life of transformation
is this: A person that is truly born-again has set her affections upon
Jesus Christ. It is not a commitment of the head, but rather a commitment
of the heart.

Today's Question: Where have you set your affections? In what ways have
you demonstrated THIS WEEK that you have set your affections upon Jesus
Christ?

Diane

Galatians 6:10 "As we Have opportunity, let us do good to all."

Galatians 6:10 "As we Have opportunity, let us do good to all."

In our former church, I was part of the A.W.H.O. Class = "As We Have Opportunity".
When I first joined I was active in every opportunity to serve others. We went to prisons, nursing homes, visited the blind, and even the home for un-wed mothers. We cooked meals for the sick, baked cakes, and cleaned.

Then the roles turned, and I needed this help myself. Having developed an illness called Myasthenia Gravis when my children were 1, 3, and 5 years old, it was hard. I'll never forget the gift of help and love each gave to us. Twice a year they cleaned my whole house! While they were cleaning, another friend had me at her home for the day (and it was great to be with her just to talk, pray - and eat lunch). Then someone else sent dinner. As a family, Jack and I sat down with our three little ones and had a great meal in a spotless house. Do you know what that did for us? Today some of these classmates are in heaven, and their gift of help has been rewarded.

That verse is special to me, even today, but God has to remind me "to do good to all" doesn't mean I have to help everyone in need. We are to help anyone we can and whenever we have the opportunity to do so.

I become so distressed especially with the spiritual needs of a lost world. God asks us to pray, give and show love to all that we can. Think of the opportunities you have around you. You serve the Lord as you help others.

Our Daily Bread reads, "Do what you can where you are and with what you have!"
Another good thought to remember is:
"Our lives are God's gift to us. What we do with them is our gift to God."

Dottie

Adonai ~ The God of Relationships

Adonai ~ The God of Relationships

Gen 15:2 "The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him."

Adonai is written with lower case letters (Lord) to distinguish it from Jehovah (LORD). This name appears 300 times in the Old Testament and is often translated "sovereign" in the NIV Bible. It is translated "master" when referring to people. It denotes a servant and his relationship to his master.

At its first use in scripture (Gen 15:2) it refers to a relationship that requires obedience. In Genesis 15:6 we are told that Abraham "believed in the Lord" and God "credited it to him for righteousness". So, let's translate that... Abraham believed in God and made him Lord (Adonai) of his life - that is a relationship! Notice also that the relationship came from belief not from Abraham's good life. Matt. 7:21-27 repeats this thought when it states that not everyone that says Lord, Lord will enter the kingdom.

So, what does that mean to you?

1. Is Jesus your Adonai? Have you made Christ the Lord of your life?
2. Like Abraham in Gen. 15:2 do you praise and exalt your Lord?
3. If He is your Lord and master, are you serving him and keeping his commands?

Will someday Jesus say to You... "Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matt. 25:21)

LDJ

ONLY ONE LIFE WILL SOON BE PAST

ONLY ONE LIFE WILL SOON BE PAST
ONLY WHAT'S DONE FOR CHRIST WILL LAST

A plaque with these words hung in my parents' home for many years. It was on the wall at the bottom of the dining room stairs. You read it as you came down each morning and on the way up each night as you went to bed. To me, it was an adult thought. I loved my mom and dad, and I didn't want to think of their life being over - anytime!

Both of them were Christians and took my sister and me to Sunday school and church from early childhood. They raised us to respect and honor God, and to respect them as well. Dad worked hard, long hours, while Mom was a stay-at-home mom. God used both of them as Sunday school teachers and in various adult jobs in the church.

During the war years, Dad worked at the Navy-yard, building ships. He had to work many Sundays while we attended church. I lost quality father-daughter times in those years, but I thank God there were special memories, too.

At the early age of 59, God took Mom home. As she passed that plaque on her way up to bed, she didn't realize her life on earth would be over that night. My favorite song, "Finally Home", was sung at her funeral. Some of its lines are, "Just think of stepping on shore and finding it heaven, of touching a hand and finding it God's, of waking up in Glory and finding it home!" That is what God has ready for those who serve Him on earth.

Before Mom's death, she had visited us in New York. I had the privilege of walking with her and sharing what she meant in my life. God is so good! Mom's words were, "Take care of Dad". She knew her life would soon be over. She also knew her girls were serving the Lord, and this brought joy. "Thank you, Lord, for my mom."

Dad continued to live to be 81. He lived just five doors from us. God gave me memories then, with just Dad. On one occasion before a trip to visit my sister in Massachusetts, he came to my home, but he was sick. I prayed with him - which I had never done before. He was able to go on that trip for Christmas. He died there two weeks later. I'll never forget our last talk and praying together. He, too, knew he was "going home", for he had left some notes for us. "Thank you, God, for my dad."
You see, when you love the Lord and serve Him, you are ready when He calls you.

That special plaque is now gone, but its words remain in my memory and my heart. Now my husband and I are in our 70's. We, too, know that only what we do to serve and glorify the Lord will last. It's our privilege to continue to minister and serve Him. It is what counts! You never retire in working for the Lord. Philippians 1:21 "For me to live is Christ, but to die is gain."

God Is Enough

God Is Enough

Thank you Father for this brand new day that You have made! In this day we will rejoice and be glad! We will enter your gates with thanksgiving in our hearts. We will be content with the food of your Word and doing that which You have called us to do. We will present the Gospel in every way you have divinely equipped us to do so. We will not boast in ourselves. Rather we will boast in You and believe that:

"You are Who You say You are
You can do what You say You can do
Your Word is alive and active in us." (Beth Moore -Believing God)

"Such is the confidence that we have through Christ toward God. Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God, who made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life." 2 Corinthians 3:4-6

So far we have managed to stay away from the shoulds and should-nots. And guess what, we still ain't going there!
"...For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life."
2 Cor. 3:6a

"Jesus answered them, ' "Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the Son remains forever. If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." John 8:34-36

Sisters, we are free! Jesus, the Son of God has made us free! We will not forever remain in this flesh where we do daily battle with sin. Day by day as we choose to believe Him and be changed by what we believe, we will soar like eagles. We will run and not grow weary. We will choose life over death. Or I'll say it like this- our food and drink will be to do the will of the Father. Nothing else will satisfy because GOD IS ENOUGH!
Can I get an amen!?!

Stephanie

God is Enough

God is Enough

Yesterday our hearts hopefully united together to take a journey toward believing that God is enough. Put another way, you could say we are going to journey toward believing God.
Like me, some of you, if not, most of you would be quick to think and say, "Hey, I already believe God".
Let's quest together for the answer to this question, "What is believing God?"
But first let's discern the difference between believing and believing in. Trust me, believe me, when I say to you - this is not going to be easy. I had to stop midst the writing of this devotion to think my own thoughts out loud with Diane. Thus...I believe that God wants us to do the hard word of learning and seeing the difference so that change, true change, takes place in our lives.

To 'believe in' is "to have a firm conviction as to the goodness of something". In other words, we all have a firm conviction that God exists and that He offers us salvation.
To 'believe' is "to accept as true or real; to credit with veracity (conformity to fact or truth); to have firm faith, confidence or trust in what one has seen or heard". Meaning, I do not simply believe in His goodness but I also take Him at His Word by believing what He has told me.
I'd be lying if I said I spent a lot of time intentionally focused on what I believe about God. I just matter-of-factly believe in Him. Yes! I believe in God, but the question to answer is, do I believe in Him enough to take him at His Word and believe Him by conforming my life to His Truth?

Therein is where our journey began yesterday with "God Is Enough". Is He? Do I live my life as if I truly believe that? Is my life daily marked by change, fueled by the transforming power of His Word? Under my own watchful gaze I have to say, "No I do not."

Praise God! Praise God! Praise God for the process that sanctification is! Thank God for the ever moving onward and upward direction that He draws me toward -by the power of His Spirit- as I continue my pass through this life.

"Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 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." 2 Corinthians 3:17-19

Stephanie

God Is Enough

God Is Enough

With my lips it is easy to say and with my pen it's even easier to write the words, God is enough. Lately I've been confronted with the truth of it and I am keenly aware that I live my life as if He isn't enough. I am over weight. There I said it. Not that it's a mystery to anyone who sees me. But, there have been many times which I've caught a glimpse of my reflection and gasped what I saw there. Who is that woman? So I humbly invite you to think with me; walk with me; help me to process this truth. In fact, let's do it together.

Is there any area of your life that calls to you for change -change that moves and cuts way below any surface mask or covering we could hide behind? (Just in case you can't think of one, I invite you to ask the Lord. I promise you he will open your eyes to see some area that screams to believe the truth that He is enough!

With that "thing" firmly in mind, let's allow the Lord to speak to us through His Word. Sisters, please hear my heart here. The last thing I want to do is to lead you through a litany of shoulds and should-nots. The law of shoulda, woulda, coulda has never redeemed anyone from anything. Those words more often than not cause me to cringe and feel judged. In fact, lately as the use of them has seemingly jumped to the forefront of my mind, I am asking God to give me an ear to hear my own use of them. Lord, deliver me from communicating to anyone that they don't measure up. Surely that is the Holy Spirit's work and His alone.

My lone desire is to invite you in, to journey with me through this process of living like I am truly believing - God is enough. My desire is to share with you from a satisfied heart. A heart whose food is to do the will of the Father and not the will of my flesh's longings; demands for food.

"Jesus said to them, "My food is to do the will of Him who sent me and to accomplish His work."

He said this to His disciples in response to their question, "Has anyone brought you something to eat?"
Had that been me in my current state, I would've been checking them out as they walked toward me, wondering what delicious morsel they were bringing me to eat. And, once they came within voice range, I'd probably have unashamedly asked them, "What did ya bring me?"
Not so with the Lord Jesus. His heart and mind were fixed, rock steady on doing the will of His Father. I can guarantee you He didn't have visions of Krsipy Kreme(r) donuts dancing in His head.

To be continued...

Stephanie

El Elyon ~ The God who is in Charge

El Elyon ~ The God who is in Charge

Gen. 14:18 "Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bead and wine. He was priest of God Most High"

El Elyon is the first compound name for God, "El" being short for Elohim and "Elyon" for Highest. So, the name is translated El Elyon ~ The Most High God". What is unique about this name is that it is only found 30 times in the OT and is only found in the Mosaic books, Psalms and Daniel. In Gen. 14:18, Melchizedek is giving praise to the Most High God for delivering the people from their enemies.

The Most High God is able to deliver us from our enemies. In 1 Peter 5:8 we learn that our spiritual enemy is Satan, therefore, God can deliver us from Satan! In Psalms 57: 2-3 we are told that God can save us from all who pursue us ~ El Elyon is able to defeat all our enemies because He is the Supreme Ruler of heaven and earth. Through the book of Daniel we also see that God is in control of all the circumstances that happened to Israel in order to show that God is Supreme. That is the same in our lives ~ all circumstances come into our lives for a purpose and to draw us towards the Most High God.

So, what is our response to El Elyon?

1. Abraham gave a 10th (Gen. 14:18) back to Him in response to the victory He gave.
2. Malachi 3:8 tells us not to rob the God who gave them everything. (James 1:17)
3. As the Most High God we owe everything to Him - so our attitudes toward our circumstances and possessions should reflect that.
4. He desires my all: Check out the verse of the Old Hymn by Isaac Watts, "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross," says it best: "Love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all."

How are you daily responding to El Elyon? Who is Most High in your life ~ God, you or maybe someone or something else?

LDJ

Believing God for more what?

A few years ago, I was speaking at a women's retreat in Pennsylvania. It was in the fall and as usual I was looking for an opportunity to get back to nature and enjoy the out-of-doors. A small group of us decided to take a hike to the top of Spruce Mountain.
One of the women that went with us had been struggling with Epstein Bar and Fibromyalgia for years which often kept her from doing the physically active things she loved to do.
It was a moderate hike, crisscrossing back and forth across a stream sometimes small and shallow, sometimes a little more challenging. Up and up we went, laughing, joking and fellowshipping along the way. Periodically, we would stop to catch our breath and this woman would catch up to us with our hearts pounding and labored breathing. We frequently inquired if she was doing okay, not wanting to push her or leave her behind. She always gave us a cheery, "I'm fine. I can do this, because I'm believing God for more." She taught us all a life lesson that day.
I was sharing this story with the Higher Ground Ladies on Monday night and one of the women raised her hand and asked, "Believing God for more what?" I smiled, "more of whatever." For this woman, she was believing God for more physical strength. Perhaps you need to believe God for more hope, more trust, more faith, more perseverance, more of whatever you are lacking in your spiritual life. It is another way of saying, "I refuse to be satisfied, until I have more of Christ." We will never have enough of Him that we can sit back and be lazy. I want to be in constant pursuit of more of Him.
What area in your life do you want or need to believe God for more? Don't be satisfied with mediocre. Passionately pursue more.
Oh, by the way, we did a victory dance at the top of that mountain because she believed God for more, and He rewarded her faith.

Diane

The Pause, Pray and Practice Principle

The Pause, Pray and Practice Principle

If you have been on this Victory Call journey with us long enough you may recall a devotional I wrote about the PAUSE AND PRAY Principle. As women we are prone to respond in the moment and respond in our emotions. For me, if I respond in my emotions, in the moment I am, more likely than not, going to sin with my words or my face (which is reflecting the attitude of my heart).
For some time now I have encouraged women to practice the PAUSE AND PRAY principle. Very few, and I do mean, very few incidences require we respond immediately with the first thing that comes to our mind and tongue. Instead, we need to take some time to remove our self from the situation and pray until we have God's peace and can deal with the situation with a quiet and gentle spirit of godliness. This may take a few minutes to a few weeks. Pause and pray until...
I am not suggesting that women should be silent. On the contrary, God has given women intellect, insight and wisdom which may need to be brought to bear on a particular situation. However, it is wise to be silent until we can give that input gently, calmly and peaceably. In instances where confrontation is called for, much more value will come out of a peaceful interaction than one that rages at mega-decibels with unkind and ungodly words.
Stephanie and I were recently discussing a situation in which this principle seemed to be applicable but we went on further to say it would be good to practice how to and what needs to be said. That is why I have added the PRACTICE part of the PAUSE, PRAY AND PRACTICE principle. Practice your words, after you have paused and prayed, otherwise you will be practicing the wrong stuff. Practice kindness, practice grace-filled, respectful, godly speech. Practice. Practice. Practice.
After Pausing, Praying and Practicing, and God has given you peace, then go and deal with the issue. It is more likely to be heard by the other, and you will be blessed for having obeyed.

Diane

Are you His witness?

Hebrews 4:16 "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in the time of need."

Communication is essential for any growing relationship - including our relationship with God! The above verse tells us we can come boldly to God. Not only does a Christian have the blessed privilege of talking with God about everything, but they can experience the great benefits from their communion with Him. God's word and prayer go together. They build up in a relationship with Christ so that He can live through you. Prayer releases us from fear and worry! God's will is revealed as we have communion with Him, so we have nothing to fear. His way is best.

As Christians, we are also told to witness. We can demonstrate through our life what the Lord and His grace can accomplish. But remember, we can never convert a soul, which is the work of the conviction of the Holy Spirit, bringing a person to ask forgiveness of their sins and asking Christ into their heart. But we can pray! James 5:16

Are you His witness? To me it is amazing that Christ allows me to be His witness. We can witness by our love, our life, and by word. What is your witness in your home, in your school, or out in public? Remember, you are here to glorify God, not yourself.

We are also told we need to have fellowship, not only with Christ, but with other Christians. Read 1 John 1. I need you, and you need me. Seek the fellowship with the Christians God has put in your life: family, work, church, neighbors, and friends. (Perhaps those you write to from past years. I cherish them!)

Make time to pray and read His word. Communicate with Him. He loves you, and He promises to be there for you at all times, in good times or bad.
Communicate with Him.

Dottie

Had I fallen into the trap of using Christ?

I was sitting in class one evening about 15 years ago when I was in seminary, when the instructor, David Powlison made this statement, A lot of people treat Jesus like the big valium in the sky. Nodding my head in agreement, I thought that was a good thing. You can imagine the sick feeling in my stomach when Dr. Powlison proceeded with explaining how short-sighted it was. I knew I was guilty of exactly what he was talking about. That was precisely how I had been treating Jesus, as my sedative. I figured that was better than taking a drink, a Xanax or a valium. Don't get me wrong, finding peace in Christ is better than any pill but, He is so much more than that. (Please do write me to tell me the necessity of these meds, I am fully aware of their benefits and sometimes the value of short term use - that is not the point of this Victory Call).
I had fallen into the bad habit of enjoying my relationship with Christ for what He did for me, for what I could get out of it. If that had been a human relationship it would have been said that I was using that person. Had I fallen into the trap of using Christ?
Why is it short-sighted? I was failing to appreciate Christ for who He is, not just what He can do for me. He is worthy of my worship whether He ever does anything at all for me. He is worthy of honor and fear. He deserves my respect, pleasure and love.

You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created. Revelation 4:11; Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom, and strength, and honor and glory and blessing! Revelation 5:12; Blessing and honor and glory and power be to Him who sits on the throne, and the Lamb, forever and ever! Revelation 5:13; Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and the knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out! For who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has become His counselor? Or who has first given to Him and it shall be repaid to him? For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen.

Delight yourself in Jesus because of who He is, not just for what He does for you. My meager words fail to capture the grandeur and magnificence of His Person. He is so worthy of our moment by moment worship.

Diane

Jehovah ~ The God who cares for me

Jehovah ~ The God who cares for me

Gen 2:4 "This is the account of the heavens and the earth when they were created. When the LORD God made the earth and the heavens"

The name "Jehovah" is translated "LORD" in all caps in most versions of the Bible. Sometimes it is also translated "GOD" in all caps to differentiate it from "Elohim". LORD is the name most used in scripture for God (6000 times). Jehovah appears along with the name Elohim when God creates Adam. We also know this name as "Yahweh" as given by God to Moses at the burning bush (Ex. 3:13-14).

Jehovah denotes the special relationship we have with God. Elohim provides for the physical universe ~ Jehovah provides for and protects His children. The term Jehovah or Yahweh which literally translated means "He which is: I AM" tells us that He is, He has always been, He always will be and He cannot be improved upon."

Jesus declares himself as Jehovah in John 6:20 (It is I), and John 8:58(...before Abraham was born, I AM). Do you understand what that means? We have a God who not only created us, but cares for us and Jesus himself came to earth to show how much He cares for us!

So, how do you apply this to your life?

1. Thou shalt not take the LORD God's name in Vain ~ the word vain means empty. Yes, we should not use it in a profane way, but it also means when we say in a spiritual sense we need to understand the fullness of the word and the depth of meaning it has in our lives. Let's not throw the word around lightly - do you really know Him as the God who cares?
2. Mal 3:6 "God does not change" ~ the God who cared for all the men and women of the bible is the God who cares for you! If He has shown himself faithful, he will continue to be faithful.
3. His presence is with us... "The LORD replied, "My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest." (Ex 33:14)

Are you living daily with Jehovah? You have his comfort and his presence at all times! Even when you feel lonely here - you are never alone. The God who cares for you is ever present!

LDJ

It is my right to walk in victory

"But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."
1 Corinthians 15:57

I was flipping through my Scripture memory cards when I came across a card in the very back of the spiral bound set. I don't remember writing this but it caused me to stop short and give some thought to this statement. "It is my right to walk in victory."
As a counselor, I spend considerable amounts of time trying to help people understand that when we surrender our so called rights in this life, it is then that we come into full surrender to Jesus Christ.
Wayne Mack, in his book, A Homework Manual for Biblical Living vol. 1 Personal and Interpersonal Problems (pg. 5-6) states "usually we become sinfully angry because we think some 'right' is being denied. He suggested the following 'rights' that we tend to cling to that can become idolatrous and lead us to sin: right for privacy, the right to have and express personal opinions; the right to respect; the right to be understood, the right to be supported, the right to earn and use money, the right to have and control personal belongings, the right to be successful and 26 other "rights".
The rights I am talking about are different. These rights are not personal rights on my own merit but my rights won on my behalf at the cross. I have the right to have peace of heart, because of Jesus. I have the right to drink in the Living Water, because of Jesus. I have the right to choose obedience, because of Jesus. I have the right to believe the One True God, because of Jesus. I have the right to freedom, because of Jesus. I have the right to walk victoriously, because of Jesus.
Are you as excited about that thought as I am? Say it out loud. "I have the right to walk in victory." Remind yourself of that truth, daily.
Thank You Lord, for the rights I have because of Jesus.

Diane

FINISH WELL

"...Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord." Matthew 25:23

The other evening I was chatting with the women in my small group at Higher Ground when one of the women shared that she has often reminded herself that she wants to finish well. She always considered that as being in her later years that she wants to finish her race strong. I would venture to guess that is how all of us think about finishing well. Her next comments really struck me. She said, "I need to remind myself that it's not something I will do later, but I need to do right now. I need to finish every conversation well. I need to finish every meal well. I need to finish every thought well." Wow! When it comes right down to it, we will not finish life well unless we finish the details of daily life well, today, tomorrow, next week, and next month.
I need to build into my life today, what I want to be there tomorrow. It is so easy and deceptive to think that I will obey in that area when I'm older, when I'm a more mature Christian or when it's not so hard. You know the old adage, tomorrow never comes.
Begin today. Choose today to finish each moment well. This is how we will gain victory in our lives - one victorious moment after another victorious moment, until we have strung enough together to have a victorious day, week and year.
Are you ready to commit to finish each moment in your life well so when you face Jesus you will hear the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant..."?

Diane

God's Special People

The scriptures tell us to be joyful in our trials, James 1:2; content in our circumstances, Philippians 4:11-13; and to stop complaining and grumbling, Philippians 2:14-15.

It's been over fifteen years ago that I was asked to write for our church newspaper. I wrote an article every other month called "God's Special People". Those I wrote about were testimonies of shut-ins, disabled or elderly in nursing homes - many in wheelchairs. They received recognition of their witness to others, and from the stories written; many of them received notes and cards. I know this as I was in a wheelchair myself, and the first article introduced my column and my life. God is special to me, and I am special to Him! I used my life verse (given to me at age 16): Romans 8:38-39, "nothing can separate me from the love of God".

Recently, I came across the manila folder holding about 20 of the articles I had written. As I read, the tears came. I thought of Fran, a blind girl, who is now in heaven. We talked a lot on the phone and laughed together. I miss her, but today she can see! There was the story about Seybert. He was in a wheelchair, crippled with arthritis and his wife had had polio. What a testimony! Others were in nursing homes, waiting for God to call them home, but still praising God and smiling. All these people were truly special to God and to others.

As I read each one, I realized that all but two of the 20 had died. Why had God allowed me to remain and even continue in Christian ministry with young people and now here at America's Keswick Colony of Mercy with men recovering from addiction? God has plans for our lives. We don't always understand, but we need to accept His will, and most of all, let God be glorified.

I've started a new plan. If possible, I am writing to someone in the family of each of these special people and sending them a copy of the article of their loved one. It will be a reminder of the blessings they had while caring for one of God's Special People.

Dottie

No Greater Love

No Greater Love

"Greater love has no man than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends."
-- John 15:13
It is so much easier to say those words than it is to think about actually doing them. Most of us are capable of imagining our lives laid down for our children or for someone we greatly love. But who of us would ever begin to contemplate laying down our life for our enemies? It's not even a thought that would come naturally to our conscious or our unconscious thinking. Who could do that? Who would do that? Of course, we all know the answer. Jesus did.
For His friends and for His enemies He died. Such an amazing love is what wooed us to the Cross and led us to lay done our will for His will in our lives. This love enabled us to see the futility of life apart from Him and run into His waiting arms.

How could He love me so? Have you ever asked yourself that question? Have you ever stood in the mirror glimpsing the reality of exactly who you are apart from Him and been brought to your knees in praise?

For me, for you, He endured the Cross. He endured excruciating pain and suffering. He experienced soul crushing despair when He felt the Father's rejection. And yet, in the throes of His agony He seeks forgiveness for the ones who despise Him unto death.

There is no greater love than this. Every insult or accusation hurled at us; every offense we experience; every cut and bruise our egos receive; everything and all that this life has to throw at us, we can bear and we can bear well, because he loves us!

Father, we thank you today for the Gospel. We thank you for loving us while we were still against You. Lord, help us to live today with a grander view of so great a love, and with an increased desire and willingness to share Your love in us, with our friends and our enemies. Gratefully in Jesus name. Amen.

Stephanie

Elohim ~ The God who Created You

Elohim ~ The God who Created You

"In the beginning God created the heavens and earth." Gen. 1:1

I'd like to take a few devotionals to focus on the names of God. What better place to start than with the name Elohim, which is found first in the Bible. Not only is it first, but it is found 2,000 times in the Old Testament.

"EL" means powerful or mighty and "him" refers to the plural (This speaks of the Trinity). Putting the two words together ~ Elohim means "The powerful creator and sustainer of the universe". This immediately reveals the external existence of God ~ he created, he was not created. It also demonstrates the self-sufficiency of Christ. Remember, Satan was created, which means his powers are limited.

So, what does that mean to you?

1. We were created by HIM ~ for HIM.
2. We are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalms 139:14)
3. God can use what he creates (Exodus 4:11)
4. God uses the Ordinary, because he created us ~ so that we boast in the creator ~ not in us. (1 Cor 1:26)
5. In Isaiah it tells us that we were created for HIS glory (43:7)
6. We are connected to the powerful creator and that power is available to YOU! (Prov. 18:10)

See God doesn't need you or I, we need him! Without our Creator we are nothing, he created us for His purpose. To bring Glory to God the world must see us living His ways, and doing His good works.

Since God is Elohim....
I am here for a reason and I have been given a purpose. Do you believe that? Do you live as though that were true?

LDJ

We walk by faith and not by sight

II Corinthians 5:7 "We walk by faith and not by sight."

I was given a "pass-it-on" message card put out by Universal Design. I haven't passed it on, but I'll share its message.

The card shows a picture of a little white dog peeking through eyes covered with hair. We have a white Westie who shares the same face! The title of the card reads, "We walk by faith and not by sight". I love the little card as it reminds me that as Christians we have to walk by faith many times, not seeing clearly what may be ahead in our life. We have to trust Christ, our Savior and friend, for decisions and paths to follow. Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."

As I am writing this, I am watching our little Westie, whose name is Frostie, playing outside with one of the residents of our addiction recovery center. I notice three things as I watch:

1. They know and trust each other - and Frostie listens to John's every word, obeying.

2. They enjoy each other's company - it shows!

3. John leaves, and our dog waits for his friend to come back - he will, because he loves him.

Isn't this how we react as we walk by faith with Christ? We need to enjoy being with and talking with our Lord. He is our friend, and He loves us. We need to trust His leading and seek his will. Even when we can't see His reasons, we need to obey! Luke 8:18, "Take heed how you hear".

Remember, too, that Jesus will come back - He has promised! Be ready and be looking for His return - maybe this year, maybe next. For now, enjoy being with Him as you read His Word, letting Him talk to you; as you pray, talking to Him.

Walk by faith and obey His commands. Remember, He loves you!

Dottie

The Passion of a Kiss (part 2)

The Passion of a Kiss (part 2)

Yesterday's phone ad led up to this video, called "Like We Never Loved At All." It is a really well done video about a broken-hearted couple. The point is how much they are both hurting over their break up and long to be back together but there are some obstacles, namely another woman. It's obvious that they have shared a lot! It portrays the woman as wondering how he has moved on, she asks him; "Did you forget the magic? Did you forget the passion? Did you ever miss me? Ever long to kiss me?" Obviously by the look on his face the answers were, No, No, Yes and Yes. Their hearts were broken.
Anybody that has seen it, would probably agree that she could press the delete button forever and not get this relationship out of her heart. It's just not that simple. I don't believe it was designed to be simple. I believe that when the Lord said that the two shall become one, Genesis 2:24 For this reason a man will leave his mother and father and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh, He wasn't just referring to the physical but also a spiritual joining of the couple.
There's something special about going to the man you love on your wedding night and being able to share your most intimate experience under the protective banner of marriage. Song of Solomon 2:4 He has taken me to the banquet hall and his banner over me is love.
The Beloved tells us not to stir up nor awaken love until it pleases. Sure a kiss can bring pleasure but it leads to the desire for more sexual intimacy not meant to be awakened until it truly pleases. Pleases who? Pleases God.
There is nothing wrong and in fact, everything right about the love and passion we can experience in a marriage. That is truly a gift of pleasure from a loving God. And I believe it pleases the Lord to look down upon a loving, respectful, passionate, married couple.
Maybe you've experienced things in this way and can say yes, amen, that is so true. Maybe you haven't. Maybe you've got some conviction going on and far be it from me to take that away. Let it lead you to our loving, forgiving Lord and start again. Maybe you're not even at a point to have to consider it yet, but it's never too early to start preparing to do the right thing.
Maybe that choice was taken away from you and you need the comfort, peace and healing only God can give. Or maybe you're like me and wish you grew up knowing Christ and had the foundation to make better choices but didn't. Let me say God is good, He has allowed me to be a wife and mother and come through a divorce, and by His grace has made me a new creation. The old is gone, the new has come. Should He decide to give me a godly husband I will have the opportunity to come to him as a new creation in Christ.
How about you? Where do you stand? Where would you like to stand?

Dina

The Passion of a Kiss

The Passion of a Kiss

I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, Do not stir up nor awaken love Until it pleases.
Song of Solomon 8:4

I was privileged to hear about a couple who made a commitment during their courtship to not stir up certain feelings by drawing a line right at the start of the relationship in how they would relate physically to each other. Quite honestly, I was surprised not only at where the line was drawn but that the man was the one who drew the line. He told her that he would not kiss her on the lips until she was his wife. But what's even more amazing is that the woman was hoping he would do exactly that! She told me she took it as a confirmation from God that this guy was the real deal. She shared that in the past she would have had to be the one in a relationship to set the boundaries. It was encouraging to her to know that this man was willing to lead in that area. Her exact words were; "I knew then that I could trust him with my heart."
Now some may say; so what's the big deal about a kiss? When I was sixteen years old (way too young), I received my first kiss. WOW! It was not something I was prepared for, emotionally or physically. I wasn't sure what to do with all the feelings that came with that kiss. I'm thankful now that it stopped there. But at the time I wanted more! I liked the feelings that were stirred up and wanted to experience them again, Not only that but I thought that it meant this relationship was going someplace. I didn't know where but who cared, this was great! Keep in mind, this was a result of "simply kissing."
Talk about stirring up and awakening love before it's time! Needless to say, I never did go out with the boy again, but to this day I can remember not only that kiss but his name. Oh sure I moved on, but I can't say it didn't take away a little piece of my heart. The Lord tells us to guard our hearts. Proverbs 4:23, Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. How can we do that when we are in and out of relationships, especially when physical intimacy is involved.
Recently I clicked on to a music video on the net and there was a cell phone ad attached to it that was a girl sharing with others how by doing the following three things she could forget all about the man she just broke up with,
1. Get rid of all photos and memorabilia, i.e.: movie ticket stubs etc...
2. Delete his email address.
3. Last, delete his phone number from your cell, this will be especially helpful because a cell phone will always prompt that action with the question; Are you sure?
And there you have it ladies, he's gone, what was his name?? Yeah Right!

But mark this: there will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God- 2 Timothy 3:1-4

More tomorrow...