Psalm 145:8-9 Gracious and Merciful

Good afternoon Abba, Good afternoon Jesus, Good afternoon Holy Spirit,

The Lord is gracious and merciful,

slow to anger and of great kindness.

The Lord is good to all and compassionate toward all his works.

 Psalm 145:8-9

Wow, just think our Lord is compassionate toward us, our works, and all of our human facets.  He is of great... great kindness, oh yes he is. His hand provides and He answers all of our needs.  Most of the time I can see His hand at work in my life, as well as the lives of those around me.  Most of the time, I can see and know that He has answered prayers.  Most of the time, when I am asking for myself... well that's when His will and/or permission takes patience.  His timing is not mine.  So, I must have mighty prayer warriors who will "see" and confirm that which is my answer or direction.  We are so blessed to have each other...

The eyes of all look hopefully to you,

and you give them their food in due season;

you open your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing.

Psalm 145:15-16

He answers, He gives, He provides, and He satisfies the desire of every living thing.  I know, that I know, that I know this.  So why do we walk in such "silliness" of blindness.  The birds fly without a second thought.  The animals move about in all seasons without doubt.  Why with all of our blessings, why with all of our knowledge, do we not trust and enjoy every day as it is blessed..  satisfied with His watch and keep?

The Lord is just in all His ways and Holy in all His works.

The Lord is near to all who call upon Him,

to all who call upon Him in truth.

Psalm 145: 17-18

Walking by faith... trusting in His goodness, His provision, and His works means we are walking in dependence of His timing, His gracious supply, and His amazing love.  Surrendering our control over and into His loving hands of goodness for us,  now that's the day by day... moment by moment... walk of faith!

2 Corinthians 9:8 Grace

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

And God is able to make all grace abound toward you;

that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things,

may abound to every good work.

2 Corinthians 9:8

This morning I'm pondering... what does "may abound" really mean?  What would this even look like?  Has anything truly "abounded" in the work of my hands? When you read scripture, do you every wonder why they chose those particular words?  Sure it is easy enough to look them up, then re-read for a deeper meaning, and finally check it with an concordance.  Yet, that still leaves the mystery... why that word.

I think today's reading is so comfortable for me because it's a promise of a blessing in all things concerning my individual choices, discussions, actions, hopes, and dreams.  Abound means to be plentiful; to be fully supplied.  God can make all grace (not just His blessing of Grace... all grace from every one including our enemies) plentiful toward us. Through that overflow of grace we are given all sufficiency in all things...fully supplied for every good work of our hands, tongues, and actions.

What if... this passage isn't a blessing/promise that is "all about me?"  What if... this passage is "all about Him" working His will for His purpose in His world for His kingdom... through each of us?  Fully supplied to do His calling?

Would these words cause you to rethink what you are doing in life?  Would you take a deeper moment with Him to question where He is leading?  Could these words re-direct what you value, what pleases you, or what you enjoy doing?

Could these words be a leap of faith away from all that is comfortable?

Matthew 3:8 Being Fruitful

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

Bear fruit in keeping with repentance.

Matthew 3:8

What joy it is to walk through your garden.  Stopping here and there to admire the beauty, to gaze at the fruits of your labor, to speak strength and nourishing words over those plants that might need some extra TLC.

To ponder over the blessings that have been freely given to us through His graciousness.  The fruit of the work of our hands, our calling, our talents, and our gifts.  I know, that I know... my heart and my mind must remain free from all shame-guilt-negative words or actions.  How can I ever make up for those negative thoughts, actions, or words I've spoken?  

Within in my spirit, I remain in training with the guidance of the Holy Spirit.  He continues to guide my spirit in what is pleasing to the Lord and what is not of the Lord.  Discernment of the truth, God's word, and the spirits can be gently tugging me or can instantly "Bam!" my inner core.  That's when I stop... I find a place to be with Him... I humbly listen for His direction.  

• Yep, I was humanly in the wrong.  
• Yep, I should not have said that, forgive me my Lord and bring healing and blessings to ____.  
• Yep, my heart, mind, and soul did not need that seed planted, forgive me for watching/listening/partaking in ______, shut those doors and windows and place a hedge of protection around my heart and mind keeping me safe under the shadow of your wings, for it is written no weapon formed against me will prosper.

I want the garden of my life to be a place that will bring a smile to Abba's face.  I want to walk freely with my Lord.  Free from anything that would cause even one tear to form in His eye.  I've done that, been there, and do not ever want to touch His heart with my sinful ways... not anymore.  

Holding tight to Him with a repentant heart ushers me into His presence.  I can have that "bounce" in my step, my eyes can reflect His love to everyone, my patience is strong, my joy overflows, and maybe... just maybe you notice Him instead of me.

Today I am pondering the words of Harriet E Crosby (Gifts from my Garden):

"I want my life to bear its own kind of fruit.

As I follow God,

I pray that my heart will become a kind of spiritual orchard,

providing a harvest of love, forgiveness, and generosity."

Just for today, my Lord... I will....

Isaiah 40:31 Courageous Heart

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength;

they shall mount up with wings as eagles;

they shall run, and not be weary;

and they shall walk, and not faint.

Isaiah 40:31

This morning greeted me with a blessed cool breeze.  Some moments it's all about discovering His hand at work in the simplest of ways.  As we had our morning tea, we watched the starlings zooming and gliding so gracefully on the soft summer breeze. I found myself filled with joy as my spirit soared... darted... and became joyfully playful.  I was informed that they were not really playing, that they dive to get the early morning bugs which are flying just above our heads.  Now this was a moment of choice and I chose to accept my original joyful and playful flight of fantasy.

These little birds, hand crafted by our Lord might not be majestic eagles... but they have the exact same daily blessings from our Lord.  They fly with out being weary.  They do not faint in mid-air just because another approaches their goal.  Nope... they soar, they dart, they call out warnings, and they continue towards their goal.  

The blessings from my garden is always overflowing.  Today it was these starlings, yesterday it was the territorial dance of the hummingbirds and their butterfly bush, the day before that it was a beautiful butterfly stopping by.... tomorrow... well I will wait with anticipation for that discovery.

If a little starling can soar with a courageous heart... how much more can we soar with our Lord's words of promise and hope?

This is the day.... to enjoy, to be free, to explore....

Jeremiah 31:3 Promises

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love;

therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn thee.

Jeremiah 31:3

Shout to Lord... His promises are ours... now and forever.  Glory be!  Oh, how these words make my heart sing!  When scripture pours forth His promises, I feel like a sponge... soaking the words in... always thirsty for more.  So it is in those moments that I can be quiet... then I begin to know the deeper meaning of His promises... which brings an overflowing unto everyone in my daily walk.

The blessed assurance that I have been called, by name, with eternal love, wow... how do I accept such loving-kindness?  How do I show that depth around others?  Can my eyes be a window into His presence and love?  A life-long quest... to be sure.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:

and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

Psalm 23:6

His goodness is our assurance that He is eternally diligent in His watch, in His blessings, in His care, and in His provision for us.  We don't earn it... it is freely given because He has created us unto His calling.  Through the greatest of love, the passion of His son... our Lord Jesus Christ, we are bought and paid for upon the cross.  Jesus' love for Abba and each of us cloaks us in His mercy and grace.  We are saved by His grace, we are sealed in His book of life... the eternal book of the Lamb.  His precious blood has cleansed us, sealed us, and sanctified us so that we may dwell in the house of the Lord for ever!  I know of no other promise ever spoken to me or about me that will guarantee my next moment, my next decision, my next day or my future beyond this life.  Doesn't that make you want to "Shout" to Lord? Does it let your heart beat so freely that your feet begin to dance?

My sheep hear my voice,

and I know them, 

and they follow me:

And I give unto them eternal life;

and they shall never perish,

neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

John 10: 27-28

With my spirit, the Holy Spirit ushers me into His presence... I can hear His voice resonating deep with in me.  We shall never perish... He holds us dearly within His heart... He shelters us under the shadow of His wings... He cherishes us with all of His might...  He promises that no man or evil can take us out of His hand... we are forever His.  Guarded... protected... nourished... crafted... grafted... cleansed... refreshed... and loved. Amazing grace!

Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection,

and the life;

he that believeth in me,

though he were dead,

yet shall he live:

And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.

Believest thou this?

John 11:25-26

Psalm 119:103-105 How Sweet are His Words

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

How sweet are thy word unto my taste!

yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth.

Through thy precepts I get understanding:

therefore I hate every false way.

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet,

and a light unto my path.

Psalm 119:103-105

This is the day that our Lord has made... Thank you my Lord for this glorious day, your sun is pouring forth rays of warmth... your sweet breeze is gently reminding me that you are with me.  Your birds are twittering and playfully darting amongst our garden.  Though many are blessed with travels throughout your world, my travels today are in your word... in our garden.  I sing unto you joyous song!

This passage has refreshed my spirit.  Think upon these words.  How sweet are His words...sweeter than honey... playing upon my tongue as I speak them in my own sing-song way.  Just like the very first berry of summer or that first sweet taste of an ice-cold sip... His words can tingle a newness within me beyond my taste buds.

Right now, many of you are at an amazingly beautiful spot.  Your eyes can see His handiwork before you.  Your mind replays memories from other travels.  Your senses are renewed with peaceful surroundings, sounds of life, and renewing joy.  As you settle in for the evening you are feeling that tugging of joy that tomorrow is another day of freedom.  That day of freedom is His light unto your path.

Today, I will walk with you on your journeys... as I am in my garden... I too will be savoring this day! 

Galatians 3:14 Blessings

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

Through Christ Jesus,

God has blessed the Gentiles with the same blessing He promised to Abraham.

Galatians 3:14

This is the day... my heart did sing this morning as I studied the blessings of Abraham (Deuteronomy 28:1-14). Since 1980, I have heard the phrase being "Hung by the Tongue."  This "guarding" of your tongue is an old testament warning that is in every book, every passage, and central to the Bible's teaching both in the old and new testaments.  It's like God continues to "hit me upside the head" with this teaching (Psalm 141:3, Proverbs 21:23, James 3:1-18, for more use the above tab labeled hung by the tongue):

One who guards his mouth and tongue, guards his soul from tribulations.  

Proverbs 21:23 

For me to gain control of my tongue, I must rethink the way I think.  Hopefully, with much practice, I can gain control over my tongue and speak the truth of Abraham's blessings (Deuteronomy 28:1-14):

And it shall come to pass,

if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the Lord thy God,

to observe and to do all His commandments which I command thee this day,

that the Lord thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth;

And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee,

if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God.

Deuteronomy 28:1-2

Striving to speak only that which I am willing to live with can be difficult.  The Bible states that we must be on "watch," guarding our "light in the lamp," which means my inner self (my spirit and soul).  When we "put on" the armor of the Lord (Ephesians 6:15-17), we are using scripture as our weapons... speaking His promises and His victory over every situation:

Take on the helmet of salvation,

and the sword of the Spirit,

which is the word of God.

Ephesians 6:17

Today's teaching leads to the seven redemptive names of God.  Those names have been given for the full power of God in order for us to defeat the enemies of life:

• Jehovah Jireh, the Lord Provides = victory over the enemy of lack (Genesis 22:13-14)
• Jehovah Rapha, the Lord that Heals = victory over the enemy of sickness and disease (Exodus 15:26)
• Jehovah Nissi, the Lord our Banner and Victor = victory over the enemy of failure (Exodus 17:8-15)
• Jehovah Shalom, the Lord our Peace = victory over the enemy of worry (Judges 6:24)
• Jehovah Ra-ah, the Lord my Shepherd = victory over the enemy of confusion (Psalm 23:1-3)
• Jehovah Tsidkenu, the Lord our Righteousness = victory over the enemy of condemnation (Jeremiah 23:5-6)
• Jehovah Shammah, the Lord is There = victory over the enemy of fear (Ezekiel 48:35)

You and I have the choice to thank the Lord our God, to accept His power to invoke His name and stand victoriously against any and all of the enemies attacks.  For me, knowing which enemy is on the prowl... which enemy is making ready... which enemy I'm facing makes my defense stronger.  We are in a battle with powers and principalities that have no power over us.  They must bow and flee in the name of the Lord... so which name should I use... that's where the list above will help in our moments of attack:

 

"In the name of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, I resist the enemy of _______.

For it is written in _________ that Jehovah _______ has given me full authority and victory over you.

Therefore, as it is written in James 4:7, resist the devil, and he will flee from you (me and mine now and for ever."

Amen, Amen, and Alleluia

Not only do we stand together in prayer, we can suit up and claim victory in each other's hour of need/attack... using His words, His power and strength, and with full wisdom of faith that His victory is eternal!

With thanksgiving for today's bible study with Gloria Copeland and Pastor George Pearsons

John 3:16 Everlasting

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

For God so loved the world,

that he gave His only Son,

that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, 

but have everlasting life.

John 3:16

As I was reading, just the mention of John 3:16 brought such loving peace into my mind.  The depth of His love for each of us is beyond calculation. If just the mention of this passage can bring instant covering and hope... how much more can God's word nourish us on a daily basis?

At first glance, these words provides a healing... a calling unto Him.  A calling that He will fulfill His promise for us and in us.  That He truly does know our name (Psalm 147:4) and He will continue working out His plan for our lives every minute of every day.

He healeth the broken in heart,

and bindeth up their wounds.

He telleth the number of the stars;

He calleth them all by their names.

Great is our Lord, and of great power;

His understanding is infinite.

Sing unto the Lord with thanksgiving...

Psalm 147:3-5; 7

Beyond the salvation message, I see the joy in His understanding about my failings... successes... sorrows... doubts... hopes... and dreams.  This morning I sing:

This is the day,

This is the day that the Lord has made,

That the Lord has made.

I will rejoice,

I will rejoice and be glad in it,

and be glad in it!

Psalm 51:10 A Clean Heart

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

Create in me a clean heart,

O God,

and renew a right spirit within me.

Psalm 51:10

Wow, when struggles... people... behind-the-back gossip... and crazy unforeseen obstacles pop up... I gotta find a way to get those negative thoughts out of my head!  One silly song from long ago chimes... I'm so dizzy my head is spinning... like a whirlpool it never stops... Well my mind gets going and almost instantly my heart constricts, which then engages my emotions.  Talk about being in a "Yuck" zone.  I hate how an evil spirit can "sling" a dart that creates such inner turmoil!

The blame game is part of self-defense, yeah I don't think so... it's part of accepting your innocence and their guilt... it only leads to justified homicide of your own dignity and God's grace.  Therefore, I just gotta get out of my mind when the negative begins nagging at me....

Psalm 51:10 and Psalm 27 helps my spirit to rise up with confidence and walk away from the tormenting thoughts and/or emotions.  In these moments, I choose what I will feel or think... I almost always get a vision of Jesus' words:

...shake the dust off of your feet...

Matthew 10:14

Luke 9:5

Mark 6:11

Cleansed... Renewed... Rejuvenated... Refreshed and Readied to move forward into His will with His promises and strength...

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Joyful Contentment

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances;

for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Isn't it amazing how some "unexpected" confirmation reminds you that our Lord is listening.  When I opened my devotional this morning I thought that the above passage fit with the other passages I've been pondering over for the past few weeks.  But, it wasn't until I read on, that I was given a deeper level of understanding about being "joyful."

I have known a few people that are living and walking out the "joyful" living aspect of walking by faith.  I've read numerous books, meditations, and inspirational biographies in which "joyful" living is discussed... prayed for... and hoped for.  You know those moments because at some point you have had an encounter with "joyful" living and it's freedom from the Lord.  There are, oh, so many moments during my journey that I crave... I hunger... for the return of that form of faith "walking."  

So, back to today's revelation... Have you considered the connection between being "joyful" and "perfect contentment in God and His promises?" I know to be content with His blessings, His guidance, and  His watch over me and mine... Yet, for the promises of being "joyful always," I must admit I had categorized this blessing as something to hope for.  With God providing this morning's fomula:

Joyful always = perfect contentment in God and His promises

Well I know I can accept and walk this promise out....

John 7:38 Living Waters

Good afternoon Abba, Good afternoon Jesus, Good afternoon Holy Spirit,

He who believes in Me,

as the scripture has said, 

out of his heart will flow rivers

of living water.

John 7:38

Oh my Lord, this was a day that started so quickly and remained on such a turbulent course. Thank you for understanding... thank you for being my strength... thank you for your blessings.  In the midst of the fast-paced expectations, you were there to provide joy.  You my Lord, were there to provide moments of accomplishments.  You were there, my Lord, to allow the work of my hands to provide help to one of yours in need.  Thank you my Lord for being my supplier.  For your living waters flowing and nourishing those that I was with.

Those who drink of it, 

will never thirst.

It will become in him a fountain of water

springing up into ever-lasting life.

John 4:14

Thank you my Lord for your love flowing through me as I went about my duties today... let those that I was with be drawn to the living water that is freely given by you...

Come if you thirst,

Come...

Matthew 14:23 Solitude

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

After He had dismissed them,

He went up on a mountainside by himself to pray.

When evening came, He was there alone.

Matthew 14:23

Whether reading the old or new testament, it is written the numerous times that those seeking God's direction, restoration, and forgiveness went off for a period of solitude.  In Matthew 14, Jesus once again retreats for time to pray and listen to Abba.

One of the hardest aspects of being in solitude is in the "listening" part of those moments with the Lord.  My spirit reminds me of the passage when we are directed to:

Be still, and know that I am God;

Psalm 46:10

 When my spirit is willing, my mind can be in overdrive.  Calming my mind from all of my cares, dreams, or burdens takes self-denial and self-control to just sit and be.  Solitude with the Lord has been a practiced behavior that I find will take a life-time to learn.  I do begin with some form of praise and worship.  I try to remain in a peace-filled "slow-down" of breathing and thinking.  I look to the Holy Spirit to speak to me and for me.  And I wait upon the Lord.  Those moments when my mind begins to draw away from the quiet... well I tell myself to "hush," and then I recall the passage about being a noisy gong...

I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.

1 Corinthians 13:1 

 Today is His day... may moments of solitude with Him... bring us a nourishment and a refreshing-restoration within us.  An overflow of His joy... strength... peace... and wisdom for these days which will be "unfolding" before us.

Psalm 19:1 Reassurance

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

The heavens declare the glory of God;

the skies proclaim the work of His hands.

Psalm 19:1

In Gifts from my Garden by Harriet E. Crosby, my spirit was lifted with her words:

"I am instantly reassured that God's creation is good. One day, the darkness will be banished once and for all. Beauty and virtue will abound. My garden tells me, again and again, that God has defeated every foe."

Whether it is in my garden or "falling" into the stars at night, I see the goodness and beauty of His creation.  I can take those moments to walk with Him and talk with Him.  I don't need answers... I only need to be immersed in His goodness.  His goodness has a way of "putting away" any thing within me and refreshing me with hope and joy.  When a toddler first finds joy and has that "overflowing" giggle of delight you can hear the pureness of joy... their joyous delight pouring out from a heart that is happy and freed to enjoy that one moment in time.

Now it would be odd if we spent every moment in that "child-like" joy... and yet that is how I feel when so many moments are freely given for me to stop... and live... experience... and tuck away into my soul of treasured memories.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Hebrews 13:8 

What can lift my heart, in an instant, above any daily trial or feeling?  It's the understanding, the reassurance that my God is a trustworthy God... eternally diligent in His watch over me and mine... unchanging even in this world's chaos.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever.

Amen

Matthew 6:13

In my daily devotional, Journey by David Jeremiah, he reminded me to use the final words of the Lord's prayer to bring me into an ever-deepening and more-trusting relationship with God... an I trust You, Lord... freedom. 

O God, the ugliness of evil cannot overcome the goodness of your light.

Let my garden declare the power and beauty of Your word.

Amen 

Harriet E. Crosby 

John 20:29 Blessed

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.

John 20:29

Walking by faith, what does that really mean?  Sometimes I remain strong and just know, that I know.  At other times I ponder why must the walk of faith seem so difficult? Lonely? Not natural?

At Christmas time, most of us hear songs about Mama Mary.  Movies, books, and songs are created to re-tell the story about the birth of our savior, Jesus.  Yet within that story is the truth about a young girl who walked in faith according to a request from our creator.  Any of us who have held our new born child can, in fullness, know what that moment must have been like for Mary and Joseph.  As our children grow, we can contemplate what memories, thoughts, and teachings Mary and Joseph had to model for Jesus.

There are so many moments that I ponder the depth of Mary's willingness... her quiet acceptance... her love and trust in God.  Tears can spring forth in an instant as I consider how Mary's faith-filled "Yes" has given us our eternal salvation through our Lord Jesus.  And it was Mary who had to, at the foot of the cross:

"... see through the darkness, at its worst, as her Son our Lord struggled for His last breath..."

My journey this week is with the book, "Mother Teresa: In the Shadow of Our Lady" by Joseph Langford, MC. I learned that in Mother Teresa's darkness she was able to "cling to God" even if she felt His absence.  This faith became her witness that there is: 

"...meaning to all that happens, and that there is a God who watches over all even when He is neither seen nor felt."

Oh Lord, my God, bless me these days to walk by faith as so many whom have walked before me.  Though I may see and witness your hand at work in the life around me... help me to walk out my belief as a vessel of your love.

Luke 10:20 Rejoice

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions,

 and over all the power of the enemy:

 and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

 However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you,

 but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.

Luke 10:19-20

When our Lord says, "Rejoice,"  I imagine Him smiling and His eyes are shining with such endearing love that all you want to do is bask in the depth of His joy.  I can close my eyes and instantly there is a "joyfulness" that begins to bubble forth... gloriously creating a pureness of  song and a desire to do a little "jig" of happiness.

I never considered that we should not focus on the victory over evil.  I can't help but to "shout" when evil is failed and placed into submission.  I'm pretty certain that when Jesus touches down... there will be a roaring "shout" of rejoicing.  So what is this passage teaching us?

It is so much easier for me to "Rejoice" in the promise that my name... our names... are written in Heaven!  That's an eternal promise!  He knows me, He loves me, and I am His!  This isn't a temporary thing... this is an "eternal" promise....

 

Lord of the Dance

"Dance, then wher-ever you may be;

I am the Lord of the Dance," 

said He, 

"I'll lead you all wher-ever you may be, 

I will lead you all in the Dance,"

said He.

Akiane Kramarik

http://www.akiane.com/about

 Let Israel be glad in his Maker;

 Let the sons of Zion rejoice in their King.

 Let them praise His name with dancing;

 Let them sing praises to Him with timbrel and lyre. 

 For the LORD takes pleasure in His people;

 He will beautify the afflicted ones with salvation.…

Psalm 149:2-4

Lord Of The Dance

Sydney Carter

 1915-2004

I danced in the morning when the world was young
I danced in the moon and the stars and the sun
I came down from heaven and I danced on the earth
At Bethlehem I had my birth

Dance, dance, wherever you may be
I am the lord of the dance, said he
And I lead you all, wherever you may be
And I lead you all in the dance, said he

I danced for the scribes and the Pharisees
They wouldn't dance, they wouldn't follow me
I danced for the fishermen James and John
They came with me so the dance went on

Dance, dance, wherever you may be
I am the lord of the dance, said he
And I lead you all, wherever you may be
And I lead you all in the dance, said he

I danced on the Sabbath and I cured the lame
The holy people said it was a shame
They ripped, they stripped, they hung me high
Left me there on the cross to die

Dance, dance, wherever you may be
I am the lord of the dance, said he
And I lead you all, wherever you may be
And I lead you all in the dance, said he

I danced on a Friday when the world turned black
It's hard to dance with the devil on your back
They buried my body, they thought I was gone
But I am the dance, and the dance goes on

Dance, dance, wherever you may be
I am the lord of the dance, said he
And I lead you all, wherever you may be
And I lead you all in the dance, said he

They cut me down and I leapt up high
I am the life that will never, never die
I'll live in you if you'll live in me
I am the Lord of the dance, said he

Dance, dance, wherever you may be
I am the lord of the dance, said he
And I lead you all, wherever you may be
And I lead you all in the dance, said he

John 10:10 Promises

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

I am the door by me if any man enter in he shall be saved,

and shall go in and out and find pasture.

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy:

I am come that they might have life,

and that they might have it more abundantly.

I am the good shepherd;

the good shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.

John 10:9-11

Living God's will for my life, easy to know... I'm trusting that with practice, these words will be so engraved with in my mind that I will awaken in the morning and just walk through my days without burdens.  My daily walk is preparing me for those days to come.  My burdens are always placed before the cross and into His loving hands.  Yet, many are the days that I feel heavy laden (weighted down)... days when my heart feels grieved (so broken-hearted)... days when I wish so much more for my family... friends... loved ones... students... coworkers... our nation... our world.

As one of His children, I believe His promises and what His word says about me.  As a human, I wrestle with messages of this world that says I should be in control, some how better than I am... some how self-created by its standards.  Those moments are moments meant for me to put on the armor of God (Ephesians 6:13) and stand on scripture passages which will remind the enemy not to be messing while I'm on watch.

I have a designed life by God Almighty... my Creator... my Abba!  I have my Lord Jesus... my Savior... my Shepherd... my Friend!   I have the Holy Spirit... the breath of Heaven... my Comforter... my Guide... my Shield!  I have the Bible... the Word of God... my promises... my covenant... my manual for life... my sword!  And I walk by faith... through prayer... with your help... and in fellowship!

Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God,

that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day,

and having done all, to stand.

Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth,

and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

And take the helmet of salvation, 

and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit,

and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints....

Ephesians 6:13-18

Psalm 37:4-5 Delight in the Lord

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

Take delight in the Lord,

and He will grant you your heart's requests.

Commit to the Lord your way;

trust in Him, and He will act.

Psalm 37:4-5

This is one of those mornings in which my body seemed overly tired.  When I answered the early ringing of the phone, I must admit I was seeking refuge from answering it.  Early morning calls are not how you wish to awaken.  Although God is faithful and there is no limit to His grace... I felt so distanced from the joy of the Lord.

This passage reminded me to not stay complacent, that there is in fact a higher way of thinking that I could embrace.  I could seek to put forth the energy to contemplate His words, given to me this morning, and seek to understand.  I could choose to draw nearer to Him:

Draw close to God, and He will draw close to you.

James 4:8

I read that God never leaves us where we are... and with every effort we make to draw near... we are promised He will come close to us. He not only will come close to us... but He will become our heart's desire (Let's Pray by James Banks).

Today is a day... it began slow... I don't know where it's leading... The joy of the Lord is deep within me and I will seek to bring it to the surface... today is a day for me to draw near to our Lord... I am choosing to walk closely with Him in our garden...

Romans 15:4 Endurance

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us,

so that through endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.

Romans 15:4

God's word is nourishment all thru my day.  I adore those moments when God's word confirms a newly revealed truth.  It provides an inner hope in which my life will be full according to His plan, His timing, and with His love.  Is my walk an exciting adventure?  Is my daily walk with Jesus producing a joyful spirit?

Oh my Lord, guide me into accepting your will for me.  Free me to embrace each of these days with a joyful spirit, with an adventurous spirit, and with the discernment of the Holy Spirit to know your designed pathway.  I choose to place this day into your loving hands, here I am Lord... I trust in you.

John 15:5 With Jesus all things are Possible

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

...apart from me you can do nothing,

John 15:5

This is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it... my spirit, heart, and mind can be singing these words as I awaken, as I am moving through the day, as I am cooking... watering... or doing laundry.  Yet, how deeply do I trust every moment of the day to Jesus' care?  Do I fully realize and accept the depth of Jesus' love?

As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you.

John 15:9

Throughout the bible, God's word proclaims His love for each of us.  Jesus' words and actions bids us to "come," to "learn," and to "follow."  He cautions us not to do anything apart from Him.  Yet, with that caution we also know of His promise that we can do all things through Him.  He is our strength, our strong-tower, our intercessor, and our friend.

There are so many moments that I wrestle with the "why's" of my life.  The biggest struggle for me is: "Why, if I know... that I know... that all good things comes from Him... I still try to force my will or agenda rather than just peacefully walk out my daily chores?"

I thirst for His joy, down deep in my soul... I hunger for His gracious peace to just be... I long to be filled to overflowing as a quiet witness of His work in a life of a servant and prayer warrior.  Hmmmm... a servant of His that is under construction!

Isaiah 43:1-4 Fear Not

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

Fear not, for I have redeemed you;

I have called you by name, you are mine,

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;

and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;

when you walk through fire you shall not be burned,

and the flame shall not consume you,

For I am the Lord your God,

the Holy One of Israel, your Savior...

You are precious in my eyes,

and honored, and I love you.

Isaiah 43:1-4 

ESV

Oh my Lord, etch these words upon my heart.  Let me walk boldly through this life on earth with these words resonating with in my spirit.  Allow my words and actions to be a light unto others with this message as my foundation.  Grant me your Grace so that your light will shine through my eyes for all who enter my path.

Although there are so many great insights in my daily walk with the book Spoken For, I will be sharing from the last chapter. My journey with Robin and Alyssa has been such a blessing.  Each chapter has provided a window into the messages that our Lord has said about each of us.  Sweet words: wanted... deeply loved... fought for... delighted in... pursued... secure... protected... held... His... chosen... redeemed... and spoken for.  Talk about being filled to overflowing!

If I, if you, and if our names are priceless to Him... then how much more should His names be to us?  To our daily situations? To our moment by moment worship of Him?

Do you the names of God?  Of our Lord Jesus?  I didn't realize how important names were to God until I began reading His word, book by book.  Have you ever wondered why the names in the Bible were changed once they were willing, obedient, and in agreement with God's calling?  What about those who are baptized, confirmed, married, or ordained... why do they add or change their names?

The name of the Lord is a strong tower.

Proverbs 18:10

God's names speak to His truth... His will... His capabilities...  His promises... His magnificent characteristics:

• Elohim, the God above all gods (Genesis 1:1)
• El-Shaddai, the Almighty God (Genesis 17:2-3)
• El-Elyon, God the Most High (Genesis 14:18-20)
• Jehovah Jireh, the God who provides (Genesis 22:11-14)
• Jehovah Rapha, our God who heals (Exodus 15:26)
• Jehovah Shammah, our God who is present (Ezekiel 48:35)
• Jehovah Yahweh (YHWH), our loving, covenant-keeping God (Exodus 3:13-14)
• Jehovah Ra-ah, our shepherd (Psalms 23:1)
• Jehovah Shalom, the Lord of our peace (Judges 6:22-24)
• Jehovah Nissi, the Lord is our banner, victor, and captain (Exodus 17:16)
• Jehovah Tsidkenu, our God of righteousness (Jeremiah 23:5-6)
• Yeshua, Jesus, our Chirst, our Messiah (Revelation 12:10)
• Jesus, the King of kings, the Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16)
• Jesus, the Lamb of God (Revelation 5:6)
• Jesus, the Lion of Judah (Revelation 5:5)
• Jesus, the Alpha and Omega (Revelation 1:8; 22:13) 

In Our Daily Bread, we are reminded that when unwelcome circumstances threaten us or we feel vulnerable, we can reflect... call on... stand on... and be assured that our God... our Lord... is forever faithful to His name... He remains steadfast and diligent in His watch and keep over us and ours.

The Many Names of God

1 John 4:4 His Answer to Our Prayers

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.

1 John 4:4

Once saved... these words echoed His amazing depth of love... guarding me and mine... an eternal covenant... being sealed and pronounced to all principalities, weapons, curses, plagues, and evil intentions (spirits) that they will not have any power over me and mine.

Therefore, I shall walk by faith and not in fear.  I know this is deep within my soul, heart, and mind... and yet... walking it out, for me, means that I must put into action His word, even if it means claiming it a loud.  Standing on His promises (bible passages), claiming that Jesus is my shepherd who is diligent in His watch over me and mine, and claiming no weapon formed against me and mine will prosper... for Jesus proclaimed on the cross... "It is finished,"  that means He has victory over all things and it is mine!

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment.

1 John 4:1-6, 17-19

Yesterday I posted about the "Lord's Prayer,"  in today's reading there was a question which provides a thought for the day.  Think on it, ponder the truth for you and yours, and share what is inspired (those "what if" moments).

What if we really started living "as if" the most-repeated prayer in Christendom has actually been answered? 

 That God's will be done on earth as it is in heaven....

He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.

1 John 4:4

Matthew 6:11 Our Daily Bread

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit...

Give us this day our daily bread.

Matthew 6:11

For a few years I have been in a continuous prayer mode with the "Lord's Prayer."  It is true that out of the ashes, our Lord pours forth His blessings to those in faith-filled prayer.  During the time of complete surrender, I took my down time and read the book, Amish Grace: How Forgiveness Transcended Tragedy.  I know that in the midst of chaos, loss, and holding on to your faith for comfort and strength seems like a bad time to read something so horrifying, so disturbing, and so emotional.  And yet, I found solace.  In the story, the reporter questions how the Amish can be so forgiving in the midst of their tragedy... a response was that they do not just pray the Lord's prayer... they meditate on each verse, each word... all through their day (as they work, as they praise, as they gather).  My response was, Wow... what must that be like?  So... I accepted the gentle nudging and began putting on the Lord's prayer as I drove to work, while I had those moments between students, as I drove home, as I cooked dinner, as my family watched their shows, and as I walked in my garden before bed time.

"Your Father knows what you need before you ask him. This is how you are to pray:

'Our Father (Abba) who art in heaven,

hallowed be your name,

thy kingdom come, 

thy will be done

on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread,

and forgive us our trespasses,

as we forgive those who trespass against us;

and lead us not into temptation, 

but deliver us from the evil one.'

If you forgive the faults of others, your heavenly Father will forgive you yours."

Matthew 6: 8-14

Our Father provides daily, hourly, minute by minute what we need and what the desires of our heart and spirit requests...  It is in our thanksgiving, our worship of His provisions that we begin to trust... to believe... to stand on His will for us.  His timing, His responses, His mercy and His amazing grace...

Psalm 31: 25 Stouthearted

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

Take courage and be stouthearted, all you who hope in the Lord.

Psalm 31:25

Oh my Lord, stouthearted?  Your word provides directions for every avenue, every season, every moment of every day.  Experience within those moments provides a new level of understanding the depth of your love, the layers of truth, and facets in which to view this life you have created for us.

Stouthearted.... strength-courage-stability... in you, my Lord?  In me? In us?  Allowing God's word to work in you will open your heart to acceptance of who you are in Him.  Daily reading of God's word will remove the scales from your eyes giving you a way out of the darkness and into His will for your life.  Nourishing your mind, heart, and soul with God's word leads to finding your purpose.  Knowing God's word gives you armor for walking through life.  

I know, that I know that I do not have to walk through life's struggles... battles... or disappointments alone.  Instead of gritting my teeth through what ever comes my way, I can choose to locate a passage and speak it into being.  I know I can ask Him to take the burden of my heart and replace it with His strength, peace, and joy.  I know you are there as mighty prayer warriors, standing guard.  I know that proclaiming God's word out loud binds all evil formed against me and that reminding every evil that "...it is written in God's word that..." has the most immediate control over all evil forces, principalities, and spirits.  And, I know that "...in Jesus' name and through the blood of Christ..." seals the deal!

Being stouthearted = knowing that there is His joy, hope, and peace in every struggle, pain, or threatening situation.  There are so many passages in the old and new testament for this trio of His promises... His blessings upon us.

• Joy in God: Psalm 5:11
• Joy in Christ: Philippians 3:3; John 16:24
  
• Joy in the Holy Spirit: Romans 14:17
• Joy in the Gospel: Psalm  89:15
• Joy in the Atonement: Romans 5:11
• Joy in the Scriptures: Jeremiah 15:16
• Joy in the Sabbath: Psalm 118:24
• Joy in Faith: 1 Peter 1:8; Psalm 32:1-2
  
•  Joy in Hope: Romans 5:2
• Joy in Godly Fear: Psalm 128:1-2
• Joy in Obedience: Psalm 119:47
• Joy in Communion with God: Psalm 4:6-7
• Joy in Prayer: Isaiah 56:7
• Joy in Salvation: Psalm 20:5
• Joy in Mercy: Psalm: 90:14
• Joy in a good Conscience: 2 Corinthians 1:12
• Joy in Tribulation: Romans 5:3-4
• Joy in Divine Protection: Psalm 63:7
• Joy in Sorrow: Psalm 30:5
• Joy in Duty: Psalm 32:11
• Joy in Abiding: John 15:11
• Joy in Death: Luke 2:29-30
• Joy in Heaven: Matthew 25:21

 Let's take these passages into our daily walk, thoughts, and discussions...

Psalm 51: 1-2 A Clean Heart

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy loving kindness:

 according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.

  Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.

Psalm 51: 1-2

I thank you my Lord, my God for your Mercy and Grace.  For it is through you, with you, and in you that I can come before you to be cleansed as soon as my spirit convicts me accordingly... by your principals... precepts... and commandments.  You know my heartfelt pleadings just as you knew Davids.  My repentant heart humbles me... the precious blood of the lamb, your son, my Lord Jesus washes over me... my prayers are heard and fulfilled according to your will... in your perfected timing... with the fullness of your Mercy and Grace.  Thank you for cleansing my reputation and restoring my destiny in you, my Lord... my God.

Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.

  Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.

 Create in me a clean heart, O God: and renew a right spirit within me.

Psalm 51: 8-10

Strength, serenity, and hope.  Cleansing brings a refreshing newness.  If you garden, you can "see" how a fresh spring rain makes all the flowers bright, every leaf is greener, and birds are chirping with such joy.  There is a song by C. Austin Miles, "In the Garden:"

I come to the garden alone,
While the dew is still on the roses,
And the voice I hear falling on my ear
The Son of God discloses.

And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own;
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other has ever known.

He speaks, and the sound of His voice
Is so sweet the birds hush their singing,
And the melody that He gave to me
Within my heart is ringing.
I’d stay in the garden with Him,
Though the night around me be falling,
But He bids me go; through the voice of woe
His voice to me is calling.

And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own;
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other has ever known.

Make time today to walk with Him, to talk with Him, and to let Him love you...

Revelation 19:1-2; 6-7 Let Us Rejoice

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

"Hallelujah!  Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for true and just are His judgments…Hallelujah! 

For our Lord God Almighty reigns.  Let us rejoice and be glad and give Him glory!" 

Revelation 19:1-2, 6-7

As I was reading my mail, I discovered a message from Anne Graham Lotz.  She was asking for us to stand united in prayer for the first 7 days of each month.  She has provided meditations and prayers of repentance and thanksgiving to our Lord, our Savior, Jesus.  On the 7th day, she is calling us to a 7 hour fast.  I am answering that call and I have added a link for our use in the menu of pages listed above.

The 7 hour fast begins with worship.  The shout of "Hallelujah!" resonates within my spirit.  It instantly places before the throne of God...  I love this place of peace and joy.  It will be the fulfillment of His promise, my spiritual home.  When scripture describes having a longing for home, my spirit opens my heart to a desire to be in His overflow of peace and joy.  When scripture describes David as one of His children, he is described as being a "man after God's own heart" (1 Samuel 13:14; Acts 13:22).  Tommy Tenney describes it as being a "God Chaser." 

O Father, thou hast loved me and sent Jesus to redeem me;
O Jesus, thou hast loved me and assumed my nature,
            Shed thine own blood to wash away my sins,
            Wrought righteousness to cover my unworthiness.
O Holy Spirit, thou hast loved me and entered my heart,
            implanted there eternal life,
            revealed to me the glories of Jesus.

Anne Graham Lotz

Lamentations 3:22-24 His Steadfast Love

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;

 His mercies never come to an end;

They are new every morning;

 great is you faithfulness, 

"The Lord is my portion," says my soul, "therefore I will hope in Him."

Lamentations 3: 22-24

With the sun rising, the garden was bustling with the newness of the dawn.  Soaring with every robin, I was in a place of gratitude.  You know that place... where everything "feels" right, balanced in its own timing... no before and no after.  Hopeful, cleansed, peace-filled.

Today's readings unveiled a truth about my "feelings," I have always stumbled with others when I would feel compassion and tell them... "I'm sorry."  Those who look for weakness would take this statement and create a stronghold for accusations against me... they recognized my weakness... my sense of failure and shame.  Relearning a statement that is compassionate, simply stated, and "guilt-free"... well I still am walking out this learning.  What was the compassion or empathy I was really trying to say... I'm sorry you are experiencing that... I'm sorry you that you are feeling so alone... I'm sorry they hurt you...  

Today, I'm looking for those words which would be healing, loving, and supportive... I'll pray.

"We were free in Christ because He had forgiven us and broken off our shackles of guilt and shame" (Robin Jones Gunn).  I choose to take my "wrongs" before the Lord.  Quickly before they set into my heart, spirit, or mind.  "Forgive me, my Lord.  I should not have said... I was weak and did...  That was sinful minded..."  Then I receive His forgiveness with praise.

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:1

Instead of shame or guilt... I am choosing to "put on:" 

• His Grace: Job 10:12 and Hebrews 4:16
• His Sufficiency: Philippians 4:13
• His Prosperity: Joshua 1:8
• His Fulfillment: Matthew 5:16
• His Blessings: Deuteronomy 28:2

Today I am choosing to run to Jesus... He delivers...freedom!

"Shame off you... Grace on you..."

Robin Jones Gunn

John 8:31-32,36 Truly Free

Good morning Abba, Good morning Jesus, Good morning Holy Spirit,

If you live according to my teaching you are truly my disciples;

 then you will know the truth,

 and the truth will set you free.

So if the Son sets you free, you are free indeed.

John 8:31-31, 36

When I think of freedom I envision two types of joy.  The first would be that little girl who continues to play within my memories.  She loved running with her arms spread out like a bird, darting here and there, gleefully feeling joyous freedom.  Her favorite "freedom run" was at the beach... soaring with the breeze kissing her face, playing with the tide's foam, squishing her toes into the warmth of the sand, and twirling before God almighty with joyous thanksgiving (conversing with her own thoughts and songs).  The second type of joy happens when a parade passes by, when our anthem plays, when taps is reminding me of those who walked before me, and when those who deceive try to weave a falsehood about our country, family, friends, or coworkers.

As we are growing up, there are so many ages of experiences which are our "steppingstones to freedom" (Robin Jones Gunn).  The best freedom moment is when you take that leap of faith and you ask Jesus to forgive you, to help you, to heal you, to love you...  "You are set free from something and to something..." (RJG). His freedom is immediate, it is complete, it is freely given and abundant.

In Spoken For, Alyssa discusses the book of Hosea in which it is witnessed how Hosea's wife, as well as Israel and everyone of us experience God's freedom.  Once free, we are joyful, hopeful, willing to shout and share our excitement and then we... little by little... begin to return... back to our old ways.  Sometimes we become enslaved, held in bondage, and smothered by oppressive thoughts.  Once enslaved, sin begins to raise up in fear, anger, resentment, and even hatred... justifying why it's all about what we deserve.

The amazing Grace of God is always right there... pursuing us in our mess. There's a nagging in your soul, listen to it and simply... re-gift yourself to Jesus' loving embrace...

You have been bought at a price! Do not enslave yourselves to men.

1 Corinthians 7:23