Wisdom... Proverbs 2:7

 

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

In a world that is tilting... a time of confusion and unknown... take our hands and lead us...

If you have read or studied the book of Revelation... you might be hearing whispers to draw nearer into God's Holy Word. If you read the Left Behind series... you might be looking up in wonder. If you are watching for the signs... Know that you are not alone.

I remember being told that wisdom came with an education (college and job experience). I was told that every time I opened a book... I would be my own teacher.  I was told to respectful of those who have gone before me. I was told that God was my creator and only He could judge anyone else. 

I believed that we all had the thumbprint of God within us. That we were watched over (night and day). I believed that we learned by our mistakes, we asked for forgiveness, and we prayed for others.

Wisdom... Lord does our world need more wisdom. Rationality about each other. A balance between the past and present. Hope for the future!

We are all walking this path... world-wide lock downs... oppressors and deceivers twisting untruths for power and personal gains. Where do we look for wisdom... How do we model wisdom for those younger than us?

What are you reading?

Called... Listening... Watching... Standing!

Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, 

that I will send a famine in the Land, 

not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, 

but of hearing the word of the Lord.

And they shall wander from sea to sea, 

and from the North even unto the East shall they run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord, 

and shall not find it. 

Amos 8:11-12

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

It is written that in the day of confusion you are our present help. When our hearts are burdened. When our spirit cries out. When we need Your loving guidance... How do we hear you?

Listening to your word: My Lord, enable me, through Your Holy Spirit, not to be lead astray. As it is written in Eph 6: 7-24, my Lord remove the scales from my eyes. Open my ears so that I may hear Your guidance. As I put on Your helmet of Salvation, bless me with the clarity of mind so that the voices of this world are silenced. 

My Lord, open the eyes of my heart so that I might search for Your truth. There are so many voices of the world tempting, deceiving, and misguiding us. As our Shephard, Lord Jesus, we are guaranteed that You will find Your lost sheep. Once found, open our ears so that we may hear Your truth about what shape our heart is in. Your light cannot shine in our eyes with out Your loving guidance. Pour forth Your Holy Spirit, for clarity of Your word. 

My Lord, guide me and mine in Your ways everlasting. As we look unto You, we thank You that it is written in PS 91 that You have placed Your angels on assignment to guide us away from the deceivers and worldly tempation. When we seek Your truth, there are always voices that are willing to lead, to guide, and to walk with us. Lord, help us to hear your guidance. What is right for all? What is your truth for us? Where are we heading as a nation?

How can we check the "fruit" on the tree of those in our government? Which voices are providing hope that aligns with Your word. Which voices are worldly deceivers, those that speak a false hood as if their morality aligns with Your Word? Pour forth your Holy Spirit with discernment about when an official is speaking truth or lies...

My Lord, say the word that will clear our path unto Your only Begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ and His eternal salvation... to you be the glory!

"He that loveth his brother abideth in the light..."

1John 2:10

My Lord, forgive us. Our Nation, our families, our friends... are seeking Your perfection with Your help. Many have decided that is my "our" might that Your peace will be achieved. Many feel that they are owed recompense for ages gone by. They have decided that "man's" needs are more important than Your Will. Hardness of the heart has become a "truth" for many. Our Nation is divided, becoming calloused and indifferent toward those who do not agree with their "truths." Without a "rebirth" through Jesus, we speak falsehoods and "social" gospels. Without "redemption" we are not truly sensitive to the needs of others.

God's Redemption is the only truth. Everything else is a shadow. A falsehood. Divine love shines down into our hearts before it ever radiates out. We must accept the Holy Spirit's outpouring of  God's compassion... not that which comes from man. 

Truth.... PS 139

• We are wondrously and awesomely created by the Lord God Almighty, the creator of Heaven and earth
• We have created with our skin color, eye color, and hair color according to His design
• We have been born in this nation for a time such as this
• We have been given talents and strengths/weaknesses for us to freely use for His purpose
• We will bow only to El Shaddai, our creator, and our Lord Jesus Christ, Yeshua, God's only begotten son
• We are... His sons and daughters...

Sheltering under His Wings with Thankfulness PS91

 

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High

Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.

I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress,

My God, in whom I trust!”

Ps 91: 1-2

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

This year has been a year filled with struggles, disillusions, heart-ache, and extreme daily pressures. When I take time to "sit" with you, my Lord, your peace that surpasses my oppression always provides the very breath of Heaven to surround me, as if... a shawl is placed around me... and I can breathe in Your presence.

My Lord, my Shepherd, I know that when apart from You... I get distracted... I tend to bound in all directions... I get snared by others... I even get so close to the edge that You must come and scoop me up into Your protective arms. At those times, my Lord, I can do nothing of lasting value for You. This Thanksgiving... Lord Jesus, extend Your had of renewal upon me and mine, upon Your faithful, and upon our nation... our world. Open our eyes to see our reliance with thankfulness for Your great Passion. Guide us to the end of self and lead us into Your Will, take the reins of our lives for You alone created us. Amen---Amen---Hallelujah 

"The Lord is close to those whose hearts are breaking;

He rescues those who are humbly sorry for their sins."

Ps 34:18

Spiritual Cleansing: A Journey that Never Ends

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

Thank you Lord for loving me so! Thank you Lord for your provision of grace, mercy, forgiveness, and the desire to know you more. With every season of my life, you have guarded and guided me in your ways for your glory, there are no words to express my love for you. With humility I have fallen to my knees, with faith I have sought you, with love I have cried unto you, and with joy I have worshiped your creations. Keep me on your path of truth... show me the way... strengthen my walk for your glory, my Lord and Savior.

There are seasons meant for growing in our understanding. Forgive me for being quiet during this time of growth. I have been on a journey which included pruning the old growth and fertilizing with new understanding. As with any season of growth, learning to shut the door to our past is not necessarily easy but so blessed. Becoming "unchained" from past deceptions, hurts, and oppression's has created openings within my mind... heart... and soul. Areas prepared for new inspirations and stronger "rooting" in God's Will for my life.

Although my journey is not unique, there are so many facets in which our Lord has reached down and ministered to me that I'm overflowing with joy about some of the resources I've used. So here is a few of those that might bless you:

Keep It Shut by Karen Ehman: ISBN: 9780310339649. Okay, this book is all about learning how to have a gracious and kind mouth. A tongue that speaks truth, yet doesn't destroy others. A manual for being unchained from "victim-hood" without being less than Christ like. Have you ever read a book that you have marked up? This book is one of those that you will return to time after time.

To Know Him by Gloria Copeland: ISBN: 9780446511247. As with any resource that is designed to bring you closer to our Lord, Gloria's straight forwarded faith inspires you to put God's words in front of you every morning, evening, and those in-between times. Yet, there is so much more to a relationship with our Lord! It also means rebuking the deceiver; speaking/praying scripture into your heart; learning to obedient to God's word; and listening to His will for every decision in your life. With pen in hand I found my journal filling up with scriptural passages, God's promises, and prayer-filled pronouncements. One section a night blessed my evening prayer.

66 Ways God Loves You by Jennifer Rothschild: ISBN: 9780718087708. Beautifully crafted. Perfected for me, yep, this book is designed and formatted as a quick touch of joy. Just like a pick-me-up snack during your day (if only it replaced food cravings), these two page love reminders will keep you walking in His Love. How would you measure an overflow of loving reminders from our Lord? Beginning with God's first love-promise in Genesis, you will discover the joy of embracing His promises with renewed determination. Every promise comes with an open invitation to embrace, stand on, and re-read these proclamations of His love. A must have for every moment that arises in which you need to hear that you are loved beyond measure.

Resisting Happiness by Matthew Kelly: ISBN: 9781942611929. Choosing happiness and God's Will for your life. Why is such a simple, Yes... Here I am Lord, so daunting? Feeling overwhelmed is never a good or healthy avenue for me. It leads to a spiral that I just will not accept. I wasn't always that bold, but now there is only one choice when those feelings try to deceive me. That choice is to go back into this book and get re-fueled before I take my next step. Once again this is a book I have marked up with hi-lights, notes, earmarked, and underlined. It has become my "go-to" when I need step-by-step redirection. My favorite "booster-shot" came during Matthew's description about his "Greatest Books" book shelf (thirty-seven books hand chosen for his moments of need). He has placed upon this shelf, books that have had an enormous impact on his life. Books of various formats and areas of study, yet, all of them have been hand chosen and placed "eye-level" on this self because they have provided the greatest spiritual and inspirational guidance during his life's journey. Wow, I know I have those books all over my home and in my classroom, and yet, his decision to have them "at the ready" reminded me that I am not walking through this season on my own. So... guess who is creating that eye level shelf!

Uninvited by Lysa TerKeurst: ISBN: 9781400205875. Living loved, what does that look like? The journey within these pages is a "power-walk" in which you become revealed, exposed, and unchained. Only Proverbs has had such an impact upon the "who" God sees in me. Feeling less than and left out has haunted me since forever. Once upon a time I would declare that I was that person who could feel left out in a room full of friends and family (empty church pews and book stores excluded). This book was given to me, hand chosen, for this journey. Becoming free from past hurts, trusting in God's fullness and plans, and seeking His mercy while being pressed, transformed, and messy is uncomfortable... and yet, it is the season of His unending desire to "grow" us up into a newer relationship with Him. This is one of my 37 books upon my book shelf!

31 Verses to Write Upon Your Heart by Liz Curtis Higgs: ISBN: 9781601428912. Transformation begins with the graphing of a new attitude. For me the journey with these verses became my nightly appointment with God. Within my prayer closet, I would re-read the previous learning from my journal. Thanking Him for the ways in which I was strengthened throughout the day. Then came the verse for the day, I would read and hi-light its teaching and begin entering the teaching into my journal, allowing the teachings to take "root" within me as my pencil noted God's passages. Finishing the entry, I found that I needed to write a prayer-filled declaration to our Lord. Wow, insightful and inspiring. This book became a "pass-it-forward" experience to a precious co-worker.

Study Gateway. Link We have a "smart TV" so we have access over our ROKU connection. I have spent every weekend morning in a bible study from this sight (anything Max Lucado inspires me). I have revisited their Women of Faith sessions. Anne Graham Lotz has introduced God's word at a deeper level. Plus those women from Proverbs 31 Ministries have book sessions that will take you beyond their daily posts.

Yes, this is a season for change... Yes, it takes time to be changed, improved, and guided... Yes, our Lord is worth even more of my day!
I hope you have discovered a resource....
Blessings,

Gratitude: Hebrews 12:28

"Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken,

let us show gratitude,

by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe..."

Hebrews 12:28

He is faithful forever! Open my eyes my Lord. With these last few weeks, I find that my walk is blessed beyond my expectations. Worry and anxiety is bound. Moments in His loving presence nourishes beyond my expectations. Gratitude that I walk as His, ever under His watch.

This year is the time to learn how to walk with gracious dignity. It all begins with living free from the deception of shame. What a truly ugly spirit shame is. What a perfected blessing is His blood covering. His gracious gift of forgiveness brings joy. Yet, His amazing and precious blood covers us in such a way that we are allowed to live free from ugly deceptions like shame.

Gratitude is a reflective heart and mind set that is leading beyond my yesterdays and into my todays.

If you are looking to live free from the ugly deception of shame, join us as we learn how to walk without the cloak of shame.

Shame has no place in the purpose, plan, and destiny God has for us because shame lies to us, robs us of the freedom we long for,

and shackles us in the prison of our past.

In this five-session video Bible study, author and teacher, Christine Caine, weaves examples from her life with those of biblical characters who failed but overcame their shame to show how God heals us and redeems us. In her passionate style, she explains that if we want to change our futures, we have to believe God is bigger than our mistakes, our inadequacies, our pasts, and our limitations. We have to believe God created us for a unique purpose, has a specific plan for us, and has a powerful destiny he wants us to fulfill. God has already won the victory over sin and its shame, and we do need to spend our lives believing the lies of the deceiver. Instead, we can allow ourselves to be defined by God’s truth and choose to see ourselves the way God does—through the lens of his eternal perspective. So join the journey. Stop merely existing and start thriving. Lay hold of the power of Jesus Christ today and step into his future—a beautiful, full, life-giving future filled with purpose. You can live unashamed! Session titles include: Session1: Run, Don’t Hide Session 2: Today is the Day Session 3: Posses Your Inheritance Session 4: God Never Wastes a Hurt Session 5: Highly Unlikely. Join the book study at: http://www.faithgateway.com/unashamed-study-registration

Out of the Net: PS 25

"I trust in you;

do not let me be put to shame,

nor let my enemies triumph over me.

No one who hopes in you

will ever be put to shame,

but shame will come on those

who are treacherous without cause."

Psalm 25:2-3

Great is His ways! What comfort can come from those words, a comfort so deep that hope begins to bubble within and renews a strength that creates a path.

Today began with a few inspirations. Out of the Net is a new bible study with Beth Moore. As always, just those words resonated with the longing in me to be free from the snares and "nets" that have me caught in my daily walk. You know those snares, the type that keep your mind occupied with conversations that "could have" or "should have" happened vs. the way things really went down. Snares in which someone or some situation is threatening your every move... taking up way too much energy and/or time. Yep, that's entrapment and I want out!

Then there is the book study, The Longing in Me by Sheila Walsh, that is nourishing my spirit and mind. I'm conversing with our Lord about the many times my words and/or actions have impacted the life of someone else in a not so Christian way. Check out this provoking word:

"Don't be misled...

you cannot mock the justice of God.

You will always harvest what you plant."

Galatians 6:7 

What do I wish my harvest to look like from His Heavenly view? I know, that I know, that He has ministering angels and the Holy Spirit made willing to help see me through to completion. Accepting and allowing them to "weed" my inner most harvest will provide a joyous freedom that will remove every snare, every net, and "squelch" those monotonous conversations.

"Good and upright is the Lord;

therefore he instructs sinners in his ways.

He guides the humble in what is right

and teaches them his way."

Psalm 25:8-9

  

Dear Abba, my Lord and Savior Yeshua, and Holy Spirit the breath of Heaven...

Thank you for seeing me through to completion. Let your words guide me, refresh my mind, restore my spiritual focus, and minister to my needs.

Your name I pray...

Amen, Amen, and Alleluia  

Ephesians 6:12 We are not alone...

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

"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood,

but against principalities,

against powers,

against the rulers of the darkness of this world,

against wickedness in high places.

Ephesians 6:12

Do you recognize where the enemy's attacks are coming from? Do you blame circumstances and people? Or are you learning that the enemy lies in wait for the opportunity to separate us from the promises and strength of God's word? There is a difference in our energy level when we are fighting spiritual warfare. Our energy and hope is replaced with fear, anger, rage, confusion, and exhaustion. 

" My brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.

 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil."

Ephesians 6:10

  

When we are walking by faith, we are proclaiming the power of God. We are taking our stand and choosing not to let any aspect of the attack steal our peace. We serve a God, El Shaddai our creator who is sufficient for all of our needs. Jehovah-Nissi the one who goes before us to clear our paths or right our ship in the storms. Jehovah-Jireh our provider are strength. When we are in God's word and reading it aloud, we are declaring His power in our reality, circumstances, and over all of our love ones... it's our covenant with our Creator and Father (ABBA). When we move out of the grey zone and we choose to draw a line against principalities, we are entering the prayer room of faith for divine intercession. Jehovah-Shalom will immediately pour forth His anointing oil upon us, His strength, His hope, His grace, His mercy, and His peace that surpasses all understanding. Our Lord Jesus goes into action...

Psalm 91

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High

will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,

my God, in whom I trust.”

Surely he will save you

from the fowler’s snare

and from the deadly pestilence.

He will cover you with his feathers,

and under his wings you will find refuge;

his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

You will not fear the terror of night,

nor the arrow that flies by day,

nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,

nor the plague that destroys at midday.

A thousand may fall at your side,

ten thousand at your right hand,

but it will not come near you.

You will only observe with your eyes

and see the punishment of the wicked.

If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,”

and you make the Most High your dwelling,

no harm will overtake you,

no disaster will come near your tent.

For he will command his angels concerning you

to guard you in all your ways;

they will lift you up in their hands,

so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.

You will tread on the lion and the cobra;

you will trample the great lion and the serpent.

“Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him;

I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.

He will call on me, and I will answer him;

I will be with him in trouble,

I will deliver him and honor him.

With long life I will satisfy him

and show him my salvation.”

Once we are strengthened... then we must boldly declare our promised victory by suiting up with the armor of our Lord. Every morning speak your protection over yourself, your family, your finances, your home, and the works of your hands:

Dear Lord Jesus, it is written in Psalm 91 that me and mine are protected under the shelter of your wings.

I stand your promise in Isaiah 54:17, that no weapon formed against will prosper in any facet of our lives.

I put on the armor of the Lord as you directed in Ephesians 6:10:

I  gird my loins with your truth protecting my soul,

I put on the breastplate of righteousness protecting my heart and spirit,

I shod my feet with the preparation of peace so as not to stumble,

I pick up the shield of faith in which no weapon formed against me and mine will prosper,

I put on the helmet of salvation protecting my mind, my eyes, and my ears,

I pick up the sword of the Holy Spirit... guarding my tongue and proclaiming God's word and victory!

And I stand...

On watch...

For your hand at work in my life... through me... with me... and in me!

In your name Lord Jesus, I sing... Amen, Amen, and Hallejulah!  

Psalm 119:47 Inward Joy

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

"I will delight myself in thy commandments which I have loved."

Psalm 119:47

For the last few weeks, whether I was on our patio... watering our plants... putting together a puzzle... or cutting up old "cherished" dresses for quilting... I found myself in an unusual frame of mind. There were many moments in which my soul seemed so burdened, actually heavy with grief. There were moments when I was "talking" to our Lord that I felt an inner peace, yet my mind was troubled. Then there were times when I was so "tired," I felt as if my strength had just been syphoned out of my body and I would crumble to the ground.

"Then shall my heart have inward joy,

And keep my face from shame,

When all thy statutes I obey,

And honour all thy name."

Abraham Lincoln's Daily Devotional

What was my spirit trying to awaken in me? Oh what, my Lord, had grieved my soul and the Holy Spirit? Lord show me what I must do? As the weeks passed, I had opportunities to speak with many who are hurting for various reasons. Our nation has made grievous decisions for all Americans. They choose to believe it is progressive thinking. They speak of hate crimes... yet, these rulings are in a "false-relationship" with a deceiving "hateful" spirit. Lines are being drawn, voices are raised in judgements, an human spirits are either being broken... entrapped... held hostage... or disintegrating.

    

"Therefore judge nothing before the time,

until the Lord comes,

who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness

and reveal the counsels of the hearts."

1 Corinthians 4:5

    What do we know about each other? What are our individual "secret" sinfulness? Do we know anyone's battle against sin? Do we know the strength of the evil that has caused a loss of hope and opened the door to the sinful nature our world appears to have accepted?  Is God your creator (El Shadi)... your father (ABBA) in Heaven... or is He a god of your understanding (willingly choosing to pick and choose what parts of the Bible you want or don't want to live by? Jesus Christ did not come to change the "old testament"... He came to add His blood atonement for our sinful self-serving choices, decisions, actions, and speech.

If we are Christian... we know that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior. We believe in the Word of God. We have freely chosen a freedom like nothing this world could offer. We also have chosen the truth about our "sinful nature." Therefore we accept His commandments as our spiritual "thermometer."  Our Lord, and He alone, will be our eternal judge. We are to keep watch. We are to have a repentant heart, and as we are blessed with His merciful forgiveness... we are to be forgiving. Nothing we say or do is directly of our own intellect... we are designed by El Shadi our creator... we are led by the Holy Spirit... we are saved by His Grace!

"If you judge people, you have no time to love them."

Mother Teresa  

Hebrews 13:16 Eternally Entwined

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

Do not forget to do good and to share.

Hebrews 13:16

My Lord, I thank you for always being present and willing to see me as your creation. I trust in your diligent watch and keep over your "roots" within my life. Your word promises that you will "tend" all areas of my mind, heart, and soul.  You, alone, will see me through to completion. You, alone, will provide... nurture... and bless the life I live. Hold me close under the shadow of your wings... I'm trying... Lord I'm trying!

Do you have those moments, days, or weeks in which you feel so separated from the joy of the Lord? What about those times when others are "jerking" your intelligence and/or emotions for their own needs/wants/desires?  Or, what courses through your system and into your mind when someone "assumes" they know your situation and therefore makes up their own version as a means of placing their self in a better light?

So many times my spirit is grieved by someone's choice, action, or gossip. I have gotten so much better in letting the Holy Spirit take my thoughts unto our Lord. And yet, there are those moments when I am bold enough to confront the "evil" and walk away. So why do I walk away with such a sadness that someone felt they could be so oppressive? Why, do I stand in the gap for them? Why must I continue to pray to our Lord for His blessing and "touch" in bringing healing to both of us?

In all of these years, I have always heard that most people say things and never give a second thought as to how someone is dealing with their words/actions. I can no more understand that thinking than I understand the "greatness" of His love for me. It is such a foreign and vast concept. I only know that my short memory about my own actions are always "nagging" me if I have either been the one with the bad attitude or I've been in the presence of someone who is so "out-of-line" that I want to intervene.

In one of my readings this week, I was reminded to "proclaim God's faithfulness to silence discontentment." Knowing that everyone's soul is valued beyond our understanding, I can relate to His continued provision and my continued gratefulness. Complaining to others is poisonous... on my knees before our Lord is where I need to be.

The cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the Word...

Matthew 13:22

Spiritual distractions... begin to fester when my heart has grown dull or my ears are becoming hard of hearing or my eyes are closed. We are entwined with each other, therefore if you are seeing... hearing... or knowing that someone is "out-of-line" with their description of what is "tipping them over"... please stop and listen. Then become their silent prayer warrior... right then! When they are done, please remind them to take everything to our Lord... for he is faithful... 

He is good... All of the time!

1 Thessalonians 1:2-5 Chosen

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

We give thanks to God always for all of you,

remembering you in our prayers,

unceasingly calling to mind your work of faith

and labor of love

and endurance in hope of our Lord Jesus Christ,

before our God and Father,

knowing, brothers and sisters loved by God,

how you were chosen.

For our gospel did not come to you in word alone,

but also in power and in the Holy Spirit

and with much conviction.

1 Thessalonians 1:2-5

Giving thanks to God always for all of you, is that not a beautiful image. An image that gently reminds you about all that you do for those you love, for those whom are in your life, for those who once were a part of your life, and for those who are of service in all the many places you go.

Knowing, brothers and sisters loved by God, how you were chosen. Such a lovely caress... one of those "God shots." Those words that speak deeply to your heart, your memories, and your soul. Reminding us that we were chosen out of His love for us. Reminding us that He is faithful in His watch over us. That as we walk through this life, He will be our strength... our refuge... our defender.

The gospel did not come to us in word alone, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit. The blessing of the Holy Spirit.  The power of the conviction that the Holy Spirit is always with us. The Holy Spirit guides, comforts, protects, and takes our needs to our Lord. With much conviction the Holy Spirit will boldly stand for us, with us. We do not walk this path without the Holy Spirit. Such relief in knowing that I do not need to have all the answers.  In fact, I only need to rely on our Lord Jesus and the word of our Father (Abba), in order to have peace even in the midst of my storms. Don't get me wrong, I know... that I know... that it takes much work to proclaim our promises from the word of God.  Faith is not always easy, my trials can cause loneliness, heartache, anger, and a sense of being led astray... being betrayed.  Yet, He has never left me in the dark or abandoned me and not returned with His peace that surpasses all understanding.

There is so much in the world that wants me to get in a place of fear.  There are so many in the world that are trying to shame me into believing that our God, our savior Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit are anything other than purified love.  I will not listen.  I will not watch.  I will not speak. I will believe... I will pray... I will praise with thanksgiving... for I belong to El Shadi my creator!

Today, if you are letting the world in to your life... right now take a moment to shut the door and windows and say... 

Lord, Jesus my faith is in you alone.

Here I am, take my life and do something good with it.

Let me bring a smile to Abba's face.

I belong to you.

Thank you for choosing me.

James 1:27 Faultless

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

Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this:

to look after orphans and widows in their distress 

and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

James 1:27

Most of us know about tithing from our first fruits (the income from the works of our hands=10%). Many of us tithe back to Lord with donations, thru prayerful discernment we recognize an area that we are drawn to in order to help others. We even tithe with our "free" time by volunteering to help in so many ways. Since I learned that tithing is God's way of blessing us through our willingness to honor our abundance, I have had so many opportunities to give to others. Through that giving, I have been blessed beyond measure in my soul, within my heart, and with in my consciousness. It truly brings a spring to your step and joy that overflows in so many ways.

The area that is one of the hardest to accept and keep is in keeping oneself from being polluted by the world. Standing in faith is a merciful boldness. Being freed from our past is His gracious mercy for all our sins (not one is worse than the other). Yet, once we have made the decision to walk in His will... well that means we turn our back on all things that would not bring a smile to His face or honor to His name. What is of the world? With such wisdom He has given us the book of Proverbs. We are guided by the Holy Spirit to live righteous lives, to think only on that which He wants us to know, to guard our thoughts and our tongues in order to receive the fullness of His will for us.

With today's devotional time, I was so grateful for His reminder that once I take my focus off of my self and my desires... He will unveil the needs of the helpless. With a generous heart and loving willingness, I can be available for those in need. If the world's messages consume my "free" time, I will never be anything more than a loud gong to His ears.

Holidays are around the corner, what would Jesus us want us to be doing? The nations of the world are in desire straights making decisions about power and not lives. The press is all about political gain and "talking" out their wisdom. Our entertainment is dark, moody, and filled with slanderous discussions and lust-filled desires. Have we really become a generation that is easy to program?

Keeping ourselves from being polluted by the world... what does this mean to you?

Psalm 78:37-38 Merciful is our Lord

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

Though their hearts were not steadfast toward Him,

nor were they faithful to His covenant.

But He, being merciful, forgave their sin and destroyed them not;

Often He turned back His anger and let none of His wrath be roused.

Psalm 78:37-38

Such a sweet promise, He holds back His wrath and is always merciful and forgiving. Yesterday, I was so happy to see a movie of my youth available for viewing.  The cinematography was unbelievable (especially since it was filmed on Mt. Hood in the PNW).  The songs brought me such joy when I was a pre-teen, that I was joyfully singing along with delight. The characters were some of the best in Hollywood and on Broadway. They were so animated and brought so many moments of laughter. And yet, somewhere before the end of the movie, I was gently reminded why this movie was not something I should have revisited. Sinful ways are not a toy to be playing with. Sin... all sin... is not a door that I choose as my entertainment, let alone invite into my home. How old was I when this type of entertainment became funny, enjoyable, and relaxing? Why now, did this movie regain entrance into life, like a childhood friend that you joyfully greet and willingly invite into your home? Spiritual gardening... a flower from my youth was in fact a weed with nettles... how easy it was for me to forget to be protected and put on my gardening gloves.

So today, I pondered a few truths... at what point in my life did our nation decide that sin would be acceptable entertainment? Once Israel was given back their covenant lands (1957-1958), it seems that it took no time for the United States to remove prayer and bible teaching from our schools (1965-1967). In fact, science and history books were re-written in order to change the shift from the US being a Judeo-Christian nation. Was this the reason for such a drastic shift within our country, our homes, and our entertainment boundaries? Did my beloved movie really have a connection in changing the acceptance level within my generation? Was it a vehicle used to replace moral and ethical principles/standards with a lowered tolerance for a state of "politically correct" acceptance?

Seek the Lord while He may be found,

call Him while He is near.

Let the scoundrel forsake his way,

and the wicked his thoughts;

let him turn to the Lord for mercy;

to our God, who is generous in forgiving.

Isaiah 55:6-7 

Through His mercy and grace our Lord Jesus Christ suffered a horrific and humiliating death. He willing took our sinfulness in order for us to have a way to regain a loving relationship with Him and our creator El Shadi (Abba). Through His precious blood we can humbly bring our sinful thoughts, actions, and deeds before Him. Knowing full well, He will be merciful and forgiving. Knowing that He is always ready to interceded on our behalf. Knowing that Papa God (Abba) loves us so much that Their diligent watch over us is a longing that remains eternal. We can run to them and ask for forgiveness, we can be made new, and we can walk away strengthened in our relationship with Them. The Holy Spirit is always "gently" reminding us about what we see, hear, say, and do... are we listening?

For today, I will renew my commitment to being yours my Lord.

 Forgive me the sinful nature of being deceived and accepting of that which is in this world.

 Cleanse me from that which entertains my mind,

 protect my heart and soul by closing the doors to any other temptations,

 and fill me to overflowing with Your thoughts and goodness.

In your name Lord Jesus I pray...Amen, Amen, and Hallelujah!     

Isaiah 58:6-7 Pleasing God

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

Is this not the fast that I have chosen:

To loose the bonds of wickedness,

To undo the heavy burdens, 

To let the oppressed go free,

And that you break every yoke?

Is it not to share your bread with the hungry,

And that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out;

When you see the naked,

that you cover him.

And not hide yourself from your own flesh?

Isaiah 58:6-7

For bible study, I pondered what was our Lord teaching me through Isaiah's prophetic word? Once we have made Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior, what is the way in which He would want us to walk? What is my witness if it is not in my actions or words? Is my repentance and acceptance enough to bring a smile to Abba's face?

If you keep my commandments,

you will abide in My love,

just as I have kept My Father's commandments

and abide in His love.

These things I have spoken to you,

that My joy may remain in you,

and that your joy may be full.

This is My commandment,

that you love one another as I have loved you.

John 15:10-12 

Even though Jesus gave us His new commandment to love as He loved, He never said that the Old Testament Commandments were to be forgotten. Instead, He reminded us that as He walked with us here on earth... He kept His father's commandments:  

So why is the world so willing to "assume" that God's commandments are no longer a requirement?  Why would God's love and guidance be so "offensive" to others that all must keep quiet about Jesus' truth? The Mosaic law has remained a compass for generations, thousands of years, and yet within the last few decades "the world" has slowly "chipped" away that which was meant for man's safety, joy, and freedom.

Beloved, do not believe every spirit,

 but test the spirits to see whether they are from God,

 for many false prophets have gone out into the world. 

 By this you know the Spirit of God:

 every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, 

 and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God.

 This is the spirit of the antichrist,

 which you heard was coming and now is in the world already.

1 John 4:1-3

Testing the spirits, using our system of checks and balances... what does God's word say? Is what the world wants, what we should be accepting? Does today's society measure up to God's will or are the scales being tipped by what the world's "truth" is designing as an acceptable way to think and act? Who does the world say Jesus is?

Every day it seems like freedom is not free any longer. So what can I do to bring a smile to Abba's face?

 Then the King will say to those on his right,

 ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father;

 take your inheritance,

 the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 

 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat,

 I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink,

 I was a stranger and you invited me in, 

 I needed clothes and you clothed me,

 I was sick and you looked after me,

 I was in prison and you came to visit me.

 Matthew 25:34-36

Isaiah 59:19 Provisions for Victory

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

So shall they fear the name of the Lord from the west,

and His glory from the rising of the sun.

When the enemy shall come in like a flood,

the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him.

Isaiah 59:19

Do you have those moments where the enemy (our thoughts) "rushes" in and tries to overcome the peace or the joy that you were enjoying?  Gosh, it can be so smothering... so quick... so consuming... if... you don't know the word of God.  

...the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him!

The Holy Spirit, our comforter... our intercessor... our guide... our protection... gives us the "sword of truth," God's words to slay and bind our enemy.  Did you know that the most powerful of words from the Bible were spoken by our Lord Jesus as He faced the devil in the desert:

 "It is written, 'One must not live on bread alone, but on every word of God."

Luke 4:4

With these words, "It is written..." we are proclaiming and reminding the devil and all of his demonic forces that God's word remains in power over them.  All evil must bow to the name of Jesus Christ, evil must flee as commanded by God's word, evil must remain blind in the presence of our Lord... the Holy Spirit... and all angels on assignment, and every evil knows that they will be cast into the lake of fire for all eternity.  Evil is only a deceiver, it can only create an illusion that will torment and cause confusion.  The word of God has full power to cast out, bind, destroy, and create a blindness upon any and all evil!

This means that not a one of God's sheep (that's you and I) will be defeated on a single score.  Our Lord and Savior has made provision for victory for all of His own.  Not even for a second...

... for it is written... that Spirit of Lord fights our battles for us!

Isaiah 55:7-9 God's Thoughts and Ways

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

Let the wicked forsake his way And the unrighteous man his thoughts;

And let him return to the LORD, 

And He will have compassion on him, 

And to our God, For He will abundantly pardon.  

"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, 

Nor are your ways My ways," declares the LORD.  

"For as the heavens are higher than the earth.

So are My ways higher than your ways,

And My thoughts than your thoughts.

Isaiah 55:7-9

It is an amazing moment when you view a show, a performance, or a movie and your spirit just jumps into "high gear."  You want to shout, your smile can't be disturbed by anything negative, and you keep replaying the moment in which God's truth "zaps" you free from that which is in this world.

And so it happened last night...we rented the movie "God's Not Dead." It is difficult to consider how many viewers were "touched" by the works of these courageous few.  As an educator, I know that what we teach can inspire, degrade, or ignite a life-long quest for truth.  Yet, there are so many who have their own agendas, their own life struggles, and their own truths that can influence so many.  We always want to believe that we are prepared and stronger than what ever our instructors teach...that's just not true.  If our "here and now" culture continues to "rewrite" history in order to "correct" what once was truth, we will have internal battles with what man should know as truth.

"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, 

Nor are your ways My ways," declares the LORD.

Isaiah 55:8

We do not have to walk through this life alone, yet we are called to walk bravely and with confidence.  Walking with the confidence that there is a creator, a designer, who is diligent in His watch over us. We must not back down when the world seeks to diminish, mock, or condemn the passion and victory of our Lord Jesus Christ.  How do we "stand" against what the world chooses to believe?

For me, I must be reading God's word on a daily basis.  Truth is in His teachings, it is my "owner's" manual for living.  I must be in communication with our Lord Jesus... all day...in all things...with praise always flowing from my heart and mouth.  I put on the armor of God every morning and every time the enemy begins a threat of attack.  I am diligent and consistent with my choices in what I will watch (books, TV, movies, performances, etc)... in what I listen to (music, discussions, news, entertainment, and even sermons), and what I will put my name to (what I say, write, and text).  Does this seem excessive?  Does it seem like a liveable solution?  Is it even worth the agonizing change?  I am convinced that my soul, and the souls of those in my life are more valuable than anything this world has to offer.  If that is truth...then how much more am I willing to do in order to protect that which has such value?

My weeding out of the "negative" in my garden (my life's harvest) began with a head-on collision.  Even though I would be considered the "victim" on that day, I was the blessed... for God heard my cries.  I recommitted my life to His will... I had just made the first of many leaps of faith... I hungered and thirst for His direction... and I have tried to remain obedient to His plan, His ways, His prompting, and most of all His loving goodness... grace... favor... and prosperity.  Is this walk of faith easy... it was never promised to be easy... it's a walk of faith!

I never walk alone.  There are those who will pray with us and for us...24/7...365 days...year after year.  There are primary sources (Bible, biographies, blogs, movies, and every moment of the day there is always music, the radio, and gifted writers).  Wherever two or more are gathered... I am so thankful to writers, musicians, actors, producers, newscasters, and those who are taking on the fight in our media.  It truly makes your heart soar when there is God in what is available for entertainment, allowing you the freedom of choice about what enters into your home, mind, heart and soul.

Our phones, Internet, iPads, computers, and televisions are broadcasting around the world, across our Earth, and throughout the galaxy and beyond... we have the ability to "shout" for the Lord with courage and joy!

Producers like David AR White, Kirk Cameron, Michael Langdon Jr, and Cloud 10 have dedicated the works of their hands for us.  Musicians like Newsboys, Third Day, Mercy Me,and Carman continue to boldly proclaim our Lord to younger generations.  Without the best sellers Left Behind, Heaven is for Real, and 90 Minutes in Heaven, who would be "looking up" in anticipation for our Lord's return?

In letting God's "shout out" not end with me... I texted:

God's Not Dead... Will you?

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