I feel like I need to start today with a bit of an apology. I haven't been getting around to visiting as many bloggers as I really want to. We have less than three weeks till the end of the semester at my college, and that means paper, tests, and projects are all coming due here really soon. I've barely had time to get posts out every day... but I HAVE posted every day! And for that, I am thankful. I'm also thankful for those of you who stick around and visit regularly, for those who comment, and for the two people who just told me in the last couple days that they often read the scribbles I put out here. That means more than you will ever know.
I'm also thankful that today's letter is P, because that's so much easier than "J" for coming up with words! Today I am thankful for...
peace, even in the midst of this busy, stressful week...and in the midst of the evil that we have witnessed this week.
prayer, by which I can talk to my God and Father whenever I need and want to.
patriotism, which has been displayed by so many people this week, despite the tragedy in Boston and, now, the one in Waco, Texas.
princess--who I am as a daughter of the King of Kings. What a gift.
my mom, Paula--the most wonderful mom a girl could ask for. We're better friends now than we've ever been, she is always there for me, and she's taught me so much: especially what it means to love God and love my husband. I love you, Mom.
pink and purple--two of my favorite colors. yellow's the other. I love how God created this world with color. It would be so dull if everything was in black-and-white!
people--again, a dull world if no one lived in it. Life is made interesting by the humanity with whom we interact every day.
pancakes, peas, pineapple, potatoes, pistachios, pumpkin, and whatever food begins with P! I'm thankful for all that we have to eat. (Also, I made roasted sweet potatoes last week, and they were amazing.)
What about you? What are you thankful for this week? Anything that begins with P?
Linking with: black tag diaries, The Fontenot Four, lovely little whimsy, There's Just One Mommy
Showing posts with label peace. Show all posts
Showing posts with label peace. Show all posts
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Friday, March 15, 2013
Rest (Five Minute Friday)
I love these writing prompts, thanks to Lisa-Jo. It's like what we did in my writing classes starting freshman year of college--receive a word or phrase or idea, and just write on it for a few minutes.
Today, I'm writing for five minutes on this word:
REST.
Resting is somewhat of a paradox for me. I feel like I'm rather a lazy person-- I tend to waste time doing unproductive things like Bejeweled Blitz on Facebook or browsing Pinterest. But I have a hard time really resting-- doing nothing at all, or doing something calming and productive, like reading a good book. (I'm trying to get back into that habit, and have picked up Ann Voskamp's One Thousand Gifts again, with great blessings resulting.)
My husband kind of needs to help me rest. He makes me stop doing the dishes, stop cleaning house, and sit down with him and talk. Or watch a movie. Or just take a nap.
The best rest is when we're snuggled in bed together, with an extra blanket over me (I'm always cold at night), holding each other tight. I feel like the world is perfect at those times. And I'm completely calm and relaxed. Something about my husband calms me like nothing else ever has.
But the real rest I crave is that from Jesus. Jesus, who said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
That's the kind of rest I want--the rest that comes from turning my worries and troubles and stresses over to Jesus. And taking on my shoulders the peace that comes from knowing he is my Savior, that he loves me unconditionally, that I have nothing to do for my salvation because Jesus has taken care of it all.
And it's so restful to know that even when I don't use my time well, even if I have a hard time resting physically, Jesus is so willing and glad to take from me the burdens that cause me unrest--and give me a spiritual rest, which is more refreshing than any other.
Linking up here, with Lisa-Jo Baker.
Today, I'm writing for five minutes on this word:
REST.
Image Credit: Dr Joseph Valks on freedigitalphotos.net
Resting is somewhat of a paradox for me. I feel like I'm rather a lazy person-- I tend to waste time doing unproductive things like Bejeweled Blitz on Facebook or browsing Pinterest. But I have a hard time really resting-- doing nothing at all, or doing something calming and productive, like reading a good book. (I'm trying to get back into that habit, and have picked up Ann Voskamp's One Thousand Gifts again, with great blessings resulting.)
My husband kind of needs to help me rest. He makes me stop doing the dishes, stop cleaning house, and sit down with him and talk. Or watch a movie. Or just take a nap.
The best rest is when we're snuggled in bed together, with an extra blanket over me (I'm always cold at night), holding each other tight. I feel like the world is perfect at those times. And I'm completely calm and relaxed. Something about my husband calms me like nothing else ever has.
But the real rest I crave is that from Jesus. Jesus, who said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
That's the kind of rest I want--the rest that comes from turning my worries and troubles and stresses over to Jesus. And taking on my shoulders the peace that comes from knowing he is my Savior, that he loves me unconditionally, that I have nothing to do for my salvation because Jesus has taken care of it all.
And it's so restful to know that even when I don't use my time well, even if I have a hard time resting physically, Jesus is so willing and glad to take from me the burdens that cause me unrest--and give me a spiritual rest, which is more refreshing than any other.
Linking up here, with Lisa-Jo Baker.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
The Antidote to Worry, the Source of Peace
I struggle with worry.
If you have read my scribblings around here for long enough, you know that. God's constantly trying to teach me how to trust, despite my circumstances.
I had another lesson in trust yesterday, partially due to my mother. My mother, who has been blessed by this woman, dear Ann, and who in turn has been able to bless others. My mother, who said once,
Yesterday I was reading Ann's words in her amazing book, One Thousand Gifts.
I realized, once again, how my fear of the future can be conquered. How my worry about the unknown can be vanquished.
Thankfulness.
How does this work? Well, like everything, it starts with God.
God, who loves us so much that He has given us everything-- from the food in our refrigerators to the incredible forgiveness won for us by His Son on the cross.
God blesses us. He promises in His Word that He will always bless us. He will always make sure we have everything we need (see Matthew 6).
We look around us, and see those blessings, and count them. (I sporadically keep a gratitude journal... working on making this a daily habit, and I highly recommend it.) When we recognize those blessings, and thank God for them, we are reminded of His faithfulness.
We are reminded that He ALWAYS keeps His promises.
That means He will continue to bless us. When we look toward the future, we can know, with absolute certainty, that God will provide for us there as He has in the past.
Then we can kick that fear out of our hearts. That worry about the future? It has no place in my life. God's got the future in His hands. That fear of the unknown? God knows everything. He has seen what I needed in the past and provided for it. He knows what I need for the future.
How does thankfulness become the source of peace?
When we realize that as God has blessed us, so He will continue to bless us. We can count on Him.
We can trust Him entirely. He has fulfilled the promises He made in the past-- we KNOW he will fulfill the promises He's made for the future. We can have absolute faith in that fact.
This kind of faith brings joy, joy that isn't dependent on circumstances.
It brings peace--peace that passes understanding, because it is a peace that comes from the Holy Spirit in our hearts. Not a peace the world can understand. Peace that God alone gives.
Just like He gives everything else.
God's blessings lead to our thankfulness for those blessings. Our thankfulness leads to the strengthening of our trust in Him, because we can count on Him to continue to bless us. Our trust leads to peace and joy, because we have nothing to fear in this life. Nothing at all.
Blessings.
Thankfulness.
Trust.
Peace.
Joy.
All gifts from God... all starting with the amazing love He has for us.
Linking today with: The Fontenot Four, black tag diaries, Loved and Lovely, lovely little whimsy, There's Just One Mommy, Our Simple Country Life, Raising Mighty Arrows
If you have read my scribblings around here for long enough, you know that. God's constantly trying to teach me how to trust, despite my circumstances.
I had another lesson in trust yesterday, partially due to my mother. My mother, who has been blessed by this woman, dear Ann, and who in turn has been able to bless others. My mother, who said once,
Thankfulness is the antidote to worry--
the source of peace.
Copyright (c) 123RF Stock Photos
I realized, once again, how my fear of the future can be conquered. How my worry about the unknown can be vanquished.
Thankfulness.
How does this work? Well, like everything, it starts with God.
God, who loves us so much that He has given us everything-- from the food in our refrigerators to the incredible forgiveness won for us by His Son on the cross.
God blesses us. He promises in His Word that He will always bless us. He will always make sure we have everything we need (see Matthew 6).
We look around us, and see those blessings, and count them. (I sporadically keep a gratitude journal... working on making this a daily habit, and I highly recommend it.) When we recognize those blessings, and thank God for them, we are reminded of His faithfulness.
We are reminded that He ALWAYS keeps His promises.
That means He will continue to bless us. When we look toward the future, we can know, with absolute certainty, that God will provide for us there as He has in the past.
Then we can kick that fear out of our hearts. That worry about the future? It has no place in my life. God's got the future in His hands. That fear of the unknown? God knows everything. He has seen what I needed in the past and provided for it. He knows what I need for the future.
How does thankfulness become the source of peace?
When we realize that as God has blessed us, so He will continue to bless us. We can count on Him.
We can trust Him entirely. He has fulfilled the promises He made in the past-- we KNOW he will fulfill the promises He's made for the future. We can have absolute faith in that fact.
This kind of faith brings joy, joy that isn't dependent on circumstances.
It brings peace--peace that passes understanding, because it is a peace that comes from the Holy Spirit in our hearts. Not a peace the world can understand. Peace that God alone gives.
Just like He gives everything else.
God's blessings lead to our thankfulness for those blessings. Our thankfulness leads to the strengthening of our trust in Him, because we can count on Him to continue to bless us. Our trust leads to peace and joy, because we have nothing to fear in this life. Nothing at all.
Blessings.
Thankfulness.
Trust.
Peace.
Joy.
All gifts from God... all starting with the amazing love He has for us.
Linking today with: The Fontenot Four, black tag diaries, Loved and Lovely, lovely little whimsy, There's Just One Mommy, Our Simple Country Life, Raising Mighty Arrows
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Forgiven: Knowing it, believing it, living it.
I'd like to do a little soul-baring with you, my dear readers. Perhaps one of you has had an experience like mine, so I hope that sharing my own story will bless you, as well.
For much of my life I've had what you might call a legalistic mindset. I've always understood about grace, don't get me wrong. I know Jesus died for my sins, I know that because of him I'll have eternal life, I know that God has forgiven every sin I've ever committed or will ever commit. I know I don't have to DO anything at all for my salvation--Jesus has done it all.
But I struggle with applying what I know in my head, to what I truly believe in my heart. I've never struggled with faith in Christ, but I've struggled with letting go of my sin. With accepting the fact that God's forgiveness erases that sin from my life.
It's not like I've done anything "majorly wrong." I've never done drugs, smoked or gotten drunk. I was a virgin when I got married. I've avoided swearing and bad language. I've never broken a federal law. My parents raised me to be a good, honest, obedient and law-abiding person.
But I'm just as sinful as anyone else, and I also happen to have a bit of a "guilt complex." Or, as my husband says, an overly active conscience. I struggle with letting go of my own sins.
I struggle with forgiving myself, and accepting that through Christ, God has forgiven me.
Does this sound like you? Have you ever had a struggle like this?
Whether you have or not, perhaps what I've learned will be helpful for you.
Since I started dating Joshua, he has been a powerful voice of forgiveness in my life. He easily and quickly forgives me when I sin against him and ask his forgiveness. He's reminded me time and again of God's forgiveness. And I'll remember that, and know it, for a while. But then that little voice inside me pulls up a wordless doubt, one that darkens the cheerfulness I usually feel, and makes me feel sorry for myself. "I'm just not good enough. I'll always have to struggle with this. The consequences will always be part of my life. I don't deserve forgiveness."
I read a blog post today where the author talked about forgetting. She asked God to remove memories of past sins, so that she wouldn't dwell on them anymore. This, I realized, is what I needed to do-forget about those sins. Dwelling on my sins, hanging on to that guilt, and refusing to forgive myself, is actually sin in itself. It's letting the law take over my life, instead of filling my life with the Gospel. Then I read another blog post with a similar message, and tonight Joshua and I watched the movie October Baby. It's about a teenage girl who discovers that she's adopted...and that her birth mother had attempted to have her aborted, but the abortion failed. The girl also had a twin brother, and although they were both born alive, her brother died. She struggled to forgive herself for living when her brother died, to forgive her birth mother for trying to kill her, and to forgive her adoptive parents because they had kept the truth from her for a long time.
In the movie there is a powerful message of forgiveness--that because God has forgiven us, we have the ability and the power to choose to forgive others. Including ourselves.
As the movie was ending I dissolved in tears...because for the first time in a long time, I felt truly at peace with myself. I realized that I was damaging myself by refusing forgiveness. And so I let go. I let go of the guilt I've been clinging to. What a self-centered thing I had been doing. It's not like it consumed my life...but it would come up at times, and I wouldn't just let it go. But I believe God spoke to my heart today. And so I've let go of the past, those sins that no one else would blame me for but for which I've been blaming myself. The sins that Satan's been using to hurt my heart.
I read a Scripture verse on a blog today, and it applied so well to my blog, but also to God's gentle message to me today. It's at the top of this page. Scroll up and read it.
It's especially the last sentence of that verse that really means a lot to me right now.
I also love these other words of God about forgiveness:
What God's given me is eternal life. And grace, forgiveness, and everlasting love.
There is no reason for me to hang onto my guilt. There is no reason to deny myself forgiveness, not when God has forgiven me long ago. I am a saved, baptized, forgiven child of God.
And just as Jesus died to save me from MY sins, so he died to save you from yours. Remember that verse at the top of the page? That's for you, too. When we repent of our sins--turn away from them--God is quick to forgive, and remind us of how much he loves us.
And he loves us so very much.
I hope you know that. If you don't, please talk to me, or talk to a pastor or another Christian you know, who is walking with Jesus. If you don't believe in Jesus in your personal Lord and Savior, he wants you to, so much! He wants you to know that you are his child.
It's amazing how much Jesus loves us. I've been reminded of that today, yet again, and I hope you know that in your heart, too.
Linking with: Growing Home, Heavenly Homemakers, Time-Warp Wife, Exceptionalistic
Image courtesy of David Castillo, www.freedigitalphotos.net
But I struggle with applying what I know in my head, to what I truly believe in my heart. I've never struggled with faith in Christ, but I've struggled with letting go of my sin. With accepting the fact that God's forgiveness erases that sin from my life.
It's not like I've done anything "majorly wrong." I've never done drugs, smoked or gotten drunk. I was a virgin when I got married. I've avoided swearing and bad language. I've never broken a federal law. My parents raised me to be a good, honest, obedient and law-abiding person.
But I'm just as sinful as anyone else, and I also happen to have a bit of a "guilt complex." Or, as my husband says, an overly active conscience. I struggle with letting go of my own sins.
I struggle with forgiving myself, and accepting that through Christ, God has forgiven me.
Does this sound like you? Have you ever had a struggle like this?
Whether you have or not, perhaps what I've learned will be helpful for you.
Since I started dating Joshua, he has been a powerful voice of forgiveness in my life. He easily and quickly forgives me when I sin against him and ask his forgiveness. He's reminded me time and again of God's forgiveness. And I'll remember that, and know it, for a while. But then that little voice inside me pulls up a wordless doubt, one that darkens the cheerfulness I usually feel, and makes me feel sorry for myself. "I'm just not good enough. I'll always have to struggle with this. The consequences will always be part of my life. I don't deserve forgiveness."
I read a blog post today where the author talked about forgetting. She asked God to remove memories of past sins, so that she wouldn't dwell on them anymore. This, I realized, is what I needed to do-forget about those sins. Dwelling on my sins, hanging on to that guilt, and refusing to forgive myself, is actually sin in itself. It's letting the law take over my life, instead of filling my life with the Gospel. Then I read another blog post with a similar message, and tonight Joshua and I watched the movie October Baby. It's about a teenage girl who discovers that she's adopted...and that her birth mother had attempted to have her aborted, but the abortion failed. The girl also had a twin brother, and although they were both born alive, her brother died. She struggled to forgive herself for living when her brother died, to forgive her birth mother for trying to kill her, and to forgive her adoptive parents because they had kept the truth from her for a long time.
In the movie there is a powerful message of forgiveness--that because God has forgiven us, we have the ability and the power to choose to forgive others. Including ourselves.
As the movie was ending I dissolved in tears...because for the first time in a long time, I felt truly at peace with myself. I realized that I was damaging myself by refusing forgiveness. And so I let go. I let go of the guilt I've been clinging to. What a self-centered thing I had been doing. It's not like it consumed my life...but it would come up at times, and I wouldn't just let it go. But I believe God spoke to my heart today. And so I've let go of the past, those sins that no one else would blame me for but for which I've been blaming myself. The sins that Satan's been using to hurt my heart.
I read a Scripture verse on a blog today, and it applied so well to my blog, but also to God's gentle message to me today. It's at the top of this page. Scroll up and read it.
It's especially the last sentence of that verse that really means a lot to me right now.
I also love these other words of God about forgiveness:
"I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. No longer will a man teach his neighbor, or a man his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,' because they will all know me, from the least of the greatest," declares the Lord. "For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more." Jeremiah 31:33b-34
The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him; for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust." Psalm 103:8-14God doesn't remember my sins. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross took care of that. God has removed my sins from me; they are no longer part of my life. He is gracious, not "fair"--I don't get what I deserve. I deserve eternal punishment.
What God's given me is eternal life. And grace, forgiveness, and everlasting love.
There is no reason for me to hang onto my guilt. There is no reason to deny myself forgiveness, not when God has forgiven me long ago. I am a saved, baptized, forgiven child of God.
And just as Jesus died to save me from MY sins, so he died to save you from yours. Remember that verse at the top of the page? That's for you, too. When we repent of our sins--turn away from them--God is quick to forgive, and remind us of how much he loves us.
And he loves us so very much.
I hope you know that. If you don't, please talk to me, or talk to a pastor or another Christian you know, who is walking with Jesus. If you don't believe in Jesus in your personal Lord and Savior, he wants you to, so much! He wants you to know that you are his child.
It's amazing how much Jesus loves us. I've been reminded of that today, yet again, and I hope you know that in your heart, too.
Linking with: Growing Home, Heavenly Homemakers, Time-Warp Wife, Exceptionalistic
Thursday, December 13, 2012
living in Advent
Some days I forget it's Advent.
Not just the days leading up till Christmas...but we're living in Advent all the time, people! We're waiting, preparing (that's what "Advent" means), for the second coming of Jesus Christ, whose first coming to earth we'll celebrate in just twelve days.
We're waiting for the Son of God to come back--God, who became human, one of us--in order to live, die, and rise again--for us.
This Son of God, who loves us so very much, is coming back for us.
Even as we anticipate the joy of Christmas, we see so much sadness in the world. War, hunger, poverty, homelessness, disease, crime, anger, hate... all the signs that sin saturates this planet. It might be easy to forget about some of those things for a while, when we're in our warm homes, brightened by colored Christmas lights, eating lots of special food and treats, spending our over-abundance of money on gifts (many of which aren't really necessary), and wishing each other the peace and joy of the season.
Don't get me wrong, those are all good things and I enjoy them so much! But we like to forget all those bad things that are happening, that don't affect our lives. But those things are part of our world, too. They're caused by our own sinfulness. But Christ came to this sinful world anyway...isn't that amazing?
It's important to remember that these things won't last. All those horrible, sad, depressing things? They're temporary. Our houses, our possessions, our jobs, our wealth (or lack thereof) aren't permanent.
The peace and joy that our Savior brings, though--that will last.
Soon the reign of sin in the world will end. It may not be in our lifetime, but it will not last forever.
I'm fairly certain it won't end on December 21st. God is returning, but not when we expect Him to. We can't foretell when that Day will come--not even the Son knows that, but only the Father.
But it is coming! The Savior who has come into the world, will come back--to take me, and all believers, to live in paradise with him, for eternity.
It'll be like a never-ending Christmas celebration: surrounded by our loved ones, in the light of His presence, praising God and basking in His love. Forever.
Are you ready?
Not just the days leading up till Christmas...but we're living in Advent all the time, people! We're waiting, preparing (that's what "Advent" means), for the second coming of Jesus Christ, whose first coming to earth we'll celebrate in just twelve days.
We're waiting for the Son of God to come back--God, who became human, one of us--in order to live, die, and rise again--for us.
This Son of God, who loves us so very much, is coming back for us.
Even as we anticipate the joy of Christmas, we see so much sadness in the world. War, hunger, poverty, homelessness, disease, crime, anger, hate... all the signs that sin saturates this planet. It might be easy to forget about some of those things for a while, when we're in our warm homes, brightened by colored Christmas lights, eating lots of special food and treats, spending our over-abundance of money on gifts (many of which aren't really necessary), and wishing each other the peace and joy of the season.
Don't get me wrong, those are all good things and I enjoy them so much! But we like to forget all those bad things that are happening, that don't affect our lives. But those things are part of our world, too. They're caused by our own sinfulness. But Christ came to this sinful world anyway...isn't that amazing?
It's important to remember that these things won't last. All those horrible, sad, depressing things? They're temporary. Our houses, our possessions, our jobs, our wealth (or lack thereof) aren't permanent.
The peace and joy that our Savior brings, though--that will last.
Soon the reign of sin in the world will end. It may not be in our lifetime, but it will not last forever.
I'm fairly certain it won't end on December 21st. God is returning, but not when we expect Him to. We can't foretell when that Day will come--not even the Son knows that, but only the Father.
But it is coming! The Savior who has come into the world, will come back--to take me, and all believers, to live in paradise with him, for eternity.
It'll be like a never-ending Christmas celebration: surrounded by our loved ones, in the light of His presence, praising God and basking in His love. Forever.
Are you ready?
Monday, February 20, 2012
Never Alone
It's been so long since I've written. At least five days. :)
I had an insanely busy weekend...homework, housework, spending time with my hubby and family and friends. And since yesterday afternoon I haven't been feeling well. I've been drinking a lot of tea, trying to combat the gunk-filled, itchy, scratchy throat and a cough. And taking painkillers for the headache and aches.
But I miss writing, and I need to write. Not that I care so much about the pageviews. I know I'll share this and people will read. You always do, and thank you. But I need to write. To get in the written, or typed, word what's in my mind.
I had a long talk with my friend Stephanie today. And before that I had a talk with a favorite professor. And before that class with another great prof. All three things had something in common: they reminded me that I'm not alone. That I'm not in this crazy thing called life by myself.
Let me explain. In my first class today ("Exile to Christ," a history course covering that period in history), we were talking about the things that Christians in the early church, and even Jews in the time before Christ lived, went through. Things like wondering when the Messiah would come, and for the Christians, wondering when He would come back. Things like trying to live according to God's laws. Things like fighting against the ways of the world, because the ways of the world are so different from our ways. What we as Christians experience today, this minute, is no different than what Christians have been experiencing for hundreds of years.
After my second class, I stayed behind to talk to my professor for a little bit. I forget how the conversation started, but we talked about struggles we've had, and that we've witnessed in others. How he struggled with depression without knowing that he even had it. How I had to fight a life-affecting phobia in high school. How a beloved friend of mine struggled with her self-image. And my professor and I talked about how we had loved ones who helped us through those hard times. For him, it was a psychologist friend who realized that my professor had depression. For me, it was Joshua who helped me fight the phobia till it's now almost gone. And more than anything, it was our faith in Christ that got us through.
Then my friend Stephanie and I were working together at the library. And we started talking about our faith, struggles we've had, things we've learned, ways God has taught us and brought us closer to him in the last few years. And we realized how much we have in common, and she and I were able to encourage each other and just listen. She's a good listener. :)
Tonight our dear friends Ruth and Joe came over with yummy snacks and a great movie, to keep sick little me company while Joshua was at work. It was exactly what I needed.
In so many ways, God has revealed himself to me. So many people have been Christ to me throughout my life. They have been his hands, his arms, his smile, his voice. God has chosen to love me through other people. Through them I know that God takes care of me. That he is always near me. That he is watching over me, and that he has my life, my self, my soul in his hands. That he has been working in everything in my life for my good and his glory.
"Never will I leave you," Jesus told his disciples. "Never will I forsake you."
He hasn't. He won't.
I had an insanely busy weekend...homework, housework, spending time with my hubby and family and friends. And since yesterday afternoon I haven't been feeling well. I've been drinking a lot of tea, trying to combat the gunk-filled, itchy, scratchy throat and a cough. And taking painkillers for the headache and aches.
But I miss writing, and I need to write. Not that I care so much about the pageviews. I know I'll share this and people will read. You always do, and thank you. But I need to write. To get in the written, or typed, word what's in my mind.
I had a long talk with my friend Stephanie today. And before that I had a talk with a favorite professor. And before that class with another great prof. All three things had something in common: they reminded me that I'm not alone. That I'm not in this crazy thing called life by myself.
Let me explain. In my first class today ("Exile to Christ," a history course covering that period in history), we were talking about the things that Christians in the early church, and even Jews in the time before Christ lived, went through. Things like wondering when the Messiah would come, and for the Christians, wondering when He would come back. Things like trying to live according to God's laws. Things like fighting against the ways of the world, because the ways of the world are so different from our ways. What we as Christians experience today, this minute, is no different than what Christians have been experiencing for hundreds of years.
After my second class, I stayed behind to talk to my professor for a little bit. I forget how the conversation started, but we talked about struggles we've had, and that we've witnessed in others. How he struggled with depression without knowing that he even had it. How I had to fight a life-affecting phobia in high school. How a beloved friend of mine struggled with her self-image. And my professor and I talked about how we had loved ones who helped us through those hard times. For him, it was a psychologist friend who realized that my professor had depression. For me, it was Joshua who helped me fight the phobia till it's now almost gone. And more than anything, it was our faith in Christ that got us through.
Then my friend Stephanie and I were working together at the library. And we started talking about our faith, struggles we've had, things we've learned, ways God has taught us and brought us closer to him in the last few years. And we realized how much we have in common, and she and I were able to encourage each other and just listen. She's a good listener. :)
Tonight our dear friends Ruth and Joe came over with yummy snacks and a great movie, to keep sick little me company while Joshua was at work. It was exactly what I needed.
In so many ways, God has revealed himself to me. So many people have been Christ to me throughout my life. They have been his hands, his arms, his smile, his voice. God has chosen to love me through other people. Through them I know that God takes care of me. That he is always near me. That he is watching over me, and that he has my life, my self, my soul in his hands. That he has been working in everything in my life for my good and his glory.
"Never will I leave you," Jesus told his disciples. "Never will I forsake you."
He hasn't. He won't.
Friday, January 20, 2012
The Vivid Grace of God
Vivid:
The realization, once again, of how much my husband loves me. He demonstrates it in so many ways. He says it without words. He tells me verbally. He gives me loving looks. His love is a huge thing in my life.
Vivid:
The way God works. It's not always this clear. But there are times, like this week, when it nearly knocks me over how bold and grace-full and loving He is. Putting people where they need to be, when they need to be there, with the people with whom they need to be.
Vivid:
My happiness singing in choir this week. I missed it SO MUCH last semester. It's such a joyful thing, lifting my voice in song, praising God, reminded of his goodness and forgiveness in the words I sing.
Vivid:
The kindness of God demonstrated in the kindness of others: my in-laws for taking us to Minnesota to get the car tomorrow, co-workers at the library covering for me, my boss in understanding when I got my schedule screwed up.
Vivid:
The way God blesses us beyond my wildest dreams. And even when it seems like we need more...we always have enough.
Vivid:
My peace despite circumstances that often cause worry.
Vivid:
The love of God shown me in hugs from a friend, a note from my mom, and so many ways from my husband.
Linking up today with Your Thriving Family, finding joy, and The Gypsy Mama. These are my friday favorite things, written on for five minutes based on the word "vivid"!
Thursday, January 19, 2012
God speaks to me!
The realization of this hits me every now and then.
I have the very words of God, THE God, the only God, the One who created the entire universe including me... I have his words in a book in my lap.
How crazily incredible IS that?!?!?
And it's all about how he loved the world SO much that he sent his Son Jesus to save the entire world from their sins. And that whoever believes that can spend eternity with God in heaven. That's the whole story of the Bible--salvation. It's amazing!!
Today's Joy Dare is to find "3 blessings from God's Word."
Well. That's not too hard! :)
In my Christian Doctrine (specifically Lutheran doctrine) class this morning we were talking about the Holy Spirit. Several passages from John were particularly wonderful:
"And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor--to be with you forever--the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you." John 14:16-17
I find so much comfort in this. Jesus was preparing his disciples for his death and eventual ascension into heaven, which meant he no longer would be physically with them. But Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit--the Counselor, the Comforter, the Spirit of Truth. And that same Spirit lives in and with me.
Another passage from the same chapter (it's a discourse that includes quite a lot on the Holy Spirit) is verse 27: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
Oh, I worry and fear so much. I let Satan take away the peace that God longs to fill me with. I worry about the future, about finances, about health, about so many things...but God has that all under control. He doesn't want me to worry about it because I don't have to. Instead, he wants to give me his peace. Such grace!
A Bible verse that came to mind today is actually from Esther. Her cousin Mordecai told her of a plot that a Persian official had against the Jews, Esther's people. Esther had been made the Queen of Persia, Xerxes' wife, and she was the only one who could interfere in order to save her people. Mordecai said to her, "Who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14b). I'm not in royal position, but I think God puts us in certain places for very specific reasons. Not all the time, perhaps, but certainly some times. Today I realized one reason he had me sit beside someone in a class last year. This girl and I have become very good friends, and we understood today one extremely important reason why God brought us together: he knew we would really need each other, and that we could be a mutual comfort, encouragement and support to one another.
God's Word is SUCH a blessing...and those are some of the ways he blessed me with his Word today.
Linking up with Women Living Well and Deep Roots at Home
I have the very words of God, THE God, the only God, the One who created the entire universe including me... I have his words in a book in my lap.
How crazily incredible IS that?!?!?
And it's all about how he loved the world SO much that he sent his Son Jesus to save the entire world from their sins. And that whoever believes that can spend eternity with God in heaven. That's the whole story of the Bible--salvation. It's amazing!!
Today's Joy Dare is to find "3 blessings from God's Word."
Well. That's not too hard! :)
In my Christian Doctrine (specifically Lutheran doctrine) class this morning we were talking about the Holy Spirit. Several passages from John were particularly wonderful:
"And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor--to be with you forever--the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you." John 14:16-17
I find so much comfort in this. Jesus was preparing his disciples for his death and eventual ascension into heaven, which meant he no longer would be physically with them. But Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit--the Counselor, the Comforter, the Spirit of Truth. And that same Spirit lives in and with me.
Another passage from the same chapter (it's a discourse that includes quite a lot on the Holy Spirit) is verse 27: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
Oh, I worry and fear so much. I let Satan take away the peace that God longs to fill me with. I worry about the future, about finances, about health, about so many things...but God has that all under control. He doesn't want me to worry about it because I don't have to. Instead, he wants to give me his peace. Such grace!
A Bible verse that came to mind today is actually from Esther. Her cousin Mordecai told her of a plot that a Persian official had against the Jews, Esther's people. Esther had been made the Queen of Persia, Xerxes' wife, and she was the only one who could interfere in order to save her people. Mordecai said to her, "Who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14b). I'm not in royal position, but I think God puts us in certain places for very specific reasons. Not all the time, perhaps, but certainly some times. Today I realized one reason he had me sit beside someone in a class last year. This girl and I have become very good friends, and we understood today one extremely important reason why God brought us together: he knew we would really need each other, and that we could be a mutual comfort, encouragement and support to one another.
God's Word is SUCH a blessing...and those are some of the ways he blessed me with his Word today.
Linking up with Women Living Well and Deep Roots at Home
Saturday, December 10, 2011
catch-up and God-talk
I haven't had much time to write, and haven't been able to think of much to write about.
Finals week begins Monday. I only have one test, but six papers to write this week. None are terribly long, but it's a little overwhelming. I did finish a short story this evening, with Joshua's help to get the male perspective accurate. I'm quite pleased with how it turned out.
This week has been fairly typical otherwise. Last week of classes. I feel perpetually sleep-deprived. That's partly my own fault, though. Last night there was a formal dance and we went with Ruth and Joe, and then went to IHOP for a midnight pancake run. I've never been to IHOP at all and certainly not at such an hour! But it was fun, and delicious. We didn't get home till 2:30, however, so this morning was slow and lazy. But it was nice. :)
Today I also got laundry and grocery shopping done. It's nice to have clean clothes and a full fridge!
The story I wrote is based on the experiences Joshua and I had over Thanksgiving break: broken-down car, both of us upset, tow truck ride, all that. My English professor had an incredible insight when she read the story. I wrote about how the young couple in the story (basically us) had to put the car in neutral, and let the tow truck driver take control of the car to get it on the truck and driven to the repair shop. The couple had to let go of the wheel entirely and trust their car to someone else. They had to let him take the wheel and just go along with the ride.
I'm surprised I didn't see the spiritual application of this story myself, but I'm sure glad my teacher did. We have to let God take control. We have to get in the passenger seat, let go of our lives, and let him take us where we need to go, where we'll be safe. Considering that the story is based on real life...it was very emotional for me. It's like God was talking to me, but it took nearly two weeks for me to hear the message, and then I had to be told by someone else what it was.
I hear you, Lord. Let you take over. Trust you. Don't worry. Don't fret. Sit back and enjoy the ride. Life is so much easier when I don't have to focus on the particulars of the trip--when I don't see what's ahead in the road. Because you, God, can see, and you'll get me through everything safely.
Finals week begins Monday. I only have one test, but six papers to write this week. None are terribly long, but it's a little overwhelming. I did finish a short story this evening, with Joshua's help to get the male perspective accurate. I'm quite pleased with how it turned out.
This week has been fairly typical otherwise. Last week of classes. I feel perpetually sleep-deprived. That's partly my own fault, though. Last night there was a formal dance and we went with Ruth and Joe, and then went to IHOP for a midnight pancake run. I've never been to IHOP at all and certainly not at such an hour! But it was fun, and delicious. We didn't get home till 2:30, however, so this morning was slow and lazy. But it was nice. :)
Today I also got laundry and grocery shopping done. It's nice to have clean clothes and a full fridge!
The story I wrote is based on the experiences Joshua and I had over Thanksgiving break: broken-down car, both of us upset, tow truck ride, all that. My English professor had an incredible insight when she read the story. I wrote about how the young couple in the story (basically us) had to put the car in neutral, and let the tow truck driver take control of the car to get it on the truck and driven to the repair shop. The couple had to let go of the wheel entirely and trust their car to someone else. They had to let him take the wheel and just go along with the ride.
I'm surprised I didn't see the spiritual application of this story myself, but I'm sure glad my teacher did. We have to let God take control. We have to get in the passenger seat, let go of our lives, and let him take us where we need to go, where we'll be safe. Considering that the story is based on real life...it was very emotional for me. It's like God was talking to me, but it took nearly two weeks for me to hear the message, and then I had to be told by someone else what it was.
I hear you, Lord. Let you take over. Trust you. Don't worry. Don't fret. Sit back and enjoy the ride. Life is so much easier when I don't have to focus on the particulars of the trip--when I don't see what's ahead in the road. Because you, God, can see, and you'll get me through everything safely.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
comforts of home
As I write there is oatmeal bread in the oven, just about done, and vegetable-beef soup on the stove (I didn't realize how long of a project that is, but oh it's going to be worth it!). Joshua and I have been lounging in pajama pants and t-shirts since we got home from church. It's been a wonderful, relaxing, couple-bonding day. And I got to do some cleaning and cooking, so I'm pretty happy. :)
It's amazing how my emotions rise and fall, how days and weeks can have such a combination of bad and good. Whoever first compared life to a roller coaster sure had it right.
That's just how it is here on earth, I suppose. The good parts more than make up for the bad. God is gracious, even though we're living in a world of sin. He lets us experience little glimpses of his glory, his goodness, and the perfection that he is preparing for us in heaven. So many good gifts fill every single day, more than I can count, and far more than I ever thank God properly for. And yet he keeps them coming.
This marriage-thing is wonderful: on the days when I'm sad or upset or frustrated, Joshua is there to help ease them. On the days when I'm being a snotty little brat (because I sure can be!), he is there to put me in my place and help make me aware of my sinfulness. And on the days when I'm happy, content, and joyful, he shares in those things and makes them all the more sweet.
Today I'm reveling in these comforts:
comfy clothes
comfort food
a warm home
a calm, relaxed mind
the gentle presence of my husband
the peaceful presence of the Holy Spirit.
It's a good day today.
It's amazing how my emotions rise and fall, how days and weeks can have such a combination of bad and good. Whoever first compared life to a roller coaster sure had it right.
That's just how it is here on earth, I suppose. The good parts more than make up for the bad. God is gracious, even though we're living in a world of sin. He lets us experience little glimpses of his glory, his goodness, and the perfection that he is preparing for us in heaven. So many good gifts fill every single day, more than I can count, and far more than I ever thank God properly for. And yet he keeps them coming.
This marriage-thing is wonderful: on the days when I'm sad or upset or frustrated, Joshua is there to help ease them. On the days when I'm being a snotty little brat (because I sure can be!), he is there to put me in my place and help make me aware of my sinfulness. And on the days when I'm happy, content, and joyful, he shares in those things and makes them all the more sweet.
Today I'm reveling in these comforts:
comfy clothes
comfort food
a warm home
a calm, relaxed mind
the gentle presence of my husband
the peaceful presence of the Holy Spirit.
It's a good day today.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Blessings this Thursday
Lipstick on the edge of the cup that held a "Caramel Royal" (aka a Caramel Machiatto!).
Reading my story, aloud, to a whole class. Encouragement from our professor.
A poetry presentation. Feeling confident and prepared in front of the room. Insights from classmates that I never would have thought of.
Laughter at the beginning of philosophy: grammar-related. A funny email that the professor shared with us. :)
Sitting downstairs (instead of in the balcony) with a beloved teacher for chapel.
Unexpected income from babysitting.
A blustery, leaves-in-the-air autumn day.
Rain and sunshine, chill and warmth, clouds and blue skies, all in the same day.
The joy and singing of a four-year-old.
Sandwiches and chocolate for lunch (thanks to my awesome hubby).
Ten extra hours of work this week: extra income. Financial breather.
Good health. Healing hubby.
My husband suggested that I get a new dress for the homecoming dance. I'm going "thrifting" with a friend to get it. :) <3
Work. An education.
Home. Bed. Kitchen.
So many more...so many gifts. All is grace.
linking up to black tag diaries for Thankful Thursday!
Reading my story, aloud, to a whole class. Encouragement from our professor.
A poetry presentation. Feeling confident and prepared in front of the room. Insights from classmates that I never would have thought of.
Laughter at the beginning of philosophy: grammar-related. A funny email that the professor shared with us. :)
Sitting downstairs (instead of in the balcony) with a beloved teacher for chapel.
Unexpected income from babysitting.
A blustery, leaves-in-the-air autumn day.
Rain and sunshine, chill and warmth, clouds and blue skies, all in the same day.
The joy and singing of a four-year-old.
Sandwiches and chocolate for lunch (thanks to my awesome hubby).
Ten extra hours of work this week: extra income. Financial breather.
Good health. Healing hubby.
My husband suggested that I get a new dress for the homecoming dance. I'm going "thrifting" with a friend to get it. :) <3
Work. An education.
Home. Bed. Kitchen.
So many more...so many gifts. All is grace.
linking up to black tag diaries for Thankful Thursday!
Friday, September 30, 2011
Stressed but Blessed
That's what I said to a friend on facebook today. I'm stressed but blessed.
You don't need to hear my current list of stressers. It's a mile long and I don't really want to remind myself. I will boldly ask for prayers for my sick husband, however!!
I've had two different friends today give me comfort, encouragement and a reality check. Not to mention hugs and the reassurance that it's okay to cry. Thanks, guys: you know who you are. They reminded me that it's all about perspective: things could be a lot worse, and I have SOOOOO much to be thankful for. They were reminders themselves of how blessed I am. God has put the most amazing friends into Joshua's and my lives, and lately I've been running into them exactly when I needed to hear what they had to say. God, you're awesome.
Anyway, so the things I have to be thankful for, to put my life back into perspective:
Joshua could be much more sick. Or he could have had to skip work today instead of just class. He's able to take time to rest, which he really needs. And since he's home sick, we won't be doing much this weekend. I can't wait.
The weather lately has been gorgeous. I love walking to and from school every day, and the sunshine lifts my spirits.
Financially, God continues to provide: perhaps not in the ways I want him to, but in the ways he knows are best.
We eat so well. Even on a budget. :)
I LOVE my job at the library. It's hardly work at all. Usually it's a time to take a breath, relax, and chat with the amazing people I work with.
God is gracious, forgiving, and loving every day, no matter what.
Joshua and I got our papers DONE last night that were due this morning, and we both felt good about the end results.
I have an amazing husband and I have the honor and privilege of loving him and caring for him. I can't wait to go home to him this evening. :)
Whew. I feel so much better now. Seriously, whenever you're having a rough day and/or feeling sorry for yourself and/or feeling like everything that could go wrong is going wrong...count your blessings. God is so amazing.
Joy and peace to you this day, in His Name!!
You don't need to hear my current list of stressers. It's a mile long and I don't really want to remind myself. I will boldly ask for prayers for my sick husband, however!!
I've had two different friends today give me comfort, encouragement and a reality check. Not to mention hugs and the reassurance that it's okay to cry. Thanks, guys: you know who you are. They reminded me that it's all about perspective: things could be a lot worse, and I have SOOOOO much to be thankful for. They were reminders themselves of how blessed I am. God has put the most amazing friends into Joshua's and my lives, and lately I've been running into them exactly when I needed to hear what they had to say. God, you're awesome.
Anyway, so the things I have to be thankful for, to put my life back into perspective:
Joshua could be much more sick. Or he could have had to skip work today instead of just class. He's able to take time to rest, which he really needs. And since he's home sick, we won't be doing much this weekend. I can't wait.
The weather lately has been gorgeous. I love walking to and from school every day, and the sunshine lifts my spirits.
Financially, God continues to provide: perhaps not in the ways I want him to, but in the ways he knows are best.
We eat so well. Even on a budget. :)
I LOVE my job at the library. It's hardly work at all. Usually it's a time to take a breath, relax, and chat with the amazing people I work with.
God is gracious, forgiving, and loving every day, no matter what.
Joshua and I got our papers DONE last night that were due this morning, and we both felt good about the end results.
I have an amazing husband and I have the honor and privilege of loving him and caring for him. I can't wait to go home to him this evening. :)
Whew. I feel so much better now. Seriously, whenever you're having a rough day and/or feeling sorry for yourself and/or feeling like everything that could go wrong is going wrong...count your blessings. God is so amazing.
Joy and peace to you this day, in His Name!!
Sunday, September 18, 2011
When the sun shines through
It's been cloudy, misty and chilly here for several days on end. I know the weather has its cycles and days like those are just as necessary as the sunny days, but I never feel fully awake or cheerful when it's cloudy and gray all the time.
Today the sun shone again.
I feel so much happier and cheerier. My spirit feels uplifted and I feel as if a weight has been lifted off my shoulders, and I feel more awake.
Those stretches of cloudy, wet days affect my spirits--my emotions--but they shouldn't necessarily affect my spirit--my soul.
The Holy Spirit lives in me all the time, no matter how I feel emotionally. The joy that is in me as a result of being a saved, forgiven, loved child of God is not dependent on any outside, physical circumstances. Sometimes it feels like it is. But no matter how I can feel, I always have so much to be thankful for, so many blessings that I can't even count them all.
So on those cloudy days, I can count on the knowledge that I'm loved and blessed by God--and wait for the sun to shine again. Because it always will.
Today the sun shone again.
I feel so much happier and cheerier. My spirit feels uplifted and I feel as if a weight has been lifted off my shoulders, and I feel more awake.
Those stretches of cloudy, wet days affect my spirits--my emotions--but they shouldn't necessarily affect my spirit--my soul.
The Holy Spirit lives in me all the time, no matter how I feel emotionally. The joy that is in me as a result of being a saved, forgiven, loved child of God is not dependent on any outside, physical circumstances. Sometimes it feels like it is. But no matter how I can feel, I always have so much to be thankful for, so many blessings that I can't even count them all.
So on those cloudy days, I can count on the knowledge that I'm loved and blessed by God--and wait for the sun to shine again. Because it always will.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
A Day of Rest...and Productivity
Sleeping in this morning. Necessary after a late night with friends and then with my husband. :)
Homemade oatmeal-bread-toast and tea for breakfast!
Smiles and tears in church, joy and tragedy (a plane crashed at the local airport this morning), thankfulness and blessings, the Word spoken and sung.
Easy, yummy, filling lunch. Doing the dishes together. Getting the kitchen into a little better order. (It never ends...)
Spontaneous romance.
Walking to work, hand in hand, such a cool and wonderful sunny day!!
Making pizza for several hundred people, with a lovely young lady, discovering a connection we didn't know we had.
Legs and feet throbbing after work, but thankful for the exercise, the ability to move and work.
A hot, long, soothing, refreshing shower. Bliss.
Hubby laying out my nightgown and bathrobe, making tea and more toast for an evening snack.
Smallville. A shared passion (obsession?).
Looking forward to tomorrow, with hope, with excitement, with peace.
Homemade oatmeal-bread-toast and tea for breakfast!
Smiles and tears in church, joy and tragedy (a plane crashed at the local airport this morning), thankfulness and blessings, the Word spoken and sung.
Easy, yummy, filling lunch. Doing the dishes together. Getting the kitchen into a little better order. (It never ends...)
Spontaneous romance.
Walking to work, hand in hand, such a cool and wonderful sunny day!!
Making pizza for several hundred people, with a lovely young lady, discovering a connection we didn't know we had.
Legs and feet throbbing after work, but thankful for the exercise, the ability to move and work.
A hot, long, soothing, refreshing shower. Bliss.
Hubby laying out my nightgown and bathrobe, making tea and more toast for an evening snack.
Smallville. A shared passion (obsession?).
Looking forward to tomorrow, with hope, with excitement, with peace.
Peacefulness and Thankfulness
All I hear is the gentle ticking of the clock. It's a constant reminder of the one in my parents' living room: if I were to close my eyes, I could imagine myself there.
It's almost completely silent besides the clock this morning. 9:30 on a Sunday, I'm up, my husband is still asleep on the other side of the wall. Curiously, I notice that I'm filled with an inner peace. I've felt it before, but not for a while, or at least I haven't been aware of it for some time. There's no worrying, no frustration, no distress.
Thank you God.
I'm content with my life, with who I am, with the way things are. The silence makes me peaceful, too. I know there are dishes in the sink and church clothes to decide on, but that's okay. There's no rush this morning.
It's nice, this feeling that everything is all right with the world. I don't always feel this way. Sometimes the worry takes over, my imagination running wild with "what if"s. And I destroy my own inner peace. I know why. It's because I try to figure everything out for myself, by myself. I don't always have to understand the why's or how's. This contentment that I feel? It's a "peace that surpasses understanding." The Holy Spirit doesn't think like I do. He doesn't let worry get in his way. He has the ability to snuff anxiety out like a tiny candle, and replace it with this gentle, comfortable, relaxing feeling--my breathing is even and slow, my features are relaxed, my stomach is knot-less, and no unhappy thought is filling my head.
This is what happens when I let God take control of my life. Trying to do it myself never really works. God's much better at handling my life than I am. If only I could remember that all the time: give in to this sweet surrender, let Him take care of everything, every day.
Every morning could feel like this, with the Spirit filling my home and my heart.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." -Philippians 4:6-7
"Your beauty...should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth to God." -1 Peter 3:3a & 4
It's almost completely silent besides the clock this morning. 9:30 on a Sunday, I'm up, my husband is still asleep on the other side of the wall. Curiously, I notice that I'm filled with an inner peace. I've felt it before, but not for a while, or at least I haven't been aware of it for some time. There's no worrying, no frustration, no distress.
Thank you God.
I'm content with my life, with who I am, with the way things are. The silence makes me peaceful, too. I know there are dishes in the sink and church clothes to decide on, but that's okay. There's no rush this morning.
It's nice, this feeling that everything is all right with the world. I don't always feel this way. Sometimes the worry takes over, my imagination running wild with "what if"s. And I destroy my own inner peace. I know why. It's because I try to figure everything out for myself, by myself. I don't always have to understand the why's or how's. This contentment that I feel? It's a "peace that surpasses understanding." The Holy Spirit doesn't think like I do. He doesn't let worry get in his way. He has the ability to snuff anxiety out like a tiny candle, and replace it with this gentle, comfortable, relaxing feeling--my breathing is even and slow, my features are relaxed, my stomach is knot-less, and no unhappy thought is filling my head.
This is what happens when I let God take control of my life. Trying to do it myself never really works. God's much better at handling my life than I am. If only I could remember that all the time: give in to this sweet surrender, let Him take care of everything, every day.
Every morning could feel like this, with the Spirit filling my home and my heart.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." -Philippians 4:6-7
"Your beauty...should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth to God." -1 Peter 3:3a & 4
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Before I Let the Worry Set In
"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?...Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?...So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'
For the pagans run after all these things, and
your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."
~Matthew 6:25, 27, 31-34
There is no point in worrying. It's not productive, it doesn't help, it only makes me and those around me upset. God knows everything I need. He desires me to keep my priorities in order: first God, his kingdom and righteousness, and then other things. When God is the most important thing in my life, everything else will fall into place.
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guide your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
~Philippians 4:4-7
As my mom has said: "Thanksgiving is the antidote to worry--the source of peace." When we realize all our blessings, everything we have to be thankful for, our worries and troubles seem so much less and are put into perspective. When there's so much for which we can thank God, how can we fret for what we think we don't have?
"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,
to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."
~Ephesians 3:20-21
For the pagans run after all these things, and
your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."
~Matthew 6:25, 27, 31-34
There is no point in worrying. It's not productive, it doesn't help, it only makes me and those around me upset. God knows everything I need. He desires me to keep my priorities in order: first God, his kingdom and righteousness, and then other things. When God is the most important thing in my life, everything else will fall into place.
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guide your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
~Philippians 4:4-7
As my mom has said: "Thanksgiving is the antidote to worry--the source of peace." When we realize all our blessings, everything we have to be thankful for, our worries and troubles seem so much less and are put into perspective. When there's so much for which we can thank God, how can we fret for what we think we don't have?
"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,
to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."
~Ephesians 3:20-21
Friday, July 29, 2011
His Strength, Not Mine
A friend posted this on her blog last night:
We've heard it so many times, the cliche has dulled the sharp edges of how hard it can sometimes be to believe: God never gives you more than you can handle. Everything has passed in front of the Inspector for approval.
In my comment I said this:
Sometimes I think God has more confidence in my ability to handle things than I do. Then I remember: He doesn't have confidence in my strength. I simply need to have confidence in his. "I can do all things through HIM who gives me strength"!! (Philippians 4:13)
Sometimes life is tough. Being a believer doesn't mean everything goes the way I want it to. I'm still a sinful person, so often, the way I want things to go is not the way God wants them to. Sometimes I feel like it's too much, more than I can handle, more than I can bear.
But it's not more than God can handle. On the cross he bore the sins of all of mankind, the weight of every wrongdoing that every person has ever committed or will commit. That's huge. He, therefore, can bear the weight of my struggles, my weaknesses, and my sorrows. He wants to bear them, because he knows I can't, and because he loves me.
Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
What grace. What love.
We've heard it so many times, the cliche has dulled the sharp edges of how hard it can sometimes be to believe: God never gives you more than you can handle. Everything has passed in front of the Inspector for approval.
In my comment I said this:
Sometimes I think God has more confidence in my ability to handle things than I do. Then I remember: He doesn't have confidence in my strength. I simply need to have confidence in his. "I can do all things through HIM who gives me strength"!! (Philippians 4:13)
Sometimes life is tough. Being a believer doesn't mean everything goes the way I want it to. I'm still a sinful person, so often, the way I want things to go is not the way God wants them to. Sometimes I feel like it's too much, more than I can handle, more than I can bear.
But it's not more than God can handle. On the cross he bore the sins of all of mankind, the weight of every wrongdoing that every person has ever committed or will commit. That's huge. He, therefore, can bear the weight of my struggles, my weaknesses, and my sorrows. He wants to bear them, because he knows I can't, and because he loves me.
Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
What grace. What love.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
A Happy Heart
The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:6-7)
My mom Skype-messaged this passage to me today.
God is in control. God has my life in his hands. God knows the future. God is all-good, all-loving, all-knowing, and all-powerful. God loves me. God takes care of all my needs.
Money is just money. Things are just things. They have little to no eternal significance--but the way they are used does have eternal significance. What am I putting my trust in? How am I using the gifts God has given me? He is faithful. He is gracious.
Worrying does nothing. Fretting does nothing. Being afraid does nothing. Fear, worry, are of the Enemy. Trust, comfort, peace are of God.
I am blessed. I have so much. There is so much to be thankful for. My mom wrote, "Thanksgiving is the antidote to worry...the source of peace." It's hard to be worried when I'm thanking God for what he's already given me. And there's a lot to thank Him for!
I love and am loved by the most wonderful man on earth. I could not ask for more in a husband. I have parents--two sets, basically! :)--who love me dearly. I have grandparents who treat me like their daughter, loving me and being generous with me. I have a home, clothes, plenty of food every day.
I remember the Veggie Tales episode about Madame Blueberry--the blueberry who had every thing she wanted, but she was still sad because she didn't understand thankfulness. She learned a very important lesson: "A thankful heart is a happy heart."
By God's grace, I have a happy heart. :)
My mom Skype-messaged this passage to me today.
God is in control. God has my life in his hands. God knows the future. God is all-good, all-loving, all-knowing, and all-powerful. God loves me. God takes care of all my needs.
Money is just money. Things are just things. They have little to no eternal significance--but the way they are used does have eternal significance. What am I putting my trust in? How am I using the gifts God has given me? He is faithful. He is gracious.
Worrying does nothing. Fretting does nothing. Being afraid does nothing. Fear, worry, are of the Enemy. Trust, comfort, peace are of God.
I am blessed. I have so much. There is so much to be thankful for. My mom wrote, "Thanksgiving is the antidote to worry...the source of peace." It's hard to be worried when I'm thanking God for what he's already given me. And there's a lot to thank Him for!
I love and am loved by the most wonderful man on earth. I could not ask for more in a husband. I have parents--two sets, basically! :)--who love me dearly. I have grandparents who treat me like their daughter, loving me and being generous with me. I have a home, clothes, plenty of food every day.
I remember the Veggie Tales episode about Madame Blueberry--the blueberry who had every thing she wanted, but she was still sad because she didn't understand thankfulness. She learned a very important lesson: "A thankful heart is a happy heart."
By God's grace, I have a happy heart. :)
Saturday, February 19, 2011
In the Morning...
This morning I awakened refreshed, peaceful, not weary and dreading climbing out of bed like I had been most days.
Since I began to open my heart and my life to Him more, God has filled me with a sense of peace and joy that I haven't felt in a long time--maybe never felt.
My Bible was lying on my desk when I got up, and like a thirsty person to water I was drawn to it. I like using my concordance when I'm not sure where to start reading, and appropriately to the time I looked up the word "morning" and found Psalm 5. The first three verses read,
"Give ear to my words, O LORD,
consider my sighing.
Listen to my cry for help,
my King and my God,
for to you I pray.
In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice;
in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation."
The whole psalm is a prayer asking God to bless, watch over, and protect the writer, David, and a plea for justice against David's enemies. Verse three doesn't mean that God only hears our prayers in the morning, but what better time, I thought as I began talking to God, what better time to lay requests before him than at the beginning of the day?
The first two verses of the hymn "With the Lord Begin Your Task" read as follows:
With the Lord begin your task; Jesus will direct it.
For His aid and counsel ask; Jesus will perfect it.
Every morn with Jesus rise, and when day is ended
In His name then close your eyes; be to Him commended.
Let each day begin with prayer, praise and adoration.
On the Lord cast every care; He is your salvation.
Morning, evening, and at night, Jesus will be near you,
Save you from the tempter's might, with His presence cheer you.
When I am beginning a new day, my desire is to honor and glorify God in every one of that day's thoughts, words and actions. He is always with me whether I ask for his presence or not, but when I request his presence and his guidance for that day, I know he will grant it. When I ask him to love and bless others through me, I know he will hear my prayer. When I thank him for his protection that night, thank him for a beautiful new day full of new grace, blessings and forgiveness, I know he hears me. When I praise him for his goodness, his power and might, the wonderful way he keeps all life in motion and gives me everything I need every day, I know he is there and has received my praise.
Knowing that my Creator is with me every moment of every day not only helps keep me from sinning but it is the greatest comfort I've experienced. The God who made me, who saved me and who loves me more than I can imagine, wants to be with me all the time; he wants me to spend my day talking to him, thanking and praising him and living in the joy of being loved by him.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 read, "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
I'm not always happy all the time, but my joy is not dependent on physical circumstances but on the knowledge that I am a loved, saved and forgiven daughter of Almighty God. The admonition to pray continually I don't see as a law but as a sweet invitation to be in constant fellowship with my Creator throughout the day. And the phrase "give thanks in all circumstances" reminds me that no matter how bad my life might seem, I always have many things to be thankful for, because God just blesses me that much.
Today, I am going to rest in the presence of the God who made and loves me, and pray that every day might be the same.
Since I began to open my heart and my life to Him more, God has filled me with a sense of peace and joy that I haven't felt in a long time--maybe never felt.
My Bible was lying on my desk when I got up, and like a thirsty person to water I was drawn to it. I like using my concordance when I'm not sure where to start reading, and appropriately to the time I looked up the word "morning" and found Psalm 5. The first three verses read,
"Give ear to my words, O LORD,
consider my sighing.
Listen to my cry for help,
my King and my God,
for to you I pray.
In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice;
in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation."
The whole psalm is a prayer asking God to bless, watch over, and protect the writer, David, and a plea for justice against David's enemies. Verse three doesn't mean that God only hears our prayers in the morning, but what better time, I thought as I began talking to God, what better time to lay requests before him than at the beginning of the day?
The first two verses of the hymn "With the Lord Begin Your Task" read as follows:
With the Lord begin your task; Jesus will direct it.
For His aid and counsel ask; Jesus will perfect it.
Every morn with Jesus rise, and when day is ended
In His name then close your eyes; be to Him commended.
Let each day begin with prayer, praise and adoration.
On the Lord cast every care; He is your salvation.
Morning, evening, and at night, Jesus will be near you,
Save you from the tempter's might, with His presence cheer you.
When I am beginning a new day, my desire is to honor and glorify God in every one of that day's thoughts, words and actions. He is always with me whether I ask for his presence or not, but when I request his presence and his guidance for that day, I know he will grant it. When I ask him to love and bless others through me, I know he will hear my prayer. When I thank him for his protection that night, thank him for a beautiful new day full of new grace, blessings and forgiveness, I know he hears me. When I praise him for his goodness, his power and might, the wonderful way he keeps all life in motion and gives me everything I need every day, I know he is there and has received my praise.
Knowing that my Creator is with me every moment of every day not only helps keep me from sinning but it is the greatest comfort I've experienced. The God who made me, who saved me and who loves me more than I can imagine, wants to be with me all the time; he wants me to spend my day talking to him, thanking and praising him and living in the joy of being loved by him.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 read, "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."
I'm not always happy all the time, but my joy is not dependent on physical circumstances but on the knowledge that I am a loved, saved and forgiven daughter of Almighty God. The admonition to pray continually I don't see as a law but as a sweet invitation to be in constant fellowship with my Creator throughout the day. And the phrase "give thanks in all circumstances" reminds me that no matter how bad my life might seem, I always have many things to be thankful for, because God just blesses me that much.
Today, I am going to rest in the presence of the God who made and loves me, and pray that every day might be the same.
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