Be Still

Be Still
Originally 2/15/08

Be still, and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10

We all have pressures. We are overwhelmed with school, work, church, friends and family. We find ourselves making hard decisions sometimes unpopular to those around us. We need time to think, to consult with our great counselor. We find it hard to be alone with God. It is true that the most wonderful way to get to know God is spending time with the Father. Distractions tug. We are tempted to choose another way. We become overwhelmed with other duties; we forget that God wants to spend time with us. We may even resist Him, thinking we can handle it all on our own.

When you take the time and be still, you can hear what God is saying. He will touch your heart and restore your spirit. He will listen to your pleas and concerns. He will comfort and direct. He will answer questions. He will rejoice with you.

Give yourself a time out. Find a place where there are no distractions. This may be hard to do at first, but soon you find you cannot live without it. Your anticipation will grow as you look forward to your spending time with your Father. Claim your time with God; your bond cannot be broken. Put up your DO NOT DISTURB sign as everything else takes a back seat. In the quiet place God will speak to you, if you are willing. If you really want to know Him, be silent and listen. He wants to have time with you so that you can know Him better.

Decision Making 101

Decision Making 101 Originally written 6/23/08 If any of you need wisdom, you should ask God, and it will be given to you. God is generous and won't correct you for asking.
James 1:5

How good are we at making decisions? Do we consider God’s plan in our life before taking that giant leap? Do we do our own research? Do we seek advice from a trusted follower of Christ? How about being reasonable and giving the idea careful thought? Do we listen to our conscience and when we do make a decision how long do we wait to finally act on it? As I began writing, I realize where I lack the skill or knowledge in making cautious and considerate decisions. Granted some decisions come easy. The outcome is generally harmless. Which salad dressing do I prefer on my salad? While other decisions may take more contemplation. What do we do to prepare ourselves for such an endeavor?

We must go to God with our concerns and questions. We must pray about what ever it is we are making a decision on. So I tell you to ask and you will receive, search and you will find, knock and the door will be opened for you. Luke 11:9. When we go to God for guidance, He will give it to us.

Gather all the information that you can. It may be impossible to get all the information, yet getting all we can, greatly increases our knowledge. Homes are built on the foundation of wisdom and understanding. Where there is knowledge, the rooms are furnished with valuable, beautiful things. Proverbs 24:3-4

Go to a trusted friend or mentor; this can help us in making sensible and important decisions. A wise man will listen and increase his learning, and a discerning man will obtain guidance. Proverbs 1:5

Remember not to get too impulsive. Sometimes we get hasty and make a rash decision, leaving us with unwanted and unwelcome results. Take your time to make a decision. In that time, evaluate the pros and cons. Even zeal is not good without knowledge, and the one who acts hastily sins. Proverbs 19:2

Listen to your inner voice. What is it saying to you? Trust your concerns as you would a trusted advisor. No one will say, Look, here it is! Or, There it is!’ because the Kingdom of God is within you. Luke 17:21

And finally when the time comes to make that very important decision; do it. Don’t put it off. Procrastination becomes the enemy of progress. Do not deceive yourselves by just listening to his word; instead, put it into practice. James 1:22

Often when we cannot make up our minds, we become miserable. Focus your thoughts on God and His will for your life. Thank God for the sense of right and wrong, the ability to think, for giving us a course of action and aptitude to act on decisions. You belong to God and He wants what is best for you. Don’t leave Him out. Strive to make decisions that are pleasing to the Father.

Why All the Suffering?

Why All the Suffering?
originally written
September 19, 2008

My friends be glad, even if you have a lot of trouble. You know that you learn to endure by having your faith tested. But you must learn to endure everything, so that you will be completely mature and not lacking in anything.
James 1:2-4

The prayer list was long. God put much on my heart to pray for today. Prayers for some that are close, some that live far away and some I don’t even know. The weight felt heavy, but as I breathed every word to God, the burden lifted. I put my trust and faith in Him to protect, to comfort, to guide and uphold.

I don’t understand why one must sit by and watch a loved die. Why does she have to go through this? The pain of watching a loved one suffer as they fight a disease can be unbearable. Although, we don’t want them to leave us, we pray to our Father that the pain will be disappear and our loved will have peace.

Why must a young mother carry the burden alone? She stands in being both parents to her two young children while her husband is deployed two oceans away. Why must she endure the waiting, hoping for the day her husband returns home? The thoughts that must go through her mind every day as she puts her husband in God’s hands. Oh, how she must miss him as she counts the days until he is home standing on protected soil.

There are so many family affected by the hurricane. Some have returned to find the devastation and destruction of their city and homes. The recovery may take months, even years to restore the coastline and what is considered back to normal for many of the folks that endured the storm.

Why does she have to go through the waiting period for a clean bill of health? Hasn’t she been through enough? She has gone through the exams and treatments but she still must wait. A period of time has been given for her to take the proper medications to ensure protection from any further cancers. While the medication does its job, it wreaks havoc on her body.

Then I wonder what God has planned for me and my job as it goes through reconstruction. Many lives will be affected as we wait, are placed and begin a different journey. So many questions unanswered, so many concerns of where I will be in a few months.

As we face trials, there is so much we can take from it. We can learn from the sufferings and trials of life. We learn to turn to God for understanding and deliverance. We make the effort to talk to God and ask questions. We learn about compassion, endurance and perseverance and we may be a blessing to another. We recognize the suffering that Christ Jesus went through for us. We learn obedience, let go of our concerns and put our total trust and faith in God.

No one suffered more than Job. Job lost everything. Job lost his children, his property, his wealth, his good name and his health. But through Job’s obedience and faith look what Job gained:

The LORD now blessed Job more than ever; he gave him fourteen thousand sheep, six thousand camels, a thousand pair of oxen, and a thousand donkeys. In addition to seven sons, Job had three daughters, whose names were Jemimah, Keziah, and Keren Happuch. They were the most beautiful women in that part of the world, and Job gave them shares of his property, along with their brothers. Job lived for another one hundred forty years--long enough to see his great-grandchildren have children of their own. Job 42: 12-16

Mercy And Grace

Mercy and Grace
originally written 7/17/08

If you had understood what the words mean, 'I want loving-kindness and not a gift to be given,' you would not say a person is guilty who has done no wrong.
Matthew 12:7

Is it hard for you to show mercy or grace to someone when you feel they may be undeserving? How have you felt when mercy or grace has been shown to you and it doesn’t feel deserving?

One of my pet peeves is how my daughters maintain their bathroom. Rather it should be the lack of maintenance. It drives me mad to use it, which is safe to say is only under extreme emergencies. I rarely do and I’m sure to suit up in my handy Hazmat suit, prior to entering. It often appears as if it hasn’t been cleaned in weeks. There is no toilet paper. At least it’s not on the roll dispenser where one may expect to find it. It’s usually hiding under a towel that that got tossed on the floor. Make up, hair products; a hair straighter or crimper is taking up space on the counter. And would it kill them to empty the wastebasket before it begins to overflow?

I get after them and say, "Get in here and do something about this bathroom.” I get the usual, “It wasn’t me, she made the mess” or “I will, I will.” So I put my foot down until they get so tired of my voice, and they clean. Even though I’m irritated and not pleased with their lack of concern on the subject, I still do not turn my children away when they need my help. I don’t do the check off list. “Well let’s see, you need advice in how to set up your school schedule to coincide with your work schedule? Did you finish that bathroom yet? Don’t come to me with your problems until you finish cleaning that bathroom?”

What if God did that to us? What if he waited until we had all our issues worked out and corrected before He listened to us? God isn’t waiting for everything to be perfect in our lives before we can receive His grace. God gives it to us even on our worst day. God is a loving God full of mercy; He just wants us to receive it. Even if we don’t feel we deserve His favor, He wants us to have it. We are to also show others the same type of grace no matter what our feelings my tell us. We may not feel a person is deserving of our mercy, but we are to forgive just as we have been forgiven.

Unexpected Gift

originally written 5/19/08

Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you. Ephesians 4: 29.

It was just want I needed. We never know the impact we leave on someone as we approach with our words; either in person, over the phone, or even by letter or email. That is why Paul reminds us to choose our words carefully, so that the results will be encouraging and helpful.

Today, I was surprised with this very gift, an unexpected gift, which made it all the more precious. A very dear Christian friend approached me, taking my hands into hers. As we greeted one another with a hug and hello, she looked at me directly in the eyes. She reminded me that she has been praying for me and always will.

Sometimes we allow ourselves to become distant and forget that others care. We become lonely as we isolate ourselves. We go into the self-protective mode not wanting to expose our thoughts or feelings. Our lives become filled with over whelming results; we redraw from those that can provide us with comfort and concern.

Today, I was given this unexpected gift. My friend remained mindful and considerate and she chose her words carefully. She gave me encouragement and hope. We never know who may need that kind of support or hand squeeze. Pray that God give you the words worthy of the One who saved us. I am so thankful for my friend. Her kindness, warmth and love, took my breath away.

Oh, I will also mention, the bonus; I always got a much needed hug. Thank you my friend. Your gift will forever remain in my heart.

Loyal Friend
Originally written 5/06/08

Some friendships do not last, but some friends are more loyal than brothers.
Proverbs 18:24

When we look at Paul, we can find that he had two good friends which remained loyal to him. Timothy a young man, who Paul mentored, became a faithful companion. We learn that Timothy came to know Christ through Paul’s counsel. Paul also had a friend named Epaphroditus. Paul thought very highly of this friend. Paul may have been popular and had a lot of people around him, but when he faced trouble many of those friends disappeared. Timothy and Epaphroditus remained steady and true.

Many people come and go in our lives, but we are truly blessed to have something in common with Paul. The friend that stays active and interested in our life, instead of fleeing at the first sign of trouble. Yes, our flesh will cause us to make mistakes and even the highest expectations can disappoint. But in truth, the loyal friend is a rare gift in which we can be thankful.

Do you have a friend like that? She sticks around to share your joy as well as hold you up when you are weak? Are you that kind of friend? A true friend gives her time, her wisdom, her compassion, and her energy to help another. A friend is not afraid to get involved in your life. God blesses us with such offerings, in knowing someone we can truly call our friend. Don’t be afraid to roll up your sleeves and return the favor.

Believing in Prayer
originally written 7/11/08

Trust GOD from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own.
Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track. Don't assume that you know it all. Run to GOD! Run from evil!
Your body will glow with health; your very bones will vibrate with life!
Honor GOD with everything you own; give him the first and the best. Your barns will burst your wine vats will brim over. Proverbs 3: 5-10

I was taken by surprise this week after having a conversation at work. A co-worker and I were having a chat about a situation in our work place. We both expressed our thoughts and opinions on the subject and laughed over the absurdity the issue has caused. In the middle of the conversation the co-worker states, “I’m not a big believer in prayer, but when this ‘thing’ was about to occur, I prayed it wouldn’t.”

I’m glad I have good muscle control over my jaw, because otherwise, I may have stood there with my mouth ajar after hearing the statement. From that point all I heard coming from my co-worker was, “mwah, mwah, mwah,” similar to Charlie Brown’s teacher. I had lost interest with the subject at hand and could only focus on what she has just admitted. Maybe I did drop my jaw with bewilderment after all.

The words stung me. Maybe it’s because I do believe in prayer. Maybe it’s because I do go to my Father with my thoughts, concerns and praises. Maybe it’s because I’m finishing up an extraordinary book by Sheila Walsh, titled 'Get Off Your Knees and Pray.' In this case you can judge a book by its cover, because it is about prayer. It’s a MUST READ, if every given the opportunity. It is how we relate to our God in prayer and how He relates to us. One of my favorites quotes from the book states: “There is no greater gift we can give God than our trust and there is nothing more liberating than to do it in prayer.”

When I first heard this statement by my co-worker, it saddened me. But after some thought I put it into perspective. God wanted me to hear her speak these words. If she went as far to say that she is willing to go to God for this one ‘thing’, then maybe her heart will be open to getting to know God more. We never know a persons heart by looking at them from the outside, nor is it our right to judge. However, I am thinking God brought this to my attention to remind me not to forget to pray for those seeking His presence. I don’t know this person’s heart, but God does. As a believer in Jesus my Savior, I do believe in prayer. I do believe God in control of all things. I do believe He places us in unusual situations to remind us that we are not all alike, yet all can call on our Father. I took this as a lesson to pray for those that may not know Jesus. I thank God for bringing this example to my attention. I thank my God for all things. In Jesus name, Amen.

A House Of Brick

A House of Brick
Originally written 9/28/07

Be Strong with the Lord and in the power of His might. Ephesians 6:10

Remember the story of the Three Little Pigs and how each built their homes? Only the third and wisest pig’s built his house of brick. That brick house came in handy when the Big Bad Wolf came to destroy it. The brick house withstood the powerful force of the wolf as he blew and blew. The strong foundation, the construction and quality of materials can often determine what is left after such a vicious attack. When we have to face our own personal storms, the strength will become visible in much the same way:

*A Solid Foundation - The truth we have built our life on - God’s truth.

*Attention and accuracy to the construction – The attention we are giving our growing faith.

*The quality of materials; His word and how God has given us the character to stand strong.

This will help us to stand strong in the winds of our own storms. When we rely only on ourselves, our house is sure to crumble. When we rely on God, He can withstand ALL storms.

I can do all things through Christ because he gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

Crossing the River Jordan
Originally written November 20, 2008

I've commanded you to be strong and brave. Don't ever be afraid or discouraged! I am the LORD your God and I will be there to help you wherever you go.
Joshua 1:9

Joshua had a new job as the new leader of Israel. This consisted of leading more than two million people into a new land. After Moses died, Joshua would be his successor. As Joshua prepared to lead a new generation by crossing the River Jordon, God reminded him of the importance to remain strong, courageous and have consistent faith.

In our every day lives we may be faced with daunting challenges, tough situation, complicated people and temptation. However, God does promise not to leave us or fail to help. By asking for God’s help we can conquer many of life’s challenges.

When we face adversity, either it being a new direction, or loosing our sense of security, it will be frightening without God. We may have just lost a dream or an unattainable goal. The journey we are used to traveling has suddenly come to a dead end. We may find our selves about to cross over to a new land in which we will need God’s strength and direction.

With God, it can be a new adventure. Just as God was with Joshua, He will be with us when we face new challenges. One certainty we have with God is there are no rivers too wide or too deep that we cannot cross. We will need a life jacket as the strong currents cause us to struggle to stay afloat. The hazards of fallen trees or strong rushing waters interfere with our safe crossing. There may be treacherous rock tearing into our flesh or danger beneath the water we cannot see. Yet, we know that God will safely get us to the other side. We may even look at these diversions as opportunity. Set backs can be an opportunity to choose differently; a more appropriate path. An opportunity to learn, to yield, to trust, to serve and grow in the area or direction God plans for us.

We must trust that God may be leading us in a completely different direction of HIS choosing. What may look like a raging river is actually the opening of a glorious ocean of opportunity according to God.

God gave Joshua three simple guidelines to follow as he faced the great challenge of leading millions into a strange new land.

1. Stay strong and courageous
2. Obey God’s law
3. Consistently read and study God’s word


Some of us gauge prosperity and success for having power or desire to get ahead. Success is often measured by worldly standards. But through God’s eyes, we will succeed. When we are faced with disappointments in life, we must remember that God is control. Ask God for his blessings today, tomorrow and forever, as our Father in Heaven is the giver of all things.