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When Circumstances Spin Out of Control

Posted in Bible Study, Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Prayer, Uncategorized on March 17, 2014| 10 Comments »

Remember the legends of knights in shining armor, rescuing damsels in distress?

Many young girls have daydreamed about such a warrior, rescuing them from school ( in time to miss the math test, please), from irritating siblings (who mess with our stuff), and from chores (which are so boring).

But, Sir Lancelot never did ride his steed up the street, clank up to the front door, and announce his desire to marry the maiden of the household. Warriors do not exist in today’s world.

Except, in a much more serious realm than fantasy land.

In the spiritual realm.

We have a Prayer Warrior. Someone who is continually presenting to God Almighty our needs.

“The Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express” (Romans 8:26).

Think of it. The Holy Spirit of God is praying for us!

When we’re highly distracted, and can’t keep our minds focused, the Spirit steps in and becomes our Champion.

During those times when we’re too distraught to put out thoughts into words, he comes to our aid.

When situations confound us, he knows what’s needed.

I’m thinking of the time our thirteen-year old daughter awoke us around 4:00 in the morning, because she was in terrible pain. After explaining the situation to our older son, we bundled Heather into the van, and sped to the ER.

En route, she lay in the fetal position, moaning intermittently, and sometimes crying out when a severe spasm cramped her midsection.

Those long moments on the road and then waiting in the ER were tortuous. I was the quintessential mother-in-distress, frustrated by helplessness and anxious about the outcome. Putting together a coherent prayer was out of the question.

I just repeated silently in my heart, “Oh, Jesus. Oh, Jesus. Oh, Jesus.”

Was that enough?

If, at that moment, I could have glimpsed into the heavenly realm, I may have witnessed the Holy Spirit taking firm hold of the situation and speaking eloquently to God the Father on our behalf.

Then, he would have communicated the fear in our hearts “with intense groanings that words could not express.” He knew the height of our anxiety. Words do not suffice at such a moment, any more than mere words can properly convey love or grief, or any number of emotions.

Ray Stedman (1917-1992), author and pastor, concluded: “Language is not essential to Divine intercession.” I agree.

God chose to intervene that morning. A physical exam and sonogram revealed that a cyst was causing all the trouble. Miraculously it burst on its own within hours of our arrival at the hospital. Surgery was not necessary. By 9:00, we were on our way home, with Heather resting comfortably.

* * * * * * * * * *

Oh, God, thank you for providing your Holy Spirit to come to our aid, to bear us up in our weakness. We do not know how to pray as we ought, and sometimes we don’t even know what to pray.

But your Spirit pleads on our behalf, even communicating unspeakable yearnings and groanings too deep for words. And because you, your Spirit, and your Son, Jesus, are three-in-one, you know the Spirit’s every thought. Inaudible prayers are more than sufficient.

We praise you, oh God, for the depth of your loving provision, especially when circumstances spin out of control.

(Art & photo credits: www.pinterest.com, www. dawnwhitmorespeaks.org.)

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Goodness and Mercy Will Follow

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Faithfulness, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Provision, Uncategorized, tagged Blessings, Faith, God's Goodness, God's Grace, God's Presence, God's Provision, Psalm 23:6 on March 13, 2014| 8 Comments »

“Surely goodness and mercy will follow me, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

Sound familiar? That’s the last verse of Psalm 23.

It turned up somewhere in my reading this week. Can’t remember exactly where.

But I do remember thinking, Wait a minute. Follow? Why didn’t David say, “Surely goodness and mercy are with me?” It doesn’t seem very helpful to have God’s goodness and mercy behind me.

After all these years of familiarity with this beloved psalm, I was suddenly quite puzzled. What could David’s statement mean?

I started with the dictionary. Did you know there are twelve different meanings for the verb, follow? Several of the definitions opened up new understanding for me. See what you think:

1. Follow means to be the result of, as in, “A discussion followed the presentation.”

God’s goodness and mercy are the result of availing ourselves of his shepherding, his watchful care and wise guidance (vs. 1-3). We don’t have to beg for his loving kindness; it is automatically bestowed as we trust in God. Isn’t that glorious?

“Your righteousness reaches to the skies, O God, you who have done great things. Who, O God, is like you” (Psalm 71:19)?

But. If we take a pass on his leadership, we have no right to expect his blessing.

2. Follow means to keep to or stick to, as in “Follow these guidelines.”

The Bible scholars of GOD’S WORD Translation must have embraced this definition. “God’s goodness and mercy will stay close to me,” they wrote. One commentator said these attributes of God cling to us. I like that, too.

3. Follow means to pursue, to move behind with the intention of overtaking as in “The detectives followed the suspect.”

Isn’t that wonderful imagery, of God pursuing us with his goodness and mercy and never giving up?

Those translators who have chosen stay close to me, or pursue, do enlighten our understanding. But one truth of David’s statement is best served with the more familiar verb, follow: We often don’t see God’s goodness and mercy until the experience has passed. It’s in looking back we see that he did pursue us and cling to us, lavishly imparting all his attributes.

For example, ever have one of those weeks when the to-do list is long, and there seems no way to accomplish it all? I’ve seen God engineer circumstances so that an item or two could be postponed, another one or two are cancelled, and a few don’t take as long as expected. One way or another, the list of tasks is checked off. And with a sigh of relief I look back and realize God had been following me, taking care of things as the week progressed.

“He rescues and he saves; he performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth” (Daniel 6:27). Even for one woman with too much to do.

Every time God demonstrates his close attention, I try to record the incident in my blessings journal. Watching that list grow has increased my faith; all the experiences have taught me I can continue to trust. The goodness and mercy of God will follow me all the days of my life.

* * * * * * * * * *

Oh, Father, I marvel to think your continual presence is close to me. I can turn to you at any moment and you are there, ready and waiting to minister to my needs. Out of your goodness you give me countless blessings that I don’t deserve; out of your mercy you have withheld consequences for my sin that I do deserve. Thank you for pursuing me with patience, gentleness, and compassion.

Now may I be passionate to follow you, all the remaining days of my life. “And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” How glorious to know that, even while living on earth, I can dwell in your presence within my spirit. I rejoice in your name all day long and exult in your righteousness, for you are my glory and strength (Psalm 89:16-17)!

(Photo credit: http://ourdailyblossom.com.)

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Times of Refreshing

Posted in Blessings, God's Goodness, God's Grace, Uncategorized, tagged Acts 3:19, Blessings, God's Goodness, God's Grace on February 24, 2014| 4 Comments »

“Times of refreshing may come from the Lord,” Peter said (Acts 3:19b).

I wonder: What might those refreshing times look like?

If we think about those moments that restore us physically and emotionally, we’ll find clues to the spiritual refreshment God offers.

For example, do you feel renewed after…

…a good night’s sleep?

Jesus offers rest for our souls (Matthew 11:29-30)–rest that includes insulation against fear and worry.

…a tall, cool glass of water on a hot day?

Jesus offers “a spring of water welling up to eternal life” (John 4:13-14). He was speaking of an enhanced life–characterized by peace, joy, and his comforting presence. Finally, this enhanced life will turn to ecstasy once we’re transported to heaven.

…a delicious meal?

Just as food satisfies our stomachs, God’s Word satisfies our spirits. The Bible fills us with truths that strengthen and promises that revive.

…a heart-to-heart chat with a friend?

God actually designed us for symbiotic relationship. “He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25). But the uplift is augmented when we know Jesus and seek his wisdom–his ways–in our interactions.

Then consider the relationship we have with Jesus himself. I can’t imagine living without him, can you? Just a quick reminder that he is in control and has a plan can ease any anxiety. When I affirm he will supply my needs and those of family and friends, I can breathe easier. Knowing he is always with me is great comfort. When I avail myself of these benefits, he does indeed restore my soul (Psalm 23:3a).

…a hot shower?

Nothing is quite as restorative as washing away the grime of the day and allowing the pelting water to ease weary muscles.

Peter spoke clearly and bluntly, “Repent…turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out” (Acts 3:19a).

Why do we resist repenting–confessing and turning away from those things we know deep down aren’t good for us? We’re like little kids, grungy and itchy from playing in the dirt, and resisting a bath!

But if we do not repent, if our sins are not wiped out, the times of refreshing from the Lord cannot come. Here’s the whole of Acts 3:19, parts A and B together:

“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”

I do not want to be tired, thirsty, hungry, lonely, or dirty in my spirit. Not when God’s refreshing grace is always available for renewal, restoration, and replenishment.

* * * * * * * * * *

So here I am, Lord, coming to you with a repentant heart. I don’t want to live in some remote wasteland, removed from your presence! Thank you for your restoration that is complete and your provision of refreshing times that are continual. All day long you replenish my spirit! Even in the night you restore my soul. Your loving kindness and grace are boundless, and my spirit soars with praise!

(Photo credit: http://www.wikimedia.org)

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Pray, Believe, and Fight

Posted in Blessings, Dreams, Encouragement, Faith, God's Power, God's Promises, Perseverance, Prayer, Uncategorized, Waiting on God, tagged Blessings, Encouragement, Faith, God's Power, God's Promises, God's Provision, God's Ways, Isaiah 61:3, Perseverance, Prayer on February 13, 2014| 15 Comments »

The place: Spindletop, Texas.

The time: 1892

A group of five investors formed the Gladys City Oil Company. Sulphur springs in the area gave them great hope that black gold lay beneath the surface, especially since gas seepages in the area would ignite if lit.

Soon the area was dotted with holes–holes that produced nothing. Two investors pulled out.

A geologist was brought in. More investors were convinced to take the risk.

Nine long, unproductive years went by, and still no oil. That’s 3,285 days of discouragement, disappointment, and exhausting labor. Yet those men would not give up.

Finally, on January 10, 1901, their long-held dreams were realized. At the depth of 1,139 feet, the company struck oil. And it wasn’t just a gurgling flow. The discovery at Spindletop gave new meaning to the term, “gusher.” The oil shot over one hundred feet into the air, spewing enough to fill 100,000 barrels a day. It took nine days to get the well under control. No oil field in the world, up to that time, had been so productive.

I wonder what those men said to each other each morning, over those 3,000-plus days of working, learning, waiting, and wondering? Surely their conversations included some positive uplift, or they would have quit. Perhaps they made such comments as:

“If we don’t find oil, at least we can say we gave the effort everything we’ve got. If we quit before all possibilities are tried? That‘s failure.”
“All the signs indicate there is oil. We can‘t quit!
“Today might be the day!”

* * * * * * * * * *

Just as oil is sometimes discovered by accident, so God’s blessings fall into our laps as glorious surprises. Other times, God chooses to postpone a blessing while we dig our way through learning, working, waiting, and wondering–like the oil men of Spindletop, Texas.

How do we press on when circumstances look bleak, when common sense tells us to quit?

1. Pray! The key to knowing when to persevere and when to change direction is to spend time with God. Ask him to make clear what the next step is. Most likely he will not reveal the whole plan at once. He rarely works that way, because it eliminates the faith factor. Our moment-by-moment trust in him is too crucial to the abundant living he desires for us.

2. Believe! Dozens of promises in scripture probably apply to your situation and mine. We can recite those promises–not as demands (“God, you said this, so I’m expecting you to do it.”) but as faith-builders. (“God, you said this, and I know with you all things are possible.”)

3. Fight! Fight against discouragement with plenty of encouragement. God is very creative in the ways he brings hope to our spirits. Often it’s through Bible reading and other Christian material. We must keep reading! Sometimes it’s in a sermon or a song. We must keep listening!

A friend or even a stranger can speak uplifting words that resonate in our hearts. Sometimes it’s as if God is speaking directly. One sign for me, that someone is speaking for God? Goosebumps! I can almost feel his light touch on my arm and his voice saying, “Pay attention to this, Nancy.”

Our God is a well of unending supply. Whatever we need in this life, including wisdom, direction, and perseverance toward a goal, he will provide. In fact, he will do whatever it takes for his praying, believing, fighting children to discover the oil of gladness, instead of mourning (over failure), a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.

That’s one way our loving, supportive Heavenly Father displays his splendor (Isaiah 61:3).

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Top Choices

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Goodness, Meditation, Praise, Uncategorized, Worship, tagged Appreciation, Blessings, Encouragement, Galatians 6:7, God's Goodness, Gratitude, Luke 6:45, Meditation, Philippians 4:8, Praise, Worship on February 6, 2014| 6 Comments »

Paul told his beloved friends in Philippi: “You’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse” (Philippians 4:8, The Message).

As a meditative exercise, I decided to choose one event, object, or truth which embodied adjectives from this verse. Which examples below are similar to choices you would make? What might you select that would be different?

One important truth:

“God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

That one was rather obvious, wasn’t it. The veracity and certainty of eternal life colors every moment of life with peace and joy. How incredibly splendorous!

One supreme example of nobility:

First, a definition. Nobility includes qualities of high moral character such as honor, generosity, and courage.

I have been blessed and influenced by many noble people. Any one of them would be worthy to contemplate and hold up as an example: family members, pastors, Sunday School teachers, youth group leaders, missionaries, colleagues, friends.

So if I stick my hand into an imaginary hat filled with their names on slips of paper, I might pull out…M. and L.

M. lost his job unfairly and in a hurtful way. But they persevered through that dark time with honor and courage. These two are also known for generosity and hospitality, in their church community and beyond.

One person of good repute:

Again, I have to put my hand into that hat and pull out . . .

…Rachel Asherman, my grandmother. To this day her grandchildren arise and call her blessed (Proverbs 31:28), because of her kind, gracious ways. Everyone loved Grandma Rachel.

One example of holy authenticity:

The Bible. How grateful I am for the reliability of God’s Word—filled with wisdom, promises, and encouragement. The more I learn of archaeology, prophecy, history, and creation science, the more astounded I am by the great volume of proof upholding its authenticity.

One item that demands compelling attention:

An impossible choice! As I contemplate towering mountains and tiny snowflakes, colorful flowers and majestic trees, soaring birds and fluttering butterflies, radiant rainbows and ethereal sunbeams, crashing waves and delicate seashells…my heart is filled with wonder and appreciation. And yet there is so much more!

God created such astounding beauty to display his attributes to us. With his power he carved out ocean beds. In wisdom he designed the evaporation cycle. With creative genius he splashed color over the earth–even out into the galaxies. His engineering prowess is highlighted in a honeycomb, and his artistry in a rose.

“The whole earth is full of his glory” (Isaiah 6:3)!

So where might that glory be most evident? Perhaps at the birth of a baby, when the little one takes that first breath of life and greets everyone with a wobbly cry. And surely there is glory in that moment when the parents first glimpse this new little person who will forever be entwined around their hearts.

Who is not compelled to give attention to that wonder? “The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life” (Job 33:4)!

One example of graciousness:

A dear friend, Dixie, died of a brain tumor a number of years ago. Her treasure of life stories included great heartache, but you wouldn’t have known that to look at her. Dixie seemed to live in a cloud of contentment and peace, never showing anger, never gossiping, never complaining. Her example is still an encouragement to me today.

* * * * * * * * * *

Thank you, Heavenly Father, for the bounty of beautiful things and inspiring people you have brought into my life. Meditation on all your blessings can keep me happily occupied for hours!

But you have ordained greater purpose in the exercise, because there is power generated by our thoughts. “The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart,” Jesus said, “. . . for out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks (Luke 6:45).”

That means the more I meditate on your goodness, the more goodness will come out of my mouth. And the more goodness that comes out of my mouth, the more will be evident in my life, because a man [woman] reaps what [s]he sows (Galatians 6:7).

May I make choices, moment by moment, that will demonstrate the overflow of your Spirit.

Top choices.

(Photo credits: http://www.heartlight.org; http://www.pexels.com; http://www.commonswikimedia.org; http://www.flicker.com; http://www.whattoexpect.com.)

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The Fullness of Christ

Posted in Blessings, Jesus, Uncategorized, tagged Blessings, Christ, Colossians 2:10, Ephesians 1:23, Fullness of Christ, Jesus on January 30, 2014| 12 Comments »

Ever attend an elaborate breakfast buffet that was a feast for the eyes as well as the appetite? Perhaps a kaleidoscope of sparkling fruit grabbed your attention first. Then you noticed the fresh breads of all shapes and sizes overflowing from broad baskets. And last, large chafing dishes displayed scrambled eggs, sausage, and French toast.

Just imagining the scene makes me want to be there! But that’s not enough. Someone who only observes such a display receives no benefit from the bounty. She has to partake in order to be fully satisfied.

Paul tells us in Colossians 2:10, “You have been given fullness in Christ.”

But there’s no benefit from his bountiful goodness if we don’t partake.

Just how do we do that–partake of the fullness in Christ? It’s one thing to talk about the concrete experience of participating in a buffet. You fill up a plate, sit down at a table, and eat. Simple!

It’s another matter to understand an abstract concept like “partaking of the fullness of Christ.” Here’s one view:

The fullness of Christ includes the fullness of his character, the fullness of his blessings, and the fullness of his promises.

Are you feeling empty, weak, or deficient? Come to Christ, to “the fullness of him who fills everything in every way” (Ephesians 1:23). Nothing is missing; nothing is left out. He is everything we need–everything that has to do with value and meaning in life, everything that has to do with joy, peace, and fulfillment.

I’m picturing a buffet, laid out for us by Jesus. But instead of fruit, bread, and egg dishes, I see attributes, blessings, and promises. Just as we fill our plates with delectable things at a buffet, we can fill our minds with everything exquisite about our Savior.

Here’s a sampler platter of…

…Christ’s attributes:

His constant presence (Matthew 28:20).
His tender compassion (Matthew 9:36).
His kindness and attentiveness as our Good Shepherd (John 10:14).

…Christ’s blessings:

The precious gift of eternal life (Romans 6:23).
Provision of everything we need (Matthew 6:31-33).
Peaceful rest from fear and worry (Matthew 11:28-30).

…Christ’s promises of:

Endless possibilities , because everything is possible with God (Mark 9:23).
Wisdom and guidance through the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17, 26).
Companionship with the King of the universe (John 14:23).

Chances are these are not astonishing new revelations to you, any more than berries, cinnamon buns, or sausage are never-tried foods. But if you are enjoying a delicious meal with someone, invariably you will talk about the delectable flavors, even though the dishes are familiar fare. Sharing augments the pleasure.

So talk about the fullness of Christ–his character, blessings, and promises. Even if you have to talk to yourself! Revel in his fullness–the bounty he provides.

* * * * * * * * * *

What aspect of the fullness of Christ is most precious to you and why? Join the conversation below!

(Photo credit: http://www.pixnio.com)

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The Touch of God

Posted in Blessings, God's Goodness, Uncategorized, tagged Appreciation, Blessing, God's Goodness, God's Presence on January 27, 2014| 11 Comments »

“No hugs today,” Laura said as she stepped back from my outstretched arms. “I’ve got a cold.” Laura proceeded to turn around and we shoulder-bumped, laughing like school girls.

You know what? That shoulder bump felt just as good as a hug. It provided connection, silly as it was.

Research shows that physical touch actually causes a number of health benefits. Lowered blood pressure and cortisol levels are two positive outcomes, which in turn reduce stress. In addition, the hormone, oxytocin, is released, creating a sense of well-being. Studies have also shown that touch eases asthma symptoms and migraines. The power of touch even impacts the quality of a person’s sleep.

And it’s not just hugs. Many different types of touch suffice. Of course, loving hugs from family members or friends would certainly be at the top of the list. But a squeeze around the shoulders, even a touch on the arm can have a positive influence, creating happiness and joy in our spirits.

In 2006, a research study determined we can accurately communicate a number of emotions through touch alone, including: anger, fear, disgust, love, gratitude, and sympathy. The study involved total strangers using touches on the forearm. No words, no body language, no facial expressions. Just touch.

There is power in human touch.

There is even greater power in the touch of God. Have you felt it?

Perhaps you’ve heard a sermon and the minister seemed to be speaking directly to you. That’s God’s hand on your shoulder, communicating encouragement. “You, see, child? This is the way that will take you forward.”

Perhaps you’ve been overcome with emotion at the sight of sunbeams breaking through rose-hued clouds. That’s God enveloping you in a loving hug, saying, “This gift is for you. I do love you, child.”

Perhaps while reading the Bible, a particular truth has stood out. And as you began to apply the principle, change occurred—not necessarily in your circumstances, but in your attitude and ability to cope. A quiet sense of joy pervaded your spirit. That’s God squeezing your shoulder, infusing confidence, and saying, “Well done! Press on!”

Perhaps tears have welled up in your eyes as you’ve sung to God a praise song from your heart. Peace enveloped you. That’s his hand tracing your brow with comfort as he says, “My peace I give you…do not be afraid” (John 14: 27). “Let my joy be complete in you” (John 15:11).

“What a wonderful thing to be touched in the heart by God…When the heart is touched, the core of our being is touched.” – John Piper

Have you ever heard someone gush about shaking hands with a dignitary or celebrity? Many people place great importance on the value of such a touch.

Now think of being touched by the sovereign King of the universe . The all-powerful, all-wise, always loving and kind God reaches out to touch each of our hearts.

Incredible, isn’t it?

* * * * * * * * * *

Thank you, Father, for the power of your touch that offers peace and comfort, encouragement and support, strength and confidence. Thank you for coming so close, so frequently, to touch our spirits. I thrill with adoration and gratitude every time!

Photo credit: http://www.pxhere.com

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Blessed Are the Flexible

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Will, Uncategorized, tagged Blessings, Contentment, Encouragement, God's Ways on January 23, 2014| 21 Comments »

Once again I found myself dashing out the door after…my quiet time of Bible study and prayer, making the bed, writing two get-well cards (couldn’t put that off another day), printing some documents to read and prepare with comments, breakfast, showering, drying my hair, putting on make-up, getting dressed, etc., etc.

I hurried to get in the car, and checked my watch. In twenty minutes I was due to meet Steve at church , about fifteen minutes away. I had just enough time to stop for gas. After the fill-up, and back in the car, I checked the time again. The pit stop had taken four minutes. If the traffic lights worked with me instead of against me, I’d arrive at my destination with a couple of minutes to spare. Whew.

In the peaceful quiet of the car, I prayed as I often do: “Lord, help me be a blessing to those I meet today. May I be an attentive listener, speak words of encouragement, and maybe even share a bit of wisdom from you.”

Soon I was pulling into the church parking lot. According to the dashboard clock, I did indeed have two minutes to spare. Hallelujah.

With a deep cleansing breath (a holdover habit from Lamaze classes) and a smile, I opened the door…to this news from Steve:

“I’m so sorry, Honey. The computers at Northwestern Mutual just went down. I tried to call you, but you didn’t answer.” (Must have been while I was pumping gas.) “They said they’ll have to reschedule our meeting for next week.”

For a split second I wanted to say, “WHAT?! After all the rushing around I did this morning in order to get here on time? All that effort for NOTHING?! I have a long to-do list I could be tackling! This is so UNFAIR!”

But just who deserved that rant? Certainly not Steve. It wasn’t his fault the computers at Northwestern Mutual weren’t working. So just where could I direct my angst? Nowhere. I had to stuff it down.

And while I was stuffing, my prayer spoken in the car came to mind.

Oh, boy. I had just asked God to help me be a blessing to whomever I might meet. And when a small monkey wrench gets thrown my way I want to throw it back. Some blessing. Will the day ever come when I can react with a gentle and quiet spirit–even in the first moment of upset?

And speaking of upset, this little setback is nothing compared to the heartache and suffering of others. Why do I allow an inconsequential matter, like a postponed meeting, to steal my joy–even for a second?

God is still teaching me some important lessons (because I’m a slow learner):

What seems to be a waste of time in my shortsightedness may not be, in God’s long view of eternity.
The to-do list is not a binding, legal document. The wise person leaves space on the page and in her spirit for serendipitous possibilities.
Changes of plan and interruptions (another bug-a-boo of mine) may be God-engineered events. Greet them with expectation and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit.
Live in the present. Put aside the frustration that the plan for the day has been reconfigured. Accept the moment as a surprise gift–to be passed on to someone else who needs a favor, a listening ear, or a bit of encouragement. Another possibility? The moment may turn out to be a gift for you.

I did indeed receive a gift that day. Instead of attending that meeting, I ended up having an impromptu lunch with some of the church staff–a delightful group of people!

Steve has said for years, “Blessed are the flexible.”

I’m starting to catch on.

(Image credit http://www.publicdomainpictures.net.)

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Sanctuary

Posted in Blessings, Encouragement, God's Presence, Uncategorized, tagged Blessings, Contentment, Encouragement, God's Goodness, God's Presence on January 16, 2014| 13 Comments »

She was a pitiful sight, the pit bull/Labrador/terrier mutt that our son, Jeremy, and his wife, Nancy, adopted from the Humane Society. Her head hung down, and her tail did not wag. Even her eyes conveyed great sadness. She never barked and did not know how to play.

Jeremy and Nancy decided to keep the name given her by the society staff: Reba. No use adding confusion to the poor dog’s problems.

When they first brought her home, Reba wouldn’t eat. She also suffered from anxiety, shaking uncontrollably when faced with uncertainty. (She still does, sometimes.)

Reba’s symptoms aren’t much different from those of humans, when we experience extreme stress. Depression and anxiety can quickly take over.

Jeremy and Nancy adopted Reba the summer of 2010. That December when we saw Reba again, it was as if Jeremy and Nancy had adopted a new dog. Now her head was up and her tail wagged merrily. She could run and jump to catch a tossed tennis ball in mid-air.

If Reba could talk, she would undoubtedly have abhorrent stories to tell of her past. But I have a feeling she would finish by saying, “My new life with Jeremy and Nancy is completely different. I love it here!”

Reba has found a sanctuary—a place of refuge and protection where she feels safe. Her life has been transformed.

We, too, have a sanctuary available to us. “The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble” (Psalm 9:9).

When David composed that psalm, the tabernacle tent-church was the sanctuary for the Israelites. God had told Moses centuries before, “Have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them” (Exodus 25:8).

For over fifteen hundred years, the tabernacle, and then the temple in Jerusalem, represented God’s presence among his people.

But that was only temporary. God provided an even better way to be with his people, through his son, Jesus.

Those of us who know him now experience his sanctuary within.

“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price” (1 Corinthians 6:19).

At the cost of his Son’s life, God “bought” us as his dwelling place.

We don’t have to go to Jerusalem. We don’t even have to be in a church building to experience the sanctuary of our God. His love, peace, and comfort are available wherever we are, whatever we’re facing.

Now that is life-transforming news. But I have to avail myself of its truth.

* * * * * * * * * *

Thank you, God, for being a sanctuary within me. At any moment I can turn to you, and you are attentive to my cry. As I focus on you—your wisdom, power, and benevolent care, my concerns deflate. I know you have a plan for my life, for those of my loved ones, for my country and the world. You are in control. I imagine you taking hold of my hand, giving it a pat or two and reassuring me, “Don’t be afraid. I will help you”.

You are incredibly good to me, O God, my refuge. I reaffirm my trust in you.

(Psalm 34:15; Jeremiah 29:11; Psalm 9:7-8; Isaiah 41:13; Nahum 1:7; Psalm 91:2.)

Photo credits: Jeremy Ruegg

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B-12 Shots

Posted in Appreciation, Blessings, God's Goodness, God's Provision, Uncategorized, tagged Appreciation, Blessings, God's Goodness, God's Provision on January 6, 2014| 9 Comments »

“…So the doctor recommended B-12 shots,” my friends explained. “Hopefully they’ll do the trick. I’m so tired of being tired!!”

Got me to thinking. Some days I’ve had to drag my spirit around. Discouragement, hurts, and concerns weigh me down. Maybe what I need are some spiritual B-12 shots.

“B” might stand for beauty. Something lovely and joy-inspiring is always energizing.

And the number twelve might stand for the twelve months of the year.

So what beauties are there to behold each month that would foster joy? Here in Florida, the change of seasons is subtle, not offering as much variety as climate zones to the north. But there are other splendors in which to delight.

January: The fresh start of a new year, the reorganizing (after all the decorations are put away) that provides satisfaction in tidiness and motivation for productivity!

February: I love our annual Festival of Choirs. A number of church choirs come together, provide two selections of their own, and then everyone joins together for several rousing anthems. It’s a taste of heaven to hear 200-plus voices unite in praise!

March: Such glorious weather we enjoy–the low humidity, balmy temperatures, and clear skies. Migrating birds passing through the area give us occasional glimpses of rare species. One year a small flock of indigo buntings pecked about in our backyard. Such intense blue I had never seen!

April: I love the euphoria of Easter morning! He is risen indeed!

May: Roadways clear after the Snowbirds go home, and driving becomes less stressful. However, there are a number of Northern friends we’d love to keep with us here!

June: The schedule slows down as the summer warms up. The slower pace is most welcome—at least for a while.

July: I love the patriotism that comes to the forefront as we celebrate America’s Independence Day. “The Star Spangled Banner” still stirs pride and gratitude in my heart.

August: The best time to visit the old-fashioned ice cream shop in town. Such delightful flavors to choose from! And a hot August day only augments the pleasure.

September: Rehearsals begin for Christmas. This is one of the reasons I love to sing in choirs and ensembles. We get to enjoy the music of Christmas for three months instead of three weeks!

October: The weather begins to cool a bit, renewing energy. And while many northerners enjoy hillsides of fall foliage, we Floridians have our golden rain trees.

November: Right after Thanksgiving Steve and I decorate for Christmas. I love unpacking the decorations, many of them given to us by family and friends. Memories of times past bubble merrily in my heart as I arrange the crèches, angels, candles, and bows.

December: Oh, how glorious to end the year with a crescendo of music, camaraderie, secrets, surprises, and worship. Christmas would not be complete without the Christmas Eve candlelight service.

Beautiful moments through all twelve months of the year. B-12 shots of joy.

What are your favorite B-12 shots?

* * * * * * * * * *

Thank you, Heavenly Father, for providing a pleasing cadence to the year. As one month flows into the next, your goodness is on display. Thank you for those events and experiences that come at expected times, providing rhythm, delight, and comfort to our lives.

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