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When Jeremiah entered the dungeon and the cells, and Jeremiah had remained there many days, then Zedekiah the king sent and took him out. The king asked him secretly in his house, and said, "Is there any word from the Lord?" And Jeremiah said, "There is." Then he said, "You shall be delivered into the hand of the king of Babylon!" Jeremiah 37:16-17
Before I read the commentary following this passage I commented to Lonnie, "I wonder what I would do?" It would have been so easy to just tell the King what he wanted to hear and then justify it by saying "I'm no good to anyone if I'm dead and can't keep telling them about God."
I have to say it is not easy but there have been times that I have told people what the Bible says instead of what they want to hear. I remember a time I told someone our children couldn't spend the night with them because they were not married and living together. We got some criticism for that.
This is when I learned it is difficult to be the "salt and the light" in this world.
As we venture off on mission we are usually with the mindset that we will share what Jesus is all about. When we venture outside our own doors we are not so much about that. Why? I believe fear. I am guilty.
Father, I desire to be near to your heart and that means having a burning desire for people to know you. Show me ways that I can be who I am and point people to you. Help me Holy Spirit to listen and respond to your nudge...I can take bagels to my neighbors.
Lord, it seems as if your hand is moving with the NL home. I'm not sure what is in the future, so I guess this is where the FAITH comes in. Not knowing if we made the best decision in the long run...knowing the financial hit we could take. In 2 months or less the home will be empty. We will try to sell it again...is it your timing? Father, I am trusting you. Your faithfulness in the past is the anchor we hold fast too...seeing you at work now brings peace...and knowing you are there in the future brings hope.
Thank you for our children and their compassionate hearts...keep them close.
Amen
Children caring for children
Abba... Heavenly Father to the fatherless
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Friday, February 26, 2010
Day 50: Word of God Speak
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Then Jeremiah called Baruch the son of Neriah; and Baruch wrote on a scroll of a book, at the instruction of Jeremiah, all the words of the Lord which He had spoken to him. Jeremiah 36:4
The Word of God is the breath of God. Woodrow Kroll
The word of God is alive for me. Over the past 50 blog entries I can see numerous times where the scripture was just what my heart needed that day. Reminders of God's sovereign power, his presence, his love and his perfect timing. Know what I needed to work on to maintain my sanity...for example, my anxious thoughts. Seeing him open the floodgates and providing so that we can do his ministry in Africa this summer. The amazing fact that Lonnie is funded, Becca almost funded, and my LU teaching will fund my trip. Seeing the extra that helps us to have an emergency saving to know it will help pay for Bec's tuition.
Ah, my fleeces....the ones I mentioned in a prior posting...the fleece before the Lord to help me confirm his desires....Lord, they are still there...I still request them before you.
I can't imagine how I would have survived the past months without my Father's word to lean into so closely. His word that helps me with my struggles...the struggles are still there but I can't imagine what it would have been like without His breath breathed into my day through his word.
Lord, I thank you for your gift. I praise you Holy Spirit for helping me to experience my Father's presence and love through His word.
Go before us this day and the first of next week as we do our best to honor you and take care of your tenant and home at NL. Lord, may our hearts be pure before you. We ask for wisdom and peace.
Walk closely to our children. Be with the mission in SA and the boys that need the safe house. I ask the certificate to come quickly and finances also to provide this for the boys.
Amen
Then Jeremiah called Baruch the son of Neriah; and Baruch wrote on a scroll of a book, at the instruction of Jeremiah, all the words of the Lord which He had spoken to him. Jeremiah 36:4
The Word of God is the breath of God. Woodrow Kroll
The word of God is alive for me. Over the past 50 blog entries I can see numerous times where the scripture was just what my heart needed that day. Reminders of God's sovereign power, his presence, his love and his perfect timing. Know what I needed to work on to maintain my sanity...for example, my anxious thoughts. Seeing him open the floodgates and providing so that we can do his ministry in Africa this summer. The amazing fact that Lonnie is funded, Becca almost funded, and my LU teaching will fund my trip. Seeing the extra that helps us to have an emergency saving to know it will help pay for Bec's tuition.
Ah, my fleeces....the ones I mentioned in a prior posting...the fleece before the Lord to help me confirm his desires....Lord, they are still there...I still request them before you.
I can't imagine how I would have survived the past months without my Father's word to lean into so closely. His word that helps me with my struggles...the struggles are still there but I can't imagine what it would have been like without His breath breathed into my day through his word.
Lord, I thank you for your gift. I praise you Holy Spirit for helping me to experience my Father's presence and love through His word.
Go before us this day and the first of next week as we do our best to honor you and take care of your tenant and home at NL. Lord, may our hearts be pure before you. We ask for wisdom and peace.
Walk closely to our children. Be with the mission in SA and the boys that need the safe house. I ask the certificate to come quickly and finances also to provide this for the boys.
Amen
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Day 49: Call to Me!
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"Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know." Jeremiah 33:3
Father, I am calling! Once again we must call to you because we don't understand the mind of the hurting. How do we deal with LM and keep our testimony to you? Help us to continue to be fair and righteous. Lord, my husband has been slandered, our workman, how long Father do we do this? Please, you must step in and give direction. There is nothing to difficult for you...we acknowledge that. We do not know which way to go...we need your answer and for you to show us. You have opened the floodgates to provide a way for us to move in a financial direction that will enable us to better align with your will. We are working extra jobs and hard to be excellent stewards of what you are doing. We see your hand, your love.
We also see the robber of joy rearing up. You oh Father are supreme and can prevent him from harming us. But Father, if this something we need to experience in order to serve you and be prepared then we will endure. Help us to know that though. I pray we would not be captive to fear of finances. You are our financial provider.
Oh, God, I'm rambling, forgive me. My thoughts are a mess as I struggle with "Test me and know my anxious thoughts" Right now I picture myself at your feet...warmth from your presence..tears being fought back...silence...my Abba, take this burden from us...give wisdom to Lonnie...peace to me...peace to LM...May we glorify you...
Amen
"Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know." Jeremiah 33:3
Father, I am calling! Once again we must call to you because we don't understand the mind of the hurting. How do we deal with LM and keep our testimony to you? Help us to continue to be fair and righteous. Lord, my husband has been slandered, our workman, how long Father do we do this? Please, you must step in and give direction. There is nothing to difficult for you...we acknowledge that. We do not know which way to go...we need your answer and for you to show us. You have opened the floodgates to provide a way for us to move in a financial direction that will enable us to better align with your will. We are working extra jobs and hard to be excellent stewards of what you are doing. We see your hand, your love.
We also see the robber of joy rearing up. You oh Father are supreme and can prevent him from harming us. But Father, if this something we need to experience in order to serve you and be prepared then we will endure. Help us to know that though. I pray we would not be captive to fear of finances. You are our financial provider.
Oh, God, I'm rambling, forgive me. My thoughts are a mess as I struggle with "Test me and know my anxious thoughts" Right now I picture myself at your feet...warmth from your presence..tears being fought back...silence...my Abba, take this burden from us...give wisdom to Lonnie...peace to me...peace to LM...May we glorify you...
Amen
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Day 48: Nothing too Hard? Correct!
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"Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?"
Jeremiah 32:27
How easily I can slip back into the mode of forgetting to read and blog...in essence...forget how important it is to have my QT time before I even begin another task. I couldn't find my keys this morning....fussing around the house...in the car digging through the messy purse. I thought suddenly, "How am I going to survive when I didn't stop to spend time with my Lord today? I am sure my mind would not be so frazzled if I had." That was so true!
I'm at work. I read the devotion on line and said, "Oh my Abba, you are amazing and thank you for reminding me! There are strange and challenging things going on in our lives. We are still fighting the battle. God, you can absolutely stand with us. I don't have to be on the garbage heap and feeling like I'm digging out. I can wait to see you at work. But like the young mother in the devotion it is sooooo difficult when life circumstances slap you in the face. How do you find hope when there is no obvious way to survive. I pray for all of those in seemingly hopeless situations. I pray that we adjust and cling to you when our lives seem hopeless. Thank you for the life lessons that have taught me you are the provider and indeed there is nothing too difficult for you.
Be with us as we continue to struggle with NL. Thank you for taxes and LU work. We can pay our bills and tuition...got a tuition notice about Mike's account today that shocked me. But Lord, somehow you have opened the floodgates to allow us to meet our needs...not necessarily wants. I pray we will be able to distinguish between the two and use your resources wisely.
Bless our children and families. Thank you for friends that are as close as family.
Amen
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Day 47: Forgotten
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"No more shall every man teach his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,' for they all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them," says the Lord. "For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more." Jeremiah 31:34
As with almost everyone there are parts of my young, college years that I would rather not recall before the Lord. This was a season before I had moved from "fire insurance" faith to a love relationship with my Lord. I did my share of party going with the girl friends...nothing terribly bad or illegal just not what I would now consider God honoring.
It is so comforting to me that once I have asked and received forgiveness that even though I recall those time...my God does not! Lord, I don't comprehend this. I recall but you do not. It is Satan himself that causes me to rehash the guilt and not believe you could forgive and forget. I guess that is what makes you God.
Thank you for working in our lives now. For the peace you are giving us. Help us to move forward towards your goal. Father, you do tell us in Malachi to test you in our giving. We are giving to you through our tithes and offering, and also through our investment in Africa missions by paying for our travel. Father, you are opening the floodgates. I may be teaching two sections of a class next D term. You know my days and nights and if I can handle the student load. Please don't allow fear to keep me from working hard and receiving your blessings. We need the finances for current tuition, maybe mortgage payment on NL house if it is without a tenant for a while, and debt repayment. It is all yours so help us to be excellent stewards and most of all trust your decisions with it. You know our hearts and goals as move towards them. Prevent us from doing anything that moves us outside of your will.
Keep close to you our 4 children today. Encourage them, whisper your love into their spirits. Give them wisdom and discernment.
Thank you for forgetting my past and blessing me with a future in you.
Amen
**************************************************************************
http://www.backtothebible.org/index.php/devotions/authors/lessons_on_living_kroll.html
Jeremiah 32:27
"Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?"
Nothing Too Hard
A rather sickly woman had been deserted by her husband. He left her with three preschool children, a mangy dog, a broken-down, second-floor flat and many bills. One morning she discovered that the mutt had chosen her only good pair of shoes as a chew stick. The youngest baby had cried the night through with colic. As she was preparing breakfast, the power went off because the bill hadn't been paid. Then the dog decided to play tug of war with the tablecloth, pulling all the dishes and food onto the floor. Just then she heard a commotion out in the street. Running to the kitchen, she opened the window and a man below yelled out, "Garbage man." Her only reply was, "Okay, send it up."
Times were like that for Jerusalem too. The Chaldeans had raised siege mounds around the city. Famine and pestilence stalked the streets. Jeremiah was on the verge of losing all hope for survival. His whole life seemed like a garbage heap?and each day only added a little more to the pile. But in the midst of this doom and gloom, God said to him, "Is there anything too hard for Me?" Even preserving the prophet's life in the midst of disaster was not an impossible task for God.
Life gets rough sometimes. Illness strikes, financial troubles threaten us, family problems dog our steps. At best, most people just hope they can scramble to the top as each new load of garbage gets dumped on them. But you don't have to live like that. God says, "Things can be better for you because I am with you--and nothing is too difficult for Me." Even your most troublesome circumstances simply become a stage on which God demonstrates that nothing is hopeless with Him.
If your situation is causing you to despair, listen to what the Lord has to say to you: "Is anything too hard for Me?" Take confidence in the fact that the omnipotent God is on your side.
When God says "nothing is too hard," He means "nothing"!
"No more shall every man teach his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,' for they all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them," says the Lord. "For I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more." Jeremiah 31:34
As with almost everyone there are parts of my young, college years that I would rather not recall before the Lord. This was a season before I had moved from "fire insurance" faith to a love relationship with my Lord. I did my share of party going with the girl friends...nothing terribly bad or illegal just not what I would now consider God honoring.
It is so comforting to me that once I have asked and received forgiveness that even though I recall those time...my God does not! Lord, I don't comprehend this. I recall but you do not. It is Satan himself that causes me to rehash the guilt and not believe you could forgive and forget. I guess that is what makes you God.
Thank you for working in our lives now. For the peace you are giving us. Help us to move forward towards your goal. Father, you do tell us in Malachi to test you in our giving. We are giving to you through our tithes and offering, and also through our investment in Africa missions by paying for our travel. Father, you are opening the floodgates. I may be teaching two sections of a class next D term. You know my days and nights and if I can handle the student load. Please don't allow fear to keep me from working hard and receiving your blessings. We need the finances for current tuition, maybe mortgage payment on NL house if it is without a tenant for a while, and debt repayment. It is all yours so help us to be excellent stewards and most of all trust your decisions with it. You know our hearts and goals as move towards them. Prevent us from doing anything that moves us outside of your will.
Keep close to you our 4 children today. Encourage them, whisper your love into their spirits. Give them wisdom and discernment.
Thank you for forgetting my past and blessing me with a future in you.
Amen
**************************************************************************
http://www.backtothebible.org/index.php/devotions/authors/lessons_on_living_kroll.html
Jeremiah 32:27
"Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?"
Nothing Too Hard
A rather sickly woman had been deserted by her husband. He left her with three preschool children, a mangy dog, a broken-down, second-floor flat and many bills. One morning she discovered that the mutt had chosen her only good pair of shoes as a chew stick. The youngest baby had cried the night through with colic. As she was preparing breakfast, the power went off because the bill hadn't been paid. Then the dog decided to play tug of war with the tablecloth, pulling all the dishes and food onto the floor. Just then she heard a commotion out in the street. Running to the kitchen, she opened the window and a man below yelled out, "Garbage man." Her only reply was, "Okay, send it up."
Times were like that for Jerusalem too. The Chaldeans had raised siege mounds around the city. Famine and pestilence stalked the streets. Jeremiah was on the verge of losing all hope for survival. His whole life seemed like a garbage heap?and each day only added a little more to the pile. But in the midst of this doom and gloom, God said to him, "Is there anything too hard for Me?" Even preserving the prophet's life in the midst of disaster was not an impossible task for God.
Life gets rough sometimes. Illness strikes, financial troubles threaten us, family problems dog our steps. At best, most people just hope they can scramble to the top as each new load of garbage gets dumped on them. But you don't have to live like that. God says, "Things can be better for you because I am with you--and nothing is too difficult for Me." Even your most troublesome circumstances simply become a stage on which God demonstrates that nothing is hopeless with Him.
If your situation is causing you to despair, listen to what the Lord has to say to you: "Is anything too hard for Me?" Take confidence in the fact that the omnipotent God is on your side.
When God says "nothing is too hard," He means "nothing"!
Monday, February 22, 2010
Day 46: Everlasting
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The Lord has appeared of old to me, saying: "Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with loving kindness I have drawn you." Jeremiah 31:3
One version of the scripture, the ESV says "the Lord appeared to him1 from far away." Oh it can be so true in my life. I am easily discouraged if I don't sense God's breath right beside me. But my God is like a good earthly father. An earthly father gradually allows the child to strike out further and further...to implement all the father has taught. Like a good coach that practices and rehearse the team and then sits back to allow them to figure out their errors in the game.
I know my Abba loves me with an everlasting love. Even when I mess up he loves me. It is through my trial and error that I realize his love is always there drawing me back to him.
I think this is one of the major life lessons God is teaching me now. Be still and know that I'm God. I have your back. Even though you think I'm afar, I love you dearly and am right there beside you. I have an everlasting love for you, and for others.
Father, you know how difficult last week was...thank you for the wise counsel we received. Thank you for the peace that surpasses all I can imagine. Thank you for past lessons that have taught us stewardship and ownership...it is all yours...to give and to take away...yet we will say, "Blessed be the name of the Lord" for your love is everlasting!
Bless Kelsey especially today with your spirit. Give he soon a glimpse into her vocational future. Bring couple friends into their lives Lord.
Amen
The Lord has appeared of old to me, saying: "Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with loving kindness I have drawn you." Jeremiah 31:3
One version of the scripture, the ESV says "the Lord appeared to him1 from far away." Oh it can be so true in my life. I am easily discouraged if I don't sense God's breath right beside me. But my God is like a good earthly father. An earthly father gradually allows the child to strike out further and further...to implement all the father has taught. Like a good coach that practices and rehearse the team and then sits back to allow them to figure out their errors in the game.
I know my Abba loves me with an everlasting love. Even when I mess up he loves me. It is through my trial and error that I realize his love is always there drawing me back to him.
I think this is one of the major life lessons God is teaching me now. Be still and know that I'm God. I have your back. Even though you think I'm afar, I love you dearly and am right there beside you. I have an everlasting love for you, and for others.
Father, you know how difficult last week was...thank you for the wise counsel we received. Thank you for the peace that surpasses all I can imagine. Thank you for past lessons that have taught us stewardship and ownership...it is all yours...to give and to take away...yet we will say, "Blessed be the name of the Lord" for your love is everlasting!
Bless Kelsey especially today with your spirit. Give he soon a glimpse into her vocational future. Bring couple friends into their lives Lord.
Amen
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Day 45: Like a Jack Hammer
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"Is not My word like a fire?" says the Lord, "and like a hammer that breaks the rock in pieces?" Jeremiah 23:29
Kroll:
"The Bible tells us that sin hardens the heart (Eph. 4:17-19). The longer a person rebels against God, the harder his heart becomes. But we must never underestimate the power of God's Word. Sometimes it touches our lives gently and brings comfort and healing. At other times it comes down like a sledgehammer with a blow that breaks our hearts into pieces. The more we choose to harden our hearts against God and His will, the more devastating the blow.
Ask God to reveal if your heart has become hardened toward Him. And if you sense it has, allow Him to use His Word to shatter any hardness you might find.
Better a shattered heart than a hardened heart."
There have been times when God's word just crashed through my heart like a wrecking ball. Taking me to my knees. Mainly when my heart was hardened towards his will. I'm a stubborn girl (don't I know it my husband would say) and there are times I just want it my way. If God is leading in a different way he has to break my will into pieces. But there is a sweetness after the breaking. There is a tenderness, a healing, a sense of his grace. There is a peace within me knowing that I'm in his will. Thank you God for those journeys.
Yesterday was a tough day with the NL home. I kept saying to myself, "Lord, you are the owner we are the caretakers. This is your home tell us what to do. This is not new to you. You have a plan no matter what the situation. You can make all things work for your glory. All we can do is trust you to work through this. We are asking that our focus be on you...that we reflect you in our action and deeds."
The verse, "Test me and know my anxious thoughts" kept coming to me. I am glad that you, Lord, have been working me in this area. I could see some improvement in my anxiety level. I am still a work in progress but Lord there was improvement. At the beginning of the day we don't know what is ahead, but you oh Father know it. I stand continually amazed at the fact that too often in our QT times you have begun to prepare us for the obsticals this world will sling at us. I am so thankful for my time with you.
Be with us this day. May our thoughts and behavior honor you. I ask that my children will lean in close to you. Thank you for their lives. Help us to continue to point them in your direction.
Yesterday morning our couples devotion included a story about losing $50 and then a week later finding $50 in the middle of the parking lot. Well, yesterday Lonnie was in the parking lot outside of the bank and there at his feet by the car was a $100 bill. Wow! Well, we hadn't lost the money but someone had. Lonnie took it back into the bank. Lord, may the owner of that money get it back. I'm married to a truly honorable man!
You are the giver of peace in the midst of the storm. Praise be to you!
Amen
"Is not My word like a fire?" says the Lord, "and like a hammer that breaks the rock in pieces?" Jeremiah 23:29
Kroll:
"The Bible tells us that sin hardens the heart (Eph. 4:17-19). The longer a person rebels against God, the harder his heart becomes. But we must never underestimate the power of God's Word. Sometimes it touches our lives gently and brings comfort and healing. At other times it comes down like a sledgehammer with a blow that breaks our hearts into pieces. The more we choose to harden our hearts against God and His will, the more devastating the blow.
Ask God to reveal if your heart has become hardened toward Him. And if you sense it has, allow Him to use His Word to shatter any hardness you might find.
Better a shattered heart than a hardened heart."
There have been times when God's word just crashed through my heart like a wrecking ball. Taking me to my knees. Mainly when my heart was hardened towards his will. I'm a stubborn girl (don't I know it my husband would say) and there are times I just want it my way. If God is leading in a different way he has to break my will into pieces. But there is a sweetness after the breaking. There is a tenderness, a healing, a sense of his grace. There is a peace within me knowing that I'm in his will. Thank you God for those journeys.
Yesterday was a tough day with the NL home. I kept saying to myself, "Lord, you are the owner we are the caretakers. This is your home tell us what to do. This is not new to you. You have a plan no matter what the situation. You can make all things work for your glory. All we can do is trust you to work through this. We are asking that our focus be on you...that we reflect you in our action and deeds."
The verse, "Test me and know my anxious thoughts" kept coming to me. I am glad that you, Lord, have been working me in this area. I could see some improvement in my anxiety level. I am still a work in progress but Lord there was improvement. At the beginning of the day we don't know what is ahead, but you oh Father know it. I stand continually amazed at the fact that too often in our QT times you have begun to prepare us for the obsticals this world will sling at us. I am so thankful for my time with you.
Be with us this day. May our thoughts and behavior honor you. I ask that my children will lean in close to you. Thank you for their lives. Help us to continue to point them in your direction.
Yesterday morning our couples devotion included a story about losing $50 and then a week later finding $50 in the middle of the parking lot. Well, yesterday Lonnie was in the parking lot outside of the bank and there at his feet by the car was a $100 bill. Wow! Well, we hadn't lost the money but someone had. Lonnie took it back into the bank. Lord, may the owner of that money get it back. I'm married to a truly honorable man!
You are the giver of peace in the midst of the storm. Praise be to you!
Amen
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Day 44: Choices
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"Now you shall say to this people, 'Thus says the Lord: "Behold, I set before you the way of life and the way of death."'" Jeremiah 21:8
Life is full of choices...get gas now and be a minute late or hope I have enough to keep going and be on time! Dinner in or dinner out? Jeans or dress pants? Sweater or coat? The list is endless!
Most choices are not life changing or impacting.
But, one choice is life impacting...in fact, eternity impacting. I am glad I chose the way of life. But what about those that I encounter? Am I concerned enough about them to step outside of my comfort and "set before you the way of life and the way of death" so that they can choose. Lord, help me to be concerned...the fire inside to make sure they know.
There are choices that don't seem like huge ones but indeed they are choosing the way of life over death...I'm thinking specifically about emotions, reactions, or thoughts. Satan would have us to not look for the way of life and forget that he comes to rob and steal us of our joy. When God is at work in our lives the Deceiver will take action to so distract us that we don't see our Lord blessing us...even in our emotions.
I've blogged about my anxious thoughts before. Holy Spirit continues to remind me "Test me and know my anxious thoughts" It is those thoughts that depress me, make my stomach churn, heart race faster. My Jesus does not wish for me to be like that...death of peace. He wishes for life of joy. What ever is good, true, noble...think on these.
Lord, you are molding me and helping me to life a life of peace. Thank you! It is hurtful though to go through the testing but I am so thankful to hear Holy Spirits whisper of scripture and peace...life.
Bless the socks off my husband today. Bring calm back into his life. I beg that NL repairs will be completed smoothly and quickly. Thank you that our house guests are recovering and strong enough to return to their home. It has been a blessing for me to see the tender side of him. We know you had a purpose in this time together.
Keep our children close to you...Holy Spirit draw them close to you.
Continue to move us in your direction! Oh, and thanks for that income tax refund coming into our account just in the nick of time!
I love you, Father!
Amen
"Now you shall say to this people, 'Thus says the Lord: "Behold, I set before you the way of life and the way of death."'" Jeremiah 21:8
Life is full of choices...get gas now and be a minute late or hope I have enough to keep going and be on time! Dinner in or dinner out? Jeans or dress pants? Sweater or coat? The list is endless!
Most choices are not life changing or impacting.
But, one choice is life impacting...in fact, eternity impacting. I am glad I chose the way of life. But what about those that I encounter? Am I concerned enough about them to step outside of my comfort and "set before you the way of life and the way of death" so that they can choose. Lord, help me to be concerned...the fire inside to make sure they know.
There are choices that don't seem like huge ones but indeed they are choosing the way of life over death...I'm thinking specifically about emotions, reactions, or thoughts. Satan would have us to not look for the way of life and forget that he comes to rob and steal us of our joy. When God is at work in our lives the Deceiver will take action to so distract us that we don't see our Lord blessing us...even in our emotions.
I've blogged about my anxious thoughts before. Holy Spirit continues to remind me "Test me and know my anxious thoughts" It is those thoughts that depress me, make my stomach churn, heart race faster. My Jesus does not wish for me to be like that...death of peace. He wishes for life of joy. What ever is good, true, noble...think on these.
Lord, you are molding me and helping me to life a life of peace. Thank you! It is hurtful though to go through the testing but I am so thankful to hear Holy Spirits whisper of scripture and peace...life.
Bless the socks off my husband today. Bring calm back into his life. I beg that NL repairs will be completed smoothly and quickly. Thank you that our house guests are recovering and strong enough to return to their home. It has been a blessing for me to see the tender side of him. We know you had a purpose in this time together.
Keep our children close to you...Holy Spirit draw them close to you.
Continue to move us in your direction! Oh, and thanks for that income tax refund coming into our account just in the nick of time!
I love you, Father!
Amen
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Day 43: Fire
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Then I said, "I will not make mention of Him, nor speak anymore in His name." But His word was in my heart like a burning fire shut up in my bones; I was weary of holding it back, and I could not. Jeremiah 20:9
Wow, and I a scaredy cat. I know I should always be ready and eager to tell people about the Lord. But, I hang out with Christians most of the time...and those that are not know I'm a minister and I do talk about the Lord. But what about strangers? Am I so eager to walk next door and invite folks to Coastal? not so much. Father, forgive me! I want to have the fire burning in me to share about you. But I listen to the lies of Satan and don't do it. I pray you will help me discover ways to share about you that are based on who I am...taking bagels next door for example. Inviting the new neighbors over for dinner...having a block party. Help me to begin relationship evangelism. Remove my fear or help me break through it.
2 Timothy 4
There is an urgency in this chapter for Timothy to come and bring what Paul needs. There is a sadness for me in verse 16.
At my first defense no one came to my support, but all deserted me. May it not be counted against them!
No one came to stand with him before his accusers. Here is a man that sacrificed everything for the Lord's service and the Lord sent no one to stand with him. I don't get it. I would be mad and yet he says, "May it not be counted against them!" He testifies to God's goodness and continues to plan how he will tell others of Christ's sacrifice.
Paul goes on to say,
But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion's mouth. v. 17
Father,
Again I whine and moan about my life and challenges. I become upset with challenges and attacks. I'm not Paul...but I desire a part of his heart for you. I'm honestly afraid to pray for his entire passion...that scares me! But Lord in baby steps can you use me to reach and touch people that need your love. Their eternity is at stake. It would be a privilege to share you with someone today...through word or deep.
Help me in my weakness,
Amen
Then I said, "I will not make mention of Him, nor speak anymore in His name." But His word was in my heart like a burning fire shut up in my bones; I was weary of holding it back, and I could not. Jeremiah 20:9
Wow, and I a scaredy cat. I know I should always be ready and eager to tell people about the Lord. But, I hang out with Christians most of the time...and those that are not know I'm a minister and I do talk about the Lord. But what about strangers? Am I so eager to walk next door and invite folks to Coastal? not so much. Father, forgive me! I want to have the fire burning in me to share about you. But I listen to the lies of Satan and don't do it. I pray you will help me discover ways to share about you that are based on who I am...taking bagels next door for example. Inviting the new neighbors over for dinner...having a block party. Help me to begin relationship evangelism. Remove my fear or help me break through it.
2 Timothy 4
There is an urgency in this chapter for Timothy to come and bring what Paul needs. There is a sadness for me in verse 16.
At my first defense no one came to my support, but all deserted me. May it not be counted against them!
No one came to stand with him before his accusers. Here is a man that sacrificed everything for the Lord's service and the Lord sent no one to stand with him. I don't get it. I would be mad and yet he says, "May it not be counted against them!" He testifies to God's goodness and continues to plan how he will tell others of Christ's sacrifice.
Paul goes on to say,
But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion's mouth. v. 17
Father,
Again I whine and moan about my life and challenges. I become upset with challenges and attacks. I'm not Paul...but I desire a part of his heart for you. I'm honestly afraid to pray for his entire passion...that scares me! But Lord in baby steps can you use me to reach and touch people that need your love. Their eternity is at stake. It would be a privilege to share you with someone today...through word or deep.
Help me in my weakness,
Amen
Monday, February 15, 2010
Day 42: Potter's Hands
It was a busy weekend but I didn't forget my time with the Lord...now blogging is another matter. I forgot my sign-in and had to figure that out. Age I guess. Lonnie and I are having our devotions together each morning before getting out of bed. That time with him is priceless.
Back to the Bible
The word which came to Jeremiah from the Lord, saying: "Arise and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause you to hear My words." Then I went down to the potter's house, and there he was, making something at the wheel. And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter; so he made it again into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to make. Jeremiah 18:1-4
Kroll: The God who made us also can remake us.
I love the Potter analogies in the scriptures! God's hand molding me...remolding me when I mess up...gently working the bumps off the outside and shaping the inside. I once had an opportunity to work at a potters wheel. It was something I always wanted to do. My teacher was patient and I soon realized how hard it is to take a lump of clay and fashion it into something functional and beautiful. Oh I could make a pot that would hold water but how beautiful it might be is up to the beholder...for me it wasn't so pretty. For my teacher...it was a great effort that I should be proud of.
I think God must look at my attempts to please him and be fashioned in his likeness like that sometimes. Even though I don't like the outcome I still hear him whisper...it's ok..you'll get it...keep going...I like what you are becoming.
As the potter I am sure relieved that he can scoop up the heap I've become and refashion me into something not only purposeful but beautiful in his eyes.
2 Timothy 3
What persecutions I endured! yet the Lord rescued me from all of them. Indeed, all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. vv 11b, 12
It is a challenge when you have to endure persecution from life and difficult people. When you wonder what is up and what is down? When you just want it all to be over. But Paul endure so much more than I can imagine. My trials can't even compare to his! And, I whine. So I guess the Potter rubs gently on that blemish and continues molding me into what he desires.
Father,
I don't want a whining spirit. I want a spirit that praises you and trusts you even through the horrible life circumstances that seem to plague each of us. As we strive to make choices that honor you help us to do our best to please you first and foremost.
Be with us this week as we continue the repair on NL house. I pray specifically for the tenant and her family. I ask that you be with the K family in their renting trials. Be with MF in her illness. She has endured so much and is spiritually defeated. Holy Spirit bring comfort and understanding in the midst of hurt and pain.
Thank you for a wonderful, compassionate husband that keeps me going. Help me to be the best instructor I can be. Encourage our children today.
Amen
Back to the Bible
The word which came to Jeremiah from the Lord, saying: "Arise and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause you to hear My words." Then I went down to the potter's house, and there he was, making something at the wheel. And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter; so he made it again into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to make. Jeremiah 18:1-4
Kroll: The God who made us also can remake us.
I love the Potter analogies in the scriptures! God's hand molding me...remolding me when I mess up...gently working the bumps off the outside and shaping the inside. I once had an opportunity to work at a potters wheel. It was something I always wanted to do. My teacher was patient and I soon realized how hard it is to take a lump of clay and fashion it into something functional and beautiful. Oh I could make a pot that would hold water but how beautiful it might be is up to the beholder...for me it wasn't so pretty. For my teacher...it was a great effort that I should be proud of.
I think God must look at my attempts to please him and be fashioned in his likeness like that sometimes. Even though I don't like the outcome I still hear him whisper...it's ok..you'll get it...keep going...I like what you are becoming.
As the potter I am sure relieved that he can scoop up the heap I've become and refashion me into something not only purposeful but beautiful in his eyes.
2 Timothy 3
What persecutions I endured! yet the Lord rescued me from all of them. Indeed, all who want to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. vv 11b, 12
It is a challenge when you have to endure persecution from life and difficult people. When you wonder what is up and what is down? When you just want it all to be over. But Paul endure so much more than I can imagine. My trials can't even compare to his! And, I whine. So I guess the Potter rubs gently on that blemish and continues molding me into what he desires.
Father,
I don't want a whining spirit. I want a spirit that praises you and trusts you even through the horrible life circumstances that seem to plague each of us. As we strive to make choices that honor you help us to do our best to please you first and foremost.
Be with us this week as we continue the repair on NL house. I pray specifically for the tenant and her family. I ask that you be with the K family in their renting trials. Be with MF in her illness. She has endured so much and is spiritually defeated. Holy Spirit bring comfort and understanding in the midst of hurt and pain.
Thank you for a wonderful, compassionate husband that keeps me going. Help me to be the best instructor I can be. Encourage our children today.
Amen
Friday, February 12, 2010
Day 41: Powerful Word
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Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart, for I am called by your name, O Lord, God of hosts. Jeremiah 15:16
Mr. Kroll writes, "Every Christian bears Christ's name; live as an honor to His name."
Lord, the time we spend studying your words helps us to live in honor to you. Thank you that your word is alive and touches our lives in a real way. Yesterday was a tough day and I don't even want to imagine what it would be like if I hadn't spent time talking with you. Jeremiah had it far worse than we do and he could say it was your word that gave his heart delight. Only your word...not the circumstances...but you. Your presence is our lives helps us to adjust, endure, have confidence that you are walking with us. We are called by your name so may our lives glorify you! I praise you for that!
A message from Krugersdorf. Things are progressing...but at a slow pace. Renovations are already taking place. "My three sons" stop by to check it out everyday. They are addicted to glue. Lord, there are others that need to be off the street before they become addicted. Move your hand to provide the written documentation they need to get the safe house going.
I received an email from my sister in Christ yesterday that you had her praying for us at 3:30 in the morning! God, you for knew it was going to be a tough day. Here is here message to us -
Well, the lord also woke me this morning(around 3;30). I was praying for you as well. The lord had me journal what he was asking of you so that I should pray. The verse in Malachi 3:10 was the verse. (read the verses after as well) The people were being asked to bring their full offering in a time of gov. corruption and a season of drought. The Persian gov. levied heavy taxes and the drought made any agricultural livelihood sparse.To bring an unblemished sacrifice was a scary thing. God asked them for their cash crops- the full portion. He asked them to leap. It meant total surrender when all you could see was no future.Yet he said..." test me in this" That meant you walk in faith but know the possibility exists that I just maybe wrong about this whole God thing. Yet, we must walk in faith. he is our only option.
Here is a quote form the book I was reading... Restless Faith." For me, faith has often equaled some form of unflinching assurance.To have faith is to know , and to know, in my sense, is to have siphoned away every uncertainly. Faith, essentially is the absence of mystery. As I now see it, faith and doubt are bedfellows-strange ones, indeed, but partners all the same. Faith requires, to at least some degree, some possibility that I could be wrong." oh well, all that to say I am praying for you guys... cause God is asking a BIG ASK. I know you will walk with him.... and I will pray. YOUR FRIEND
It is a big ask, Lord, but you created our hearts, you have shaped them to desire this in our lives. It is scary and we don't know how it will all work. Maybe my fleeces take away the "faith" part...stepping forward when you could fail. But God, you know my heart and so I'm still asking that you demonstrate your perfect timing by addressing the fleeces...I don't want SA to just be a great adventure...I want it to be your calling!
2 Timothy 2
v. 1 You then, my child, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
We should keep moving and working hard for God's kingdom. Just as soldiers, farmers, athletes, we must train, exercise, be disciplined. We do not question, we work and train hard moving towards the goal the Lord has set before us. Realizing there will be pain and discomfort.
v23-26 Have nothing to do with stupid and senseless controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kindly to everyone, an apt teacher, patient, correcting opponents with truth, and that they may escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.
God we are tempted to be angry and quarrelsome. It is so hard not to be when people "push your button" or are just unreasonable. Show us how to be strong, truthful, and diligent while still honoring you. We are not meant to be tramped on, we are meant to serve you with dignity and fighting for truth.
Amen
Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart, for I am called by your name, O Lord, God of hosts. Jeremiah 15:16
Mr. Kroll writes, "Every Christian bears Christ's name; live as an honor to His name."
Lord, the time we spend studying your words helps us to live in honor to you. Thank you that your word is alive and touches our lives in a real way. Yesterday was a tough day and I don't even want to imagine what it would be like if I hadn't spent time talking with you. Jeremiah had it far worse than we do and he could say it was your word that gave his heart delight. Only your word...not the circumstances...but you. Your presence is our lives helps us to adjust, endure, have confidence that you are walking with us. We are called by your name so may our lives glorify you! I praise you for that!
A message from Krugersdorf. Things are progressing...but at a slow pace. Renovations are already taking place. "My three sons" stop by to check it out everyday. They are addicted to glue. Lord, there are others that need to be off the street before they become addicted. Move your hand to provide the written documentation they need to get the safe house going.
I received an email from my sister in Christ yesterday that you had her praying for us at 3:30 in the morning! God, you for knew it was going to be a tough day. Here is here message to us -
Well, the lord also woke me this morning(around 3;30). I was praying for you as well. The lord had me journal what he was asking of you so that I should pray. The verse in Malachi 3:10 was the verse. (read the verses after as well) The people were being asked to bring their full offering in a time of gov. corruption and a season of drought. The Persian gov. levied heavy taxes and the drought made any agricultural livelihood sparse.To bring an unblemished sacrifice was a scary thing. God asked them for their cash crops- the full portion. He asked them to leap. It meant total surrender when all you could see was no future.Yet he said..." test me in this" That meant you walk in faith but know the possibility exists that I just maybe wrong about this whole God thing. Yet, we must walk in faith. he is our only option.
Here is a quote form the book I was reading... Restless Faith." For me, faith has often equaled some form of unflinching assurance.To have faith is to know , and to know, in my sense, is to have siphoned away every uncertainly. Faith, essentially is the absence of mystery. As I now see it, faith and doubt are bedfellows-strange ones, indeed, but partners all the same. Faith requires, to at least some degree, some possibility that I could be wrong." oh well, all that to say I am praying for you guys... cause God is asking a BIG ASK. I know you will walk with him.... and I will pray. YOUR FRIEND
It is a big ask, Lord, but you created our hearts, you have shaped them to desire this in our lives. It is scary and we don't know how it will all work. Maybe my fleeces take away the "faith" part...stepping forward when you could fail. But God, you know my heart and so I'm still asking that you demonstrate your perfect timing by addressing the fleeces...I don't want SA to just be a great adventure...I want it to be your calling!
2 Timothy 2
v. 1 You then, my child, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.
We should keep moving and working hard for God's kingdom. Just as soldiers, farmers, athletes, we must train, exercise, be disciplined. We do not question, we work and train hard moving towards the goal the Lord has set before us. Realizing there will be pain and discomfort.
v23-26 Have nothing to do with stupid and senseless controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kindly to everyone, an apt teacher, patient, correcting opponents with truth, and that they may escape from the snare of the devil, having been held captive by him to do his will.
God we are tempted to be angry and quarrelsome. It is so hard not to be when people "push your button" or are just unreasonable. Show us how to be strong, truthful, and diligent while still honoring you. We are not meant to be tramped on, we are meant to serve you with dignity and fighting for truth.
Amen
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Day 40: Rekindled
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And the Lord said to me, "The prophets prophesy lies in My name. I have not sent them, commanded them, nor spoken to them; they prophesy to you a false vision, divination, a worthless thing, and the deceit of their heart." Jeremiah 14:14
2 Timothy 1
For this reason I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is with you through the laying on of my hands; for God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self discipline. (vv. 6-7)
Going to my knees for one hour...will be back.
The hour went by quickly. Began praying through ACTS -Adoration, confession, thanksgiving, supplication. Prayed using the Lord's prayer as a guide. Lonnie called to say he was going to NL house...so glad I had been praying. I had 15 minutes more to pray.
Being silent I sensed the Lord say three things to me:
I will see NL home ...in my time,
my grace is sufficient, it is all you need
be ready next summer for my calling to be realized.
Tearfully I meditated on the words..."I am sufficient" Oh Lord, you are teaching us about your sufficiency in three areas:
Financially you are sufficient - $3000 for Lonnie to lead Africa trip this summer, Tax refund for me to go to Africa, Becca's support coming in at 1/2 point right now and out taxes to be sure we can finish her out., Liberty offering me the opportunity to teach 2 classes (which is unusual for a first time DLP professor), Liberty changing one of my classes so that I will become a specialist in a leadership course meaning I will have that course almost every term...Faithful load, Lonnie not hearing from 7-ll for start of part-time work. Your timing is perfect...maybe he doesn't need to do that but prepare our lives to transition by finishing the details of our home. Paid to coach Carol by NABA for a year.
Emotionally you are sufficient - Test me and know my anxious thoughts. You are teaching me that this is a weakness of mine. I am a worry wart and that will only harm me physically and emotionally. It is my area of weakness where I am open to the Deceivers lies and I allow Him to rob me of my joy in realizing your sufficiency. Emotionally you are allowing hurts from the past to be healed in my heart as we care for Nanny and Papa in our home. I pray he sees the man of God his son is. I don't know what the future holds but I sense there presence here is part of your emotional sufficiency for us...and for them. We will all have memories of caring. You will walk with me emotionally as I separate from family and friends here in the states.
Spiritual sufficiency - I didn't know 40 postings ago why I needed to do this blog. I only realized I needed, Oh my Abba, to draw closer to your heart. I didn't know what we were going to face, but you did and you knew I needed a spiritual rekindling. You knew I would need to recognize the tenderness of your heart towards us, your compassion and desire to be with us as Satan attacks and desires to rob of all the joy by focusing on the problem rather than what you are doing and how you are blessing. I needed oh so desperately to be close to you heart...so close I could hear your whisper, "Debbie, get on your knees for 1 hour...right now." Thank you for meeting me right here in our home...."Our missionary home" where I thought I would only use it to host missionaries and interns....I had no idea our Missionary home was the place you God would equip us to be your missionaries.
I praise you for the privilege to have drawn close to your heart this day.
Amen
And the Lord said to me, "The prophets prophesy lies in My name. I have not sent them, commanded them, nor spoken to them; they prophesy to you a false vision, divination, a worthless thing, and the deceit of their heart." Jeremiah 14:14
2 Timothy 1
For this reason I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is with you through the laying on of my hands; for God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self discipline. (vv. 6-7)
Going to my knees for one hour...will be back.
The hour went by quickly. Began praying through ACTS -Adoration, confession, thanksgiving, supplication. Prayed using the Lord's prayer as a guide. Lonnie called to say he was going to NL house...so glad I had been praying. I had 15 minutes more to pray.
Being silent I sensed the Lord say three things to me:
I will see NL home ...in my time,
my grace is sufficient, it is all you need
be ready next summer for my calling to be realized.
Tearfully I meditated on the words..."I am sufficient" Oh Lord, you are teaching us about your sufficiency in three areas:
Financially you are sufficient - $3000 for Lonnie to lead Africa trip this summer, Tax refund for me to go to Africa, Becca's support coming in at 1/2 point right now and out taxes to be sure we can finish her out., Liberty offering me the opportunity to teach 2 classes (which is unusual for a first time DLP professor), Liberty changing one of my classes so that I will become a specialist in a leadership course meaning I will have that course almost every term...Faithful load, Lonnie not hearing from 7-ll for start of part-time work. Your timing is perfect...maybe he doesn't need to do that but prepare our lives to transition by finishing the details of our home. Paid to coach Carol by NABA for a year.
Emotionally you are sufficient - Test me and know my anxious thoughts. You are teaching me that this is a weakness of mine. I am a worry wart and that will only harm me physically and emotionally. It is my area of weakness where I am open to the Deceivers lies and I allow Him to rob me of my joy in realizing your sufficiency. Emotionally you are allowing hurts from the past to be healed in my heart as we care for Nanny and Papa in our home. I pray he sees the man of God his son is. I don't know what the future holds but I sense there presence here is part of your emotional sufficiency for us...and for them. We will all have memories of caring. You will walk with me emotionally as I separate from family and friends here in the states.
Spiritual sufficiency - I didn't know 40 postings ago why I needed to do this blog. I only realized I needed, Oh my Abba, to draw closer to your heart. I didn't know what we were going to face, but you did and you knew I needed a spiritual rekindling. You knew I would need to recognize the tenderness of your heart towards us, your compassion and desire to be with us as Satan attacks and desires to rob of all the joy by focusing on the problem rather than what you are doing and how you are blessing. I needed oh so desperately to be close to you heart...so close I could hear your whisper, "Debbie, get on your knees for 1 hour...right now." Thank you for meeting me right here in our home...."Our missionary home" where I thought I would only use it to host missionaries and interns....I had no idea our Missionary home was the place you God would equip us to be your missionaries.
I praise you for the privilege to have drawn close to your heart this day.
Amen
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Day 39: The Spots
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Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard its spots? Then may you also do good who are accustomed to do evil. Jeremiah 13:23
It is our heart that shows who we are. Our nature must really be that of Christ himself...peace, patient, kindness. Our attitudes and actions are a result of who we are inside. There are times we are pushed and we lose that Christ connection. But it is my prayer that these times are few and far between.
Lord, help us to be a living example of you. I pray our nature is your nature. That our reactions and thoughts are as you would have it to be...a direct reflection of you. It has been a really tough afternoon. I have been on my knees twice begging the Lord to intervene. Lord my faith believes you can do all things...but I'm not sure how important our needs are to you...If we are to be learning a life lesson I don't know what it is now. I realize what we learned 5 years ago, but now is different. I see you hand moving us in one direction and then I sense the deceiver bringing hurt and chaos to the situation. Lord give my weak spirit strength to withstand the trials of this culture. I beg you Lord to intervene in our lives regarding NL house.
1 Timothy 6
But as for you, man of God, shun all this; pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of eternal life, to which you were called and for which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. (11-12)
Father, in the midst of conflict help us to recall Paul's words. I pray on behalf of Lonnie and I that our actions and words would be of you.
I ask for the wisdom to know when to speak and when not to speak. I beg for your Holy Spirit to come in and intervene. I know only you can take this burden from us. I ask that it be removed, Lord. We need you now.
Amen
Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard its spots? Then may you also do good who are accustomed to do evil. Jeremiah 13:23
It is our heart that shows who we are. Our nature must really be that of Christ himself...peace, patient, kindness. Our attitudes and actions are a result of who we are inside. There are times we are pushed and we lose that Christ connection. But it is my prayer that these times are few and far between.
Lord, help us to be a living example of you. I pray our nature is your nature. That our reactions and thoughts are as you would have it to be...a direct reflection of you. It has been a really tough afternoon. I have been on my knees twice begging the Lord to intervene. Lord my faith believes you can do all things...but I'm not sure how important our needs are to you...If we are to be learning a life lesson I don't know what it is now. I realize what we learned 5 years ago, but now is different. I see you hand moving us in one direction and then I sense the deceiver bringing hurt and chaos to the situation. Lord give my weak spirit strength to withstand the trials of this culture. I beg you Lord to intervene in our lives regarding NL house.
1 Timothy 6
But as for you, man of God, shun all this; pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of eternal life, to which you were called and for which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. (11-12)
Father, in the midst of conflict help us to recall Paul's words. I pray on behalf of Lonnie and I that our actions and words would be of you.
I ask for the wisdom to know when to speak and when not to speak. I beg for your Holy Spirit to come in and intervene. I know only you can take this burden from us. I ask that it be removed, Lord. We need you now.
Amen
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Day 38: Why?
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Righteous are You, O Lord, when I plead with You; yet let me talk with You about Your judgments. Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why are those happy who deal so treacherously? Jeremiah 12:1
Why? Why is it the bad guys seems to win? Or have a better life at least from man's perspective. Why Lord does it seem that when we tithe, give above that, use what extra we have and you so graciously give us...does it go to mission trips instead of our home, furniture, fence, pool liner? Why is it that we struggle financially when we are being obedient?
Because, you are an eternal God! You are a God that uses all things on this earth to teach us about you. Your provision, peace in obedience and not the world, miracles of your providing hand. Thank you for allowing me to see your hand at work in our lives. But, and I might as well say this Lord, it is hard and I don't get it. You know, oh Abba, what we have to take care of before the mission field. We can't just walk away from our responsibilities and obligations here. That is not being a faithful steward of what you have given us. Please, Father, attend to the two big matters that are on my heart...you know them. You can move mountains and change hearts. Please Father, provide in these areas.
1 Timothy 5:8
And whoever does not provide for relatives, and especially for family members, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
How appropriate that this is verse was in my Qt reading. It is so affirming right now. Give me the spiritual tenacity to fight this battle...to not be picky but to look for good...to be thankful, Lord that you have given us a home that will accommodate family. May I honor you in honoring them.
Use this day for your Glory!
Amen
Righteous are You, O Lord, when I plead with You; yet let me talk with You about Your judgments. Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why are those happy who deal so treacherously? Jeremiah 12:1
Why? Why is it the bad guys seems to win? Or have a better life at least from man's perspective. Why Lord does it seem that when we tithe, give above that, use what extra we have and you so graciously give us...does it go to mission trips instead of our home, furniture, fence, pool liner? Why is it that we struggle financially when we are being obedient?
Because, you are an eternal God! You are a God that uses all things on this earth to teach us about you. Your provision, peace in obedience and not the world, miracles of your providing hand. Thank you for allowing me to see your hand at work in our lives. But, and I might as well say this Lord, it is hard and I don't get it. You know, oh Abba, what we have to take care of before the mission field. We can't just walk away from our responsibilities and obligations here. That is not being a faithful steward of what you have given us. Please, Father, attend to the two big matters that are on my heart...you know them. You can move mountains and change hearts. Please Father, provide in these areas.
1 Timothy 5:8
And whoever does not provide for relatives, and especially for family members, has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
How appropriate that this is verse was in my Qt reading. It is so affirming right now. Give me the spiritual tenacity to fight this battle...to not be picky but to look for good...to be thankful, Lord that you have given us a home that will accommodate family. May I honor you in honoring them.
Use this day for your Glory!
Amen
Monday, February 8, 2010
Day 37: What is between us, Lord?
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"For according to the number of your cities were your gods, O Judah; and according to the number of the streets of Jerusalem you have set up altars to that shameful thing, altars to burn incense to Baal. Therefore do not pray for this people, or lift up a cry or prayer for them; for I will not hear them in the time that they cry out to Me because of their trouble." Jeremiah 11:13-14
Hard and too often forgotten questions: "What is between us Lord?" "What have or am I doing that is causing the lack of intimacy between us?" " How have I sinned against you?"
Father, I want to ask those questions so that my heart doesn't become hard, so that you don't turn me over to my own ways. I don't want to only run to you when times are hard like a spoiled child. I want to run to you with good news like a best friend. I believe I'm on that path again and I praise you for always being near me and assuring you are listening to our prayers.
Abba, Lonnie wants me to spend the month with him in South Africa this summer...travel with the team and then stay for the Safe House. At first I was no way it can work...now I feel a nudging from you. So here I am Lord willing to take the first step...I am talking with Hank and see what he thinks. Open and close doors God.
Thank you for the wonderful tax return we are getting. Thank you for the two Liberty classes. The finances are coming in. Let us use them as you would have...save, purchase necessity, pay bills, tuition? We don't know but you do Lord. It is all yours and we have it with open hands before you.
I pray earnestly for the North Landing house and how you are using that to mold Lonnie and I. It also is yours and I know you will sell it in your time. Help us to be your faithful caregivers until then.
Yesterday Coastal launched it's first Internet broadcast...so many on line because of the wintry weather. My heart was warm when our son Mike was able to worship with us from Missouri! Thank you Father!
Bring campus Pastors to us Father so we can equip them to serve you.
Be with Bec, James and Kelsey, Miah and Casey, Josh. Praise you for our children.
Continue Father to hold us near as we draw near to your heart.
Amen
"For according to the number of your cities were your gods, O Judah; and according to the number of the streets of Jerusalem you have set up altars to that shameful thing, altars to burn incense to Baal. Therefore do not pray for this people, or lift up a cry or prayer for them; for I will not hear them in the time that they cry out to Me because of their trouble." Jeremiah 11:13-14
Hard and too often forgotten questions: "What is between us Lord?" "What have or am I doing that is causing the lack of intimacy between us?" " How have I sinned against you?"
Father, I want to ask those questions so that my heart doesn't become hard, so that you don't turn me over to my own ways. I don't want to only run to you when times are hard like a spoiled child. I want to run to you with good news like a best friend. I believe I'm on that path again and I praise you for always being near me and assuring you are listening to our prayers.
Abba, Lonnie wants me to spend the month with him in South Africa this summer...travel with the team and then stay for the Safe House. At first I was no way it can work...now I feel a nudging from you. So here I am Lord willing to take the first step...I am talking with Hank and see what he thinks. Open and close doors God.
Thank you for the wonderful tax return we are getting. Thank you for the two Liberty classes. The finances are coming in. Let us use them as you would have...save, purchase necessity, pay bills, tuition? We don't know but you do Lord. It is all yours and we have it with open hands before you.
I pray earnestly for the North Landing house and how you are using that to mold Lonnie and I. It also is yours and I know you will sell it in your time. Help us to be your faithful caregivers until then.
Yesterday Coastal launched it's first Internet broadcast...so many on line because of the wintry weather. My heart was warm when our son Mike was able to worship with us from Missouri! Thank you Father!
Bring campus Pastors to us Father so we can equip them to serve you.
Be with Bec, James and Kelsey, Miah and Casey, Josh. Praise you for our children.
Continue Father to hold us near as we draw near to your heart.
Amen
Friday, February 5, 2010
Day 36: Come thou Fount
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"Why then has this people slidden back, Jerusalem, in a perpetual backsliding? They hold fast to deceit, they refuse to return." Jeremiah 8:5
Lord,
There have been season in my life when I was not close to you. I don't think total backslidding, but absolutley sliden further from you than closer to you. I desire to always grow closer to you and closer to the servant that you desire me to be. There are times I'm afraid, intimidated, lazy, selfish...but you never have given up on me. I thank you for nudging me back to you...waiting for me to realize that I need your love, peace, and presence in my everyday, every moment life. Jeremiah did all you asked him and still the people of Israel refused to return to you. I pray that I will never have a heart that is so hard it doesn't hear your whisper.
Bless this day as we face challenges. People challenges, situations, deadlines, tasks. Help us to hear your voice, to recall your teachings, and to glorify you.
Praise you that Becca did well on her academics this past week. That her meeting with coach went well. Keep Michael safe and healing from his cold. Bless James and Kelsey, Casey and Jeremiah in their young marriages.
Amen
"Why then has this people slidden back, Jerusalem, in a perpetual backsliding? They hold fast to deceit, they refuse to return." Jeremiah 8:5
Lord,
There have been season in my life when I was not close to you. I don't think total backslidding, but absolutley sliden further from you than closer to you. I desire to always grow closer to you and closer to the servant that you desire me to be. There are times I'm afraid, intimidated, lazy, selfish...but you never have given up on me. I thank you for nudging me back to you...waiting for me to realize that I need your love, peace, and presence in my everyday, every moment life. Jeremiah did all you asked him and still the people of Israel refused to return to you. I pray that I will never have a heart that is so hard it doesn't hear your whisper.
Bless this day as we face challenges. People challenges, situations, deadlines, tasks. Help us to hear your voice, to recall your teachings, and to glorify you.
Praise you that Becca did well on her academics this past week. That her meeting with coach went well. Keep Michael safe and healing from his cold. Bless James and Kelsey, Casey and Jeremiah in their young marriages.
Amen
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Day 35: Immediate Obedience
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But this is what I commanded them, saying, 'Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be My people. And walk in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well with you. Jeremiah 7:23
The Lord gives us commands to provide safety, security, and what is best for us. The big 10 are usually no secret. The commands that the Lord whispers to us throughout the day are what can get lost in the hurriedness and clatter of all that is going on around us. Sometimes God speaks loudly and sometimes softly. My task is listen and obey immediately to his voice. My life, or the life of someone, else may depend on that ability.
1 Timothy 4
For to this end we toil and struggle, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe. v. 10
Ministry can be toil and struggle at times. But we keep on because of the hope of Christ and the work he desires through us.
Father,
It is toil and struggle to maintain the path you would have us to take...to keep our focus and not be discouraged by what life throws at us. God, help me to hear your voice, loud or quiet. Help me to distinguish between your voice and the deceivers voice. With my whole heart I want to obey but I know I am not always 100% in tune with what you are saying. I praise you when you call to my attention how I have strayed: in mind, spirit, or action. When my thoughts are not honoring to you...when I fret instead of realizing the Master of the Universe knows my name, my pain, my anxiety, and He will respond as he deems necessary. Oh the sweet state of total trust in you...moving away from anxiety. I do really well for a season but then like a lead ball something new or bigger creeps into my life and I'm back on the roller coaster again. My prayer is that I will recognize it and quickly realign myself to your promise that you will never leave me nor forsake me.
Thank you for being a God that cares enough to give commands.
Your loving servant.
But this is what I commanded them, saying, 'Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be My people. And walk in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well with you. Jeremiah 7:23
The Lord gives us commands to provide safety, security, and what is best for us. The big 10 are usually no secret. The commands that the Lord whispers to us throughout the day are what can get lost in the hurriedness and clatter of all that is going on around us. Sometimes God speaks loudly and sometimes softly. My task is listen and obey immediately to his voice. My life, or the life of someone, else may depend on that ability.
1 Timothy 4
For to this end we toil and struggle, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe. v. 10
Ministry can be toil and struggle at times. But we keep on because of the hope of Christ and the work he desires through us.
Father,
It is toil and struggle to maintain the path you would have us to take...to keep our focus and not be discouraged by what life throws at us. God, help me to hear your voice, loud or quiet. Help me to distinguish between your voice and the deceivers voice. With my whole heart I want to obey but I know I am not always 100% in tune with what you are saying. I praise you when you call to my attention how I have strayed: in mind, spirit, or action. When my thoughts are not honoring to you...when I fret instead of realizing the Master of the Universe knows my name, my pain, my anxiety, and He will respond as he deems necessary. Oh the sweet state of total trust in you...moving away from anxiety. I do really well for a season but then like a lead ball something new or bigger creeps into my life and I'm back on the roller coaster again. My prayer is that I will recognize it and quickly realign myself to your promise that you will never leave me nor forsake me.
Thank you for being a God that cares enough to give commands.
Your loving servant.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Day 34: Peace
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"They have also healed the hurt of My people slightly, saying, 'Peace, Peace!' when there is no peace." Jeremiah 6:14
The only real peace is knowing that I will be in heaven with my Lord one day. The world is a restless place and I can so easily get sucked into all the madness. Each day I make efforts to have a peaceful spirit and not be anxious. It is a day by day effort. I know God is always in control and is there with me. I know he has my best interest in his hands. I believe my anxious heart comes from my childhood. But that is in the past. If I can't handle the unknown now in my secure little safe world how will I adjust in another continent? Lord, the tests are to prepare. It is a mental battle...I must win this to be a servant of yours in the long run...I want to win the marathon race.
Father, help me to remember the boys in SA that do have peace because they do not know you. May my heart stay tender and passionate about them. May their deprivation over-power my sense of deprivation in leaving my children.
1 Timothy 3
A high calling for those in ministry and leading others. Father, thank you for this chapter to remind us how important our actions are. They are a reflection of you in our life and spirit.
God, help me to balance ministry, Liberty, wife, mom, friend. You know we are willing to work as hard as is required to position ourselves to immediately respond to your calling. I pray for energy when I'm exhausted. I pray for wisdom and discernment. I pray for restful sleep. I pray for only kind and affirming words to come from my mouth and heart.
I praise you for all things good and even challenging. It is through the challenges that we most often grow to be a stronger reflection of you.
Walk with me Lord, so that I may walk in peace, lead others to your peace and walk with others in peace.
Amen
"They have also healed the hurt of My people slightly, saying, 'Peace, Peace!' when there is no peace." Jeremiah 6:14
The only real peace is knowing that I will be in heaven with my Lord one day. The world is a restless place and I can so easily get sucked into all the madness. Each day I make efforts to have a peaceful spirit and not be anxious. It is a day by day effort. I know God is always in control and is there with me. I know he has my best interest in his hands. I believe my anxious heart comes from my childhood. But that is in the past. If I can't handle the unknown now in my secure little safe world how will I adjust in another continent? Lord, the tests are to prepare. It is a mental battle...I must win this to be a servant of yours in the long run...I want to win the marathon race.
Father, help me to remember the boys in SA that do have peace because they do not know you. May my heart stay tender and passionate about them. May their deprivation over-power my sense of deprivation in leaving my children.
1 Timothy 3
A high calling for those in ministry and leading others. Father, thank you for this chapter to remind us how important our actions are. They are a reflection of you in our life and spirit.
God, help me to balance ministry, Liberty, wife, mom, friend. You know we are willing to work as hard as is required to position ourselves to immediately respond to your calling. I pray for energy when I'm exhausted. I pray for wisdom and discernment. I pray for restful sleep. I pray for only kind and affirming words to come from my mouth and heart.
I praise you for all things good and even challenging. It is through the challenges that we most often grow to be a stronger reflection of you.
Walk with me Lord, so that I may walk in peace, lead others to your peace and walk with others in peace.
Amen
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Day 33: Anxious
Made it home after a trying 24 hours...only trying because I become anxious! I had no need to be anxious. Lord, you know me so well and now you are helping me to see my anxious thoughts and recognize the testing situations that bring them out. I like being in control of my world...knowing what is going to happen next, how, and why. But that's not life. Perhaps it comes from being the child of an alcoholic? That is why I love my heavenly Father so much. Abba, you will never let me down. You always will have my best interest in mind. There is no questioning of your character. You never change...loving, grace, consistent, mercy, all-knowing, all-powerful, all present.
Words can change a mood in a moment. Father, last night all was well and then bam, a conversation went south. It was not so much the words as the tone...on both of our sides. Help me to show grace in this situation. To honor my in-laws. To love as you love us despite our past behavior. It is difficult with a hurtful history. It is only in grace that forgiveness from me has been able to be extended. I am sad to say I don't have the unconditional grace that Lonnie does. There is no one that I know that has this measure of grace, except you my Lord. I ask Father for a heart that recognizes the anxious thoughts in me. I ask for patience during this season of caring for our parents. I ask for the ability to know when to speak and when to be silent.
Thank you for the Liberty courses I will teach. Yesterday more good news as I am being shifted to a course where I will probably have a section each term. Help me to serve you and your future ministers well in this calling.
Be with James as he leads his ministry, Michael as he battles for health, Becca today as she teaches and then has two big tests. Lonnie as he finalizes his paperwork for part-time work.
Back to the Bible
The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests rule by their own power; and My people love to have it so. But what will you do in the end? Jeremiah 5:31
According to Kroll, "As you go through your day, evaluate what you do in light of the end you know is coming. When you stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ, will the things you've given your life to really matter? Commit yourself to do that which is of eternal value.
The end is coming...and then what will you do?"
Father, I desire for my life's work to glorify you. The book I am reading is such a testimony to your calling and work. The family left everything, lived in poverty, to serve the street children of Brazil. She understood her husbands calling and that she and their children would spend less time with him than the street children. What I admire most is that she hears your voice. Father, I want to hear your voice. You speak through people, your word, and your spirit within us. I pray that my spirit will be able to hear your voice so that I can move in the direction you would have me.
1 Timothy 2
Lord, I am to be Lonnie's helpmate. I again ask for the insight to know when to confront and when not to. May I honor him. May I see how you are working and be your servant to those that have brought hurt. May I be your hands and heart.
Amen
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