More Than "Good Enough" for God

"Rest in me...this time devoted to Me is meant to be peaceful, not stressful. You don't have to perform in order to receive My Love... It grieves Me to see My children working for Love: trying... yet never feeling good enough to be loved." (270)
Not feeling "good enough" is probably one of the most defeating emotional battlegrounds to overcome! Somehow we have a picture in our minds of what we ought to be or what we think others believe we should be. That picture can condemn us, rather than inspire us, no matter what we do or how hard we try. The hamster-wheel-effect it has on our lives can leave us exhausted, discouraged, deeply sad, even hopeless.
Proverbs 13:12 tells us that "hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life." God has placed "trees of life" in our lives...those who speak hope into our hearts. God, Himself, "rejoices over us with gladness... delights in us with shouts of joy." (Zephaniah 3:17)
It reminds me of the passage in Colossians 1:21-29 where we "were once alienated and hostile in our minds...but now He has reconciled us...to present us holy, faultless, and blameless before Him...to make God's message fully known...which is 'Christ in you, the hope of glory.'" To be "reconciled" makes us more than "good enough"...we can actually be God's Delight!
Graciously "good enough" Today...dmc

His Amazing Breath in Me

"Worship Me by living close to Me. This was My original design for man, into whom I breathed My very breath of Life. This is My desire for you: that you stay near Me as you walk along your life-path." (269)
I am captured by the thought that the breath of God is within and all around me! So amazing... to think He is not only a breath away, He is my VERY breath!
Check out this song by Phillip, Craig & Dean, "Your Grace Still Amazes Me"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNClAJO2tnQ&feature=related
Breathing in His Amazing Grace...dmc

No Back Talk

"Give your mind a break from its habitual judging...Rather than evaluating My ways with you, accept them thankfully." (268)
Have you ever talked back to God? I have! Especially when it comes to some inherited physical challenges related to back pain. I have questioned the way He fashioned my body, with these various built in flaws that I must continually deal with.
Romans 9:20-23 tells me "who are you-anyone who talks back to God? Will what is formed say to the one who formed it, "Why did you make me like this?" or has the potter no right over His clay? What if God did this to make known the riches of His glory on objects of mercy that He prepared beforehand for glory-on us whom He also called..."
I am captured by the thought that my physical weaknesses could be used "to make known the riches of His glory" as I seek to glorify Him, no matter what! With or without the miraculous healing I deeply desire!
I know people who carry much weightier physical challenges than I do and others who must carry heavy emotional or relational challenges. They certainly help to inspire me... to hold on until my miracle comes, until Jesus comes or until I come...home to heaven!
I really like how my friend, Melissa reflected on this, "One day I thought, why am I complaining (even) about the weather? I can't change it... No matter what circumstances are thrown my way, I must focus on God and know that He KNOWS what He is doing! I must let God, be God! (Yes there is a song...here are the lyrics!)
http://www.songlyrics.com/phillips-craig-dean/let-god-be-god-lyrics/
"Rather than evaluating (His) ways" we must "accept them thankfully...(and) worship (Him)as King of Kings." It's good for me to remember who God is and that I was created first and foremost to know Him and to glorify Him!
Holding my tongue & His Hand...dmc

The Activity Addiction

"Spending time alone with Me can be a difficult discipline, because it goes against the activity addiction of this age. You may appear to be doing nothing, but actually you are participating in battles going on within spiritual realms...demolishing strongholds." (267)
I really identify with the "activity addiction" issue. Our schedules are filled while our opportunities "to sit quietly in (His) Presence" are so limited. Because of that, we have to intentionally guard our schedules, protecting our quiet times with Him.
Perhaps one of the most destructive strongholds of this age is our general addiction to activity and the overall busyness that overwhelms our lives.
Time with Jesus or "living close to (Him) is a sure defense against evil" and offers protection against all sorts of destructive addictions that distort our ability to see and think clearly.
Actively Addressing my Activity-Driven Life...dmc :)

Sending Birthday Blessings to my sister, Jeanne!  May the God of Hope fill you with all joy & peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with Hope by the power of the Holy Spirit! Rom. 15:13. You are dearly loved, sissy!

Good-to-Go, No-Matter-What

"Rejoice in Me always! No matter what...rejoice in your love-relationship with Me. This is the secret of being content in all circumstances." Phil.4:4, 12 (266)
There is such a HUGE difference between those who are content and those who are discontent. The bible makes it clear that contentment provides an environment for life that is exceptional and to be highly desired. Those who KNOW Christ can experience contentment "in all circumstances." REALLY?? In ALL circumstances? Yes! So, let's look at the secret to THAT kind of contentment?
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: REJOICE!" (Phil. 4:4) Rejoice literally means to "re-joy," choosing joy over and over again. Choosing to celebrate something in every situation takes a little creativity and a lot of focus. But, of course, it depends on...what we're focusing on!
Joe and I try to intentionally focus on reasons to rejoice in the midst of all circumstances. There have been a number of times we were delayed significantly in our travels and could have easily been quite annoyed but decided to thank the Lord, no-matter-what! In one case, within an hour of our delay, we came up on an accident scene with people still in the ditches and on the road. As we slowly drove past, praying for those involved, we praised God for wisely pacing our travels.
Today is the anniversary of the 911 Tragedy of 2001. So many testified to God's presence in the midst of the crisis or of how delays or even sickness kept them from their ordinary schedules that would have placed them in the bull's eye of disaster.
There's reasons, while often hidden to us, to choose to be content. Because we choose to focus on our "love-relationship" with God. We rejoice no-matter-what, because a no-matter-what God really knows and loves us, no-matter-what!
No-matter-what I'm choosing to be Content...dmc

Crafted for Companionship

"I am always available to you... Sometimes you may feel distant from Me...that (is a) feeling...(not a) reality. The Bible is full of My promises to be with you always...to the very end of the age." Matt. 28:20 (265)
The devo for today is all about the companionship we have in Christ. There's alot of research supporting the benefits of companionship; such as the impact of pets on the elderly, the blind, or the lonely. I reviewed some interesting research detailing how even earth worms may seem to prefer being together over being isolated! Who would have guessed!?
Quoting the research article, "Ants colonize. Fish shoal. Flamingos flock and caribou herd. Earth is populated by inherently social beings. Even lowly worms seek out the benefits of companionship. New research has dissected the social proclivities of a model worm, identifying a single type of neuron -- RMG -- that "decides" whether these worms will mingle with their fellows or keep to themselves." (Neurons That Control Sociability In Worms Defined, Saturday, April 18, 2009 - 21:28 in Biology & Nature.)
It's as if all creation is genetically crafted for companionship. Romans 8 tells how all of "creation eagerly waits with anticipation" for Christ to return, even "groaning together." (v. 18-25)
My parents were married 57 years, and Joe's parents were married 73 years, before loosing a spouse. Learning how to live without one's soulmate is difficult and it reminds me, again, of how we are deeply crafted by God for companionship. "It is not good for the man to be alone..." (Gen. 2:18)
What a comfort to hear Jesus say, "Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matt. 18:20)
Grateful that He is WITH me...dmc

PS - Happy Birthday to our charming grandson, Noah!!!

A Mind-filled with Trust

"Walk with Me along paths of trust... As soon as you realize you have wandered from your trust-path, look to Me and whisper, "I trust You, Jesus." This affirmation will help you get back on track... Anxious thoughts branch off in all directions, taking you farther and farther from awareness of My Presence... voice your trust in Me frequently...this will keep you walking along straight paths with Me." (264)
I love the verse found in Isaiah 26:3..."You will keep in perfect peace the mind that is dependent (stayed) on You, for it is trusting in You." (HCS)
The figurative paths we journey in our minds steal away our peace far more often than the literal paths we walk in life. I can roam down endless paths of frustration and fear that will become a worrisome reality only within the boundaries of my own skull! What a waste of "precious time and energy."
Jesus died for us to live an "abundant life" yet many died having lived 'a burdened life'... wandering down miserable paths Jesus never intended for His own.
The challenge is...  To live like the redeemed we must think like the Redeemer!
Rethinking Redeeming Thoughts...dmc

Test of Absolute Trust

"Accept each day...not only the circumstances...but also the condition of your body. Your assignment is to trust me absolutely...(even when) the demands on you seem far greater than your strength. Days like that present a choice between two alternatives - giving up or relying on Me...I will infuse My strength into you moment by moment." (263)
When the demands of my day are beyond my strength or ability, having absolute trust can become an absolute test! Similar to a multiple choice test with two alternatives. "Moment by moment" I must choose which way I will fall. I will:
A. Regress (fall backward)
B. Rely (fall forward)
I have discovered that even when I choose to rely (fall forward) on God, the circumstances of my day or the condition of my body may not change. So, what initiated my dilemma may still be in place. However, the big change happens in the atmosphere of my mind! My thoughts are altered, my perspective is broadened and I realize...it's NOT all about ME! He is working on something far grander than me and I am just a small part of a much bigger picture. So, He gives me just enough strength, enough wisdom, enough of His Presence to equip and empower me for each moment. I find it easier to trust Him with my impossible days when I do it a moment at a time!
For me, the biggest challenge is making that initial choice, in that impossible moment, to trust Him, absolutely! Then, moment by moment, day by day, week by week, year by year a whole lifetime is lived....
Falling Forward into His Sovereignty and Faithfulness...dmc

God's Grace & My Guilt

"Enjoy the warmth of My Presence...I delight in you more than you can imagine...That is why I abhor the use of guilt as a means of motivation among Christians. Guilt-evoking messages can undermine the very foundation of grace. I grieve when I see grace eroding... "The law of My Spirit of Life has freed you from the law of sin and death." Romans 8:1-2 (262)
As a counselor, I deal often in the areas of guilt, false-guilt, condemnation, forgiveness, grace and true innocence. All of which we could blog endlessly about. In the throes of real life, real relationships and a certain eternity, all of the above can become quite tangled and tricky to navigate. Here's my quick summarizing, in spite of rather incomplete thoughts...
The opposite of guilt is not necessarily grace, but rather, innocence. When grace preaching implies and fosters a false innocence, we are being deceived and a type of spiritual paralysis sets in, numbing our hearts from spiritual sensitivity and from the Truth that can and WILL set us free!
When I am guilty of falling short of God's directives, the resulting guilt is a healthy, God-given response to my lack of obedience or fallen innocence. I must recognize my guilt so I can receive God's glorious love-gift of grace.
When people come to me, desiring freedom from the messy issues of their lives, I hinder them if I skip over the realities of their own guilt (lack of innocence) before ushering them into God's forgiving grace. I like to say "Forgiveness is GIVEN FOR the mess!" So, confess the mess and move on!
It is true that preaching, not anchored in God's love, can be harsh and condemning, using guilt to manipulate. However, preaching that flows from God's heart of love will "stir us on toward love and good deeds" (Heb. 10:42) because we are called and crafted to live for eternal purposes...purposes far beyond ourselves. His love inspires us to deal honestly with ourselves, graciously with others, and generously with the Church, His Bride. (Eph.5:25-32)
Am I fallen, guilty, condemned? Yes. Am I forgiven, graced and called? Yes!
My daughter-in-love, Leslie, says she likes to always be spiritually "challenged" to grow. I agree. It's a much healthier way to live our lives...we may be graced but we're still growing! Living things grow...dead things have stopped growing!
Whoa, that inspires me to be spiritually "challenged" daily!
I am so grateful for the privilege of sitting under healthy preaching that honestly deals with guilt, respectfully handles grace, and totally embraces God's Love!
Challenged with God's Love & Truth...dmc

Delightfully Dependent

"Do everything in dependence on Me. The desire to act independently - apart from Me- springs from the root of pride... My deepest desire for you is that you learn to depend on Me in every situation...(enjoying) My Presence and My Peace." (261)
Years ago I had an older christian tell me that to pray over something one time was sufficient and that there was no need to repeat that prayer. Well, I found that very hard to do. Probably because of my own flawed nature, I needed to present concerns to God whenever they were messing with me, not just initially, but continually.
Today's devotional encourages someone, like me, who needs a 'User-friendly' Savior who can be accessed often and easily.
Relying on Jesus Continually...dmc

Divine Chemistry

"I am your best Friend, as well as your King...hand in hand...we face whatever each day brings...gleaning joy out of sorrow, peace out of adversity. Only a Friend who is also the King of kings could accomplish this divine alchemy." (260)
What a strange, yet wonderful mix...alchemy...the chemistry of humanity and the chemistry of divinity, mingled and mixed to offer us a glorious sense of "eternal reality" in the midst of our "dusty, earthbound" existence.
"For His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness...He has given us very great and precious promises, so that through them (we) may share in the divine nature, escaping the corruption that is in the world..." (2 Peter 1:3-4)
Living in His Presence is like "living in two realms simultaneously." To be an overcomer, I must 'come over' and capture more and more of His Divine Nature through the application of His "great and precious promises!"
In His Chemistry Class...dmc

Where I Belong

"No matter where you are in the world, you know you belong when you sense My nearness. I designed you for close communication with your Creator. When you commune with Me in the garden of your heart, both you and I are blessed. Together we will push back the darkness..." (259)
Basic to our human nature is the need to belong. Some settings foster a sense of belonging while other situations cause one to feel uneasy, out-of-place and awkward. The one place I want to "belong," and I want my kids and grand kids to be feel like they belong, is in the Presence of God!
I am grateful for an upbringing that allowed me to experience the Presence of God and drew me close to Him. My parents, home church, circle of friends and various spiritual mentors welcomed me into a vital relationship with God by inviting me to join them in their spiritual journey. With one arm they embraced Him and with the other arm they embraced me...and "together we push(ed) back the darkness!"
We need to embrace others and let them discover they can belong to the Light ...not to darkness!
I Belong to Jesus...dmc

Morning Dew Gems

"Let the dew of My Presence refresh your mind and heart. So many, many things vie for your attention...your mind easily gets stuck on trivial matters... As soon as you start communicating with Me...your thoughts...move on to more important things... I will put My thoughts into your mind." (258)
I love the early morning dew...where tiny drops of water create little sparkling gems that reflect a rainbow of brilliant colors. Thinking of my morning devotional time as a refreshing dew inspires and challenges me. It certainly prompts my mind to be filled with gem-like thoughts that carry the potential of reflecting His sparkling Presence throughout the rest of my day. What's even more amazing is when His Presence is reflected in gem-like tears.  Seeing the reflection of His Face and Presence in teary times, whether they are happy tears or sad tears, makes the "dew of (His) Presence" a refreshing reality. That's my challenge!
In His Dewy Presence...dmc

Life Lab of Collaboration

"Living in dependence on Me is a glorious adventure...living and working in collaboration with Me... I in you, and you in Me. This is the intimate adventure I offer you." (257)
Within the span of two years we said our earthly farewells to three of our parents, Joe's mom & dad and to my dad, all graduating from this earthly life to eternal life! It caused for some serious pondering, after all, each one had faithfully lived out their witness, touching so many in their earthly journeys.  The loss was felt by many whose lives had been eternally impacted through some encounter or "glorious adventure" that intersected their lives with one of our parents.
It reminded me of today's passage to live so that "Christ's power may reside in me...in weaknesses, in insults, in catastrophes, in persecutions, and in pressures. For when I am weak, then I am strong." (2 Cor.12:9-10)
Our lives are filled with moments of weakness, painful insults, unforeseen catastrophes, unfair persecutions, and mounting pressures that can overwhelm the best of any saint...but we are only in this Laboratory of Life for a limited amount of time. The secret is to daily Collaborate with Jesus.
It reminds me of being in a science lab working with a lab partner who knows how to successfully accomplish the lab experiment...and I get to enjoy the benefits of all His wisdom and efficient work!!
Co-partnered in the Co-lab of Life...dmc

Rough Patches

"Seek Me with your whole being... When things go well...you can feel Me smiling on you. When you encounter rough patches...My Light is still shining upon you." (256)
Rough patches in life show up all over... marriage difficulties, parenting challenges, financial stresses, school academia, and annoying road construction zones!  Even rough, scaly skin is considered "alligator hide" and must be doused with lotion! (According to the TV advertisement!)  Things were a bit rough this morning, after a stormy night. We had no electricity and downed tree limbs all over town.
Rough times are just a part of life. They are the not-so-desired parts that come, for only a season, and then they go. Certainly, in our earthly journey, "these adversities may be shrouded in mystery" but His Presence "is an absolute promise."
I find it a comfort to know He is watching. He is absolutely...
Aware & There...dmc

Company of the Weak

"Grow strong in your weakness...Your fragility is not a punishment, nor does it indicate lack of faith... I am developing your ability to trust Me... to lean on Me continually... This is how you grow strong in your weakness." (254)
It seems that the strong will often overcome the weak, or even intimidate them. But sharing our weaknesses, our brokeness, can be far more inviting, even embracing. Why? Because we tend to identify with others' weaknesses more readily than with their strengths. Although I may cringe at my own weaknesses, they are often the bridge that touches another especially when I fall on Jesus to assist and cover me.
My richest relationships have been safe harbors for my weaknesses, warm hearts of forgiveness and wise words that encourage me!
Praising God for the 'company of the weak' that encircle and love us, no matter what...dmc

PS - Today is my precious daughter-in-love's birthday!
Amber Dawn Colaw, you have blessed our lives immeasurably and have encouraged us so many times. We love how God uses you and your amazing story to advance His Work in the lives of so many others! Thanks for loving our son, Charles and our grand-delights, Trey, Hayden & Trinity!!  Birthday Hugs to YOU!

Delightfully Yours

"I take great delight in you and rejoice over you with singing!" Zephaniah 3:17 (253)
Think of someone whose presence brings you great delight. Just laying eyes on them, even if it's at a distance, can cause your heart to leap. I will often tell my grandchildren that whenever I see them it feels like I have a little internal cheerleader that will spontaneously start to jump for joy!
Similar to how Zephaniah says God responds to us...cheering and singing!  Think of it!!
It's hard to imagine, but it's wonderful to know! May I bring such joy to my Father's heart today.
Listening for His Song of Delight...dmc

Waiting & Whistling

When I was a little girl, my dad would sing a little jingle, entitled, "Whistle While You Work" when we had tasks to do. That's still a great way to attack the duties of my day!
Our devotional for today says, our Heavenly Father prompts us to "Wait Before You Work." "By waiting with Me before you begin the day's activities...this act of faith ...is noted in the spirit world, where your demonstration of trust weakens principalities and powers of darkness." (252)
I try to focus my waking thoughts on Him...praising Him! It helps to set my heart in the right direction and sets the emotional neuro-climate of my mind. With so many distractions, having paused to wait in His Presence and to read from His Word, makes a huge definable difference in my day!
Although no one may "see" us...those in the heavenlies DO take notice, and the powers of darkness are weakened while all the Powers of Heaven rise up to strengthen and minister to us. Having waited BEFORE we work gives us great reason to whistle WHILE we work today!
Waiting & Whistling...dmc

Heavenly Nutrients

"Grow strong in the Light of My Presence...receive nutrients that enhance your growth in grace. I designed you to commune with Me face-to-face, and this interaction strengthens your soul." (251)
The spiritually well-fed are strengthened, nourished with supernatural strength! Psalm 34:8 tells us to "taste and see that the Lord is good. How happy is the man who takes refuge in Him!"
Sometimes the only way those around us will know how "good" God is will be to "taste and see" by nibbling at us! Sometimes even biting us...and it can be quite hurtful... but it may be the necessary appetizer to spiritual nutrition, and their own experience with a soul satisfying Savior!
May God use our tasteful, spiritually nutrious lives as the appetizer that attracts others to Jesus!
I have tasted and I have seen..."THE LORD IS GOOD!"
Feasting on Him Today....dmc

Refocused in Jesus

"Spend time with Me for the pure pleasure of being in My company. I can brighten up the dullest of gray days..A mind that is unfocused is vulnerable to "the world, the flesh, and the devil," all of which exert a downward pull on your thoughts. As your thinking processes deteriorate, you become increasingly confused and directionless. The remedy is to refocus your mind and heart on Me, your constant Companion... you go step by step with Me." (250)
When I am focused on the presence of Jesus, I am able to move through my day with a greater sense of His companionship. That makes all the difference!
It reminds me of a synchronized dance between two partners who ebb and flow with rhythmic ease. It's like dancing with Jesus to the rhythms of heaven, delighting the Father, delighting the Son, delighting the soul!
When I get distracted, spiritually out-of-step or I'm tempted to temporarily dance with the devil... Yikes, everything falls out-of-synch and I feel totally worn, torn and abused.
So, today, I'll be...
Dancing with Jesus...dmc
PS - Joe's mom, Mabel Colaw, went to be with Jesus today in 2010. Happy Heavenly Birthday, Mom! Dance on with Jesus!

What's Messing with Me?

"Trust Me in the midst of a messy day...Seek My Face, and I will share My mind with you, opening your eyes to see things from My perspective." (249)
Have you noticed how a "messy day" gets a whole lot messier when we let it mess with us? I believe the enemy often tries to mess with our minds by messing with our lives to ultimately mess with our eternal destiny! We can't always prevent messy circumstances in life, but we can prevent a messed up eternity. Capturing His Mind will protect our own minds from those messy thoughts that totally, even eternally, mess us up!
Since cleaning up messes can become overwhelming, catching a mess early on, cleaning it up quickly, is a far better way to go. Then, all that's left is a testimony or MESSage of deliverance!
Absolutely No Messing Around...dmc

Wandering Thoughtfulness

"I am intimately involved in all your moments, and I am training you to be aware of Me at all times. Your assignment is to collaborate with me...(when) your mind goes off in tangents...do not be alarmed by your inability to remain focused on Me...redirect your mind...whisper My Name." (248)
I've often battled with wandering thoughts, even in the midst of prayer, bible reading or worship. That tendency troubled me... until I discovered how research affirms that most of us can catch ourselves thinking about things other than what we are actually doing much of the time. This cognition tendency can be a huge hindrance or, if handled creatively, can be a great asset, especially when it comes to prayer!
So, I started using those wandering thoughts like mental stepping stones to redirect myself back to Jesus. Now, whenever my mind wanders, I immediately talk to Jesus about it. I've discovered this allows me to confess quickly and to "bring every thought captive to the obedience of Christ." (2 Cor. 10:5)
With quick confession comes the ability to ponder the situation from a whole new perspective! Wandering thoughts become another opportunity for prayer!
I've noticed that when I get distracted and share it with Jesus I am immediately put back on track, prayerfully "collaborating" with Him. I have talked to Jesus about many things that would have never made my official prayer list, but they've certainly become a part of my prayer journey.
This kind of unceasing prayer becomes a type of ongoing conversation with Jesus, who's become a close traveling companion. He knows my heart, is interested in the landscape of my mind, weighs in on the various scenes, conversations and attitudes I am experiencing. The relationship that develops is reasurring, enjoyable and rewarding!
It's a great way to intercede for others, for situations, and for my own deepest desires or hurts that are often too difficult to express otherwise.
Catching Wandering Thoughts with Pondering Prayers...dmc

A Larger Font Life

"I am all around you - as you seek My Face...nearer than you dare believe, closer than the air you breathe - never feel lonely again...every thought...every word...I read you like an open, large-print book." (247)
God really knows us better than we know ourselves. "Aware of all (our) ways." (Ps. 139:3)
At times I mystify myself. I wonder what's happening within me...emotionally, physically, spiritually, relationally, etc. So, it is especially comforting to know that my Creator really "gets" me. He totally understands me! And still, He totally loves me! Amazing!!
When I am searching for insight from Him, when I need direction, or an answer I will ask Him to increase the font in my life. Just like when there is print too small to decipher, I may need Him to increase the font so I can clearly read the situation (or myself) better.
I picture it like the expanding capability on my Iphone that enlarges pictures and script with a simple two-finger technique. I like living the "open, large-print" life with God. Nothing hidden, nothing unconfessed, everything uncovered...
Wide Open...dmc

Promise for Parents

"Entrust your loved ones to Me...They are much safer with Me than in your clinging hands. When you release (them) you are free to cling to My hand (and) I am free to shower blessings on them...relax and...watch to see what I will do." (246)
My precious friend, Lori, tearfully shared the most beautiful example of this in our Truth & Dialog bible study. Here is her testimony...

Since my son was going to be leaving for Air Force Basic Training, I decided to look ahead to the devotional for that day, the 23rd of August. just to see what it said. The devotional was written for me and every other mother who struggles with children moving on either to college or to the military. The first line was like WOW! As I read thru the devotional, I saw I needed to release him so God could bless him! That had such an impact on me! I need not "idolize" my relationship or my love for my son because God would watch over him and I needed to keep my thoughts on God. I have been so excited about this devotional jewel. I have told everyone about what God was telling me for this very day, the day he leaves for military training. The peace I have in my heart tells me that this is a good thing, a very good thing, for him.

Thank you, Lori, for speaking to all mothers who are releasing their precious children into this uncertain world. Some releases seem to cut deeply into a Mother's Heart. God certainly understands, afterall, He made us to love so deeply! So, whether it be kindergarten, the military, the ministry, a surgical procedure, a new babysitter or a new business adventure, whatever... we have a God who gently leads our young, as "He gently leads those (of us) that have young!" (Isaiah 40:11 NIV)
"God, thank you for watching over our children & grandchildren. Shower them with blessings and cover them with protection as we place them in Your Hands...and tightly hold our hands, as You gently lead us through each day. Amen!"
No matter what age or stage of life, we'll continually be...
Releasing & Rejoicing...dmc

My God vs My Fears

"Fear is one of Satan's favorite weapons. When you start to feel afraid, affirm you trust in Me. Speak out...Resist the devil in My Name, and he will slink away from you. Refresh yourself in My holy Presence. Speak or sing praises to me." (245)
I find it nearly impossible to enjoy a blessed and abundant life when I am harassed with fear. I've observed and experienced how being fearful can certainly mess with sound judgment! Fear steals away self-confidence, God-confidence and fundamental confidence!  It sabotages a heart and strips away the empowering perspective of praise. No wonder Satan will often attack with annoying, even paralyzing fear.
It is good for me to be reminded often that "God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love and sound judgment." (2 Timothy 1:7) I am so grateful that...
My God is Greater Than My Fears...dmc

Privileged & Perilous

"You are walking along the path I have chosen for you...a privileged and a perilous way: experiencing My glorious Presence and heralding that reality to others." (244)
Recently Joe and I were sharing with a discouraged young father. He was experiencing what so many have wrestled with... life can become so overwhelming and very discouraging... even when we are "walking the path" and trying to seek God's will. Our hearts ached deeply for this young father.
It is good when one generation speaks encouragement into the following generation. These are perilous times and we desperately need each other, as we wait on God's answers and intervention! We are grateful for those who have spoken into our lives, at just the right time, encouraging us. We intentionally try to speak encouragement into the next generation every chance we can.  Because the "chosen" path does not always feel privileged, we must rally to support one another, as we 'herald the reality of His glorious Presence.'  
Grateful God Walks My Perilous Path...dmc

Healing Brokenness

"I am a God who heals. I heal broken bodies, broken minds, broken hearts, broken lives, and broken relationships...ask for healing of some brokenness... You cannot live close to Me without experiencing some degree of healing...grow more and more intimate with Me ...and thank Me for the restoration that has begun." (243)
There's a lot I do not understand about healing, but I do know that the closer I live to Jesus, the more I experience Him and He touches me with "degrees of healing." My prayer is that after others have spent time with me, they will be less broken and far more blessed... All because the Gentle Healer is alive in me!
Staying Close to The Healer...dmc

Powerful clip: The Gentle Healer (Michael Card)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOrsKFzpb9c&feature=related

The gentle Healer came/Into our town today
He touched blind eyes/And the darkness left to stay
But more than the blindness/He took their sins away
The gentle Healer came/Into our town today

The gentle Healer came/Into our town today
He spoke one word/That was all He had to say;
And the one who had died/Just rose up straight away
The gentle Healer came/Into our town today

Oh, He seems like just/An ordinary man
With dirty feet/And rough but gentle hands
But the words He says/Are hard to understand
And yet, He seems like just/And ordinary man

The Gentle Healer/He left our town today
I just looked around/And found He'd gone away
Some folks from town/Who followed Him, they say
That the gentle Healer is/The Truth, the Light, the Way.

Refocused & Refreshed

"As you increasingly find fulfillment in Me, other pleasures become less important. Knowing Me intimately is like having a private wellspring of Joy within you...If you feel any deficiency, you need to refocus your attention on Me. This is how you trust Me in the moments of your life." (242)
The secret to trust is really the ability to stay focused on Him more than on the issues that distract and distress! I am learning that as I keep my focus on Christ, the "wellspring of Joy within" me tends to bubble up and flow over into every area of my life. I am refreshed!
When my thoughts wander down troublesome trails I am reminded of Psalm 131, "I do not get involved with things too great or too difficult for me. Instead, I have calmed and quieted myself like a little weaned child with its mother; I am like a little child...putting my hope in the Lord, both now and forever." I like the CEV translation: "...I have learned to feel safe and satisfied, just like a young child on its mother's lap." Psalm 131:2
It's all about setting up the mental boundaries that keep me from wandering into "things too great or too difficult for me" and just letting God deal with those things, as I snuggle in close and quiet myself...
In His Lap...dmc

Deeply Fallen, Deeply Dependent

"Expect to encounter adversity...you live in a deeply fallen world... (I empower) you to live on a supernatural plane by depending on Me... (when) coming face-to-face with impossibilities... cry out to Me...Watch Me work on your behalf...under the shadow of My Almighty Power." Psalm 91:1 (241)
Living in this "deeply fallen world" can be deeply disturbing. I much prefer God's original, supernatural 'Plan A' where we were created to be living in Eden, before the fall of man, feasting on fruit trees, enjoying exotic animals, doing life with a perfectly crafted & chosen life partner and having fellowship with our Creator in the cool of the day!!
But sin has so tainted our world that living supernaturally, in this world, is impossible, unless... we learn how to live empowered! I found that the empowering place is "under the shadow of the Almighty" not under my own abilities!
So when faced with adversities, difficulties and impossibilities, I must realize, all the more, my INability and His great Ability! So the very things I dread (adversity, difficulty and impossible situations) help remind me to stay exactly where I am suppose to be...
Under the Shadow of the Almighty...dmc

Micro-Mini Vacations

"Find Me in the midst of the maelstrom...Whisper My Name...I am still with you." (240)
Although we may not be as familiar with the word "maelstrom" we are very familiar with it's meanings: a restless, disordered, or tumultuous state of affairs, a vortex of conflicting currents.
I often feel the vortex of conflicting schedules, expectations and various daily demands. Years ago I started to practice (what I call) "micro-mini vacations" where I close my eyes, breathe deep and prayerfully meet with Jesus. I often envision Jesus and myself in a calm, quiet location. I will breathe in His protective, peaceful Presence and exhale the distracting "maelstrom" within me. It really works FOR me...because HE really works IN me! Even just whispering His Name, for example, calms my tendency to get caught in whirlpools of worry. Jesus knows just how hazardous they are for me!
Whispering Whirlpools Away...dmc

God's Heart Calls to My Heart

"I have awakened in your heart strong desire to know Me. This longing originated in Me... When you seek My Face in response to My Love-call, both of us are blessed." (239)
While blessed by God's Presence, I am also amazed to think that He enjoys spending time with me! With you! With us! In fact, it brings Him great pleasure!
Philippians 2:12-16 says it this way, "...work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God who is working in you, enabling you both to will and to do His good pleasure (purpose.) Do everything without grumbling and arguing so that you may be blameless and pure children of God who are faultless in a crooked and perverted generation, among whom you shine like stars in the world. Hold firmly to the message of life..."
God is working in us, enabling us to WILL and to DO His good pleasure so we can "shine brighter day by day" like stars in this dark world! It is interesting how "grumbling and arguing" can dim the glow of His Presence in our lives. It is also interesting to note that the scripture says we must participate, "will and do", to experience His good pleasure.
So the deep longing in my heart, to know Him, originated in His Heart! That is such a priceless privilage!
Joyfully Responding to His Heart...dmc

He Knows Me

"I Am the God of all time...talk with Me about everything... When things go "wrong"... Make Me your Refuge by pouring out your heart to Me." (238)
Just what do you do "when things go wrong?" Who do you call? Run to? Lean on? I am grateful for hearts I can trust, souls who love me no matter what! But calling out to Jesus is a whole other thing because He really knows absolutely EVERYTHING about me. He even knows me better than I know myself!
Calling to the God of All Time, Anytime...dmc

PS - Today's devo reminded me of the song, He Knows My Name, by Tommy Walker.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=CC8puwexBBo&feature=related

I have a Maker
He formed my heart
Before even time began
My life was in his hands

I have a Father
He calls me His own
He'll never leave me
No matter where I go

He knows my name
He knows my every thought
He sees each tear that falls
And He hears me when I call

What's Next? Change!

"The world you inhabit is a place of constant changes...even the body you inhabit is changing relentlessly...however, I am the same yesterday, today, and forever." Hebrews 13:8 (237)
Change is built into every aspect of our lives; even every healthy cell is fashioned for change.  I was quite captured with the myriad of changes I experienced during pregnancy; how my own body changed to accommodate the growing new life within me. Then, observing all the normal changes from infancy to adulthood with our two boys, totally intrigued & often entertained us! We discovered to successfully survive raising another responsible human being required incredible flex-ability and firm-ability. It asked us to flex during numerous changes... like growing appetites, clothing sizes, best friends, haircuts, moods & mind lapses, while remaining reliably firm on the ultimates... like honesty, respect, integrity, work ethic, personal & spiritual disciplines. It was an endless, evolving series of WHAT'S NEXT?!
The impact of change is quite dichotomous, sometimes comforting, sometimes distressing, sometimes amazing, sometimes assaulting. For example, we've discovered the physical changes that come with the typical aging process can be quite distressing, even demoralizing, at times. But it is comforting to know that Jesus is the firm "rock-solid foundation" that never changes. He's the constant, reliable anchor that gives us reassurance, no matter WHAT'S NEXT?!
Firmly Anchored in Him...dmc

Divine Mental Health

"I crafted you with enormous capacity to know Me and enjoy My Presence... The more you focus on My Presence with you, the more fully you can enjoy life. (When you) glorify Me through your pleasure in Me...you proclaim My Presence to the watching world." (236)
When I was in my early teens a Youth Camp speaker spoke about the "God vacuum" everyone had. Now research reveals how our brains respond (using imaging technology) when the Presence of God is experienced.
There's no doubt...we are divinely crafted to "know and enjoy (God's) Presence." Allowing His Presence to fill my thoughts means... I am inviting Jesus into every thought and I am intentionally using my brain to glorify Him; to enjoy Him, to focus on Him... no matter what!
Staying Mentally Healthy by Praising Him...dmc

Stirring Up Compassion

"Come to Me when you are weak and weary...your weakness....draws Me closer to you, because weakness stirs up My compassion...allow Me to bless you richly..." (235)
I often long to be better equipped, or to do much more than I am able to accomplish...wishing I had more strength or energy, wisdom, creativity, talent and other resources. Today's passage encourages me..."He will not break a bruised reed, and He will not put out a smoldering wick..." (Isaiah 42:3)
So when I am feeling bruised or my flame is dim and smoldering, He draws in closer. He does not deal harshly with those who feel inadequate, sincerely seeking after Him. What a wonderful comfort! What a safe place to land when I need a haven!
May I be so stirred with compassion for the other bruised hearts around me. Those "whose hearts are (also) set on (a spiritual) pilgrimage." (Psalm 84:5) He really knows "how difficult (our) journey has been."
Alittle Bruised, Alot Blessed...dmc

Exchanging Holy Whispers

"Come to Me. Come to Me. Come to Me. This is My continual invitation to you, proclaimed in holy whispers...the magnetic pull of My Love...(filling) you with My fullness." (234)
His gentle "holy whispers" can come in the most unlikely ways and unexpected times. However, I've discovered that when I whisper praise or a prayer to Him, He will often whisper back to me! It's a wonderful exchange of love that "cannot be measured or explained, but it can be experienced." It's an expression of His love that is so "wide and long and high and deep" that it can fully cover and carry us! (Eph. 3:16-19)
As I started to read today's devotional, this Untitled Hymn by Chris Rice whelmed up in my heart.
Copy & Paste the following:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fs10Rr14WxY

Let's "Come to Jesus" all day long...dmc
Chris Rice - Untitled Hymn (Come To Jesus) Lyrics

Weak and wounded sinner/Lost and left to die/O, raise your head, for love is passing by/Come to Jesus/Come to Jesus/Come to Jesus and live!

Now your burden's lifted/And carried far away/And precious blood has washed away the stain, so Sing to Jesus/Sing to Jesus/Sing to Jesus and live!

And like a newborn baby/Don't be afraid to crawl/And remember when you walk-sometimes we fall...so Fall on Jesus/Fall on Jesus/Fall on Jesus and live!

Sometimes the way is lonely/And steep and filled with pain/So if your sky is dark and pours the rain, then Cry to Jesus/Cry to Jesus/Cry to Jesus and live!

O, and when the love spills over/And music fills the night/And when you can't contain your joy inside, then Dance for Jesus/Dance for Jesus/Dance for Jesus and live!

And with your final heartbeat/Kiss the world goodbye/Then go in peace, and laugh on Glory's side, and Fly to Jesus/Fly to Jesus/Fly to Jesus and live!

Moments of Time & Bursts of Energy

"Energy and time are precious, limited entities...use them wisely, focusing on what is truly important. As you...(saturate) your mind with Scripture, I will show you how to spend your time and energy. "My Word is a lamp to your feet...a Light for your path."" Psalm 119:105 (233)
I have days where I feel like the sands of time are dashing through my hour glass at an unprecedented speed and with each grain of sand a precious burst of energy suddenly slips away, too!
What a comfort to know that the time I spend with Jesus will help me "discern what is important and what is not" protecting both my time and my energy today!
Taking & Making Time with Him...dmc

Robed & Ready

"Wear My Robe of Righteousness...I custom-made it for you...realize your privileged position in My kingdom...practice walking in this garment...throw off unrighteous behavior (and enjoy) the gift I fashioned for you before the foundation of the world." (232)
Have you ever tried to dress for an event, only to realize, nothing seemed appropriate or fitting to wear? It's very disheartening!
The rigors of this world leave us stripped and destitute mentally, emotionally, relationally, financially, physically but especially spiritually. Life can become so disheartening!
Jesus knew we would be made vulnerable and exposed, so He fashioned a Robe specifically for each of us. Carefully crafted to equip and cover every issue, need or challenge we would face.
I love the song, The Robe, sung by Wes King. While you listen... get dressed!
In the Folds of The Robe...dmc

Copy and Paste:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7_RJ0kKmQo - 109k - Cached
The Robe (by Wes King (1993) Words by Wes King music by Phil Naish)
Anyone whose heart is cold and lonely/ Anyone who can't believe/ Anyone whose hands are worn and empty/ Come as you are
Anyone whose feet are tired of walking/ And even lost their will to run/ There is a place of rest for your aching soul/ Come as you are
Chorus: For the robe is of God/ that will clothe your nakedness/ And the robe is His grace/ It's all you all you need/ Come as you are
Anyone who feels that they're unworthy/ Anyone who's just afraid/ Come sinner, come and receive His mercy/ Come as you are.

Deep Calls Unto Deep

"I speak to you from deepest heaven...in(to) the depths of your being. 'Deep calls unto deep...(My) billows sweep over you.' Psalm 42:7 (231)
While the ocean intrigues me, it also intimidates me...both at the same time. The way that waves can roll in, crashing over each other, or the way a breeze can send gentle ripples over the glassy surface, gives it an ever-changing, nearly living, breathing, expression of nature.
The ocean resonates deeply with me. It reminds me that God's grace, His mercy, His unfathomable love goes far deeper than any soul struggle I may experience or encounter. My misery calls out to His mercy. My sin cries out to His saving grace. I am overwhelmed with praise, captured in worship, as the deepest part of my heart is caught up in the depths of His love.
Wading into Sacred Waters...dmc

Tyranny of Understanding

"Understanding will never bring peace...trust in Me, not in your understanding. (You try) to figure things out, in order to gain a sense of mastery...(but life's) endless series of problems...pop up to challenge you. The relief you had anticipated is short-lived. (You) search for understanding (mastery), instead of seeking Me (your Master)." (230)
I believe Satan often uses our "voracious appetite for trying to figure things out" to distract and derail us spiritually. I've worked with some brilliant people who eventually must face a situation or problem that baffles and frustrates them. They generally fall into two categories, which most of us ordinary souls also wrestle with...
The tendency to "figure things out" makes them hyper-focus on the problem leading them to overlook the more important, even obvious or eternal issues.
The other extreme, is their tendency to justify or excuse themselves from resolving situations that may challenge or expose their own flawed conclusions.
Basically, pride in our personal perspective or understanding of a situation can severely hinder us from humbly seeking out the Master's higher perspective and obeying Him.
So, it certainly makes sense that the enemy would want to throw "an endless series of problems" in our path to keep our minds sufficiently distracted with troubles. Haven't we've all experienced how a troubled mind cannot truly enjoy or emit peace and we experience the costly fall-out.
What is God's rather simple, yet solid solution? Seeking Him "and the peace of God that transcends all understanding (which) will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." (Phil. 4:7)
A heart and mind at peace is a much wiser, more winsome, healthier way to live!
Simply Seeking Him...dmc

Like the Feet of Deer

"When things seem to be going all wrong, stop and affirm your trust in Me...leave (these matters) in My capable hands. Then, simply do the next thing... I will make your feet like the feet of a deer. I enable you to walk and make progress upon the high places." (229) Habakkuk 3:17-19
When things seem be be going all wrong, it is hard to navigate forward, hard to clear my thoughts, hard to discern what's best, what's necessary or what needs to be eliminated. It's hard to focus on possibilities when my thoughts are filled with impossibilities and haunting concerns.
The picture of a graceful deer springing over tangled terrain, leaping over dangerous crevices or jumping from one rocky ridge to the next inspires me to believe that God will enable me to move forward with supernatural grace in my own rough times.
Even when the landscape of life gets rugged, the landscape of my mind can be renewed, energized and graced because of a Good and Gracious God!
Dancing with Deer Feet...dmc

Stillness Inspires

"Sit quietly in My Presence while I bless you...(be) ready to receive whatever thoughts I drop into (your mind.) Rest in My sufficiency..." (228)
At times, in my devotional pilgrimage, I've journaled the God-inspired thoughts I've received. Thoughts that would often stretch me and challenge my perceptions of who God is and how He was impacting my daily, ordinary life. Somehow, in the midst of those inspired-musings, it seemed I never doubted His Sufficiency and that He would provide and protect all that concerned me.
Reading back over those recorded thoughts, I am amazed and deeply stirred to rest in the Wisdom of the Ages.
Resting Quietly, Just Listening...dmc

Overcoming SADD

"Hold My hand...Together...I am your Guide, as well as your constant Companion. I know every step of the journey ahead of you, all the way to heaven. I am the Way, stay close...focus your thoughts on Me. Just concentrate on enjoying Me...staying in step with Me." (227)
How easily I can be distracted, with worries or wonders; burdens or blessings, both, can take my focus off of Him! It reminds me of a type of Attention Deficit Disorder that wrecks havoc on our souls. I've come to call it...Spiritual Attention Deficit Disorder. Too many of us suffer from SADD!!
I find it quite applicable because once my focus is misdirected I will grow continually more and more SADD!
Refocused and Ready...dmc

Resonating with the Creator

"Watch your words diligently. Words have such great power to bless or to wound. When you speak carelessly or negatively, you damage others as well as yourself. This ability to verbalize is an awesome privilege, granted only to those I created in My image." (226)
Although I do not totally understand this, I know that all sound operates on frequencies, invisible to the eye, yet can often be captured by the ear! As one of God's image-bearers, when my words are in agreement with Him, as an extension of His heart, something resonates deep within my soul. It's like every cell of my body is grateful when my words glorify God or when they bless others because it speak sparks of life deep within myself, too!
The voice I am most familiar with is my own. I must monitor it responsibly, making sure that my words are in concert with God's heart. When I voice words that are dissonant, or out-of-tune with my Creator, it scrambles the harmonies within me. I grow uneasy within myself and can sense I need to stop and "tune my heart to sing Thy grace." (Hymn: Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing)
"May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer." Psalm 19:14.
Longing to be synchronized & harmonized with His heart today...dmc

Be Still not Stagnant

"In this action-addicted world, few of My children take time to sit quietly in My Presence. But for those who do, blessings flow like streams of living water." (225)
There is a huge difference between "living water" and still, stagnant water. One is refreshing the other is disgusting.
I love how His Living Water can clear out the sludge, slime and stink of my stagnant soul. Taking time to "be still" in His Presence stirs up the stagnant waters...until a stream of living water is flowing in, through and out of me. Always Living Busy does not necessarily mean Living Blessed.
Opting to be Still...dmc

Amazing Love

"Nothing can separate you from My Love. Let this divine assurance trickle through your mind and into your heart and soul. Whenever you start to feel fearful or anxious, repeat this unconditional promise: "Nothing can separate me from Your Love, Jesus." (224)
To experience the kind of love that goes deeper than any misunderstanding, any miscommunication, any mistaken intention or mishap is a rare and wonderful gift! Our relationship with Jesus is based upon His Amazing Love that will never forsake, never abandon, never withdraw, never misrepresent, never miscommunicate or mislead us.
Have you noticed that the more of Jesus we experience, the more grace-filled our own love becomes! I am so thankful for a loving Savior, a loving husband, a loving family, a loving church and loving friends whose lives reflect this God-kind of Amazing Love!
My friend, Amelia, shares this great memory that illustrates the impact of such love in her own life... "When I was a young child, our family of 5 (and later 6) lived in a small three-room house on my grandfather's farm. After my mother tucked me in bed, I could hear her working in the kitchen on the other side of the wall. The "noise" was no problem. Instead, it was a comforting sound. All was well with my world because my mother was there taking care of her normal duties and "thinking of her children". Isaiah 49:16 reads: "...You are always in my thoughts!" (CEV) Imagine that! God is always thinking of me and "...always at work for the good of everyone who loves him" (Romans 8:28 CEV). What blessed assurance!"
Gratefully Amazed Again...dmc

Peace in the Fray

"I am with you at all times, encouraging and supportive... Slow down your pace of living for a time. Quiet your mind in My Presence...hear Me bestowing the resurrection blessing: "Peace be with you." (222)
Jesus gave the resurrection blessing to the disciples after they had been through a most fearful, high risk challenge to their faith...the trauma of His crucifixion, the mystery of His empty tomb and Mary's unbelievable report of having seen Him! In their humanness, "The disciples were gathered together with the doors locked because of their fear of the Jews. Then Jesus came, stood among them, and said to them, "Peace be with you." (John 20:19)
Overwhelmed with the "swirl of events" transpiring around them, the best they could do was to simply gather together and hide...behind locked doors.
I know that feeling, the desire to hide from the fray and my tendency to 'scold myself for my humanness.' I am grateful that Jesus still steps in, today, and says, "Peace be with you." That's exactly what I need... His Peace, not only right alongside me but deep withIN me, so that I can venture out from...
Behind closed doors with Jesus...dmc

Beauty Embraces

"Worship Me in the beauty of holiness. I created beauty to declare the existence of My holy Being."(221)
Beauty certainly has a way of catching one's eye! Beauty captures our attention and holds us in a kind of silent embrace. I love the thought of using that moment to acknowledge the great Creator of beauty.
Even nature, itself, is a glorious expression of praise to God...certainly I can join with all creation in praising God for the many expressions of His Beauty around me today, until His Beauty is reflected in ME!!
Embracing Him, Reflecting His Beauty....dmc

Tender Tugs

"Come to Me continually. I am meant to be the Center of your consciousness, the Anchor of your soul. Your mind will wander from me... My Spirit within you gives a tug, prompting you to return to Me...return to your true Center in Me." (220)
I love the way the Spirit of God faithfully and tenderly tugs on our hearts. I will sense His tugs in quiet times, in distressing times, in fearful times, in sweet romantic times, in the midst of chaos or in the calm...there He is tugging and coaxing me to travel tighter with Him. To hear the whispers of His heart deep within my own heart.
Praising God for His Tender Tugs Today....dmc

Soaking Out Secret Sins

"Let My love seep into the inner recesses of your being. Secret sins... can split off and develop lives of their own, controlling you without your realizing it. Open yourself fully to My transforming Presence... My Love soaks into your innermost being... expel(ling) very trace of fear." (219)
This reminded me of the Roman 7 & 8 passage where Paul so powerfully describes the conflict between his heart's commitment to Christ and his own propensity to sin. Although he desires to do what is right he says, "I do not do the good that I want to do, but I practice the evil that I do not want to do... in my inner self I joyfully agree with God's law, but I see a different law... waging war against the law of my mind and taking me prisoner to the law of sin... What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me...?" (Rom. 7:19 - 24)
I've watched people who've become so fractured that it's like observing several personalities in one person. One part loves God, yet another part refuses to obey God's Word, one part will be loving, another part will be hateful, one part is gracious while another part acts disgraceful... often the result of secret sins splitting the soul, setting up a milieu of mini-kingdoms where the enemy continues to mess with them.
My friend, Carolynn, said...
'As I read today’s devo, I immediately thought about (how) the “hidden secret sins” that “split off” can develop into bad habits, compulsions, addictions, etc. that do “develop lives of their own” controlling their victim. Many times friends and family do not even “know” their loved one any longer, they are “fractured” (Dawn Marie’s comments). They have become their addiction!
I (have also)witnessed firsthand the beautiful transformation God makes in the lives of those who are willing to surrender to God and allow Him to “purify them from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). Amen, Carolynn, thanks!
God’s Transforming Power can free us from a life of bondage to our bad habits, compulsions, addictions, etc. and His Perfect Love expels every trace of fear (1 John 4:18).  Praise God for His "Transforming Presence" that can totally renew our minds! (Rom. 12:2)
Thoroughly Soaking in His Presence...dmc

Hopeful High Road Perspective

"Hope is a golden cord connecting you to heaven... Hope lifts your perspective from your weary feet to the glorious view you can see from the high road." (218)
We were assigned to a room on the top floor of a hotel with a beautiful view over a sprawling lake with lots of little coves and inlets. We enjoyed watching all the boating, fishing, swimming activity on the lake. One evening a rain storm came up over the far end of the lake. We could see it slowly make its way across the lake. Boats were scurrying away from the storm at one of the lake, while boats at the other end were leisurely heading away from the shore... straight into the storm...until they recognized what was up ahead!
The "high road" perspective can certainly alter the way we view circumstances and people. From God's perspective everything makes sense. From our perspective many things do NOT make sense. My friend, Amelia, shared, "Many times in my life I have unknowingly headed straight into the storm but God saw what was ahead and delivered me. Other times I have received strength to endure the storm."
Aren't we so thankful for His Presence and the hope He provides. I am grateful He has the better, "high road" perspective that can protect and provide for each of us and those we love.
Trusting Him with the BIG Picture...dmc
PS - So grateful for my oldest grandson... Happy birthday, Trey!

Reshuffle & Relax

"Relax and let Me lead you...I have everything under control. (In) My control...you are set free to enjoy Me and to find what I have prepared for you this day." (217)
My parents, Kaehl & Dorothy Volesky, were married on this day and shared nearly 58 years together before Daddy passed away. When Mother faced her first anniversary separated from Daddy we went out to eat, enjoyed some 'oldies' dinner music and did some reminising. Over and over again, the choices they had made in the midst of challenge reflected the learned art of letting God pace and grace their lives! A heritage I highly treasure!
Our culture is obsessed with planning and pre-planning, making sure every detail is under control. Recently a sweet little bride told me how she was excited, yet exhausted, with all the planning that goes into a wedding. With her exhaustion about to overtake her excitement, she was definitely looking for some relief.
I could identify with her. I have days that leave me far too exhausted to really enjoy or even notice all the hidden blessings God has woven into my day. I am asking God to help me stay in balance... to selectively attend to daily demands, to be keenly God-aware and to learn to relax a whole lot more!
Just like my Mother, adjusting to the "reshuffling" of her life without Daddy around, every age and stage of life seems to offer the option to reshuffle and relax or to wrestle and collapse! May we discover a rewarding reshuffle as we "look to (Jesus, who will) show (us) what to do now and next."
Grateful for my mother's living demonstration of that!
Reshuffling...dmc

Divine Makeovers

"As you listen...I speak to you continually; through sights, sounds, thoughts, impressions, Scripture. There is no limit to the variety of ways I can communicate with you. Your part is to be attentive..." (216)
Listening to Jesus, all day long, during the whirl of activities or during the stillness of the night... it's a type of divine makeover! Being continually "conformed" into His image for "His purposes!" (Romans 8:28-29)
The other day a friend was contemplating how to discern whether she was hearing from God, from her past, from her own heart, from her secular friendships at work or maybe even from the enemy. We talked about the many voices that try to speak into our lives yet very few will have the kind of wisdom and credibility from which we would want to live our lives. It is most imperative that we know the difference! So, this is what I ask myself...
Will this produce more of the Fruit of the Spirit? (Galatians 5:22-23)
Am I fulfilling God's Will...by having a thankful heart? (I Thess. 5:18)
Then, I watch and wait as He does the divine makeover and "weaves it into a pattern for good."
In the midst of a Well-woven Makeover...dmc

God's Will? Give Thanks!

"Thankfulness opens the door to My Presence... I have empowered you to open or close that door...but a grateful attitude is one of the most effective... built on a substructure of trust." (215)
The attitude of gratitude makes such a HUGE difference!  After visiting our oldest son and family in Dallas, Joe and I were traveling back, it was late, we were tired and when we stopped to gas up we got stuck at a stop light that would NOT give us the green light. After waiting & waiting, we were finally able to make our turn. We both commented on how we were going to praise God and keep a good attitude...after all, who knows what God may have been protecting us from!
Well, when we were back on the road we soon came up on a terrible 3 car accident. One vehicle was on fire, two others in the ditch and people were everywhere as emergency personel were arriving. As we slowly drove past, we spontaneously starting praying for all those involved. After a few minutes we realized how we needed to also thank God for probably protecting us... by delaying us!?
I Thes. 5:18 makes God's Will absolutely clear... "Give thanks in everything!" Our delays and detours in life may be His Sovereignty strategically at work!
Thanking God for His ability to look ahead and trusting Him all the more, with more and more!
Practicing Thankfulness...dmc

Shine & Share

"I am the Light of the World. Men crawl through their lives cursing the darkness, but all the while I am shining brightly... be a Light-bearer. The Holy Spirit...can shine from your face, making Me visible...Brighten up the world by reflecting who I AM."(214)
I praise God for all those who reflect & shine God's Light into my life; faces that reflect His Presence. Their eyes, smile, expressions, tone of voice are expressions of His Love. What a contrast to others whose downcast faces refect the residual effects of crawling and cursing their way through life spiritually, emotionally, relationally!
Exodus 34:29-35 tells the story of how God's Presence so impacted Moses "that the skin of his face shone as a result of his speaking with the Lord." (Ex.34:29) As a busy pastor's wife and young mom, years ago, I was so inspired by that story that I challenged myself to maintain a devotional time with God, no matter what!
I want my face and communication to reflect God's....
Love Light to Others...dmc

Expectation Exhaustion

"Find freedom through seeking to please Me above all else. You can have only one Master. When you let others' expectations drive you, you scatter your energy to the winds." (213)
Learning how to escape others' driving expectations can be a life-long challenge. The other day I was sitting with an elderly lady who was so distressed over things that were perceived expectations from years ago. My heart ached for her as she continued to wrestle with issues that originated with people in her life from years ago that were now deceased, but those expectations lived on, still haunting and harassing her.
I find I can become quickly overwhelmed when I start to weigh in on others' expectations but I am quickly overjoyed when I seek to please Jesus! Jesus seems to run a rather relaxed schedule and keeps the stress level minimal. I am often my own worst enemy by stressing over issues and things that are not eternally significant. I must remind myself to de-stress and become...
More Master-Minded...dmc

Return, Rest & Renew

"In returning to Me and resting in Me you shall be saved; in quietness and trust shall be your strength." (212)
I just love how God's ancient Word can still speak wisdom to our present concerns. Several years ago I was doubting whether we should continue our annual "sabbath" study/vacation time in Hawaii each summer. I had been asking God to make His way clear. During my prayer time one morning God brought me to Isaiah 30:15 "You will be delivered by returning and resting; your strength will lie in quiet confidence...Your eyes will see your Teacher.(v 20) And whenever you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear this command behind you: "This is the way. Walk in it."(v 21, HCSB)
We've discovered in every "sabbath," as we pray and rest, we sense His presence, His direction and gentle prompting. We sense, "This is the way...Walk in it" for our ministry & personal lives for the coming year.
To rest and to be refreshed in His Presence is a powerful, peaceful place to be. I've discovered that a similar renewal happens every week when I worship with others, every day when I do devotions and every time I momentarily pause to focus on Him. I certainly need to be continually...
Refreshed...dmc

Homesick for Heaven

"I designed you to desire Me... the tugs of divinity (are) within you. I made you in My Image, and I hid heaven in your heart. Your yearning for Me is a form of homesickness: longing for your true home in heaven." (211)
Years ago, during a bible study on heaven, a lawyer's wife said that her life was so good, things were going so well, she was so happy that, honestly, she wasn't really looking forward to heaven that much. She assured us that she also did not want the alternative option either, hell! She was totally happy for her life to stay just like it was. Her comments certainly turned our discussion a whole different direction!
We discussed... what were the things that caused us to look forward to heaven? As we answered that question...we recognized that if we get too comfortable, we can often get too distracted with earthly, material blessings and miss the significance of the eternal things!
While I am grateful for the blessings I experience in my daily life... I never want to loose my deep hunger for heaven.
Feeling the "tugs of divinity" deep in my heart...dmc

Flaming Arrows & Deadly Dis-eases

"Bring Me all your feelings. Fear and anxiety...can be temptations to sin. These attacks from the evil one come at you relentlessly. Use your shield of faith to extinguish those flaming arrows." (210)
Extinguishing flaming arrows, especially when they are launched unrelentingly can seem absolutely overwhelming! I have discovered that the enemy tends to throw the same old arrows... fear, doubt, anxiety, loneliness... whatever negative feelings he's used in the past, he will try to use again.
I have also discovered what strengthens my shield of faith... love, praise, prayer, repentance, forgiveness.. basically living in the Fruit of the Spirit and obeying God's Word. It's like taking spiritual vitamins for the soul. Having a strong faith reminds me of having a strong immune system that protects us from diseases. Satan hurls all kinds of nasty "germs" our way but faith shields us from his attack of deadly dis-eases.
Keeping my Faith Strong & Healthy...dmc

The Invisible Reality

"The more aware you are of My Presence, the safer you feel...it is tuning into ultimate reality. I am far more Real than the world you can see, hear, and touch. Faith is the confirmation of things we do not see...perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses." (209)
I was reading an interesting fact from a well know author, Mark Batterson of Washington DC. He was reflecting on how fearfully and wonderfully we were made... for example the human body has approximately 100,000,000 (one hundred million) sensory receptors that enable us to see, hear, taste, touch, and smell. Neurologists estimate that an average three-year old has 1,000,000,000,000,000 (one quadrillion) synaptic connections! (Now, that explains 3 year olds!)
This means that our ability to imagine things in our mind is far greater than our ability to interpret physical reality. Mathematically speaking, imagination is ten million times more powerful than our five senses! This means that if we choose to limit our reality to what we can perceive we will limit our world to only our five senses. Since we know that faith is all about confirming "things we do not see...(and) perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses," we are challenged to live beyond our five senses.
Faith is "tuning in to ultimate reality...confirming things we do not see" and being certain of an invisible Savior. Faith requires that we imagine what our five senses can’t perceive or confirm. According to neuro-research, this "extra-sensory perception" is ten million times more powerful than our senses! (paulwilkinson.wordpress.com/2009/03/25/faith-is-living-beyond-our-five-senses)
Ephesians 3:20 says it well, "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we can ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and throughout all generations for ever and ever, Amen."
The article ends with, "And to top it off, no mind has conceived of what God has prepared for us!" Our glorious future is God's reality!
Tuning in to our Godly ESP...dmc

PS - This is Joe's dad, CB Colaw's, heavenly anniversary.  July 18, 2012 at 7:35 pm, at that very moment, Dad's reality became "immeasurably more!"  Wow... imagine that!

Prioritizing the "Better Thing"

"Come away with Me for a while...follow me on a solitary path, making time alone with me your highest priority and deepest Joy." (208)
Time alone with God can be such a challenge to achieve. I discovered it can easily be pushed aside...but at a great cost. I learned through the various seasons of my life, that the issue was not so much 'How Much' time, but that there 'Is' time! I made it a priority to carve out some time to intentionally focus on Him.
When our sons were little and my "solitary" time was extremely limited, or non-existent, just pausing to refocus on Him, on His Word, on the ways He had blessed us, was especially beneficial and it helped my weary, starving soul to be revived.
I still have to intentionally guard my time alone with Him. So many worthwhile activities, time sensitive tasks and daily distractions can steal away that sacred, precious time with Him.
Like Mary, in Luke 10:42, it's a matter of choice... choosing "the better thing" and spending time at His feet, even if it is briefly with kids in tow, while the washing machine is whirling, the phone is ringing, the breakfast dishes are still in the sink...I am much better off...
Choosing the "Better Thing"...dmc

Policing Self-Pity

"Self-pity is a slimy, bottomless pit. Once you fall in, you tend to go deeper and deeper into the mire...well on your way to depression, and the darkness is profound. Your only hope...look up...see the Light of My Presence shining down on you...rays of hope can reach you at any depth." (207)
Self-pity is basically feeling sorry for myself, making myself my primary focus, the object of my full attention. It is one of the most seductive and pathetic forms of existence. Why? Because one can become so absorbed in yourself that you will hyper-focus on all the reasons you believe you're entitled to be catered to and accommodated. It is pathetic in that it is pathological to well-being and constructive living. Once that kind of mindset tracks its way into someone's brain it can override constructive reason and even alter character development and healthy expressions of personality... ultimately altering one's whole life! It's very hard to praise and worship God when all you can see is yourself! It's very hard to encourage and appreciate others when all you see is yourself! What a shallow, pathetic way to live!
I have absolutely NO tolerance for entertaining that kind of toxic thinking in my own life. I find it poisonous and paralyzing. I've counseled people who have grown up in settings where self-pity was allowed or even modeled. It can be very hard to retrain your brain to take a different mental route that helps one to override self-pity. Self-pity is like a spiral stairway leading down to a very dark mental prison.
I personally find it very helpful to keep a good sense of humor (not to take myself so seriously) and to fill my mind with things to be thankful for and my life with praise music. I stay tightly connected to God's Word. Then, I practice repentance...repenting each time I catch my thoughts wandering down pity-paths...asking God to infuse my pathetic ponderings with His more noble, honorable thoughts.
Here's my practical 'next steps' out of self-pity....
1. Be quick to honestly recognize it.... Repent! Stop the pity immediately!
2. Get up, move my body. Exercise, go for a walk, clean out a drawer, etc.
3. Do something for someone else. Be generous and meet someone else's need.
4. Be grateful. Remind myself of all the blessings in my life. Express my appreciation for someone via a note, text, email or phone call.
I find it impossible to be used of God when I am wallowing in self-pity! What a waste!
Policing Self-Pity & Promoting Praise...dmc

Thrust of Trust

"Do not worry about tomorrow! This is not a suggestion, but a command... When you worry about the future, you heap day upon day of troubles onto your flimsy frame... Throw off this oppressive burden with one quick thrust of trust. Anxious thoughts meander about and crisscross in your brain... (instead) affirm your faith... enjoy My presence... trusting Me at all times." (206)
Worry is a strong habitual thought pattern that many people develop, but do not enjoy or benefit from. Worry robs us of so many things...like peace, health, confidence, relationships, and joy!
Learning to "throw off" worry with "one quick thrust of trust" equips us to move forward with God-confidence. I believe God honors our efforts to "throw off" and to develop some trust-thrusting ability. Like building spiritual muscle that will glorify God!
I really liked what Amelia shared:

"I am a chronic list maker. My list for the day is always longer than I can accomplish. But if I don’t have a list I don’t get nearly as much done—or I forget something important. I have been accused of “worrying”. So, what is the difference between worrying and planning? As I thought about it, I was prompted to check the dictionary. A plan is a “detailed method for the accomplishment of a goal”. Worrying is “to feel uneasy or troubled”. As long as I am trusting God I don’t feel uneasy or troubled. Now I feel a lot better about my lists!"

Thanks, Amelia, that speaks to all us "chronic list makers!"
Strength-training My Trust-Thrust Muscle...dmc

Next Step - Going UP

"Keep walking with me... Together we will forge a pathway up the high mountain... take the next step, clinging to My hand for strength and direction... there are sparkling surprises just around the bend." (205)
What is the "next step" UP the "high mountain?" In my own life I find that the next step DOWN the mountain is usually much easier than the next step UP the mountain.
Reflecting on the children's poem about Jack & Jill going UP the hill; I want to warn all "Jacks" that they can lead the way... up the hill OR down the hill. One can certainly fall (like Jack did) but we need to carefully protect our "crown" or head. If our thought processes become broken, if our decision-making is broken, "Jill" and the whole rest of the family will start "tumbling after."
I am grateful... for a Savior who knows which way is UP.... for a life partner who holds my hand! Both offer strength and encouragement as we forge our way "UP the high mountain!"
Stepping UP...dmc

Fixed, Focused & Fine

"Instead of trying to "fix" yourself, fix your gaze on Me, the Lover of your soul. Rather than using your energy to judge yourself, redirect it to praising Me. Remember that I see you clothed in My Righteousness, radiant in My perfect Love." (204)
There are so many things I would love to "fix" about myself... flaws, oddities... or things that just annoy me about myself! But keeping my focus on me is such a waste of energy. I find that I am a much healthier, happier, hopeful and helpful person when I "fix my eyes on Jesus the source and perfecter of my faith." (Heb. 12:2) He causes the essence of my soul to be much more sweet and satisfying... after all, He is "fixing" and perfecting my faith... and "faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen!" (Heb. 11:1)
Getting all Fixed Up...dmc

Whispering His Name

"...Whisper My Name in loving trust. This simple prayer can restore your awareness of My Presence." (203)
I have had many incidents where whispering Jesus' name made a huge difference in the situation... and in ME! The name, "Jesus" means God Saves!!! I am so grateful that I can bring God's power and presence into any situation, thought or encounter...just by whispering Jesus' Name, especially since worry also tends to whisper.
Research indicates that most people respond best, after coming out of surgery, or some other distressing time, if they hear their own name. To hear one's own name speaks powerfully and impacts deeply, even if it is softly whispered.
It blesses me to know that Jesus knows my name and, even more, that when I speak or whisper His name...He hears! I want to be sure that I am daily...
Responding to Jesus' Name...dmc

Jealous Eyes on Us

We have a "jealous God."(202) Who wants us to protect and highly treasure our relationship with HIM because He protects and highly treasures His relationship with US!
Years ago I wrestled with why that was so... why such a big, powerful God had to stoop to such a petty human emotion....jealousy!
However, I learned what Godly jealousy really means. God is jealous over His people because He loves us and does not want to share us with influences that would compromise our ultimate welfare. God does not leave His children vulnerable to evil. He loves us and wants to help us keep our focus on Him, magnifying and exalting His name TOGETHER (Ps. 34:3), When we do this we will be protected from distractions, or deceptive false gods, that tempt us to make poor choices. Without a steady focal point on a Holy God, we are easily seduced into compromise, led into confusion and ensnared with hurtful habits. God's jealous eye on me causes me to have...
Grateful Eyes on Him...dmc

Planted & Pruned

"Relax in My peaceful presence...I am able to bring out the best in you: the very gifts that I have planted in your soul. Relax, and enjoy our friendship." (201)
One Sunday, while we were in Hawaii, the message in the beautiful new Kihei Chapel, was taken from the John 15 passage, also referenced in our devotional today. The key point of the message was that those who are branches in The Vine (Jesus), will experience pruning times, no matter what! Spiritually dead or withering branches are cut off, but the fruitful branches are continually being pruned...why? To produce even MORE fruit!
This is how Jesus "brings out the best in us." "The very gifts (He) planted in our souls" are the means by which we are able to produce fruit every day!
The beautiful blooming bushes, where we stay in Hawaii, are continually being pruned, once or twice weekly. However, one year, a number of fruit-bearing trees and especially the plumeria trees around our condo-complex were being radically pruned. We were shocked as we watched the lush, flower-laden branches drop to the ground, leaving a stark tree trunk with stumpy naked branches sticking out. Next year, when we returned, we saw how pruning really prompted unbelievable beauty ...flowers, fruit and lush foliage... the fulfillment of faithfulness displayed in nature!
During that same year we experienced some radical pruning in our personal lives. Both Joe and I had a parent go to heaven; his mother, my father. Gratefully, both were ready and looking forward to heaven, but their absence was certainly a huge loss for us.  It was a kind of relational pruning. Taking a lesson from nature, I prayed that even this kind of severe pruning would be an example of Psalm 34:8, where the fruit of my life could encourage others to....
Taste and see that the Lord is Good!...dmc

Renewing Benefits Brains

"Ask My Spirit to quiet your mind so that you can think My thoughts...be transformed by the renewing of your mind...letting My thoughts reprogram your thinking." (200)
It is totally possible to have a renewed mind. I share a quote, from one of Dr. David Amen's past email updates on brain research, as a compelling example.
"Jim Fallon is a neuroscientist at the University of California Irvine who has spent nearly two decades studying the brains of psychopaths and murderers. Thanks to brain imaging, he has detected certain patterns of brain activity—or inactivity—that are common in violent types...Jim is a kind man with a sharp mind. You can imagine the surprise I got when I read an article on NPR.org entitled “A Neuroscientist Uncovers a Dark Secret,” which says that Jim himself has the brain of a killer. According to the article, Jim comes from a long line of violent people, including the notorious Lizzy Borden, who was accused of taking an ax to her parents in 1882. When Jim scanned his own brain, he found the same patterns he sees in murderous psychopaths. Genetic testing showed that he also carries the same genes found in people who commit violent acts. But Jim isn’t violent. Why not?
Because your genes are NOT your destiny. By living a brain healthy life and having loving relationships and a positive attitude, you can deactivate those negative brain pathways and those risky genes and turn on other ones that are more beneficial to you." (amenclinics.com@mcsv63.net. Newsletter sent 7/6/2010 2:27 PM)
More and more I believe our thought life strongly determines the strength and health of our relational and spiritual journey!
The following scripture passage puts it clearly. "I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now, choose life so that you and your children may live. Love the Lord your God, obey Him, and remain faithful to Him. For He is your life..." (Deut. 30:19-20)
Choosing Life and Life Giving Thoughts...dmc

Birthing Something Blessed

"When you seek My Face...Be prepared to be blessed bountifully... Open wide your heart and mind to receive more and more of Me. When your Joy in Me meets My Joy in you, there are fireworks of heavenly ecstasy. This is eternal life here and now..." (199)
Years ago just before Christmas, during my quiet time, I was reading in Luke 1 about how the angel, Gabriel, came to Mary telling her she was blessed and highly favored by God and would soon "conceive and give birth." When Mary asks how that could be because she had not been "intimate with a man," (vs. 32) he says something most perplexing. "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you." (Luke 1:35)
When Joseph is also pondering how all this could be, the angel tells him, "what has been conceived in her is by the Holy Spirit." (Matt. 1:20)
I believe that the Holy Spirit can come upon us with life-giving, God-inspired concepts that can change lives, saving "people from their sins." (Matt. 1:21)
There is nothing as fulfilling as seeking His Face, being willing to receive and give birth to something "here and how" that blesses another with eternal life. God's best gifts are often birthed into this world through those who have spent intimate time with Him, spiritually receiving, conceiving and giving birth to God-inspired thoughts.
Celebrating "New Life"...dmc

Beyond Chariots & Horses

"Some thoughts are unconscious or semiconscious, and I do not hold you responsible for those... Reject negative or sinful thoughts as soon as you become aware of them. Don't try to hide them from Me; confess them and leave them with Me... (this) will keep your mind in My Presence..." (198)
Psycho-therapy offers many theories, strategies or techniques to deal with troubling patterns of thought. All can be quite helpful, however, as Christians, we have an amazing advantage... confession!
"If we confess... He is faithful and just to forgive... and to cleanse us."(I John 1:9) That includes our thoughts, all our thoughts! We confess to be forgiven and cleansed... that's SO therapeutically and spiritually sound!
Other counseling techniques can be like "chariots & horses," accomplishing a lot, however, we are wise to "trust in the name of the Lord our God." (Ps. 20:7)
As a counselor I may travel in a therapeutic "chariot" or ride on a healing "horse" once in awhile, however, I most often rely on a very practical and spiritually sound strategy... confession!
It's SO good for the soul... I know that from personal & professional experience!
Soul Confessing Often...dmc

Holy Ground Hawaiian Style

"Make space for time alone with Me... seeking My Face. Be still and attentive in My Presence. You are on holy ground." (197)
An interesting custom in the Islands is the practice of removing your shoes when entering into a home. Most homes will have a little sign saying something like this, "Hawaiian Style: Please remove your shoes. Mahalo!" (Check out: www.bananapatchstudio.com) Most traditional Island churches also practice this custom. Incidentally, I think Moses would have made a good Hawaiian! (Ex. 3:5)
It has been a good reminder to me that I need to strip off the things that would hinder entering into His Presence. The good news is that as I leave my time alone with Him, I leave lighter, less burdened, stripped of sin and stress. What a great way to go into my day! What a great 'custom' to get use to, after all, isn't it forever going to be...
Heaven's Style: All Sin/Stress/Burdens....Removed!
A Big Mahalo (Thank You)...dmc

A Glorious New Adventure

"Draw near to Me with a thankful heart... Gratitude enables you to perceive Me more clearly and to rejoice in our love-relationship...I am totally trustworthy. I long to make your life a glorious adventure... I am always doing something new within My loved ones. Be on the lookout for all that I have prepared for you." (196)
My precious mother, after being with daddy nearly 60 years, stepped into stages of grief after his passing. We all know that dealing with death can be an ultimate challenge, because it means we "must stop clinging to old ways." She made a conscious decision to do her grief-journey alongside others' on similar paths. In her "new adventure" she decisively touched others for God's glory. As she stepped into grief, she also stepped out in faith, getting to "know (Him) in greater depth and breadth," she became an inspiration and encouragement to many others.
No matter what our age, there are new adventures all along this earthly journey. Even when our hearts are breaking, it's good to know... God's "love-relationship" with us means "nothing can separate (us) from (His) loving Presence!"
Thanks, mom, for being a living demonstration of a love-relationship with our earthly father AND with our heavenly Father!
With Deepest Gratitude...dmc

His Works & Fireworks

Happy 4th of July! In the US this day is all about celebrating our national freedom! Throughout the country flags wave, bands march, patriotic songs are sung and fireworks fill the night skies. It's a grand celebration!
As citizens of Heaven, worship is our celebration and we become demonstrations of His Works, singing the songs of spiritual freedom. "When you worship Me in spirit and in truth, you join the choirs of angels who are continually before My throne... your praise and thanksgiving are distinctly audible in heaven... gratitude clears the way to My heart." (195)
"True worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth. Yes, the Father wants such people to worship Him. God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." (John 4:23-24)
On July 4th I like to read from John 4. It reminds me of my own spiritual freedom. The whole chapter is a display of divine fireworks, His Works, in the lives of those who needed freedom from sin and even freedom from death! (John 4:47-53)
We have great reason to celebrate and something eternal to sing about... with the Angelic Choirs! Think of it! So, watching Fireworks reminds me to let my praise burst forth with grand heavenly celebration!
His Works really Work (on any day, not just the 4th!) ...dmc

The Interceding Mind-Set

"My children make a pastime of judging one another - and themselves...I am highly offended when I hear My children (judging) one another or (indulging) in self-hatred... There is no condemnation for those who belong to Me." (194)
This is one of the greatest Truths for me! As a 'recovering perfectionist' I have wrestled with self-condemnation for years.... and to prayerfully challenge that tendency has helped me to move deeper into "the mind-set of the Spirit (which is) life and peace." (Rom. 8:6)
Developing a transformed, renewed mind helps to better "discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." (Rom. 12:2)
Activating the "mind-set of the Spirit" can seem more of a challenge, at certain times. But I can rejoice in this fact... that "the Spirit Himself intercedes for us...and He who searches the hearts knows the Spirit's mind-set, because He intercedes for the saints according to the will of God... (working) all things together for good... (conforming us) to the image of His Son."(Rom. 8:26-29)
When tempted to judge myself (or anyone else) I will consciously, intentionally, mindfully partner with the Holy Spirit. Choosing instead to be...
Covered with His Intercession...dmc
PS - Aren't we SO grateful for "Heaven's mercy seat?" Thanks, Melissa, for sharing a video of the Revelation Song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YNjFSc28TdU&feature=youtube_gdata_player

God's Voila' Ability

"Living well is both a discipline and an art... staying close to Me, the divine Artist... I work My way in your life." (193)
Maui has become an island of many artists. The lush scenery, colorful birds, flowers and ever-changing ocean just inspire creative minds to be even more creative. When there, we will often watch the various artists paint, carve, sculpt or mold their craft into highly sought after treasures.
Our lives are to be examples of God's Craft-ability at work. Daily He fashions us into extensions of His own Image.
I marvel at His handiwork in nature and in the hearts and lives of those He's placed in my world. It is "both a discipline and an art," the way He crafts His Image into our hearts. All my insecurity, inadequacy, insufficiency, and vast inability can be miraculously God-crafted... and voila'... His image appears in living color! It's God's Voila' Ability at work in each of our lives! I suppose that makes us....
God's Voila' Treasures...dmc

Soaking & Unscrambling

"Spend time soaking in My Presence...gazing at Me... This time alone with Me is essential for unscrambling your thoughts and smoothing out the day before you. Be willing to fight for this precious time with Me...the evil one's determination (is) to distract you from Me. Delight yourself in Me, for I am the deepest Desire of your heart." (192)
I've discovered that the best way for me to stay well-anchored in the midst of life's numerous demands is to intentionally guard my devotional time with Jesus, no matter what!
There were seasons of life when the "soaking" time was quite varied and even haphazard, especially during those demanding baby-days, toddler & teenage stages of parenting. Even though I was often distracted, I came to realize, all the more, my inner strength would have to be found in snippets of silence and scripture. So, carving that into my day became a priority.
Even now, in this season of life, I am still having to protect my daily time alone with God. I've discovered I also need extended "soaking" times. Time to pull away for several days or even weeks. It helps me unscramble my thoughts and re-anchor my priorities. It's good for me, my marriage and ministry!
May you discover your own spiritual soaking times, even if it's a snippet, on the run.
I am so grateful to be...
Soaking with Jesus...dmc