"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
Sunday, August 14, 2016
Saturday, August 13, 2016
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
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
Friday, August 12, 2016
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
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
Thursday, August 11, 2016
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!
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!
Wednesday, August 10, 2016
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
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
Tuesday, August 9, 2016
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.
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.
Monday, August 8, 2016
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
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
Sunday, August 7, 2016
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
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
Saturday, August 6, 2016
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
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
Friday, August 5, 2016
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
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
Thursday, August 4, 2016
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
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
Wednesday, August 3, 2016
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
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
Tuesday, August 2, 2016
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
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
Monday, August 1, 2016
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
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
Sunday, July 31, 2016
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
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
Saturday, July 30, 2016
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
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
Friday, July 29, 2016
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
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
Thursday, July 28, 2016
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
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
Wednesday, July 27, 2016
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!
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!
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
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
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
Monday, July 25, 2016
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
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
Sunday, July 24, 2016
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
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
Saturday, July 23, 2016
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
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
Friday, July 22, 2016
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
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
Thursday, July 21, 2016
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
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
Wednesday, July 20, 2016
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
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
Tuesday, July 19, 2016
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
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
Monday, July 18, 2016
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
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!
Sunday, July 17, 2016
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
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
Saturday, July 16, 2016
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
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
Friday, July 15, 2016
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:
Strength-training My Trust-Thrust Muscle...dmc
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
Thursday, July 14, 2016
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
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
Wednesday, July 13, 2016
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
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
Tuesday, July 12, 2016
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
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
Monday, July 11, 2016
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
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
Sunday, July 10, 2016
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
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
Saturday, July 9, 2016
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
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
Friday, July 8, 2016
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
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
Thursday, July 7, 2016
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
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
Wednesday, July 6, 2016
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
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
Tuesday, July 5, 2016
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
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
Monday, July 4, 2016
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
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
Sunday, July 3, 2016
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
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
Saturday, July 2, 2016
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
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
Friday, July 1, 2016
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
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
Thursday, June 30, 2016
Renewing Truth Frees Us
Setting you free, "this is a work that I do in you as you yield to My Spirit... sit in the stillness of My Presence, focusing your entire being on Me. Let My thoughts burst freely upon your consciousness... I lead you along paths of newness: ways you have never imagined. I died to set you free."(189)
To be set free from our entrenched ways of thinking, our typical ways of behaving and our conditioned ways of reacting is humanly impossible. We need to be radically honest with ourselves and admit... We need a Redeeming Savior to free us from our own destructive traps!
So, Jesus freely offers us His radical answer,"If you continue in My Word, you really are My disciples. You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:31-32) Freeing Truth and authentic discipleship seem to go together.
From experience I know this is true! The more I "continue in His Word" the more freedom I experience, especially in my thought life. New thoughts tend to "burst freely upon (my) consciousness... paths of newness" seem to appear in the landscape of my mind, like a fog lifting over the horizon. The possibilities for life seem endless and eternally impacting, the more I "continue in (His) Word!"
No wonder the enemy works relentlessly to keep us distracted and detached from God's Word! The possibilities for eternal significance in each of our lives greatly threatens Satan's plan. What is Satan's plan? To spiritually sabotage us and to eternally ensnare us! Yikes! So, I am...
Prayerfully Pondering Truth Paths & New Possibilities...dmc
To be set free from our entrenched ways of thinking, our typical ways of behaving and our conditioned ways of reacting is humanly impossible. We need to be radically honest with ourselves and admit... We need a Redeeming Savior to free us from our own destructive traps!
So, Jesus freely offers us His radical answer,"If you continue in My Word, you really are My disciples. You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:31-32) Freeing Truth and authentic discipleship seem to go together.
From experience I know this is true! The more I "continue in His Word" the more freedom I experience, especially in my thought life. New thoughts tend to "burst freely upon (my) consciousness... paths of newness" seem to appear in the landscape of my mind, like a fog lifting over the horizon. The possibilities for life seem endless and eternally impacting, the more I "continue in (His) Word!"
No wonder the enemy works relentlessly to keep us distracted and detached from God's Word! The possibilities for eternal significance in each of our lives greatly threatens Satan's plan. What is Satan's plan? To spiritually sabotage us and to eternally ensnare us! Yikes! So, I am...
Prayerfully Pondering Truth Paths & New Possibilities...dmc
Wednesday, June 29, 2016
Wake Up, Perk Up
"As you get out of bed in the morning, be aware of My Presence with you. You may not be thinking clearly yet, but I am. Your early morning thoughts tend to be anxious ones until you get connected with Me. Invite Me into your thoughts by whispering My Name." (188)
Over the years I have noticed that my first waking thoughts can often be anxious or even rather self-sabotoging. I can easily start the day feeling anxious about the demands of that day, filled with many I-should-have, could-have or if-I-would-have thoughts that accuse and can undermine me.
So, I do much better when I promptly redirect my first conscious thoughts. I will often think of a praise song or some inspirational hymn. Even some children's songs can perk me up as I am getting up. Dr. David Amen's challenge, to think of at least 5 things you are thankful for each morning, has been proven to change the neuro-chemical environment of our brains. Even smiling, first thing in the morning, according to brain research, can jump-start our day in the right direction!
I want my brain to be spiritually and neuro-chemically healthy so that I can be most productive and pleasant all day long. It radically helps me, when I "face the day cheerfully." Incidentally, YOU are one of my 5 things I am thankful for today!
Waking Up with Praise...dmc
Over the years I have noticed that my first waking thoughts can often be anxious or even rather self-sabotoging. I can easily start the day feeling anxious about the demands of that day, filled with many I-should-have, could-have or if-I-would-have thoughts that accuse and can undermine me.
So, I do much better when I promptly redirect my first conscious thoughts. I will often think of a praise song or some inspirational hymn. Even some children's songs can perk me up as I am getting up. Dr. David Amen's challenge, to think of at least 5 things you are thankful for each morning, has been proven to change the neuro-chemical environment of our brains. Even smiling, first thing in the morning, according to brain research, can jump-start our day in the right direction!
I want my brain to be spiritually and neuro-chemically healthy so that I can be most productive and pleasant all day long. It radically helps me, when I "face the day cheerfully." Incidentally, YOU are one of my 5 things I am thankful for today!
Waking Up with Praise...dmc
Tuesday, June 28, 2016
Beyond Instinct to Insight
"Taste and see that I am good. This command contains as invitation...and a promise." (187)
"Taste and see" invites me to deeply experience Him. I have learned that the more of Him I have tasted and seen, the more convinced I am that He is indeed very "good!" Even though His ways are often mysterious, far beyond my understanding and I may be tempted at times to "doubt (His) goodness," I choose to trust God and to gain a better understanding of Him.
Proverbs 2:3-11 says I can "call out to insight...to understanding... seek for it like silver and search for it like hidden treasure, then (I) will understand the fear of the Lord and discover the knowledge of God... For wisdom will enter (my) mind, and knowledge will delight (my) heart. Discretion will watch over (me) and understanding will guard (me.)"
Whenever my "human instinct to doubt (God's) goodness" overtakes me, I call out for insight, for understanding... I seek it out... I search for it... And even when I do not fathom His ways, I choose to "spend time enjoying (Him) and experiencing (His) goodness." Why? Because of the promise... His goodness is greater than my doubts!
I do not want my relationship with Him to be based upon my flawed, finite perspective. I want my relationship to be based upon His flawless eternal insight and love for me!
Challenged to trust Him, even when I do not understand Him...dmc
"Taste and see" invites me to deeply experience Him. I have learned that the more of Him I have tasted and seen, the more convinced I am that He is indeed very "good!" Even though His ways are often mysterious, far beyond my understanding and I may be tempted at times to "doubt (His) goodness," I choose to trust God and to gain a better understanding of Him.
Proverbs 2:3-11 says I can "call out to insight...to understanding... seek for it like silver and search for it like hidden treasure, then (I) will understand the fear of the Lord and discover the knowledge of God... For wisdom will enter (my) mind, and knowledge will delight (my) heart. Discretion will watch over (me) and understanding will guard (me.)"
Whenever my "human instinct to doubt (God's) goodness" overtakes me, I call out for insight, for understanding... I seek it out... I search for it... And even when I do not fathom His ways, I choose to "spend time enjoying (Him) and experiencing (His) goodness." Why? Because of the promise... His goodness is greater than my doubts!
I do not want my relationship with Him to be based upon my flawed, finite perspective. I want my relationship to be based upon His flawless eternal insight and love for me!
Challenged to trust Him, even when I do not understand Him...dmc
Monday, June 27, 2016
Spiritual Deep Breathing
"Rest with Me awhile... Trust that I will equip you fully for whatever awaits you on your journey... it is in the present moment that I meet you... Refresh yourself in My company, breathing deep draughts of My Presence. The highest level of trust is to enjoy Me moment by moment." (186)
Breathing is a crucial present-moment activity we all must do to sustain life. Most of the time we take it for granted and tend to overlook such a critically important task. Years ago when our son battled asthmatic episodes, there were times when taking the next breath became such a priority that nothing else even mattered. Our whole focus was on his next breath!
When our other son was only a few weeks old, his infant chair tipped over and he landed in such a way that his windpipe collapsed. As I gathered him into my arms, I was finally able to position his little body so that he could make a small gurgling sound, keeping him breathing. I held him in that awkward position until we had emergency medical assistance.
In both cases, future worries and past regrets were none-issues... the primary focus was that next breath of precious air!
In creation, God breathed his Spirit into Adam’s dusty, lifeless body and he became a "living soul." (Genesis 2:7) After Jesus rose from the dead, before he ascended back into heaven, He breathed His life-giving Spirit on His disciples, saying, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”(John 20:22) The Psalmist says that our lives are like "a breath" or "a vapor." (Psalm 39:5 & 11; 144:4) But, I especially love how the book of Psalms closes with this great reminder: “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!” (Psalm 150:6)
Days away, on our annual study vacations, are "breathing breaks" that help us to breathe in "deep draughts of (His) Presence." Our daily routines tend to cause us to become breathless and spiritually asthmatic, so we need to intentionally schedule in times of deep spiritual breathing.
Breathing Deeply Today...dmc
PS - Happy Birthday to our grandson, Hayden, who's a delightful breath of fresh air in our family!
Lots of Love & Aloha from Grammy & Papa!
Breathing is a crucial present-moment activity we all must do to sustain life. Most of the time we take it for granted and tend to overlook such a critically important task. Years ago when our son battled asthmatic episodes, there were times when taking the next breath became such a priority that nothing else even mattered. Our whole focus was on his next breath!
When our other son was only a few weeks old, his infant chair tipped over and he landed in such a way that his windpipe collapsed. As I gathered him into my arms, I was finally able to position his little body so that he could make a small gurgling sound, keeping him breathing. I held him in that awkward position until we had emergency medical assistance.
In both cases, future worries and past regrets were none-issues... the primary focus was that next breath of precious air!
In creation, God breathed his Spirit into Adam’s dusty, lifeless body and he became a "living soul." (Genesis 2:7) After Jesus rose from the dead, before he ascended back into heaven, He breathed His life-giving Spirit on His disciples, saying, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”(John 20:22) The Psalmist says that our lives are like "a breath" or "a vapor." (Psalm 39:5 & 11; 144:4) But, I especially love how the book of Psalms closes with this great reminder: “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!” (Psalm 150:6)
Days away, on our annual study vacations, are "breathing breaks" that help us to breathe in "deep draughts of (His) Presence." Our daily routines tend to cause us to become breathless and spiritually asthmatic, so we need to intentionally schedule in times of deep spiritual breathing.
Breathing Deeply Today...dmc
PS - Happy Birthday to our grandson, Hayden, who's a delightful breath of fresh air in our family!
Lots of Love & Aloha from Grammy & Papa!
Sunday, June 26, 2016
A Boat Load of Worship
"Stay calmly conscious of Me today, no matter what... Nothing takes Me by surprise. I will not allow circumstances to overwhelm you, so long as you look to Me. I will help you cope with whatever the moment presents." (185)
The devo today reminded me of Matthew's account of Peter stepping out of the boat, walking to Jesus on the water, then "when he saw the strength of the wind, he was afraid. And beginning to sink he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus reached out His hand and caught hold of him... Then those in the boat worshiped Him and said, "Truly You are the Son of God!" (Matt. 14:29-33)
There are a number of amazing moments in this story... Jesus walking on the water, Peter daring to do the same, Jesus' immediate rescue when Peter cried out, "Lord, save me!", the winds suddenly stopping and finally... the impact all this had on "those in the boat." It was a spontaneous worship service!
No matter what the circumstances may be, I want everyone in my "boat" to end up...
In Worship...dmc
The devo today reminded me of Matthew's account of Peter stepping out of the boat, walking to Jesus on the water, then "when he saw the strength of the wind, he was afraid. And beginning to sink he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus reached out His hand and caught hold of him... Then those in the boat worshiped Him and said, "Truly You are the Son of God!" (Matt. 14:29-33)
There are a number of amazing moments in this story... Jesus walking on the water, Peter daring to do the same, Jesus' immediate rescue when Peter cried out, "Lord, save me!", the winds suddenly stopping and finally... the impact all this had on "those in the boat." It was a spontaneous worship service!
No matter what the circumstances may be, I want everyone in my "boat" to end up...
In Worship...dmc
Saturday, June 25, 2016
Loving My Savior & My Spouse
Making a love relationship work WELL can offer quite a challenge. I find it interesting how a rich, rewarding relationship with God can strongly parallel the rich, rewarding relationship I can enjoy with my husband. I realize that many marital relationships are too strained to be rich and rewarding, and we've certainly navigated through our own relational landmines! But paralleling the two relationships offers me a constructive option of response that I like. It creates the dynamic intersecting of the two most critical relationships of my life; much like aligning two lenses for a clearer, more favorable perspective.
I especially like how the Amplified Bible puts it... "The Lord your God is in the midst of you, a Mighty One, a Savior [Who saves]! He will rejoice over you with joy; He will rest [in silent satisfaction] and in His love He will be silent and make no mention [of past sins, or even recall them]; He will exult over you with singing. (Zeph. 3:17) Ah, yes, the focus is NOT on "past sins" but the many reasons to "rejoice over you."
The devo for today pictures the love relationship this way... "Open your hands and your heart to receive this day as a precious gift from Me... I rejoice when you glance My way... the gift of thanksgiving opens your heart to rich communion with Me... thankfulness is the best way to draw near Me... I take great delight in you; I rejoice over you with singing." (184)
I certainly want Joe to view me from such affirming lenses! Especially since we are in the midst of being together, continually, for 3 weeks!! It's our annual study vacation. Stressing with each other would be such a waste of our time and energy. Beginning "each day with a sunrise, announcing (God's) Presence" and maintaining a thankful, open heart definitely sets the stage for a great day rejoicing over my Savior...and my Spouse!
Rejoicing over the "Good Guys" in my life...dmc
I especially like how the Amplified Bible puts it... "The Lord your God is in the midst of you, a Mighty One, a Savior [Who saves]! He will rejoice over you with joy; He will rest [in silent satisfaction] and in His love He will be silent and make no mention [of past sins, or even recall them]; He will exult over you with singing. (Zeph. 3:17) Ah, yes, the focus is NOT on "past sins" but the many reasons to "rejoice over you."
The devo for today pictures the love relationship this way... "Open your hands and your heart to receive this day as a precious gift from Me... I rejoice when you glance My way... the gift of thanksgiving opens your heart to rich communion with Me... thankfulness is the best way to draw near Me... I take great delight in you; I rejoice over you with singing." (184)
I certainly want Joe to view me from such affirming lenses! Especially since we are in the midst of being together, continually, for 3 weeks!! It's our annual study vacation. Stressing with each other would be such a waste of our time and energy. Beginning "each day with a sunrise, announcing (God's) Presence" and maintaining a thankful, open heart definitely sets the stage for a great day rejoicing over my Savior...and my Spouse!
Rejoicing over the "Good Guys" in my life...dmc
Friday, June 24, 2016
Light Dispels Dark Thoughts
"Hold My hand - and trust. So long as you are conscious of My Presence with you, all is well... Fearful, anxious thoughts melt away in the Light of My Presence." (183)
I suppose we all know what it's like to battle with anxious thoughts that overwhelm us and mess with our sense of sanity and peace. When one of our grandsons was 6 years old, he went through a time where he was battling some scary thoughts at bedtime. He would call and want to talk with "Grammy" until he could fall asleep. While I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the little guy, his ponderings made my heart ache deeply. It just seemed so unfair for such a young, tender heart to be so troubled and unsettled.
As adults, with well-seasoned, battle-bruised souls, we know what it is like to be plagued with distressing thoughts. However, it seems all the more cruel for similar thoughts to invade our younger more vulnerable ones. So, this Grammy crafted a plan, via long-distance, over the phone, to "take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ." (2 Cor. 10:5)
With his Daddy's help a list was made, detailing his troubling thoughts. Then he was asked if Jesus was bigger and stronger than each of those thoughts. Of course, Jesus was! Then Daddy took Noah's list of scary thoughts and placed them in the flame of a candle. Watching the flame consume his fears illustrated how Jesus is the Light that overcomes all our scary thoughts. That powerful Truth and graphic illustration helped to comfort a 6 year old's anxious heart.
No matter what our age, it's good to remember that "the Light of His Presence" melts away "fearful, anxious thoughts" along with the sinful ones that tend to haunt and harass us!
Submitting all thoughts to His Light...dmc
I suppose we all know what it's like to battle with anxious thoughts that overwhelm us and mess with our sense of sanity and peace. When one of our grandsons was 6 years old, he went through a time where he was battling some scary thoughts at bedtime. He would call and want to talk with "Grammy" until he could fall asleep. While I thoroughly enjoyed listening to the little guy, his ponderings made my heart ache deeply. It just seemed so unfair for such a young, tender heart to be so troubled and unsettled.
As adults, with well-seasoned, battle-bruised souls, we know what it is like to be plagued with distressing thoughts. However, it seems all the more cruel for similar thoughts to invade our younger more vulnerable ones. So, this Grammy crafted a plan, via long-distance, over the phone, to "take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ." (2 Cor. 10:5)
With his Daddy's help a list was made, detailing his troubling thoughts. Then he was asked if Jesus was bigger and stronger than each of those thoughts. Of course, Jesus was! Then Daddy took Noah's list of scary thoughts and placed them in the flame of a candle. Watching the flame consume his fears illustrated how Jesus is the Light that overcomes all our scary thoughts. That powerful Truth and graphic illustration helped to comfort a 6 year old's anxious heart.
No matter what our age, it's good to remember that "the Light of His Presence" melts away "fearful, anxious thoughts" along with the sinful ones that tend to haunt and harass us!
Submitting all thoughts to His Light...dmc
Thursday, June 23, 2016
Ordinary Olive Trees
"A trusting response includes Me in your thoughts as you consider strategies to deal with a situation. Gently bring your attention back to Me, whenever it wanders away. I look for persistence- rather than perfection- in your walk with Me." (182)
As I reflect, there are some 'ordinary heroes of faith' that have inspired me. It's not been the ones who've lived perfectly but those who have lived persistently. They maintain a determined mindset and lifestyle of faithfulness. Their love for God, His Word, and the family of God are inspirational examples of positive persistence, strategically making God the priority of their lives. While others may be like spiritual super-novas that burst on the scene initially then quickly fade away in the daily disciplines of spiritual maturity. I want to be more like the ones who are "like a flourishing olive tree in the house of God... in the presence of (His) faithful people..." Ps. 51:8-9
Each 'ordinary hero' is needed in our midst. God uses the presence of ordinary individuals to inspire many others, often without them even knowing it! So, "Thank You" to all the 'ordinary olive trees' whose positive persistence deeply inspire me!
These "olive trees" tend to not "neglect meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encourage each other... (so as not to) grow weary and lose heart... maintaining a clear conscience... conducting themselves honorably." (Heb. 10:25, 12:3, 13:18)
While being perfect seems impossible, being persistent can be inspirational. I want to be positively persistent not perfectly pathetic! It all springs out of a properly balanced, God-glorifying, healthy thought life!
Striving to be positively persistent....dmc
As I reflect, there are some 'ordinary heroes of faith' that have inspired me. It's not been the ones who've lived perfectly but those who have lived persistently. They maintain a determined mindset and lifestyle of faithfulness. Their love for God, His Word, and the family of God are inspirational examples of positive persistence, strategically making God the priority of their lives. While others may be like spiritual super-novas that burst on the scene initially then quickly fade away in the daily disciplines of spiritual maturity. I want to be more like the ones who are "like a flourishing olive tree in the house of God... in the presence of (His) faithful people..." Ps. 51:8-9
Each 'ordinary hero' is needed in our midst. God uses the presence of ordinary individuals to inspire many others, often without them even knowing it! So, "Thank You" to all the 'ordinary olive trees' whose positive persistence deeply inspire me!
These "olive trees" tend to not "neglect meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encourage each other... (so as not to) grow weary and lose heart... maintaining a clear conscience... conducting themselves honorably." (Heb. 10:25, 12:3, 13:18)
While being perfect seems impossible, being persistent can be inspirational. I want to be positively persistent not perfectly pathetic! It all springs out of a properly balanced, God-glorifying, healthy thought life!
Striving to be positively persistent....dmc
Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Priority of Perspective
"Thank Me for the very things that are troubling you... It is impossible to thank Me and curse Me at the same time... Thankfulness awakens you to My Presence, which overshadows all your problems." (181)
The devo today mentions how we are tempted to indulge in complaining which will set the stage for "torrents of rage and self-pity." This makes much more sense to me after reading research on the way our brains work. Because the atmosphere of the brain is highly sensitive to the neuro-chemical climate of our thought patterns, the overall landscape of our mind will reflect the impact of our most-often-selected attitudes and thoughts. Choosing thankfulness over resentfulness makes a huge difference!
While reflecting on Numbers 11-14, Joe and I were captured by how a handful of grumblers, complaining about food, helped set the stage for a toxic mindset of criticism and complaints. Examples: Miriam & Aaron criticized Moses' leadership. Later 10 of the 12 spies returned from Canaan with a negative report, which put such fear and doubt in the peoples' hearts that they ended up stuck in the desert, dying, when they could have enjoyed a bountiful life in the Promised Land.
We must protect the landscape of our minds (and our homes) from deserts of criticism and complaints. Thankfulness leads us into the Promised Land of bountiful living, no matter what our circumstances may be.
Quick Caution: Like Caleb and Joshua... Thankful living means we may be in the minority when we're making a Godly positive perspective our priority.
So, what can we do about it? We can respond like Job! In the midst of his own world of troubles, while fault-finding friends gave him flawed counsel, God told Job just to pray for his criticizing friends. And watch what happened... "the Lord restored...(and) blessed the latter part of Job's life more than the earlier (part of his life.)" Job 42:10-12
I'm challenged to be more like Caleb, Joshua & Job!
Taking on the Prayerful Positive Perspective...dmc
The devo today mentions how we are tempted to indulge in complaining which will set the stage for "torrents of rage and self-pity." This makes much more sense to me after reading research on the way our brains work. Because the atmosphere of the brain is highly sensitive to the neuro-chemical climate of our thought patterns, the overall landscape of our mind will reflect the impact of our most-often-selected attitudes and thoughts. Choosing thankfulness over resentfulness makes a huge difference!
While reflecting on Numbers 11-14, Joe and I were captured by how a handful of grumblers, complaining about food, helped set the stage for a toxic mindset of criticism and complaints. Examples: Miriam & Aaron criticized Moses' leadership. Later 10 of the 12 spies returned from Canaan with a negative report, which put such fear and doubt in the peoples' hearts that they ended up stuck in the desert, dying, when they could have enjoyed a bountiful life in the Promised Land.
We must protect the landscape of our minds (and our homes) from deserts of criticism and complaints. Thankfulness leads us into the Promised Land of bountiful living, no matter what our circumstances may be.
Quick Caution: Like Caleb and Joshua... Thankful living means we may be in the minority when we're making a Godly positive perspective our priority.
So, what can we do about it? We can respond like Job! In the midst of his own world of troubles, while fault-finding friends gave him flawed counsel, God told Job just to pray for his criticizing friends. And watch what happened... "the Lord restored...(and) blessed the latter part of Job's life more than the earlier (part of his life.)" Job 42:10-12
I'm challenged to be more like Caleb, Joshua & Job!
Taking on the Prayerful Positive Perspective...dmc
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
Captured in Timelessness
"I dwell in timelessness: I am, I was, I will always be...Meet Me in timelessness." (180)
In 7th grade I was given the assignment to read and report on a book entitled, "A Wrinkle in Time." It was very intriguing...the concept of escaping the limitations of time! I remember one of my concluding thoughts was that perhaps we are presently living in "A Wrinkle in Eternity"... that our "time" is really just a wrinkle in the broad eternal folds of timelessness! I still believe that today!
I am grateful that we have a Savior who "dwells in timelessness." I love to think of my devotional time as an opportunity for me to momentarily step alongside the Eternal, briefly escaping my own time-bound "wrinkle!"
Slivers of timelessness can capture us whenever we enjoy His presence... whether we are here, on an island Sabbath, or home in an ocean of daily demands!
Enjoying a Timeless Savior Any Time...dmc
In 7th grade I was given the assignment to read and report on a book entitled, "A Wrinkle in Time." It was very intriguing...the concept of escaping the limitations of time! I remember one of my concluding thoughts was that perhaps we are presently living in "A Wrinkle in Eternity"... that our "time" is really just a wrinkle in the broad eternal folds of timelessness! I still believe that today!
I am grateful that we have a Savior who "dwells in timelessness." I love to think of my devotional time as an opportunity for me to momentarily step alongside the Eternal, briefly escaping my own time-bound "wrinkle!"
Slivers of timelessness can capture us whenever we enjoy His presence... whether we are here, on an island Sabbath, or home in an ocean of daily demands!
Enjoying a Timeless Savior Any Time...dmc
Monday, June 20, 2016
Dad's Radar System
On my first Father's Day after Daddy had gone to Heaven my two sisters and I joined mom on a conference call to pause and ponder how blessed we had been. (I was vacationing in Hawaii, mom was in Oklahoma, and my two sisters were in Indiana and Oregon.) We were so grateful for a father who made it a priority to place us in environments that helped us to develop spiritual eyes and ears. Dad had a kind of High Powered Radar System that worked to guide and also guard his three daughters. Dad's radar system included a sensitivity to subtleties that could potentially harm us and also a keen sensitivity to spiritual influences that would be advantageous. Today's devo reminded me of how Dad tutored us to be extra-aware!
"I speak to you continually. My nature is to communicate..." through "glorious sunsets... loved ones... gentle breezes... I speak softly in the depths of your spirit, where I have taken up residence. I rejoice each time you discover My Presence. Practice looking and listening for Me. Gradually you will find Me..." (179)
I'm thankful for a Dad who helped us discover and develop an extra-awareness of God at an early age. As an earthly father, he helped us tune into our Heavenly Father! To those who have not been so Father-Blessed, remember that your Heaven Father delights in you. (Num. 14:8, Ps.18:17-19, Prov. 11:20, 15:8) He calls you the "apple of His eye." (Ps. 17:8, Zech. 2:8)
So no matter what, we've all been...
Father Blessed...dmc
"I speak to you continually. My nature is to communicate..." through "glorious sunsets... loved ones... gentle breezes... I speak softly in the depths of your spirit, where I have taken up residence. I rejoice each time you discover My Presence. Practice looking and listening for Me. Gradually you will find Me..." (179)
I'm thankful for a Dad who helped us discover and develop an extra-awareness of God at an early age. As an earthly father, he helped us tune into our Heavenly Father! To those who have not been so Father-Blessed, remember that your Heaven Father delights in you. (Num. 14:8, Ps.18:17-19, Prov. 11:20, 15:8) He calls you the "apple of His eye." (Ps. 17:8, Zech. 2:8)
So no matter what, we've all been...
Father Blessed...dmc
Sunday, June 19, 2016
Anywhere, Anytime, Anyone Appointments
"Dance and sing and celebrate My Presence. This is My high and holy calling for you... Glorifying and enjoying Me." (178)
Joe and I have found it especially fulfilling to be an extension of God's generous heart to others. The year we were celebrating our 35th anniversary, we'd gone to a nice restaurant in Kihei, Maui. Late into our meal the waiter stepped in alongside our table and asked, "What would you say is the secret to a long, happy marriage? My wife and I have been married 11 years, we have 3 kids and we're not doing well."
In just a few short minutes we gave him our best marriage tip... to choose the kind of Love that goes far deeper than the issues that challenge marriage. To say often to each other, "I want our love for each other to go deeper than this issue/incident/disappointment/misunderstanding, etc."
It also opened the door for us to be an extension of God's generous heart. We tipped him well and told him to take his wife out, so he could share with her his decision to have a love for her that went far deeper than the irritations and issues they were currently facing.
There's no doubt...it was a powerful, God-ordained encounter. My friend, Kay, calls this a DA... a Divine Appointment! I love that concept! Any ordinary day can become extra-ordinary with just one DA. I love how God can bless us and others with just one Divine Appointment that can happen...
Anywhere Anytime with Anyone...dmc
Joe and I have found it especially fulfilling to be an extension of God's generous heart to others. The year we were celebrating our 35th anniversary, we'd gone to a nice restaurant in Kihei, Maui. Late into our meal the waiter stepped in alongside our table and asked, "What would you say is the secret to a long, happy marriage? My wife and I have been married 11 years, we have 3 kids and we're not doing well."
In just a few short minutes we gave him our best marriage tip... to choose the kind of Love that goes far deeper than the issues that challenge marriage. To say often to each other, "I want our love for each other to go deeper than this issue/incident/disappointment/misunderstanding, etc."
It also opened the door for us to be an extension of God's generous heart. We tipped him well and told him to take his wife out, so he could share with her his decision to have a love for her that went far deeper than the irritations and issues they were currently facing.
There's no doubt...it was a powerful, God-ordained encounter. My friend, Kay, calls this a DA... a Divine Appointment! I love that concept! Any ordinary day can become extra-ordinary with just one DA. I love how God can bless us and others with just one Divine Appointment that can happen...
Anywhere Anytime with Anyone...dmc
Saturday, June 18, 2016
Well Graced, Well Paced
"You are My beloved child... walk with Me along paths designed uniquely for you... keeping in step with Me... stay close... I set the pace in keeping with your needs and My purposes." (177)
It's a strange mix for me. Most of the time I live with a sense of urgency, in a hurry, off to the next thing. However, some of the more soul-enriching, life-expanding things I would like to accomplish seem just beyond my reach, pushed somewhere into future days. Learning to be paced well requires a good measure of grace for me.
The Old Testament story of Jacob returning home with his large family and flocks has given me a good example of being well-paced.
Rather than driving them hard for even one day, Jacob choose to "continue on slowly, at a pace suited to the livestock and the children..." (Gen. 33:13-14)
Having young grandchildren and aging parents gave me opportunity to learn the benefits of pacing well, of being respectful of the weaker, more vulnerable ones. Even today, on our early morning walk, I told Joe how much I enjoyed our brisk morning walk and appreciated his thoughtfulness to pace with my shorter stride.
Jacob's tender, careful attention to his family and flocks reminded me of how the Good Shepherd of our Souls, gathers us, His lambs, and carries us close to His heart. (Is. 40:11)
So, when I'm anxious to move on...I must remember He sets "the pace in keeping with (my) needs and (His) purposes!" He graciously keeps me...
Paced Well...dmc
It's a strange mix for me. Most of the time I live with a sense of urgency, in a hurry, off to the next thing. However, some of the more soul-enriching, life-expanding things I would like to accomplish seem just beyond my reach, pushed somewhere into future days. Learning to be paced well requires a good measure of grace for me.
The Old Testament story of Jacob returning home with his large family and flocks has given me a good example of being well-paced.
Rather than driving them hard for even one day, Jacob choose to "continue on slowly, at a pace suited to the livestock and the children..." (Gen. 33:13-14)
Having young grandchildren and aging parents gave me opportunity to learn the benefits of pacing well, of being respectful of the weaker, more vulnerable ones. Even today, on our early morning walk, I told Joe how much I enjoyed our brisk morning walk and appreciated his thoughtfulness to pace with my shorter stride.
Jacob's tender, careful attention to his family and flocks reminded me of how the Good Shepherd of our Souls, gathers us, His lambs, and carries us close to His heart. (Is. 40:11)
So, when I'm anxious to move on...I must remember He sets "the pace in keeping with (my) needs and (His) purposes!" He graciously keeps me...
Paced Well...dmc
Friday, June 17, 2016
God's Delight - Our Laughter
"Learn to laugh at yourself... don't take yourself or your circumstances so seriously. Relax... Laughter lightens your load and lifts your heart into heavenly places... (it) rises to heaven and blends with angelic melodies of praise... I delight in hearing My children laugh." (176)
Perhaps one of the greatest gifts I was given as a child was the gift of laughter. I can remember so many hilarious moments. Even very simple things, or moments when I could have been embarrassed, became absolutely a "hoot!" That was one of the ways my parents helped us to learn to cope with the more awkward moments of life.
My dad, with all his physical challenges, still had a very healthy funny bone! According to research, the benefits of laughter impact one's physical, emotional and social life so much that it is often a prescribed therapy! Laughter really IS "good medicine!" (Prov. 17:22)
Praise God for the gift of laughter and for others who know how to tickle our funny bone, since God delights "in hearing (His) children laugh." I need to intentionally be...
Tickling My God-Given Funny Bone More Often...dmc
Perhaps one of the greatest gifts I was given as a child was the gift of laughter. I can remember so many hilarious moments. Even very simple things, or moments when I could have been embarrassed, became absolutely a "hoot!" That was one of the ways my parents helped us to learn to cope with the more awkward moments of life.
My dad, with all his physical challenges, still had a very healthy funny bone! According to research, the benefits of laughter impact one's physical, emotional and social life so much that it is often a prescribed therapy! Laughter really IS "good medicine!" (Prov. 17:22)
Praise God for the gift of laughter and for others who know how to tickle our funny bone, since God delights "in hearing (His) children laugh." I need to intentionally be...
Tickling My God-Given Funny Bone More Often...dmc
Thursday, June 16, 2016
Dust on the High Road
"Stay on the high road with Me... walk ever so closely with Me, soaking in My Presence, living in My Peace. This is My unique design for you, planned before the world began." (175) "For we are His creation-created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time so that we should walk in them." Eph. 2:10
This particular verse has spoken to me many times. It baffles my mind to think that God had me in mind far before 'my time.' On the time-line of humanity, there's a little speck of 'dust' representing my life. With all my unique frailties, flaws and mixture of efforts, God was preparing... in the big and little things of my life... "good works" to be accomplished for His Glory!! That inspires me, motivates me and keeps me focused on HIM. It's all about using the 'dusty vessel' of my life in the most rewarding way possible...to magnify my great Creator!
My precious Daddy, who is now in Heaven, spent his whole life with some significant 'dusty' issues, living with the painful ramifications of a crippling birth defect. Yet, he seldom complained and was determined to make life a never-to-be-forgotten adventure. Quick-witted and incredibly creative, he inspired and humored all of us! Most of all, he LOVED his Creator who had "distinctly designed" a "different path" which became "the High Road" he was "called to walk." With all Daddy's challenges, he knew how "to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with (his) God." (Micah 6:11) So, today I am grateful and...
Trusting God with My own 'Dusty' Issues...dmc
This particular verse has spoken to me many times. It baffles my mind to think that God had me in mind far before 'my time.' On the time-line of humanity, there's a little speck of 'dust' representing my life. With all my unique frailties, flaws and mixture of efforts, God was preparing... in the big and little things of my life... "good works" to be accomplished for His Glory!! That inspires me, motivates me and keeps me focused on HIM. It's all about using the 'dusty vessel' of my life in the most rewarding way possible...to magnify my great Creator!
My precious Daddy, who is now in Heaven, spent his whole life with some significant 'dusty' issues, living with the painful ramifications of a crippling birth defect. Yet, he seldom complained and was determined to make life a never-to-be-forgotten adventure. Quick-witted and incredibly creative, he inspired and humored all of us! Most of all, he LOVED his Creator who had "distinctly designed" a "different path" which became "the High Road" he was "called to walk." With all Daddy's challenges, he knew how "to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with (his) God." (Micah 6:11) So, today I am grateful and...
Trusting God with My own 'Dusty' Issues...dmc
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
Beyond the 5 Senses
"Focus on things that are unseen...You must not let your senses dominate your thinking. The curse of this age is over-stimulation of the senses, that blocks out awareness of the unseen world... The goal is to become aware of unseen things even as you live out your life in the visible world." (174)
The more I learn about how God created our amazing brains, the more I appreciate biblical Truths. The way we process information, coming in from the five sensory receptor sites in the brain, is a phenomenal gift! However, it can dominate and dictate our thinking, unless, we have disciplined our minds to re-think and biblically evaluate a train of thought. When we take the time to respond wisely, rather than just reacting to a given situation, we can access higher level thinking skills. Which, incidentally, tend to produce the Fruit of the Spirit, glorify God and promote peace!
Usually during this time of the year Joe and I take time to gear down and refocus on the Unseen Creator Who created some awe-inspiring islands! "Let them give GLORY unto the LORD, and declare HIS PRAISE in the islands!" (Isa. 42:12)
Aloha...dmc
The more I learn about how God created our amazing brains, the more I appreciate biblical Truths. The way we process information, coming in from the five sensory receptor sites in the brain, is a phenomenal gift! However, it can dominate and dictate our thinking, unless, we have disciplined our minds to re-think and biblically evaluate a train of thought. When we take the time to respond wisely, rather than just reacting to a given situation, we can access higher level thinking skills. Which, incidentally, tend to produce the Fruit of the Spirit, glorify God and promote peace!
Usually during this time of the year Joe and I take time to gear down and refocus on the Unseen Creator Who created some awe-inspiring islands! "Let them give GLORY unto the LORD, and declare HIS PRAISE in the islands!" (Isa. 42:12)
Aloha...dmc
Tuesday, June 14, 2016
An Ermine Anniversary
Today is our Wedding Anniversary! We married in 1975... doesn't that sound like a loooong time together!? Hollywood celebrates famous couples who can make it a full year together! Many go their separate ways within the first few years; very few experience a full decade together!
That's not us! We're not famous, far from Hollywood, but we feel abundantly blessed, loved "with an everlasting love... lifted out of the sea of despair... wrapped in an ermine robe....of righteousness." (173)
As Christians, even more so as Christian couples, we can learn alot from the ermine. Did you know an ermine is a small animal with an impressive coat of fur? In warmer weather it is a rich red-brown. In areas where the ermine experiences an inch or more of snow for at least forty days of the year, the color of it's fur will change to a luxurious white. However, the tip of it's tail always remains a conspicuous black. The winter-white fur is highly prized, and has been used historically in the robes of famous royalty. It has also become a symbol of purity. What captures my interest is that the ermine's regal white "robe of righteousness" is only revealed in winter!
As Christians, when we are in a spiritually cold, wintry season of the soul, we need to allow God to 'pursue us, embrace us, sing a Love Song to us and wrap us in His ermine robe of righteousness.' I like my friend, Renee's insight that God will often use US to be His royal robe wrapped around others who are in their own wintry season. After all He calls us "a chosen race, a royal priesthood." (I Peter 2:9) How amazing is that? What a great way to wrap up and secure a relationship for the many seasons of married life!!
Interestingly, an ermine is often confused with a weasel, until the winter season arrives and the royal difference is strikingly obvious. Praise God for couples who have discovered & live out the royal difference! (I'm sure glad I didn't marry a weasel! And I don't want to BE one either!)
Putting on my Regal Robe, Singing His Songs of Love...dmc
Caution: Watch out for "the Weasel!" (He pops in... around the mulberry bush? Wink!)
Also, Happy Birthday to my sweet mother, Dorothy Volesky, who daily dons her robe, inspiring us!
That's not us! We're not famous, far from Hollywood, but we feel abundantly blessed, loved "with an everlasting love... lifted out of the sea of despair... wrapped in an ermine robe....of righteousness." (173)
As Christians, even more so as Christian couples, we can learn alot from the ermine. Did you know an ermine is a small animal with an impressive coat of fur? In warmer weather it is a rich red-brown. In areas where the ermine experiences an inch or more of snow for at least forty days of the year, the color of it's fur will change to a luxurious white. However, the tip of it's tail always remains a conspicuous black. The winter-white fur is highly prized, and has been used historically in the robes of famous royalty. It has also become a symbol of purity. What captures my interest is that the ermine's regal white "robe of righteousness" is only revealed in winter!
As Christians, when we are in a spiritually cold, wintry season of the soul, we need to allow God to 'pursue us, embrace us, sing a Love Song to us and wrap us in His ermine robe of righteousness.' I like my friend, Renee's insight that God will often use US to be His royal robe wrapped around others who are in their own wintry season. After all He calls us "a chosen race, a royal priesthood." (I Peter 2:9) How amazing is that? What a great way to wrap up and secure a relationship for the many seasons of married life!!
Interestingly, an ermine is often confused with a weasel, until the winter season arrives and the royal difference is strikingly obvious. Praise God for couples who have discovered & live out the royal difference! (I'm sure glad I didn't marry a weasel! And I don't want to BE one either!)
Putting on my Regal Robe, Singing His Songs of Love...dmc
Caution: Watch out for "the Weasel!" (He pops in... around the mulberry bush? Wink!)
Also, Happy Birthday to my sweet mother, Dorothy Volesky, who daily dons her robe, inspiring us!
Monday, June 13, 2016
New & Refreshing
I just LOVE the devotional for today! "Let yourself become a reservoir of the Spirit's fruit." (172) To let God create "something new" in us. To be "a bubbling spring of Joy that spills over into others' lives." What a wonderful way to live life...open to the "new" thing God desires to do in us!
I have some "bubbling springs of Joy" in my life; they are so good for me. I've also discovered others who are more like wonderful deep "reservoirs of the Spirit's fruit." Both are the result of being open to "something new."
I need the bubbly ones and I need the deep ones... all God's glorious gifts to me... all so refreshing! As my friend, Kay says, "we actually need both...they offer balance in our lives!"
Praising God for Bubbling Springs & Deep Reservoirs...dmc
I have some "bubbling springs of Joy" in my life; they are so good for me. I've also discovered others who are more like wonderful deep "reservoirs of the Spirit's fruit." Both are the result of being open to "something new."
I need the bubbly ones and I need the deep ones... all God's glorious gifts to me... all so refreshing! As my friend, Kay says, "we actually need both...they offer balance in our lives!"
Praising God for Bubbling Springs & Deep Reservoirs...dmc
Sunday, June 12, 2016
The Defining Difference
"Let Me help you get through this day... Stay alert to the many choice-points... there is a better way. You can choose to walk with me along the path of Peace...watch how I transform trials into blessings." (171)
Have you noticed people who choose "the better way?" People who walk "the path of Peace?" People who are more aware of their blessings than their trials?
What is the defining difference? At each moment or point of choice, they are far less likely to complain, to "moan and groan," less likely to focus on negatives and difficulties. They have made a choice, and continue to choose, to "walk with Jesus," to "lean on Jesus," to think like Jesus, having "the mind of Christ." Phil.2:5
Checking my Choice-Points today...dmc
Have you noticed people who choose "the better way?" People who walk "the path of Peace?" People who are more aware of their blessings than their trials?
What is the defining difference? At each moment or point of choice, they are far less likely to complain, to "moan and groan," less likely to focus on negatives and difficulties. They have made a choice, and continue to choose, to "walk with Jesus," to "lean on Jesus," to think like Jesus, having "the mind of Christ." Phil.2:5
Checking my Choice-Points today...dmc
Saturday, June 11, 2016
Vulnerable or Available
"The battle for control of your mind is fierce, and years of worry have made you vulnerable to the enemy. Therefore, you need to be vigilant in guarding your thoughts... You are not alone in this struggle for your mind. My Spirit living within you is ever ready to help... Ask Him to control your mind." (170)
Our thought life highly dictates our entire lives. We are only as healthy as our thoughts! We can be vulnerable (to the enemy) or we can be available (to the Spirit.) "The mind-set of the Spirit is life and peace." Rom. 8:6.
The mind-set of the enemy is death, hostile toward God, unable to submit and unable to please God. (Rom.8:6-9)
Well, that makes it mighty clear, so I'm...
Checking My Mind-set...dmc
Our thought life highly dictates our entire lives. We are only as healthy as our thoughts! We can be vulnerable (to the enemy) or we can be available (to the Spirit.) "The mind-set of the Spirit is life and peace." Rom. 8:6.
The mind-set of the enemy is death, hostile toward God, unable to submit and unable to please God. (Rom.8:6-9)
Well, that makes it mighty clear, so I'm...
Checking My Mind-set...dmc
Friday, June 10, 2016
Get a Good Grip
"Rest in Me, My child. Give your mind a break from planning and trying to anticipate what will happen... As you gaze anxiously into the distance, you don't even feel the strong grip of My hand holding yours." (169)
Our minds' abilities are absolutely phenomenal, yet our minds also have some interesting limitations. We can only successfully hold to one thought at a time. We may bounce in and out of various thought processes in a short amount of time, but in each of those momentary bursts of brain activity, we are constructively processing individual trains of thought, one at a time! That helps to explain why, if we hyper-focus on solving future problems, we may forget to enjoy God's "strong grip" holding our hand, right now.
So, "when on my bed, I think of You, I meditate on You during the night watches because You are my help; I will rejoice in the shadow of Your wings. I follow close to You. Your right hand holds on to me." Ps. 63:6-8
He has the ability to look into our future and will make the necessary provisions. He directs the God-focused so that today's choices will take care of tomorrow's concerns. That's taking trust to a whole new level!
Mentally "Getting a Grip" on Him...dmc
Our minds' abilities are absolutely phenomenal, yet our minds also have some interesting limitations. We can only successfully hold to one thought at a time. We may bounce in and out of various thought processes in a short amount of time, but in each of those momentary bursts of brain activity, we are constructively processing individual trains of thought, one at a time! That helps to explain why, if we hyper-focus on solving future problems, we may forget to enjoy God's "strong grip" holding our hand, right now.
So, "when on my bed, I think of You, I meditate on You during the night watches because You are my help; I will rejoice in the shadow of Your wings. I follow close to You. Your right hand holds on to me." Ps. 63:6-8
He has the ability to look into our future and will make the necessary provisions. He directs the God-focused so that today's choices will take care of tomorrow's concerns. That's taking trust to a whole new level!
Mentally "Getting a Grip" on Him...dmc
Thursday, June 9, 2016
Pockets of Darkness, Lenses of Love
"Look at other people through lenses of Love; see them from My perspective...it pleases Me." (168)
Love is such a powerful antidote to all dark and vice-like responses. To respond with love when another has reacted in spite, or out of their "pocket of darkness," is one of the most liberating privileges of a Christian. To walk in love is often uphill, yet well worth it. Giving in to a reactionary vengeance takes little effort, however it is always a severe waste of your human dignity and especially costly to your eternal soul.
So choosing to love another, when their sin or faults would say otherwise...elicits great respect because it requires a grace-filled soul. Grace in action deeply impacts my personal life, helping me overcome "pockets of darkness" in others and even within myself. Using "lenses of Love" radically changes and enhances the perspective around me and within me.
"Seek to live in My Love, which covers a multitude of sins: not only others' sins but also yours." 1Peter 4:8
Checking my Pockets & my Lenses...dmc
Love is such a powerful antidote to all dark and vice-like responses. To respond with love when another has reacted in spite, or out of their "pocket of darkness," is one of the most liberating privileges of a Christian. To walk in love is often uphill, yet well worth it. Giving in to a reactionary vengeance takes little effort, however it is always a severe waste of your human dignity and especially costly to your eternal soul.
So choosing to love another, when their sin or faults would say otherwise...elicits great respect because it requires a grace-filled soul. Grace in action deeply impacts my personal life, helping me overcome "pockets of darkness" in others and even within myself. Using "lenses of Love" radically changes and enhances the perspective around me and within me.
"Seek to live in My Love, which covers a multitude of sins: not only others' sins but also yours." 1Peter 4:8
Checking my Pockets & my Lenses...dmc
Wednesday, June 8, 2016
Bridges & Branches of the Mind
"I know everything about you, far more than you know of yourself." (167)
The complexities of the human mind, all the networks of thought patterns and behaviors, are far beyond our ability to explain or to understand. Hidden, somewhere in the neuro-bridges and branches of the brain, lies the sick and seductive tendencies of the soul. Patterns that taunt us, haunt us, until we feel helplessly overcome. Yet there's SOMEONE who knows and totally understands us!
Even more AMAZING... we often continue to resist honest confess to the One who honestly knows and loves us anyway! Perhaps, our great flaw is the tangled thought patterns of pride woven in the mind where we blindly hide, becoming trapped and imprisoned in our own "offensive, hurtful" ways! (Psalm 139:24)
May our own bridges and branches not sabotage our own good choices. Confession IS good for the soul...and for the mind! It brings sanity and sanctuary...to our hearts, our homes, our health and our heritage! Hallelujah...
Bringing every network of thought into the Light of His Presence...dmc
The complexities of the human mind, all the networks of thought patterns and behaviors, are far beyond our ability to explain or to understand. Hidden, somewhere in the neuro-bridges and branches of the brain, lies the sick and seductive tendencies of the soul. Patterns that taunt us, haunt us, until we feel helplessly overcome. Yet there's SOMEONE who knows and totally understands us!
Even more AMAZING... we often continue to resist honest confess to the One who honestly knows and loves us anyway! Perhaps, our great flaw is the tangled thought patterns of pride woven in the mind where we blindly hide, becoming trapped and imprisoned in our own "offensive, hurtful" ways! (Psalm 139:24)
May our own bridges and branches not sabotage our own good choices. Confession IS good for the soul...and for the mind! It brings sanity and sanctuary...to our hearts, our homes, our health and our heritage! Hallelujah...
Bringing every network of thought into the Light of His Presence...dmc
Tuesday, June 7, 2016
Welcome Christ not a Curse
"My Presence with you is a promise, independent of your awareness of Me. Many things can block this awareness, but the major culprit is worry... worry is a form of unbelief; it is anathema to Me." (166)
An "anathema" was like welcoming a curse upon someone or an evil upon yourself. The opposite of that is Maranatha which welcomes Christ upon someone or something; even meaning to welcome Christ's Return.
This struck me so powerfully... I can either welcome a curse or welcome Christ into my thoughts. It will depend upon what I choose to do with the problems and challenges that come my way. If I worry, I basically welcome all the troubles that come with that worry, much like a curse...anathema.
If I keep my focus on Christ, I am basically welcoming Christ's Presence into the situation. "My Presence with you is a promise, independent of your awareness of Me." (166)
Even if my awareness is flawed or faulty, my faith can become more God-aware and welcome all the blessings that come with...
Maranatha...dmc
PS - "Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!" Rev. 22:20
An "anathema" was like welcoming a curse upon someone or an evil upon yourself. The opposite of that is Maranatha which welcomes Christ upon someone or something; even meaning to welcome Christ's Return.
This struck me so powerfully... I can either welcome a curse or welcome Christ into my thoughts. It will depend upon what I choose to do with the problems and challenges that come my way. If I worry, I basically welcome all the troubles that come with that worry, much like a curse...anathema.
If I keep my focus on Christ, I am basically welcoming Christ's Presence into the situation. "My Presence with you is a promise, independent of your awareness of Me." (166)
Even if my awareness is flawed or faulty, my faith can become more God-aware and welcome all the blessings that come with...
Maranatha...dmc
PS - "Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!" Rev. 22:20
Monday, June 6, 2016
The Beauty of His Face
"Seek My face...my world is filled with beautiful things; they are meant to be pointers to Me, reminders of My abiding Presence." (165)
Seeing God's face in the midst of life is such an awesome way to selectively view things, gaining a fresh perspective. For me, God's face is reflected in countless ways especially through beauty, nature, music or the special bond of caring relationships. I have also seen God's face in unfolding infancy, childhood wonder, young love, resiliency, solitude, pain and aged wisdom. There are so many "pointers" that "declare (His) Glory to those who have eyes that see and ears that hear."
Fine Tuning my Sight & Sound to See & Hear Him...dmc
Seeing God's face in the midst of life is such an awesome way to selectively view things, gaining a fresh perspective. For me, God's face is reflected in countless ways especially through beauty, nature, music or the special bond of caring relationships. I have also seen God's face in unfolding infancy, childhood wonder, young love, resiliency, solitude, pain and aged wisdom. There are so many "pointers" that "declare (His) Glory to those who have eyes that see and ears that hear."
Fine Tuning my Sight & Sound to See & Hear Him...dmc
Sunday, June 5, 2016
Homesick for Eden
"I have planted longing for perfection in every human heart. This is a good desire, which I alone can fulfill." (164)
As long as I can remember I have battled a sense of deep disappointment over things I do that fall short of "perfect." My tendency to self-scrutinize can steal away joy and momentum. So, I need to take my eyes off myself and intentionally refocus on Jesus, and as I do, I sense His reassuring love!
Sometimes, I wonder if I am just homesick for my ancient roots, the Garden of Eden, where life was as perfect as life can get... at least here on earth!
Eden's Girl (with a whole LOT of fig leaves!) ...dmc
As long as I can remember I have battled a sense of deep disappointment over things I do that fall short of "perfect." My tendency to self-scrutinize can steal away joy and momentum. So, I need to take my eyes off myself and intentionally refocus on Jesus, and as I do, I sense His reassuring love!
Sometimes, I wonder if I am just homesick for my ancient roots, the Garden of Eden, where life was as perfect as life can get... at least here on earth!
Eden's Girl (with a whole LOT of fig leaves!) ...dmc
Saturday, June 4, 2016
Restored in Challenging Times
"Welcome challenging times as opportunities to trust...(although) dotted with difficulties... (and) certain to riddle you with anxiety... Let your thoughts and spoken words be richly flavored with trust and thankfulness...as you stay close to Me."(163)
The usual response to a high level challenge is low level confidence. This sets the stage for anxiety and failure. Often other lives are at stake and our response to "challenging times" can have a devastating ripple-effect!
The good news is, when we head into the challenge, we can also experience peace, "regardless of the day's problems."
In the past few years there's been a cry for leaders who are innovative, perceptive and sagacious enough to build momentum in the midst of decline and recession. We need leaders, and we need to BE leaders, who can prayerfully lead the way through these "demanding days."
Jesus tells us to "grip (His) hand tightly and stay in close communication... Regardless of the day's problems, (He) will keep us in perfect Peace!" That's quite a promise!
We've got a Good Leader with a Good Plan for Challenging Times!
Restoring My Confidence...dmc
Happy Anniversary to Charles & Amber (my son & his beautiful wife).
What a huge blessing you are to your family, to so many others, and especially to us! God bless you with many more years of love & laughter!
The usual response to a high level challenge is low level confidence. This sets the stage for anxiety and failure. Often other lives are at stake and our response to "challenging times" can have a devastating ripple-effect!
The good news is, when we head into the challenge, we can also experience peace, "regardless of the day's problems."
In the past few years there's been a cry for leaders who are innovative, perceptive and sagacious enough to build momentum in the midst of decline and recession. We need leaders, and we need to BE leaders, who can prayerfully lead the way through these "demanding days."
Jesus tells us to "grip (His) hand tightly and stay in close communication... Regardless of the day's problems, (He) will keep us in perfect Peace!" That's quite a promise!
We've got a Good Leader with a Good Plan for Challenging Times!
Restoring My Confidence...dmc
Happy Anniversary to Charles & Amber (my son & his beautiful wife).
What a huge blessing you are to your family, to so many others, and especially to us! God bless you with many more years of love & laughter!
Friday, June 3, 2016
Spiritually Sleepy
"Fears and worries...will encircle you, seeking entrance, so you must stay alert. ..turning back fear before it can gain a foothold." (162)
Remember a time when you tried to "stay alert" and it seemed impossible to do so? I have certainly struggled with staying alert, even dreaming that I was AWAKE, when I had really briefly fallen ASLEEP ...driving down the road! Yikes!
As our boys were growing up they would sometimes vacillate from being spiritually passionate and then spiritually indifferent. At times, when they didn't seem as tuned-in and alert to spiritual things, they were also more inclined to give in to temptation. So, I would occasionally ask if they were getting "spiritually sleepy."
I know that when I become spiritually sleepy it's harder to "stay alert" and fight off the fears and worries this world throws my direction.
Keepin' My Eyes Wide Open...dmc
PS - I'm including some great insights from Kay, Melissa & Carolynn. Thanks, ladies, for your awesome comments & great wisdom!
From Kay...This devotion also reminded me of 2 Tim. 1:7: God has not given us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of POWER, of love and a sound mind. That is what I want! So, why do I get fearful of stupid things, like speaking to a group of people, doing something new, etc?! I do not want to be spiritually sleepy. I definitely needed this devo! I actually should have read it yesterday, before I spoke to a group of out of town visitors:)
From Melissa...I like that Kay! I've been there. 1 John 4:18 says, "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love." I know I will always have some sort of fear or worry in my life (I'm human), but having God's love will quiet that fear/worry."My Peace displaces fears and worries".(162) The only thing that I really fear is living life without His love and that is why I must take time to be in his word. "Sit quietly in My Love-Light, while I bless you with radiant Peace. Turn your whole being to trusting and loving me." (162)
From Carolynn...So, why DO I sometimes get fearful of "stupid" things? I really liked the 2 Tim 1:17 scripture also...I too, want the spirit of POWER, of love and a sound mind. A very wise Christian lady once told me when I am in doubt, needing to make a choice, decision about something, etc., to ask myself the question, "will this choice, action, or do these feelings have eternal consequences?" For me, answering that "plumb line" question honestly has given me much peace and freedom, "displacing fears and worries" (162) 2 Thess 3:16 The Lord of peace himself gives me His peace at all times and in every situation.
Remember a time when you tried to "stay alert" and it seemed impossible to do so? I have certainly struggled with staying alert, even dreaming that I was AWAKE, when I had really briefly fallen ASLEEP ...driving down the road! Yikes!
As our boys were growing up they would sometimes vacillate from being spiritually passionate and then spiritually indifferent. At times, when they didn't seem as tuned-in and alert to spiritual things, they were also more inclined to give in to temptation. So, I would occasionally ask if they were getting "spiritually sleepy."
I know that when I become spiritually sleepy it's harder to "stay alert" and fight off the fears and worries this world throws my direction.
Keepin' My Eyes Wide Open...dmc
PS - I'm including some great insights from Kay, Melissa & Carolynn. Thanks, ladies, for your awesome comments & great wisdom!
From Kay...This devotion also reminded me of 2 Tim. 1:7: God has not given us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of POWER, of love and a sound mind. That is what I want! So, why do I get fearful of stupid things, like speaking to a group of people, doing something new, etc?! I do not want to be spiritually sleepy. I definitely needed this devo! I actually should have read it yesterday, before I spoke to a group of out of town visitors:)
From Melissa...I like that Kay! I've been there. 1 John 4:18 says, "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love." I know I will always have some sort of fear or worry in my life (I'm human), but having God's love will quiet that fear/worry."My Peace displaces fears and worries".(162) The only thing that I really fear is living life without His love and that is why I must take time to be in his word. "Sit quietly in My Love-Light, while I bless you with radiant Peace. Turn your whole being to trusting and loving me." (162)
From Carolynn...So, why DO I sometimes get fearful of "stupid" things? I really liked the 2 Tim 1:17 scripture also...I too, want the spirit of POWER, of love and a sound mind. A very wise Christian lady once told me when I am in doubt, needing to make a choice, decision about something, etc., to ask myself the question, "will this choice, action, or do these feelings have eternal consequences?" For me, answering that "plumb line" question honestly has given me much peace and freedom, "displacing fears and worries" (162) 2 Thess 3:16 The Lord of peace himself gives me His peace at all times and in every situation.
Thursday, June 2, 2016
God's Emergency Room
"Relax in My healing, holy Presence. Be still, while I transform your heart and mind."(161) The scripture for today paints an interesting picture in the original language. "Be still and know that I am God..." Ps. 46:10
The phrase "be still" comes from the word "raphah" which means "to mend, heal by stitching, as a physician stitches a wound."
This reminds me of a memorable trip to the ER years ago when our two sons were in their early teens. The boys had been riding their dirt bikes in the woods near our home. Racing back home, the younger one went down, while navigating a turn, on loose gravel. In an effort to miss him, the older one also went down. You guessed it... I had to take both boys to the ER to remove gravel, set a broken bone and get a knee stitched up. In the midst of all the ER drama, the biggest challenge was getting both boys to "be still" or sit still, while their flesh was scrubbed, stitched and a broken arm set and placed in a cast.
When life leaves me broken, bruised and in need of some mending...it's still hard, no matter what age, to just "be still" and let the Great Physician do His great work. However, Matthew 12:20 encourages my often bruised or broken heart, "A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he has brought justice through to victory." So, I'm learning & quietly waiting my transformation...
In the Eternal ER...dmc
The phrase "be still" comes from the word "raphah" which means "to mend, heal by stitching, as a physician stitches a wound."
This reminds me of a memorable trip to the ER years ago when our two sons were in their early teens. The boys had been riding their dirt bikes in the woods near our home. Racing back home, the younger one went down, while navigating a turn, on loose gravel. In an effort to miss him, the older one also went down. You guessed it... I had to take both boys to the ER to remove gravel, set a broken bone and get a knee stitched up. In the midst of all the ER drama, the biggest challenge was getting both boys to "be still" or sit still, while their flesh was scrubbed, stitched and a broken arm set and placed in a cast.
When life leaves me broken, bruised and in need of some mending...it's still hard, no matter what age, to just "be still" and let the Great Physician do His great work. However, Matthew 12:20 encourages my often bruised or broken heart, "A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he has brought justice through to victory." So, I'm learning & quietly waiting my transformation...
In the Eternal ER...dmc
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
In the Midst of Messy
"Because the world is in a fallen condition.... Expect to find trouble... At the same time, trust that My way is perfect, even in the midst of such messy imperfection." (160)
Learning to have a dual perspective greatly increases my ability to maintain a sense of balance when life gets crazy and complicated. While it is necessary to be aware of what's happening around me, it is essential that I am even MORE aware of what's happening within me... staying conscious of the Holy Spirit's inner promptings within me! How absolutely valuable it is, in the midst of the Mess, to be MORE focused on the Message! Therein lies the secret to discovering the "Peace & Joy that circumstances cannot touch."
Keeping My Mind on the Message not the Mess...dmc
Learning to have a dual perspective greatly increases my ability to maintain a sense of balance when life gets crazy and complicated. While it is necessary to be aware of what's happening around me, it is essential that I am even MORE aware of what's happening within me... staying conscious of the Holy Spirit's inner promptings within me! How absolutely valuable it is, in the midst of the Mess, to be MORE focused on the Message! Therein lies the secret to discovering the "Peace & Joy that circumstances cannot touch."
Keeping My Mind on the Message not the Mess...dmc
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