TIMELESS HOPE

Friday, March 22, 2024

QUOTATION:

Please listen to Lord I Give You My Heart Skip Ads Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nYvo0fQ8iZU

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REFLECTION:

WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME?

Have you ever heard yourself asking yourself this question?  Guilty! Unfortunately I have said that to myself too many times over the course of my life!  The reality is there is nothing wrong with us, but if you are like me when something goes wrong the question comes up!

Recently, I attended a retreat on Formational Healing and heard a beautiful reframing of this question. When I do something that causes me to think, what’s wrong with me? this is a much better question!

JESUS, WHAT ARE THE WOUNDS YOU WANT TO HEAL IN ME?

What a better question to ask ourselves!!  But, to take this a little further, have you  ever said this to someone you love? OUCH! Guilty, again! 

How can we help heal the wounds of others if we can’t welcome our own wounds? We need to be present to our wounds and allow God to meet us there! Here is some good news!

“For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever!” 2 Corinthians 4:17

Lord, give us an eternal perspective regarding our troubles, “For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever! 2 Corinthians 4:18

So, watch the way the Lord is loving you and then love others the same! I have been reading the book, Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer, and I read in chapter two, “Sit in the quiet and look at God loving you.” 

“He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds.” Psalm 147:3

So, today is a new day! Let’s let go of the hurt/wounds we have been holding onto and realize that God is already in the hurt and the wounds and ready to heal us!

Holy Spirit, help us to freshly experience the presence and the love of Jesus today!  Help us to love others with this same love!  May our healing come from the experience of loving You! In Jesus Name!

Let’s close by declaring these words together!

JESUS LOVES ME!— THE FATHER LOVES ME!- I AM GOOD ENOUGH!

Friday, February 16, 2024

QUOTATION:

Please listen to Find Us Faithful (SKIP AD) Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MKT5BCmvmq0

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REFLECTION:

WHAT YOU DO IN LIFE ECHOES IN ETERNITY

From the first time I saw it and still today, I have been convicted by this quote in the opening scene in the movie “Gladiator” where Maximus declares to his soldiers, “What You Do In Life Echoes In Eternity!” 

What a powerful declaration, and truth, that we need to take to heart and do our best to live our lives with this in mind. 

The word echo means, “to repeat or imitate, to restate in support or agreement.” Our words and actions have power! They can be words of life or words of death!

“Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying Him, and committing yourself firmly to Him. This is the key to your life.” Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NLT 

This stirs a passion in my heart! How do I want to affect the future of my children, grandchildren and great grandchildren?  What are the echoes that are repeating or being imitated from my actions, from my choices, from my words?  Will they experience blessings or curses?  

My family history is full of despair, disfunction, alcoholism, abuse, anger, broken relationships and more. We have had to deal with the “echoes” of their actions and choices, and through much prayer have been freed from these generational curses!

So, today, we have a choice! How do you want to live the rest of your life?  What do you want echoed from your life in the generations to come?  What Kingdom do you want to agree with? The Kingdom of Light or the kingdom of darkness?

“I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry!” Psalm 40:1

Lord Jesus, forgive us for our words and actions that have not been life-giving!  We welcome you, Spirit of Truth. Help us to look inward today and see ourselves clearly today! Help us to speak words of encouragement and affirmation! Help us to be true to You in everything we do and say! May goodness and love be the echo of our lives, repeating through all our generations to come!

In Jesus Name! Amen

“Oh, may all who come behind us find us faithful

May the fire of our devotion light their way

May the footprints (echoes) that we leave them to 

believe

And the lives we live inspire them to obey

Oh, may all who come behind us find us faithful.”

 Find Us Faithful-Steve Green

Friday, January 12, 2024

QUOTATION:

PLEASE LISTEN TO SOMETHNGS COMING-(SKIP AD) Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FOQPMjKLQQU

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REFLECTION:

CROSSING OVER

In Joshua Chapter 3 Israel is preparing to Cross Over the Jordan river into the promised land.  

“And Joshua said to the people, sanctify yourselves for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you. … by this you will know that the living God is among you for He will without fail drive out from before you the Canaanites and the Hittites… behold the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth is crossing over before you into the Jordan.” 

We have just crossed over from the old year of 2023 into the New Year, 2024, and these verses give us some great encouragement for moving into a year that could look a little foreboding!

In verse 5 Joshua tells the people to sanctify themselves.  My Bible commentary brings a greater understanding to what he meant.

The people were being asked to divorce themselves from anything unclean and to devote themselves wholly to the Lord. 

When I read this I believe the Lord is asking me to not bring any “baggage” from 2023 into 2024. In Hebrews 12 it says to, “let us strip off every weight (baggage) that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up…keeping our eyes on Jesus.”

Secondly, Joshua tells the people the Lord will do Wonders among you!  The word wonders can mean, to perform a miracle, marvel, supernatural, something beyond the human ability to grasp.  That’s a WOW in my book!

I love the words from the song, “Somethings Coming” from West Side Story.

“Who knows? It’s only just out of reach

Down the block on a beach, under a tree

I’ve got a feeling there’s a miracle due

Gonna come true, coming to me!”

I believe God wants us to lift our expectations for this year, to believe for miracles, to believe that something good is coming!  David declares in the Psalms, “why are you downcast o my soul, … put your Hope in God!”

The good news for us is; the Lord of all the earth is going before us into 2024. He will without fail wipe out all the “ites” we are facing!  

Here is some more good news; in Joshua chapter 4 verse 12, 40,000 men equipped for war crossed over the Jordan before the Israelites. 

In the same way I believe that God is sending out some battle-ready intercessors to go before us into 2024; maybe you are one of them?

Let’s join them in the battle, let’s raise our expectations, put our Hope in God, and run with endurance into this new year. Let’s believe for some miracles, and stand in awe of all God is doing and will do!

“I will lift up my eyes to the hills from whence comes my help? my help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth…the Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth and even forever!

 

Saturday, December 30, 2023

QUOTATION:

REFLECTION:

A GLORIOUS DESTINY

The last three months have been filled with several challenges!  My brother Greg passed into glory on October 27th. He went into surgery for some blockage to be removed but unfortunately did not make it! It was supposed to be a simple process, and we all expected his health to be better as a result!

Secondly, I had a small growth removed from my neck. The pathology report came back stating it was Basal Cell Carcinoma, cancer but not the bad kind! I had  MOHS surgery on December 6th and they were able to get all the cancer out! PTL!

Lastly, my daughter-in-law’s father Dan passed into glory just before Thanksgiving! 

Maybe it’s been a tough time for you and your family. Maybe you are in the midst of some disappointment, or even mourning the passing of someone you dearly love.

But, let us  choose to rejoice in the glorious destiny God has given to you and me today!

“You guide me with Your counsel, 

leading me to a glorious destiny. 

Whom have I in heaven but You?

I desire You more than anything on earth!

My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak,

but, God remains the strength of my heart;

He is mine forever! Psalm 73:24-26

The good news in the midst of the sorrow is that my brother Greg and my daughter in law’s father Dan are in heaven! They have come into that glorious destiny and are a part of that great cloud of witnesses described in Hebrews 12.

They are cheering the rest of us on, to run with endurance the race set before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus the author and finisher of our faith!

Lord Jesus, help us to not grow weary in well doing!  Help us to lean into You, the strength of our lives! May we realize that even in failing health and weakness, You are the strength of our hearts! You are ours forever and ever! Come Lord Jesus, shine your light into our darkness and fill us with fresh Hope today! 

In Jesus Name, Amen

Lord, send out Your light and your truth,

Let them guide me.

Let them lead me to Your holy mountain.

To the place where You live.

There I will go to the altar of God, 

to God the source of all my Joy!

(Taken from Psalm 43:3-4a)

(For further resources or encouragement, you can contact me at

timelesshope714@gmail.com)

 

Wednesday, December 6, 2023

QUOTATION:

REFLECTION:

TIME TO RE-ARRANGE THE FURNITURE

Every year at Christmas time, I need to re-arrange the furniture in our great room. We move a couple of chairs, take out a footstool, and move a lamp to create a space (make room) for our Christmas Tree.

In a similar way, I need to make room in my heart for the coming of the Lord Jesus. It’s the season of Advent, a preparation for the coming of the Lord. A re-arranging of priorities, a stepping away from distractions, a quieting of myself to meet with Jesus.

I love this Christmas carol, “Joy to the world, the Lord has come, Let earth receive her King! Let every heart, prepare Him room, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and heaven and nature sing.”

What preparation are we doing for the Christmas Season? It’s amazing to me how busy I am, and I’m retired! There are so many distractions, some good some not so good. Nevertheless, they can keep us from focusing on the real reason for the season.

God has recently and freshly placed these verses on my heart as a filter for my life, especially as it relates to busyness and distractions.

“ Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to Me. Get away with Me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with Me and work with Me-watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with Me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:28-30 MSG.

What a wonderful invitation for rest and grace, and wow, who doesn’t want to live “freely and lightly”! Lord, help us to respond to your invitation today, to recover our lives, and to learn the Unforced Rhythms of Grace!

Join with me in praying this prayer from the writings of Henry Nouwen:

“Lord Jesus,
Master of both the light and the darkness, send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas. We who have so much to do, seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day. We who are anxious over many things, look forward to your coming amongst us. We who are blessed in so many ways, long for the complete joy of your kingdom. We whose hearts are heavy, seek the joy of your presence. We are your people, walking in the darkness, yet seeking the light.
To you we say, Come Lord Jesus! Amen”

Saturday, August 12, 2023

QUOTATION:

Please listen to "Graves into Gardens" (Skip ads) Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KwX1f2gYKZ4

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REFLECTION:

A PATHWAY NO ONE KNEW WAS THERE

About a month ago, I had a very vivid dream where someone was giving me envelopes filled with money. There was so much money that I sent someone to ask the bank to stay open longer so I could count it and get it deposited.  Secondly, this same person opened up a large check book (like a business checking account) and told me I could write checks for whatever I needed, and the money would never run out!  I believe this person was God, the Father! 

DIDN’T WANT TO WAKE UP! LOL!

Truth be known, I have struggled on and off regarding having “enough” since retiring several years ago. “Why are you afraid! O you of little faith”!

Maybe you are experiencing similar struggles? Financial challenges, fear of the future, anxieties, feeling empty, unfulfilled, you fill in the blank.

“The earth trembled and shook. Your road led through the sea, your pathway through the mighty waters— a pathway no one knew was there!”

Psalm 77:18a-19

The Israelites were up against it!  There seemed to be no way out!  They were between a rock and a hard place! Their faith was being tested and many probably were wishing they had never left Egypt!

BUT, THERE WAS A PATHWAY NO ONE KNEW WAS THERE!

Be encouraged! There is a way out! God has a plan!  You may not see it yet, but it is there. Pray, wait, watch, and believe!  Our God is an awesome God! He is able to provide, to deliver, to set free, and to fill you with His Spirit!

“I searched the world, but it couldn’t fill me. Man’s empty praise and treasures that fade are never ENOUGH. Then you came along and put me back together, and every desire is now satisfied, here in Your love! (Lyrics from “Graves into Gardens”)

OH, THERE’S NOTHING BETTER THAN YOU!

Lord, I yield myself to Your greater purpose. Would You open my eyes to see the path that I did not know was there? To see beyond my small needs and anxieties, and to see the vast bounty (Envelopes full of money) of Your generous provision! Lord, help me to remember all the good things you do and have done for me!

In Jesus Name! Amen!

Wednesday, May 3, 2023

QUOTATION:

Please listen to the title song, (Skip Ads) From Top Gun Maverick! Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azbX38ofdeY

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REFLECTION:

YOU’VE BEEN CALLED BACK

I love music, all kinds, so recently I decided to “bite the bullet” and purchase Amazon Music.  One type of music that I enjoy are soundtracks from movies. As I began to search for something, the songs from “Top Gun Maverick” popped on the screen, so I decided to download it. I played the Main Theme and in the process I noticed the title of the song. 

YOU’VE BEEN CALLED BACK

It was like an “and suddenly!”  I felt the Spirit of God saying those words directly to me: “Glenn, You’ve Been Called Back” to be involved in prayer again. 

Several months ago, it could have been a year, Jan and I felt we were done regarding our involvement in a prayer ministry. So, we cleaned out many of our files, outlines, teachings and conference notes. Yep, just threw them away! 

But God!  This song totally and unexpectedly touched our hearts and we sensed that God was calling us back to be involved and re-activated in prayer!  It was a WOW moment, a fresh call of God!

“Before I formed you… I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah 1:5

”Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old.  Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth.” Isiah 43:18-19

I do believe that God appoints, and calls, and sets us apart to do the “Good Works which He has prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10

Maybe the Lord is stirring something in your heart right now!  Maybe there are some good works for you to walk in? Maybe you are being called back to a relationship or friendship? Maybe He is calling you to rest and slow down? Maybe the Holy Spirit is stirring up the gifts of God in you for Kingdom Purposes?

The key is to ask, “Lord, what are you calling me to do in this season? Lord, I thought I was sort of finished, but maybe you’re not finished with me yet?” 

My Hope is in You, not in the sense of an optimistic outlook, or wishful thinking without any foundation, but in the sense of confident expectation based on a solid certainty.

Father, Thank you that you are calling us back! Help us to hear Your voice! May we sense the call of God in a fresh new way today! in Jesus Name, Amen

Friday, February 24, 2023

QUOTATION:

PLEASE LISTEN TO THE SONG LINKED BELOW (SKIP AD) Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qt0ziGaDkKE

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REFLECTION:

MAKING ROOM

At the end of October last year, I decided to fast watching movies for two weeks. You may think, “what’s the big deal about that?”  Well, for me it had become an escape!  Instead of “checking in,” I was “checking out!”

I was watching 3 or more movies a week down in the basement, eating popcorn ( gotta have popcorn) and trying to fill some unknown emptiness in my soul!  Some movies have heartwarming stories that are good for the soul, but that is not what I was watching.  Sometimes I would start and stop, switching movies, looking for something, but usually finding nothing.

This is the question that prompted the fast:

Am I making space to listen to what the Holy Spirit might want to say to me or call me to? Then I prayed, “Holy Spirit, I welcome Your presence, speak to me in a way I understand.” 

“I received an invitation to enter more deeply into the intimacy of relationship with the One who waits just outside the noise and busyness of my life.” 

Ruth Haley Barton

As we enter the season of Lent, I encourage you to ask the question, “What should I give up for the next 40 days?”  But, more importantly to make space, time, room for the One, who is waiting just outside all your busyness. 

For me it has been a life-changer! I do still watch an occasional movie! ( I love movies and popcorn!) But, God in His unfailing love and mercy, has filled the space, the room, that was now available. I realized the search to fill the emptiness in my soul was found only in Jesus!

“And so, Lord, where do I put my Hope? My only Hope is in You!” Psalm 39:7

Thank you, Lord, for the incredible invitation to talk to You as my Father. I accept!  Teach me to imitate Jesus and make space, room, each day for intimate and honest conversation with You. In Jesus Name, Amen

Tuesday, January 17, 2023

QUOTATION:

Please listen to Run to the Father (Skip Ads) Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uZe3ipfQ-44

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REFLECTION:

LOOKING AHEAD

“ The former order of things has passed away… Behold I am making all things new.” Revelation 21:4-5

As I prayed about 2023, I asked God for direction and wisdom for this New Year. I believe God made it clear to me that He was making all things new, and that even the pathway for me would be new. 

Not being sure of what that all would look like, I began to pray and declare over my life, my family, my friends and my church, “Lord, make all things new!”— Believing that the old “order,” way of doing life, was being renewed! 

“ Show me the right path O Lord.

Point out the road for me to follow.

Lead me by your truth and teach me. 

All day long I put my Hope in You!”

Psalm 25:4-5 NLT

The Good News for all of us is that we know that God has a Good Plan for each of us. “I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to give you a future and a Hope!” Jeremiah 29:11

Be encouraged by these words!  If you haven’t  taken the time to ask God about the New Year, why not pray the words from Psalm 25:4-5 above? Then pause to listen what He might speak to your heart!  

Sometimes fear can keep us from asking because we may not like the answer! If that is you, be encouraged by this poem by John O’Donohue

“May my mind come alive today—to the invisible geography that invites me to New frontiers. To break the dead shell of yesterdays, to risk being disturbed and changed. May I have the courage today to live the life that I would love, to postpone my dream no longer, but do at last what I came here for and waste my my heart on fear no more.”

Whatever God has for you, lean into it!  When I heard the phrase New Frontiers in the poem above I was reminded of the title line in Star Trek.

“To explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and new civilizations, to boldly go where no man has gone before.”

Kind of crazy, maybe even foolish, but God may be encouraging us today to go boldly, live intentionally, and with fresh courage, live the life that we would love!

Father, We trust you for our future, and believe that you have a good plan for each of us!  In this new season, we invite you to shape our lives and set the direction of our year. We listen to Your Word and welcome Your Spirit as we fix our eyes on you. In Jesus Name, Amen

Thursday, December 15, 2022

QUOTATION:

Please listen to Slow Down You Move to Fast (Skip Ad) Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NvlW4bEjB5A

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REFLECTION:

CATCH UP TO JESUS!

BUSY!  That is the typical answer you get from people when you ask, “ How are you doing?”  It’s not just because of the Christmas Season, it’s just the way life seems to be!  It doesn’t seem to matter what season of life someone is in, working, retired, married with kids, no kids or single.  Everyone is Busy!

Didn’t we believe that all this technology we have would make things easier? We could slow down, relax more, rest more?  Not sure that is happening!  

Then the other day while reading a book on humility, I read this quote that caused me to stop and ponder what it meant.

“YOU NEED TO SLOW DOWN TO CATCH UP TO JESUS”!

Not sure I can wrap my mind around this phrase!  Slow down to catch up?  That doesn’t make much sense!  How do I enter into that concept? What does it mean?

It should say, slow down so Jesus can catch up to me! Aren’t we usually ahead of the Lord’s timing in our lives?

Reminds me of the lyrics from an old Simon and Garfunkel song.

“Slow down, you move too fast

you got to make the morning last

just kicking down the cobblestones

looking for fun and feeling groovy”

It’s about loving life!

Lord, in this busy season please help us to slow down, to Be STILL!  Open our ears to hear amazing things from You, quietly preparing our hearts for the Wonder of Your Coming at Christmas!   

“BE STILL AND KNOW THAT I AM GOD!” PS. 46:10

I believe in the slowing down we can open our ears and allow ourselves to be like children again, and embrace the Wonder of Christ’s Coming at Christmas!

Lord, fill us with expectation as we approach Christmas morning! Yea, Lord we greet Thee, born this happy morning! Help us to make the Morning Last! May we Slow Down this Christmas so we can—

CATCH UP TO JESUS!

Wishing you all a Joyful and Hope filled Christmas! 

Blessings,

Glenn

Thursday, November 3, 2022

QUOTATION:

PLEASE LISTEN TO Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7d_oYr-P16M

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REFLECTION:

HOLD TIGHTLY

We have a tradition of holding hands when praying for a meal.  It adds a little extra love to our meal.  After the prayer, we squeeze each other’s hands and say, “Pass the Love.”  Sometimes when my grandsons are over, I continue to hold their hands and play a little game asking them to, "please let go." But, I am the one holding on and not letting go!

“Let us hold tightly without wavering to the Hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise. Let us think of ways to motivate (encourage) one another to acts of love and good works.” Hebrews 10:23-24 NLT

WHAT ARE WE HOLDING ON TO?

Is it someone’s hand, God’s hand? ls it fear, discouragement, the past, or are we not holding on to anything or anyone at all?

I am reminded of an old song from High School days. “Let’s hang on to what we’ve got, don’t let go, girl, we’ve got a lot. Got a lot of love between us Hang on, Hang on, Hang on, to what we’ve got.” 

I believe God is speaking that to us today!  Let’s Hang on, Hold on to what we’ve got! God says in Romans 15:13, “…that God the source of Hope will fill you completely with joy and peace.”

We need to hang on, hold on, to God the source of Hope, and He will fill us with Joy and Peace!

So, what are we holding on to? Why not try holding on to God’s hand?  We can squeeze His hand and I believe He will squeeze ours right back saying, “I am passing the love to you and through you!  He might even be singing,"Let’s Hang on to what we’ve got!  Don’t let go, we’ve got a lot of love between us!"

“For I hold you by your right hand—I, the Lord your God. And I say to you, Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you!” Isaiah 41:13

Father, You are my source of Hope!  You desire to fill me with Your unfailing love! Help me to Hang on, Hold on, to what we’ve got between us!  Help me to strip off every weight that slows me down, especially the sin that so easily trips me up. And let me run with endurance (hang on and hold on) the race You set before me!

In Jesus Name! Amen

Tuesday, September 13, 2022

QUOTATION:

Please listen to song link, SKIP ADS No Other Love Will Do! Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0LZ74fryo0

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REFLECTION:

THE MOMENT I MAKE A COMMITMENT

Just recently, I started spending time with my two teenage grandsons, sharing some leadership principles. During our first session we talked about Attitude, (we are in charge of our Attitudes), commitment, and 10 Secrets to Success!

We discussed this definition of Commitment:

Until I am committed, there is a hesitancy, a chance to draw back. But, the moment I definitely commit myself, then God moves also, and a whole stream of events erupts. All manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings, persons, and material assistance, which I could never have dreamed would come my way, begin to flow toward me

—-the moment I make a commitment!

After they left that day, the Lord began to highlight to me an area where I was “on the fence,” hesitant, not sure. I needed to make a commitment!

In James 4:8 it says; “Draw near (come close) to God and He will draw near (come close) to you.”  The verse just before this says, “ Resist the devil (stand firm against him) and he will flee from you.”  There is a battle going on here!  We need to stand firm, draw near to God and freshly commit to Him!

Then God moves! Favor flows! Dreams deepen! Events erupt! 

Are you “on the fence,” unsure, hesitant, feeling stuck, not able to decide or commit?  That’s where I found myself several weeks ago. But, I realized that I needed to make a commitment to God. I needed to follow the prompting of the Holy Spirit and move forward. 

I recently saw this  on a church sign:

GOD WILL MAKE A WAY! TRUST HIM!

“ We put our hope in the Lord. He is our help and our shield. In Him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in His holy name. Let Your unfailing love surround us, Lord, for our Hope is in You alone.” Psalm 33:20-22 NLT

Today is your day!  Put your hope in the Lord! Don’t hold back!  Give Him an opportunity to move in your life! Commit to Him! Draw near to Him! He is looking for your commitment!

“For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to HIM.” 2 Chronicles 16:9A

Father, deliver us from any hesitancy to commit to you! We invite you into our situations and circumstances. Have your way in them! Give us courage to stand firm against our enemy the devil. Help us to realize that we can resist him and he will flee.  We now draw near knowing that You will draw near, (come close to us)! 

In Jesus name! Amen

Friday, April 15, 2022

QUOTATION:

PLEASE LISTEN TO THE WORSHIP SONG "WORTHY! (SKIP AD) Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ak5WTb-mgeA&list=RDAk5WTb-mgeA&start_radio=1&rv=Ak5WTb-mgeA&t=0

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REFLECTION:

WORTHY!

“ THEN I LOOKED, AND I HEARD THE VOICE OF MANY ANGELS AROUND THE THRONE, THE LIVING CREATURES AND THE ELDERS, AND THE NUMBER OF THEM WAS TEN THOUSAND TIMES TEN THOUSAND, AND THOUSANDS OF THOUSAND, SAYING WITH A LOUD VOICE!

WORTHY IS THE LAMB WHO WAS SLAIN TO RECEIVE POWER AND RICHES AND WISDOM, AND STRENGTH AND HONOR AND GLORY AND BLESSING!

AND EVERY CREATURE (CREATED BEING) WHICH IS IN HEAVEN AND ON THE EARTH AND UNDER THE EARTH AND SUCH AS ARE IN THE SEA, AND ALL THAT ARE IN THEM, I HEARD SAYING!

BLESSING AND HONOR AND GLORY AND POWER BE TO HIM WHO SITS ON THE THRONE, AND TO THE LAMB, FOREVER AND EVER!”

REVELATION 5:11-13

Monday, April 4, 2022

QUOTATION:

Please listen to You'll Never Walk Alone Link: https://video.search.yahoo.com/yhs/search?fr=yhs-iry-fullyhosted_011&hsimp=yhs-fullyhosted_011&hspart=iry&p=josh+groban+you%27ll+never+walk+alone#id=3&vid=cde2f7378189df6840bdc52a873088a9&action=view

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REFLECTION:

THE ONLY WAY IS THROUGH


I believe this ad from Under Armor is speaking to you and me about life. Life isn’t necessarily supposed to be easy, although, many of us might prefer it to be. There are no short cuts. No cheat codes. It’s only work, sometimes very hard work.

THE ONLY WAY IS THROUGH!

Maybe it would be better to say the Best Way is Through? We don’t grow in our faith by skirting the issues, or looking for a bypass to miss all the traffic. No, we need to stand and face the challenges of life set before us.

There are times to pray asking God to make a way where there seems to be no way. We don’t pray to escape reality; we pray so we can stand and face the battle, whatever it may be! Get up! Face Life! and Hold On!

Jesus prayed in Gethsemane, asking the Father, to “remove this cup from me! Nevertheless, not My will but Yours be done.” But, then Jesus got up off his knees and faced His purpose!

What about the story of Israel backed up against the Red Sea? They could not go around, The Only Way Was Through!

What about the story of Israel at the Jordan, with the promised land on the other side? The Only Way Was Through!

Many times when we are faced with the challenges of life we look for a way around, a short cut, a bypass. But, the Bible has so many promises that strengthen our resolve and help us to realize the better, and maybe only way, is through!

Jesus said, “In this world you will have trials, but be of good courage, I have overcome the world.”

Romans 5:3-5 says, “Even in times of trouble; we have a joyful confidence, knowing that our pressures will develop in us patient endurance. And patient endurance will refine our character, and proven character leads us back to Hope. And this Hope is not a disappointing fantasy, because we can now experience the endless love of God cascading into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who lives in us! TPT

Father, There are certain things we must face, decisions we must make. Help us to realize that the only way is through! We can’t skirt the issues. Help us to pray in times of trouble, God could split the sea and you could walk right through. But help us to know when to get up and face the battle! Help us to stand and keep on standing! Amen

“BE STRONG IN THE LORD AND IN HIS MIGHTY POWER!” Ephesians 6:10

Wednesday, February 16, 2022

QUOTATION:

Please listen to the song Waymaker on the link below! Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ALWsSGQIVM

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REFLECTION:

AN EASY LIFE IS NOT AN OPTION!

Hitting bottom. That would happen time and time again when we went canoeing!  

When our kids were teenagers we would usually go canoeing as part of our camping trip.  Our kids would be in one canoe and my wife and I would be in the other.  You can probably see what’s coming!  

They, being lighter, would go right through all of the “rapids,” while my wife and I would many times “hit bottom.”  In order to get unstuck I would get out of the canoe, (getting my new tennis shoes wet!) and have to push us off the rocks and get us on our way.  

Our kids would usually stop up ahead, turn around and enjoy a good laugh,  watching me standing in the water and pushing the canoe off the rocks.

Life can be like that for us!  The problems, circumstances and worries of life can weigh us down and we “hit bottom.”  What we do next is similar to me getting out of the canoe and getting “unstuck.”  We try to figure things out in our own strength instead of going to the Lord for help!

Then Jesus said, “Come unto me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you. Let Me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

In his book, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, John Mark Comer says, “ If you want to experience the Life of Jesus, you have to adopt the lifestyle of Jesus… He offers His apprentices a whole new way to bear the weight of our humanity with ease. At His side, like two oxen in a field, tied shoulder to shoulder, with Jesus doing all the heavy lifting. At His pace, slow, unhurried, present to the moment, full of love and joy and peace. An easy life is not an option, an Easy Yoke is.”

Have you “hit bottom”?  When you get stuck on the rocks, do you get out of the canoe and push? I believe that most of us try to fix things ourselves instead of going to the One who can carry the load with ease.

Lord Jesus!  Help me to choose the path of an apprentice! Help me to be teachable and learn to walk in this whole new way to bear the weight of my life!

Your yoke is easy and your burden is light. Help me to realize that an Easy Life is not an option, but an Easy Yoke is!  Help me to find my rest in You!  Amen

Monday, January 24, 2022

QUOTATION:

Please listen to The Song Linked Below Through It All Link: https://video.search.yahoo.com/search/video?fr=aaplw&ei=UTF-8&p=hillsong+through+it+all#id=13&vid=2e6556f499f978588495985312e690ff&action=view

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REFLECTION:

POINT OUT THE ROAD

We were enjoying dinner with several of our grandsons the other day and during the course of dinner I asked them this question:  “When you pray is it difficult for you to know what to pray or what words to say?”

Each of them agreed that what to pray and how to pray didn’t come easy for them. We can all get stuck not knowing what to pray!

My motivation in asking this question was to encourage them that now as they are getting older it was important for them to pray to God, trusting Him to give them wisdom and direction for their lives!

Reading and praying God’s word back to Him is a great way to pray! So I gave them an example. Let’s read and then pray the words of Psalm 25:4-5.

“Show Me The Right Path, O Lord; Point Out The Road For Me to Follow. Lead Me By Your Truth And Teach Me, For You Are The God That Saves Me.  All Day Long I Put My HOPE In You.” NLT

What a great way to pray!  Find a verse and then recite it back to God as a prayer! 

I realize that over the course of my life I often set out in one direction, aiming to reach one destination, only to end up somewhere completely different.

“… let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus…” Hebrews 12: 1b-2a

I am praying and believing that my grandsons will remember that praying God’s words is powerful and He will give them wisdom and direction.  May it be true for you and me as well!

Let’s make this our prayer!

Holy Spirit, I ask you to breath on me and in me once again! Revive me! Rekindle the fire within me!  Lord I believe you will see me through the seasons. Cover me with your hand, and lead me in your righteousness. I wait on You and I look to You!  And I put my hope in You, all day long

Thursday, December 9, 2021

QUOTATION:

FILLED WITH HOPE!
PLEASE LISTEN TO JOY TO THE WORLD Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Xo64Q2ucQ8

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REFLECTION:

BE FILLED WITH HOPE

“I pray that God, the source of Hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident Hope through the power of the Holy Spirit” Romans 15:13 NLT

HOPE

…”Christ in you, the Hope of glory” Colossians 1;27

HOPE

“I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident Hope He has given to those He called…” Ephesians 1:18

HOPE

“Let us hold tightly without wavering to the Hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise.” Hebrews 10:23

HOPE

“…Do not be afraid for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name and you are Mine. When you go through the deep waters I will be with you. When you go through the rivers of difficulty, you will not drown.” Isaiah 43:1-2

HOPE

“For I know the plans I have for you says the Lord.  “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a Hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

HOPE

“For I wait quietly before God, for my victory comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will never be shaken.” Psalm 62:1-2

HOPE

“Because of God’s tender mercy, the morning light from heaven is about to break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, and to guide us to the path of peace.” Luke 1:78-79

Father,  We pray Maranantha, Come Lord Jesus!  May our hearts be filled with Hope and expectation as we look forward to the celebration of Your birth! We declare Your Kingdom come Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven!  Holy Spirit fill us afresh with Hope!  Deliver us from despair!  May Your light shine upon us and guide us to the path of peace!  Jesus you are the Prince of Peace!  Amen!

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

QUOTATION:

PLEASE LISTEN TO THE SONG LINKED BELOW THERE IS A CLOUD (SKIP ADS) Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZkmDqk2ivs

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REFLECTION:

THE EFFUSIVE LIFE

I learned a new word this past week!  We had a special friend over for dinner and during her sharing she used the word Effusive.

For some this may not be new, but for me, I never heard it before!  I said to her, “What was that word?”  She said, “Effusive.”

Here is what it means: expressing feelings of gratitude, pleasure, or approval in an unrestrained or heartfelt manner. Some synonyms for effusive are: gushing, uninhibited, unrestrained, passionate and loving.

Jesus said in John 10:10, “I came that they may have life, and have it in abundance (to the full till it overflows).” In my thinking, it seems you could use the word effusive in place of abundance?

The Effusive Life, a life that is passionate, loving, gushing and unrestrained!  That’s the kind of life Jesus came to give us.  Am I living at the level of abundance? Am I being filled by the Holy Spirit to overflowing? 

I wonder if part of my problem is not  receiving what Jesus is giving?  Am I trying to live my life in my own strength? Do I pause to ask, “Holy Spirit fill me to overflowing with this Abundant life?— You know we leak”!! 

In Ephesians 5:18 it says… “be filled with the Spirit.” The word filled has the connotation of a continuous replenishment, an ongoing state of being filled.

In the heat of summer, if I don’t water my lawn it will become brown, dry and parched.  It needs watering regularly (continually, again and again) in order to keep moisture in its life-giving roots.

In Psalm 63:1 it says, “O God, You are my God; I earnestly search for You. My soul thirsts for You; my whole body longs for You in this parched and weary land where there is no water.”

 Are you dry, parched and thirsty? You need a fresh filling, a watering of the Holy Spirit.  Your life-giving roots (your soul) needs watering so that you can enjoy living the overflowing abundant (effusive) life that Jesus gives! 

Father, 

We need an outpouring of the Holy Spirit into the life giving roots of our soul!  We pause to ask, “Fill me continually, again and again to the point of overflowing!  Cause me to live in the abundance that You give to me.  May the overflow run out and touch others that they may experience Your Abundance.  May joy in You overflow, may peace overflow and Your river of life flow through me into a dry and weary land!”  In Jesus Name, Amen

Saturday, October 2, 2021

QUOTATION:

Link: https://video.search.yahoo.com/search/video?fr=aaplw&ei=UTF-8&p=lauren+daigle+you+say+lyric+video#id=7&vid=3e6de2e2a251b841e2b792b69e3a53ed&action=click

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REFLECTION:

CELEBRATE LIFE


Celebrating life is so important for each one of us! We need to take time and reflect on what is really important!

I love this quote, “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take your breath away.”

This past summer my brother Allen passed; he would have been 70 this past Thursday. He had a very simple life, but I believe he touched a piece of heaven while he was here with us.

He learned to realize that prayer was such an important part of living. He was always praying for his family and extended family. He would regularly call to check in and would always tell me he was praying for me and my family.

“WHAT WE DO IN LIFE ECHOS IN ETERNITY”

We don’t know the full effect his prayers had, but I know they were life-giving!

He also lived a life of quiet reflection specifically on the Bible, the Word of God. These times of quiet brought him great peace! He was at peace with God, and he knew where he was going when he left this world.!


“ TEACH US TO REALIZE THE BREVITY OF LIFE, SO THAT WE MAY GROW IN WISDOM.” PSALM 90:12 NLT


Allen’s passing caused me to pause and reflect on my life! What’s really important! How am I spending my time? Who will I spend it with? How can I inspire and encourage others? Am I grateful for life and do I celebrate the gift of life?


May you take some time today and every day to reflect on your life. What questions come to your mind? What is important to you?


Let us leave nothing undone that was ours to do! When we come to the end of our lives we will arrive at our final moments with no regret!

NEVER SETTLE! — NEVER QUIT! — SAVE NOTHING FOR THE NEXT LIFE!

Press the limits of what God can do through your life! Never underestimate what God wants to do through YOU!


Father, Help us to live each day to the full, being true to you in everything we do! Help us to take times to reflect on what is really important. Help us to touch a portion of heaven here on earth! Fill us with an attitude of gratitude! Help us to quiet ourselves and rest in Your presence.

In Jesus name, Amen

Friday, September 17, 2021

QUOTATION:

MY HOPE IS IN YOU ALL DAY LONG!

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REFLECTION:

In You, Lord my God, I put my trust

I TRUST IN YOU!

Show me Your ways, Lord, 
teach me Your paths.

Guide me in Your truth and teach me,
for You are God my Savior,

AND MY HOPE IS IN YOU ALL DAY LONG!

Make this your personal prayer today!

Friday, September 10, 2021

QUOTATION:

ABIDE WITH ME!
Please listen to the hymn, ABIDE WITH ME Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANbOsFqh14g

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REFLECTION:

ABIDE WITH ME

My grandmother’s favorite hymn was “Abide With Me.”  She passed away when I was nine, but the words of this old hymn encourage me in life, and bring my thoughts back  to sweet memories of her!

One thing for sure for me at age nine was that my grandmother loved me!  There were challenges at home, but there was peace for me at grandma’s house.

The word Abide can also mean, to dwell, hang around, remain, or stick around.  

Isn’t that how we want our relationship with God to be?  “Lord, let’s hang out together! Let’s stick together! Just you and me! Let’s go for a walk in the park and enjoy the beauty of Your creation. Let’s just be quiet together so I, can hear Your voice.”

The words from the song, “The More I Seek You” describe what our time with God could look like.

“ I wanna sit at Your feet, drink from the cup in Your hand, lay back against You and breathe, feel Your heartbeat. This love is so deep it’s more than I can stand. I melt in Your peace, It’s overwhelming.”

God is always speaking but are we too busy, too distracted to hear His voice whispering softly, “Come, let’s take a break and find a secluded place where you can rest a while.” Mark 6:31

That sounds like hanging out, like sticking around, like Abiding! “Just you and me Lord!  Let’s do it!  Where should we go?  How about the park?”

In these troubled times that we live in, we need time with God!  We need to find that secluded place away from the busyness where we can rest with God and in God!

In his book, The Rest of God, Mark Buchanan says,

“IF YOU DON’T REST IN GOD—YOU MISS THE REST OF GOD"

Father, Help us to seek You.  Help us to realize that we need to just “Hang Out” together.  We are needy and desperate for secluded and quiet times of rest.  May we hear Your voice calling us, “Come let’s take a break, just you and Me.”  Lord we declare that our Hope is in You, our Strength is in You, and our Life is in You!  Help us to discover that afresh today! Amen!

Tuesday, August 24, 2021

QUOTATION:

REFLECTION:

OUR HOPE IS IN YOU ALONE!


"WE PUT OUR HOPE IN THE LORD. 
HE IS OUR HELP AND OUR SHIELD.
IN HIM OUR HEARTS REJOICE,
FOR WE TRUST IN HIS HOLY NAME.
LET YOUR UNFAILING LOVE SURROUND US LORD,
FOR OUR HOPE IS IN YOU ALONE!"
PSALM33:20-22 NLT

Wednesday, August 18, 2021

QUOTATION:

PLEASE LISTEN TO THE SONG LINKED BELOW WHO YOU SAY I AM Link: https://youtu.be/LSG_O7DQ9Zc

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REFLECTION:

ARE YOU LIVING BELOW YOUR PRIVILEGE?

I remember working (quite a few years ago), as an Operations Manager and I achieved the Pay Grade level of 17! A Pay Grade is a vertical range where each level corresponds to the responsibility of the position. It was a big deal for me to get there and then I needed to strive and work hard to get to the “next level.”


My grandsons who play many different video games are striving to make it to the “next level.” 


As believers we have a privilege, a special right, advantage, an immunity granted and available to each of us. We don’t have to necessarily work harder or serve more or strive to attain this privilege it is just simply available as we learn to understand Who and Whose we are!



I AM A CHILD OF GOD—I NEED TO DECLARE IT!



This truth declared, can disarm and disable the lies of our enemy and the words spoken against us so we can walk in freedom and live in the privilege of our position in Christ!


In the song, “Who You Say I Am”, these words declare who we are. “I Am Chosen, Not Forsaken, I am Who You Say I Am, You Are For Me, Not Against Me, I Am Who You Say I Am.”

The world we live in today hurls words, names and lies at us. These words have power over us which we begin to believe as truth. We then live our life under the influence and power of these lies!

But, the truth of God’s Word says in Isaiah 54:17,
“No Weapon Turned Against You Will Succeed. You Will Silence Every Voice Raised To Accuse You. These Benefits Are Enjoyed By The Servants Of The Lord.”

I AM A CHILD OF GOD!

Declaring Who We Are Disarms, Disables And Silences Every Voice, Every Lie, Raised Up To Accuse Us!

Did you notice the last sentence in the verse? “These benefits are enjoyed by the servants of the Lord.” That’s you and me living in our place of PRIVILEGE, 

NOT BELOW IT!

Father, Thank you, that I Am A Child Of God! Thank you for the privilege of walking in the power of Your Word! Help me to Declare Truth that will disarm all the lies and accusations of the enemy! Thank you, that You are for me not against me! Thank you for Your presence in my life! Amen!

Sunday, December 27, 2020

QUOTATION:

MY HOPE IS IN YOU ALL DAY LONG!

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REFLECTION:

SENDING HOPE YOUR WAY!

These scriptures have been a blessing to me this Christmas Season!

"Show me Your ways Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are my God my Savior, and my Hope is in You all day long! Psalm 25:4-5


"Be joyful in Hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Romans 12:12 NLT


"Let this Hope burst forth within you, releasing continual joy. Don't give up in a time of trouble, but commune with God at all times." TPT

MAY YOU FIND FRESH HOPE IN GOD TODAY!!

Tuesday, November 24, 2020

QUOTATION:

THIS IS MY QUEST!
Please listen to Link: https://youtu.be/SBNwmPiMZbQ

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REFLECTION:

THE IMPOSSIBLE DREAM


TO DREAM THE IMPOSSIBLE DREAM


If there ever was a time to dream and believe God for the impossible it is now!! This is our Quest—That “the World Will Be Better For This!”

In John Eldredge’s book “Waking The Dead”, he shares this truth:

THINGS AREN’T WHAT THEY SEEM—
THERE IS MORE GOING ON THEN MEETS THE EYE!

In 2 Kings chapter 6 there is a story about Elisha that brings us Hope and Encouragement for today.

“Therefore he (the King of Syria) sent horses and chariots and a great army there, and they came by night and surrounded the city. And when the servant of the man of God (Elisha) arose early and went out, there was an army, surrounding the city with horses and chariots. And his servant said to him, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?” So he answered, “DO NOT FEAR, FOR THOSE WHO ARE WITH US ARE MORE THAN THOSE WHO ARE WITH THEM.” And Elisha prayed and said, “ Lord I pray. open his eyes that he may see.” Then the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.” 2 Kings 6:14-17


HERE IS THE GOOD NEWS!—THERE ARE MORE FOR US THAN THOSE THAT ARE AGAINST US!!!—THINGS AREN’T WHAT THEY SEEM!

“IT MAY LOOK LIKE WE ARE SURROUNDED BY TODAY’S PROBLEMS—BUT WE ARE SURROUNDED BY GOD!

SO!! OPEN OUR EYES LORD!!—HELP US TO SEE FROM A GODLY PERSPECTIVE!
IF YOU ARE FOR US WHO CAN BE AGAINST US!

GOD WITH US!

I pray that these words from the song “The Impossible Dream” will fill you with fresh HOPE!

To Dream…The Impossible Dream…
To Run…Where the Brave do not go…
To Love…Pure and chaste from afar…
To Try… When our arms are too weary…
To Reach… The unreachable star…

“AND THE WORLD WILL BE BETTER FOR THIS”!


Father, Open our eyes to see our lives, our problems, our fears from Your Perspective—to realize and believe that there are more for us than against us! Fill us with new Hope! Fill our lives afresh with Your Presence! Your Word says in John 16:33 “For in this unbelieving world you will experience trouble and sorrows, but you must be courageous, for I have conquered the world! Thank you Lord!

In Jesus Name! AMEN!

Monday, March 30, 2020

QUOTATION:

Please listen to the song:God of the Promise Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G26HDdqCyGw

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REFLECTION:

THE PROMISES OF GOD ARE YES AND AMEN

Looking back on my life as a dad with young children, I discovered that my responses to some of their requests were very casual and without much thought. They would make a request such as: “Hey Dad, could we go to the Zoo?” and I would say, “Sure we can do that sometime.” But, too many times life went on and the “sometime” did not happen. I did not keep my promise!

In contrast, we have a heavenly Father that has given us over 3000 promises in the Bible, and He is a very good listener. He never slumbers nor sleeps, and He is always with us!

One of my favorite portions of the Bible is Psalm 46:1-2a
“God, you’re such a safe and powerful place to find refuge! You’re a proven help in time of trouble---- more than enough and always available whenever I need you. So we will never fear even if every structure of support were to crumble away.” TPT

In the midst of our fears and troubles we know that in God we are safe and sheltered from danger. It’s like having 5 Star accommodations that feel safe and secure.

Here is the best part---God’s Word has the power and strength to fulfill all of His promises!! That’s a WOW! When I declare, pray, speak the promises from God’s Word over and into my life situations and circumstances, something happens. His Word is living and active and full of power, making it operative, energizing and effective.

“As the snow and rain that fall from heaven do not return until they have accomplished their purpose, soaking the earth and causing it to sprout with new life, providing seed to sow and bread to eat. So also will be the Word that I speak; it does not return to Me unfulfilled. My Word performs My purpose and fulfills the mission I sent it out to accomplish.” Isaiah 55:10-11 TPT

May you find fresh Hope in the truth as you pray and speak God’s promises over you and your family. “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a HOPE.” Jeremiah 29:11 NLT

Father, Thank you that you are a proven help in times of trouble! May we look to You in these times and be delivered from all our fears! Come Lord Jesus! AMEN

Monday, February 17, 2020

QUOTATION:

PLEASE LISTEN TO THIS SONG --THANKFUL Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_TEqgU4LpnA

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REFLECTION:

"I HAVE LEARNED THE SECRET OF BEING CONTENT"

I was at Costco several weeks ago getting some ink cartridges filled and was surprised about what happened while I was waiting for my order to be completed!

Right next to the photo counter were all these incredible TVs, boasting new color, "QLED" "4K" with 80 inch screens! WOW! I started musing about getting this new TV! Could I figure out a way to pay for this new "toy"?

I was mesmerized, almost hypnotized until finally I came back to my senses. "What is wrong with you," I asked myself, "you have a perfectly great TV already. Why do you think you "need" something bigger and better?"

That's part of the trap! We begin to compare what we have with something better, or what someone else has, and BAM! we get sucked into feeling discontent.

I found this definition of contentment:

"CONTENTMENT MEANS YOU ARE HERE. SATISFIED WITH THE PAST FROM WHICH YOU GREW. SATISFIED WITH THE FUTURE TO WHICH YOU ARE GOING. SITTING AND FULLY BEING IN THE GRACE OF WHAT SURROUNDS YOU AND LIVES INSIDE YOU NOW."

The question that comes to us from this is, are we satisfied? Can we be satisfied? What makes you satisfied?

CONTENTMENT IS___________________?

The apostle Paul shares this wisdom in Philippians 4 verse12.

"I know how to get along and live humbly (in difficult times), and I also know how to enjoy abundance and live in prosperity. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret (of facing life) whether well-fed or going hungry, whether having an abundance or being in need." AMP

We need to ask, what is the secret of being content, able to face life no matter what the circumstances?

I believe that having an "ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE,"regularly expressing our gratefulness and thankfulness is the secret of contentment! These expressions will train us in understanding and experiencing this secret!

Dear Father, Help us to give thanks with a grateful heart! Deliver us from making comparisons that affect our contentment. Help us to look to You for our satisfaction, not to what or how much we have. Thank you for the past from which we grew. Thank you for the future to which we are going. May we learn the secret of being content no matter what the circumstances!
In Jesus Name, AMEN

Thursday, January 16, 2020

QUOTATION:

Please listen to the worship song- "LIVING HOPE" Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9f2FXxDVO6w

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REFLECTION:

"LET'S CELEBRATE THE INFLUENCE OF HOPE."

I Love Parades! Every New Year's Day, we have a tradition of watching the Rose Bowl Parade. This year was no exception but I was blown away by the theme of this year's parade.

"THE POWER OF HOPE, CELEBRATES THE INFLUENCE OF HOPE. WITH HOPE-ANYTHING, IN FACT, EVERYTHING IS POSSIBLE."

Each float beautifully decorated with seeds, grasses and flowers had a specific theme related to Hope. To name a few, "First Responders Bring Hope," and "Light in the Darkness."

The Bible says that Faith- "is the substance of things Hoped for the evidence of things not yet seen."

What are you Hoping for in this New Year? I am hoping for 2020 to be the beginning of a new era in my life as I navigate through some transitions.

Whatever you are Hoping for, there is One who is our Living Hope and with Him all things are possible and He is able to fill you with Hope.

"Now may God, the inspiration and fountain of Hope, fill you to overflowing with uncontainable joy and perfect peace as you trust in Him. And may the Power of the Holy Spirit continually surround your life with His super-abundance until you radiate with Hope!" Romans 15:13 TPT

WOW!! THE POWER OF HOPE!

"And this Hope is not a disappointing fantasy, because we can now experience the endless love of God cascading into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who lives in us!" Romans 5:5 TPT

Let's lean into and walk in the Power of Hope! With Hope everything is possible for you and for me this New Year!

Father, Thank you for surrounding us with Your Super Abundance that will cause us to radiate with Hope! May we overflow with uncontainable joy and perfect Peace as we put our trust in You! May this New Year be one of our best yet!!

In the name of our Living Hope, Jesus. AMEN

Wednesday, December 11, 2019

QUOTATION:

Please listen to " YOU MEET ME HERE" Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rw3Uho4fy3s

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REFLECTION:

"WHERE CAN I GO FROM YOUR SPIRIT?"

One of my current favorite worship songs is "YOU MEET ME HERE" from Vineyard Worship.

In one of the stanzas it says; YOU GO BEFORE ME, YOUR LOVE SURROUNDS ME, CHANGING THE ATMOSPHERE."

When the pressures of life begin to overwhelm me, I can invite the Presence of God into my situation and let His Love surround me and change the atmosphere.

In our church's Freedom Ministry one of the key concepts is to be-

KINGDOM FOCUSED-----NOT PROBLEM FOCUSED!

WHAT WE FOCUS ON GROWS!

If we are worried about our finances, and focus on that, guess what gets magnified in our thought life? That's Right-----Our Finances!

But, WHAT IF we focus on God's Kingdom, and invite His Presence into our financial woes and ask what does His Word say about our problem?

"But seek first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." Matt. 6:33

"And my God shall supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus" Phil. 4:19

Let's pause to let God go before us, and let His Love surround us-

CHANGING THE ATMOSPHERE!

The Spirit of God will meet you in your place of need, pain, sorrow, loneliness and trials!

Invite Him in, Focus on His Word, and be Renewed in your Mind!

Father, Thank you that nothing in the universe can separate us from Your Love. Lord, we are convinced that Your Love will triumph over life's troubles. Continue to go before us. May Your Love completely surround us and change the atmosphere.

SPIRIT OF GOD, MEET ME HERE!
In Jesus' Name, Amen

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

QUOTATION:

Please listen to You"ll Never Walk Alone by Josh Groban Link: https://youtu.be/G1WpGqEOCOg

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REFLECTION:

"You"ll Never Walk Alone"

We have had some very mild weather recently. But I have experienced several "STORMS OF LIFE" that have brought fear and stress causing me to withdraw from the the one I need the most!

This story in Matthew chapter 14 gives us a perspective and understanding that we will "NEVER WALK ALONE."

"...Jesus told His disciples to get into their boat and to go to the other side of the lake while He stayed behind... Jesus went up into the hills to pray. And as night fell He was there praying alone with God. But the disciples who were now in the middle of the lake, ran into trouble, for their boat was tossed about by the high winds and heavy seas. At about four o'clock in the morning, Jesus came to them walking on top of the waves! When the disciples saw Him walking on top of the water, they were terrified and screamed, "a ghost!" then Jesus said, "BE BRAVE AND DON'T BE AFRAID. I AM HERE!" TPT

When Jesus told His disciples to get into the boat, he being all knowing understood that a storm was coming.

Storms could happen in our lives for God to fulfill His promises and demonstrate His power! He said, "I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU NOR FORSAKE YOU."

Jesus intercedes for us, He stands in the gap for us, between the storms of life and the still waters, where He restores our soul and brings peace.

Then in the midst of the storm when the disciples are afraid, Jesus comes to them and says, "BE BRAVE, AND DON'T BE AFRAID, I AM HERE!"

"WHEN YOU WALK THROUGH A STORM, KEEP YOUR HEAD UP HIGH! AND DON'T BE AFRAID OF THE DARK."

Look for Jesus in the middle of your trials and trouble, the "STORMS OF LIFE." He is there saying:

BE BRAVE!-----DON'T BE AFRAID!-----I AM HERE!

Dear Father, Help us to look for You in the middle of our troubles and trials. Help us to WALK ON WITH HOPE IN OUR HEARTS--- REALIZING WE

NEVER WALK ALONE!

In Jesus' Name, Amen

Friday, March 1, 2019

QUOTATION:

Please listen to Here Again EW Link: https://youtu.be/zfLcdBuB7NY

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REFLECTION:

IRRITATIONS ARE INVITATIONS!

DON'T BE ANXIOUS OR WORRIED ABOUT ANYTHING...!

As I get closer to a season that one might call "retirement," I struggled with the big question; will I have enough money to make it?

Have I saved enough in my 401K, can my wife and I live on a fixed income? Worry--Worry---Worry! But I realized that if I invite Jesus into my circumstances, He provides Truth, and Truth sets me free!! "Then you will know the Truth and the Truth will set you free." John 8:32


"WORRY DOES NOT EMPTY TOMORROW OF ITS SORROW. IT EMPTIES TODAY OF ITS STRENGTH." Corrie ten Boom


The irritations of life are invitations to invite Jesus into the equation. If you are worrying about your finances, Invite Him in. If it's your health, Invite Him in. If it's a relationship that is failing, Invite Him in!!

We spend too much time trying to "fix" situations and/or struggle through them! Why not Pray and Trust God? What a novel idea! When we do, God provides His peace in the process!!

Do not be anxious or worried about anything--But, in Everything (every circumstance and situation) by Prayer and Petition with thanksgiving, continue to make your requests to God. And the Peace of God (that Peace which reassures the heart, that Peace) which transcends all understanding, (that Peace which stands guard over your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Is Yours)" Philippians 4:6-7AMP

The story of Mary and Martha provides a life picture that we can relate to, and learn from regarding anxiety and worry.

"And a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. She had a sister named Mary who seated herself at the Lord's feet and was continually listening to His teaching. But Martha was very busy and distracted..." Luke 10:38-40

Later in this chapter Jesus responds to Martha, Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered and anxious about many things; but only one thing is necessary, Mary has chosen the good part, (that which is to her advantage)."

Father, Thank you that you always respond when we call! Help us to give (invite You in) all our worries and cares to You, because You care about us. Fill us afresh with Hope, knowing that you will provide all our needs. May Your Peace put our hearts and minds at rest!

In Jesus' Name, Amen

Friday, February 8, 2019

QUOTATION:

Please enjoy this worship song, Give Me Faith! Link: https://youtu.be/dNwt7LQiYck

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REFLECTION:

WE WALK BY FAITH, NOT BY SIGHT

In January I had Laser Surgery to remove a membrane from my Retina. It has been there for several years, but the swelling had increased and the surgeon said, "It's Time!"

The Good News! My surgery was successful and the clarity of my vision has improved, and will continue to be enhanced incrementally! That's a Praise The Lord!

About two weeks prior to my surgery while having a gourmet lunch at Chick-fil-A, the Holy Spirit whispered, "You need to walk by faith and not by sight." It caused me to tear up, wondering what if the surgery did not go well and my sight would be permanently impaired?

I appreciate the greater understanding given in the Amplified version of 2 Corinthians 5:7, "For we walk by faith, not by sight (living our lives in a manner consistent with our confident belief in God's promises).

We Must Live Our Lives Filled With Hope!!--Believing In God's Promises!---Walking By Faith!

"Faith shows the reality of what we Hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see." Hebrews 11:1 NLT

"So we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are unseen; for the things which are visible are temporal (just brief and fleeting), but the things which are invisible are everlasting and imperishable." 2 Cor. 4:18 AMP

God is always at work! "And we know with great confidence that God who is deeply concerned about us causes all things to work together (as a plan) for good..." Romans 8:28 AMP

We can rest in the power and promise of Job 42:2 AMP, "I know You can do all things, And that no thought or purpose of Yours can be restrained."

THAT'S GOOD NEWS!

FATHER, Help us to walk by faith and not by sight! Set us free from our worry, fear and unbelief! We acknowledge Your faithfulness to us and to all future generations. We declare over ourselves that You cause all things to work together for good and that all Your promises to us will be fulfilled in their time.

In Jesus' Name, Amen

Friday, September 21, 2018

QUOTATION:

Please listen to the song, "Child of God" Link: https://youtu.be/tNmhsJqCW4A

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REFLECTION:

"FOR I THE LORD YOUR GOD KEEP HOLD OF YOUR RIGHT HAND"

Our kids were young when we purchased our first pop-up camper. It was a "new to you" version; the paint was a little faded and the canvas a little worn, but it was more than adequate.

Salt Fork State Park in Ohio has spacious campsites,with scenic and well marked trails, making it one of our favorite "go to" places.

I love the adventure and exercise hiking through the forest provides and wanted both of my children to experience this joy themselves.

My daughter was barely pushing two on one of our first trips, so when we were hiking I was very conscious of her ability to maneuver the trail. When she would begin to stumble I would reach down to help her, but she would push my arms away and say, "Self."

As the hiking progressed, she would tire, reach out her arms to me and say, "Will You Carry Me, Daddy?"

As we hike through the "Trails of Life," might we find ourselves in a similar, and maybe familiar circumstance, much like my daughter?

You might be going through some difficult times, some challenging circumstances and God the Father reaches down to help you and you say, "Self." Can you hear yourself saying, "I don't need any help right now; I can make it ok.

When the trails and trials of life become more difficult and strenuous and God reaches down to help you, don't brush Him away. Rather say, "Will You Carry Me Daddy."

Psalm 31:24 says; "Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the Lord."

"Cast all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

As the song says, Father, You're all I need, my soul's sufficiency, my strength when I am weak, the Love that carries me. Your arms enfold me, till I am only a Child of God.

Help me to reach up and take hold of Your Hand. I put my Hope in You Lord! You are the strength of my life.

In Jesus Name, Amen

Monday, August 20, 2018

QUOTATION:

Please listen to the song: Make Someone Happy Link: https://youtu.be/ejprrYvk3ho

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REFLECTION:

"AND---YOU---WILL---BE---HAPPY---TOO!

We recently attended a concert featuring music from Broadway. The soloist performed the song "Make Someone Happy" from the musical DO RE MI.

She did a wonderful job expressing the heart and soul of this tune, and then shared her desire to live life with a focus to Make Someone Happy!

The emotion in her sharing, caused me to reflect and ask myself, what would it look like to live my life with the intent to Make Someone Happy? How many people could I encourage, with a note, or a song of happiness?

Several days later, I was with some of my grandsons and whispered to them, "Do you know the secret code?" "We don't know the code." they replied. It's "M. S. H." I said with a smile! "What does that mean?" they asked. I whispered with enthusiasm!

"MAKE---SOMEONE---HAPPY!

I then asked them in a challenging way, what could you do to make someone happy? Telling someone you love them? Helping a friend? Giving someone you love a big hug?

How about you? How would you Make Someone Happy? ---Would it be a phone call?--- A text message?--- Send a post card? --- A hug?--- A smile?

Here's the good news about this song, the lyrics say; "MAKE SOMEONE HAPPY!--- MAKE JUST ONE SOMEONE HAPPY!------ "AND YOU WILL BE HAPPY TOO!

What a great way to live our lives! Not focused on ourselves, but on others! Jesus encourages us to "Love Your Neighbor As Yourself." Matthew 22:39

The Apostle Paul challenges us to "Regard others as more important then ourselves." Philippians 2:3


IF YOU NEED HOPE---GIVE SOME HOPE!---- IF YOU NEED SOME HAPPINESS, MAKE SOMEONE HAPPY!

"Give and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure--pressed down, shaken together, and running over{with no space left for more}. For with the standard of measurement you use {when you do good to others}, it will be measured to you in return."
Luke 6:38

Father, help me to give extraordinarily! Help me to love big, care big, and hug big! Help me to live with the focus of Making Someone Happy! Help me to regard others as more important than myself! Help me to live my life with intention to:

"MAKE SOMEONE HAPPY!

IN JESUS NAME, AMEN

"AND--- YOU---WILL--- BE--- HAPPY---TOO!

Wednesday, July 18, 2018

QUOTATION:

Please Listen to "The Lord Bless You and Keep You Link: https://youtu.be/Nxn6tmVSljU

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REFLECTION:

THE POWER OF THE BLESSING

"I MYSELF WILL BLESS THEM."


We love hanging out with friends and family, whether for dinner or just sitting around a campfire. Before we part company, it has become a practice to release, "THE POWER OF THE BLESSING."

We simply but powerfully, pray and declare the verses from Numbers 6:24-26 over them--


"THE LORD BLESS YOU AND KEEP YOU, THE LORD MAKE HIS FACE SHINE UPON YOU, AND BE GRACIOUS UNTO YOU; THE LORD LIFT UP HIS COUNTENANCE (FAVOR) UPON YOU, AND GIVE YOU PEACE."

As we pray and declare God's Word, power is released; God's Word "will not return to Him useless and without result, but will succeed in the matter for which He sent it" Isaiah 55:11

In Numbers 6:23, God instructs Moses to tell Aaron, the High Priest, "This is the way you shall bless the children of Israel, "say to them."

Here is the Kicker, the Icing on the Cake, the Difference Maker. In verse 27 God says, "Whenever Aaron and his sons bless the people... in My Name,

I MYSELF WILL BLESS THEM."

That is a WOW! Whenever you or I pray and declare these verses over friends and family, God Adds the BONUS!

HE BLESSES THEM!

The POWER OF THE BLESSING brings hope and peace, a tranquil heart and life. It surrounds us with God's loving kindness, and lifts us out of self-pity and despair.

Psalm 31:24 says in the Amplified, "Be strong and let your hearts take courage, all you who wait for and confidently expect the Lord."

THIS IS FOR YOU!

RECEIVE THE POWER OF THE BLESSING!

"THE LORD BLESS YOU, AND KEEP YOU (PROTECT YOU, SUSTAIN YOU, AND GUARD YOU). THE LORD MAKE HIS FACE SHINE UPON YOU (WITH FAVOR) AND BE GRACIOUS TO YOU (SURROUNDING YOU WITH LOVINGKINDNESS); THE LORD LIFT UP HIS COUNTENANCE (FACE) UPON YOU (WITH DIVINE APPROVAL), AND GIVE YOU PEACE (A TRANQUIL HEART AND LIFE)." Numbers 6:24-26 AMPLIFIED

AND GOD SAID---I MYSELF WILL BLESS THEM!

BE BLESSED!

Tuesday, June 19, 2018

QUOTATION:

NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST YOU SHALL PROSPER
Please listen to: I Will Call Upon The Lord Link: https://youtu.be/fl1UGN2x_48

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REFLECTION:

"NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST YOU WILL SUCCEED" ISAIAH 54:17

We have had flat tires before, but this one felt like an attack!

We were driving home from vacation on I-77 and just as we passed Charleston, West Virginia we felt a shaking in our steering wheel and heard this loud banging in our front wheel well. Within seconds our tire was punctured and, gratefully, we were able to pull off the road onto the berm.

Shocked and stunned, I jumped out of the car to see the right front tire losing it's pressure and going flat. To my surprise there was this large packing strap wrapped around the tire with a large J type of hook stuck in the middle. The kind of strap a freight truck uses to secure a load.

It looked like a weapon, something you could use as a sling to conquer a giant! It felt like a weapon formed against us, but the good news is, it did not succeed!

Psalm 91 verse 11 says, " For He will command His angels in regard to you, to protect and defend and guard you in All your ways..."

What are you up against today; what is trying to keep you from moving forward? What is trying to puncture and deflate you?

NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST YOU--
WILL SUCCEED!

NO WAY--- NEVER---NADA---AIN'T GONNA HAPPEN!

We have an enemy who is always working against us to bring doubt, discouragement and fear.

BUT--We serve a God that is always with us. He is a very present help in time of trouble! Ps. 46:1 We are secure as we rest in Him!

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High- will remain secure and rest in the shadow of the Almighty- whose power no enemy can withstand." Ps. 91:1

Father, Thank you for the power of Your Word! I declare that as I dwell and rest in Your Shadow-no enemy can withstand Your protection over me. I declare that You give Your angels charge over me, to protect, defend and guard me in all my ways! Thank you that You never leave me or forsake me. I put my HOPE in You and trust You to see me through any attacks of the enemy. Help me to walk by faith and not by sight!
In Jesus Name, Amen

Wednesday, May 2, 2018

QUOTATION:

Please listen to "Jesus Lover of My Soul" Link: https://youtu.be/VzLaNEHj7cY

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REFLECTION:

OVERWHELMED!

Some days life seems so overwhelming! We feel inadequate, unable to cope, insecure, buried under an avalanche of circumstances that seem to be more than we can bear!

Several years ago I was part of a leadership team at a local church. We were doing "our best" to "right the ship." We had multiple needs probably similar to many churches; but this one day we were feeling OVERWHELMED!

BURIED UNDER A MOUNTAIN OF STUFF!

We realized that we needed to pray, cry out to God for wisdom, insight, and discernment. Just prior to praying we played this worship song, "Jesus Lover of My Soul," and a God moment happened!

The words of the song so touched our hearts that we moved from being OVERWHELMED to being OVERCOMERS!

Here are the words that turned the tide, and lifted our eyes above our circumstances.

"IT'S ALL ABOUT YOU, JESUS, AND ALL THIS IS FOR YOU,
FOR YOUR GLORY AND YOUR FAME,
IT'S NOT ABOUT ME, AS IF YOU SHOULD DO THINGS MY WAY,
YOU ALONE ARE GOD, AND I SURRENDER TO YOUR WAY."


Our renewed focus lifted us above our circumstances and we Surrendered to His Way. Freshly filled with Hope, the OPPOSITIONS we were facing became OPPORTUNITIES!

IT'S NOT ABOUT ME!

We are seated with Jesus in "Heavenly Places," and all things are under our feet. (Ephesians 2:6) We are positioned over our circumstances not under!

JESUS IS OUR BURDEN BEARER- OUR HOPE IS IN HIM!

"Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you Rest."
Matthew 11:28 NLT

Romans 12:12 gives us strength to persevere when we feel that the odds are against us: "Rejoice in our Confident Hope, Be Patient in Trouble, and Keep on Praying."

Father, When my heart is overwhelmed, bring me to a place of Surrender. Help me to realize it's not about me, but it's all about You! Thank you that when I come to You in my weariness, You lift my burdens and give me Rest. May I Rejoice in Hope! Be Patient in Times of Trouble, and Keep on Praying! I declare that I am an OVERCOMER, seated with You, in "Heavenly Places," above all my circumstances.

In Jesus' Name, Amen

Tuesday, April 17, 2018

QUOTATION:

Please listen to the song Breathe Link: https://youtu.be/UFq2c7-UFl4

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REFLECTION:

"MARKERS"

"Your own ears will hear Him. Right behind you a voice will say, 'This is the way you should go,' whether to the right or to the left." Isaiah 30:21 NLT

One of our favorite places to get away and have time with God is Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio. The gorge trail from Cedar Falls to Old Man's Cave is both picturesque and strenuous (for us)! We get our heart rate up, but pause along the way to enjoy its beauty! One particular time God was highlighting all the trail markers that kept us on the path.

As we wondered about why God was pointing out the markers, we sensed that He was saying to us, "I am showing you "markers" for your life to keep you on the right path."

SO...WHAT ARE THE MARKERS?

God is always speaking to us through His Word, and He gives us "markers" to direct our steps and show us the path of life.

"Your Word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path." Ps.119:105 NLT "In all your ways acknowledge and recognize Him, and He will make your paths straight and smooth..." Proverbs 3:6 AMP

His Word illuminates our path. When we take time to listen and draw near to Him, He shows us the Path of Peace...HOPE...that leads to life.

Whenever you feel lost, or off the path, or just out of whack! Pause, and look for the "markers", look to His Word for the promises. Your ears will hear His voice, "This is the path I have marked out for you."

Father, Thank you for the "markers" that keep me on the path you have marked out for me! In Your presence is fullness of joy! In Your right hand there are pleasures forever more! What a great place for me to be! Keep my feet on the Path of Peace, that brings me Hope and Leads to Life!
In Jesus Name, Amen

Saturday, March 31, 2018

QUOTATION:

WHO IS MARY DINGER???
Please listen to Hillsong's My Redeemer Lives Link: https://youtu.be/3glYEDzSyok

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REFLECTION:

"For I Know That My Redeemer Lives" Job 19:25

How children hear and interpret things can be incredibly funny and/or scary. I experienced a funny example of that many years ago. It was during a worship time at church when a little boy tugged on his mom's arm and asked this question:

Who Is Mary Dinger???

Mom was bewildered by his question. She knew no one by that name? "Why are you asking about Mary Dinger?" mom asked her son. He responded, "We keep singing her name, Mary Dinger Lives."

Almost laughing out loud mom realizes what her son was hearing. The Worship song had this chorus repeated many times:

"My Redeemer Lives! My Redeemer Lives!"

Sort of Sounds like Mary Dinger Doesn't It?

We Have this Hope--We Know His Name--It's Jesus!

My Redeemer Lives!

"Because He lives I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives all fear is gone,
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living..Just because He lives!


Father, You so loved the world that You gave your only Son, That we might have life and life abundantly. May I embrace the love and hope that your Son, Jesus gives to me! I declare over my life that it is worth the living just because He lives...

His Name Is Jesus! Amen

Thursday, March 15, 2018

QUOTATION:

Please listen to "You'll Never Walk Alone" Link: https://youtu.be/G1WpGqEOCOg

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REFLECTION:

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High, will remain secure and rest in the shadow of the Almighty... whose power no enemy can withstand"

Growing up we lived in a home called a double. My grandparents lived downstairs and my family lived upstairs. Living there was a safe place for me!

There was a great big front porch that had several old chairs and a couch that rocked back and forth. There was something special about that porch that made you feel protected.

When rainstorms would pass through we would all end up on the porch and enjoy watching the storm. ( Even today, I love the peals of thunder from an approaching storm) We were sheltered and hardly ever got wet, even in the worst of storms. When the storm would lessen a little my brothers and I would quickly remove shoes and socks and play in all the puddles. (My favorite)

Life isn't about waiting for the storms to pass. It's learning to Dance in the Rain. It's like playing in the puddles; you get drenched but not depressed.

Sheltered, safe and secure on grandma's front porch, we could enjoy the sounds and awe of the storm. " When the storms of life come, the wicked are whirled away, but the Godly have a lasting foundation."

Father, You are my hiding place; you protect me from trouble. You surround me with songs of victory. Lord help me to look to you when the storms of life attempt to hinder my hope and steal my joy. May I learn to walk through the storm and dance in the rain. May I encounter your rainbows of promise. I speak to the storm encroaching in my life and say, "Peace be still!" In Jesus name. Amen

Wednesday, February 7, 2018

QUOTATION:

HAVE YOU HEARD THE FATHERS VOICE
Please listen to song "Child of God" Link: https://youtu.be/3r3JAV2r208

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REFLECTION:

"And a voice came from heaven, this is My dearly loved son, who brings Me great joy!"

We truly live in a digital age! You can Facebook, text, tweet and email, and within minutes many people know what is happening in your life. They know who you are and they know your name.

Today, if your wife is pregnant, within a few months you can see ultrasound pics of the baby in the womb, find out if you are having a boy or a girl, and see all the details of their tiny little body.

When my wife Jan was pregnant with our first child you could not find out ahead of time what you were having. There were no pics, no determining of gender, there weren't even fax machines yet! You needed to be ready for a boy or a girl.

So, we spent days and weeks sorting through names and selected two boys names and two girls names. We were now ready and expectant for the big day!

Different from today's birthing rooms, only I could be with Jan during the labor and delivery time. My mother and mother-in-law were anxiously waiting downstairs. It was a long hard labor! I believe it was something like 22 hours. OUCH!

I can still remember how exhausted and excited we were when the baby's birth took place! It was a boy! Wow! Jan and I looked at each other and almost in stereo declared what his name would be. Now, it was time to let the grandmas in on the news.

I made my way over to the elevator and hit the down arrow. As the doors opened downstairs I shouted with my best father's voice it's a Todd Andrew!

"After His baptism, as Jesus came out of the water, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and settling on Him. And a voice from heaven (the Fathers voice) said, this is my dearly loved Son, who brings Me great joy!"

God the Father is declaring, His Son is special and dear to Him. He isn't insignificant; He is super significant! His name is Jesus!

Have you ever heard the Father's voice say, "You are my dearly loved son or daughter, who brings me great joy!" Have you ever experienced or realized how much your heavenly Father loves you, and that you are special?

Maybe your earthly father never said, "I love you, you are special to me!"

Be encouraged! Your heavenly Father knows you by name. He has declared who you are and who you are to be. You are not a mistake or an accident. You are dearly loved!

God declared these words over Jeremiah, "I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. Before you were born, I set you apart, and appointed you to be a prophet to the nations."

In the same way God has formed you. He knows you and has set you apart and appointed you with a purpose. Are you listening for His voice? He may just whisper to your heart today, "You are my beloved son/daughter and you bring Me great joy!"

Father, I desire to hear your still small voice speaking to my heart. Lord, freshly declare to me who I am and whose I am. Thank you that I belong to you. Father set me free from the lies I have believed about myself, and forgive me for allowing others to determine who I am. Today, I say in faith, I am Your beloved son/daughter in whom you are well pleased. Make this a reality in my life, not just today but everyday! I am a child of God! In Jesus name! Amen

Matthew 3:17-Jeremiah 1:5

Thursday, February 1, 2018

QUOTATION:

(Please click the link to "All My Hope" by Hillsong) Link: https://youtu.be/kyHZwkd4bys

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REFLECTION:

Pursuing God, Spending Time with God--
Puts everything in Perspective!

We are encouraged to Press On, P.U.S.H.Through the challenges and circumstances of daily life. We need to -- Pray Until Something Happens--- Prayer Changes Things!

But, distractions can keep us from seeking God and spending time in His presence. When you are distracted your attention is diverted. You begin a subtle spiritual drift away from God, then one day wake up to realize how far you have moved and ask, How did I get here?

Last October I had a God encounter that put everything in perspective. A friend sent me a link to a teaching that touched his heart. I kept putting off watching it. But, knowing he would follow up with me I finally sat down to watch it. One hour later, through tears of repentance I experienced a Wow! How did I get so low?

My life was out of alignment because I had allowed the other "stuff" of life to creep in and keep me from being with Jesus.

My life needed a chiropractic adjustment. I was out of alignment until the Word of God broke through my discouragement and set me free! "You will know the truth and the truth will set you free" I experienced the truth, and my mind was renewed.

Freedom is not defined by what is absent (my discouragement) but rather by Who is present. "Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is freedom" When I opened up my heart and drew near to God--He drew near to me and my perspective changed. My Hope was renewed!

Father, May we be like David who declared: "Why are you in despair O my soul? And why have you become restless and disturbed within me? Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him. I shall again praise Him for the Help of His Presence.

Keep us from drifting, keep us on course, may Your plans and purposes for our lives come to pass!
In Jesus Name , Amen

John 8:32- 2 Cor. 3:17- Psalm 42:5