Safe In His Grip

When I was in my 20’s I did some rock climbing. I was by no means an expert, but I do remember well the challenge of climbing up a rock cliff. The hand holds can be really challenging and inconveniently placed! I remember clearly one day when we were climbing, I was stuck halfway up. The climbing coach yelled to me “ there is a foot hold by your left ear”. Now, that sounded impossible! I did make it up to the top, though I do not know how I did it!

As I was praying this morning, I had an image of someone being stuck halfway up a rock cliff. It was a high cliff and how to keep going seemed impossible. The next hand hold was nowhere to be seen. Then I felt led to read Psalm 63. These two verses stuck out to me: 

“Because you are my help, I will sing in the shadow of your wings. I will cling to you; your right hand upholds me.” Psalm 63:7-8

It is one thing to be climbing up alone and another thing to have God Almighty with a firm grip on you. He leads us, encourages us, and He gives us strength we did not have before as it is His strength!  

I love the thought that while we find ourselves in these difficult climbs, we can sing songs of praise and thanksgiving because our Father is with us. He does not get tired. His strength does not diminish. He does not get bored of our struggle. He is with us, inch by inch, hand hold by hand hold. He loves us and is cheering for us. He is not in despair as we climb. He is not afraid of the great height- He knows the way up and we can trust Him.

Some challenges will always be greater than others. We need someone who will hold tight to us as fear can be close by, threatening to stop us or cause us to give up. I am thankful that God gives us wisdom as we climb, and that we are secure, not because of the ropes that we are tied by but, because we are in His firm grip. Rest in His firm grip today. He has You.

Dear Father,

Thank You for the firm grip You have on me. Thank You that I do not need to fear, but that I can look to You for strength and for wisdom. You know what I am facing today. I ask that You give me what is needed today. 

In Jesus Name,

Amen

My Favourite Criminal

One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us! “But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence?  We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong. “Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom. d ”Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:39-43

I have always found great comfort in this story of the criminal on the cross. He knows exactly who he is and how great his sins are. No one needs to spell them out for him. He asks Jesus to remember him when He gets to His kingdom and the Lord Jesus promises him that that very day, he will be with Him in Paradise.

Amazing grace lived out indeed! The criminal is clearly one who has had one messy life, and is yet promised Paradise that same day! He never made it to prayer meeting, church picnic, baptism, or even morning worship service. Yet, eternity is promised.

For those of us who have loved ones who do not walk with Jesus, this story of the criminal on the cross gives us hope. When I think of family members, of whom I have no idea what final prayer they may or may not have uttered before they found themselves out of time and at eternity’s door. This is one of my favorite stories in Scripture.

This beautiful example of the grace of God is seen in full colour here. The other thought I have though is this; if the criminal in this story had turned his heart to Christ sooner, think of the peace and wisdom he could have had throughout his days! That does sadden me.

May God restore hope in each of us where a loved one is concerned. Be encouraged, no ones’ life is so messed up that they are beyond hope or God’s reach. May God help each of us to speak words of hope and truth when we are given opportunity this week!

Dear Father,

Thank You for your tremendous grace and love! Thank You for what You did for this fellow on the cross. I pray for the loved ones in my life; may they turn to You and encounter Your amazing grace in the same way or even sooner so they can live with your peace and guidance all the days or their life.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

The Power of a Gentle Answer

Have you ever made spaghetti sauce and burned it? I sure have. If I stir it too vigorously, it loosens the burned parts from the bottom and that makes it even worse! 

Proverbs 15:1 reminds us: “ A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” 

When we moved to Toronto many years ago, I lost my voice. We had 4 young children, the youngest was 2 and the oldest was 8. I was not a screaming kind of mom, but I had my moments. That summer, maybe it was stress, or maybe God was trying to point out to me that a gentle answer is better than screaming. I had to whisper for about 2 months. The kids all whispered back. It was one of my best parenting summers! 

I also remember one Saturday night when I was helping to serve the homeless and street involved through our Community Night ministry. I was sitting at one of the tables talking with some of our folks who had come up and were waiting for the meal. There was one fellow I will never forget.  He was angry. If you talked to him, he screamed at you. I just visited with the other people. My husband Bill sat down and started to visit, he asked the “yeller” his name (I was giving Bill quiet signals to NOT engage with the fellow, but he failed to notice). The fellow screamed at Bill. If I have ever seen this bible verse in action, it was here. Bill waited a minute and told the fellow; he was glad he was with us for the meal and then got up to say Grace and the meal began. The fellow was not expecting that reply. He ate his meal and then helped me clear the plates. He returned the next many Saturday nights and never screamed again. He ate his meal and was helpful. 

When I have been angry or upset and choose to reply gently, I have been amazed at the difference not only in how others respond, but how I feel. You would think that yelling back would make you feel so much better, when in fact a gentle answer truly does turn the anger button down. 

I have also learned that sometimes it is simply better not to reply in that moment. Sometimes wisdom applied says wait. Let things cool down.   

May God give us wisdom and peace in the moments we face in our everyday lives. 

Dear Father,

Thank You for Your word that instructs me and gives wisdom for every day.  I ask that You help me give gentle answers instead of the angry loud ones. Thank You that when I blow it, You forgive me when I come to You to confess. Thank You for Your patience with me. I ask that You give me the needed patience in my own life.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Two Everyday Things That Are Always a Big Deal to God!

Even as I sit to write this, my neighbors’ chimes, are chiming away. I do not love

chimes. My other neighbor used to have 12 in her back yard and 2 on her front deck.

They drove me crazy! Honestly, it was the chimes that pushed me to get ear buds and

listen to music when I wanted to sit outside!

The sound of these chimes reminds me of 1 Corinthians 13: 1-3,

“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a ringing

gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries

and all knowledge, and if I have absolute faith so as to move mountains, but have not

love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and exult in the surrender of my body,

but have not love, I gain nothing.” A complimentary verse, Galatians 5:6b, states, “The only

thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.”

We know that God Himself is the Author of love and He is the one to whom we look to fill us

daily with His love. Faith also comes from Him, and both must walk together.

I have seen many great things done, lovingly, with an absence of faith. While it is really

nice, it does not have the power to change lives for God – meaning there is no chance

of hope that leads to knowing Christ. Those dear people who were recipients of all that

kindness, go home satisfied for the moment, but they don’t have the hope that knowing

Jesus provides. The One who helps us through the storms of life, the Author of Wisdom,

our Burden Bearer, our Redeemer!

Love and faith walk hand in hand. I think the point that I am trying to make is simply this:

Regardless of messes we must walk through in our lives, don’t allow that season to be

defined by stress and fear. While we may find ourselves overwhelmed by it for a

moment, we don’t stay there. We stand on the Solid Rock and have our faith there. When

we read the news and find it depressing, we remember who holds our lives in the palm

of His hand. As we face difficult people and touchy situations, may love and faith be in

the centre.

We are told in God’s Word that people will know we are Christians by our love- that is

because love with faith, looks different then what is in the world.

Dear Father,

I thank You for the way You help us to live out this love and faith combo. Show me

where I am lacking. I want my life to be marked by faith and love. Thank You Father.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Just Stop!!

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus”

1 Thessalonians 5:18

It has been a challenging last 2 months. One thing after another, and physical pain seems to have been the central theme.

There came a day, where I finally got sick of listening to myself complain about pain. How my husband put up with me, is a wonder. I am sure it was his prayers, very wisely offered silently, that got me to this place. 

Has this ever happened to you? Have you ever just got tired of all the complaining and groaning, no matter how true or seemingly justified it may have been? I finally realized that complaining about the pain was getting me nowhere. I did not feel any better after my whining. 

Last week, as I was working through the list we walked through at church titled, “How to Pray for Yourself”. The second point was: 

Give thanks in all your circumstances. 

• For obvious daily blessings, mercies and answered prayers

• Thank Him even in hardship, for what He is producing through it, in you

When I first read this point, I was tempted to just skip it. Thankfully, God in His kindness reminded me that there is still so much to give thanks for no matter what I was feeling at that moment. When I asked Him what He was doing in me, all I heard was: “I am giving to you what it takes to endure - My strength.” 

How refreshing to choose a different posture. The sun shone a bit brighter and the light at the end of all this, seemed a little less distant. 

I realize that all I have had to endure is temporary. And that alone is worthy of a hearty thanksgiving. I have many dear friends who are passing through long valleys of suffering and struggle. I pray that in that valley, dear friend, the Lord who is with you, will point out little things to give thanks for. 

I think there is a good reason the Lord instructs us to give thanks in all circumstances. It truly helps us along our journey. It is as if the Lord has given us new eyes to see that it begins with thanksgiving and leads to hope!

Dear Father,

Thank you for this precious reminder of the importance of giving thanks in every circumstance. Lord, I pray that you would show me even now what You would like me to say thank you for. 

In Jesus Name 

Amen

How to Pray for Yourself.

When it comes to prayer, my real strength and common practice is to pray for other people. Truly, my great weakness is when I pray for myself. I’ve always been good about asking God for help and strength through storms. I’ve looked to him for healing and for wisdom and all of that, but it’s always been on an as needed basis. The thought of praying for myself every single day has never crossed my mind.

As many of you know, my husband Bill is a pastor. He gave our congregation this list. He adapted it from an organization he does mentoring with called Church Renewal. 

When I was praying about this blog, I wondered if anyone else might benefit from a list like this. Here is Bill’s list for you. It took me 30 minutes to work through. 

How to Pray for Yourself

To love God passionately

• God, help me love You more

• Give me a heart that pants for You- Psalm 42:1-2

• Teach me to love You with all my heart soul, mind and strength -Mark 12:30

To Give Thanks in All Circumstances – 1 Thes.5:18

• For obvious blessings, for daily mercies, answered prayers

• Thank Him even in hardship for what He is producing through it. 

For Understanding Scripture- Psalm 119:18; Luke 24:45

• We do not naturally see what is in scripture, we need God to open our eyes.

Ask for a desire and ability to do God’s will- Phil 2:13

• Give me the will to obey

•  Give me the desire to do what You want and the strength to follow through.

Ask for a word from God. 1 Samuel 3: 9-10

• Speak Lord for your servant is listening. What do You to want to say to me today?

• Give me wisdom, direction, correction, encouragement, strategy.

Prayer to be able to deny yourself and take up your cross- Matt 16:24

• Lord, what are You asking me to lay down? I choose Your will over mine.

• Help me to obey You when it is costly.

Pray for Character- Hebrews 12: 1-3; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

• One character trait that God wants you to focus on; pray for this deliberately.

• Grow this trait in me. Give me endurance to run the race You have set before me.

Confess sin and ask for the filling of the Holy Spirit.  1 John 1:9; Eph 5:18 

• Confess quickly and honestly

• Ask for cleansing and to be filled with the Holy Spirit

Bring your petitions. James 4:2-3; Phil 4:6

• Personal and family needs

• Direction provision, protection and wisdom

• Ministry needs and breakthrough

Dear Father,

Thank You for this reminder and pathway to pray for myself. Father, I confess to you I need to learn to pray better for myself. There’s always room to grow in prayer. Thank you for today and for all the lessons in it.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Don’t Give Up!

I remember sitting in a doctor’s office one day. I watched one person go in to see him after another. After two hours, I finally went and checked what was going on and they had misplaced my file.  I was not being remembered.

There are times in our lives when we have prayed a long time for something and it feels a bit like God has lost our file.  As a result we feel a bit discouraged and that giving up might be something we should consider. According to the Scriptures, that would not be wise.  ”Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.” Luke 18:1

It is challenging, however, when we have prayed about something for a long time, and it seems that God is not listening. As we look from our standpoint, we see no change.

In the story of Luke 18, we meet a widow, in need of some serious justice in her life. Unfortunately, for her, she’s gone to a very indifferent, uncaring judge. She will not give up. The good news about this dear widow, is she does not give up. She is the picture of tenacity and she wears the judge down.   He finally gives in.

I am very thankful that the God that you and I go to for the things that weigh on our hearts, is nothing like the unjust judge. God is not indifferent to the things that could keep us awake at night or cause anxiety in the day. God loves and cares for us and invites us every day to pray and not give up!

A question that is on many of our minds however, after we have prayed so long, is why the delay? Here are eight reasons God may delay.

1.    God is doing something in us, changing us, even as we pray, and He is not yet finished.

2.    God needs more time to get things in order. God never does only one thing at a time. He is the ultimate multi-tasker.

3.    Perhaps it is an issue of timing, and this is not the right time.

4.    There are times that God is actually answering our prayer, but we do not see it. We do not know or see everything.

5.    Always remember, God does not delay one moment longer than he must. He is not like the unjust, un-caring judge.

6.    In persistence before the throne of God, as we travail in prayer, God teaches us about being faithful and believing Him and His Word.

7.    There is a beautiful story that God is weaving together, and it will be a story you will tell over and over again. But it will come after a season of prayer.

8.    As in all of life, there are seasons. One of them is travailing in prayer and it is very important that we continue in it and don’t give up.

Dear Father,

Thank you for hearing me when I pray. Thank you for the reminder that I should never give up praying for different things in my life and the lives of those you’ve called me to pray for. Thank you that nothing is too difficult for you, and you are faithful. Where faith is waning in my life, would you build it up! Thank you.

In Jesus’ name

Amen

God’s Unlikely Choices

I'm very thankful that God chooses very differently than the way people choose. When I think of my own life: if I was God I would never have chosen me to be a pastor's wife. I do not sing well and I don't play piano. When I got married, I could only make spaghetti and peanut butter cookies. My dad was an alcoholic, and my parents split when I was 10. My husband’s mother had picked out a very nice young Mennonite girl for him. I was not what she had in mind. Why would God choose me to be anything? In Bible school I got like the worst marks. People were all worried about me because I got 55% on assignments and exams, I was just thrilled to have anything over 50%.

When I sat in church last Sunday, I was overwhelmed by the incredible kindness of God. All his blessings I have had the privilege of enjoying for so many years.

 But God choosing me is not unlike this story in 1 Kings 17 when God told Elijah that He had directed a widow, of all people, to care for his needs during a horrific drought. And she was not even a Jew!

“So, Elijah got up and went to Zarephath. When he arrived at the city gate, there was a widow gathering sticks. Elijah called to her and said, ‘Please bring me a little water in a cup, so that I may drink.’  And as she was going to get it, he called to her and said, ‘Please bring me a piece of bread.’”  1 Kings 17: 10-11

If you read the passage in its entirety, you will find Elijah desperately needs someone to feed and care for him during this time. It is not a rich widow full of resources that God chooses. No, he chooses a woman who is very familiar with loss and poverty. This is the woman that God chooses to provide for his servant through.

When Elijah enters this woman's hometown, he finds her gathering sticks so she can make a fire and cook bread for the last meal for her and her boy. That is when Elijah finds her and he asks her for a glass of water which the lady has no problem with, she goes willingly to get it.  But you can almost see her stop in her tracks as he said: “bring me a little bit of bread.”

This widow turns and she tells Elijah very plainly that she has only enough for one small loaf and that's it. This lady had baked plenty of bread in her day and she knows how much flour she has and what can be made from it. She knows that there is not enough to make 2 loaves. But Elijah tells her what God has promised if she would just give what is being asked. He wants the first loaf, and she can have the second loaf and she will not run out. Part of the beauty of this story is that this woman believed him.

We have the privilege of the whole story in first kings 17. This woman will have a lifetime of testimony of all the great things that God would do in her life if she would believe God for the impossible. Can you imagine sitting in this woman's kitchen and having a cup of tea with her, hearing her stories of the great things she has seen God do!

I feel very much like this woman, and perhaps you do as well.I have seen God do tremendous things over my lifetime. I stand in awe of all that God has done.

Today I just celebrate all of God’s unlikely choices!

Dear father,

Thank you that you're a God of unlikely choices. You choose in ways that are so different to all the rules of humanity. I thank you for your mercy and your kindness. Encourage our hearts. You know exactly what I need, Father.

 In Jesus’ name,

Amen

Dealing Honestly with Distractions!

As I write this blog, it is the first day of lent in the Christian calendar. I have been wondering if I should give something up for Lent this year and someone asked the perfect question: What is something that is getting in the way of your time you spend with God?

Sadly, it is called Instagram and Facebook. I find the reels very diverting. The other thing I knew I had to get rid of is the news. It has been making me anxious and even a bit depressed at times. So, last night I deleted all this off my phone.

 Perhaps you understand. I am not ridiculous, but clearly, I could be doing better things, like praying for all the people in my life in difficult situations in a more focused way.

 A few years ago, a dear friend of mine told me about Wendy Speake’s book “Social Media Fast”. It is a 40-day devotional about putting God first. As I am halfway through day one, she mentioned this verse that jumped out at me.

“I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but not everything is constructive. No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.1 Corinthians 10:23

There is nothing wrong with what I was doing, however if I ask myself

1.    Is it beneficial?

2.    Is it constructive?

3.    Is it helpful to those around me?

If we apply these 3 simple questions to our lives, it could truly help us rethink how we are spending our time and what we can do better? It is helpful to take time to talk this over with God as you simply consider what is taking your time these days? There is one thing in life we will never get back, that is time!

May God give us each wisdom as we think about what is absorbing our time. There does come a time where something good becomes not so good. May God give us wisdom and courage to see what is true in our own lives.

Dear Father,

I thank You for Your Word and for Your Spirit that leads and guides me. Thank You for this beautiful verse today. Give me wisdom and courage to know what is true in my life. What needs to change Lord?

In Jesus Name

Amen

Loving the Lost and the Wandering

I have distinct memories of occasions when my kids wandered off. I think each of my four kids took their turns. I remember neighbours running around the neighbourhood to help locate our wandering child (most were fellow parents who understood the indescribable anxiety of a lost child). Everyone pitches in. 

I know many people that have young adult children who are wandering from their faith. Some of them stopped believing in Jesus entirely, others have just stopped allowing Him to be Lord of their life because other things have been given control in their lives, and the parents are heartbroken. We all know someone like this. What can we do? What should we do? 

James 5: 19-20 “My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins.”

According to this passage, none of us are powerless where the wanderer is concerned. We are clearly given encouragement to help these dear ones find their way back to God. 

What does this look like? I doubt it comes in the form of a good lecture, but rather in love lived out. We take that pocket full of pearls wherever we go, ready to take one out and share it, as God gives opportunity. 

I think of the years one of our loved ones was off wandering, and those who loved them spoke kindly and tenderly to them and prayed for them. These are kindnesses my husband and I will never forget. 

To love patiently, to love kindly, never giving up, not holding their failures against them, these are the ingredients of steering these beloved sheep back to their Shepherd, who sees and loves them always. 

I love how God says, “is my arm too short that I cannot save?” (Isa 59:1 a). God asks each one of us to keep our eyes open for opportunities to love and care for those who are off wandering. Speak the truth in His tender love as you have opportunity, for our silence changes nothing! These dear ones are so precious to God. 

May God lead you and I to love and gently restore a wandering soul when the opportunity arises. Love well my friends!

Dear Father, 

You are the Good Shepherd, and I thank You for the invitation to help restore wandering sheep. I ask that You give me wisdom and insight, the right words to say at the right time. Lead me Father, I am Your servant. 

In Jesus Name,

Amen. 

The High Price of Forgetfulness

I have lost count of how many times I have gone downstairs and then when I get there I forget what I was supposed to do! The other thing that comes racing to my mind when thinking of forgetfulness, is remembering people’s names. I do well sometimes, and really bad on others. The worst is when someone tells me we have met before and I have no memory of that. As a Pastor’s wife, it can be plain embarrassing. 

I know I am not the only one with a faulty memory. I am reading through the book of Exodus now, and in Chapter 14 the Israelites had just had the Pillar of Fire and the pillar of cloud surrounding them, and they had just walked through the Red Sea on dry land! They literally saw God fight for them! You would think this experience would stay in their memory for a while. Exodus 14:31 says “And when the Israelites saw the mighty hand of the LORD displayed against the Egyptians, the people feared the LORD and put their trust in him and in Moses his servant.” 

Here we see how grateful and full of praise they are toward God Almighty (as they should be). However, it does not take long for them to forget. We read in chapter 16 and by verse 24 they are grumbling because there is no water to drink. The one possible source was no good. “so they grumbled against Moses”. They were tired and thirsty, and it was easier to complain than call out to God. 

You do not have to take a course on how to be a grumbler or a complainer. I know I am pretty good at it, especially when I am tired or there have just been too many disappointments. I am sure the people of Israel thought they had suffered enough at this point. They had a very tough year trying to make bricks with no straw and they had miserable cruel bosses. If they knew the word “triggering” I can imagine them using it often! 

When we go through tough times, we need to remember what God has done for us in previous days. In my dining room, we have a bunch of not great photographs (not quality pictures that is), but each one is a reminder of either God’s provision or a time He intervened. Each one could be titled “He Is Faithful”. We have stood with friends, our grandkids and even our adult children, reminding them, telling the stories of cool things God has done in our life and that He is still faithful. 

Today, I simply want to remind us that God is still faithful. He fights for us, He cares for us, He is not always as quick as we think He should be, but He will not forget you. 

Dear Father, 

Thank You for your faithfulness to me; today, I rest in this. Season after season, You do not change and I praise You. Thank You Father that You hold all the loose ends of my life in the palm of Your hand. 

In Jesus Name,

Amen

The Power of Patience before God!

Most of us know what it is to send a text or an email and wait for a reply. That patient waiting is easy when the answer you seek is not a big deal. However, when you are suffering and in hardship, waiting can be painful.  In that case, we cannot say ‘forget the waiting’ because we have no choice but to wait.  It is somewhat of a place of confinement but it is not hopeless.

“I waited patiently for the Lord and He turned to me and heard my cry” Psalm 40:1

It is not that we are waiting for people or for our circumstances to change.  We wait for God.  That’s where hope lies.  Circumstances and people can often disappoint.  Neither can we change them; that kind of waiting is pointless.  To wait for God though is to have our eyes fixed on One who is full of mercy and has all power to lift us from our sorrows. 

Patience is critical to all of life.  It reminds us that we are not in control and are truly dependent on God.  We must put it on daily. It is a choice. It is a quality that the Holy Spirit produces in us.

Failing to wait patiently only increases our anxiety and stress.  It seldom yields a good outcome.  In retrospect, we often come to the conclusion that waiting patiently would have produced a much better result. 

In this case, in the waiting we gain an awareness or consciousness of God.  The sense of His presence does not necessarily come automatically.  It comes to the one who has taken the time to intentionally wait for God.  That means that we begin to wait on God even when we don’t feel Him in the slightest.  As we wait, there are some insights that come slowly to us; they distil down and settle firmly upon our soul.

The first is that God Himself turns toward us.  He notices us.  He looks at us.  His eyes become fixed on us.  The psalmist says that.  There’s nothing aloof on the part of God toward the one who waits for Him.  He actually bends over us and fixes His gaze upon us. 

The second is that He listens to us.  He hears our cry.  He takes it all in; the words, the pain, all the emotion.  He is suddenly attentive to it all – for the one who waits for Him. 

I find that giving thanks to God helps me to wait patiently for Him. Thanksgiving builds faith and it eases the waiting.  Maybe thanksgiving is a bit like an appetizer before a great meal.

What are you patiently waiting for today? Shift your focus to wait on God and present yourself before Him; before the One who sees all, knows all, and loves you perfectly.

Dear Father,

I pray that You would soothe the soul of all who are waiting patiently for You. Help us take our eyes off of people and circumstances and simply wait for you.  Turn to us Lord and hear our cry.  We are waiting for You!

In Jesus Name,

Amen

When Intimidation Crowds In

Years ago, I had to speak at a large event. I was the new person in the ministry and was asked to talk about what the year would hold. The woman who introduced me however, spent a full 10 minutes going on and on about how extraordinary my predecessor was. It was intimidating to say the least. After all that, she said, “here is Donna Dyck who has taken her place”... and that was it. I prayed a simple prayer: “Father, unless You go with me, I do not want to continue”. Somehow a small vestige of peace crept into my heart. The Lord met me on stage and things went really well and I was deeply thankful. 

I think of Joshua as he stood on the cusp of entering into the promised land. He followed in the footsteps of Moses; I wonder if he was feeling at all the way I felt. How often do we struggle with confidence to do exactly what Jesus is asking us to do? Sometimes He does ask us to do some brave things! Sometimes it is something no one has done before. We struggle with feeling intimidated! Yet we take the risk. 

When we were thinking and praying over saying yes 30-some-odd years ago to come and pastor in downtown Toronto, it felt very risky, if not downright crazy. The pay was extremely low, we had 4 kids, the church was not well established. We couldn’t afford to live in downtown Toronto, yet we were confident God was calling us and would somehow make a way, and He did. He went before us and that made all the difference! 

I love Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will go with you wherever you go.” 

As you consider the year ahead of you, perhaps there are some mountains you will need to climb or new pathways that must be taken. Know that The Lord your God is with you! He says to you and I the same thing He said to Joshua: “Be strong and courageous”. Our confidence is not in ourselves, rather it is in the One who goes before us and will meet us, but it requires some steps of faith on our part. I wish that in this journey we find ourselves, there were more snap your fingers together and voila.... everything’s perfect now. Life is seldom like that unfortunately. The great news is that we are not alone and God promises to meet us as we look to Him. He makes the way! He teaches us many important lessons on the way! 

Dear Father, 

Thank You for being with me as I think of the year ahead and the known and unknown challenges that are ahead of me. I do ask for strength and courage as I think of what is coming my way. I know You will meet me there! 

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen

A Warm Sweater for the Soul

I love wearing a warm sweater on a cold winter day.  As the wind and snow are whistling outside, I am warm and protected from all that cold.

I woke up this morning after a tough night of sleep troubled in my heart over things that are out of my control. I read Psalm 23 and was deeply comforted. It is like a warm sweater for the soul.  

Psalm 23 :1-4

“The LORD is my shepherd,

I shall not want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures.

He leads me beside quiet waters.

He restores my soul.

He guides me in the paths of righteousness

for the sake of His name.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil,

for You are with me.

Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me”

There are all kinds of shepherds in this world, and not all of them are great at what they do. Yet, to have a Shepherd who is all-wise, all-powerful, who sees up the hill and around the corner, a Shepherd who has only my best interest at heart, that is something. The Lord, who is our Shepherd, is fully trustworthy and faithful.

When I think of having to travel down a road I don’t want to go on and yet must, as I read this Psalm, it brings peace because of the One who walks with me. There are many things to fear or be deeply frustrated over, but to know the One who is with us -  if we could hear Him say anything today, it would be this.

“Do not fear my child, I am with you.”

I think of the courage that comes to a fearful child’s heart when they walk holding the hand of their dad. Courage is renewed in that child because of the one who is with them.  Hope is too.  That is just how God strengthens us. He calms our fears such that peace can finally seep into the soul. We are refreshed, renewed and ready for whatever is ahead.

Dear Father,

Thank for You for being my Shepherd. You lead me through the storms. You do not back down or give up because it is too hard. Thank You for the strength You give. You are my faithful comforter and I rest in You.

In Jesus Name,

Amen.

Wholehearted Seeking

I remember countless times over the years, asking one of my kids to find something in the fridge. It was hard to believe how often they would yell to me, “Mom, I can’t find it.” Honestly, it was right in front of them! I asked them if they were looking with their eyes closed! 

I was thinking about this verse today, “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” Jer. 29:13. I wonder how often I seek God like my kids would look for ketchup in the fridge?  

At this point in the book of Jeremiah, God’s people had been in captivity for 70 years. They were discouraged and bankrupt of hope, yet the call to wholehearted seeking of God remained. We have all found ourselves in that dark space, yet if we seek God, He promises we will find Him and that makes all the difference!

It is easy to be very distracted or in a big rush as we come seeking His presence. Sometimes we give up too quickly.  I remember that if the kids expected the needed item to be in a certain place in the fridge and it wasn’t there, they would give up. 

How often do we do these very things while seeking God? If He doesn’t speak quickly, or in the way that we thought He would or should, do we give up too? I know that has often been my story. I also have allowed anxiety to overtake me as I repeat my request over and over and fail to truly leave it with Him. My anxious ears were so overcome with the bigness or seriousness of the problem that I would lose sight of how Big and Mighty God is.  

Then there is the “to do list” that is waiting. Seeking the Lord with all of our heart takes time and the truth is, there are many things on our lists that are far easier to do than seeking the Lord. 

Wholehearted seeking takes place when we come to the end of our solutions and our preconceived ideas of what God needs to speak to us about. We put aside everything and seek Him only. For me, I know when I have found Him, as the peace that surpasses understanding comes and rests on me.  And with that peace, I find my soul is at rest. 

The good news is that God wants to be found by each of us. He asks that we seek Him wholeheartedly. I pray that we would each find Him as we seek Him this next year! We need His resting peace, that is for certain! 

Dear Father,

As I look to the year ahead, I pray that You would find me seeking You wholeheartedly. Please, teach me daily how to do this! I have so much I would like to get done in a day, but Father, in the middle of all of this, I want to be found seeking You and finding You, not just in the morning, but all through my day! Lead me Father and teach me. 

In Jesus Name,              

Amen

One Bright Light that Never Stops Shining in Dark Places!

Isaiah 9:2 “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in deep darkness a light has dawned.”

 I love stories about people who have lived their lives in darkness and despair and met the light of Christ and their lives were changed. On Sunday my husband told a story just like this.

There is a retired missionary who has come and served with us on a Saturday night for years. My husband asked him, “Why do you and your wife keep coming downtown to serve the streets with us?”. The answer the gentlemen gave Bill, shocked him. He said “my grandfather was a homeless alcoholic who lived on these very streets. He came to know Jesus in a place, just like this. “The light of Jesus shines brightly in dark places.

My own father and my brother both struggled terribly with addictions. My dad lived in a rooming house for a while. When I serve the dear people from the streets, I often think of them. It warms my heart to do so. While I don’t have that remarkable story to tell of my dad or my brother, they did have opportunity to meet Jesus through different avenues. I am thankful for each one of those times. How the light of my Savior shone into their lives.

The Light of Christ which shines in the darkness is a precious light indeed. The power of that light- Jesus the light of the world, who brings with Him not only hope but life and light. As we celebrate the birth of the Light of the world this Christmas season, let us remember those who do not know Jesus and His redeeming love.

There is no shortage of people who live in all kinds of darkness. May the light of Christ shine on them. No one is beyond His reach His help. As long as God is on the throne, there are NO hopeless cases!

Dear Father,

You are the Good Shepherd and the Light of the World. I praise You for the light that shines year after year, generation after generation. You are always All Powerful and More than able Your arm is NOT too short that it cannot save. Today I lay _____ before your throne. Shine Your beautiful light into the darkness that surrounds them and call them Father. Call them in such a way that they can hear! Thank You Father for your mercy!!

In Jesus Name

Amen

Responding to Button Pressing Moments.

 Our piano has gotten lots of use over the years. One of our boys used one key in particular and would hit it repeatedly to be annoying. He was usually quite successful. That very key on the piano has had to be repaired as it is the one that has been pressed so many times!

In life we all have buttons that no one can see but can be pressed often, and can become more sensitive over time.

As we prepare for the season ahead, for gatherings with family and friends, we can have  great times but there can also be opportunities for all kinds of buttons to be pressed, some more aggressively than others. The one truth that never changes is this: we get to choose how we will respond.

I was thinking about the emotions or reactions that seem to arise so easily during all this button pressing drama, and i thought of:

1. Fear and worry

2. Despair

3. Anger

4. Frustration

5. Denial/defensiveness

6. Jumping to conclusions

7. Feelings of rejection or hurt

8. Hardened hearts, or maybe the addition of  another brick to the wall you’ve been building for years

I was reading today in Isaiah 41. In verse 10 it says this: “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”

When a button gets pressed yet again, I think it is good to acknowledge what you are feeling and then quietly take a moment to put your eyes on God who you know loves you and has you firmly in His great big hand. We do not need to fear. We can put our trust in Him. We are not going to change people as much as we would like to. What we can do is choose how we respond. Be quick to acknowledge what you feel, and then leave the remark or action with God and forgive them. I would certainly ask for wisdom to know what the next step is. Sometimes we get to speak up and respond, but to do so before thinking it through (at least in my experience) seldom ends well.

It takes so much grace and wisdom to navigate the relationships we have in life, especially those most dear to us. May God give to us exactly what we need!

Dear Father,

I thank You for every opportunity I have to be with people this season. I pray that I would be quick to hear and slow to speak and slow to become angry, just as Your word teaches me. May I be a blessing to everyone. Guard my heart and my mind.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Hospitality Is Still Worth All That Time and Effort!

 It seems to me that Covid did change some things. Perhaps some things for the better but certainly not all things.

Before Covid, I think we were often better at opening our homes up and having people over for a meal or dessert. Now, where are we? My husband and I do have people over but not like we used to. I think we got out of practice.

 Hospitality can be intimidating - that is for sure. I remember many years ago, my husband’s whole family came to our house for a meal. I was so scared I would wreck the food. I was very new to this whole cooking thing, and I had burnt plenty of casseroles and cookies. I discovered, however, you can grate a burnt cookie and give it a gentle shake, and it will take care of 90% of that burnt flavour! I also learned the hard way that if you serve garden grown broccoli without first soaking it in a special water, you may be serving your guests tiny little worms in your salad. 

I remember when we moved into our home many years ago, there was a knock at our door. We knew nobody! Bill had not even started at the church yet! There stood this woman who was lost. She told us that someone gave her our address and said we would help her. She was hungry so we made her some toast and tea as it was the best we could do in that moment. We visited with her and then did our best to help her find her way.

I was reminded of that verse from Hebrews13:2 “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”

This season, as we think about Christ who came to open the way so we can know God, consider who you could invite over. It doesn’t have to be fancy to bless someone and let them know that they matter to you. Keep it simple and be brave!

People just love to come to your home. Many are lonely and what a great opportunity this season offers to love and care for them.

Dear Father,

Thank You for the people You have put in my path this past year. Who could I invite over and what could I do for them? How can I express Your love for them? Lead me Father.

In Jesus Name

Amen

The Kryptonite of Relationships

A few days ago as I was leaving my house to walk Penny (my dog), I heard loud voices down the street. As I came closer, I could see a young couple, my guess... grade 12. They were having quite the spat. It was hard to not hear it. They were both accusing the other of saying insulting words. My guess is that if these two were dating, it was likely the last date! I so much wanted to give them advice, but it just seemed too weird to interrupt the yelling! But if it had been appropriate, this is what I would love to have told them:

When we find ourselves in a disagreement, there are some statements which, when spoken, can become stumbling blocks in a relationship.  There are more than I have listed here, but these are some that came to mind:

1. “You never…”

2. “You always…”

3. Yeah, but you...”

4. “Oh, but I remember...”

When accusing, interrupting, ignoring, yelling, harsh words, or the silent treatment is used, you know you are in trouble. If you stay on this path, you won’t end up in a good place!

I love what the book of Proverbs says about the tongue. Here are a few words of wisdom that often stand out to me.

Proverbs 10:19 “Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongue.”

We are wise to recognize when our words are going nowhere, and that more words will not solve the problem.  At least not right now.

Proverbs 12:18 “The words of the reckless pierce like a sword, the tongue of the wise brings healing.“

Our words have the power to bring pain or healing; we need to be wise in what we say.

Proverbs 13:3 “Those who guard their lips preserve their lives, but those who speak rashly come to ruin.“

Every conversation goes better when we choose our words wisely–which words and how many are important!

Proverbs 15:1 “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

A gentle word is more effective than a harsh word, every time!

Proverbs 13:10 “Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.”

Humility in our relationships makes way for healing, understanding, and eventually peace, as forgiveness is made possible. When our hearts are brimming with pride, it is difficult to ask or offer forgiveness.

May God give us wisdom as we navigate relationships with the people He has put in our lives!

Dear Father,

Thank You for the wisdom found in Your Word. I pray that You would give me wisdom in my relationships today. May I love and listen to those around me, as I ought. May I be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to become angry, as Your word instructs.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

The One Kind of Kindness that is Above All

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; For His Loving kindness is everlasting”.

Psalm 118:1

Kindness comes in different forms; some are better than others. I remember one Christmas, years ago, my husband and I were invited to a Christmas Party; the reason I remember it is because, while tremendous kindness was extended to us in the invitation, it was painfully clear the lady of the house did not want to have any of us in her home. We had a few or her snacks, expressed our thanks for the invitation, and left within 30 minutes of arriving.

The kindness of God isn’t limited like that, it is perfect kindness, filled with His love which is rich with grace, forgiveness and mercy. I read somewhere that the loving kindness of God is the cream of kindness.

I was thinking about that this morning while I was pouring 18% cream into my coffee. I bought it for a recipe I was trying. I thought today instead of my 5% cream, why not be exotic. Wow, what a difference! The words smooth and rich come to mind!  The loving kindness is like that. It soothes our troubled hearts and calms our fears.

He extends His loving-kindness to each of us, even with our shortcomings and list of ways we keep failing. He loves us still.

If today, you find yourself struggling to find something to be thankful for, the loving kindness of God would be perfect!

Dear Father,

Thank You for your loving Kindness that You show me every day. I ask that on those days that I cannot see it, give me eyes to see. Thank You for never holding back on Your loving kindness, even when I mess things up. You are right there ready to forgive and extend Your loving kindness.

In Jesus Name,

Amen.