Hope Against All Odds!

“Be strong and courageous! Don’t be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria or his mighty army, for there is a power far greater on our side. He may have a great army, but they are merely men. We have the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles for us! “ 2 Chronicles 32: 7,8

 Who among us has not stood facing an obstacle, a situation or a person that frankly had the upper hand? From where we stood it looked impossible. Victory or a positive outcome was nothing short of delusional.

 To be afraid when standing before what seems impossible is a pretty natural emotion. I was thinking these last few days about how many times through the entire Bible, the words “ do not be afraid “ are mentioned. I looked it up and according to several sources they repeatedly say 365 times.

 In this passage in 2 Chronicles 32:7-8, we see the people in Jerusalem very fearful. As they stood on the wall of the city looking out, they could see the vast army of the Assyrians who were known for their cruelty and skill as an army. They had a reputation that was renowned in that part of the world.

 When you are looking up a very steep and rock-strewn path that goes straight up a mountain and you have no energy to walk that path, what will you do?  Walking it is not an option. It is made even more difficult if the last time you faced this same circumstance, it was a nightmare. Fear seizes your heart, as it does mine. The same old buttons are pressed. The tender ones, that have been pressed to many times.

 Yet, we are reminded tenderly in this passage, regardless of the past or what is before us, we have “a far greater power on our side”. God will not stand idly by watching you struggle. Psalm 26 reminds us He is a very present help in times of trouble.

 As you call out to Him today with whatever you are facing, do not be afraid, God is with you and He will help you. He will give you strength for this next step - whatever is needed. He will make a way. And that, my friend, is indeed good news. We can all use some of that!

 Dear Father,

 You see what I am facing today and know well the panic that has me in its grip.  I ask that you would bring me peace and whatever else I need to make it through. I ask for wisdom and for victory. Thank you, Father.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen.

5 Things I do when my world falls apart.

You don’t learn how to respond to difficult days or events sitting on a beach enjoying the sunshine. We learn the hard stuff as we live through it.

 When I have found myself in the middle of a forest with little light getting through - here is what I do.

 1.     I run to God. Psalm 46:1 “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.” As I sit with God on these days, He is not only my hiding place but my source of strength as well. He gives me what I need, even if it’s on a moment-by-moment basis. Sometimes, when what we face is really tough, we have to go back to God often for the strength to keep pressing forward.

 2.     I remember that He sees me. He has not lost sight of me. Proverbs 5:21 “ For your ways are in full view of the Lord, and He examines all of your paths”. God is not surprised by whatever I am facing. He is not overwhelmed or worried. My struggles may be heartbreaking, but I know that God sees me and knows very well what exactly is happening in my world.

 3.     I remember that God is with me. Deuteronomy 31:8; “ Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; He will neither fail nor abandon you”. It is one thing to be stuck with an incompetent helper and another with God who is all-powerful and wise and loves me! This makes a big difference.

 4.     I remember that Nothing is impossible with God. Jesus said in Luke 18:27 “ What is impossible with man is possible with God.” I have walked through many deep valleys and have seen God repeatedly do what seemed impossible. It was not always quick, but He has always been faithful.

 5.     God answers prayers. Any time I spend with God in prayer over whatever it is that is troubling me, I know that He hears me.  I am not wasting my time! James 5:16b “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful”

 Perhaps your list is different. Whatever it is, please know that these truths stand. They have been proven and practiced by many people. God knows and sees, and He loves you.  Your trouble does not worry Him. He is big enough and does not wring His hands in despair. Trust Him today with whatever is troubling you. He will hear you as pray and carry for you this very heavy burden if you are willing to leave it with Him.

 Dear Father,

I give you this boatload of trouble. today. I don’t know what to do or even if there is something I ought to do. Give me your peace and assurance that You have this in hand. Thank you that I am seen by you; I am not hidden!

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Not Every Day is the “Same old, same old”!

“ And we won’t know how to worship until we get there”  Exodus 10:26b

 I forget sometimes that God is not a creature of habit like I am, like most of us are. This verse jumped off the page as I was reading my Bible this morning.

 I have met the Lord in worship in church but also while walking, driving, or sitting in nature. God is not limited in the ways He wants us to worship Him. He is creative - we all know that.

 In Exodus, as Moses is negotiating with Pharoah concerning the freedom of God’s people, he tells Pharoah that they won’t know exactly how God wants them to worship Him until they get there! I have honestly never thought of that. I tend to be pretty standard as to when and how I worship God.

 However, when we read Romans 12:1, we are reminded that as we give all we are to God, this too is a sacrifice of praise - “ a living and holy sacrifice - the kind that he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship Him.”

 As we give ourselves to God daily, we are worshipping Him! As you and I obediently live out whatever He asks of us, from baking cookies for a neighbor to singing for Him in the choir. We need to listen and see how He is leading us. Our service for Him today is our act of worship and that can change from day to day.

 God loves you and draws you into worship, and it is not just singing out songs of praise on a Sunday morning - which is great, but there is more!

 I read a book several years ago though I sadly forgot the title! This man would ask God every day, “Where do you want me to sit with you today that I might worship and listen for Your voice?” It is easy to get stuck in a rut in many areas of our lives, including worship. And sometimes we won’t know what He has in mind until we get to that very place.  What He has in mind for you that day may not be your favorite chair!

 Dear Father,

I worship You today because You are worthy, and I love to worship You! Lead me today as I sit with You. I give myself entirely to You as an act of worship. Show me what You have in mind for me today. How can I demonstrate your love today?

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen

What to do when a relationship with a loved one hangs by a thread.

 In our work with the streets of downtown Toronto, one thing we have noticed among many of those struggling with addiction/mental illness is this. Many have little to no contact with their families.

 If there is one thing anyone who loves someone lost in this struggle knows, it is how hard these loved ones can make be to love!

 When I think about how we managed to keep those relationships going in the middle of the mess of addiction, this image comes to my mind.

 Years ago, our family would go backwoods camping. It would involve carrying canoes and all kinds of supplies over portages. Those portages, with our heavy loads, were always challenging. The worst was when it was raining, and the paths were littered with roots and rock, adding to that the bridges. They were often slippery and uneven. You could not just stroll along you had to consider each step and not rush. The load you carried made the path even more challenging.

 Relationships with someone particularly struggling with active addiction take a similar practice. Each step is careful. The load is heavy and often awkward. No two are the same and it takes a boatload of wisdom, patience, and a ton of grace.

 1 Cor. 13 reminds us that love is patient and it is kind and keeps no record of wrongs. That is much easier to live this out with people who are doing well and quite another thing when it is when we are talking about an addict or someone with mental illness.

 Many people give up on those who are struggling because it seems like there is no way forward. As we become exhausted and stripped of all hope there are those days when keeping that relationship going was very challenging, but we would tell you, it is worth it.

 Keeping the door open was a priority we worked at hard every day and no it was not easy. We did it one day at a time and step by step with much prayer.

 We also invited Christ to share the load. Matthew 28:30 “ Come to me all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

 When difficult relationships are in our lives- looking to Christ to share the weight makes a big difference, at least it certainly did for us. We need wisdom, strength, and peace in the middle of the mess. Christ can give that.

 Many days were harder than others, we would go to God over and over in a day, asking for wisdom to know what we could do that was helpful and what was not. Setting healthy boundaries is very important.

 The last point I would make is this. Bill and I were and always will be on the same page. We had to struggle some days to get there, but we did. As the challenges came, we stood united. That was helpful.

 Dear Father,

Thank you for being willing to be my burden bearer. I lay down the hard relationships in my life and ask that you take the weight off of me. Watch over my loved one and do what I cannot. I ask for your peace, strength, and wisdom for today. Thank you, Father,

In Jesus Name,

Amen.

The Top 4 I Tell People who have loved Ones, struggling with Addiction.

When we meet with people who have loved ones struggling with addiction or mental illness, despair and hopelessness are very close to the surface. It is one thing to watch someone who is struggling with a disease that came to them perhaps through genetics or exposure to some unhealthy thing.  It is altogether different when someone chooses day after day to go and destroy themselves. It is hard to understand the strength of the compulsion that addiction holds if you don’t struggle with it.

 In our devotional, Hope For An Unwanted Journey, we discuss many more truths; these are just 4 that come rushing to my mind today. We did an interview a few days ago about the book and had to summarize the most important things we want to tell people, My top four are listed below.

1.     There is always hope.

2.     You will not cure the addiction; you are good but not that good. They have to want to quit. It is likely one of the hardest things in this world to watch.

.3.  It is not your fault.

 4. Do not put your hope in your loved one. Put your hope fully on God. This is where you will find hope. 

We are lost without prayer. We have a Good Shepard who sees our loved one tangled in the brambles, or down on the ledge, over the cliff. It may be impossible for you are I to rescue them, but not Him.

 Psalms 46:1 reminds us that “God is our refuge and strength, a every present help in trouble”.  He sees and hears your prayers. He can show you what you ought to do and what you need to leave with Him.

Sometimes all our intervening, though done out of our desperate love, is not helpful. It may make us feel a bit better for a moment. I remember all too well the many things we did, the money we spent, thinking this would make the difference. And it did not - maybe for the moment, but that moment passed.

When we walk an impossible journey, we need a God who is more than able, and who never sleeps or slumbers. We need a God who looks at the suffering of our loved ones and says again,  nothing is impossible with Me. Your loved one is not a lost cause. Not in the eyes of Jesus.

 Dear Father,

 Thank you for today. Thank you that nothing is too difficult for you. I lay more loved one down again at your feet and pray that You would intervene in their life. Renew in me hope and strength for all that I am dealing with today. My hope is in You alone.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen

Even If...

“ But even if he does not, we want you to know Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” Daniel 3: 18

 A New Year has begun and here is an important reminder for all of us for 2024. If you read through the story of Shadrack, Meshach, and Abednego we meet three very brave men who trusted God no matter what. Even if God was not going to deliver them from the fiery furnace, worshipping the idol that the King had made of himself was not going to happen, not ever.

 Even if prayers should be part of our lives simply because God does not always answer our prayers as we had hoped. We believed Him, quoted all the Bible verses, and trusted Him, and He did not come through. How will we respond?

 Bitter disappointments have a way of planting seeds of resentment and frankly a weakened faith. We can be shaken when things don’t turn out as we believed. Isaiah 55: 8 says “‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways’ declares the Lord.”

 The image of a boat anchored comes to mind, the wind is whistling, and the waves rock the boat. What keeps the boat steady at all is the anchor. In my life, Jesus is the anchor who holds me steady regardless of what comes my way. I won’t lie, I have my moments of panic, but then quickly turn to God for direction and wisdom.

 In 2024 can we trust God no matter what happens? If health challenges come or continue for you or financial challenges haunt you daily? What about the challenges in relationships? Things are not going as you had hoped. Whatever you face, whatever the battle that is before you, can you trust God no matter what and still praise Him even if things do not go as you had hoped?

 Dear Father,

 I know you are good, and you are trustworthy no matter what comes to me this year. I look to you to lead and guide me daily. I will praise You, Father, no matter what. I know that your promises remain true. Fill me with your peace today. Thank you.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

When is a Counsellor Helpful?

“ For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6

 A counsellor who is wise and helpful, full of insight and good advice is a great find. It is useless, however, if we fail to listen and apply what they suggest to us.

 Years ago, I read a book by an author named Taylor Caldwell called “The Listener”. Each chapter was about these random people who would go to this simple building and sit on a plain wooden bench. In front of them was a window with a curtain drawn. If I remember correctly, the person would pour their heart out until they were finished telling their heart-wrenching story. At the end of the telling, the curtain was opened and there was a statue of Jesus Christ. I can’t remember if He was on the cross or if it was an image. The person would then sit silently, as Christ would speak quietly and with wisdom, bringing peace to the individual sitting there. It was incredible how time and time again Christ could relate and understand something of the heartache.

 In Isaiah 9:6 Jesus is called “Wonderful Counsellor”, which He is. All of this is wasted if we fail to sit with Him.

 There is a day that stands out in my memory. Christ seemed distant and silent, and I needed to talk with Him and hear from Him. So, I had just baked cookies, made myself a cup of tea, and sat down at the table. The thought came to me, set a cup of tea out for Jesus, and give Him a cookie also. So, I did. Even though He did not drink His tea or eat His cookie. I poured out my heart and He spoke. I don’t remember what was happening then, but I do remember the peace I had after visiting Him. 

 To have a Wonderful Counsellor who is available any moment of any day or night is quite something. In addition, He loves you. He is thrilled every time you sit with Him.

 The Wonderful Counsellor is available to you today. Go to Him, pour out your heart, and receive from Him what He has for you.

 Dear Lord Jesus,

 Thank you for being to me the Wonderful Counsellor. Thank you for your love for me and an open invitation to come and sit with you any time. I love that! Give me the wisdom to sit with you, to speak and listen, and then the courage to apply what you say.

 In Your precious name, I pray,

 Amen.

If you struggle with a good sleep- this may help!

“ There is more hope for a fool than for someone who speaks without thinking”. Proverbs 29:20

In this season of parties and family gatherings, there is no end of conversations. What a treat it would be to get through this entire season with no regrets over what we said or how we said something. How many nights have we rehearsed conversations with what we wish we would have spoken instead of what we did? 

Every time we gather, with people whether it is in a schoolyard picking up children or an office party or family gathering, our words hold power to bless or to curse or bring confusion. How do we avoid this? We could stay silent, but even with silence, regret can come. 

To have meaningful regret-free conversations is born out of thinking before we speak. That can be very challenging, especially if we get caught up in the moment. Yet, if we just take a moment to think and ask ourselves if what we are thinking of saying is worth hearing or helpful or even if it is true? All of these things can make a big difference. 

I try to make sure I have questions I can ask people. I have found people are very ready to talk about themselves and what is going on with them. They are happy that you have asked and take the time to genuinely listen. Most people never ask, “How are you doing” or “What are your plans”? There is no regret in listening! That is good news! 

One last thought that may prove helpful is to remember, that it is ok just to be silent. We do not have to fill every moment with empty chatter. 

My prayer is that in this season, we will love and listen well. May God give us wisdom and insight with each person, whatever their age. Everyone is important and how to talk and how we listen make a difference. 

Dear Father,

Thank you for this season where we do a lot of visiting. I pray that you will help me to be wise with my words and wise even as I listen. I pray that those who I spend time with will know that they are important. Love people through me this season. Thank you, Father. 

In Jesus Name,

Amen

3 Simple Reasons we should give people a second chance.

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” Ephesians 4: 32

People have always said that first impressions matter, and it is true, they do. The challenge I face, and perhaps you too, is when it is a poor impression of someone, giving them that second chance is not easy. Here are four reasons second chances matter. We are not called to be judges. We need to choose, and it is a choice to extend grace.

1. We do not have all the details of that person’s day. Maybe they just got bad news that day and they are off their game. We all have days like that. 

2. Many days, we don’t always give the best first impression and hope that grace will be extended to us so we too can have a second chance. 

3. Writing people off after one meeting is harsh. While wisdom needs to be applied, so does grace and love. 

Last week I was confronted with my own harsh heart, and it challenged me to reconsider my firm judgment I had placed on this individual. I asked God to forgive me, and I returned and tried again. I still had to watch my thoughts and I am glad I did. Casting fast judgments does not require a how-to course, but letting go of the judgments and extending grace will require intentionality.  To be gracious is a choice and an important one at that. 

On those days when our hearts are running low on love and grace, ask Jesus, who is the author of all of that, to give you what is needed. He is generous. Watch your heart today and guard against those fast judgments. It can and is very habit-forming and a good one to work on getting rid of. 

Dear Father,

Forgive me today for my fast judgements that I have made. I ask for your Holy Spirit to fill me with love and grace for the people I meet today. Thank you,

In Jesus Name,

Amen. 

What Really Matters

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul and with all your mind, and with all your strength…, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.”

Mark 12:30-31

I love knowing what is most important when I am dealing with a problem or facing something that is overwhelming. 

As I look ahead to December, I know it will be busier for me and likely for you as well. I was listening to my favorite podcast today, “The Lazy Genius.’ She was talking about how to get everything done and organized as we look to the month ahead of us. Getting things done always makes me a happy girl. However, I am faced with the pressing question, ‘What matters most really?’ Is it my to-do list or perhaps something else?

I was reminded of this verse, where Jesus explains to us what is highest on His agenda. To love God with all our heart... and to love the people He brings our way. This is what matters to Him the most. To love God wholeheartedly and to love people well.

I have been taking time this week to ask the Lord “Who do You want me to show your love to this week?” I am thankful that it is not a guilt thing. He will strengthen us and direct us as we look to Him. 

If your heart is feeling a bit depleted because of the challenges you are facing in your life, He has everything you need to love those He has called you to love. He loves you and is full of mercy. 

I think of many times that I had to extend my love to someone I honestly did not want to. Perhaps they had hurt me or Bill, but I had to get over that and still be loving. I had just barely managed to forgive them and now I had to show them love and mercy?! I asked God to give me what was needed, and He did. It was given to me at the moment, not beforehand.

We are called to love Him and love others, and He has everything we need to do that. 

Dear Father,

I love you and I am thankful for your love. I ask You to fill me again with your love so that I can love all the people that you bring to me. Thank you!

In Jesus Name,

Amen

How can I know when I am facing the spirit of Intimidation?

“For God has not given us a spirit of timidity but of power and love and discipline...” 2 Timothy 1:7

 To be made timid is not a good thing.  It is not just being shy.  It is a lack of courage and confidence. It is being easily frightened.  It is pulling back from the very thing God is calling you to do.  It is to be intimidated.  Paul states here that it is a spirit, not just a personality issue.  That being the case, how can we recognize its evil presence?

 1.     The spirit of intimidation comes to us especially when we are working hard to do exactly what God has asked us to do, as Timothy was.

 Look at the story of David and Goliath. 1 Samuel 17:1-50. As you read these verses, you will see quickly that though David was being called by God to face a giant, the voices of those he encountered were very intimidating.  

 2.     It can come from those closest to us.  David’s family members were angry with him and accuse him of showing off and warn him that he is going to get himself killed. They tell him explicitly that he is acting foolishly. (28)  3.     It can come from leadership over us.  Saul, who should be supportive, attempts to sow seeds of doubt in him. He tells David in no uncertain terms that he cannot possibly take on this giant. (33)

4.     It definitely comes from our enemy.  Goliath himself is full of threats and throws insults at David. He completely mocks David making it clear that David is no threat to him. (43)

 What should we do?

 David states clearly that he has come to fight in the power of the Almighty. “You come against me with sword and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel. Whom you have defied.”

 David knew that it was God who asked him to stand up against Goliath. He was not doing it on a whim or a wish to look good. He wanted to defend the Lord’s great name and see God’s purposes go forward.

 I have often wrestled with the spirit of intimidation. Every time I write or when I speak at an event, I have thoughts in my own head saying, “People do not want to hear what you have to say”, “ You are wasting people’s time” or “ These people are totally bored - you need to stop”. That is the spirit of intimidation. I have not had to battle voices from the outside like David did, rather it is a collection of whispers in my head, especially evident when I am doing something I know that God has asked me to do.

 My life would be so much simpler if I did not bother to ever write or speak publicly. Yet, to stay silent, I feel like I have grieved God. I have learned to recognize my enemy’s voice and in Jesus Name, I rebuke it. I know who I am and why I am doing what I do. It is very different from the times I am trying something new, and it feels daunting or overwhelming. There is not a voice speaking and making me feel small and worthless. Hard things can be intimidating, but we deal with that in different ways, breaking the task up into manageable pieces, etc.

 Have you experienced the spirit of intimidation?

 Dear Father,

 Thank you for Jesus and the power of His Name.  Thank you for the way You help us to stand up against the giants in our lives. Thank you for calling me to an important task.  Give me wisdom, insight, and courage to stand firm and do what You have asked of me.

 In Jesus Name,

Amen.

2 Things I am working on getting back since Covid.

Covid took a lot from all of us, some more than others. I was thinking today about what it has taken from me and what I am working hard to take back.

1. It is easier to stay home and do my own thing than engage with friends, even though I love them, and it is life-giving!  I have discovered that I need to make a conscious decision to get out there and take time to enjoy the friends that I have. It is easier to stay home, but it is not necessarily good for me either. I am working on finding the balance. 

2. “Practicing hospitality “ Romans 12:13b

Having people over to your home, makes them feel valued and seen, everyone needs that. It gives the opportunity to learn, listen, encourage, and laugh. People do not generally care so much about what is being served, whether it is a whole meal or just dessert or appetizers.

In my experience, often waiting for the phone to ring with an invitation can be a long wait. Instead of waiting, I think and pray about who we should try to have over and we make our plans. We love it.

Over Covid, it was hard to have people over, especially in the winter months. We could do campfires, but it was really cold sometimes. I am not a girl who loves cold! I did figure out some good campfire meals though. We didn’t do it a lot, but it was really nice when we did.  It is a new day now and I choose to practice hospitality again. I am easing into it. Christmas is coming and there are lots of opportunities to share food and time with many dear people.

I am reminded that in life, there are seasons. COVID offered me a season of being home and learning to enjoy some of the simple things, puzzles, crocheting, sewing, and like so many, baking bread.

It was nice seeing people slow down and have time to re-evaluate what is important in life. Busyness has a way of quieting that voice in our lives, at least it does in mine.

I recall many times in Scripture when Christ sat and broke bread with his disciples and the people he spoke to. There were also times when he performed miracles where food and fellowship were part of the story. While there was likely a lot of laughter, also present was an opportunity to say what was important. Hospitality can open the way for us as well to have meaningful conversations.

What are you working at taking back since COVID-19?

Dear Jesus,

Thank you for being a Lord and Savior in every season of life. I pray that you will lead me through this season. I pray that you would help me to take time to care for those who need it and who will also breathe life into me. Thank you.

In Jesus Name,

Amen.

My 3 Struggles with Halloween

 When I was a kid, I loved Halloween. It was a lot lower-key in terms of decorations but was big on giving great candies. We usually dressed as cats or some other animal, except my brother, Doug. He was always a television set. We would each have a pillowcase in hand, and we would get a ton of candy. It was a lot of fun. 

 I did some reading about Halloween’s roots. For the most part, what it was in the past does not seem to inform the present. One thing that was clear, in the ancient or the Christian tradition it was a time to remember those who have passed before us. Another article spoke of a celebration of the harvest. I doubt any of this is top of anyone’s mind as kids rush door to door. It sure was not mine when I was a kid.

  Here are 3 things that troubles me about Halloween.

 1.     All the chocolate that is waiting for me to give out! They seem to call out to me no matter where they are stored. That is a problem! If I manage to leave every box unopened, well then all is well. Let’s just say one of the bags was opened and there are likely no Reece’s peanut butter cups left in that bag. 

  2. Very Frightening Decorations: In a time when the anxiety of children is at the highest level in my memory, house after house is decorated to scare the liver out of kids, at least where I live. I know it is all in “good fun”. I wonder honestly, has it gone too far? In some stores, they were even selling skeletons that talk and are about 10 to 20 feet high. Many of the front yards are now creepy-looking graveyards with skeletons clawing their way out of the ground. While creative and fun to some, it may be a little too terrifying to some kids?

 3.  Perhaps what is most penetrating for us is the way that those who practice evil take advantage of this day.  For years, it was a well-known fact that the witches of the city gathered in a bar at the intersection where our church is on this day to celebrate all that is evil.  We share nothing with them.  

 As Christians, we are given the privilege of choosing to cling to the Light of the world who is Jesus. John 8:12 “I am the light of the world, whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” In this light, we find true hope and the One who has conquered the evil one, and that is something to celebrate!

 Dear Father,

 Thank you for Jesus who is the light of the world. He is the overcomer, and I am so thankful. Give me wisdom today to navigate all that this day holds. May Christ’s light shine through me. 

 In Jesus Name,

Amen

The Difference waiting on God makes.

“Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles. They will run and not grow tired. They will walk and not become weary. Isaiah 40:31 (NASB1995)

It is one thing to quote a Bible verse, or sing it out in a tune, and another thing to practice and apply it. 

When we wait on God truly here are a few things that happen. 

1. Our perspective can change. – I think of times I have sat with the Lord in challenging times in my life, and he gently reminded me that His mercies are new every day. A new day for good things to happen. Even if it has nothing to do with what is happening around me, good things still happen that are worth being thankful for. 

2. As we wait on God, we can come to the realization that we are not truly trusting him in this circumstance. We are giving God a lot of advice perhaps, but not resting in Him and believing that God is able to do what you or I cannot do. When we go into His Throne room, we lay our burden down and leave it there. 

3. The peace of God that surpasses understanding is not borne out of wringing our hands in despair or fear.  Rather it comes as a result of waiting on God to make a way where there is no way. It comes from looking to Him to be our strength for this day, this hour. Some things are so challenging; we are on an hour-to-hour or even minute-by-minute practice of giving it over to God and thanking Him. 

4. As we wait on God, we are reminded that He is still God Almighty. He has not changed and will not change. Remembering the truth of this helps. While we wish and long for God to act swiftly and take all the pain and suffering away in this moment, He doesn’t. But one day He may. Until then, we look to Him for what we need to get through today. 

5. Lastly, His word of instruction on what we ought to do or not do does not come to us as we rush along. It comes to us because we wait on Him to speak and guide us. If you find yourself walking a rocky and uneven path today, you can’t run. You must walk and look to the Good Shepherd to guide you and speak to you, words of encouragement and instruction. 

This is only the beginning of a list of what comes to us as we wait up upon our Lord. He is there waiting for us to come and sit with Him. He has everything we need for today. 

Dear Father,

Thank you for the invitation to come and sit with You every day. Your throne room has no hours or time limits. Thank you for Your love and patience with me. I am so often in too big of a rush to wait on you. Here I am today though Father, speak to me and instruct me in the way I should go. 

In Jesus Name, 

Amen

Three More Eye-rolling Sayings

1.“Old dogs can’t learn new tricks”.

If we tell ourselves that we are beyond learning something new, that will become true for us; we will have given up and become old in our minds.  I don’t want to become old in my mind.  Isn’t it true that you can learn new things if you put your mind to it and do it in a way that is manageable?  I read the book ‘Atomic Habits’ recently. The whole point of the book is that small changes made doable can have a great impact. I have found this to be true.  A passage of Scripture that comes to mind is this ”…put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God” Psalm 40:3a. There is no age limit mentioned.   A new song can lead us to a new and better way of speaking, thinking, and ultimately... living. One small new step at a time. 

2.“God helps those who help themselves.”

 I have heard this saying more times than I can count. Some people think it is even a Bible verse. It is not. God helps those who call to Him and do so humbly. Consider Psalm 40:2 “ I waited patiently for the Lord, and he turned and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and the mire.”  The psalmist did not get out of this pit because of positive thinking and strategizing. He got out of this pit initially because he cried out to God who heard him and lifted him. The help was born out of a humble desperate call to God. It does not mean that we are all slugs waiting for rescue and we do nothing.  We call out to him.  We look to him for wisdom, strength, courage; whatever it is we lack. We look to God for instruction. God sees what we do not and knows what we need. Receiving it, however, begins with humility and asking him for help. 

 3  “God wants me to be happy.“ 

This way of thinking can lead us to places that are unhelpful and dangerous. While it is true God does not want to see us miserable, he does allow some fairly difficult things to happen in our lives. James 1:2 reminds us “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.“ A deep and enduring faith is possessed as we trust God through difficult days and steep climbs. To remember the promises of God and His resting presence in the storms we face is precious. The psalmist reminds us that God is a very present help in times of trouble. God loves us when times are great, as he does when days are hard.  He sees us and waits for us to call to him. If we think God wants us to be happy only, that is a naïve way of thinking. He wants us to be dependent upon Him and trust him, no matter what. 

Dear Father,

Thank you for your presence with me today. Thank you that you can put a new song in my mouth, and I ask that you do that. I ask that you give me wisdom for today, for the challenges I will face. I ask for your peace to rest on me. Thank you. 

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen

5 Popular Sayings that do not always prove to be true.

“ Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6

1. The grass is always greener on the other side.

I have a very distinct memory of sitting on some steps on the front porch of a girlfriend’s house. Beside me, was her husband. It had been her birthday, and it was a lot of fun and a privilege to be there. The husband, however, wow…. So, discontent with his lovely wife. He went on and on about different women he wished he had married instead. I was shocked. I remember telling him, “The grass is NOT greener on the other side”. He did not believe me. He went on to have multiple affairs. I doubt he discovered any woman better than the one who has somehow stood by him, forgiving over and over. Discontentment about many things in our lives is often the author of this kind of thinking – ‘If only...then things will be better.’ We can wait a long time and miss many wonderful blessings and victories if keep thinking like that. Sometimes we do need to act and bring change. Feeding discontent, however, can be very negative, like in my story above.

2. Things can only get better.

There is truth in this, but sometimes things are not going to get better. If we keep doing the same thing over and over, we will have the same result. If that is the result you are going for – perfect, if it is not then you have to take a moment and think about what should be done differently. If we want things to get better often it can mean hard work mixed with sacrifice. Sometimes it means standing down and letting someone experience the consequences of their choices. Constant rescuing is perhaps not helping. For things to get better, we need wisdom and insight, and God has that for us if we ask Him. 

3. It is what it is. 

I hear this said often, in fact, I say it. If I am honest, usually it means there is a situation I cannot change and shouldn’t get involved with. But sometimes it can be a fallback excuse for inaction where something does not have to be as it is right now. It could change if we do something to bring change. There are big things and there are small things. Again, we need wisdom to know what is as it is and what it is not. It reminds me of the serenity prayer. God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.

4. You should always tell the truth.

You should tell the truth however, sometimes the truth is not helpful. People are not always ready for the truth at that moment, and we must wait for a better time. It requires patience and discernment. There are many times I do know the truth in a situation, but it is clear to me that if I spoke the truth- it will not be received. I think it is a bit like the passage of scripture where we are warned to not cast pearls before swine.

5. All we can do is pray. 

Prayer is a mighty tool for someone who has faith leans into God’s promises and seeks God’s intervention in the impossible. To come to a place where all we can do is pray is not a negative, it is a relief. We are not without hope or without options. We look to God in prayer for what is next. What should be said or not said, done or not done? We look to Him to make the path before us manageable and clear.  Prayer often leads to action.

Giving Thanks in the Valley

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

1 Thessalonians 5:18

 It is easier for most people to be thankful when the sun is shining and life is going as it should. It is another matter entirely when things are not good and the way before you is blocked and the sun is not shining. No matter which way you turn, you hit obstacles, disappointment, and the impossible.

 Yet our passage says to give thanks in every circumstance noticing the next verse in this passage says nothing like “except when”. I remember well the dark days when my loved one was drinking excessively several times a week. Life was hard, not just for our loved one, but those who loved that one and had to watch and pray and pray and wait and hope. Some days were harder than others, especially when the challenges of life or ministry were piled on top.

  Many times, Bill and I would sit and pray together, our prayers of thanksgiving were sincere as we thanked Him for the simplest of things. We thanked Him for His enduring presence and for our family as they were still many wonderful things to be thankful for.

  I think the most important thing I can tell you today friend is this. It is very difficult to give thanks to God when the trials we face become our center. God alone is our center and the Rock we must stand on every day if we are going to survive this season and be able to truly give thanks to God.

  Thanksgiving has a strange way of bringing us hope, even as we ask for forgiveness and bring Jesus back into the center. While perhaps in your life, you have someone you love dearly, whose life is not going well, and try as you might, pray as you do, you see no change, no movement. We have faced many days like that. While giving thanks to God is not our natural response it remains something we are called to no matter what. Psalm 100 tells us to come into His gates with thanksgiving… let us do that this week, no matter what you are facing.   Find simple things to be thankful for. There is always something!

 Dear Father,

 Thank you for a new day and for your presence here with me. Thank you for being a God for whom nothing is impossible. I lay my burdens down today, one by one.   Thank you that you put no limit on how much I lay down and never will you say, that one is too hard for Me. Thank you for listening to my prayer.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen

A Great Blessing and an Annoying Robbery all on the same day!

Rejoice in the Lord Always and I say it again, rejoice! Philippians 4:4

We were very excited this weekend as one of our sons was able to buy a trailer at the Christian trailer park where Bill and I and his siblings also have a trailer. What a great day and such a wonderful deal and blessing for him and for us. We worked hard all day Monday to see what needed fixing on his trailer. He was so excited.

 The same day, Bill asked him if he could please help him take the boat out. Our other kids had very kindly taken our dock out. Just the boat and the lift were left. I was at our trailer getting our celebration supper cooking when he told me the motor, the gas, the plug for the boat, and all the tools were gone, even the lure from his fishing rod if you can believe it! We phoned our kids just in case for some reason they thought it wise to take the motor and gas and tools out of the boat, sadly no… all gone. Just the boat was left with the fishing rod and tackle box( hopefully everything is still there, we didn’t check that).

Bill was very disappointed. He really liked that motor. Not having the plug for the boat made getting it out of the water very challenging. He plugged the hole with a rag and he and our son dragged it out. Not an easy task if you had seen what they navigated. Normally you just drive down to the boat launch. So much easier!

 You get the idea, it was quite the day, but even at supper, we had to give thanks to God as we are still so very thankful for all He is doing and has done. We thanked him for the years that Motor served us and trust He will help us find another one. We have had to trust Him for much greater and harder things than a boat motor. It is frustrating, but people have had much worse stolen from them.

 Matthew Henry who is a Bible commentator and preacher from many years ago was also robbed. He wrote this list which made us smile.

1-    Let me be thankful first because he never robbed me before.

2-    Because although he took my wallet, he did not take my life.

3-    Although he took all I possessed, it was not much.

4-    Because it was I who was robbed and not I who robbed.

Perspective matters!

 We choose to rejoice in our Lord who does not change regardless of the day. He is good and He is good every day!

 Dear Father,

Thank you for your kindness to us, for our health, and for all the blessings that we enjoy every day.

In Jesus Name,

Amen.

5 Things I am Going to Keep Doing

“ I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

 It is easy to give up things that we do not like.  It is also easy to give up things that are helpful, but sometimes hard.  Here is the list I created this morning. I find some of these things hard, but I know ,I need to keep doing them!

 1.     I will not give up keeping myself in shape. Though it is not easy, it is important. No one else can do it for me. This morning I got myself back to running. It clears my head and makes me feel NOT my age. I realize many my age can’t run but thankfully I can. I may be slow, but I manage to get it done. I also lift light weights. It is doable. Whatever you choose to do – it has to be doable, or frankly, you won’t do it.

2.     I won’t stop praying for people or situations that seem impossible. I was thinking about this today. It can be discouraging to keep praying for someone and see no change. I was reminded today that God is always at work, seen and unseen. I know that with God, nothing is impossible, and I choose to believe Him and go to Him with all the impossibilities that weigh on my heart.

3.     Writing my Blog: I can’t tell you how many times I do NOT want to write. The other day, I was walking Penny – my dog whining to God about my blog. I told Him, “It is not like people read it a lot”. He said to me” I read it, is that not enough?”. Wow! So, I went home and wrote my blog. God does not always speak so clearly to me, but I love when He does.

4.     I want to keep reading. I love to read. I try to read broadly so I am learning and keeping my brain working. It is so easy to get lost in a Netflix series, but when I do that, it does NOTHING for me.

5.     Read God’s word. Reading my Bible and reflecting on His Word fills and satisfies my soul like nothing else. I like to read the news but honestly, it can really depress me. I do respond by praying about things that are happening in the world, but it will never satisfy me or soothe my soul.

 What are you determined to keep doing?

Dear Father,

 This is not my whole list, but definitely things that are important to me. Thank you for each time you help me with the things that matter. Hearing your voice and allowing you to lead me through a day is always big on my list. May I be found faithful today to do all You ask of me.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen

Two Significant Lessons I learned in parenting my 4 kids.

A few weeks ago, I watched my daughter teach her 5-year-old, to ride a two-wheeler. There is a skill to not only know how to ride a bike but teach how to ride as well. You have to know how to run along behind the child while holding on as they ride. You also have to know when it is time to let go and let the child take the risk of falling. This little girl fell plenty, but Lisa encouraged her to get back up and keep trying. It took a few days but this 5-year-old mastered riding a  bike and is extremely proud of herself as she should be. Credit goes to her but also her mom who knew when to hold on and when to let go.

 Lesson One: Learn to let go at the right time.

 We do not parent a 4-year-old the same way we parent an 11-year-old or an 18-year-old. Things change, don’t they? A wise parent realizes in the teen years you better figure out what you need to say in as few words as possible because that is all they may well listen to. My teens hated lectures as I remember. They would listen to a story that made the point- as long as it didn’t take too long to tell it. Whereas when they are younger- it is often easier. They have more time for you and what you have to say. The younger kids needed more guidance, the older ones wanted to practice being independent. Finding the balance was challenging, sometimes we got it right, and other times... we did not.

 Lesson Two- Learning to discern when we as parents ought to step in and “fight” on behalf of our kids and when to leave it to God to sort out.

 “ He said, Listen, all you people of Judah and Jerusalem! Listen, King Jehoshaphat! This is what the Lord says, ‘ Do not be afraid! Don’t be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God’s. 1 Chronicles 20:15

 I think one of the hardest things for us as parents is having the courage to let our kids experience the consequences of poor choices or when they are recipients of something unkind or unfair.

 As I look back over the years of parenting 4 kids, the hardest thing for me to do, was to truly let go and let God do whatever He had in mind. It is easier when they are young and fall off the bike and you can bandage their knees. But it is another story entirely when they are older and face disappointments and failures. For example, times they don’t get the job, or they lose a job - or miss a promotion, or perhaps a significant relationship dissolves. The desire to step in and rescue is pretty strong, but it is not always wise. Sometimes we get to, but more often than not, we are left to pray and trust God to work things out.

 The finest work of our life is not our work or our ministry but our children. The hardest thing God has asked of us is to raise 4 children to walk humbly and trust in God every day of their lives. I am thankful He was there to guide us every day.

 In this passage in 1 Chronicles 20:16, the people of God are called to simply stand watch as God fights for them. Sometimes they had to fight, but not this time. Victory came and it was all God.

 May God give us courage and wisdom to know what He is saying to us as we think of our loved ones and the challenges they face.

 Dear God,

 Thank you for my kids and for your presence with us. I ask that you give me the wisdom to leave them with you always.  But God, when you want me to step into a situation which they are facing, give me wisdom to do or say what I ought to say, and not one word more or less.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen