TEACH US TO PRAY

Repost from August, 2010
We have such an awesome God! He even has taught us how to talk with him!

One day Jesus was praying in a certain place.

When he finished, one of his disciples said to him,

"Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples."

Luke 11:1 NIV

Jesus went on to teach them what we now call The Lord's Prayer. He gives God the Father the glory, asks several things including that God's kingdom come, that our daily needs be met, that our sins be forgiven and that we not fall into temptation. But He didn't stop there. He went on to tell a story about a man who was persistent in asking a friend to get up at night and loan him some bread for some unexpected company. Even though the friend was already in bed, because the man persisted, the friend finally got up and gave the man as much as he needed (see Luke 11:5-8).


We need to be persistent in prayer, too. God wants us to come to him frequently, even if it is praying about the same thing over and over. That is not nagging! That is faithful prayer.

Jesus went on:

"So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you;

seek and you will find;

knock and the door will be opened to you.

 For everyone who asks receives;

he who seeks finds;

 and to him who knocks, the door will be opened...

" Luke 11:9-10 NIV

Jesus promises in this part not only to hear our prayers but to answer them... perhaps not always the way that we want him to answer, but He will answer them according to his will. Sometimes the answer is "yes", sometimes "no", and even sometimes "wait", or "later". Always within his answer is "trust me!" And when we pray in true faith, we want and accept whatever his will is for us. Jesus emphasizes it three times: ask, seek, knock. I think He really means it!

Jesus' teaching lesson ends with saying that if we as sinful humans want to give good things to our children,

"how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit

to those who ask him!"

(Luke 11:13)

There is no greater gift! We know that if we ask for faith and for it to grow, that God will grant it. So remember to pray, persistently, and in faith! Amen.

Written by Jan

The Challenge

Devotional for Saturday, July 3o, 2011

Reprint from August 7, 2010

The fence around the courtyard of the tabernacle in the wilderness served to include and to exclude.

My son has been learning about different cultures around the world via port cities through his computer history curriculum, and I’ve been helping him. After the study of Hong Kong and then the study of Istanbul including the different religious beliefs prevalent in those areas, he asked me, “When there are so many different beliefs, how are we supposed to know which one is right? Are they all right? How can so many people be wrong?”

“Those are very good questions, Wes,” I said, “I’m glad you asked. You’re paying attention and you’re thinking. I like to see that.” I told him that first of all, if they were all right, then there would have been no need for Jesus to suffer and die for our sins. We would just find any old belief system that we wanted and that would save our souls. I went on to tell him that the best I could offer to him right now regarding why I believe in Jesus was that I have searched the scriptures and the arguments of the world because I want the truth, and what I’ve found is that the others don’t compare to our God. They don’t even come close, and in fact are foolishness in light of God’s Word.

Now, Wes, I’m not saying that I prefer Christianity over the alternatives,” I continued, “I’m saying that the alternatives have proven to be false. You see, the Bible says that there is only one God, and one way to get to Him. That’s through the blood of Jesus.” I went on to say that the Bible has never been proven false, and in fact, the more that man learns about the world around him, the more the Bible is confirmed.

But I did not stop there. I said that as he gets older, I expect something from him. “Don’t just believe this, Wesley, because I told you to believe it. Keep on asking questions. Do your own research. Ask God to show you the truth.” He actually said right then and there, eyes wide open, “God, show me the truth.”

Later that day, while driving my kids around town running my errands, I brought up the conversation again. “Did you know, Wesley, that there is no other belief system in the world that would challenge you to prove it wrong? But I challenge you. None other would dare you to go outside of its realm and compare it to the rest just to see which one is correct. Do you know why?”

“It’s like,” he said, “when Garrett (that’s my 6 year old) cleans his room, and he asks you to check it. He has nothing to hide. But when Clay (that’s my 4 year old) is told to clean his room, he comes out a few minutes later and closes the door because he doesn’t want you to know that it’s still a mess.” My 16 year old daughter and I looked at each other in amazement at hearing the wisdom in this 9 year old boy to be able to communicate so clearly that ‘yes’ he understood what I was saying and showed it by using such a perfect analogy. “That’s right, Wes, I’m not afraid to tell you to check. I know what you’ll find. You’ll find exactly what I’ve found. You’ll also find that others are afraid for you to look inside because when you tell others why you believe so strongly in Jesus.”

A couple of days later, my Bible study director was giving her lecture, and she spoke of the inclusion and the exclusion that the fence provided for the tabernacle. The fence was a testimony that there is no middle ground. He does not tolerate the lukewarm person who walks along the fence unable to decide what to believe and so chooses to believe them all as just many ways of getting to the same place. They can’t all be right. God may patiently wait for them to come down off of the fence, but if they don’t, they have lost their chance, and He will spit them out. Others may wish to believe otherwise, but the truth is that He is not a God of tolerance, but a God of mercy.

I was reminded of my 9 year old, and I felt confirmed in my heart that he too understood that there is no middle ground. He understood that there must be only one truth. What an exhilarating thrill it is to know that my son is on a quest to know that truth. I trust that God will show it to him in the very way he needs to see it.

"Elijah went before the people and said,

“How long will you waver between two opinions?

If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him.”

But the people said nothing."

1 Kings 18:21

Written by Amie Spruiell

One Day in The Lord’s Nursery

Devotional for Friday, July 29, 2011

What a wonderful decision I made when I answered “yes” to my Lord’s request. Of course, it was a woman’s voice on the phone, asking me to serve two hours in the Church Nursery on Thursday morning. But we all know who was truly doing the asking.

I went in expecting giggles and tears, shyness and laughter amidst a few missing shoes, an occasional dirty diaper and (of course) a dependable runny nose. After all, I am a Mother, and I felt quite confident about my ability to care for the “Two and under” gang.

What I did not expect, however, was the depth of revelation and insight that our precious Lord was waiting to reveal to me. It is my desire to share those insights with each of you.

The first thing I realized was how every child was in the same room, doing the same thing. They were all in the nursery, and they were all playing with toys. What I began to see happen however, is that they continued to stumble, fall and run into each other. This happened because they were not connected. How much this reminded me of our Church body. How many times have we, ourselves, been responsible for “coming down the slide” and knocking someone else right off their feet, just as they were finally finding the ability, balance and strength, to get onto them?

Next I saw how the children behaved when they were hurt, both in the physical sense and in the emotional sense as well. One little boy in particular just scrunched up his face, closed his eyes… and proceeded to just let it all out! What freedom he must have experienced, to allow the outside to represent what was taking place on the inside. How many times do we, as adults, deny ourselves this same freedom for fear of what those around us would think?

Other children, however, would look around first, after realizing that they were hurt, to see if anybody had noticed. As they searched for, and found a face full of tender compassion, only then did they allow their pain to show. How many times do we, as individuals allow indifference and yes, even impatience, to represent themselves on our faces and in our attitudes? How many times do we “pick someone up” for just a fleeting moment, brush them off and then tell them that they are okay. How many times, in our own hurriedness, do we miss the chance to minister to someone that the Lord has sent our way?

It was of no real surprise that unity showed itself most evident at Snack Time. Looks of happy anticipation and little legs hurrying as fast as they could brought most of the children to the table. Others came quite prepared “plop” themselves down contentedly, next to the “Snack Giver”. The sound of little hearts singing could almost be heard, as each child’s hunger was being satisfied and their thirst was being quenched.

This reminded me of Sunday mornings. How happy most of us are to enter into the House of the Lord and to sit at His table, in His presence. I wonder how many times our focus is of ourselves, with each of us being intent on receiving only what we, as individuals, might need. How many times do we fail to see that the person sitting next to us may not be able to “feed” themselves as easily as we do. Quite possibly all they might need is a kind look of encouragement, or a simple word of guidance, or even just an example to follow. After all, how soon we seem to forget how very difficult the task of feeding ourselves was for us in the beginning, both physically and spiritually.

Then there are those that seem to wait until everyone else had been fed. They wait patiently and quietly off to the side. Almost unnoticeably, they gather the crumbs that others have dropped, never expecting any more for themselves. How many times do we, as believers fail to stop just long enough to invite that person to the Lord’s Table, and to assure them that there is a place that is being saved, just for them. What an enormous difference that could make in someone’s life!

Dearest to my heart was what the Lord showed me, as one special little girl climbed into a crate. She had dumped out all of the toys first, and was quite satisfied to simply step into it and then very carefully set herself down on one of the edges. She was very content with her accomplishments, and it showed on her face.

A little while later, the same little girl dumped the toys out of another crate. Only this time the crate was MUCH smaller. She somehow had managed to fit both feet inside of the crate, and again, much more carefully this time, balance herself on one of the edges. She was so precious… just sitting there. She could not move at all. In fact, she could scarcely breathe, for if she had dared, she would have most definitely lost her balance. What a lesson I learned from her! How many times do we, as the Lord’s grown children, maneuver ourselves into the tiniest of spaces and deny ourselves the room to move, stretch and grow?

The last and most important lesson of all was revealed in the form of a beautiful and lively little boy. This little boy became quite involved in whatever activity he happened to be doing. Whether it was throwing a ball, climbing the slide or pushing shapes through a hole, he gave each activity his very fullest attention… until he heard the door creak. Then at that instant, he would abandon anything and everything he was involved with, and run quite swiftly to the gate. At that point he would step up onto the gate and pull himself up to his fullest height, and peer over. Then, with excited anticipation he stood… happily awaiting the arrival of his much beloved Mother.

What a delight it was to observe this little boys deep love for his Mother… love that sprang into action at just the tiniest perception of her arrival. What joy would fill our precious Lord’s heart if only we, too would respond immediately and with such complete abandon… to His presence and call in our lives. How much sweeter our relationship would be.

In closing, I am reminded of the following in Luke 18, verses 16 and 17 which read,

“But Jesus called to Him, saying,

Allow the little children to come to Me,

and do not hinder them,

for to such (as these) belongs to the Kingdom of God.

Truly I say to you, whoever does not accept

and receive and welcome the Kingdom of God

like a little child shall not (in any way) enter into it.”

Luke 18, verses 16 and 17

Thank you for allowing me to share with you the things that the Lord has placed on my heart. My prayer is that we will be constantly and forever reminded that each one of us is a very special, unique and deeply loved child of the God Most High.

written by Beverley A. Napier

Bearing Each Other’s Sorrows

Devotional for Thursday, July 28, 2011

In the 2006 movie, “We are Marshall,” a plane crash kills most of a college football team. As the team and new coach are trying to piece together their lives again, we see the hand of friendship extended by a rival college team. I walked in on this movie and saw that the best team in their district, a rival team, had put a cross and “RememberMarshall” on the back of all of their helmets. I wondered out loud, “Wow, why did they do that?” My son quickly answered, “To honor the fallen. It could have happened to anybody.” Yes, it could.

I'm sure that you have heard about the tragedy that occurred last Friday in Norway. An imposter killed 86 kids at a youth camp (plus 7 more at a government building). I keep thinking about the people of this grieving nation.

As I read more about the horror the Norwegians are facing there is a tight grip around my heart. In the days that followed 9-11, I remember being awed and a little surprised by the sympathy and support from the people of other nations. Now I understand the hand of sympathy during the dark days that followed us in 2001. What has happened to them could very well happen to any of us, and I am sorry for their suffering. Though we’ve never met - my heart will not let go of the thought of all the weeping mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, families and friends whose worlds have been turned upside down.

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort. Who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the trouble [same] comfort we ourselves have received from God.”

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV)

“…weep with those who weep.”

Romans 12:15b (ASV)

                 In memory of the children massacred on Utoya Island, Norway, July 22, 2011.

Summer’s Sorrow

Summer’s play should bear no grief

Dancing grass and blowing leaf

Sunshine rays are drunk in deep.

Clouds did come, storm did rage

To take away a summer day

From shattered body soul did leap.

Take flight soul into the dawn

Of beauty, peace and safest Arm

Dwell there now and never weep.

Angel holds you by the hand

Escort to the Promised Land

Now summer’s play will never end.

By Mary M. Wilkins,

July 27, 2011

Dear Lord, We come before you and lift up the families, friends, and people of this nation who are grieving, raging in pain, and suffering. Please send your comfort to them. Hold them and preserve them from any more harm. Speak to their hearts and minds so they will know that they are not alone or abandoned. We thank You, Lord, that your word says what the enemy intended for evil will be used for good (Gen 50:20). We pray that this nation will knit together and become stronger. That they will recognize your extended hand of love and feel the comfort of your people around them. In Jesus name, Amen.

I believe that God is calling for intercession. For us to stand in the gap, and pray for those who are in so much pain at a time when they may not be able to form the words themselves. God bless you and keep you.

Written by Mary M. Wilkins

My Heart Longs For Thee

Reprint from Wednesday, September 8, 2010 

There is no better place that I would rather be than in the presence of the Lord. I long to know Him more and I long to spend time at His feet.

There have been many times in my life I have had to walk through very challenging times. Let's face it; life can get just downright plain hard!! I have had disappointment, heartache, and discouraging times. But oh I am so thankful that not one of those times did I have to walk it alone. God was by my side to assure me I would get through every moment.

How sweet to know that God is ever present in our lifes. He cheers us on and tells us we can do all things through Him.

Just calling upon His name brings me great comfort. But oh how I long to be with Him and rest in Him. As it says in Psalms 63:1 the first part, resonates with my heart.

"O God, You are my God, Early will I seek You,

My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You."

That is where I want to be!


Written by Sandy

Mark 12:41-44

Devotional for Tuesday, 7/26/11

And Jesus sat over against the treasury,

and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury:

and many that were rich cast in much .

Devotional for Tuesday, July 26, 210And there came a certain poor widow,

and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing.

And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them,

Verily I say unto you,

That this poor widow hath cast more in,

than all they which have cast into the treasury:

For all they did cast in of their abundance;

 but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.

Mark 12: 41-44

_______________________________________________________________________

Many people were putting great sums of money into the treasury. Christ does not condemn them for giving so much, but He makes an insightful observation on the human condition. These people gave much because they had much from which they could give. Note that He is not even saying that they gave their donations in a wrong attitude. Their effort, however, was probably not very great, especially since they were not experiencing financial hardship.

Nevertheless, He makes the point that the widow gave all that she had. Whether from the perspective of the size of her gift, the attitude behind it, or even how insignificant the amount might seem, the widow took her responsibility very seriously. Actually, she was putting her life on the line! It takes tremendous effort to trust God's promises to provide for one's needs.

We should compare this to our situation in the church. We were once part of a work that we could readily see as being viable, sizeable, and economically sound. We could see just how much we were accomplishing from the size of our holy day offerings and number of television and radio stations the church's program played on. Yet, if we look at what has occurred, we quickly realize how money alone did not solve our problems. All the money and effort we expended, while not totally for naught, did not produce the spiritual results God is looking for. God is the One who determines the success of His people, not us or our money or our efforts. Our part is to strive to follow His lead.

submitted by : Annie

OUR HERITAGE IN CHRIST

Devotional for Monday, July 25, 2011

Reprint from September 6, 2010



Last weekend my family and I attended San Jose's Italian American Heritage Festival at the Guadalupe River Park. What a joy! The parking was easy, considering our massive metro area, the weather was sunny yet pleasantly cool, and the crowds were relatively thin. The grassy area beneath our feet was verdant and clean.



The food was authentic, fresh, and delectable. The live band was heartwarming playing Italian favorites. Bocce ball lessons and tournaments lent excitement to the day. Craft booths displayed everything from Italian logo t-shirts to beautiful paintings of the Amalfi Coast. Accordian players strolled among us adding to the charm of the ambience.



" Bellissimo" sights, sounds and smells filled the air and I was transported to a fantasy of the "old country" where my father was born. My father was from Reggio di Calabria Italy which is at the southern most tip of the boot of Italy. Daddy went to be with the Lord when I was only three years old and my mother was German, not Italian. I am left with recollections of only my earliest childhood years of an Italian lifestyle. However, I must be the product of some sort of genetic memory and predisposition toward all things Italian because at the festival I was in my glory. Hearing the Italian language being spoken, tasting the eggplant, pasta and cannolis, hearing the laughter of "my people" sent me into a state of bliss, as it always does when I am immersed in the Italian culture.



The Italians are a warm, welcoming, fun loving people. I feel such a bond with them and truly believe it is because of my natural heritage. However, the Lord reminded me this weekend, that although my natural cultural affiliation is a blessing, my true spiritual foundation is in Jesus Christ. He is the God of my spiritual forefathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Sarah, the mighty woman of faith in the Bible is my spiritual mentor. These heros of the faith have paved the way for me as I journey here on earth "pressing on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ." Philippians 3:14 (NIV) It is fun and refreshing to experience human joys which God affords, be it our culture, friends, travels or other earthly blessings. However, the Holy Spirit reminded me further of a beautiful song which states: "Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in His wonderful face. And the things of this earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace." And as a final note, it comforts me to know that in this present day culture when we are surrounded by threats and intimidations of those who worship false and strange gods, the uncompromised truth is: "Therefore God has also exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the father." Philippians 2: 9-11 (KJV)


Ciao


Written by CF

EXAUSTION

Reprinted from September, 2010

I live in the desert in Arizona. It can get quite hot here in the summer, often topping 110 degrees, but if you go out early in the morning, it can be quite pleasant. This is horse country, in spite of the hot, arid climate, and I am blessed to be able to ride. I take English/Dressage lessons, and it is quite a workout, applying pressure to different areas on the horse's body with my legs, rising up and down in the stirrups to the trot, keeping the proper posture of my whole trunk and arms and legs, constantly communicating through my body position and energy as I put the horse through it's many different paces in an arena. It is much more work for me than riding on an easy trail ride.

Yesterday, even in the lesser heat of the morning, I was absolutely exhausted after an hour of constant working on my lesson horse, and I hadn't taken enough water breaks... but I didn't realize it until I dismounted. Then it hit me – I could hardly raise my arms, and my legs felt as if they would collapse. I couldn't even reach up to begin loosening the girth of my saddle which was only just above my waist, and I thought I would never catch my breath. I had become dehydrated and felt faint, almost to the point of heat exhaustion. So, I sprawled on a bench nearby, downed lots of water and poured it on my head and on my bandana, swabbing my face over and over until I gradually regained my strength. I was appreciative of the place to rest and ever so grateful that I only had a very light English saddle to lift from the horse's back after my break. Even then, that was a bit of a chore for my exhausted arms, and I took several more breaks before I was done untacking the horse, cooling her down, and returning her to her stall.

Life is sometimes like that. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in working on something, so focused on the task at hand, trying to solve our own problems, that we don't stop often enough to be refreshed. We don't remember to rely on God and his Word. We become weary with the burdens of life. We can become so exhausted that we feel faint at heart. But there is relief waiting for us when we turn back to God:

“I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.”

Jeremiah 31:25

God provides rest for our souls. Gently, he gives us support and comfort. He supplies us with that bench to rest upon, and water to quench our thirst and cool our faces. He refreshes us when we gather with fellow believers and study his Word. He gives us the strength to go on. And he lightens our load, supplying everything needed for life and salvation.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened,

and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you

and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart,

and you will find rest for your souls.

For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

Matthew 11:28-30

Thank you Lord, Jesus, for providing rest for my weary soul, easing my load, supplying all my needs, and refreshing me with your life-giving gift. Help me to always turn to you for help. Amen.

Written by Jan A

Are you ready?

Devotional for Saturday, 7/23/2001

Repost of Devotional from Sept.11, 2010

 In my dream, I was in some sort of prison. It was a life prison. I couldn’t remember life before the prison or why any of us were there. We all the same prison clothes, shoes, and jacket. Everyday, someone was executed. It was inevitable that everyone would die in this prison. There was no way out. The executions were not doled out according to your crime or how long you had been there. They were random, like a lottery. I suppose you could’ve been there a day and your number would be up, or you could’ve been there a lifetime before it was your turn. Everybody would gather together in what seemed like a coliseum. The warden would stand in the center of the stage, and the number was drawn. If your number was drawn, you would go down to the center stage and become hooked up to an electric chair. Everybody would watch. There was no cheering, only silence.

In my dream, my number was drawn. I was sitting next to someone who was a good friend of mine, so I said good-bye to her. On the other side of me was an empty chair, and usually my closest friend was sitting there, but today he was late. I looked around for him so I could say good-bye, but could not find him. I felt more disheartened that he wasn’t there to say good-bye than I was about my ultimate doom that lay before me. I handed my jacket and shoes to the friend who was there, as was customary, and asked her to bid farewell to the missing one.

The closer I got to the stage, the more frightened I became. Then I fell to my knees and on my face. I began to pray right there in the middle of the stage. I was so focused on my anguish; I did not know what was going on around me. I was begging God to help me to get through the fear and the pain. I don’t know how long I was there, but it seemed like a long time. I was aware, however, that there was a lot of noise and lights flashing in the auditorium. I guess I began to assume that I hadn’t even noticed them hooking me up to the wires, and so here it was…my death. I was so exhausted. I’d never been through such intense praying before. Then I stopped. I noticed it was quiet around me and I became confused. As I struggled to catch my breath my mind was racing with questions. “Did it really happen? Why am I still alive? Maybe the lights and sounds really wasn’t the electrocution after all. That’s right! I was never strapped down. I’m still here in the middle of the stage.” I still had not looked up when I felt the warden put her hand on my shoulder. She asked me, “Are you ready?” Somehow I knew she was not asking me if I was ready to die. Though still confused about the question, I still knew to say “yes”. I started to look up, and two people came over to me to help me to my feet. I was so weak, I could hardly stand. I obviously was not dead, but still had to reassure myself as I examined my body. I was drenched with sweat. I looked back down at the floor and saw my puddle of tears. I though about the scripture that says Jesus was sweating drops of blood at the Garden of Gethsemane, but I did not see any blood mixed with my tears and sweat. I did, however, have sticky hands and face covered with snot, but it did not seem to bother the two men who were smiling at me. There was a low murmur over the crowd as the men led me out of the prison to where I had never been before as if I was free. I had never seen such a thing happen before in all the time I had been there, nor had I ever heard of it.

As I regained my strength, gasping for air every now and then from the hyperventilating affect that crying has on a person, we walked up and down the streets through crowds of people that they introduced me to as if I was some sort of celebrity. I was amazed how everyone seemed to know me. They kept saying “You’re the one.” “You’re the one he did it for.” “You are so loved!” Then without a word spoken, the two explained it to me and it finally all made sense. My friend, the one I could not find before the execution, had taken my place while I was on my face sobbing. That’s what the noise and the lights were. And the question that was asked, “Are you ready?” was really “Are you ready to accept what He’s already done for you?”

That was my dream, and I don’t remember anything else after that….

Written by Amie Spruiell

He Will Lead Us

Devotional for Friday 7/22/11
Repost from Friday, November 5, 2010

“And He led them on safely and in confident trust,

so that they feared not,

but the sea overwhelmed their enemies.”

Psalm 78:53

(Amplified Bible)

As I was leaving my house one day, I noticed a little squirrel in the middle of the road. As he saw my truck fast approaching, that little squirrel seemed to “freeze” in his tracks. In a split second he froze, and then he went “high tailing” it as fast as he could, right back into the direction that he had come from.

Now, this may not sound so unusual, but as I began to ponder this, some things came to my mind. The first one was that if you were where I was, at my “vantage” point, you would have seen that the little squirrel was more than three quarters of the way across the road when he saw me. It would have been much easier, and faster, for him to continue to move forward in his journey. However, he chose to turn and run right back into the very place that he had come from.

How many times have we, as Christians, been to that place of being “almost there” in our “walking through” or “walking out” something in our lives. At times we have almost “made it” to the place of overcoming, and yet for whatever reason, we have become frightened and that fear has sent us right back into the place that we were trying so hard to leave.

The second thing I noticed was what happened to that little squirrel when he saw my truck barreling down on top of him. He froze. He saw something that was so big and it was headed right towards him. He probably also heard the sound of the engine. He probably “felt” like a goner. Between what he “saw”, what he “heard”, and what he “felt” he had to somehow decide what he should do. What course of action would be the best for him to take at this time, and what direction should he go in.

How clearly this pertains to our Christian walk, also. At times, we also “see” those things that are “huge” in our sight, and sometimes they look as if they are headed right towards us. We also “hear” the “roar of that engine” inside of us, as we listen to the overwhelming sounds that are all about us. Everything inside of us responds to what is happening on the outside, and soon our feelings on the inside are what are determining what action we will take, and what direction we will choose to run in.

The third and last thing that I noticed was this. The little squirrel, although so close to being on the “other side” of his journey, responded to all of this in a way that sent him right back into the place where he had come from. He went back to the familiar. He chose to run back into what he knew, rather than to continue on his path into a new place.

I cannot help but think that we are just like that little squirrel. Here we are, going through our journeys, minding our own business, being productive and happy, when “boom” before we know it, something comes along and sends us “high tailing” it right back into the place we had just made up our minds to travel from. What that little squirrel didn’t know was that I would have slowed down to allow him to cross that street, and to go forward in his journey. He didn’t know that there was someone watching out for his welfare, because he couldn’t see me. What that little squirrel also didn’t know was that I cared.

Isn’t this like us, how we try so hard to determine our own paths. We think that we are in charge of our own destiny, and so many times we opt to go back to the familiar. We think that we are the ones that need to protect ourselves, and so often we end up in a “familiar” but frustrating cycle in our lives. We take a few steps and are determined to “make it” this time, only to be frightened into going back the way we came because of what we see, hear and feel.

We seem to forget that there is a God Who loves us. We forget that there is a God who knows the way that we should go. We forget that there is a God who is willing and able to protect us on our journey. We forget that there is a God Who can see the things that we cannot see, and that we must trust Him. We forget that there is a God Who wants only the best for us, and we forget that He will patiently wait for and stand beside us until we are able, and ready to continue on in the journey that He has laid out for us.

Written by Beverley A. Napier

Satisfaction in Life

Repost from Thursday, September 16, 2010


Just before her high school graduation I was taking a moment to chat with my daughter about dreams and expectations. We discussed the belief of there being one perfect thing for her to do. Is it true? Is there a calling, a purpose, or a mission that will collectively make use of her gifts and talents for the benefit of others and satisfaction to herself.

As I listened to her toy with big dreams, little wishes and high hopes, I did something unusual. I kept all my warnings and opinions about how hard this or that is, or how difficult or rare it is to achieve such n such tmyself. I know! I was surprised too! Not that I’m against practical analysis, some might even say I’m a bit cynical. But this was a dreaming session, and in a beautiful example of God’s grace, He shut the mouth of this momma lion. The result was a privileged peek into my daughter’s heart.

What a delightful experience. I wish I had done this sooner and more often. Why does it take me so long to learn these things? By the time I get the hang of it, I’m almost done! But that’ll be something ‘fun’ to write about at another time. The short answer is rather rough, painful and embarrassing. Truth be known, I was busy with other things and other people. An honest assessment of my fears, priorities, and habits can wait for another day.


Continuing the discussion of embracing life my daughter clarified her perspective regarding “One perfect thing.” She suggested that life satisfaction would come from many areas experienced rather than a success enjoyed. She does hope to achieve her current dreams, but as opportunities come along she is willing to be flexible and consider adjusting them.


That sounded so healthy and balanced I started thinking about my own life and how it might measure up to such a well-rounded perspective. I imagined a yummy holiday pie divided into many slices. If the pie represented my life, what did each slice stand for? I thought about my husband, 2 slices, definitely. Each child, another 2 slices each; then church, friends, extended family, bible study, running a home, keeping a job, health, personal care, alone time, personal time with God. Looking at the list I began to realize that all of these areas added up to a positive life. Yes, there had been struggles, challenges, losses and negatives. But the sweet moments, joy and laughter end up tipping the balance toward a satisfied life.

“For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments;

and His commandments are not burdensome.

For whatever is born of God overcomes the world;

and this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith.

Who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?

 I John 5:3-5 (NASB)

For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence

and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure,

whatever is lovely and lovable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious,

if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise,

 think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them].

Philippians 4:8 (AMP)

Written by Mary M. Wilkins

" My Security Is In Christ"

Devotional for July 20, 2011

Just today I had a gentleman come to my door to sell us an upgraded, top of the line, security system for our home. He presented us with a great offer that was pretty hard to resist. I am confident that his coming to my door presenting security inspired me to give my devotional on security today.


Daily I am secure in Christ. Daily, moment by moment I can hide away in the arms of Christ. What a peace to know my security is always with me 24 hours a day.

In Psalms 32:7 it says;

"You are my hiding place. You shall preserve me from trouble.

You shall compass me about with songs of deliverance."

That scripture is jam packed with protection for us!

There is no doubt in my mind that our Lord loves us so, and will continuously watch over us and preserve us all the days of our life.
As for the gentleman that came to sell us a security system, my husband and I decided to not accept his offer at this time. What I do know for certain is that my Heavenly Father is the best, top of the line security around! And He provides that security free of charge as I put my life in His hands and trust Him completely!


Now that is an offer I will never refuse!

Written by Sandy

Communion with God “Prayer”

Devotional for July 19,2011

Repost from Tuesday, September 14, 2010

And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do,

that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.

John 14:13-14 b

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Is it true that God has given us a blank check to ask anything of Him just as one might ask a genie in a fairy tale? Some may misunderstand this to be the case, but I John 5:14 qualifies what He will grant: "Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us." Real prayer is communion with God, and what is necessary for communion are common thoughts between His mind and ours.

What we need is for Him to fill our minds and hearts with His thoughts. Then His desires will become our desires flowing back to Him in the form of prayer. James 4:3 confirms this: "You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may spend it on your pleasures." If we ask amiss, we are certainly not asking according to His will, and we will not receive.

But does not Jesus say in John 16:23, "Whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you"? He most assuredly does, but we still do not have a carte blanche. To ask God for anything in the name of Jesus Christ, it must be in keeping with what He is. To ask in Christ's name is to ask as though Christ Himself were asking. Therefore, we can only ask for what Christ Himself would ask. It is therefore necessary to set aside our own will and accept God's. Jesus says in John 8:29: "And He who sent Me is with Me. The Father has not left Me alone, for I always do those things that please Him." If we do as Jesus did, we are sure to receive answers as He did. He adds in John 11:41-42: "Father, I thank you that You have heard Me. And I know that You always hear Me."

We must come away with the realization that prayer is not dictating to God, but a humble and heartfelt expression of our attitude of dependency and need. Because of this, the one who truly prays is submissive to God's will, content with Him supplying his need according to the dictates of His sovereign pleasure. The result of this, combined with the infusion of God's attitudes and thoughts as we draw near to Him, will work to create us in His image.

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Submitted by Annie

ANSWERED PRAYER

Repost from Monday, July 26, 2010


I came to Him in my distress.
I let Him know my plea.
I asked Him for a great request.
I came on bended knee.
His Word assures us of His love,
His willingness to bless.
Why then did I stand so amazed,
When He quickly answered me?
The Word of God is filled with promises that the Lord hears our petitions and that He is more than willing to meet our needs and even give us the desires of our hearts. As we ask in faith according to His will, Scripture and even our past experiences confirm that the Lord can and will come to our aid.

Let us then remember then to be immeasurably thankful yet not so surprised when the Lord rescues us and works on our behalf through answered prayer.

Written by CF

ROAD SIGNS

“Set up road signs; put up guideposts. Take note of the highway, the road that you take..." Jeremiah 31:21 NIV

We see road signs all the time. Some are recognizable simply by their shape and color like the octagonal red stop sign. What about the yellow diamond shaped signs with black diagrams or writing? They are general warning or caution signs, like the symbol of a car with skid marks meaning "slippery when wet". The white rectangular signs with black or red letters/numbers/symbols? They are regulatory signs like speed limits, or giving direction like "keep right". They can also have black symbols with a red circle around the symbol and a red strike through that symbol, indicating "no (something)" like no U turns. Do you know what the blue signs with white lettering or symbols are? They direct you to some type of motorist services, such as a hospital, or they mark handicapped driver parking. And then there are the big green rectangles... they guide and give directional information - the big overhead signs telling you what exits lie ahead, etc.

The Bible is our life's book of road signs - it tells us we should "stop" and pay attention to God and his power:

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10 NIV

“Listen to this, Job; stop and consider God’s wonders." Job 37:14 NIV

The Bible also tells us we should use "caution" along our paths:

Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways. Proverbs 4:26 NIV

God's Word also gives us limits and direction on the road of life:

Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Deuteronomy 6:5-7 NIV

And while we are told what TO do, we are also told what NOT to do, such as worrying or being afraid:

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?" Matthew 6:25 NIV

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 NIV

And finally, the Bible tells us God guides us through our good and bad times in life:

He makes me lie down in green pastures, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:2-4 NIV

So never go on a trip (life) without your roadmap (God's Word) or you might get lost!

Safe journey - in God's arms!
Written by Jan A