Junk in My Trunk

Funny thing happened, TODAY.

I had a plan. I had goals. I was going to be a walk-in visit to the chiropractor, then off to the gym for a good workout, then to work. In that order, thank you very much.

God had other plans.

For whatever reasons, I had been already thinking about my Christian t-shirts, and the fact that I had not really been wearing them lately. I thought about all those folks at the gym I come in contact with almost every day, that could be witnessed to, through conversation surrounding those phrased shirts. So, I decided I should wear one-today. I wore a black t-shirt with white writing across the middle that said, "Got Jesus?"

The traffic was unusually bad this morning on Hwy 155. I griped to myself about how I was barely going to be able to get these two runs accomplished with all this slow traffic out here.

Well, not even 2 miles up the street from my house, the woman in front of me came to an abrupt stop. Thankfully, I saved enough room between me and her, to be able to safely stop. The woman behind me, however- could not. She was following too close. She rear-ended me good. I found myself immediately mad, because this was "throwing a wrench in MY plans!"

I called 911, called my husband, and sat there a few minutes, just calming down. God reminded me of what MY SHIRT read- and that it would be either painfully clear that I had Christ IN ME, or "not," depending on my attitude I got out of that car with! So, I willfully chose "yes" to His reminder of gentle expression.

Job 23:16

For God maketh my heart soft, and the Almighty troubleth me....

The woman was distraught that she had hit me. She sobbed bitterly to the point that I was worried about her. She was not physically hurt, but very broken. I think she was worried that I would develop injury from the hit. I assured her that I was ok, and everything was FINE. I explained to the police that she merely followed too closely, and hit me on a quick break. He asked me if I had any complaints....because if I did not, he would charge her at fault, and file no citation against her. Her husband had shown up, and told me that his grandmother had just died, and they were going to a funeral shortly.

Obviously, not a good day at all for this woman and her family. I let him know that I would by no means cause them any more grief than this has already done. I figure, as long as their insurance covers the repair on my car, I'm good.

So, lesson for today? My plans... mere rubbish. God has a different idea than me, USUALLY.

This woman needed a kind word, a soft tone, a sweet spirit- that only God can deliver, and He does this through His people sometimes. I can only hope that She saw Jesus in me, by the way I handled myself, AND HER. Did she see my shirt? I'm certain. Life and death was being addressed today... in more ways than one for this family. I hope that somehow...today was a successful day in the Lord with this servant. I believe that sometimes, folks can get a multitude of words, just in your actions. Sometimes you don't have to say anything at all, to give a clear message. Scripture says it is good to be more of a listener, rather than a talker.

Ecc 5:1-3		Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil.
			Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter [any] thing before God: for God [is] in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.
			For a dream cometh through the multitude of business; and a fool's voice [is known] by multitude of words.

With regard to the Lord... are YOU "following too closely?"

I SURE HOPE SO!

Psa 145:9

The LORD [is] good to all: and his tender mercies [are] over all his works.

Dying more every day

Psa. 119: 75-78 & 80

I know, O Lord, that Thy judgements are right, and that thou in faithfulness has afflicted me.

Let, I pray Thee, Thy merciful kindness be for my comfort, according to Thy Word unto thy servant.

Let Thy tender mercies come unto me, that I may live: for thy law is my delight.

Let the proud be ashamed;for they dealt perversely with me without a cause: but I will meditate in Thy precepts.

Let my heart be sound in Thy statutes; That I be not ashamed.

I am finding more and more that I need to speak less and less. Sometimes, God's Word says PLENTY without any help from me.

I lean on the everlasting arms of God right now.

I'm counting on His presence to sustain me, to fill me, to heal me, to restore me.

I have all too often wondered the "why" of what God is up to. Why He would afflict me so often and for so very long. Sometimes I think "wow- I must have skin of iron, because God keeps testing it out by purging my flesh!!!"

So be it Lord, that Your perfect plan (not mine) be fulfilled. You know what's best. My plans do nothing but fail 9 out of 10 times, anyway. His ways are not my own. (thank God)

I choose to rest IN HIM today. This whole dying to self thing really is hard. I am finding out more and more, that "more and more people" truly do not totally do that total dying thing.

I am praying that He trade these ashes for beauty...and the sooner, the better- but in Your time, and not mine, oh Lord.

Help me God, to allow the power of Your Holy Spirit to take over...completely, and without any resistance from me. I need Your strength to do this. I have no strength within myself to accomplish this goal of Your perfect will.

I count on You today, to fulfill Your promises that You GAVE ME in YOUR WORD. Thank You Lord, that You and Your Words-are TRUE and FAITHFUL!!!!!!!

GET OVER IT ALREADY

KJV:

Mat 6:25

Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?

Mat 6:34

Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day [is] the evil thereof.

Luke 12:22

And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.

Today, I am thinking...wow. Three verses that tell us the same thing...QUIT WORRYING ALREADY!!!

I have to admit, I am guilty of being a "Worrying Wanda." I tend to borrow trouble, just pondering the junk. Why would I do this, when I know that God has control and He is sovereign?

Satan truly is a roaring lion trying to devour us...and always at our weakest moments (1 Peter 5:8). Funny, being the cunning enemy that he is, he will wait until he knows we are in that grey area of life...and pounce. I've noticed that it is usually, in our minds, first. And he's ever so discreet about it, too. He is good at his job. He seeps in, every so slowly, in a very unnoticed manner...until we have gotten so far in over our heads, we have no idea how we got there, or how long we have been there. Damage. That's his only goal.

My mom always told me "sin will take you farther than you ever wanted to go, and keep you there longer than you intended to stay." Oh the truth to that one. How sad and unfortunate for those who don't ever learn to fully grasp the depths of that statement.

I have thought on these truths today, and once again, decided to claim the promises that I know to be true...the ones in GOD'S WORD. That's the only hope of relieving myself of that Worrying Wanda within.

What can "I" do...really, that's going to change one thing, or one person? Nothing. That's what. It is God's job. Don't know why I would want to pick up that heavy load that only He can carry successfully! Do you ever find yourself dragging around excess baggage that was not yours to pick up in the first place, too? Geesh. I'm choosing to lay it down today. Ya know...it's a day by day choice that has to be made, too. This whole "being human" thing is tough sometimes! The flesh is ridiculous. It acts and reacts ridiculously. I really hate it-therefore, I think I'll again...try dying to myself (as we're called to do in the first place). [Gal. 2:20]

Now, if I can just let me, stay BURIED! :-/

I was reading in Mark this morning, and in chapter 1 (KJV), verses 16-18, Scripture tells us:

Now as He walked by the sea of Galilee, He saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And Jesus said unto them, "Come after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men." And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed Him.

These guys immediately obeyed and followed. I'm sure it was much easier back then...I mean, they were looking right at at the Messiah! "We" are required to go on faith and faith alone- till He returns. A much harder task...but one that's do-able. I mean, we have that Instruction manual (the Bible) at our disposal!

These two were the very first disciples called, according to Scripture. Jesus went on to do the same with the others, and they followed Him as well.

God, I want to be a Simon or an Andrew, today. I know I must live each day, each moment, in faith and trust until You return for me. I cannot change anyone, any circumstance, or anything, myself. This Earth is Your creation, God-and we are all your creations, as well. I want to live a life conducive to what You have taught me. I need to be better focused on Your coming, and telling others about it...not wasting time sweating the small stuff...the really insignificant things that aren't even on YOUR agenda. Put me on Your agenda, God. Cause me to desire to follow You each and every day, in the fullness of Your grace, mercy, and love. I rebuke satan, in Jesus' name, for he has no place here. I will give him NO ground by which to stand firm and destroy.

I know that if I am thinking of anything else outside of focusing on You, I will most definitely lose my way, and stumble in the darkness, for YOU are the Light. The Way. The Everlasting. My Strong Tower. My Shield. My Comfort in times of distress. I can count on You, Lord. So I say today, that I love you-I need You-and I want You...every part of You, in every fiber of my being. That's the ONLY hope that I have to overcome the wiles of the devil.

Thank You God, that Your promises ARE true, and that you CANNOT lie. So many humans do...but You, do not. It's good to know I can count on that at all times!!!!

:-)

Missed Blessings

Matt. 13:54-58

In the above passage, it speaks of Jesus' rejection in His very own town of people- Nazereth. How sad it makes me, to read it this morning. It seems that when he taught there, they were astonished and they reasoned away in themselves, the very good that He was there to do. They reasoned away their own salvation. They allowed their flesh to get in the way, and become offended in His teachings through their unbelief...therefore, doomed to a devil's hell.

I can read this right now, and immediately think, "wow- what they MISSED. Wow-why, in the world would they not not at least think, "ok, maybe there's something to this, and what do we have to lose, by accepting this teaching?"

As I say all that...my very own flesh has been in the same position, in different ways, and I'm suddenly ashamed in reading this. More often than not, I can have the faith that would move a mountain as God speaks of...I can produce faith that does not even make sense sometimes, and I've exercised it to the point of astonishing others. I am also capable, however- of being called "ye of little faith." Why is it, I wonder, that I have to allow myself to waiver? I'm wondering why "I" can't be consistent 100% of the time. Yes, I tend to beat myself up about things like this- and there is something "else" I have got to work on. I "am" human. Certainly not near enough like Jesus as I should be.

Matthew 13:58 says

And He did "not" many mighty works there because of their unbelief.

This tells me me a TON. This means to me, that Jesus wanted to do great things in his own territory there where He grew up- but you know He had to know already, that they were going to respond this way. He must have loved them an awful lot, to go "anyway" and preach to them the gospel- so they could not say that He didn't love them and that He didn't offer the same to His own bretheren that he did everyone else, all over the place. I am inclined to believe, that surely there were a "few" there that accepted- so it would be worth His trip. Who knows. Scripture does not give us every single detail of every single journey of Jesus.

Jesus did so many miraculous, wonderful things for so many people through His journeys- yet in His own hometown...these people missed out on "many" mighty works because of their unbelief.

I can't help but wonder how many mighty works God would and could have been done in my own life and family-had I exercised great faith at ALL times. Hard telling what I've missed out on, myself.

I also see a parallel in verse 57 that reminds me of today's way of living in us all. It says that these people were offended in Him, but Jesus said, to them, "A prophet is not without honour, except in his own country and in his own house."

Prophets back in the day, were greatly respected for the most part- but obviously, no matter what your statute- you had to deal with (just as now), your own people being more skeptical and much harder on you, than strangers and acquaintances. He was telling them that they, "being His own country," were dishonoring Him as a prophet of God.

I have to wonder after Him having said that, how many in His OWN HOUSE rejected the gospel? Now THAT'S a terrible shame. He said it in Scripture, not me. Jesus had many brothers and sisters. Verse 55 of Matthew 13, tells us some about his own house. It doesn't tell "how many" sisters he had...but it speaks as if there might have been quite a few, because it says, "all" being there, when referring to them. And, it speaks of four brothers. Who knows if that means that's all He had in siblings. Mary could have had more after this fact....they had many children back in that day. No birth control for them to choose how many.

So, yeah- my over-analytical mind wonders about that kind of stuff sometimes. But nevertheless- you just have to know and accept the fact, that this be truth: you cannot win ALL, and this means even your own family and town/neighbors...as much as you desire to. You just have to keep on, keeping on-building your faith, building the bridges that will help others to cross over to a new life.

After having read this, this morning...I want to be purposeful in strengthening my faith and exercising it OFTEN...so that I can't be guilty of God passing me up from time to time with the dishing out of those "mighty works" that He WANTS to do in and through me. I don't want my "un"belief to be the cause of Him passing me by in this day.

I am sad to admit, that I am certain that He has HAD to pass me up quite a few times, because of my fear, my anxiety, my doubts, my stupid feelings. UGH. I know I can't "trust" my feelings...so why do I honor them so much, so often? I should probably kick myself as I write this. The ONLY thing I can always rely on, are God's Truths, which are contained in that wonderful Instruction Manual- the Bible.

He loves us too much and I know that, for me to allow satan these footholds of stumbling blocks that he wants to infect my flesh with, and deprive me of those mighty works of blessing.

I am ready to accept the blessings today. I am claiming the promises in this day.

Gotta take it day by day, right? After all- I "am" human. Wish I could be more perfect. I can't, but I can, "strive" to be more righteous in my walk with the Lord. Today is the day.

You all have a wonderful weekend now, ya hear? I'm going to! :-)

His Ways Are Not Our Own!

Have you ever been sitting in traffic, in a hurry, and Mr. Slow gets in front of you, to make it even worse? And, it's always one of those situations where you are at just the right place on the road, that there is no way to pass this Sunday driver. You just want to pull your hair out...or better yet, his.

Or, maybe I'm behind someone in line somewhere-awaiting my turn, to check out some products that I want to buy. Well, lo and behold...the cash register decides it wants to go berserk. I'm all too aware that it's just because it's ME standing there...I just know. JUST MY LUCK.

Ever felt that way? Man, I can't tell you how many times I just want to crawl back in the bed and start all over when it's that kind of day. (oh, and that's after I take everyone out in my own mind, that I feel like had those personal vendettas against me!!!

:-)

I certainly don't mean those things literally, just figuratively speaking...you know what I'm saying!

Bad luck? No such thing. Good luck? No such thing. Coincidence? NO SUCH THING. None of that is Scriptural. God has a plan for each of us, individually, each and every day. He has everything mapped out for our own good, and His glory.

I was just thinking of a story in Scripture last night, that is a small story...and one of my favorites...one you just don't hear a lot about.

It is really a miracle performed by God, in order to shed light on the sin of man in his pursuit of trying to "have my way" all the time. You know...when I just think that my way is best for me...AND everyone else involved?

Yeah.

This is the story of Balaam. King Balak wanted Balaam to go a certain way to help him-in "taking out" some people of Israel who had been distressing the children of Moab. King Balak was over the Moabites. Balaam started out with good intention (to wait upon the Lord for answers)...but then let that 'ole flesh get in his way (through much pressure from earthly authority) and he decide to go on and help the King.

See for yourself, the easily read, ESV version (compliments of Crosswalk.com)

the story of Balaam

(see if you see a miracle that you just don't hear of these days that God performs in these verses!):

• Balak Summons Balaam

• Numbers 22:

• 9.
• And God came to Balaam and said, "Who are these men with you?"

• 10.
• And Balaam said to God, "Balak the son of Zippor, king of Moab, has sent to me, saying,

• 11.
• 'Behold, a people has come out of Egypt, and it covers the face of the earth. Now come, curse them for me. Perhaps I shall be able to fight against them and drive them out.'"

• 12.
• God said to Balaam, "You shall not go with them. You shall not curse the people, for they are blessed."

• 13.
• So Balaam rose in the morning and said to the princes of Balak, "Go to your own land, for the LORD has refused to let me go with you."

• 14.
• So the princes of Moab rose and went to Balak and said, "Balaam refuses to come with us."

• 15.
• Once again Balak sent princes, more in number and more honorable than these.

• 16.
• And they came to Balaam and said to him, "Thus says Balak the son of Zippor: 'Let nothing hinder you from coming to me,

• 17.
• for I will surely do you great honor, and whatever you say to me I will do. Come, curse this people for me.'"

• 18. But Balaam answered and said to the servants of Balak, "Though Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not go beyond the command of the LORD my God to do less or more.

• 19. So you, too, please stay here tonight, that I may know what more the LORD will say to me."

• 20. And God came to Balaam at night and said to him, "If the men have come to call you, rise, go with them; but only do what I tell you."

• 21. So Balaam rose in the morning and saddled his donkey and went with the princes of Moab.

• 22. But God's anger was kindled because he went, and the angel of the LORD took his stand in the way as his adversary. Now he was riding on the donkey, and his two servants were with him.

• 23. And the donkey saw the angel of the LORD standing in the road, with a drawn sword in his hand. And the donkey turned aside out of the road and went into the field. And Balaam struck the donkey, to turn her into the road.

• 24. Then the angel of the LORD stood in a narrow path between the vineyards, with a wall on either side.

• 25. And when the donkey saw the angel of the LORD, she pushed against the wall and pressed Balaam's foot against the wall. So he struck her again.

• 26. Then the angel of the LORD went ahead and stood in a narrow place, where there was no way to turn either to the right or to the left.

• 27. When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD, she lay down under Balaam. And Balaam's anger was kindled, and he struck the donkey with his staff.

• 28. Then the LORD opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said to Balaam, "What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?"

• 29. And Balaam said to the donkey, "Because you have made a fool of me. I wish I had a sword in my hand, for then I would kill you."

• 30. And the donkey said to Balaam, "Am I not your donkey, on which you have ridden all your life long to this day? Is it my habit to treat you this way?" And he said, "No."

• 31. Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, with his drawn sword in his hand. And he bowed down and fell on his face.

• 32. And the angel of the LORD said to him, "Why have you struck your donkey these three times? Behold, I have come out to oppose you because your way is perverse before me.

• 33. The donkey saw me and turned aside before me these three times. If she had not turned aside from me, surely just now I would have killed you and let her live."

• 34. Then Balaam said to the angel of the LORD, "I have sinned, for I did not know that you stood in the road against me. Now therefore, if it is evil in your sight, I will turn back."

• 35. And the angel of the LORD said to Balaam, "Go with the men, but speak only the word that I tell you." So Balaam went on with the princes of Balak.

OK, am I the only one that is a little freaked-out about the fact that God caused an animal to SPEAK???? :-0

Talk about wild. I think that I would either have to absolutely pass out right there, or have a heart attack on the spot and die at the opening of that donkey's mouth to speak to me!

Now THAT'S a way to get someone's attention.

I think maybe I'll rethink that whole impatient thing, when I'm in line or in traffic. It is very possible (since there is no such thing at coincidence), that God may very well be protecting me from something, someone, or even MYSELF when I am being forced to WAIT...in ANY situation or circumstance.

I thank God today, for interruptions! For His timing, His purpose, and His ways...which (thankfully), are not my own!

Proverbs 5:21 KJV

For the ways of man are before the eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings.

Proverbs 16:2 KJV

All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits.

Job 34:21 KJV

For his eyes are upon the ways of man, and he seeth all his goings.

Isaiah 55:9 KJV

For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher

Take a Break

This next week, our kids will be out of school for Winter break (again). It seems that they get a break every few weeks or so, and the strain that places on us to figure out somewhere to go, or something to do to keep them from getting bored....GEESH! How did we get to that point?

Entertainment. Entertainment. Entertainment.

This morning, I am wondering why we don't entertain the idea of breaking away to our own private island...a land of paradise that brings a quiet time for the heart, mind, and spirit; one-on-one with THE One that loves us most? I speak of alone time with the most Holy God. Prayer time. Study into His Word-so I can be replenished, refreshed, and renewed.

That will help me to not want to polish-off these pesky rascals around me that want something all the time! :-)

As we look toward Valentines Weekend, I wonder WHO will give homage to the ONLY ONE who has ever loved them unconditionally and sacrificially- to the point of death? I can't say that I know one person who has ever, or would ever really do that for me, other than Jesus Christ.

Jesus IS my Valentine.

Although I'd have to say it is a great way to set aside a day to let the spouse, fiance', or that one you love so much- know that you love them so much...but why don't we make it a point to let them know continually, as we know we are not promised tomorrow? So really to me-Valentines Day, is so silly.

Psa 144:3 & 4

LORD, what [is] man, that thou takest knowledge of him! [or] the son of man, that thou makest account of him!

Man is like to vanity: his days [are] as a shadow that passeth away.

God says in His Word in Matthew 21:13a:

It is written, MY HOUSE SHALL BE CALLED THE HOUSE OF PRAYER

(KJV)

I noted that this part of this Scripture, was capitalized in my KJV (by Thomas Nelson Publishers). The writer must have meant that with great emphasis and/or this particular translation was wanting to emphasize that, to make it stand out. Who knows. Who cares. It stood out to me, which is what God wanted obviously, at this point and time.

God did not say that "My house shall be called the house of singing"...He didn't say, "My house shall be called a house of preaching"...He said PRAYER.

Later on in this Scripture, He said if we have faith and doubt NOT....and in all things whatsoever we ask in prayer, believing, we shall receive. (vs. 21 & 22 of ch. 21)

I by no stretch of the imagination, believe that I can act any way I want to, and expect God to deliver on this promise. I know God's thoughts on that! I DO however, expect (according to Scripture), that if I am following in HIS will and not that of my own...and I pray fervently (without ceasing) [1Thess. 5:17], and I am praying within His will...these Scriptures come to life and are applicable for me!

1Jo 5:13-15

These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:

And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.

Today, I am thankful for The God who hears us. I am thankful that He loves me enough to remind me to take that much needed time with Him. That frees me from all the worldly cares that tend to get in the way of happiness sometimes.

God is mighty to save. Mighty to calm. Mighty to hear, and Mighty to move on our behalf.

In the book of James, it is said that we have not because we ask not.

ASK today...for God's will in your life. It can be scary to let go of the control...but He knows us so much better than we know ourselves. He knows what's best.

Let Jesus be your VALENTINE this year. Make HIM a card. Make a joyful noise unto HIM this weekend. He is worthy.

PRAY PRAY PRAY.

His house shall be called a house of PRAYER.

Lord, let me not make it a den of thieves.

Let me be that woman of prayer that you designed me to be.

I love you, Lord.

He is MINE and I am HIS.

No better love in this life than that of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Happy Valentine's Day, God :-)

Really?

Phil. 2:3-8
Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation , and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.


Really, Lord?
He says, "YES, Really!"

Sometimes I have a problem with esteeming others above my own self. I don't mean that I think that I am better. I don't know that I ever really feel that I am better. I tend to think I am below most everyone else. Just selfish, that's all. As if that's not bad enough. I mean, I place my desires and what I want to do often times, above the needs that I know that are out there in others.
As I studied today in Matthew, I ended up doing word studies on a set of Scriptures that I took note of that are repeated quite often. That of "the first shall be last, and the last shall be first."
Have you ever really studied His Word enough to realize that there are some Scriptures that are very often repeated throughout the Bible? Obviously, it is all purposeful. Maybe to drive home certain points that God knew were very important that we get. Some of us, need the reminders-worse than others (mainly, me). :-(

Matthew 19:30 (KJV) states:
But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.

Other Scriptures repeat the very same verbiage:

Matt. 20:16
Mark 10:31
Mark 9:35
Luke 13:30

Luke 13:30 says
And behold, there are last which shall be first, and there are first which shall be last.

I noticed that directly across from that Scripture in Luke, on the same page-it said in Chapter 14, verse 11:
For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased (humbled); and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.


Same idea, right? Whew.

I think this means that if I push my way to the head of the line in life, then I can expect to be at the tail-end of the line entering into Heaven...and so forth and so on for anything else that may be happening up there. It is all about putting everyone else AHEAD of myself. Just like JESUS did.
Again, I just keep going back to humbleness and the importance thereof. Obviously, God has much to teach me in this area.

Matthew also says in chapter 20, vs. 27 & 28:

And whosoever be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister and to give his life a ransom for many.

Jesus Christ was the epitome of humbleness. He was making sure he was placing others above Himself.
2 Cor. 5:21 tells us:
For He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.

That's some sacrifice. He let Himself BECOME sin, when He didn't even know sin in any way, shape, or form...all for our redemption and salvation. What love. Mercy. Grace. I can't begin to comprehend it!
Job 37:5 KJV
God thundereth marvellously with his voice; great things doeth he, which we cannot comprehend .



The Greek form of the word "first" in the Strong's Concordance, means: foremost, (in time, place, order or importance), the best, or chief.

The Greek form of the word "last," means: farthest, final (of place or time), latter end, lowest.

Ooh...I do not want to be the "lowest." I am satisfied with somewhere in between (don't have to be first)...but last?

Ouch.

I have a choice here. We all do. Do we all realize that? I wonder sometimes.

I think I tend to "forget" that I have a choice each and every day.

God, draw me to Yourself. Help me to learn more of You. Help me to be content with where you have placed me...each and every day. It is by YOUR hand of blessing that I am where I am in life at this point. Help me oh God, to place others ahead of myself- help me to make it a HABIT that You develop in me...sooner, rather than later. I thank You Lord, for all that You've done, and all that You're GOING TO DO- for You are worthy to be praised, and the Keeper of Promises.

:-)

I love you, Lord

And I lift my voice

To worship You

Oh my soul, rejoice!

Take joy my King

in what You hear

Let it be a sweet, sweet sound

In Your ear.

(lyrics by Laurie Klein)

Sicky Sickerson

Col. 3:23-24

And whatsoever ys do, do heartily as unto the Lord, and not unto men;

Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve THE LORD CHRIST.

I think of this particular verse quite often. Mostly, when I am about to sing to a crowd of people. Or, if I have to speak to a crowd..really, any kind of thing that I must perform before others.

I remember a time-after having sung many times already, one particular morning. We were at the phase of our church service where we were asked to all shake hands and fellowship with one another. I was scheduled to sing that morning.

This little old man in our choir (very Godly and forthright man, I might add), shook my hand. He said, "wow, your hands sure are cold and clammy!!!" (as he laughed). I said, "yeah- I'm SINGING and my stomach is in knots....does it EVER get any better, Mr. Miller?" He said, "not if you're doing it for the right reasons, JulieAnn!" (as he again laughed). I said, "great, thanks for the encouragement!" :-/

I never forgot those simple words of wisdom that this man, now promoted on to Heaven...told me that day, long ago.

I really studied into what he said to me. (being the over-thinker that I am).

In Colossians 3:23 (above), we are told that no matter what we do...do it heartily- as unto the LORD, and "not" unto man. That means giving everything that we have...our very best up to God. We do this (according to the Scripture) because we know that we shall receive blessing when we do, as servants of the Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. When I sing...it's not for that crowd. It's for MY LORD, and His exaltation.

I am learning all the time that this is "not" about ME...contrary to what my stomach tells me when it's going nusto. Contrary to what satan tends to whisper in my ear- just before going up to sing or speak.

Satan is good at telling me how inadequate I am. He's good at telling me that I'm not good enough...I'm not prepared enough...etc. He is ALWAYS telling me "what do you think you're doing???? You KNOW you're not going to pull this off...everyone will know that you don't have a clue what you're doing!"

Well...I found that there is much freeing in REBUKING him when I recognize his voice. I used to tend to hear it as my own conscience...and beat myself up to a bloody pulp, inside. I used to let that stuff defeat me and CAUSE me to crack under the pressure. NO MORE.

Yes, I still get sick to death at my stomach when I have to sing or speak to a group of folks. Yes, I do get into a cold, clammy sweat. But now...I can at least recognize that it is God desiring to show Himself strong, in my weakness.

2Cr 12:9

And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

In Gal. 1:10, Scripture says:

For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men?

For if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.

Oh, I'd much rather please the most Holy God, rather than man-any day of the week. My eternity rests on that! Eternity is kind of important, don't you think?

Each time that I am faced with the "impossible" that has to happen not from my strength, but God's (whether it be singing, speaking, whatever)...I MUST pray. I must ask God to step in and take over. I cannot do it without Him. Realizing that, has made the biggest difference in my life. I now find doors are opening that were once shut. Mountains are being moved that were once in the way. God pours out showers of great blessing as a result of full reliance on Him, and Him alone.

I have realized, that:

"He must INCREASE, but I MUST decrease." (John 3:30)

I came to realize that all my worry and fear of these things in servanthood...if allowed into my heart and mind-is just satan getting victory when I let it be about ME, myself, and I. I can't let him have that! GOD deserves the victory. My very best.

I am encouraged by Gal. 2:20:

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet NOT I, but CHRIST liveth IN ME: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.

So, if I crucify myself, and let God ever so shine through me (since He's in me already), then no worries, eh?

Each time before I go up to sing or speak, you will see me sitting there, praying. I have to ask God, "please take this from me- more of YOU and less of me, Oh God! May You have preeminence in anything that I do or say!"

Oh, and let's not forget the conversation I have to have with satan just beforehand. I let him sternly know, that "yeah, I KNOW I don't have what it takes, but it IS CHRIST "in me" that will perform, and that's just FINE and ALL I NEED!" I have to tell him what Christ told him-which is "get thee behind me satan!" I have found that when I rebuke satan in such a way, and exercise that faith that I claim to have- God uses it to take away the bundle of nerves, and deliver great power that only He can bring forth through the message that He has in me.

It is so funny...even today...I am sick to death at my stomach until that first word comes out of my mouth. Then, it suddenly vanishes away...because God steps in. Just in the nick of time. Isn't that just like Him? In the twelfth hour...right there to my rescue.

So, I will press on...continuing in servanthood until He comes. Obedience is a blessing. I don't want God to rob me of any of the talents that He might have given me, because of fear and worry. That junk is satan's tool. He can use them elsewhere. He has no power here-for God is WITH ME. His promises are TRUE.

Therefore:

I will praise thee with my WHOLE HEART:

Before the gods will I sing praise unto THEE. (Psa. 138:1)

Phl. 3:14

I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

God, you are indeed, WORTHY. Let me not lose sight of that at ANY time.

A Kid-Like Heart

Mat 18:1-4

At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?

And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,

And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.

Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

A LESSON IN HUMILITY.

Nine times out of ten, I need one of those. Is it just me, or is it just plain HARD to bring yourself to a child-like stage in your heart, mind, and spirit? Oftentimes, I struggle with that one.

I tend to want control of my circumstances or situation...and it's not mine to have. That is not humility.

In my not-to-distant past, I wondered around trying to find my niche. I wanted to know what God's will was, and I was searching, diligently. I was working hard at trying to figure out what that "thing" was that God wanted me to do. That service that I was designed to do. Man, did I toil over it. I prayed and begged GOd like a mad-woman to let me know whatever that "thing" was. I whittled away desperately at that stick of correction that was intended for my own whipping. I didn't even see what I was doing to myself. It seemed that I was running in a circle. There was no end. No light at the end of that tunnel.

God's Word clearly showed me that my issue was ever so tiny in the grand scheme of things...but creating a huge stumbling block in the way of my path OUT of that circle. There was no way He was going to bless me and show me His will, if I could not bring myself to a child-like faith and humbleness. God needs to be able to "Father" his "children," in order to teach them the way!

So, what does it mean, to have a "child-like faith?"

Does this mean that I must be immature in my thinking toward the things of God? God forbid. I think not.

Upon some study, I find this means being simplistic and humble.

hmmm...humble. I find that in the KJV of Scripture, humble appears 25 times. Must mean God means for us to seriously consider the benefits of that in our lives- for Him to make sure it's repeated that often!

I find in looking up the word "humble," it means submissive respect. It means you're marked by meekness or modesty in behavior, attitude, or spirit. It means you're not arrogant or prideful. Wowzer.

I must humble myself just the way that I did that very day I was saved. Was I a child at the time? Yes. Had I been an adult, would I have been expected to "be as a child?" YES. I am pretty sure that it means to come broken before the Lord. Knowing that you are the child-and HE is the Father. Letting Him do all the instruction, correction, encouraging, comforting, affirming-all the things you expect a Father to do.

I found, that once I humbled myself, and "became as a child" before Him...He started opening up the doors that had been shut for quite a while, and allowing me through. He began to unleash His power that I had tried to obtain all along...all by myself. Funny part is...is that I wasn't in HIS WORD like I should have been...NO WONDER things were not working out! It starts to all make sense when I look back. He had some serious correcting to do in me, to "whip me into shape!" And boy, does it ever HURT sometimes. But SOOOO worth it, and to my benefit! I found that I also, had to repent of some things in my life that had been woven into my heart causing the road blocks, as well. Mend some relationships. Get to peace in my heart, mind, and spirit.

I found it interesting also, that God repeated Himself two MORE times in Scripture concerning this "child-like" need in my life.

Mar 10:15

Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.

Luk 18:17

Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.

This does not tell me I must be a child physically, in order to be received of Him for eternal salvation. It is part of the way God works. He expects us to be so humbled within ourselves, that we realize our great need of HIM, and are broken-hence producing, a greater faith.

Have you ever noticed what kind of faith a KID will exercise? It's crazy! They will do things that us adults would NEVER try...with no fear most of the time. When there are good parents, the kid will dive in->head-first, they get into things, with complete trust that this parent/s will see them through without letting them fail.

Ever seen one of these little brats snow skiing? GEESH! Not even a whole 2 ft. tall sometimes-they fly right past me with a fierce wind and yelping for joy, all the way down- while I remain in my "pizza stance," scared to death, and sweating bullets to try to get down to the bottom of that bunny trail. Makes ya just want to knock 'em over, doesn't it? ;-)

"Why can't we trust like that, with our own Creator? He knows most, about what's best for us. After all, He designed us each one, individually- Himself!

I'm so glad that God is a patient God. Loving. Kind. Forgiving. True. Trustworthy. Redeeming.

Humble Pie

1 Peter 5:5&6

Ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea ALL of you be subject one to another, and be clothed in humility. For GOD RESISTETH THE PROUD AND GIVETH GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.

I noted in the greek form of the word, to be "subject" to someone, means that we are to submit ourselves unto and obey when necessary.

I have to admit. I am a strong-willed child. Not in all things...but in many. When I read this verse, my mind thinks of that "elder" as not only having been and still holds true-toward my parents. It is also any boss that I have had when at a job. My elder has also been any teachers that I was under submission to. Any authority, really.

I am convicted that this "elder" has also been anyone that is "more mature" in the FAITH, and not necessarily someone older than me in age.

We are all at a different level in our walk with Christ.

I noted in the KJV, that Scripture clearly has, 'FOR GOD RESISTETH THE PROUD AND GIVETH GRACE TO THE HUMBLE." I wondered why the writer capitalized that phrase? To make it stand out and get the reader's attention- in case it is skimmed-over without regard to the depths of its meaning?

What is it, to be "clothed in humility?" I am pierced to believe that I have way too many times, fully dressed out in my "puffed-up" clothes. You know the outfit. The one that says, "back off- you even try to get near THIS armour, and you will get hurt!" Maybe life experiences and past hurts have caused me to dress in such apparel...I don't know.

I do know however, that if I don't decide to not only take those clothes off of me-but THROW THEM AWAY...I am in big trouble. Those many pieces of clothing that I "knitted together myself with my own crafty hands-" will be that which destroys me. Those clothes, will eat up my flesh. I feel suddenly raw from the thought of what I myself, have allowed into my life.

I'd rather have "grace" than God's "resistance," thank you very much. Most definitely.

My Pastor once showed us this illustration of the meaning of Grace:

G- God's

R- Riches

A- At

C- Christ's

E- Expense

All free to us, at our own asking- when we're genuine with God.

In order to be able to take in His Holy Goodness and for Christ to "exalt me," I must first clothe myself in humility. I am thinking that this humility thing...is opposite of everything that "I" have been doing. :-(

Humility (for me, individually), means that I should no longer believe that I am "right about everything." I have got to know that I have MUCH to learn, and allow those "elders" that are placed in my life, to teach me a few things- that I may be exalted in due time.

Humility, for me, is also a place where I am meek and lowly (as Jesus)...not haughty and proud. NOT self-sufficient. OUCH. That's a hard one.

I am the oldest child. I was raised to be self-sufficient. Don't get me wrong- that can have it's very good qualities. But, God. God wants us to be fully reliant on HIM.

Proverbs 3:5-8

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart

Lean not unto thine own understanding

In ALL WAYS acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.

Be not wise in thine own eyes:Fear the Lord,

And depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel

And marrow to thy bones.

Guess if I acknowledge Him in ALL WAYS & seek His wisdom & not that of my own...I may be better humbled. More meek and lowly. More Christ-like.

Yeah. That's it.

I think I'll go eat some more "Humble Pie" (read my Bible), and get rid of some filthy clothes that need to be taken off-for good. I want to dress cleaner. Purer. Holier.

Help me Lord, to clothe myself in humility-each and every day. Forgive me, that I have not "put on the whole armor of God" (Eph. 6:11), but that I have dressed myself in the filthy selfishness of pride. Create in me a clean heart and renew a right spirit within me (Psa. 51:10). Thank you Lord, that Your promises are true and that I can COUNT ON THEM. Thank you SO much, for your GRACE.

What an Awesome Savior.

What a Wonderful GOD.

The Thick of Things

Psalm 138:7-8

Thou I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me.

The Lord will perfect that which concerns me: thy mercy, O Lord, endureth forever. Forsake not the works of thine own hands.

So, here's the JGV (Julie Griffin Version) :-)

Even though I'm in the thick-of-things, God- YOU will renew me. God, YOU will use Your power and strength against the evil plans of those against me- and Your powerful hand will save me.

God will make complete all that has to do with me:Your compassion God, goes on forever and ever. Don't let alone the very creation that YOU, The Creator made Yourself!!!!

God IS in the thick of things. Right there with us. In Matthew 14:22-27, Jesus had sent His disciples to go before Him onto a ship. He was to meet them on the other side after sending the multitudes away and doing some praying alone. Later, the ship began to toss as the waves were crashing all around. They were weary. IN the wee hours of the morning, Jesus came to them...walking on the sea. Funny how He does stuff like that to freak us out sometimes and show us His power, eh?

The disciples cried out in fear when they saw Him, thinking Him to be a ghost. But then, Jesus said in vs. 27: "Be of good cheer, it is I; be NOT afraid!"

Christ already knew that storm was coming. Before it ever happened, He knew. He fore knows ALL. He had every intention on protecting His children- even knowing they would be scared, and doubt.

God goes before us...most particularly, when we ASK Him to do so!

In Exodus 13:21, the Lord led Israel by day, in the pillar of a cloud- and by night, a pillar of fire so they could see the way He had for them.

I am soooo glad that He will perfect that which concerneth me!!! His right hand shall save me! YES! I am so glad today, that I can count on Him to make good on His promises.

Though I walk in the midst of trouble...He WILL revive me. When I am revived-I have been given REST for my weary soul:

R- Refreshing

E- Encouraging

S- Stabalizing

T- Thankworthy

He guides and guards every step that His children (who are in obedience) walk.

The thick-of-things don't seem so thick anymore, with this perspective.

Thank you, Savior.

Following The Leader has it's Blessings, AND Consequences

Today, my heart is faint. Today, I "feel" icky. Not so great, in other words. "Life" has most definitely thrown me a curve ball. (or should I say, satan?) Yeah- that would be more accurate. He's good at those. Get to work for God-and you'd better be aware...those curve balls are headed your way.

Today, I am remembering that with the many blessings of serving Christ...you have to stay on guard-definite trials are ahead, and they do abound. This is a promise in God's Word...but I have to remember also (not taking "part" of His Word, but the WHOLE), that He also will deliver those who are His.

2Ti 3:12

Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.

Psa 34:19

Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.

I count on this, this morning. I rest in this. Although my trials may endure for the night...joy WILL "come in the morning." Psa. 30:5b

What an honor to be called a child of The KING. I thank Him that He resides in me, so much so-that persecution must follow me. Sound crazy? It should... because I "am" after all, part of a strange group... a "peculiar people."

Exodus 19:5, Deut. 14:2, Deut. 26:18, Titus 2:14, and 1 Peter 2:9 ALL tell me that I am a peculiar people-being one of HIS!

Have you ever noticed that satan does not bother those with whom he does not have to worry about? Those who are out of God's will or just plain lost...satan has indeed gained his victory, and goes to work elsewhere...wherever someone is striving to do the Lord's will. It seems that those who plug away working hard at the construction of His Kingdom's expansion- are afflicted the most, at times.

God's Word tells me that if I will but "hang in there" and continue in His will...I WILL be delivered. Not "MAYBE"...I WILL.

I can't help but still be excited somewhat...even in the midst of a great, grevious trial...because I know God's promises to be true. He has proven Himself time and time again. I believe He WANTS us to take Him up on these promises.

He desires that we would put Him to the test-by putting our complete faith in His capabilities to perform...as only the LORD can. Fully rely on Him. I am telling myself this today as satan tries to lie in my ears (as he's good at lying, ya know). Satan says that I need to "dwell on the negatives because I can't fix them." Well, NO KIDDING that "I" can't fix it. I've learned the hard way quite a few times, that I, in my own power and strength, can do NOTHING. God's Word ALSO tells me that!

Jhn 15:5

I am the vine, ye [are] the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

Jhn 9:33

If this man were not of God, he could do nothing.

We have access to the complete "Instruction Manuel" that has ALL the answers to our every day needs. The Bible. What a powerful tool at our very disposal. What in the world are we thinking when we refuse to use that which is FREE to us- to make our lives so much more transformed for the better? And WHO could know us any better and what we need...more than our own Creator?

Sometimes, I recognize satan's voice when I hear it...and all I have to do is rebuke him...in Jesus' name- with God's WORD. God tells us to "resist the devil, and he will flee." (James 4:7)

Sometimes that's a hard one for some folks- to fully rely on God and step back out of the picture and let Him have it. Not typically me. He is still the God of miracles. I believe that. He still performs them to show Himself very real. I'm banking on it.

I mean, after all- look at what God HAS and is willing to do>

Psa 50:10

For every beast of the forest [is] mine, [and] the cattle upon a thousand hills.

I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field [are] mine.

If I were hungry, I would not tell thee: for the world [is] mine, and the fulness thereof.

Will I eat the flesh of bulls, or drink the blood of goats?

Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High:

And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.

Yup. Today is a good day...even if I don't "feel" so great every second of it. I CHOOSE Grace. I choose to rejoice in the Lord...EVEN SO.

He is WORTHY to be praised. He tells us that, too...the same way- in two separate Scriptures:

2Sa 22:4

I will call on the LORD, [who is] worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.

Psa 18:3

I will call upon the LORD, [who is worthy] to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.

GUESS THAT MEANS I NEED TO DOUBLY-PRAISE TODAY WHILE I AM IN TURMOIL, EH?

:-)

YEAH. GOOD IDEA.