Saturday, January 14, 2017

Where I Am


 


God calls us to stand in faith regardless of what we see or what may be happening to us. He tells us in His word that things we must endure in our lives have a far greater purpose than our finite minds could begin to understand. Sometimes the pain, tragedy, personal loss, and feeling of being so alone are so overwhelming that it is difficult to perceive that God has a plan and purpose that will bring Him glory. When we say "Yes" to Jesus and accept God's grace, we are told to expect persecution. Jesus said it Himself that if the world hated Him, it would hate us also. Sadly, I am experiencing the onslaught of the enemy's hatred for me and my family. So if God's word is true, and He is not a liar, I must be on the right path to have so much animosity coming my way.

Sometimes I feel so alone here with my family so far away from me. Although my daughter lives two hours away, she has been bearing her cross for Christ since an early age. My Abba Father is with me and my children regardless of how we feel or the silence we experience when we cry out to Him.  But, I continues to praise Him daily in the midst of persecution knowing He hears me and loves me. On the most tragic of days, when I have been at the lowest points, He as affirmed His love through daily KLOVE scriptures, Godvine, His Word, devotional material, and even a letter in the mail. These messages I receive could not be interpreted as anything other than love letters from my Father who adores me, who holds me in His victorious right hand, and who hears my cries, sees tears, and understands my fears.

Perhaps you are going through a very difficult time of testing, or maybe you're in a period of waiting. I want to encourage today to hold fast to your faith and know that God loves you and has your best interest at heart. I want to share with you some of the scriptures that have given me comfort over the past few days in the hops that one will touch your heart and give you strength and courage for today.


"And this same God who takes care of me will 
supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which 
have been given to us in Christ Jesus."
Ephesians 4:19 (NLT)




 

Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live 
safely in the land and prosper.
Psalm 37:3


 


 All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 
who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing
in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ.
Ephesians 1:3 (NLT)


 


Whatever happens I urge you to always stand for righteousness, because righteousness always prevails! God is indeed a GOOD, GOOD FATHER!




Monday, January 2, 2017

Great is Thy Faithfulness





As 2017 comes rolling in to the sounds of fireworks and shouts of glee as the ball descends, our journeys turn another page. I am reminded at the first light of our new year that "My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; He is mine forever." (Psalm 73:26).

I remember the beginning of 2016 as I anticipated the preparatory days leading up to my 66th birthday, full retirement age, and my hope of returning to Virginia to purchase my home. We never know what will happen moment by moment much less day by day. Sometimes I wonder why we try to make plans at all. And yet we cannot live life spontaneously, by the "seat of our pants," so to speak, as plans are needed for business, anticipating events, and many other ventures. It has become our way of life aided by the fall of man at the beginning of time.

I do not make resolutions, but I do dream. I know God spoke to my heart so many years ago of the plans He has for me and my family, so sight unseen I remain hopeful of His promise. Although my year closed with a very loud, obnoxious bang, I still know in Whom I have believed...." (2 Timothy 1:12). With childlike wonder I remain in awe of His glory as His light shines in the darkness and consumes it. Quietly, without fireworks, save those bursting within my soul, I anticipate wonderful, victories for my life and the lives of my children. Thus far, He has blessed me immeasurably, and this is just the second day of the New Year!

Only God knows our future, but He holds our hands. Happy New Year! Live each day of this year like you're loved, because you are!