Yesterday was an anniversary. On March 29, 2005, I took a wrong step. One wrong step. As a result of that one wrong step, I fell. The result of that fall was a dislocated foot and a shattered ankle. And life has never been the same.
Multiple ankle surgeries. Hours of physical torture. I mean therapy! Ankle fusion. An ankle that now has the ability to forecast the weather!
Life changed for me on that day.
I now walk differently. I understand pain differently. I wear different kinds of shoes than I did previously. I'm different as a result of that one wrong step.
March 29, 2005, started out wonderfully well, and it ended so differently. All because of one wrong step.
One wrong step can make a huge difference to us physically. But it can also make a huge difference in other ways as well. Emotionally. Mentally. Spiritually.
Our wrong steps are not always literal, physical steps that lead to landing in a heap on the ground with broken bones.
Sometimes our wrong steps are bad choices. Wrong thinking. Poor decisions. Sometimes our wrong steps are based on self-centeredness or short-sightedness. Sometimes our wrong steps are a result of not giving God His rightful place in our lives.
Perhaps it's these kinds of "wrong steps" that the Apostle Paul had in mind when he wrote these words in his letter to the church at Ephesus:
"Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil." (Ephesians 5:15 NASB)
Think about that today. And be careful how you walk.
Monday, March 30, 2015
Friday, March 27, 2015
Happy Birthday, AJ!
In just one more day, my first-born grandson will be 9 years old! Where has the time gone?
I can still so vividly remember that day, just a couple of weeks after we had moved here to the mountains, as I waited for the news that he had made his appearance in this world. What an exciting day that was!
And then, just a few days later, we met for the first time.
I can still so vividly remember that day, just a couple of weeks after we had moved here to the mountains, as I waited for the news that he had made his appearance in this world. What an exciting day that was!
And then, just a few days later, we met for the first time.
We spent some time together.
He was dedicated to the Lord.
Since then, time has just flown by!
There have been lots of adventures.
It's really hard to believe it's been nine years since we welcomed this little guy into the world!
Happy Birthday, AJ! Nana and Opa love you so very much, and we can't wait to celebrate your birthday next week when you come to visit!
"Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged." (Proverbs 17:6 NLT)
Thursday, March 26, 2015
I Can't Believe It!
This moving adventure is turning me into a person I don't recognize!
When Al and I headed out a couple of days ago to do some moving-related errands and grab lunch along the way, he said to me, "I can't believe you left the closet door open."
I couldn't believe it either. I never do that!
And he said, "I can't believe you left the dresser drawers open."
I couldn't believe it either. I never do that!
My sweet husband of nearly 43 years is having a hard time believing that I am not keeping a tidy house. That I am not closing the closet door. Or the dresser drawer.
And so am I.
It is, of course, impossible to keep a house tidy while at the same time doing the cleaning and sorting and packing that are part of moving.
Even so, it is difficult to believe that I - the one who adjusts every little thing to precisely the right angle and who wants to be certain that the towels hang in precisely the right way and who absolutely can't stand it if a drawer is not perfectly, as in all-the-way, closed - am leaving drawers and doors open, and allowing things to be left askew.
It's all part of the process. The moving process. Perhaps this moving process is changing me a little bit. Or a lot!
This process, this moving adventure, is much like life in that sense. Life is also a process. And throughout it, we are being changed. Transformed. And the result of that is, for those of us who belong to Christ, becoming more like Him.
That's really what this life is all about. And it's sometimes hard to believe!
"But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror, the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit." (2 Corinthians 3:18 NASB)
When Al and I headed out a couple of days ago to do some moving-related errands and grab lunch along the way, he said to me, "I can't believe you left the closet door open."
I couldn't believe it either. I never do that!
And he said, "I can't believe you left the dresser drawers open."
I couldn't believe it either. I never do that!
My sweet husband of nearly 43 years is having a hard time believing that I am not keeping a tidy house. That I am not closing the closet door. Or the dresser drawer.
And so am I.
It is, of course, impossible to keep a house tidy while at the same time doing the cleaning and sorting and packing that are part of moving.
Even so, it is difficult to believe that I - the one who adjusts every little thing to precisely the right angle and who wants to be certain that the towels hang in precisely the right way and who absolutely can't stand it if a drawer is not perfectly, as in all-the-way, closed - am leaving drawers and doors open, and allowing things to be left askew.
It's all part of the process. The moving process. Perhaps this moving process is changing me a little bit. Or a lot!
This process, this moving adventure, is much like life in that sense. Life is also a process. And throughout it, we are being changed. Transformed. And the result of that is, for those of us who belong to Christ, becoming more like Him.
That's really what this life is all about. And it's sometimes hard to believe!
"But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror, the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit." (2 Corinthians 3:18 NASB)
As we gaze on your kingly brightness,
So our faces display your likeness;
Ever changing from glory to glory,
Mirrored here, may our lives tell your story.
Shine on me, shine on me.
(From "Shine, Jesus, Shine" by Graham Kendrick)
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
Nothing. Not Even....
This morning I did something I never, ever do. I awoke and had my prayer time as usual. But I was bone tired. So tired that I had trouble focusing on the verses I was reading! Part of the fatigue comes from moving preparations, the cleaning and sorting and packing that are part of this process. But a big part of this morning's weariness came from not getting enough sleep last night.
The master bathroom window needed some repair, and the young man who is taking care of that for us was working in that bathroom last night. He got started about 7:30 last night, after he got here from his day job. He worked until almost 11 pm, long after I would have preferred to be sleeping! He's doing a good job taking care of this issue for us, so no complaints about that at all. Even so, I need a lot of sleep, especially during these days of cleaning and sorting and packing and more than a little stress!
Meanwhile over on Facebook many people are sharing their favorite Scripture verses. This activity appears from time to time; most recently, it has taken the form of a seven-day challenge to share a favorite verse a day for the seven day period.
I was thinking about that this morning and realized how hard it would be for me to narrow my list of favorite passages down to seven! Different circumstances, or different seasons of life, lead me to call to mind different passages.
This morning led me to several passages of Scripture, some in the Old Testament and some in the New Testament. Among these were several verses from Romans 8. That would probably qualify as a favorite chapter!
From that chapter, I spent time this morning pondering some favorite verses:
"Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and death. For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did; sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. For the mind set on the flesh is death; but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace, because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so, and those who are in the flesh cannot please God......For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it. In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the Saints according to the will of God. And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son......What shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us?......Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?.....But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:1-8, 24-25, 28-29,31, 35, 37-39 NASB)
This morning, in the middle of my weariness and frustration and stress, the Lord led me to this passage. How thankful I am for that!
And how thankful I am for that nugget of truth planted in this passage, the nugget that brought me such peace and comfort this morning.
Nothing can separate me from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus!
Nothing.
Not the minefield that is buying and selling a house these days.
Not window repairs that rob me of my sleep.
Nothing.
Not even realtors or home inspectors or buyers.
Nothing.
Thank You, Jesus!
"For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38-39 NASB)
The master bathroom window needed some repair, and the young man who is taking care of that for us was working in that bathroom last night. He got started about 7:30 last night, after he got here from his day job. He worked until almost 11 pm, long after I would have preferred to be sleeping! He's doing a good job taking care of this issue for us, so no complaints about that at all. Even so, I need a lot of sleep, especially during these days of cleaning and sorting and packing and more than a little stress!
Meanwhile over on Facebook many people are sharing their favorite Scripture verses. This activity appears from time to time; most recently, it has taken the form of a seven-day challenge to share a favorite verse a day for the seven day period.
I was thinking about that this morning and realized how hard it would be for me to narrow my list of favorite passages down to seven! Different circumstances, or different seasons of life, lead me to call to mind different passages.
This morning led me to several passages of Scripture, some in the Old Testament and some in the New Testament. Among these were several verses from Romans 8. That would probably qualify as a favorite chapter!
From that chapter, I spent time this morning pondering some favorite verses:
"Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and death. For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did; sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. For the mind set on the flesh is death; but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace, because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so, and those who are in the flesh cannot please God......For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it. In the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words; and He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He intercedes for the Saints according to the will of God. And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son......What shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us?......Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?.....But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:1-8, 24-25, 28-29,31, 35, 37-39 NASB)
This morning, in the middle of my weariness and frustration and stress, the Lord led me to this passage. How thankful I am for that!
And how thankful I am for that nugget of truth planted in this passage, the nugget that brought me such peace and comfort this morning.
Nothing can separate me from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus!
Nothing.
Not the minefield that is buying and selling a house these days.
Not window repairs that rob me of my sleep.
Nothing.
Not even realtors or home inspectors or buyers.
Nothing.
Thank You, Jesus!
"For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:38-39 NASB)
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Little Foxes
Yesterday was a roller coaster ride around here. Perhaps you can relate; perhaps you've also had days like that.
We received very good news yesterday concerning an inspection on the house we're buying in Spartanburg, and we were thrilled. Later in the day, we received what we thought was good news concerning an inspection on this house. However, it seemed that same news was being interpreted differently by our realtor and so we were confused. By the end of the day, we were feeling discouraged and frustrated. So, we prayed about it and went to bed.
This morning, I got up and had my prayer time as usual, then had my shower. When I plugged the hair dryer in to dry my hair, it wouldn't work. My first thought was, "Well, this is just great. What else can go wrong? Now the outlet doesn't work."
I plugged the hair dryer into a different outlet, and it still didn't work. And my thought was, "Well, this is just great. Now, on top of everything else, we'll have to buy a hair dryer." I headed to the guest bath to use the spare hair dryer we keep in there, and I noticed that the plug had two buttons on it, a red one and a yellow one. It was a light bulb moment! I went back to the original hair dryer, pressed the red reset button, plugged it into the outlet, and it worked perfectly!
Little foxes. Not literal foxes, although depending on where you live, actual foxes may be an issue. These little foxes are the irritations of life that can rob us of our joy. The frustrations and discouragements and hair dryers that won't work. Life is not all about "big" events and "big" decisions. Life is also, perhaps even more so, about the little everyday things. The little foxes.
We're halfway through our 40 days of prayer and fasting. And it still isn't about the food. (See http://susanssittingroom.blogspot.com/2015/03/whats-point-anyway.html for more on that subject.)
These 40 days are about seeking the Lord. About learning to trust Him in all things. About seeking Him in the big decisions of life. About praying for our nation and our world. For our cities and our neighborhoods.
But these days are also about seeking the Lord and learning to trust Him in the little things. Things like frustration and discouragement and confusion. Things like the little foxes that are "ruining the vineyard" and messing up our day. Things like hair dryers that won't work!
These 40 days are about "fixing our eyes on Jesus" (Hebrews 12:2), and not on our circumstances. About trusting that "God will supply all our need." (Philippians 4:19). About knowing that He is working all things together for our good and for His glory (Romans 8:28-29).
These days are about learning to "give thanks in all things" (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
Seeking God. Learning to trust. Giving thanks, even when there are little foxes.
That's what it's all about.
"Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith develops endurance." (James 1:2-3 NASB)
"What limit is there on what God will do for us when we seek His face?" - Don Wilton
Monday, March 23, 2015
What Are You Reaching For Today? Another Hard Question.
We're about halfway through a 40-day period of prayer and fasting in our church. Throughout this period, I have thought often about something Job said. You remember Job. That guy back in the Old Testament. The one we equate with suffering and patience. And of course, he did endure quite a bit. But I haven't been thinking so much about what Job endured; rather, I've been thinking about something he said.
[Job said], I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food." (Job 23:12 NASB, emphasis mine)
More than necessary food. That's quite a statement, isn't it? Job treasured God's words more than he treasured his necessary food. I wrote about this verse last week. About dealing with that hard question: what am I treasuring most?
Job didn't have the written Word of God, yet he hung onto, treasured, every word that came from God. Although we don't hear from God audibly, we have the great blessing of having the written Word of God available to us. In multiple formats. In multiple translations. Leatherbound or paperback. On our I-pads and our computers and our smart phones.
But are we treasuring it, as Job did? That's the first question, the most obvious question, that comes to mind as I ponder this verse.
If I take Job's statement and apply it to my own life, I have no trouble agreeing with him. I have, I do treasure God's Word more than my necessary food. Before you think I have put myself on too high a pedestal, let me explain.
I don't really treasure "necessary food" all that much. Vegetables and fruits and all the other stuff that is "good for me" are not really a treasure to me. It's the unnecessary food that is my treasure! Ice cream and chocolate. Snickers and Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. Milkshakes. Pie. You get the idea. These are the foods that I love!
And if I'm honest, it is often much more difficult for me to say that "I treasure His Word more than my unnecessary food"! Not always, but certainly more often than I would really like to admit.
That's been my struggle during this period of prayer and fasting. My "fast" has been to skip one meal a day and to spend that time in prayer and Bible study, listening for that "still small voice" of God. Spending that time just being still and knowing that He is God. For the most part, with perhaps one or two exceptions, I have not had a hard time with that. My struggle has come between meals. During the times when I have been a little hungry. Or a little stressed. Or a little bored. Or a little tired. (Certainly more tired than bored these days, as we're in the middle of preparing to move!)
My confession to you is that during those times, I have been very tempted to reach for the unnecessary food. Very tempted to turn to those things I treasure so much, those unnecessary foods that I love rather than turning to God. Tempted to reach for a Lindor Truffle. Or a Snickers. Or a Peanut Butter Cup. To reach for those things that bring only a temporary satisfaction, but that have no lasting value.
I'm fairly confident that I'm not the only one with this kind of struggle. Perhaps you don't turn to chocolate. Your (temporary) satisfaction may come from some other thing. Or activity. Or thought. Or person.
When times are tough. Or when your faith is weak. Or when you are worried. Or stressed. Or frustrated. Or tired. Where do you turn?
What are you reaching for? The chocolate? The telephone? The internet? The remote control?
What are you treasuring most?
WHO are you treasuring most?
Where do you turn?
If we're turning anywhere but to the Lord and to His Word, we're making a wrong turn.
Something to think about.
"I have not departed from the command of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food." (Job 23:12 NASB)
[Job said], I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food." (Job 23:12 NASB, emphasis mine)
More than necessary food. That's quite a statement, isn't it? Job treasured God's words more than he treasured his necessary food. I wrote about this verse last week. About dealing with that hard question: what am I treasuring most?
Job didn't have the written Word of God, yet he hung onto, treasured, every word that came from God. Although we don't hear from God audibly, we have the great blessing of having the written Word of God available to us. In multiple formats. In multiple translations. Leatherbound or paperback. On our I-pads and our computers and our smart phones.
But are we treasuring it, as Job did? That's the first question, the most obvious question, that comes to mind as I ponder this verse.
If I take Job's statement and apply it to my own life, I have no trouble agreeing with him. I have, I do treasure God's Word more than my necessary food. Before you think I have put myself on too high a pedestal, let me explain.
I don't really treasure "necessary food" all that much. Vegetables and fruits and all the other stuff that is "good for me" are not really a treasure to me. It's the unnecessary food that is my treasure! Ice cream and chocolate. Snickers and Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. Milkshakes. Pie. You get the idea. These are the foods that I love!
And if I'm honest, it is often much more difficult for me to say that "I treasure His Word more than my unnecessary food"! Not always, but certainly more often than I would really like to admit.
That's been my struggle during this period of prayer and fasting. My "fast" has been to skip one meal a day and to spend that time in prayer and Bible study, listening for that "still small voice" of God. Spending that time just being still and knowing that He is God. For the most part, with perhaps one or two exceptions, I have not had a hard time with that. My struggle has come between meals. During the times when I have been a little hungry. Or a little stressed. Or a little bored. Or a little tired. (Certainly more tired than bored these days, as we're in the middle of preparing to move!)
My confession to you is that during those times, I have been very tempted to reach for the unnecessary food. Very tempted to turn to those things I treasure so much, those unnecessary foods that I love rather than turning to God. Tempted to reach for a Lindor Truffle. Or a Snickers. Or a Peanut Butter Cup. To reach for those things that bring only a temporary satisfaction, but that have no lasting value.
I'm fairly confident that I'm not the only one with this kind of struggle. Perhaps you don't turn to chocolate. Your (temporary) satisfaction may come from some other thing. Or activity. Or thought. Or person.
When times are tough. Or when your faith is weak. Or when you are worried. Or stressed. Or frustrated. Or tired. Where do you turn?
What are you reaching for? The chocolate? The telephone? The internet? The remote control?
What are you treasuring most?
WHO are you treasuring most?
Where do you turn?
If we're turning anywhere but to the Lord and to His Word, we're making a wrong turn.
Something to think about.
"I have not departed from the command of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food." (Job 23:12 NASB)
Friday, March 20, 2015
The Word of the Day
As I have been reflecting on the events of the last week, and of the last several weeks, the word that keeps coming to mind is grateful.
This morning I'm grateful that even though it doesn't look, or feel, much like it, today is the first day of spring!
Last Friday morning we were busily scurrying about getting our house tidied up and ready to be shown later that day. We had no idea that in a few short hours we would have an offer to purchase. And for that, I am so very grateful.
I'm grateful that as we moved through this week, all the details of that sale have been coming together so smoothly. It really is mind-boggling how well things are coming together, and I am so very grateful.
Earlier this week, we found a house that we love in our new city, and we made an offer to purchase it. We don't yet know if that offer has been accepted, but even as I wait, I am grateful for the way all the details that led us to that particular house fit together so perfectly. I grateful for all the friends who are praying with us as we wait. And even if it should turn out that our offer is not accepted, I am grateful because I know that if this house is not the one God has in mind for us, He will lead us to the next one.
Looking back over the last couple of weeks, I am grateful for a pastor who has been faithful to God's leading and who has called our church into a 40 day period of fasting and prayer. I am grateful for this period of intense focus on praying and seeking the Lord. I'm grateful for the way we, as a church and as individuals, are being drawn closer to the Lord. I am grateful for the times of refreshing and worship this period of fasting and praying has brought to our church and to me personally.
We learned last night that my precious mother-in-law was hospitalized yesterday. Although I'm not quite sure yet what the diagnosis will be as we are awaiting results of tests that will be done today, I am grateful that our loving Heavenly Father has her in His care. I am grateful as we rest in the knowledge that He is in control.
I am grateful for the sovereignty of God. I am grateful that He has all things under control. In our world. In our nation. In my mother-in-law's situation. As concerns our purchase of a new home. God is in control. He is working all things together for our good and for His glory. For that, I am grateful indeed.
Grateful.
It's the word of the day!
"Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NASB, emphasis mine)
This morning I'm grateful that even though it doesn't look, or feel, much like it, today is the first day of spring!
Last Friday morning we were busily scurrying about getting our house tidied up and ready to be shown later that day. We had no idea that in a few short hours we would have an offer to purchase. And for that, I am so very grateful.
I'm grateful that as we moved through this week, all the details of that sale have been coming together so smoothly. It really is mind-boggling how well things are coming together, and I am so very grateful.
Earlier this week, we found a house that we love in our new city, and we made an offer to purchase it. We don't yet know if that offer has been accepted, but even as I wait, I am grateful for the way all the details that led us to that particular house fit together so perfectly. I grateful for all the friends who are praying with us as we wait. And even if it should turn out that our offer is not accepted, I am grateful because I know that if this house is not the one God has in mind for us, He will lead us to the next one.
Looking back over the last couple of weeks, I am grateful for a pastor who has been faithful to God's leading and who has called our church into a 40 day period of fasting and prayer. I am grateful for this period of intense focus on praying and seeking the Lord. I'm grateful for the way we, as a church and as individuals, are being drawn closer to the Lord. I am grateful for the times of refreshing and worship this period of fasting and praying has brought to our church and to me personally.
We learned last night that my precious mother-in-law was hospitalized yesterday. Although I'm not quite sure yet what the diagnosis will be as we are awaiting results of tests that will be done today, I am grateful that our loving Heavenly Father has her in His care. I am grateful as we rest in the knowledge that He is in control.
I am grateful for the sovereignty of God. I am grateful that He has all things under control. In our world. In our nation. In my mother-in-law's situation. As concerns our purchase of a new home. God is in control. He is working all things together for our good and for His glory. For that, I am grateful indeed.
Grateful.
It's the word of the day!
"Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NASB, emphasis mine)
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
A Hard Question
Job said, "I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food." (Job 23:12b NASB)
What about you? What about me? Can we say the same thing?
What are we treasuring most?
Do we treasure God's words more than our necessary food?
It's a hard question. But one we need to be asking.
What do I treasure most?
Something to think about.
Listen to "Nothing Between My Soul and the Savior" here:
https://youtu.be/o62NruWQyBk
What about you? What about me? Can we say the same thing?
What are we treasuring most?
Do we treasure God's words more than our necessary food?
It's a hard question. But one we need to be asking.
What do I treasure most?
Something to think about.
Nothing between my soul and the Savior,
Naught of this world’s elusive dream;
I have renounced all sinful pleasure;
Jesus is mine, there’s nothing between.
Naught of this world’s elusive dream;
I have renounced all sinful pleasure;
Jesus is mine, there’s nothing between.
Nothing between my soul and the Savior,
So that His blessed face may be seen;
Nothing preventing the least of His favor,
Keep the way clear! Let nothing between.
So that His blessed face may be seen;
Nothing preventing the least of His favor,
Keep the way clear! Let nothing between.
(words and music by Charles Albert Tindley)
Listen to "Nothing Between My Soul and the Savior" here:
https://youtu.be/o62NruWQyBk
Monday, March 16, 2015
In His Time
On Saturday, just 17 days short of one year since we signed the listing agreement, we signed an agreement to sell our house.
The house was shown on Friday, and on Friday afternoon we received and accepted a verbal offer. On Saturday it became "official". And "real".
It's overwhelming! And we're still a little numb. After months of praying and waiting, we have our answer. And in many ways, it's hard to believe it's real.
But it is!
And our God, who is able to do "exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think" (Ephesians 3:18), has done exactly that, and we are set to close in just 45 short days.
There's much to be done in these 45 days, including finding a new house. We had a good afternoon of house-hunting yesterday afternoon after church, and now must make a final decision. There's the packing to be done and lots of decisions to be made. These 45 days will likely pass very quickly.
God has answered our prayers concerning the sale of this house. Now we're praying about making the right decision about our next home, for wisdom as we make all the decisions that are part of the moving process, and for physical stamina as we have much to accomplish in these days.
This process took longer than we expected. Longer than we had hoped. But God answered our prayers. In His time.
To God be the glory! Great things He has done!
"I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together." (Psalm 34:1,3 NASB)
The house was shown on Friday, and on Friday afternoon we received and accepted a verbal offer. On Saturday it became "official". And "real".
It's overwhelming! And we're still a little numb. After months of praying and waiting, we have our answer. And in many ways, it's hard to believe it's real.
But it is!
And our God, who is able to do "exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think" (Ephesians 3:18), has done exactly that, and we are set to close in just 45 short days.
There's much to be done in these 45 days, including finding a new house. We had a good afternoon of house-hunting yesterday afternoon after church, and now must make a final decision. There's the packing to be done and lots of decisions to be made. These 45 days will likely pass very quickly.
God has answered our prayers concerning the sale of this house. Now we're praying about making the right decision about our next home, for wisdom as we make all the decisions that are part of the moving process, and for physical stamina as we have much to accomplish in these days.
This process took longer than we expected. Longer than we had hoped. But God answered our prayers. In His time.
To God be the glory! Great things He has done!
"I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together." (Psalm 34:1,3 NASB)
Friday, March 13, 2015
Frustrations and Focus
This has been an unusually busy week, and all this extra activity means that much of what was on my to-do list for the week remains undone. Which means that, in addition to being more than a little weary from all the busyness, I'm also more than a little frustrated because of what hasn't been accomplished on my list.
Does that ever happen to you? Do you ever get frustrated by what you haven't accomplished?
Maybe it has nothing to do with a to-do list. Maybe it's because you're trying to diet, and you had that one bad day, so you're frustrated and ready to give up. Maybe you're frustrated because of some other circumstance in your life.
We all get frustrated from time to time. When those frustrations come, as they inevitably will, it's easy to lose focus. Or to focus on the wrong thing. To focus on what didn't get done instead of what did. To focus on the hot fudge sundae you just ate and feel guilty about, instead of on the fifty pounds (or five or ten, or whatever....) that you already lost.
Frustrations come in all shapes and sizes and for all sorts of reasons. What frustrates me might not frustrate you. But we all have to deal with frustrations.
It would be very easy for me to be so frustrated over everything I haven't accomplished this week that I lose sight of all the good things that happened. A surprise visit from a friend on Monday. The semi-annual girlfriend getaway in Pigeon Forge with another friend. That getaway always brings shopping, good food, lots of laughter, and good conversation.
There was that encouraging note that brightened my day. And the doctor's visit that resulted in a change in medication which will hopefully improve my physical condition. There was the beauty in nature that I experienced as I drove over to Pigeon Forge. The beautiful sunset on Wednesday. The beauty of the morning sky on Thursday.
It really is a matter of focus. When my focus becomes blurred and I find myself distracted, it is sometimes an effort to get myself going in the right direction again. Perhaps it is for you as well. What I have found to be the biggest help when I find myself in this situation is to go to the Scriptures. God's Word has a wonderful way of getting me focused back in the right direction, no matter what the circumstances that have distracted me.
Psalm 103 is one of my favorite places to turn when I find myself out of focus. If you're finding yourself distracted, or out of focus, or just a little bit out of sorts, try reading that Psalm. Here are a few verses to get you started:
Does that ever happen to you? Do you ever get frustrated by what you haven't accomplished?
Maybe it has nothing to do with a to-do list. Maybe it's because you're trying to diet, and you had that one bad day, so you're frustrated and ready to give up. Maybe you're frustrated because of some other circumstance in your life.
We all get frustrated from time to time. When those frustrations come, as they inevitably will, it's easy to lose focus. Or to focus on the wrong thing. To focus on what didn't get done instead of what did. To focus on the hot fudge sundae you just ate and feel guilty about, instead of on the fifty pounds (or five or ten, or whatever....) that you already lost.
Frustrations come in all shapes and sizes and for all sorts of reasons. What frustrates me might not frustrate you. But we all have to deal with frustrations.
It would be very easy for me to be so frustrated over everything I haven't accomplished this week that I lose sight of all the good things that happened. A surprise visit from a friend on Monday. The semi-annual girlfriend getaway in Pigeon Forge with another friend. That getaway always brings shopping, good food, lots of laughter, and good conversation.
There was that encouraging note that brightened my day. And the doctor's visit that resulted in a change in medication which will hopefully improve my physical condition. There was the beauty in nature that I experienced as I drove over to Pigeon Forge. The beautiful sunset on Wednesday. The beauty of the morning sky on Thursday.
It really is a matter of focus. When my focus becomes blurred and I find myself distracted, it is sometimes an effort to get myself going in the right direction again. Perhaps it is for you as well. What I have found to be the biggest help when I find myself in this situation is to go to the Scriptures. God's Word has a wonderful way of getting me focused back in the right direction, no matter what the circumstances that have distracted me.
Psalm 103 is one of my favorite places to turn when I find myself out of focus. If you're finding yourself distracted, or out of focus, or just a little bit out of sorts, try reading that Psalm. Here are a few verses to get you started:
Bless, the LORD, O my soul,
And all that is within me, bless His holy name.
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
And forget none of His benefits;
Who pardons all your iniquities,
Who heals all your diseases;
Who redeems your life from the pit,
Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion;
Who satisfies your years with good things,
So that your youth is renewed like the eagle.
Read the whole thing. Focus your attention on the Lord and on all He has done. It will really put all that other stuff into proper perspective!
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, all you works of His, in all places of His dominion; bless the LORD, O my soul! (Psalm 103:1, 22 NASB)
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Like Never Before
Bless the Lord oh my soul,
Oh my soul,
Worship His Holy name.
Sing like never before,
Oh my soul.
I worship Your Holy name.
(-Matt Redman)
It was our first Sunday together since the fast began. And it was amazing, like never before.
Many of our people have begun to get serious about fasting and praying. People are fasting in all sorts of ways. Some are doing what might be called the radical fast, going 40 days without food. Others are fasting one day a week. Or one meal a day. Some are doing a Daniel fast. Some who have medical issues that prevent fasting food are fasting other things. Things like social media or television. Or sleep.
That sounds a little strange, doesn't it? I'm fasting one meal a day for these 40 days. But I'm also fasting sleep. I'm giving up two hours of sleep every day. Getting up two hours earlier than normal and spending those two hours with the Lord. In prayer and in the Word.
I don't mind telling you that, so far at least, giving up sleep is by far more difficult for me than missing a meal. I love to eat; that's no secret. And it's pretty obvious from the looks of me! But I also love my sleep. And my best sleep always comes in those last couple of hours before I awake. In spite of that, the Lord has led me to give that up, and so that's what I'm doing. And I am being blessed because of it.
One of the great blessings so far during this time of fasting and praying was our time of corporate worship on Sunday. I'm hesitant to refer to it as a "worship service" because it was unlike our "normal" services. On a typical Sunday morning at our church there are four worship services, two at 9 AM and two at 10:30. There is a blended service in the sanctuary at the earlier hour, followed by a more traditional service. At both times, there is a contemporary service going on in a building across the road.
On Sunday, by means of technology, the two services were united at each hour. We sang together, prayed together, and worshiped together. We were one body in two places. It was very special. But that's not the most special part. It's not the "never before" part. We have, from time to time on previous occasions, been joined by technology.
Sunday was unlike our "normal" Sundays. Perhaps because we are more focused as a result of praying and fasting. In any event, as we prayed, and as we sang, and as we listened, there was an overwhelming sense of God's presence among us.
On this particular Sunday, there was no sermon in the usual sense. We didn't follow our typical order of service.
On this particular Sunday, there was no sermon in the usual sense. We didn't follow our typical order of service.
On Sunday, we sang. We prayed. We stood. We sat. Some knelt. We listened. And we heard and experienced God speaking to us.
It was amazing. It was like never before.
It's hard to find words to adequately describe the experience. I can only say that I was blessed over and above and beyond. Like never before.
"O give thanks to the LORD, call upon His name; make known His deeds among the peoples. Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; speak of all His wonders. Glory in His holy name; Let the heart of those who seek the LORD be glad. Seek the LORD and His strength; seek His face continually." (Psalm 105:1-4 NASB)
If you'd like to know more about our worship experience, click on this link:
http://new.livestream.com/fbcspartanburg/events/3355219
If you'd like to know more about our worship experience, click on this link:
http://new.livestream.com/fbcspartanburg/events/3355219
Monday, March 9, 2015
Jump-Starting the Day
If you're at all like me, sometimes it's hard to get going in the morning. I know that some people are considered "morning people". I, however, am not among that group!
Because it's hard for me to get going in the morning, I sometimes need a boost. A jump-start. And I have found the best way to do that is with prayer and praise.
Also because I'm not a morning person, I often need a little help getting my brain in gear. I don't always think coherent thoughts when I first get out of bed.
For that reason, I like to begin my day in the Psalms. With words like these, from Psalm 66:
"Shout joyfully to God, all the earth; sing the glory of His name; make His praise glorious. Say to God, 'How awesome are Your works!'" (Psalm 66:1-2 NASB)
And with words like these, from Psalm 67:
"God be gracious to us and bless us, and cause His face to shine upon us." (Psalm 67:1 NASB)
That's how I began my day this morning. Praising God for His awesome deeds and praying for His blessing.
As I read further in Psalm 67, I discovered an interesting truth. The Psalmist is asking God to be gracious. He's asking for God's blessing. He's asking for God's face to shine on him. That's what he's praying for.
But why does he ask for those things? The answer to that question comes in verse 2.
"That Your way may be known on the earth, your salvation among all nations." (Psalm 67:2 NASB)
There's a powerful lesson for us here. We don't ask for God's blessing on us and on our families only for our own sake.
We ask these things so that God might use us to bless others. So that His way might be known throughout the whole earth.
Because it's not about us.
It's all and only about Him.
"God blesses us, that all the ends of the earth may fear Him." (Psalm 67:7 NASB)
Because it's hard for me to get going in the morning, I sometimes need a boost. A jump-start. And I have found the best way to do that is with prayer and praise.
Also because I'm not a morning person, I often need a little help getting my brain in gear. I don't always think coherent thoughts when I first get out of bed.
For that reason, I like to begin my day in the Psalms. With words like these, from Psalm 66:
"Shout joyfully to God, all the earth; sing the glory of His name; make His praise glorious. Say to God, 'How awesome are Your works!'" (Psalm 66:1-2 NASB)
And with words like these, from Psalm 67:
"God be gracious to us and bless us, and cause His face to shine upon us." (Psalm 67:1 NASB)
That's how I began my day this morning. Praising God for His awesome deeds and praying for His blessing.
As I read further in Psalm 67, I discovered an interesting truth. The Psalmist is asking God to be gracious. He's asking for God's blessing. He's asking for God's face to shine on him. That's what he's praying for.
But why does he ask for those things? The answer to that question comes in verse 2.
"That Your way may be known on the earth, your salvation among all nations." (Psalm 67:2 NASB)
There's a powerful lesson for us here. We don't ask for God's blessing on us and on our families only for our own sake.
We ask these things so that God might use us to bless others. So that His way might be known throughout the whole earth.
Because it's not about us.
It's all and only about Him.
"God blesses us, that all the ends of the earth may fear Him." (Psalm 67:7 NASB)
Saturday, March 7, 2015
A Thought I'm Still Pondering
I read this verse a few days ago in my daily Bible reading. I had read it last year. And the year before that. And the year before that....
I wrote about this verse last year, as I was pondering it. I'm still pondering this thought and how it applies to me, and for that reason, today I'm sharing that original blog post, with just a few edits, first published on March 6, 2014.
This year I'm reading from the NASB rather than from the ESV, but the verse is almost exactly the same. Only one word is translated differently.
"The LORD our God spoke to us in Horeb, 'You have stayed long enough at this mountain.'" (Deuteronomy 1:6 NASB)
When I read this verse I was encouraged concerning our desire to move away from this mountain and relocate. Yes, I am aware that I have plucked that completely out of its context to apply to my situation. Even so, it was an encouragement.
Before I began reading the book of Deuteronomy, I read the book of Numbers, which is the story of the Israelites wandering in the wilderness before they entered the Promised Land. (Entering the Promised Land doesn't come until the book of Joshua.) The reason they wandered so long - 40 years - was because of their disobedience and rebellion. In spite of that, I am encouraged when I read their story.
There are a few key points which stand out to me and which are the source of my encouragement.
First, God always has a plan and His plan is always best.
Second, there are consequences for not following His plan. Consequences for disobedience. Consequences for rebellion.
But, third, the consequences don't last forever. No, all the individuals were not allowed to enter the Promised Land (consequences), but the tribes of Israel did go into the land God had promised them. They had wandered in the wilderness for a long time, but the wandering didn't last forever.
How does this apply to you and me?
God has a plan. His plan is always best. When we fail to follow His plan, or when we rebel against it, there are consequences. We may do some wandering. But it won't last forever. God doesn't punish us because He is spiteful or vindictive, but in order that we might learn that His way is best. ("Do not despise the LORD's discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the LORD reproves him whom he loves." Proverbs 3:11-12a ESV)
I was encouraged for my own circumstances when I read Deuteronomy 1:6. This verse reminded me that God's timing is perfect and that He knows what He's doing.
This verse challenged me as well. Challenged me to be sure that I am following God's way. To be sure that I know His will and His ways. To be diligent to know His Word. And to trust His timing.
So that I don't have to wonder. Or wander.
"I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word." (Psalm 119:15-16 ESV)
Friday, March 6, 2015
What's the Point Anyway?
Earlier this week I mentioned to you that our pastor has called our church into a period of prayer and fasting. In addition, we'll be studying about prayer and fasting in our Sunday morning Bible study, and I've also been doing some reading and studying on that topic.
One question I've heard asked recently is why do we need to fast? If we're already praying, why do we also need to fast? It's a legitimate question. What's the point anyway?
In his book Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough, Dr. Elmer Towns writes, "Fasting is not an end in itself; it is a means by which we can worship the Lord and submit ourselves in humility to Him......One of the greatest benefits of fasting is becoming more attentive to God."
So that's one answer to the question. Certainly fasting is not a way to blackmail God into giving us what we want. It isn't some sort of gimmick. Nor is it a way to make God love us more. But it is a way to show we mean business with God. It is a way to draw closer to Him, to worship Him, and to humble ourselves before Him.
And He has said, in the oft-quoted 2 Chronicles 7:14, "if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." (emphasis mine)
There are numerous examples of fasting in the Bible, and also throughout history. Consider this example. Jonathan Edwards, who is often credited with beginning the First Great Awakening in the United States in the 1740s, fasted 22 hours before preaching his famous sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God."
Some one hundred years later, during the Laymen's Prayer Revival of 1859, Christians fasted during their lunch hours and attended prayer meetings. This led to a prayer revival across the northeastern United States.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if once again we could experience that kind of spiritual reawakening in our country?
"If my people will humble themselves and pray......"
That's the point.
One question I've heard asked recently is why do we need to fast? If we're already praying, why do we also need to fast? It's a legitimate question. What's the point anyway?
In his book Fasting for Spiritual Breakthrough, Dr. Elmer Towns writes, "Fasting is not an end in itself; it is a means by which we can worship the Lord and submit ourselves in humility to Him......One of the greatest benefits of fasting is becoming more attentive to God."
So that's one answer to the question. Certainly fasting is not a way to blackmail God into giving us what we want. It isn't some sort of gimmick. Nor is it a way to make God love us more. But it is a way to show we mean business with God. It is a way to draw closer to Him, to worship Him, and to humble ourselves before Him.
And He has said, in the oft-quoted 2 Chronicles 7:14, "if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." (emphasis mine)
There are numerous examples of fasting in the Bible, and also throughout history. Consider this example. Jonathan Edwards, who is often credited with beginning the First Great Awakening in the United States in the 1740s, fasted 22 hours before preaching his famous sermon "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God."
Some one hundred years later, during the Laymen's Prayer Revival of 1859, Christians fasted during their lunch hours and attended prayer meetings. This led to a prayer revival across the northeastern United States.
Wouldn't it be wonderful if once again we could experience that kind of spiritual reawakening in our country?
"If my people will humble themselves and pray......"
That's the point.
Send a revival, O Christ, my Lord,
Let it go over the land and sea.
Send it according to Thy dear Word,
And let it begin in me.
Let it go over the land and sea.
Send it according to Thy dear Word,
And let it begin in me.
(B. B. McKinney)
Thursday, March 5, 2015
Happy Birthday, Brian!
Today is a very special day. A day for celebrating. Today this precious baby boy, our first-born son, turns 40!
Back when this first-born child of ours was only a dream in our hearts, our dreams were shattered when we were told by doctors that we could never have children.
So today, I celebrate! I celebrate that God knows more than any doctor knows! I celebrate that beautiful baby boy who grew up to be a handsome young man. On days like this, I travel down memory lane. Remembering the baby.
Remembering the precocious toddler.
Then, suddenly it seemed, he was all grown up.
I remember well the pride I felt when he joined the Air Force and went off to serve his country. And I also remember how hard it was during those years when he was far from home.
Now I find myself nearly bursting with joy over the man he has become as I watch him be the parent.
Happy Birthday, Brian! I love you more!
"For this child I prayed, and the Lord has given me my petition which I asked of Him."
(1 Samuel 1:27)
Back when this first-born child of ours was only a dream in our hearts, our dreams were shattered when we were told by doctors that we could never have children.
So today, I celebrate! I celebrate that God knows more than any doctor knows! I celebrate that beautiful baby boy who grew up to be a handsome young man. On days like this, I travel down memory lane. Remembering the baby.
Remembering the precocious toddler.
Then, suddenly it seemed, he was all grown up.
I remember well the pride I felt when he joined the Air Force and went off to serve his country. And I also remember how hard it was during those years when he was far from home.
Now I find myself nearly bursting with joy over the man he has become as I watch him be the parent.
I can hardly believe Brian is 40 years old today! Where does the time go?
Today I'm celebrating Brian. Celebrating the love and joy that he brings into our lives.
Even more, I'm celebrating a faithful God. This day is a reminder that God answers prayer, and I am completely in awe of how wonderfully well He answered mine.
Happy Birthday, Brian! I love you more!
"For this child I prayed, and the Lord has given me my petition which I asked of Him."
(1 Samuel 1:27)
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
Great Anticipation!
Today is an important day in the life of my church family. Today is an important day in my life.
Our pastor has called our church family into a 40 day period of fasting and praying. And that 40 days starts today.
These 40 days are a period of intense focus. Not focus on what we are giving up, or on whatever we might be fasting from. But focus on the Lord. Focus on spending more time with Him. Focus on listening to Him more closely. Focus on a deepening relationship with Him.
I am so excited about these days. Certainly they will be challenging days. Any time this many of God's people are praying, the enemy of our souls is not happy.
Even so, I am so excited to see what God is going to do in and through us as we humble ourselves before Him and pray. As we bring our burdens to Him. As we pray for lost people who need to know Jesus as Savior and Lord. As we lift our petitions for our families and our church and our city and our state and our nation. As we press in closer and hear what He has to say to us. As we focus less on what's important to us, and more on what's important to God.
I am looking forward with great anticipation to see what will happen. How we will be forever changed. How God will answer.
This is going to be amazing!
"If My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14 NASB)
Our pastor has called our church family into a 40 day period of fasting and praying. And that 40 days starts today.
These 40 days are a period of intense focus. Not focus on what we are giving up, or on whatever we might be fasting from. But focus on the Lord. Focus on spending more time with Him. Focus on listening to Him more closely. Focus on a deepening relationship with Him.
I am so excited about these days. Certainly they will be challenging days. Any time this many of God's people are praying, the enemy of our souls is not happy.
Even so, I am so excited to see what God is going to do in and through us as we humble ourselves before Him and pray. As we bring our burdens to Him. As we pray for lost people who need to know Jesus as Savior and Lord. As we lift our petitions for our families and our church and our city and our state and our nation. As we press in closer and hear what He has to say to us. As we focus less on what's important to us, and more on what's important to God.
I am looking forward with great anticipation to see what will happen. How we will be forever changed. How God will answer.
This is going to be amazing!
"If My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14 NASB)
Tuesday, March 3, 2015
Under Construction
Construction is a fact of life. And not only on the roads.
Every time I saw one of those orange barrels on our recent trip, I found myself remembering a kids' song from a few years back. Maybe you know it, too.
Kids under construction -
Maybe the paint is still wet.
Kids under construction -
The Lord may not be finished yet.
Maybe the paint is still wet.
Kids under construction -
The Lord may not be finished yet.
(Bill Gaither/Gary Paxton)
It's a fun song with a catchy tune, but it also contains a profound truth. The point of the song is that kids are just kids, still works in progress, and we should perhaps be a bit more patient with them when they mess up or when they make a bad decision. After all, they are still "under construction". We don't yet see the finished product when we look at a child.
But it is also true that all of us are still "under construction", for as long as we are in this life. We never reach the point where we have "arrived". We may gain great knowledge or skill in any number of subjects, but none of us will ever arrive at the point in this life where there is nothing left to learn and no room left for mental or spiritual growth. As long as we live, as long as we have breath, there's room for improvement. We are still "under construction".
And so we press on. Until the Lord is finished with us and in us and through us here. Until the day we are called home.
Until then we are still "under construction."
My heart can sing when I pause to remember
A heartache here is but a stepping stone
Along a path that's winding always upward;
This troubled world is not my final home.
But until then my heart will go on singing;
Until then with joy I'll carry on.
Until the day my eyes behold my Saviour;
Until the day God calls me home.
(words and music by Stuart Hamblen)
Monday, March 2, 2015
It's Good to Be Home!
After a two-week road trip, it's good to be home. It was wonderful to sleep in my own bed last night with my own pillow. To wake up and have coffee in my own mug, and to sit in my own comfy chair as I read my Bible. It's good to get back into my own space with my regular routines.
But even as I'm enjoying being home, I'm also missing much of what we experienced over these last two weeks. Time with family. Warm weather (at least while we were in Florida!). Sunshine.
There's not much sunshine up here today. Or warm weather either!
We had to deal with this as we arrived back yesterday afternoon:
And this morning, this is the view from the front porch:
But even as I'm missing sunshine and warm temperatures, and even as I am sorting through two weeks' worth of dirty clothes and settling back into regular routines, I'm also reflecting on the blessings of these past two weeks. On all the reasons I have for giving thanks this morning.
Time with family tops that list. In the past two weeks, I've had time with both my sons and their families, and also some time with my husband's parents, and with my brother and sister-in-love as well. To see all these dear people in a two-week span of time is something that never happens, and I count it as a precious treasure.
Over the last two weeks we experienced much of the beauty of God's creation. We traveled through the mountains to the piedmont of North Carolina. On through the midlands of South Carolina, down the coast of Georgia, and into Florida. We experienced some winter, and some spring, and even a hint of summer! We saw oak trees and pine trees and palm trees. Bare branches in the Carolinas and blooming hibiscus in Florida. We experienced snow and sleet and rain and sunshine.
I'm thankful for safety as we traveled over these two weeks. I'm thankful to have enjoyed wonderful accommodations and to have eaten some delicious food. I'm thankful to have had periods of rest and relaxation.
Yesterday afternoon I was very thankful for our neighbor Dwayne, who came and scraped our road as soon as we called him.
This morning, as I'm reflecting back on the experiences of these two weeks, I'm especially thankful for my Heavenly Father who blessed me with all these gifts of His grace over this time away from home. And as I think about all these grace gifts, I can't help but think about just how much He loves me. And you. How deep is His love.
We are loved beyond what we can even begin to comprehend. And for that I am eternally grateful.
"See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!" (1 John 3:1 NIV)
But even as I'm enjoying being home, I'm also missing much of what we experienced over these last two weeks. Time with family. Warm weather (at least while we were in Florida!). Sunshine.
There's not much sunshine up here today. Or warm weather either!
We had to deal with this as we arrived back yesterday afternoon:
And this morning, this is the view from the front porch:
But even as I'm missing sunshine and warm temperatures, and even as I am sorting through two weeks' worth of dirty clothes and settling back into regular routines, I'm also reflecting on the blessings of these past two weeks. On all the reasons I have for giving thanks this morning.
Time with family tops that list. In the past two weeks, I've had time with both my sons and their families, and also some time with my husband's parents, and with my brother and sister-in-love as well. To see all these dear people in a two-week span of time is something that never happens, and I count it as a precious treasure.
Over the last two weeks we experienced much of the beauty of God's creation. We traveled through the mountains to the piedmont of North Carolina. On through the midlands of South Carolina, down the coast of Georgia, and into Florida. We experienced some winter, and some spring, and even a hint of summer! We saw oak trees and pine trees and palm trees. Bare branches in the Carolinas and blooming hibiscus in Florida. We experienced snow and sleet and rain and sunshine.
I'm thankful for safety as we traveled over these two weeks. I'm thankful to have enjoyed wonderful accommodations and to have eaten some delicious food. I'm thankful to have had periods of rest and relaxation.
Yesterday afternoon I was very thankful for our neighbor Dwayne, who came and scraped our road as soon as we called him.
This morning, as I'm reflecting back on the experiences of these two weeks, I'm especially thankful for my Heavenly Father who blessed me with all these gifts of His grace over this time away from home. And as I think about all these grace gifts, I can't help but think about just how much He loves me. And you. How deep is His love.
We are loved beyond what we can even begin to comprehend. And for that I am eternally grateful.
"See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!" (1 John 3:1 NIV)
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