On the journey of life, as fellow sojourner; sister, wife, past Trauma Nurse, Mom of four, blessed through adoption, and our foreign exchange student, Jesus Christ is my Lord. I have found the broken cracks in my life mold and shaped me, yet remind me how much I must lean on the God who is the Ultimate in Wisdom. I hope my musings resonate with you.
Wants over needs. We want to feel happy, we want to be similar to peers, we want to fit in, we want to keep up with the Joneses, we want stuff that never satisfies; bling, clothes, cars, a big house and status.
What do we need? We need to seek God first; seek Him for our futures, seek Him for our daily struggles like comparison traps, seek Him for provisions of community, shelter, food and peace. Peace with Him and His plans trumps the world view of constant discontent and changing cultural norms.
Status in Him seems crazy to those who don’t know Him. Yet He is our Almighty God, our Jehovah Jireh ( provider), Jehovah Nissi ( Love), and the all sufficient One, El Shaddai!!
Genesis 17:1 NLT When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him and said, “I am El-Shaddai-‘God Almighty.’ Serve me faithfully and live a blameless life.
Just like Abraham in the book of Genesis, our God is the El Shaddai. We must serve Him faithfully and seek to be content with what He wants to provide not our selfish desires and needs.
1 John 2:15-17 MSG Don’t love the world’s ways. Don’t love the world’s goods. Love of the world squeezes out love for the Father. Practically everything that goes on in the world—wanting your own way, wanting everything for yourself, wanting to appear important—has nothing to do with the Father. It just isolates you from him. The world and all its wanting, wanting, wanting is on the way out—but whoever does what God wants is set for eternity.
As I took this photograph of the Mt. Baker Mountain range, I was in awe of the majesty found in God and His creation. His goodness and strength is unfathomable. He is the solid rock for our life. All wisdom comes from Him.
Matthew 7:24-29 AMP “So everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, will be like a wise man [a far-sighted, practical, and sensible man] who built his house on the rock. [25] And the rain fell, and the floods and torrents came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. [26] And everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not do them, will be like a foolish (stupid) man who built his house on the sand. [27] And the rain fell, and the floods and torrents came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and it fell—and great and complete was its fall.” [28] When Jesus had finished [speaking] these words [on the mountain], the crowds were astonished and overwhelmed at His teaching; [29] for He was teaching them as one who had authority [to teach entirely of His own volition], and not as their scribes [who relied on others to confirm their authority].
Seek the guidance of Your Creator God for your steps. The journey may have trials and forks on the trail of life. But you will not walk alone. No other words needed.
I am doing a mini study on the phrase “Only You”. when I ponder this phrase I realize that I must reflect this action. Only you? I make the choice to move in the authority of Christ who is in me. Only the Lord, He gives me the capacity to be strong and courageous as the Lord did for Joshua.We must be strong and courageous but not in our own abilities but in the power, might and authority of our Lord.We need to keep our focus on God. Wars raged in his times and they still rage today.
Joshua 1:7-8 AMPC Only you be strong and very courageous, that you may do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you. Turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go. [8] This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.
Joshua 1:9 AMPC Have not I commanded you? Be strong, vigorous, and very courageous. Be not afraid, neither be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
These are powerful scriptures to remind us that His promises follow each of His children. Only you can start the process of transformation by submitting to God. His Word declared aloud brings us the voice and hearing to claim its promises for our families.
Another important preparation for our next level intimacy with our God requires our action. Job 11:13-20 describes how we can prepare our hearts and hands to Him.
Job 11:13-20 NLT “If only you would prepare your heart and lift up your hands to him in prayer! [14] Get rid of your sins, and leave all iniquity behind you. [15] Then your face will brighten with innocence. You will be strong and free of fear. [16] You will forget your misery; it will be like water flowing away. [17] Your life will be brighter than the noonday. Even darkness will be as bright as morning. [18] Having hope will give you courage. You will be protected and will rest in safety. [19] You will lie down unafraid, and many will look to you for help. [20] But the wicked will be blinded. They will have no escape. Their only hope is death.”
We need to access the promises of God. We need to meditate on His Word, again declaring it aloud. Repeat aloud Job 11:13-20. Repeat over and feel the declaration change the atmosphere in your home.
Psalm 25:5-6 AMP Guide me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; For You [and only You] I wait [expectantly] all the day long. [6] Remember, O LORD, Your [tender] compassion and Your lovingkindnesses, For they have been from of old.
For only with the Lord guiding and teaching us His truth can we in expectancy be changed from the inside out. We can open ourselves up to a deeper understanding of His goodness, compassion and grace. He is a just God who wants our active participation in relationship. We must move into His arms, His truths, and be given more hope as our reward.
Psalm 25:7-10 AMP Do not remember the sins of my youth or my transgressions; According to Your lovingkindness remember me, For Your goodness’ sake, O LORD. [8] Good and upright is the LORD; Therefore He instructs sinners in the way. [9] He leads the humble in justice, And He teaches the humble His way. [10] All the paths of the LORD are lovingkindness and goodness and truth and faithfulness To those who keep His covenant and His testimonies.
If only we would worship and bow down to Him. Kneeling before our Lord, our maker! He is our shepherd, we are His sheep, the flock under His care.
Psalm 95:6-7 NLT Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the LORD our maker, [7] for he is our God. We are the people he watches over, the flock under his care. If only you would listen to his voice today!
He who made the heavens and earth wants you to take steps on the Rock, when we look to the mountains, we see majesty, firm foundation and endless beauty. He is the Rock on which we must stand. ( paraphrase Psalm 121)
So only you can make the decision for yourself! Your parents, families faith in Jesus may have or have not brought you wisdom in religion, however, there is a reason we each need to personally seek the Lord, Jesus. It’s a one to one partnership of wisdom, grace, mercy, comfort, help, hope, direction and peace. Ask Jesus and receive a bountiful reward. It is not only for you but for generations behind you.
Matthew 7:8 NLT For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.
I am sharing this reblogged because Mother’s Day has many emotions, I am blessed to be a part of Christian Mommas and have infertility. God loves all women and has purpose for our Wombs of destiny. A fellow Sister at Christian Mommas wrote this devotional. It is so good. May it help you or those you love to see God has plans! Be encouraged.
Love Mary
Conceived and Nurtured To Be a Powerful Weapon The ‘godly seed’ who comes forth to be light in a dark world and manifests the will of GOD on earth is…
Temptations abound, distractions for our teens and us. We are made for His purpose, warts and all. He is our Healer! Our Jehovah Rapha! ( Hebrew for God of healing).
Don’t be afraid of Gods calling in your life!!! The one sure truth is that God does not create His children for a life of evil and death. We are each created with a God given purpose.
Take a walk with God
Psalm 139:13-18 NLT You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. [14] Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous-how well I know it. [15] You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. [16] You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. [17] How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! [18] I can’t even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, you are still with me!
There is a great plan for us, our children, and family. The distractions of the world bring white noise and the yapping of a parent like in a Peanuts old cartoon video, “ ya ya ya ya.” But God calls us to greater wisdom.
Psalm 139:1-12 NLT O LORD, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. [2] You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away. [3] You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do. [4] You know what I am going to say even before I say it, LORD. [5] You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head. [6] Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to understand! [7] I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! [8] If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there. [9] If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, [10] even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me. [11] I could ask the darkness to hide me and the light around me to become night- [12] but even in darkness I cannot hide from you. To you the night shines as bright as day. Darkness and light are the same to you.
Oh Lord help us to see, you never abandon your children. We choose to step away from Your protection and that is a life consequence. Our enemy then works to destroy us, we need to humble ourselves before our Creator God and seek His wisdom for life change.
Psalm 139:19,21-24 NLT O God, if only you would destroy the wicked! Get out of my life, you murderers! [21] O LORD, shouldn’t I hate those who hate you? Shouldn’t I despise those who oppose you? [22] Yes, I hate them with total hatred, for your enemies are my enemies. [23] Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. [24] Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.
Just like Jeremiah, who felt too young and not equipped to speak for God. God will use you. He loves you and you were born for great purpose.
Jeremiah 1:5-8,10 NLT “I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.” [6] “O Sovereign LORD,” I said, “I can’t speak for you! I’m too young!” [7] The LORD replied, “Don’t say, ‘I’m too young,’ for you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you. [8] And don’t be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and will protect you. I, the LORD, have spoken!” [10] Today I appoint you to stand up against nations and kingdoms. Some you must uproot and tear down, destroy and overthrow. Others you must build up and plant.”
Oh Lord God, Father, Jesus, Holy Spirit, we need You. Thank you for multiple opportunities to turn from our pride, bitterness, and selfish intentions. Thank you that you see us in a greater Light. Today, we repent from our selfish desires. Search our hearts, create in us a clean heart and transform our lives for Your greater purpose. It is never too late, You can do all things when we submit to You! We love you Jesus. Mold us to the best version of ourselves, son and daughter of King Jesus, Amen!!
Who would’ve thought a lonely, dung beetle would be able to share a life lesson with a human.
A friend of mine sent me a video as she was taking her morning walk in a Texas town. She came up on a Dung beetle!! It was struggling to make its way up, an incline, black, tar road of a small highway. Before its’ body was a small ball of horse manure. At times, the ball of manure would roll back on the beetle, then it would use its God created larger front legs to maneuver it forward.
According a video by science.org , the dung beetle is the strongest insect on earth, able to pull 1000 times+ its weight.
Lone Dung Beetle by GF
What you see in this photo is a ball of brown manure, it didn’t start out looking that way, but this dung beetle had determination. The dung beetle decided to grab a little manure and continue on its way, it rolled the manure on the hot Texas road.
Where was it going and why was it gathering manure from another location to bring it to across the highway?
How does it compare to human life, I don’t know about you, but there are times when I wonder; why do I pick up someone else’s situation; chaotic relationships, conflict or narcissism or whatever it may be my heavy load of life. Why did I decide that I’m supposed to push others situations up the hill? I am like a dung beetle, are you?
God tells us that he gives us enough for this day and we’re not to worry about tomorrow. His word reminds us that he wants us to reach out to him and ask for his help.
Matthew 6:25-26,31-34 NLT “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life-whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? [26] Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? [31] “So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ [32] These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. [33] Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. [34] “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.
The Lord God wants us to let Him guide us with whatever it is, we’re pushing up a hill. But do we remember to let Go and let God, especially when we are in our most exhausted place. Sometimes we lean into our God,sometimes we don’t!
We have to let the Lord carry the load. Sometimes it’s hard to love others or understand their ways. God knows about all things. With Gods’ wisdom, you could learn to love your soul mate/ boyfriend/spouse, love your kids, and love your relatives, extended family. But only God can help you carry a load.
I truly believe that if we realize this premise to go to God, first, He truly would provide what He provided for the Dung beetle: the strength and his perfectly created legs(?arms) for the struggle.
In the Bible, Jeremiah was feeling overwhelmed when the Lord called him to a purpose.
Jeremiah 1:5-10 NLT “I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.” [6] “O Sovereign LORD,” I said, “I can’t speak for you! I’m too young!” [7] The LORD replied, “Don’t say, ‘I’m too young,’ for you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you. [8] And don’t be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and will protect you. I, the LORD, have spoken!” [9] Then the LORD reached out and touched my mouth and said, “Look, I have put my words in your mouth! [10] Today I appoint you to stand up against nations and kingdoms. Some you must uproot and tear down, destroy and overthrow. Others you must build up and plant.”
Jeremiah 1:18-19 NLT For see, today I have made you strong like a fortified city that cannot be captured, like an iron pillar or a bronze wall. You will stand against the whole land- the kings, officials, priests, and people of Judah. [19] They will fight you, but they will fail. For I am with you, and I will take care of you. I, the LORD, have spoken!”
Just as God helped Jeremiah, He helps us with our struggles. We need to believe in His promises. Sometimes it takes determination, time and patience, but all things are possible with Him.
Just as a dung beetle is equipped with specific traits and strength so are we. We are created to do great things. He is a good,good Father!!
The new day has begun, your sweet cat meows loudly as he runs down the hall to awaken you. He is better than an alarm clock. His meow gains loudness, as you resist opening your eyes. After all, in the cats’ mind your lack of movement could be mortal.
Or is it a dog that paces the hall and jumps into your bed because he needs to be let outside for a bathroom break and food?Or a horse neighing awaiting its’ hay and grain?
The moment you open your eyes, stretch out your arms and say”this is the day, the Lord has made I will rejoice and be glad”, your mind attempts to sabotage the good feelings. Rebuke that negative, anxiety filled liar ( the enemy) spewing fears. You make the choice how to begin your day, remember!
What thoughts overwhelm your mind? Is it the to-do list, appointments scheduled, relationship struggle that needs to get resolved, health issues, finances, or something else?
God wants us to give our days to Him. It is not easy for control freaks, I am one!! He wants our worries cast upon Him. (1 Peter 5:7). He cares about you.
Psalm 139:23-24 NLT Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. [24] Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.
I need a reminder on occasion to hand over my swirling thoughts to my Jesus! Maybe you do too! God reminds us He wants our trust and for Our obedience to His plan. Our Lord loves us!
Psalm 33:20-22 NLT We put our hope in the LORD. He is our help and our shield. [21] In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. [22] Let your unfailing love surround us, LORD, for our hope is in you alone.
A renewed mind with past unhealthy coping skills needs an adjustment with God as the Master! We have to guard our hearts and minds.
Proverbs 4:23 NLT Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.
A defining scripture for any day, any circumstance is found in Philippians 4:8-9. It defines a Godly focus to life.
Philippians 4:8-9 AMP Finally, believers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable and worthy of respect, whatever is right and confirmed by God’s word, whatever is pure and wholesome, whatever is lovely and brings peace, whatever is admirable and of good repute; if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think continually on these things [center your mind on them, and implant them in your heart]. [9] The things which you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things [in daily life], and the God [who is the source] of peace and well-being will be with you.
Our pride and human reasoning does not bring anything close to Holy Spirit wisdom. We need help! Teach your sons and daughters to obey you, God! The battle starts in the mind.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 NLT We are human, but we don’t wage war as humans do. [4] We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. [5] We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ.
Bring all thoughts to God! Meditation on any one of the scriptures posted can daily bring the Word of God to your mind and change your swirling thoughts to peace with His truth,
So the next time your beloved animal awakens your sleep, give thanks to God who made your amazing bestie to bring a slice of love from Him.
Our peace is attainable through God alone! He gives us the capacity to move, breathe, and take each step of life. May it be well with you as you turn over your thoughts to the Master Bestie, the Holy Spirit!
As parents or those who care for teens life can be an amazing adventure of spontaneity and new insights. I don’t know about you but I love being with teens.
They are a combination of electric sparks, simmering pots of water boiling on a stove, generous and loving, seeking wisdom at times or avoiding the wisdom while slamming doors!
Raising teens has given me an opportunity to ponder my own adolescent past, the good, the bad, and the whoopsies. I want to watch teens grow into what God has planned. I also know, He will use their solid choices and their missteps for amazing good. God knows their futures, we must trust Him!
Romans 8:28 NLT And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
The uncertainty of their futures with a developing teen brain brings great willingness to try new things, while us parents like a more controlled circumstance. This can be a great foundation in laying their lives out for His purpose. They need their parents or adult guardians even if they think otherwise.
However, the impulsive nature of a teen brain can have risky behavior and a “jump in” mentality before thinking clearly. For parents and guardians there is fear, and a conundrum, when to speak or when to let Go and let God.
The devil would love to steal kill and destroy ( John 10:10) a teen before he/ she can leave their safe haven home. Culture is set on this mindset, comparison traps, alcohol, drugs, and sex are a constant draw to the dark side.
So what is a parent, guardian, or loving mentor to do with teens? Always be a safe place to listen, be nonjudgmental, observe the teens friends, get to know those who are influencing your teen. Realize your voice still carries weight, however, you may not feel it at times.
By the way, the importance of touch this time in their life is huge. I’ve read research that says giving greater than five hugs a day reminds your teen, even if they say they don’t want to hug, how much you love them. Besides us parents need hugs too. Never give up on your teen even into adulthood. They need you!
Ephesians 6:4 NLT Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.
The most important thing we can do is pray for our teens. Bringing their lives to the Lord, seeking His wisdom for every moment. You will find many scriptures in this post, His word is full of powerful declarations that you can personalize by saying your teens name within the scripture.
I loved this post from Paul David Tripp, in his book “Age of Opportunity”. This book was so helpful in changing my mindset of teens, parenting with God’s character as my guide and encouraging me daily.
Paul David Tripp also states, “You know your teen lives in a fallen world. You know that he is a sinner by nature ( no different than you). You know Satan is a liar, schemer, and tempter. as a parent of a teen, you should not be shocked at the presence or power of sin. You should expect war. You should come to your relationship with your teenager armed for war— not with your teen but with the true Enemy ( Ephesians 6).
What a profound statement. God will equip you for the battle, however, you don’t fight alone. God and His angel armies are your support.
Ephesians 6:13-18 MSG Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.
We must use the weapons of warfare in Ephesians 6, the power of prayer interceding for our teens to Jesus, teaching our teens how to use scripture aloud for their own benefit.
Ephesians 6:10-18 NLT A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. [12] For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. [13] Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. [14] Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. [15] For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. [16] In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. [17] Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. [18] Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
God loves our teens more than we do. If they make mistakes, even if it’s hard, we want our kids to come to us. We must use the character traits of Jesus, fruits of the Holy Spirit ( Galatians 5:22-23)
Galatians 5:22-23 NLT But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
We must not rage at them ( in anger not sin), ask God for the patience! I know it’s not easy. Deep breathe and if you blow your top, seek forgiveness and try again with grace and mercy.
Ephesians 4:26-27 NLT And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, [27] for anger gives a foothold to the devil.
Proverbs 15:1 NLT A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.
Life is a journey of joys and challenges, I am taking one step at a time, seeking Jesus for the way, so far from perfect but I know He makes me a victor and will guide me when I let Him. It is my prayer that my kids will be victorious with Him leading their lives. I pray the same for you and your family!
Inspiring Light Through the Cracks 