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.
There’s something about the fall that brings about a sense of deeper purpose. I live in an area where there’s lots of harvesting whether it’s corn or alfalfa or wheat.
It’s a time of moving forward. It’s a time for the farmers to see the fruit of their labor in the production of those crops: corn, alfalfa, wheat, and even sugar beets. These crops are needed for so many different things. They are needed for sustaining life on the food chain.
The Lord created our earth, its crops in the beginning and forever. Our God provides us with what we need for life. Our God provides people with the capacity to share their gifts in farming and ranching for the benefit of His people.
Luke 10 remind us, the harvest is great, and the workers are few.
Luke 10:2 NLT These were his instructions to them: “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.
This message is true of farmers/ranchers and also, of those who share the message of love and Jesus with others. It is because of our love for Jesus that we share not in judgment but because we are called by God to love like Him.
Sometimes, I find myself on a two lane country road, slowly following a huge tractor, harvest truck or other farming heavy equipment. I am learning not to fuss about the delay in my journey. It gives me a moment to pause and consider the work of a farmer/ rancher raising livestock. It’s hard work, lots of time committed.
The next time you’re on a farming two lane road and wanting to pass a farmer and a tractor or a huge truck that’s bringing crops to be weighed for use give those guys a smile and be patient.
We also have to remember the importance of guarding ourselves from the stuff we value. The simplicity of farming and ranching cannot be under estimated.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 AMP Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to appreciate those who diligently work among you [recognize, acknowledge, and respect your leaders], who are in charge over you in the Lord and who give you instruction, [13] and [we ask that you appreciate them and] hold them in the highest esteem in love because of their work [on your behalf]. Live in peace with one another.
A farmer and ranchers work blesses all of us. Thank you God for your provision and for them.
When we look at world, national or even our personal family events we can become overwhelmed, and feel like giving up. God is calling us into relationship with Him ( Father, Jesus, and Holy Spirit) there is no other place we can go.
There is no greater peace than gaining the knowledge of God through His Word, the Bible and a relationship with Jesus. When we are walking with our Creator God, He saves us from eternal death and brings us into the kingdom of God and His Light.
No matter what goes on in the world, our nation, our community, Jesus wants to help us carry our burdens.
Matthew 11:28-30 NLT Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”
Trials can cause you to doubt God, but you must run to Him anyway, He is the place of wisdom from the beginning of time into the future.
1 Peter 5:6-9 NLT So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. [7] Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. [8] Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. [9] Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering you are.
Jesus wants us to seek Him and a supernatural peace can be our reward. When we walk and talk with our Savior, He gives us the capacity to be strong and courageous.
Hebrews 10:35-39 NLT So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! [36] Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised. [37] “For in just a little while, the Coming One will come and not delay. [38] And my righteous ones will live by faith. But I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away.” [39] But we are not like those who turn away from God to their own destruction. We are the faithful ones, whose souls will be saved.
By the way, all people can have a new life in Him, there is no person better than another, we are all His children. He created each of us in His image for a purpose. His hand extends as a shepherd to His sheep. Our mistakes do not disqualify, our humble repentance and seeking forgiveness can bring us to His feet and we can be renewed in Him.
Psalm 95:3-7 NLT For the LORD is a great God, a great King above all gods. [4] He holds in his hands the depths of the earth and the mightiest mountains. [5] The sea belongs to him, for he made it. His hands formed the dry land, too. [6] 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!
ARE YOU A FOLLOWER OF JESUS?
Have you invited Jesus into your heart? Now is the perfect time. Pray this sinner’s prayer found at Gotquestions.com.
“God, I know that I am a sinner. I know that I deserve the consequences of my sin. However, I am trusting in Jesus Christ as my Savior. I believe that His death and resurrection provided for my forgiveness. I trust in Jesus and Jesus alone as my personal Lord and Savior. Thank you Lord, for saving me and forgiving me! Amen.”
If you have prayed the sinners prayer, Welcome to the family of God!
Next, Open your Bible, start reading in James. It is written by Jesus half brother and there are many relevant principals to put into practice right away.If you don’t have a Bible access one through the Youversion Bible app on your phone.
This is a sample of James 1. Make steps today to be led by the Word of God, it is life changing.
James 1:2-8,12 NLT Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. [3] For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. [4] So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. [5] If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. [6] But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. [7] Such people should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. [8] Their loyalty is divided between God and the world, and they are unstable in everything they do. [12] God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Powerful scripture to memorize in trusting God:
Colossians 2:2-3 NLT I want them to be encouraged and knit together by strong ties of love. I want them to have complete confidence that they understand God’s mysterious plan, which is Christ himself. [3] In him lie hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
There are times when I am still with God that I find myself an awe of His creation and also of His power. The Lord led me to the book of Job this morning. Slowly read this particular chapter Job 37 and see the hand of God in His creation.
If you don’t know anything about Job, I’ll give you a quick background. He loved God and he was blessed by God. And then he went through a time of challenges and trials. These trials included: death of family members, friends stepping away from him, his wealth depleted, and yet even though he wrestled with frustration Job still chose to trust God.
We may be going through a time of questioning, and God can still be trusted. I hope this scripture encourages you. Just like God didn’t forget Job, God will not forget you. But you have to walk with Him. You have to walk with your Creator God, the only King of Kings and Lord of Lords, the only God worthy of praise and worship.
Job 37:1-18 NLT “My heart pounds as I think of this. It trembles within me. [2] Listen carefully to the thunder of God’s voice as it rolls from his mouth. [3] It rolls across the heavens, and his lightning flashes in every direction. [4] Then comes the roaring of the thunder- the tremendous voice of his majesty. He does not restrain it when he speaks. [5] God’s voice is glorious in the thunder. We can’t even imagine the greatness of his power. [6] “He directs the snow to fall on the earth and tells the rain to pour down. [7] Then everyone stops working so they can watch his power. [8] The wild animals take cover and stay inside their dens. [9] The stormy wind comes from its chamber, and the driving winds bring the cold. [10] God’s breath sends the ice, freezing wide expanses of water. [11] He loads the clouds with moisture, and they flash with his lightning. [12] The clouds churn about at his direction. They do whatever he commands throughout the earth. [13] He makes these things happen either to punish people or to show his unfailing love. [14] “Pay attention to this, Job. Stop and consider the wonderful miracles of God! [15] Do you know how God controls the storm and causes the lightning to flash from his clouds? [16] Do you understand how he moves the clouds with wonderful perfection and skill? [17] When you are sweltering in your clothes and the south wind dies down and everything is still, [18] he makes the skies reflect the heat like a bronze mirror. Can you do that?
Our God can do anything! He created all things, He loves you with unfailing love, He wants to hear your voice, He wants to guide your life, let Him!!
Let God harvest the fields of your heart, mind and soul! He will pull up the weeds and chaff and bring amazing produce to your life. He is the Creator of all things. He has plans for you. Cry out to Him today. He will hear even your whisper, “ Jesus, I need you!”
Merriam Websters’ definition: to bring or direct toward a common center or objective : FOCUS!!!
There are too many distractions that pull our focus from what matters most to our future and our God given purpose.
Whether it is the voice of peers, families, culture or social media, the constant drone of voices and opinions can leave a person placing their hands tightly over their ears or over their eyes to block out the lies.
Have you ever felt the overwhelming cacophony of sound? Louder and louder, intense opinions that seem to counter the peace and wisdom of God.
No matter the storms of life, the distractions to our peace can be silenced. Nature and thunderstorms used to scare me, however, I love to see the message of hope in the midst of the storm. The rainbow of God and His covenant of peace from Moses time still holds true for us today.
Rising above the storm by Matt Spencer
I found the Message version of Proverbs 4:18-27 relevant for today. It’s truth can bring us back to peace and stability.
Proverbs 4:18-27 MSG The ways of right-living people glow with light; the longer they live, the brighter they shine. But the road of wrongdoing gets darker and darker—travelers can’t see a thing; they fall flat on their faces. [20-22] Dear friend, listen well to my words; tune your ears to my voice. Keep my message in plain view at all times. Concentrate! Learn it by heart! Those who discover these words live, really live; body and soul, they’re bursting with health. [23-27] Keep vigilant watch over your heart; that’s where life starts. Don’t talk out of both sides of your mouth; avoid careless banter, white lies, and gossip. Keep your eyes straight ahead; ignore all sideshow distractions. Watch your step, and the road will stretch out smooth before you. Look neither right nor left; leave evil in the dust.
As you travel the road of life realize, His message is in plain view. Concentrate on discovering His life giving Words in scripture. They bring more hope and health.
Forget the banter and white lies. Don’t let gossip detour your peace. We must keep a watch on the words we speak; truth over lies, blessing over cursing. Keep your eyes looking forward not at slideshows. Let your steps be directed by Jesus. He has better plans for you.
It is one day at a time holding onto Jesus and His promises!! I am so grateful for new revelations and His grace as I learn a better approach to life.
Philippians 1:6 NLT And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.
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!!
Inspiring Light Through the Cracks 