Conflict

Conflict, according to Merriam Webster has a two-part definition: a conflict of principles involving divergent ideas, opposed, and in the verb tense, to contend in warfare.

From personal experience, I was afraid of conflict because I often wondered, “does the squeaky wheel get the grease”? This old adage reminds me of generations past and the assumption you have to speak up for yourself (maybe even rage)or you will be squashed.

Watching our dog navigate the animal world of our two cats shows the difference between assertion and aggression. Barking and hissing, or using a bite and slashing with claws are their skills of conflict resolution. I added the photograph as a visual for the topic of conflict :).

In human terms, we may have to pause before we throw out words that we can’t take back. Words can hurt more than punches. Words seem to find a way into the deep crevices of our minds. They can fester into pus that scars our self-concept or another’s for a lifetime.

Yes, there are times we need to be held accountable for our actions. However, a soft gentle answer turns away wrath. Proverbs 15:1 has been a gem to me. I have it posted on my refrigerator. Can you guess why it is in this location?

Proverbs 15: 1 - 5 
 1 A gentle answer turns away wrath,
    but a harsh word stirs up anger.
2 The tongue of the wise adorns knowledge,
    but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.
3 The eyes of the Lord are everywhere,
    keeping watch on the wicked and the good.
4 The soothing tongue is a tree of life,
    but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.
5 A fool spurns a parent’s discipline,
    but whoever heeds correction shows prudence.

Hangry and tired people hurl words without thinking. Can you relate? Grrrrr. Words that can bring regret, pain, loss, and permanent damage to relationships are the way the enemy devours the good people from our lives. That is the enemy’s plan to destroy our healthy relationships!

Jesus is our Shepherd, the gate for His sheep. We must learn to listen to His voice and wisdom not the impulse and emotions of the enemy who wants to rob us of good things.

John 10: 7- 9 
7 Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them. 9 I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved.[a] They will come in and go out, and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

Action steps to healthy conflict resolution:

1. Deep breathe, slow down impulse reactions.

2. Post one of the scripture verses in Proverbs 15 ahead of time in places where you are triggered.

3. It is Spiritual warfare when the battle is on. It isn’t about flesh and blood but the enemy trying to destroy our relationships.

Ephesians 6:10-12
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

4. Realize we all need a reboot, we sin, we need a Savior to help us change unhealthy patterns.

5. Go to Jesus, talk to Him, ask for insight into your reaction.

6. There are times the other party needs to be laid at the cross of Jesus. What does that mean? Let go and let God!

You may need to step back from another for a while and almost detox from the conflict. Or even leave the dysfunctional relationship. The One (God) who created you knows all about you. He will be a safe place to regroup.

Self-care means putting your needs to refresh ahead of people-pleasing. Rest with Jesus!

The other party without your intervention may actually get a God revelation and change reactions. Even if that doesn’t occur, your time with Jesus will refresh.

Seek to learn from each experience. Let your mind be renewed.

Romans 12: 2  Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Conflict can bring new revelations, they provide us with the opportunity to see our flaws and work to change them. We can’t do this on our own we are too self-absorbed.

Don’t fear conflict seek to want a better relationship. If the Lord is asked into your communication He will give the best advice. Choosing God’s best and believing He loves and wants to give a good life can bring joy and a healthy future.

It is Well

The Big C-word (Cancer) has a way of stopping a person in their tracks, your breath stops, your mind is blank and you are standing on the precipice of mortality.

Will cancer be my undoing or will I have faith in God as I tackle the necessary doctor-designed treatments and care? It is an independent reflective time, no one can take the process from you.

How will I be changed? Will my body be forever damaged? Will my emotions, psychological outlook, my spiritual walk be in trusting God or in anger to this potential future?

It is a dichotomy of thoughts. It is life and death in balance. It is knowing family and friends watch your faith in action or your questioning of faith. (It is ok, God understands.)

It is a time to let friends and family help, pray for you, and serve your needs. I am a giver and not the best receiver. However, as I went through this process, I was humbled and felt the love and support of many. God and his people were with me. I am a breast cancer survivor for two years. I reflect on my past and I celebrate the completion of my dear friends’ cancer treatments today. Praise the Lord!

I share this song by Kristene DiMarco today, It is Well. I love her rendition. It flows in such a way you will feel empowered, or should I say Him Powered!!

No matter the trial, choose to hold onto Jesus, It is Well with Him.

Music Matters

I was a teen when MTV was introduced. I love music it brings joy to my day. For this reason, I love to share songs most weeks on my blog that have impacted my life. In our current generation with YouTube, Spotify, Sirius radio, and even the standard FM radio, the access points are endless. I was blessed to see We the Kingdom in concert and they were amazing.

Music can soothe, can pump ya up as you get ready to play a sport, bring you down with lyrics that express despair, or just get your feet tapping. Music can bring flash photographs of the first times you heard a song or a season of your life. Parenting and music go hand in hand. I love to share my love of music with my kids and remind them the best music was in the 80s :). I use instrumental or classical music for homework or stressful times.

Lyrics to songs add intensity and address the human condition. Somehow the singer expresses your inner emotions better than you could. Sometimes their despair is catching especially when you are a teen in angst. Sometimes their joy can fill your heart and mind with peace.

Did you know there are men and women in the Bible that love music? In fact, we are called to sing songs and dance with joy. When we choose this action, we feel calmer, more energetic, more peaceful. Our bodies were made for the beat.

There are many scriptures that reference music and instruments. 1 Chronicle 13 shares a time David and all Israel celebrated before God in songs and with musical instruments.

1 Chronicle 13:8 David and all Israel were celebrating before God with all their might, singing songs and playing all kinds of musical instruments—lyres, harps, tambourines, cymbals, and trumpets.

David was a man after God’s own heart. He was known for his love of music. The Book of Psalms has many of David’s songs written on many human emotions, he is able to express times of hopelessness, depression, sadness, fear, and joy. Psalms is a great place in the Bible to feel a connection to God regardless of the days’ events. You will feel understood and like David you will see how he processed despair and came to the knowledge of the Lord and their amazing loving relationship as the answer.

Psalm 42:8 But each day the Lord pours his unfailing love upon me, and through each night I sing his songs, praying to God who gives me life.

Psalm 66:4 Everything on earth will worship you; they will sing your praises, shouting your name in glorious songs.

Psalm 98 beautifully expresses singing to a new level. It describes victory and love for God’s people and even describes the earth singing and making music. I was in awe as I read this psalm. Take a moment to ponder its words written by David.

Psalm 98

1 Sing to the Lord a new song,
    for he has done marvelous things;
his right hand and his holy arm
    have worked salvation for him.
2 The Lord has made his salvation known
    and revealed his righteousness to the nations.
3 He has remembered his love
    and his faithfulness to Israel;
all the ends of the earth have seen
    the salvation of our God.

4 Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth,
    burst into jubilant song with music;
5 make music to the Lord with the harp,
    with the harp and the sound of singing,
6 with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn—
    shout for joy before the Lord, the King.

7 Let the sea resound, and everything in it,
    the world, and all who live in it.
8 Let the rivers clap their hands,
    let the mountains sing together for joy;
9 let them sing before the Lord,
    for he comes to judge the earth.
He will judge the world in righteousness
    and the peoples with equity.

Have you ever wondered why you love music? It started at Creation. It is a God-given gift. Just imagine the sea, the earth, and every living thing praises their Creator.

Visualize the river clapping in glee. Beautiful creation resonates with their own sounds. I see that smile forming on your face. Find joy, dance if you wish, and Praise Him.

Let me know if you found these amazing scriptures as fascinating as I.

New year New hope

Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”

We live in a time of challenges, COVID, mandates, isolation for some, human trafficking, addictions, political unrest, etc.

If we fix our minds on the worlds crisis points we can easily be taken over by fear, anxiety, and depression. But the Lord tells us to believe in His plans for good not disaster, for a future of hopeful things.

In our human mind, those goals seem unreachable. But putting our fear behind us and choosing to hold onto faith in our Creator takes guts, a strength beyond ourselves. People may think we are nuts but choosing to live with the Joy of the Lord as our strength is the place to start.

Consider writing the Jeremiah 29:11 scripture on a post it note or index card. Tape it to your mirror or place it on your car visor. As you feel the worries of the world attempt to steal your joy or purpose take a look at the scripture, read it aloud again and remember the truth.

Mindset changes do not happen over night. So start today, it is a new year, choose new hope. It may be contagious as the COVID virus. You may not feel complete confidence in the Lord at first, but He can be trusted.

Let me know if your posting the scripture was helpful. I know this technique has been helpful to me.

Leave your response on my blog. Answer this question: What worry do I have to give to the Lord? Why do I resist handing the worry to Him? Let us grow together in the knowledge of God.

His story and life has been shared for over 2000 years, make a change in where you place your hope today.

Psalm 25:9 NLT
He leads the humble in doing right, teaching them his way.

Under construction

Men and women, you are under construction. The architect of your existence made you to be a solid example of the character of Jesus. But, it takes effort and a carpenters tools to break through the character defects. Hammers, nails, drills, whatever is needed.

My hammer occurred this morning as I read Proverbs 14, the words of truth practically bounced off the page. I was given a personal lesson in the life of a women. It is hard work in the building up of faith and tearing down of my character flaws.

The choices I make can bring foolish or rewarding results.
The impulse of my heart ( by the way the heart can be deceitful) can lean to the fool at times especially when hangry, insomniac, or misunderstood. Brain fog, stomach grumbling I can take the bait in communication and bark sometimes. Can you relate?

Words and impulsive reactions matter to God and they should matter to me. Foolish responses effect all relationships. It starts at home in our inner circle of influence. It can be your friend, coworker, family group, or even the places where you find joy such as the gym, with music or sipping coffee with a friend.

Proverbs 14:1
1. The wise woman builds her house,
but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.
2
Whoever fears the Lord walks uprightly,
but those who despise him are devious in their ways.
3
A fool’s mouth lashes out with pride,
but the lips of the wise protect them.
4
Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty,
but from the strength of an ox come abundant harvests.
5
An honest witness does not deceive,
but a false witness pours out lies.
6
The mocker seeks wisdom and finds none,
but knowledge comes easily to the discerning.
7
Stay away from a fool,
for you will not find knowledge on their lips.
8
The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways,
but the folly of fools is deception.
9
Fools mock at making amends for sin,
but goodwill is found among the upright.
10
Each heart knows its own bitterness,
and no one else can share its joy.
11
The house of the wicked will be destroyed,
but the tent of the upright will flourish.

Reading this chapter in Proverbs, I pondered the scriptures as if I was looking at the face of Jesus, His image reflecting love and a need for some hammer and nails with a little mortar for my cracks.

I am under construction, we all are under construction. He wants to build in us a solid foundation. The rocks and bricks need to be in His wisdom and we must let Him put the pieces together. Yes, there may be cracks in the dry places but He wants me/us to trust He will patch the breaks and provide living water when we get parched in this dry weary land. Progress not perfection my fellow women and men!

Consider these questions for yourself ( women and men):
Do I build my house with wisdom or tear down those in my home?
Do I understand fear of the Lord is reverence to His instruction and refusal to live otherwise?
Do I lash out in pride using my words without thinking?
Am I an honest example even if it is hard, or do I find ways to speak little white lies to keep peace?
Do I think carefully before I speak or assume everyone must hear my opinion?
Do I make amends when I sin or hurt others ask forgiveness?

We all can think bitter, nasty thoughts, pessimistic attitudes pollute our minds and cause our joy to be snuffed out like the Light of our witness.

^{Matthew 5: 14 – 16
14}“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. ¹⁵Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. ¹⁶In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

We want to have a tent of Light, His Light, filled to abundance. We want to help others to see daily life is hard but not impossible when We choose to walk with wisdom. When I seek to choose the better path, the life of those whose paths We cross can be effected for the Kingdom in more hope, love, mercy and grace.

It takes a Village

The more time passes as a parent, the more I realize how little I truly understand about parenting. Even if you are not a parent, this post is to encourage you. We need each other to walk on this earth and raise our children.

Children are a masterpiece of God. We are the caretakers, coaches, encouragers, the listening ears, the cheerleaders, the disciplinarians, the peace-giving, the conflict resolution teachers, and provide comfort with kissed boo-boos and emotional support. Most importantly, we are the example of authority as Jesus walking on this earth.

Because we are all created in unique, beautiful ways, our DNA is intricate. There are physical, psychological, and spiritual elements to our parenting process. We want to do it right. We want to be the most perfect mom or dad to our children. But it is not possible without allowing God to direct our steps.

Genesis 18: 18- 19   The Lord said, "Abraham will surely become a great and powerful nation, and all nations on earth will be blessed through him.[c] 19 For I have chosen him, so that he will direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just, so that the Lord will bring about for Abraham what he has promised him.”

Genesis is the first book of the Bible and Abraham was chosen by the Lord to be an example of being a father to all nations on earth. Abraham had some good and bad choices but he kept seeking the Lord and allowing the Lord to complete the work He started. We are descendants of Abraham, we have the same promises available to us.

Just like Abraham, we come into the parenting relationship with our own baggage that needs to be purged by the Lord. We are sinners, our children are sinners, and it all started in the Garden of Eden. Because of the first original sin, we are marked by the same fleshy thorn.

We can’t get mad at Eve and Adam. They were human and as are we. They were given free will to make choices. Their flesh nature, our children’s flesh, and our fleshy nature get in the way of being the best parent. Of course, the snake in the garden, the devil, loved to detour the plan of human and God’s personal relationship from the beginning of time.

The snake still works hard today, attempting to devour our potential and our children’s potential. Scripture tells us he runs around like a roaring lion seeking to kill, steal and destroy. He hates the Children of God.

1 Peter 5: 6 - 9      Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

8 Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9 Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings.

I am learning that God must be my authority. God speaks in His Word in the Bible, through some amazing sisters and brothers in Christ, and when I am willing to be still He prompts me to remember the instructions in His Word.

When I drop the fleshy, no it all, I am in control, anxious, restless selfish actions and words, I can better reflect Him in my parenting or even in any relationship.

However, it really does take a village to keep me on the trail to improved parenting. My village is full of wise women and men who are not afraid to speak His truth and go against the current trends, our world views. The wisdom of the Body of Christ is the answer in all relationships whether you are a parent, friend, have family members, or coworkers.

Philippians 4:  8 - 9   Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

We all need a village of compassionate, loving, wise people. The village spends time in the Word of God and shares what they are learning. They are willing to be transparent at times of their own sins and mistakes. This way others can be blessed to be a blessing to others.

If you are not a parent yet, not sure you want to parent, or struggle with infertility I can relate. I have been where you are. As the Lord wills, this post is for all of God’s people.

This scripture encouraged me to seek the Lord for who I was to impact for His Kingdom prior to my becoming a mom. May it encourage you to make a difference in those children or young adults that walk across your path. You can be an influencer for Jesus wherever you walk.

Psalm 113:9 He settles the childless woman in her home as a happy mother of children. Praise the Lord.

He awaits

Though the burdens may seem hard to bear,

Our Creator God, Jesus is near reached through prayer.

He waits for us to lay down worries of life, many to be found.

It is not this world we need to live by,

it is the world of eternity.

When life seems quiet and there is discontent.

Remember for whom the Rock is meant. (YOU!)

For every child, He calls to return to His side

No matter how far you may run and hide.

He waits patiently for you to take a stand,

to turn around and join His hand.

His love endures, His tender care awaits,

for that moment when we place

our cares, anxieties, and fears down

at His feet and receive His grace.

Jesus died for the sinner in all of us.

He will guide us to the best future, His plans are best.

Take a stroll with Jesus, hang on tight to Him

Toss the wisdom of the world and at His feet rest.

This poem was initially written in 2002, I edited it slightly, however, it is so relevant to current events,parenting,relationships,and the economy. Our friends, family even our kids are watching what we turn to in our trials. Let it be Jesus.

I hope this insight of poetry encourages. When I keep my eyes focussed on following His steps over my impulsive detours in life I have more peace and wise direction. Sticking close to the Living Water, Jesus provides refreshment, wisdom and more energy.

Psalm 37:23   
The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.

He awaits, the time is now not tomorrow, each of us must make a free will choice to freedom, peace, forgiveness, mercy, and grace. 

Call out to Jesus!

Thanksgiving Gratitude

Photo by RODNAE Productions on Pexels.com

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the good things in life and not the comparisons or perfections of a family. Not everyone has a picture-perfect life. Is that even possible?

No matter who is sitting at your table this year, it’s important to be grateful. God provides food, shelter, family, and friends. All, are a blessing of His creation, in His image.

More important than anything, thanksgiving reminds me to have an attitude of gratitude for a saving relationship with Jesus. It really sets the tone for my life. When I am walking with Jesus, starting my day with a pause, picking up the Word of God, I am finding more peace.

Being alone without Jesus brings more fear, anxiety, depression, and uncertainty. When I learn in scripture, I am not in control. I am glad to know God never sleeps and is in control I can find peace.

Being with Jesus helps me push aside the distractions of the world which include comparison. Instead, I must make time in the morning to meditate on the good things in my life, with no media or phone unless it inspires me to Jesus.

A deep breath before I step out of bed, arms outstretched to the sky, greeting the morning with a prayer of gratitude helps clear out the comparisons.

“Good morning Jesus, thank you for another day. Guide my steps, help me to put my selfish nature aside, and shine the light of Jesus through my words and actions.”

Ephesians 6 reminds me to put on the whole armor of God. It is as if I am gearing up for battle. It is a battle against good and evil, not against our families, friends, community but against our own flesh that wants its own way. I think family gatherings can bring up some garbage and perhaps a need to have a battle plan. We have to gain wisdom from our Creator. He will give us the ability to have self-control in His way.

Ephesians 6:10 – 18

¹⁰Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. ¹¹Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. ¹²For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. ¹³Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. ¹⁴Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, ¹⁵and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. ¹⁶In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. ¹⁷Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

¹⁸And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.

What am I talking about, you ask? Ephesians 6:10-20 describes the parts of the armor of God. I will break down the purpose for each battle armor:
Helmet of Salvation: guards your mind against the lies of the enemy. It is placing this metaphorically on your head to block the false words and distractions instead, meditating on the truth of God.

Breastplate of Righteousness: this is the demonstration of putting on a guard over your heart for the purpose of right living with God. We must guard our hearts it sets the course for our life.

Belt of truth: wrap that object around your waist to keep you reminded of staying in truth, pure, excellent, life filling even if it is hard, truth. ( by the way, we can have sinned but Jesus washes away our sin and makes us pure when we ask.)

Shoes of peace: remember it’s a battle, of good over evil, it is exhausting however, we don’t walk alone. When we put on the body armor of God, we have Jesus fighting in us and with us.

Shield of faith: I don’t know about you, but sometimes it is hard to trust something we can’t see, such as the future, challenges can bring fear. Faith is unseen but fear is crippling. Choosing to hold the shield of faith against the fiery arrows that are shot at you by the devil is the best action. Faith over fear is the only answer.

Finally, The Sword is the Word of God, the Bible is the slayer of the fiery darts of the enemy. Claiming scriptures and their promises over the hard times is the way to snuff out the fire.

Praying in the Spirit always brings the power of God to the situation. Memorizing scripture can feel impossible but it is possible if you start with one at a time, such as:

Matthew 19:26  Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

Psalm 23
1 The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
2     He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
3     he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths
    for his name’s sake.
4 Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Write any of these on a post-it note and tack it to your mirror. Read these promises until they become a solid pearl of truth, meditate on them and they will come to your mind when you need them.

Consider reading Ephesians 6, before you step a foot out of the bed every morning. Say it out loud and within a month you will feel the full armor of God go with you as you are ready for the day.

Gratitude for the hope and promises in the Bible can steer the ship of your life. The alternative is grumbling and complaining. The old statement: If you can’t say anything positive say nothing at all, is true.

Happy Thanksgiving! It may not be a Norman Rockwell painting in your family or mine but hold onto the vision of being at the Lords’ table.

We are all misfits, broken yet made clean and loved by the head of the family, Jesus. Thank you Jesus for making each of us beautiful and unique.

Thursday Thanks (Music) – Weary? Be inspired!

Weary, by definition, means feeling tired or worn out. The state of our world, COVID, the economy, parenting in a culture that seeks to destroy, encourage weariness. Inspiration is the process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, being creative. Being stuck is not a destination.

Trusting in the One who created you to be faithful is not easy. You do not have to travel alone. Hold on, and reach out to God. He stands waiting for your extended hand. When you are tired, carry on.

We were born to be a Light to others but first, we need to be connected to the source of Light, Our Savior, Jesus.

I made this statement to dear friends this week, “Do you ever feel like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abendego from the Bible story?” Life brings challenges, heaped with more coal to stoke the fiery furnace of daily living. The three young men did the unthinkable. They would not bow to the ruler of that day. They sought after the Lord.

They were strong in their faith, they stepped into the furnace with their faith, even though the furnace was stoked with extra coals they were not burned. Instead, a fourth person was seen standing with them. He was Jesus.

Daniel 3
King Nebuchadnezzar made an image of gold, sixty cubits high and six cubits wide, and set it up on the plain of Dura in the province of Babylon. 2 He then summoned the satraps, prefects, governors, advisers, treasurers, judges, magistrates and all the other provincial officials to come to the dedication of the image he had set up. 3 So the satraps, prefects, governors, advisers, treasurers, judges, magistrates and all the other provincial officials assembled for the dedication of the image that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up, and they stood before it.

4 Then the herald loudly proclaimed, “Nations and peoples of every language, this is what you are commanded to do: 5 As soon as you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe and all kinds of music, you must fall down and worship the image of gold that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up. 6 Whoever does not fall down and worship will immediately be thrown into a blazing furnace.”

7 Therefore, as soon as they heard the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp and all kinds of music, all the nations and peoples of every language fell down and worshiped the image of gold that King Nebuchadnezzar had set up.

8 At this time some astrologers came forward and denounced the Jews. 9 They said to King Nebuchadnezzar, “May the king live forever! 10 Your Majesty has issued a decree that everyone who hears the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe and all kinds of music must fall down and worship the image of gold, 11 and that whoever does not fall down and worship will be thrown into a blazing furnace. 12 But there are some Jews whom you have set over the affairs of the province of Babylon—Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego—who pay no attention to you, Your Majesty. They neither serve your gods nor worship the image of gold you have set up.”

13 Furious with rage, Nebuchadnezzar summoned Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. So these men were brought before the king, 14 and Nebuchadnezzar said to them, “Is it true, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, that you do not serve my gods or worship the image of gold I have set up? 15 Now when you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe and all kinds of music, if you are ready to fall down and worship the image I made, very good. But if you do not worship it, you will be thrown immediately into a blazing furnace. Then what god will be able to rescue you from my hand?”

16 Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. 17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us[c] from Your Majesty’s hand. 18 But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.”

19 Then Nebuchadnezzar was furious with Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, and his attitude toward them changed. He ordered the furnace heated seven times hotter than usual 20 and commanded some of the strongest soldiers in his army to tie up Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego and throw them into the blazing furnace. 21 So these men, wearing their robes, trousers, turbans and other clothes, were bound and thrown into the blazing furnace. 22 The king’s command was so urgent and the furnace so hot that the flames of the fire killed the soldiers who took up Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, 23 and these three men, firmly tied, fell into the blazing furnace.

24 Then King Nebuchadnezzar leaped to his feet in amazement and asked his advisers, “Weren’t there three men that we tied up and threw into the fire?”

They replied, “Certainly, Your Majesty.”

25 He said, “Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods.”

26 Nebuchadnezzar then approached the opening of the blazing furnace and shouted, “Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!”

So Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego came out of the fire, 27 and the satraps, prefects, governors and royal advisers crowded around them. They saw that the fire had not harmed their bodies, nor was a hair of their heads singed; their robes were not scorched, and there was no smell of fire on them.

28 Then Nebuchadnezzar said, “Praise be to the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent his angel and rescued his servants! They trusted in him and defied the king’s command and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. 29 Therefore I decree that the people of any nation or language who say anything against the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego be cut into pieces and their houses be turned into piles of rubble, for no other god can save in this way.”

30 Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in the province of Babylon.

Being steadfast in handing your will, your plans over to the Lord’s plan is the key. You don’t need to be a weary traveler. Ask Jesus to be your Compass as you walk this life.

We are like the trio of young men. Except in our case, we are the “ME, Myself and I” that is in the furnace. Stand firm in your faith in the Lord!

Thank you for this song, ” Weary Traveler” by Jordan St. Cyr. I love when a song reminds you to stand firm in the Lord.

Being human and a parent at these Covid times make you weary. Fix your eyes on Jesus as you have times in the fiery furnace. Even in our day, Jesus does show up to provide wisdom and His shining Light.

It may feel whatever we are facing is impossible, but with God all things are possible.

Matthew 19:26  Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.

Find hope not in yourself, but in Your God.

Eagles

Eagles are majestic, powerful, grace-filled examples of the Creator God. I have always been fascinated by these birds. I live in the Rocky Mountain region and am occasionally blessed to see eagles soar.

There are scriptures that describe their attributes as protector, safety under her wings, and as an example of renewed youth and energy.

Deuteronomy 32:11
Like an eagle that rouses’ her chicks and hovers over her young, so he spread his wings to take them up and carried them safely on his pinions.

Exodus 19: 1- 6 19 On the first day of the third month after the Israelites left Egypt—on that very day—they came to the Desert of Sinai. 2 After they set out from Rephidim, they entered the Desert of Sinai, and Israel camped there in the desert in front of the mountain.
3 Then Moses went up to God, andp the Lord called to him from the mountain and said, “This is what you are to say to the descendants of Jacob and what you are to tell the people of Israel: 4 ‘You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. 5 Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, 6 you[a] will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites.”

Psalm 103: 5 He fills my life with good things. My youth is renewed like the eagles.

Interesting facts from all about birds.org the Cornell lab:

Immature Bald Eagles spend the first four years of their lives in nomadic exploration of vast territories and can fly hundreds of miles per day. Some young birds from Florida have wandered north as far as Michigan, and birds from California have reached Alaska.

Had Benjamin Franklin prevailed, the U.S. emblem might have been Wild Turkey. In 1784, Franklin disparaged the national bird’s thieving tendencies and its vulnerability to harassment by small birds. “For my own part,” he wrote, “I wish the Bald Eagle had not been chosen the Representative of our Country. He is a Bird of bad moral Character. He does not get his Living honestly. … Besides he is a rank Coward: The little King Bird not bigger than a Sparrow attacks him boldly and drives him out of the District.”

Lamentations 4:19 describes the enemies as swift and wise to find the Lord’s people or to cover over God’s people in a negative way.

Habakkuk 1:8 described the enemies of God as eagles that swoop down to devour their prey. Powerful !

Even though Ben Franklin describes the Eagle as a bird of bad moral character since it can be an opportunist when it comes to food, a eagle is powerful. It soars to amazing heights; 10,000 feet, and dives at a speed of 100 miles per hour. They are loyal; they mate for life, are providers for their eaglets, and tenacious. I’m relieved our nations symbol was not a wild Turkey, aren’t you?

According to Kristin Stanton of UniGuide.com, an Eagle symbolizes Loyalty, devotion, freedom, independence, truth, honor,the Divine, and Hope.

The Eagle reminds me that with God I can soar to amazing heights, I can live in the Power of truth and I can live in freedom with my Savior.

Isaiah 40:31 But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength, they will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.