Three little pigs

I’ve been pondering the children’s story, “Three Little Pigs” in the past few weeks. Initially, I would think to myself, “it’s a children’s story so how could it affect me at my age”? But then I was thinking about the story within the story.

Here we have three little pigs, all trying to figure out how to build their houses in such a way that they are noticed and protected. Each pig chooses a certain material product to bring structure to their home.

One pig chooses straw to build his home and feels pretty proud about himself that it will be a solid place for him to live. The second pig built his house on sticks.

The third pig built his house from bricks and it took much longer for him to establish his home. The other two pigs thought he was pretty stupid and actually probably laughed at him for taking the time and putting in the extra effort for his home.

Then, we have the big bad wolf, a selfish, mean character who just wants to taunt and eat the pigs. Is this no different than the devil or the evil spirits that tend to try to direct our lives?

You see the big bad wolf is almost like those negative headspace words or those people are telling us that we should live like the world or, the idol that can entrap us whether or not it’s comparison trapping or whether it’s materialism, gets us so much in debt. The voice in our head that wants us to feel despair and hopeless.

The first two pigs freak out and their houses are destroyed as the big wolf ultimately blows down two houses. The third pig ends up being actually the one with a house built in bricks, kind of like the foundation of living our lives with God,the foundation in the rock.

There’s an amazing similarity between scripture:

Matthew 7:21-29 NLT
“Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter. [22] On judgment day many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.’ [23] But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.’ [24] “Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. [25] Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock. [26] But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn’t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. [27] When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash.” [28] When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, [29] for he taught with real authority-quite unlike their teachers of religious law.

We can establish ourselves with a relationship with Jesus, who is the rock can take time because we have to put our own selfish thoughts aside while we take time to get to know the one who made us. And in the end, the foundation established on the rock Jesus ends up being the most solid foundation we could ever find.

The third pig actually is the wisest because he use the tools of wisdom and strength to make his fortress strong. We need to choose Jesus for the same future.

So today when you’re pondering about life and choices and where you place your trust and who you get your wisdom from, it’s my hope that maybe you reconsider the story of the three little pigs. It’s relevant story for people of any age.

Build your home and your heart and your mind and your soul on the solid foundation of the rock of Jesus. The time and effort you put into that will affect the steps of your life. And in the end, just like that third pig, it will be worth it. You’ll be living, with more peace, more wisdom, and the rock, Jesus, will give you the wisdom for every step you take.

I hope you enjoy this song from Lauren Daigle, Love Like This, it’s been a song that has impacted me years ago. And today when I heard it again, it reminded me of the importance of the love we get from our Father God. We haven’t done anything to deserve His love, and yet Jesus freely gives unconditional love, wisdom for life, and grace in the midst of our messes. May God richly bless your day.

Love like this— Lauren Daigle

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Rest

Do you need a moment to just breathe? Did you know so did Jesus?

Our fast-paced world with all its distractions can truly drain us, heart, mind, and soul. We must take time to rest, but not in loneliness, but in Him.

I’ve heard it said recently that even Jesus took time to rest before he spoke wisdom or guided the growing crowd of people.

Matthew 13:1 NLT
Later that same day Jesus left the house and sat beside the lake.

What is your place of peace? Is it in nature? Is it taking a hike in the mountains? Is it walking down the dirt road listening to the birds? Is it finding a water source lake or a river to sit by? Is it just listening to the sounds of nature?? Is it listening to the laughter of a child?

Whether you are single, married, a parent or not, we all need to take time for rest and renewal.

We all have a place that fills our senses with God‘s creation. Nature is a place of peace for me.

If we don’t take the time to spend with the one who created nature, we will never be ready for the crowds of people.

Some people may be sent for us to help and others may just be very draining. We need to ask for the Lords discernment on when to speak and connect with others and when to give the experience and relationship to God.

Matthew 13:2 NLT
A large crowd soon gathered around him, so he got into a boat. Then he sat there and taught as the people stood on the shore.

Our souls need filling by the Holy Spirit! Our minds need wisdom from our Father God. And reading the Word of God, brings a little slice of heaven for us to share with others. Reading about how Jesus communicated in relationship can bring us so many pearls of wisdom.

Find your place in nature that fills your soul and all five senses. See with your eyes, the beauty around you, hear with your ears the sounds of a hawk or a horse whinny or the sounds of a river. Feel the cool, crisp wintry air on your skin. If you have snow, taste of snowflake on your tongue. Share aloud with God your gratitude for good things.

Meditate on the goodness of God as Jesus did. Reread aloud this Scripture:

Matthew 13:1 NLT
Later that same day Jesus left the house and sat beside the lake.

Rest in the Living water and be filled with His Presence. Then go where He sends you knowing you do not walk alone.

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Fear destroys

Fear destroys not only the one who is afraid but others in the relationship. Fear sets a fire of anxiety, anger, and impulsive words that can’t be taken back.

God calls us to be self-controlled and cast out all fear. There are many scriptures describing the need to trust God over fear, here are three examples.

Exodus 14:13-14,16-17 NLT
But Moses told the people, “Don’t be afraid. Just stand still and watch the LORD rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today will never be seen again. [14] The LORD himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”

Isaiah 66:5 NLT
Hear this message from the LORD, all you who tremble at his words: “Your own people hate you and throw you out for being loyal to my name. ‘Let the LORD be honored!’ they scoff. ‘Be joyful in him!’ But they will be put to shame.

1 John 4:18-19 NLT
Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love. [19] We love each other because he loved us first.

God calls us to be strong and courageous and trust Him. We need His strength to endure life’s challenges!

Daniel 10:19 NLT
“Don’t be afraid,” he said, “for you are very precious to God. Peace! Be encouraged! Be strong!” As he spoke these words to me, I suddenly felt stronger and said to him, “Please speak to me, my lord, for you have strengthened me.”

God calls us to not live in fear and timidity, but live with a sound mind and self control that comes as a reward for our faith in God!

2 Timothy 1:7 NLT
For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.

So why do we let fear rule our emotions and destroy our relationships? It’s because we don’t trust God, or we allow disappointment from past experiences to color our feelings toward another person. We allow preconceived notions the active projection onto another person. This destroys not just the person in fear, but many others through a domino effect.

Who wins when we let fear reign? The devil and his schemes cause destruction and we loose our faith and trust in God. This leads to our anxiety and anger emotions tumbling out in words that hurt instead of sharing compassion and the love of Christ.

What must we do when words are hurled by others due to fear?
First, we must remember the devil wants to destroy families and relationships that are wanting to represent God. Second, we ask God to help us understand the other person, pray for a revelation of their perspective, third, we must ask God to help us forgive the hurtful words. Fourth, we may need to step back from the person, take a walk, seek wisdom from the Bible. Fifth, we must give grace and mercy to a fellow sinner for making a mistake. ( Hopefully there is repentance in the heart of the offender, this is the only way the relationship can be restored).

There are times when we may need to walk away from another person. Seek Gods wisdom for this!

Psalm 27:1-14 MSG
Light, space, zest- that’s GOD! So, with him on my side I’m fearless, afraid of no one and nothing. [2] When vandal hordes ride down ready to eat me alive, Those bullies and toughs fall flat on their faces. [3] When besieged, I’m calm as a baby. When all hell breaks loose, I’m collected and cool. [4] I’m asking GOD for one thing, only one thing: To live with him in his house my whole life long. I’ll contemplate his beauty; I’ll study at his feet. [5] That’s the only quiet, secure place in a noisy world, The perfect getaway, far from the buzz of traffic. [6] God holds me head and shoulders above all who try to pull me down. I’m headed for his place to offer anthems that will raise the roof! Already I’m singing God-songs; I’m making music to GOD. [7-8] Listen, GOD, I’m calling at the top of my lungs: “Be good to me! Answer me!” When my heart whispered, “Seek God,” my whole being replied, “I’m seeking him!” Don’t hide from me now! [9-10] You’ve always been right there for me; don’t turn your back on me now. Don’t throw me out, don’t abandon me; you’ve always kept the door open. My father and mother walked out and left me, but GOD took me in. [11-12] Point me down your highway, GOD; direct me along a well-lighted street; show my enemies whose side you’re on. Don’t throw me to the dogs, those liars who are out to get me, filling the air with their threats. [13-14] I’m sure now I’ll see God’s goodness in the exuberant earth. Stay with GOD! Take heart. Don’t quit. I’ll say it again: Stay with GOD.

Tremble is an amazing song by Mosaic MSC from years ago, it reminds you where to find peace, it’s with Jesus. In Jesus Name we can push back the darkness. He makes the darkness tremble and He silences fear!

Tremble by Mosaic MSC

Out of the ashes of attempted destruction from fear, there can be restoration and new life! Don’t quit! Stay with God! He will never abandon you!

Guest post: Teen reflections, loving your enemies!

There was a question brought to me that asked “What do you find difficult that Jesus teaches to stand by or follow?

This question made me think, because often as humans, even if we are Christian, we sin all the time and follow worldly desires, even while reading the Bible and Jesus’ teachings.

One thing I find very difficult is following Bible teachings while also going and doing what you say and know is wrong. It can also be hard to believe some of the Lord’s teachings and agree with them or understand them. One teaching that I find difficult to understand or agree with is loving your enemies.

Now growing up most of us are told to love our enemies and forgive them because Jesus does the same thing for us. But as a teenager that can be very hard, people are backstabbing and cruel, and even though we all make mistakes, some just seem like they aren’t worth forgiving. People gossip, say rude things, judge each other, do things to make you feel bad, or not trust them.

While we can judge someone else for doing that, we have probably done the same thing to Jesus. You may be wondering how do we forgive the people we hate? The Bible tells us to forgive those we hate, but it can be hard.

In the Bible “Luke 6:27,28, 35” it summarizes that: 1) we should love our enemies and bless people who hurt us or mistreat us. We must love and pray for our enemies. Jesus calls us to pray for those who we hate and to love them. Kill them with kindness.

2) Another thing it says is to pray for those who do us dirty. In verse 35 it explains to do good to our enemies and lend to them. Kind of like the verse to treat others how you want to be treated. But it’s true, even if we have been told that our whole life.

Jesus rewards those who do as he says and treats everyone with love and kindness, even when it’s hard.

I think one thing we have to remember is how much Jesus loves us and did for us, and remember we are sinners as well. We also need to remind ourselves that Jesus did the same for all of us, and we are all created by him.

The people we love, the people we hate, every nation, and every creation was made by God and we need to respect the Lords creation. Genesis 2:15 talks about how we are to love and care for Gods creation, not destroy it. As it may be implying to just nature and earth, it is implying to humans as well, because we are Gods creation too.

From my perspective, I’ve been hurt or stabbed in the back by people, but I have probably also done the same, and the same way I can feel about other people, they can also feel about me. I believe this can draw a lot of people away from God, “who wants to love their enemies when we have every reason to hate them and get revenge?”

We can never do this on our own with our sinly nature, we need to ask for Gods help and strength. And put the past behind us or our thoughts of anything to harm another human whether or not we want to.

– Anonymous

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Wisdom comes from the Holy Spirit, when we say aloud “I am a sinner needing Jesus to save me from my sin, He brings grace and mercy! I believe in Jesus! When we declare we want the Lord to be the authority in our life and ask the Holy Spirit to pour His wisdom into our minds, hearts, and souls. We need you Father, Son, and Holy Spirit!” We can be filled with wisdom despite our age.

Thank you Jesus for your love, wisdom, and guidance! Amen!

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Unseen women

Mother’s Day brings a conundrum of emotions. There are many thoughts swirling in a women depending on your current status as mom or not. We must remember the amazing commitment in love, joy, nurturance, and role mothers play in the lives of their children. We should celebrate their efforts and extended actions for their families. Mother’s Day is an annual celebration however daily we should show gratitude for this amazing toughest job.

However, Mother’s Day can also bring sadness and despair for other women who either struggle to be moms due to infertility, not finding the best guy to share parenting or those who live with regret after abortion.

Another possible challenge to Mother’s Day can include deaths or trauma from families. We can’t always be sensitive to those who lived an unhealthy life with unstable moms who did not represent a Godly character. Trauma, mental health and addiction can destroy healthy bonding of mom and child. The effects of this foundation of parenting can effect generations. We are all broken people who need Jesus and we can break the patterns of unhealthy parenting for future generations.

We must be willing to do the personal work along with other older women who have traveled this road before us. Women who are being guided by the principles found in the Bible, who have servants hearts, learn from past mistakes, seek forgiveness and love Jesus.

Every woman should be celebrated as a child of God with a God given purpose. Some women have children, others shepherd children as a result of work, coaching in sports, being a great aunt who speaks wisdom to her nephews and nieces, or even in kindness to a stranger.

Proverbs 27:23 TPT
A shepherd should pay close attention to the faces of his flock and hold close to his heart the condition of those he cares for.

Women can be available to shepherd other children in their sphere of influence. This is a noble place to be an example of love and care.

God says for us to seek Him, let the shepherd lead you to the best relationship builder, Jesus.

John 10:9-15 NLT
Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. [10] The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. [11] “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. [12] A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. [13] The hired hand runs away because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep. [14] “I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, [15] just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep.

I am grateful for the wisdom I have gained in my life as emergency trauma nurse, center director for a pregnancy medical clinic and as a mom. However, the greatest wisdom in all relationships I have and am gaining from is in my time with God.

I am grateful for those people who have invested time in my life, as surrogate parents, wise kind hearted people who love.

God is love, He is hope, help and wisdom for all women and men. We have a place to be shepherded regardless the family of origin.

So on the day after Mother’s Day, I am encouraging all women ( and men) to show compassion and love to any woman, whether a parent or not!

Just love each other, support each other, share words of encouragement, be a good listener to those who need you. Extend a hand or hug to someone near you today! Sending hugs!

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Mercy

2 Corinthians 4:1-12,14-18 GNT
God in his mercy has given us this work to do, and so we do not become discouraged.

There is work to be done. What are you being called to do today? Where has the Lord given you a gifting, a passion for serving, a place to nurture others?

[2] We put aside all secret and shameful deeds; we do not act with deceit, nor do we falsify the word of God. In the full light of truth we live in God’s sight and try to commend ourselves to everyone’s good conscience.

We must live a life that even behind closed doors, or when no one is looking, represents the light of truth and following the Character of Jesus.

3] For if the gospel we preach is hidden, it is hidden only from those who are being lost. [4] They do not believe, because their minds have been kept in the dark by the evil god of this world. He keeps them from seeing the light shining on them, the light that comes from the Good News about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.

We can not hold the wisdom of God for ourselves. “This Little Light of Mine”, is a children’s song. Yet the lyrics are relevant no matter the age. We must share Jesus not hide our testimony under a basket.

[5] For it is not ourselves that we preach; we preach Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. [6] The God who said, “Out of darkness the light shall shine!” is the same God who made his light shine in our hearts, to bring us the knowledge of God’s glory shining in the face of Christ.

We must remember it is not our words that save us or others from death, our words are human communication. It is the power of Jesus and His Words of life that save. We must seek Him first to guide our conversations. We are human but He is our Father, Son and Holy Spirit, all knowing, Almighty God!

7] Yet we who have this spiritual treasure are like common clay pots, in order to show that the supreme power belongs to God, not to us. [8] We are often troubled, but not crushed; sometimes in doubt, but never in despair; [9] there are many enemies, but we are never without a friend; and though badly hurt at times, we are not destroyed.

Our growing relationship with Jesus is a benefit to our eternal connection and to those we intersect. We must keep our hope in Him even as our lives may feel overwhelming.

10] At all times we carry in our mortal bodies the death of Jesus, so that his life also may be seen in our bodies. [11] Throughout our lives we are always in danger of death for Jesus’ sake, in order that his life may be seen in this mortal body of ours. [12] This means that death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.

Our human brain can not comprehend love and the infinite presence of Jesus. It is faith without seeing Him physically.We will make mistakes however, we can be made new and have a life that uses our mistakes for better responses by His grace. Repent ( turn away from sin) and start anew.

14] We know that God, who raised the Lord Jesus to life, will also raise us up with Jesus and take us, together with you, into his presence. [15] All this is for your sake; and as God’s grace reaches more and more people, they will offer to the glory of God more prayers of thanksgiving.

Do not be discouraged! Our spiritual being is renewed as we cling to Him, believe He is all truth, and trust Him for even our breath.

16] For this reason we never become discouraged. Even though our physical being is gradually decaying, yet our spiritual being is renewed day after day.

Sometimes I can allow troubles to explode into a mountain of distress instead of a mole hill. Go to the Rock, the great wisdom of God. ( Isaiah 2:2) Teens and even adulting can seem overwhelming and impossible. I must remind myself to fix my eyes, heart, mind on Jesus. Reading scripture on the topic of my distress and listening to praise music calms me. The trouble may still exist but my soul within me seems more at peace. He is with me!

17] And this small and temporary trouble we suffer will bring us a tremendous and eternal glory, much greater than the trouble. 18] For we fix our attention, not on things that are seen, but on things that are unseen. What can be seen lasts only for a time, but what cannot be seen lasts forever.

We must fix our attention, not on what is before our eyes, but the comfort and wisdom from our connection of Jesus within.

If you have not accepted Jesus as your Savior. Today could be the turning point of your life. Call out to Jesus today, say Jesus I need you, I believe You are my Savior, I want You to guide my life, words and actions. I give my life to you, I repent and want Your help to turn from past sins, make me new by Your sacrifice on the cross. Show me more of You. In Jesus Name, Amen!

Colossians 2:18-19 MSG
Don’t tolerate people who try to run your life, ordering you to bow and scrape, insisting that you join their obsession with angels and that you seek out visions. They’re a lot of hot air, that’s all they are. They’re completely out of touch with the source of life, Christ, who puts us together in one piece, whose very breath and blood flow through us. He is the Head and we are the body. We can grow up healthy in God only as he nourishes us.

Reason I sing, is a perfect song, Phil Wickham expresses well the importance of praise. Be blessed today, Jesus, is the reason I sing.

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Strong

We live in a dog eat dog world, look at the banking system, the materialism, the constant striving for keeping up with others, is our car status representative of our success? The survival of the fittest is another example, it’s great to be healthy and use our body temple for purpose. Or are we feeling constant comparison to others’ and cursing the body and face created in the image of God?

My reading of 2 Corinthians 10 this morning was so impactful. It made me ponder the world, my community, personal interactions, and even my own walk with Jesus. Paul, shared a message of God, was transformed from persecuting Jesus and His followers to an amazing apostle who led the Gentiles and even fellow Jews to Jesus. Because Paul allowed Jesus to use his life for amazing things, Paul was bold and Holy Spirit filled in his preaching.

2 Corinthians 10:3-8 MSG The world is unprincipled. It’s dog-eat-dog out there! The world doesn’t fight fair. But we don’t live or fight our battles that way-never have and never will. The tools of our trade aren’t for marketing or manipulation, but they are for demolishing that entire massively corrupt culture. We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ. Our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity.

7-8] You stare and stare at the obvious, but you can’t see the forest for the trees. If you’re looking for a clear example of someone on Christ’s side, why do you so quickly cut me out? Believe me, I am quite sure of my standing with Christ. You may think I overstate the authority he gave me, but I’m not backing off. Every bit of my commitment is for the purpose of building you up, after all, not tearing you down.

In the Life Application Study Bible, we are given a narrative background for the times of Paul and the Corinthian culture. Just as in our times, peoples feathers get ruffled when another human speaks boldly and they are not in agreement with the same philosophy. The truth found in the Word can ruffle feathers.

Here is the notes for the Life Application Bible found in 2 Corinthians 10: Verses 1-2 Paul’s opponents were questioning his authority. From verses 7:8-16 we know that the majority of Corinthian believers were siding with Paul; however, a minority continued to slander him, saying that he was bold in his letters but had no authority in person. Second Corinthians 10 through verse 13 is Paul’s response to this charge. Paul used Jesus as a model for being gentle and kind rather than demanding respect.”

Does this description from Paul’s journey feel strangely familiar? I don’t know about you, however, I want to reflect Jesus character with gentleness and kindness over demanding respect. In love, I want to share what the Lord is showing me regarding how to live with Him as my authority.

In love, I want those I love friends, family, even perfect strangers, to come to the saving knowledge of Jesus! But I can’t do it for anyone. If I love like Jesus, speak His truth in love when I feel His prompting, seek forgiveness if I have overstepped in discussion, then maybe others will want to seek Him too!

Love Them Like Jesus also means speaking the truth found in the Bible about complicated issues and being willing to speak the truth even if it’s hard!

Where do you get strong? Is it in the gym or in time spent being built up by the Lord? This workout with God lasts longer than the next time you crave your favorite sweet. Time spent with gaining His wisdom is muscle building for mind, body and soul. As a surfer needs, core strength, focus and tenacity, when we ask the Living Water, God will provide these necessary traits with even more ability to stand in balance no matter what we face.

Deuteronomy 31:6 NLT
So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”

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Inspiring Guest Post: Your Mess Can Become Your Message

There’s a testimony waiting to come out of your story. I made a mess of things, but God knew what message was coming from it. I remember being pregnant out of wedlock, focusing on my mistakes and the mess I had made. I remember the pain and disappointment. I remember thinking that my child was a mistake that I had made. I remember the feeling of being a single mother with a child whose father was nowhere in the picture. I remember someone calling my baby a bastard as I held her. I remember the look of embarrassment and shame. I remember the fear and the pain.

But I also remember God sending a stranger to remind me that my child was a blessing from God and wasn’t a mistake. She looked and saw the pain I was carrying and helped me to see my situation, my baby, through the eyes of God. At that moment, God sent a messenger to remind me that He still had a plan for my life and my child’s life. There was purpose coming out of my pain.

When I laid my mess at the feet of Christ, He cleaned it up and reminded me that there’s no failure in Christ because He makes all things new.

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
~ 2 Corinthians 5:17

And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
~ 2 Corinthians 12:9

There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
~ Romans 8:1

He knew what you would be tempted with, the failures, the setbacks, but He also knew what was deep inside you waiting to be released at the appointed time.

Is anything too difficult for the Lord? At the appointed time I will return to you, at this time next year, and Sarah will have a son.”
~ Genesis 18:14

“For the vision is yet for the appointed time; It hastens toward the goal and it will not fail. Though it tarries, wait for it; For it will certainly come, it will not delay.”
~ Habakkuk 2:3

We go through the valleys to climb to get to the hills. Look to the hills from whence cometh our help; our help cometh from the Lord. God has mountaintops ready for you, but you must be willing to push through the storms of life to get there. On this journey, you will have storms that arise. The word says, “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

When Christ died on the cross, He gave you victory over all circumstances because He rose over it all: sickness, pain, grief, trials, lies, fears, and shame. Whatever you are going through, remember there’s glory coming out of it. There’s glory in your story.
By Iris Pelton-Hamlett

“Reflections on Inspiring Light through the Cracks”, my first book is available on Amazon.

It has been a dream of mine to share my writings in a published book with others and share what led me to Jesus! I have been blogging for a few years and as I have accumulated my written blog posts, I have felt growth in my walk with Jesus and His people. I have had trials, joys, challenges, health issues, and heartbroken moments and I have learned more and more about the importance of walking with Jesus. I hope to inspire other people to seek Him for all wisdom and guidance. We are all His beautiful people, created in Christ for a mighty purpose.

This book can be accessed through Amazon. Consider a gift purchase of an ebook on Kindle for your reader family and friends or a paperback option. Many of my own friends do not have a WordPress account. If you purchase the e-book, it is amazing: the digital copy has links to the songs I have used to tell stories in many of my posts. If you feel prompted to buy, thank you so much! If you feel prompted to leave a review on Amazon, thank you. Share the link below with friends.

Regardless, You are a child of God and He wants to know you personally, we must reach out to Him. God bless you! Mary

Roots go down

What is that old idiom, “Can you- not see the forest through the trees?”

What does this mean? Merriam-Webster describes: not understanding or appreciate a larger situation, problem, etc. because one is considering only a few parts of it.

We may not have a full picture of any situation, but many times we have to make our best guess. Scary proposition!!

Where are you looking for guidance? Is it built on taking steps through the forest without direction? We have to consider where we place our trust. Are our roots of wisdom found in seeking the Living water that provides nourishment to our soul and sustenance to grow our faith?

Photo by Mary Mesikapp

Just as a tree needs a good soil environment, we as humans, and as parents, need solid Godly teaching and love. If you have not had a compassionate, loving Christlike personal experience, I am so sorry. In this day and age, you can access church messages online to consider whether their instruction aligns with the Bible. It can feel like a risk to take a step into a church, I remember the fear after relocating to a different state and feeling uncertain. I asked the Lord to give me peace or show me the next option. He did, and after a few visits to different churches, I was able to choose and was blessed with sisters who were like-minded in Christ. Even though we may feel ill-prepared to parent, if we seek God to give us wisdom, He will share it.

So where do we need to place our minds, and trust to grow into the best wisdom? There is no better place than the Creator of the universe. This is a powerful scripture, Colossians 2, it has been helpful to me as a sister, mom, wife, and friend. Paul was talking to the Laodicean church, he was encouraging them to be strong in love. There are steps to grow roots of wisdom and understand God’s mysterious plan. It is not a quick process but a slow meaningful time well spent.

Colossians 2:1 - 10       I want you to know how much I have agonized for you and for the church at Laodicea, and for many other believers who have never met me personally. 2 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.4 I am telling you this so no one will deceive you with well-crafted arguments. 5 For though I am far away from you, my heart is with you. And I rejoice that you are living as you should and that your faith in Christ is strong.6 And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. 7 Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.8 Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ. 9 For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body. 10 So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority.

Just as nature is built by Him, our lives can be molded by Him. Don’t let empty philosophies and loud voices distract you from the still small voice of God. Christ is the head ruler and authority over all things. In the end, what we put into our time with Jesus will be a great reward to our lives and for generations. We can break the generational habits that bind us to unhealthy responses and actions, with God all things are possible. I am more grateful with each passing year, God is good and His treasures are priceless.