Besties

The new day has begun, your sweet cat meows loudly as he runs down the hall to awaken you. He is better than an alarm clock. His meow gains loudness, as you resist opening your eyes. After all, in the cats’ mind your lack of movement could be mortal.

Or is it a dog that paces the hall and jumps into your bed because he needs to be let outside for a bathroom break and food? Or a horse neighing awaiting its’ hay and grain?

The moment you open your eyes, stretch out your arms and say”this is the day, the Lord has made I will rejoice and be glad”, your mind attempts to sabotage the good feelings. Rebuke that negative, anxiety filled liar ( the enemy) spewing fears. You make the choice how to begin your day, remember!

What thoughts overwhelm your mind? Is it the to-do list, appointments scheduled, relationship struggle that needs to get resolved, health issues, finances, or something else?

God wants us to give our days to Him. It is not easy for control freaks, I am one!! He wants our worries cast upon Him. (1 Peter 5:7). He cares about you.

Psalm 139:23-24 NLT
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. [24] Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.

I need a reminder on occasion to hand over my swirling thoughts to my Jesus! Maybe you do too! God reminds us He wants our trust and for Our obedience to His plan. Our Lord loves us!

Psalm 33:20-22 NLT
We put our hope in the LORD. He is our help and our shield. [21] In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. [22] Let your unfailing love surround us, LORD, for our hope is in you alone.

A renewed mind with past unhealthy coping skills needs an adjustment with God as the Master! We have to guard our hearts and minds.

Proverbs 4:23 NLT
Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.

A defining scripture for any day, any circumstance is found in Philippians 4:8-9. It defines a Godly focus to life.

Philippians 4:8-9 AMP
Finally, believers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable and worthy of respect, whatever is right and confirmed by God’s word, whatever is pure and wholesome, whatever is lovely and brings peace, whatever is admirable and of good repute; if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think continually on these things [center your mind on them, and implant them in your heart]. [9] The things which you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things [in daily life], and the God [who is the source] of peace and well-being will be with you.

Our pride and human reasoning does not bring anything close to Holy Spirit wisdom. We need help! Teach your sons and daughters to obey you, God! The battle starts in the mind.

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 NLT
We are human, but we don’t wage war as humans do. [4] We use God’s mighty weapons, not worldly weapons, to knock down the strongholds of human reasoning and to destroy false arguments. [5] We destroy every proud obstacle that keeps people from knowing God. We capture their rebellious thoughts and teach them to obey Christ.

Bring all thoughts to God! Meditation on any one of the scriptures posted can daily bring the Word of God to your mind and change your swirling thoughts to peace with His truth,

So the next time your beloved animal awakens your sleep, give thanks to God who made your amazing bestie to bring a slice of love from Him.

Our peace is attainable through God alone! He gives us the capacity to move, breathe, and take each step of life. May it be well with you as you turn over your thoughts to the Master Bestie, the Holy Spirit!

Teens and spiritual warfare

As parents or those who care for teens life can be an amazing adventure of spontaneity and new insights. I don’t know about you but I love being with teens.

They are a combination of electric sparks, simmering pots of water boiling on a stove, generous and loving, seeking wisdom at times or avoiding the wisdom while slamming doors!

Raising teens has given me an opportunity to ponder my own adolescent past, the good, the bad, and the whoopsies. I want to watch teens grow into what God has planned. I also know, He will use their solid choices and their missteps for amazing good. God knows their futures, we must trust Him!

Romans 8:28 NLT
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.

The uncertainty of their futures with a developing teen brain brings great willingness to try new things, while us parents like a more controlled circumstance. This can be a great foundation in laying their lives out for His purpose. They need their parents or adult guardians even if they think otherwise.

However, the impulsive nature of a teen brain can have risky behavior and a “jump in” mentality before thinking clearly. For parents and guardians there is fear, and a conundrum, when to speak or when to let Go and let God.

The devil would love to steal kill and destroy ( John 10:10) a teen before he/ she can leave their safe haven home. Culture is set on this mindset, comparison traps, alcohol, drugs, and sex are a constant draw to the dark side.

So what is a parent, guardian, or loving mentor to do with teens? Always be a safe place to listen, be nonjudgmental, observe the teens friends, get to know those who are influencing your teen. Realize your voice still carries weight, however, you may not feel it at times.

By the way, the importance of touch this time in their life is huge. I’ve read research that says giving greater than five hugs a day reminds your teen, even if they say they don’t want to hug, how much you love them. Besides us parents need hugs too. Never give up on your teen even into adulthood. They need you!

Ephesians 6:4 NLT
Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.

The most important thing we can do is pray for our teens. Bringing their lives to the Lord, seeking His wisdom for every moment. You will find many scriptures in this post, His word is full of powerful declarations that you can personalize by saying your teens name within the scripture.

I loved this post from Paul David Tripp, in his book “Age of Opportunity”. This book was so helpful in changing my mindset of teens, parenting with God’s character as my guide and encouraging me daily.

Paul David Tripp also states, “You know your teen lives in a fallen world. You know that he is a sinner by nature ( no different than you). You know Satan is a liar, schemer, and tempter. as a parent of a teen, you should not be shocked at the presence or power of sin. You should expect war. You should come to your relationship with your teenager armed for war— not with your teen but with the true Enemy ( Ephesians 6).

What a profound statement. God will equip you for the battle, however, you don’t fight alone. God and His angel armies are your support.

Ephesians 6:13-18 MSG
Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.

We must use the weapons of warfare in Ephesians 6, the power of prayer interceding for our teens to Jesus, teaching our teens how to use scripture aloud for their own benefit.

Ephesians 6:10-18 NLT
A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. [12] For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. [13] Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. [14] Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. [15] For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. [16] In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. [17] Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. [18] Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.

God loves our teens more than we do. If they make mistakes, even if it’s hard, we want our kids to come to us. We must use the character traits of Jesus, fruits of the Holy Spirit ( Galatians 5:22-23)

Galatians 5:22-23 NLT
But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!

We must not rage at them ( in anger not sin), ask God for the patience! I know it’s not easy. Deep breathe and if you blow your top, seek forgiveness and try again with grace and mercy.

Ephesians 4:26-27 NLT
And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, [27] for anger gives a foothold to the devil.

Proverbs 15:1 NLT
A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.

Life is a journey of joys and challenges, I am taking one step at a time, seeking Jesus for the way, so far from perfect but I know He makes me a victor and will guide me when I let Him. It is my prayer that my kids will be victorious with Him leading their lives. I pray the same for you and your family!

Photo credit by pexels.com

Despite circumstances

Fear of God is about reverence and honor for His plans despite our trials. Fear of God is not about running from Him as cruel judging Father, instead it is trusting Him and leaning into Him for guidance.

Our God is the Rock who must become our firm foundation.

Matthew 7:24-29 NLT
“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.

Another version of Matthew 7 is in the message Bible. Maybe this version will bring more clarity to you. His Word will never return void, it is meant to build us up in His wisdom for living.

Matthew 7:24-27 MSG
“These words I speak to you are not incidental additions to your life, homeowner improvements to your standard of living. They are foundational words, words to build a life on. If you work these words into your life, you are like a smart carpenter who built his house on solid rock. Rain poured down, the river flooded, a tornado hit—but nothing moved that house. It was fixed to the rock. [26-27] “But if you just use my words in Bible studies and don’t work them into your life, you are like a stupid carpenter who built his house on the sandy beach. When a storm rolled in and the waves came up, it collapsed like a house of cards.”

Psalm 25:12-14 NLT
Who are those who fear the LORD? He will show them the path they should choose. [13] They will live in prosperity, and their children will inherit the land. [14] The LORD is a friend to those who fear him. He teaches them his covenant.

Be sure you are staying firm in His ways, He wants the best for you. In the end, you want Him to open the door of your future holding onto His hand not a distracted world view set by the enemy.

Luke 13:22-27 NLT
Jesus went through the towns and villages, teaching as he went, always pressing on toward Jerusalem. [23] Someone asked him, “Lord, will only a few be saved?” He replied, [24] “Work hard to enter the narrow door to God’s Kingdom, for many will try to enter but will fail. [25] When the master of the house has locked the door, it will be too late. You will stand outside knocking and pleading, ‘Lord, open the door for us!’ But he will reply, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from.’ [26] Then you will say, ‘But we ate and drank with you, and you taught in our streets.’ [27] And he will reply, ‘I tell you, I don’t know you or where you come from. Get away from me, all you who do evil.’

We have a choice to make for every moment. He wants our heart, mind and soul connected in relationship for our good. You will be blessed.

Luke 13:34-35 NKJV
“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you were not willing! [35] See! Your house is left to you desolate; and assuredly, I say to you, you shall not see Me until the time comes when you say, ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD!’ “

Don’t be desolate and miss the best relationship with God, the Father, Jesus the Son and the Holy Spirit! You get a trio of goodness and wisdom.

“Fear of God is the summit of wisdom” by Ephraim the Syrian. Seek the best for your life!

Proverbs 9:10-12 NKJV
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. [11] For by me your days will be multiplied, And years of life will be added to you. [12] If you are wise, you are wise for yourself, And if you scoff, you will bear it alone.”

Nature and Trust in God

Daily, we are assaulted with human reasoning and potential false wisdom. The solar eclipse and earthquakes shake the foundations of peace in our minds. Conversations at the grocery store or in our communities and families may bring more anxiety than peace. But who has the truth we need to hold onto for our moments of fear?

It is not found in any human. It is found in God and a relationship with His Son Jesus and the guidance of the Advocate, Holy Spirit! We must seek wisdom from His Word.

God‘s word is truth, but it never changes. His Word is power and He is the One who created everything that exists in this world. He is truly great and powerful. Everything on heaven and earth belongs to Him, regardless of what happens in the world: whether it’s a solar eclipse, whether it’s earthquakes, God is still over all things and that never changes. He is deserving of all praise.

Psalm 104 is filled with the amazing truths of our Creator God and how He made the heavens and earth. I had to include its scripture. Slowly, meditate on the verses and gain peace in knowing He orchestrated all things. Consider reading it aloud to hear its truths.

Psalm 104:2,5-35 NLT
You are dressed in a robe of light. You stretch out the starry curtain of the heavens; [5] You placed the world on its foundation so it would never be moved. [6] You clothed the earth with floods of water, water that covered even the mountains. [7] At your command, the water fled; at the sound of your thunder, it hurried away. [8] Mountains rose and valleys sank to the levels you decreed. [9] Then you set a firm boundary for the seas, so they would never again cover the earth. [10] You make springs pour water into the ravines, so streams gush down from the mountains. [11] They provide water for all the animals, and the wild donkeys quench their thirst. [12] The birds nest beside the streams and sing among the branches of the trees. [13] You send rain on the mountains from your heavenly home, and you fill the earth with the fruit of your labor. [14] You cause grass to grow for the livestock and plants for people to use. You allow them to produce food from the earth- [15] wine to make them glad, olive oil to soothe their skin, and bread to give them strength. [16] The trees of the LORD are well cared for- the cedars of Lebanon that he planted. [17] There the birds make their nests, and the storks make their homes in the cypresses. [18] High in the mountains live the wild goats, and the rocks form a refuge for the hyraxes. [19] You made the moon to mark the seasons, and the sun knows when to set. [20] You send the darkness, and it becomes night, when all the forest animals prowl about. [21] Then the young lions roar for their prey, stalking the food provided by God. [22] At dawn they slink back into their dens to rest. [23] Then people go off to their work, where they labor until evening. [24] O LORD, what a variety of things you have made! In wisdom you have made them all. The earth is full of your creatures. [25] Here is the ocean, vast and wide, teeming with life of every kind, both large and small. [26] See the ships sailing along, and Leviathan, which you made to play in the sea. [27] They all depend on you to give them food as they need it. [28] When you supply it, they gather it. You open your hand to feed them, and they are richly satisfied. [29] But if you turn away from them, they panic. When you take away their breath, they die and turn again to dust. [30] When you give them your breath, life is created, and you renew the face of the earth. [31] May the glory of the LORD continue forever! The LORD takes pleasure in all he has made! [32] The earth trembles at his glance; the mountains smoke at his touch. [33] I will sing to the LORD as long as I live. I will praise my God to my last breath! [34] May all my thoughts be pleasing to him, for I rejoice in the LORD. [35] Let all sinners vanish from the face of the earth; let the wicked disappear forever. Let all that I am praise the LORD. Praise the LORD!

All glory to Him who sits on the throne of heaven. We are like a footstool to Him and yet He loves us so much.

We must not be shaken at natural signs and wonders. He who made all things is in control.

Psalm 132:7 AMP
Let us go into His tabernacle; Let us worship at His footstool.

We must remember to choose faith in Him over fear. The enemy would love to unsettle our minds and bring unbelief. We must stand firm in God and His Word. It is a life guiding template for all people.

2 Timothy 1:7 AMP
For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].

We don’t know what tomorrow may bring to our lives. But we do know our Creator God has all things in the palm of his hand. Seek Him in relationship today! Open your heart, mind and spirit to His wisdom and be changed.

Photo credit by pexels.com

Devouring Fire

Our lives are filled with opportunities to grow deeper in love with our Creator. Even in our stupid impulsive moments, God is unshakeable. God wants us to turn to Him for wisdom like a devouring fire that extinguishes the lies of the enemy and brings us to new life after the burning.

Is this revelation of God an amazing picture? I used to think of God as more punisher than grace and mercy giving Father. My religious upbringing limited the relationship of Jesus. I have found the more I read scripture independent of religious constructs that God shows His amazing grace and communicates with me in awesome ways.

After Jesus death on the cross and His resurrection, We are in a new covenant of God and His people. His death and resurrection showed His unconditional love for us sinners and brings a new life with Him interceding on our behalf to the Father.

Our actions don’t make us more holy and saved, it is His grace and mercy as a free gift when we submit to Him that brings new life. With new life comes new revelations with our Savior who awaits our call.

So tune your ear to hear His voice. Tune your eyes to seek His face and His wisdom. Turn your hearts to accept His unconditional love. Listen to Him alone.

When you have a shaking circumstance, it may be just the thing to prompt you to seek the unshakeable God. Humble pie can bring great things.

Be excited for His hand and plans to unfold as you repent for human reasoning and seek Godly wisdom.

Hebrews 12:24-29 NLT
You have come to Jesus, the one who mediates the new covenant between God and people, and to the sprinkled blood, which speaks of forgiveness instead of crying out for vengeance like the blood of Abel. [25] Be careful that you do not refuse to listen to the One who is speaking. For if the people of Israel did not escape when they refused to listen to Moses, the earthly messenger, we will certainly not escape if we reject the One who speaks to us from heaven! [26] When God spoke from Mount Sinai his voice shook the earth, but now he makes another promise: “Once again I will shake not only the earth but the heavens also.” [27] This means that all of creation will be shaken and removed, so that only unshakable things will remain. [28] Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe. [29] For our God is a devouring fire.

Come before Him and receive mercy and grace, the best help when you need it.

Hebrews 4:16 NLT
So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.

Our generous God, will not rebuke or shame you as you seek Him in humility. Your loyalty must be with Him despite the human need for admiration. He will guide your steps to the best village of His people.

James 1:5-8 NLT
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.

Let Him burn off pride, selfish attitudes and any other obstacle that blocks His voice. New life in Him beats anything else.

He is an amazing God full of love, compassion and blazing passionate fire for His children.

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Smoke and mirrors

Has your vision been blurry lately? Do you feel a sense of deep uncertainty, like there is a veil being placed over your eyes maybe even attempting to penetrate the mind?

It’s like a game of smoke and mirrors? One moment, we see an illumination of potential truth then the smoke blows in and we feel a bit tipsy. Perhaps it’s like drinking more than you can handle. Brain fog leads to less confidence in yourself and in the world.

The Bible tells us there will come a time when many Antichrists will vie for our attention. The voices of others may be speaking lies or half truths. How do we decipher the truth from a lie?

1 John 2:18 NLT
Dear children, the last hour is here. You have heard that the Antichrist is coming, and already many such antichrists have appeared. From this we know that the last hour has come.

We must keep our minds meditating on what God, the author of truth speaks to our minds and souls. We can filter others words through His.

The Father of lies, the devil, wants us to be detoured from the plans of God.

God wants us to seek His wisdom for all things. There is supernatural peace when we do, our human minds can’t understand but are filled with His Presence.

Psalm 14:2 AMP
The LORD has looked down from heaven upon the children of men To see if there are any who understand (act wisely), Who [truly] seek after God, [longing for His wisdom and guidance].

Smoke can be used to provide an illusion during a magicians act. When was the last time you went to a carnival or amusement park? Have you gone into the funhouse with its multiple mirrors and different distractions of unstable ground? As a kid, I found this ride to be a combination of fun and scary.

Our present times as parent, family member and friend can feel the same way. The difference is that this life is not an amusement park ride.

We must choose to seek the truth of God by accepting Jesus as our Savior and asking His Holy Spirit to be the guide of our lives. There is no other solution.

1 John 2:20,24-29 NLT
But you are not like that, for the Holy One has given you his Spirit, and all of you know the truth. [24] So you must remain faithful to what you have been taught from the beginning. If you do, you will remain in fellowship with the Son and with the Father. [25] And in this fellowship we enjoy the eternal life he promised us. [26] I am writing these things to warn you about those who want to lead you astray. [27] But you have received the Holy Spirit, and he lives within you, so you don’t need anyone to teach you what is true. For the Spirit teaches you everything you need to know, and what he teaches is true-it is not a lie. So just as he has taught you, remain in fellowship with Christ. [28] And now, dear children, remain in fellowship with Christ so that when he returns, you will be full of courage and not shrink back from him in shame. [29] Since we know that Christ is righteous, we also know that all who do what is right are God’s children.

We must teach our kids the same message. There is no other truth but following the one true God and His ways. Proverbs 22:6 is a great family scripture.

Proverbs 22:6 NLT
Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.

As you step into your day, realize, you get to choose which life path you take. Drop the smoke and mirrors! It will get you no where but more confused.

Brooke Ligertwood, and her song “Authority” is such a power packed declaration of the authority of God in this world. So despite the attempt to smoke and mirrors to make you confused and feel a sense of chaos, seek the authority of God. One word from Him will change the course of your life and those you love. Trust Him today.

All authority belongs to the Lord. It’s not by our strength that things prevail. The battle is the Lord’s, our job is to submit to Him, believe His promises and declare them for ourselves and for those we love.

Joshua 1:8-9 NLT
Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. [9] This is my command-be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

Trials

Time has shown me that trials are not punishment from God. I was brought up with a legalistic religion that focused on the need to right every sin made. My inability to have children felt like a punishment for sin. However, that was a lie from Satan, I gained more insight into life as I turned my life over to His plans.

Life is filled with steep mountains to climb. We don’t have to go it alone.

My need to orchestrate my life, my career, my marriage, my potential family to be, left no room from God to be my one and only God. I was on the throne as my own God. What a thought.

Over time and trials, I am seeing how God has been molding my character and life by showing me the places I need to hand over to His plans. What do you need to hand over to God? Is it your health, your family or friend relationships? What is blocking your path to growing with Him?

Our trials bring us two options: we avoid His direction and love, which brings more fear and stress or we can bring our trials to Him and have His help for the journey. When we realize our inability to control anything in life and give it all to Him. He can work out His purpose.

If I have an unrepentant heart for past sins the enemy brings heaps of shame and guilt on our life over grace and mercy. Talk to God, repent of the sin ( my pride was an obstacle). Remove the obstacles to your relationship of love with Jesus.

Our trials may be the experience we need to realize how much God loves us and how much we need to be refined in the trial. I definitely learned, it is not about my plans but His.

“Jesus loves me” is a popular children’s song. The lyrics expressed that “when I am weak He is strong”, I wanted the yes, Jesus does love you, “the Bible to tell me so.”

We must seek relationship with God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit!

The more I broke free of the Spirit of religion, ( yes, it is a spirit from the enemy set to destroy our relationship with Jesus), by seeking God and His truths in scripture, the more I was amazed at how Jesus loved me.

You see, it has always been about Relationship with our Creator God, Jesus.

When we choose to submit our whole life to God, He brings more wisdom to equip our day. He brings more hope even if we or our loved one has cancer, or if we struggle to love ourselves, or are challenged by addictions, or mental health. We can not do life alone.

Hebrews 13:20-21 NLT
Now may the God of peace- who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, and ratified an eternal covenant with his blood- [21] may he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.

Psalm 31:7 NLT
I will be glad and rejoice in your unfailing love, for you have seen my troubles, and you care about the anguish of my soul.

Jesus, the answer to the broken relationship of human and God, brought restoration and repair to the broken covenant. What an amazing gift of Jesus to our broken world. We need Him. He died for us, even though we are sinners.

What love Jesus has for us, His Holy Spirit is a gift of wisdom. Jesus loves you, obey His call, accept His help.

John 14:16-17 AMP
And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), to be with you forever— [17] the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive [and take to its heart] because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He (the Holy Spirit) remains with you continually and will be in you.

Amazing grace and mercy is within our grasp, just open your heart, mind and soul!

Open you hands, bend your knees and bow before the only One worthy of all our worship, Jesus.

God does have good plans for us. We must act in faith, believe He will work for our good, even when things seem impossible.

“Good plans”, a song by Red Rocks Worship, has been on my playlist daily. What an anthem to the goodness of God no matter the trial.

Good plans by Red Rocks Worship

John 14:26-27 AMP
But the Helper (Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor—Counselor, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will help you remember everything that I have told you. [27] Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. [Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge.]

Photo by pexels.com

Blinded

Our weather patterns have been so manic lately! One day, the sun shines, the temperature is balmy, the next day, a snow storm ( or what’s lately called polar vortex) takes over the region. Another day, we have found a dense fog that seems to hover for more than just a morning. This dense fog stayed into the evening with scattered areas of fog in the valleys and bright sun in the hilltops.

The other day, as I was driving with a family member. We were struck by the comparison of the weather and our walk with God. It feels as if we are caught in a blind fog of climate and information. We may feel our anxiety raise its ugly head. We may feel short of breath, but we must push through to get to our destination.

Here’s a photo my daughter took for reference:

Driving through a dense fog brings uncertainty as we continue to accelerate to the unknown intersection. The dense fog is not much different than our walk with our God, Yeshua! We must fix our eyes into a future without seeing His physical form. We must trust Him in our steps.

We must have faith in the unknown. There are hazards along the way, our friends and family may express concern for our Jesus freak faith. We may be seen crazy as Noah,who built an ark even though there was no flood yet. We may be ostracized for our willingness to be bold as the Holy Spirit is guiding our words and actions.

John 12:37-41,43-50 NLT
But despite all the miraculous signs Jesus had done, most of the people still did not believe in him. [38] This is exactly what Isaiah the prophet had predicted: “LORD, who has believed our message? To whom has the LORD revealed his powerful arm?” [39] But the people couldn’t believe, for as Isaiah also said, [40] “The Lord has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts- so that their eyes cannot see, and their hearts cannot understand, and they cannot turn to me and have me heal them.” [41] Isaiah was referring to Jesus when he said this, because he saw the future and spoke of the Messiah’s glory. [43] For they loved human praise more than the praise of God.

Do you want to be caught blinded by the praise of men or the praise of God? Our hardened hearts are a block to our relationship with Jesus.

In John 12, we read further what Jesus said to the crowds. We must choose to follow Him, personally! No one can make this decision for us. Your parents walk with God does not cover you.

John 12: [44] Jesus shouted to the crowds, “If you trust me, you are trusting not only me, but also God who sent me. [45] For when you see me, you are seeing the one who sent me. [46] I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark. [47] I will not judge those who hear me but don’t obey me, for I have come to save the world and not to judge it. [48] But all who reject me and my message will be judged on the day of judgment by the truth I have spoken. [49] I don’t speak on my own authority. The Father who sent me has commanded me what to say and how to say it. [50] And I know his commands lead to eternal life; so I say whatever the Father tells me to say.”

Yeshua ( Jesus) came to save the world. He wants us to choose Him. Don’t reject His message for love and eternal life. He wants us to choose life over death. Open your heart, Open your eyes, cry out to the only One who can save, He loves you!

John 3:16-17 NLT
“For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. [17] God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.

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.”

What has your heart?

Are you tied up in knots? Do you long for happiness and peace? Is that your end goal… to be happy? It is a fantasy to believe we can get happiness from another person, a circumstance, or words from another. What has your heart? What is your idol?

I know it sounds cynical. I am just sharing what God is revealing to me. Our happiness is emotion, our emotion fluctuates. It is unstable. Did we get enough sleep, did we eat healthy today? Did we spend time with God or just run out the door without giving Him a second thought? If it is not social media, what has your heart? Are we seeking happiness from scrolling on social media? (This is a dead-end coping mechanism that the devil uses to bring discontent.)

B.U.S.Y = Being Under Satans’ Yoke I have heard this anachronym before. It is an obstacle to our time with our Creator Father God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. The enemy wants to cause us to stay fixed on social media. When we stay stuck in this cycle, we feel trapped by time and forget what God says in His Scripture.

So untie the knots of social media, the cultural narratives, and the distractions of comparison traps. Social media can be used for good things such as sharing faith in Jesus, along with spreading love and lessons learned. It can be an amazing source to spread the gospel message of grace, mercy, hope, and forgiveness.

Social media can also be a trap of time. How many of us have found ourselves looking at the time we spent scrolling? Next thing you know hours have passed. We feel spent with more negative emotions and unfulfilled.

Doesnt it make more sense to spend time getting the wisdom to guide our steps? Seek the peace and wisdom from God.

Time to change your routine: Here is a solid truth from Psalm 34. Meditate on each scripture. Speak it aloud for 30 days each morning before you get out of bed. Start your day in His truth with His promises. Decide for yourself the trajectory of your mindset for His plans over the World plan. I plan to make a change in 2024 personally. What do you have to lose, challenge yourself with a 30-day fast from social media!

Psalm 34 (MSG)  I bless God every chance I get;

my lungs expand with his praise.



2 I live and breathe God;

if things aren’t going well, hear this and be happy:



3 Join me in spreading the news;

together let’s get the word out.



4 God met me more than halfway,

he freed me from my anxious fears.



5 Look at him; give him your warmest smile.

Never hide your feelings from him.



6 When I was desperate, I called out,

and God got me out of a tight spot.



7 God’s angel sets up a circle

of protection around us while we pray.



8 Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see—

    how good God is.

Blessed are you who run to him.



9 Worship God if you want the best;

worship opens doors to all his goodness.



10 Young lions on the prowl get hungry,

but God-seekers are full of God.



11 Come, children, listen closely;

I’ll give you a lesson in God worship.



12 Who out there has a lust for life?

Can’t wait each day to come upon beauty?



13 Guard your tongue from profanity,

and no more lying through your teeth.



14 Turn your back on sin; do something good.

Embrace peace—don’t let it get away!



15 God keeps an eye on his friends,

his ears pick up every moan and groan.



16 God won’t put up with rebels;

he’ll cull them from the pack.



17 Is anyone crying for help? God is listening,

ready to rescue you.



18 If your heart is broken, you’ll find God right there;

if you’re kicked in the gut, he’ll help you catch your breath.



19 Disciples so often get into trouble;

still, God is there every time.



20 He’s your bodyguard, shielding every bone;

not even a finger gets broken.



21 The wicked commit slow suicide;

they waste their lives hating the good.



22 God pays for each slave’s freedom;

no one who runs to him loses out.

Dont be a slave of social constructs, find freedom in fixing your mind with Christ!! Be open to a makeover. Let Him revive your heart! A new year brings new promises for a new life. Worship the Lord with your time, your heart, mind, and soul. You will be rewarded with more peace beyond understanding.

Proverbs 3 (MSG) ^1-2Good friend, don’t forget all I’ve taught you;
take to heart my commands.
They’ll help you live a long, long time,
a long life lived full and well.

^3-4Don’t lose your grip on Love and Loyalty.
Tie them around your neck; carve their initials on your heart.
Earn a reputation for living well
in God’s eyes and the eyes of the people.

^5-12Trust God from the bottom of your heart;
don’t try to figure out everything on your own.
Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go;
he’s the one who will keep you on track.

Be His vessel!!

We are like this china cup! We are fragile, we are broken by life but the gold glittered glue that can hold us together is our Creator God! He wants to use the cracks to draw us closer to Him so He can put the pieces together. Our refining is our testimony of His plans and purposes. Run to Him for the help and wisdom.

Make us a vessel for Your Kingdoms purpose, Father, Son, Holy Spirit! Pray to Him before you get out of bed. Father God, Jesus and Holy Spirit, mold me and make me more like You. Orchestrate my words, my steps and actions. Bring Your power, might , wisdom, and truth. in Jesus Name, Amen!

Psalm 40:1-3 AMP
I waited patiently and expectantly for the LORD; And He inclined to me and heard my cry. [2] He brought me up out of a horrible pit [of tumult and of destruction], out of the miry clay, And He set my feet upon a rock, steadying my footsteps and establishing my path. [3] He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God; Many will see and fear [with great reverence] And will trust confidently in the LORD.

Submit to His transforming power, be transformed into what He already knows you are called to be.

Hebrews 4:8-16 MSG
And so this is still a live promise. It wasn’t canceled at the time of Joshua; otherwise, God wouldn’t keep renewing the appointment for “today.” The promise of “arrival” and “rest” is still there for God’s people. God himself is at rest. And at the end of the journey we’ll surely rest with God. So let’s keep at it and eventually arrive at the place of rest, not drop out through some sort of disobedience. [12-13] God means what he says. What he says goes. His powerful Word is sharp as a surgeon’s scalpel, cutting through everything, whether doubt or defense, laying us open to listen and obey. Nothing and no one can resist God’s Word. We can’t get away from it—no matter what. [14-16] Now that we know what we have—Jesus, this great High Priest with ready access to God—let’s not let it slip through our fingers. We don’t have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He’s been through weakness and testing, experienced it all—all but the sin. So let’s walk right up to him and get what he is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help.

New Wine- Hillsong worship

He has great plans. Take the mercy, accept the help from the One who knows you best! Take the free gift of new life, be a new wine skin, filled to overflow by His anointing in the Holy Spirit. Be His vessel!