Women of the Harvest

What Should I Do With This?

2011-12-26T05:03:00.000-08:00

"...Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." I Peter 5:7

Christmas is over. After all the build up and preparation--it's finished. What are you left with? Well, let's see. There is a tree that is losing needles by the minute, lights and ornaments that are destined for the storage box to await their turn to shine next year, cast off wrapping paper, bags and bows that are beyond their usefulness today. That's what is "physically" left. But what about the emotional?

For many, we are left with memories--good and bad, and we aren't always sure what to do with them are we? Kind of like some of the gifts we've received. Some gifts we open are a pleasant and wonderful surprise--something we had always hoped for but never expected to receive. Others, however, are things we never asked for and have no idea what to do with. Ever receive a gift and in your mind you are thinking, "What in the world am I going to do with this?" What does one do with a painful memory or a disappointment that we have no idea how to handle?

Maybe it's not as complicated as it may seem. If I receive a gift that I have no idea what to do with, I look for someone who is familiar with that particular item and pass it on to them. Perhaps that what the scripture is telling us in 1 Peter 5:7. We are to cast our anxiety on him (Jesus). Why? Because he (Jesus) cares about us.

We are to give him the things we don't know what to do with. Why? Because he likes to collect stuff? No, because He cares about us. He knows that carrying around unnecessary baggage is not healthy. He's all about our health (physical, emotional and spiritual).

Need to do some "casting" today?

His Ways Are Perfect.....

2011-11-08T06:50:00.000-08:00

"As for God, his way is perfect. All the Lord's promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection." Psalm 18:30

Psalm 18:30 keeps me grounded. It gives me perspective when mine has gone haywire. It reminds me that my loving God has everything under control even when I am totally out of control.

Notice that it doesn't say God's way is usually a pretty good idea, or that his way almost always makes a lot of sense. No. It says -His way is perfect. Sometimes that's all I need to hear. That phrase is God's way of wrapping up all my why's and how's in a neat package marked "trust me" and lovingly handing them back to me with a smile.

Next it says, "...All the Lord's promises prove true." Although I have long since forgotten most of what I learned in my 3 semesters of Greek in college, I have managed to hang onto this--All means All. When I feel disappointed or disillusioned or betrayed, I need that reminder. All that the Lord has promised me will prove true. Maybe I don't see it yet. But I have his word on that.

Finally then, I get to the shield part. I like that word - shield. Just makes me feel safe. I also like that fact that it doesn't say that the Lord will give me a shield--it says he "is" a shield to all who look to him for protection. If I keep looking to him then that includes me. I need that assurance. I'm not too good at protecting myself. Truth be told, much of the time I don't even realize when I'm in danger and need protection.

Thank you Almighty God for Your ways, Your promises and Your protection.

Wanted: Disciple

2011-09-05T17:53:00.000-07:00

"Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." Matthew 16:24

Don't you love that part in a dramatic movie when one person says to another in frustration, "What do you want from me?" We've all said that to someone in our life. Maybe a parent, a spouse, an employer. Maybe........God? Come on. Sure you have. Be honest. We've all asked the Lord at one point or another just exactly what is it that He wants from us anyway.

I love direct answers, don't you? Don't beat around the bush with me. Give it to me straight. Well Jesus didn't mince words. We don't have to wonder what he was getting at. He said what he meant and meant what he said.

There are 3 directives here for the potential recruit: 1) Deny yourself 2) Take up your cross and 3) Follow me. Pretty simple, right? Well, yes and no.

Let's look at number 1 - Deny yourself. Ouch! That one doesn't leave much wiggle room. Deny yourself means you can't be the center of your world. It won't work that way. Jesus has to come first in everything. Others have to slide in next and you actually belong in the caboose. Yep. You're dead last.

Number 2 is the part about taking up your cross. Ever hear someone say in relating a painful or difficult situation in their life, "Well I guess that's just my cross to bear?" Sounds so humble doesn't it? Maybe, but I don't think that's what the Lord meant here. You see, the cross was actually an instrument of death. Number 2 actually is building on number 1. We deny ourselves, and then we die to ourselves. We die to our old way of thinking, living, relating. The Apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians 15:31 "...I die daily..."

Finally, number 3 says that we are to follow him. That one's not too tough either. Where he goes--you go. What he loves--you love. What he hates--you hate.

Ready, set..............surrender!

It Will Always Be This Way....

2011-07-15T08:29:00.000-07:00

"...He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies." John 8:44b

Have you noticed that our enemy, Satan, gets a good deal of mileage out of every lie he speaks to us? By this I mean that he takes one lie and uses it forward, backward, twists it, turns it inside out and uses it all over again. He is the ultimate recycler (is that a word?)

Anyway, have you noticed that when things aren't going so well for you, maybe you're sick, or your finances are upside down, or a relationship in your life is damaged and painful, that the enemy sings this tune into your ear as often as he can? It usually goes something like this, "Your life is depressing. Nothing is going right. Everything is falling apart. You'll never get a break. Why should you keep putting forth so much effort in this area? It's not worth the trouble. No one appreciates what you do anyway. It's hopeless. Nothing will ever change. It will always be this way."

Amazingly, later on when things are going great, he turns over the same record (for those of us who remember records) and plays the other side. It usually sounds something like this, "Everything is going great (and by the way, you have yourself to thank for that, you are so smart). Don't worry about being obedient to Christ in every area of your life right now, there will be time to straighten things out later. Just relax and enjoy today. Yes, you have some very unhealthy physical and emotional habits but you can take care of them down the road. By all means, don't worry about mending any broken relationships in your life. Sure, you have some unforgiveness and maybe a little bitterness here and there but who doesn't? After all, you've been mistreated yourself, you know. Maybe you owe a couple of people an apology but they will be around for awhile and so will you for that matter. Those things can wait. Concentrate on you. Take it easy and do some things that you want to do. You've worked hard--You deserve it! You are definitely on a roll. It will always be this way!

Hmmm. I often wonder if the enemy's favorite name for most of us is--Sucker!

For This Purpose

2011-06-21T15:54:00.000-07:00

"...For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil." 1 John 3:8

One of the most basic pieces of advice you get from a mentor or trusted teacher and friend is this: "When you set out to do something important and life changing, make sure you are totally and completely certain of your purpose." Of course there are many side issues and short and long term advantages with each endeavor but one needs to always have his or her primary purpose in the forefront of their mind. That's what keeps you pushing forward when everything around you says, "Just quit!"

Jesus came. He was born, he lived, and he died. There were many reasons for his coming. He came to show God's unbelievable love for us. He came to seek and save the lost. He came to set the captives free. He came to deliver us from our sin and ourselves. He came to model grace, forgiveness and unselfishness. The reasons go on and on and on......

But what about purpose? Did Jesus have a singular focus--a clearly defined sight on his spiritual radar? You bet He did! 1 John 3:8b puts all the cards on the table. Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil!

John 10:10 says, "the thief comes to steal, kill and destroy but I (Jesus) have come that you might have life and have it more abundantly!" Do you see that? Jesus came to oppose and destroy everything that the enemy wants to do in your life and mine. That's it! His main purpose is the destroy the one who is keeping me down. If that is His purpose for me then that should be my desire as well. More than anything I want to cooperate with everything Jesus asks me to do to give Him the freedom to destroy the works of the enemy in my life.

Lord, show me what I need to surrender to you to allow you to destroy any and all work of the devil in my life. I want what you want for me--to walk in freedom, joy and victory!

Are You Ready For Forever?

2011-05-24T08:32:00.000-07:00

"The grass withers, and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever."
Isaiah 40:8

Tornadoes, earthquakes, tsunamis, famines, wars.... Where do we turn for hope? Where do we look for meaning and purpose? What do we do with all our why's and how's? There is so much happening that doesn't seem to make sense.

Maybe the first step is to just surrender and say, "I don't know". I don't know why it often seems that bad things happen to good people and good things happen to bad people. I find that it's not good for me to dwell on what I don't know, though. I have to keep my thoughts and my heart on what I do know. I know that God loves me and promises to work everything out for my good (Romans 8:28). That doesn't mean that everything that happens to me is good but it does mean that my loving Father can bring good out of anything if I surrender it to him.

Someday, though...........someday we'll know. 1 John 3:2-3 says, "Yes, dear friends, we are already God's children, and we can't even imagine what we will be like when Christ returns. But we do know that when he come we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is."

Kind of causes you to re-evaluate your priorities, doesn't it? Is what I am holding onto going to carry me into eternity? In a moments time it could all be gone. Then what?

Are you ready for forever?

So Many Things....

2011-04-12T04:58:00.000-07:00

"Martha, Martha the Lord answered," "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better and it will not be taken away from her." Luke 10:41-42

I freely admit I'm a Martha. No need to try and pretend otherwise. I would have been the sister trying to run around and make everything "external" come together for Jesus' visit. I would have been very irritated with my laid back sibling who didn't seem to have the sensitivity to jump in with both feet (and hands) and help me as I wore myself to a frazzle just trying to "make life a little better for everyone around me!" Can you hear that "poor me--martyr" thing coming through here?

I've come to realize that being a multi-tasker is not necessarily a blessing. It can also mean that I'm a "multi-worrier". There are plenty of things out there to worry about if you're interested. Take your pick! Have you noticed that as soon as something you have been so concerned about and prayed over is resolved, something else steps up and fills in that empty spot?

Jesus was so loving with Martha. Notice he didn't say "Martha, when will you ever get it together? I'm so sick and tired of your attitude. You are driving all of us in this room nuts with your perfection issues!" No, of course not. Our Lord didn't speak to the behavior--He spoke to the person. He loved Martha so much. Notice that he spoke her name two times in a row--"Martha, Martha". That alone is evidence of His love and compassion for her. He could see that not only was she worried, she was also upset. Her worrying had led her down a path of being angry and frustrated with those around her for not joining in with her and becoming just as driven as she was. Driving can be relaxing--being driven never is.

Jesus said that Mary chose what was better and that it would not be taken from her. Mary chose to sit at Jesus' feet and learn from him. Helping, serving and even ministering are very good things, but spending time with Jesus in much better. In fact, it is sitting as His feet that empowers us to do those other things with a much deeper understanding of why they matter. I'm learning each day that I have a choice whether or not to take the time to spend with Jesus or to busy myself with everything else that seems so important at the time.

How about you--Mary or Martha? You do have a choice, you know.

What Good Is The Gospel?

2011-03-05T05:12:00.000-08:00

"And if Christ was not raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your trust in God is useless." 1 Corinthians 15:14

Have you ever watered down something hoping to make it stretch a little further but instead you so diluted it that it became worthless and unusable? Whether it's adding milk to ranch dressing or water to grape juice, some things just aren't the same when we try to spread them too thin.

The question that has been running around in my mind lately is "What Good is the Gospel?" Now don't get me wrong; I don't mean this in a disrespectful way at all. I guess what I am really asking is, "If we don't let the gospel stand alone and be exactly what it is intended to be then what good is it anyway?"

Let me put it this way; if the Gospel doesn't mean that Jesus still heals diseases, or that my God wants to set me free from fear, or that he wants to heal the hurts in my heart, or touch my finances, or direct my steps and give me His supernatural wisdom and power in prayer, then what good is it anyway? Why do I want or need to carry around a Gospel that has no power or that is so watered down that it doesn't even remotely mirror the original?

If Jesus really did rise from the dead, and if the Gospel really does mean "good news"--then let me have it! I want all of what I'm entitled to have! That's not selfish--it's just "cashing the check" that has my name on it for goodness sake!

Romans 8:11 tells us that if we know Christ as Savior, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is alive and at work in our physical bodies. Guess what--that's the GOSPEL!

Sign me up! You???

All The Promises of God

2011-02-08T03:14:00.000-08:00

"For no matter how many promises God has made, they are 'Yes' in Christ. And so through Him the 'Amen' is spoken by us to the glory of God." 2 Corinthians 1:20

The story is told of the great missionary to China, Hudson Taylor, as he once wrote back home to his wife during a great time of financial need at the mission in China, "We have 25 cents and all the promises of God!"

I never cease to be challenged and encouraged by this single example of trust from one whose life was a virtual "scrapbook of faith" and a testimony to the fulfilled promises of God.

I have read that there are over 7000 promises of God in the Bible. As I began to do a deeper study on God's promises I asked myself why the Lord gave us as believers so many promises. I mean, He is the God of the universe, right? He could have sufficed by saying, "I'm here, I love you, I will take care of you." Then I realized that is exactly what He did! But because He understood our weakness and our tendency to forget, He kept repeating himself over and over and over again. We have all heard it said that the Bible is God's "Love Letter" to us. I submit to you that it is also God's "Promise Book" to us. In order to experience His promises we must believe that they are for us--and more importantly that He is for us.

The Lord is the ultimate "PromiseKeeper". Don't let anyone or anything snatch away from you the confidence and peace that comes from standing on His promises.

"Blizzard"

2010-12-29T13:22:00.000-08:00

"When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet." Proverbs 31:21

When the "blizzard" hit last week here in New England, I immediately thought of one of my favorite Bible personalities - Mrs. Proverbs 31!

You gotta love that Proverbs 31 Woman! Let's face it. She set the standard that we all try to reach for, right? I must confess that for a good part of my christian life I really didn't care too much for Mrs. 31. To me she was the "Valedictorian of Today's Christian Woman" who seemingly effortlessly aced all the tests one by one, and I --well I was just average me who kept swinging but was always falling short.

I mean, really. I'm no "merchant ship bringing food from afar". The best I can do is a quick BJ's run in the midst of a crazy jam-packed day. I can't say I've had much experience being one who "considers a field and buys it" , although you will likely find me at Kohl's the end of this month considering filling my cart with clearance items for my grandchildren for the coming year. No matter how much I might aspire to move in her circles, I just don't measure up.

Then one day I realized that Mrs. 31 wasn't really who I was supposed to be trying to be. I am supposed to be the best "me" that I can be as I follow my Lord Jesus. Her attributes are a wonderful model for me but they were written down for one purpose - to encourage me to reach for everything that God created me to be in Christ Jesus.

If I had to choose 2 verses out of this chapter that I really want to be true in my life this year, it would be verses 25-26:
"She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can
laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue."

Okay Mrs. 31. The Lord obviously had your attention and now you have mine. Thank you for taking your relationship with Him so seriously. I wonder if you know how many people have noticed...

From Frustration to Desperation

2010-11-17T07:12:00.000-08:00

"As the deer pants for streams of water, so I long for you, O God." Psalm 42:1

"I am so frustrated!" "Something has to change!" "I can't live like this anymore!" Does this sound familiar? We all come to points in our journey of faith that cause us to throw up our hands in frustration; frustration with our circumstances, frustration with our own compromising behaviors, frustration with "doing the same thing and expecting a different result." Frustration in and of itself doesn't produce much that we could see as positive. Frustration in our lives can cause us to be irritable, impatient and often impossible to live with. But......if we allow frustration to push us toward the next level in our spiritual walk, it can actually be a good thing. Simply stated: We begin to change, not when we are frustrated--we begin to change when we are desperate.

In Psalm 42:1 the writer gives us a beautiful picture of spiritual desperation. We all understand what it means to be thirsty. You know, the I can't think of anything else at that moment but getting a drink of water kind of thirsty? That's the kind of thirst and desperation I want to have for the Lord. I must admit that all too often I'm not thirsty enough. I allow other concerns and desires to step in and interfere with that "thirsty walk". Lord, make me desperately thirsty for you.

How about you? Are you at a point of frustration or desperation! There's a big difference.

Retreat Reflections - 2010

2010-10-17T17:31:00.000-07:00

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

What a powerful week-end we had at the Women's Retreat! As usual, the Lord showed himself in such a loving and peaceful way.

Our theme for the week-end was "Loving To Trust". We were reminded that the foundation for trusting in Christ must be love. In order for us to truly trust him we must be assured of his enduring love for us.

We used the song, "How He Loves" as our theme song for the week-end. The first line of the song says, "He is jealous for me...". For so many of us, that sounds great in our minds but our hearts often have difficulty accepting and believing that as truth even though the scripture says exactly that. If God is jealous for me then that means that He must think about me all the time. In Isaiah 49:16 God says, "I have engraved you on the palms of my hands..."

So many of us these days have "trust issues". We have been wounded, betrayed, used or violated by those we trusted. As women especially, we need to feel safe. Jesus offers us the security that our hearts long for. So often we have tried to find that security in people, possessions, position, etc.. but we always came up short.

Augustine said, "Our hearts are restless until they find their rest in thee."

Well I Just Think....

2010-09-21T15:14:00.000-07:00

"People may be pure in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their motives." Proverbs 16:2

In one of our recent Women's Bible Studies we talked about 4 of the most dangerous words that can be spoken, "Well I just think..." Yes, we've all ventured down that winding road at one time or another haven't we?

For those who have decided against surrendering their hearts and lives to Christ, "Well I just think..." is really a convenient way to say - "Im not interested." Usually "Well I just think" is followed by something like: "if you try to be a good person" or "all roads are leading to heaven anyway" or the ever popular "You just have to do the best you can and hope everything works out alright". Hmmm. These all sound good don't they? The only problem is that Jesus himself always gets in the way when he said in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me." Not much wiggle room there.

For the rest of us who have a relationship with Christ but often wrestle with that little "O" word (obedience), those other 4 words probably roll off the end of our tongues alot more often that they should. How about: "Well I just think you have to speak your mind and if people don't like it--too bad", or "Well I just think that what I do in my free time is nobody else's business," or finally, "Well I just think that God would want me to be happy". Hmmm. Again, sounds good doesn't it? You know what though? I just can't seem to shake the last half of Proverbs 16:2 - "...but the Lord examines their motives." Ouch!

Webster's Dictionary defines motive as - something (a need or desire) that causes a person to act. In Psalm 139:23-24 David asks the Lord, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life."

Are we there yet?

Less Is More

2010-08-26T05:33:00.000-07:00

"A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even tempered. Even fools are thought to be wise when they keep silent; when they keep their mouths shut, they seem intelligent." Proverbs 17:27-28

"That's just how I am. If I'm thinking it--I'm going to say it!" How many times have we heard that remark or perhaps said it ourselves? Sounds very assertive, self-confident and independent doesn't it? According to the scripture though, that is an unwise attitude and one that can often get us in trouble. Proverbs 10:19 says, "When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise."

As we recently talked about at Women's Bible Study, we've all said things impulsively and the second the words left our mouths we knew we shouldn't have said them. How many marriages have been deeply damaged by thoughtless words spoken during times of pressure or frustration? How many friendships have been forever altered by gossip or hurtful remarks made as a result of misunderstanding? How many parent/child relationships have been scarred by angry accusations made during times of stress or struggle?

James 1:19-20 tells us, "...Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires."

I'm still learning that my tongue so often has a mind of it's own and that I need to continually bring it under the authority of Christ. The good news is that the same tongue that can cause so much pain and heartache can also be a messenger of healing and restoration if we humbly lay it on the altar of surrender and brokenness. Proverbs 15:4a says, "The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life..."

Some of the sweetest words the tongue can utter are, "I'm so sorry" and "I forgive you". It's never too late to allow God to fix situations and people who have been damaged by the tongue.

What A Job Description!

2010-07-29T04:56:00.000-07:00

"But it is actually best for you that I go away, because if I don't, the Counselor won't come. If I do go away, he will come because I will send him to you."
John 16:7

I love John chapter 16 because Jesus is showing himself to be exactly who he is--the loving shepherd, forever looking out for his sheep. He is about to step onto the most horrendous path that any of us could imagine. He is on his way to the cross--and he knows it. Being fully aware of that mission and preparing himself for all that will be asked of him, he wants to be sure his sheep are taken care of. He is telling and teaching his disciples (and us) about the wonderful yet mysterious Holy Spirit that he is sending in his place.

Beginning in verse 8 he begins to outline the job description, if you will, of the Holy Spirit. Let's briefly take a look:

1) He will convince the world of sin and of God's righteousness
and the coming judgment
2) He will guide us into all truth (vs. 13)
3) He will tell us what He has heard
4) He will tell us the future
5) He will bring glory to Jesus by revealing to us
whatever He receives from Jesus (vs. 14)

The Holy Spirit has been sent for our benefit. He is God in Spirit and He is with us and in us if we know Christ as our Savior. All of the things listed in His job description are the things He came to do for you.

Are you asking for the wisdom and direction of the Holy Spirit in all you do? He is here for you.

Retreat Reflections III - 4 Questions God Will Ask

2010-06-28T06:17:00.000-07:00

"For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him." 2 Chronicles 16:9a

This blog entry is the last in a brief series highlighting some of the issues we touched on at our Spring Women's Retreat. The last entry mentioned 4 questions God will never ask. This time we will briefly touch on 4 questions God will and does ask of each of us at different times:

1) Do you love me? (John 21:15-17)
2) Do you believe? (Mark 9:24)
3) Is this really what you want? (Proverbs 14:12)
4) Are you ready to let go? (Matthew 10:39)

As a student in high school, I discovered that my favorite teacher was an American History teacher who was always asking questions. I learned the most from him because he made me think and search and explore and ask why!

As one who enjoys teaching now, I often find the most effective way to get a point across is to ask questions and cause those I am teaching to search for the truth. When it comes to the issues of life and purpose and reality, there is only one truth - His name is Jesus. He said in John 10:10, " I am the way, the truth and the life, no man comes to the Father but through me." He never forced himself on anyone when he walked this earth. The same is still true today--God will never force himself on you. But he will ask you some very pointed questions in order to get you to think and search and explore. He doesn't even mind if we ask "why" but the answers may not always come when we think we need them. Psalm 18:30 says that His ways are perfect.

God is looking for committed hearts. Look at the 4 questions above and allow Him to ask them of you.

"He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." Jim Elliot

Retreat Reflections II - 4 Questions God Never Asks

2010-06-04T06:22:00.000-07:00

"My thoughts are completely different from yours," says the Lord. "And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine." Isaiah 55:8-9

For those of you who did not get a chance to go on our Spring Retreat, we talked at one point about 4 questions that God never asks. Let me outline them to you briefly:

1) Are you comfortable?
2) What can I do to make you like me?
3) When would you like this trial to end?
4) Is this a good time to talk?

We all chuckled to ourselves as these were read but our laughter turned to reflection pretty quickly. Perhaps because we have all grown up in this western "me centered" society, we forget that God isn't concerned about our comfort, our wants and our priorities. He loves us too much to be distracted by such things. His main goal for all of us is that we would be made more like his Son Jesus. That can only happen as we allow Him to totally change the way we think. Romans 12:2 says, " Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is."

Next post we will look at some questions that God does ask us and how to look for the answers.

Retreat Reflections

2010-05-18T03:07:00.000-07:00

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law." Galatians 5:22-23

What a wonderful week-end we had at our retreat! For those of you who could not make it and for others who read this blog, I would like to take the next couple of entries to highlight some of what we talked about regarding the fruit of the Spirit.

First, let me remind us that the wording in Galatians is "fruit" of the Spirit and not "fruits" of the Spirit. God's Holy Spirit actually blesses us with one giant "fruit" if you will, with many parts. We often think of getting some fruits and not others, but actually the Lord give us the whole package when we surrender ourselves to the working of His Holy Spirit. Some parts of the fruit, however, are more evident than others at certain times in our lives.

I believe that love is the first part of the fruit that is mentioned here for a reason. Love must be the foundation for all of the other parts of the fruit of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 13 tells us that without love--we are nothing. Once we truly grasp just how much our Father loves us and receive that love from Him and others in the body of Christ, we are then in a position to be able to surrender and allow the rest of the fruit to work its way into our hearts.

If you sense you are missing peace--go back and check your love. If you aren't walking in joy--go back and check your love. If gentleness isn't evident in your walk--go back and check your love. 1 John 4:10 says,"...this is love, not that we loved Him but that He loved us and sent His Son... As we daily set aside time with God we are keeping that line of communication open that helps us receive all that He has for us and continually confirms to us how much He loves us. That's why the enemy fights so hard to keep us from spending time with the Lord. He knows what can happen when we know who we are in Christ and walk in His love.

Set aside that time today. Even if it's just 5 minutes it will be the best 5 minutes you spend all day.

No Cost Refi?

2010-04-23T06:34:00.000-07:00

"...For I will not offer burnt offerings to the Lord my God which cost me nothing..."
2 Samuel 24:24

My husband have been considering taking advantage of the low interest rate offers for refinancing our home. After some considerable research, we came across a product that sounds pretty enticing. It's called a "No Cost Refi". Wow! Who could pass that up? No cost--really? Well, actually it does cost, just not up front. Still in all though, not a bad idea.

As often as I can, I try to see if there are any parallels to what is going on in the natural in my life to what God may be doing in the spiritual. So I asked myself, "What about a 'No Cost Refi' in my spiritual life"? Do I find myself "shopping" for the spiritual relationship that doesn't cost me much or for the church that doesn't ask much? Is bargain hunting a wise idea when it comes to spiritual things? Do I often approach my relationship with Christ like I do other areas in my life? Am I always looking for the best deal?

King David was a man after God's heart, not because he was perfect but because his heart was humble before God. He received correction, he desired to know God's will and maybe more than anything--he understood the meaning of sacrifice. In this passage, David was building an altar to the Lord in order to sacrifice and stop the plague on the people of Israel which his own sin had caused. Araunah the Jebusite not only sold David his threshing floor on which the altar could be built but also offered to give David the sacrifice as well. David knew this could not be. He could not make a sacrifice to the Lord which didn't cost him anything. You see, a sacrifice is not a sacrifice if it doesn't cost us something!

How expensive is your walk with Christ?

If Christ Did Not Rise

2010-04-03T03:20:00.000-07:00

"...And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain." I Corinthinas 15:14

Christ is Risen! Indeed, He is Risen! This traditional orthodox greeting will be heard in millions of churches around the world this Easter Sunday. It is known as the "Paschal Greeting" taken from the Latanized spelling of the Hebrew word "Pesach" or "Passover".

Many times we shrink back at the mention of the word tradition and quite honestly many traditions unfortunately become meaningless half-hearted attempts at going through the motions of some long forgotten ritual. But many others are timeless and powerful. The Paschal Greeting seems to be at the top of that list.

I love the directness of the Apostle Paul in I Corinthians 15:14. He is basically telling those struggling Corinthian christians, "Listen up folks! If Jesus Christ did not rise from the dead, then my preaching is a waste of time and, by the way, your faith is a waste of time as well."

The resurrection is central to all that we are and proclaim to be as believers. It is the focal point for everything that we are and believe and do--it defines us!

Sadly, I must confess that I am so often defined by pride, worry, concern and frustration. This is an obvious sign that my focal point is so often--me. Forgive me, Lord. As a follower I am to reflect You to this hurting world.

There is beautiful old chorus that our church often sings at our Sunrise Service each Easter:

I live, I live because You have risen
I live, I live to worship You
Thank you, Jesus
Thank you, Jesus
Because You're alive, because You're alive
Because You're alive--I live.

Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen!

Help Is On The Way

2010-03-16T08:42:00.000-07:00

"As for me, I am poor and needy, but the Lord is thinking about me right now. You are my helper and my Savior. do not delay, O my God." Psalm 40:17

People say that time will heal
But you know, they just don't feel what you feel
Times are hard but God is so good
He's never failed you, and he said He never would

He sees your tears
He fights your fears

Hold on, help is on the way
He said he'd never leave you or forsake you
Stay strong
Help is on the way
He said he's help you
Just reach out and take his hand

He knows your heart, He lifts your head
He's always close enough to hear every word you said
When you're weak, He said He's so much more
His arm is long enough to reach you where you are

He sees your tears
He fights your fears

Hold on - Help is on the way...

Words and Music by Michael W. Smith

Are You Neck -Reined?

2010-02-23T09:20:00.000-08:00

"Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, 'This is the way; walk in it.'" Isaiah 30:21

Horses are a curious animal. They each have their own personality and level of willingness to obey. I guess you could say they are a lot like us humans actually. I learned as a youngster that the reins that are connected to the horse's bridle are the means by which they are controlled.

Some horses have to be forced to go to the right or left or to back up by pulling hard on the reins from one side or the other or straight back. They still have a mind of their own and have not been fully taught to follow their master's leading. They get confused, frustrated and down right stubborn at times and getting them to obey can often be a test of wills. These animals consistently try their owners and often make riding them a chore rather than a delight.

There are others though, those that have been completely broken, that need only a slight nudge or to simply have the reins laid over on one side of their neck or the other to move obediently to the right or to the left. The rider need only to barely lay the leather against the animal's neck to easily obtain the desired response. Slight nudges with the heels or clicking of the tongue are all that is often necessary to begin the ride. Riding these horses is simply a pleasure. No battle is necessary, the animal almost anticipates the desire of it's master. His master's will becomes his own.

Is the spiritual lesson obvious? Have you been broken before your Lord to the point that His will has become yours? Are you neck-reined?

Where Does My Help Come From?

2010-02-01T07:01:00.001-08:00

"I lift up my eyes to the hills--where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 121:1-2

How often do you look up? No, I mean really, "How often do you look up?" If you're like me you spend a lot of time looking around - at your situation and circumstances, a significant amount of time looking down--perhaps because you don't want to connect with others or deal with certain situations, and way too much time looking inward--focusing on your own struggles, disappointments and frustrations.

The Psalmist, in this case many believe it was Hezekiah, knew how to get his perspective adjusted right away. Notice he says, "I lift up my eyes to the hills". This was a willful choice on his part to lift up his eyes. In order to look up at the hills he had to stop looking around and down and in. We can only look one direction at a time. We have to choose where we will look.

As soon as he looked up he realized where his help comes from - "...the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." If we're looking for help from anywhere else we will likely be disappointed along the way.

Looked up lately?

One Thing I Know

2010-01-21T06:05:00.000-08:00

"...because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day." 2 Timothy 1:12

On my first break back home from my freshman year in college, my Dad asked me a question, "Well, now that you're in college what have you learned?" I distinctly remember answering, "I've learned that there is a whole lot that I don't know!"

After nearly 30 years in ministry I hear myself saying the same thing, "The older I get, the more I realize that there is so much I don't know!" But you know what? That's OK with me. I would be foolish to pretend that I have all of the answers. My goodness, I don't even know all the questions!

In ministering to those who are questioning their neglect or abuse by a family member, or rejection, or grieving the loss of a loved one, I often hear myself saying, " I don't know..." What I do know is that God loves me and he loves you, that he desires to bring good out of the most painful situations, and that someday when we get to heaven our questions will be answered and the pain and tears of this life will be but a brief memory. That is what I hang my hat on when things around me don't make sense. I have to trust the heart of the One who loved me so much that he gave his life in exchange for mine.

Paul said in 2 Timothy 1:12 that even in the midst of suffering he held on to the fact that he knew who he had believed and was fully convinced that the Lord was able to take care of what he had entrusted to him. Because of what he did know, it was OK to admit the things that he didn't know.

What do you know?

My Gift To Him

2009-12-22T07:34:00.000-08:00

"Therefore, those who also suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right." 1 Peter 4:19

What do you give the person who has everything? No doubt you have had that thought if not already spoken the phrase several times already during this holiday season.

I am purposely committing to step away from the shopping and planning and carve out some quiet time to think about what I want to give to my Lord this year. I know, we all want to give Him our love and devotion, our worship and adoration--all the things He so richly deserves and we so often neglect to offer. But what about me personally? What am I to offer Him this year and looking toward the year to come? As I think and pray, my mind continues to bring me back to the verse that I have committed to memorize for 2010--1 Peter 4:19. I am especially drawn to the last half of the verse, "...shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right."

Whether I like it or not, suffering is a very real part of life--even the life of the committed believer. But how I respond to suffering and trials is really my gift back to Christ. Am I going to get angry, kick and scream, panic and run? Or am I going to release my will and continue to do what is right, trusting that my God, the Lover of my soul will be glorified and bring something good and precious from my trial?

My gift to Him this year is settled. I will entrust my soul to my faithful Creator in doing what is right.

How about you?

Do The Next Thing

2009-12-01T14:35:00.000-08:00

"Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful." 1 Corinthians 4:2

Elisabeth Elliot often quotes this beautiful old poem. When I am so overwhelmed with care and responsibility and not sure how everything is to be accomplished, these words encourage me not to look too far ahead. Many times faithfulness in this walk with Christ is a matter of being determined just to "Do the next thing."

"At an old English parsonage down by the sea,
there came in the twilight a message to me.
It's quaint Season legend deeply engraven
that, as it seems to me, teaching from heaven
And all through the hours the quiet words ring,
like a low inspiration, "Do the next thing."

Many a questioning, many a fear,
many a doubt hath its quieting here.
Moment by moment, let down from heaven,
time, opportunity, guidance are given.
Fear not tomorrow, child of the King,
trust that with Jesus, "Do the next thing."

Do it immediately, do it with prayer,
do it reliantly, casting all care.
Do it with reverence, tracing His hand,
who placed it before thee with earnest command.
Stayed on omnipotence, safe 'neath His wing,
leave all resultings, "Do the next thing."

Looking to Jesus, ever serener,
working or suffering be thy demeanor,
in His dear presence, the rest of His calm
the light of His countenance
be thy psalm, "Do the next thing."

Hope-Full

2009-11-16T07:44:00.000-08:00

"...so you will not be full of sorrow like people who have no hope."
1 Thessalonians 4:13

Henry David Thoreau said, "Most men lead lives of quiet desperation and go to the grave with the song still in them." I've heard and even shared the first half of that quote with others over the years but until recently had not been familiar with the last half, "...and go to the grave with the song still in them." How sad that for so much of humanity this statement rings painfully true. Fortunately for those of us who know Christ, that doesn't have to be the case.

Notice that I said it doesn't have to be the case. The Bible says in Colossians 1:27 that it is Christ in us "the hope of glory". As believers we possess what everyone else is desperate and longing for-- yet they don't know it. How sad. Perhaps even more grievous is that oftentimes we ourselves live as though we don't know it either! We have the song in us that others so desperately need to hear us sing.

Do you rub shoulders with people everyday who are headed to the grave with the song still in them? I don't want that to be me. Don't let it be you.

Sing your song!

Numbering Our Days

2009-10-30T08:09:00.000-07:00

"Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."
Psalm 90:12

It is fall in New England, one of my most favorite times of the year. I looked out my bedroom window this morning to see that my little backyard is totally covered in leaves--red, yellow, orange and brown.

On my walk I shuffled my feet through intermittent piles of those beautiful colors and my mind began to think some of "those thoughts". You know the kind I mean. The "Hmmm, time sure has flown by. Just yesterday the kids were tiny and we were taking nature walks together. Now they are all grown up and on their own and......" Yeah. Fall has a way of doing that doesn't it?

Psalm 90:12 kept running through my mind as I made my way back home. "Teach us to number our days...." You know I'm not sure that psalmist meant for us to try and numerically calculate just how many days we have left but maybe more so that we should keep in mind that our days really are numbered. We really are but a vapor, arent' we? After all, none of us really know how many days we have left, do we? Some of us may have 20 years, some 20 months and some just 20 minutes.

The last part of the verse says "...that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Sounds to me like we don't just come by hearts of wisdom naturally. If that's true then we should make sure we know how to get one. I, for one, am always asking for wisdom. The book of James tells us that if any of us lack wisdom we are to ask of God. I willingly admit that I'm in the lacking category. I want to sign up for as much as I can get.

If I keep in mind that my days are numbered does that affect the way I treat those that I love? How about those that I don't love? How about those that I don't know? How about the one who loves me most?

Numbering my days...... Yes, I need to spend a lot more time on that one.

Peace

2009-10-13T11:36:00.000-07:00

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27

I find myself praying for peace alot lately. Not world peace, even though that is certainly a worthy prayer. We all know that there won't truly be peace in the world until Jesus, the Prince of Peace, returns. No, I am talking about personal peace--the "please breathe on me Lord before I lose my mind!" kind of peace.

We all have those days (or weeks or months or even years) when the best we can do is cry out for His help or His peace or both! No thou's and thee's, no "Dear Heavenly Father's", no praying around the world for everyone we know (which definately has it's place). Just a simple " I need your peace, Lord." He knows all that is really packed into that one line request. In fact, more than likely, He's the one who put it on our hearts to ask Him for it in the first place! Try to wrap your mind around that one. He often tells us what to ask Him for so that He can turn around and give it to us! Wow, really?

Need any peace?

Dwelling and Abiding

2009-09-22T03:25:00.001-07:00

"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High, shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty." Psalm 91:1

What a precious week-end we shared together at the Women's Retreat! The Lord was so evidently present with us.

We learned that dwelling with Him means that we make our home with Him. We don't just pop in and out from time to time when we need something--we actually live there! When we live with someone we get to know who they really are. God wants us to get to know who He really is.

We also learned that abiding means that we stay even when we feel like running away. When we are committed to abiding in Him, we actually give Him the opportunity to prove Himself to us. Oh, how He wants to prove His love and faithfulness to us.

If you are a mother who has ever been separated from a child, you know how your heart breaks and longs to hold that child and pull them close to you. Our loving Father is no different. He longs for us to dwell and abide with Him--to live and to stay with Him no matter what happens.

Thank you ladies of HCF for the unconditional love you have for each other and for me. Thank you again for the beautifully engraved jewelry box you gave me. I am blessed to be a part of you.

God is faithful!

You Are The Light

2009-09-07T13:37:00.000-07:00

"You are the light of the world--like a city on a mountain, glowing in the night for all to see. Don't hide your light under a basket! Instead, put it on a stand and let it shine for all." Matthew 5:14-15

What a powerful verse! Jesus said that we are the light of the world. Notice he didn't say we should be or we can be or that someday we might be. We are the light of the world.

If you're like me, some days you don't really feel like being the light of the world. Some days I would rather just turn my light off, take out the batteries and let someone else do the honors. This light stuff is pretty intense, though. We can't just decide when and where we want to be a light. This is a full time job. More than that--I guess it's really a calling. Once we receive His gift of salvation we are the light of the world.

Someone once said, "There is no plan B!" It's up to us to be the light that points the rest of the world to Jesus.

What a responsibility. What a calling. What a privilege. What an honor. What a Savior!

The Word

2009-08-21T06:13:00.000-07:00

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.....and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us...." John 1:1, 14

I know, I know--it's not Christmas. This verse is the stuff that some of the most beautiful Christmas cards are made of. I've just been thinking a lot about the Word lately--no, not the word--the Word.

I won't mention how many years it's been since I took New Testament Greek in college and to say I'm a bit "rusty" would be quite an understatement. In fact, I'm sure I've forgotten ninety percent of what I learned back then, I'm ashamed to admit. There are, however, a couple of Greek words that have always stuck with me. One of those is LOGOS or the Word. The English dictionary says of the term logos, "The creative word of God which is itself God and incarnate in Jesus. Also called Word."

If you're like me in your journey of faith, there are seasons that you "re-discover" the wonder of it all. I suppose I'm in one of those seasons. As my youngest will soon leave for college, I have been much more introspective lately. When I am introspective and looking at my life and life in general, my faith always plays a leading role. I find more and more that the Word, or Jesus Christ, is my anchor and my plumb line. As the scripture says, he is my "Rock". Without him, nothing else really makes much sense.

I am forever in awe of the language the Apostle John used when describing Jesus' entrance into our existence..."and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us..." In layman's terms I guess you could say that Jesus "put skin on and jumped down in this hole with us." Now don't go off on my use of the term "hole". I'm not referring to specifics in our lives but rather to the human condition in general. Let's face it, the scripture says that without Christ we were and are utterly lost and without hope. When the Word entered the picture--everything changed. If we surrender ourselves and our lives to Him we find the hope that our souls long for. With Christ we have a way out and a way up!

St. Augustine said, "Thou has made us for Thyself, Oh Lord, and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in Thee."

Logos. The Word. Think about it.

A New Song

2009-08-06T07:51:00.000-07:00

"He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord." Psalm 40:3

In this particular Psalm, David begins by giving us a brief overview of a recent trial in his life. He speaks of several things including: patience, crying, a slimy pit, mud and mire. His description then moves on to a picture of the Lord setting his feet on a rock and a firm place to stand.

Toss all of the above into a mixing bowl and "voila"! Out pops a new song--right! Not so fast. Don't forget who the cook is. God alone gives us the patience to wait as He is working. His gentle voice is whispering the melody in our ears. He knows when the slimy pit, mud and mire part is finished. He hums the harmony at that point. It is His hand that sets our feet on the rock and gives us a firm place to stand in His perfect timing. Then we have it--the new song!

Interesting thing about new songs; we usually end up teaching them to those around us while we are learning the words ourselves! Whether you are initially interested or not, you usually can't help picking up the tune if the person next to you sings it often enough.

The Psalmist says of our new song, "Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord". Why? Because of us! When we sing our song others will want what we have.

Learning any new songs?

It's All About Perspective

2009-07-22T07:36:00.000-07:00

"My thoughts are completely different from yours," says the Lord, "and my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:8-9

One of the cries of my heart these days is that the Lord would give me His perspective on life. It's taken me a while, but I'm finally understanding that I don't always see things the way they really are. In fact, most of the time I don't see things the way they really are at all. My perspective is often clouded with my sin, my desires, my fears and my weaknesses. I need to see my marriage and my husband the way He sees them. I need to see my children (and my grandchildren) the way He sees them. I need to see my ministry, my calling and my purpose the way He sees them.

If I don't have the Lord's perspective then I will likely make decisions that are not in the best interests of myself, my family, my friends and my ministry. Most of all, I could easily make choices that cause me to miss out on God's best for me.

My husband enjoys watching old westerns on television. From time to time I like to sit down and slide into the "old west" for a few minutes, too. I especially get caught up in the situations where a group of settlers on their way west stop for a brief reprieve at a rugged old fort or an outpost. They often feel secure and protected within the gates of the fort until the young man way up in the look-out tower starts reporting on who is coming in the distance. What they see on the ground is often totally different from what he can see from his perspective. Even though they may feel perfectly safe at the moment, he knows if danger is just over the next hill and moving their way. Because of his position, the look-out guy has a much better understanding or perspective on their situation. If they listen to him, they can be prepared for what is coming.

In the same way, the trusted look-out can see if even beyond the danger that's approaching, the cavalry is pulling up behind them and help is on the way.

The spiritual connection is pretty clear, isn't it? The people within the fort would be pretty foolish to only rely on what they can see to make decisions about their safety and their future. They desperately need to trust someone who sees far beyond what they are capable of seeing.

Ask God for His perspective on your situation. He can see much further ahead than you can and He's on your side.

Jars of Clay

2009-07-08T01:20:00.000-07:00

"But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that this all surpassing power is from God and not from us."' 2 Corinthians 4:7

2 Corinthians 4:7 is hands down my favorite scripture. Maybe it's because it very honestly reminds me of who I am--nobody. Nobody without the Lord Jesus, of course. I have read that in biblical times homes usually had a number of containers of various sizes, colors and materials. Different occasions called for certain containers. However, the regular clay jar was what one usually had the most of.

If you were expecting special guests you might want to use the more expensive containers from which to serve them. If it were just you and the family, the basic jar of clay would do just fine.

A very interesting note that I picked up on here; someone remarked that oftentimes folks would hide their most precious possessions--perhaps some precious stone or a little bag of coins in one of their many clay pots. It would be unlikely for a thief to think to look in one of the numerous jars of clay for a special treasure. Thus, the unassuming jar of clay often become the vessel that held that which was most valuable. It wasn't the jar that was of lasting value. It was what it contained--a treasure!

The spiritual application is obvious, isn't it? We are the jars of clay. The gift of knowing Christ (the Good News) and his Holy Spirit dwelling in us is the treasure. My Dad always says, "Remember who you are and remember whose you are."

Jars of clay. hmmm. Yeah, I like that.

Rainy Days and Mondays

2009-06-22T06:09:00.000-07:00

"Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God." Psalm 42:5

As my husband and I drove home from dropping one of our cars at the mechanic this morning we remarked about the fact that it is Monday and it is raining--again! I love living in New England and I love the rain but after a while something inside me longs for a glimpse of the sun again.

We reminisced about the old Carpenter's song, "Rainy Days and Mondays". Yes, that would put us smack dab in the middle of the 70's. I'll never forget the sad sound of Karen Carpenter's voice as she began the song..."Talking to myself and feelin' old. Sometimes I'd like to quit. Nothin' ever seems to fit. Hangin' around--nothin' to do but frown. Rainy days and Mondays always get me down..."

Even if you're an "Up" person, from time to time life can really get to you, can't it? Maybe it's a health issue, or a financial struggle, or a personal struggle involving your spouse or a child. Let's face it. We've all had those days when we just cried out to the Lord and said, "I can't do this anymore--it's too hard!" What do you think the Lord says when we cry out to him in that way? Does he say, "Don't be a baby," or "Come on. Pull yourself together. You're embarrassing us both!" No, I don't think so. He usually says something like this to me,"I know this is hard. I know you feel like giving up. But hold on to me--I will see you through this."

I love this verse in Psalm 42 because David is basically having a talk with himself. He's saying, "Why are you so down? Remember where your hope is. It doesn't feel like it now but one day you will praise Him for all of this!"

We sing a song in our church called, "I Still Run To You". The last part of the song says, "Though sometimes my mind's confused my heart still knows what's true: That you alone are faithful, the One that I run to. When all the world deserts me I still run, I still run, I still run to You."

Rainy days and Mondays will come and go. As long as our hope is Him--we're going to be OK!

I Need To Hear Your Voice

2009-06-04T14:27:00.000-07:00

"My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me." John 10:27

As with all kids, when my children were young they would often find themselves in what to them were very "scary" circumstances. Perhaps a fall from their bicycle, a skinned knee, a finger accidentally closed in the door or a "monster in the closet" at bedtime. Even more terrifying for them (and for me) were the few times we got separated in a department store, a family picnic or playground. Panic sets in with children usually about the time they realize that no one who looks familiar is anywhere around and they know they need some help.

However, I noticed something very interesting when my children were separated from me--I usually discovered it long before they did. In fact, I was already looking for them before they realized that they needed me. I began calling out to them often before they knew they were lost. Because of that, they usually heard my voice long before they saw my face. The sound of my voice was such a comfort that it helped them calm down until they could see me with their eyes.

The spiritual lesson here is more than obvious, isn't it? Do you ever have those days when the enemy really does seem to be "coming in like a flood"? (Isaiah 59:19) Do you ever feel the need to cry out to the Lord, "I need to hear your voice!" Or as my children used to say, "I need you, I need you!" I have learned to do that more and more the older I get. And guess what I've discovered? He has started calling out to me long before I even realized I was working up to that panicky feeling. He already knew I needed to hear Him. His voice often sounds something like this: "It's going to be OK. I know what's going on better than you do. Don't make any quick decisions, don't panic. I really am still in control. Hold on to me."

Feeling better already? Me, too.

All My Ducks In A Row

2009-05-18T08:33:00.000-07:00

"We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they are good for us--they help us learn to endure. And endurance develops strength of character in us, and character strengthens our confident expectation of salvation. And this expectation of salvation will not disappoint us. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love." Romans 5:3-5

Yes, I must confess I am one of those. I often operate under that familiar lie from the enemy that I can't be truly happy unless and until all my ducks are in a row. You, too? Where do we get that anyway? I don't know that there has ever been a time in all of my christian life when all my ducks were actually in a row. I'm not even sure how many ducks I have!

If you've ever been a student of ducks for long, you realize that getting them all in a row is pretty much an impossibility. While you are off chasing one, three others pack up and head out in a different direction!

Maybe instead of trying to line everything up the way I want it to be, I would be better off realizing that God is the one who is really in charge of all the ducks anyway. I love this section in Romans chapter 5 that reminds me that problems (or ducks out of line) are simply an opportunity for God to teach me to endure. Oh boy, there's a word--endure--but that's for another day. His ultimate goal for me is strengthening my character and building up my confidence in this gift He has given me called salvation. One of his expressions of His deep love for me is the gift of His precious Holy Spirit. John 16 gives us the "job description" of the Holy Spirit. Verse 13 says, that he will guide us into all truth. That must include ducks and how to deal with them!

I love the quote from Corrie ten Boom that we shared in Women's group last week, "God has no problems--just plans!"

Hmmm. I like that.

Day and Night Meditations

2009-05-05T08:29:00.000-07:00

"But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night." Psalm 1:2

What a beautiful picture of what devotion to the Lord should be! The word meditate here is hagah which means "to reflect, to moan, to mutter to ponder; to make a quiet sound such as sighing: to meditate or comtemplate something as one repeats the words." Wow! There is no word for all that in our English language!

The Spirit-Filled Life Bible says that in Hebrew thought, to meditate upon the Scriptures is to quietly repeat them in a soft, droning sound, while utterly abandoning outside distractions.

I would dare to say that nothing is more precious to the Lord's ears than to hear His children repeating his words and letting them penetrate their spirit as they speak them. Conversely, I am sure that nothing is more repulsive to the enemy than to hear God's children speaking God's promises and declaring God's faithfulness.

When my kids were little and having trouble making right choices, I would often ask them, "Who loves you more than anything - God or the enemy?" Ofcourse they knew that God loved them. Then I would ask, "So whose side do you want to be on?" That one wasn't too hard either.

Delight in and meditate on his words day and night-- no matter what your situation. Don't wait for the feeling to motivate you, His word changes everything!

So whose side do you want to be on?

Hurry Up And.....Wait?

2009-04-17T07:45:00.000-07:00

"...but wait for the gift my Father promised,.....in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit."Acts 1:4-5

With the analytical mind of a physician, Luke describes to his good friend Theophilus the amazing events that occured following the resurrection and ascension of Jesus. He begins by setting the stage for the awesome entrance of God's Holy Spirit into the picture.

The ragtag little band of 120 brothers and sisters likely didn't really have a clue regarding what they were about to be a part of. All they knew was that their Lord had given specific directions before he left. His directions weren't really difficult to understand. In fact, they could really be summed up in just one word.....Wait! Yep, that pretty much covers it--waiting. No mention of planning or strategy or worry--just wait. Not my favorite word. How about you?

If they didn't plan or strategize or worry while they waited, then what did they do? You guessed it--they prayed. Where do you think they learned that? They may not have been the theologians of their day but they knew what to ask for. In Luke 11:1 the disciples asked Jesus, "Lord, teach us to pray..." We have no record of them ever asking so specifically for anything from Jesus as when they asked him to teach them to pray. Maybe they caught onto something that we still miss--Jesus' power came from his prayer time with the Father. Prayer unlocks the door that welcomes in the power of God.

Been directed by the Lord to wait lately? It's not easy, is it? Be committed not to plan or strategize or worry. Instead why not pray? It's likely that the Holy Spirit's power is waiting on the other side and your prayers will unlock the door for Him to move in ways you have not imagined.

Cemeteries

2009-03-31T04:27:00.000-07:00

"It is better to spend your time at funerals than at festivals. For you are going to die, and you should think about it while there is still time." Ecclesiastes 7:2

Taken a leisurely stroll through a cemetery lately? The writer of Ecclesiastes (likely Solomon) would probably recommend that you consider it once in awhile. Believe it or not, my husband and I actually like to visit old cemeteries from time to time. Kind of gets your perspective back to where it should be--you know what I mean?

There is one tiny little cemetery nestled deep in the heart of the Catskill Mountains that we often visit when we are there. As so often was the case in years past, it is right next door to a sturdy old house of worship. You can feel the history as you approach the first tombstone. The ground feels very--well, almost "holy". As we move from marker to marker we wonder about each life. What were they like? Did they go to war? Did they die young? How many lost children, husbands or wives at an early age? How many worn old leather shoes walked on these very paths as they said good-bye to those most precious? How many collapsed in utter grief and despair around the newly prepared mounds of mountain soil?

The most important question for all of them and for us as well will someday be, "Did they know the Lord Jesus as their Savior and Lord? Did they have that anchor through the joys and sorrows of their day to day lives?" As we take in that fresh mountain air we realize that they, too breathed that same air and looked at the same awesome and amazing views that still take our breath away. Were they ever mindful that they were on a brief journey?

Psalm 90:12 reminds says, "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom."

Visited any cemeteries lately?

A Truly Wise Person

2009-03-18T10:49:00.001-07:00

"A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered." Proverbs 17:27

Some scriptures need very little explanation. I think we have one of those right here. Speaking from a "mid-life" viewpoint, I've learned the hard way that when it comes to words--less is more. Ever stop to think how in a split second we are somehow able to stuff quite a large foot into our relatively small mouth? I've been known to attempt cramming both of mine in at once! After accomplishing such a feat (no pun intended) we then spend the next hour, day, week, month, year, etc...trying to pry those multi-toed wonders back out again.

Sadly, I must admit that oftentimes at the same time I'm about to open my mouth unnecessarily, a faint voice in my ear says, "I really wouldn't say that if I were you". More often than not--I ignore the Holy Spirit get myself into some hot water.

Proverbs 18:4 says, "A person's words can be life-giving water; words of true wisdom are as refreshing as a bubbling brook."

Lord, please forgive my thoughtless chatter. Make my heart desire to speak "life-giving water".

No Other Name

2009-03-06T06:25:00.000-08:00

"There is salvation in no one else! There is no other name in all of heaven for people to call on to save them." Acts 4:12

As the news stations and newspaper headlines scream uncertainty and panic where should we turn? As believers our hope should have never been in those things that will soon fade away. Wealth, possessions and reputations slip through our grasp in a fleeting moment. Who will save us anyway? We know--don't we?

The above scripture tells us that there is salvation in no one else. Jesus Christ is the only name that carries any weight in the life saving department. Our relationship with Him is the only thing of lasting value in all of the uncertainty and turmoil. Living for Him is all that really matters.

When our children were young we used to sing a song with them called "Live For Jesus". I can still hear their little voices as they belted out the chorus:

"Live for Jesus, that's what matters,
And when other houses crumble mine is strong.
Live for Jesus, that's what matters,
That you see the light in me and come along."

I think I need to sing that more often.

Not My Favorite Scripture

2009-02-23T15:01:00.000-08:00

"The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked." Jeremiah 17:9

Ever stop to think about how many ways we use the word heart? Come on, put your heart into it! He's all heart! Bless your heart! She has such a good heart! What a sweetheart! And so on, and so on... We tend to look at our hearts most often with warmth and affection don't we? But what about God? What does He think? After all, he is the one who has his finger on the "pulse" of things anyway, right?

The scripture paints a different picture than the one we like to carry around with us. "Deceitful above all things and desperately wicked." I have to say that Jeremiah 17:9 is not my favorite scripture--how about you? However, I learned a long time ago (and am continuing to learn) that just because I don't like something doesn't mean it isn't good for me. Just because "I'm not feeling it" doesn't mean it's not true. I can't trust my heart all the time. In fact, rarely can I trust the old ticker. That's why I need the Bible. That's why I need prayer and fasting. That's why I need godly mentors. For goodness sake--that's why I need God!

Let's face it. The only good heart is a surrendered heart. Father, forgive me when I keep taking back the very heart that I just finished surrendering to you. I don't deserve you, Lord. But you already know that. I'm the one that always needs reminding.

Remaining Faithful

2009-02-10T05:57:00.000-08:00

"If we are faithless, he will remain faithful; for he cannot disown himself."
2 Timothy 2:13

At the beginning of each year it has become my practice to ask the Lord for one specific scripture that will be "my scripture" for that year. In the past I have attempted memorizing so many scriptures at once that I have become frustrated and given up. In my discouragement I felt the Lord speaking, "Why don't you just ask me for one and then build on that?" I did. He answered. Why does that surprise me?

2 Timothy 2:13 was the Lord's choice for me for 2009. It reminds me of how often I am so faithless. How often I ask for faith and direction and then without even waiting for the Lord to speak or act I just move right on with my own agenda. You'd think that after nearly 49 years on this earth I would finally "get it".

My God is so faithful! He just keeps doing what He does best--being himself. He can't help it! That's just who he is. That is such a comfort to me. He is not moved by situations or circumstances (whether they be in the government, the economy, the church or in my own little circle of family and friends).

The scripture says, "...for he cannot disown himself." It seems to me that means that if he were to stop being faithful he would cease being who he is---GOD!

Be encouraged, ladies. The faithfulness of our God is more than enough to see us through any and all trials that WILL come our way. (John 16:33)

Bless you!

Weary in Doing Good

2009-01-30T08:29:00.000-08:00

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9

The Apostle Paul surely knew how hard just trying to do the right thing can be. Sometimes it seems like doing the wrong thing would actually be much easier.

It's easier to hold unforgiveness than to release the person and the pain to the Lord. It's easier to pass along some juicy gossip in the form of a "prayer request" than to keep the information to yourself and pray earnestly for God to work in a person's life. It's easier to wear our feelings on our sleeves and come back with a quick "what did you mean by that?" when our spouse or friend simply points out an area we may need to grow in. It's easier to give into feelings of despair and hopelessness than to "take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. " (2 Cor 10:5)

I like the promise at the end of this verse: "for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up". Notice it doesn't say we might or could possibly reap a harvest. No it says that we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

I realized a long time ago that the enemy doesn't believe he will have victory in our lives because he's more powerful than the Lord--he knows that's not true. He's just hoping that we will give up before he does.

Giving up is not an option, is it?

Jars of Clay

2009-01-20T10:17:00.000-08:00

"But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed,but not in despair, persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down but not destroyed...So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal!" 2 Corinthians 4:7-9, 18

2 Corinthians chapter 4 is hands down my favorite chapter in the Bible. It reminds me what I am (a clay jar), it reminds me that the trials in my life are an opportunity for my God to show His power, and finally it reminds me that what I'm looking at right now for the most part is temporary. It's the things that I don't see with my eyes that really matter--they are the stuff that eternity is made of.

This past week I have experienced the highs and lows of life here on this earth. I got to meet my newest grandson, Garrett Randall, and the next day I drove several hours to be with my father and the rest of my family as my Dad had by-pass surgery. With each passing day I am more keenly aware that whether I like it or not, most of my life is pretty much out of my control. The only things I really have any control over are my own thoughts and attitudes and my willingness to surrender myself to Christ.

There is an old song that ends with these words"...Many things about tomorrow I don't seem to understand. But I know who holds tomorrow and I know He holds my hand."

Resolutions....

2009-01-02T07:23:00.001-08:00

"I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus"
Philippians 3:14

New Year's Resolutions. Have you made any yet? Have you broken any already? When I think of being resolute about something I get a picture of being very determined and focused on a particular goal. Maybe that's the mindset that the Apostle Paul had when he penned this verse. That's how I really want to be in 2009--determined and resolute in my passion for Christ.

When I hear the word resolution I always remember the old hymn written in 1896 by Palmer Hartsough and James H. Filmore, Sr. "I Am Resolved"

I am resolved no longer to linger,
Charmed by the world's delight;
Things that are higher, things that are nobler,
These have allured my sight.

I will hasten to Him, hasten so glad and free;
Jesus, Greatest, Highest, I will come to Thee.

I am resolved to go to the Savior,
Leaving my sin and strife;
He is the true One, He is the just One,
He hath the words of life.

I am resolved to follow the Savior,
Faithful and true each day;
Heed what He sayeth, do what He willeth,
He is the living way.

I am resolved to enter the Kingdom,
Leaving the paths of sin;
Friends may oppose me, foes may beset me,
Still I will enter in.

God's blessings in 2009!

Spiritual Scrapbooking

2008-12-22T07:42:00.000-08:00

"But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart."
Luke 2:19

This verse has been going over in my mind these last few days. I started asking myself some questions. First of all what exactly were "all these thing" and what exactly does the scripture mean when it says that Mary "pondered them in her heart"?

I'm guessing that maybe the "all these things" had to do with a sort of spiritual scrapbooking that started that chilly night in Bethlehem. I believe that young 14 or 15 year old teen age mother started right then tucking away little smells, smiles and sentiments that would weave the fabric of her mother's memory book for her firstborn son.

Pondering, according to the dictionary, means to "carefully consider for a period of time". I think I may have a handle on that one, too. My children range in age from 17 to 27. I have a pretty hefty supply of memories to "ponder"; grins and giggles, sandals and sneakers, band-aids and boyfriends, boxing gloves and skateboards, they're all in there tucked away safely in my mother's heart. One thing that I have recently been pondering is the distinctive smell of each of my babies' heads. To this day, no fragrance that I have ever smelled compares to the beautful scent of my children's little heads. Perhaps one of the things that Mary "pondered" the most was the smell of her boy.

I think I need to spend alot more time pondering--not just about my children although I do plenty of that. I need to do some serious pondering about my Savior.

Confession

2008-12-10T06:32:00.001-08:00

"If we confess our sin, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9

Confession. To be perfectly honest, confession is not at the top of my 10 most favorite words list. My flesh prefers words like blessing, power, victory, strength, etc... When I meditate on the word confession my thoughts are forced toward humility, brokenness, and selflessness. My sinful nature doesn't like to go there. But guess what I've discovered? The Holy Spirit that dwells in me--He loves to go there! In fact, He wants me to live there!

Because I know I can rarely trust my own thoughts and perceptions, I am constantly asking the Lord to give me "His" perspective on what is going on in my life. When I do that, EVERYTHING changes! And do you know what else I've discovered? When I ask for His perspective then confession is a very powerful and necessary word in my life. At that point I realize something very mysterious happens. Confession leads to humility, brokenness and selflessness which in turn leads to blessing, power, victory and strength.

Confession. Maybe it should be at the top of my word list after all.

Eternity In Our Hearts

2008-12-01T13:28:00.000-08:00

"He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end." Ecclesiastes 3:11

Ever felt like you just didn't really belong somewhere? Like all but one of the puzzle pieces fit--something just didn't feel completely right? Maybe that's how we as believers are supposed to feel about our brief journey through this life. Maybe it will never feel totally like home.

Back in the 70's BJ Thomas had a beautiful song called "Home Where I Belong"--

They say that heaven's pretty, and livin' here is too
But if they'd say that I would have to choose between the two
I'd go home. I'd go home where I belong

Sometimes when I'm dreamin' it comes as no suprise
That if you look and see that homesick feelin' in my eyes
I'm goin' home--goin' home where I belong.

And while I'm here I'll serve Him gladly
And sing Him all these songs
I'm here--but not for long

When I'm feelin' lonely and when I'm feelin' blue
It's such a joy to know that I am only passin' through
I'm going home, going home where I belong

One day I'll be sleepin' when death knocks on my door
And I'll awake to find that I'm not homesick anymore
'Cause I'll be home, I'll be home where I belong.

Yeah. See you at home!

Give Thanks

2008-11-26T06:06:00.001-08:00

"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever." Psalm 118:1

G. K. Chesterton once remarked that"...the worst moment for the atheist is when he feels thankful and has no one to thank". As believers we should be constantly aware of who we can thank for all that we are blessed with. I have a little ceramic pumpkin on my front door that says, "Nothing is more honorable than a grateful heart".

God can do amazing things through those that are humble and grateful.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

Words and Thoughts

2008-11-19T06:41:00.000-08:00

"May the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer." Psalm 19:14

This verse was the last one in my devotion this morning. I needed to be reminded of how I am supposed to start my day--by surrendering my words and my thoughts to the Lord. How much pain and frustration could be avoided in my life on a daily basis if I would meditate on this verse in the morning and make it my prayer.

I confess that so often my words and my thoughts are simply reactions to a situation rather than a determined response based on what God says about my life and His plan and desire for me.

If God is really my Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer, then why wouldn't I want Him to have control over my words and my thoughts? I am so thankful for His grace that continues to forgive and cover my sin. He is faithful!

The Way That I Take

2008-11-05T09:27:00.000-08:00

"He knows the way that I take. And when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold." Job 23:10

I like the "gold" part, don't you. If there's a line for that--sign me up! I wish it were that easy, don't you? Job spoke these words not in the middle of some mountaintop experience with God or on cloud nine in his personal life. He was in the depths of despair. Everything had totally fallen apart. He had lost everything and he couldn't for the life of him figure out why!

This declaration was made in response to his "so called" friend Eliphaz's attempt at analyzing Job's walk with God and pointing out his shortcomings to explain the devastating situation. Some friend, huh? I prefer the kind that just listen and cry along with me when I need them to. No finger pointing. Just an arm around my weak shoulders. Don't get me wrong. We all need christian friends who love us enough to confront us with the truth when we need to hear it. But the best kind of friends are sensitive to the Holy Spirit and know when to speak and when to pray and cry.

My very best friend knows"..the way that I take." And I know I can trust Him with the gold part, too.

On The Palms of His Hands

2008-10-28T07:59:00.000-07:00

"...I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands...."
Isaiah 49:15-16

My husband has a funny way of remembering important appointments or names of people. He actually writes them on top of his hand as a reminder. It may be an initial or two or perhaps a particular time of day. That way whenever he looks at his hand he is reminded of what or whom he needs to remember that day.

Ever been forgotten? Maybe someone you care about forgot your birthday or your anniversary? Maybe someone you were counting on pretty much "left you in the dust"? Been disappointed so often that you hesistate to trust anymore? Hold on--don't turn away just yet. The Lord understands. And more importantly, He cares. In fact, He cares so much that the scripture says that He has engraved us on the palms of his hands! That's even better than writing a reminder in ink on the top. Ink washes off pretty easily. The last time I checked, engraving is pretty permanent! And this engraving is done on the palms of His hands. That's a pretty safe place--nothing (and no one) is going to pry His hands open and scratch your name off. It's there to stay.

Imagine that--your name on the palms of His hands! I needed to hear that, didn't you?

Human Plans

2008-10-21T10:03:00.000-07:00

"Human plans, no matter how wise or well advised, cannot stand against the Lord." Proverbs 21:30

How does that grab you? I guess it depends on who you are. If you're the one making the plans then you've just been reminded that you are human. If so, then don't bother to make plans that try to stand against the Lord, right? You'll basically be wasting your time.

If you love the Lord and happen to be the one having "not so good" plans formulated against you--don't worry. He's got you covered. Just stay under His umbrella, watch and pray. Pray for yourself and for the "plan maker".

Whew! That's a relief.

Where's Your Treasure?

2008-10-13T11:04:00.000-07:00

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
Matthew 6:19-21

The stock market is climbing and falling like that monster of a roller coaster you were terrified of when you were a kid (if you were a "chicken" like me!). If our treasure is in the markets, investments, 401k's or even our bank accounts, we're on pretty shakey ground about now.

On my walk this morning I ran into a little guy about 6 years old. He had the biggest grin across his face as he unashamedly showed me his shoebox rock collection. One rock in particular brought a special gleam to his eye, "This one", he said, "This one has sparkles in it--I'm going to sell it!" "Wow", I said, "You're one lucky guy. That's pretty neat!" As I walked away I remembered my "rock collecting" days. I, too thought that the ones with sparkles were going to make me rich. As I got older I guess I moved on from rocks, to other treasures. None of them were bad but none of them ever gave me the satisfaction that I thought they would. Paul said in 1 Corinthians 13, "When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me."

Jesus knew just the right way to say things. In so many words he was saying in Matthew 6 that if you feel like you've misplaced your heart, you might want to check what your treasuring--you're heart is probably somewhere nearby.

Time for a heart check up?

Guard Your Heart!

2008-10-06T06:46:00.000-07:00

"Above all else, guard your heart, for it affects everything you do." Proverbs 4:23

Thought about guarding your heart lately? I know I don't think about it nearly as often as I should. Maybe we should as the Lord for a "spiritual filter" to sift out what is allowed to enter our hearts. Wait a minute--we already have one of those don't we? Isn't He called the Holy Spirit?

Let's make it a daily discipline to ask the Holy Spirit to filter what goes into and comes out of our hearts.

"Lord, please forgive us for not being more conscious and sensitive to the things that are flowing into and out of our hearts. Give us hearts that have a passion for the things that please you and hearts that break when your heart is broken" --Amen

The Rescuer

2008-09-29T08:02:00.000-07:00

"For he has rescued us from the one who rules in the kingdom of darkness, and he has brought us into the Kingdom of his dear Son." Colossians 1:13

Sounds like a good movie doesn't it--"The Rescuer"?

We all like to think of being rescued don't we? It always makes us feel good to know that the good guy snatched the victim out of the clutches of the bad guy. But this verse is even better! It says that if we know Christ we already have been rescued! If you read on it just keeps getting better--not only has he rescued us, he has brought us into the Kingdom of his dear Son! Sounds pretty good to me.

I have to ask myself though, am I living like one who has been rescued and brought into the Kingdom or am I still allowing the enemy to lie to me and treat me like his victim?

How about you? It's your choice you know. I'm choosing the rescuer who takes me from "strength to strength".

I Live on Hope Street!

2008-09-23T05:50:00.000-07:00

"Let your unfailing love surround us, Lord, for our hope is in you alone." Psalm 33:22

Wall Street. Main Street. Is your head swimming with all the anxiety and predictions for your financial future? None of that for me. Philippians 4:19 tells me that ..."my God shall supply all my needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." I can live with that.

Where do you live? I live on Hope Street.

He is Awesome!!

2008-09-20T09:51:00.000-07:00

Wow! What an awesome week-end! What an awesome God!!!

Thank you Lord Jesus for showing up at our Women's Retreat this week-end. You grace keeps on amazing us! Thank you for rest, peace, laughter, tears, food, more laughter, more tears. And yes, we all surpassed our allowance of 25, 000 words easily!

We so needed this and more importantly we so need YOU, Lord.

Thank you,
Your girls @ HCF

Take Heart!

2008-09-16T06:26:00.000-07:00

John 16:33 in the NIV says, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world".

Read today's headlines? Don't look there for encouragement. To paraphrase, Jesus basically said, "Calm down. Stuff is going to happen. But don't let it get to you. I'm bigger than all of it!" Ask the Lord to help you see things the way He does--perspective is everything!

Welcome to Women of the Harvest

2008-09-14T15:25:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Women of the Harvest!!!!
This blog was created with YOU in mind! Feel free to check it periodically to find out what is going in our Women's Group here at HCF. It was also created as a place of encouragement and refreshment for you in your daily walk with the Lord.

This week is our annual Women's Retreat at Camp Wightman in North Stonington, CT - September 18-20. We are asking the Lord to come in a powerful way. Our theme for this year is from "...Strength to Strength" from Psalm 84. Ask the Lord to prepare your hearts to receive all that He has for us!

Blog coming soon!

2008-09-13T21:17:00.001-07:00

Keep checking back to see the latest updates!