STORMS

Tempests, hurricanes, gales, tornadoes, snowstorms, downpours, outbreaks, eruptions, flareups, outbursts, fumes, waves, explosions

It’s Winter right now.  I don’t know where you live, but wherever that is, no doubt you’ll experience various degrees of a storm.  In Canada it may be a snow storm, in Arizona, it may be a hot sand storm.  There are all kinds of storms in our world.  But in this post, I’m referring to an “inner storm.”  Issues and difficulties that enter the hemisphere of our lives where we can be tempted to fear and lose our sense of awareness that God knows, cares and is in sovereign control (in complete control) over.  Psalm 103: 19 “The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and His sovereignty (kingdom) rules over all.”

Early this week, a storm-like event took place in my world.  It wasn’t earth-shattering, but I felt the winds blow into my personal path of living.  How critical it is, if we belong to the Lord Jesus, to be in His Word every day, because we never know when the sentence or paragraph we read will come alongside us to strengthen us for what we’re facing or about to face.

Let’s not forget that our relationship with Jesus

 is “saturated with His grace.”

My tiny storm was an “emotional storm,” not a hurricane, but suffice to say that it was uncomfortable.  As I read from a devotional book, the topic was about storms.  At the end of the article, a sentence seemed to spell out truth I needed to embrace.  It was this:

God makes a pathway in our storms.

Storms are to me, situations we don’t like to face and walk through.  Am I alone here?  They are times and events that bring us to live in the sometimes awkward, painful or definitely “out of our comfort zone.” 

But if we belong to Jesus, He promises to walk “in and through” the storm with us.  He has purposes and plans for each of us that will be worked out in and all through the storm.  And He promises His grace and care all along the way and for however time in His purpose.   Whatever the storm event, tiny or tremendous, it’s all known to Him, and He yearns that we run to Him with it.

Again and again, I’ve been reminded and encouraged to allow God to work out His will and purpose in all of our events (regardless of how small or significant).

It’s looking through the lens of God’s Word, God’s will and God’s ways.

On day one of my little storm, I happen to be in the book of Psalms where it was referring the to Israelites and their journey out of their bondage in Egypt.  God was in the process of bringing them out of Egypt…..yet in the storm-events along the way, they didn’t believe Him or trust Him.

We can read in our Bible their entire events summed up, and see the final wrap up of their exit from Egypt.  We can often think to ourselves, why wouldn’t they trust Him…..He’s done so many miracles to prove His care and power.

Here are some of the verses that leapt off the page in my reading.

Psalm 77:14 “You are the God Who does wonders.”

Psalm 78:7 “That they may set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God.”

Psalm 78:11 “And forgot His works.”

Psalm 78:14 “In the daytime He also led them with the cloud, and all the night with a light of fire.”  He led them in a way they would know His presence.

Psalm 78:32 “And did not believe in His wondrous works.”

Psalm 78:36 -37 “Nevertheless, they flattered Him with their mouth, and they lied to Him with their tongue…for their heart was not steadfast (unwavering, faithful, loyal, devoted, constant, determined, unflinching) with Him.”

Psalm 78:41-42 “Yes, again and again they tempted God and limited the Holy One of Israel. They did not remember His power.”

After these verses, I was deeply convicted by my attitude.  This morning’s read brought a new perspective on what was before me; and alongside that, a new attitude began to emerge.  It isn’t important what my storm was, but I was in need of an “attitude adjustment.” 

Whatever you may be facing or what you are in the middle of….my prayer is that your heart and mind would be refreshed by His Word and His personal presence with you. He will work in and through our “storms” to show us His love and attentive care, and help our faith in Him to trust and to grow.

I think we can often be critical of the Israelites for not trusting God.  But all we need to do is have a “good glance” into our “own lives of our walk with Jesus,” to see that we too, many many times, doubt His ability, power, love and grace to meet our every need. 

As God works in our lives while we’re here on earth, He is helping us not only to look more like His Son in our behavior, thought-life, speech, but in what He walks us to and through is to help us “learn to lean and trust Him” daily.

A pastor friend of mine shared this phrase about learning to walk and trust Jesus with our “everyday situations.”  It’s a revealing statement for sure.  May we live up to these words more and more in our own faith-walk.

WE WILL ACT & LIVE ON WHAT WE REALLY BELIEVE

NEW YEARS’ RESOLUTION

Well, it’s now 2026 and I wonder if you made any “new year’s resolutions?”  I haven’t because I’m still working on resolutions I made years ago.  Yes, I’m joking with you!!  But the thought of resolutions did spark an interest in what it means to have a “resolution” about something.   I often find it helpful to “not assume” I know what a word means; so, I invited my thesaurus to help me out in determining what it means to make a RESOLUTION.

Determination, resolve, decisions, promises, vows, decrees, perseverance, purpose, outcome.  There are countless adjectives on this term “resolution,” but the last three caught not only my eye, but my heart.

For a few minutes I’d like to camp on three words defining a resolution not only for this new year, but for our life.

PERSEVERANCE:  determination, devotion, dedication, drive

PURPOSE:             resolve, commitment, intention, reason, use, objective

OUTCOME:           consequence, result, conclusion, sequel, value, significance

Questioning these words gives me focus (and I need focus).

So, what are you and I “persevering” or devoted, dedicated to that gives us a drive in a particular direction?   Thinking aloud here, we must have an inner resolve so strong that it actually drives us within.  We’re all devoted to something or someone in life.   Our appetite or determination in the morning moves many of us to a coffee machine, tea bag or toast if we’re hungry.  And we persevere in the direction we’re dedicated to, right?!

Our “purpose,” resolve, commitment, reason or objective to enjoying a “cuppa of your choice” is not only for enjoyment, but it adds some motivation, alertness and enthusiasm for the agendas of our day.   

The BIG “little” word that is introduced here is the word “agenda.”  I paused after typing that word……A G E N D A.  It was as though I couldn’t get past it.  I feel God wanted me to think more deeply about that word.  We employ that term in various ways, don’t we?   Many times, it drives and gives compass to our commitments and keeps us dedicated to activities, interests and opportunities.

At the beginning of our year, we face each day, each morning before our Creator.  Have we ever considered what “God’s Agenda” for our day might be?  

This brings us to the word “outcome.”  For our every choice in our days, hours, minutes, seconds, there are results, consequences, that add not only value to our day, but significance to each day.

When I worked as an administrative assistant to my boss, that function in the company was to support my manager in managing daily office operations.  As I approached my work area, the first ingredient to my day was to “check in with my boss” to find out what his “agenda” was for that day.  And if I was to continue receiving a pay check, (ha ha), his agenda became mine.   I’d grab my shorthand pad and head for the chair across from his desk and he would share with me what things were important to accomplish that day.

Now as I came to the word agenda, I couldn’t help but think, what would be God’s agenda, or some of His resolutions for my life this year. 

Matthew 6:21 “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” 

This means our deepest desires and focus will follow what we truly value, whether earthly things or eternal spiritual riches.   It’s following and prioritizing “heavenly “treasures” over temporary worldly ones.   It’s where we invest our time, energy, resources and opportunities.

All this brings us to the third word on resolutions:  OUTCOME

Our time in God’s Word, gives us wisdom, discernment, direction, warning, encouragement, joy and strength to attend to God’s agenda (what’s on His heart) for our individual days.

Matthew 6:33 nlt  “But seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.”

Matthew 6:33 nkj “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.

In Matthew chapter 25, verses 14-15 talk about what the “Kingdom of heaven” means, or what it’s like, and it speaks of “talents” or “opportunities” given to different people.   Those opportunities were to be “invested.”   Why?  Because what the people did with what God gave them brought an OUTCOME (consequences, results, value, conclusions, and significance) to peoples’ lives and destinations.

I found David Jeremiah’s comments on that verse critically helpful.  Here they are:

“Here, the word talent represents all the opportunities God gives people to serve Him, including their wealth, reputation, abilities and learning.  This parable warns believers to diligently take everything God has given and INVEST IT FOR HIS GLORY as they await Christ’s second coming.”  David Jeremiah, Jeremiah Study Bible,  pgs. 1326-1327

So, let’s get our New Years’ and Every Day’s Resolute Agenda from Him, so we know what’s on “His heart” for each day, hour, minute and second.  As we put Him first on our agenda, we’ll be aware of His.    Let’s ask Him to make us sensitive to the opportunities as they appear.

Regardless of the amount or size of our opportunities entrusted to us each day, let’s be faithful in the tiny, obscure, seemingly insignificant matters of life He places before us to bring glory to God.   LET’S MAKE GOD LOOK GOOD in all our ways, and on all our days.

LET’S EXTEND OUR MASTER’S INFLUENCE!!!

THE GIFT OF HIS PRESENCE

Emmanuel – God with us!

We sing about Emmanuel in December…. but it’s a truth we can sing and embrace each and every day!  HIS PRESENCE IS HIS RESIDENCE in His children…those who have put their lives and trust in His Son Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world.  We can light up our minds and hearts in the season…but in reality, His light is within us all the time, in every “season of our lives.”  If our life-for-Christ-wattage was shown on a Multimeter, what would be our number?  200-watt, 60 watts, 25 watts, or a night light?

Like the air we breathe, we don’t understand it or see it, but just because we can’t do either, doesn’t mean it’s not real and essential for life here on earth.

Jesus came for a purpose:  to show us who God is and what He’s like.  He came to be the perfect sacrifice to pay our death penalty for all our sins, so we could be forgiven and brought into a right relationship with an absolutely Holy God.  The gift of Christmas is CHRIST – what a GIFT!

But before He left this world, He “gifted His followers” with the announcement that even though He was leaving, He would be asking the Father to send another Helper (just like Him).  He was referring to the Spirit of Truth…the Holy Spirit:  the third Person of the Trinity.  And that He would be with them forever. 

He would teach the disciples all things and remind them of everything Jesus had said to His followers when He was on earth.  He told them to wait for the arrival of this Gift.   And at just the right time, He came.  This must have seemed like the longest 10 days of waiting.

As a child, do you recall a special time of “waiting” for an anticipated Christmas gift?  Some children (regardless of their age) aren’t good “waiters.”  They sneak around the house asking odd questions, shaking wrapped boxes, checking their weight, promising to be on better behavior and on and on.

Any gifts under the tree weren’t there because of your behavior, they were there because you were loved!  That’s a reminder to us all, that He wants to reside within us…not because we’re on good behavior or do good things (because we can never measure up to perfection), but because He loves us and wants to live within us. 

JESUS IS THE PRESENCE OF GOD…..…TO US  

The phrase at Christmas is true:   Jesus is the reason for the season, the only reason.

JESUS IS THE PRESENCE OF GOD……..IN US

We can think of other occasions where we “gift others.”  We give to others because we’re loving them or reaching out to them in practical, tangible ways.  Ways they can SEE & FEEL!

As we “live out that truth” in the “laboratory of our life,” we become blessings to others in the world “around us:” on the streets where we live.

Because He is RESIDENT within us, we each carry the presence of the Savior within us wherever we go and in whatever we’re doing.   That’s “thrilling and astounding!”  We often look at that truth without pondering it’s meaning and relevance in the shoe-leather of our living.  Whether diapering a wee baby, making a dinner, cleaning toilets, at church, school or the office…it makes no difference. When you were pregnant with your child, he/she went where you went.

You know, when we consume garlic, we don’t need to announce its presence…because, it just OOZES OUT OF US.  That’s what His presence in us longs to do in our lives!  Talk about influence and impact!  What an astonishing ambition that should be our life goal…to REPRESENT OUR LORD AND SAVIOR …influencing and affecting others in a winsome, truthful and loving way. The world can see God through the lives of His children!

JESUS IS THE PRESENCE OF GOD……THROUGH US

When we see and recognize God on the pages of our past and present, it’s His invitation to become involved in His agenda for that day.”  When we demonstrate LOVE in some practical way, we are showing Jesus to the “world in front of us.”   We’re making the invisible God visible to the world around us.

God isn’t interested in perfection…just faithfulness in the little things, what to us may mean mundane and seemingly insignificant in the area of life.  But we’re called to allow Jesus to “live out His plans and purposes” in our life.  HE KNOWS US intimately and is orchestrating the STORY OF OUR LIFE, one moment at a time, one day at a time, one week at a time, one month at a time, one year at a time and….one experience at a time.

We can’t touch everyone in the world, but we can touch one or two of the people in the world around us……putting on His glasses, the “lens of love,” to see people around us as He sees them.

It’s being “fully present” in our conversations with others, not glancing around to see what other person might we need to speak with or glancing at our cell phones.

The other day I saw a photo of four people sitting at a coffee shop.  No one spoke as they were all addictively-connected to the screens on their phone.

Regardless of our place in life, we are an influencer!  Our lives can motivate, persuade, win over, shape, and have a marvelous affect on people toward the love Christ has for them.  We need to “be the gospel…. the good news… with skin on.” So, people can see and feel the love of Christ through our little, insignificant to us, oatmeal-like lives…for the glory of God.

Let’s more fully embrace the habit of “beholding others.”  I love the story about Jesus and Zacchaeus (the short-statured tax collector perched in a sycamore tree).  His past vocation was to rip people off.  Jesus gave him the look of a lifetime.  Zach was in a crowd of people, but Jesus wasn’t looking at the crowd, but was focused on one man.  Jesus invited himself to Zach’s house and the rest was history.  Zach was converted and became a changed man.

“Do we “behold” others, or “view them” as scenery?”  “Right Here, Right Now”

Mother Teresa once said: “I don’t see crowds, I see individuals.”

I find myself wondering if the fascination of Twitter and Facebook is mistakenly conceived as simple unabashed narcissism, but is actually (at least in part) a cry of “Please see me, I am here, and I exist!”  “Right Here, Right Now”

JESUS IS THE PRESENCE OF GOD…..

TO US

                                                                        IN US

                                                                    THROUGH US

A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE

“I will remember the Lord’s works; yes, I will remember your ancient wonders.  I will reflect on all you have done and meditate on your actions.” 

Psalm 77:10,11

REPOSTED…………….AS ERRORS WERE FOUND. Thank you!

We’re often told that you can’t move forward with continual glances in the rear-view mirror of our life.  That may be partially true, but there are what I’d refer to as “good glances!”

I don’t know about you, but when I’m discouraged about painful things done to me or said about me, or when it seems like my prayers never seem to carry them to the altitude of God’s ears, or life circumstances seem so difficult, my old nature within me seems to wander in the wilderness of despair.   I know God is present within me, but He seems like He’s moved and left no forwarding address. 

These thoughts creep in from what seems like “out of nowhere.”  They’re uninvited guests in my mind.   Have you camped out there recently?  That’s when we need to move our inner GPS to a new camp site!!   

Several months ago, I was ‘emotionally parked’ at a depressing location.  I was walking and working in the menial areas of living with not a happy attitude.  My focus was on either things that seemed to be going wrong, or my expectations were in a dovetail spin.

Like in the Garden of Eden, after Adam and Eve opted for a fruit tree God said not to partake of, God came looking for them.  He called out to them inquiring, “Where are you?”   Yes, He knew where “they were” but they didn’t want to be located just then.  Their sin had taken on the consequences of their disobedience and they became distant and cold toward God. 

In the U.S.A., there are campsites throughout the country.  They’re called KOA! 

This particular “not-so-good day” seemed to call out to me.  I sensed He was inviting me to a new and better campsite …. a KOA (Kinder Options Available).

At times, don’t you just hate your old nature!  Notice I didn’t place a question mark behind the comment.  I was looking at all the wrong things or difficult things in my life; and they were blinding me to God’s goodness in my life.

HAVE YOU BEEN THERE?   Or am I alone in this photograph?

Even though my heart wasn’t in it…..I picked up my Bible and began reading the next chapter from where I left off.  Psalm 77 was in front of my eyes and the more I read, the more my heart was changed.   God moved my “inner compass” to verses 10 and 11.

I will REMEMBER…………Your wonders

I will REFLECT on all……. You have done

I will MEDITATE on all…..Your actions

Many times, we can see God’s hand of care and sovereignty more clearly when we look at the rear-view mirror of our lives.  Well, it was time to get in my “spiritual car” and glance into the rear-view activity of God in my life.

There is spiritual value and devotion of taking time to remember His works in my life.  To remember is more than just a quick reflection, but to focus, ponder and think deeply of all He’s done for each of us; and then to evaluate them in such a way that they cause us to realize and affirm various aspects of His character and activity in our lives.

HIS GOODNESS, HIS MERCY, HIS FAITHFULNESS, HIS PATIENCE, HIS TENDERNESS, HIS WISDOM, HIS ATTENTIVENESS TO DETAILS, HIS KNOWLEDGE OF OUR EVERY STEP

Yes, He is at work, and so much of His work is “underground” and unseen at the time.   My faith wanted sight, and looking back I could sometimes see what was formerly unavailable to see.  He’s working all the time, even when I can’t see Him or His activity.

I continued reading Psalm 78, verse 7 “They were to rise and tell their children so that they might put their confidence in God’s works.”

Remembering, reflecting and meditating on just some of what God has done in our lives brings a “renewed spirit filled with hope and encouragement.” 

When we’re refreshed by what God has done, let’s not keep it a secret!   At an appropriate opportunity tell someone else.  Everyone needs encouragement!

Proverbs 11, verse 25 “A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

Isaiah 64, verse 4 “No one has ever heard, perceived, or seen a God like the One who acts for those who wait for Him.”

GOD WORKS FOR HIS PEOPLE!!

I think there is a common denominator amongst all of us.  We can be like the Israelites in a New York minute.   Looking together at the miracles of their exit from Egypt, we often look at their attitudes “after the exit” and wonder how in the world could they forget what God did?

Well, fellow traveler, I can be there in no time, and I think if you’re honest, you can join me as well in the “forgetfulness camp.” 

Let’s remember, reflect and meditate on just some of the things God did for His people as they were in the process of exiting Egypt:

Psalm 78:12    “He worked wonders in the sight of their fathers in the land of

                         Egypt…..”                                        

Psalm 78:13    “He split the sea and brought them across; the water stood firm   

                         like a wall.”

Psalm 78:14    “In the daytime also He led them with the cloud, and all the night

                         with a light of fire.

  •  He led them in a way they would know His presence

Psalm 78:18 “And they tested God in their heart by asking for the food of their fancy.”

  • Food they especially missed or enjoyed or what was special to them.  They wanted what they wanted to satisfy their craving/appetite
  • They wanted their desires over what God wanted them to have at that time.

Honesty prevailing, I can be there in a minute myself, desiring what I think is best instead of what God wants me to have or do.  A good prayer here would be:  Lord, help me desire.. YOUR DESIRES. 

Verse 19:    “They said, ‘Can God prepare a table in the wilderness?’”

Verse 20:    “Behold He struck the rock, so that the waters gushed out, and the

                    streams overflowed.”

Verse 21:    “Therefore the Lord heard this and was furious.  So, a fire was

                    kindled against Jacob, and anger also came up against Israel.”

Verse 22:    “Because they did not believe in God, and did not trust in His

                    salvation.

Verse 23-25:  “Yet He gave a command to the skies above and opened the doors of the heavens; He rained down manna for the people to eat, He gave them the grain of heaven. Human beings ate the bread of angels; He sent them all the food they could eat.

Verse 26:     “He caused an east wind to blow in the heavens; and by His power

                     He brought in the south wind.”

Verse 27:     “And He let them fall in the midst of their camp, all around their

                    dwellings.  So, they are and were well-filled, for He gave them their

                    own desire.

Verse 30:     “They were not deprived of their craving.  But while their food

                     was in their mouths, the wrath of God came against them, and

                     slew the stoutest of them, and struck down the choice men of

                     Israel.”

Verse 32:      “In spite of this, they still sinned, and did not believe in His

                      wondrous works.”

Verse 40:     “How often they (His people Israel) provoked Him in the

                     wilderness, and grieved Him in the desert.”

Verse 41:     “Yes, again and again they tempted God, and limited the Holy One

                     of Israel.”

Verse 42:     “They did not remember His power, the day when He redeemed

                     them from the enemy……” etc.

Verse 43:      “They did not remember when He performed His miraculous   

                     signs in Egypt and His wonders…” in His bringing them out of Egypt.

The:

– rivers into blood                       – flood

– swarms of flies                          – firstborn struck

– frogs & locust devastation     – hail

– crop devastation

–

Verse 52:    “He led His people out like sheep and guided them like a flock in the

                    wilderness.”

Verse 53:    “He led them safely, and they were not afraid; but the sea covered

                   their enemies.”

Verse 54:    “He brought them to His Holy territory, to the mountain….”

Verse 55:   “He drove out nations before them.  He apportioned their inheritance

                   by lot and settled the tribes of Israel in their tents.”

So, as I looked over these verses, why in the world, or better yet, how in the world could they FORGET WHAT GOD HAD DONE FOR THEM?  

Before we get too lofty in our “judgmental evaluation” of His people there:  what about you and me?  The same question could be asked of each of us.  I found it very convicting if I put my name in the question if addressed to my life.  How’s that for confession of sin?  It’s not pretty, but it’s honest.

Dianne, how could you forget all I’ve done in your life to provide for you and help you walk in My ways?

______ (your name) __________how could you forget all I’ve done in your life to provide for you and help you walk in My ways?

In reading this blog, maybe you’ve never asked Jesus Christ to come into your life and to be the Master over your journey down here……preparing you for heaven.  He’s available to ALL people, but like a gracious gift, we need to “receive Him” and what He did on the cross for each and every human being…..taking the punishment for our sins and offering complete forgiveness and a clean slate before the Father.  

John, chapter 1, verse 12:  “But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.”

Romans, chapter 10, verse 13:  “For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

This places a person in God’s family by way of a Spiritual Adoption.  Gifts aren’t earned…. they are received!

The truth of these verses in Psalm 78 highlight where we all can be at any moment of our life…..’forgetting about God’s presence and care.’  Can’t we thank the Lord Jesus for His tremendous mercy, compassion and faithfulness to us in our own ‘forgetfulness.” 

Psalm, chapter103, verse 14: “For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust.” 

God understands our human limitations and weaknesses and His mercy, love and compassion are based on His understanding of each of us…not our own abilities of strength.

Wrapping this up, we ALL can forget what God has done for us and His promise to continue His work in us, for us and through us…..until He takes us “home” to be in His presence.

The closing words in my journal this day was:

            “Say yes to the ways I work in your life.  Trust Me and don’t be afraid.”

COMPASS QUESTION………………

How will your life and mine be different today because of what I have just read from God’s Word and His Spirit’s voice through people and my circumstances??

A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE

“I will remember the Lord’s works; yes, I will remember your ancient wonders.  I will reflect on all you have done and meditate on your actions.” 

Psalm 77:10,11

REPOSTED…………….AS ERRORS WERE FOUND. Thank you!

We’re often told that you can’t move forward with continual glances in the rear-view mirror of our life.  That may be partially true, but there are what I’d refer to as “good glances!”

I don’t know about you, but when I’m discouraged about painful things done to me or said about me, or when it seems like my prayers never seem to carry them to the altitude of God’s ears, or life circumstances seem so difficult, my old nature within me seems to wander in the wilderness of despair.   I know God is present within me, but He seems like He’s moved and left no forwarding address. 

These thoughts creep in from what seems like “out of nowhere.”  They’re uninvited guests in my mind.   Have you camped out there recently?  That’s when we need to move our inner GPS to a new camp site!!   

Several months ago, I was ‘emotionally parked’ at a depressing location.  I was walking and working in the menial areas of living with not a happy attitude.  My focus was on either things that seemed to be going wrong, or my expectations were in a dovetail spin.

Like in the Garden of Eden, after Adam and Eve opted for a fruit tree God said not to partake of, God came looking for them.  He called out to them inquiring, “Where are you?”   Yes, He knew where “they were” but they didn’t want to be located just then.  Their sin had taken on the consequences of their disobedience and they became distant and cold toward God. 

In the U.S.A., there are campsites throughout the country.  They’re called KOA! 

This particular “not-so-good day” seemed to call out to me.  I sensed He was inviting me to a new and better campsite …. a KOA (Kinder Options Available).

At times, don’t you just hate your old nature!  Notice I didn’t place a question mark behind the comment.  I was looking at all the wrong things or difficult things in my life; and they were blinding me to God’s goodness in my life.

HAVE YOU BEEN THERE?   Or am I alone in this photograph?

Even though my heart wasn’t in it…..I picked up my Bible and began reading the next chapter from where I left off.  Psalm 77 was in front of my eyes and the more I read, the more my heart was changed.   God moved my “inner compass” to verses 10 and 11.

I will REMEMBER…………Your wonders

I will REFLECT on all……. You have done

I will MEDITATE on all…..Your actions

Many times, we can see God’s hand of care and sovereignty more clearly when we look at the rear-view mirror of our lives.  Well, it was time to get in my “spiritual car” and glance into the rear-view activity of God in my life.

There is spiritual value and devotion of taking time to remember His works in my life.  To remember is more than just a quick reflection, but to focus, ponder and think deeply of all He’s done for each of us; and then to evaluate them in such a way that they cause us to realize and affirm various aspects of His character and activity in our lives.

HIS GOODNESS, HIS MERCY, HIS FAITHFULNESS, HIS PATIENCE, HIS TENDERNESS, HIS WISDOM, HIS ATTENTIVENESS TO DETAILS, HIS KNOWLEDGE OF OUR EVERY STEP

Yes, He is at work, and so much of His work is “underground” and unseen at the time.   My faith wanted sight, and looking back I could sometimes see what was formerly unavailable to see.  He’s working all the time, even when I can’t see Him or His activity.

I continued reading Psalm 78, verse 7 “They were to rise and tell their children so that they might put their confidence in God’s works.”

Remembering, reflecting and meditating on just some of what God has done in our lives brings a “renewed spirit filled with hope and encouragement.” 

When we’re refreshed by what God has done, let’s not keep it a secret!   At an appropriate opportunity tell someone else.  Everyone needs encouragement!

Proverbs 11, verse 25 “A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.

Isaiah 64, verse 4 “No one has ever heard, perceived, or seen a God like the One who acts for those who wait for Him.”

GOD WORKS FOR HIS PEOPLE!!

I think there is a common denominator amongst all of us.  We can be like the Israelites in a New York minute.   Looking together at the miracles of their exit from Egypt, we often look at their attitudes “after the exit” and wonder how in the world could they forget what God did?

Well, fellow traveler, I can be there in no time, and I think if you’re honest, you can join me as well in the “forgetfulness camp.” 

Let’s remember, reflect and meditate on just some of the things God did for His people as they were in the process of exiting Egypt:

Psalm 78:12    “He worked wonders in the sight of their fathers in the land of

                         Egypt…..”                                        

Psalm 78:13    “He split the sea and brought them across; the water stood firm   

                         like a wall.”

Psalm 78:14    “In the daytime also He led them with the cloud, and all the night

                         with a light of fire.

  •  He led them in a way they would know His presence

Psalm 78:18 “And they tested God in their heart by asking for the food of their fancy.”

  • Food they especially missed or enjoyed or what was special to them.  They wanted what they wanted to satisfy their craving/appetite
  • They wanted their desires over what God wanted them to have at that time.

Honesty prevailing, I can be there in a minute myself, desiring what I think is best instead of what God wants me to have or do.  A good prayer here would be:  Lord, help me desire.. YOUR DESIRES. 

Verse 19:    “They said, ‘Can God prepare a table in the wilderness?’”

Verse 20:    “Behold He struck the rock, so that the waters gushed out, and the

                    streams overflowed.”

Verse 21:    “Therefore the Lord heard this and was furious.  So, a fire was

                    kindled against Jacob, and anger also came up against Israel.”

Verse 22:    “Because they did not believe in God, and did not trust in His

                    salvation.

Verse 23-25:  “Yet He gave a command to the skies above and opened the doors of the heavens; He rained down manna for the people to eat, He gave them the grain of heaven. Human beings ate the bread of angels; He sent them all the food they could eat.

Verse 26:     “He caused an east wind to blow in the heavens; and by His power

                     He brought in the south wind.”

Verse 27:     “And He let them fall in the midst of their camp, all around their

                    dwellings.  So, they are and were well-filled, for He gave them their

                    own desire.

Verse 30:     “They were not deprived of their craving.  But while their food

                     was in their mouths, the wrath of God came against them, and

                     slew the stoutest of them, and struck down the choice men of

                     Israel.”

Verse 32:      “In spite of this, they still sinned, and did not believe in His

                      wondrous works.”

Verse 40:     “How often they (His people Israel) provoked Him in the

                     wilderness, and grieved Him in the desert.”

Verse 41:     “Yes, again and again they tempted God, and limited the Holy One

                     of Israel.”

Verse 42:     “They did not remember His power, the day when He redeemed

                     them from the enemy……” etc.

Verse 43:      “They did not remember when He performed His miraculous   

                     signs in Egypt and His wonders…” in His bringing them out of Egypt.

The:

– rivers into blood                       – flood

– swarms of flies                          – firstborn struck

– frogs & locust devastation     – hail

– crop devastation

–

Verse 52:    “He led His people out like sheep and guided them like a flock in the

                    wilderness.”

Verse 53:    “He led them safely, and they were not afraid; but the sea covered

                   their enemies.”

Verse 54:    “He brought them to His Holy territory, to the mountain….”

Verse 55:   “He drove out nations before them.  He apportioned their inheritance

                   by lot and settled the tribes of Israel in their tents.”

So, as I looked over these verses, why in the world, or better yet, how in the world could they FORGET WHAT GOD HAD DONE FOR THEM?  

Before we get too lofty in our “judgmental evaluation” of His people there:  what about you and me?  The same question could be asked of each of us.  I found it very convicting if I put my name in the question if addressed to my life.  How’s that for confession of sin?  It’s not pretty, but it’s honest.

Dianne, how could you forget all I’ve done in your life to provide for you and help you walk in My ways?

______ (your name) __________how could you forget all I’ve done in your life to provide for you and help you walk in My ways?

In reading this blog, maybe you’ve never asked Jesus Christ to come into your life and to be the Master over your journey down here……preparing you for heaven.  He’s available to ALL people, but like a gracious gift, we need to “receive Him” and what He did on the cross for each and every human being…..taking the punishment for our sins and offering complete forgiveness and a clean slate before the Father.  

John, chapter 1, verse 12:  “But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.”

Romans, chapter 10, verse 13:  “For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

This places a person in God’s family by way of a Spiritual Adoption.  Gifts aren’t earned…. they are received!

The truth of these verses in Psalm 78 highlight where we all can be at any moment of our life…..’forgetting about God’s presence and care.’  Can’t we thank the Lord Jesus for His tremendous mercy, compassion and faithfulness to us in our own ‘forgetfulness.” 

Psalm, chapter103, verse 14: “For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust.” 

God understands our human limitations and weaknesses and His mercy, love and compassion are based on His understanding of each of us…not our own abilities of strength.

Wrapping this up, we ALL can forget what God has done for us and His promise to continue His work in us, for us and through us…..until He takes us “home” to be in His presence.

The closing words in my journal this day was:

            “Say yes to the ways I work in your life.  Trust Me and don’t be afraid.”

COMPASS QUESTION………………

How will your life and mine be different today because of what I have just read from God’s Word and His Spirit’s voice through people and my circumstances??

A SWEET DELIVERY

It was an “ordinary day” when I headed out for my morning walk.  We were living in Arizona at the time.  It was in the middle of December, and my morning walks were refreshing, cool and enjoyable, as opposed to the hotter seasons. 

I’d often see others out walking, but this day, I was alone (with my little Papillon dog) hustling her four legs in an excited pace.  It seemed like she was anticipating a surprise of some kind.  The only surprise I was on the lookout for was an appearance of a coyote.  They roam our area often, so we carry a whistle and keep a keen observation at all times.

About half a mile from home, it seemed something caught my eye that appeared in the middle of an intersection I was approaching.  The closer I got; it was apparent that someone had ACCIDENTALLY dropped a “gift-wrapped” box in this location.

Who would do such a thing?  After all, it was an area where cars would pass by.  But as I thought more about it, in our area there were more golf carts travelling up and down the streets in the neighborhood than cars.  So, putting two and two together, I assumed someone had this gift box on the seat of their golf cart and when they turned the corner, the box slipped off the seat onto the street. 

Well, at least I thought that might be the cause.  Then again, people do pull pranks.  As I came closer, I crossed the street and sure enough there in the middle of the intersection was a gift-wrapped box of Belgian chocolates.

The obvious owner never realized his loss of chocolates in time.  I couldn’t just let this nicely wrapped box remain there, could I?  And, there was no one there to inquire about its owner. 

Another obvious concern was that even though it was December, the sun was blazing its glory on this box, so it needed to be removed before things got messy.   I guess you could say I was now in charge of “damage control.”

It’s beautifully wrapped!  What a wonderful variety of chocolates, dark and milk chocolates in all sorts of designs.  At least that’s what the photo and card on the outside of the package said.  WHAT A GIFT! 

Well, the truth of the situation is that the Lord directs our steps and He was delighting me with a very “sweet surprise.”

I took ownership and headed home (I didn’t want the chocolates to melt).  The wrapping was inviting me to partake of a sample taste.  But before I could begin the “grand opening,” the Lord reminded me of someone who could use some “sweet encouragement.”

As this individual came to mind, my first thought was: “Would they enjoy Belgium chocolates?  Are you kidding, who wouldn’t.  So, I placed them in a safe place, the refrigerator, (as apposed to my mouth) as a holding tank for these delights.

The following day I “gifted the chocolates” to a hard-working yard maintenance man.  He was delighted, to say the least.  And no, I didn’t tell him where the box came from.  Those details could remain anonymous. 

Soon afterwards, I got to thinking…..what if they weren’t really chocolates.  What if they were a gag gift and filled with something not-so-nice.  Oh my, the receiver of the box thought it was a gift from me.  So much for my “damage control.”

Well, it was a gift from me all right, but I wasn’t the original purchaser of this product.  How in the world am I going to know if this was going to be a disaster or delight.

The following week, the answer came.  The maintenance man approaching me with a big smile on his face, so I could begin to breathe easier. 

This anonymous “gift giver” was pleased to pass along the chocolates to a well-deserving person; but next time, I think I’ll open the box first…to make certain the candy is authentic.   Don’t you think that’s the appropriate way to handle it?

And yes, the photo is authentic!

ENCOURAGEMENT IN BOTH DIRECTIONS

Have you ever looked at something, say a book, and found yourself moving it forward to get a better, clearer view?  Well, we can just imagine what age bracket you might be entering or residing in.  A few years ago, my husband and I found that our eyes were changing.  We’d gone through the “accordion view of things” (moving things inward and outward for a more focused view). 

After a few weeks of very tiny observation, I bit the bullet and made an eye appointment.  As I was sitting in the waiting room, I noticed a rather large sign on the wall.  It was a caricature of a little boy that obviously had just put on his first pair of glasses. It read as follows:

DEAR GOD,

I CAN SEE YOU MUCH BETTER

WITH MY NEW GLASSES

I chuckled to myself and came to the conclusion I was in the right office, waiting for the right doctor.  I wasn’t seeing things as clearly as they really were.  And, new glasses weren’t going to be the answer to my dilemma.  Even though I appreciated the conclusions from the eye doctor, she informed me that I needed to see a “new friend,” an OPHTHALMOLOGIST.  That’s pronounced phonetically:  op thal molo gist !

A few years had passed and it was now time to “see” what else might be required to help “bring things into focus” for me.  As a couple, my husband suggested I go first (how thoughtful of him) and see how things go, and he would follow suit.

A highly recommended ophthalmologist’s name was given to me and an appointment was made.  As I entered the waiting room for my first appointment, there were no cute little signs as before.  The staff were pleasant and very accommodating.  I was ushered into a room with about four machines.  This event seemed more strategic than the regular eye doctor. 

Tests were done and the physician came in and announced that in order to have a more unencumbered view of things, it would require having cataract surgery on both eyes.  It didn’t take me long to agree with this specialist.  After all, he not only had all the equipment to prove the point, but the paper evidence of his degrees of education to back up his findings.

Cutting this story to the point:  an appointment for my first surgery was made.   This surgery was performed in Arizona.  I was informed that I would require a ride home.  That seemed obvious, so my husband accompanied me as far as the waiting room.

This surgeon had a surgical clinic that resembled a hospital setting with beds, nurses and anesthesiologists and the like.  When my name was called, they escorted me to a private little setting with curtains adjacent to the portable gurney.  I could tell it was portable due to the wheels at the bottom. 

Yes, there I was getting “cozy posy” with a nice warm blanket.  The blanket wasn’t provided because it was a cool setting; I think it was to calm a patients’ nerves…. (and it worked).  They took my blood pressure and announced that the surgeon and “nite nite doctor” will stop by soon to go over the procedure.  One felt as though they were the only patient…..but actually we were all “bedded down” with selected times for each person’s procedure and separated only by a thin cloth wall. Actually, if you were outside my curtain area, each patient was lined up like ducks waiting to enter the pond.

Every aspect of the appointment was SPECTACULAR.   Any apprehension one may have felt was soon removed.  The ophthalmologist was personable, caring and very thorough in every way. Soon after his exit, the “nite nite” doctor entered my temporary abode. He too assured me that he would be looking after me with regards to my “not remembering anything.” (I liked that part!)

About thirty minutes later, the nurse and anesthesiologist came to accompany me (on the gurney) to my new destination. I never remember arriving, so I think he released the “nite nite” liquid en route to the operating room.

Everything went well and in six weeks, I was back to have the other eye attended to.  Just to note, that my husband then felt very comfortable in having both of his eyes attended to removing his cataracts.  Wasn’t that a great idea of “his” to have me go first??!!

Now, to the point of my story.  I was so relieved and impressed by the attention to detail this doctor took with my surgery that I wrote a detailed letter to him to thank him for his exemplary work.  Yes, I know it was “his job,” but don’t we all feel valued and encouraged when someone takes the time and effort to express gratitude “on paper.”  I thought that was the end of that journey with the physician.

Two weeks later, the OPHTHALMOLOGIST WROTE ME BACK.                                         

Here was his “hand-written” note to me.

Dear Dianne,

Thank you so much for your incredible thank you letter!

I am so thrilled you are doing so well with your surgery!

 I aim to achieve this with each and everyone of my patients!

Regardless of a person’s occupation, each and every one welcomes and values a “thank you” note of appreciation for their work.  I don’t think it would be a bad idea to carry with us in our purse or car, thank you notes to “distribute freely as necessary.”  You may “make someone’s day!”  Or……”their month!”

Oh, that we might thank the Lord Jesus often for our own eye sight.  Many people have never had the privilege of being able to see, or have lost their eye-sight and would give anything to see again.  Whether we have full vision, partial vision or lost vision, God would yearn for us to “see and perceive” with our “inner vision” His work in and around our lives. Our physical eyes aren’t the only vision God has allowed us to have.

PAVLOVA WITH A PURPOSE

Have you ever heard of a “pavlova?”  It’s a delicious dessert of meringue, cream and fruit on the top.  It’s a dessert I enjoy making and eating.  Whenever we have friends over, I’ll often serve this as a special treat for them.

The appetite and craving for this dessert began years ago when I first visited my mother and father-in-law in New Zealand.  My husband and I had only married a year and due to the expense of travel, his parents did not physically attend our wedding.  So, we decided we’d wait a year and visit them in their home in New Zealand.

This culture has morning tea and afternoon tea.  Due to the fact that we desired to meet many of my husband’s friends, we were often invited to peoples’ homes and, amongst other food delights, we were served “pavlova.”  The dessert actually originated in this country; although many Australians claim the title.

It is a light dessert to eat, but consuming it as often as we did for six weeks, I gained more from that trip than anticipated.   Let’s just say that my hips accelerated to one larger size in slacks.

Now, back to my story.  We were recently invited by a friend to his home to join other friends for one of his spectacular dinners.  He’s a chef-in-hiding!  I inquired if I could bring the dessert.  Our host accepted with gratitude.

This particular pavlova would be a style of presentation that I had only read about, but never endeavoured to make it.  It was two layers, separated by cream and thinly-sliced peaches.  In all honesty, I was hesitant to “try it out” on these folks due to the fact that it can flatten when moved. 

But how was I to know it could work, if I didn’t give it a try.  So, I made the pav the day before and left it in the cooled oven.  The evening of our get-together, I packed the two layers of meringues in a box, ever-so-carefully, and off we drove to the home of the gathering.

My continued thought en-route, was if we hit a pot hole on a street, it’s all over!  But all was well and our “dessert gift” was gingerly carried into our friend’s home.

Most of the guests had already arrived and were seated in the living room.  After our depositing the “delicate dessert,” we proceeded to the living room to join the others.  There was a couple there that we had never met, plus a lovely woman who were all at the other end of the room.  It seemed awkward to exchange conversation across the distance, so I waited for a closer and more intimate chat when we were all seated at the dining room table.

Most everyone there felt very comfortable in the exchange of conversation; and it seemed that when one person ceased their comments, another person picked up the oxygen and carried on with their thoughts.  Laughter abounded.

There was one woman who seemed quieter than the others.  As we were all seated, it was obvious that she and the host complimented the serving of the rest of us.  She and he worked together seamlessly in the kitchen.  You’d have thought they did this thousands of times. 

The host was a single man who had asked a friend to join him in hosting the evening and  helping serve the large group of friends.  This woman was soft-spoken and seemed to smile effortlessly as he and her served and removed the volume of spectacular cuisine coming out of his kitchen.

There was no end to the topics of conversation being exchanged at the table.  An hour or so later, it was dessert time.  I removed myself from the table and went to the kitchen to “piece and plate” this pavlova. 

In all honesty, I just wasn’t confident about pulling it all together.  I had actually prayed beforehand and asked Jesus to calm me and just help me do my best. 

I can’t help but insert a verse of care and encouragement.  

Psalm 37:23 “The Lord directs the steps of the godly.  He delights in EVERY DETAIL OF THEIR LIVES.”

This verse supports the idea of showing that God is aware of our experiences, even our tears and fears, and works all things together for our good and His good purposes.

The bottom layer of meringue was all in one piece.  Success! Just before my attempt to smother the layer with whipped cream and thinly sliced peaches on top, the “answer to my prayer” entered the kitchen!  It was Donna.   She just quietly appeared and began verbally encouraging me.   The second challenge of the evening for me was to take two spatulas and try and lift the smaller top layer onto the cream plastered over the main layer. Its delicacy was like lifting broken glass and attempting to move it to another location.

I was nervous up to this point, but the moment she began encouraging me, my heart was calm and my mind was quietly fixed on transferring this top layer onto the larger one.  One would have thought that having someone that I had never met enter the room and stand next to me would have increased my anxiety.  IT DIDN’T.   I’ll tell you why – because her calm and caring words brought a smile to my face and joy to my heart.

Donna stayed with me the entire fifteen minutes of dressing that dessert with the arrangement of cream, peach slices and passion fruit pulp drizzled on top.  WHAT A BLESSING HER PRESENCE was to me. 

God prompted Donna to leave the dining room table and join “Mrs. Fix that PAV.”  It was as though Jesus “came near to the situation;” and He used her words and presence to give me calm and confidence, all at the same time.

And no………this isn’t the end of the story.  The pavlova was “cut and consumed,” but that wasn’t the end of interfacing with Miss Donna. 

As the dining event was closing, the women came into the kitchen to sort of tidy up and chat together.  There were four of us in total, but only three of us were in focused conversation.

After a few minutes, I noticed that Donna was remaining somewhat distant in relation to where the three of us were standing and not necessarily “in the loop” with our verbal interaction.

I glanced over to her and invited her with my eyes to join in with the rest of us.  Soon after, she was sharing her thoughts with all of us.  As she paused for a moment, I addressed her personally and shared with her what an “encourager” she was to me in the “adventures of the dessert.”  I looked into her eyes and enthusiastically shared how God used her specifically to show me His care through one of His kids!

She seemed surprised, yet I feel secretly delighted that God used her upbeat and tender words of encouragement to me when I was “collaborating the cream” for the pavlova.

It was Donna’s willingness to “come alongside me” when she heard that I was a bit nervous about the coming together of those fragile ingredients.

You never know who you’re going to meet when coming together with others…friends and strangers.  God used a “pavlova” to introduce me to a caring woman who may just have needed some “encouraging ingredients” delicately introduced to her heart.

Thanks Donna, for your tender and meaningful entry to my life.

AN EARLY MORNING BIRTHDAY SURPRISE

Good morning!  I think that’s an appropriate start to this sweet story.  Were you aware that God gives us “clues” on how and who to choose as friends.

Proverbs 12:26 “The righteous should choose his friends carefully.”

There are two beautiful people God designed for my friendship many years ago.  They are Carolyn and Ann.  They are both enjoying Jesus and the joys, luxuries and delights of heaven….and, I MISS THEM BOTH.

Anne just recently graduated to her “forever home;” and in my sadness and memory of her, I thought this was a perfect time to share about the “creativity and sharing ways” of these two beautiful friends. Together, they were “Creative Characters!”  You’d need to rise very early in your plans and pursuits to get ahead of these women.

To bring you into the scene, it was about 7:00 a.m. on the morning of April 22nd of one particular year of my birth.  (Trust me, I’m over 30!)

I was adorned in my pajamas, transporting my being from the bedroom, down the hall, to the kitchen.  For some unknown reason, I glanced my waking eyes outward to the front of the house through the window at the front door.

It was early morning, I’ll admit, but the scenic bustle of commotion on our front lawn was mind-boggling.  I kept blinking in disbelief thinking I was having a real-life dream and hadn’t woken up quite yet. 

Here’s the scene for your scrutiny as well.  There was a card table being man-handled by these two gals…attempting to set it in position.  Then, flapping through the air, was a tablecloth.  I ran to the window to get a closer look.  I had to make certain I wasn’t half-asleep and sleep-walking. 

No, these two were on a definite mission on our front lawn.  Once I realized this wasn’t a dream….it was two adorable, crazy-eyed, loving pranksters having the time of their lives in an attempt to surprise me on the morning of my birthday.

It was a full-blown party in formulation!  Plates were quickly being arranged, tea cups, juice glasses, utensils and centerpiece of flowers were all carefully setting up for the surprise.

YEP………they more than surprised me.  I grabbed my nightgown and moved to the front door.  Upon opening the door and stepping out, they broke into the HAPPY BIRTHDAY SONG at the top of their lungs.

We all began to laugh uncontrollably.  They were dressed for the occasion, but I attended like I was invited to a “Come as You Are Party.”   I had everything covered, except my house-slippers.  We laughed and giggled all the way to the table.

May I share too that this table ensemble wasn’t close to the house.  NO….it was in the middle of the FRONT yard where anyone and everyone passing by would recognize the “breakfast event.”

At first, I wondered what in the world the neighbors would think.  Then, I regained perspective and momentive with my thoughts.  “WHO CARES WHAT THEY THINK!”  They must have been brought to hilarious laughter and a realization that these three crazy women were enjoying each other in such a fun way.  I’m surprised some didn’t pull over in their car and want to join us.

Well, friendships are wonderful, aren’t they.  And I couldn’t be more pleased to have had such two delightful people show their love for me in such a creative, caring and conspicuous way. 

Thank you Lord Jesus for allowing me the privilege of knowing and love them back.

Proverbs 17:17 “A friend loves at all times.”

OUR WORDS !

This year the Lord has continually brought the following verses & phrases to my life. They are becoming a real “compass” to my words and walk. May I share them with you?

I’m finding these verses a good road map….

James 1:19 “Let every man be quick to listen but slow to use his tongue, and slow to lose his temper.” Isn’t it true, that we need to guard our hearts and place a “stop sign” on our tongue before stepping on the accelerator of our lips.

James 2:12 “Whenever you speak, or whatever you do, remember that you will be judged by the law of LOVE.”

Proverbs 15:28 “The heart of the righteous studies how to answer.” Goodness, that means I must “think” about the effectiveness of my words.

Proverbs 18:20 “From the fruit of their lips people are filled; with the harvest of their lips they are satisfied. This metaphorically describes how our words have consequences, both positive and negative. Just as a farmer reaps a harvest from his crops, we reap the results of what we say.

Ephesians 4:29 “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

YOUR MOUTH IS THE MICROPHONE…..YOUR HEART IS THE PLAYLIST (J. John, evangelist)

OUR WORDS ARE EITHER A “CONSTRUCTION ZONE” OR A DEMOLITION SITE

PS: I’m placing this on the mirror in my bathroom & next to my computer screen. I think we’re all candidates for God’s “Creative Class of Communication.” Or, am I all alone??