"Stop That Worrying!"

I felt that in today's devotional reading, God was saying, "Stop that worrying!" I will have to admit that worry is a lifetime bad habit, but one that God is helping me to break!

Sarah Young's words give us a good reminder that each day is a wonderful gift, and God wants us to live it to the fullest. I truly believe that He does not want us to waste our time on regrets or worrying about tomorrow or next week or next year.

I do have a few good spiritual disciplines, and one is by starting everyday by spending time with God. It is to the point that I feel totally "undone" without that time. Have you found a way to carve out time each day to spend with our Lord? Please share your thoughts.

I previously mentioned the hymn, "Just a Closer Walk With Thee," as one that often speaks to me. As I read today's devotional, I once again listened to the words that talk about the joy we can find in walking closer to God. I pray that you enjoy listening closely to these meaningful words and that they speak to you as they did to me.

We Are God's Temple - "Fearfully and Wonderfully Made"

Before today's reading, I had never thought of the human mind as the "pinnacle" of God's Creation. As a long-time educator, I often talked to my students about the importance of using their minds - and how we typically use only a fraction of our capabilities. Sarah Young made the point that the mind was made for the primary purpose of knowing God. As I read through the devotional and scriptures, I began questioning myself about how well do I use my mind and all of God's gifts as ways to KNOW GOD.


I am so thankful for being "fearfully and wonderfully made."  Words in today's reading were a good reminder that "Only humans are capable of receiving Me and responding to My Presence." I pray that we will ask ourselves, "Am I pleasing my Lord at receiving Him and responding to His Presence?" 

I recently read in a survey by the Barna Group that about 41% of those surveyed say that they fail to use their God-given gifts, strengths, talents, and gifts. How do you use the marvelous gifts that God has given to you? Please share with me and others so that we may strive to move more in that direction.  

Open My Eyes and Heart and Being - to God's Love!

I read today's devotional and scriptures several times to allow them to really "soak in." The passage from Ephesians included words that especially spoke to me about how marvelous is Christ's Love for us and "how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ!" Take a few minutes to think about what these words mean in your life. Please share some of these "God moments" of times when you felt His love overflowing in your life. 

Sarah Young reminds us that we have to open our whole being to receive that love. When I started college at a Christian school in Arkansas, the first hymn that I remember singing in chapel was, "Open My Eyes That I May See." I think that was the foremost time that I really began opening my eyes and seeing the wonderful love of God - every single day! I hope you enjoy the lyrics to this hymn along with the magnificent scenery showing some of God's wonderful work!

Learning to Lean - on Jesus' Everlasting Arms!

Today's devotional reminds me once again of how my weakness "is an opportunity to grow strong in awareness of My Almighty Presence!" The older I get, the more often I feel that lack of energy! I thank God for His reassurance that He is with me even when I feel the weakest!

I think most of us have times when we feel that life's "challenges" are almost too much. What do you do during those times?

I only recently realized how much the hymns I learned as a youth are still in my mind and have an impact on my life! While reading today's devotional, I immediately thought of "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms."  Another beautiful Christian song related to today's devotional and scriptures is "Learning to Lean on Jesus."  I pray that you have  time to listen closely to these lyrics as we join together in learning to lean on our Lord!

Abide With Me!

What a blessing to know that God is accessible to all of us - no matter where we are or what is happening in our lives! However, in spiritual direction classes and books, a lot of focus is on listening to God, rather than just asking Him to do what we think He needs to do for us by telling/asking Him; we want Him to listen to us.

One term that some use for this kind of prayer is contemplation. This is a time when we do our deep breathing, clear our minds, and possibly use a short "breath prayer" such as "Jesus, open my heart," or "Abide with me."  Some who practice this kind of prayer say that they immediately realize God is speaking to them, but others report that it is like God speaks to the "sub-conscious." Therefore, they don't recognize immediate "words" or changes but slowly realize that God is guiding their lives in a more powerful way.

What happens in your prayer life? Do you use a scripture to guide your prayer time? Do you have a way to listen for God's guidance? Have you ever had an experience like that described in today's scripture passage from Isaiah 50:4: "He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being taught"? 

I pray that you will have time to focus on the lyrics of the beautiful old hymn, "Abide With Me" during today's worship time. It is a blessed reminder of seeking our Lord to abide in us and we in Him.

Seeking to Please God in Our Faith Journey!

Today's scripture from Matthew 7:1-3 has always been one that got my attention! I don't know of any words in the Bible that are much clearer than, “Do not judge others, so that God will not judge you,  for God will judge you in the same way you judge others, and he will apply to you the same rules you apply to others. Why, then, do you look at the speck in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the log in your own eye?"


The words in this passage are simple, clear, and powerful, but are also a challenge to me and many others. Certainly these words mean staying away from gossip or any kind of hurtful words coming from our mouths - which typically come from judgments. It could mean having the courage to "correct" e-mails (even from friends) that are filled with judgments and false information. It could mean filling our minds with thoughts about our Lord every time we begin forming a judgment about others' actions or words that we don't agree. It could mean looking at the log in our own eye before looking at the speck in our brothers!

Sarah Young also reminds us that we should not judge ourselves by comparing our gifts and talents with those of others! I pray that we may all make every step of our life-journey a step of faith and trust in our Lord - without judgment of ourselves or others!

What else does it take in life to follow this simple command of Jesus? Please share your thoughts.

A Closer Walk With Our Lord

I had never thought about the idea that God's Peace "will permeate your words and demeanor!" If this truly happened in my life, I believe I would better be able to encourage and minister to others in need! There have been so many times that I went to visit someone in terrible grief or pain or sadness and had no idea what to say to give them comfort. What an exciting thought that by following the path that God has shown me, I will experience an Abundant Life while helping others have the same!

During your time of worship today, I hope that you will listen to the words and music of "Just a Closer Walk With Thee." 

Walking in the Light of Our Lord

As I started reading today's devotional, I immediately thought of some of the lines in the hymn, "In the Garden," especially the chorus:

And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own,
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other, has ever, known!"


I was searching for more hymns regarding walking in the light of God, and I came upon this one that is could be a lullaby - but with beautiful lyrics, "Teach Me to Walk in the Light."

His Promise is to lift our burdens as we look into His Face and feel the warmth of His Love and Light shining on us!!  What a blessing to be reassured of God's Presence and Love and Light - by walking with Him!

Do you have another scripture or hymn that will help remind us of the importance of spending time walking and talking with Jesus? 

What Do We Choose - Worry or Prayer?

A friend once told me that her doctor said when we worry, it shows a lack of trust - that we have a choice to do one or the other! At first, that seemed like a rather harsh statement, but today's devotional says about the same thing. Additional scriptures that are very powerful on this topic are some of Jesus' words in the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 6:25-34 which ends with these words:  "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow,  for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."

When I was in Sunday School as a child, I learned a relevant song that still stays with me: "Why Worry When You Can Pray?" Please share any other links to music that gives us a clear choice - worry or pray and trust?

Taking Time to Wait Quietly on Our Lord

A friend recently told me about her "exasperation" in having to WAIT on God's guidance for her life. Today's devotional speaks clearly about how important it is for us to "Wait quietly in My Presence while My thoughts form silently in the depths of your being." That's certainly easier said than done, but we are assured that is the way we can really hear His still, small voice!

Today's reading reminds me of a book I have recently mentioned and studied, "Invitation to Silence and Solitude" by Ruth Barton. The author refers to words of Henri Nouwen, that “Without solitude, it is virtually impossible to live a spiritual life.”  She goes on to explain the lifetime journey of truly experiencing God's Presence in our everyday lives. - That can only happen by waiting on Him and listening for him in times of solitude and silence. 

I especially like the idea of God's thoughts forming in me. What part of this devotional and/or scriptures spoke to you?

Time With Our Lord vs. Time Being Worried and Anxious!

I have a really bad habit called "worrying about little things!" I pray that someday God will help me get to the point of doing what today's devotional tells us: just say "Oh, well," when I have troubles in my life! What a difference that would make in my life if I did! I especially appreciate today's scripture from 2 Corinthians 4:17, in which Paul said, "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." What a beautiful reminder of our Eternal Glory with our Lord when we have one of those "down" times in our lives!


A Bible study/spiritual friend used to talk about her fervent prayers when there were special needs/troubles/worries in her or her family's lives. After that prayer time, she said with much enthusiasm that "I just let go and let God!" I constantly seek that kind of faith and strength!

A powerful, related scripture is from Philippians 4:8-9: "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. 
This passage has helped me with my worry habit in that it reminds me to THINK on other things - those that are good, right, pure, admirable. What a blessing to know that with this kind of thinking, God's Peace will be with us! I pray that you will share with me and others any ways that you use to keep worry out of your mind and life. 

What/Who is Controlling Our Minds?

There is no doubt that the media influences what we think in an over-powering way! This certainly includes the influence on the minds of our children and grandchildren - sometimes to the point of almost "brainwashing!" The first words in today's devotional make this point clear that, "There is a mighty battle going on for control of your mind." 

A recent shooter in Washington was said by friends to be "obsessed" at watching extremely violent videos. It appears that he carried out in a horrific way some of that violence that he had allowed to take over his mind!

Today's devotional is such a powerful reminder about the need to spend time communing with our Lord. It is only through giving Him our time and attention that we are we able to have our minds filled with "Life and Peace."

What do you do in your family to ensure that the world is NOT taking over your mind and the mind of your children? Do you have time/subject constraints on television or movies? What about music and reading material? Please share your ideas with other readers since we have to make a conscious effort to do something if we truly want God's Love, Joy and Peace to fill our minds!

With Free Will Comes Tremendous Responsibility!

I'm thankful that God gives me choices in life - but sometimes I wish there were a few more  "God-nudges" to guide me along His path! I and my friends sometimes have discussions that we wish God would send us e-mails to let us know what I should be doing with our lives!

Today's scripture from Colossians 3:23-24 has such powerful words to remind us that, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord..." Could this mean that God might be more concerned about HOW we do things rather than exactly what we do - as long as it is for Him??
What do you think?

When I started college is when I first heard the hymn, "Open My Eyes That I May See." The beautiful words were some that really changed my spiritual path to one in which I am constantly asking God to show me His Truths and Will and Way. I  pray that you tale time to focus on these words during your worship time today, or you may have another hymn that has lead you on this journey. If so, please share with me and other readers.

Who Is In Control?

The words from today's devotional that especially spoke to me were "I did not design the human mind to figure out the future. That is beyond your capability." I do an excellent job of worrying about the future and trying to make plans for some of the "What ifs?" This reading is so clear that God does not intend for us to do that! We need to simply take all these fears and worries to our Lord in order to receive His Peace!

All of today's scriptures are powerful ones that have been meaningful to me during some of life's ups and downs. However, the one from I Peter 5:7 is one that I need to make an integral part of my spiritual "being:" "Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you."

Do you have another scripture or hymn that helps you along life's road of letting go and letting God be in control?

Do You Ever Feel "Empty?"

The more I talk to people, the more I realize that in this busy, hectic world, there are still a lot of people who feel empty. Many of us are still looking for God's Will for our lives in order to feel at peace. What a blessing to know that by staying close to our Lord, we are transformed more and more into the one that God designed us to be. 

A prayer was written by Thomas Merton at a difficult time in his life. These words have comforted me in times of searching: MY LORD GOD, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think that I am following your will does not mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you.(For the complete prayer of Merton's, go to this link: http://www.elise.com/quotes/thomas_merton_prayer.) What do you do on those days that you feel empty and are searching for God's Will and Peace?

You might enjoy a time of worship while listening to the words of this old hymn, "Nearer My God to Thee."

Time to Just "BE" With Our Lord

Today's devotional is one that most of us need to hear! It reminds us that "You don't have to perform in order to receive My Love." I have spent most of my life "working" for love from God - and from others. In fact, it is sometimes still difficult for me to totally accept God's love and grace - and to go into His Presence "joyfully and confidently."  How thankful I am for the reminders in today's devotional and scriptures for His most amazing Grace that is His gift to us all!

A few weeks ago, I posted this version of "Amazing Grace" by Chris Tomlin. However, the words relate in a profound way to today's reading. I pray that you will focus on the lyrics to this beautiful hymn to extend your worship time with our Lord.This version includes not only the original hymn but a few added lines about "His unending love."

Do you make it a priority to rest in the Lord by giving time to Him each and everyday? 

Becoming a New Person!

I have always loved today's scripture from Romans 12 when it says, "Do not conform any longer the the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."  When I read it, I imagine myself as an entirely new person through the work of the Holy Spirit in my life. The last part of that passage is especially meaningful as it gives us the promise that by having this "renewed mind," we will be able to pass the test for God's approval! This reading is also a good reminder that this renewal doesn't happen overnight but is all a part of our spiritual journey to walk closer to our Lord.

Another meaningful part of this devotional is the idea that anything we do during the day can be an act of worship. Do you ever feel that you are/can worship God in menial activities? Please share how you do this.

Judge NOT!

Jesus taught us on many occasions that we are not to judge! That seems plain and simple but yet so challenging as to how Jesus expects us to act and "be!"

I had never thought of this "commandment" of our Lord the way it is written in today's devotional. As you read, the devotional reminds us not to judge people, situations, ourselves - "as if judging were your main function in life."  As I read these words, it made me think how sad it must make our Lord when He hears us waste our time in judging others - as if that was most important thing we do!

I believe that God expects us to do His work here on earth - to be His hands, feet, and mouth. I pray that others can see at least little bits of His life in and through me. I know that doesn't happen if I use my time and energy in criticizing others!

Have you been around people who are constantly criticizing/judging others? How does it make you feel? How do you think others feel about us when we spend time being judgmental? 

Giving Time To God!

It has always been a challenge to sit quietly in God's Presence. Our world seems too busy to do nothing but be still and trust Him! I read recently that spiritual growth is impossible without spending time in silence and solitude with our Lord. That certainly got my attention and helped me make that time more of a priority in my life!

We are constantly reminded in our devotional readings of many of God's Promises. However, we are also told that we must stay closely connected to Him in order to know and receive those wonderful Promises.

In a recent Bible study group, we were discussing the issue of solitude and someone said that they thought that this wasn't really for today's world; further, she thought that this wasn't realistic for many of us. My thought is that it is ESPECIALLY for today's hectic life-style - to discipline ourselves to MAKE time for that very precious time being quietly alone in God's Presence.

How do you handle making time for silence solitude in order to be filled with God's Peace and Love?

Seize THIS Day!

Several years ago, there was a saying on mugs, t-shirts, stationary, etc., that said, Carpe diem, which means "Seize the Day." I loved having my morning coffee in that mug because it made me realize that each day is a blessing.

Today's devotional gives us this same reminder to seize the day. The scripture from Philippians 4:4 tells us to "Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I say Rejoice!"  Additional words from Paul are powerful ones that tell us to be satisfied with our lives as they are now instead of always looking to the future. It's so easy to think about "When I retire, things will be so much easier," or "When I have enough money, I will be able to buy a nicer house," or when..., when...when....  I have no doubt that our Lord wants us to rejoice in our "Love-relationship" with Him - right now - in every minute of everyday!  In this frazzled world of the media telling us we need more, this is quite a challenge!

When a friend of mine realized that she was losing a lot of her vision, she began her search for enjoying the "precious present." She ended out writing a book of poetry called In Touch With Now: An Uncommon Celebration on the joy and blessings of the little, common things that we sometimes let pass us by. Her book is truly a celebration of God's Presence and blessings each and everyday.

How do you celebrate the Presence and Joy of the Lord in the NOW?

God's Most Amazing Love!

God gives us many of Promises to encourage us, guide us, and sometimes just to help keep us going. Today's reading stated something that I had never given much thought - that His last recorded Promise to us was, "Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

This reading and passage made me think about times when I leave my loved ones and know that I might not see them for awhile. I want to let them know that I love them - and I'm sure that's what Jesus was doing for us. I praise and thank Him for that wonderful Promise and His most amazing Love!

A wonderful hymn that "sings" this story and includes a beautiful video is this rendition of "Amazing Love.  Please share any other music or scripture passages that remind you of God's Promises and Love.

Trust and Obey!

All of today's scripture passages are powerful ones about trusting completely in our Lord! I hope that we find time to reread each of these scriptures to allow them to "soak in" and become part of our spiritual life. Also, the beautiful old hymn "Trust and Obey" is one that often deepens my worship/devotional experience as I pray it will for you.

Today as I was focusing on the scripture passage from  Psalm 25, it seemed to speak to me in a profound way. I think the reason is that I am now looking for "new" paths that the Lord wants me to take at this time of my life. Those words seemed to be in my thoughts even before I read them: "Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me..."

Are any of the others reading today's devotional looking for a new way that God may be leading you?

Give Up - or Give It To God!

We all have those days and/or times in life when we feel ready to "give up." For many, our lives have not turned out the way we had planned - due to such things as divorce, death, ill health, financial worries. Today's reading and scriptures are such wonderful reminders that God's grace IS sufficient for us. The passage that especially spoke to me is from Jeremiah 31:25: "I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint."  

A particular children's song also comes to mind: "This is the Day the Lord Hath Made." When I start the day with this or other positive hymns/songs, it often changes my attitude about the day - even if it doesn't change what is happening!

Do have scriptures or songsor thoughts about what you do when you feel like you are "hitting bottom?' Please share with all of us who might be struggling.

Guilt or Grace??

I think I must have been taught from early in life that I had to constantly work harder every day in order to please God - and everyone else around me! I didn't realize until a few years ago how this belief had affected my life. It surely must be one of those mind-sets that requires "letting go and letting God" time and again for me to understand and accept God's most amazing Grace.

Words from today's devotional that particularly spoke to me were "Guilt-evoking messages can undermine the very foundation of grace in a believer's heart" and then, "I want you to relax in the assurance of My perfect Love." This reminds me that God really does want me to relax and enjoy His Presence and His Grace and His Love! Ephesians 2:8-9 says it so clearly, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--not by works so that no man can boast."

The hymn, "Amazing Grace" is one of my favorites and one that reinforces today's reading. Please take time to listen to the words of this beautiful hymn; this version of  "Amazing Grace" is by Chris Tomlin and has a few additional verses. 

Are We Bearing Fruit?

"Apart from Me, you can do nothing!" Does that speak to you the way it does to me? So often, I get busy and try to do things by myself. What a mistake that is!

God gives us free-will to be "self-sufficient" - to make decisions on our own. However, as written in today's devotional, His deepest longing is for us to depend totally on Him - in all situations: "Use your freedom wisely, by relying on Me constantly. Thus you enjoy My Presence and My Peace."

Today's scripture passage from John 15:5 refers to our bearing fruit. The powerful lyrics in the hymn, "Here I Am, Lord" speak about giving our entire being to our Lord in order that we will live according to His Will, Word, and Way.  I pray that you will focus on the scriptures and lyrics of this hymn in your worship time today. 

Who Is Your Best Friend?

Today's reading immediately made me think of the words of "What a Friend We Have in Jesus." This hymn was written in 1855, but is as relevant today as then. This was one of the first hymns that I learned to play on the piano as a child. I still remember the comfort it gave me then in my rather lonely and "deprived" life on a farm in the hills of Arkansas. As I read today's devotional and scriptures and then focused on the lyrics of this beautiful hymn, I am reminded that Jesus is, was, and always will be my best FRIEND! We are privileged with the blessing of being able to walk hand in hand with Him through life!

Other words in today's reading that spoke deeply to me were "I can bring beauty out of the ashes of lost dreams. I can glean Joy out of sorrow, Peace out of adversity." I praise God for this Promise which is assured to us again in Romans 8:28: "In all things God works for good for those who love the Lord."

Another Christian song that strengthens today's devotional and scriptures is "With All I Am." I pray that you have time to reread the words in today's scriptures and songs and that they might guide you through the day.

Please share times that you knew without a doubt that Jesus IS your best Friend and that He walks hand in hand with you.

Walking to the Edge of the Light

I recently heard a story about "going to the edge of the light." The essence of the story went something like this:
   When we walk to the edge of all the light we have and take a step into the darkness of the unknown,  we must believe one of two things will happen: there will be something solid for us to stand upon, or we will be taught to fly. 
Based on today's scripture from John 8:12, we are assured that we will "never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." I praise God for that assurance that when things look the darkest, He is waiting to provide us "something solid to stand upon" - along with His Light and guidance to walk with us.

Do you have times that you felt that you were in darkness spiritually, but then God's light began to shine on you and in you again?

Spiritual "Attention Deficit Disorder"!

As a long-time educator, today's reading immediately made me think of students who have ADD - Attention Deficit Disorder - and that maybe I have the same problem regarding Spiritual matters! I so easily get caught up in trivial matters that I fail to take the time to seek God's Presence and Loving Care. I have mentioned before "Silence and Solitude," a Christian book I have been studying and teaching. It has made a powerful difference in my life as it gives practical ways to stay focused on our Lord and His Will and Way.

The scripture about Martha and Mary was one that we read in a recent Bible study class. Mary wanted to sit at Jesus' feet and listen to Him but Martha got busy with the "trivia." She went to Jesus and asked Him to make Mary help her with the household work. Jesus kindly but firmly reminded Martha that "You are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better..." 

The lyrics of the beautiful hymn, "You Are My All in All" is one that added meaning to today's devotional and worship time for me. I pray that it may do the same for you as we strive to stay focused on

What helps you most with "ADD of the spirit?" What are some things you do that can help the rest of us stay focused on our Lord? Can you identify best with Martha or Mary?

Have You Seen Any Miracles Today?

I once read about being blessed by seeing things through "God's lenses." That idea is what spoke especially to me in today's devotional: "When you depend on Me continually, your whole perspective changes" and that "You begin each day with joyful expectation, watching to see what I will do." 

Today's reading also focused on the idea that in our rush, rush world of trying to DO so much on our own, we often miss out on many of God's blessings. I pray that you will join me in taking time today and in the coming days to see the world through "God's lenses." Then let us share with each other any changes in our lives or attitudes -  or any miracles that we experience or see.

Where Are You God??

Have you ever said - or thought - "Where Are You God?" - during one of those rough patches in life? In today's reading, both the devotional and scriptures are such good assurances that His "continual Presence with you IS AN ABSOLUTE PROMISE!"  Our part is that we look for Him will all our heart and with all our soul! Today I was reading some Christian study material about this topic. I have repeatedly heard one of the main points of the author when he said that when we have these feelings of being separated from God, it isn't God who moved, but it is we who have moved (away).

Have you ever felt separated from God?  Do those feelings cause anger? What do you do then?