God is With Us - On Holy Ground!

Many times when I am teaching a Bible study class or even talking to a good friend about spiritual issues, I am at a loss as to how to respond. Today's reading is such a good reminder that we can have the help of God's Spirit in times like these - when people open their heart and souls to us. I had never thought about these times being ones in which we are "on holy ground!" Today might be a good time to listen again to the beautiful words of the hymn, "Holy Ground."

Do you have other scriptures or hymns to share that serve as a reminder of God's Presence on "holy ground?"

Is My Mind "Earthbound?"

Today's devotional is similar to the one a few days ago in which the names Jesus, and Emmanuel were discussed. This is another reminder to continually seek God's Presence by keeping our minds focused on Him rather than being "earthbound!" We are assured in the scripture from Jeremiah that we will  find Him when we search for Him with all our heart.

I appreciate Sarah Young's words that "Quietness is the classroom where you learn to hear my voice." I pray that we all find time for that classroom! "Sweet Hour of Prayer." that I used in today's time of worship/classroom; I pray that it will speak to you as it did to me.

God is with me! God is with me! I praise Him for this most wonderful blessing!

How to Start the Day!

Today's scripture from Ephesians spoke especially to me: "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works."  I'm not sure that every minute of today is planned out by God - but I do believe that He knows what will happen. I also believe that He gave us free will to make choices about constantly seeking His Presence and guidance. I think that's why starting the day with Him is so very important! What is your opinion on God's will for your life?

In recent months, I have written about taking time for "silence and solitude" with our Lord. Our usual prayer time is when we ask God to do what we think He needs to do for us and others. However, the times of silence and solitude are ones in which we listen intentionally for the guidance of God. My spiritual director recently told me that she CANNOT start her day without that special quiet time with God. How do you start your days - and does it seem to make a difference in how the day goes for you?

Life Isn't Always Fair!

In a recent Bible study class, one of our lessons was relating to dealing with "challenging"  people - whether in our family, work, church, neighborhood, etc. Sometimes people may say things that are untrue, unfair and undeserved! We call that life since it probably happens to everyone at one time or another! The recommendation in the Bible study and in today's devotional was to try to view these times as "opportunities to grow!"   Today's reading says to "grow in grace" - which is giving and receiving undeserved love. In the Bible study class, the reading suggested that we  tell ourselves that "School is in session," or to be ready to grow and learn from these unfair, difficult experiences.

What a blessing to be reminded that what is important in life is not what others think, but rather what our Lord thinks! I praise Him for the understanding that His ways are Peace and Love which is poured into our hearts by His Spirit!

Do you have ways to that you use to deal with those unfair, difficult times in life? Please share with others as we all need help in this area.

God's Instructions

Today's scripture passage from Psalm 32:8 is one that changed my life. When I was trying to make a major decision about retirement from public education, I kept praying for God's guidance to show me the right path in this critical time in my life. One morning I sat down to breakfast and randomly opened my Bible. This is one of the scriptures that spoke clearly to me as my eyes were somehow led to the one from Psalms 32. The other scripture that I was led to that morning was Proverbs 16:3 - "Commit to the Lord whatever you do and your plans will be established."  I have never regretted the decision I made on that day.

Do you have favorite scriptures that have spoken to you in times of decision?  Please share your stories with other readers as some may be needing guidance from God's Word in making major life decisions.

God is the Vine; We ARE His Branches!

The words in today's devotional reading and scripture made me think of broken branches lying on the ground after a storm. The scripture passage from John made me realize that I probably have been like broken branches during some of life's storms when I tried to take care of everything on my own - without being connected to my Lord.

Words from the hymn, "Have Thine Own Way Lord," came to mind as I read today's scriptures and words of Sarah Young:
     Have thine own way, Lord, Have thin own way.
     Thou art the potter, I am the clay.
     Mold me and make me, after Thy Will.
    While I am waiting, yielded and still.

A vine can't grow branches without being connected to them. A potter can't mold clay without holding on to it. Our Lord can only mold us and guide us by our holding on to Him and by Him holding on to us. The last line of this verse (above) reminds us how that can be done - by waiting, yielding, and being still! I praise God for His reassurance that He is our Vine and our Potter!

Please share with me and others how you hold on to our Lord - and ways that you know He is holding on to you.

There's Something About the Name "Jesus"

Many times in the past, I have heard the meaning of the word, Emmanuel, especially around Christmas. However, I don't think I fully "got" the meaning until today's devotional reading. For whatever reason (maybe His Spirit), when I  focused on the power of Emmanuel, "God with me," I  felt overwhelmed by His Presence. I hope and pray that this new understanding and acceptance of these words will stay with me for all of my life.

Sarah Young also explains another meaning of His Name: Jesus. I have to admit that I was unaware that this word literally means "the Lord saves!" Putting these two names together then says to us: God is with us and will save us! I praise God!

Did any of the words in today's reading or scripture make you feel overwhelmed or awed by His Presence?

On an earlier blog, someone sent in the beautiful hymn, "Jesus, Jesus, There's Something About That Name." I used it in my worship time again today as it is such a wonderful reminder of Jesus - Emmanuel!

God's Restoring Peace Through Rest

In today's devotional, Sarah Young writes that God "built into your very being the need for rest."  She continues about how "twisted the world has become when people feel guilty about meeting this basic need."  For some reason, these words spoke clearly to me since I DO feel guilty about spending time resting! When friends ask me "What have you been doing?" I often stammer with guilt because I am unable to list the 101 things I did last week!

This devotional reading and scriptures said to me that

1. It's o.k. to rest.
2. Even God needed rest when He created the earth.
3. It is only through resting in and with Him that we can find His Peace.

What can you add to this list about insight from today's scriptures and devotional?

Keep Your Eyes on Jesus!

Today's devotional seems to be an addition to yesterday's - on the subject of joy attained through the Presence of our Lord Jesus Christ. Words from "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus" immediately came to mind as I thought about some of the words from today's readings regarding the Light of God's Presence on and in us. Here are a few lines from this beautiful old hymn:
O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There's a light for a look at the Savior,
And life more abundant and free!

Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.

The words and music provided a blessed worship experience for me as I hope it will for you: "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus."

Do you have a story to share about a time when you found Jesus in your presence when you most needed Him?

Choose Joy!

Have you ever wished for more joy in your life? I'll have to admit that sometimes I feel that way. I have also heard that comment from some older friends who have no family nearby and who have multiple health issues. Today's devotional is such a blessing in reminding us that God's Presence and Companionship "can infuse Joy into the grayest day!" I appreciate the scripture and also Sarah Young's words that sometimes we have to search for that joy "as for hidden treasure."

I have recently mentioned about a book and video lessons by Kay Warren called, Choose Joy!  In these lessons, she talks about "parallel times" in our lives. On the one side is the good things: God, family, friends, church, house to live, food to eat, etc. On the other side are the worries and fears: health, money, family members, our country, safety, etc. However, we can "choose joy" at anytime when God's Presence is with us and when we know that He is guiding our steps.

Today's reading and scripture reminded me of a wonderful song that children often learn in Sunday School. Even though it's written for children, it's one of those that might change a gloomy day to a bright one for children and adults. I hope that you enjoy this delightful video of  "I've Got the Joy, Joy, Joy, Down in My Heart".

How do you face trials and challenging times but yet keep joy in your life and heart?

What We Can Do When We Are Angry or Resentful!

Several months ago, I went to my family doctor who told me that I seemed angry. I was shocked! I didn't think I was angry, but became so concerned about his comment that I went to one of my pastors to discuss the issue. I have had quite a few "ups and downs" in recent years, and the pastor began having me talk about some of these events. By the time our conversation was over, I realized that I had shown signs of anger without realizing it.  She helped me bring these feelings to the surface and begin taking them to my Lord so that He could free me from such feelings.

Today's devotional and scriptures are good reminders that life causes us to have some resentful feelings (and some of anger) that are often hidden from our conscious mind. What is important is for us to ask God to show us these feelings so that we can bring them to Him - and be freed from them!

The last sentence in the devotional reminded me once more of the hymn, "I'll Never Let God of Your Hand." What a blessing to realize and accept this Promise of our Lord.

Live Life Abundantly!

Words in today's reading about "gravity and the inevitable effects of aging" spoke clearly to me - since no matter how old we are, we ARE in the aging process! What blessed reassurance that even when we are aging outwardly, we can grow inwardly stronger if we simply "walk in the light" by staying near to our Lord!

The lyrics to the hymn, "Teach Me to Walk in the Light" is a beautiful prayer. I pray that you enjoy it during today's worship time. 

What are some things that you do on a daily basis to ensure that you stay in His Light?

Practicing God's Presence - Even in Church!

I remember when my children were little and I would be fussing (and sometimes yelling) to hurry up and get ready for church. I imagine they thought their mother was the one who really needed church and God's Peace and Presence!

Sarah Young's words in today's devotional were certainly "poignant" for most of us! I know that at times it takes real effort to put on my "Sunday smiles" if things aren't going just right. I need this reminder that my purpose in going to church is to commune with my Lord. When that happens, I will be able to love others with God's  Love.

The scripture from Philippians 4 has always been meaningful to me. I decided it needs to be one of those that I memorize in order that I can focus on it many times a day. What a wonderful reminder of all the good things that we should be thinking about - those things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honorable. What would churches look like if every person who entered the doors did that one thing?

Have a "Gentle Day!"

I like the idea of going "gently" through the day! It seems that for me and most of my friends, the days are anything but gentle! However, today's devotional reminds us that we can have gentle days by keeping our eyes focused on our Lord.

The scripture from John especially spoke to me; in it Jesus refers to Himself as the good shepherd. I don't know a lot about shepherding except that they will do most anything to protect their sheep. What a blessing to know that Jesus is our Good Shepherd and is watching over us. However, it is our job to stay aware of Him and His Presence - in spite of the "busy trap" world!

What good habits do you have to help you remain aware of the Presence of our Lord - even in those rough patches of life?

What Will It Be: Worry or Prayer?

I once heard a pastor identify worry as allowing our mind to dwell on difficulties or troubles - either real or perceived or imagined. Sarah Young gives an interesting definition of anxiety which is brought on by worry: "Anxiety is a result of envisioning the future without God." I have never before thought about worry and anxiety in light of these particular words. I pray that God will use these words in helping me break this "lack of faith" called worry!

Today's scripture from Luke is so clear on this issue that likely affects most people in the world some of the time - or even all of the time! We are reminded again that we have a choice of worry or prayer. What do you do to combat the worry habit?

God's Presence - His Most Wonderful Gift!

Today's devotional reading and scriptures are wonderful reminders of God's greatest gift - His Presence with us in our joys and sorrows. The scripture from 2 Corinthians adds a very special element to this Gift of His. It tells us that God "comforts us in all our troubles, SO THAT WE CAN COMFORT THOSE IN ANY TROUBLE WITH THE COMFORT WE OURSELVES HAVE RECEIVED FROM GOD."

Does the power of that passage speak to anyone else besides me? It makes it so clear that we ARE to share God's Love and Compassion with others by being His hands and feet and mouth here on earth!

I focused on some of the words in the hymn, "Take Time to Be Holy" that were especially  meaningful in my devotional/worship time today:

     Take time to be holy, Speak oft with thy Lord;
     Abide in him always, and feed on His Word;
     Make friends of God's children, Help those who are weak,
     Forgetting in nothing, His blessing to seek.
I pray that you have time to focus on these beautiful words and music along with today's scriptures as you strive to walk closer to our Lord.

Running the Race by Staying Focused!

I know very little about running in a race except that you lose a lot of speed and direction by trying to see what the others are doing. I think that is what these scriptures and devotional are referring to - to keep our eyes focused on our Lord rather than watching what others are doing. In this "busy trap" kind of world, that's a tough commitment!

I have mentioned before the words in a beautiful hymn, "I'll Never Let Go of Your Hand." I praise God for His assurance that He won't let go of me even during the times that I lose my focus on Him. I pray that the lyrics of this hymn will speak to you as they have to me. Also, please share with me and others any scriptures or Christian songs that relate to today's powerful devotional.

Allow God to Use Our Struggles - and Bring About Good!

It is sometimes very difficult to find joy in problems and pain! If you are like me, you may at times feel that you have gained enough "perseverance" from the testing of faith as in today's scripture passage from James 1:2-4! However, the devotional and scriptures are good reminders that God can and will bring good out of our trials and pain in life - IF we only offer it up to Him for His purposes.

In addition to today's scriptures, the one from Romans 8:28 is a powerful reminder of this Promise of our Lord: ²⁸ And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. It doesn't say that God has brought these trials and challenges on us, but it does say that He can and will use them for good.

I thank our Lord for His Promises of being with us and using the good and bad times for His Will and Way!

Be Still and Listen!

It is only in recent years that I have heard and read about the importance of taking time to BE STILL IN THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD. I have always been pretty faithful about my prayer time, but it typically consisted of me telling God what I think He should do! Now I realize that I need to just clear my mind and listen to what He has to say to me. This usually starts with a short "breath prayer" such as "Abide in me," or "Jesus," or "Peace in; worry out," as I take deep breaths. Another option is to start by reading a short verse of  meaningful scripture and focus on those words. When the anxious thoughts or worries try to take over, just send them away like "leaves floating down a stream."


I have previously mentioned a wonderful book that I have been studying and teaching:
Invitation to Solitude and Silence: Experiencing God's Transforming Presence by Ruth Haley Barton. It has greatly enhanced understanding for me and other class members of the "Why?" and also the "How?"  of being still with the Lord and listening for His guidance.  

The hymn "Be Still My Soul," has powerful lyrics that help us focus on the fact that "The Lord is on my side." I pray that it will speak to you as it has to me in today's worship time.

Who Am I Trying to Please or Impress?

I've always thought it was strange that some people really seem to like me - while others really do not! I'm the kind who has always wanted to please everyone around me - family, neighbors, church friends, etc. I get quite upset when I realize that I am not pleasing to some of those around me.

Today's devotional made me think about this desire to please people on earth in a different way - that in some ways it "dampens" our desire to please our Lord!  What a good reminder that our goal should be to try to see ourselves through the eyes of our Loving God and receive His Peace. This isn't likely to happen if we spend our time trying to do what others want and to please them.

I pray that you will take time to enjoy the beautiful words of "Have Thine Own Way." It is a wonderful prayer/hymn. If you have other hymns or scriptures about worshipping our lord "in spirit and in truth," please share with me and other readers.

God's Most Precious Gift

A scripture that particularly spoke to me today was the first part of the one from Psalm 62: "Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress; I will not be shaken."  The reason that this passage holds such special meaning is that some of those words were spoken by my dad, a non-church goer, to a hospital chaplain as Dad lay near death. His passing became much easier for all of our family as we were reminded of Dad's words, "My only hope is in the Lord."

Another closely related scripture is from Romans 8:38-39: ^"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." This scripture along with today's devotional are blessed reminders of God's most precious gift - His Presence with us!

^{Do you have scriptures that you hold near as reminders that the most important gift in life CANNOT BE LOST? Please share with me and other readers.} 

What Is My Choice - Trying to Control or Trust?

Today's reading caused me to think about how often I try to control so many things in my life - and how frustrating it gets after awhile! I try to blame it on the fact that I was a teacher and a principal for so many years, and I thought I needed to have control of my classroom or school. It seems that I would have learned a lesson long ago that in schools and churches and businesses and life, no matter how hard we try, control cannot happen on a consistent basis!

Some of Sarah Young's words particularly spoke to me about trusting God enough to "let things happen without striving to predict or control them. Relax, and refresh yourself..."  Additionally, she wrote, "The alternative is to live fully in the present, depending on Me (God) each moment."

I have mentioned previously about a friend writing a new book called, In Touch With Now: An Uncommon Celebration.  A part of the author's (Rev. Patsy Brundige) description of the book reiterates some the meaning of today's devotional, "We are shocked and disappointed, realizing what we have missed. Newly discovered simplicity and beauty lead us to an uncommon celebration of our common everydayness."

I have asked myself again, "Am I living in the NOW by trusting in God's Presence and enjoying His daily blessings, or am I trying to control/predict tomorrow or next week or next year?" What about you?

How Does It Feel When Others Constantly Complain?

Have you been around people who mostly complain - about everything from the weather to  politics or the boss? If you are like me, this gets old in a hurry!

Until I read today's devotional, I had never thought about complaining as something that can lead to "self-pity and rage!" Today's devotional and scriptures tell us to talk to God about our worries and concerns in life; He is the One who will refresh us!

The scripture from Philippians 2:14 says it loud and clear: "Do everything without complaining or arguing."  I thank God for His loving friendship that allows us to talk openly with Him about the difficult paths. I appreciate Sarah Young's words that talking with God "tempers" our thoughts and helps see things from His viewpoint. How different our lives would be if we looked at everything through a "God lens!"

Something else that I have seen happen in job situations is that when one person starts complaining, it often "rubs off" onto others. We need to have our own "plan" on how to respond when that happens. Please share with me and others how you react in those kinds of situations in order that we do all things without complaining.

Thank God For His Constant Love!

In our turbulent world, it is reassuring to know there is one absolute constant: GOD'S LOVE!  The scriptures for today are powerful ones that remind us of this promise. Another one that is a favorite of mine is Romans 8:38-39:  For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,  neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Do you have a scripture to share that might help me and others when we need reminded about God's wonderful love for us?

Give Thanks With a Grateful Heart!

There is little doubt that having an "attitude of gratitude" will drastically change our lives! One of the guests on a recent "Dr. Oz" show even talked about the physical things that happen in our body when we daily give gratitude. He was just one more added to the list of researchers who are now proclaiming the importance of this kind of attitude. He suggested writing in a gratitude journal at the end of everyday - for big things and little. Since I am not particularly self-disciplined in many areas, I am pleased to say that this is the one thing that I am diligent about doing everyday; I truly believe that it has changed me!

 It's pretty amazing to read on the Mayo Clinic web site about the physical effects of gratitude. Isn't it ironic that the Bible says the same thing - over and over - but our modern world is just now recognizing how being thankful can affect us? One of the Mayo researchers made this comment: "Gratitude shifts our focus from what our life lacks to the abundance that's already present." 

A beautiful hymn to listen to in today's worship time is "Give Thanks With a Grateful Heart." I pray that it will speak to you as it has to me about what God has done for us!

Do  you have an "attitude of gratitude?" Do you have a story to share about how it has changed you?

He Leads Me

The scripture from John 8:12 in today's reading especially spoke to me. What a beautiful reminder that we are never alone even once we decide to follow Jesus!

 Another relevant scripture is from Matthew 16:24: Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.^"

I once heard in a sermon that when we don't feel God's nearness, it's not because He moved away from us. Instead, it's because we move away from Him. How do you keep close to our Lord - even in times of trouble or heartache or joy?

The beautiful hymn, "Lead Me Lord," is a good one to use for worship. I hope you that God speaks to you though it. I feel so blessed to know that "Whoever follows me (God) will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." Life often feels scary and it's difficult not to worry. However, I pray that today's devotional and scriptures will fill us with His Peace.

Choose Joy!

Today's reading was such a good reminder that we CAN have joy  in spite of what is happening in our lives. Sarah Young makes the point that "True Joy is a by-product of living in My Presence." She also points out that getting to the "top" - career-wise - isn't always as great as it seems. Rather than finding expected joy, some find "emptiness awaiting them."

Today's reading made me think of a children's song called, "I've Got the Joy, Joy, Joy, Down in My Heart." This particular version is for children but surely will speak to everyone; near the end of the video are some powerful scriptures!

Not long ago, I heard a friend talking about the desire to have joy in her life. I understood where she was coming from as she has had so many major health issues, divorce, death of a son, and no family nearby. I hope and pray that all of us who feel devoid of joy will remember today's reading and scriptures. I also pray that you will take the time to go to www.biblegateway.com or some other Bible reference site. Type in the word "joy." In biblegatweay, there are 242 references to joy. When I started reading them, I realized that our Lord really does want to fill us with His JOY and Peace!

My Sunday School class recently studied a book (and watched videos) called "Choose Joy" by Kay Warren. These lessons touched all of us as we began to better understand the meaning of today's devotional. I pray that you will join me in "choosing joy" - even when life gets tough!

Am I Allowing God's Spirit to Guide Me?

Many years ago, I heard a missionary talk about the work of the Holy Spirit in her life. She then gave us words that I will never forget. "Once you have accepted Christ as your Savior, the Holy Spirit lives within you. However, it is up to you to allow the Spirit work in your life!"

That is the message that I got from today's devotional and scriptures. Jesus had to "go away" in order for His Spirit to live with us. We are told most clearly that "He dwells with you and will be in you."  

We have been given this marvelous gift of His Presence - but we sometimes still try to do things on our own. I pray that the lyrics of this beautiful hymn, "Spirit of the Living God," will be your prayer for today's worship time.

Do you have a story about how you have allowed God's Spirit to "take control" and work in your life?

What Does God Think When We Complain?

Several years ago, the pastor at my church had a sermon on "Complaining." In it, he talked about what it does to those around us, and to us, when we spend a lot of time complaining. He gave us a simple way to help stop our negativism by giving us a rubber bracelet; he asked us to wear it for at least a month. Every time we caught ourselves complaining, we were to take the bracelet off one arm and put it on the other. You would be amazed at what it did to our congregation by helping us become more aware of our negative comments. At the same time, we began focusing more on God's Presence and Guidance and Love.

Today's scripture from Ephesians is a powerful (but difficult) one that Sarah Young says will help us get through the troubles in life: "Always giving thanks to God the father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus."

How do you remind yourself about complaining - if that is an issue with you?

God is Always Near!

We hear about so many people in our rather mixed-up world who are searching - just for someone to listen and to care. Today's reading is such a wonderful reminder of the unending Presence of our Lord for all "who call upon My Name, who open their hearts to receive Me as Savior."

I hope that you enjoy the lyrics and video of this beautiful old hymn, "Jesus, Lover of My Soul."  What's amazing is that it was written in 1740 by Charles Wesley. I guess that shows that people were searching for Peace back then - as we still do today!

Worship by Resting!

I had never thought of resting in the Lord as a way to worship. However, as I reflected on today's devotional and scriptures, I better understood Sarah Young's words.

There are many times in life when I am totally exhausted. I must be one who drives myself like racehorses! I am reminded to take the time to rest in the Lord and make sure He is my First Love. I praise God for His most amazing Grace that gives me His unconditional love - without my working for it!

The passage of scripture from Matthew 11:28 feels so comforting to read and re-read as our Lord promises to give us rest. Do you take time to rest in the Lord everyday?