Nehemiah 7:5, 7 NKJV
"Then my God put it into my heart to gather the nobles, the rulers, and the people, that they might be registered by genealogy. And I found a register of the genealogy of those who had come up in the first return, and found written in it: Those who came with Zerubbabel were Jeshua, Nehemiah, Azariah, Raamiah, Nahamani, Mordecai, Bilshan, Mispereth, Bigvai, Nehum, and Baanah.
The number of the men of the people of Israel . . ."
This chapter begins with Nehemiah telling the men to guard the city, faithful men:
"that I gave the charge of Jerusalem to my brother Hanani, and Hananiah the leader of the citadel, for he was a faithful man and feared God more than many." (Vs 2)
Then, he begins recording the names of those who dared to rebuild with him & their geneology. The list is long, but 1 name stood out to me: "Mordecai." He was the uncle of Queen Esther. He raised her like his own daughter after her parkents were killed. He is the one who helped her prepare to be a queen & encouraged her to go boldly before the king to save her people, God's chosen people, the Jews:
" . . . Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14)
Mordecai knew a few things about rebuilding a wall & protecting his people. He knew how to take a stand for God. I had never noticed his name here before. His vital encouragement to the Queen came only through much experience of fighting the enemy.
Take your place in God's history of this battle. How is He recording your name? "A faithful man that feared God more than many"?
Monday, March 21, 2011
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
God Completes the Wall
Nehemiah 6:1-3, 9,11, 16 NKJV
Now it happened when Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem the Arab, and the rest of our enemies heard that I had rebuilt the wall, and that there were no breaks left in it (though at that time I had not hung the doors in the gates), that Sanballat and Geshem sent to me, saying, “Come, let us meet together among the villages in the plain of Ono.” But they thought to do me harm. So I sent messengers to them, saying, “I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down. Why should the work cease while I leave it and go down to you?” For they all were trying to make us afraid, saying, “Their hands will be weakened in the work, and it will not be done.”
Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands.
And I said, “Should such a man as I flee? And who is there such as I who would go into the temple to save his life? I will not go in!” And it happened, when all our enemies heard of it, and all the nations around us saw these things, that they were very disheartened in their own eyes; for they perceived that this work was done by our God."
And so, the wall was completed. There were no gaps. God strengthened their hands & did this work through them. Despite man's attempts to stop the progress, despite the enemy's plots to destroy Nehemiah, God was victorious. He made Nehemiah victorious. Because when God makes a promise to rebuild something, He WILL.
Now it happened when Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem the Arab, and the rest of our enemies heard that I had rebuilt the wall, and that there were no breaks left in it (though at that time I had not hung the doors in the gates), that Sanballat and Geshem sent to me, saying, “Come, let us meet together among the villages in the plain of Ono.” But they thought to do me harm. So I sent messengers to them, saying, “I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down. Why should the work cease while I leave it and go down to you?” For they all were trying to make us afraid, saying, “Their hands will be weakened in the work, and it will not be done.”
Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands.
And I said, “Should such a man as I flee? And who is there such as I who would go into the temple to save his life? I will not go in!” And it happened, when all our enemies heard of it, and all the nations around us saw these things, that they were very disheartened in their own eyes; for they perceived that this work was done by our God."
And so, the wall was completed. There were no gaps. God strengthened their hands & did this work through them. Despite man's attempts to stop the progress, despite the enemy's plots to destroy Nehemiah, God was victorious. He made Nehemiah victorious. Because when God makes a promise to rebuild something, He WILL.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Remember Me, My God
Nehemiah 5:14-15, 17-19 NKJV
"Moreover, from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year until the thirty-second year of King Artaxerxes, twelve years, neither I nor my brothers ate the governor’s provisions. But the former governors who were before me laid burdens on the people, and took from them bread and wine, besides forty shekels of silver. Yes, even their servants bore rule over the people, but I did not do so, because of the fear of God. And at my table were one hundred and fifty Jews and rulers, besides those who came to us from the nations around us. Now that which was prepared daily was one ox and six choice sheep. Also fowl were prepared for me, and once every ten days an abundance of all kinds of wine. Yet in spite of this I did not demand the governor’s provisions, because the bondage was heavy on this people. Remember me, my God, for good, according to all that I have done for this people."
Lord, I'm no prophet, I'm no goveror. I'm just a single mom working every day to rebuild this wall & govern Remember me. For all the people that pass through my home & eat at my table & hear the gospel within my walls, remember me.
"Moreover, from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year until the thirty-second year of King Artaxerxes, twelve years, neither I nor my brothers ate the governor’s provisions. But the former governors who were before me laid burdens on the people, and took from them bread and wine, besides forty shekels of silver. Yes, even their servants bore rule over the people, but I did not do so, because of the fear of God. And at my table were one hundred and fifty Jews and rulers, besides those who came to us from the nations around us. Now that which was prepared daily was one ox and six choice sheep. Also fowl were prepared for me, and once every ten days an abundance of all kinds of wine. Yet in spite of this I did not demand the governor’s provisions, because the bondage was heavy on this people. Remember me, my God, for good, according to all that I have done for this people."
Lord, I'm no prophet, I'm no goveror. I'm just a single mom working every day to rebuild this wall & govern Remember me. For all the people that pass through my home & eat at my table & hear the gospel within my walls, remember me.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Restore Each Other
Nehemiah 5:11-19 NKJV
"Restore now to them, even this day, their lands, their vineyards, their olive groves, and their houses, also a hundredth of the money and the grain, the new wine and the oil, that you have charged them.” So they said, “We will restore it, and will require nothing from them; we will do as you say.”
Then I called the priests, and required an oath from them that they would do according to this promise.Then I shook out the fold of my garment and said, “So may God shake out each man from his house, and from his property, who does not perform this promise. Even thus may he be shaken out and emptied.”
And all the assembly said, “Amen!” and praised the Lord. Then the people did according to this promise. "
Nehemiah knew about financial oppression. He watched his own jewish people hold debts over each other & eben sell their children as payment for these debts. He called a great assembly & ordered them to forgive any debt their brother had against each other & to return these demanded payments. The wall was rebuilt. Now it was time everyone receive a fresh start. And all obeyed, because of the fear of the Lord.
The Lord sees our national debt. And I'm sure He has a solution for a fresh start if our people & leaders feared Him enough to ask & obey. Who in your life needs a fresh start? Who do you need to forgive some debt, money or emotional, that you feel is rightfully yours? Think over your life, and remembers the mercy both God and man have shown you at times you did not deserve it. Repay that blessing forward to breath new life into a dark soul. Forgive. God may be requiring this of you today.
"Restore now to them, even this day, their lands, their vineyards, their olive groves, and their houses, also a hundredth of the money and the grain, the new wine and the oil, that you have charged them.” So they said, “We will restore it, and will require nothing from them; we will do as you say.”
Then I called the priests, and required an oath from them that they would do according to this promise.Then I shook out the fold of my garment and said, “So may God shake out each man from his house, and from his property, who does not perform this promise. Even thus may he be shaken out and emptied.”
And all the assembly said, “Amen!” and praised the Lord. Then the people did according to this promise. "
Nehemiah knew about financial oppression. He watched his own jewish people hold debts over each other & eben sell their children as payment for these debts. He called a great assembly & ordered them to forgive any debt their brother had against each other & to return these demanded payments. The wall was rebuilt. Now it was time everyone receive a fresh start. And all obeyed, because of the fear of the Lord.
The Lord sees our national debt. And I'm sure He has a solution for a fresh start if our people & leaders feared Him enough to ask & obey. Who in your life needs a fresh start? Who do you need to forgive some debt, money or emotional, that you feel is rightfully yours? Think over your life, and remembers the mercy both God and man have shown you at times you did not deserve it. Repay that blessing forward to breath new life into a dark soul. Forgive. God may be requiring this of you today.
Friday, March 4, 2011
By Name
Nehemiah 3:28-29 NKJV
"Beyond the Horse Gate the priests made repairs, each in front of his own house. After them Zadok the son of Immer made repairs in front of his own house. After him Shemaiah the son of Shechaniah, the keeper of the East Gate, made repairs. After him . . . "
This entire chapter lists the men by name who worked to rebuild the walls, by people groups, and lists exactly the section they repaired. Some repaired mighty amounts:
"Hanun and the inhabitants of Zanoah repaired the Valley Gate. They built it, hung its doors with its bolts and bars, and repaired a thousand cubits of the wall as far as the Refuse Gate." (Vs 13)
Many left great legacies as they involved their children in the work of the Lord:
"And next to him was Shallum the son of Hallohesh, leader of half the district of Jerusalem; he and his daughters made repairs." (Vs 12)
Others were recorded shamefully for their lack of commitment to God's vision and God's call on their life:
"Next to them the Tekoites made repairs; but their nobles did not put their shoulders to the work of their Lord." (Vs 5)
I wonder how God is recording my work for His kingdom? Does it read:
"And Kristie made repairs in front of her own house. She worked to rebuild the wall, the wall that was destroyed by divorce, or death or discouragement and loneliness"
What is God recording about the legacy I'm leaving for my children?
"And her son Blake worked next to her, to lead others to the Lord & fill in that gap on the wall. And next to him, his brother Elijah worked to be an encourager to the dishearted. And next to him, his sister Mollie worked to sing praises to the king. And next to her, their sister Bella worked to tell others about Christ. And next to her, the youngest sister Selah wore out the path to the alter as a prayer warrior for Jesus."
The saddest thing in the world would be to have God record this of me:
"But Kristie did not put her shoulder to the work of the Lord, she nor her children after her, nor their children after them".
Think about your spot on the wall. God is.
"Beyond the Horse Gate the priests made repairs, each in front of his own house. After them Zadok the son of Immer made repairs in front of his own house. After him Shemaiah the son of Shechaniah, the keeper of the East Gate, made repairs. After him . . . "
This entire chapter lists the men by name who worked to rebuild the walls, by people groups, and lists exactly the section they repaired. Some repaired mighty amounts:
"Hanun and the inhabitants of Zanoah repaired the Valley Gate. They built it, hung its doors with its bolts and bars, and repaired a thousand cubits of the wall as far as the Refuse Gate." (Vs 13)
Many left great legacies as they involved their children in the work of the Lord:
"And next to him was Shallum the son of Hallohesh, leader of half the district of Jerusalem; he and his daughters made repairs." (Vs 12)
Others were recorded shamefully for their lack of commitment to God's vision and God's call on their life:
"Next to them the Tekoites made repairs; but their nobles did not put their shoulders to the work of their Lord." (Vs 5)
I wonder how God is recording my work for His kingdom? Does it read:
"And Kristie made repairs in front of her own house. She worked to rebuild the wall, the wall that was destroyed by divorce, or death or discouragement and loneliness"
What is God recording about the legacy I'm leaving for my children?
"And her son Blake worked next to her, to lead others to the Lord & fill in that gap on the wall. And next to him, his brother Elijah worked to be an encourager to the dishearted. And next to him, his sister Mollie worked to sing praises to the king. And next to her, their sister Bella worked to tell others about Christ. And next to her, the youngest sister Selah wore out the path to the alter as a prayer warrior for Jesus."
The saddest thing in the world would be to have God record this of me:
"But Kristie did not put her shoulder to the work of the Lord, she nor her children after her, nor their children after them".
Think about your spot on the wall. God is.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Be Bold-Ask BIG!
Nehemiah 2:1-8 NKJV
"And it came to pass in the month of Nisan, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was before him, that I took the wine and gave it to the king. Now I had never been sad in his presence before. Therefore the king said to me, “Why is your face sad, since you are not sick? This is nothing but sorrow of heart.”
So I became dreadfully afraid, and said to the king, “May the king live forever! Why should my face not be sad, when the city, the place of my fathers’ tombs, lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire?” Then the king said to me, “What do you request?”
So I prayed to the God of heaven. And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favor in your sight, I ask that you send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers’ tombs, that I may rebuild it.” Then the king said to me (the queen also sitting beside him), “How long will your journey be? And when will you return?” So it pleased the king to send me; and I set him a time. Furthermore I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, let letters be given to me for the governors of the region beyond the River, that they must permit me to pass through till I come to Judah, and a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king’s forest, that he must give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel which pertains to the temple, for the city wall, and for the house that I will occupy.” And the king granted them to me according to the good hand of my God upon me."
Ask for what you need in order to accomplish your God-sized mission. Ask BIG. Pray expecting to receive it. And set a time, expecting God to complete it. Be bold- expect God to be God. It's His mission too.
"And it came to pass in the month of Nisan, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was before him, that I took the wine and gave it to the king. Now I had never been sad in his presence before. Therefore the king said to me, “Why is your face sad, since you are not sick? This is nothing but sorrow of heart.”
So I became dreadfully afraid, and said to the king, “May the king live forever! Why should my face not be sad, when the city, the place of my fathers’ tombs, lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire?” Then the king said to me, “What do you request?”
So I prayed to the God of heaven. And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favor in your sight, I ask that you send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers’ tombs, that I may rebuild it.” Then the king said to me (the queen also sitting beside him), “How long will your journey be? And when will you return?” So it pleased the king to send me; and I set him a time. Furthermore I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, let letters be given to me for the governors of the region beyond the River, that they must permit me to pass through till I come to Judah, and a letter to Asaph the keeper of the king’s forest, that he must give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel which pertains to the temple, for the city wall, and for the house that I will occupy.” And the king granted them to me according to the good hand of my God upon me."
Ask for what you need in order to accomplish your God-sized mission. Ask BIG. Pray expecting to receive it. And set a time, expecting God to complete it. Be bold- expect God to be God. It's His mission too.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Weeping & Repenting
Nehemiah 1:3-4, 7, 10-11 NKJV
And they said to me, “The survivors who are left from the captivity in the province are there in great distress and reproach. The wall of Jerusalem is also broken down, and its gates are burned with fire.” So it was, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned for many days; I was fasting and praying before the God of heaven. We have acted very corruptly against You, and have not kept the commandments, the statutes, nor the ordinances which You commanded Your servant Moses. Now these are Your servants and Your people, whom You have redeemed by Your great power, and by Your strong hand. O Lord, I pray, please let Your ear be attentive to the prayer of Your servant, and to the prayer of Your servants who desire to fear Your name; and let Your servant prosper this day, I pray, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man.”
For I was the king’s cupbearer.
Nehemiah first had to face reality. He had to look destruction and sin in the face & accept responisbility for where they are as a broken people. He had to let the Lord make him broken over the sins of the people, to the point of weeping and repentance.
It's scarey to be real & come clean before a Holy God. It's hard to admit how far we fall sometimes. But God already knows both. He can only work in a willing vessel. How many times has God tried to humble me? Have I listened?
And they said to me, “The survivors who are left from the captivity in the province are there in great distress and reproach. The wall of Jerusalem is also broken down, and its gates are burned with fire.” So it was, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned for many days; I was fasting and praying before the God of heaven. We have acted very corruptly against You, and have not kept the commandments, the statutes, nor the ordinances which You commanded Your servant Moses. Now these are Your servants and Your people, whom You have redeemed by Your great power, and by Your strong hand. O Lord, I pray, please let Your ear be attentive to the prayer of Your servant, and to the prayer of Your servants who desire to fear Your name; and let Your servant prosper this day, I pray, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man.”
For I was the king’s cupbearer.
Nehemiah first had to face reality. He had to look destruction and sin in the face & accept responisbility for where they are as a broken people. He had to let the Lord make him broken over the sins of the people, to the point of weeping and repentance.
It's scarey to be real & come clean before a Holy God. It's hard to admit how far we fall sometimes. But God already knows both. He can only work in a willing vessel. How many times has God tried to humble me? Have I listened?
Thursday, February 24, 2011
So We Build
Nehemiah 4:6 NKJV
"So we built the wall, and the entire wall was joined together up to half its height, for the people had a mind to work."
Nehemiah is known as "the rebuilder of broken walls & lives". I'm going to share with you some powerful points our pastor has taught on Wednesday nights.
I know I've watched my family be torn apart in the past, & have worked to rebuild us over the last 4 years. I know the discouragement that we face from the enemy of our soul when we try to step forward into God's promised future for us. But we must remember we are not just fighting for today, but for tomorrow. Not just our tomorrow, but our children's tomorrow, and their children. What we rebuild today will affect generations.
Together we CAN rebuild this wall. Us & God. Get the vision, see the need, and find your place on the wall with me as we step into the story of Nehemiah.
"So we built the wall, and the entire wall was joined together up to half its height, for the people had a mind to work."
Nehemiah is known as "the rebuilder of broken walls & lives". I'm going to share with you some powerful points our pastor has taught on Wednesday nights.
I know I've watched my family be torn apart in the past, & have worked to rebuild us over the last 4 years. I know the discouragement that we face from the enemy of our soul when we try to step forward into God's promised future for us. But we must remember we are not just fighting for today, but for tomorrow. Not just our tomorrow, but our children's tomorrow, and their children. What we rebuild today will affect generations.
Together we CAN rebuild this wall. Us & God. Get the vision, see the need, and find your place on the wall with me as we step into the story of Nehemiah.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Glow, My Firefly!
I received this quote in an email from my dear firefly Heather today :
"Do not give in into sadness or desperation for what you are going through today. God knows how you feel . . . God knows exactly and with perfection what is being allowed to happen to you in your life at this percise moment. God's purpose for you is simply perfect. He wants to show you things only you can understand by living what you are living and by being in the place you are now."
These words are profound. It was the kind of statement that commands you to slow down & re-read it with complete attention & full reverance to appreciate the depth of it. DON'T GIVE IN TO THE SADNESS & DESPERATION FOR WHAT YOU ARE GOING THROUGH TODAY!
GOD KNOWS HOW YOU FEEL, whether it's not undrstood by others or old news to them or whether it doesn't even make since to anyone else at all. GOD KNOWS HOW YOU FEEL.
And the the last part of the quote made me notice the most. I expected it to read "to show you things you can only understand by living what you're living". But it doesn't. I had to read it several times to catch it. Look at the placement of the word"only". . . ."He wants to show you things ONLY YOU can understand by living what you're living". Yes, your life affects many around you. Yes, your testimony will impact countless individuals as you go through this. . . But ONLY YOU can understand it. It's your life lesson from God. It's you The Almighty chose for this. You. He has all the confidence in the world in you to handle it well. Yes, you can, my firefly. Your glow will light the path for countless others that must walk a similar path, too. Glow, my firefly, glow!
"Do not give in into sadness or desperation for what you are going through today. God knows how you feel . . . God knows exactly and with perfection what is being allowed to happen to you in your life at this percise moment. God's purpose for you is simply perfect. He wants to show you things only you can understand by living what you are living and by being in the place you are now."
These words are profound. It was the kind of statement that commands you to slow down & re-read it with complete attention & full reverance to appreciate the depth of it. DON'T GIVE IN TO THE SADNESS & DESPERATION FOR WHAT YOU ARE GOING THROUGH TODAY!
GOD KNOWS HOW YOU FEEL, whether it's not undrstood by others or old news to them or whether it doesn't even make since to anyone else at all. GOD KNOWS HOW YOU FEEL.
And the the last part of the quote made me notice the most. I expected it to read "to show you things you can only understand by living what you're living". But it doesn't. I had to read it several times to catch it. Look at the placement of the word"only". . . ."He wants to show you things ONLY YOU can understand by living what you're living". Yes, your life affects many around you. Yes, your testimony will impact countless individuals as you go through this. . . But ONLY YOU can understand it. It's your life lesson from God. It's you The Almighty chose for this. You. He has all the confidence in the world in you to handle it well. Yes, you can, my firefly. Your glow will light the path for countless others that must walk a similar path, too. Glow, my firefly, glow!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Know any lost sheep?
Luke 15:4-7 NKJV
“What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’ I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance."
Lost sheep may be those bound for hell, lost from Christ, in need of salvation. But, as my dear friend Ann shared,lost sheep may lost on the path of life, discouraged, beaten down by the trials & storms they have faced, now distant from theflock, unable to see the shepherd anymore, not sure where to go next. Have we even alerted the Shepherd our fellow sheep has been left behind? Have we reached out to that sheep to show them the path once agaon? Be help. Be encouragement.
And if you are that lost sheep? Know the Shepherd is looking for you now.
“What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’ I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance."
Lost sheep may be those bound for hell, lost from Christ, in need of salvation. But, as my dear friend Ann shared,lost sheep may lost on the path of life, discouraged, beaten down by the trials & storms they have faced, now distant from theflock, unable to see the shepherd anymore, not sure where to go next. Have we even alerted the Shepherd our fellow sheep has been left behind? Have we reached out to that sheep to show them the path once agaon? Be help. Be encouragement.
And if you are that lost sheep? Know the Shepherd is looking for you now.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
God Is Faithful
Isaiah 40:29 NKJV
"He gives power to the weak,
And to those who have no might He increases strength."
Can I tell you this? GOD IS FAITHFUL. . .
He is still on the throne, He is still in control. He still answers prayers . . . Prayers for direction, instruction, understanding of circumstances, peace, comfort, healing, to calm worries & anxieties, and to breath HOPE into areas of depression & lift our countenance. GOD IS FAITHFUL!
He will send you a messanger of hope when you need it most. Ask Him, for whatever you stand in need of today, to keep pushing forward one more day. He WILL answer.
"He gives power to the weak,
And to those who have no might He increases strength."
Can I tell you this? GOD IS FAITHFUL. . .
He is still on the throne, He is still in control. He still answers prayers . . . Prayers for direction, instruction, understanding of circumstances, peace, comfort, healing, to calm worries & anxieties, and to breath HOPE into areas of depression & lift our countenance. GOD IS FAITHFUL!
He will send you a messanger of hope when you need it most. Ask Him, for whatever you stand in need of today, to keep pushing forward one more day. He WILL answer.
Friday, February 11, 2011
The Potter's Pause
Isaiah 64:8 NKJV
"But now, O Lord,
You are our Father;
We are the clay, and You our potter;
And all we are the work of Your hand."
I'm not sure when or how, but life just pauses & plays as God wills it. Sometimes, you're in slow motion, soaking up every drop of emotion related to this place in life, good or bad. Other times, life spins out of control, you meet yourself in the road, everything is a blurr & you hardly have time to think or catch your breath. Then there is yet another mode - PAUSE. Someone pushed the pause button on your mission, your dreams, your plans. And the silence of the wait can be deafening. You have no idea how long life will stand still or when it will resume some normalness. Sometimes you wonder if it ever will. You look back & wonder when you will feel & look & act like yourself again. Or has this place changed you forever?
I wish I had answers for all these questions, but I don't. The truth is, I have more questions than answers for myself. But what I do know is The Potter. I know that every time I'm about to face some great change in my life, as some life-altering season is emerging, The Potter holds His creative hand close to the wheel of my life. He breaks down the vessel I am now, adds just the right amounts of water to keep me soft & pliable, to keep me moving in the right direction of His new creation in me. Even when I feel like the plans for my newly created vessel are either spinning out of control, or inslow motion, or put on hold all together- He has once never removed His hand from the muddy form of me nor lost sight of my blue print design. I am being fashioned in The Artist's hand, in the likeness of my Creator's image. No vessel ever knew on the wheel the value of himself as a finished product. That only comes from The Potter's hand shaping & molding, adding color & curing, firing & shining to His perfect reflection. If He pauses, it's only to see if we are ready yet, to be function as His masterpiece.
Psalm 40:1-3 NKJV
"To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David. I waited patiently for the Lord; And He inclined to me, And heard my cry. He also brought me up out of a horrible pit,
Out of the miry clay,
And set my feet upon a rock,
And established my steps. He has put a new song in my mouth—
Praise to our God;
Many will see it and fear,
And will trust in the Lord."
"But now, O Lord,
You are our Father;
We are the clay, and You our potter;
And all we are the work of Your hand."
I'm not sure when or how, but life just pauses & plays as God wills it. Sometimes, you're in slow motion, soaking up every drop of emotion related to this place in life, good or bad. Other times, life spins out of control, you meet yourself in the road, everything is a blurr & you hardly have time to think or catch your breath. Then there is yet another mode - PAUSE. Someone pushed the pause button on your mission, your dreams, your plans. And the silence of the wait can be deafening. You have no idea how long life will stand still or when it will resume some normalness. Sometimes you wonder if it ever will. You look back & wonder when you will feel & look & act like yourself again. Or has this place changed you forever?
I wish I had answers for all these questions, but I don't. The truth is, I have more questions than answers for myself. But what I do know is The Potter. I know that every time I'm about to face some great change in my life, as some life-altering season is emerging, The Potter holds His creative hand close to the wheel of my life. He breaks down the vessel I am now, adds just the right amounts of water to keep me soft & pliable, to keep me moving in the right direction of His new creation in me. Even when I feel like the plans for my newly created vessel are either spinning out of control, or inslow motion, or put on hold all together- He has once never removed His hand from the muddy form of me nor lost sight of my blue print design. I am being fashioned in The Artist's hand, in the likeness of my Creator's image. No vessel ever knew on the wheel the value of himself as a finished product. That only comes from The Potter's hand shaping & molding, adding color & curing, firing & shining to His perfect reflection. If He pauses, it's only to see if we are ready yet, to be function as His masterpiece.
Psalm 40:1-3 NKJV
"To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David. I waited patiently for the Lord; And He inclined to me, And heard my cry. He also brought me up out of a horrible pit,
Out of the miry clay,
And set my feet upon a rock,
And established my steps. He has put a new song in my mouth—
Praise to our God;
Many will see it and fear,
And will trust in the Lord."
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Redeeming the Time
Colossians 4:5 NKJV
"Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time."
Tonight, I watched one chapter of my son's life close. Tonight after a hard fight, we lost our division game. This ended our season for the year. And since Blake is a senior, it ended his last season. Through tear filled eyes, we gave thanks for all that has been- health & safety & 6 years of basketball to enjoy as a family. Wow- it's been a great journey! Just 2 years ago this young skinny boy had open heart surgery. We have truly received a gift.
Today at the senior pep rally, as the slide show played baby pictures & remembered a lifetime of growing up for these kids, we parents sat in silent tears (and smiles) for all we have been allowed to behold & participate in. We have a few important milestones that lay ahead before this chater completely closes- our last baseball season, one final prom, & the grand parade in cap & gown.
This last weekend, reality began to set in on him as he participated in 5th quarter, working at the Good Samaritain Center food distribution center & worship services, all part of our Discipleship Now weekend. Through it all, God kept bringing the same scripture to him, and reminding him of a prophecy someone spoke into his life a few months before: Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV-"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope."
God does have a plan for each of our lives. Today, as we hear about the 2 school buses from Akerman that wer hit by an 18 wheeler, we are reminded how short life is & how quickly it can change. My heart aches for the single partents left behind & all the grief & hardships they will face.
Enjoy the moment. Make the most of every good thing & be patient thru the ruff spots. He is working all things out for ypur good & for His glory.
"Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time."
Tonight, I watched one chapter of my son's life close. Tonight after a hard fight, we lost our division game. This ended our season for the year. And since Blake is a senior, it ended his last season. Through tear filled eyes, we gave thanks for all that has been- health & safety & 6 years of basketball to enjoy as a family. Wow- it's been a great journey! Just 2 years ago this young skinny boy had open heart surgery. We have truly received a gift.
Today at the senior pep rally, as the slide show played baby pictures & remembered a lifetime of growing up for these kids, we parents sat in silent tears (and smiles) for all we have been allowed to behold & participate in. We have a few important milestones that lay ahead before this chater completely closes- our last baseball season, one final prom, & the grand parade in cap & gown.
This last weekend, reality began to set in on him as he participated in 5th quarter, working at the Good Samaritain Center food distribution center & worship services, all part of our Discipleship Now weekend. Through it all, God kept bringing the same scripture to him, and reminding him of a prophecy someone spoke into his life a few months before: Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV-"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope."
God does have a plan for each of our lives. Today, as we hear about the 2 school buses from Akerman that wer hit by an 18 wheeler, we are reminded how short life is & how quickly it can change. My heart aches for the single partents left behind & all the grief & hardships they will face.
Enjoy the moment. Make the most of every good thing & be patient thru the ruff spots. He is working all things out for ypur good & for His glory.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Silenced by the Spirit
"Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. But He said to them, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?”
~Mark 4:39-40~
Have you ever had the Holy Spirit silence you? It's a powerful thing. Sometimes, we have a really hard time submitting to this. But we should really fear the consequences if we don't. God is already at work in the area He silences you. He may have used you as a mouth piece here to get to this point, but now He needs us to "be still & know that He is God." Allow the Holy Spirit a quiet place to work. Allow Him to penetrate the hearts & minds through seeds planted. Don't be the distraction that quenches His power. Don't be the stumbling block that destroys all He is working to build. Trust what you do not understand & believe what you cannot see. You know His voice & you can trust His direction. Release this into the hands of The Most Mighty Almighty. He's got it from here.
~Mark 4:39-40~
Have you ever had the Holy Spirit silence you? It's a powerful thing. Sometimes, we have a really hard time submitting to this. But we should really fear the consequences if we don't. God is already at work in the area He silences you. He may have used you as a mouth piece here to get to this point, but now He needs us to "be still & know that He is God." Allow the Holy Spirit a quiet place to work. Allow Him to penetrate the hearts & minds through seeds planted. Don't be the distraction that quenches His power. Don't be the stumbling block that destroys all He is working to build. Trust what you do not understand & believe what you cannot see. You know His voice & you can trust His direction. Release this into the hands of The Most Mighty Almighty. He's got it from here.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Buckler
Psalm 91:4 NKJV
"He shall cover you with His feathers,
And under His wings you shall take refuge;
His truth shall be your shield and buckler."
Buckler means: "A shield surrounding the entir body". The dictionary even gives Ps 91:4 as a reference. Jesus is your shield today. Whatever you're facing, whatever needs you have- carry them to Him. Ash for protection. Ask for instruction. Ask for peace.
"He shall cover you with His feathers,
And under His wings you shall take refuge;
His truth shall be your shield and buckler."
Buckler means: "A shield surrounding the entir body". The dictionary even gives Ps 91:4 as a reference. Jesus is your shield today. Whatever you're facing, whatever needs you have- carry them to Him. Ash for protection. Ask for instruction. Ask for peace.
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Show Me Your Faith
When you pray for God to show you, don't be surprised when He does. . . I pray He speaks to your hwart with these verses like He has mine the last 24 hours. . .
Isaiah 43:1-2, 4-5, 18-19 NKJV
"But now, thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.
When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned,
Nor shall the flame scorch you.
Since you were precious in My sight,
You have been honored,
And I have loved you;
Therefore I will give men for you,
And people for your life. Fear not, for I am with you;
I will bring your descendants from the east,
And gather you from the west;
“Do not remember the former things,
Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing,
Now it shall spring forth;
Shall you not know it?
I will even make a road in the wilderness
And rivers in the desert."
Acts 14:22 NKJV
"strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.”
Romans 1:17 NKJV
For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.”
Isaiah 43:1-2, 4-5, 18-19 NKJV
"But now, thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.
When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned,
Nor shall the flame scorch you.
Since you were precious in My sight,
You have been honored,
And I have loved you;
Therefore I will give men for you,
And people for your life. Fear not, for I am with you;
I will bring your descendants from the east,
And gather you from the west;
“Do not remember the former things,
Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing,
Now it shall spring forth;
Shall you not know it?
I will even make a road in the wilderness
And rivers in the desert."
Acts 14:22 NKJV
"strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.”
Romans 1:17 NKJV
For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.”
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
In the Zone with Jesus
2 Corinthians 4:1, 8, 15-16 NKJV
"Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not lose heart. We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God. Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day."
This was the scripture in my morning devotion. I've noticed the difference about how I start my days. It makes in my life. Do my prayer time & Bible reading come first, or haphazardly as I can fit it in. What about music? It sets my heart's focus on kingdom minded things. Do I seek music early to set the tone of my day, my home, my travel? Or have I become complacient? Have I decided my life is as it always will be & lost focus on my purpose. . . Have I resigned to sit down & do nothing? Have I seen the discouragement in my 5 yr old's eyes & felt the sting as she said, "It doesn't do any good to pray about it . . .". Is the delay of her blessing my fault, for some disobedience?
We do have this ministry. We have been given a job to do, a calling. We are not defeated! We cannot allow the enemy make us resign. We must fight to set our face like a flint on HIM fresh every morning. The faith of our children depends on it. We are closer now than we have ever been, to receiving our blessing, to the return coming of Christ. We matter, & our contribution to His kingdom matters.
"Get up mighty warrier!" . . . He's calling you.
Isaiah 50:4, 7 NKJV
“The Lord God has given Me
The tongue of the learned,
That I should know how to speak
A word in season to him who is weary.
He awakens Me morning by morning,
He awakens My ear
To hear as the learned. “For the Lord God will help Me;
Therefore I will not be disgraced;
Therefore I have set My face like a flint,
And I know that I will not be ashamed."
"Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not lose heart. We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God. Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day."
This was the scripture in my morning devotion. I've noticed the difference about how I start my days. It makes in my life. Do my prayer time & Bible reading come first, or haphazardly as I can fit it in. What about music? It sets my heart's focus on kingdom minded things. Do I seek music early to set the tone of my day, my home, my travel? Or have I become complacient? Have I decided my life is as it always will be & lost focus on my purpose. . . Have I resigned to sit down & do nothing? Have I seen the discouragement in my 5 yr old's eyes & felt the sting as she said, "It doesn't do any good to pray about it . . .". Is the delay of her blessing my fault, for some disobedience?
We do have this ministry. We have been given a job to do, a calling. We are not defeated! We cannot allow the enemy make us resign. We must fight to set our face like a flint on HIM fresh every morning. The faith of our children depends on it. We are closer now than we have ever been, to receiving our blessing, to the return coming of Christ. We matter, & our contribution to His kingdom matters.
"Get up mighty warrier!" . . . He's calling you.
Isaiah 50:4, 7 NKJV
“The Lord God has given Me
The tongue of the learned,
That I should know how to speak
A word in season to him who is weary.
He awakens Me morning by morning,
He awakens My ear
To hear as the learned. “For the Lord God will help Me;
Therefore I will not be disgraced;
Therefore I have set My face like a flint,
And I know that I will not be ashamed."
Monday, January 24, 2011
Faithfulness & Truth
Isaiah 25:1 NKJV
"O Lord, You are my God. I will exalt You, I will praise Your name, For You have done wonderful things; Your counsels of old are faithfulness and truth."
I WILL exalt You, Lord. You have done wonderful things in my life. You are faithful & true.
"O Lord, You are my God. I will exalt You, I will praise Your name, For You have done wonderful things; Your counsels of old are faithfulness and truth."
I WILL exalt You, Lord. You have done wonderful things in my life. You are faithful & true.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Does God Know?
Hebrews 4:15 NKJV
"For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin."
I asked God a really dumb question this week:" Do you really understand the agony of a "wait" for us humans here on earth? "
I meant no disrespect, thought I had all my reasoning together. I thought about how much easier a wait would be for us if we already knew the outcome & the exact time our blessing would unfold. Because you & I wait blindly. We do not know when or how or sometimes even "if". So we wait & wonder.
But God brought this verse to me. He is not a High Priest who cannot understand our waiting. He came here on earth, knowing the end of His earthly life would result in the crucifiction, and He waited 33 years to see it unfold. He knew His time would be short here & He waited 30 years for His appointed hour to begin His ministry here- He waited. That dark night as the end drew near, He prayed alone in the garden til His sweat turned to blood while everyone else fell asleep & waited for His accusers to kill Him. As He hung on a cross, He suffered ridicule & shame ,& the weight of every sin the world would ever commit, He waited to die as His Father had to turn away from Him . . . He waited. As He entered death & the grave to defeat the devil, He waited to be ressurected on that 3rd day.
Day after day, He extends His invitation for us to accept - accept His salvation, accept His companionship every morning, accept His will for our life. He waits. And He knows the outcome. He know many of us will never accept. He knows many will choose hell instead through disbelief. He waits.
God knows what lies ahead of us, the good & the bad. Some things we are better not knowing, we would loose joy of the good for dreading the bad. Our waits are easier for God because despite our misery, He designed the purpose within the wait. One day we will see that purpose too.
"For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin."
I asked God a really dumb question this week:" Do you really understand the agony of a "wait" for us humans here on earth? "
I meant no disrespect, thought I had all my reasoning together. I thought about how much easier a wait would be for us if we already knew the outcome & the exact time our blessing would unfold. Because you & I wait blindly. We do not know when or how or sometimes even "if". So we wait & wonder.
But God brought this verse to me. He is not a High Priest who cannot understand our waiting. He came here on earth, knowing the end of His earthly life would result in the crucifiction, and He waited 33 years to see it unfold. He knew His time would be short here & He waited 30 years for His appointed hour to begin His ministry here- He waited. That dark night as the end drew near, He prayed alone in the garden til His sweat turned to blood while everyone else fell asleep & waited for His accusers to kill Him. As He hung on a cross, He suffered ridicule & shame ,& the weight of every sin the world would ever commit, He waited to die as His Father had to turn away from Him . . . He waited. As He entered death & the grave to defeat the devil, He waited to be ressurected on that 3rd day.
Day after day, He extends His invitation for us to accept - accept His salvation, accept His companionship every morning, accept His will for our life. He waits. And He knows the outcome. He know many of us will never accept. He knows many will choose hell instead through disbelief. He waits.
God knows what lies ahead of us, the good & the bad. Some things we are better not knowing, we would loose joy of the good for dreading the bad. Our waits are easier for God because despite our misery, He designed the purpose within the wait. One day we will see that purpose too.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Anointed Snow Days!
2 Samuel 23:4 NKJV
"And he shall be like the light of the morning when the sun rises,
A morning without clouds,
Like the tender grass springing out of the earth,
By clear shining after rain."
I'm amazed how wonderful & God ordained this week has been. Monday, we awoke to 8-10.5 inches of snow here in Pine Grove! ( depending on what area you live). This is the most snow I've seen since our trip to Mayo clinic inMinnesota. And the most my girls have ever seen. School was canceled, ball games were canceled, work canceled for many, even our computers were down for a day & half for scheduled upgrades. No excuse to keeping working! No excuse not to play! And play we did-all day long! The weather was perfect, no wind, snow was dry & pwder-like, not bitter cold outside. We rode 4 wheelers, had snowball fights,& built snowmen. We made a huge breakfast mid-morning- homemade sausage (from a local hog farmer&friend in our churcb), buiscuits, & I tackeled the omletts while Wayne was in charge of waffles. My farm table was full of loved ones & neighbors. Then we joined with another family from our church, made snow cream, rode golf carts, & pulled homemade sleds. We took pictures & made some of best memories. It was a joy, honor & priviledge to enjoy God's gift to us this day, without the demands of a schedule to keep. The rest of the week has been an opportunity to rest & catch up on home chores. Even our church services have been moved to home services with our family. Will be a great time to let the kids share their testimonies. He is faithful to send us exactly what we need, exactly when we need it most. We are a loved & blessed people, the children of the Most High God.
"And he shall be like the light of the morning when the sun rises,
A morning without clouds,
Like the tender grass springing out of the earth,
By clear shining after rain."
I'm amazed how wonderful & God ordained this week has been. Monday, we awoke to 8-10.5 inches of snow here in Pine Grove! ( depending on what area you live). This is the most snow I've seen since our trip to Mayo clinic inMinnesota. And the most my girls have ever seen. School was canceled, ball games were canceled, work canceled for many, even our computers were down for a day & half for scheduled upgrades. No excuse to keeping working! No excuse not to play! And play we did-all day long! The weather was perfect, no wind, snow was dry & pwder-like, not bitter cold outside. We rode 4 wheelers, had snowball fights,& built snowmen. We made a huge breakfast mid-morning- homemade sausage (from a local hog farmer&friend in our churcb), buiscuits, & I tackeled the omletts while Wayne was in charge of waffles. My farm table was full of loved ones & neighbors. Then we joined with another family from our church, made snow cream, rode golf carts, & pulled homemade sleds. We took pictures & made some of best memories. It was a joy, honor & priviledge to enjoy God's gift to us this day, without the demands of a schedule to keep. The rest of the week has been an opportunity to rest & catch up on home chores. Even our church services have been moved to home services with our family. Will be a great time to let the kids share their testimonies. He is faithful to send us exactly what we need, exactly when we need it most. We are a loved & blessed people, the children of the Most High God.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Our Africa
Deuteronomy 6:6-9 NKJV
“And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates."
It's not Africa, but it is a lifetime mission field no less, with the power to win many to the Lord & affect multiple generations-It's our children. Invest in this calling to your mission field today. And if God leads other children into your life, know He has faith in your influence in their life for His kingdom. Don't be a Jonah. Answer the call.
“And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates."
It's not Africa, but it is a lifetime mission field no less, with the power to win many to the Lord & affect multiple generations-It's our children. Invest in this calling to your mission field today. And if God leads other children into your life, know He has faith in your influence in their life for His kingdom. Don't be a Jonah. Answer the call.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
You Have Been Honored . . .
. . . I have loved you.
Isaiah 43:4 NKJV
Since you were precious in My sight,
You have been honored,
And I have loved you;
Therefore I will give men for you,
And people for your life.
Isaiah 43:4 NKJV
Since you were precious in My sight,
You have been honored,
And I have loved you;
Therefore I will give men for you,
And people for your life.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Venial
I don't know about you, but the word "venial" is not common in my conversations or vocabulary. This word was listed in the dictionary when I looked up the word "breach" from our last scripture. It was listed under the thesaurus section as "venial sin". My mind was intrigued, so I looked it up. Here is the meaning:
1. Warrenting only temporal punishment
2. Easily excused or forgiven
3. Pardon, grace, favor, kindness
4. A sin which weakens but does not wholly destroy, santifying grace, as do mortal or deadly sins
I'm amazed at so many aspects of this. I was so awe struck to see how many Biblical scripture references (Chapter & verse) were listed by Webster in the various definations of "breach". We forget our entire existance is 'defined' by God & His Holy Word. Webster knew that still applies in 1913, and now in 2011.
Another point of amazement is this defination of venial. First let me say this: I never want to make light of sin. I know all too well the devastation that comes as a consequence of our sins. I've reaped both my own & those committed against me by others. Both have left scars that will always be painful reminders against my Lord. My very sins cost God His son on a cross. That's an image I can hardly bear sometimes. Regret is agonizing. . .
BUT often we forget just how easy forgiveness is. It did not come cheep, but it is free. We are easily forgiven & restored. Just for the asking with a broken & contrite spirit.
The devil would make us believe we are not worthy. That we cannot be made whole again. That we've done too much, gone too far to ever come back. These are lies. The only unforgiveable sin is unbelief. Period. All others are "venial" to Jesus- easily forgiven.
Don't let the enemy of your soul convince you otherwise. Accept the pardon, grace, favor & kindness of Jesus today.
"For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved."
~John 3:17~
“Do not remember the former things,
Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing,
Now it shall spring forth;
Shall you not know it?
I will even make a road in the wilderness
And rivers in the desert." ~Is 43:18-19~
1. Warrenting only temporal punishment
2. Easily excused or forgiven
3. Pardon, grace, favor, kindness
4. A sin which weakens but does not wholly destroy, santifying grace, as do mortal or deadly sins
I'm amazed at so many aspects of this. I was so awe struck to see how many Biblical scripture references (Chapter & verse) were listed by Webster in the various definations of "breach". We forget our entire existance is 'defined' by God & His Holy Word. Webster knew that still applies in 1913, and now in 2011.
Another point of amazement is this defination of venial. First let me say this: I never want to make light of sin. I know all too well the devastation that comes as a consequence of our sins. I've reaped both my own & those committed against me by others. Both have left scars that will always be painful reminders against my Lord. My very sins cost God His son on a cross. That's an image I can hardly bear sometimes. Regret is agonizing. . .
BUT often we forget just how easy forgiveness is. It did not come cheep, but it is free. We are easily forgiven & restored. Just for the asking with a broken & contrite spirit.
The devil would make us believe we are not worthy. That we cannot be made whole again. That we've done too much, gone too far to ever come back. These are lies. The only unforgiveable sin is unbelief. Period. All others are "venial" to Jesus- easily forgiven.
Don't let the enemy of your soul convince you otherwise. Accept the pardon, grace, favor & kindness of Jesus today.
"For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved."
~John 3:17~
“Do not remember the former things,
Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing,
Now it shall spring forth;
Shall you not know it?
I will even make a road in the wilderness
And rivers in the desert." ~Is 43:18-19~
Monday, January 3, 2011
Fill in the Gaps
Isaiah 58:12 NKJV
"Those from among you
Shall build the old waste places;
You shall raise up the foundations of many generations;
And you shall be called the Repairer of the Breach,
The Restorer of Streets to Dwell In."
When I read this verse last week, I looked up the word 'breach'. The dictionary defines it this way:
1. Broken promises
2. A gap
Wow. . . How awesome is it that God guides us, strenghtens us, fills us & then helps us repair the broken promises & gaps the enemy left in our lives.
Abba Father, we need You. I need You to help me raise this generation if children. Repair the broken promises & gaps in their lives. Restore our dwelling to wholeness. . . I know You already are.
"Those from among you
Shall build the old waste places;
You shall raise up the foundations of many generations;
And you shall be called the Repairer of the Breach,
The Restorer of Streets to Dwell In."
When I read this verse last week, I looked up the word 'breach'. The dictionary defines it this way:
1. Broken promises
2. A gap
Wow. . . How awesome is it that God guides us, strenghtens us, fills us & then helps us repair the broken promises & gaps the enemy left in our lives.
Abba Father, we need You. I need You to help me raise this generation if children. Repair the broken promises & gaps in their lives. Restore our dwelling to wholeness. . . I know You already are.
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