Sharing love...

Sharing....

When someone goes on a mission trip, it is almost a requirement to share with the ones left behind how the trip went, things done, people seen, etc...it can be done one on one, Small groups or in a larger setting...

 Yesterday was one of those days...starting with a 5 minute church sharing time...I awoke earlier than usual, thinking through the talk over and over again...stressing as a I have been known to do...not heeding the admonition...

Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.
Mark 13:11
( I know I wasn't arrested, but kind of felt that way)

The pictures had  been chosen beforehand, ready to go.....well, they weren't...and the computer froze, not only for pictures but for worship music later... So "my" plan was trashed and just spoke...wasn't my highest moment...but, it wasn't "my" moment anyway...it was God's. It was His mission, His workings, His trip...it was about sharing Jesus to children and their families in their communities...and I saw empty boxes leaving the building to be filled with gifts...bottom line...that was the purpose...

Later, smaller, more comfortable setting, senior living home, pictures went well...people had time to ask questions...so enthused ....they had done a lot of boxes...still serving later in life...some in their 90's...

Today, again in smaller setting...all so varied, yet the same...hearts to give and give again... Serving differently, yet the same...thank YOU for people all over the globe who are preparing children's boxes to give to others...and thank YOu for preparing those hearts to receive this token of the larger gift of salvation...You work mightily...

Boxing love into a cardboard shoe box...to open the heart of a child to the limitless love of the Creator of universe...

They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor, their righteousness endures forever; their horn will be lifted high in honor.
Psalm 112:9

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!
2 Corinthians 9:15

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
2 Peter 3:9

Theory for happiness...Albert Einstein ...

Theory for happiness...Albert Einstein ...

A note written by the late Albert Einstein read, "a calm and modest life brings more happiness than the constant pursuit of success combined with constant restlessness".

This quote appeared amongst my mail this am ....okay, I thought, what am I to learn from this today?
A reminder to calmness, contentment, and not the constant pursuit of the illusive "success".

Calm-adjective
* 1.
(of a person, action, or manner) not showing or feeling nervousness, anger, or other emotions: 
"keep calm, she told herself"
synonyms:
serene, tranquil, relaxed, unruffled, unperturbed, (Oxford dictionaries)
*
* Contentment- • happiness and satisfaction: 
"he found contentment in living a simple life in the country"
synonyms:
contentedness, content, satisfaction, gratification, fulfillment, (Oxford dictionaries)

* restlessness- characterized by or manifesting unrest especially of mind  restlesspacing;  also  :changeful, discontented ( Merriam Webster )
*
* The fear of the Lord leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble.
* Proverbs 19:23
*
* I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
* Philippians 4:11-12
*
* Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.
* Proverbs 29:11
*
* If a ruler’s anger rises against you, do not leave your post; calmness can lay great offenses to rest.
* Ecclesiastes 10:4
*
* He holds success in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.
* Proverbs 2:7-8 

Thank YOU for the thoughts, the reminder to put aside the restlessness and pursue the calmness of the soul, the contentment of the mind and pursue You above all else...
*

Coffee cans...

Coffee cans...

There is a current advertisement about a dad saving his change in a coffee can...he has his own goal written on the side of the can and then changes it to a goal for his son instead as the son watches...it touches my heart...

My husband had a similar can when we met. It was filled with change and he used it for a variety of purchases as well as laundry. the summer before we became engaged and were married, he worked in the proposed wilderness areas in Idaho, camping all week, while looking for minerals.  He came out to the town of McCall, once a week to replenish supplies, laundry,and he called me using the change from that can which he stored in his little Volkswagen bug...

He had that can for many years, continuing to drop his loose change in it...as we added children, one project held once a year, the kids would sort the coins, count them and then divide the change into their own piggy banks...I can remember those children hunched over the table with their dad counting the pennies,nickels, dimes and quarters...intently scrutinizing the division of the funds, making sure each got an equal share...plus amazed at the accumulation of "wealth" in that can...a small meaningful gift each year..

This time of year we, as Christians, have the same opportunity to give a small gift of a shoe box to a child somewhere in the world...it could lead to a life change, a family change and even a community change ...for an eternity change...

Operation Christmas Child shoe boxes are being filled, collected, processed and will be sent around the world to 12-13 million children who need to know that God loves them...a simple box goes a long way...

Thank YOU for the opportunity to give back a portion from which You so generously give to us...

Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.
Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.
In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.
1 Timothy 6:17-19

Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
2 Corinthians 9:7-9

It is the assurance...

It is the assurance...

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.
Hebrews 11:1

Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another —and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
Hebrews 10:19-25

However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” — the things God has prepared for those who love him—
1 Corinthians 2:9

It was that last verse in Corinthians that was my assurance of my salvation...I grew up going to to church...a fundamental church at the time, which has changed. I always believed that Jesus was the Son of God, the life and the resurrection...but the words, "saved" or " salvation" were not words I heard in that denomination...later when my husband and I made a commitment to find a church, attend regularly...we chose one that we felt  a peace that that was one we were to become involved in...those words were used regularly...
I knew what they meant and felt that I was...but one night we were watching a movie, "left behind" And I thought, "if I haven't said the "right " words or really made that commitment to Christ---I am doing it right now..."

Reading those words soon after that, I knew beyond a shadow of doubt that they were for me...

We each come to that assurance in different ways, different times, different circumstances....it can be earth shattering, or a calm assurance, but knowing beyond a shadow doubt that when we meet Christ face to face, we can claim his promises because He said so is beyond description ...it is a peace that passes understanding...

It is not belonging to a church, it is not growing up in the right or wrong family, it is not a nebulous being,....God is real....He is who he says He is...the Creator, the First and Last, the Mighty, The I AM...the Eternal...and He wants/desires that we know him...personally...He waits/ desires fellowship with each one of us...He loves us and has loved us before we know  or knew Him...

Thank YOU...

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
John 3:16-17

As it is written: “There is no one righteous, not even one;
Romans 3:10

for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
Romans 10:13

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

24 “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.
John 5:24

"The land of the in between"

"The land of the in between..."

I heard a "new to me" phase yesterday, "the land of the in between".

The pastor was speaking about the Israelites when they were in the desert, having left the slavery of Egypt or the known, moving toward the promised land or the unknown... I did hear the rest of the sermon, but my mind still camped on that phrase...

How much time in life are we in the "land of the unknown"?
- pre teens, we are waiting to be a big "teen"
- As a four year old waiting to be old enough to go to school  as a five year old
- As a teenager waiting to be old enough to get that coveted driver's license
- Waiting to become an adult
- Waiting to get married
- Waiting to go to college
- Waiting for that first child
- That first promotion
- The first house
- Anticipatory grief...
- Moving into a new area..
- A doctor's diagnosis...
- Sitting in a hospital, waiting...
- Taking care of the home bound or being home bound...
"The land of the between". There are dozens, hundreds, thousands of that "in between"...where we are moving from the known to the unknown...

The waiting, the anticipation...the moving at times, the not knowing the outcome....sometimes with joy and other times with dread...the promise ahead of good or bad...life changing events...

The Israelites, at times, wanted to go back, even though they were enslaved, to the known of Egypt...instead of moving ahead to the promised land, the land reported as filled with milk and honey...their land...

As we get older, sometimes, we think back on life, wanting to turn back the clock for a "do over", having more wisdom for decisions, take back an action or word...but we move ever closer to our promised land...we may not like the path, or the trials getting there, but we are really in the "land of the in between"... Waiting for our promised land...with so many lessons along the way...trusting the God who goes ahead and prepares the way...thanking Him for the daily provision of sustenance...our journey ...

Thank YOU...

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.
I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the Lord , “and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.”
Jeremiah 29:11-14

On that day I swore to them that I would bring them out of Egypt into a land I had searched out for them, a land flowing with milk and honey, the most beautiful of all lands.
Therefore I led them out of Egypt and brought them into the wilderness. I gave them my decrees and made known to them my laws, by which the person who obeys them will live. Also I gave them my Sabbaths as a sign between us, so they would know that I the Lord made them holy.
Ezekiel 20:6,10-12

The heavens praise your wonders, Lord, your faithfulness too, in the assembly of the holy ones.
Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you.
Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, Lord. They rejoice in your name all day long; they celebrate your righteousness.
For you are their glory and strength, and by your favor you exalt our horn. Indeed, our shield belongs to the Lord, our king to the Holy One of Israel.
Psalm 89:5,14-18

Watching and listening...

Watching and listening...

" if you'll consider Him throughout the day, even when it's a busy one, He'll weave it all together so that you can know His  will and ways--as long as you're actively listening" Priscilla Shirer, Discerning the Voice of God...

I have been involved with this Bible study for a few weeks...daily lessons, readings...soaking up the words she has put to paper, watching, "listening", reading the scriptures...my former church Bible study was going to do it and I decided that even though I couldn't be present as I have moved, I could still "participate".   I could picture the women getting together each week, talking, discussing through the lessons...but I could decide to hear what God was speaking to me  through the written words even though I wasn't part of a "group".

I have just finished the study and it was well worth it even by "myself" ...this week they will have a fellowship time before starting a new one...sitting around discussing how they can go forward with this "new" or deeper information...I will be driving back ( Lord willing) to a former home town where years of growth through legalism,  church abuse, child rearing, church splits,  financial ups and downs, teen rebellion , good health and very bad health, mountain highs, women's ministry took place...memories both bad and much good are there...long time friends are there...homes built, lived in and left are still there...and God was faithful through all those times...he taught my husband and I through provision of much and little, parenthood, music, sermons, emotional upheaval...He was there all the time, weaving our lives, knitting together His love with foundations for the future...with His will and ways....

Thank YOU

I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip— he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord watches over you— the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all harm — he will watch over your life;
the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
Psalm 121:1-8

Test me,  Lord, and try me, examine my heart and my mind;
for I have always been mindful of your unfailing love and have lived in reliance on your faithfulness.
Psalm 26:2-3

Verses of encouragement and consequences...

Verses of encouragement and consequences...

The following verses need no explanation..they just hit me in the heart as I read....the questions jumped out---what will I do with them...will I listen.. Will I heed...which path will I take ....thank YOU for your wisdom, your words to my soul...

This is what the Lord says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.’
I appointed watchmen over you and said, ‘Listen to the sound of the trumpet!’ But you said, ‘We will not listen.’
Therefore hear, you nations; you who are witnesses, observe what will happen to them.
Hear, you earth: I am bringing disaster on this people, the fruit of their schemes, because they have not listened to my words and have rejected my law.
Jeremiah 6:16-19

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.
Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you.
Many are the woes of the wicked, but the Lord’s unfailing love surrounds the one who trusts in him.
Rejoice in the Lord and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart!
Psalm 32:8-11

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers,
but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.
That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers. Not so the wicked! They are like chaff that the wind blows away.
Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.
Psalm 1:1-6

The Sovereign Lord has given me a well-instructed tongue, to know the word that sustains the weary. He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed. The Sovereign Lord has opened my ears; I have not been rebellious, I have not turned away.
Isaiah 50:4-5

I desire to do your will, my God; your law is within my heart.” - Psalm 40:8

Daunting ....

Daunting...

Moving to a new area has been challenging, daunting, scary and exciting all rolled up into one big adventure...it is one thing when you have someone to share it with, (who had a secretary), but quite another when you are by yourself....I have been sooooo very thankful for my children, their friends and the movers...

Now, comes the daily changes, the doctor, lawyers, the DMV, the dentists, the shopping, the new roads and routes, insurance workers, hairdresser, new church hunts, new neighbors, yard care workers, etc,,,everything new...

When I read through this Devo in "Jesus Always" this morning, I had to thank  God again for his watch care through this ordeal....I have tried multiple times to put the "I get to" spin on the new adventures instead of the "I have to"...

The perspective does change my attitude...my outlook on the day....which is helpful...I smile more, look for ideas, feel better, and am less stressed and tired...because I am relying on the Holy Spirit to help me be content...to listen to truth, to wait...

Thank YOU....


October 20
WHEN THE TASK BEFORE YOU looks daunting, refuse to be intimidated. Discipline your thinking to view the challenge as a privilege rather than a burdensome duty. Make the effort to replace your “I have to” mentality with an “I get to” approach. This will make all the difference in your perspective—transforming drudgery into delight. This is not a magic trick; the work still has to be done. But the change in your viewpoint can help you face the challenging chore joyfully and confidently.
As you go about your work, perseverance is essential. If you start to grow weary or discouraged, remind yourself: “I get to do this!” Then thank Me for giving you the ability and strength to do what needs to be done. Thankfulness clears your mind and draws you close to Me. Remember that My Spirit who lives in you is the Helper; ask Him to help you when you’re perplexed. As you ponder problems and seek solutions, He will guide your mind. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart—as working for Me.

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.—COLOSSIANS 4: 2

"I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever.”—JOHN 14: 16 NKJV

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.—COLOSSIANS 3: 23

Gifts of smiles...

Gifts of smiles....

http://www.coolestone.com/media/17918/Meet-Campbell---He-Looks-At-Sadness-And-Turns-It-Upside-Down!/#.WeiHeOtOKK1

Thousands, no, make that millions of people give the gifts of smiles in a multitude of ways...from Campbell with his gifts of bears to sick children to those who show up with a canoe to a flooded house or the fireman who find a treasure in a burned home...to the doctors who take time to sit down with distraught parents ....or the next door neighbor who shares the Christ of hope ...or the server of a meal at a food kitchen....or the clerk who wishes you a good day as they send us on our way...

Smiles lift the heart, lift the face and may put a new attitude in our heart for a time...

The experiment of smiling at people when we pass in malls, sidewalks, hallways or on our walks...may be just what another needs to change their day...I know it has mine at times...a friendly face, a smiling face can chase away the blues...

It is Operation Christmas Child box filling time again...readying those boxes to be sent around the world to share hope, to share the Word, to share the eternal compassionate good news of Jesus Christ...millions are done each year...millions are given away to children each year...

I was watching a short film about the ministry of Samaritans Purse and was brought back to having the privilege of giving out those boxes in Columbia this last spring...and the miles of smiles...it was a gift to me to see the delight on the faces of children...from a shoe box of simple things and their own book of hope..l

Thank YOU for smiles...

He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.
Job 8:21

 When I smiled at them, they scarcely believed it; the light of my face was precious to them.
Job 29:24

You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
Psalm 16:11

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” When he had placed his hands on them, he went on from there.
Matthew 19:14-15

"Delights" again....

"Delights" again...

I was reading the sixth chapter of Esther and came across these verses again which set my mind to rabbit trailing...

When Haman entered, the king asked him, “What should be done for the man the king delights to honor?”
Now Haman thought to himself, “Who is there that the king would rather honor than me?” So he answered the king, “For the man the king delights to honor, have them bring a royal robe the king has worn and a horse the king has ridden, one with a royal crest placed on its head. Then let the robe and horse be entrusted to one of the king’s most noble princes. Let them robe the man the king delights to honor, and lead him on the horse through the city streets, proclaiming before him, ‘This is what is done for the man the king delights to honor!’”
Esther 6:6-9

There is no mention of God in the book of Esther, but his fingerprints, his watch care is evident in the twists and turns of events...the salvation of his people from a jealous, zealous enemy...his use of a beautiful young woman who gained the King's affection for "such a time as this"...another rabbit trail...

Back to the question and answer...Haman, who desires the honor himself, gives the answer which he would like done to himself...but eventually has to do it to his enemy (how deflating)...

It just made me think that God gives us a robe of righteousness, he delights to honor us, showing us off at sometime as his children, whom he loves...as we watch the enemy of God go to his final judgement...even though he, Satan,  wants the honor for himself...

I know it is a rabbit trail...but an interesting one...

Thank YOU that you delight in your children, that you give me that honor of being part of your kingdom, robed in righteousness because of your Son...who defeated death, rose again and sits with you...

He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. They confronted me in the day of my disaster, but the Lord was my support. He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me.
Psalm 18:17-19

May your priests be clothed with your righteousness; may your faithful people sing for joy.’”
Psalm 132:9

the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.
Psalm 147:11

I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.
Isaiah 61:10

A wicked person earns deceptive wages, but the one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward.
Proverbs 11:18

Isaiah 26:3

Isaiah 26:3


You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.
Isaiah 26:3 NIV

"You will keep in perfect and constant peace the one whose mind is steadfast [that is, committed and focused on You—in both inclination and character], Because he trusts and takes refuge in You [with hope and confident expectation].
Isaiah 26:3 amp

People with their minds set on you, you keep completely whole, Steady on their feet, because they keep at it and don’t quit. MSG

You, Lord, ·give [preserve/keep in] ·true peace [complete peace; L peace, peace] ·to those who depend on you [T whose mind is stayed on you; L whose purpose is firm] , because they trust you.
Isaiah 26:3 EXB

With perfect peace you will protect those whose minds cannot be changed, because they trust you. Trust Yahweh always, because Yah, Yahweh alone, is an everlasting rock.
Isaiah 26:3-4 NOG



YOU-

-The first and last word, as well as the middle..
-used three times...
I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End [the Eternal One].”
Revelation 22:13 amp


AUGUST 5
10 Things “Yahweh” Means
Devotional by John Piper
God also said to Moses, “Say this to the people of Israel: ‘The LORD, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you.’ This is my name forever, and thus I am to be remembered throughout all generations.” (Exodus 3:15)
God’s name is almost always translated LORD (all caps) in the English Bible. But the Hebrew would be pronounced something like “Yahweh,” and is built on the word for “I am.”

So every time we hear the word Yahweh, or every time you see LORD in the English Bible, you should think: this is a proper name (like Peter or John) built out of the word for “I am” and reminding us each time that God absolutely is.

There are at least 10 things the name Yahweh, “I AM,” says about God:

1. He never had a beginning. Every child asks, “Who made God?” And every wise parent says, “Nobody made God. God simply is. And always was. No beginning.”

2. God will never end. If he did not come into being he cannot go out of being, because he is being.

3. God is absolute reality. There is no reality before him. There is no reality outside of him unless he wills it and makes it. He is all that was eternally. No space, no universe, no emptiness. Only God.

4. God is utterly independent. He depends on nothing to bring him into being or support him or counsel him or make him what he is.

5. Everything that is not God depends totally on God. The entire universe is utterly secondary. It came into being by God and stays in being moment by moment on God’s decision to keep it in being.

6. All the universe is by comparison to God as nothing. Contingent, dependent reality is to absolute, independent reality as a shadow to substance. As an echo to a thunderclap. All that we are amazed by in the world and in the galaxies, is, compared to God, as nothing.

7. God is constant. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He cannot be improved. He is not becoming anything. He is who he is.

8. God is the absolute standard of truth and goodness and beauty. There is no law-book to which he looks to know what is right. No almanac to establish facts. No guild to determine what is excellent or beautiful. He himself is the standard of what is right, what is true, what is beautiful.

9. God does whatever he pleases and it is always right and always beautiful and always in accord with truth. All reality that is outside of him he created and designed and governs as the absolute reality. So he is utterly free from any constraints that don’t originate from the counsel of his own will.

10. God is the most important and most valuable reality and person in the universe. He is more worthy of interest and attention and admiration and enjoyment than all other realities, including the entire universe.



Mary Fairchild-
"Studying the names of God is one of the most uplifting Bible adventures a Christian can explore. You will learn about God's character, his nature, and how completely he cares for you.

This list presents the biblical names of God and Jesus and where they are located in Scripture. With 102 names of God represented, the list, though not exhaustive, is quite extensive.

Are you ready to dive in?

BIBLICAL NAMES OF GOD
Advocate - 1 John 2:1

Almighty - Revelation 1:8
Alpha - Revelation 1:8
Amen - Revelation 3:14
Angel of the Lord - Genesis 16:7
Anointed One - Psalm 2:2
Apostle - Hebrews 3:1
Author and Perfecter of our Faith - Hebrews 12:2
Beginning - Revelation 21:6
Bishop of Souls - 1 Peter 2:25
Branch - Zechariah 3:8
Bread of Life - John 6:35,48
Bridegroom - Matthew 9:15
Carpenter - Mark 6:3
Chief Shepherd - 1 Peter 5:4
The Christ - Matthew 1:16
Comforter - Jeremiah 8:18
Consolation of Israel - Luke 2:25
Cornerstone - Ephesians 2:20
Dayspring - Luke 1:78
Day Star - 2 Peter 1:19
Deliverer - Romans 11:26
Desire of Nations - Haggai 2:7
Emmanuel - Matthew 1:23
End - Revelation 21:6
Everlasting Father - Isaiah 9:6
Faithful and True Witness - Revelation 3:14
First Fruits - 1 Corinthians 15:23
Foundation - Isaiah 28:16
Fountain - Zechariah 13:1
Friend of Sinners - Matthew 11:19
Gate for the Sheep - John 10:7
Gift of God - 2 Corinthians 9:15
God - John 1:1
Glory of God - Isaiah 60:1
Good Shepherd - John 10:11
Governor - Matthew 2:6
Great Shepherd - Hebrews 13:20
Guide - Psalm 48:14
Head of the Church - Colossians 1:18
High Priest - Hebrews 3:1
Holy One of Israel - Isaiah 41:14
Horn of Salvation - Luke 1:69
I Am - Exodus 3:14
Jehovah - Psalm 83:18
Jesus - Matthew 1:21
King of Israel - Matthew 27:42

King of Kings - 1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 19:16
Lamb of God - John 1:29
Last Adam - 1 Corinthians 15:45
Life - John 11:25
Light of the World - John 8:12; John 9:5
Lion of the Tribe of Judah - Revelation 5:5
Lord of Lords - 1 Timothy 6:15; Revelation 19:16
Love - 1 John 4:8
Master - Matthew 23:8
Mediator - 1 Timothy 2:5
Messiah - John 1:41
Mighty God - Isaiah 9:6
Morning Star - Revelation 22:16
Nazarene - Matthew 2:23
Omega - Revelation 1:8
Passover Lamb - 1 Corinthians 5:7
Physician - Matthew 9:12
Potentate - 1 Timothy 6:15
Priest - Hebrews 4:15
Prince of Peace - Isaiah 9:6
Prophet - Acts 3:22
Purifier - Malachi 3:3
Rabbi - John 1:49
Ransom - 1 Timothy 2:6
Redeemer - Isaiah 41:14
Refiner - Malachi 3:2
Refuge - Isaiah 25:4
Resurrection - John 11:25
Righteousness - Jeremiah 23:6
Rock - Deuteronomy 32:4
Root of David - Revelation 22:16
Rose of Sharon - Song of Solomon 2:1
Ruler of God's Creation - Revelation 3:14
Sacrifice - Ephesians 5:2
Savior - 2 Samuel 22:47; Luke 1:47
Second Adam - 1 Corinthians 15:47
Seed of Abraham - Galatians 3:16
Seed of David - 2 Timothy 2:8
Seed of the Woman - Genesis 3:15
Servant - Isaiah 42:1
Shepherd - 1 Peter 2:25
Shiloh - Genesis 49:10
Son of David - Matthew 15:22
Son of God - Luke 1:35
Son of Man - Matthew 18:11

Son of Mary - Mark 6:3
Son of the Most High - Luke 1:32
Stone - Isaiah 28:16
Sun of Righteousness - Malachi 4:2
Teacher - Matthew 26:18
Truth - John 14:6
Way - John 14:6
Wonderful Counselor - Isaiah 9:6
Word - John 1:1
Vine - John 15:1"

KEEP-to cause to remain in a specified condition; to guard, or protect...

KEEP-many, many keeps
“‘“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. ”’
Numbers 6:24-26

Teach me,  Lord, the way of your decrees, that I may follow it to the end. Give me understanding, so that I may keep your law and obey it with all my heart.
Psalm 119:33-34

Keep me safe, my God, for in you I take refuge. I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing.” Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup; you make my lot secure.
Psalm 16:1-2,5
°

"Jesus Always

"October 14
I WILL BE YOUR GUIDE even to the end. Rejoice that the One who leads you through each day will never abandon you. I am the Constant you can always count on—the One who goes before you yet remains close beside you. I never let go of your hand. I guide you with My counsel, and afterward I will take you into Glory. Many people are overly dependent on human leaders because they want someone to make their decisions for them. Unscrupulous people can manipulate their followers to do things they wouldn’t freely choose to do. But everyone who trusts Me as Savior has a Leader who is completely trustworthy and dependable. I guide you with My truth and teach you My precepts so that you can make good decisions. I’ve provided you with a wonderfully reliable map: the Bible. My Word is a lamp to your feet and a light to your path. Follow this Light, and follow Me—for I am the One who knows the best way for you to go.

For this God is our God for ever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end.—PSALM 48: 14

Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory.—PSALM 73: 23–24

Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.—PSALM 25: 5

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.—PSALM 119: 105 NKJV"



PERFECT-absolute, complete, total, thorough, pure, unequivocal ...

He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he.
Deuteronomy 32:4

“As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him.
2 Samuel 22:31

As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him.
Psalm 18:30

The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple.
Psalm 19:7

The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The decrees of the Lord are firm, and all of them are righteous.
Psalm 19:9

Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Matthew 5:48

and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him
Hebrews 5:9

Such a high priest truly meets our need—one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens.
Hebrews 7:26

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
1 John 4:18


PEACE-freedom from disturbance, quiet, tranquil, calm, "a state of security",
Freedom from disquiet...

Psalm 23 - a picture of peace-The  Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Psalm 23:1-6

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
1 John 4:18

But the Lord said to him, “Peace! Do not be afraid. You are not going to die.”
Judges 6:23

In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.
Psalm 4:8

Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.
Psalm 119:165

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: “May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels. ”
Psalm 122:6-7

A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.
Proverbs 14:30

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6

The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever.
Isaiah 32:17

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

  You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, announcing the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.
Acts 10:36

The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.
Romans 8:6

The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.
Romans 16:20

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

Opposite-
I have no peace, no quietness; I have no rest, but only turmoil.”
Job 3:26


MIND-thoughts, "the element of a person that enable them to be aware", brain, reasoning, judgment, reason...

He who is the Glory of Israel does not lie or change his mind; for he is not a human being, that he should change his mind.”
1 Samuel 15:29

Test me,  Lord, and try me, examine my heart and my mind; for I have always been mindful of your unfailing love and have lived in reliance on your faithfulness.
Psalm 26:2-3

So I turned my mind to understand, to investigate and to search out wisdom and the scheme of things and to understand the stupidity of wickedness and the madness of folly.
Ecclesiastes 7:25

Opposite- They know nothing, they understand nothing; their eyes are plastered over so they cannot see, and their minds closed so they cannot understand.
Isaiah 44:18

Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’
Matthew 22:37

The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.
Romans 8:6

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is —his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:2 NIV

And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].
Romans 12:2 amp

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
Philippians 4:8-9

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Isaiah 55:8-9

Teach me knowledge and good judgment, for I trust your commands.
Psalm 119:66

Give me understanding, so that I may keep your law and obey it with all my heart.
Psalm 119:34

STAYED-remain, linger(longer), "to remain in a specific state", tarry, lodge, keep...

Psalm 23- lie down...rest

And Abraham stayed in the land of the Philistines for a long time.
Genesis 21:34

But you remain the same, and your years will never end.
Psalm 102:27

9 “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. 10 If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commands and remain in his love.
John 15:9-10

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
1 Corinthians 13:13


TRUSTS-built on trust, reliability, truth, strength of someone, confidence, belief, faith, certainty, assurance...

"As for God, His way is blameless; The word of the LORD is tested; He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.  2 Samuel 22:31

How abundant are the good things that you have stored up for those who fear you, that you bestow in the sight of all, on those who take refuge in you.
Psalm 31:19

Many are the sorrows of the wicked, But he who trusts in the LORD, lovingkindness shall surround him.  Psalm 32:10

The LORD redeems the soul of His servants, And none of those who take refuge in Him will be condemned.  Psalm 34:22

It is better to take refuge in the LORD Than to trust in man.  Psalm 118:8

"Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD And whose trust is the LORD." Jeremiah 17:7

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 15:13

For in Scripture it says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.”
1 Peter 2:6

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Etc., etc. many many verses on trust, refuge...

http://www.coolestone.com/media/17899/Baby-Squirrel-Gives-Mom-a-REALLY-Hard-Time/#.WeSU0OtOKK0
(This short video of a baby squirrel was not only amusing, but reminded me of human response to God wanting us to trust HIM...we take all different avenues rather than the one He provides. He knows the way and we need to trust him)

"Where Needs Are Met
 A daily devotion for October 16th
 From your friends at RayStedman.org
 Read: Psalm 23:2-3a
 
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul (Psalm 23:2-3a).

 In this psalm David enumerates the ways in which the Good Shepherd meets our needs. The first thing He does is to meet the needs of the inner person, the basic needs that we have for nourishment within. The basic needs of a flock of sheep are grass and water. Here is the very picturesque scene of sheep bedded down in grassy meadows, having eaten their fill and now totally satisfied, and then being led by still waters. Sheep are afraid of running water; they will drink only from a quiet pool. A good shepherd, particularly in a semi-arid region such as Palestine, knows where the watering holes are. He knows where the grassy meadows are. And so he leads the sheep into places where they can rest and feed and where they can drink. The picture is one of calm and tranquility, because the basic needs of the sheep are met.

The counterpart in our lives is obvious. It is God who restores the inner person through His Word. As we feed upon the Word of God we see the Lord Jesus there. We draw upon Him, and our inner person is satisfied. The Word of God brings us, first, to the person of Christ. Beyond the sacred page, the hymn says, we see thee, Lord. We see Him, and we eat and drink of Him, and we discover Him to be the resource that we need. As Paul says, Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day (2 Corinthians 4:16). Our souls are restored. How? As we feed upon Him. As we come to know Him, believe what He says, and act on His word, we discover that the inner person is fed.

A Bible study I led met one evening a week in a fraternity house at Stanford University. Our basic assumption there was that the Bible is the authority. No one really taught the class; we simply opened up the Word, and the men in the group made observations. Last week a student from Austria sat in with us. He shared some of his thinking with us and made a real contribution to the group. Afterward, as we were leaving, he made this comment: I'm so thankful I could be here tonight, because I discovered that you men have found direct access to God through this book.

Have you discovered that access? In times of deep, dire need, when we cast about for help, it is no farther away than God's Word. Everything we need to nourish the inner person is right there. As Peter says, His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). Everything we need that relates to life and to living godly lives in the world is available in Him. I wonder if we are employing that resource.

Lord, thank You for Your Word. May it be to me like green pastures and still waters, leaving me fully satisfied in You.

 Life Application

Are we learning to find green pastures and still waters in the written Words of God. Do we see there the Good Shepherd who is our Life?"


 The who, what, when, where, how...

The "Who" ----is God in all of his character, promises, holiness, love, power...he alone is worthy of trust..he never fails, never lies, always loves....his timing may not be our or his plans...but his are higher, holier, more glorifying to himself..he delights in us, and he desires that we not perish but believe, have faith in who He is...

Or "him"---me. Do I keep my mind on Him,,,do I have the perfect peace, the trust?

The "What" ----do I trust him? Do I find him worthy of trust? TRUST- I need to deal with that issue...we all need to deal with that...is it perfect.

The "WHEN"--- the "WHERE"---- my mind stayed, always on Him?

The "HOW"----"because"---I have to decide to follow or not...is he who He says he is? And act on that ....

YOU ( YAWEH- the I AM) guard, protect me-Suzi- in absolute, complete, total, thorough, pure- peace which is freedom from disturbance, quiet, tranquil, calm, "a state of security", Freedom from disquiet...when my thoughts, mind, reasoning is lodged, stayed, resting on YOU,
because I, Suzi, trust----am assured, certain of YOU....

Thank YOU....

The next thing...

The next thing...

One of the pieces of advice in the Griefshare  information is "do the next thing"...whether it is put on your shoes or brush your teeth...just do the next thing....we are so caught up in the grief, we don't know where to turn or what to do, it is hard to even think or what to do ....

But that advice serves us well in other situations of life as well...there are times when we just are so inundated with events, daily details that we can become overwhelmed in decisions that we are just at a stand still...not knowing where to go, what to do ...when simple things become mountains ...
We have to stand back and do one simple task at a time to muddle through the trail or trial..."doing the next thing..."

We may eventually get clarity and see the trees instead of the forest...and maybe even find out the whys of the circumstances...but we do come out on the other side...and we have learned lessons, or we find reasons for the seasons of busyness or circumstances...

Saul met Samuel while looking for donkeys...
 Moses saw the burning bush...
Daniel still prayed after an edict not to...
Naaman's wife's slave girl told him about God...
Joseph became a leader after being sold into slavery...
Ruth followed Naomi to become part of the linage to Christ...

And on and on...

The "next thing" became part of their story just like it becomes ours...
God's details...

Thank YOU...that you care for each detail in our lives...

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.
Isaiah 55:8

Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him.
Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.
Psalm 62:1,5-8

A contrast...

A contrast...

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10

Then Jeroboam fortified Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim and lived there. From there he went out and built up Peniel. Jeroboam thought to himself, “The kingdom will now likely revert to the house of David. If these people go up to offer sacrifices at the temple of the Lord in Jerusalem, they will again give their allegiance to their lord, Rehoboam king of Judah. They will kill me and return to King Rehoboam.” After seeking advice, the king made two golden calves. He said to the people, “It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem. Here are your gods, Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.” One he set up in Bethel, and the other in Dan. And this thing became a sin; the people came to worship the one at Bethel and went as far as Dan to worship the other. Jeroboam built shrines on high places and appointed priests from all sorts of people, even though they were not Levites. He instituted a festival on the fifteenth day of the eighth month, like the festival held in Judah, and offered sacrifices on the altar. This he did in Bethel, sacrificing to the calves he had made. And at Bethel he also installed priests at the high places he had made. On the fifteenth day of the eighth month, a month of his own choosing, he offered sacrifices on the altar he had built at Bethel. So he instituted the festival for the Israelites and went up to the altar to make offerings. 1 Kings 12:25-33

I was reading these two preceding passages this morning...in the first, we are God's handiwork, created with a plan...

The second...the new king creates his own plan...after God had already established a plan...such a contrast and the consequences are far reaching!!!
And then add the following...

It is the Lord your God you must follow, and him you must revere. Keep his commands and obey him; serve him and hold fast to him. Deut. 13:4

My question to myself...do I listen?  Do I follow what the Lord has already set before me or planned for me?  Whom do I revere? Myself or Him...whose plans are best?

Thank YOU that you care so infinitely for us that you have a plan for each of us to follow, to disarm...help me not to go off on my own tangents, or the "easier" paths sometimes, but go in Your strength for the plans you have for me...

Repent and live....

Repent and live....

Awakened early as happens much of the time, I was praying and thinking about people around the world who I know and pray for...so near, some on many continents....(don't call me a prayer warrior, I am so far from the "praying without ceasing" as I see others do...)

We have known so many people in so many lands, it is amazing...mind boggling, really ....some are walking with Jesus in heaven now, enjoying fellowship with Him and trading notes with my husband, parents, grandparents..."I knew you when" if they do that in heaven....
Others are still earth bound, going through the joys and sorrows of this fallen world...

I put this aside to finish a novel about forgiveness and repentance...and realized again, that is what it is all about...repentance, forgiveness, redemption no matter on what continent, what country, what culture or language....we all need it...these people I have known or know wherever they are, are there to share that good news...by living it, showing it, translating it, flying it, freely giving it to those who would accept it..."going to all the world", "making disciples "...

Thank YOU...

Ezekiel 18:30-32 “Therefore, you Israelites, I will judge each of you according to your own ways, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall. Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit. Why will you die, people of Israel? For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent and live!

Matthew 28:19-20 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Exodus 34:6-7

Exodus 34:6-7

Many years ago, five friends were drawn together to work through the passage in Exodus 34:6-7.
One wrote, the rest of us critiqued, studied, edited and finally published it for a women's Bible study...it was one of the most amazing times, we drew closer as friends, we studied deeply, we prayed, we experienced life together as God worked in our lives through those few words...

Exodus 34:6-7 And the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed, The Lord, The Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,
Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth generation.

We have seen His compassion, His mercy, His graciousness, His long suffering, His abundant goodness and truth, His forgiveness and judgement...we saw it then, week by week and how He worked in each of our lives and we are still experiencing it down through the years since that study...

I was reminded of this verse again today...it drew me back not only in time, but to God's everlasting presence in my life...how He works, how He moves...even when I fail to see it...I have been drawn closer to Him, not just the acts or deeds, but Him...his ways...He has been there in the thick and thin of life...the ups and downs...the joys and the sorrows...drawing me...

And He continues to be there....

Thank YOU...

Psalm 25:5-6 Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.
Remember, O Lord, thy tender mercies and thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old.

Psalm 103:7-8, 14, 17 He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.
The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.
But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children's children;