Wonderment Wednesday

For this reason, I kneel before the Father...

Praying that out of His glorious riches...

He may strengthen you with power

Through his Spirit

In your INNERMOST being...

so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.
And I pray that you...

being rooted and established in love,

may have power with ALL the Saints to grasp how

Wide

and LONG

how HIGH

and deep

Is the LOVE of Christ
And to know this love that surpasses knowledge-
That YOU may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

Ephesians 3:14-19

Father God,
help us to be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. Help us not fear when heat comes; may our leaves always stay green. Let us not worry in a year of drought and may we never fail to bear fruit." Jer. 17:18

Reposted from June 24, 2009

Pluto Undaunted

In fifth grade science, they are learning about space, and in the course of discussion, the topic of Pluto's demotion from planetdom has come up time and again. Some believe it should still be a planet, others are all right with what the scientist say while a small few couldn't care less one way or another.

In the meantime, Pluto seems unfazed by what scientist have proclaimed it to be. In an article about Hubble's newest pictures of Pluto, it seems scientist are staggered over the changes going on with the semi-planet. It's seems the colors are deepening, turning redder. Perhaps it's angry over what people have been saying about it?

Seasons on Pluto can last almost 300 years. Its orbit takes it far from the sun, then slowly swings a bit closer again so it has its "warmer" season. Like all other planets, it rotates in a revolution type of dance around the solar system. Yet, because it doesn't quiet measure up, or meet the standard that we- mere chaff in the wind- have designed, we've declared this to no longer be counted along when the other "planetary greats."

How many times do we find ourselves, our dreams of who we are, demoted according to the world's standards? It starts at such a young age. Child brings in watercolor masterpiece, with brilliant reds and blues dripping over the clean floor. That child, instead of praised for their creativity, is chastised for the mess they have made.

Throughout life, one criticism after another chips away our dreams of who we someday hope to be until we settle for something safe. Something acceptable. Something that won't be so challenged.

It's not intentional, these dream crushing incidents. It just happens. And dreams are so fragile anyway, ever changing, small and obscure, like the tiny blue planet, Pluto. So easy to be disregarded.

"What do you like to do?"

"Oh, I like to write stories." or "I love to paint."

"No, not your hobby. I want to know what you do."

To say, "I create. I was born to create. It's what my Father is best at and I want to follow in his foot steps." This simply isn't always acceptable. It doesn't fit the world's standards.

"Why are you cutting out all those paper pieces and making a big mess all over the place?" I've asked my son in irritation.

"I needed more soldiers," he shrugs.

And I stop, closing my worldly eyes so that my artist vision can come into focus. I begin to see the stern tiny crayoned faces. The uniform's bright colors. The form of creased bodies.

"Oh, I see."

Even artist can dash the dreams of others and we of all people should know better. I think we do. It's not intentional. We simply forget, we drift too far away from our light source. We grow cold with the world's demands and standards, wanting to blend in, to conform and be like everyone else.

Yet, our Master Creator didn't use a mould to construct this world. Each snowflake is different. No two leaves alike on the same tree. We ourselves are fashioned to where we are completely original in our design, our DNA.

No, I have no desire to be like the status quo. It's not my Father's way and I must constantly be diligent to not allow it to become my way. Let me be like Pluto, rotating and revolving in a slow dance along the path line God has set me on. Let me close my ears to the decrees and dream shattering statements of my world around me. May I stay my course, knowing and understanding that sometimes it'll seem to draw me away from the light's warmth, but I will always dance my way back again, changing and reforming along the way.

Yet I will still be the me He created me to be.

This is what God the Lord says-- he who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and all that comes out of it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it: "I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand." Isa. 42:5-6

Faith and Prayer #34

Dear Glorious Saints,

Last night I had a dream that I really want to share with you. In the dream I was in a house that had a sliding glass door with a sliding screen. The door was open and the outside screen door was shut. A bear came up to the screen door and starting sliding it open. I was terrified and thought to myself, “He knows how to get in!” I ran to shut and lock the glass door before he made his way through.

In the dream there was another similar door and another bear. Again, I had the realization that he could get in if I did not do something to stop him.

When I awoke, I knew what the dream meant. I later got up and went to journal about it and noticed this entry of what I was sensing the Lord saying to me yesterday: “Do not fear. Do not let discouragement in the door.” It really confirmed the meaning of the dream to me.

The enemy knows my weaknesses and he knows how to “get in”. If I do not guard my heart, if I do not keep the door shut to him and locked, then he will try to find a way in. I believe the Lord showed me that I need to be as determined to guard my heart as I was to shut and lock the door to keep the bear out. My life and certainly my joy and peace depend on it.

I am grateful to the Lord for the vivid picture and for this key reminder for me. I have needed it. I am very thankful for Him, His care, wisdom and love, and for all of you who are so dear to me.

With love and gratitude,
Marianne

I Will Rise

One of my favorite quotes is:
“A saint is just a sinner that keeps getting back up and keeps running after God.”

It’s amazing, that no matter how hard I try, I can still lose my footing, fall and be in need of getting back up and dusting off again. So when I woke up the other morning with this song in my heart-spirit, I couldn't help but feel God’s encouragement.

I will rise, when He calls my name. No more sorrow, no more pain. I will rise on
eagle’s wings; before my God, fall on my knees. I will rise! I will
rise!

There’s a peace I’ve come to know though my heart and flesh
may fail. There’s an anchor for my soul. I can say, ‘It is well.’

This has been the past month for me. There are times when my heart has failed and my flesh got the better of me. I tried not to get angry. Tried not to feel sorry for myself. Yet, my flesh succumbed. And I fell into worry, and fear and frustration. When what I could have done is simply trust that my life is in his hands, and he's good, and he'll take care of me, no matter what happens.

But Jesus has overcome and the grave is overwhelmed. Victory is won and He is
risen from the dead. And I will rise…

Jesus faced the cross. First he fell on his knees before God. Then he rose when it came time to do what God asked of him. He did it because he understood his Father’s love for him. Jesus knew that no matter what lay before him, God was good and the temporary discomfort would end. After, he would rise on eagle’s wings, no more sorrow, and no more pain.

We will rise too.

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not be weary. They will walk and not faint.”
Isa. 40:31

I’ve never been asked to lay my life down for the sake of God. I’ve never had to endure torture, hardship, or any of the things many Christian’s have faced as they follow Jesus’ example. My life is pretty ordinary and easy. Mundane. So why is it so hard to trust in the one who says:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matt. 11:28-30

Why in the face of adversity, do I allow myself to fall apart when I have such a strong advocate in my corner? He stands behind me like a big brother ready to take down any fool who dares to pick on me.

What am I so afraid of?

I really don’t know. Perhaps amidst the storms my eyes are riveted by the waves and not by the One calling for me to “Come on. Let’s go.” If only I'd learn to fix my eyes on him first. To go to him when life gets difficult and confusing. To seek his counsel on what to do next, and if I don't hear, then to simply trust that because I love him, he will protect me, work everything out for me.

If only...

Father,
Help me to fix my eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of my faith. He, who for the joy set before him, endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of God. Let me consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that I will not grow weary and lose heart. When you call my name, may I rise up to meet you, Lord. Amen.
Heb. 12:2-3


Click the playlist box in the side bar to turn off the background music as you listen to Chris Tomlin's I will Rise.

LETTING YOUR SOUL CATCH UP

This entry comes from the free newsletter LIFE SUPPORT SYSTEM, which shares life, love and laughter. Published by Steve Goodier.


Did you know that practicing some form of relaxation is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself? Taking time each day to quiet your mind and breathe deeply, can make a big difference in how you feel throughout your day and into the night. And dedicating a day every week for mental and spiritual renewal is equally important.

We're told that the word "relax" has its origin in the Latin word "relaxare," which means "to loosen." When we relax, we are in effect loosening tension, releasing tightly held energy and letting go. From the state of relaxation we can experience calm peacefulness.

Another great word is the Hebrew word "Shabbat" which, of course, is a day of rest. But it quite literally means to "quit; stop; take a break." Whatever you are doing, stop it. Whatever you are saying, be quiet. Sit down and take a look around. Don't do anything. Don't say anything. Fold your hands. Take a deep breath... .

Extended periods of rest are a biological necessity. The human body is like an old-fashioned wind-up clock. If it is not rewound by rest, ultimately it will run itself down.

A group of Americans made a trip with Brazilian natives down the Amazon River. The first day they rushed. The second day they rushed. The next day they rushed. One day, anxious to continue the trek, they were surprised to find the natives seated together in a circle.

When asked the reason for the delay, a guide answered, "They are waiting. They cannot move further until their souls have caught up with their bodies."

Do you owe yourself time to let your soul catch up with your body?

-- Steve Goodier

Coming to a screeching halt

Life comes fast and hard sometimes. That's how it's felt for me the past few months. Like everything is racing by and I can't seem to catch up or stay on track. I slow down here and there to check in with God, kind of like a drive-by prayer. I dump my thoughts and fears and sometimes I linger long enough for Him to get a word or two amidst my scattered thoughts and demands.

From the craziness of my daily life, I knew it was time to stop and regroup.
I get so flustered I just want to plug my ears and sing out "lalalallalalalalalala... I can't hear anything!" But then I can't hear God either when I'm trying the escape route.



No, it comes down to simply having to make time to sit quietly, wait patiently and listen intently.

And on one such day, I clicked over to one of my favorite blogs A Holy Experience where I found a couple of passages about the importance of slowing down and checking in with our Heavenly Father. Our small daily activities are important. Jesus said a sparrow doesn't fall from the tree without God knowing. He also said we are much more important. Our daily struggles matter to Him.

I decided to begin scheduling times to STOP- Stop, think, obey and pray. I set three alarms on my digital calendar to remind me and for the most part, I've been able to pause a moment each time. Sometimes just to give a word of thanks when things are going well. A plea for help when they aren't. Other times it's simply asking, "How am I doing? What do I need to be doing?"

It's made a difference. I'm finding inner peace once again and realizing things I need to change. Best of all, I'm beginning to hear Him again and I so need to hear His voice, His direction, His comforting words when I'm out of sorts.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight.
Prov. 3:5-6

Stillness by Kate Sweeney

Stillness.

Perfect Stillness.

It is a very great gift, not always available to those who would most appreciate it or find joy in it, and often not appreciated by those who have it but are uncomfortable with it. External noise is inescapable in many places - traffic, sirens, people talking about everything everywhere, music (the kind my Grandma says has such thundering amplification that it makes the ground shudder).


Its amazing what a few days out of your normal environment will do. Going home is one of places where for short while, all the chaos of the moment gets muted. I think we get so accustomed to the noise of business we forget to seek silence and retreat.


I spent a night just gazing at stars, which were perfectly clear and sweetly glittering, and found myself completely engrossed in a conversation with God as though He was right there, chilling in the hot tub. Why doesn't that happen more often? Pretty soon though my mind began to race to other things: lyrics from a song...next week......project deadlines...doctor appointments.....NEO training........which led to thinking about all the emails sitting in my inbox....and I reached for my iPhone to set a reminder for later when I realized something. Not only was my mind racing but so was my heart rate and the peace of just sitting and being still was gone.

Ugh.


I think it is possible to learn stillness, but only if it is seriously sought. He did say "be still and know that I am God." The stillness in which we find God is not superficial, a mere absence of fidgeting or talking. It is a deliberate and quiet attentiveness - receptive, alert, ready. Wherever you are, be all there. This concept is easy enough if we're talking about sports.

Especially college football.
Got it.

For me, this quietness in the presence of God, this being "all there" for Him, though I desire it and treasure it, is not easy to maintain, even in the beautiful places I find myself in....like a hot tub and perfect night sky overhead.

Wouldn't it be a calming thing to just practice stillness, which is the absence of motion? Why not try a quiet day or quiet week without the usual noises and distractions?


Maybe a better question is, does God seem absent?


Yes, for most of us He sometimes does. Even at such a time may we simply be still before Him, trusting that He reads everything we cannot put into words?





My friend Kate Sweeney posted this on facebook, Monday, December 28, 2009 and it touched me so much, I asked her if I could share it with you. She graciously agreed. I hope it blesses you and encourages you to seek out still moments with our heavenly father.


God bless!
J

Faith and Prayer #33

Dear Glorious Saints,

I’ve said before that God seems to give me long term prayer projects, so when I get an instant answer to prayer, I get really excited. I just did.

We have been doing the *Experiencing God Bible study again. In one of the first lessons Blackaby says, “Always go to the Bible and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the truth of your situation to you.” (p.14) I was struggling with some things in my life and I knew I needed to do that. So I prayed and asked God to show me His perspective on it and felt like the Lord directed me to a book in the Bible. Reading that book really shed light on my situation and I was very grateful.

Now, five weeks later, the study asks, “Are you currently praying for anything God is not granting? If you answered yes, pause and ask God to help you understand what He is doing in your life. Then watch to see what happens next or pay attention to what He begins to reveal to you through His word.” (p.115) Since I answered, “Yes,” I stopped and prayed, asked God to help me understand and wondered what would happen next.

The very next section that I read was on the silences of God and it focused on the exact same book of the Bible that God had directed me to five weeks earlier! What tremendous confirmation to me. I wish I could say my faith is so strong that I did not need that reassurance again, but I did. And I am very grateful that He is so kind and loving to me to set that up and affirm once again how He views what I am going through.

I know He loves me but I also know He loves you too. If you need His perspective on your situation then ask the Holy Spirit to reveal it to you and watch to see what happens next. Let me know!

Expectantly,

Marianne
*Let me put in a plug for Experiencing God. If you have never done it let me say that it has been the most life changing study that I have ever done. This is probably my 5th time through it and God is still using it to impact my life.

Throwing off what hinders...

Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.
Hebrew 12:1

At the end of the year, during my holiday break, I begin to ask God for direction concerning the year to come. He's always faithful to answer when we seek out his guidance. He always has been and this year, he didn't let me down.

My words for the year 2010 were: Streamline and Focus.

And God, never being in any great hurry, feeds me a bit at a time, not dumping a lot of information on me that I probably wouldn't understand anyway. So first, the words came and I pondered over them, wondering why these words? Streamline? What did he mean by that? Of course, Focus was a given. I often get distracted by shiny objects.

Squirrel!! (for those of you who've seen the movie Up.)

It wasn't until just this past week that he began to show me what these words mean to in my life. I looked up Streamline in my best friend, the dictionary, and this is what it said:

to alter in order to make efficient or simple. (n)
to flow steadily along the path of least resistance. (v)

This is what really stuck out to me-

To be streamlined is to reduce the energy required to produce that motion.

See? When I first heard the word streamline, I was thinking, "Oh yeah, I could really use to de-clutter some places in my house. I'm a bit of a pack rat." But I'm beginning to think He meant something much deeper.

And that's so God's way, isn't it?

Along with these words, I also received this scripture from Hebrews 12:1 that speaks about running our race with perseverance, throwing off or STREAMLINING those things that hinder, and keeping our eyes fixed, or FOCUSED on Jesus.

I can be running along just fine, until the path takes a curve, or begins to turn upward, disappearing into the misty heights. Then I stumble. I hesitate. I even cry and kick dirt clods around in my frustration.

Yet Jesus endured so much more. And if I really knew him as I should, then I would keep running, not dragging along a load of junk that slows me down, nor faltering when I'm unsure. I'd know he only has my best interest at heart. If I could only keep my eyes on him, and not the waves, or the storms as Peter did, then I'd be able to accomplish amazing feats because he's right there leading and cheering me on.

No, it's not an organizing session I need. The things that hinder aren't necessarily physical, though I do have a lot of clutter in some places. More so, is the clutter I've allowed to pile up in my heart, the doubts that drag down my spirit, the fears that deflate my heart. These things must be cast aside so I can run with endurance, as he did when he faced the cross. I don't have to face a cross, or humiliation, or even death. I'm just trying to make it through an average normal day.

With him, all things are possible. With him, listening to him, spending time and getting closer to him, nothing can hinder me. I'll know I'm a daughter of the living God. And in that, I can stand firm.

Father God, show me what I need to cast aside. What are the things that hinder me from being all you've created me to be. Help me to cast them aside so I can run with less resistance. May I keep my eyes on you. Not the mile markers. Not the turns. No those yelling from the stands. Only you. I pray that my focus will be on you first, so everything else can just fall into place. Amen.

Blessings.

J

The Secret

I can do all things through Him who give me strength. Philippians 4:13

If God is behind it, that is the driving force that will get us through. But if He's not behind it, then we may as well be paddling up steam without the proverbial paddle.

When I stopped working to raise my young children, we struggled financially. I ranted and raved to God, yet knew I was doing the right thing by staying home to take care of them. So I began working out ideas on how to raise extra money, and finally settled on making t-shirts. I'd even prayed about it and asked God if it was alright. I didn't hear him say "no" so I figured it would be fine. Actually, I felt He was perfectly fine with me doing this project.

Unfortunately, it never did take off. I never made a profit. If anything, I lost more money on it.
Defeated, I asked, "Why Lord? I hate the way we are struggling. I just want to do something to fix it."

He directed me to the proceeding verses of Philippians 4 where Paul says, "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what is 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." (vs. 12)

It came down to me going through a learning process of being content even in want. He taught me the secret. It started with leaning to let go of my expectations of how I thought things "should" be. He had my life in His hands and I needed to trust in that truth. Then I learned to listen to Him and be obedient to what he asked.

One of the reasons for my absence in keeping up with posting to this blog was I felt prompted to organize a Young Writer's club at my school where I work. I'd never done such a thing before, but the materials I needed simply came to me, and most surprising was the amount of kids who came every week. It was a great success.

And I believe it was such a success because He was behind the whole thing. In return, I've received much for doing this:

The thrill of helping kids find out they had it in them to do something hard as they wrote their stories and worked toward their goals.

The chance to write and finish my own book.

The honor of being nominated for an Extra Mile Award from my school.

The privilege of having the group featured in a podcast on the district website.

I think I'm finally understanding the secret. I can do anything so long as I do it through Him in partnership with Him and not on my own because of my own selfish desires.

He is the way. He is the truth. He is the life force that drives me to do great things. That helps me to stand firm in trials. That helps me to climb heights I'd never try on my own. At church, our worship leader, David Mayo summed it all up for me when he said, "We don't try to work God into what we are doing. We try to fit ourselves into what God is doing."

That's the secret.

Father, help me to seek your will first, knowing that all the other things in my life will fall into place as I drop my agenda and run after you. Amen.

If you'd like to hear the podcast, click the link.

Enjoy!
J