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Saturday, December 31, 2011

Day 780 of Giving Thanks by Darci Escandon

As we greet the new year, 2012, I am thinking of a prayer a dear friend wrote. I try to say it at the end of every day, but I also think it is appropriate to say as I say goodbye to 2011 and look to new beginnings, opportunities, choices, trials, struggles, experiences…all that 2012 will bring.

“Father, it is late and the ending to another day. Thank you for walking it with me. I'm not sure which moments I ran ahead without you, veered left or right when I should have gone a different way. I know there were moments when You carried me, and moments when I should have let You but was convinced I could do it in my own strength. As I learn to trust more, to draw closer to You, to listen more intently and follow more obediently, I know that You are truly all that I need. Please help me Father to do what I know with my heart I need to do, even and especially when, my mind has it all figured out a different way. I know that with You by my side nothing is impossible. I need only truly believe. In You I place my trust.” ~Sue King

It is the end of another day. As I reflect, the LORD has walked through this entire year with me, even when I felt alone. Many times, I ran ahead of Him and even strayed off the path and just as a patient and loving father does, He helped me find my way back. So many times this year, I thought I was in control, I thought I could do things my way…..but LORD, you carried me, even when I fought you kicking and screaming. LORD, as I start into 2012, I truly want to be closer to you, I want to hear your voice every time you speak to me. I want to be obedient in all aspects of my life from relationships to finances and everything in between. I want my actions to bring you glory.

God is truly, all I need. I am made of flesh and bones and my mind wants to cater to that so often. I want to guard my thoughts and take each one captive, spend more time in YOUR word and learn to let You be You and me be me.

There will be trials. Your word tells us that there will be hard roads ahead. Because I am a Christian does not make me exempt from crisis. Help me to lean on your more, to look to you in the trying times and to continue to praise Your name, no matter what the road is like ahead of me. I trust you LORD, I NEED YOU LORD!!!

Thank you for this gift of another day, another hour, another minute, another year. Thank you for seeing me through 2011 and into 2012. Thank you for opportunities past and present and future. I want to make you proud LORD!!! ~Amen



© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Darci Escandon
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150418958162809

*****************
We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

Friday, December 30, 2011

Day 779 of Giving Thanks

It's ok that I am not perfect, because I have a perfect God and the perfection of His work in me is enough.

“Look, I will make you pure, but not in the way you make silver pure. I will make you pure by giving you troubles. I will do this for myself—for me! I will not let you treat me as if I am not important. I will not let some false god take my glory and praise.” ~Isaiah 48:10-11 (Easy-to-Read Version)

Yep... there is no doubt, God is truly on my side.

“Praise the LORD, because he is good! His faithful love will last forever!” ~Psalm 107:1 (Easy-to-Read Version)

But there are a couple of questions that I am learning to ask myself, so I can stay in step, in God’s will and expecting Him to move me closer to Him.

How can I possibly be blessed when I am in direct disobedience with God’s direction? I cannot!

And, yet, there are more questions…
Am I listening to His voice, while I learn to drown out the world’s?

I am grateful for God’s perfection! He is consistent, constant and steady. I have to make the right decisions. Once I understand something, once it’s corrected, I cannot continue to do things my way, I must learn and grow through God.

Am I waiting for answered prayers? Am I in His will? Am I obedient to His word? Do I trust Him to lead my life?

It is so easy to allow the enemy in... all I have to do is stop thinking about God. When someone does something that is not encouraging, start talking to God... that is what I told myself all day (many days over the last few weeks). And yet, I allowed the enemy to take a bite, and the sting is deadly.

I am grateful for God’s perfection! He is consistent, constant and steady. Father, help me grasp that joy even in the midst of a word storm, is there to hold onto. Help me to remember that you are right here with me and Your promises are greater than any words spoken.

Tears of joy are precious, but tears from sorrow are even more precious as they can transform into tears of joy with the mighty work of Jesus in your life. Let Him capture your tears and let the Holy Spirit work all things out for the good of the Kingdom.

More and more my convictions toward the truth, to hold, abide and share are in-containable. LORD, continue to guide me toward all Your truths, regardless of what others think, say or do, let me only relay all truths. Thank You for never giving up on my deceitful and ignorant heart. Thank You for never leaving me... Keep me in Your loving and protective care always. LET ME FOLLOW YOUR WILL FOR MY LIFE, for Your Kingdom and Your glory

"For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with His pleasure and will " ~Ephesians 1: 4-5 (New International Version)

I am grateful for God’s perfection! He is consistent, constant and steady. The truth is not popular... even in my own mind. But I am learning that God’s truth is the perfection that I strive for, run toward and hold on to.

More questions. Yes, God brings them to me all the time.

What does God think?
What is God telling me?
If I am in His will, I will do what He wants.

I already know that the world's freedom truly has a price, one that delivers pain, sorrow, guilt and shame. Freedom in Christ comes by Him paying the price for the world's pain, sorrow, guilt and shame. It is a price that can only be paid by Jesus. From the depth of me LORD, I thank You - that although I choose poorly, my choice for You rescues me from me and the world.

‎"But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God." ~John 1:12-13 (New Living Translation)

"What we have seen and [ourselves] heard, we are also telling you, so that you too may [a]realize and enjoy fellowship as partners and partakers with us. And [this] fellowship that we have [which is a distinguishing mark of Christians] is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ (the Messiah). 
“And we are now writing these things to you so that our joy [in seeing you included] may be full [and your joy may be complete].
“And this is the message [the message of promise] which we have heard from Him and now are reporting to you: God is Light, and there is no darkness in Him at all [no, not in any way].” 1 John 1:3-5 (Amplified Bible)

I have learned, and I am ok with the fact that I am not perfect and I have a lot to give to God. But thankfully, I have Him to give it to.

"For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with His pleasure and will "~ Ephesians 1: 4-5 (New International Version)

I am grateful for God’s perfection! He is consistent, constant and steady. My job is to stay in step with what He has instructed. He will illuminate the way, and I never have to seek that light as He placed it within me; my guide on this journey is the Holy Spirit; and the path He set before me is never dark, yet it is narrow. Thank You Lord for leading me perfectly!

My friends, whether you realize it or not, when you are in God's presence, you are CHANGING into who He planned you to be. We can do it willingly (His will) and in obedience (His will), both are in our best interest. That right there is enough to be rejoicing and praising His name. Through every day, we get to change and become better because He is with us.

Wouldn’t you agree that is something to be grateful for?

Jesus is my hero! And, I have so many stories to tell of Him, and His goodness. So, let me be absorbed in Your word LORD, and when I am squeezed by the world and my circumstances, I can overflow with Your wisdom and perfect responses.

You too can come to Jesus with all the pain, shame, and brokenness, He is awaiting for you. Again, I say, “LORD, thank You for being here. I lift all those who feel alone during this season, we pray they can earnestly come to You, bare their hearts and be comforted through Your presence. Let them call unto You in Jesus' precious name. Amen.”

“God is good, a hiding place in tough times.
He recognizes and welcomes anyone looking for help,
No matter how desperate the trouble.
But cozy islands of escape
He wipes right off the map.
No one gets away from God.
Why waste time conniving against God?
He's putting an end to all such scheming.
For troublemakers, no second chances.
Like a pile of dry brush,
Soaked in oil, they'll go up in flames.” ~Nahum 1:7-10 (The Message)

Are you grateful for God’s perfection? Are you grateful that He is consistent, constant and steady?


© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150418958162809

*****************
We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Day 775 of Giving Thanks

God knows all. Your heart, your desires, your heartbreak, your joy and your needs. He knows your past, present and future - and always has. He was born, died and rose to live. HE LIVES and you need Him, whether you know it or not. Do you know yet? Let your heart come to Him. AND YOU TOO CAN LIVE FOREVER.

I have learned, and I am ok with the fact that I am not perfect and I have a lot to give to God. But thankfully, I have Him to give it to. Have a very beautiful day celebrating Jesus. I pray He is your focus for most of your day.

‎"For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with His pleasure and will "~ Ephesians 1: 4-5 (New International Version)

The prophets and inspired writers of the Old Testament shared God's promises of Jesus. The writers of the New Testament told of God's fulfilled promises through Jesus. The Christ, my Christ.  The Savior, my Savior. The Redeemer, my Redeemer. The Bread of Life, my Bread of Life. The King, my King.

Over two thousand years ago, God came in the flesh to live a perfect life. Tomorrow (or today for some), we celebrate God and the beginning of His journey as infant Jesus to resurrected and forever LIVING Jesus. Take time to talk to Him. Take time to reflect on where he has brought you from and to. Respond to his unending calls to be WHOLLY His, committed to His plan for your life and submitting and joyfully celebrating His perfect WILL for your life.

KNOW THIS, you cannot do this until you truly understand (from the deepest part of you) what He did for you.

“I have loved you just as the Father has loved me. You must go on living in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will live in my love just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and live in his love. I have told you this so that you can share my joy, and that your happiness may be complete. This is my commandment: that you love each other as I have loved you. There is no greater love than this—that a man should lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I tell you to do. I shall not call you servants any longer, for a servant does not share his master’s confidence. No, I call you friends, now, because I have told you everything that I have heard from the Father.” ~John 15:9-15 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

Happy Birthday Jesus is an everyday occurrence because it’s all about Him, about what He did, about knowing that we need His work on the cross and that there is nothing greater than learning to become more like Him.

Today it is all about me becoming ALL ABOUT HIM.
God You are amazing.
You are my Creator.
You are my Teacher.
You are my Comfort.
You are my Savior.
You are my EVERYTHING.

“[[A Psalm] of David.]BLESS (AFFECTIONATELY, gratefully praise) the Lord, O my soul; and all that is [deepest] within me, bless His holy name! Bless (affectionately, gratefully praise) the Lord, O my soul, and forget not [one of] all His benefits--” Psalm 103:1-2 (Amplified Bible)

I already know that the world's freedom truly has a price, one that delivers pain, sorrow, guilt and shame. Freedom in Christ comes by Him paying the price for the world's pain, sorrow, guilt and shame. It is a price that can only be paid by Jesus. From the depth of me LORD, I thank You. That although I choose poorly, my choice for You rescues me from me and the world.

The more I know God, the more I’ll be out of step with the world… the more I know God, the more I realize that I am already victorious. The more I know God, the more I know that I am set apart from the world. 

My emotions are now tucked in for the night and I am hanging up my ego. I reflect on the day and realize how I, once again, allowed the enemy to seep into my day. To distract me from God’s favor with his ploys to create doubt or friction. But, now it's time to reflect on the greatness of the day and forget the rest. Because of the greatness of God, we have great days all the time. Let me remember that I celebrate the "what" Jesus did for me daily.


It’s all about Him.

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150418958162809

*****************
We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

Friday, December 23, 2011

Day 772 of Giving Thanks

To "get" we must ask. Today Lord, I bare my soul. I have followed your call and pray heart-fully to be filled with wisdom, discernment and hope toward Your purpose for me. I pray for miracles, yes, those things that are not possible and only delivered by You. I pray for healing deep within my heart, soul and body, of all the things of my past - wipe the pain clean, sweep through all that is not You. Let me be wholly in Your presence. I praise You LORD God and my Savior Jesus, that every day is new and is a fresh start. I praise You that You did so I can do, not by my own strength and power, but because You are with me. You are near Lord, draw me nearer and nearer.

“God can bless you with everything you need, and you will always have more than enough to do all kinds of good things for others. The Scriptures say, "God freely gives His gifts to the poor, and always does right."
“God gives seed to farmers and provides everyone with food. He will increase what you have, so that you can give even more to those in need. You will be blessed in every way, and you will be able to keep on being generous. Then many people will thank God when we deliver your gift.” ~2 Corinthians 9:8-11 (Contemporary English Version)




‎This morning, my prayer was not eloquent or organized, but I did pray. I praised, thanked, asked, praised, interceded and thanked. What order? Doesn't matter. Let me be absorbed in Your word LORD, and when I am squeezed by the world and my circumstances, I can overflow with Your wisdom and perfect responses.

Friends, it's time to get with God. Plan it, don't plan it. JUST DO IT. 

Today, like every day, I expect to have my heart exposed... willingly, I am open to God.  It is time to dwell in Him. Thank You LORD, that we can. Thank You Jesus. Give Him your simple, yet heartfelt praise... (you can do that here, for others to share in as well).

Okay, can I be frank and straight forward today, among brothers and sisters of course? We need to start walking like the victors we are. He died for us, not so we could walk with our heads down, but with our hearts raised up. It's time to celebrate life, dwell in Him, not in the past. It's time to celebrate life, dwell in hope, not in circumstances. Freedom comes to mind. Freedom from worry, fret, doubt and freedom from the captivity of unknowing.

“In [this] freedom Christ has made us free [and completely liberated us]; stand fast then, and do not be hampered and held ensnared and submit again to a yoke of slavery [which you have once put off].” ~Galatians 5:1 (Amplified Bible)

It's Jesus time.

“God's Spirit makes us loving, happy, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled. There is no law against behaving in any of these ways. And because we belong to Christ Jesus, we have killed our selfish feelings and desires. God's Spirit has given us life, and so we should follow the Spirit. But don't be conceited or make others jealous by claiming to be better than they are.” ~Galatians 1:22-26 (Amplified Bible)


© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150418958162809

*****************
We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Day 771 of Giving Thanks

Today it is all about me becoming ALL ABOUT HIM.
God You are amazing. 
You are my Creator.
You are my Teacher.
You are my Comfort.
You are my Savior.
You are my EVERYTHING.

‎"But test and prove all things [until you can recognize] what is good; [to that] hold fast." ~1 Thessalonians 5:21 (Amplified Bible)

It is amazing when I do more than I am supposed to, with the RIGHT attitude, how great I feel. Not to "toot my own horn", but to feel like I am giving like Christ gave. He gave it all, and that's what I am really working on. Giving everything I do, my all.

In a couple of days (give or take worldwide), we will be celebrating the birth of our savior. It really doesn't matter if it's "the" day of His birth or not. We do know that it is in the celebration of Him that we are filled with hope and joy. Take this time to reflect WHO Jesus is (for you). Take this time to ask questions of God and rely on the Holy Spirit to answer them for you.

It is Jesus time, and know this, He did this for you. He lived, died and LIVES so you too can live.

Get into God's word daily. Start simply, but do start. You'll be amazed by all that you receive in blessings, lessons and insights.

LORD, I need You. 
I love Your Word.

The thought, "Ready me Lord", keeps popping into my head today, And, this morning, as I read through my bible, I was swept away by my God, and a sincere settling of calm. Knowing that today would be busy, I wanted to prepare properly. Really, it was the time just talking to God that did it. But, as usual, in the presence of Him, I was able to glean many blessings through His Word.

Thank You for loving me God.

"Be silent before me, you islands! Let the nations renew their strength! Let them come forward and speak; let us meet together at the place of judgment." ~Isaiah 41:1 (New International Version)

Thank You Father for Your Word. Thank You that I have the discernment of the Holy Spirit to show me truth in my life, areas that need to change in my life and all the ways You confirm direction and purpose in my life, through Your word and how others use Your word. Let me always be aware of what is Yours and let that dwell deeply in my heart. I love You God, thank You Jesus and fill me Holy Spirit.

You are uniquely created to do amazing things that only you can do for the Kingdom of God. Are you listening? Have you asked Him what those unique and amazing things are? Are you aware that you are equipped with amazing talents, and empowered by the Holy Spirit to accomplish greatness in Him? Did you know that you have a Creator who loves you and has loved you since the beginning of time? Did you know that He died and carried your sin so you can live? Did you know that He has called you since the day you were born?

HAVE YOU ANSWERED YET?

‎"I am the Door; anyone who enters in through Me will be saved (will live). He will come in and he will go out [freely], and will find pasture." ~John 10:9 (Amplified Bible)

God's word is revealing, a life with God is life giving.

ARE YOU LIVING YET?



Read all of Isaiah 42 (when you have a chance...)
"Thus says God the Lord--He Who created the heavens and stretched them forth, He Who spread abroad the earth and that which comes out of it, He Who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk in it:
"I the Lord have called You [the Messiah] for a righteous purpose and in righteousness; I will take You by the hand and will keep You; I will give You for a covenant to the people [Israel], for a light to the nations [Gentiles],

In a couple days we will celebrate the birth of our Savior (The Messiah) - Now is a great time to truly understand who He is. 

"To open the eyes of the blind, to bring out prisoners from the dungeon, and those who sit in darkness from the prison.
"I am the Lord; that is My name! And My glory I will not give to another, nor My praise to graven images.
"Behold, the former things have come to pass, and new things I now declare; before they spring forth I tell you of them.
"Sing to the Lord a new song, and His praise from the end of the earth! You who go down to the sea, and all that is in it, the islands and coastal regions and the inhabitants of them [sing a song such as has never been heard in the heathen world]!" ~Isaiah 42:5-10 (AMP)

LORD, we pray, open our eyes so we can see who You are, in the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.


© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150418958162809

*****************
We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Day 770 of Giving Thanks

In the end, God wins.

So, what do we have to worry about? When we know the outcome, and we know that, He is in charge, so why worry. “Therefore I tell you, stop being perpetually uneasy (anxious and worried) about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink; or about your body, what you shall put on. Is not life greater [in quality] than food, and the body [far above and more excellent] than clothing?” ~Matthew 6:25-34 (Amplified Bible)

I have spent much energy over the years worrying. Worry happens because we know that we cannot do what needs to be done on our own. I know that I am not alone. That I am loved greatly. And, I have everything I need, I just need to realize it.

“For His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that [are requisite and suited] to life and godliness, through the [personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue).” ~2 Peter 1:3-6 (Amplified Bible)

It is official I am done with me... I need God so much.

Friends, know this…
You are not alone. 
You are loved greatly. 
You have everything you need, you just need to realize it. 

The Holy Spirit is always with us, in every part of the world in every part of our life to help, guide and confirm those who choose Jesus as Lord. Yes LORD, I love You. Yes LORD, I expect great change, amazing insights and favor because I know You love me.

Most witness goes to a deaf ear. Unless you are being led by the Holy Spirit, He will give you the words. Our actions are always a witness; we are to be careful with our words.
We have to work a day at a time. My goal is to be in His will, only with Him in me, His guidance. I must separate fact from information at all times. This is the key for all decision making. It is necessary to understand all these things.

I have to look at each task as something God gives me to do, with a smile, in joy and with hope that it is God’s plan and purpose that all things I am to do are done - 24/7. I have no choice but to drive toward God and continue to wait on Him for words, timing and confirmation. I must be open to His suggestion. Reading through His word will promote a clean mind that is productive and moving toward His plans and purpose of my life.

Freedom is through the thoughts, not our physical confines. We must remember this. No matter where we are, we can be joyful and in hope because of the knowledge of God’s finished work.

My goal is to improve every day. To every day make myself better than the day before. Every task, every process, I am to improve and get better. As I improve something, I then share it to let others learn from my improvements. I have learned that joy comes from getting better and moving toward perfection.

I must remove all negatives and continue to seek God’s direction in all that I do. “By means of these He has bestowed on us His precious and exceedingly great promises, so that through them you may escape [by flight] from the moral decay (rottenness and corruption) that is in the world because of covetousness (lust and greed), and become sharers (partakers) of the divine nature.” ~2 Peter 1:4 (Amplified Bible)

Did you know that legacies that last come from real success, those formed from habit, honesty, ability to pursue in God’s will, share with others, edify and encourage?

“For this very reason, adding your diligence [to the divine promises], employ every effort in[b]exercising your faith to develop virtue (excellence, resolution, Christian energy), and in [exercising] virtue [develop] knowledge (intelligence),
“And in [exercising] knowledge [develop] self-control, and in [exercising] self-control [develop] steadfastness (patience, endurance), and in [exercising] steadfastness [develop] godliness (piety),
”And in [exercising] godliness [develop] brotherly affection, and in [exercising] brotherly affection [develop] Christian love.” ~2 Peter 1:5-7 (Amplified Bible)


The improvements are already in me, I just have to realize them. God has equipped me, given me all that I need. He just helps me realize what He already supplied me with. I am the way God made me. If I use these skills and work toward Him, more will be accomplished, success in this life will be realized and recognized.  We only need to be great in God’s eyes. It matters not how the world sees us.

My life moves forward in Christ alone. And, I have an amazing life, because “in the end, God wins” and I am His. 


© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150418958162809

*****************
We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

Monday, December 19, 2011

Day 769 of Giving Thanks

Mondays. We seem to have too many Mondays in our lifetime and for me Monday means, a new beginning, the start of a work week. 

Sundays. We don’t seem to have enough Sundays in our lifetime and for me Sunday means, rest, regroup, replenish, refill and prepare. And, really both of these should be done daily. Begin every day anew and find rest in the LORD often. Include a Monday and a Sunday in every day. 

I started this last night as I stopped to pray about heading into my week. One of my greatest requests is for the strength to do what is necessary while I wait for God to tell me “what is next”. My “what now” takes much effort, and I am learning that when I look to my effort alone, I am not going to make it, but I realize that when I come to Him and request help, that is the only way I am going to make it. 

‎"Hear therefore, O Israel, and be watchful to do them, that it may be well with you and that you may increase exceedingly, as the Lord, the God of your fathers, has promised you, in a land flowing with milk and honey.
"Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God is one Lord [the only Lord].
"And you shall love the Lord your God with all your [mind and] heart and with your entire being and with all your might." Deuteronomy 6:3-5 (Amplified Bible)

With salvation, we have stepped into the land of milk and honey. I have nothing to complain about or to worry about. He’s got it all handled for me. And, the more I realize this truth and recognize His presence in my life, the more I will change, the closer I become who He intends me to be. 

"For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome." ~Jeremiah 29:11 (Amplified Bible)

It is through awareness that we are God's that we change. I have learned that the power of words - what I speak to myself counts too. “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” ~Proverbs 18:21 (New International Version)

“And you, little one, shall be called a prophet of the Most High; for you shall go on before the face of the Lord to make ready His ways, To bring and give the knowledge of salvation to His people in the forgiveness and remission of their sins. Because of and through the heart of tender mercy and loving-kindness of our God, a Light from on high will dawn upon us and visit [us]” ~ Luke 1:76-78 (AMP)

Thank You Lord for forgiving me and giving me YOU. Thank you for new beginnings, rest and preparation. 

I may not have it all figured out, but the one thing I know places me ahead of the game. I know that I have a mighty God, whom loved me first. And, the rest is my assurance that I can be with Him for eternity. 

Do you know this to be true? 
Do you believe in heaven? 
And, do you know how to get there? 

In less than a week, we will all celebrate the birth of our Savior (everyone's savior), but not everyone will be saved. Why? Because they will not choose Him. And for those who have chosen Him, it's time to celebrate your life eternal (here and then). Live greatly. Love much. Share often. And, always remember who loved you first.

Today, display strength. Take action. 

We share Christ in us when we walk in confidence that we are His. We will be decision makers, action takers and accomplishers all because we are His, but only if we act. 

The more you know God, the more you will be out of step with the world. Isn't it awesome that when we follow His steps, they are the right steps anyway?

The Lord is everything to me. How about you? 

“THE LORD is my Light and my Salvation--whom shall I fear or dread? The Lord is the Refuge and Stronghold of my life--of whom shall I be afraid?” ~ Psalm 27:1 (Amplified Bible)

In less than a week, we will all celebrate the birth of our Savior (everyone's savior), but not everyone will be saved. Why? Because they will not choose Him. And for those who have chosen Him, it's time to celebrate your life eternal (here and then). Live greatly. Love much. Share often. And, always remember who loved you first.
© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150418958162809

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We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Day 768 of Giving Thanks by Tina Wetor

In my house, a simple tree sits amidst a quiet house decorated with my favorite ornaments. On the tree top, I have the star of Bethlehem shining with all its beauty. Of course, all of the ornaments are very precious and hung with delicate care. However, my children will fight about who is going to hang our families’ favorite ornament. It isn’t the prettiest one or the most colorful one but it’s a precious reminder of why I am able to celebrate life.

The ornament wasn’t purchased to remind me of a child’s first Christmas or special anniversary; it was a token of friendship. In fact, I didn’t even purchase it. My husband and his best friend wanted to exchange a gift for Christmas. So they went shopping at the local Christian bookstore to see what they could find. What’s so cute, they bought the exact same gift for the other. Who would have guessed it? A beautiful crimson ribbon is used to hold the ornament so tightly but it’s amazing it can hold it. As you touch the soft and delicate ribbon, it quickly comes to a hard and long substance. The ornament seems too heavy to hang upon the tree but my children fight for the opportunity to hang it. The ornament is actually a nail; it isn’t a carpenter’s nail to hang a picture or hold a board together. It’s a nail very similar to what Jesus was nailed to the cross with. It’s hard, cold, and very sharp. Yet, without it holding the broken, bloody, and bruised body of Jesus, I have no life. It isn’t only during Christmas time, I get to celebrate, its daily celebration.

As a child, I never got the joy of decorating a Christmas tree or opening presents until my adolescence. The only memories I hold precious are the times, my dad and I would drive around to look at Christmas lights. Every year, I would beg my father to stop by this house; I always wanted to see it. With all of the beautiful lights, manger scene, and unique Christian reminders, I was able to hear a simple truth. On the yard, a medal robot would stand on the cold ground, every curious child wanted to touch. With all of the glimmer, lights, and uniqueness the owners stole the show. Yet, the moment you touched the beautiful red button, the robot would share the story of Jesus. At the end, he would say, “Jesus loves you.” Honestly, it was a unique way to share the most precious gift of all, Jesus loves you.

Now, it isn’t a story any longer, it’s the center of my life. As the special ornament hangs in the center of the tree, it’s a reminder to me-Jesus loves me. It’s only when I accepted this truth, I was able to unwrap the beauty of life. With this eternal truth, I have learned value, received hope, and a joy unspeakable and full of glory. Although the shepherds were fearful at the angel’s presence, it was a day of celebration. A simple, beautiful, and bright star lead them to the center of life-Jesus Christ the Savior of the world. “For unto you is born this day in the
city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.” ~Luke 2:11



© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Tina Wetor
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150418958162809

*****************
We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

Day 767 of Giving Thanks by Darci Escandon

It’s been a long time since I listened to hymns. I have to admit, that I am  more of a Christian Rock and Roll worship person. I love music. I love the way the praise and worship gets me going and allows me to connect with God. When times are tough, I can turn on my music and let the words and the melody flow through me and it makes me feel like God is standing right there with me.

Yet, sometimes, I need to slow down. I need to be still and feel His presence. Life has been crazy busy for me lately. Personal deadlines, School deadlines, all sorts of deadlines and the last thing I have been doing lately is resting.

The Bible tells us we need to rest. Even after God finished creating the world, He rested.

“So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God's rest has also rested from his works as God did from his. Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience.” ~Hebrews 4:9-11 English Standard Version
When I don’t rest, I get grumpy, distracted, my mind is foggy. So many things happen, but yet, I keep pushing myself. I need rest. My body needs rest. If I my mind is not clear, I cannot think properly and I leave myself open for all sorts of attacks.

As I woke up this morning, feeling exhausted even after a good night’s sleep, an old Hymn came to mind, Jesus I am Resting, Resting:

Jesus! I am resting, resting
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
  Of Thy loving heart.
Thou hast bid me gaze upon Thee,
And Thy beauty fills my soul,
For, by Thy transforming power,
  Thou hast made me whole.
Jesus! I am resting, resting
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
    Of Thy loving heart.
Oh, how great Thy loving kindness,
Vaster, broader than the sea:
Oh, how marvelous Thy goodness,
  Lavished all on me!
Yes, I rest in Thee, Beloved,
Know what wealth of grace is Thine,
Know Thy certainty of promise,
  And have made it mine.
Simply trusting Thee, Lord Jesus,
I behold Thee as Thou art,
And Thy love, so pure, so changeless,
  Satisfies my heart,
Satisfies its deepest longings,
Meets, supplies its every need,
Compasseth me round with blessings,
  Thine is love indeed.
Ever lift Thy face upon me,
As I work and wait for Thee;
Resting 'neath Thy smile, Lord Jesus,
  Earth's dark shadows flee.
Brightness of my Father's glory,
Sunshine of my Father's face,
Keep me ever trusting, resting,
Fill me with Thy grace.


As I read the words and sing along to this beautiful version of this hymn, found here: http://youtu.be/T3qIfnjGte8 I am comforted in knowing that I have a

Father in whose arms I can rest in. Oh, how tired I am. The burdens of life can get to heavy. Yet, my Lord tells me:

“"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."” Matthew 11:28-30 The Message Bible

Lord, Today I rest in you. Today I will rest just as this beautiful hymn says. Lord, you have made me whole and I am so thankful and grateful for that. In today’s crazy world, You are all that I need. You are the one that brings light to the darkness and sunshine and warmth where there is cold. Thank you Lord for showing me I need to rest and take care of myself. Thank you for showing me your way! Amen



Source: http://www.hymnal.net/hymn.php/h/579#ixzz1gu2cM3WZ

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Darci Escandon
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150418958162809

*****************
We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

With Faith, He Changes All - (testimony series) by Armando Aguinaga

With Faith, He Changes All 
by Armando Aguinaga

Hello my name is Armando Aguinaga and this is my story.



I was raised in a home were drugs and abuse was present, my father was abusive to my mother and was never really home. He was a drug addict and he cheated on my mom many times. My mom was left at home raising six of us on welfare and selling drugs – our home got raided many times. My father chose to molest me and he then passed away when I was seven years of age. They buried him on my mom’s birthday. His death was very hard for me; I had such mixed emotions for him.

Armando AguinagaWe bounced from home to home. There was also a time were we four boys separated from my mom and my sisters and went to live with my uncles for a few months. They were drunks and had prostitutes at their home, even once did things in front of us during that time we lived there. That house was very old and we took showers in an old fashion sink that was huge. We used the bathroom in a bucket and even ate at a place that fed the homeless. My mom then came to pick us up after a few months; once again the drug selling was still present in the home. We got raided by the cops just about every month. And one of my moms friend that was living with us at the time decided to molest me.

At the age of nine I had suicidal thoughts, I was smoking cigarettes and marijuana, I was depressed at such a young age, I was always singled out by my brothers and sisters, they always were mean to me verbally and physically abusive at times. During that time a man attempted to kidnap me, thank God I got away. At the age of twelve I began to use crank, cocaine, shrooms, pop pills – any thing I could get my hands on I used! I also began to drink a lot. This drug use turned into an eleven year addiction that completely took over my life to the point of being homeless; sleeping in an abandoned house – out in the street I’ve panhandled and even stole food because of being hungry. I also began to practice witch craft at one point. I also was very promiscuous. I’ve been arrested, been stabbed three times, shot at due to my addiction. I was a mess. I tried to kill myself by taking pills. I also began to smoke heroin. I have had to slap family members out from overdosing on heroin many times. Life was very hard, and one day after walking all night long around this town which was about 40 miles away from my home town I woke up behind a sign and found my way to the freeway. As I walked down the freeway my face filled with tears, contemplating suicide, I cried out to God to help me and minutes later I met up with a CHP officer who then was nice enough to give me a ride back to my home town and during that ride he shared with me about Jesus and lead me through the prayer of salvation.

After that had happened the next day I felt a difference in me, this new willingness to change as in before I just wanted to curl up and die. A few weeks later my sister who was always praying for me and always tried her best to be there for me talked to me about a men’s home which I agreed upon to go, then received help through this program, got involved with this ministry of victory outreach and then about a couple years later moved to Cleveland Ohio with that ministry for about two months. I then came back home to soon find myself drinking again and falling away from my faith and finding myself in an adulterous relationship with a married woman. I was so miserable during this time.

However that changed when I meet up with my friend Melissa whom I have known since I was a teenager who then invited me to church which was West Coast Believers Center and Wow! I walked into that church and immediately felt the presence and the Love of God in that place. My next visit I rededicated my life to Christ and about a year later I ended up marrying my friend Melissa. Today I am thirty years old and still fighting that good fight of faith with my wife by my side and our three beautiful daughters.



© 2011 All Rights Remain with the Author
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

Friday, December 16, 2011

Day 768 of Giving Thanks

Lord, thank You for every day confirmation that You hold me dearly. “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” ~Psalm 139:14 (New International Version)  

Lord, thank You for every moment of realization that I am to pray at all times, even when and especially when you don't "feel" like it. “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” ~Ephesians 8:18 (New International Version)

I love You God – You are simply all I need. And I am so grateful for You in my life. It is with Your guidance and strength that I am able to accomplish things today, that before would have seemed amazing. Because of Him, I have everything I need and desire. I am learning that it is His will that I adhere to and abide by. How is that even possible, prayer and faith, faith and prayer.

“That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?
“And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith?” ~Matthew 6:25-30 (New Living Translation)

Fill me Lord for I'm in need of You. Help me focus my eyes on You. Without You I die. Surround me with Your presence.  ‎"The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are bad, your whole body will be full of darkness." ~Matthew 6:22-23 (New International Version)
Vs. 24 says, "No one can serve two Masters..."

Let us always "devote" ourselves to our Mighty Father God, and "despise" the other.

Let us be filled with light and only look upon what You desire us to see. “Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God is one Lord [the only Lord].
“And you shall love the Lord your God with all your [mind and] heart and with your entire being and with all your might.” ~Deuteronomy 3:5-6 (Amplified Bible) 


With all this in mind, on my heart and all that I keep my eyes on, there is hope and daily accomplishment. What a great thing to wake up and know that His 'will' will be done, my heart's desires will be fulfilled and my life is purposeful. Thank You LORD, thank You Jesus and than You Holy Spirit for filling me with so much!


© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150418958162809

*****************
We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Day 765 of Giving Thanks

‎Every morning I get to talk to God, and I was able to do it again this morning… and it was a good day.

Good morning God, 
Yet another night passes and a new day begins. This is how I get through any troubles. Let them pass and begin anew. Thank You that every new day is my reminder. Thank You that every time I open my eyes, I can see things completely differently than the day before. LORD, in trouble let me remember that it only takes a blink of an eye to change perspective… I have learned this before, let it embed deeply and wholly in my heart. Let it be a new day. Let me find strength in You to "carry on", "begin again" and "see things as new".

Because I am New
Hope today and everyday because of who holds us so dear! Thank
You God for Your loving arms that hold us so lovingly. And thank You that I receive many lessons.

And, because I have choice…
Attitudes can change, "Just like that."
You can put a smile on your face, "Just like that."
You can go from eternity in hell to eternity with God, "Just like that."
Choices are made, "Just like that."
What you think can changed, "Just like that."

I love reading through the books of the bible, and I love absorbing the words and the heart of the words. Today, my heart is intact, no hurts, no heartache, but a sense of peace and wholeness like never before. And it has only been through amazing transformation and miracles, but I do remember all my cries and I am grateful for the pleas and answers.

Sometimes this is our cry. And though we may "feel" no hope, we must know that in Jesus we have nothing but hope. The LORD is good and we pray, cry and plead until He answers. I wait upon You LORD expectantly and in daily hope. (inspired by: Habakkuk 1:2 and Lamentations 3:25-26) My constant prayer, is “Move me LORD, for I can only become more like You when I move toward You. ‎"Just like that"… haven't we all heard this before?”

All through my days, I remember these little things.
Rest.
Settle in.
Eyes up.
Heart open.
Arms ready.

Yes God, I hear You. Holy Spirit I ask for strength, more strength and yet, more strength to abide and follow Your "Yes".

What will you unwrap this Christmas that can break, will wear out, might lose it's appeal, will definitely go out of style or, otherwise distract you from your purpose?

Just remember Him through this amazing season - for it was Jesus, born and wrapped in swaddling clothes to be stripped of God's presence in the moment before He died on the cross. And because of His work, we can be wrapped in God's presence. That is the present of our lifetime.

"This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life. God didn't go to all the trouble of sending his Son merely to point an accusing finger, telling the world how bad it was. He came to help, to put the world right again. Anyone who trusts in him is acquitted; anyone who refuses to trust him has long since been under the death sentence without knowing it. And why? Because of that person's failure to believe in the one-of-a-kind Son of God when introduced to him." ~John 3:16-18 (The Message)

When I can't figure out how to verbalize how I feel, Lamentations always seems to get the job done.

Praying Lord and giving my heart's worries, pains and desires to You so I can realize Your comfort and tenderness. In Your time, and in this quiet, I am at peace. Let me come and kneel, bow and arms ready to receive all that You have for me.

"The Lord is my portion or share, says my living being (my inner self); therefore will I hope in Him and wait expectantly for Him.
"The Lord is good to those who wait hopefully and expectantly for Him, to those who seek Him [inquire of and for Him and require Him by right of necessity and on the authority of God's word].
"It is good that one should hope in and wait quietly for the salvation (the safety and ease) of the Lord.
"It is good for a man that he should bear the yoke [of divine disciplinary dealings] in his youth." ~Lamentations 3:24-27 (Amplified Bible)

And now it’s time to settle in, and say good night. 



© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150418958162809

*****************
We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Day 764 of Giving Thanks

I love this time of year. It's the time that everyone thinks of why "Christmas", but I am working to remember and share "why Jesus" all year. How about you?

Every day when I wake up, I think, “Am I excited about my life? Do I get motivated just by waking up and realizing I am blessed with yet another day to live God's life, the one He has for me to live?

When we trust Jesus, when we accept His amazing gift, not only do we get salvation, we get freedom... and an advocate who goes to His Father (our Father) on our behalf. Now that is worth everything, yet cost us nothing and is the living sacrifice of Jesus. We live because He lives.

You have shown me about love LORD, let me share what I have learned and continue to learn about loving like Christ.

"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." ~1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (New King James Version)

Let me love.

Amazing grace, tender mercies and unending favor, that is what He gives me daily. The healing we need most is the healing from an eternity without God. All the rest is our journey.


“THE LORD is my Light and my Salvation--whom shall I fear or dread? The Lord is the Refuge and Stronghold of my life--of whom shall I be afraid?” ~Psalm 27:1 (Amplified Bible)

There is no place I want to be, but with Him. This is my journey!

“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.” ~2 Timothy 1:7 (Amplified Bible)

Boldly, in my faith, I walk in His power and because of His love, and I can do all things because of Him in me, that alone, with Him is all I need. This is my journey!

I have prayed the same prayer every day, and every day I will continue until my LORD answers me. Know this my friends, we cannot get to our will, unless we first get to Jesus. I am so thankful that I got to Jesus, and that He died for me.

“Ask and it will be given to you. Search and you will find. Knock and the door will be opened for you. The one who asks will always receive; the one who is searching will always find, and the door is opened to the man who knocks.” ~Matthew 7:7-8 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

Let me always knock, and always see the open doors before me. Thank You Father for this journey, that is my journey!


© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150432918742809

*****************
We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Day 763 of Giving Thanks

“May God the Father and Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, give us grace, mercy and peace; may they be ours in truth and love.” ~2 John 1:3 (Good News Translation)

There is comfort when I go to the Father. Today, for me, this was the comfort I needed… for within His truth, all things come to us, grace because He gives it to us. Mercy, because we need it and peace when we seek it and know His love for us – but He must know me, and that my friends comes only when I chose Him and when you choose Him. 

All I can do, is “Trust in the LORD”. The gate is narrow – look at it. Look at the proclaimers of Christianity… is there fruit? What is done is His name, that isn’t really in His name? I must be discerning and allow the Holy Spirit to help me with that, to direct me and watch over me. .

My attitude should be “About pleasing God”, not anyone else. If I am doing what God is telling me, and I am doing things to the best of my ability… if no change, leave. Am I where God wants me? Lord, help me see Your answer, help me be solid in this knowledge.

Every morning I pray and every day I pray throughout the day. I believe I am fighting something here, but it is not my fight. What is there is what God’s angels are called upon to handle for me, behind the curtain and in the strength of God’s army the battle goes on. My battle is to stay connecting, stay believing, stay focused on the goal of being in His will and allowing Him to direct all my steps. 

“THE LORD is my Light and my Salvation--whom shall I fear or dread? The Lord is the Refuge and Stronghold of my life--of whom shall I be afraid?” ~ Psalm 27:1 (Amplified Bible)

Many times, people feel like they are doing what they are supposed to do, through rationalization. There is grieving in the heart. That is a battle for me, but often I am reminded that the battles are temporary, that I must remain strong in the LORD. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." ~Joshua 1:9 New International Version) 

Lord, it is my heart’s desire to stand firm, even through my fear and uncertainty in this life, for it is the victory of life eternal that I stand in, as well as the certainty that nothing is impossible, even in my flesh, because I have You with me at all times. It is not my job to know what battles rage around me, but it is my job to have faith in the conqueror.

“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.” ~2 Timothy 1:7 (Amplified Bible)

Our society makes things what we want them to be, and apply scripture to it. When we look at our environment, work, home, etc., we want to make them what we want instead of being in God’s will. “According to the Word”, is the only way it should be. I cannot and will not compromise with teaching.
My job is to please God first. And, I will do this by looking at people differently.  I must not see them how they have treated me, but how I want to be treated, and the changes will be made in me. This is the change that came to light. And, boldly and confidently, I ask… “Ask, and you will receive. Search, and you will find. Knock, and the door will be opened for you. Everyone who asks will receive. The one who searches will find, and for the one who knocks, the door will be opened. If your child asks you for bread, would any of you give him a stone?” ~Matthew 7:7-9 (New Century Version)

Wisdom, we always thing we have the right answers, and it’s easy to see the answer when it is already solved. Don’t worry about the circumstance, pray through it. Our opinions (b/c our minds are different) is the right one in our minds. Most of the time we are not right – knowing this comes from thinking rightly. Need to separate a fact before making an opinion… (in the fact finding process, how do you know when you are done with this process?)

Remove the fear and anxiety from my heart LORD, for I know it does no good and is used for bad… keeps me distracted from doing what You want me to do daily. It is wisdom, strength, courage to act rightly, to do rightly. This is my prayer, my life.

“I pray to GOD—my life a prayer—and wait for what he'll say and do. My life's on the line before God, my Lord, waiting and watching till morning, waiting and watching till morning.” ~Psalm 130:5-6 (The Message)



© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150432918742809

*****************
We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

Monday, December 12, 2011

Day 762 of Giving Thanks

The one thing that I learned as a new believer, is that the Word is not conflicting and I have always kept that in mind every time I read His word. And I believe, without a doubt, that the only way to God is through the sacrifice of Jesus, otherwise, why did He die?

We have to know that Jesus is our intercessor and how our prayers get to God... because God would do anything for His son - I love that, don't you?

“And said, Truly I say to you, unless you repent (change, turn about) and become like little children [trusting, lowly, loving, forgiving], you can never enter the kingdom of heaven [at all].
“Whoever will humble himself therefore and become like this little child [trusting, lowly, loving, forgiving] is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” ~Matthew 18:3-4 (Amplified Bible)

It is because of Him that I am who I am, and will be who He chooses me to become. This has been quite a journey. I never dreamed that my life would be like it is today. I never dreamed that I would be where I am in my heart and in my thoughts. There has been a release of many holds and many hurts, and I am grateful. Every day I am grateful!

“But I will sing of Your mighty strength and power; yes, I will sing aloud of Your mercy and loving-kindness in the morning; for You have been to me a defense (a fortress and a high tower) and a refuge in the day of my distress.
“Unto You, O my Strength, I will sing praises; for God is my Defense, my Fortress, and High Tower, the God Who shows me mercy and steadfast love.” ~Psalm 59:16-17 (Amplified Bible)

Every day I am grateful! He is a mighty force in my life. I am powerful beyond measure, because of who He is in me. I never dreamed that change would occur, or that the change would be this great. And, for change I am grateful. And, it is only through the power of the Holy Spirit that His changes will be saved in me and I am a new me – new daily Lord, that is what I pray.

I am grateful that I can change, because Jesus never changes.

“Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is [always] the same, yesterday, today, [yes] and forever (to the ages).” ~ Hebrews 13:8 (Amplified Bible)

I am grateful for my life, and every day is unwrapped in moments of gratitude. “Every good gift and every perfect (free, large, full) gift is from above; it comes down from the Father of all [that gives] light, in [the shining of] Whom there can be no variation [rising or setting] or shadow cast by His turning [as in an eclipse].” ~James 1:17 (Amplified Bible)


© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150432918742809

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We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Day 761 of Giving Thanks by Tina Wetor

Often we get impatient for God to move within our lives, we don’t see the evidence of our faith.  It’s during the waiting periods; we learn to trust God with the outcome.  We can’t have a harvest without a seed planted or tending to the field, it does require our actions.  Our faith contributes to the outcome but we can’t force the seed to grow.   When we have done our part; we have to trust God with His.  The walk of faith starts with a relationship with God but it’s nurtured through love and trust.   The experiences of life will eventually test our faith but God will bring loving assurances to protect it. 

Our best intentions is what God has for us, it’s one of the beautiful benefits of belonging to God.   He will direct us in the path of righteousness for His name sake.  God will never do anything in our life to contradict who He is.  As I have grown in the Lord, I have gain understanding of Him but still am marveled of His greatness.  With all of the responsibilities God has to rule the universe, I am still marveled He longs to love me.  With all my failures, insecurities, and fear within He still loves me.  His plan will not be stopped for my life because I failed or misunderstood.  He will always reveal the truth so I can recognize the path to take. 

When I am too weak to fight the good fight of faith, God reminds me who I belong to.  When I walk in the midst of trouble, I can still have peace. I can’t escape Him because the love of my devotion runs deep, the cross keeps me anchored.   The promises of God will be fulfilled because He spoke them.  I can’t force the promise to appear, it’s God’s timing to produce the blessings.  I admit my heart has been weak with this trial of my life.  Yet, I am truly blessed to know I don’t always have to be strong.  God isn’t looking for the strongest but the most vulnerable to His will.  As one of my college professors said, “God isn’t concerned about your happiness but He is concerned about your holiness.”  Character will be built from the trials of life; it’s those experiences we will cherish.  All of the trials of this life can be passed if we stay vulnerable to Him.  When the heart is vulnerable, it’s soft enough to be formed into a beautiful masterpiece of God’s design.  

Troubles will come and go but God’s promises will never disappear.  When I am too weak to look up, God lifts my head with tenderness.  When I went to church today, my heart was desperate for an answer to my troubles.  Gasping for hope, my life was comforted by this verse found in Psalm 138:7-8 “Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou will revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of my enemies, and they right hand shall save me.  The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me: thy mercy, O Lord, endureth for ever: forsake not the works of thine own hands.”

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Tina Wetor
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150432918742809

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We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

Shawn Delia Boreta

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