~Evening Prayer~July 31, 2012

Father thank You. It is a simple thing to say, and such a hard thing to “get”. I pray daily that I truly get gratitude; that thankfulness is not just what I do, but how I live. In the many moments that go right in my days, let me remember You. In the many moments that go wrong in my days, let me remember You. In all the moments in my life, let me continue to be perfected and appreciate the process.

As I come to You this evening there are many things on my heart; all those who need You LORD, let them see Your presence, Your pull and Your draw in their life. As they arise, I pray for the urging to seek and know You, as well as the desire to understand that all You do and have done has been done for them. Let me remember mighty and God of perfection that I am under Your strength and can relay so much of Your grace through my own actions. Help me come to You for all things. Let me live in hope and experience all things in joy.

As the evening turns to night Abba, let me be comforted in the knowledge that You have always loved me, and love those who need You so much. I pray for those hurting and broken hearted tonight, that in their time of need, they can see the light that is shed for them, through Your son. As my heart settles and the lights go out for the evening, let me dwell in the light of Your promises. Be with me Lord Jesus and help me remember all those who need prayer, remember the cries that have come through me for lifting and petition. I pray for protection over my loved ones and those I have yet to know. Tonight as I sleep I count greatly on the Holy Spirit to lead my thoughts, to guide my subconscious to all things of You. In the precious name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Day 920 of Giving Thanks

Discovering today, the strength I have in You LORD. Learning how to remove all of me in the process and discover all of You as You guide, protect and correct.

As I finish out a long day, I am satisfied with God’s direction and my listening. Mostly, I love God’s direction and falter in the listening part – but today, through experience, scripture, prayer and calm, I moved a step forward today. I found the ground, when just last week, I barely knew the ground existed in that same spot. Good news? Excellent news! And, it is because of His “Good News” that I can be expectant. And, I am very expectant, even and especially through uncertain or rough times. My constant cry is, “Help me Lord Jesus to imitate You today and represent our LORD on high in all I do. Help me remember daily, and moment to moment all that You have already done. Let me reflect, and be grateful, rather than dwell and be needy.”

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only and unique Son, so that everyone who trusts in him may have eternal life, instead of being utterly destroyed." ~John 3:16 (The Complete Jewish Bible)

He loves us...

"Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord," ~Acts 3:19 (New International Version)

We are to love Him, and come to Him on our own accord. Because of His shed blood, life is possible.

All things are possible because we are His. All things including abiding by His precepts because once we are His, we have Him to help us through the Holy Spirit.

“He gives power to the faint and weary, and to him who has no might He increases strength [causing it to multiply and making it to abound].” ~Isaiah 40:29 (Amplified Bible)

I remember these words. 

(Read all of Psalm 119)

Psalm 119:1-8 (Common English Bible)"Those whose way is blameless—who walk in the Lord’s Instruction—are truly happy!Those who guard God’s laws are truly happy!They seek God with all their hearts.They don’t even do anything wrong!They walk in God’s ways.God, you have ordered that your decreesshould be kept most carefully.How I wish my ways were strongwhen it comes to keeping your statutes!Then I wouldn’t be ashamedwhen I examine all your commandments.I will give thanks to you with a heart that does rightas I learn your righteous rules.I will keep your statutes.Please don’t leave me all alone!" ~Psalm 119:1-8 (Common English Bible)

Looking at my life as a way to honor the gifts God has graced me with brings an entirely new perspective to, “for I know the plans I have for you” (Jeremiah 29:10), in that we are to honor God by using the talents He created us with. Every day is an exercise of reflecting on, “Increase You in me LORD”  (John 3:30).

© 2012 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

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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).

Day 919 of Giving Thanks

As humanity, we are either encouraging and helping each other on this journey to learn and grow, or tearing one another down. Those who help us, stretch us and make us better.
Thinking of "Iron sharpens iron". (Proverbs 27:17)

Ministry is engagement. At what level depends on the purpose of the ministry. So, lets engage, communicate and grow together. There is not competition, no "better", just different wills to be carried out... God's will for that ministry and those involved. Let me share how He continued this thought over the past twenty-four hours...

The LORD has been really working on me in many areas, “Engagement” in what I do, whether at my job, through ministry or with my family. I have a tendency to disconnect a bit when stress settles in… I dive into the Word, but find it difficult to engage in all the others areas of my life. I rarely ask for ‘help’ or challenge my own actions. So, as I said, lately God has really been working on me. His promise to “Never leave me”, hits home every time and His desire for me to be “Strong and Courageous” tugs at my heart deeply. When I forget these simple, yet profound and amazing words, His Words, I deny what He has for me – and I am reminded to remind others of the same. (Hebrews 13:5, 2 Chronicles 32:7)

“Your way of life should be free from the love of money, and you should be content with what you have. After all, he has said, I will never leave you or abandon you.” ~Hebrews 13:5 (Common English Bible)

A great reminder is in the words of Timothy, and the Lexam English Bible kept it in simple terms for me tonight:

“Because of this, I endure all things for the sake of the chosen, in order that they also may obtain salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. The saying is trustworthy:For if we died with Him, we will also live with Him;if we endure, we will also reign with Him;if we deny Him, He also will deny us;if we are unfaithful, He remains faithful—He cannot deny Himself.A Worker Approved to God and Not Ashamed“Remind people of these things, solemnly urging them before the Lord not to dispute about words. This is in no way beneficial and leads to the ruin of the hearers.  Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, a worker having no need to be ashamed, guiding the Word of truth along a straight path.” ~2 Timothy 2:10-15 (Lexham English Bible)

Denying God and Jesus happens, outwardly when we don't stand for what is right and what is true. Every time we allow ourselves to be quiet when we should speak up, and we don't. Or we should act, and won't. I have to be trusting and believe that I can Trust the LORD with all things.

I just got home from a very trying week; really needed all the verses that many shared with me today pertaining to His assurances on "Be Courageous", "Trust in Him" and "Be still". Some wonderful brothers and sisters share the most amazing collection of verses that completely indwelled every part that was in need tonight.

Prayer for Protection, Guidance and Pardon.A Psalm of David.“To You, O LORD, I lift up my soul.  O my God, in You I trust, Do not let me be ashamed; Do not let my enemies exult over me. Indeed, none of those who wait for You will be ashamed; Those who deal treacherously without cause will be ashamed.” ~Psalm 25:1-3 (New American Standard Bible)

Getting into the Word is essential, critical as well as required if you want to know God intimately. Reading a few words here and there is not enough, although He is enough. The only way to get to know God is by reading what He has given us and allowing the Holy Spirit to work through those words for us in our own hearts.

Don't we tend to fondly remember a kind word and down spiral with not so kind words?

With this said, wouldn't it make sense to share kind words with others, so the seeds that are planted are the fond moments for that person? And leave the not so kind words completely out of the equation and in the dark pit they belong in.

God's Word is just the refreshment to go along with this refinement.

© 2012 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

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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).

Day 918 of Giving Thanks

God is good and He cares deeply for His children. It’s all about the lessens for me.




Sometimes we have to get smacked upside the head to see that getting smacked upside the head isn't really that good of an idea. God will show us that our ways aren't always His ways. And for me today, whatever You say LORD is good by me... getting tired of being wayward in my actions.

Your will LORD, Your way. Thank You Father that I have experiences that allow me to grow, and experiences that allow me to share.

I am not a nervous person, or a worrier in the sense that I sit around worrying about stuff going on in my life. I do have concern for things that are amiss. I have not always been empathetic through my life for those who have challenges coping emotionally, mostly because I have always just "sucked it up"... Well, I have been softening to that much lately.

And, yesterday gave me an entirely new perspective. I have been under a great deal of stress with my job, and really praying about God's plan for me in the area of my career. As I left the office yesterday, which was a pretty 'normal' day, I had a wave come over me like I have never experienced before. My immediate thought, "I left the house open this morning." Which I know wasn't true, but the panic and urgency that flooded my thoughts was uncontrollable. Then all these thoughts of horrible things encapsulated my every move and thought. It was like I couldn't bring myself back to reality, like I had just stepped off a cliff.

That drop lasted about 40 minutes; I couldn't breathe, I felt as though my heart would just stop, and in those moments, that would have been ok. I was in complete despair and a heaviness over me that was truly suffocating me, like I was drowning in every hurtful and painful memory. As I drove home, I found it hard to focus, but I didn't feel in danger; I could not get home fast enough.

I kept trying to pray, but I was speechless as well as breathless and the words were just not there - helpless and out of control with my emotions. It was horrible. I got home and confirmed everything was ok there and had to head back out for a test (academic, not medical this time) and called a friend; who helped talk me down, so to speak and prayed for my test. Which is yet another story. God did it, that's all I can say.

I am still sensing the after-effects of a bad experience. But I know God is good and He is with me. And, today is a new day. Thank You Lord for new days. 

Oh how I love to get to know the "body of Christ", my brothers and sisters. I know that I am running my own race, but I am able to catch the draft of those right before me.

"We have all these great people around us as examples. Their lives tell us what faith means. So we, too, should run the race that is before us and never quit. We should remove from our lives anything that would slow us down and the sin that so often makes us fall." ~Hebrews 12:1 (Easy to Read Version)

I must realize the starting gates are open, and the race is on... the best part about this race is that we already have victory. I must realize when we allow the Holy Spirit to move in us, we move toward God, and what a great thing to share. Thank You LORD that i can share. 

"and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor." ~Isaiah 61:3 (New International Versions)

© 2012 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

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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).

Day 917 of Giving Thanks

Questions, concerns, doubt and uncertainty are all the things I must give to Him daily. And right now, as I fight through “feelings”, I see it as a much needed. I must remember that I give things to Him once, then believe that He’s got it; believe that I am His and truly little bits of faith, is all He asks, and He gives us big doses of grace.

I was struggling this morning to get through my reading... then I got to Genesis 8, and read these few words...

"And God remembered Noah"... He remembers you too; your cares, your worries, your "struggles"... and know this the waters will go down and the wind will subside; the storm will end, yet through it all He is with you.

"And God [earnestly] remembered Noah and every living thing and all the animals that were with him in the ark; and God made a wind blow over the land, and the waters sank down and abated." ~Genesis 8:1 (Amplified Bible)

Daily I hear through His words, “Be encouraged today, you have a God who loves you and desires you to be in His will...” Can you hear it too?

Father God in these times that are hard, according to the flesh, give us peace and joy according to Your promises and assurances. We pray for strength to endure even and especially the hard days. Whatever the challenges mighty and perfect God, we ask for wisdom to face them, and we pray that we will be greatly encouraged through Your Words - give her the encouragement she needs and the desire in our hearts to seek You wholly in Jesus' name. Amen.

Today I am grateful to the many who encourage me daily. For those who allow God to use them to bring clarity, confirmation and answers into view. Thank you for your words that encourage me and your prayers that lift and move me.

Tonight I am encouraged and greatly moved by hearing His promises once again. These are the words that have held me for this past year so perfectly.

Be Encouraged…

“For you created my inmost being;you knit me together in my mother’s womb.I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;your works are wonderful,I know that full well.” ~Psalm 139:13-14 (New International Version)

 “‘Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’” ~Jeremiah 33:3 (New International Version)

“You (God) keep track of all my sorrows.You have collected all my tears in your bottle.You have recorded each one in your book.My enemies will retreat when I call to you for help.This I know: God is on my side!I praise God for what he has promised;yes, I praise the Lord for what he has promised.” ~Psalm 56:8-10(New Living Translation)

Day 916 of Giving Thanks

Loose all that is not Yours mighty and wonderful God. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray in agreement with Deb's request Father. We pray for peaceful rest, and an awakening of a joyful heart.
Let me see things as you see things LORD; let me not deal in emotions but in fact... the fact that You love me... the fact that I must live in for today and not be hindered by what was or what will... the fact that Your will is my best option ever.

Have you ever been thinking about nothing really and had a wave of emotion about something you went through a long time ago? I just did... wow. Thank You LORD for bringing me through all of it…
Out of the blue the enemy attacks; the attacks are not bloody or frightful, they are silent and doubtful. As I sit here tonight readying myself for a task, I ponder much; where have I been; how can I move from where I am; what can I do to see all that God has for me? These are questions are easily answered in the Spirit, but often pondered in the earthly. I desire greatly to hold all You have for me and let go of everything else.

Hold every thought captive. For every thought simmers deeply. Remove all that is not of God, and hold on dearly to His promises. Know them, keep them and share them.

The enemy's lies are deep, cutting and brutal, hitting every part of a person in pain. Don't allow the enemy to deceive you, to hold you in a place far from God's truth and promises.

Come to God and seek truth and get to know His promises... loving you deeply, healing you completely and soothing your heart's hurts. He is all that this world does not hold, and gives everything that the enemy cannot which is all that is good.

I will be firm in my walk... I will not cower and I will not stand down in response to words. I will however bow down and kneel before my King to make sure I respond well, and when I don't I pray for corrective measures by my mighty and perfect God.

My friends, don’t forget, always remember, you are God's child 24/7, no breaks, no vacations, no excuses. Live like you are on fire because you are. Allow the Spirit to move in and through you. Know His love will never end - He will never run out of what you need to say aflame!

“Therefore, since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be thankful, through which let us serve God acceptably, with awe and reverence. For indeed our God is a consuming fire.” ~Hebrews 12:28-29 (Lexham English Bible)

© 2012 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

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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).

Day 915 of Giving Thanks

“For in Him the whole fullness of Deity (the Godhead) continues to dwell in bodily form [giving complete expression of the divine nature]. And you are in Him, made full and having come to fullness of life [in Christ you too are filled with the Godhead—Father, Son and Holy Spirit—and reach full spiritual stature]. And He is the Head of all rule and authority [of every angelic principality and power].” ~Colossians 2:9-10 (Amplified)

Don't you just love that? 

"in Him the whole fullness of Deity"
"[in Christ you too are filled with the Godhead—Father, Son and Holy Spirit—and reach full spiritual stature]"

We cannot measure up on our own, but we have, not only Christ in us, but the whole fullness of Deity! WOW... that's all I can say.

Without God there is much doubt, with God there is no doubt.

LORD, help me not allow others to take my joy, to stop me from working for You. Help me Father to stay strong, stand firm and stick to the plan. Thank You for correcting my actions, changing my heart and equipping me to do all that You have for me.

We all have someone in our life who we want to change, the flip of that is we all have people in our life who want us to change...

What are we to do?

Allow God to be the changer, as He is the lover of our soul and will make the right changes if we allow Him.

"Listen to me, you who pursue righteousness and who seek the Lord: Look to the rock from which you were cut and to the quarry from which you were hewn". ~Isaiah 51: 1 (New International Version)

It has been several weeks of attacks on many fronts, but I am totally encouraged. Just some thoughts.

I am finding that I am attacked through God's people more than through the world. I sit and wonder, "How is that possible"... "Doubt" set out to destroy the thoughts of the deliverer and the receiver. Stand firm, just because another believer says something to you, does not mean it's from God. We move steadily in the Word, constantly seeking wisdom through the Holy Spirit and asking for others to join us in prayer. Let us remember to edify our brothers and sisters; ask a question, rather than condemn or accuse. Remember when you speak to someone that you do not know the entire situation, don't assume; pray for wisdom and act as directed by the Holy Spirit.

I admit all the time I don't get everything right, but my heart is right in all I do.

Father I am trying so hard to be forgiving, yet my heart is really struggling this time. I have been dealing with a situation for quite some time and I have run out of steam. Please take this from me, take my feelings and comfort my soul with Your promise to never leave or forsake me. Help me to stand firm and seek and pray for wisdom continually. In the mighty name and saving work of Jesus, I pray.

"If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." ~James 1:5 (New International Version)

Father seeking guidance seems to be a full time job. Have you placed me here? Have you directed my steps here so that I can fully understand what it is to submit to You. Is this Your way of keeping me humble and connected? If it is, thank You for keeping me here, bringing me here and allowing me to be here. I appreciate Your wisdom and direction for all the days I breathe and live here.



© 2012 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

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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).

Day 914 of Giving Thanks by Tina Wetor

All of the dreams within my heart, I only share with a select few. Among my selected few is one of
the godliest women I have ever met, my mother. Although it’s a gift from the Spirit, her faith in God is
what I cherish the most. If it wasn’t for faith, we would have never met. Her sacrifice not only spared
my life; it cost her time with me. I can’t image the anguish within her spirit, even as a mother I can’t
fathom it. Yet, if it wasn’t for faith we would have never met. We have an unshakeable bond between us; our faith keeps us together.

Besides teaching me the Word, praying for me, my beach volleyball partner, her encouragement fueled my passion for God. When I would seek God in the endless hours of the night, she would never discourage me. As she would open my bedroom door, “Tina, I need you to pray quietly, I am going to bed.” So, I would try to be quiet to honor her request. As I continued to pray with all my heart, my voice would echo through the house. If I wrote a poem or a sermon, she was the first to read it. She never criticized my work; she praised all of my endeavors. She always made me feel, I would be the  next Kathryn Kuhlman.

As I have grown in my faith; it wasn’t without failures. What’s scary about a praying mother; God will reveal anything to her. Nothing will be hidden from a heart who truly seeks the Lord. Yet, besides my failures, God has spoken future plans about my life. When I was fourteen years old, my mother witnessed God’s call upon my life. It wasn’t just a remarkable moment; it’s been a journey of faith. When we walk by faith; we can’t see the finish line. When God places the vision inside one’s heart it can only be nurtured in prayer. As it’s nurtured in prayer; faith will complete God’s plan. Faith does not only believe what God said; it’s trains us to complete the run to the finish line. We keep the prize ahead  so we stay focused to hear, “Well, done thy good and faithful servant.”

When I was graduating college, I expected to be in full-time ministry. It hasn’t been easy to watch your classmates or friends follow the deepest desire of your heart. It’s been excruciating within my Spirit. As I have waited, prayed, and cried my mother has loving reminded me “God has a perfect time.”  Also, the tool to open the doors for ministry wasn’t my strength; it was a passion I discovered through my mother’s encouragement-writing.

One of the disadvantages of growing up in a small town is gossip. So, my mother’s occupation as a credit union teller can’t escape its fire. Yet, I am being praised at the city gates for my writing through my Facebook page and blog. She truly enjoys sharing those comments with me to keep me encouraged. Yet, she personally can’t read the blog because she doesn’t own a computer. Just recently my aunt purchased a computer, so she allowed my mother to read my blog. She was so touched with my words, she couldn’t stop crying. My aunt actually had to finish reading the blog for her. She was overwhelmed with joy of what God is doing. When she called me, I was again encouraged through her words.  “Daughter, do you realize you are preaching the Word? I am so proud of you.”

What child doesn’t want the praise of their parents? Sadly, it’s not received to most children who crave it or need it. Nevertheless, it caused me to reflect on an important truth about life. One day we will give an eternal account for what we did with our lives. If our sins are washed, we will not be judge for the sins. Yet, we will give account for every idle word, thought, and work. Our lives will reap an eternal reward before Christ; whether good or bad. Besides bring joyous tears to my mother, I long for Christ to be overjoyed with the talent I was given. As the evidence of my heart is revealed before Christ, may it bring honor to Him. "His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!' I can never repay Christ for His sacrifice but I can honor Him with my life.

© 2012 Remains with the original author, Tina Wetor

To read more of Tina's writing, visit her at
Anointed Manna
Web: http://www.anointedmanna.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Anointed-Manna/164352940332663




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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).

Day 913 of Giving Thanks

Sometimes it is in the pain that you realize all the glorious miracles... if there was no strife, no struggle, no pain, how would you know what you truly need? Daily I am led to the truth, as Christ leads me. I certainly don't understand much of my life's circumstances or all the reasons for things. But I do understand God's faithfulness.

This morning I had to remind myself, “Don't be overwhelmed with my day, be overwhelmed with my God”. 

It seems there are so many dealing with so much right now. Is it that when we have so much on our “to deal with” list, we become more sensitive to this in others? That is how I am feeling these days. There are many asking for extra prayer and support and the amazing and wonderful thing is that God, who is the source, will never run out of what we need. During this time, as we all wade through the spiritual battles we can remember that the LORD has sent us a Spiritual flood of His Living Water. Let us remember... let me say that again, LET US REMEMBER, who we live for and that HE IS OUR STRENGTH AND OUR SUSTENANCE.

He is our everything. I KNOW HE IS MY EVERYTHING.

I have said often that pain is my equalizer and keeps me coming to my Father... this week has been especially challenging, but I see a difference. My time with God is more praising and worship than begging and whining. I am grateful for growth and maturity. And, as I reflect on all that I am grateful for, I consider all the reasons my life is so filled with gratitude.

Why I am So Grateful

God’s faithfulness;

The wonderful family God has given me through the ministry groups I work with;

The obstacles and challenges that are continually come up;

The opportunities daily to be faithful and hopeful;

And, most of all the promises that become more and more embedded into who I am and who I am becoming according to His will. 

It all really comes down to the beginning of our salvation, the light that flooded the darkness. His light, in our dark hearts and the transformation we experiences through living in His light, living “in the light”. 

Experience of living “in the light” “Here, then, is the message which we heard from him, and now proclaim to you: GOD IS LIGHT and no shadow of darkness can exist in him. Consequently, if we were to say that we enjoyed fellowship with him and still went on living in darkness, we should be both telling and living a lie. But if we really are living in the same light in which he eternally exists, then we have true fellowship with each other, and the blood which his Son shed for us keeps us clean from all sin. If we refuse to admit that we are sinners, then we live in a world of illusion and truth becomes a stranger to us. But if we freely admit that we have sinned, we find God utterly reliable and straight forward—He forgives our sins and makes us thoroughly clean from all that is evil. For if we take up the attitude “we have not sinned”, we flatly deny God’s diagnosis of our condition and cut ourselves off from what he has to say to us.” ~1 John 1:5-10 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

© 2012 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

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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).

Morning Prayer ~ July 12, 2012

I read through an older post and this, once again caught my attention from Day 653 of Giving Thanks.

"As I read through Matthew, I stopped for some time in Chapter 8... then, on and on I read.

Wow, how He spoke to me. It appears to be subtle, yet it is very clear.
Healing - Jesus says to the leper, "I want to be clean." ~Matthew 8:3
Healing - complying to the Centurion, "Go. What you believed could happen has happened." ~Matthew 8:13

Now I take both of these verses to heart today and for this ‘continued season’ of physical pain. Today, I will go and what I believed could happen (healing, freedom from physical pain) HAS ALREADY HAPPENED… The Centurion believed that deeply, how can I believe with that much conviction and depth. This is the believe I desire wholly and completely. And, last week’s voyage through Mark gave me my next thought, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" ~Mark 9:24

"I want to..." the Lord Jesus' words to the leper. Oh Father, how we long to hear those words in our life, how we long to know them in our hearts, throughout our bodies and confirmed daily. We lift those up who are sick LORD God, those who are weak, tired or just uncertain that healing is to come. We thank You for giving us the greatest of healings through the power and eternal life through Christ Jesus. We thank You for giving us hope and joy because You love us so much. Today I stand firm, through the trials to face and the mountains to see moved before me. Help me Abba to see all the work that is done in my life, let me not miss anything. Let me not be blinded or distracted away from Your blessings. Let me not miss all the merciful acts through love and let me see grace in all of my life, especially through the rough spots and pitfalls. Help me now LORD as the day to come will be busy, full of the unexpected is really to be expected, and mostly LORD I pray for others, that this too will be their prayer. I pray for hope restored in those who have lost it. I pray for joy realized for those who have never experienced Your love. I pray for healing of sin in our lives, acceptance in the knowledge of what the Cross is. I pray for change mighty and perfect God in our hearts, and through to our actions. Thank You in the name of Jesus that all requests will be fulfilled, according to Your promises.

(New International Version)

Day 912 of Giving Thanks

I have been in Isaiah... it is the one book I have read over and over, and enjoy over and over.

"Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace you will rejoice in your inheritance. And so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours." ~Isaiah 61:7 (New International Version)

Let's break this down...
We have sinned, but we must let go of our past... and revel in the grace of His gift of eternity. Let us revel in all that He has for us.

EVERLASTING.... that is a big and wonderful word, wouldn't you agree?

Have you ever felt like the past decisions, mistakes, mishaps or just dumb actions have made an unfixable mess of your life?

You might, but GOD NEVER DOES. He is the amazing fixer.

He promises restoration in so much of His Word, and one of my favorites come from Isaiah.

"They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations." ~~Isaiah 61:4 (New International Version)

He does this, HE REBUILDS all that we tear down BUT restores us to what we are supposed to be. That is better, right?

"and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor." ~Isaiah 61:3 (New International Version)

Because of who He is, and because of who I am with Him, I rejoice. I am joyful and I experience all the amazing things that come with “Life with God”. 

I often reflect on what I no longer dwell on as I did in my past; I am not saying I have it all figured out and that I never go back, but I am saying that I contain the Holy Spirit and ask often to remember this. For it is when I remember the LORD in me that I can realize the life I have because of Him – I can remember all the changes that have been accomplished in me, and I realize how very fortunate I am to know the truth and to know that only with the truth can truth be wholly known.  Let me continue LORD. Let me come to realize all that You have for me.

I don't know about you, but I tend to wrap up all my emotions in a little box (compartment of my mind) and hold onto it until something makes it leak out and spill all over. Why do I do that? What is it that makes me vulnerable in this way? Sometimes I just don't have the answer to all my questions, but God has the answer to all questions; and I don't even have to know what the questions are. How about that!

Lord, take my little box and open it wide, help me to dump all that is there that can leak out and spill out all over. Help me to realize that I never have to store up any emotions or anxiety, but I AM TO STORE UP ALL THAT HE HAS FOR ME.

“All that You have for me (and you)” – promises, hope, mercy, tenderness, joy and so many other amazing things.

© 2012 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

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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).

Day 911 of Giving Thanks

I have been in the middle of a raging Spiritual battle, and the most blessing time I can remember. Isn’t it funny how that works? Let me just say that we can see blessings even through the disappointments and uncertainty of our lives. Let us pray for wisdom in this area today. Let us be certain of who we serve and that is our appointment and the one we keep... removing the "dis"es in our lives and going toward the goal.

What a day. Actually what a week. I have been on vacation from work for a week, and although I am not quite ready to go back, I am honored to work for Christ. I am praying fervently for a changed heart and an open Spirit to see all the goodness of my position, as I pray for a change of position. This week, like so many others, I have needed direction. It seems the more I seek God, the more I realize I cannot be rightly guided without Him. It is a wonderful thing to know that the CREATOR (our Creator) of the universe resides in me, as my helper, counselor and lover of my soul.

No matter what the circumstances, with God, I know,“He has made everything beautiful in its time. He also has planted eternity in men’s hearts and minds [a divinely implanted sense of a purpose working through the ages which nothing under the sun but God alone can satisfy], yet so that men cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.” ~Ecclesiastes 3:11 (Amplified Bible)

It is yet another day of worship with the LORD. I continue in my communion with the Him. Let my praises be heard and let my heart be absorbed in His presence.

What a day. Actually, what a week. I was on vacation for the last week, and although I am not quite ready to go back, I am honored to work for Christ. I am praying fervently for a changed heart and an open Spirit to see all the goodness of my position, as I pray for a change of position.

A new position - that is what I ask for… but I have already received a new position, it was the position of “daughter of the King”, “Child of God” and a “New creature in Christ”!!!

“Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old things have passed away; behold, new things have come.” ~2 Corinthians 5:17 (Lexham English Bible)

“Finally, let’s draw near to the throne of favor with confidence so that we can receive mercy and find grace when we need help.” ~Hebrews 4-16 (Common English Bible)

© 2012 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

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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).

Day 910 of Giving Thanks

I started in the Sermon of the Mount today, and landed here.

“The good person from his good treasury brings out good things, and the evil person from his evil treasury brings out evil things. But I tell you that every worthless word that they speak, people will give an account for it on the day of judgment! For by your words you will be vindicated, and by your words you will be condemned.” ~Matthew 12:35-37 (Lexham English Bible)

Every day we are challenged with decisions. And every day we live with the fruit or the ramifications of those decisions, whether immediate or latter on down the road; this really hit home when I started to take complete responsibility for my actions.

LORD forgive me for my moments of doubt in my days. Forgive me for asking for the same thing over and over, as if You don’t realize what I am requesting. Help me to see the right things to ask for and to do... Let me be watchful and aware, let my intentions be intentional.

"My cross to bear", this phrase has come up quite a bit lately. As I ponder this statement, my heart really breaks for Christ, as I tend to make such a big deal over what I go through, and what He went through cannot even be comprehended... shed light LORD on what is truly "My cross to bear" and what is self-pity. She light LORD on what is to be worked through or delivered from. Let me be constantly enlightened, continually growing and wonderfully fulfilled in the process.

He is calling if you can't hear Him, you are not listening.

How do I know this? Because He left us with His Word.... and we have His favor, experience His mercy and revel in His grace.

I hear often, “My intention was…” And as I think back on my life, I find that I said this often. And every time I said this the situation did not turn out the way I intended… so, in my heart I am equating, intention for IN-TENSION. This is not a judgment, but an observation. Many intend to do much, intend to be better, intend to do good – now I ask LORD for Your intervention and the intervening to see my path rightly, so “my intend” is "Your intend" for me. My mind reels with this… my heart, my mind and my actions, let them be worthy and let me be led in humility and in Spirit. 

“The LORD’s word came to me:  Human one, speak to your people and say to them: Suppose I bring a sword against a country, and the people of the land take a certain person from their assembly and make him their lookout. When he sees the sword coming against the land, he blows the trumpet and warns the people. If they hear the sound of the trumpet but don’t heed the warning, when the sword comes and they are taken away, they are responsible for their blood. They heard the sound of the trumpet but didn’t heed the warning, so their blood is on them. If they had paid attention to the warning, they would have saved their lives.  If the lookout sees the sword coming but doesn’t blow the trumpet to warn the people, when the sword comes and takes away any of them, they are taken away in their sin, but I’ll hold the lookout responsible for their blood.” ~Ezekiel 33:1-6 (Common English Bible)

© 2012 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

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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).