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Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Day 955 of Giving Thanks


“so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” ~ Ephesians 3:17-19 (New International Version)

There are so many things that distract me from focusing on what needs to be done. Does this break God’s heart, what does it do to my heart? If I focus on dwelling in my Savior, trusting his path, believing I am His, then my heart is full of Him completely. If I dwell in the possibility that He knows the right way, the next step and is my perfect plan, then my heart is full of Him completely. If I am aware of His presence and adhere to His desires for my life, then my heart is full of Him completely.

Help me Father to discern and navigate at a different level. Let me not be passive about my direction, my goals, YOUR PLANS FOR MY LIFE.  As I look at things, as an idea comes into my mind, thank the LORD, then ask Him to show me what to do with this thought toward action. If we can draw/train our minds to think along with the Holy Spirit for direction (knowledge is good, wisdom in using that knowledge is the key), we can be in step with God’s plan and direction for our lives. Wisdom tells us how to use any particular knowledge we have.

I really and truly love everyone, but I am mostly blessed by those who are not hyper-critical of others... grace is not just what we receive from God, but what we should be sharing with others, brothers and sisters in the LORD also. Let us be aware of how we treat others. Quite honestly, I get greatly distracted by others and how I am treated - and rather than looking at who I am AND WHOSE I AM, I can get derailed by what others say. It seems the last few or five years have been years of change, beyond any change I could have imagined, and growth I could only dream of, and I am still changing, still growing – all praises as I continue to step out in faith, step out in confidence that the LORD gives me.  With every day that goes by I am convinced more and more that I am being drawn nearer and nearer; whether through my trials, or through His triumphs in my life. Thankfully, there are many more changes to occur.

“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” ~Ephesians 2:10 (New Living Translation)

I am excited for many things going on, and I am learning to let go of the fear, the worry and the apprehension.  You are my courage, my “letting go” and my reason to step out. I am excited to step in to the masterpiece you have for me in this life and toward the next.


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

*****************
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, October 30, 2012

Day 954 of Giving Thanks


My encounter with fear like nothing else threw me for a loop recently. Today as I sit here asking God for favor and a ‘miracle’ with this one situation and among many distractions, the light bulb went on in my heart – this heart of mine which does not always see the light, but does know who is the light; this heart that often feels very heavy, yet knows who carries the weight; this heart that doesn't see all that is around me, but desires never to be blinded; this heart that was broken and is whole, even when I don’t notice.

Jesus, You are my heart’s desire, my heart’s need and my heart’s everything. We are fickle, fragile and forgetful people, help us to remember who our hearts belong to and how simple it is to know our heart’s owner and our provider for all things. I am reminded that “I can do all things through Christ” and no matter what comes my way, I can trust “Father knows best”, His plan is perfect while I am being perfected.

Friends, you are on my heart today as I dwell in my Father’s presence and come to Him on our behalf. May we see Him, know His grace and recognize His mercies and favor in our lives. May we, as Your children LORD be ever aware of who You are for us. May we seek to understand and adhere to Your ways. May we let go of all that is not You in our hearts and work diligently to hear Your desire for our lives as we learn to service you more intently and know You more deeply. Amen.



Again, I say, “My life is a prayer”, “His will be mine”, “My heart’s desires flow from His desires for me.” My personal prayer… Can I let go LORD? Can I see all that is evil and wrong in my heart, and through my thoughts? Help my thoughts be pure and clear.  As you taught us and are trying to teach us through Your instruction in Matthew .

“This, then, is how you should pray:
“‘Our Father(A) in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
Your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
And forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one." ~Matthew 6:9-13 (New International Version)

In reviewing "the LORD's prayer" today in our teaching on How to Pray, Imitating Jesus, our pastor reminded us that it really is not "the LORD's prayer" but "our prayer". During his reminder, I was truly convicted that it's not the mantra of the prayer (the words, the structure) but the rhythm of the prayer, the heart of the prayer and the obedience of the prayer.

I have been absent much during these past many weeks, and I apologize and praise God for the other teammates who pray with you all. I have been having my share of attacks, but probably not what you think. I know I have grown in so many ways while on this journey and fellow-shipping with you all, but as all of us, there are a couple of areas where I can greatly attack myself (forget anything the enemy slings at me) through doubt from habit, worry from habit, insecurities from habit... what good do all those things serve. In my heart today, I asked myself, "if I am not serving God through my actions, then who am I serving?"

We all have issues, it comes with this fleshly clothing... and thankfully, all of us here has God as well, WHO, BY THE WAY, loves us even in our covering of flesh. What I really desire is to desire Him through everything. What do I mean? In my tiredness, my doubtfulness, my anxiety, my fear, I hide. Do any of you do that (you don't have to answer here); do any of you fear even the complete healing for fear that there will be nothing else to hang on to?

The challenge was given by this much wiser (much younger) pastor today. When we come before the LORD and ask, make sure we ask with a clear heart... is there unforgiveness, resentment, fear, a troubled heart, (fill in the blank)... if so, God is getting less of us... and HE WANTS ALL OF US IN OUR SPECIAL TIME WITH HIM... the dark, the empty, the shallow, the selfishness, the hurt, the pride....


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

*****************
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, October 28, 2012

Day 953 of Giving Thanks


This article was written for a friend's blog earlier this year.

Because of Jesus I am Not Afraid, and so much more….

My first thought, “I am not afraid, because of Jesus.” Then my mind reeled in so many directions, I thought narrowing it down would be impossible, yet all things are possible because of Jesus. Then I prayed and prayed some more – and there is the answer right there. Because of Jesus, I am not afraid to live and experience living. Because of Jesus, I am not afraid to accept forgiveness or to give forgiveness to others, especially myself. Because of Jesus, I am not afraid to change. Because of Jesus, I have access to unlimited strength, power and courage with the gift of the Holy Spirit.

When I am unsure, I pray. When I am baffled, I pray. When I am confused, I pray. Everything I do is prayer. My life, my thoughts, my deeds and my intentions and all of my life is interceded for continually.

Because of Jesus my life is one of unending gifts. Gift upon gift, beginning with the ultimate gift of salvation from a mighty God, through the blood of our savior – and yet, there is even more, we get a helper too – God became man, died as man and became our King, whom we not only bow down to but whom we possess within our hearts as well. Glorifying Him from within and all through my life.

God has given me an amazing gift, and that is being thankful and encouraging others… but the real secret is knowing why I am thankful and that in itself will encourage me.

Because of Jesus, I can face everything that this world delivers, because Jesus was delivered! He died for me because He loved me first. He is coming back because He loves me always.


Visit Powerfully Speaking, and Jennifer White on Facebook.


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

*****************
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, October 25, 2012

Day 952 of Giving Thanks


Even in my “flat out tired”, He is my strength and everything.

Thank you Abba for wonderful friends, my prayer warriors, confidants and support. Father, I am having some of those old insecurities again pertaining to one area of my life. I am overwhelmed with the uncertainty and the tasks at hand. I pray Father that I can be calmed through Your promise to hold me close in times of trouble, and this is my heart today. Help me prepare what needs to be done and accomplished, to be confident in the work I do and in the manner it which it is done. Let me not be troubled by "what others think, say or do", as I know I have done the "best" I can. Help me with all the unspoken fears and to not worry about something that may not come to fruition. Let me be calmed... collected and together.

LORD, I am really needing You during this time of my life, and it seems I spent more time in Your Word when things were going awesome. What is that? How can I possibly avoid what is needed so much? Help be in the drenching through Your Word during this time, be with me during this time of straying to the desert when the rivers are so nearby. As I head into this weekend Father, prepare me, give me the opportunity to speak what needs to be shared, ask what needs to be questioned and aware of all the things I need to confront. Help me Father to continue to praise in all circumstances. I thank You mighty and perfect God for giving me all that I need, all that is for me and all that will ever be needed. In the name of Jesus and in the power of the Holy Spirit I ask boldly for a sincere conviction of my heart, through Your work, and in Your strength for I have no strength, no will to push through or press in... help me do this Father. Amen.

Let me run to You for shelter… into Your loving and perfect arms for refuge.

"Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” ~Psalms 91:1-2 (New International Version)

So many Father feel helpless or hopeless in their circumstances; help me not be one of hopelessness. The amazing thing is that we can always help ourselves - if we cannot do it, You are faithful with Your children (to me) and pick up the pieces of our circumstances. In Your will all things are accomplished, through our obedience to Your Word, we are heard - our cries, our pleas, our prayers.

Let us be obedient and desire to be in Your will. Let us be wholly and completely Yours as we follow Your desire for our lives, or correct when we do not. Let us believe in the impossible, through the possibilities of Your works in us.

"The Lord rules over the deep waters; He rules as king forever. The Lord gives strength to his people and blesses them with peace." ~Psalm 29:10-11 (Good News Translation)

Anyone can write. Few can be inspired to write. Thank You Father for giving me You daily, as well as always showing me the words to share, the words to pursue and the words to live by.

"Into your hands I commit my spirit; redeem me O Lord, the God of truth." ~ Psalm 31: 5 (New International Version)
"I will praise You, Lord, for You have rescued me. You refused to let my enemies triumph over me. O Lord my God, I cried out to You for help, and You restored my health. You brought me up from the grave, O Lord. You kept me from falling into the pit of death." Psalm 30:1-3 (New Living Translation)

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

*****************
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, October 24, 2012

Day 951 of Giving Thanks


Do you trust the LORD or just say you do? Do you believe that He died for you or just say He did? Do you live in hope, or just hope to someday?

These questions I ask myself often. Then I remind myself… Trust the trustworthy and faithful God...

Are you having trouble with this? Begin with something small, remember it's “us” who put the walls up; not our King and Savior – He tore them all down on the cross.

Honestly, I do have trouble with this; I say I trust… then fret over something that “might” come up and probably will never happen anyway. I have never been a worrier, yet I worry... this is my “need to work on”, one of several.

If we feel there is nothing that we need to work on, but so much others do... then we are living in denial of the truth pertaining to our own sinful, deceitful and lying self. We are all in need of change, growth and God's intervention in our life. We cannot be fully healed in these bodies, but completely submitted to the change He has for us. Let us be aware of all that we must change, and watch while God works on everyone else. I praise You Father for all You do to keep me moving in Your direction. I thank You that I can recognize that I need change, and I appreciate when I am reminded of such.

"He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside still waters."~Psalm 23:2 (American Standard Version)
"Even there shall Your hand lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me."~Psalm 139:10 (Amplified Bible)

Selfish and prideful are the moments when your needs are greatest in your heart and mind... Selfless is when you put others first, and trust the Holy Spirit in you to do so.

We are a society of "giving up" so easily... maybe it's because we "get so much in abundance" and just expect things to be easier than they are. LORD God, tonight I want to lay something down, walk away, cry about it or just say, “no more”, yet I cannot. I am not sure I really want “easy”, but hard is too hard right now. I am not sure what is next, but I pray that I can see the steps to be taken, and the path to follow and the instructions and corrections to heed as I make decisions... Father, let me be wise in my daily actions. Let me edify You through all that I do. Let me remove my needs for the needs of others, especially in the toughest of times. Let me see You in all those I am to love, especially when I don't see a way to love them. Amen.


The enemy, who greatly uses the ways of the world will bring you down through comfort and complacency. Don't be fooled by niceties and compliments; allow the Holy Spirit to guide You and Your every move. Be comforted by knowing that You are doing things according to God's will and His plan, AND in obedience... His strength will get you through, your own will wear you out.

Are you down? Depressed? Feeling sorry for yourself? Feeling alone? Wondering where God is?

It's time to let go of these "feelings" and grab onto His promise that "I will never leave nor forsake you...", "You are fearfully and wonderfully made..."

HE LOVES YOU SO MUCH, HE GAVE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE... His shed blood.

HE LOVES ME SO MUCH, HE GAVE THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE… His shed blood, for me.

As I settle in and look to hear You Father, I receive this verse and I will ponder it for a while, as I work to “let go”, allow You to lift me and rest in Your assurances.

“A pretentious, showy life is an empty life;    a plain and simple life is a full life.The rich can be sued for everything they have,    but the poor are free of such threats.The lives of good people are brightly lit streets;    the lives of the wicked are dark alleys.Arrogant know-it-alls stir up discord,    but wise men and women listen to each other’s counsel. Easy come, easy go,    but steady diligence pays off. Unrelenting disappointment leaves you heartsick,    but a sudden good break can turn life around. Ignore the Word and suffer;    honor God’s commands and grow rich. The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life,    so, no more drinking from death-tainted wells! Sound thinking makes for gracious living,    but liars walk a rough road. A commonsense (through God's Word and guidance) person lives good sense;    fools litter the country with silliness. Irresponsible talk makes a real mess of things,    but a reliable reporter is a healing presence.” ~ Proverbs 13:7-17 (The Message)

I love this last line… “but a reliable reporter is a healing presence.”

Sometimes taking that next step is a scary one; sure footing may not be possible, but knowing that God is holding on to me will force me to step anyway. I don’t want to be a bring a message of discouragement through the days I live out, I want to be an example of God’s hope and the amazing joy through Christ’s work on the cross. If I can do anything in this life, let it be that.


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

*****************
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).

A Note on Marriage - by Shawn Boreta


"Love one another" is for all of us, including husband and wife. Often we allow our past to cloud our present, our hurts to run over into our actions, our tongue to slay as we have been slain, to beat down, as we have been beaten. Intentionally, probably not, but completely avoidable.


“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 15:12 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

I am guilty. No one is innocent. We all react because of our past, rather than act in the nature that we have been given. Here's my challenge to all those having trouble in your marriage.

STOP before speaking. PRAY for wisdom and guidance, and don't speak until you have spent some time with your Savior. ACT in righteousness in the strength of the Holy Spirit.

Wives, be pleasing to your husbands; a compliment, encourager and lover.

"At all times and for everything giving thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father.Be subject to one another out of reverence for Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).Wives, be subject (be submissive and adapt yourselves) to your own husbands as [a service] to the Lord.For the husband is head of the wife as Christ is the Head of the church, Himself the Savior of [His] body.As the church is subject to Christ, so let wives also be subject in everything to their husbands.Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her,So that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the Word,That He might present the church to Himself in glorious splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such things [that she might be holy and faultless]." ~Ephesians 5:20-27 (Amplified Bible)

written for the Facebook page, Three Strands Strong
 

Saturday, October 20, 2012

Day 950 of Giving Thanks


We all go through rough patches and down times. I have been going through some myself. And today I finally admitted to myself that I am and can be in a vulnerable state. But this vulnerable state is only an emotion. Emotions are changeable, wouldn't you agree?

I am willing to open up to this change and allowing the Holy Spirit to take control, to lead the way, to give me strength and show me how.

“But because you, my brothers, are not living in darkness the day cannot take you completely by surprise. After all, burglary only takes place at night! You are all sons of light, sons of the day, and none of us belongs to darkness or the night. Let us then never fall into the sleep that stupefies the rest of the world: let us keep awake, with our wits about us. Night is the time for sleep and the time when men get drunk, but we men of the daylight should be alert, with faith and love as our breastplate and the hope of our salvation as our helmet. For God did not choose us to condemn us, but that we might secure his salvation through Jesus Christ our Lord. He died for us, so that whether we are “awake” or “asleep” we share his life. So go on cheering and strengthening each other with thoughts like these, as I have no doubt you have been doing.
Reverence your ministers: regulate the conduct of church members“We ask you too, my brothers, to get to know those who work so hard among you. They are your spiritual leaders to keep you on the right path. Because of this high task of theirs, hold them in highest honour.
“Live together in peace, and our instruction to this end is to reprimand the unruly, encourage the timid, help the weak and be very patient with all men. Be sure that no one repays a bad turn by a bad turn; good should be your objective always, among yourselves and in the world at large. Be happy in your faith at all times. Never stop praying. Be thankful, whatever the circumstances may be. If you follow this advice you will be working out the will of God expressed to you in Jesus Christ." ~1 Thessalonians 5:4-15 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

Have I thanked You LORD for showing me the right ways?

Here is what I have learned, rough patches are how we grow and learn who God is… We can be greatly encouraged, as well as greatly discouraged. We have a choice. Here is how I chose to be encouraged. This page, right here... started because I told God, "I need to be encouraged..."

He said, "Encourage others, put others first, and you will be greatly encouraged." Just because you are educated, scholarly and "book smart", it does not make you wise - learning through the Holy Spirit is where the true wisdom resides.... I will take my high school education and God's inpouring to me any day over years of education and self-involvement alone. I love education, and educated people... but trust God's Word more. 

Just saying.

Are you waiting for God to fix you? Well, He is waiting for you to trust His presence and do for yourself what you can do, and trust that He will be there when you need Him.



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

*****************
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, October 19, 2012

Just Saying by Ron McIntyre



Disappointments are inevitable. Discouragement is a choice.

So how do you choose, because the choice is ALWAYS yours!!!!!!

When you think about your life, and I speak to myself as well, isn't it amazing if we're honest with ourselves how many disappointments we experience are actually self imposed? -- We make predictions, we have expectations, we believe false promises, we allow the enemy to tempt our flesh with pleasure, etc. And yet, none of the above is hardly ever thought about through accurate thinking, but rather with no thought or so called common sense.

No wonder we have problems, eh?

And more important we do have a God that loves us so much He forgives our foolishness -- now -- how about that?????

...just saying

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Just a Thought - Ron McIntyre


Just a thought to consider---Any hardships that God asks us to endure for His sake will one day seem like nothing in comparison to His reward ( see Roman 8:18) and NOTHING will be the reward for choosing anything in His place (see Matthew 25:30).

Sounds simple, but is this what we do? Do we really endure for His sake? Do we praise Him during our times of hardship? Do we mean it or do we give lip service? I have been guilty of lip service in the past and I pray that I never do it again. I pray for all you in this family that none of you fall short of true praise to our Father, our Creator and our Savior. I pray that all of you truly enjoy His love, His grace, His forgiveness and that you have complete peace and joy in Him. You are my family, His family and I want each and everyone to know that I personally have come to love you all as my true brothers and sisters in this wonderful family of God.

Strength and Honor


"And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." ~Matthew 25:30 
Present Suffering and Future Glory"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." ~Romans 8:18
(New International Version)

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Day 949 of Giving Thanks

Every day is a new day to rest in Him; take all your worries and concerns and put them where they belong... in God's hands.

"This is the message that we have heard from him and announce to you: “God is light and there is no darkness in him at all.” ~1 John 1:5 (Common English Version)

I love 1 John when I am needing to remember God's love, I read through it and am encouraged greatly...
I am really contemplating something today. I haven't felt good in a week, a cold or something. I notice when I am tired, not feeling well or just frustrated, I look at things differently and often with the wrong lenses. am wondering if it is an act of avoidance. I have done very little for five days now – I am very tired, a little down and ready for something “to give” in my life. It's not that my life is "bad" or "unbearable", it's just that I really desire a change, yet feel quite stuck in this funk.

I know that I can pray my heart out, and have others pray for me, but NOTHING WILL happen until I take action, move forward in faith and step out of these feelings.

Father, I ask for strength and courage to believe it can be different. That I can be who You designed me to be. That I am more than what I see in the mirror, in the reflection of this life that is filled with work, not fitting; illness, not desired – but I know that it is up to me to make the changes necessary to have fulfilled work and a healthy outlook. As I pray today, I am reminded greatly of the opportunity I have daily to seek You and Your will for my life. I am greatly aware that I have vastly squandered my time, the precious time You have given me... and I also realize that I must fully come to the end of me before I can wholly devour all that You have for me. I have lived wastefully and desire so much to live in abundant gratitude and thankfulness that I can shine and completely believe. With the faith of a mustard seed Father, I am ready, take me to the promise land and help me to see through new eyes, Your eyes as I look upon this life that is my life, but belongs to You. Amen.

And, again I make the choice to be encouraged and live for Him. Again, I step out in faith, and realize what needs “to give” is me… give daily all that I am to what has to be done and accomplished. It is me that needs to be the action behind the change through the amazing strength, power and will of a mighty God. Sometimes we have to slow down to keep up. Learning to rest in the LORD is a worthwhile way to spend our time... and as I mentally and physically prepare to begin again tomorrow, I keep Him in mind and on my mind. Let me not be discouraged, for a discouraged heart breaks on a whim, and a prepared and hopeful heart soars through fires and knowing that freedom, even amongst the flames is right here within me.

“It is to freedom that you have been called, my brothers. Only be careful that freedom does not become mere opportunity for your lower nature. You should be free to serve each other in love. For after all, the whole Law toward others is summed up by this one command, ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself’.” ~Galatians 5:13 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

For me, freedom has been realized through much prayer and getting to know my Father in heaven. Freedom is through knowing You Father God. Thank You for loving me and giving me so much through the blood of Jesus, for You Jesus for Your work on the cross and Your love so great that You saved me. I praise You God and appreciate the lessons that are so great in this life. I praise You for lifting from the muck and mire of this world and Your promises of an eternity with You. I love You and I am so humbled by Your love. Amen



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

*****************
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).


Sunrise by Shawn Boreta


Sunrise

It is early, and the light comes up over the tree tops - 
and it is an amazing thing to see. 

O’ my glorious and wonderful God thank You for being with me as
 I wake and ushering me through my morning and perfecting me in this life, 
I am truly grateful.

I look out the window and a I am truly mesmerized by all the amazing colors 
I see, blue of many shades, white, yet not white and very white, shades of green that change 
with the wind, browns and pinks and yellows fill the lenses of my eyes. 

And, it is all that You see Lord, but so much less. Help me to see today what You see. 
Give me vision like Yours where You desire it so, and keep me focused and clear as 
I try to grasp all the glory and wonder of my life with You. 

It is still early, and the light enters deep into my heart and radiates greatly around me – 
what an amazing thing to experience. 



© 2012 Shawn Boreta

Monday, October 15, 2012

Be Present in Everything You Do - by Darci Escandon

Be Present in Everything You Do 

by Darci Escandon



Give up the past. 
I know, I know. It’s hard. 

Especially when the past affects us in such a deep and profound way, and now the future looks so frightening, but you have to take into consideration the fact that the present moment is all you have and all you will ever have. 
The past you are no longer affected by – the past no longer exists, there is no time machine. 
Stop deluding yourself.
Be present in everything you do and enjoy life. 
After all life is a journey not a destination. 

Have a clear vision for the future, prepare yourself, but always be present in the now.


©2012 Darci Escandon, Ps139 group

Day 948 of Giving Thanks

Life is an adventure... an amazing opportunity daily to discover new things in this world, as well as about ourselves. Adventures can be those of planning, or those of mishap, or those of divine arrangement, but no matter what the adventure we can know that we are not in this alone, and there is a plan and purpose just for each one of us. For me the adventure is captured through prayer and petition to my amazing Father in heaven. I can summarize my last week in these following words...



I am so grateful for El Roi.

Right now it seems the only one who sees me is God... and I am learning that is enough for right now. There are days when I have serious brushes with the enemy - and what can I do but pray; what can I do but trust; what can I do but cry out to God to strengthen me and encourage me through His promises. The enemy will tell you anything and everything to bring you up from your knees... how comfortable are you? Maybe it's time to be a little uncomfortable to be more aware of how much damage satan's ways can do...

El Roi, The God Who Sees....

He cares for every hair on my head, every worry and concern, every arrow that is pierced deeply into my emotions... I cry out El Roi, and thank You for being the God Who Sees all that is before me, all that has occurred and all that is endured.

Father, for all these times when this world just seems to be so hard, and I can run to You and be strengthened and be comforted by all You have shared with me and all that You will reveal to me. Thank You for being here right now, in this moment when I feel so alone in my household and so upheavaled in these emotions. Let me be comforted now. Let me feel safe, that someone truly does love me and I am not alone. I am not alone. Thank you Jehovah Shammah - for you are here... Amen.


"The Lord is good, a Strength and Stronghold in the day of trouble; He knows (recognizes, has knowledge of, and understands) those who take refuge and trust in Him." ~Nahum 1:7 (Amplified Bible)


Wherever you are, there He will be... Let us live in a way that invites Him in – in all the moments of our days, and all the times of this adventure.

Overwhelmed
Overwhelmed and no longer burdened because 
I know that I am Yours better than I know anything 
else that runs through this heart and mind.
I am looking to be overwhelmed LORD...

Overwhelmed with Your promises.
Overwhelmed with grace in my heart for others.
Overwhelmed with a peace that pain 
no longer matters and Your presence is 
everything I need...
Overwhelmed and willing to visualize and embrace 
Your amazing goodness through all these earthly distractions.

Overwhelmed and no longer burdened because I know that 
I am Yours better than I know anything else that runs 
through this heart and mind.

Your promises I hold. Your grace I embrace. 
Your peace I revel in. You I hold dear and close.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I don't know about you, but I find myself "fighting" through so many feelings that I loose focus - Stop fighting feelings and embrace His promises.

"Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully." ~1 Peter 5:7 (Amplified Bible)


God has many promises, which are shared on this page every day. The feelings are different for everyone... Mine were insecurities... fighting things like "I'm not good enough", "I'm a failure"... His promise of WE ARE WONDERFULLY MADE, LOVED BEYOND MEASURE BY OUR CREATOR, WE HAVE A PLAN AND A PURPOSE.

You are here LORD, and I am grateful. I am learning to recognize You more and more. Thank You that Your presence is a fact, and not a feeling. Thank You that I can trust You and be with You at any moment, in every moment.

Thank You LORD for capturing all of our tears, and being with us through all our sorrows and pain. Thank You Father for giving us peace and hope even in the midst of attacks, physical and spiritual. We love You and so want to glorify You inall things. Help us to come out from under the covers when we want to pull them over our heads; to get dressed when we want to stay in our pajamas; to smile and experience joy in the moments that are less than perfect (which is every moment)... because perfection will not be here. Amen.

"The Lord gives perfect peace to those whose faith is firm." ~Isaiah 26:3 (Contemporary English Version)

LORD, I am in need.... it has been a day of being overwhelmed, under-appreciated and one moment of of being quite defensive - effectively responding in an old pattern, which came out of the blue. Oh LORD, being humbled through my own words brings me running to Your Word. Although the Words that flew out of my mouth in complete form, and way too late to retract them... So, LORD, I will continue to praise You through the evening and wait to hear from You Father how I can remedy this one...

"Do everything without complaining or arguing. Then you will be blameless and innocent. You will be God’s children without any faults among people who are crooked and corrupt. You will shine like stars among them in the world as you hold firmly to the word of life. Then I can brag on the day of Christ that my effort was not wasted and that my work produced results." ~Philippians 2:14-16 (GOD’S WORD Translation)

As the weekend closes out, we thank You for giving us time with You and an opportunity to be in Your presence through our week and all of our days. Thank You for giving us hope daily, love eternally and joy unending. Amen

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

*****************
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, October 10, 2012

Day 947 of Giving Thanks


A Day Off
… time with God
… visit my doctor
… quick grocery run
… grab mom and off to have lunch with a friend
… run a few errands and shopping with mom
… nap
… read
… walk with my daughter
… write and study

“Since then it is by faith that we are justified, let us grasp the fact that we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have confidently entered into this new relationship of grace, and here we take our stand, in happy certainty of the glorious things he has for us in the future.
“This doesn’t mean, of course, that we have only a hope of future joys—we can be full of joy here and now even in our trials and troubles. Taken in the right spirit these very things will give us patient endurance; this in turn will develop a mature character, and a character of this sort produces a steady hope, a hope that will never disappoint us. Already we have some experience of the love of God flooding through our hearts by the Holy Spirit given to us.” ~Romans 5:1-5 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

Father, this day is Yours. Help me as I talk with the doctor, help me discern, evaluate and trust my gut. Help me know what to do, how to react and respond as I go through my day. I need the Holy Spirit work here now and tomorrow. If healing is Your will LORD, let it be. If I am to deal with being tired, grow show me how I am to do this… for I am at a loss, not disheartened, not discouraged, just tired of being tired. Help me to know Your strength. Amen.

This is part of a prayer I wrote as I sat waiting in the doctor’s office, and what landed in my heart as I waited, was that I was not in that room alone. What I pondered, wrote and scribbled was the cry that was for God (those words are not here...) But in this process I sensed that hope was not going to be in the words my doctor, although his words could be hopeful; my hope lies in the knowledge of being His daughter, loved so greatly that I am already healed. This is not a new revelation, in my heart, deep from that inner voice I constantly hear, “I am enough!” That inner voice is the voice of a Father who has always known me, watches over me, encourages me through many avenues and battles the battles I never see. The Savior who wins the wars that are hidden from these earthly eyes and the Savior who whispers, “keep going, the hard part is already won; keep pressing in for I know the words you need; take heart, capture my promises in the deepest part of your heart and mind; know that I am here and you are mine…” That inner voice is the Holy Spirit, God’s gift reminding me of who I am as well as whose I am. 

“There is no comparison between God’s gift and Adam’s failure. If humanity died as the result of one person’s failure, it is certainly true that God’s kindness and the gift given through the kindness of one person, Jesus Christ, have been showered on humanity.” ~Romans 5:15 (GOD’S Word Translation)

The Word of the LORD does not compare to any good or even great news of this world; but as we grow and learn His will and plans for our life, this journey is one of great expectation. Even when what is received is different than what was “expected in the flesh”, we can trust that what we experience “in the Spirit” is greater than expected in every instance… We can expect great things because of the “good news we were freely given”.

So, as this day completes, I am grateful for all things accomplished, and all those that were not. My list was complete, but I did not complete my list. I did exactly what He knew I would and I will pray for the greatest of gleanings as I rest and rest in the work of the Holy Spirit as I sleep.

In closing, mighty, faithful and perfect God, thank You for this day, a “day off”; for the time spent with family and the time spent in contemplation. Thank You for all the changes in my heart and in my body. Thank You that I can glorify and honor You through the good, great and otherwise indescribable moments. And, if Your will, You know my deepest and most heartfelt desires. Amen.




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

*****************
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, October 8, 2012

Day 946 of Giving Thanks


We often set our minds on something and pray, pray, pray... I have tried to bargain with God in the past suggested I do and He can do or give to receive and all together neglect to ask Him, "God, what is Your plan?"

We will not understand His ways in the middle of the circumstance, but we can ask Him to give us eyes to see what is truly there.

You could start asking, "How LORD can I do this even though it's not what I desire or planned?" OR "What God can I do differently to see Your ways as the desire of my heart?"

There are so many things that I “want” to accomplish, and I tend to lean on an old habit of “pushing through”, and in most cases this is ok – pushing through an emotion, or a storm, or even a task… but the LORD tells us often to “rest in Him” as we go about our daily living. In this life, we will encounter circumstances that are not pleasant, and far from appealing, however, we can know (because He promises us) that He is with us for every moment of whatever we come upon. So, my constant “push and pull” is do I keep pushing through the exhaustion? Do I rest and slow down? Do I …?

I run full on to my Father in heaven and trust that whatever I do, He already knows regardless of “push or pull”, and I wait for confirmation, confirmation and clarification.

God’s encouragements are adequate for all life’s troubles“Thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, that he is our Father and the source of all mercy and comfort. For he gives us comfort in our trials so that we in turn may be able to give the same sort of strong sympathy to others in theirs. Indeed, experience shows that the more we share Christ’s suffering the more we are able to give of his encouragement. This means that if we experience trouble we can pass on to you comfort and spiritual help; for if we ourselves have been comforted we know how to encourage you to endure patiently the same sort of troubles that we have ourselves endured. We are quite confident that if you have to suffer troubles as we have done, then, like us, you will find the comfort and encouragement of God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-7 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

And, what I realize is that it's not the "push and pull" that is needed, it's the drawing nearer to Him that is the key. So now, let me pray, pray, pray and trust… pray, pray, pray and act… pray, pray, pray.




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

*****************
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).

Saturday, October 6, 2012

Forever Grateful - A Note from Ron McIntyre


Forever Grateful
A Note from Ron McIntyre

Don't ever doubt that hell is real!!----Hell is a place of suffering and restlessness, because its doomed souls are forever separated from God, the only One who could have made them whole.--(See Rev 14:11 and Isiah 48:22)- "There is no peace for the wicked."

We are so blessed to know the Lord and to know that everlasting life will be spent wit Him, to know that tears and sadness will never be a part of our lives again, NEVER!!

Most of us in this family (called the church) will never meet each other physically on this earth, but we KNOW that one day we WILL meet and forever share joy and love in abundance, more than we have the capability of fully understanding just how great it will be. God is so powerful, so merciful, so loving, so forgiving, and just think--we WILL walk along side of Him soon.

So I ask you---what on this earth could possibly depress you?

I can't think of a thing either!!

With that said, I love each and every one of you.
Strength and Honor




Hope in an eternal future with the Father.

A New Birth to a Living Hope"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, into an inheritance imperishable and undefiled and unfading, reserved in heaven for you who are being protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time, in which you rejoice greatly, although now for a short time, if necessary, you are distressed by various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith, more valuable than gold that is passing away, but is tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom, although you have not seen, you love; in whom now you believe, although you do not see him, and you rejoice greatly with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls." ~1 Peter 1:3-9 (Lexham English Bible)


Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Day 945 of Giving Thanks


I AM NEW

“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 (Complete Jewish Bible)

Before you blame God for your circumstances, make sure you reflect on where you have been, based on your own decisions in life. Then STOP AND PRAY and ask for new eyes to see that God has been there even though you took a turn different than He directed...

Ask for eyes to see His correction, protection and redirection as you take a step that is with new thoughts to recognize His grace, mercy and favor.

To be in God's favor, we have to realize that we have choices... When I am not in the Word, in prayer and engaging with God daily, that's when I start to see through my eyes instead of His.

It's up to you... These are things I say to myself...

“[Praise to God for a Living Hope] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,” ~1 Peter 1:3 (New International Version)

One day at a time.... live in today. Let the past be removed from your thoughts and let today be the day... the day you live well, in hope and in confidence.

If you learn how to use and control your thoughts, than you have unlimited power: He dwells within His children... the power to choose well, forgive others, live rightly, the power to remember daily who HE IS.

"Through Him you believed in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God." ~ 1 Peter 1: 21 (New International Version)

Praying for strength today for those in pain and who feel weak from illness. I pray that even in the times when energy are low or the desire to get out of bed is non-existent, I pray that the almighty power of the Holy Spirit will be present and utilized greatly.

“Fear not [there is nothing to fear], for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My [victorious] right hand of rightness and justice.” ~Isaiah 41:10 (Amplified Bible)
“For I am with you, and no man shall assault you to harm you, for I have many people in this city.” ~Acts 18:10 (Amplified Bible)

I am assured, "I will NEVER leave or forsake you". (Deuteronomy 31:6)

Are you in doubt today? 

Do you question whether or not you are a "child of God"? Are you holding onto the "old lies" or the EVERLASTING TRUTH?

STOP - ask your father in heaven to assure you, correct your thinking and allow the meaning of His grace to overwhelm and overflow.

His PROMISES are real, and for good... once and for all BELIEVE THAT you are His and His gift is permanent, not one that will be taken away or that you can even give back... once it's received... you are a "child of God", His "beloved" and the one "He died for".

There are two types of free... with Christ, we have access to both. Free as in we paid nothing, and free from bondage.

“For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. Look! I, Paul, tell you that if you become circumcised, Christ will profit you nothing! And again I testify to every man who becomes circumcised, that he is under obligation to keep the whole law.  You are estranged from Christ, you who are attempting to be justified[a] by the law; you have fallen from grace.  For through the Spirit by faith we eagerly await the hope of righteousness.  For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision counts for anything nor uncircumcision, but faith working through love.” ~Galatians 5:1-6 (Lexham English Bible)

Do not let any part of this world hold you, let only He who created You be the hold that truly sets you free.




© 2012 Shawn Boreta, Giving Thanks Daily
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).

Shawn Delia Boreta

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