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Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Thankful Life – December 31, 2013

I have been so fortunate in my life. Even through struggles and challenges, I can see God's work in so many things. As long as I can remember, there have been struggles around me.

This life delivers many opportunities to exercise faith... are you taking them?

What are some of your recent opportunities? Those that stretched your faith, strengthened your faith and shared your faith as you walked through them hand in hand with our Heavenly Father?

So quickly, again we are coming up on a new year. I can't remember times moving so quickly as they have these past few years. I don't want to miss anything that God has for me, so I am really working on avoiding the busyness. Enjoying the moments! Savoring everything that God has for me in this life. To be bold in faith, often means, doing things others will not even attempt. Let us be bold. In our boldness, He is with us every step and every breath of the way. He will strengthen, guide and give us the wisdom during this journey.

We can count on His presence and we can know that, as His children won by the blood of Jesus, we can do all things in confidence and in obedience because of WHO we hold inside us. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16 (New King James Version)

Let us be bold, and walk in His light and shine His glory in this world. I will not be preoccupied with the 'what ifs', but grateful for all that HE HAS DONE WITH MY 'what did nots'. Not sure if this makes since, but for years I thought that I could be so much 'farther along' if something would have been different - BUT WHAT I HAVE FOUND that because of all the 'what did not', bad decisions and in spite of 'me', HE HAS DONE AN AMAZING WORK IN ME. Let us remember to LET GO.

I share this because this is a time of renewal, as is every single day of our journey. I share this because this is a time of believing His greatness for your life. “Look at the proud: he is inwardly not upright; but the righteous will attain life through trusting faithfulness." ~Habakkuk 2:4 (Complete Jewish Bible)

YOU HAVE PURPOSE. He has a plan. "And Jesus said, [You say to Me], If You can do anything? [Why,] all things can be (are possible) to him who believes!" ~Mark 9:23 (Amplified Bible)

It's time to be expectant daily.



Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Thankful Life – December 3, 2013


I am grateful for knowledge. Knowledge that I am His… knowledge that God is who He says He is… knowledge that is yet to come through the power of the Holy Spirit… knowledge that obedience is not an obligation, but is my joy and brings joy and hope and contentment. Thinking back on the many years of pleading with God to 'heal this', 'deliver me from that' or 'take this from me', I am greatly aware that my prayers, although sincere, are not always wise... Today, I find the prayers that relay thankfulness first for what is being lived through, allows me to look at things much differently and gives me God's perspective a bit more. I continue to pray for wisdom... His knowledge embedded deeply in my heart, lived out in my life.

The other day as I read through Romans 1... I was struck by these words...

"Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts..." Vs. 24
"Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts..." Vs. 26
"Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind..." Vs. 28

I don't want to take anything out of context, but these words hit a chord...

It is my pleasure and joy to seek God's Word, to know His desires for my life... when I “go my own way”, often which is the way of this world, I dismiss His instruction AND, I dismiss His love and care for my life.

What is it that is so worthwhile of this world that we would exchange the glory and grace of God for? I desire to be thankful, and thankful to He who is all deserving, all powerful and all knowing. I desire to submit more, obey more and live more like Christ... Let me seek His will and His desires for my life. Let it be known, not by my judgment or opinions, but by my example and works who I belong to.

I continue to pray for His hand upon my life, and the strength of the Holy Spirit to move me in the right direction - living in hope, joy and expectation!

How about you? What is your desire?

Let us not hide in the darkness – He will be the light in all the darkness of days and from moment to moment, “Come to me”, He says. Is that not encouraging? Is that not all that we need? “Come to me”, He says! These are truly encouraging words and His words for each and every one of us. I know this greatly, I choose daily to choose… to choose Him, and to choose wisely – my thoughts, my words, my path and my obedience to Him.

He never changes, it is us who change daily through our experiences and choices – through our desires, those that are our own, and those as we are directed and instructed and are His.

Father, let my heart break for those who insult me, hurt me and attack me… for they need You.

God does bless, restore, fill and lead those who, not only call upon Him in need but those, who call Him to save them. I once believed that I needed nothing, but know that He is what I need. I expect daily to see God work in and around my life. That is the true blessing I see. I have been restored from hurt, illness, pitfalls, bad decisions and things outside my control, and am led to seek Him and know that He is the one who fulfills.

I cry out to our Father, in the full strength of the Holy Spirit and in Jesus' name that YOU TOO KNOW HIM LIKE THIS. That you too will trust and believe Him to be who He says He is.

On this day, I pray, it's today you choose.

  

©2013 Giving Thanks Daily

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Thankful Life – November 25, 2013

My King is SO EXTRAVAGANT.

Don't we all want the good things from Jesus? Don't we all want the blessings that He so lovingly gives? Do we pray for submission and obedience? Why is it so hard for us to submit to Him, and let go of ourselves and to be obedient?



Let us stand in prayer for those who desire all that He has.


"I have set the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken." ~ Psalm 16:8 (New International Version)

I have been completely stripped away and left naked; and His is the only robe that can carry and cover me appropriately. What is it that He has cleared away for you and restored to better than before? What baggage do we all carry? How do we leave it behind without running back to pick them back up? Don't we find that we can lay down the baggage much easier than leaving it behind?
Let us not be people who say, but people who give… give it all to Him. Allow the Spirit to move you toward complete healing and all that He has for you. He is all we need – when we submit and obey. Often, in the past, I saw those two commands as ‘giving up’ something that I wanted or felt I needed to comply… Today, I see submitting as allowing myself to see God and His promises before the desires of the flesh; and obeying as allowing God to do what God does. Again, you can’t get much greater than that.


“I thank my God always for you because of God’s love and kindness given to you through the Messiah Yeshua, in that you have been enriched by Him in so many ways, particularly in power of speech and depth of knowledge." ~1 Corinthians 1:4-5 (Complete Jewish Bible)

I am needy LORD... yet, there is no one around to fulfill that need. Help me to run to You on all occasions, during every crisis and in all the moments where need surfaces (which really is all moments). Help me to see You through the noise of this life, and the distractions that are everywhere. I am needy LORD, and You are the fulfiller. We are all in the process – the phases and steps of the journey shift, move, and advance as well as retreat... He's got this... just remember whose you are. In this process we engage with one another and that is our design. We are designed for relationship – first and foremost with our heavenly Father and then with others.


©2013 Giving Thanks Daily

 

Saturday, November 23, 2013

Thankful Life – November 23, 2013



WOW, nothing too big for God.... especially a wayward heart. Inspired.... God speaking - time to pray BIG, speak little and wait.

My normal days are still quite wonderful. Even in the normal and ordinary of the every day. A wonderful life.

He is for you... and you have been created to live in His light, in His power and strength... to love one another, live for Him and know His goodness. Let us not love this worlds and the things in it, but love Him exclusively and live rightly...

"Never give your hearts to this world or to any of the things in it. A man cannot love the Father and love the world at the same time. For the whole world-system, based as it is on men’s primitive desires, their greedy ambitions and the glamour of all that they think splendid, is not derived from the Father at all, but from the world itself. The world and all its passionate desires will one day disappear. But the man who is following God’s will is part of the permanent and cannot die." ~1 John 2:15+17 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

See “the world” for what it is.... And see God for who and what He is. There is nothing like knowing the living and true God – and nothing like living for my Creator and King.

"As for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more." ~Psalm 71:14 (New International Version)

Today started out normally for a Saturday. I was able to sleep in a bit and spend some time with my hubby before meeting up with my best friend and daughter for our 5 mile walk. Fortunately, I was able to fight through a case of ‘exhaustion’ and make it through. Our little routine is great. Walk, coffee, chat and encouragement for one another. Can’t ask for better than that. Tonight, as I settle in and really ponder all that there is to be grateful for, my heart keeps coming back to the wonderful life I have… not perfect, not flawless, not without challenge, but wonderful, nonetheless.

“Here is a last piece of advice. If you believe in goodness and if you value the approval of God, fix your minds on the things which are holy and right and pure and beautiful and good. Model your conduct on what you have learned from me, on what I have told you and shown you, and you will find the God of peace will be with you.” ~ Philippians 4:8-9 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)




Wonderful Life!
This life is not promised as perfect, but as joyful when we can W.elcome challenges and O.stacles with open arms and hearts. When we can knowingly count on the promises of our heavenly Father… with the understanding that with Him, through Him and because of Him, we want for N.othing. And, in the strength and power of the Spirit, the D.esires of our heart, according to His will are ours wholly. We can truly live E.xpectantly and R.ealize the daily blessings and F.ortunes of forgiveness that are extended so freely and amazingly. I am grateful for the U.nending love and tenderness that
He so desires for us to experience. I am grateful for the treasures that overflow and overwhelm my
L.ife in the here and now.
 
We are told to L.ove one another and live for the Kingdom I.ntentionally with our eternal perspective and understanding that our F.ulfillment comes only from our Father. I am grateful that I can E.xperience His best daily! The truly is a wonderful life, one that I am fortunate to live out. It is a daily prayer to do it well… Thank You Father for all that You have done, and all that You have promised.
 
Nonetheless… there is nothing less than His best for me. Now, when I step into every day with this thought in mind, I will realize the ‘amazingness’ of every day – the wonderfulness of every moment – the blessings of this life, with the expectation of perfection in eternity. How could I not believe in the wonderful life of the here and now?

“Trust in the LORD and do good;
Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness.
Delight yourself in the LORD;
And He will give you the desires of your heart.
Commit your way to the LORD,
Trust also in Him, and He will do it.” ~Psalm 37:3-5 (New American Standard Bible)


©2013 Giving Thanks Daily

Monday, November 18, 2013

Thankful Life - November 18, 2013



Today I have to step back and evaluate my heart... I not only became very anxious, but I also became a bit passive aggressive in my mood. Honestly, things were not going well, so I got grouchy... ARGH! Father, I so don't want to react that way. I want to react well, respond greatly.... and let go of the things that are said. Help me to adjust, re-approach and lay down my own hurt feelings to pick up Your armor, Your humility and Your ability through the Spirit to act rightly; beginning with rightly thinking!

As I drove home tonight, I examined… and He exposed! The war, at times, is the harshness of the flesh – the selfishness that misguides and misdirects my thoughts. As I sit here tonight, engaging and dwelling, I am reminded “Be gentle and forbearing with one another…” for me, it all comes down to thought, reflection and contemplation (you might even call it the internal complaining dialog). 
“Clothe yourselves therefore, as God’s own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper].
“Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference (a grievance or complaint) against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has [freely] forgiven you, so must you also [forgive]. 
“And above all these [put on] love and enfold yourselves with the bond of perfectness [which binds everything together completely in ideal harmony]. 
“And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always].
“Let the word [spoken by] Christ (the Messiah) have its home [in your hearts and minds] and dwell in you in [all its] richness, as you teach and admonish and train one another in all insight and intelligence and wisdom [in spiritual things, and as you sing] psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making melody to God with [His] grace in your hearts.
“And whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus and in [dependence upon] His Person, giving praise to God the Father through Him.” ~Colossians 3:12-17 (New American Standard Bible)

I love His Word... the gift of life through our minds, into our souls... AWE... awesome God!!!!
"The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?" ~Psalm 27:1 (New International Version)
In the testing we see His strength. Perseverance is the finisher of work. His love gives us everything we need to accomplish this. And it's only when we believe His promises for life that “His will” will be done.

Father, it’s in my inward motives that I see Your love and tenderness so vividly. Help me to stay in tune with Your desires for my life, thought, action, reaction and motives… Purify me and let me dwell in the engagement. 

©2013 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta

Sunday, November 17, 2013

Thankful Life - November 17, 2013

His Masterpiece… living toward perfection, but not perfect!


“Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. 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 2:9-10 (New Living Translation)

I have felt much better lately, and I know that there are several other writers here who are having more challenges. I praise God for His mercies for all of us; for the good days, amazing moments and times that need even more tenderness from our Father. Over the past few years I have gone from devastation and depletion of energy to a kind of normal - really, normal is something I am not familiar with, but something that seems normal in my head anyway. Last week I had a scare.... a run to the emergency room from work with chest pains, shortness of breath and other unexplained symptoms... no explanation for any of it, EXCEPT, enemy attack. Although, the doctors and tests revealed nothing of notability, there has been some aftermath from the ordeal... my normal tired was even more tired... and my rapid heart rate was a bit more rapid this past week - but I am truly grateful for the awareness that comes from the physical challenges that come up.

My heart is Yours LORD... fast or slow and I am grateful that You have it.

I find that I can get quite settled into my days. And when I am 'settle', I tend to become lax in my routine. I don't want routine, I want God. And, as I prayed a few weeks ago for the dryness to leave, I was urged on several occasions to let go and move in to being uncomfortable... needing guidance and prayer and His sustaining presence.

It's not that I crave physical challenges, it's that I seem to need them to be drawn in... so I welcome whatever He has that does just that. Thank You Father for creating me with need... moving me toward Your hope in times of challenge... and giving me new desires of my heart through trials.

So, what does His masterpiece in me look like? UNFINISHED… UNREFINED…. UNCULTURED…..

He is all I need, and all I need is to know my need for my King, my Savior, my Hope, my Redeemer and the love of my life.

The emptiness that comes from contentment is deafening for my heart and soul. It sucks the life right out of me… I desire to be drawn near, and nearer! My prayer tonight is, “Do this LORD in any and all ways You see fit; thank You Father for not letting me settle in to the world’s contentment and satisfaction; help me be like Christ, in desire, actions and appeal to others”. DAILY FATHER, LET IT BE YOU, THROUGH IT ALL!
“Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ.” ~Colossians 2:8 (New Living Translation)
  
I have felt much better lately, and I know that there are several other writers here who are having more challenges. I praise God for His mercies for all of us; for the good days, amazing moments and times that need even more tenderness from our Father. Over the past few years I have gone from devastation and depletion of energy to a kind of normal - really, normal is something I am not familiar with, but something that seems normal in my head anyway. Last week I had a scare.... a run to the emergency room from work with chest pains, shortness of breath and other unexplained symptoms... no explanation for any of it, EXCEPT, enemy attack. Although, the doctors and tests revealed nothing of notability, there has been some aftermath from the ordeal... my normal tired was even more tired... and my rapid heart rate was a bit more rapid this past week - but I am truly grateful for the awareness that comes from the physical challenges that come up.

I find that I can get quite settled into my days. And when I am 'settle', I tend to become lax in my routine. I don't want routine, I want God. And, as I prayed a few weeks ago for the dryness to leave, I was urged on several occasions to let go and move in to being uncomfortable... needing guidance and prayer and His sustaining presence.


 ©2013 Shawn Boreta, Giving Thanks Daily

Saturday, November 16, 2013

Thankful Life - November 16, 2013


Thank You Lord for awakening the words again.


Living for Today


Somewhere with a past, a story, a heartache, a hardship, a shipwreck... and knowing that He is the shore that never changes... the ending that is always possible... the healing that overcomes all... the power and strength that is mine with the asking, and often without saying a word... that is my faith today.

Knowing that I have come from "somewhere" is often a challenge and requires a change of perspective... living for today while knowing that who I am through Christ is my source of freedom to live today... letting go of yesterday, because where we will be in eternity allows us to truly live today.

“If the LORD delights in my ways, He makes my steps firm; though I stumble, I will not fall, for the LORD upholds me with his hand.” ~Psalm 37:23-24 (New International Version)

If you are in pain, weary, afraid.... know this, you have a God who loves you perfectly, intentionally and will never leave you if you choose Him. He provided salvation through Jesus' death and resurrection from the cross - atonement through the greatest of sacrifices, derived from the most amazing love imaginable.

Have you chosen to accept His amazing gift? If you haven't, can you do it now? It's simple, just speak to Him - with an open heart, ask Him to be Your Savior, Your God, Your healer, Your everything. Acknowledge that you have sinned, will sin and cannot reach the Father by your own efforts and works, that His plan of salvation was and is the only way.

He has a way... He is your way.

He blesses my life! Today is the day (as is every day) that our LORD has made... let us rejoice... REJOICE!!

"But now you also, put them all aside: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, since you laid aside the old self with its evil practices, and have put on the new self who is being renewed to a true knowledge according to the image of the One who created him— a renewal in which there is no distinction between Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and freeman, but Christ is all, and in all.
So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.  Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.” ~Colossians 3:8-17 (New American Standard Bible)




Praise Him - and today, extend that love.

My LIFE, my LIGHT, my HOPE, my SALVATION, my EVERYTHING... Lord Jesus, You are my eternity and assurance of love, tenderness and all that is good, pure and amazing. As I prepare for this very busy day, let me settle and be overwhelmed with Your goodness, NOT the busyness and pulls of this day. Steady me, my heart, my all today. Thank You for being with me, strengthening me and pursuing me through the moments when my thoughts are not pure, kind and edifying. I love You...

In remembering His love and living today, I am comforted through His Word yet again! "Here is a last piece of advice. If you believe in goodness and if you value the approval of God, fix your minds on the things which are holy and right and pure and beautiful and good. Model your conduct on what you have learned from me, on what I have told you and shown you, and you will find the God of peace will be with you." ~Philippians 4:8-9 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

Deeply... I love You Father. Deeply.... I desire to know Your love and tenderness in NEW AND AMAZING WAYS...

Your love amazes me and Your grace intrigues my every sense - knowing that You have gifted to me what is not even possible, feasible or logical, and I thank You for that!! For loving me in the impossible ways, encouraging me through the help of the Spirit - oh how awesome the thoughts of You are.... how unfathomable Your love and tenderness are.... how truth moves through me as continued gifts from my Father in heaven, and only because of my Jesus' life, death and resurrection and continued life of salvation - my hope.... eternity which comes only through You! WOW... You are unforgettably generous - love and faith drive me closer - pain and frequency of need keep me humbled and engaged. GRATITUDE ALLOWS ME TO BELIEVE YOUR PROMISES, and I desire to be all of You - and seeing You move the flesh out and the Spirit in... I thank You, desire You, hold onto You... I love You Abba Father. You have a SAVIOR, WAITING AND READY TO RECEIVE YOU.

I am grateful daily, and today for His love and kindness... I am grateful that I can know the joy of this life because He gave His for me. My prayer is that if you do not know my Jesus, that you will by allowing Him to be revealed in your life, into your heart. If you are open and ready, He is waiting and available! JUST CALL TO HIM NOW. 
© 2013 Giving Thanks Daily

Friday, September 20, 2013

Thankful Life - September 20, 2013


I am being challenged in a way I have never been challenged before... due to my own INaction and INability to deal with something, I have created quite a mess... I am at the end of me - so different than ever before. Father it is Your strength I seek and need. Your words to flow through me and Your grace that I so desperately appreciate at this very moment. 

Help me be still... to trust... prepare...expect to see Your work in all this. I am so crushed by my own disobedience. Lead me in this in a great way. Uphold me as I have no strength left and there is so far. Yet to go.

Oh LORD, I so need your strength to pursue this confrontation that is so overdue. The unraveling of it all is completely in Your hands. As I pray and come to You in whole heart, broken of pride and determined to see Your mercies in this endeavor, I ask for more belief and even more after that to be truthful, tactful and tenacious in speaking what so desperately needs to be spoken. I am Yours LORD and so humbled by my own inabilities; I pray for favor as this is done... as my unraveling becomes Your weaving - help me to be all that You desire me to be, today and through it ALL!


Tonight I give Him thanks that in this moment of preparing, I can see His strength in my steps and words. I give Him thanks because He is my every bit of courage when I am less than courageous... I give Him thanks because through all the challenges, I have seen His mercies and favor. I give Him thanks in spite of the enemy's efforts to thwart all His perfect efforts to show me blessings in trouble and in trials.

He is.

AND I TRUST HIM NOW DURING THIS TIME

."The sluggard does not plow after the autumn,
So he begs during the harvest and has nothing.
A plan in the heart of a man is like deep water,
But a man of understanding draws it out.
Many a man proclaims his own loyalty,
But who can find a trustworthy man?
A righteous man who walks in his integrity—
How blessed are his sons after him.
A king who sits on the throne of justice
Disperses all evil with his eyes.
Who can say, “I have cleansed my heart,
I am pure from my sin”?" 
~Proverbs 20:4-9 (New American Standard Bible)

Father it is these things that You truly desire for us... integrity, trustworthiness, turning from evil and a true clean heart. For these things the Holy Spirit must be present and working.


Monday, August 26, 2013

Thankful Life - August 26, 2013

August 26, 2013

People say hurtful things, sometimes out of anger - sometimes because of their past - sometimes in love and correction. It has been a lot of years of allowing myself to fall into hurt over words. This weekend, I had a revelation and am being moved to evaluate all things according to God... in the midst of a firestorm of words, I must put on His shield... allow the filtering, protection and discernment of the Spirit to look through the unnecessary words and fight through to the helpfulness of the underlying message.

I don't think it will always be 'easy', but it is completely possible - the Holy Spirit is our helper in all things toward God... this one, He can fully do and is capable of guiding.


"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted
And saves those who are crushed in spirit."
~Psalm 34:18 (NASB)



"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to 
you; not as the world gives do I give to you.
Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it 
be fearful." ~John 14:27 (NASB)



Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Day 1003 of Giving Thanks

I can only come to You knowing how grateful I am... if I forget LORD, help me and forgive me. For all I want is to show gratitude more deeply with every day that passes.

We have to walk every day in faith... stepping in knowing that HE IS WHO HE SAYS HE IS... and us not always 'believing' it. BUT, we cannot dismiss His Word, His promises, His provisions... You are a child of God, He loves you, there is no reason to doubt... so when we doubt, we have to remember it is one of two things; an attack of the enemy or just bad habits. For the most part, it is our own habits that hinder our walk...

So, what do we do? We trust, moment to moment... breath by breath.

If you don't let go, you will not change. He will strengthen you to do it, but you cannot resist His input... We become what we tell ourselves. We are what we focus on most...

If you keep telling yourself "I can't", than you won't...

What are some of the verses that keep you going in the midst of doubt or fear?

Belief, one breath, one moment at a time. We tend to make excuses rather than believe our Creator's promises.

Help us LORD. Help me LORD!

If you are feeling discouraged, depressed or in despair, pray for others as you need to be prayed for... pray in whole heart for those suffering as you are suffering. In whole heart, cry out to the LORD, for He is faithful and loves you so much... in despair, empty of ourselves, we can know His desire is for us to recognize that HE ALREADY FILLS US...

O' Lord Jesus, thank You for the amazing gift of the Holy Spirit, where we can understand Your promises... we love You Father, and desire to know You more, love You more deeply and trust You, believe, believe... believe.

“The righteous cry, and the LORD hears And delivers them out of all their troubles.” ~Psalm 34:17 (New American Standard Bible)

How beautiful Your Word Father. How wonderful Your promises and encouragement. Thank You that I am Yours.

"But now, thus says the Lord, your Creator, O Jacob,
And He who formed you, O Israel,
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by name; you are Mine!" ~Isaiah 43:1 (New American Standard Bible)

Let us be aware of all He is for us, and all He says we are.

"Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor;" ~Romans 12:10 (New American Standard Bible)

What does this verse mean to you? 

Let's take it a little further. " Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love;[a] give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the [b]saints, [c]practicing hospitality."

Footnotes:
[a] Romans 12:10 Or outdo one another in showing honor
[b] Romans 12:13 Or holy ones
[c] Romans 12:13 Lit pursuing

I hunger and thirst for You Father and daily, I am quenched in new ways... the living Water of my Redeemer for whom, there is no match.

Thank You Father for truth and conviction of the deepest levels. I love You.

© 2013 Giving Thanks Daily

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Day 1002 of Giving Thanks


We can ask God, "What are you doing LORD? I don't see You in this... help me SEE YOU".  We must wait, listen and seek... HE IS FAITHFUL, even and especially in our little faith.

“To Do” lists, expectations, responsibilities... This is our life today, and what God wants is for us to give Him our lists, expectations and responsibilities first. He will order the list, His promises will confirm great expectations and the Holy Spirit will convict us to love one another as He loved us first.

Our Father we thank You for being faithful and trustworthy, and loving us Your servants. Thank You that we can walk this path protected, carried, guided and in full light as You promise.
Thank You for loving us, pursuing us and never leaving us. For this is what you promise. Amen.

Reading Isaiah 42 and I just love God and His works. Today, even as I may not "feel" good, or "sense" Him right in my midst, He has shown over and over that I am not alone or on my own. We serve an amazing and awesome God... Let us be obedient, walk in His light and presence, while loving once another, and glorifying Him for the good of the Kingdom... we do this brothers and sisters BY KNOWING THAT WE ARE HIS. Knowing whose we are, and who we are because of Christ in us.

Let us pray for one another today. What is your praise or request to lay before our King?
So many emotions and feelings have been swept under the rug, so to speak over the years. There are so many heart-wrenching moments that I have had to just push through. Living in this world that is so cold, disconnected and uncaring, coupled with all the pain from a past can leave one feeling down and in complete despair. Our LORD tells us to live in today, let the past go and know that our future is secure as His children. So, I continue to ask myself, what does my past hold that my God can't remove? NOTHING, ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. "So, let it go", I say, "LET IT GO". Then, be still and KNOW THAT HE IS GOD!!!

Did you know that the Holy Spirit works out much while you sleep, while you are awake? We are to follow our King, in thought and action. Let us be aware of our every thought... holding them captive, abiding in Him.

In every way LORD let us be like Christ...

Father, we pray for our brothers and sisters, for rest and completion of Your work in their lives. We pray for the work of our Lord Jesus to hold her every thought captive according to Your will. We pray that Your amazing power and strength will move every mountain that is keeping them from breaking free from despair... heartbreak and guilt... I am not sure what their needs are LORD God, but You as our Creator and Comforter and Healer do... in all You are LORD, through our Lord Jesus we pray. Amen.

God’s Promise concerning His Servant
Let us praise!
"Sing to the Lord a new song,
Sing His praise from the end of the earth!
You who go down to the sea, and all that is in it.
You islands, and those who dwell on them.
Let the wilderness and its cities lift up their voices,
The settlements where Kedar inhabits.
Let the inhabitants of Sela sing aloud,
Let them shout for joy from the tops of the mountains.
Let them give glory to the Lord
And declare His praise in the coastlands.
The Lord will go forth like a warrior,
He will arouse His zeal like a man of war.
He will utter a shout, yes, He will raise a war cry.
He will prevail against His enemies." ~Isaiah 42:10-13 (New American Standard Bible)

Are you allowing the Holy Spirit to direct your faith, or are you?

Sometimes we fight through scripture, when really He desires us to rest in Him as He works us through His Word. That is what I find anyway. When I read, and read, and read, and find confusion... I know I must stop, pray, ask, discern and often leave it for a while... singing, praising, worshiping and pondering is what I need. And, when I come back and read again, I am renewed and His Word flows over all of my senses. And, as I read through and contemplate all that is going on in my life, all that God is revealing at this time, which is His time; the now.

So much of these past few years have been an amazing growth opportunity; an opportunity to forge new ways, which are His… to allow Him to construct with me what my unique design is intended for. To have the masterpiece established and authenticated in His amazing way.

Oh our Father is so amazing. He is so loving and tender. May we learn and grow to worship You in new and beautiful ways. May we come to know You are for us, even in and especially in the "heat of the moment", "in the middle of a storm", "through trials" and "in all circumstances"... For You are God... and You are all we can hope for. Thank You Father for Your love, tenderness and perfect will for our lives. “For we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].” ~ Ephesians 2:10 (Amplified Bible)

Christ-like, new me… “if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus, that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.” Ephesians 4:21-24 (New American Standard Bible)

We can ask God, "What are you doing LORD? I don't see You in this... help me SEE YOU".  We must wait, listen and seek... HE IS FAITHFUL, even and especially in our little faith. Today, I trust, listen and believe… greatly, I do all these things and act, watch, wait and move as He directs.


©2013 Giving Thanks Daily


Tuesday, May 7, 2013

A special moment with my Father! (Testimony Series) - by Mary Fox


A special moment with my Father!
by Mary Fox

As most of you know my father went through a difficult and painful month after being diagnosed with a bowl obstruction and had to undergo a major operation. At the age of 89 and never having been admitted to a hospital in all his life, this was a big deal for him and for all of us who love him dearly.
The whole journey has been nothing less than amazing, painful and loving!

During the 5 weeks that he was away from home and in the hospital/rehab centre my father and I grew very close. In fact, the bond between us was quite incredible!  We came to a point where I instinctively knew what he wanted (ie. food, rest, pain relief etc).  He didn’t even have to speak. The trust that he showed me was truly amazing.  We sort of ‘got each other’.

This connection didn't just happen. I had to ‘be with him’ constantly.  I was committed and devoted to doing everything I could to see him return home and to have the strength he had prior to the operation.  As a result, I spent hours, days and weeks by his side, giving him as much nourishment as I could, massaging his feet, stroking his hair, whispering words of encouragement to him and praying for him. My love for him grew so much, as did the pain and heartbreak when we didn’t see the results we were hoping for.

One day whilst driving home from hospital, feeling tired and totally exhausted but ready and anxious to return to my dad, I sensed God interrupt my thoughts. I ‘felt’ Him whisper the following "I want you to minister to Me like you are to your father." BOOM!! I felt such conviction in my heart and I just sat in shock as I pondered the mystery of how I could so easily neglect my Abba Father in heaven.  Oh, to have a greater devotion to Him, how precious that would be -  to know instinctively what was is on His heart, to serve Him without compromise, to never leave His side and to minister to Him with such love.  This is what I believe our Heavenly Father trulydesires -  that we love Him with all our heart, mind and soul..”

I had to pull over to the side of the road.  I needed a moment to try and fathom the enormity and the honour of my Father’s request.  To be honest, I burst out crying because I saw in a new light my need to repent.  I saw how shallow and half-hearted my devotion and worship had been.  I was completely undone!  Oh, how many opportunities I must have missed to spend time at His side and to get to know what He is thinking and feeling and wanting me to do for His glory.

It is becoming increasingly clear to me that intimacy with our Lord is our primary calling, our highest form of ministry.  I am so grateful for this amazing lesson. Isn’t it just like God to gently minister to us and reveal Himself to us in the midst of such painful and difficult times?

Our God is so awesome! He is so worthy of all our love and devotion.



©2013 Mary Fox, Ps139 group
Mary is an amazing woman of God, wife, mother and sister in Christ. Her devotion to our Father is such a wonderful example in my life. She is a writer and edifier for Ps139 group and teaches daily on the Equip His People page. So many are blessed in so many ways.

Saturday, May 4, 2013

Day 1001 of Giving Thanks

“If My people, who are called by My name, shall humble themselves, pray, seek, crave, and require of necessity My face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land.” ~2 Chronicles 7:14 (Amplified Bible)

The enemy has really worked hard this week to keep me down, but to no avail, I am victorious! It has been a week of new pains, old memories, new struggles and old insecurities that fell flat with His urgings with every raring of those unwelcomed feelings, even up to this afternoon, I could sense God moving mountains right before me. I lived many years in fear, as many do – even those who belong to Christ – how can that be? In one of ‘those moments’ earlier, I heard His voice once again, “you’re good Shawn – I will carry you the distance”. I have diligently prayed over the past few months to be encouraged, when I am down, or start to go down that path, and God has been faithful and daily carries me the distance.

As I sit and 'take in' the world around me, I am at peace. As I see the evil and chaos that this world delivers, I am assured in so many ways. He is my strength, my comfort, my peace. He is truly all I need.

The LORD has been so encouraging to me in every way through His children... I love the days when I get to talk to supporters at my job. I am so humbled that I get to have access to so many wonderful and amazing people on a daily basis. I have been working toward the discovery of my Chief Definite Aim and I know this for sure, it involves people. I believe God has revealed my purpose through all the things I do.

These are extremely busy times at work, and I expect to see God daily as I seek Him. And I am thankful for the many moments He reveals Himself in my life. And in the midst of all the busyness, yesterday was a day of praise, prayer and laughter... a day of accomplishment and satisfaction at a really deep level.

Just a few weeks ago, I was overwhelmed with how much had to be done (all around - personal and work life)... but as I know so well, the LORD has this, He knows what I need and I expect to see Him move mountains in me over the next week or so. It's like He whispered it to me today... "you're good Shawn - I will carry you the distance... ". So humbling isn't it?

“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 5:3-5 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

God's at work for sure. I have been praying and seeking to see a miracle in several areas; my Chief Definite Aim and my health. As I prayed about the work we do on Facebook, blogging, Ps139 group pages, etc. I don't see conversions or transformations, but it doesn't mean they aren't happening. God confirmed His work through me is important and that is enough.

I am definitely not a Pollyanna, but I do love life, spending time with others and staying ‘in the mix’ of things. I come from a long line, as well as great examples of fighters; that’s not the challenge, I can fight through most any situation, it’s the being still and leaning on God that has been  I have been asked, "How do you keep going, stay positive, on fire for the LORD"... simple answer, "God". And to add to that simple answer, “He knows my voice, I know His promises and I call on Him to reveal all of them for me”. I often request from Him, "Let my life be a prayer", and He is faithful, for there is much to pray about and for. I stay in the Word, desire to know Him more deeply and the only way to do that is by hearing Him, listening for His comforting presence. I was in a place yesterday morning where I just couldn't stop praying. I was overwhelmed in my heart, in my surroundings; I had a sense of heaviness from the desire to do something else in my life than "just this", and God exchanged my dismal heart with one filled with Him, and the desire to serve Him more.

And His blessings continue. Every day you can see Him working in your life! Every moment is a gift from above. Rejoice. Rejoice in Him.

Wishing I had hours to write today... I am so encouraged and amazed by His grace and goodness toward me. If you doubt God's love, there is so much hope in the gift of the Holy Spirit. I am committed to sharing what I have and continue to learn through His work in me...

I know that as I write, pray and share, I too am ministered to through what God shows me. That is His daily gift. In His work through my life, I see hope and every day, I pray for others to see hope in our God as well. I am burdened by the broken, the weary and unable to move forward or to heal.  As I said, He gives up much to pray for an about, we just have to be aware. Our thoughts toward Him will change our life from devastation of moments to determination and drive. That too is a daily gift that just like salvation, we have to accept and open it fully to appreciate its power.


© 2013 Giving Thanks Daily

Friday, May 3, 2013

A Step to Extraordinary - In the Word with Tina Bale, TjB

Taking that next step to extraordinary:

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding" ~ Proverbs 9:10 (New King James Version)

This is one of my favorite verses in the bible because it breaks down how our mind (which is a battleground) effects our daily thinking.

It starts with that flicker of awe. You know that moment when you look closely at the petals on a flower or the intricacies of how a humming bird flies. At those moments your eyes, heart and mind are awakened with that sense of awe of how detailed God is!

From there we can see our own image and how before we were conceived we had no form! WOW! We seem to have come from nothing yet here we are, but WHY are we?

The why is the beauty of the next part of this verse for us, we are because HE/our Heavenly Father is detailed and intimately planned us to be. You see that just. like those flower petals and the beauty of that humming bird tells us that God did not merely 'throw us together' on a whim...WE, each of us, WERE PLANNED!

Now if we put this all together:
God is AWESOME, His works are amazing and purposed!

When we search these things and study who God truly is it is truly intimidating. There is no limit to what HE is or can do. In this we are gaining WISDOM.

Next is in the searching of His word and the examples that are played out in scripture we see that these regular everyday people were capable of extraordinary things because they had true UNDERSTANDING that if God wants something done then DONE it is! Like you and I, like the flower petals and the humming bird God is able to back up His vision and plans.

He has PLANNED great things for each of those who fear Him and love Him.

Search Him and see what He wants for You next. What is the step you will take today toward EXTRAORDINARY?

The humming bird is so tiny yet nothing compares with it's speed and grace. The flower is beautiful and fragrant however part is planned with distinction and function. The beauty even has purpose on its own, yet together it is stunning!

YOU, my friend, are STUNNING! There is purpose in every aspect and angle of who HE (our living God) has thought & planned you to be. 

Take that step, see God is AWEsome, search Him and find YOUR purpose!


© 2013 Tina Johnson Bale, Ps139 group

Sunday, April 28, 2013

Day 1000 of Giving Thanks



This journey has changed my life forever… He has changed me. I am grateful that “it is finished”, regardless of my circumstances; “it is finished”, even in the storm; “it is finished”, thank You LORD!

 “All the rich of the earth will feast and worship; all who go down to the dust will kneel before Him those who cannot keep themselves alive. Posterity will serve Him; future generations will be told about the Lord. They will proclaim his righteousness, declaring to a people yet unborn: He has done it!” ~Psalm 22:29-32 (New International Version)
Yes our God is WOW... He brings His promises to light during struggle, increases our faith and provides miracles in ways that only HE CAN. We manifest through our words... our thoughts.
So many say, "He will not give you more than you can handle", I will phrase it the way I hear Him tell me every day... He does give me things I can't handle, so I will COMPLETELY SUBMIT TO HIM.

My prayer a few days ago...
“Praying for vision in many ways today. Vision to see with God's eyes, all things to do with my job (and the way I am to make a living). Moving toward my Chief Definite AIM in mind, in prayer and on my heart”. And today Father, I am so grateful for the correction with my eyes... and moving toward my Chief Definite Aim daily...

He gives rest to the weary, strength to the weak, peace to the restless, grace to all who know Him... That's me LORD... thank You for being all I need. My writing is His way of working out His details in me - daily... through His promises and so much hope.

Don't miss that part of your walk. It's the best part of walking with the LORD... leaning on and growing. He loves you beyond measure, without ceasing, unending grace is yours through the blood of Christ. Praise Him in your trials... Praise Him in your struggles... He knows your tearful moments, your triumphs and your times in crying out to our Father.

Remember the enemy will do all things to keep God's people away from their work... don't ever believe he will let up... the closer we are to God, and cling to God, the harder he works to devour us, to keep us from ministering to others... he works diligently to keep us in despair.

We are protected, however, he does penetrate in our moments of weakness. Trust we have a mighty God, believe we are His... but pray for protection, clarity and discernment... in the good moments and through the tough times.

Are you struggling tonight… you must know whose you are… know Him, and get to know who you are through Him. Call on Him, over and over. Be encouraged by knowing who you belong to – if you do not know, you can – call on Him, over and over. He answers.

"deliver me from my enemies..." ~Psalm 18:6
"You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble..." ~Psalm 32:7
"The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them..." ~Psalm 34:17
"I cry out to God Most High, to God, who vindicates me..." ~Psalm 57:2
"For I know the plans I have for you..." ~Jeremiah 29:11

Praying, praying, praying.

I am grateful that “it is finished”, regardless of my circumstances; “it is finished”, even in the storm; “it is finished”, thank You LORD!


© 2013 Giving Thanks Daily



Friday, April 26, 2013

Day 999 of Giving Thanks


Yesterday I came home early from work, dealing with a migraine and all the symptoms that went with it… I was going to ‘tough it out’, but felt led to ‘go home’. I arrived at home and my mom (Chris’ mom) shared a need for prayer for a family member. Being home was where I was supposed to be. It gave me the opportunity to pray for and with my family in a time of need. To provide possibilities to a situation, based on my own experiences. I am grateful for prayer, for our God who loves us so deeply, He ‘thinks’ of all things and how they work together. I am learning, although it is a tough lesson for those who are stubborn (me), to listen, let go and allow the Spirit to work things out before I lose it in circumstances. There is a calming lately, and I love asking my Father, “How LORD”, rather than, “Why”.

LEAN ON, RELY ON, AND BE CONFIDENT”, that says it all. We love You Father, help us to do all these things. Confidence of the Holy Spirit, dependence on the perfect plan and guidance through the lessons of life, hardship of circumstance and the love of our Father, and through all things because of Jesus. Let us lean on, rely on, and be confident. Your will LORD God, Your purpose... Amen. (Psalm 37:5)

Father, I am so thankful for the good days... I am grateful for Your merciful strength that flows through me in times of great need. It has been very long days with work and with things going on with the family. I am grateful that I have made it through and although I am tired, I seem to be no worse for the wear. ;)

I praise You and am greatly humbled as I live out this life that truly allows me to depend so beautifully on You... I depend on Your strength, grace and mercy daily, I depend on You and You alone because You are perfectly trustworthy.

Prayer for Protection, Guidance and Pardon.
A Psalm of David.
"To You, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
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)

He will see you through brothers and sisters...He loves you beyond measure, without ceasing, unending grace is yours through the blood of Christ. Praise Him in your trials... Praise Him in your struggles... He knows your tearful moments, your triumphs and your times in crying out to our Father.

The world delivers so much that looks good, seems right and brings comfort, but know this - these things are temporal and unsatisfying long term. There is a different choice of what is GOOD, is RIGHT and brings COMFORT, it's a perfect God who truly thought of and knows our true needs.

GOD IS TRUSTWORTHY, GOOD, RIGHT AND GOD IS OUR COMFORT. 

Don't be deceived, trust the LORD your God for what has b...
I wanted to share one more thing, in regards to standing strong, the why is easy, OTHERS NEED YOU TO CONTINUE IN PRAYER, it has eternal ramifications… keep praying for your family. Stand in faith, believe and allow yourself to change in the process and revel in those changes toward God.

Alone in your faith? That's what it feels like when you are the only believer in your household, when your ability to see change seems to fall straight to the ground. Defeat seems to be all around, as you see the enemy 'work your house'... Can I say, FIRMLY -
THINK DIFFERENTLY.
ACT DIFFERENTLY.
PRAY CONTINUALLY.
LIFT YOUR SPOUSE IN PRAYER, and all those in your household who do not know our Father in heaven, our Lord Jesus and walk in the presence of the Holy Spirit.
You are FAVORED and have the advantage.
Your family needs you to be STRONG IN THE LORD.

Don't give in to the lies of the enemy, and GRAB ON TO PRAYER DAILY, ALL DAY PRAYER, MOMENT TO MOMENT PRAYER... HIS WORD.

Grab on to His promises. Live in the light of the gift you received and live like eternity is at stake, because it is for your unbelieving family and friends. It is, and God, Son and Spirit are the key to their eternity.

Keep praying, stand firm in your faith... NEVER ALLOW THE ENEMY TO TAKE HOLD in your household.

© 2013 Giving Thanks Daily

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Day 998 of Giving Thanks


We work on God’s foundation!

“In this work, we work with God, and that means that you are a field under God’s cultivation, or, if you like, a house being built to his plan.
"I, like an architect who knows his job, by the grace God has given me, lay the foundation; someone else builds upon it. I only say this, let the builder be careful how he builds! The foundation is laid already, and no one can lay another, for it is Jesus Christ himself. But any man who builds on the foundation using as his material gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay or stubble, must know that each man’s work will one day be shown for what it is. The day will show it plainly enough, for the day will arise in a blaze of fire, and that fire will prove the nature of each man’s work. If the work that the man has built upon the foundation will stand this test, he will be rewarded. But if a man’s work be destroyed under the test, he loses it all. He personally will be safe, though rather like a man rescued from a fire.” ~1 Corinthians 3:9-15 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

We are all designed with a purpose and our heavenly Father pursues us, draws us nearer and nearer to that purpose. It is when we begin to live in His will we see all those things - strength, power, discernment and clarity through the work of the Holy Spirit.

Walking in His light takes one thing... us listening to His commands and believing His promises. Let it be done LORD, through our actions according to Your will.

I am beginning the discipline of getting up earlier. It seems I am tired if I don't sleep, tired when I do... so, in an effort to be the best I can, do the best I can and give the best I can, I am going to get up and get moving earlier.

As I sit here, trying to read, but very little response from my eyes to focus - I pray. Tears mighty and holy God come and seem to lift the weariness. I realize I push, when I should submit... I take on when I should set boundaries... Help.

God I ask for YOUR STRENGTH and YOUR CLARITY as I set out each day to do what I am responsible to do. Help me Father to push through when I am able, and rest when I am supposed to. It is so hard to tell which is which. My body is tired and I am unable to wrap my mind around what I need to hear and do at times. Help me LORD for I am ready to hear You on this, see Your path and to deeply know Your purpose. How do I rest when so much is before me to do - job, household.... responsibilities? How do I move out of exhaustion and into rest? How do I minister and witness in these times of low energy? How do I step out of this and into all that is You and Yours? I AM READY FATHER. I AM READY.

There are so many blessings right before us. Don't miss them because you are focusing on something in the past. The past does not matter when it comes to your future. You are forgiven, healed, favored and blessed in ways beyond measure by the power of the Holy Spirit and the work of Christ... don't dismiss this truth in thought or in action. Step in and believe.

I think at times we focus so much on what we could have changed, "only if...." and we waste our energy in that way. If we ponder on "whose we are", and His promises, WHICH ARE TRUSTWORTHY, we can see our life transform and our faith grow. Today is a day of believing.

Anyone with me on this?

Allow the Holy Spirit to move you to the breakthrough that the Lord Jesus already provided. 

Be encouraged. 
That you already have the strength. 
That you are already healed. 
That He waits for you to recognize His absolute and constant presence. 
That all you have to do is keep believing. Hold fast. 
Stand strong. 
Submit all.

New day, new you daily. By allowing God's grace empower you through His forgiveness, we can let the powerless times of our life, diminish. By embracing God's strength and power in the process, we can let it go completely and live rightly daily.


© 2013 Giving Thanks Daily

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Day 997 of Giving Thanks


My flesh has many needs, most of which will not be met with the desires of the flesh... my spirit has one need that will replenish, refill and regenerate every part of me physically. Help us LORD to move out of the victim mentality and into Your VICTORY! Let us continue to praise You, believe You and trust You… let us rejoice, Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.” ~Philippians 4:4 (New International Version)

Sometimes the biggest mountain in my way is me... help me remove me LORD. We are what we focus on... We manifest in our life (build, create) what we focus on most. When we talk about our pain, hurt, heartache, we believe that there is nothing else for us. For me, when I focus on the physical pain, I tend to 'feel' it more. I just keep pressing into our LORD. He is faithful, when we depend on Him, He delivers. Let the things that are not edifying to your life be the background, and let only God be the foreground.

 “A single day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere else! I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God than live the good life in the homes of the wicked.
“For the LORD God is our sun and our shield. He gives us grace and glory. The LORD will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right.
“O LORD of Heaven’s Armies, what joy for those who trust in you.” ~Psalm 84:10-12 (New Living Translation)


As I have prayed today, I was overjoyed with all the wonderful gifts and blessings I see all around me. I thank You Father for delivering in amazing ways and giving me the opportunity to see so much right before my eyes. Thank You Father for amazing days, even in the ordinariness of this life – I so appreciate the details you share with me, so often.  Thank You for Your Word, Your work, Your promises and the Holy Spirit; my Helper, my Guide and my Translator. As I read through Isaiah 6 tonight, THIS REALLY CAUGHT MY ATTENTION – 

“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 
“Whom shall I send?  And who will go for us?”
And I said,
“I am here!
Send me!” ~Isaiah 6:8 (Lexham English Bible)

I WANT TO BE THE ONE THAT SAYS, "SEND ME"... without hesitation, "send me".

Praying you have a wonderful sleep with the guide of the Holy Spirit throughout the night. Father, Your protection and peace for our brothers and sisters tonight, through all of this journey, the days that are tough, the moments that are overwhelming, let us call to You, trust You and know Your presence. Amen.


© 2013 Giving Thanks Daily

Friday, April 12, 2013

Day 996 of Giving Thanks


Again, I sit here, with tears welling up and my heart just about ready to explode at God's amazing goodness. There are so many praise reports in my thoughts... so, LORD, thank YOU for loving us so much.

"So be subject to God. Resist the devil [stand firm against him], and he will flee from you." ~James 4:7 (Amplified Bible)

God is our motive – pure of heart leading toward being Christ-like in every way... prayer is our vehicle, our conduit through the Spirit and purpose daily. We can talk about listening to God, or we can really do it... Get into the Word to hear His instructions and the love for His children.

You cannot control our circumstances, but you can control your thoughts, your actions or reactions, your attitude and who you run to in those circumstances. And it's our Father's strength through the Holy Spirit because of Jesus' work all our thoughts, actions or reactions and attitudes can be rightly done.

Two weeks ago I had a coworker tell me, "you’re not gifted in counseling, why spend all this extra time online?" I reeled for 2 minutes, got angry for a half day and got focused again...

My friends, God is calling you to do something. My point here is that you can recognize it, but others are probably recognizing it too... It's time to stop sitting on the sidelines, waiting for life to happen. He's encouraging you to allow Him to work through what does happen. Be action oriented with your faith. Be still, but move when He speaks. Rest, but move toward Him in that rest.

If you are not hearing God, seeing Him work - ask yourself?

  • Am I talking to my Father regularly? 
  • Does my Father know my voice? 
  • Are my thoughts moving toward His promises or stuck on my challenges? Are my thoughts stuck on my mistakes, mishaps, circumstances or past? 
  • Do others know WHOSE I am, because of my joy and hope? 
  • Am I self-centered, or reaching out to others? 
  • Do I isolate myself? 
  • Do I blame God, and/or others for where I am? 
  • Do I believe there is hope, or just talk about it? 
  • Do I minister outwardly the truth to others, but inside I am filled with fear and doubt? 
  • DO I TRUST GOD? REALLY TRUST HIM? 


He is calling you, pursuing you. It's time to 'pick up', listen and get moving AND STEPPING IN, COMPLETELY, TO HIS HEALING? Friends, it's our own words, more than others that hinder our healing. Make today the day that you decide to observe, correct... and heal. Make today the day that You hear His encouraging words for your life... "I love you", "I am here", "you are already healed" and "you are mine".

Is anyone with me today?

When the LORD leads us to counsel others, we can notice similarities in our behavior and those we are working with. The hope is that it's past workings, but the truth of the matter is, God will use others to help us see ourselves. He is so good.

God’s new plan—righteousness by faith, not through the Law
"But now we are seeing the righteousness of God declared quite apart from the Law (though amply testified to by both Law and Prophets)—it is a righteousness imparted to, and operating in, all who have faith in Jesus Christ. (For there is no distinction to be made anywhere: everyone has sinned, everyone falls short of the beauty of God’s plan.) Under this divine system a man who has faith is now freely acquitted in the eyes of God by his generous dealing in the redemptive act of Jesus Christ. God has appointed him as the means of propitiation, a propitiation accomplished by the shedding of his blood, to be received and made effective in ourselves by faith. God has done this to demonstrate his righteousness both by the wiping out of the sins of the past (the time when he withheld his hand), and by showing in the present time that he is a just God and that he justifies every man who has faith in Jesus Christ." ~Romans 3:23-26 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

Be encouraged through His promises. O' how He is faithful to those who abide.



© 2013 Giving Thanks Daily

Shawn Delia Boreta

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It's All About Me