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Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Thankful Life - October 28, 2014

 
"Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever." ~ Psalm 107:1 (New Living Translation)

My thoughts over the weekend, as I continued my four days of rest - I was home resting all day... and guess what I am doing tonight? Yep, resting. I turned the TV on for noise as I match socks, pick up and dose off & on!

I am grateful for a day of rest, and time to think. I also wrote out the past 32 years of health challenges, what I can remember anyway. And, in this process today, one thing has become very clear - my life has been blessed!

I believe God has saved me from so much on this journey and exposed my heart to amazing doors, and there will be so many more. He has journeyed with me, and during the times when it was unbearable... He lifted me and carried me onward. Through days and nights of prayer, I have been assured in my salvation, yet drawn in to His mercies. I am grateful that no matter what part of my journey, our Father has been faithful. I am reminded daily to engage. We engage through prayer and reading His Word, through worship and praise!

Find a way to engage with our Father daily and you will see His faithfulness.

[We have seen God’s mercy and wisdom: how shall we respond?] With eyes wide open to the mercies of God, I beg you, my brothers, as an act of intelligent worship, to give him your bodies, as a living sacrifice, consecrated to him and acceptable by him. Don’t let the world around you squeeze you into its own mould, but let God re-mould your minds from within, so that you may prove in practice that the plan of God for you is good, meets all His demands and moves towards the goal of true maturity." ~Romans 12:1 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

Prayer is necessary to keep us focused... staying focused on the LORD, glorifying Him, admiring Him... Praising Him will guide your motives during prayer. The Holy Spirit is an amazing encourager as we do. Help us LORD to remember You in our prayers.


©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
#GivingThanksDaily
#lifeincolorandWORDS
#ThankfulLife
#LymeLifeHope

Thursday, October 23, 2014

My Life is a Prayer - October 23, 2014


Through my darkest times there has been reward of God's amazing treasures; mercy, grace, restoration and peace.

I AM HIS... 

I am not... 
my past, my circumstances, my illness, my doubt, my fears.... 

I am His.

Sometimes we have to look at where we are, physically, emotionally and how we are connected to Jesus. Today, I am at a loss (I am never lost.... for I have Jesus). I am overwhelmed with exhaustion and, most days physical pain racks up "weight to carry" on the 1-10 scale, and tips it. But today.... "I can do all things"... while letting Him bear the burden and weight.

My prayer today, Lord help me through the physical by assuring the Spirit in me today... to have strength, endurance, "to run this race"... To know Your promise to "never leave or forsake me"...

The routine of "not feeling well", is no routine at all - it is used, however, by the enemy to distract us and persuade us that our illness is more important than God's purpose in our life. I have seen that clearly this week - and honestly, there have been several moments that I wanted to just lay down and close up, or cry.... and I did do that a few times, I will admit... but the moments that I pushed through, smiled at the circumstance and said, "Lord have Your way", I was blessed.

Today there were several of these moments. The moment I decided to fight my way out of bed to get to our church serve... the moment I just "let go" so God could enter the moment... the moment I asked for prayer... the moment I pushed to go to the store so that I will be prepared for the week.

Thank You Father for the gift of .... giving thanks daily!

For the days I don't want to get out of bed and sleep all day.... but do and go to work.

For the moments I look at the stairs going up or down, and want to cry, but step by step make my way. 

For the time I walk, stretch and don't take pain medication...

THANK YOU LORD FOR GIVING ME ANOTHER DAY TO FEEL.

LORD, as my brother in Christ read through Psalm 22, and during the reading I thought... wow, "I don't feel like God is not here..." I always seem to know His presence... and today, I sense nothing. How, in less than 24 hours can my heart plummet and move so deeply away from the light? Help me Father to come into Your presence... as the Holy Spirit embraces my every part; physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Today, I do cry and request in whole heart - FATHER BE NEAR!

"They open their mouth against me like a lion tearing and roaring. I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint. My heart is like wax; it is melted within me. My strength is dry like a potsherd, and my tongue is sticking to my jaws; and you have placed me in the dust of death." -Psalm 22:13-15 (Lexham English Bible)

But God shows us in many ways of His presence and persistence of His pursuit of our lives... the Psalmist does not stop at the cries of despair, and neither will I.

"For He has not despised or abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither has He hidden His face from him, but when he cried to Him, He heard." -Psalm 22:24 (Amplified Bible)

Father we come to you this today and we just thank You for your presence and Your love. We thank You that You love us so much. We thank You God there is nothing we can ever want because we have You! Help us tear the walls down that hinder our progress to a greater faith and closer relationship with You. Help us let go of the burdens in the woes of this life. Let us come to You and praise and worship many moments today. Thank you Jesus.

©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
#lifeincolorandWORDs
#thankfullife
#prayerchangesthings

Saturday, October 18, 2014

A Tick.... or a Bloodsucking Devil?

Learning that I have to write, even this... to keep sane.

Our entire lives are spent making decisions – what to eat for breakfast… what route to take to work… do I try yet another treatment for Lyme disease? Some decisions are simple, unimportant, while others are life-altering decisions. It may seem pretty simple from the outside looking in – but I can tell you that this has been a common, yet very difficult question I have asked, answered and asked again a dozen times in the 32 (yes, I did say 32) years since I was bitten by the microscopic, bloodsucking devil in 1982.

In all this time of dealing with this "enemy in my blood" I have not documented very much, or gone into much detail in my writings; and I don't plan to on a regular basis, but will share as I feel led. These were my thoughts during the day yesterday, and as I get going today. After reading about a young woman starting her Lyme Fight, my heart is breaking in so many ways. I have been praying for many of my friends and have new friends to pray for as well.  I had planned to go home early yesterday from work so I can "rest more", maybe get a walk in and clean house. Due to the level of exhaustion, and shooting pains running up and down my left rib cage, this week played out very differently than I wanted it to, but in the process of this unplanned for, and unexpected week – I wrote, while seeking our LORD – I connected and watched as His Word exposed my heart to healing and comfort.

Rest indeed today... rest indeed! (Proverbs 1:33)
His grace is sufficient for me. (2 Corinthians 12:9)
God’s purpose will be established. (Proverbs 19:20-21
God is faithful and will strengthen me. (2 Thessalonians 3:3)
God is faithful and I am important. (Genesis 17)
How much more will He do for you? (Luke 11:10-13)
God is Good.

In a routine phone call to my friend Shellie today, I completely lost it – I would say I was as close to hysterical as I could be in getting to the edge without going completely over the edge. The past seven weeks have comprised of exhaustion on my exhaustion and explosions in my veins, which replaced the body aches I normally have. My arms and legs have literally been on fire – feeling like volcanic liquid rushing right under the skin, and when that subsides, my skin crawls and amid the buggy-like feelings there are sharp stabbing in my rib cage, leg cramps and stiffness. My feet hurt to walk on, and ache when I sit down... Then there is the IBS and inability to go more than two hours before my bladder is ready to burst... Too much information, I know - But wait, there's more...

Sitting too long is painful, standing too long is painful, lying down is painful – which leaves very little else to try. Most days I can handle the pain… or the exhaustion – BUT when they collide and mingle, it makes for a long day. We can add blurring vision and really dry and burning eyes; jaw, teeth and ear pain, and just feeling like “enough is enough”.

Which has led me to research more - and I have found a treatment...

Today I am afraid. Afraid to choose more heartache, when the LORD has so much joy in store for me. To raise that hope of healing the physical part of me, yet again. To dream of waking up 'pain free and full of energy'. Afraid to bear weak witness in my own weaknesses because I lack faith in the right things. I am afraid of letting go when I should hold on and holding on too tightly too long.

Seeking wisdom, clarity and strength today in Jesus' mighty name.
Amen.

Earlier today, my friend Scott shared Jeremiah 33:3, which spoke loudly to me in a time of need...
"Call to Me and I will answer you, and I will tell you great and mighty things, which you do not know." (New American Standard Bible)
So now what? If the LORD brings tomorrow, than I will live another day. Seek the LORD and live expectantly to see "what God has for me now". Every day is a new day, and I am grateful for each and every one of them our Father faces me with.

A letter written to a local newspaper, after finding out many of my high school classmates have been affected by Lyme.

One Response to Lyme victims relate experiences 
Written 2011, by Shawn Boreta
I was bitten in 1982, as we hiked along the creek located on Murray Creek Road, San Andreas. I have had a myriad of symptoms, diagnosis and undiagnosis over the years. I am now 46 years old, and was formally diagnosed a couple months ago. I was told for years that Lyme didn’t exist in California, especially where I grew up. I am getting treated for some of my symptoms, but have yet to get relief. The fortunate thing is I am high-functioning and have been able to maintain a pretty stable life. However, I have also had years when functioning was an issue. Today, I work a full time job and come home and do very little else. None of my current treatment is covered by insurance and I don’t see additional treatment as the cost is outrageous for the alternative medicine.
It is my constant prayer that this enemy that has plagued my physical life, will just go away… twenty-seven years and counting. I will not see another regular doctor as they tell me there is nothing wrong with me, or “you look fine” or there is nothing we can do except give you pain pills and anti-inflammatory medications, or better yet another “guessed” diagnosis, like Lupus, Epstein Barr, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue, MS, and most recently Rheumatoid Arthritis. I don’t want a support group or a counselor, I would, however, like to see change in the approach by health care providers and insurance companies.

©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
#lifeincolorandWORDs
#thankfullife

Thankful Life - October 18, 2014


"Is anything too hard for the LORD?" ~Genesis 18:14

We do not know why some are healed, some are not... but in the process of living out this life, we are to live in Christ and - and for me... it is heartfully stated, ".... whatever means Lord, keep me on the path toward You and remind me daily to 'run to You' for strength and my daily bread".

Darkness hovers over this world and tries "desperately" to creep in to our lives... our hearts and minds; the enemy will fight to keep you resisting growth... rebuke him at every turn... and hang on to God for your daily witness and to His glory.

KNOW that as a child of God, light envelops you and your life...the light is already within us, but old habits, new worldly inputs and harsh times... we have to seek the light to stay in the light. We have to remember WHOSE we are and how much God loves us. When the world is closing in... let the God of the Universe open you up. Lord Jesus, help me not only see the light, but live wholly in it.

It is our daily interactions with the Holy Spirit that brings truth into our hearts and minds. Without the Word, and dwelling in it, we wither and dwindle to what lies are prominent outside the Word. It is only this that helps us share God's amazing work in our lives. 

I know there is so much to consider in this life... but when we consider all that He has for us, we can see this life's offerings as opportunities to seek Him. My heart breaks over all the heartache and pain that so many of you are facing and by no means can I even partially understand, but I can pray/we can pray... May the brokenness be replaced with our LORD's restoration in full, and may light be shown in the darkness that is consuming and devastating times. Be with us LORD and help us to be overwhelmed in the Spirit.

In the midst of "the journey", we will be blessed beyond measure; cry out with all of our hearts; laugh in disbelief of His promises for our life; disobey and not 'let go'... and ask un-rightly, "how much more God, how much more?" (2 Timothy 2:12) 

And, He will respond lovingly and fully... 

"For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.  But what father from among you, if his son will ask for a fish, instead of a fish will give him a snake? Or also, if he will ask for an egg, will give him a scorpion? Therefore if you, although you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the Father from heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?” ~Luke 11:10-13 (New American Standard Bible)
How much more will He do for you?

©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
#givingthanksdaily
#lifeincolorandWORDs
#thankfullife
#brokenglass

Friday, October 17, 2014

Thankful Life - October 17, 2014

For me, I cannot focus on what is ailing me, but who is leading me...


"By His stripes"... Isaiah 53:5 is a fulfilled prophesy that our LORD Jesus bore our sins through the beatings and crucifixion. It is a promise of eternal healing... that He paid our debt for our sin, past/present/future. God is directing me to talk/pray/act differently when it comes to "my healing". Taking scripture to the meaning intended and leading others to seek His guidance too. Also referencing "By His wounds you are healed"...1 Peter 2:24 speaks volumes to me that I need to seek Him differently. That what I seek is not physical healing, but connection to the Holy Spirit through God's Word, while moving steadily in our pursuit to be Christ-like, and as our Father pursues us to KNOW Him...


My writings and prayers have been leading to so much revelation... about myself and exposing prayer in a new and wonderful light. Praying expectantly, but also praying thankfully - not just in my needs or wants - has given me so much hope and insight.


I am asking if anyone else is realizing or discovering anything similar?


And, wanted to see if any of my writings are resonating with anyone else... too far out there? I appreciate your thoughts and input.


In Christ,
Shawn Boreta






#lifeincolorandWORDS
#givingthanksdaily
#thankfullife

Thursday, October 16, 2014

Thankful Life - October 16, 2014


It has been an amazing day in the LORD... I had a wonderful time with one of my prayer partners - my best friend - tonight. We have not had a chance to be face to face for over a month. And, it was a great time. We started doing an online study so we can be purposeful in our get-togethers... looking to fulfill our hearts, rather than our shopping carts or bellies (although, coffee was involved tonight). 

Father, You are awesome and I am so thankful for special times of filling. Thank You Jesus. Amen. My prayer today is that you will share what the LORD brings to your hearts and to your minds as you study His Word… As I began my day, I started with Genesis 17, and several things came to mind, that I noted...
(God) As I reviewed this text, I was confronted with God's faithfulness. Because of Christ, we are ONE. It's very difficult to not see God as I read scripture. As God instructed Abraham to circumcise all in his household, I immediately thought of sanctification in my own household - I am to pray for those who do not know God/Christ/Holy Spirit. (ME) The O.T. promise, was fulfilled through Christ's finished work as we trust and believe in Him. Obedience is the word that is highlighted here - implied, not said. (The World) Obedient to Christ-like through the strength of the Holy Spirit is a steady thread in my readings lately, this just added more for this personal conviction to obey Christ to share Christ through my life. For God's people, we are to be one, to abide and live Christ-like, so the world will see Christ.


I believe it will encourage others to seek more. We have many in the thralls of unrest, turmoil and grief... Paul wrote, "Do not loose heart..." we are to take note of our circumstances, but don't get caught up in them. We are reminded to seek God, dwell in His presence, seek His comfort... "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (2 Corinthians 4:16-18). What a wonderful thought it is to "get caught up in the LORD"... Awesome God so many need You right now. We ask for Your comfort and guidance as these waters are moved through. Let us know that You carry us through rough waters and never leave us in the calm. We are Yours Father and mighty Redeemer and trust Your every purpose. We pray for those around us who "run from You, and to the comforts of this world"... we pray for our own souls to be at peace, regardless of the physical pain, emotional pain that others work to engage us in.

My friends, don't ever 'think' you are not important to God... you are an amazing creation... and He really wants you to know that. Don't let anyone or anything sway you from knowing how beautiful you are.


I know there is so much to consider in this life... but when we consider all that He has for us, we can see this life's offerings as opportunities to seek Him. My heart breaks over all the heartache and pain that so many of you are facing and by no means can I even partially understand, but I can pray/we can pray... May the brokenness be replaced with our LORD's restoration in full, and may light be shown in the darkness that is consuming and devastating times. Be with us LORD and help us to be overwhelmed in the Spirit.

God is in pursuit of all of us, and not only to say the right things but to be drawn to the Word so we can grow... I know you are all busy, but would love to hear your thoughts - concerns - insights.

For me, it's about changing our direction, and going deeper.

"Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God,
To God’s holy people in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus:
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Praise for Spiritual Blessings in Christ
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For he chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with His pleasure and will—to the praise of his glorious grace, which He has freely given us in the One He loves. In Him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that He lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, He made known to us the mystery of His will according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.
"In Him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will, in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of His glory. And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in Him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of His glory." ~Ephesians 1:1-14 (New International Version)

Thank You Father for Your faithfulness and persistence in my life. I am in awe daily, not only because You love me so much, but that You continue to show me so much. Help me LORD to engage as You desire me to engage; grow as You desire me to grow; and hope as only You can urge me to hope. In Jesus' mighty name, we pray. Amen.

©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
#lifeincolorandWORDs
#thankfullife 

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

My Life is a Prayer - October 15, 2014


Typically Lord I am very patient… With others mostly, and with myself but today Lord I'm just edgy. I'm annoyed by the littlest things and needing to give Grace. Although I'm not outwardly voicing these annoyances, I am allowing them to and enter my heart and my thoughts. Help me to be loving and kind in thought, as well as action. Help me Lord to love more… More deeply, more wholly! Help me to see the little things that show growth in those I love so much Father. Let me know today that the work we do counts for something. I don't want our efforts to be dirty rags, but to be a fragrance to Your presence. We pray that our actions Lord be those that glorify You… Especially in the little things, whether seen or not. We love you LORD and we just want to please you. Let us seek you more and love You more. Help us in the fullness of the Holy Spirit and with the interceding grace of our Lord Jesus. 

Father we come to you this today and we just thank You for Your presence and Your love. We thank You that You love us so much. We thank You God there is nothing we can ever want because we have You! Help us tear the walls down that hinder our progress to a greater faith and closer relationship with You. Help us let go of the burdens in the woes of this life. Let us come to You and praise and worship many moments today. Thank you Jesus. 

Today, I believe in the strength to endure whatever this world... and this body gives me, but only because I know my Lord will "not leave or forsake me", that I am loved beyond measure, and as I seek my God's will, as I abide, He hears me; He sees me; He knows my every need. Father, please work this heart out to be wholly Yours and let Your desires for this life, are fully the desires of my heart as well. Give me the strength to seek, believe and fulfill Your will. Let the Holy Spirit be my guide and the unending power I need to walk righteously and rightly, in the amazing promises, I come to You and trust in the mighty name of Jesus. AMEN!

Are you going through a rough time? 

Let the LORD fill you... run to a comforting scripture... put on some worship music that will minister to you deeply... reach out to others you can pray for... and with...there might be too much to bear... KNOW THIS, the LORD is with you even in the times when it feels like you are straddling the deep end of grief and hardship. 

Do you feel "unheard, unseen, unimportant"?

 "But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one." 2 Thessalonians 3:3 (New International Version)
I believe we have all been there. You speak, and it's like you are invisible? Well, know this – our God is hearing you, seeing you and you are important... how do I know this? 

(Psalm 118:6; Romans 8:31; Psalm 139; Genesis 16:13; 1 John 4:14)

God is in pursuit of all of us, and not only to say the right things but to be drawn to the Word so we can grow... 
It's about changing our direction, and going deeper.

Our God pursues us… not just for salvation, but for growth and engagement. Are you engaging with the living God? Are you allowing Him to let you grow in the Word and in your faith? It is the work of the Holy Spirit that leads people to salvation, not argument... let your convictions run deep and draw others to your light.

“Listen to advice and accept instruction    so that you will gain wisdom for your future.Many plans are in the heart of a man,    but the purpose of Yahweh will be established." -Proverbs 19:20-21 (Lexham English Bible)

©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
#lifeincolorandWORDs
#thankfullife

Thankful Life - October 15, 2014


It really is a beautiful day, rain or shine… Isn't it? Let's make these questions that we have in our head and in our heart about the Lord into explanation points.

God loves you! No question there.
Jesus died so that you could live! No question there.
Nothing is impossible because of God! No question there.
You were created with a purpose to fulfill God's plan! No question there.
Seek Him today!

Father we come to you this today and we just thank You for your presence and Your love. We thank You that You love us so much. We thank You God there is nothing we can ever want because we have You! Help us tear the walls down that hinder our progress to a greater faith and closer relationship with You. Help us let go of the burdens in the woes of this life. Let us come to You and praise and worship many moments today. Thank you Jesus. In the midst of busyness Lord I forget to praise You and worship You… I forget that without You, I have nothing. That with You I am part of something amazing. That without you there would be a void and emptiness but nothing in this world could fill. With You Lord my life is overflowing, and I am so grateful to know You. I am so thankful that Jesus is for me and in me. Help me Lord to be thankful and every moment. Help me Lord to show others how much You love me but how much I love them. Help me love the unlovable, the unapproachable, the undesirable. Help me glorify You, while taking no credit. Help me, humble me And strengthen me as only You can. This I seek Lord in the precious name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

"But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and [a]show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me!" ~2 Corinthians 12:9 (Amplified Bible)


©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
#lifeincolorandWORDs
#thankfullife

Monday, October 13, 2014

Thankful Life - October 13, 2014


Breaking through the thoughts that do not honor my LORD’s accomplishments with my life. That is my prayer today. Actually, these past few (or five) weeks have been a reprogramming of sorts. In the moments when “enough is enough”, I have to remember that “God is enough” and it’s time to redirect where my eyes, heart and ears focus.

Changing the way I think about what I am feeling, and how to manage emotions.

Yes, there is a whole new outlook for me. In my seeking God for daily strength, I sensed Him showing me to "see Me Shawn"... "it's all you need..." In the moments of my Father’s whispers and urgings I am comforted in a new way.

I could hear my inner most fears and inadequacies rise to the surface, “but what about the pain Lord” was the only thought I had… yet, immediately I understood what God had in mind. It’s the “about Him” part, not the going on with me part that He desires me to seek right now. And, really when I think about it, I don’t have to go far to find the “about me” part – but I do have to let go of it to seek Him wholly.

WOW Father, it is so clear – help me to live and relate to the daily application of my walk what is so deeply important to You.

“And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.
 "In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone.” ~2 Peter 1:4-7 (New Living Translation)

There is no fear… no worry about “how long will this go on…” (Psalm 118:6). No matter how many times my body aches, my heart will yearn even more. And, in the trials of the flesh, my spirit through the Spirit will rise above, soar and hold on, for there is nothing that this world can bring that my God will not handle on my behalf. Because I am His and there is nothing that can change this truth.

“No, but in all these things we prevail completely through the one who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” ~Romans 8:37-39 (Lexham English Bible)

Rest indeed today... rest indeed!

“But those who listen to me will live in safety and comfort. They will have nothing to fear.”  ~Proverbs 1:33 (Easy-to-Read Version)



©2014 Giving Thanks Daily
#lifeincolorandWORDs
#ThankfulLife







Sunday, October 12, 2014

Thankful Life - October 12, 2014


"Today you rest..." 

In letting go of the ‘old’ and allowing the new, there is much to consider… yet nothing to do. But, in our flesh, we do… and do… and do… and do!

“Today you rest…” easily said.

I awoke earlier than anticipated and started my day.  As I headed down the hill this morning, I was ready to receive the LORD’s Word and words today.

Let me Father hear and be moved… let me realize the relevancy and application as I seek Your guidance and act wisely in this life.

“Today you rest…” insisted my thoughts again.

Working through “Our Identity in Christ” again this week, and I am humbled again, and honored even more. Some of what I am hearing today is…

God speaks to you - individually and personally!
(Genesis 3:9, Jeremiah 1:5)

He knows you by name.
(Matthew 10:30)

I am learning that in these times of that I am 'tired', that I need to redirect my thoughts often – regardless of what I feel my physical body needs, I know that I am to focus on the spiritual. How is this done? One day – one moment at a time.

Again I hear, “Let go of the old – IDENTIFY AND EMBRACE THE NEW identity in Christ.
Don’t go back, don’t look back… leave behind our old identity to GAIN His… leave everything I know and leave behind ALL that does not glorify our LORD. Daily I know this is impossible on my own, but I do KNOW it is possible through the power and strength of the Holy Spirit in me. IT IS POSSIBLE.

What I know today about this... it is an exercise that must be done often.
“Now the LORD said to Abram,
“Go forth from your country,
And from your relatives
And from your father’s house,
To the land which I will show you;” ~Genesis 12:1 (New American Standard Bible)
“So Abraham went as the LORD had told him…” ~Genesis 12:4

So as I close out my day, I contemplate, “How does God see me? How will I know?”

Oh, thank You Father for Your Word and all that is revealed to my heart and continues to dwell in my thoughts and in my actions. Thank You for loving me ENOUGH and in such an overwhelming way. Thank You that I will never be without You providing I seek and abide; and pray and pursue! Thank You for leading me, as You pursue my heart and life to fulfill Your desires and will through my purpose. In Christ Jesus I am grateful and thankful as I pray and praise… Thank You Lord for giving me instructions to rest today, for it truly has been exactly what I needed today. Thank You for filling my heart and life so fully. Amen!

Rest indeed today... rest indeed!


So, what is the old that need to be "released"? It is the focus of the moment - the engagement of seeking Jesus, rather than comfort. Pursing a life that will glorify my LORD, and lead me to a deeper Christ-like outlook and path. It is letting go of prayerful moments for healing, and hanging onto the reality and gift of salvation that is already accomplished... it is letting go of allowing anything else to take priority, when it's all about living for Jesus - in His strength and power... it is letting go of any despair, for there is not sorrow in the promise of eternity with my Savior... it is letting go of unbelief and engaging in believing that God is for me, regardless of what is going on around or about me. It is trusting that I am His, and that is ENOUGH! Just as Jesus is ENOUGH!

REST INDEED... in the knowledge that resting in Him, because of Him that is all I need.

Other references for today (Genesis 12:2-3; 17:3-6: Revelation 62:2; Revelation 21:27)


©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta

#lifeincolorandWORDs
#givingthanksdaily
#thankfullife

Friday, October 10, 2014

Thankful Life - October 10, 2014


“I’m late, I’m late for a very important date”, said the White Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland. And, those were my thoughts as I woke up and worked toward the front door to leave this week. I ran late every day this week… alarm… snooze, alarm… snooze, alarm… snooze – repeatedly, every morning this week. I am getting ‘enough’ sleep, but my body just does not recognize the rest. There are days when I am so tired of exhaustion, that I want to sit and cry, and others where “throwing my hands up” in frustration is a pointless and wasteful use of energy… so what do I do?  

Yep... really needing prayer. My faith is strong... yet, there are moments when the exhaustion and physical pain greatly distracts my spiritual progress. I need to read more, ponder more and believe more. But I have our LORD to see me through every single moment, but I do have to call upon Him.

I am grateful for all the moments that I NEED JESUS more. And, truly there are many of those to look forward to, I’m sure. And yet, in these times I can see more clearly – take in my environment more fully – love the good moments more deeply – ALL WHILE KNOWING GOD IS GOD, and I am His. That assurance is “to die for…” To be more precise, to die to self.

 “For [as far as this world is concerned] you have died, and your [new, real] life is hidden with Christ in God.
When Christ, Who is our life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in [the splendor of His] glory.

So kill (deaden, deprive of power) the evil desire lurking in your members [those animal impulses and all that is earthly in you that is employed in sin]: sexual vice, impurity, sensual appetites, unholy desires, and all greed and covetousness, for that is idolatry (the deifying of self and other created things instead of God).

It is on account of these [very sins] that the [holy] anger of God is ever coming upon the sons of disobedience (those who are obstinately opposed to the divine will),

Among whom you also once walked, when you were living in and addicted to [such practices].” ~Colossians 3:3-7 (Amplified Bible)

As I move through my day, and ponder God’s goodness often today, I am drawn more and more to ‘my’ Jesus and in AWE of the knowledge that He intercedes (at every turn and in every thought) for me before the Throne. How can I not be grateful? How can I not abide toward His commands and desires for my life? How can I not love Him more deeply every day? But even in His presence, the world, my habits, the physical pain and doubt can seep into my thoughts… so again, I seek and command in Jesus’ name for my thought life… for my actions… in these moments.

Back off satan... there is NO ROOM FOR you in my thoughts, or with anything or anyone around me. Father God, my Mighty Fortress, pursue my heart even more diligently today. Help me overcome myself and be overwhelmed with the Saving Grace so wonderfully gifted to me, and accepted into this heart.

“Hear my cry, O God,
    listen to my prayer;
from the end of the earth I call to You
    when my heart is faint.
Lead me to the rock
    that is higher than I,
for you have been my refuge,
    a strong tower against the enemy.
Let me dwell in Your tent forever!
    Let me take refuge under the shelter of Your wings! Selah
For You, O God, have heard my vows;
    You have given me the heritage of those who fear Your name.
Prolong the life of the king;
    may his years endure to all generations!
May he be enthroned forever before God;
    appoint steadfast love and faithfulness to watch over him!
So will I ever sing praises to Your name,
    as I perform my vows day after day.” ~Psalm 61 (English Standard Version)


©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
#lifeincolorandWORDs
#ThankfulLife

Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Thankful Life - October 8, 2014


Let it be known, that God already WON... 
Bought with blood... the greatest transaction ever recorded!
It is finished... My debt is paid and I now live in hope.  Simply stated, Thank You Father for washing us of our sin with Your work at the Cross and with Your Word daily.
These past few weeks have been interesting, to say the least. In the moments when I thought "I was done... tired, worn out and unable to continue" - God shined energy, love, help and amazing power in my life. I have learned that I can never pray enough for others or set my sights on the LORD Jesus near enough, but I hope and pray that I can try for every moment that I live in this world.
Knowing how much I am loved, have been loved and will be loved - regardless!!! Is enough!
It has been a challenge, physically, emotionally and spiritually lately. Everything seems like so much work. I am grateful that I am praying daily - and seeking in so many moments throughout this life... through this ministry that our loving Father has engaged me with and asks me to lead, I am constantly challenged to 'do better' and live rightly. With this said, I fall short daily... and that is why I am so thankful for His leading.
1 Thessalonians 1 Lexham English Bible (LEB)
Greeting
Paul and Silvanus and Timothy, to the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace to you and peace.
Thanksgiving for the Thessalonian Believers
"We give thanks to God always concerning all of you, making mention constantly in our prayers,  because we remember your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father, knowing, brothers dearly loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel did not come to you with word only, but also with power and with the Holy Spirit and with much certainty, just as you know what sort of people we became among you for your sake. And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, receiving the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all those who believe in Macedonia and in Achaia, for from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but in every place your faith toward God has gone out, so that we have no need to say anything. For they themselves report about us, what sort of welcome we had with you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to await his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus, the one who delivers us from the coming wrath."
These thoughts came as I prayed with, and as the LORD ministered to my heart and soul...
Is there anyone here having a challenge, or several? 
I would like you to pray about, ponder and write a testimony of how God helped you get through it... So, obviously, that doesn't mean you will be writing this at this moment... what it means, is that as you seek guidance, listen for His comfort and see His mercies through this process, take note... keep track and stay accountable to the journey. Also, I want you to give thanks daily... maybe even many times during the day. Every time you see yourself cycling downward, look and seek upward. GIVE THANKS! PRAISE GOD... seek strength and wisdom from the Holy Spirit, and cry out to Jesus.
If you are not in a storm now, you either just came out of one, or are heading in... be prepared, stay in tune with the Spirit and our Father in heaven.
What say you?
I end tonight with this prayer, for you, for me... for those we love.
Father forgive me, for leaving my responsibilities… For letting my own worries and concerns be the center. I want to lift our brothers and sisters, on this page and our other ministry pages, and all of our wonderful PS139 group of edifiers. There have been so many challenges Father that we are overwhelmed, overburdened. We pray for strength to make it through the days, to see through the moments that seem just so hard to push through. Let us in our own moments remember those who are also in need, our brothers and sisters… Those who have yet to be saved... for our countries and the leadership, and the nations around the world. Help us be mindful of Your presence. You are our God, our everything. Thank you for being with us now in Your Son's glorious and precious name we pray, amen.
Lord, let me be humbled daily and glorify You through the days I am honored to live out here before I go home to be with You.

©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
#thankfullifeGTD
#lifeincolorandWORDS


Shawn Delia Boreta

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