Thankful Life - December 18, 2014

As I fight through a little battle physically this morning, I thought about what all this means to me. Often times we believe the chronic pain is our curse or our cross to bear…For me, the reality it's my blessing… I have the opportunity to seek God more, and if that's what it takes for me to do so then it could never be a curse… It's my Saviors time with me. Daily I have opportunity, after opportunity… Thank you Jesus! I can only do this... live in hope and expectation because I am His. Help me Father to remember this in all my moments today, tomorrow and every day I am this side of Heaven.

"It is because of God that you are in Christ Jesus. He became wisdom from God for us. This means that he made us righteous and holy, and he delivered us. This is consistent with what was written: The one who brags should brag in the Lord!" ~1 Corinthians 1:30-31 (Common English Bible)

I know that if things went smoothly, I would not have sought after or fought toward Him very much. I do notice that when things are going well, I tend to "not bother" God as much – I get complacent. I don’t want to, but it happens… by no means am I saying that God is creating the reasons for me to seek Him, but… if I recognize this about me, I realize that our Father definitely knows this about me.

Father, it is my desire to seek You at all times, including and especially during times that are seemingly going well – while reminding me that “all times” are going well when I remember You.

If there were no tough days, how would we know the good days? If there were no trials, how would we see the miracles?

I found so much joy today as I poured out prayer this morning – God truly comforted my own physical challenges are I brought the challenges of others to Him. My life is very blessed, and my heart and soul have learned to soar through recognizing God’s mercies in the every day. Today, I experienced many mercies… and I am thankful.

“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases;    
His mercies never come to an end;they are new every morning;   
great is Your faithfulness.” ~ Lamentations 3:22-23 (English Standard Version)

And as I settle in tonight, I celebrate another day and sing my LORD’s praises in His Word, one of my favorites and such a comfort for my heart – every time!

Psalm 62 (New American Standard Bible)
1 My soul waits in silence for God only; From Him is my salvation.
2 He only is my rock and my salvation, My stronghold; I shall not be greatly shaken. 
3 How long will you assail a man, That you may murder him, all of you, Like a leaning wall, like a tottering fence? 
4 They have counseled only to thrust him down from his high position; They delight in falsehood; They bless with their mouth, But inwardly they curse. Selah. 
5 My soul, wait in silence for God only, For my hope is from Him.
6 He only is my rock and my salvation, My stronghold; I shall not be shaken. 
7 On God my salvation and my glory rest; The rock of my strength, my refuge is in God.
8 Trust in Him at all times, O people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us. Selah.
9 Men of low degree are only vanity and men of rank are a lie;In the balances they go up; They are together lighter than breath.
10 Do not trust in oppression  And do not vainly hope in robbery; If riches increase, do not set your heart upon them. 
11 Once God has spoken; Twice I have heard this:That power belongs to God;  
12 And loving kindness is Yours, O Lord, ,For You recompense a man according to His work."

 

©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta

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Thankful Life - December 17, 2014

Another day and yet more opportunities to seek my LORD and Savior...

Do you know God and His promises for you? I do… And once again today, I was reminded. God is present in my life.

"This means that our knowledge of men can no longer be based on their outward lives (indeed, even though we knew Christ as a man we do not know him like that any longer). For if a man is in Christ he becomes a new person altogether—the past is finished and gone, everything has become fresh and new. All this is God’s doing, for he has reconciled us to himself through Jesus Christ; and he has made us agents of the reconciliation. God was in Christ personally reconciling the world to himself—not counting their sins against them—and has commissioned us with the message of reconciliation. We are now Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were appealing direct to you through us. As his personal representatives we say, “Make your peace with God.” For God caused Christ, who himself knew nothing of sin, actually to be sin for our sakes, so that in Christ we might be made good with the goodness of God." ~2 Corinthians 5:16-21 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

Breathe...

Stand firm in the midst of storms and fires... they will never stop coming.

I find myself asking, during times that seem unbearable, "what more can I do to draw nearer my Father?" And, simply I pray more... talk to Him, seek Him and look for ways to do it even more - draw near.

So, as the waves crash and the smoke inches in... I breathe! I breathe in His Word.

Father we come to You in whole heart that our lives can reflect our Savior in mighty ways. That we can minister when our lives and circumstances seem out of control, as well as when we see Your blessings in the good times. Help us to live Christ-like and love others without judgement or disdainment for anything that is done toward us. Let us remember that we have all sinned and fall short... that without You our lives would be empty and worthless. In Christ's name we pray.


My daily lessons, and perfect God's orchestrations of the interactions through others are my constant reminder that this life is to be 'done' for Him. When I dwell on "it's all about me", I become discouraged quickly... when I make efforts my focus is on Him, what He wants me to do.... and helping and blessing others, I find peace and joy. These constant reminders come to encourage me that this world is temporary... and He is the only thing constant and permanent... My friends.don't let this world and what happens keep you down. I pray you find joy even in the tough times....

God is present in my life. And I pray for you today that He will be present in your life as well.

‪©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta

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Thankful

There is such an outpouring from all of you of prayer and love... I just want to thank you for being here with me... I so appreciate and love you all.

Thankful Life - December 11, 2014

I am thankful today... so much love and so many gifts that my God delivers to me daily. How can I count them? How much more LORD will You lavish upon my life?

God's goodness through His daily inspiration for me has delivered amazing peace and hope in my life... regardless of what is going on - every storm has a clearing. Every clear sky shines a mighty God and His glory.

THESE ARE THE THINGS I MUST REMEMBER in the times of storms, or troubled waters. THESE ARE THE THINGS I MUST REMEMBER when my flesh is weak, my heart is torn and my will is tattered. THESE ARE THE THINGS I MUST REMEMBER while the lessons are difficult and the times are tough... Yes, Father deliverance to and toward a life that is representative of You in it - THIS IS MY DESIRE!

"I'll give you concealed treasures and riches hidden in secret places, so that you'll know that it is I, the LORD, the God of Israel, who calls you by name." ~Isaiah 45:3 (International Standard Version) 

When we, as Christ's people, believe that wealth is define as the world defines it... we are deprived of God's infinite treasures...

And when we described our healing in the flesh, we let go of His tender and amazing mercies. 

Our treasures and mercies are the gift that came with the beautiful words, "It is finished!"

We experience death—we give life, by the power of God

7-13 "This priceless treasure we hold, so to speak, in a common earthenware jar—to show that the splendid power of it belongs to God and not to us. We are handicapped on all sides, but we are never frustrated; we are puzzled, but never in despair. We are persecuted, but we never have to stand it alone: we may be knocked down but we are never knocked out! Every day we experience something of the death of the Lord Jesus, so that we may also know the power of the life of Jesus in these bodies of ours. Yes, we who are living are always being exposed to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus may be plainly seen in our mortal lives. We are always facing death, but this means that you know more and more of life. Our faith is like that mentioned in the scripture: ‘I believed and therefore I spoke’.

14 "For we too speak because we believe, and we know for certain that he who raised the Lord Jesus from death shall also by him raise us. We shall all stand together before him.
We live a transitory life with our eyes on the life eternal

15-18 "We wish you could see how all this is working out for your benefit, and how the more grace God gives, the more thanksgiving will redound to his glory. This is the reason why we never collapse. The outward man does indeed suffer wear and tear, but every day the inward man receives fresh strength. These little troubles (which are really so transitory) are winning for us a permanent, glorious and solid reward out of all proportion to our pain. For we are looking all the time not at the visible things but at the invisible. The visible things are transitory: it is the invisible things that are really permanent." ~2 Corinthians 4:7-18 J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS)

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© 2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta

Thankful Life - December 9, 2014

Today is a good day, but when someone asked me, "How are you?", the other day... my immediate thought was, "Now, that's a very complicated question!"

My answer...
"It's been a big week for sleep and dwelling..."

Dwelling in His promise, rather than the 6 roughest days this year.

"Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10 (New American Standard Bible)

SURELY I WILL HELP YOU! ~God

I woke up refreshed this morning, and as usual I thanked the LORD for another day and prayed for the strength to focus on the great things in my life. There truly are so many… an amazing Father in heaven who never leaves me, a loving and caring husband who God has softened so greatly over the years, a beautiful daughter whose compassion for others is such a gift… An extended family who prays for me and cares about me. The true meaning of love one another is present in their actions and use of their giftings!

As I got ready for work this morning, and looked in the mirror, I noticed the "battle lines" in my face. I have two vertical lines in my four head that seem to get deeper with every episode of pain that I battle. And my first thought this morning was, "what could I do to ease those lines, to soften them… to make them disappear?"  But through the day as I pondered that, and as I read through Matthew 7, my heart settled on acceptance of these battle lines. They are part of my journey! They are a constant reminder that this battle is not mine, but God's and He's got this.

During a conversation with my husband the other day, I admitted aloud that "I am afraid"… Not only afraid of what was to come with treatment options, but we talked about the "what ifs" as well. I am afraid to hope for result that have not occurred thus far. I admitted too, that I am afraid that he would become discouraged, lose heart and become distant in this process… That it would become even more difficult, even unbearable! And during this time of connection with my husband, which was the first like this, I sensed God comforting me… Speaking gently to His daughter…

It was a great discussion, and God's comfort continued in the lesson on Sunday at church.

The greatest sin is to not believe… To look God square in the face day after day as I don't believe and really relay to Him, "My fears are bigger than You"! Today, I am grateful. For I will not be derailed from my God's healing, my fear will not delay me, my God will deliver me.

In my gleaning this morning... my attention was drawn to our Father's love for His children - that my relationship with Him is what matters. "How much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask!" Let me remember always of this kind of love as I pursue His heart and desires for my life. Let me remember the way He loves me... comforts me... defines me!

I just love this... don't you?

Ask, Seek, Knock“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened for you. 8 For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. Is there anyone among you who, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone?  Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you then, although you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! In everything, treat others as you would want them to treat you, for this fulfills the law and the prophets." ~Matthew 7:1-12 (New English Translation)

God desires all of me. What part of have I not given Him, or haven't surrendered? It's time to give it up. Give it up to have it all. He is my treasure.

God desires all of you. What part of you have you not given him, or haven't surrendered? It's time to give it up. Give it up to have it all. He is your treasure.

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© 2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta

Thankful Life - December 7, 2014

God is merciful...

"If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!" ~Matthew 7:11 (New Kings James Version)

How much more! It is not a question, but a beautiful truth!

Today was a great day. I will start with my final thought for today, KNOCK... for He will hear you... never stop SEEKING... my God is faithful. Our message today was on prayer. I love prayer, but after the message, I believe I "give up" way too soon. God desires us to be persistent... to pursue our desires, but most of all, HE DESIRES US TO SEEK HIM.

Prayer is everything... 

Dwelling in His promise, rather than the 6 roughest days this year.

"'Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.'" Isaiah 41:10 (New American Standard Bible)

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© 2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta

Thankful Life - December 4, 2014

It may appear to the flesh that we have been forgotten, or abandoned in our storms, but we are never left to fend for ourselves as a child of God.

"Then he went aboard the boat, and his disciples followed him. Before long a terrific storm sprang up and the boat was awash with the waves. Jesus was sleeping soundly and the disciples went forward and woke him up. “Lord, save us!” they cried. “We are drowning!” ~Matthew 9:23-25

Awake… Thankful, first, I am grateful that I am awake and alert and ready to conquer another day… But never ready without "He who loved me first".

Awake… it appears that much more awake than just what you see. Lord I cannot do this today or any day without You, nor do I want to.

Awake… This body that appears whole - it's crashing on the inside, desperate for relief… crying and screaming on the inside… Praying to see the crashing of me restored.

It's days like these that I find my flesh screaming, "enough… Enough, enough is enough!"

And it's moments like these that I treasure that my God is enough, more than enough!

Most days I don't remember my dreams, sometimes I wake up and just know they were weird. Others it might be a calm. When I woke up yesterday, by the way after sleeping 14 1/2 hours after a first dose of an antibiotic for a kidney infection, it was not only weird… But I did remember it.

I spent the night experiencing crashes… Crashing cars, crashing waves, avalanching snow… Crashing into people. It depicted exactly what the inside of my body feels like - fine one minute and crushed the next. "Fine" defined is momentary lapses in pain. Again I say, I cannot do this alone, and today I am grateful I never have to.

I am grateful. Whatever you're going through today or in this life, you are not alone. We never have to be alone!

Jesus shows his mastery over the forces of nature in our lives daily... we just have to abide and be aware of His presence, through His Word and the consistence of the Holy Spirit.

“What are you so frightened about, you little-faiths?” he replied. Then he got to his feet and rebuked the wind and the waters and there was a great calm. The men were filled with astonishment and kept saying, “Whatever sort of man is this—why, even the wind and the waves do what he tells them!” Matthew 8:26-27

J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS)

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© 2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta

Guest Writer - Giving Thanks Daily, November 27, 2014

Practicing Deliberate Thanksgiving

By Rob Henslin

“… Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” ~Ephesians 5:19, 20 (New International Version)

It’s quite easy for me to agree with the sentiment of those verses but quite another to actually live it out. In 2012 I was in the midst of painful and gut-wrenching divorce proceedings. Much of my energy was spent slogging through procedural issues and various points of contention, wishing it could all be over and done. I became “Danny Downer,” detached and hope-less.

My friend Amy picked up on that vibe and took action. When we met, she greeted me with a warm smile and handed me a wrapped gift. “I saw this and thought it was perfect for you right now.”

“What? Perfect for me?” I inquired.

“I just want you to stay focused and remember that you will get through the divorce, and your life will move forward.” Inside the box was a beautiful, hand-painted glass plate, five inches square, with an image of a yellow bird perched on a small tree branch. In the upper left hand corner, the word “hope” was etched into the surface.

When I returned home, I mounted my hope plate on the wall above my desk. With Amy’s encouragement fresh in my mind, I decided to take deliberate action to find the hope I had lost.
One day in August of 2012 was a turning point in my life. I sat down at my laptop computer and created a new document simply titled “Miracles and Blessings.” As quickly as the neurons could fire between my brain and fingertips, I filled page after page with short entries detailing in very specific terms the many blessings I had forgotten and perhaps failed to even acknowledge in the past.

I pondered the previous two decades of my life—as far back as my wedding day and my battle with blood cancer. I skipped over stuff like the “blessing” of a parking place close to the entrance to Macy’s. I never prayed that kind of prayer.

I was more interested in the “meat,” the authentic blessings and miracles that God had showered upon me: getting into remission in five weeks following my original diagnosis of leukemia; my two miracle daughters who defied the medical establishment and graced this earth with their presence in 1992 and 1994; surviving a cancer relapse in 2008, receiving a bone marrow transplant in 2009, and on and on. Within a month or two the list had swelled to several thousand words.

What an exercise!

Often my initial response given difficult situations is to focus on the negative rather than the positive. I hate to admit that but it’s the truth. Taking deliberate action was something I had to do.

In those times when I struggle with hopelessness, the hope plate on my wall and my growing account of all that God has done helps refocus and reaffirm my faith in Him, that he knows me, loves me, and even in the darkest hours has never lost His grip on me. My miracles and blessings document provides numerous reminders and reasons for me to give “thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

In this season of hope, will you join me in an exercise of practicing deliberate thanksgiving for all that the Lord has done and is doing in our lives? Perhaps this Thanksgiving Day will be the day you begin keeping your own list of miracles and blessings.

Oh, and if you want to, it’s probably perfectly okay to pray for a good parking space! Happy Thanksgiving.

About Rob

Rob Henslin is a father, graphic designer, rocketry enthusiast, and author. He is passionate about finding ways to make the most of the hardships he has endured so he can help others through difficult times. Much of this article was adapted from his new book, “When You See the Cows, Make a Left!” (Amazon.com). Rob has volunteered his time to assist the Be The Match bone marrow registry (www.marrow.org) and has shared his story through speaking engagements, radio interviews, and magazine articles. Rob lives in Northern California, where the deer and his German shepherd play. Visit his website at www.post-traumaticpress.com.

            

© 2014 Post-Traumatic Press, Robert Henslin


Rob is a friend and brother in Christ.  He has been part of of our prayer team with Ps139 group since the beginning and has been part of the family ever since. Even in the midst of his own trials, he prayed for others in need. I am honored to serve our Heavenly Father with this man God. Be sure to check out Rob's new book, When You See the Cows, Make A Left!



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Being His - November 15, 2014

Everything that happens in this life... is forgivable... redeemable.., purposeful... only because we have a God who loves so much, we are forgiven when we approach the throne and ask for forgiveness... Through that comes redemption, the amazing gift that our Creator and heavenly Father so lovingly prepared for those who love Him... And, every decision and direction of this life began with purpose and with His direction and pursuit, He calls us to that purpose.

Even in this... there is forgiveness... redemption... purpose!

My body is fighting LORD... and I need Your fight in me. There is just so much I can do, and I am seriously done for the moment... help me fight so I can then rest.

The physical pain Father and the dealings with this disease are nothing compared to the heartbreak You know because so many have fallen away from Your truth. It breaks my heart to know that I too can and will let you down. That I too fall short every single day and so desire to be Christ-like in my actions, thoughts and pursuits. Help me LORD to work through the heart issues that arise, the temptations that are ever present in this life, and to know You completely - as you desire for me. Help me to pursue Your Word diligently and to recognize what needs to change in me. Help me to love others, be patient and walk in a manner pleasing to You... even in and especially in my momentary states that seem to disallow clarity and wisdom. Forgive me for my shortness with others and let not my physical pain be a stumbling block to compassionate and passionate witness, but allow me to be empathetic to the pure needs of others. Help me pursue and believe whole restoration regardless of my physical being. I trust You Father and love You so much. Help me live out that example... not by complaining or bringing attention to myself in my own trials, but glorifying You as I am strengthened, comforted and healed "yet more" by Your mercies daily. Thank YOU Father for loving me completely, and giving me hope daily through Your tender and perfect presence. Let my life reflect Your grace as I relate to others in their need despite my own needs. In the glory of our Creator, and through the saving blood of Christ Jesus, we pray. Amen.

You are the fight I need right now Father... take it from here.


©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta

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Thankful Life - November 12, 2014

The precious Words of Jesus, and Truth of the Word must be spread throughout the world... this is done, when we step out of our own little life and engage with another's life. Through love, tenderness and sharing the truth is done as we relate to others... care about others... love on others... and live as Christ would live... not a simple "what would Jesus do" in action, but "who am I" through Jesus as we LIVE OUT being Christ-like.

What are you doing daily to spread the Word and Live the Word? How can your life, through the act of living, impact the Kingdom? How is your life representing a mighty, awesome, PRAISE WORTHY God?

(Matthew 28:19, Matthew 5:13-16)

"In the same way, let your light shine before people, so that they can see your good deeds and give honor to your Father in heaven." ~Matthew 5:16 (New English Translation)

Give Honor.... Glorify... Praise... your Father in heaven.

Let me PRAISE YOU LORD.... every day, in every moment.

PRAISE report ... I believe I have found a doctor, still working out all the details, and God's working in the lives of those who have seen this journey through the eyes of doubt and validity... just wanted to share a little bit.

The image is a typical night's sleep pattern (pretty active throughout the night). "Let your light shine among men"... is so in my thoughts (one of my life verses). God has really placed it on my heart that ALL is for a purpose, especially in the waiting upon Him to move in, and around us. During my "Kingdom Coffee" time with my BF and Myranda on Saturday, several things were said, that confirmed this route of healing. God is the God of restoration, and He has created a restorative body... one that He and only He can restore through the LIGHT. I will have much more to share, but just wanted to shine a little on you all today.

KNOW THAT GOD IS WITH US. He has restoration and hope in our DNA because of Jesus' work and our acceptance of that gift. We are His people. 

So appreciate all of you... your prayers and love. Much love in Christ to all of you who follow Giving Thanks Daily here and through my Facebook pages.

For my brothers and sisters today, I pray for health, restoration, God's peace, healing... LORD our Father, You know the cries of Your children, and I pray for their hearts to be peaceful and wholly Yours. You know the prayers and needs of these beautiful brothers and sisters, and those who do not know You to come to Your saving knowledge through and in their trials... we pray for the workings of the Holy Spirit to be recognized and acknowledged in the hearts of all. We love You Lord Jesus for the work already accomplished and that which is yet to be done in us. Thank You for loving us so much and desiring us and pursing us. And, it's in Your precious name and trust in Your plans we pray. Amen.

‪©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta

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Day 612 of Giving Thanks

Tonight, as I sit in “my spot” with the cool evening air filtering through the window, music playing in the background and thoughts of my God, my life and the ramblings of those thoughts across the keyboard, I am grateful for the outlet of writing, the gift of music and the many favors of a wonderful God. 

Today, it seems that all I can do is allow the steady stream of words, and “come what may” was the thought as I started to type. In the lack of organization, there is order and compassion – a word for my soul tonight, a word from my heart to “take to heart”.

How many times have I sat in this exact spot, and done the exact same thing? How many times have I thought of my amazing God and all the blessings that He has granted me? How many times have I placed my cares, concerns and dreams before His throne without hesitation? How many times have I known, from the depths of my soul, that there is nothing greater than what I hold deep in my heart?

I enter. 

You are already there and waiting. 

I leave. 

You are already there and waiting. 

I ponder. 

You are already revealing what will be. 

I pray. 

You are already revealing what will be. 

I am here Lord, grateful that You are all things to me.

No matter where I go, there You are. And, Lord where You are is where I want to be. The thought of a never-ending presence, and a time of worship through all moments of my day lies on my heart. I have a job - it is to serve, to grow, to learn, to hear, to abide and to be His wholly. I am with Him and He is in me. How much strength is there with this truth? More, than I can ever realize! 

“That's plain enough, isn't it? You're no longer wandering exiles. This kingdom of faith is now your home country. You're no longer strangers or outsiders. You belong here, with as much right to the name Christian as anyone. God is building a home. He's using us all—irrespective of how we got here—in what he is building. He used the apostles and prophets for the foundation. Now he's using you, fitting you in brick by brick, stone by stone, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone that holds all the parts together. We see it taking shape day after day—a holy temple built by God, all of us built into it, a temple in which God is quite at home.” ~ Ephesians 2:19-22 (The Message)

Yes, it is all about You Lord. Help me to see YOU in all I see... YOU in all I hear... YOU where ever I go. It is Your goodness I hold on to. Help me to see the goodness all around us. Help me to see how You are working things out so perfectly for me... give me eyes to see.

Draw me near Lord... 
For I understand I will face giants, go through mighty waters and be mocked and scorned. For I know I will not face any giant alone, and You are the mighty waters, so will be with me through them all, and You were mocked and scorned for me, so in all these situations, circumstances and challenges, draw me near.

“The Living Stone and a Chosen People 

As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him—you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house[a] to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For in Scripture it says:   “See, I lay a stone in Zion,    a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him    will never be put to shame.” Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe,   “The stone the builders rejected    has become the cornerstone,”  and,“A stone that causes people to stumble    and a rock that makes them fall.”    They stumble because they disobey the message—which is also what they were destined for.” ~1 Peter 2:4-8 (New International Version)

I do not want to wonder what stone I am… How about you?

There is a better way. We can sit by and "wonder" about this mighty and awesome creator, or we can start to talk to Him, get to know Him through His word, and listen for His response. He is eager to answer your call to Him, but you have to call first. Be open for the possibility that you have never been alone, that He has been "here" all along - be open that He is listening, and will answer when your heart is ready.

Day 591 of Giving Thanks

My day started out today, and I found myself really wanting to “fix” someone… and heard, “Stop, let Me work here.” So I answered, “Yes Lord yes. Whatever You say.  Help me in my unbelief that You know best.” I continued with prayer. “Father, I pray for boldness of Your children, my brothers and sisters. I pray they stand firm for You, and they too will know Your presence deeply, and come to You for all their concerns and through all Your victories in their lives.”

Taking on the weight of the world is not a virtue, I have learned. It is a never-ending battle between sanity and clarity. Over the years I have “taken on” way too much, and what ensued was havoc, heartache and ill feelings, mostly on my part. By no means have I figured out how to do things completely “right”, but I am surely getting better.

As a woman, I, not only want everyone happy around me, I want them fixed (restored and whole) – I believe I have tried to make everything work perfectly around me and especially being a perfect “Shawn” for most of my own life, which is a great way to drive myself crazy.

I have made the most painful mistakes with many in my life, especially those I love. I am grateful that I have been able to forgive myself, as I grow in my relationship with God. What an amazing process this is. Fortunately, it’s not the pain I reflect upon - it is the growth that has occurred and the blessings of truth that I realize. What I know now is the best way to help others is through loving them and accepting them for who and where they are – still embedding this into my own fabric. 

When I try to “better” those around me, really, what I am doing is dismissing what God created. So, how did I become that hypercritical, busy body who wants to butt in and make changes with those I meet and know? It’s easy, I have spent much of my life on the receiving end of this also; I have known so many people who have “tried” to change me. And, how do I recover from this disorder or being a fix-it gal? It’s easy, I let go of what I know, and become what He is. I allow God to step in and take control. I allow God to do His work in me through the Holy Spirit. I allow God to work on others, in His chosen manner and timing. And, I continue to work on me, and do what I can do toward that, and count on God for His part.

What now? That’s really easy and hard at the same time. I continue to allow God to do what He does in me, and pray for others to know Him as well.

Day 576 of Giving Thanks

We have an amazing God, one who orchestrates through the things that seem so messy to us. There are things in my life that are immaculate, tidy and perfectly in order. Although I can at times, feel very scattered, chaotic and quite messy lately.

I am in information overload. I need His discerning word with all the information I am collecting from various articles. I have asked Him to help me know what is real & trustworthy. To help me rely on him more and more and to know that this is nothing; nothing that He hasn’t already thought of; nothing He will not handle; nothing more than another opportunity to come to Him; nothing more than a way to know that He is right here with me in this fight.

There was a time in my life when I “needed” to know everything; and today, even with all the information I am consuming, my hope is to glean what I need to accomplish the physical restoration I want and desire. Shaking out what I do not need, and hanging onto all the good and great pieces and nuggets of the information. That is what I want from this harvest.

For the last week, all this stuff has been filling my mind, taking up space and not allowing me to eliminate anything. Getting quiet has been the command.

I truly need more quiet, more silence that only my God can fill. A silence that is comforting and perfect for the moments that seem too full of thoughts. Father, remove the noise. Again too many moments not in quiet and I am craving the silence that brings Your voice deep into my heart.

"The Lord is fighting for you! So be still!” ~Exodus 14:13-15 (God’s Word Translation)

My life in Christ has meaning BEYOND measure, and I pray that you too can know our mighty God. I pray that you will see that He has plans for you and is here for every step of the way. Step into Him and get out of His way.

”When I tried to obey the law’s standards, those laws killed me. As a result, I live in a relationship with God. I have been crucified with Christ. 20I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live I live by believing in God’s Son, who loved me and took the punishment for my sins.” ~Galatians 2:19-20 (GOD’S WORD Translation)

Finally, early this afternoon, there was quiet in my heart.

Thank You Jesus, for filling me with Your comforts.

And, now I come to You Lord in the power of the Holy Spirit, and once again ask for Your discerning answers for ‘what path’, ‘what changes’ and ‘what next’…

Today I am thankful that He can make all my messes into something usable and worthwhile, look at what He has done with me. Today I am thankful that all the areas to be ‘fixed’ and ‘adapted’ are exposed and He lovingly orchestrates all things into perfect order. 

“You make the path of life known to me. Complete joy is in your presence. Pleasures are by your side forever.” ~ Psalm 16:11 (GOD’S WORD Translation)

Day 572 of Giving Thanks

‎...and heal, He does.

I am expectant of complete healing. My day did not really begin until around noon today; there are times when being still is necessary – and today was one of those times. I am grateful that I was able to stay home today, get some rest and recover from the last few days.

“He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”” Psalm 46:10 (NIV)

With all this time on my hands today, I have struggled to write; and my thought is that I have already received the word for today. That even when I seem to have all this time to do things, I really only have one thing that is important and that is to connect with God - to listen for His word for my life.

It is always to be still. 

“Be still”, He says, over and over, as my life moves quickly and often times, in a manner that is overwhelming to my senses.
As I close my eyes and settle my mind, I begin to quiet my heart and mind – as I hear the noise around me start to dwindle and become part of the background, I know it is close. It is close to the time when I can “be still” and listen for His voice.
“Be still”, repeats like an echo, as my mind tries desperately to hang onto the distractions of my mind and come into view.
As I hear the pleas in my mind to turn off the tasks and responsibilities that swirl through my thoughts, I hear “it’s ok, I am here”.
“Be still”, takes hold and I am in His presence once again. As I hear the silence, all the worries of the week, dissipate; the concerns for tomorrow wait on the sidelines… and in the still of my mind, under the power of the Holy Spirit, His presence overwhelms; like a flood of water through my fingers; wonderful to know, yet, unable to capture and store for later.
“Be still”, flows through my mind and tonight I leave the details to my God in heaven. 

I am expectant… wonderfully and perfectly expectant of my God to move and capture me wholly.

“In the morning (ALL DAY), LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning (IN THE EVENING) I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” ~Psalm 5:3

Day 571 of Giving Thanks Daily

I have become accustomed to my walks and my extra time with God. Tonight I was unable to walk, and felt a bit like I had missed out today, especially with my alone and precious time with my heavenly Father.  Yesterday, as I was on my walk, I saw this on a bumper sticker... "Honor the past. Live in the present. Prepare for the future." That is truly how I intend to live my life.

I will honor my past by taking allowing God to use it all, good and bad for the good of His kingdom and my growth into who He designed me to be. I will live in the present… truly live with Joy and hope. I will allow God to do everything to prepare me for His purposes.

I am here to tell you that you will make it through if you trust God to take the lead. Step out of His way, so you can step into the life He has for you.

I prayed for years that God would bring a dream I had to fruition; and in, what seemed like an instant, the possibility of that dream was gone - poof... But, He did answer the prayer for "MY OWN GOOD". My desire, turns out, was not the best for me, but His answer is - hands down, every time, in every way.

I am learning that I have to be open to hear, see and sense what He has for me, and not be short sighted. I have to be consistent with my prayers.  I have to continue to realize that I can go to Him with everything.  I have to continue to realize that He answers my prayers every time. I have to continue to realize that living for Him will bring to life, the life He has for me.

“Though I walk through the midst of trouble, you preserve my life. You stretch your hands against the anger of my foes with your right hand, you save me. The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O Lord, endures forever…” ~ Psalm 138:7-8

As I was finishing my walk last night, and bring many prayers and thoughts to the Lord, I was comforted in knowing how great my life is, not that it is “a wonderful life”, it is a great life full of anticipation and expectation, because He pours so much in me. Pour into me Lord. Fill me with hope, joy and the sweetness of Your grace, until I overflow with Your mercy and favor. Help me see that this is what you do, whether I ask or not. Help me recognize this is what You do for me. Help me stay on the right path; help me to remember that it is Your love Lord that will bring me through everything.

“Go in through the narrow gate. The gate that leads to destruction is broad and the road wide, so many people enter through it. But the gate that leads to life is narrow and the road difficult, so few people find it.” ~Matthew 7:13-14 (Common English Bible)

Day 569 of Giving Thanks

I am grateful for the times when “getting quiet” come easily, and I am as grateful, if not more grateful for the times when it does not. For it is those times that the effort to be still and “get quiet” bring forth a beautiful time with my Lord. This morning, in the silence of an empty house, it was one of the easy times. In my moments this morning, I relayed to Him…

“Thank You for a restful night. Thank You that You will be with me today, all day - in every task, every moment. Let me be mindful of those around me. May I remember to pray, instead of getting frustrated or angry. May I honor You through my walk to day.”

Today was a good day. My evening was spent running errands, store to store, and finally I was home - ready to be overwhelmed with the Lord and to be still and quiet.

There is so much noise today, and “getting quiet” has been an enormous challenge and I so look forward to shutting the light, and in the quiet before I go to sleep, I will “get quiet”. As I sit here, there is a playoff basketball game going on downstairs and I can hear cheering, bullhorns, buzzers and the announcer, yet I have no idea what is going on… Isn’t our life just like that at times?

We have all this “noise” going on around us, so much so, that we cannot focus on any one thing, not to mention the right thing, and “getting quiet” is nearly impossible; nearly, I said. Nearly, just about, almost, not quite… the possibility is to exchange the noise from chaos to calm - worship music or some kind of instrumental - and sink in and seek Him. Perfect!

When I find myself in “noise” and unable to “get quiet”; the solution is grabbing my iPod and plugging in to something that will soothe my heart, redirect my mind and lift my soul?

In my new quiet, I make the noise that pleases the Lord. I talk to Him, I bring my concerns to Him, I praise Him for all of my moments, I thank Him, I pray for others and all the while, I inquire about my future and ask for direction and clarity.

Tonight, Lord, as I embark on some new territory of the mind, changing my thoughts, improving my imagination about the desires of my heart, as I implore the Holy Spirit to bring all of this coherently to my heavenly Father, I am again, encouraged.

“O SING to the Lord a new song, for He has done marvelous things; His right hand and His holy arm have wrought salvation for Him.The Lord has made known His salvation; His righteousness has He openly shown in the sight of the nations.He has [earnestly] remembered His mercy and loving-kindness, His truth and His faithfulness toward the house of Israel; all the ends of the earth have witnessed the salvation of our God.Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth and sing for joy, yes, sing praises!Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre, with the lyre and the voice of melody.With trumpets and the sound of the horn make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord!Let the sea roar, and all that fills it, the world, and those who dwell in it!Let the rivers clap their hands; together let the hills sing for joyBefore the Lord, for He is coming to judge [and rule] the earth; with righteousness will He judge [and rule] the world, and the peoples with equity.” ~Psalm 98 (Amplified Bible)

 
After “getting quiet”, this time and every time, I am always reminded of all the promises of the Lord. I am so thankful for the desire to “get quiet”.

Day 556 of Giving Thanks

I am having a great time with my husband on our Las Vegas trip – and I can’t wait to share some wonderful stories soon. But tonight I want to go back in time to an article that was published last year.

Additional Insights (Original Article, Emerging From the Wreckage, E-Zine)
There are many things that have changed in my life. The word of the year is transformation.

When someone is complaining, whether it is directed at me or in general, I nod, but I am not nodding in agreement with what they say, I am nodding in agreement with who God says I am or what God says is true.

"I am a mighty woman of God. I am lead to the most amazing situations through my days on earth. No matter what I am going through, my Christ went through the worst. My job is to unconditionally love a man who does not know Christ, and see Christ in me. I am a mighty woman of God, and He strengthens me through every uncomfortable moment, attack or disapproval by anyone else - for that is the enemy - looking for the weak spot to jump in and take me down. I will not be moved. I am on solid ground, here. God has my front, my back and all sides completely. Every arrow that comes to me, bounces back to slap the enemy in the face - take that... "

...or something along this line. It varies depending on how pissed off I am, or how hurt I am.

When anyone is negative, focuses on the negative... yada yada...

Today, I FOCUS ON WHAT GOD GAVE ME. I wake up praising that I get to spend eternity (which is a lot longer than my life here); my husband has pain that I will never know. Guilt that will not go away with his ways, and I know that God in him will transform him, so I pray diligently that the Lord will catch him... take his bitterness and turn it into tenderness. My God will take the pain of my husband and make him whole again. I am only unequally yoked in my marriage, but the husband I treasure is the one who died for me - who takes the hits for me every day, seen and unseen. My job, is to love my husband, like Christ loves me. And, who can turn that away?

Reflections

There is so much wisdom in our lessons; I pray that the grieving is minor; and through your journey God is blessing your honesty and all the giving that is ushered my way from my God through amazing people of God.

Know this, I am hearing God. It is hard, because a big part of me wants to just start over and have a life without all the riff and strife. My heart has been broken so much, and it is a daily exercise to seek God and to lay the words or looks or whatever feels wrong with my marriage at His feet. Through the pain I received, I administered pain too. Over the years, my disconnection has been deep wounds and wounds that were representative of Christ to the ones I love; and my heart's desire is to wipe all of that past from existence, and to create a new Christ for those I love through my example. The enemy works hard in my life... but I will not be moved.

During my walk on Saturday as I walked home after meeting Leo, I was in tears, I felt so much grief and loss for a life I so wanted - a husband who adores me, edifies me, supports my every move... but as I did, I was released. What God has in store is greater. My life is being played out here, for a life I will truly live in eternity. Worshiping and loving in ways that tease the senses now.


Greetings and welcome to my life, at least tid-bits of it. My name is Shawn Delia Boreta, and I am honored that you have decided to read some of my story. My life is average and ordinary, by most accounts. And, yes, I want more and every day I get a little bit better in striving. Since I was in high school, I have thought of writing a book to reflect and grow and share; so for now, articles will have to do - to look back on the humor and substance of it all, even with the pain and the tear filled memories still very fresh and alive in my mind, I laugh and smile. My journey in writing these words is both self healing and self expressive. I believe that everyone has their own voice, a voice that sometimes others need to hear or a vision that must be shared or words that just need to be put down for one's own accomplishment. If these words are only read by three sets of eyes, then my mission is accomplished.

There are many things in my life that I cannot explain, and for the first time, it is okay. The circumstances around my birth; varying stories have troubled me my entire life; and others which will be relayed here in these pages and many that are not. And, today, I can honestly say that it does not matter. Forty-five years ago, I entered into the world; helpless, defenseless and dependent. And nothing has changed today. Everything I need has nothing to do with me. I am grateful that this realization arrived about eight years ago. This realization came through a question - "do you believe in heaven?"


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4801370

Day 504 of Giving Thanks

"On May 26th, 2010 - the very first post on the Wonderfully Made said "What a wonderful gift to give someone... a word of affirmation, edification or just a kind word. Who can you edify? Please feel free to leave your note here." That post came from a word - God saying, "you need encouragement my child, get it through encouraging others." And, so it began, and here we are." ~Wonderfully Made 

On that day, the Lord gave me this wonderful and beautiful gift of encouragement in this way. I had seen His encouragement through His word and so many of my friends (His children), and that evening, I walked out to my car, as I did every day after work. And, before me was broken glass and an open window, and my laptop had been taken. In the hours to follow - in the silence and errors of my will, God was there - He rescued me that night - stopped the normal responses in my heart and shared with me a different way to respond to heartbreak - now you say, it's only a computer. Well, let's just say that computer was the last of many and the first of the worst yet to come in the months to follow. That day, His gift, showed me that no matter what happens in my life, His strength is always there. His tenderness is ever present. His mighty power is at my beckon call. His grace, mercy and favor are all I will ever need.

In these many days of change and transformation, I am grateful for the things that are not things at all – it is the moments with God, when no one else is around. It is the state of mind that I can change in an instant because I control that. It is His amazing story that weaves amazingly throughout my life. It is the memories that can be renewed with His healing and insights that show the light of my circumstances. It is the people who share this life, and show His love greatly. Not things at all, but His gifts.

I have discovered my prayer language during this time. He has revealed in my life miracles that before were unnoticed before. He has restored my heart, encouraged my senses and given me reasons to boldly walk in His word. Words are my passion and His word is my springboard. Sometimes when I sit quietly and pray, I write (type) and when I go back to read, I understand the power of the Holy Spirit greatly. For the words on paper (screen), jump out at me and embed deeply. I am His tool. Lord let me be used over and over and greatly.

As I sit here now, even with the noise around me, I can hear His silence; I am breathing in His majesty. How easy this has become.

Even in the days of challenges, illness, heartache, loss, despair, uncertainty and pain, I have learned to keep Him close. My friends, let Him bring you to the place, where He matters; He will remind you that your heart matters immensely. He desires to sit with you and hold your hands, wipe your tears, take your burdens and lift your spirit.

Let Him in, and the light will be seen from all corners of the earth. With every breath, there is exaltation to be proclaimed of this mighty presence.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Hope in Circumstances - May 26th, Day 199 of Giving Thanks “But this is not a sad story. It is a story of gracious people - those who help someone in distress and need. The neighboring businesses, J&B Electric and Drakes Brewery's owners were still at work and came to my rescue. I was shaken, but clear headed – we contacted the police, and while we waiting, we reviewed video cameras and before our eyes we saw the crime. Now it is in the hands of the police and God.”
http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=407273927808
May 27th, Day 200 of Giving Thanks
May 28th, Day 201 of Giving Thanks

Restoration - July 1st, Day 235 of Giving Thanks “What an image. TODAY, I see myself wrapped in the covering of the Lord. His protection, my projection of security, is staying close to God. So close that I cannot tell where He begins and I end. An amazing love story that has been told, since the beginning of time, but very few can live it out. My prayer is that I can continue to fall deeply and deeper in love with my Lord. I am grateful that He found me. I am grateful to know His protection is in place and that I am securely wrapped in His strength and power – and there is nothing that I need to do to keep that in place. I pray, that I continue to be amazed, and in awe of “the thought of Him”.”


Devastation - July 2, Day 236 of Giving Thanks
July 5th, Day 238 of Giving Thanks “I cannot put words together to describe the storm I am in the middle of right now, for it is more than I can take, but one that I can endure because I have help. God is always with me, I have the word that I can go to at any time and I have some mighty people of God praying for me and lifting me up.”

Day 380 of Giving Thanks

As I sat quietly this morning, the term, “Cog in the wheel”, popped into my head – and from the worlds view the term really emphasizes a person’s lack of importance – really, it is impossible for machinery to work without all the cogs in place. Every cog is necessary and important. I am grateful to be one of the cogs in the body of Christ; that my role is significant and I know that my role has already been determined. And all things work together for His good.

“We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God—those whom he has called according to his plan." ~Romans 8:28

I am grateful that I am not disillusioned when things don’t go well, sometimes I am surprised, upset, angry, hurt or disappointed when circumstances are different than what I expect – but in the long run, God’s perspective is much greater than mine and always perfect. I am learning to question differently. Instead of “why this is”, I can now ask “how can God use this?”

Lord, my part can be confusing, and at times, unsatisfying. Help me to see the great in my life, every moment, of every day I am here. Continue to remind me that there is a big picture, that my part is small, yet significant.