Day 458 of Giving Thanks

When Chris and I bought our house a couple years ago, I remember saying, “I will never move again”, mostly because I hate packing – although I am quite good at it. I am learning over the last few days, that it is going to be a difficult thing to pack up over eight and a half decades into a 26 ft. truck.

My mom is moving in about six weeks and this past week I have been helping her get things packed. We started with Mary’s room; Mary, by the way is the imaginary person. My mom wanted to make sure there was a personality to the spare bedroom; welcome to my family. Mary is a pack rat, by the way, and frankly, multiple personalities are present.

As I went through the room and organized everything on the bed to wrap and pack, I thought back upon childhood and how I grew up. Every room is full – every object has a memory or sentiment and a life that spans eighty-six years does have many memories. As I look at the items I am packing, I too can place a memory or moment with them. Over the years, I have learned to “weed” out as I go, and I have very few things from my childhood – but I am grateful for the things I have saved over the years.

As I was going through her things I would find something (recognizable from childhood), that was broken, and my mom says, “If it’s broken, I can fix it.” I can see that most of the things that I am packing are in repair of some kind, a little glue here or there, and all is good in my mom’s eyes – memory intact.

My life, this vase that has so much glue on it and has been mended many times; yet with God, even if I appear to be cracked and broken in so many areas, I am intact. I am the vessel that is to be filled with all that God has, moved from place to place throughout this life. My life, much like the contents of my mom’s home, is stuffed with many things – memories, broken dreams, things that should be thrown away or tossed and all the parts of my life and all is good in God’s eyes.  It is my faith, the recognition of His hope and knowing the love of a mighty God that it is good in my eyes.

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” ~2 Corinthians 12:9

It is through His grace that I mend – His favor that pushes me forward – His mercies that keep me going. My eternity is secured.

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." ~Isaiah 41:10

Day 457 of Giving Thanks

Today is the day of love, heart-shaped candy, decadent chocolate, roses and sometimes diamonds. On this day of sweethearts, I am miles away from mine. Although Chris is home and I am visiting family and will not celebrate today, we are going to have a Valentine date when I return – I am grateful that I do not need a specific holiday to celebrate the love in my life.

“The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.” ~1 Timothy 1:5

Appreciation comes through love. There is so much that I appreciate today, so much about my existence that I truly love. The fact that I am here, able to share, learn and grow in my faith is how God shows me love daily. I have received a gift sweeter than heart-shaped candy or even decadent chocolates, more beautiful and more fragrant than roses and a love that is stronger than diamonds – it is a gift that is given with love in mind.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

Nearly thirteen years ago, I answered a “personals ad” – there was something in Chris’ ad about long walks, sitting by the fireplace and looking for his soul mate. Two out of three isn’t bad – he does love sitting by a roaring fire and I believe God placed us together for a mighty purpose. Now, the long walks, hmmm - someday. When we first met, I had it all; so I thought. Over the years a sincere appreciation of my life and the journey God has me on today is truly having it all.

“But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved." Ephesians 2:4-5

My God provides love greater than anything and there is a comfort I now have in knowing that I live in the truth and for the truth. I have faith and hope like never before – and the love I know today is greater than I ever imagined.

God’s Love is… G.reater than life because it allows this O.rdinary woman to to have an extraordinary faith that is completely sanctioned through the love of a mighty God. It is a love that was D.etermined before the beginning of time, just for me; A love so perfect that a S.alvation plan is given so freely, in love. Today, I am L.iving proof of His O.verwhelming V.citory on the cross by living out an E.xtraordinary existence.

“My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ..." Colossians 2:2

Day 456 of Giving Thanks

February 13^th, Day 456 of Giving Thanks

When I tell a story, what are the important details? What should be relayed? Really, what is the purpose of sharing it to begin with? I am learning a lot on this    vacation – reconnecting with my family, but learning about myself as well. This past week I have listened much more than I have spoken – much of my family loves to tell stories, relay their message and share their opinions – so taking it all in, has been a nice thing.

A story has a beginning, middle and an end – and our life is a story with many stories strung all together creating our life’s story – movies within movies.  My ending is set, it is already determined according the promise of my King. I am excited about all of my stories, and the opportunity to see God’s story weaved throughout my life, and the opportunity to see God working through others in my life as well. I pray Lord that You help me step into all these stories in confidence and in Your presence.

“I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do no fear; I will help you.” ~Isaiah 41:13

Since He thought of me from the beginning, and every hair on my head is counted and accounted for, there is meaning to my story. I pray that I can hear the director tell me what to change, where to go next and what queues to I should look for, including where and how to step.

Did you know that attitude is completely contagious and accumulative? I notice that when I am walking around with a smile on my face, the more others smile all around me. Attitude can change everything. And how a story is told, can light up a mood or take down a heart. I am grateful that I can go to His word for hope and clarity.

“How sweet are your words to my taste, O Lord, sweeter than honey to my mouth.” ~Psalm 119:103

A friend once suggested that I look around my environment to see what things can be improved around me – and today, I recognize that I need to improve how I look at the way I process things in my mind. How I tell a story, as well as how I hear a story is so important, and keeping the God perspective on high alert.

“The Lord will guide you always; He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.” ~ Isaiah 58:11

With all this in mind, I can start each day new and learn greatly from the moments of yesterday. Father, today, I thank You for the opportunity to tell my story through my actions – I thank You for all those who are involved in my story, those known and unknown – I thank You for all the events that teach me and all the circumstances that forge who You want me to be – I thank You for bringing me along, and helping me understand who You are and who I am with You.

“Though I have fallen, I will rise. Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light.” ~Micah 7:8

Day 455 of Giving Thanks

How many times did I stray from God? How many times did I dismiss His existence all together? Yet, in the depth of my heart, He tugged and prodded over the years. That is what I remembered as we dealt with a family matter this week. I admit that I was drawn in to the drama. And, with my thoughts of “where I once was”, I found hope for those in my family who are in that same place.

No matter how much training I have had, how much forgiveness I personally received, I was still willing to believe something without fully understanding the situation – or even giving benefit of doubt to that person. As I sit here going through it all in my mind, I realize how very fortunate I am. My faith has been a stabilizing force this week.

I am grateful that when in doubt, I have learned to seek God’s assistance. That in the quiet of the night, when I ask Him to speak to me, confirm or correct, He does. Grace given is much harder to do than the grace we are given. And even though I mess up, He still loves me; and that is true yesterday, today and tomorrow.

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” ~1 Corinthians 13:4-7

It is because of love that we receive His grace. It was because of His love for us – yesterday, today and tomorrow – that His plan was so perfectly executed for me and for all of us. It is love that God gives us so freely.

So, as I reflect again on what is next, in our family matter, I am reminded that love is the most important part of executing my life. I realize in times when I seek Him more that He truly desires me to seek Him more. And, my life should represent that truth at all times.

“For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” ~1 Corinthians 13:12-13

Today as I sit with God, I continue to ask Him to strengthen my faith – not just where I am with Him, but His work in those I love so much. I thank Him for the hope that I receive from remembering where I was for those I love. And, I am humbled by the love and tenderness I know daily.

“We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people—the faith and love that spring from the hope stored up for you in heaven and about which you have already heard in the true message of the gospel that has come to you. In the same way, the gospel is bearing fruit and growing throughout the whole world—just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and truly understood God’s grace.”~Colossians 1:3-6

Day 454 of Giving Thanks

Day 453 of Giving Thanks

Day 452 of Giving Thanks

Have you ever heard a great story that stays with you and you reflect on that story often? I have a few. I love that when I revisit a story, especially the word, it is like a brand new story and brand new message. Today, it was the story of Esther. Early this morning mom and I sat at her kitchen table and I read to her. To have an opportunity to share something new with my mom was a wonderful thing today.

“For the Jews there was light and gladness and joy and honor.” ~Esther 9:16

Faith in abundance, obedience with a full heart is what I thought about while we read and talked through the story again today. Recognizing the perfect arrangement of events, people and circumstances, and the faithfulness of the powerful God that pulls it all together gives so much hope.

“The plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generations.” ~Psalm 33:11

In my life I do not represent “a people” or serve “a king”; but I do represent “His people” and serve “the King” and that is an honor that overwhelms me and something that I love about my life. I love knowing that no matter where I am, I can show Christ in me, yet I cannot do that unless I count on the Holy Spirit wholly.  For me, faith breeds obedience – the closer I get to Him, the greater my desire to be like Him is.

“Light is shed upon the righteous and joy on the upright in heart. Rejoice in the Lord, you who are righteous, and praise His holy name.” Psalm 97:11-12

Seeing how Esther, who was an orphan became a queen; a woman who allowed God to use her through her obedience to save a nation – and it is my desire to be used and shine brightly for my King, and that He delight in what I do in obedience to Him. We are called to “Imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.” ~Hebrews 6:12

“The Lord takes delight in His people; He crowns the humble with salvation.” ~Psalm 149:4

(New International Version used for this study)



© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

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We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

Day 451 of Giving Thanks - Sue King

So…. Holiness?

"Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved,
let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit,
perfecting holiness in the fear of God." ~2 Corinthians 7:1

If I said I had decided to go on a health kick but:
·      Went to the supermarket and bought loads of packs of chips, bags of lollies, ice creams and biscuits;
·      Went to the library/ bookshop and stocked up on titles like “Gourmet cheesecakes” and “Scrumptious dessert fare”;
·      Donated my bike to the local charity;
·      Moved next door to McDonalds and across the road from the local pizza shop and sampled their cooking nightly;
·      Cancelled my gym membership; and
·      Bought clothes two sizes larger than my current size,
·      Would you say I wasn’t really serious about making changes to my life and getting fitter?

Sounds funny but how is this different from the person who says, “I want to become a Christian and I want to follow Jesus,” but who:
·      Reads the latest steamy best sellers and gossip magazines;
·      Consults horoscopes, clairvoyants, tarot cards for life direction;
·      Watches movies that are occult based- witches, warlocks, demons, zombies, ghosts, voodooism;
·      Listens to music that could best be described as anti-christian (What does chanting- ‘I’m on a highway to hell’ speak over yourself? Not life!)
·      Sits in the hotel each evening drinking until they have to be ‘rolled’ home;
·      Drooled over the latest xxx magazines, movies and internet porn,

Would you say I wasn’t really being serious about being a Christian? Wasn’t really serious about cleaning up my life and shining for Jesus?

“ Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. “ (Philippians 4:8-9)

In a world surrounded by things that are lovely, pure, true, just…I find it hard to understand the things that many Christians choose to focus on. It is our number one goal as God followers to please our Father’s heart through the way we conduct our lives.

Who or what are you placing as number one in your life?

Day 450 of Giving Thanks Daily- Guest writer Tina Wetor

Growing up in Maryland, I have seen numerous amounts of snow,  sometimes over my head.  During my senior year in high school, 1994, we experienced the worst blizzard in a long time. According to the news, it was the worst blizzard in history.  The best part about this year was the vast amount of snow days; we missed about two weeks of school and we didn’t have to make it up.  Of course, the following year the students were not so lucky.

Snow is bitterly cold, moist, soft, and has the ability to form into a hard substance.  Numerous snowball fights, tall snowmen and igloos are displayed through most of the area.  Blazing snowmobile rides, sled rides, and chasing my brother are some wonderful memories that I cherish from those cold winter days.  The world seemed to be at peace but it was so bitterly cold.  Sadly, it seems this is the description of a person’s heart without Christ, it’s bitterly cold.  Oh, everything looks wonderful on the surface with a wonderful home, children are playing and there’s hot chocolate to warm the body.  However, the soul aches for the truth of what is real love.  It’s bitterly cold inside the heart, only love can make it warm.  Sin has the ability to make life seem fun, harmless and satisfying.  But beneath the enormous amounts of snow, a bear trap awaits to rip your limbs. It will hold you, rip you open and leave you to die.  Satan does not tell you the effects of sin but he makes it pleasing to the eyes.  He longs to trap your steps, cause a dysfunction in your life and drag you away to Hell.  His desires haven’t changed, his traps await us.  We have to be careful where we are treading-only through the light can we see where to walk.

During my years in college, I walked the same concrete path to get to my classes.  Just like Maryland, Missouri had bitter, cold, and soft treading snow but the main difference is it was freezing rain.  It is beyond dangerous to try to walk on it, only salt can break its fear.  Gently, cautiously, and slowly you have to walk across the path to get to your destination.  It’s a wonderful sigh of relief to get inside the building to escape it.  Until the hour later, you have to face the dangerous path all over again. 

During one week of the winter semester, I got a new perspective of the snow.  On this day, it wasn’t snowing but it was very cold and windy.  The ugly brown grass was the proof of winter’s major effect on nature.  As the wind blew coldly across the open field, many objects of garbage and leaves danced around on the ground.  Finally, as the wind settled, I just took a vivid picture in my mind of the grounds’ state.   The next morning, classes were cancelled due to sixteen inches of snow. I was almost beside myself.  I went to high school with snow up to my waist. 

It was a beautiful sight to see that childhood joy in many of the foreign students, who had never seen snow.  Many of my precious memories of home would come back to me.  It was still a wondrous sight to witness.  As I walked across the campus, the Lord gently spoke to my heart, “Tina, do you remember the state of the field yesterday with all of the garbage and leaves?”  I responded, “Yes, Lord I do.”  The Lord replied, “My daughter, look at the field today, “What do you see?”  I responded, “Lord, I only see the beautiful white snow.”  The Lord rebuked me with love, “Why do you doubt my forgiveness?”  Why can’t you see the beauty of what I see-a beautiful white heart?” 

Isaiah 1:18, says “Come now, let us reason together,” says the Lord.  “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be white as snow; thought they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.”

As you have guessed, I have never looked at snow the same way.  Yes, snow is and will always be bitter y cold and can be molded.  I choose for my heart to be soft as snow before God.  I do not want my heart to mold into a hard substance but a joyful softness, just like making a snow angel.  I am grateful that my heart can  be molded into many things and I desire it to avoid it being hardened.  I am grateful to be in the hands of Jesus. I commit my heart, my life and my call to be white as snow.  I choose the Lord over the entire world. He is the only One who molded my heart softly making something beautiful to use.  Yes, life can make you bitter, hard or cold – I know it is a time of a new perspective through the field of snow.  Jesus can make our lives as beautiful as snow.     

  

Day 449 of Giving Thanks

I hear my mom whisper, “I love you sweetie”, and I am brought back in time. A time where the world was truly perfect in a child’s mind – a time when all was in perfect order in a child’s mind – a time that stands the test of time for this woman who, tonight, was back to that child’s mind. Even if only for a moment, the little girl was getting ready to be tucked in and have a lifetime of dreams every night.

My mom is an amazing lady and tougher than anyone I have ever known. She grew up in a times where “going hungry” was common place, “I walked a mile, in the snow, to school” was real and not an exaggeration, when turning down the thermostat was because wood was non-existent, and it was truly a treat to have bacon drippings on a slice of bread for lunch.

However, tonight was very different. In those deep brown eyes, I saw her from adult eyes for the first time. Where a lifetime of storms, loss and pain was recognized, eyes that lovingly, for my lifetime, console and comfort me. My adult eyes see her woman to woman, as another woman who has also lived through storms, loss and pain in her lifetime.

In “Mary’s” room in my mom’s house, I reflect much, and see the pink ribbon prominently placed in the bathroom as a reminder that she survived the enemy’s invasion. In her eighties, she was told that she had breast cancer. As I write this, I am overwhelmed with the amazing gift God has given me tonight. Just a few years ago, the storm was a battle for her life.

My mom is a survivor – born in 1924, raised in a time that my generation cannot even imagine. Living on her own, since my dad went to be with the Lord in 1985. And the in-between to now is her journey and her story.

I am grateful that I have time over the next twelve days to reconnect, get to know and minister to one another, as only a mother and daughter – and sisters in Christ can.

“From the fullness of God’s grace we have all received one blessing after another.” ~John 1:16

Heavenly and gracious Father, I thank You for this time. I thank You that Your timing for this visit. Thank You for Your perfect timing with everything.

Day 448 of Giving Thanks

For most, the idea of giving up their burdens would mean change and often, giving up those burdens means giving up many other things – sometimes it is the pain that is held on to – sometimes it is the losses that will never be recovered .

"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." ~Matthew 11:28

This is a person well – this is the person I now can barely recognize in my rearview mirror; this is the same person who, as I look in the mirror today, sees restoration and hope in so many things. “A faithful man will abound with blessings…” ~Proverbs 28:20

I see blessings in giving my burdens to the Lord – I see the times of pain as moments rather than my life – and although I have loss, I am given so much more when I just trust and believe that God is bigger than anything I encounter. “…He who trusts in the Lord will prosper.” ~Proverbs 28: 25

For this journey God, I thank You for getting me here. Although “here” is not what I imagined, I would not change a thing. Through the time from there to here, it has been an amazing journey, one with many surprises and miracles. Now it is only great expectations as I go from here to there.

“I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For He has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.” ~Isaiah 61:10

Day 447 of Giving Thanks- Sue King

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Day 447 of Giving Thanks – by Sue King

Dancing with my King….

 Let them praise his name with dancing
   and make music to him with timbrel and harp.
 For the LORD takes delight in his people; (Psalm 149: 3-4)

I danced a slow dance with Him last night. A beautiful dance of sweet promise. He lead me so surely through worship with words of tender encouragement and love until I had left the cares of the day behind and entered into the most complete fullness of expectancy. He stood, as He always does, waiting patiently for me to reach the place where there is only He and I- where the world ceases to exist. The cares gone. The pressures of living life as spirit in a physical world- gone. Awareness of physical senses tuned to the spirit…spirit senses in overdrive.

 Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth—
   for your love is more delightful than wine.
 Pleasing is the fragrance of your perfumes;
   your name is like perfume poured out. (Song of Solomon 1:2-3)

Just He and I. My King  and I…nothing else. I breathed Him in like incense. Blushed before His gaze. Stood in awe that my King would care to dance this beautiful duet with me on this night. I felt His love descend on me like a royal robe of velvet- warm and lush and rich in depth and breadth and height. We danced in perfect unison…Him guiding with such gentle persuasion. Pausing when I needed to catch my breath or take an unfamiliar step. Waiting for me to draw near to Him fully again before the next breathtaking spin. Consumed by Him and with Him.

Dancing with my King. Sometimes it is a spirited Tango. Sometimes it is a smooth waltz. Often a dance of fire. Sometimes He dances solo when I am unable to reach Him. When I am unable to fully surrender and leave the cares of this world behind. Sometimes I dance alone when He needs to see that I am able to waltz on faith alone. Sometimes I think He takes pleasure in watching His daughter dance to the music in memory of a previous time together.

Dancing with my King. Breathtaking. So intimately consuming.

Where surrender and grace meet.

“Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.” (John 4:23)

Day 446 of Giving Thanks

Halfway through the week, I realized I was focusing on the wrong things. I was reeling downward as I allowed deadlines and responsibilities to dictate how I felt, and honestly, how I reacted. Someone mentioned this C.S. Lewis quote “Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.” And I certainly was not aiming or looking toward heaven… when I focused on what was going on down here, I sank even lower – as soon as I set my sights on what He wanted me to do, even when and especially when I was completely tapped out this week, He kept me going.

So much recently, I realize how great I now have it. As I start to dwell in what His promises are, I can easily become overwhelmed with gratitude.

“For whatsoever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.” – Romans 15:4

Yesterday God’s warmth touched me deeply through the friends who prayed for me. Today I received encouragement after encouragement. It was so much, it is hard to determine where to begin – let me just say, God eloquently planted hope throughout my day:

·       A note that said “your room is ready”

·       The words “I am having a good day”, from someone being counseled

·       Deadlines met, responsibilities released and boundaries upheld

·       A compliment of my character

·       Many hugs from my work family

·       Packed and ready to go

Lord, You are truly amazing. Thank You for turning my week into a sincere blessing. Thank You for working out the details today, and giving me peace and excitement to rest.

 “God's a safe-house for the battered,  a sanctuary during bad times.  The moment you arrive, you relax; you're never sorry you knocked.” ~Psalm 9:9-10 (The Message)

I heard today, “Our faith allows us to believe in hope”. I realized that a lack of hope or allowing my circumstance to dictate that lack, and is what keeps me from living in hope. It is through experiencing hopeful moments and knowing where that hope comes from that I am encouraged. The question today was, “Where do I find my hope?” And, this week, I find hope in just knowing that I am not alone and I can go to Him at any moment and He is already there.

 ^“I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” ~John 14:18 

Today, expectations were set and met – and I even came away with a few blessings that were wonderful surprises. 

Day 445 of Giving Thanks

Thank You Father that all I have to do is come to You and, even before I speak, You know how I feel – today, as I come to You, my thoughts are not clear.

As the my nerves unraveled earlier today, and the pile of things to do became larger, I grabbed my coat, and decided to take a quick walk in the crisp morning air – taking a God break – and that is where I began to seek clarity today.

I stepped out of the chaos into the quiet of His chamber; at the moment I turned the corner, and although there were cars and people bustling through the parking lot, , I didn’t hear a thing. I walked in silence, in void for 10 minutes, removing all remnants of thought or turmoil.

I did, however have to step back into the busyness of my day, and managed to get through the day.

Lord, all these thoughts and feelings, which I cannot even formulate in my mind, and I ask You to take them from me and give me rest tonight. The funny thing is that tonight as I was sitting here, I remembered the words, “take me to the river”, which I know is not a spiritual song, but that is where I want to be.

“But the minute you cross the Jordan River and settle into the land God, your God, is enabling you to inherit, he'll give you rest from all your surrounding enemies. You'll be able to settle down and live in safety. 

 From then on, at the place that God, your God, chooses to mark with his name as the place where you can meet him, bring everything that I command you: your Absolution-Offerings and sacrifices, tithes and Tribute-Offerings, and the best of your Vow-Offerings that you vow to God. 

Celebrate there in the Presence of God, your God, you and your sons and daughters, your servants and maids, including the Levite living in your neighborhood because he has no place of his own in your inheritance.” ~Deuteronomy 12:10-12

Thank you everyone who prayed for me. I am grateful that the Lord is faithful and had given me such an amazing network of friends, my family.

Day 444 of Giving Thanks

This is a trip different than I have ever taken before. There is no set agenda, no timetable and no deadlines.

How many times have I prepared for something, anything, made a list, planned every moment and sometimes even played it all out in my head? And, just like I planned it, is how it turned out… And, then at other times, there was not an inkling of my plan or preparation in it whatsoever. So, what does that mean?

It means that God is in control.

“In my heart I plan my course, but the LORD establishes my steps.” ~Proverbs 16:9

As I prepare for my trip, I have made my list, I know how I will get from point A to point B, where I will stay, and where to get my internet connection while there. Other than that, on this trip I am having God expectations. I am expecting God to pave the way. I will see His will and wait on Him.

I am grateful for the expectation of living, and the idea of living out my life the way He intends – and I will plan and make my list, and be ok with it playing out whatever He deems perfect for His plans. 

Day 443 of Giving Thanks

It wasn’t that long ago, that I saw, an insecure little girl – who was so fearful of so many things – who was the victim in so many circumstances – who fought to smile on the inside – whose opportunities were based on my past. Just a few years ago when I looked in the mirror, I saw the flaws – I saw the painful memories – I saw the disappointment and sorrow in my life – and saw what I was not.

A simple look in the mirror and a sincere look into my heart today brought an entirely different feeling than in years past, and brought tears to my eyes. And, it truly is so hard to believe that the person I stand before as I look in the mirror has changed so much. Physically, I have not changed all that much, however as I look into my eyes, I see a beautiful extension of God and security for that person looking back at me.

What He has created is someone totally different than who I once saw in the mirror.

What changed? My vantage point, my perspective – my thoughts – I think differently, because I believe wholly.

“How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them!” ~Psalm 139:17

My reflection in the mirror is today, not yesterday and not the future. It is in the “here and now”. Stop today and ask God to show you the true reflection of who you are. As I reflect on Him, I see that amazing transformation from the insecure little girl we started with.

“I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side.” ~Psalm 3:6

I live out victory every day now, because He conquered everything that needed to be conquered. "But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." ~1 Corinthians 15:57

From the inside out, I will smile for everyone to see. “The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.” ~1 Timothy 1:5

And from the ashes of my past, there is beauty. That is what I see in the mirror today, and as God works “to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair” , there is hope beyond measure.

Isaiah 61

The Year of the LORD’s Favor

1 The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,

because the LORD has anointed me

to proclaim good news to the poor.

He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,

to proclaim freedom for the captives

and release from darkness for the prisoners,[a]

2 to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor

and the day of vengeance of our God,

to comfort all who mourn,

3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion—

to bestow on them a crown of beauty

instead of ashes,

the oil of joy

instead of mourning,

and a garment of praise

instead of a spirit of despair.

They will be called oaks of righteousness,

a planting of the LORD

for the display of his splendor.

4 They will rebuild the ancient ruins

and restore the places long devastated;

they will renew the ruined cities

that have been devastated for generations.

Day 442 of Giving Thanks

Staying connected and praying continually is “a must” with the world we live in. So many times, I walk out my front door and realize immediately that I have not prepared my mind for the day properly. Today was one of those days –  I am the only believer among many of our friends and family and learning and being one of few who have faith like I do, can be uncomfortable  – that is quite exciting actually, I am on tack.

So, in the car, in silence, I sought God and His protection. I am grateful that it is that easy – that He is that available – that He desires me to do that often.

"Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land.” ~Job 1:10 

I have been very fortunate that my world has been quite sheltered in the last couple of years. And, the interaction with the world has been one on one, or in a more controlled environment, like the one on Facebook – and today, God showered me with a calm and connection that allowed me to be around my family – a group that is very much where I once was regarding God.

As I sit here tonight, regrouping, recovering and reconnecting, I find comfort in reading notes from friends and connecting with my brothers and sisters. I am grateful that in this time of being sheltered and in this protective environment, I am becoming more equipped to move through the world with the Holy Spirit within, Jesus’ blood covering me completely and the power, love and truth of God about me.

“May Your unfailing love be my comfort, according to Your promise to Your servant.” ~Psalm 119:76

Day 441 of Giving Thanks

What an evening. It was a 7:30pm start time, and the expectation was that it would be a “slam dunk”, pun intended. As games go, it didn’t turn out a “winner” for the Warriors, but there were exciting moments. Chris and I arrived at the arena at 6 to be there for a season ticket holder raffle – we had 4 raffle tickets and won 3 prizes… now that doesn’t happen often.

The first was an autographed photo of Vladimir Radmanovic, Chris really wanted a David Lee jersey but we got an upgrade for the game for nearly-courtside tickets, right behind the basket. What a great way to watch a game. It is a much different game from there. We also won 20 tickets and a suite for a game next month – now what we will do with them is yet to be seen, but pretty cool. That was just the beginning.

At the beginning of the game, I noticed that one of the player’s wife and their son was sitting to our left, same row.

While in our seats, during the 2^nd quarter and during a time out – I thought about some of the things I had prayed about, and the people I wanted to pray about, so I did. As I did, I also thought about the women’s conference I am praying about doing in the summer. Earlier in the day, when praying about the conference the thought popped into my head that I would love to have a local celebrity to open the event up to more ladies… and I heard “ask her”.


"Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in Him! Make it as clear as you canto all you meet that you’re on their side, working with them and not against them. Help them see that the master is about to arrive. He could show up any minute!” ~Philippians 4:4-5 (The Message)

Learning to be obedient, and doing what God prompts, I walked over and introduced myself – without hesitation, I told her what I just heard – at that very moment, my friend Walter Hoye stepped up, handing us game stats; and said “you are talking to a great lady”, or something along that line to my new friend. I expect great things, not because I am great, but because I have a great God.

So, what am I grateful for? I am grateful for listening and learning to hear God and to learning to expect great things. I have never been more excited about God in my life, or about so many different things. I look forward to living every day.

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.” ~Philippians 4:4

Day 440 of Giving Thanks

In the comfort of prayer is where I spent much of my day. I woke up feeling a little stiff, out of sorts, nothing out of the ordinary aches and pains and moving very slow. In the past, I would have started by going to God asking for energy, strength and an easing of the pain. Today was different. And, I am so encouraged by this.

“Hear my prayer, O God; listen to the words of my mouth.” ~Psalm 54:2

Rather than focus on me, I prayed, “God, what do You have for me today. How can I serve You?” I read His word, worshiped and sat quietly and had a wonderful and peaceful time of silence.

As I went to pick out another song, and began to cruise my Facebook page and notifications, like magic, my inbox on Facebook had a prayer request – when I opened it, it said, “2 seconds ago”. So I took His promptings and continued my day in prayer. Two more followed on Facebook and another through text message on my phone. Thanks to technology for helping me serve my purpose.

“Hear the supplications of your servant and of your people Israel when they pray toward this place. Hear from heaven, your dwelling place; and when you hear, forgive.” 2 Chronicles 6:21-22

Do you ever feel like your brain is going way faster than you can comprehend? What is that? My mind cannot possibly wrap around all the goodness of God, but today, it is really trying. I will end with this, a prayer. It is not only for my friends, but what is sincerely in my heart as well.

 

 “Jeremiah’s Prayer LORD, I know that people’s lives are not their own; it is not for them to direct their steps.” ~Jeremiah 10:23

Father, we stand before You grateful for the life we have been given, the one we look forward to especially - and we know that Your plans for us are great, for you tell us so in Your word. We thank You Lord for being here with us, right now in our walk - we thank You for protecting us, correcting us and leading us from our past - we thank You for going before us every day as we embark on the purpose You set us out on. We pray Lord that we hear You clearly above the noise and through our own voices that become so loud at times. 

We pray for discernment as we "think", help us to "know", as we "guess", help us to "be sure it's You". Lord, I lift my brothers and sisters up to You who are overwhelmed with Your presence, yet question their steps. We stand before You Lord, humbled from our experiences and sanctioned by Your work for us. Lord, it is Your purpose that is the desires of our heart, help us to put the proper name, task or mission to it. Let us be an example of You even through our mistakes, pain or hardship. We pray boldly Lord for Your hand upon us right now. Let us be still enough to hear Your voice... Through the amazing and beautiful sacrifice of Jesus, we pray for these things and Your will, together for the glory of the mighty kingdom. Amen.

“For the director of music -With stringed instrument - A psalm of David

Answer me when I call to you, my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer.” ~Psalm 4:1 

Day 439 of Giving Thanks

When I count on my own understanding, even in the area of hope.... I just miss it, unless it is "hope with God" and "hope in God".

T O D A Y there is tremendous hope in my heart. An amazing image of repair and restoration, physically. This is completely new to me – an image of a life without the physical pain is a life that I have dreamed about more than a few times in my lifetime. There is much to be thankful for in my life. Many things that most people would not consider worthy of gratitude I find comfort in today… because I have learned to see past where I am today, to see past my circumstances.

This was not always the case. There have many times that these words of Job resonated completely with what my mind was processing, “If only my anguish could be weighed and all my misery be placed on the scales!” ~Job 6:2, and through all of his pain, his questions, his uncertainty, he is sure that the answer to all of them reside in his relationship with his Mighty God, yet speaking them brings clarity beyond measure. “What strength do I have, that I should still hope? What prospects, that I should be patient? Do I have the strength of stone? Is my flesh bronze? Do I have any power to help myself?” ~Job 6:11-13

My former dwelling places have brought me more pain than the physical pain-itself – many times creating hardship or heartache when hope was right in front of me. As I look at what I dwell on now, it warms my heart and softens my steps. There is a sense of attraction, and I am not talking about attracting the power of the universe in worldly-spiritual terms. I am relating the attraction of being so connected to my God, that I can see, at times, exactly what He wants me to do, where to go, how to do it… when before, the connector wasn’t connected at all, and much was missed or misinterpreted.

“You will bring them in and plant them on the mountain of your inheritance—the place, LORD, you made for your dwelling, the sanctuary, Lord, your hands established.” ~Exodus 6:5

T O D A Y, as I dwell in my God and knowing His presence in my life, and in this very moment, I sense a swelling in my heart – that connection.

T O D A Y, wrapping my being around “hope” like never before. Knowing that as I pray for a miracle, it has changed, just from yesterday. Because today, I see that the “miracle seed” was planted long ago. Sometimes when “I  believe” I need a miracle to happen, God has already sowed that exact seed in my life. I am just waiting for it to sprout, grow and bloom... it is right there in front of me. My eyes need to be open for me to see.

“The fundamental fact of existence is that this trust in God, this faith, is the firm foundation under everything that makes life worth living. It's our handle on what we can't see. The act of faith is what distinguished our ancestors, set them above the crowd.” ~Hebrews 11:1-2

So today, I will thank You Lord for the miracle already performed. “By faith, we see the world called into existence by God's word, what we see created by what we don't see.” ~Hebrews 11:3





© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta                  
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
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Bible version used today: New International Version