Day 707 of Giving Thanks

In a day that was uneventful and really quite dull, I had time to sit and think as I worked (grateful for this day). In my thinking, there was some praying, some praise and reflection. It seems to be a regular thing these days. Now, there were no revelations, no realizations of miracles or really anything of great notability. Yet, it was a great day. As I drove home, I had yet more time to ponder the things of God, my life and hope.

Every day I begin this process, not with a blank page, but an open heart and so much to be thankful for. Today, in my desire to give thanks appropriately, let me begin with this. Without God in my life, His grace and mercy for all occasions, thankfulness would be empty. But let’s go a little deeper. God is the only reason, the “who” of God, more than the “what” of God. For without the who the what would not be.

Our Father created everything visible and everything not visible. He created the heavens, the earth and all that is between and outside of them. He could have devised any plan or no plan for us to be with Him, yet, 
He, God, the creator, chose us. 

“He is the beginningHe is faithful 
He is trustworthy He is love
He is life
He is perfectHe is everything
He is the end
He is God
"Because He is who He is… I am encouraged. I will live out my life doing His work of encouraging others, all because, He is.
"Again, with with my eyes wide open and in proper focus I can truly see – what He does every day, while understanding of the magnitude of what He has already done, I live my life doing for Him because He loved me first, and loves me now.” ~Day 411 of Giving Thanks Daily

Your love LORD, straight to the heart and soul of me through Your word... Thank You... may I always thank You...

“For from him and through him and for him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.” ~Romans 11:36 (New International Version)

So today, simply I want to dwell in Him, and know about Him more. And, to know Him more, I must be still and seek. To know, that every day is new and should be expectant. To know Him more, I must understand that He is love… tenderness… He defines everything. God is my everything. "Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me." ~Psalm 51:10  (New International Version)

”God's loyal love couldn't have run out, His merciful love couldn't have dried up. They're created new every morning. How great your faithfulness! I'm sticking with God (I say it over and over). He's all I've got left.” ~ Lamentations 3:22-24 (the Message)

Let me quiet my mind... let Your comfort settle me, my heart be still always.

I come to YOU knowing that it will all be ok. I am healed. I am forgiven. I am Yours. That is all I need to know today. And, You are who You are and that is great news.

DAY 411: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/2010/12/december-30th-day-411-of-giving-thanks.html

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

Day 706 of Giving Thanks

How many times have I been told, “Watch what you speak into your life?”… and how many times, did I think, “Huh”? or “I know” (not really understanding). Have you ever been there?

It has taken me many years, and many times of watching my heart shatter right before my eyes; crash and splinter all over the place because of how I viewed my life. Did you know that perspective plays a huge role in where we end up? Honest, I promise to stop hurling questions, but bear with me…

‎"It is so easy to feel..." yet, so hard to let go of those feelings. Today, we ask that that the Holy Spirit intercede greatly as we continue this journey toward wholeness and complete restoration.

Thank You Father for using others so greatly in our lives to speak into our life, disciple us, be an example for us or correct us. Today, we come to You and praise You for all You have done. In Jesus’ name, we proclaim Your greatness, Your tenderness and Your love. Amen.

Today was a praise and worship, thankful and grace-filled day. It was a day that no matter what thought came into my head, I just thought of what an amazing and purposeful God I have (and you do too). My work today was very mundane, entering data, and during the day, I enjoyed worship song after worship song. I love music, and luckily, for my workmates, I did not sing, I just marveled in the music and my time with the Lord.

Thank You Lord for giving me the opportunity to tap my feet, raise my voice and feel the music. What an amazing gift. As I allow the praising of Your name penetrate all of me, I submit. Let me dwell and forget all of what is around me, even if just for a song. Let me know You deeper every day. Let me be Yours wholly and completely.

Listen God's children to the praise that is flooding the room. Let us raise our hands and dance for our king tonight. Awe, in His presence we will rest and rise… no matter what the occasion.

‎Broken? It is a time to praise and rejoice.
In pain? It is a time to praise and rejoice.
Anxious? It is a time to praise and rejoice.
Afraid? It is a time to praise and rejoice.
Lost? It is a time to praise and rejoice.
Hurting? It is a time to praise and rejoice.

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be known to God.” ~Philippians 4:4-6 (NRSV)

We are-
FORGIVEN, ACCEPTED, LOVED, SAVED, HEALED, COMFORTED...

I have learned that waiting until I "feel" like forgiving someone is too late. I need to forgive in God's time... while remembering at all times, He forgave me for things I haven't even done yet.

The purpose of the Cross-and Jesus’ work was not so we stay stuck at saved... We are heaven bound and now collecting crowns. It is a time to make every moment, every smile, every encouraging word count... a time to make it all count.

It’s a time to be a witness to our household and show them what true joy and gratefulness is... a time to be a witness to those around us and shine the light that is brightly burning already inside.
... that is our mission

I believe today should be a celebration... May we all praise the Lord every moment of every day. 

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

Day 705 of Giving Thanks

‎Stand firmly knowing that He will never leave you... That His love is greater than all of my fears and doubts. I know that His desires are for me are to be wholly His, healed and in His will.

Today through much reflection, let me not question "why", but revel in the "how". How can I do this? How can I show more of You to others? How can I love you more? How can I surrender all of me? How can I know You more deeply? How, Lord can I ever comprehend who You are for me? And, all these questions and for everything I have been through, is really answered with “How did I ever do it without Him?”

‎"God, the one and only— I'll wait as long as He says. Everything I need comes from him, so why not? He's solid rock under my feet, breathing room for my soul, An impregnable castle: I'm set for life." Psalm 62:1-2 (The Message) What an encouraging word. Thank You God for always being impregnable.

Let me not only dwell in You Lord, but let me dwell in places I have never been. Let my mind and heart be open to all that You have. Let me request freely Your desires for my heart and life. Let me know all of You.

‎The enemy will try to unravel you, through doubt and fear and confusion. God is a God of order, repair and perfection... What God has so amazingly weaved together, His word will preserve. When you start thinking that "life is coming apart at the seams", just remember who you belong to and allow Him to hold all your threads together.

"You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother's womb." ~Psalm 139:13 (NLT)

It's been a rough day physically, and I have received many words of encouragement and have been touched me greatly.

I wrote a letter today, that I will not send, it was a note of cleansing and personal clarification. I rarely write things that eventually do not get shared, but as I wrote this note and emailed it to myself, I committed to letting it lie.

As I reflected on a few things today, I realized that I have a couple of areas that I truly believed forgiveness was complete, yet maybe the hurt was not quite put away. As I wrote, I felt the tears streaming down my face; not regretful tears, but tears of joy for the choices I had made. You see, in my past, I spent much time reflecting and beating myself up for things I could have done better, should not have done or wanted deeply to forget. I am truly joyful, even as I wrapped my mind around what flooded in, I sensed forgiveness in many ways – for myself as well as the others involved. As I wrote things down, and went back to you this morning, there has been a tremendous amount of hurt that I have overcome and it has been learning that why is not a valid question, typically and especially for me.

In my early walk I had many things coming at me. It was my decision for God against the world, so I thought. Through my experiences I have learned that God's plan for my life (lives) filter through the good and bad behavior and belief systems of others, and especially through my own. I spent much of my life beating myself up, not being good enough, not loving enough and just not living up to other’s expectations - when all I wanted was to be loved for who I was. Honestly, as I have learned, only God is capable of that for anyone.

Everything I do is prayer. My life, my thoughts, my deeds and my intentions and all of my life is interceded for continually.

"In spite of everything that had happened, Job did not sin by blaming God." ~Job 1:22 (Good News Translation)

Whatever my circumstances... 

"I will proclaim your greatness, my God and king; I will thank you forever and ever. Every day I will thank you; I will praise you forever and ever. The Lord is great and is to be highly praised; his greatness is beyond understanding." ~Psalm 145:1-3 (Good News Translation)

... I will praise You my God.

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

Day 704 of Giving Thanks

How many times have I been told, “Watch what you speak into your life?”… and how many times, did I think, “Huh?” Have you ever been there?

It has taken me many years, and many times of watching my heart shatter right before my eyes; crash and splinter all over the place because of how I viewed my life. Did you know that perspective plays a huge role in where we end up? Honest, I promise to stop hurling questions, but bare with me…

Today was a praise and worship, thankful and grace-filled day. It was a day that no matter what thought came into my head, I just thought of what an amazing and purposeful God I have (and you do too). My work today was very mundane, entering data, and during the day, I enjoyed worship song after worship song. I love music, and luckily for my workmates, I did not sing, I just marveled in them.

‎"Broken? It is a time to praise and rejoice.
In pain? It is a time to praise and rejoice.
Anxious? It is a time to praise and rejoice.
Afraid? It is a time to praise and rejoice.
Lost? It is a time to praise and rejoice.
Hurting? It is a time to praise and rejoice.

“Always be glad because of the Lord! I will say it again: Be glad. Always be gentle with others. The Lord will soon be here.  Don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God.” ~Philippians 4:4-6 (Contemporary English Bible).

FORGIVEN, ACCEPTED, LOVED, SAVED, HEALED, COMFORTED...

© 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 703 of Giving Thanks

Keeping my eyes on God and setting my heart on heaven… that seems to be easier and easier for me. At first it was an effort that seemed futile and difficult. Partly because I wasn’t quite sure what that meant. But it is truly just remembering who God is – amazing, awesome and truth!

I use to be ashamed and heartbroken over my memories and experiences in brokenness. We have all experienced being broken, but broken is not what defines us. For me, broken is where God started with. I use to think that was the worse memory to have today those are the most rewarding memories. They are where I can see God’s miracles in my circumstances. Where I can articulate how God worked. Many years ago, someone asked me what the pain in my muscles felt like, and I answered, “broken glass under the skin.”


“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” ~Psalm 34:18 (New International Version)

Now today, I know daily that all that brokenness, the shattered dreams, the shards that lay so close to my heart and the reflection that I avoided for so long have all come together in this masterpiece called repair and restoration. I do not know what God has for me next or if more pieces of debris will be added to His work known as my life, but I do know that whatever it entails, it will be good and whole.

Wholeness comes from one person, Jesus. Wholeness comes from leaving all that is not fruitful, admirable or helpful to me behind… and leaning into and grabbing onto what is real. “Wherefore: ‘Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you’. ‘I will be a father to you, and you shall be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty’.” ~2 Corinthians 6:17-18 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

If you are a child of God, you will be in heaven. You have to make the choice to be God's by believing that Jesus came to live the perfect life, because we cannot. He suffered and died on the cross for our sins. We repent and turn away from our sins and towards Him... We believe that He rose from the dead, and He will come again.

This is written not to shed light on what I have gone through, but to shine light on what He does with our circumstances when we are open to His hand about our life. Sometimes in our illness or our brokenness, we shut down, close off and I have been there. Sometimes in our illness or brokenness, we discover what joy truly is, and what “God in our life” is all about. I have done both.

It is because of the daily pain that I know God so deeply. With God, we have the promise of eternity with Him, this life is temporary and when we can give all of us, including our pain and our health, we discover who we truly are. I wouldn't trade any of my journey for anything. I am where I am supposed to be... and knowing that healing has nothing to do with my physical body makes all the difference - having an eternal perspective, cannot be beat.

I am forgiven... “You are saved by God’s grace because of your faith. This salvation is God’s gift. It’s not something you possessed. It’s not something you did that you can be proud of.  Instead, we are God’s accomplishment, created in Christ Jesus to do good things. God planned for these good things to be the way that we live our lives.” ~Ephesians 2:8-11 (Common English Bible)

He endured much and greatly for me. How can I ever know that depth of gratitude? How could I ever share it adequately? And, that forgiveness brings complete healing. There is nothing greater than that.

“For in hope we were saved, but hope that is seen is not hope, for who hopes for what he sees?  But if we hope for what we do not see, we await it eagerly with patient endurance.
“And likewise also, the Spirit helps us in our weakness, for we do not know how to pray as one ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with unexpressed groanings.” ~Romans 8:24-26 (Lexham English Bible)

His amazing work will manifest in ways that are almost unbelievable to our earthly minds, but believable because of our hearts toward heaven. Keep me heavenward in my thoughts and my actions.

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

Day 702 of Giving Thanks

As I sit here and wait for inspiration, or verification, I can see many things through how God works to share things with me. Many times during the day, I am given tidbits of a message, or little views into what is to come… that is how I write Giving Thanks Daily. A sentence here, a paragraph there, and amazingly, it all comes together – my life through words, is a story, a story that is developed through lessons and insights, lessons that become the tapestry of pages to glorify Him. A tapestry through living out my life that someday, when all is said and done, will exemplify Jesus perfectly.

Oftentimes when I begin to write, I am not always sure what to share, but the nudges are quite strong. Tonight, as well as being nudged all day. I have been nudged to keep pressing in, to read more, to pray more, to be more. I know that I can only be more, when I give Him more of me. “Surrender yourself to the LORD, and wait patiently for him. Do not be preoccupied with [an evildoer]who succeeds in his way when he carries out his schemes.” ~Psalm 37:7 (GWT)

In this world, we have all been labeled and I believe, often we allow those labels to define us, until we allow God’s voice to be heard. It is when we realize that it is the label of “His child” and the labels of forgiven and hopeful are apprehended, that we know who we are for sure.

Let us always remember Lord, that You are with us, that our choices for You will allow us to live rightly, let me always know, as Daniel knew, that Your plan and will are always done. “But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way. Now God had caused the official to show favor and compassion to Daniel,” ~Daniel 1:8-9 (NIV). Let me always remember that it is Your children You show favor to when we seek to be Yours wholly.

Thank you that in the strength and wisdom of the Holy Spirit, I can have faith, and look at it through Your eyes Lord. Help me to NOT complicate what my faith is. Let me see all that You have for me and know that every moment I can step in and look up is a step toward greater faith. Thank You for reminding me that it is a journey that is mine with You, for You and all for Your glory.

Jesus prayed for us before leaving this earth, “My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.” ~John 17:15-16 (New International Version)

There are times when all I know to do is pray. And, I believe that is a great thing to do. Prayer is how we connect with our creator, our savior, our king and Father. May it not be a time to go through what you wish for, but a time to spend getting to know your Father in heaven, a time to share your heart, a time to seek wisdom and clarity, a time to submit and begin to understand His greatness. Prayer is a time to be with God and share tender and loving moments.
‎
With the strength of the Holy Spirit and a heart of gratitude of who God is to me, I can remember who I am in all moments and I will be victorious, for He has already won everything for me.

My friends, we must choose to live joyfully, no matter what. We must choose the high road, no matter what vehicle we land in... We must always keep our eyes and hearts set on God in heaven. Father, we pray for the choice of joy as we go through trials, and we ask for Your continued reminders through love. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

"All the days of the desponding and afflicted are made evil [by anxious thoughts and forebodings], but he who has a glad heart has a continual feast [regardless of circumstances]." ~Proverbs 15:15 (Amplified Bible)

Father, let my time be worthy, let not one minute be wasted. It is in these times that names and faces run through my mind. Do I pray, do I praise? Do I seek, do I thank? All of You Lord as I drift off to sleep, as I wake and as I move about, let it be all of You that I am thankful for.

‎"But my eyes are on You, Oh God the Lord." ~Psalm 141:8

Although there has been sorrow, self pity and disobedience on much of my life’s tapestry, my prayer is to live differently through change in Christ, toward Chris. I now realize how important it is to choose to live joyfully, no matter what. We must choose the high road, no matter what vehicle we land in... We must always keep our eyes and hearts set on God in heaven. Father, we pray for the choice of joy as we go through trials, and we ask for Your continued reminders through love. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Living in Christ, because He died for me... Love beyond measure, love without end and love incomprehensible. Thank You Father God for Your love so great.

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta                     

Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/

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Day 701 of Giving Thanks - Darci Escandon

Today, I was looking back upon my life while talking to a friend of mine. We were talking about how life can get crazy! As she shared with me her frustrations and resentments, I shared with her something that had happened to me a little over a year ago. This is what I told her:

I want to share 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV) "For God did not give us the spirit of fear, but of Power, Love and a Sound Mind". Lately, as I am trying to build my relationship with God, I have been feeling a lot of anxiety. I don't know where it is coming from or why I feel like crying sometimes for no reason. My life is going well. I have a husband and family that love me. Our finances are getting back in order and my life is getting back on track. So, why, at times, do I feel anxious, worried and depressed? Why do I feel I am loosing my mind?? Ok, loosing my control of my emotions?

Acts 28:20 in the NIV tells us, ".....It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain." Paul is in Rome. He is imprisoned. in Verse 31 it says "Boldly without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Chris". Paul was not anxious nor worried. Even in his circumstances, he praise God's name and spread the word to others around him. He was never alone.

My grief and anxieties are nothing compared to Paul. The Lord is with me. He has never left me or forsaken me. So, where are these emotions coming from? Why this anxiety?

There are over 10 verses in the Bible that talk about worry, three of the ones I like are:

"Dont worry about the details we have no control of. Let God worry about the details”. ~Genesis 7:16 (NIV)

”Worry can cause us to forfit our peace with God. ”~Genesis 21:7 (NIV) Is this why I am full of anxiety? God wants to give me peace.

“Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret-- it leads only to evil. For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land”.~Psalm 37:8-9 (NIV)


That's it. I had been letting anger and frustration fill me. I was choosing to wallow in my anger and I allowed it to consume me. By doing this, I had managed to drift farther and farther away from God. I didn't go to church for weeks, nor did I pick up my Bible to read. I had felt anger like I used to know many, many years ago. But, this time, it was different. Because this time, there was a tiny speck of me, the me that loved my God that held on and kept fighting. Anger literally wore me out.  It was a battle going on in my mind and in my heart. This is exactly what the devil wants to happen. No More. Renewing my mind is a daily battle. These feelings stem from thoughts I allowed to fester. No more. I will put on my armor of God :

(Ephesians 6:10-20)
The Belt of truth: Satan fights with lies and sometimes his lies sound like truth; but only believers have God's truth, which can defeat Satan's lies.

The Breastplate of righteousness The devil often attacks our heart--- the seat of our emotions, self worth and trust. God's righteousness is the breastplate that protects our heart and ensures His approval. He approves of us because He loves us and sent His so to die for us. By not keeping in the word, I had taken off my breastplate. That allowed the devil to attack my heart and mess with my emotions. And what an attack he made!!

The Footgear for Readiness to spread the Good News. Satan wants us to think that telling others the Good News is worthless and hopeless task. The size of the task is too big and the negative responses are too much to handle. But the footgear God gives us is the motivation to continue to proclaim the true peace that is available in God--news everyone needs to hear. I no longer felt like posting up bible verses or encouraging others on facebook. In fact, I had the opportunity to tell someone how he could get hope and talk to him about God and I stayed quiet. I didn't say anything because my thoughts told me that it was useless because he wasn't going to listen to it anyway, his heart wasn't ready...but I see now that those are lies...big lies... No one who knows me can doubt that God exists after seeing where he has brought me to. My life should stand as hope against the darkness. I survived so that I can share this hope with others...but by listening to the doubts in my mind, I kept my mouth shut. No more...

The Shield of Faith. What we see are Satan's attacks in the form of insults, setbacks and temptations. But, the shield of faith protects us from Satan's flaming arrow's. With God's perspective, we can see beyond our circumstances and know that ultimate victory is ours. SELAH! When I got home from spending a month away, I felt like I was getting nothing but insults and setbacks and temptations. I blamed my husband for that. But, as a non believer, it is easy for Satan to use him to get to me. He doesn't understand faith. But, I do. I understand how it works. And, I fell for it. I let my shield down. By doing that, I blamed everything on my husband. It was all his fault. Blame is a HUGE emotion...and one that will allow us to excuse our behavior when we know it's wrong. But, no more. My shield is back up!

The Helmet of Salvation...Satan wants to make us doubt God, Jesus and our salvation. The helmet protects our mind from doubting God's saving work for us. Doubt is HUGE when it comes to depression. After all, that's where i all starts...doubting ourselves, doubting our abilities. Doubt can have a HUGE controlling effect on our outlook. It can make us see things that aren't there. It can cause us to think something is bigger than it is.

...and finally:

The Sword...the word of God. The sword is the only weapon of offense in this list of armor. There are times when we need to take the offensive against Satan. When we are tempted, we need to trust in he truth of the word of God. The Bible says that the truth will set you free. And, indeed it does. It doesn't free you from battle or free you from life's circumstances, but it frees you from the loneliness that trying to fight a battle on your own can bring. Many times, I say to myself that I have no one to talk to. I can't pick up the phone and talk to someone about my feelings...but the truth is, God is always near. I can talk to him first and he listens. He speaks the truth.

As I finished speaking with my friend, I felt a wave of comfort, peace and thankfulness wash over me because that woman who felt all those consuming emotions of anger, defeat, frustration and such, is gone. While I still feel those things sometimes, they don’t consume me anymore. God showed up in my life and He showed me who I was, who I am now and who I am capable of being if I only allow Him to work inside of me. In this short conversation, I was able to provide a testimony to a hurting woman and show her there is hope at the end of the tunnel!

Lord, thank You so much for loving me. Thank You for standing by me and showing up in my life. Thank You for showing me what I am capable of becoming and that I don’t have to give in to these lies and emotions all the time. Thank You for showing me that there is another way, Your way! Lord I pray for those out there that are struggling with the same things I was back then. Help them see that there is a way out and that there is Hope! Lord, I praise Your most glorious name! Amen


© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Darci Escandon              
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
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Day 700 of Giving Thanks - Darci Escandon

“He told them, "You don't get to know the time. Timing is the Father's business. What you'll get is the Holy Spirit. And when the Holy Spirit comes on you, you will be able to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, all over Judea and Samaria, even to the ends of the world." ~Acts 1:7 (The Messsage)

God’s timing…when it’s HIS time, you’ll know!!! So many of my pastor’s sermons say and many of my Christian friends tell me. Everything happens in God’s timing…IT’s His perfect timing. Everyone talks about God's timing...God's timing this and God's timing that...and unless it's in a sermon, the average person says "When's God's timing going to come in my life"....and I have known to be one of those sort of Christians…questioning God like Habakkuk and wondering when His timing will come….and, what it will hold!!!

Guess what happened when I woke up this morning. God showed up…God's timing is here in my life, right now. Over the past few years, I have been studying to obtain my Bachelor’s degree in Religion. Over the past few months, I have felt led to obtain my Pastoral Credentials. However, I have been feeling unsure about this path. Why? Because, gasp…I have a past…and it isn’t so pretty. Now, my past is an open book…it’s a part of me and it has helped me become who I am today but it isn’t what defines me. However, when I think of Pastors, I think of people without sin, people who have the “perfect” relationship with God. That’s the outside…that’s what the world and Satan wants me to think because that way, I will compare myself to them, put them on a pedestal and forget that they are human beings with struggles and pasts just like mine. God never calls the “perfect person”. He calls the people He wants to do what HE wants them to do. Jesus called Saul….a man who was known to persecute Christians, a man who spent hislife killing Christians…yet, Jesus chose this man to follow Him and take His word to all the ends of the earth. If Saul can do it, so can I.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” ~Jeremiah 29:11 (New International Version)

Back to God’s timing. God knows my insecurities and He Knows my hesitations. He understands my questions and slowly, He has been revealing His answers to me. In addition, He has been bringing people into my life for reasons I could never understand until recently. Last week, as I was studying the doctrine of the church I am pursuing my credentialing with, a myriad of questions arose. At first, I was offended by the doctrines, then upset about the doctrines. I didn’t get them. However, as I opened my heart to see what God wanted me to see it donned on me. God knows my path. He knows the work He has for me. He knows the rules and doctrines of the church He wants me ordained in, so He will also enable me to understand and possess the things that this church requires of me. It’s God’s plan for my life, not my plan for my life.

Over the course of a week, I was able to go to my new family with the questions I had and ask them for their thoughts. Some of my family members are affiliated with the church I am unsure about and others are not but the one thing they all have in common is their knowledge, love and dedication to God and His word. The group was divided, but not in a bad way, not in an angry way. We are all learning and growing in Christ and what I learned is that God reveals things to us all at different times in our lives.

My eyes were opened and God spoke and He answered questions I had been asking for 4 years!!! In addition, This morning, He quieted the mumblings of insecurity about this choice in my heart and in my mind. One of my new family members revealed something to me today that just blew me away and totally confirmed that I am on the right path. God’s timing has come in my life. He is here.

“Surrender yourself to the LORD, and wait patiently for him. Do not be preoccupied with [an evildoer]who succeeds in his way when he carries out his schemes.” ~Psalm 37:7 (GOD'S WORD Translation)

I didn’t wait patiently, I have to admit. I have been like a little kids at times, stomping my feet and not wanting discipline. But, my heart always gave in. Over the past few years, I have learned so much about myself and about my most wonderful God. This education takes time. I equate it to teaching a child how to drive. At a very young age, kids love to sit on their parents lap and pretend to drive the car. They observe and they always think they are ready. But we all know, it’s more than just the mechanics and physical actions that make you a great driver. There are skills and life lessons you have to learn first, not to mention drivers education class. You don’t just get into the car and start driving. So many people will be affected by your driving, your family, and, the other people on the road. No, it takes time to learn. We start out on our mothers milk and then move up to solid food.

“I have a lot more to say about this, but it is hard to get it across to you since you've picked up this bad habit of not listening. By this time you ought to be teachers yourselves, yet here I find you need someone to sit down with you and go over the basics on God again, starting from square one—baby's milk, when you should have been on solid food long ago! Milk is for beginners, inexperienced in God's ways; solid food is for the mature, who have some practice in telling right from wrong.” ~Hebrews 5:11-14 (MSG)

I think being a Christian is a lot like that. It takes time to grow in God. Sometimes, there are lessons we don’t want to sit through and there are things that happen that we just don’t agree with. Everyone has an opinion and will share it with us, whether it be for Christ or against Christ. But, if we have the proper education, guidance and mindset, we will know what is right and what is wrong. We will know whether or not to turn right or turn left. And, when we are growing in our faith, God will bring us the solid food!

Lord, thank you for your discipline. Thank you for not giving up on me even when I wanted to give up on myself and my dream. Lord, thank you for your loving discipline and forgiving me when I rebelled against it. Thank you for all the moments, sweet and bitter, good and bad, joyous and painful, that led me to this morning and the feeling and conformation that you have brought into my life. Thank you for showing me that things that other people talk about on stage and TV can happen to me. Thank you for showing me I am on your economy and not the world’s. Finally Lord, thank you for showing me how to be in this world but not of this world! God, you ROCK! ~Amen

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Darci Escandon                 

Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/ 

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Broken and Ready for Repair - (testimony series) by Shawn Boreta

Broken and Ready for Repair
by Shawn Boreta


Broken does not mean non-functioning, or incapacitated, it does however mean ready for repair. 

I remember sitting in a classroom when I was very young and the words that rang in my mind every time I would sit down to read or write. They were the words that the enemy used to keep me from knowing who God had created me to be. The words that said, “Prepare Shawn to do something that does not require writing and reading. She cannot comprehend. She does not understand what she reads and has great difficulty staying focused.” Now, I don’t know the exact context or complete details of that conversation with that teacher, but I do know what those words did to me… Yet, we have a great God. And, I was given many gifts to compensate. A great memory, amazing people skills, a born schmoozer and encourager.

Somewhere in my twenties, I decided I would read, and I would read a lot. I began to read everything I could put my hands on. Started out with the newspaper, then magazine articles, then finally I got to books. Although, I read very slowly, and often had to read the same page, or paragraph over and over, I worked around the “difficulty”, and discovered a passion for learning.

My writing skills, however were not so good... I applied for college, and after three attempts to pass a writing class just to enroll, I was defeated. But, I had an innate desire to learn new things, so through my work, I gained skills. Every job I had was an absolute leap of faith on my part. I schmoozed and assured, and flourished.

At thirty, I was diagnosed with Spectral Sensitivity a form of dyslexia, which is worsened by florescent lighting. And, again, figured out easier ways to read and get through materials… by that time I was running a marketing department and only God knows how I read through all the materials, articles and papers that my department published. I was writing brochures, press releases and editing very technical and highly detailed documents. I learned to rely greatly on amazing partners, my team. And, discovered yet another gift. The gift of leadership, combined with encouragement has allowed an awesome journey.

You may wonder what this reflection back in time is all about, well, I am looking at where I have been, where I came from to determine what is next. I believe that this journey, with the obstacles that I have overcome tell, or foretell a pattern. Although I had not chosen God, I know that He was there, guiding a path, directing my heart toward brokenness, the moment when repair was imminent.

And that day did come, and the repairs have been many, although, not quite  perfect, they have been well received. The greatest part of all this is that I can express myself through the written word, effectively and through the glory of God, I am able to share my story. And, my daily prayer is that someone else can be encouraged, even if just a little.

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
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Day 699 of Giving Thanks

Exhaustion is word I really try not to use, but this morning as I rambled and moved about the house, I felt that daunting and ever-present, and unwanted guest in my body. As I prayed, I knew greatly that who dwells in me is greater than what is so unwanted. I am grateful that in the presence of the LORD, all is good. “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” ~Romans 12:21 (New International Version)

“Still, quiet, listening… I am yours,” were the words that jumped out at me this morning as I absorbed the music, as the water washed over me, and I visualized it washing away what is unwanted, and giving my body life today. “HAVE MERCY upon me, O God, according to Your steadfast love; according to the multitude of Your tender mercy and loving-kindness blot out my transgressions.
“Wash me thoroughly [and repeatedly] from my iniquity and guilt and cleanse me and make me wholly pure from my sin!” ~Psalm 51:1-2 (Amplified Bible)

Our minds are very powerful, and sometimes in my “odd” way of reprogramming, I have had to look at descriptive words very differently – today, that word is exhaustion. There is a huge conflict at times, my mind and my attitude say, “Not today!” And, I suck it up and move on. There are other days, like today, my body answers with, “TODAY, let’s fight.” I was reminded that those are “fighting words”, “The LORD will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.” ~Exodus 14:14 (NKJV)

There is no defeat with the LORD, even though there is fight in me that I have no control over – and that is definitely two-fold. God in me fights for me. He comes with a simple request. It’s a strength and an energy that comes from above, but is greatly within. “Trust in the Lord forever. For the Lord God is a Rock that lasts forever.” ~Isaiah 26:4 (New Living Version)

Today, there is nothing I can do, but to trust in what He does, and this is truly a better place to be–
Be forewarned and forearmed in your spiritual conflict “In conclusion be strong—not in yourselves but in the Lord, in the power of his boundless resource. Put on God’s complete armor so that you can successfully resist all the devil’s methods of attack. For our fight is not against any physical enemy: it is against organizations and powers that are spiritual. We are up against the unseen power that controls this dark world, and spiritual agents from the very headquarters of evil. Therefore you must wear the whole armor of God that you may be able to resist evil in its day of power, and that even when you have fought to a standstill you may still stand your ground. Take your stand then with truth as your belt, righteousness your breastplate, the Gospel of peace firmly on your feet, salvation as your helmet and in your hand the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. Above all be sure you take faith as your shield, for it can quench every burning missile the enemy hurls at you. Pray at all times with every kind of spiritual prayer, keeping alert and persistent as you pray for all Christ’s men and women.” ~Ephesians 6:10-15 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta                     

Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/

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Day 698 of Giving Thanks

There are many things in life that I truly enjoy, one is a great conversation and another is a good cup of coffee. Now, let me define “good” it can be a cup of coffee that I have at a local café or one sitting at the counter at a diner. I am truly not a coffee snob. Coming from the restaurant business, and drinking coffee for all these years it has given me an appreciation for the ambiance, or lack thereof in some cases. I love character. A few weeks ago a friend and I had breakfast at a local, family restaurant, a place with a lot of character, and characters, including us.

With a coffee cup filled with that wonderful substance, held by this character, I thought of how many characters before me held the same cup, filled with the same substance. Profound, ehy?

It is truly God’s character that should shine through His children. now that is “a character” I am proud to be. My prayer is to see Jesus in my reflection; to hear His voice when I think; and to see people through the eyes of their creator. I have struggled with these through the years. And, as I ponder all of this so often, I am fortunate that God is using my life to teach me live my life for Him.

Today, I did not sit with friends directly and share a cup of coffee or have a live conversation, but as I sipped and enjoyed my coffee, I did enjoy a lively conversation or two. As usual, I learned, was stretched, received correction and many of God’s blessings through His word.

‎"Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth." ~2 Timothy 2:15 (AMP)


"But in your hearts set Christ apart as holy [and acknowledge Him] as Lord. Always be ready to give a logical defense to anyone who asks you to account for the hope that is in you, but do it courteously and respectfully." 1 Peter 3:15 (AMP)

These two verses were shared with me earlier today. May I always study your word Lord and test what I experience. Let my heart always be set on Christ Jesus for that is where my hope is.

As my flesh fights the Spirit in me, and at times, I find that my old, deceived heart’s voice is too familiar. Many times, the old-familiar won out, today, the new standard is heard. Through prayer and petition for change, the new familiar is the louder of voices. Please forgive me LORD for seeing things through eyes of frustration rather than a heart of fascination. Help me to grow in wisdom and clarity toward You and Your plans for my life. Help me to always worship You with a life of gratitude through heart-felt, thought provoked action... and that I always know that this is where joy begins.

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta                     

Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/

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Day 697 of Giving Thanks

"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy." ~1 Peter 2:9-10 (NIV)
"…chosen people."
LISTEN!
"God's special possession…"
WOW!
"…called you out of darkness into His wonderful light."
HIS!
"... but now you are a people of God."

I am not a prosperity teacher and I am not a “claim it” and “receive it” type of gal, but I believe we are rich beyond measure. But we must align ourselves with God’s word.

Do you know that He desires us to know joy?
Do you know that He desires us to know who we are in Christ?
Do you know how much the creator of the universe loves you?

Now if we all really believed just those things, and lived by them, we would not want for anything. God has told us, we would be limitless in our abilities, because we would believe that He is the power in our lives (Philippians 4:13)

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 2:6-8

Long lasting joy comes only through Christ. Everything else is worldly. Is Jesus the cornerstone of Your heart as well? If He is, He will catch You when you stumble. If He truly is, you will stumble less and less as He is embedded deeply into you. Less of me Lord, ALL OF YOU (John 3:30). When He is everything for us, we will know joy in our lives. He will complete our joy.

I cannot effectively relay what I feel in my heart all the time. Today, as I sat before my King, I had the thoughts that I wrote above; I had the feeling as I wrote during the day, that I was relaying things perfectly. As I opened my heart and bared my soul, I knew that He was receiving my words, my heart… and as I prayed for clarity, wisdom and discernment today, I understood what He was sharing with me. Today through many scriptures, I was in His presence. There is one truth that is implanted deep in my heart, and that is that I am a grateful woman for all that He has done for me and all the gifts He continues to reveal for me.

“Serve one another with the particular gifts God has given each of you, as faithful dispensers of the magnificently varied grace of God. If any of you is a preacher then he should preach his message as from God. And in whatever way a man serves the Church he should do it recognizing the fact that God gives him his ability, so that God may be glorified in everything through Jesus Christ. To him belong praise and power for ever, amen!” ~1 Peter 4:10-11 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

I believe the moment I was saved (the moment I accepted His amazing gift), I got “all of God” indwelling in me through the Holy Spirit… it is as I change that I begin to realize the greatness of what that means. He will give me gifts to equip me, according to His will and plans for my life.

“We plan the way we want to live, but only GOD makes us able to live it.” Proverbs 16:9 (The Message)

The truth is given to me through His word, and as I write and share what is on my heart, I know that my words are my opinion, based on my experiences and my own faith. You will have to make up your own mind and develop your own opinions. Your journey is your own. All that you decide and do is based on your own experiences and your choices of the past. If they could be better, change your perspective.

If you want change, it is up to you – sometimes a change of perspective allows you to decide differently and change how you do things moving forward. I have done this often.

One of the truths that was revealed to me is that I obey, because I love the LORD. The law showed how greatly we need/needed Him. My friends, we are not to view the law as dead or as “the old way”, but as a the way to show our solid faith in Him, the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives - not through our own effort, but through His work in us. I am reminded again, "Keep them and do them. For this will show how wise and understanding you are. The people who will hear all these Laws will say, ‘For sure this great nation is a wise and understanding people.’" ~Deuteronomy 4:6 (New Life Version)

Oh Lord, I thank You for giving me the opportunity to be righteous by Your blood and giving me the strength to show a life that reflects You in my life. Let my life be a light shining to the world. My continued prayer is that I obey with the strength of the Holy Spirit in me.

“Seeing it is God, that said, Light shall shine out of darkness, who shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." ~2 Corinthians 4:6 (American Standard Version)


© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta                  
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
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Day 696 of Giving Thanks

I am grateful for prayer, “Whatever Lord You have for me, I accept. Whatever mighty and faithful God You place before me and upon me, I gladly allow. And, for all the things Abba that I  just cannot handle, I thank You for taking them on. I thank You that You absolutely know what is best and perfect for my growth and to build my faith. LORD thank You that I have sisters in my life to share the lessons, as well as revel completely in the journey. I thank You LORD for my friends, my sisters, for whom without, I would see less joy and would understand things more slowly. Thank You for the orchestration of friendship and knowing exactly who to put together to work for the Kingdom. In the mighty blood of Jesus, I pray. Amen.”

Believing and having faith that all prayers are answered according to God's will and timing IS A GREAT COMFORT.

“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” ~Mark 11:24-25 (New International Version)
Salvation is such a beautiful gift, that in itself is to be cherished; the gifts to follow are at God's discretion, His timing, His choice. I am grateful for the fruits He has blessed me with. And, I look forward to everyday that I get to use what He so generously gives and has given. Great is He who bestows such gifts upon me, His child who needs Him so AND desires Him so.

Thank You Father God for always being here when I need you, and equipping me with your perfect timing and according to Your amazing will. 

I am very fortunate that I can see God moving every day. And I am blessed with so many hearts who share their stories and testimonies to bless my days.

Thank You Father God for giving me an amazing group of brothers and sisters – these are people that I know through watching their lives unfold before me, and praying with them and for them. They, like me, are Your children, highly favored, greatly loved and indwelled with the Holy Spirit. This is my family Lord, for whom I thank You very much. I pray that through the days as we learn who You are for us, and how we can grow together that we can see your works daily and clearly. We thank you that as we dwell in You, we can remember one another, not only to bring to You in prayer, but to allow You to use our experiences together to grow us individually as well.Thank You LORD for the work of Jesus, for every moment access to the Holy Spirit and loving us more than we can comprehend. Help us to love others greatly, respectfully and correctly in Jesus' name, we bring our concerns and we praise Your amazing and mighty name. Amen.

“Since we consider and look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen; for the things that are visible are temporal (brief and fleeting), but the things that are invisible are deathless and everlasting.” ~2 Corinthians 4:16 (Amplified Bible)

LORD, I realize that through my life, there is some pain I have because of choices I have made, others because it's part of my learning, nonetheless, I am grateful that with You, I know that I am already healed and my mistakes are forgiven. I am even more grateful that as I learn to get past those mistakes, that I learn more about Your grace. I am grateful that I see you’re correction is my light, and that light is my refuge and my strength. I am grateful that I am growing in wisdom through the Holy Spirit, and that is truly a gift that is cherished every moment.

“Seeing it is God, that said, Light shall shine out of darkness, who shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." ~2 Corinthians 4:6 (American Standard Version)

Thank You for Your Word LORD, for giving me life through Your promises, and showing me that “keeping them” shows You that I am grateful and my heart is filled with an abundant You.

"Keep them and do them”... that comes from a heart of loving and knowing God. His word is perfect and edifying and LIFE GIVING!

"Do not add to the Word that I tell you, and do not take away from it. Keep the Laws of the Lord your God which I tell you…
"Keep them and do them. For this will show how wise and understanding you are. The people who will hear all these Laws will say, ‘For sure this great nation is a wise and understanding people.’" ~Deuteronomy 4:2 and 6 (New Life Version)

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta                      
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
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Day 695 of Giving Thanks

‎"Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He will give you the desires and secret petitions of your heart." ~Psalm 37:4 (Amplified Bible)

I am grateful that it is my heart's desires, He compassionately remembers. Capture my heart today Lord, for I am not sure that I can effectively relay what is in my heart and in my thoughts. I pray for wisdom today, strength for the moments and the power to see through Your eyes today. I pray that I can hear the miracles of Your word and promises, while praising even the moments that seem to be tough. Let me be completely absorbed by You today, in heart, through my thoughts and deeply in my soul.

“Therefore we do not become discouraged (utterly spiritless, exhausted, and wearied out through fear). Though our outer man is [progressively] decaying and wasting away, yet our inner self is being [progressively] renewed day after day.
“For our light, momentary affliction (this slight distress of the passing hour) is ever more and more abundantly preparing and producing and achieving for us an everlasting weight of glory [beyond all measure, excessively surpassing all comparisons and all calculations, a vast and transcendent glory and blessedness never to cease!],
“Since we consider and look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen; for the things that are visible are temporal (brief and fleeting), but the things that are invisible are deathless and everlasting.” ~2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (Amplified Bible)

This is life... I know that I will get things wrong, I will go too slow, I will make bad choices and I will stumble... but, because I have done the one thing right, "Choosing to accept His amazing gift", I know I can do all things through Him... we can become less, yet become better. Now that is worth living for. And, that is exciting stuff. (Philippians 4:13, John 3:30)

I was saved once, and receive daily His grace, mercies and amazing favor. “God saved you through faith as an act of kindness. You had nothing to do with it. Being saved is a gift from God.” ~Ephesians 2:8 (GOD’S WORD Translation)

I am often reminded of how amazing life is once you actually receive life. His gift is freely given and there is no life without it. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son. Whoever puts his trust in God’s Son will not be lost but will have life that lasts forever.” ~John 3:16 (New Life Version)

 
© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta                     
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
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Day 694 of Giving Thanks - Darci Escandon

Life, we all have one. It’s the one thing that I can honestly say I have in common with every other person on the face of this earth. One other thing we all have in common, is our struggle with sin. We all have inner conflict, just as Paul writes about in Romans 7:14-25 which starts out:

"We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. “ ~Romans 7:14-15 (NIV)

This man Paul, lived just a little under two thousand years ago and he struggled with the same things we do and he was a man called by God. We are all slaves to sin.

No one is perfect and we all fall short of the Glory of God, but that doesn’t mean we should just give up. We need to ask God for forgiveness, seek out His word and have Him show us the changes we need to make in our lives.

Hebrews 12 says:
”Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we'd better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed—that exhilarating finish in and with God—he could put up with anything along the way: Cross, shame, whatever. And now he's there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that long litany of hostility he plowed through. That will shoot adrenaline into your souls!
"In this all-out match against sin, others have suffered far worse than you, to say nothing of what Jesus went through—all that bloodshed! So don't feel sorry for yourselves. Or have you forgotten how good parents treat children, and that God regards you as his children?
"My dear child, don't shrug off God's discipline, but don't be crushed by it either. It's the child he loves that he disciplines; the child he embraces, he also corrects.
"God is educating you; that's why you must never drop out. He's treating you as dear children. This trouble you're in isn't punishment; it's training, the normal experience of children. Only irresponsible parents leave children to fend for themselves. Would you prefer an irresponsible God? We respect our own parents for training and not spoiling us, so why not embrace God's training so we can truly live? While we were children, our parents did what seemed best to them. But God is doing what is best for us, training us to live God's holy best. At the time, discipline isn't much fun. It always feels like it's going against the grain. Later, of course, it pays off handsomely, for it's the well-trained who find themselves mature in their relationship with God."  ~Hebrews 12:1-11 (The Message)

We are not struggling alone. Others have run the race ahead of us and have come out winners. The only way they won was allowing God to discipline and train them.  Allow God to bring people into your life that are just as committed to this race as God wants you to be. Allow God to bring people into your life that will help you make wiser choices.

"Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." ~James 5:15-16 (NIV)
Accountability is important in our Christian walk. We must confess our sins to God but also, to each other so that we can help each other stay on the straight and narrow path God wants us to walk. We can't do it alone!

Today, I am so thankful that my God loves me enough to discipline me. That He loves me so much, He cares about sin in my life and desires to build that relationship with me that will help me run the race He has set before me. I am thankful that He helps me realize what I need to do to stay on His path and that He knows how hard it is for me. Thank you Lord, for being my Father, for your unending love and for your grace and mercy! ~Amen



© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Darci Escandon                      
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
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Day 693 of Giving Thanks by Tina Wetor

As Christians, we are all on different maturity levels but we should never stop growing.  As a tree grows it matures to bring fruit, may our fruit be worthy for others to eat from.  What do others feast upon from our lives?  Also, what are you picking from other people’s lives?

Just recently, a co-worker who just graduated from college was leaving to start his exciting career and future with his fiancé. As his last day approached, he was packing up his stuff to take to the car.  Before he could leave, I shouted, “You are leaving without saying, “Good-bye!”  He responded, “No, I had to give you a hug before I left.”  Although, he didn’t know it, I cherished the sweetness of this moment, I touched his life.  During those precious months, I was able to invest in him, give wisdom, and display God’s love.  Nevertheless, I wasn’t really aware; he was watching me so closely.  Ryan walked up to me and said, “You are a hard worker and a very good person.”  (This is coming from a young man who doesn’t share his thoughts at all, he is very quiet.) As the months passed, we developed a friendship so I was able to share Christ.  Who knows what God’s got planned?  Maybe he will get saved and be a missionary pharmacist!! With God all things are possible!

Fruit is important, it’s evident you belong to the vine.  We are aware people are watching but do we realize how close.  If so, what are they picking up?  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Galatians 5:22-23 If we belong to Christ, we crucified the sinful nature with its passion and desires.  Since we live in the Spirit, let us KEEP IN STEP with the Spirit. (Galatians 5:24-26)

A life of abundance can blossom if it’s faithfully being nourished in God’s Word, guarding your heart from evil, and staying connected to the Vine-Christ. Keep delighting in God’s Word, it will satisfy your soul but feed the multitudes.

If you feel disconnected from God, realize He wants to be with you.  We all have felt disconnected from God or ashamed of the fruit we have left.  It’s never too late to begin with God; it’s only a tragedy never to start.  If you have fallen, reach for His hand-it’s time to get up.  We all stumble at times or feel inadequate of God’s love but we have to walk towards the solution-the cross of Christ.  Forgiveness is always available with a bountiful supply, so God’s ready.  Are you?  

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Tina Wetor                

Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/

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Day 692 of Giving Thanks

I have moments where I am afraid, but know that I can find courage through seeking God’s presence. I have moments where I doubt my ability to accomplish something great, and remember who created me. I have moments where life’s circumstances become too much to handle, and know that it is His desire to take on what is too much for me.

Remove from my Spirit Lord that disallows me to revel in all of Your gifts for me. Allow me to see what You have at every moment of every day. Give me confidence to believe in the greatest of all great gifts from You. Give me the strength to accept all that You have promised. Give me the desire to burn from the inside out. Let the Holy Spirit light the fuel of salvation, for the ministry of promise.


The more I learn, the more I know I must learn. It is my heart’s desire to be completely absorbed with His word for my life, while learning to share His word with others, and not looking like a total freak. However, being a freak is not so bad…

I plan to seek His word F.orever so that I can R.eceive revelation after revelation. As I seek Him, it is my desire to E.mbark daily on a steady diet of A.bsolute truth while realizing His tenderness and learning His promises and how they relate to His desires for my life. I intend to K.eep the great commission of sharing the gospel with others. So, if that makes me a freak, than freak it is. 

And, if you can relate to this, even a little bit, maybe you are a freak too. So, this freak is grateful for the opportunity to praise an amazing God. My God, who chose me – thank You. My God, who shows me daily miracles and signs of His presence in my life – thank You. My God, who works all things out, and He is greatly glorified – thank You.

My God, who is your God too for the asking Him into your life. My God, who I praise and worship.

“Hallelujah! Praise God in his holy house of worship, praise him under the open skies; Praise him for his acts of power, praise him for his magnificent greatness; Praise with a blast on the trumpet, praise by strumming soft strings; Praise him with castanets and dance, praise him with banjo and flute; Praise him with cymbals and a big bass drum, praise him with fiddles and mandolin. Let every living, breathing creature praise God! Hallelujah!” ~Psalm 150 (the Message)

‎"I will extol the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips." ~Psalm 34:1 (NIV)

"I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name forever and ever." ~Psalm 145:1 (NIV)

“But I trust in Your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in Your salvation. I will sing the LORD’s praise, for He has been good to me.” ~Psalm 13:5-6  (NIV)

Praising and honoring You LORD... Awe, how I love to be in Your presence and hear Your word running through my heart and mind.

Physically having some moments today (this week) LORD, and could use a few hours of relief. I am praising all the wonderful things You are doing in my life right now, Abba Father and so look forward to seeing the blessings revealed. Thank You for allowing me to share what you have done in my life with others. I never dreamed that would be such a blessing.


“Every day is a gift... unwrap it with care and accept it with sincere gratitude, and remember to share what is so freely given.” ~Me, Day 520 of Giving Thanks

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta                        

Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/ 

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http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/2011/04/day-520-of-giving-thanks.html

Day 691 of Giving Thanks

Wow, how God speaks to me as I pray for others. It has been one of those days, where my needs were greatly met through others’ needs. Every day He enlightens me, and every day I realize amazing blessings from our phenomenal God.

Only God defines me... my past, my circumstances, my mistakes, my fears and my hurts DO NOT DEFINE ME.

Thank You Jesus.
Brothers and sisters, did you know that you are loved in an amazing way too? This love is given and has no end. Yet this love began for you at the beginning of all time. This love is perfect and through this love for you, you have been redeemed with a simple, "Yes God I know what You did, and I accept Your gift."

Think about a love so great, that He came down to live a very giving life, and was willing to die for us, for you and for me. He did so, so that we can live in eternity with Him. His daily graces and mercies are abundantly available to all of us…

“To us, the greatest demonstration of God’s love for us has been his sending his only Son into the world to give us life through him. We see real love, not in that fact that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son to make personal atonement for our sins.” ~1 John 4:9-10 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

And, God has revealed much in me. Why would or should I be so grateful? I was learning impaired all through school (labeled anyway), and found out at 30ish, I fight through dyslexic. I couldn't get into college because I could not pass the writing portion of the entrance exam...  and now I write. God? Absolutely!

“Show me the right path, O LORD;  point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me for you are the God who saves me.  All day long I put my hope in you. Remember, O LORD, your compassion and unfailing love, which you have shown from long ages past. Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth. Remember me in the light of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O LORD.” ~Psalm 25:4-7 (New Living Translation)

Losses and challenges are a way of life, but so are blessings and gratitude in all things. I have had to learn, that it was ok to be out of control a bit... because quite honestly I’m not in control anyway. At any moment, my circumstances can change...

It is said, “We change out of desperation or inspiration”... I was inspired many times. It was when I was on the verge of complete loss and devastation that I finally got that God was there.

There have been many challenges, the list goes on, but without all that, I would not have gone to God. I would have been ignorant in my blissfulness. Without Jesus in my life, I would be ignorant and a fool. 

I have learned that through time, He restores.

"Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And, the God of love and peace will be with you." ~2 Corinthians 13:11 (New International Version)

I have learned that allowing myself to mess my prayers up, to mess faith up, to allow life to be a bit messy (on occasion) has been tremendously liberating... Like I said, I have faced many challenges, illnesses, losses abuse, to name a few, yet, He loved me through it, and loves me forward every day and there are many days, that He loves me through many moments and a moment at a time.

So many need to see hope through someone else's eyes, why not yours?

I cannot imagine my life without the intervention and amazing insights from He who dwells in me - thank You Jesus for the great interpreter of the Holy Spirit. Thank You that I can see.

My friends I will share with you, what I shared with a friend tonight, which at some point in my journey, was lovingly shared with me, “Ask the Holy Spirit to share your heart with God... and to reveal God to you as you sleep.”

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta                        

Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/ 

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Day 690 Giving Thanks

September 27th, Day 690 of Giving Thanks Daily

I am grateful for my life today. Tonight as I write, I can remember, distinctly the steps that I have taken to get me here.  It seems that it has been a million baby steps, amongst a few giant steps, but nonetheless, I have advanced on this journey and I am thankful for every single step.

“A person’s steps are made secure by the LORD when they delight in his way. Though they trip up, they won’t be thrown down, because the LORD holds their hand.” ~Psalm 37:23-24 (Common English Bible)

One step was to believe that I needed Him. The next was that He loves me. And, yet another was that everything He did, He did for me. Many steps were believing I can trust Him for all my needs and tonight as I believe in what is to come I am grateful for the steps of belief more than many of the others. For without believing, I would still be lost.

“But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.” ~John 14:26 (New Living Translation)

Now, it’s your turn to believe. 
Go to Him for all your needs.
Trust Him for all your needs.
Believe. Pray. Trust.

One step is learning to stand firm, when you want to keep moving, or when others are pushing you to move. I am grateful that  standing firm can be that when knees are weak, probably is a good sign to get to my knees to pray.

Several steps lead to showing me that to be happy, is to know that we have a God who desires to see us experience joy. We have joy when we have hope. There is hope because we have an eternity with a mighty and merciful God.

“We make our own plans,  but the LORD decides where we will go.” ~Proverbs 16:9 (Contemporary English Version)

Thank You LORD, Thank You Jesus and thank You for giving me the perfect delivery of my prayers to You through the Holy Spirit. This morning as I awoke, my first thoughts came running to Your presence and right into Your (always) open arms. Thank You for giving me that comfort, so much tenderness in Your words and refuge from the trials of this world, if even for a few moments. Thank You for the amazing hope of heaven and the grace that You have abundantly given. So, again I say, thank You God.

Lord, keep working on me, and shining brightly where I need to see, remind me often of who You are, what You are to me, and what You have done.

“He Took on the Status of a Slave
If you've gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care— then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. Don't push your way to the front; don't sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don't be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.” ~Philippians 2:1 (The Message)

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta                        

Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/ 

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Day 689 of Giving Thanks

Tonight I am exhausted. I have been going for two weeks straight. As I awoke this morning, and I sat to get with the Lord, my mind raced right to Him, it’s like I couldn’t start talking fast enough, or waiting to be silent with Him urgently enough. And that is right where I am again tonight...

Does that ever happen to you?

“I pray to GOD—my life a prayer—and wait for what he'll say and do. My life's on the line before God, my Lord, waiting and watching till morning, waiting and watching till morning.” ~Psalm 130:5-6 (The Message)

My heart was set on a couple of people, as well as a circumstance I am in the middle of, it’s not personal, however, I am personally involved. It is a circumstance that has a group of us in the middle of spiritual warfare; dealing with the enemy  and watching evil transpire before us almost on a daily basis. I know there are many praying for this circumstance and many, just like me, believe that God is bigger and greater than anything the enemy throws at us, and we just have to be patient as we wait to see His work and miracles.

I am learning that the best defensive and offensive plans revolve around prayer. It is a plan that has come by way of great need for me, and has now become an amazing habit, that I absolutely depend on throughout my days. My moment to moment chats with the Holy Spirit truly get me through each day.

2 Corinthians 13:14 says, "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you all."

I love to pray. I love to connect to my Lord. And what I have learned that it is only through the connection of prayer, that I will hear from God, the answers I seek, the confirmation I desire and the instruction that I need. Thank You Lord for revealing and leading me through Your plans.

"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 (GODS WORD Translation)

Prayer for me comes late at night, as I drift off to sleep and prayer begins my day, the instant I am coherent. There are many days, that I pray before every decision, and there are days when praying for others is a constant on my heart. Lord, thank You that I can ask, and that You answer. Thank You that through time, You recognize my knock, my cries, my heart and allow me to enter into Your presence. Thank You for giving me all that I need and sharing with me my heart’s desires.

“Ask, and you will receive. Search, and you will find. Knock, and the door will be opened for you. Everyone who asks will receive. The one who searches will find, and for the one who knocks, the door will be opened. If your child asks you for bread, would any of you give him a stone?” ~Matthew 7:7-9 (New Century Version)

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta                        

Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/ 

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