Day 427 of Giving Thanks

Tradition or Love?

While growing up, my life was surrounded in tradition, family, religion and community – and the most prominent tradition was church. We went to the very large, very traditional church much like the one my mom went to as a child. An immense building, with stone pillars and statues with an echoing presence, even when the pews were full – but it was the foundation of the tradition inside the heart that made the biggest impressions, in the long run. It was the morning prayers. The traditions, I so often called rituals, imbedded deeply in my heart and my memories.

For many years, the words and prayers that I learned as a child, the traditions that formed these memories, would replay in my mind. There was a time, in the dawn of my early adulthood where I made a conscious effort to drown what was so deep in my subconscious. What I see in the mirror now was so different, not so many years ago. The thoughts of a God that was “bigger than life itself” were left in the parts of my heart and mind that I had closed off for many years.

Years ago, I believed that the God I heard of as a child, was a god that I wanted to deny in the memory of my adult mind. But from my child’s mind, it was the God that was “bigger than life itself”, but unapproachable – and yet, I know that there was a yearning, somewhere in the recesses that I had closed off.

When I look back over this journey from darkness to light, I can see all the times when the God, who is bigger than life itself, reached deeply into the recesses of my heart and mind – and over time, He grabbed on and held tightly. He not only reached down, He reached deep.

I am grateful for the awakening that the Lord has so graciously given me. When I look back, it was like I was drowning in the traditions that made up my childhood, yet somehow they spoke to me through the years, as I so adamantly tried to drown them out. I am grateful that the God I know is truly the God who is truly bigger than life itself, because He created life itself.

Tradition or love, as this journey today so eloquently asked. Love was the answer. The love of a mighty God who brought me home – who forgave me of all the times I dismissed His existence and denied Him – the love of my heavenly Father who spoke to me through the years and never gave up on me.

And it is that love that is so dear, and is my new tradition. The truth that dwells deep in my heart and mind, and it is the love of that God who so graciously gave life to one that was dead in so many ways. And, it is the truth in me today that builds a new church, not of stone and walls, but of faith and hope and a mighty God, so much bigger than life itself.

Day 426 of Giving Thanks - Guest Writer, Mary Jean Marquez

Create Your Fabulous Life

by Mary Jean Marquez

God has placed within me the gift of exhortation (Rom. 12:8) to uplift people, applying God’s truths through encouragement.  I am the ultimate optimist and I love to see people’s lives change when God’s word touches their hearts.  It is God’s word that is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Heb. 4:12).  All God and not me!

I also believe in common sense and practical thinking, and because God loves you, He will correct you (Prov. 3:12).   I receive God’s correction with open arms!  We must take responsibility for our own lives and not play the blame game, excuses, or fall into a victim mentality.  Allow God to heal and restore your life!  

With every New Year comes the excitement of a new beginning, putting the old habits and failures behind.  The possibilities are endless with a renewed and refreshed attitude.  I want to encourage you to seek God for every area of your life.  To make the quality decision to move ahead in life with the strength and conviction, that you are going to believe what God’s word says about your life, and take action! Be a doer of God’s word and not just an observer… (Jas. 1:23)

We all have areas that we need to improve or change.  For some, it is getting organized.  Perhaps you need to get your home in order.  Make a plan and then do it! Break that task down into small daily tasks; tackle one room at a time.  For some, it is health. Start exercise and eating better; Be a good steward of your body, which is the temple of God (1 Cor. 6:19). You can improve and change, because God says that you can do all things through Christ who is your strength (Phil. 4:13).

I am the ultimate optimist and I truly believe that there is greatness in each and every one of you!  Your past does not define your present life, and you have the choice and the power to create your fabulous life now!  God has placed within you all that you need to succeed in life.  He also says that if you lack wisdom, to ask of Him and He will give it to you freely (Jas 1:5).  God also invites you to boldly approach His throne of Grace, that you may obtain mercy and help in time of need (Heb. 4:16).  That literally means, go to Him without reservation, approaching His throne not of a place of judgment, but to receive mercy, grace, & help! Wow! God will lead and guide you every step of the way. He will back you up with His power and blessing! As I say “God’s got your back!”

The question that comes to mind is!  Why, with all that God has provided for us, do people not move on in life?

Some reasons may be:  Slothfullness/laziness, fear of failure or success, Low self-esteem, no direction, lack of funds, etc…the list can go on and on.  Be careful not to fall into the trap of self-pity, blame, or victim mentality. 

Rise up as the conqueror that god has made you to be (Rom. 8:37).  Get yourself off of the path that has led you where you don’t want to be, and onto God’s path that leads to the victorious life! 

Whatever the reason is in your life for not moving on, know that God has the answer for you.  Take God’s word to heart and confess that word over your life.  Get rid of stinking thinking, and replace it with God’s word, allowing it to renew your mind (Rom. 12:2).  You have the ability and free will to make the changes you need to for a better life. Not one of us is perfect, and I humble myself knowing that I need God’s help and guidance in my life everyday!

Change the way you speak about your life.  If life and death are in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21), how are you applying that power in your life?  The effective fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (Jas. 5:16) and God says that you are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus, therefore use that power to create good in your life!

I pray that you understand, believe and receive the fact that God, in your obedience to Him, has made you the head and not the tail, above only and not beneath, blessed in the city, blessed in the field, blessed going in and blessed going out (Deut. 28).  God has met your every need according to His riches in Glory by Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:19).  God has crowned your head with Glory and Honor (Ps. 8:5), and all that you set your hands to prospers abundantly.  God daily loads you with benefits of salvation (Ps. 68:19).  That, right there, is everything to be grateful for.

God is for you, who can be against you (Rom. 8:31).

Create your fabulous life and live life big my friends. God bless you!

To learn more about the wonderful Mary Jean Marquez visit the following links:

http://twitter.com/MaryJeanMarquez

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=335607651809&ref=mf

http://fabulouslypeachydarling.blogspot.com/

http://braveheartwomen.com/profile.jspa?userID=13000133959

Day 425 of Giving Thanks – Guest Writer, Ron McIntyre

Tonight I get to pass the pen to a wise friend with a wonderful message.

I am grateful for wonderful friends – for the counsel I receive when I didn’t even know counsel was needed. On my personal journey toward my Father’s kingdom, He has blessed me with the most amazing, down to earth, real and faithful people who remind me every day that my Father is speaking to me always, may you hear Him speaking to you as well.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

The Highroad of Absolute Surrender 

Ron McIntyre

"Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom." ~Luke 12:32

My little one, come close to Me, I have consolations for your soul that surpass your sharpest grid. I have walked through the deepest waters, and I am with you as you experience your baptism of sorrow. It is the path that leads to the gate of glory, and the Father waits to greet you there. It is not heaven of which I speak. It is a blessedness of spirit given to those who have passed through tribulations and have set their feet on the HIGHROAD of ABSOLUTE SURRENDER. From this place, there is no turning back.

It may cost you all, but you cannot fathom what I have in store for you.

Hold fast to My hand.

No, My children, do not fear. Remember the words of Holy Scripture: "Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom." Here you have it again--I am not simply preserving you, but I am doing so for the purpose of sharing with you My kingdom power. If you can catch the vision of what the days ahead hold in store for you in My great kingdom, you will gain a whole new perspective – so that as you view the present, transit scene, it’s true dimension will come into focus in proportion to the whole panoramic picture.

Once again I say, “Hold fast to My hand.”

 

Day 423 of Giving Thanks

“And He said, "I Myself will make all My goodness pass before you, and will proclaim the name of the LORD before you; and I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show compassion on whom I will show compassion.”” ~ Exodus 33:19 (NASB)

The word that set the spring flowing this morning is compassion. I am in the midst of a great change in my life, and I am seeking God so greatly, that as I read the stories from others, my heart is tugging and tearing – yesterday I started to read the first chapter of a new book, unPLANNED, by Abby Johnson. It seriously took me all day to read 7 pages. I had to literally stop and pray for strength to get through one of the pages.

“Your right hand, LORD, was majestic in power. Your right hand, LORD, shattered the enemy.” ~Exodus 15:6

And, I say this, because I see a flowing of presence in so many of us right now - change and transformation beyond, what I believe, any of us can even comprehend. If we look at the stories and heartaches of some of my closest friends, and the way God is speaking to us (to me), we can (I can) utterly be blinded by the radiance of light.

As I sit here, at my desk, preparing for my day, it's like I am paralyzed by the thoughts of change, yet it is not fear. I am so uncertain of what God has for me, and that would have sent me reeling downward before, but today, I find I am looking up and forward in wonder and in beautiful anticipation of that wonder.

“Who among the gods is like you, LORD? Who is like you— majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders?” Exodus 15:11

My life is truly a wonder; and truly all the definitions of this word are filtering through my mind as I sit. I am amazed that I am truly feeling blank, yet my fingers are typing frantically to get thoughts out that haven’t even transpired in my mind.

won·der –
Conjecture, meditate, ponder, question, marvel, surprise, astonishment, amazement, bewilderment, AWE
Definition number 7 is the one that hit the mark for me this morning – “The emotion excited by what is strange and surprising; a feeling of surprised or puzzled interest, sometimes tinged with admiration.”

com·pas·sion –
Commiseration, mercy, tenderness, heart, clemency, SYMPATHY
There is only one definition and it truly relays so much of my heart today, and lately – “A feeling of deep sympathy for another who is stricken by misfortune; accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering.”

And, as I re-read a note from a friend, Deb Matheson, “So often in the Gospels we see that first Jesus had compassion – and then it was from that place the power flowed. May the Lord overshadow you with presence – and power. May we call forth the gold we see in brokenness and minister His life to the wastelands... may we see the wilderness places flourish. The tides are turning, God is shaking stuff and taking us back to His original plan”, I realized what a wise and thoughtful statement she wrote; one that stirred so much this morning including the words here.

And, though there are many things right now that are uncertain, I am grateful for the wise counsel of friends, especially when they don’t realize the power of their ministry. As I read the final portion of the chapter from the book, God spoke so graciously through Abby's words again, “… I realize how wise God is for not revealing our future to us. Had I known the firestorm I was about to endure, I might not have had the courage to move forward.” Abby’s story is much different than mine, and the “fire” or “storm” that He has will weave and forge, through my life’s story, is uniquely directed to His plan for my life.

I am reading a book call unPLANNED by Abby Johnson. www.UnplannedBook.com and this morning I spent some time in Exodus 15 http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2015&version=NIV

Day 422 of Giving Thanks

I walked into the office today, and I felt like I was deep in a freezer, so immediately, we turned up the heat; however it did take a while to kick in and feel comfortable. For an hour, I sat with the floor heater blasting into my body. My hands were so cold, that I could hardly type – but I could turn up the music, and wisp through emails and requests in my Outlook file. By the time my hands thawed, I had completed my email review and my mind was readied for the day.

I am grateful for the warmth in my life – the people who I share this existence with. I am grateful for the warmth in my heart – the Lord and His favor in so many ways. I am grateful for the warmth in my mind – my savior and His blanket of salvation that makes everything in my life and heart work.

 “The fire must be kept burning on the altar continuously; it must not go out." ~Leviticus 6:13

And, as I sat and warmed my hands and filled my senses with the music of the Lord, I thought of how grateful I am that His warmth often times, comes through fire – through refining, and the residue of His fire’s embers are what light my way, build my character and forge my journey so greatly. It is the world that is cold and is like icy waters to the senses that numb the existence of so many.

As I write this, I am emotionally recovering from reading a story – one that shows so greatly the grace of God, and how He can use even the worst of deeds to shine light. A story of redemption that only God can give and shows His great mercy and deep forgiveness for someone who was abashedly sucked into the evil of this world and, not only bought the lies, but sold them as well. And, yet, I read the words I just wrote, and know that I have just described many aspects of my own life as well.

Mercy to wipe clean a slate stained of many things, including my Savior’s blood from all the years I dismissed His knocking – forgiveness given freely and lovingly, for any and all of my horrific deeds and acts done unto Him and others – and grace beyond measure.

He is ever-present within you through the Holy Spirit, just because we cannot "feel" Him doesn't mean He is not there. He is always with us, Jesus promised that when He left...  two verses come to mind as I pray and write this morning.

"God is faithful and He will not let you be tested beyond your strength but with your testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it." ~1 Corinthians 10:13

“Do you now believe?” Jesus replied. “A time is coming and in fact has come when you will be scattered, each to your own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me.

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” ~John 16:30-33

Do you feel it? No, well no worries, it is here. The presence of the Lord is with us always, no matter how we feel, He is with us always and the more time we spend with Him, the more we will become in tune with Him.

Lord, we thank You for Your presence daily, and moment by moment, and I pray that I can know it completely as I wander this world with Your aim in mind.

Day 421 of Giving Thanks

Although I have been a “believer”, a Christian for many years, there were many things that eluded my grasp. For many years, I saw myself as a victim of many things – many forms of abuse, illness, circumstances – because I was seeing my life from eyes that were alone.

Thank You, Father, for giving me strength and truth in my life – for opening my eyes to all of the things that once eluded my understanding, thank You for allowing me to attempt to figure it all out on my own. Many times, I would ask, “Why did this happen to me?” was one of my favorites…

Now, I am victorious over everything, because I have Jesus. And, now my favorite question is, "How can You, God, use this for me to become better; to become who YOU want me to be?"

“You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. The Lord’s message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere. Therefore we do not need to say anything about it, for they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath." ~1 Thessalonians 1:6-10

My desire is to be like the Thessalonians to become an imitator of great faith with the Holy Spirit, and to know that my life can be of great testimony, even in the midst of suffering or challenge as I serve my heavenly Father. My desire is to be “good soil” and to be good seed. And, how powerful is one little seed? It has the power to reproduce life and then reseed… Let me be that good seed, Lord. Let me be the one to ask, to seek and question.

“Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up and yielded a crop, a hundred times more than was sown.

When he said this, he called out, 'Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear.'” ~Luke 8:8

Today, I ask myself, how do I change the world? And, my answer has come through reading the word, my God’s word, and allowing it to germinate, spread and reproduce deep within me, and out to the world. I change the world, by allowing change in myself. I change the world by allowing God to use me in any and every way possible.

“His disciples asked him what this parable meant.” ~Luke 8:9

Jesus used parables to divide and distinguish the seeds… Hearing at church that only 16% of Christians read the bible daily, breaks my heart, yet I am reassured again that my heart’s desires are real, my quest for the truth is real, my love and sharing of the truth are real. The word is the seed, because it contains life. And, asking questions allows the seeds to grow. The more I ask, the more I see.

“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

God tells me every day, "I love you Shawn. I have already shown you how much with the cross. I continue to show You through the Holy Spirit as your guide. I will always be here, and never leave you."

‎"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." ~3 John 1:4

For my friends, who are fearful, do not be afraid – allow God to continue to give you revelations… you do not have to “do” anything on your own. Alone, we will not overcome the world. It is when I began to actively engage in the Lord that my will started to resemble His will. It is through my daily gratitude for what He has done for me, that gives me the strength for that obedience He so desires in my live.

Before, I was afraid of Hell – today, it is not scary because I know where I am going when I leave this earth. I have a relationship with God - meaning, I have accepted that Jesus lived the perfect life - Jesus suffered before and on the cross - He died on the cross - was buried - He defeated death - and now sits in His rightful spot in heaven with our creator.... this as truth, is your assurance. I am grateful that He did all this for me.

Day 420 of Giving Thanks Daily – Guest Writer, Tymothy Longoria

Something to Marvel at…

Marvel.

1. One that evokes surprise, admiration, or wonder. 

2. Strong surprise; astonishment.

v. mar·veled 

To become filled with wonder or astonishment.

The scene is set in the following scripture. Imagine the clamor and boisterous nature of the crowds around Jesus as He went from town to town.

Luke 7:1-10

1 Now when He concluded all His sayings in the hearing of the people, He entered Capernaum. 2 And a certain centurion’s servant, who was dear to him, was sick and ready to die. 3 So when he heard about Jesus, he sent elders of the Jews to Him, pleading with Him to come and heal his servant. 4And when they came to Jesus, they begged Him earnestly, saying that the one for whom He should do this was deserving, 5 “for he loves our nation, and has built us a synagogue.”

6 Then Jesus went with them. And when He was already not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to Him, saying to Him, “Lord, do not trouble Yourself, for I am not worthy that You should enter under my roof. 7 Therefore I did not even think myself worthy to come to You. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8 For I also am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” ~Luke 7:1-8

“When Jesus heard these things, He marveled at him, and turned around and said to the crowd that followed Him, “I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!”  And those who were sent, returning to the house, found the servant well who had been sick.” ~Luke 7:9-10

What an amazing piece of the Word this Scripture is, and there are many lessons can be garnered from every scripture as they work together, in unison. As I read this scripture and focused on verse 9... I was left marveling at it. Me, a vapor in the wind, a wave tossed about the ocean – and the centurion, who we can safely assume was not a "convert", and we know he was not of Jewish faith, for obvious reasons. Yet, he did believe in the Son’s power. He believed in Christ’s authority over sickness, as well as death! He had FAITH. And the King of Kings, the Word in the flesh, the Son of the Almighty God...

... I just MARVELED at the Roman centurion's FAITH?  Jesus made an example of it and said, not even in my own land, within my own lineage.

The centurion considered himself unworthy, as we all should.

I mean that is one of the cornerstones of our faith.

“I am not worthy, Lord, but You are."  Yet he had faith enough to ask this of the Healer, whom he had most certainly heard about. He said to himself, just as the woman with the affliction, "If I can only ask Him, I know He will do it," but he did not just stop there, he sent people out to get Jesus. He moved on his faith. He moved.

I turn now briefly to the book of Hebrews, specifically Chapter 11 – The people of God acted out their faith. They believed in the authority of God and His promise. They said to themselves, "If I can only ask, I know He can and will do it." Then what happened? Well, they asked. Then they moved. They shut the mouths of lions. They walked through fire, they danced in the fire! They overcame giants and crushed mountains. They defeated armies and destroyed strongholds. They said, if you had only been here! They sent out a party to ask Jesus to heal a loved one. And He did. And He did. And He did! Not only that, HE marveled at this show of faith!

Who are we to Jesus Christ, the One for Whom and by Whom all was created that He would marvel at our faith? That He should admire or wonder at us? Nothing gets by Him. Yet, as the scripture says, HE was surprised! :)

We are the sons and daughters of the Living God. The ones who boldly proclaim: "Lord, if I ask, I KNOW You will do this! Lord, I ask that even if my faith is just as a mustard seed, may YOU-Wonderful, Counselor, Prince of peace and King of Kings-You, Lord, in this day and age, You will marvel at me and help me to be all that You will!"

Jesus, I thank You, that You have considered my faith worthy to be something to marvel at! Lord, let us all be as the centurion and say, I am unworthy but I know Who You are. You have the authority in and about my life. It is all Yours. Say the word...and it will be done!

“You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only. By my works, whatever they may be, let Your glory shine!” ~James 2:24

 

Day 419 of Giving Thanks – Guest Writer, Sue King

Knock! Knock! Who’s there?

The world is pounding at my door today. How can I be a better wife… a better mother? How should I best use my time… my money… my resources? What should my to-do list for this day contain? Should I read this book or that? Do I write this letter or that assignment? And, what about that phone call… Is there enough money in the account for that?  Phone call after call.  Question after question! Demand after demand.

Confusion reigns... and with it, tension rises. Doubt says “Hi there! Thought we had a dinner date for today!”

I can allow these thoughts and fears to monopolise my being or I can call a halt to them… call in the troops to immobilize them.

How can I do that? I no longer live in the flesh but in the Spirit. My God has given me the tools I need to conquer fear and doubt. I have to refocus and look up.  Block out the interference and remind myself to fly a little higher.

“The world is unprincipled. It's dog-eat-dog out there! The world doesn't fight fair. But we don't live or fight our battles that way—never have and never will. The tools of our trade aren't for marketing or manipulation, but they are for demolishing that entire massively corrupt culture. We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ. Our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity.”~2 Corinthians 10:3-6

The physical reality of my day- to- day circumstances are not who I am and how I function.  You see I am in this world- I live and walk in it. But I am not of this world. My being is in Him and He in me.  I am a visitor passing through this world and with this knowledge; I can see things in a different way. My ‘home’ is not here. My treasures are not here. The time I will spend here is so brief in comparison to my eternal destination.

With that knowledge comes reassurance that the cares of this world have little importance. I can fly a little higher and look down. When I am close everything looks so big and important, but when I fly higher and look down- that insurmountable problem is like a tiny speck on the horizon.

“But my eyes are toward You, O God the Lord; in You do I trust and take refuge.” ~Psalm 141:8

So today, I’m going to thank God that the knocking on my door is just a distraction – that if I climb a little higher and look from the peak I will gain true perspective. It is not ‘what’ that I need to focus on but who’.

Day 418 of Giving Thanks

While I was visiting with someone yesterday and putting closure to a part of my life that has been “my life” for nine years, they compassionately said, “Don’t lose “Shawn” in the process of pleasing and submitting to your husband”. After hugs, a few tears, I left. Within a mile, I started to cry – to mourn some of the losses I have endured, just in this year. I started the grieving process. It is now real.

Sweetly surrendering over and over.… and today it really hit me, that I must be completely lost in my husband , that is my entire goal in life.  Let me explain.

“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

My heavenly husband, when lost in Him, all of my life will fall completely in to place. And, although in this earthly body, and as I possess this earthly mind, I will never comprehend fully or wholly what it all means, I am at peace in so many ways.  The wisdom I have acquired and will acquire as I pursue God’s will, and through so many answers and miracles I am witness to, are priceless.

Since, I have a fairly structured business background, I tend to compartmentalize areas of my life; work and play; joy and pain; rain and sun; success and failure; happy and sad, and somehow God was in a compartment all alone.  But, He wants to be part of everything, in everything because He is everything. I began to realize that with God, all things work for the good of God’s plan.

Empty me. So much of what I had grown into over the past nine years, although a great education in many ways, has also been the source of compromise in the other areas that are so very important – family, and above all God. But the reverse is also true. Without my compromises, I would not have “needed” God so much.

“My choice is You God, God, first and only. And now I find I'm your choice!  You set me up with a house and yard. And then you made me your heir! ~“ Psalm 16:5-6 (The Message)

Through brokenness, defeat, failure and being emptied, I started to change, and I also started to embrace these changes... I allowed God to teach me what love meant. The closer I got to God, the more He implored me to let go of who I was, and become who He designed me to be. I never knew how prideful I was, until recently.

But now, I am grateful that God pointed my pride out. I have laid my marriage, and Chris, before the Lord, but most important, I laid me before the throne – stripped of myself and naked I laid, and clothed in His warmth and His love I became.

“‘If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith?  So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.  But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” ~Matthew 6:30-33

I love Chris, and truly enjoy spending time with him... just 6 months ago, he was ready to quit - because I was a fanatic, about a few things in my life, including God. It is through Chris’ insights, revealed by God, that God used to show me how to seek Him more. Because of all the other “things” I put before Chris, I was unable to show God in my life – however I sure talked about it a lot.

Now I do things on purpose to spend time with both of my husbands, and in the proper order. Because God got my attention, Chris get’s mine more and more today and I have another chance – to get to know him again. And, it appears that it is Chris who has the more open mind at times.  I took eight years to respond, yet Chris took months as soon I did what I was supposed to do all along.

“The wise counsel God gives when I'm awake is confirmed by my sleeping heart. Day and night I'll stick with God; I've got a good thing going and I'm not letting go.

I'm happy from the inside out, and from the outside in, I'm firmly formed. You canceled my ticket to hell—that's not my destination!” ~Psalm 16:7-10

I thought I would give up who I had become to be with Chris more, and really God gave me a new identity that totally glorifies Him. Thank You Lord for giving me so much, and being so much of me.

“The mighty man will become tinder and his work a spark; both will burn together, with no one to quench the fire." ~Isaiah 1:31

Day of 417 Giving Thanks

I typed “self help books” into the search bar today and there were About 213,000,000 results that showed up.

And, I thought, “How many self-help books have I read? How many motivational seminars have I attended? How many affirmations have I created and recited over the years?”

More than I can count! More than I dare to remember.

“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”  ~2 Corinthians 10:5

My heart has ached for change and peace in the process of changing. Over the years, I have implemented so many changes, started new habits and practiced, drilled and rehearsed what to say, how to do things better, “what to say to myself”. The years passed, and things and habits “changed”, but nothing really “stuck”. I never really made the changes necessary to flourish in life. I didn’t feel any different about who I was, even though I had recited how awesome I was over and over.

My heart desired the reward.

For me personally, it is the knowing that I am worthy, and where that worth comes from that turned things around for me. It is in the knowing that I am loved greatly. It is in knowing that hope in limitless. It is in the knowing that any change through the Father is permanent. It is in the knowing that He desires great things for my life, so much so that He provided a book of promises, plus instructions on how to live my life.

A Life of God-Worship

"Don't hoard treasure down here where it gets eaten by moths and corroded by rust or—worse!—stolen by burglars. Stockpile treasure in heaven, where it's safe from moth and rust and burglars. It's obvious, isn't it? The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being.” ~Matthew 6:19-21

Just look at how many books are out there. Most refer to the wealth that can be created through a change – 90 Days to this or that; 3 Easy Steps... I am not knocking wealth, I am questioning motive, and only because I have personal experience in having a motive of wealth, the easy way… There is a theme with a majority of these books, and that is to replace one thing with something else (i.e., replace the habit, replace the food), one obsession or idol for another.

What I have found, is that removal, disposal, destruction of the old and starting new is a much better way. Emptying what is there, to allow God to fill the void... I know that I get impatient because things are not moving along fast enough... it's like fixing that dripping faucet, but in plugging the holes, you run out of fingers; it is quite a mess and not very productive.

“But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all.” ~Colossians 3:8-11 

So, have I arrived? No.

Will I arrive? Absolutely - “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” ~Matthew 6:21

Oh how I am grateful for my impending arrival.

Day 416 of Giving Thanks

I am grateful for the dozens of pages that God has said “no” to in this process of growth and sharing. So, let me explain. When God first directed me to write what I am grateful and thankful for, I was quite resistant. I wrote, but, in the beginning, it was a stretch to come up with things to write about. And, I honestly thought, I would do that first thirty day stint and that was it.

 

Well, as you can see, God had a much different picture of what that stint would look like. There was a time, in the process that I began to truly fall-in-love with being grateful. Many things started to change. I started to see my life through positive glasses. My best friend told me there was a difference in my appearance – more relaxed, less anxious.  

 

I wanted to share today how I write for God. I wait until He tells me to write. Many times, when I am on a timeline, I try to short cut and pre-prepare, and every time, I hear “that’s not it, erase and start over….” I used to say, “Really God?” And at times I would argue, “but this is good stuff, insightful and very well written…”

 

And, over and over, I hear “that’s not it, erase and start over….” Hence the dozens of pages that have been written yet never saved or seen by anyone, but God.  I am grateful that He has my best interest at heart, but moreover, I am grateful that my writing has always given me what I needed for that day or that moment. I am encouraged that, not only is God ministering to me, but in giving Him my stories, my obstacles, my pain, my challenges, my victories and my heart’s desires, He uses my words to minister to others.

 

What does that tell me?

I

AM

NOT

ALONE

 

I always have my heavenly Father with me, and He also gives me the gift of fellowship and friendship to share so many parts of my life. 

Day 416 of Giving Thanks

Thank you God for bringing me such a long way, and always being here with me on this journey – this journey, that at times is an up and down roller coaster ride that the enemy works very hard at controlling. And, what I have learned already, is that when I try to control things, I am actually asking God to release His control – and what a mistake that is.

 

"Now God, don't hold out on me, don't hold back your passion.  Your love and truth are all that keeps me together.  When troubles ganged up on me, a mob of sins past counting, I was so swamped by guilt I couldn't see my way clear.  More guilt in my heart than hair on my head, so heavy the guilt that my heart gave out." ~Psalm 40:11-12 (The Message)

 

So, this up and down roller coaster ride, called my life, is now very different because of who is truly in control now. The biggest difference is the one that I realize in my household. There was a time, that I believed that because I was getting close to God, He would just fix my life, fix my marriage... I asked and asked, even begged, “fix my marriage, change his heart”. I just kept hearing, “Shawn, just love him, give of yourself, respect him and follow his lead, as long as not counter to Me”. Yet, over and over, I ignored my God’s pleas, His instruction…

 

I didn’t get it! I kept waiting for Chris to change, for all the pieces of my life to fall perfectly together, just because I loved God; just because I “had God”.  I thought that meant eliminating my life, as it was with Chris, and God would change him to fit into my new existence. I grew into God, I absorbed, I got to know God, and hear Him, and see His work in my life, but it was all peripheral growth, lateral, not deep.

 

“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.  Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord." ~Romans 12:9-11

 

I am learning... That to ask shows strength and courage - to go it alone shows weakness and pride. I am learning... That to ask shows strength and courage - to go it alone shows weakness and pride. I began to ask God to change me, to show me how to be a good wife, and love Chris as a godly woman. I am learning… To trust in His word, seek His counsel often. I know that two in the marriage is amazing, and three is astonishing. God, me and Chris… a marriage to be reckoned with. 

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” ~ Ecclesiastes 4:9-12  

 

In, what seemed like a flash, I changed, not willingly, but because God got my attention. It wasn't until I got sick (3 months ago) and had to stop all my outside activity (building a business that I believed was my platform for Christ, cause I could evangelize to my clients)…  in reality, it kept me from my primary ministry, my husband. Avoidance was not the answer, submission to God's plan is.

 

The change has been so drastic – my life is a dream. There is, once again, a love story in my heart, in my mind and in my future.

 

Thank You Lord for my perfect journey.

Day 415 of Giving Thanks

I am grateful for many things in my life; and this morning as I listened to some amazing music, I settled in to my time with God – today was not a day of thunder and lightning messages or even major revelations, yet there is always thunder and lightning in my heart, and revelation after revelation.

Today, I am believing greatly, and acting with my hand firmly in His.

Today, I seek more the kingdom and fellowship with God’s amazing people.

Today, I am grateful that my home is heaven, and I am just visiting this world.

Today, God ushers me through the storms, and settles the shores.

Today, I see God’s people finding their areas of strength.

Today, I experience the unfolding of an amazing love story.

Today, lessons in my life seem to come from nowhere, are from God and everywhere.

Today, in grieving my mistakes, I can celebrate what God does with all of it.

Lord, I am not always honest – especially with myself. Today, I pray that You reveal these areas to dishonesty in my life, in my heart. I pray that I can remove the hindrances that keep me from receiving all that You have for me. Make me like You.

“Investigate my life, O God, find out everything about me; examine and test me, get a clear picture of what I'm about; See for yourself whether I've done anything wrong— then guide me on the road to eternal life.” ~Psalm 139:23-24

Lord, I love to hear You speak – when I can break away from the noise and hustle of my day – or before my day begins. When I can be in Your presence is when the greatest peace floods over me. Father, it is like being washed with the warmth of the sun, because I have been washed with the blood of the Son, my savior, my redeemer, my King.

‎"the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.” ~Numbers 6:26

Jesus, You are the love of my life. You are the one, the only Jesus, and you are known by many names: God - John 20:28, Lord - Matthew 22:43-44, Word - John 1:1, 14, Messiah - John 4:25-26, Alpha and Omega - Revelation 1:8; 22:13, Savior – Acts 13:23, Philippians 3:20, 2 Peter 1:11 (many more), Redeemer - Mark 10:45, Titus 2:14, Light of the World - John 8:12; 3:19-21, Lamb of God - John 1:29, 36, Ruler of Creation - Revelation 3:14, Mediator - 1 Timothy 2:5, Bread of Life - John 6:35, John 14:6, You are my King!

Day 414 of Giving Thanks

“God holds me head and shoulders above all who try to pull me down.  I'm headed for his place to offer anthems that will raise the roof!  Already I'm singing God-songs; I'm making music to God.” ~Psalm 27:6

How could I do anything less than expect the greatest things in life; and know that when "life happens" God is in control. He is trustworthy. I put my trust in Him and watch daily, as my circumstances transform into the most amazing unfolding of a beautiful story.

"The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom Shall I be afraid?" Psalm 27:1

I am grateful that I can watch how the greatest lover of my life reveals His plans daily. And see His gifts for me displayed as the brightest of light. In addition, it is in the darkest moments when His light can be seen most brightly. Thank You Lord for allowing Your light to shine through even the densest of circumstances.

Another day completes, a day of productivity and accomplishment. Chris and I had another wonderful day, I enjoy his wit, his playfulness – I enjoy the time and appreciate the miracle of my life as it is right now.

My life is protected.
“But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.” ~Psalm 5:11

“The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” ~Psalm 18:2

“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."  ~Psalm 91:1-

"Because he loves me," says the LORD, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.” ~Psalm 91:14

As the wind blows and the rain pounds outside, I know that am protected by the walls and roof of my home. And so much greater than the assurance of my home continuing to stand or the protection of walls and roof, is the assurance through the promises of a mighty and perfect God.

I am grateful that no matter what is going on around me, I have God's protection that is perfect!

Like I said, it has been a full day... I love the time when I can just shut everything down, sit quietly and be in the presence of my King. Being still is such a gift, and although it is a wonderful gift for God, it is even more so, a gift for me. Lord, help me be still, so that I can enjoy Your gifts.

“Therefore, they are before the throne of God and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence." ~Revelation 7:15

Father, I thank You for my life. I thank You for being my shelter and my provider. May my life always be pleasing to you and one day I will hear you say, “…Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!” ~Matthew 25:21


(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=10150418958162809

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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 413 of Giving Thanks

Today was a wonderful day with my husband. Chris said today that he is happy; and feels like we are on the same page and heading in the right direction. It was only six months ago that I wrote of devastation; a storm in my life that I thought would end much differently than it did.


Day 236 of Giving Thanks: “It has been a week of devastation and the storm keeps coming - and the waves have reached a truth I wanted to bury. I reach deep to see how I feel, and nothing is coming - I pray for clarity. Today is the first day I cannot reach down to find a substantial place of gratitude; one that will fill a void.”


Day 237 of Giving Thanks:  “I cannot put words together to describe the storm I am in the middle of right now, for it is more than I can take, but one that I can endure because I have help. God is always with me, I have the word that I can go to at any time and I have some mighty people of God praying for me and lifting me up. “


I share this because I know that many are out there, in a marriage that is broken, lonely or painful – and everyone wants a great marriage. A great marriage is everything. I believe that no matter where you are, whatever you think, it's not too late to change your marriage. For me, I had to change.


·       I had to be willing to allow God to change me.  
·       I had to be willing to let go of pride.
·       I had to be willing to give up my ideas, to hear God’s ideas.
·       I had to be willing to trust that God’s way is the best way.
·       I had to be willing to stop hearing the voice of the enemy.
·       I had to be willing to admit I could not do it on my own.
·       I had to be willing to believe God’s promises.

"Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but withGod all things are possible.” ~Matthew 19:26 (New International Version)

Did you know that the enemy hates marriage? Did you know that the enemy will try to convince you of many things, including "it's too late", "you don't understand my situation".... God understands and knows exactly where I am, and He is always right on time. It was when I began to listen, to truly hear and apply what God was speaking into my life that my outlook changed. I know that He is speaking; and at times I must remember to call on Him and ask Him for my heart’s desire.

“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” ~Jeremiah 33:3 (New International Version)

I am grateful that this love story continues, and is possible because of the love and faithfulness of my heavenly Father. I am grateful that when things looked the darkest, I saw the most light when I sought it. I am grateful that when I was in the middle of the storm, I held my ground; I believe God and I continue to pray for my marriage. I am grateful I believe in a miracle.