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Monday, October 15, 2012

Day 948 of Giving Thanks

Life is an adventure... an amazing opportunity daily to discover new things in this world, as well as about ourselves. Adventures can be those of planning, or those of mishap, or those of divine arrangement, but no matter what the adventure we can know that we are not in this alone, and there is a plan and purpose just for each one of us. For me the adventure is captured through prayer and petition to my amazing Father in heaven. I can summarize my last week in these following words...



I am so grateful for El Roi.

Right now it seems the only one who sees me is God... and I am learning that is enough for right now. There are days when I have serious brushes with the enemy - and what can I do but pray; what can I do but trust; what can I do but cry out to God to strengthen me and encourage me through His promises. The enemy will tell you anything and everything to bring you up from your knees... how comfortable are you? Maybe it's time to be a little uncomfortable to be more aware of how much damage satan's ways can do...

El Roi, The God Who Sees....

He cares for every hair on my head, every worry and concern, every arrow that is pierced deeply into my emotions... I cry out El Roi, and thank You for being the God Who Sees all that is before me, all that has occurred and all that is endured.

Father, for all these times when this world just seems to be so hard, and I can run to You and be strengthened and be comforted by all You have shared with me and all that You will reveal to me. Thank You for being here right now, in this moment when I feel so alone in my household and so upheavaled in these emotions. Let me be comforted now. Let me feel safe, that someone truly does love me and I am not alone. I am not alone. Thank you Jehovah Shammah - for you are here... Amen.


"The Lord is good, a Strength and Stronghold in the day of trouble; He knows (recognizes, has knowledge of, and understands) those who take refuge and trust in Him." ~Nahum 1:7 (Amplified Bible)


Wherever you are, there He will be... Let us live in a way that invites Him in – in all the moments of our days, and all the times of this adventure.

Overwhelmed
Overwhelmed and no longer burdened because 
I know that I am Yours better than I know anything 
else that runs through this heart and mind.
I am looking to be overwhelmed LORD...

Overwhelmed with Your promises.
Overwhelmed with grace in my heart for others.
Overwhelmed with a peace that pain 
no longer matters and Your presence is 
everything I need...
Overwhelmed and willing to visualize and embrace 
Your amazing goodness through all these earthly distractions.

Overwhelmed and no longer burdened because I know that 
I am Yours better than I know anything else that runs 
through this heart and mind.

Your promises I hold. Your grace I embrace. 
Your peace I revel in. You I hold dear and close.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I don't know about you, but I find myself "fighting" through so many feelings that I loose focus - Stop fighting feelings and embrace His promises.

"Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully." ~1 Peter 5:7 (Amplified Bible)


God has many promises, which are shared on this page every day. The feelings are different for everyone... Mine were insecurities... fighting things like "I'm not good enough", "I'm a failure"... His promise of WE ARE WONDERFULLY MADE, LOVED BEYOND MEASURE BY OUR CREATOR, WE HAVE A PLAN AND A PURPOSE.

You are here LORD, and I am grateful. I am learning to recognize You more and more. Thank You that Your presence is a fact, and not a feeling. Thank You that I can trust You and be with You at any moment, in every moment.

Thank You LORD for capturing all of our tears, and being with us through all our sorrows and pain. Thank You Father for giving us peace and hope even in the midst of attacks, physical and spiritual. We love You and so want to glorify You inall things. Help us to come out from under the covers when we want to pull them over our heads; to get dressed when we want to stay in our pajamas; to smile and experience joy in the moments that are less than perfect (which is every moment)... because perfection will not be here. Amen.

"The Lord gives perfect peace to those whose faith is firm." ~Isaiah 26:3 (Contemporary English Version)

LORD, I am in need.... it has been a day of being overwhelmed, under-appreciated and one moment of of being quite defensive - effectively responding in an old pattern, which came out of the blue. Oh LORD, being humbled through my own words brings me running to Your Word. Although the Words that flew out of my mouth in complete form, and way too late to retract them... So, LORD, I will continue to praise You through the evening and wait to hear from You Father how I can remedy this one...

"Do everything without complaining or arguing. Then you will be blameless and innocent. You will be God’s children without any faults among people who are crooked and corrupt. You will shine like stars among them in the world as you hold firmly to the word of life. Then I can brag on the day of Christ that my effort was not wasted and that my work produced results." ~Philippians 2:14-16 (GOD’S WORD Translation)

As the weekend closes out, we thank You for giving us time with You and an opportunity to be in Your presence through our week and all of our days. Thank You for giving us hope daily, love eternally and joy unending. Amen

© 2012 Shawn Boreta, Giving Thanks Daily
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

*****************
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).

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Day 947 of Giving Thanks


A Day Off
… time with God
… visit my doctor
… quick grocery run
… grab mom and off to have lunch with a friend
… run a few errands and shopping with mom
… nap
… read
… walk with my daughter
… write and study

“Since then it is by faith that we are justified, let us grasp the fact that we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have confidently entered into this new relationship of grace, and here we take our stand, in happy certainty of the glorious things he has for us in the future.
“This doesn’t mean, of course, that we have only a hope of future joys—we can be full of joy here and now even in our trials and troubles. Taken in the right spirit these very things will give us patient endurance; this in turn will develop a mature character, and a character of this sort produces a steady hope, a hope that will never disappoint us. Already we have some experience of the love of God flooding through our hearts by the Holy Spirit given to us.” ~Romans 5:1-5 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

Father, this day is Yours. Help me as I talk with the doctor, help me discern, evaluate and trust my gut. Help me know what to do, how to react and respond as I go through my day. I need the Holy Spirit work here now and tomorrow. If healing is Your will LORD, let it be. If I am to deal with being tired, grow show me how I am to do this… for I am at a loss, not disheartened, not discouraged, just tired of being tired. Help me to know Your strength. Amen.

This is part of a prayer I wrote as I sat waiting in the doctor’s office, and what landed in my heart as I waited, was that I was not in that room alone. What I pondered, wrote and scribbled was the cry that was for God (those words are not here...) But in this process I sensed that hope was not going to be in the words my doctor, although his words could be hopeful; my hope lies in the knowledge of being His daughter, loved so greatly that I am already healed. This is not a new revelation, in my heart, deep from that inner voice I constantly hear, “I am enough!” That inner voice is the voice of a Father who has always known me, watches over me, encourages me through many avenues and battles the battles I never see. The Savior who wins the wars that are hidden from these earthly eyes and the Savior who whispers, “keep going, the hard part is already won; keep pressing in for I know the words you need; take heart, capture my promises in the deepest part of your heart and mind; know that I am here and you are mine…” That inner voice is the Holy Spirit, God’s gift reminding me of who I am as well as whose I am. 

“There is no comparison between God’s gift and Adam’s failure. If humanity died as the result of one person’s failure, it is certainly true that God’s kindness and the gift given through the kindness of one person, Jesus Christ, have been showered on humanity.” ~Romans 5:15 (GOD’S Word Translation)

The Word of the LORD does not compare to any good or even great news of this world; but as we grow and learn His will and plans for our life, this journey is one of great expectation. Even when what is received is different than what was “expected in the flesh”, we can trust that what we experience “in the Spirit” is greater than expected in every instance… We can expect great things because of the “good news we were freely given”.

So, as this day completes, I am grateful for all things accomplished, and all those that were not. My list was complete, but I did not complete my list. I did exactly what He knew I would and I will pray for the greatest of gleanings as I rest and rest in the work of the Holy Spirit as I sleep.

In closing, mighty, faithful and perfect God, thank You for this day, a “day off”; for the time spent with family and the time spent in contemplation. Thank You for all the changes in my heart and in my body. Thank You that I can glorify and honor You through the good, great and otherwise indescribable moments. And, if Your will, You know my deepest and most heartfelt desires. Amen.




© 2012 Shawn Boreta, Giving Thanks Daily
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

*****************
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).

Monday, October 8, 2012

Day 946 of Giving Thanks


We often set our minds on something and pray, pray, pray... I have tried to bargain with God in the past suggested I do and He can do or give to receive and all together neglect to ask Him, "God, what is Your plan?"

We will not understand His ways in the middle of the circumstance, but we can ask Him to give us eyes to see what is truly there.

You could start asking, "How LORD can I do this even though it's not what I desire or planned?" OR "What God can I do differently to see Your ways as the desire of my heart?"

There are so many things that I “want” to accomplish, and I tend to lean on an old habit of “pushing through”, and in most cases this is ok – pushing through an emotion, or a storm, or even a task… but the LORD tells us often to “rest in Him” as we go about our daily living. In this life, we will encounter circumstances that are not pleasant, and far from appealing, however, we can know (because He promises us) that He is with us for every moment of whatever we come upon. So, my constant “push and pull” is do I keep pushing through the exhaustion? Do I rest and slow down? Do I …?

I run full on to my Father in heaven and trust that whatever I do, He already knows regardless of “push or pull”, and I wait for confirmation, confirmation and clarification.

God’s encouragements are adequate for all life’s troubles“Thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, that he is our Father and the source of all mercy and comfort. For he gives us comfort in our trials so that we in turn may be able to give the same sort of strong sympathy to others in theirs. Indeed, experience shows that the more we share Christ’s suffering the more we are able to give of his encouragement. This means that if we experience trouble we can pass on to you comfort and spiritual help; for if we ourselves have been comforted we know how to encourage you to endure patiently the same sort of troubles that we have ourselves endured. We are quite confident that if you have to suffer troubles as we have done, then, like us, you will find the comfort and encouragement of God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-7 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

And, what I realize is that it's not the "push and pull" that is needed, it's the drawing nearer to Him that is the key. So now, let me pray, pray, pray and trust… pray, pray, pray and act… pray, pray, pray.




© 2012 Shawn Boreta, Giving Thanks Daily
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

*****************
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).

Saturday, October 6, 2012

Forever Grateful - A Note from Ron McIntyre


Forever Grateful
A Note from Ron McIntyre

Don't ever doubt that hell is real!!----Hell is a place of suffering and restlessness, because its doomed souls are forever separated from God, the only One who could have made them whole.--(See Rev 14:11 and Isiah 48:22)- "There is no peace for the wicked."

We are so blessed to know the Lord and to know that everlasting life will be spent wit Him, to know that tears and sadness will never be a part of our lives again, NEVER!!

Most of us in this family (called the church) will never meet each other physically on this earth, but we KNOW that one day we WILL meet and forever share joy and love in abundance, more than we have the capability of fully understanding just how great it will be. God is so powerful, so merciful, so loving, so forgiving, and just think--we WILL walk along side of Him soon.

So I ask you---what on this earth could possibly depress you?

I can't think of a thing either!!

With that said, I love each and every one of you.
Strength and Honor




Hope in an eternal future with the Father.

A New Birth to a Living Hope"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, into an inheritance imperishable and undefiled and unfading, reserved in heaven for you who are being protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time, in which you rejoice greatly, although now for a short time, if necessary, you are distressed by various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith, more valuable than gold that is passing away, but is tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom, although you have not seen, you love; in whom now you believe, although you do not see him, and you rejoice greatly with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls." ~1 Peter 1:3-9 (Lexham English Bible)


Tuesday, October 2, 2012

Day 945 of Giving Thanks


I AM NEW

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only and unique Son, so that everyone who trusts in him may have eternal life, instead of being utterly destroyed." ~John 3:16 (Complete Jewish Bible)

Before you blame God for your circumstances, make sure you reflect on where you have been, based on your own decisions in life. Then STOP AND PRAY and ask for new eyes to see that God has been there even though you took a turn different than He directed...

Ask for eyes to see His correction, protection and redirection as you take a step that is with new thoughts to recognize His grace, mercy and favor.

To be in God's favor, we have to realize that we have choices... When I am not in the Word, in prayer and engaging with God daily, that's when I start to see through my eyes instead of His.

It's up to you... These are things I say to myself...

“[Praise to God for a Living Hope] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,” ~1 Peter 1:3 (New International Version)

One day at a time.... live in today. Let the past be removed from your thoughts and let today be the day... the day you live well, in hope and in confidence.

If you learn how to use and control your thoughts, than you have unlimited power: He dwells within His children... the power to choose well, forgive others, live rightly, the power to remember daily who HE IS.

"Through Him you believed in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God." ~ 1 Peter 1: 21 (New International Version)

Praying for strength today for those in pain and who feel weak from illness. I pray that even in the times when energy are low or the desire to get out of bed is non-existent, I pray that the almighty power of the Holy Spirit will be present and utilized greatly.

“Fear not [there is nothing to fear], for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My [victorious] right hand of rightness and justice.” ~Isaiah 41:10 (Amplified Bible)
“For I am with you, and no man shall assault you to harm you, for I have many people in this city.” ~Acts 18:10 (Amplified Bible)

I am assured, "I will NEVER leave or forsake you". (Deuteronomy 31:6)

Are you in doubt today? 

Do you question whether or not you are a "child of God"? Are you holding onto the "old lies" or the EVERLASTING TRUTH?

STOP - ask your father in heaven to assure you, correct your thinking and allow the meaning of His grace to overwhelm and overflow.

His PROMISES are real, and for good... once and for all BELIEVE THAT you are His and His gift is permanent, not one that will be taken away or that you can even give back... once it's received... you are a "child of God", His "beloved" and the one "He died for".

There are two types of free... with Christ, we have access to both. Free as in we paid nothing, and free from bondage.

“For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. Look! I, Paul, tell you that if you become circumcised, Christ will profit you nothing! And again I testify to every man who becomes circumcised, that he is under obligation to keep the whole law.  You are estranged from Christ, you who are attempting to be justified[a] by the law; you have fallen from grace.  For through the Spirit by faith we eagerly await the hope of righteousness.  For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision counts for anything nor uncircumcision, but faith working through love.” ~Galatians 5:1-6 (Lexham English Bible)

Do not let any part of this world hold you, let only He who created You be the hold that truly sets you free.




© 2012 Shawn Boreta, Giving Thanks Daily
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

*****************
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).

Sunday, September 30, 2012

My Deliverer (Testimony Series) a look at Laurie Marks Vincent

My Deliverer

Laurie Marks Vincent is an inspirational Christian speaker, recording artist, songwriter & award winning vocalist, who is dynamic on the stage with a real & personal approach.

She uses all of her gifts and passion from the platform to powerfully communicate a message that challenges the strong and lifts the weary. She has a message for every one. Women's ministries, general audiences, youth, singles and couples alike, are moved by her ministry, through her testimony and her real life experiences, as she shares in line with the Word of God, and her ability to effectively reach people.

The accomplished performer is not at all interested in entertaining unless it takes you on a journey that draws the heart closer to God’s heart.

After Scott and Laurie’s first son was born in 1988, Laurie’s artwork of babies and mothers was used by the Tillsonburg Right to Life, printed on note cards and sold to raise funds for the organization. Some 20 years later, the Vincent’s lost a grand child as a result of abortion. Laurie shared, “It was a fight, in prayer and personally for our son who lost his child. After grieving the loss of a child that we would never hold, the road back to recovery took a whole year.” The song “My Deliverer” was birthed after that time of grieving. Laurie says, “Some days it still feels like yesterday. It’s something that you never think will ever happen to you.

My Deliverer Music Video Link


VOTE FOR LAURIE The Canadian Gospel Music Association -Blessing Fan Choice is coming up. If you haven't already, would you please vote for Laurie? VOTE HERE and submit her full name (Laurie Marks Vincent).

A note from Laurie : WHY I'M DOING THIS?
I'm doing this because the award is sponsored by a Christian bookstore chain in Canada. The video that I'm releasing in the Spring will be a pro-life video to reach mom's who are contemplating abortion. I'm hoping that the recognition will be a vehicle that will allow me to get the pro-life video into hands of people through the Christian bookstores, that will in turn use it to make a difference. I'm not much for "awards" but if it means that God can use it to spread the message farther, I'll do as the Lord leads to make it happen...



© 2011 All Rights Remain with the Author
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809 



Saturday, September 29, 2012

Day 944 of Giving Thanks


"And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light." ~Genesis 1:3 (New International Version)

I love the sun, its warmth, its purpose; its hope of a new day, especially after the darkness.

Beautiful sunlight shining through my window this morning and warming 
everything in its path. What a gift this morning to wake up and see the sun. 

For the past few weeks, I have been reading Genesis, and over the years, it’s the book I read when I am not sure what book to read. There are a few things I have discovered this time around. First, God shows love even in the midst of disobedience, through His correction, and because of His promises, He redirects the steps of those He loves.

I appreciate so much all those who have gone before me, have learned before me, and have failed before me, but I also know that due to the flesh, I will have to go too… learn some of these same lessons and fail at many things. Because I have the Holy Spirit (God) living in me, my flesh can also follow God’s desires for my steps and lead me in different ways than those who came before me. I am learning to hear differently, to gather information with different eyes, ears and appreciation. I pray the same for you.

A giving heart cannot be calculated or counted, but the giving can be immeasurable and highly treasured. Allow God to direct your giving through time, talent and treasure.

Allow the Holy Spirit to be your guide; teachers are used often for the beginning of the healing process, I pray my writing can do that for others, but don’t ever take my word for it, seek for yourself. Look at the scripture revealed, and focus on the LORD. Over time, the LORD has shared with me that it is His word that changes us...

It's ok to listen to a teacher, read a book (read my blog), talk to friends, but it's powerful to read HIS WORD and ABIDE BY HIS DIRECTION for your life.

Do you want "ok" or "POWERFUL" results?

“Today it is all about me becoming ALL ABOUT HIM.
God You are amazing.
You are my Creator.
You are my Teacher.
You are my Comfort.
You are my Savior.
You are my EVERYTHING.” ~DAY 775 of Giving Thanks

Let me LORD see the light you have about me, in me and through me... let me be the light for others, and remember Your true light that shines even on the darkest day, in the midst of emptiness and within the deepest part of me. Let me see You through all the moments of my days. Let me always realize that You already light my path, I just need to decide to see You.

"Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path." ~Psalm 119:105 (New Living Translation) 


© 2012 Shawn Boreta, Giving Thanks Daily
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

*****************
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).


Thursday, September 27, 2012

Day 943 of Giving Thanks



"Hear my voice when I call, LORD; be merciful to me and answer me." ~Psalm 27:7 (New International Version)

As I pulled the cold dark bottle out of the fridge and pulled back the plunger and into the skin it goes, I realized what a blessing it is to have access to the "little things". It's funny a few weeks ago while sitting in the doctor’s office, the nurse says, have you ever done this before? I’m thinking, “No, and thank God it’s temporary”. I sat there with that rubber ball in one hand, and a syringe in the other. The nurse says, “Just stab it...” and I thought this can’t be that hard; and it wasn’t. Once a week, is now three times a week and is for the rest of my life – now why am I throwing this out there? Last night I did not sleep very well, but my body had just “had enough”. I took my shot last night, which hasn't affected my sleep at all, until last night; and watched the digital reading of my clock go from 10:30PM to 1:40AM then it was 2:30AM and I believe I finally went out. But, in that time, as my body didn’t move, and felt as though it was plastered to the bed sheets, my mind just whirled, and I asked God to let me see things in His ways. Let me be grateful as He has taught me all these months of writing. Let me be in today and know that today is okay!

"The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad." ~Psalm 118:24 (New International Version)

There was a time when the world truly revolved around me... well in my mind anyway. Today, I know that I am here because God was here first, and I will have eternal life because He loved me first.

It is all about Him, and about me knowing who I am because I belong to Him, today and forever.

Let today be the day LORD.

Father, it is a new day. A new day that is not yesterday, not tomorrow, but today. Let me remember that it is in the moments right now that I am to live and step into. Help me amazing Father full of grace and mercy to see the amazing day before me, through the busyness and the challenges, let me see WHAT YOU HAVE FOR ME, not what I see before me. I pray for the broken and shattered hearts, the minds that see a life of shambles behind and no hope forward. I pray and stand firm that many (MANY) of Your children will see those hearts through Your eyes, that those minds can be transformed through the amazing word of Your Word and promises for their lives. I pray that they CRY OUT TO YOU, and BELIEVE YOU ARE REAL for them. I pray for the power of the Holy Spirit to move them from the depth of all they are to become all You have for them. I pray from the bottom of my heart, the inner reaches of all that I am for them, my husband, my siblings and their children, my neighbors on the right, my neighbors on the left and all those who I have the opportunity to meet today. Let today be the day LORD for MANY TO COME TO YOU. Let today LORD be another day of hope and loving others as YOU SO AMAZINGLY LOVE ME. Amen

"But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us." ~Romans 8:37 (New American Standard Bible)

© 2012 Shawn Boreta, Giving Thanks Daily
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

*****************
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).

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

A Note of Gratitude - by Stephanie Wolfe-Saini


"And let us not grow weary in doing good for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart" ~Galatians 6:9 (New International Version)

You might think, “ok that's a simple verse”. Somebody probably said once "it's in the new testament but what can those people know what the world is like to live in now". Well the people in those days had many trials; Christians practically live in a fishbowl and were watched carefully. And, when it was time, their homes were raided and their families pulled apart and beaten. They were persecuted endlessly.

Today we are told to go out and share the Word of God with others. That's what they were doing and they were punished severely for it. Are we willing to go that road for Jesus? You know that He did that for us. I have laid awake at night, on different occasions, and tried to imagine walking the road He walked the night He was beaten and as He died for us, His last night on earth. I get as far as the beatings, 39 times with a cat of 9 tails that had razor sharp shards on the ends that would rip the skin every time it hit you for as long as it drew across your body (they weren't allowed to hit you 40 times, that was considered death). The whip was long so it could, at times wrap around the body and start at the face. Now you know why that's as far as I could get imagining how far I could walk the path of Jesus. Now mind you they had already beaten on Him.

"And let us not grow weary in doing good for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart" ~Galatians 6:9 (New International Version)

In the past, I would think to myself, “That's a good verse and a wonderful promise”. Today however, because of the circumstances, I've been living under, I really read this verse. I've always appreciated this promise of being in the Fathers arms after living a life of danger all around and never knowing whether I, or my family would have to be subject to harm like many other families - death by murder or theft in our homes and crimes that make me ill to mention. Our life being subject to the world and all their sin of greed, lies, backstabbing and any other hurtful things that happen to our loved ones that effect us and cause us stress that increases what illnesses we are already experiencing.

I am a believer that if you pray a verse into your heart it will come alive for you. You will live this verse. So, if you pray this verse into your heart you will visualize the effects of your ministering to others even when you are tired and Jesus continues to give you His strength and a blessing to your heart when He gives you the words He wants you to speak.

If we continue in the strength that Jesus gives us and not allow ourselves to get drawn in by the world and all it's disappointments, we will sow our seeds and "in due season", when the time is up, "we will reap if we do not lose heart"? Or do we allow the world to discourage us and make us tired in the faith? Live this verse and you will not lose heart. Jesus suffered many stripes to give this promise to you. Do you think you could imagine walking the road He did on His last night? Don't take this verse for granted!



© 2012 Stephanie Wolfe-Saini
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).


Monday, September 24, 2012

Day 942 of Giving Thanks

It was a great day today. Anything special? No, not really - just a another day to worship my amazing God and work for Him and grow in Him by doing what is right. I don't always get it right, but I do seek His strength daily so I at least have a chance to do things right.

Father, there are so many things that I could dwell on that would bring me into where I had once been. Regardless of what is going on I am reminded daily to bring things to You - for You are my strength, the bearer of all things I cannot handle, the embrace that I no longer have to long for and the everything I need, that is ready when I am willing to accept ‘it’. LORD, there are so many things I could long for, but what I know now is that what the flesh longs for, the Spirit will grieve, if not immediately, eventually. As I sit here tonight, quietly, contently, even with the “circumstance” that has been with me for so long, I know that I am ok. I know that no matter what occurs in this physical world, to this broken body, Your Spirit is with me to continually repairing and preparing, and restoring perfectly – and I ask myself why is this so comforting? Because You do it out of love. A love that is undefined, but perfect in every way. There is nothing I can do, and that too is comforting – for I have a reward of eternity and I have had to do nothing for this reward, but believe and accept. For this, I have Jesus to thank. What an amazing God we have. Do you know that He created You, and loves you, faulted and all? He loves us, you, despite the fact that we were not always a friend of His. Gracious and merciful Father in heaven, we deserve nothing, yet You gave everything, I am thankful.

Thank You God for not only saving me, but saving me from this world on a daily basis, but most of all from myself. For giving me reason upon reason to give thanks daily – to grow in You – to trust You more – and rely on You completely. I hesitate to say Amen here, for I know that my life is a prayer.

“My dear children I write, this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.” ~1 John 2:1-2 (New International Version)

It is through coming to Him through the moments of the days and the trials of a life that teaches me what I need to know. The greatest of these lessons have come in the times of praising Him and recognizing all that He is for me.

“With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the LORD:  “He is good; His love toward Israel (me) endures forever.” And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid.” ~ Ezra 3:11 (New International Version)


© 2012 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

*****************
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).


Thursday, September 20, 2012

Day 941 of Giving Thanks

There are many days when the words just will not form to pray, but I know that the Holy Spirit will help and my Jesus will deliver to my Creator, my God.... tonight I pray. 


Many of Your children need Your healing LORD and we know that You have already given us the ultimate healing through salvation, thank You for reminding me tonight. Thank You Father for giving us peace when we come to You wholly and in hope. Tonight LORD I ask for our family to be protected, encouraged and moved by Your truth and presence. I pray mighty and perfect Savior for wisdom as many of us seek the guidance from the medical profession, let us hear the right direction to take. For those in financial challenges we pray for provision, discernment and the ability to be good stewards. As we seek Your wisdom for our jobs, which may or may not be our ultimate purpose we ask for strength to do a good work, and remember who we work for and show respect to our employers. In our relationship God as we work through them, with You, let us truly love our spouses, our children and those around us who are brothers and sisters in Christ. Mostly LORD, for me and those who may feel the same way, remind me daily that it's not about my pain or my challenges, but how I can help others and how I can see Your work in my life in the middle of storm or the settling of a calm. Thank You for Your presence and all that You have done. Help me to remember daily who You truly are, Healer, Redeemer, Savior, King, Counselor, Teacher and the One who loved me first. Let me house the Holy Spirit in joy, victory and knowing I am wholly Yours, let me seek Your presence, correction and direction unceasingly through prayer. Thank You Jesus... thank You my amazing God and Creator. Amen.

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Day 940 of Giving Thanks - Guest Writer, Julie Gorman


Participating In God's Miracles

Every time I read Luke 1:27-38, it takes my breath away.  

"The angel went to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you." Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end." "How will this be," Mary asked the angel, "since I am a virgin?" The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God." "I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." Then the angel left her." ~Luke 1:27-38 (New international Version)

Today, I wonder at the personal promises God's whispered to me. And (like Mary) question, how is this possible? I point out my insufficiency. And, yet, silently marvel at God's power.

How about you? 

Has God invited you to participate in the miraculous? Do impossibilities heighten as you recognize your limitations? Do inadequacies overshadow His promise? If so, you are not alone. God calls us each to a crossroads of faith and reality. Will we trust in our abilities or His? Will we surrender, regardless of the cost?

On the day the angel spoke to Mary, I wonder if she fully realized the weight and burdens that would follow after her? Did she willingly concede, surrendering to God's call knowing the hardships she would endure? Did she envision the ridicule, judgment, sneers and contempt she'd encounter? Did she anticipate the rejection she'd experience from friends and family members? Did she say yes knowing that her community would cast accusing glances and ostracize her from fellowship?

It's hard to say what went through her mind, but her reply "May it be to me as you have said" stirs deeply within me.

Friend, God invites each one of us to surrender and concede to His purpose. He invites us to participate in the miraculous. He calls us to the place where we recognize it's not about our abilities but His.  We question, how can this be? And graciously responds, "nothing is impossible with God."

But what does it mean to participate in God's miracles? 

Participating in God's miracles means recognizing it's not about our abilities. Mary was a virgin. She couldn't birth life apart from God. And neither can we. It's not by might, nor by our power, but by His Spirit. (Ask Him to birth a miracle in your relationship, finances, ministry, family.)

Participating in God's miracles means saying yes. My prayer is that I will always respond as Mary did. "May it be to me as you have said." Mary didn't ask for her divine assignment, but she willingly embraced it. She recognized God was sovereign...and simply humbled herself to His design.

Finally, participating in God's miracles will cost us everything. Mary endured rejection. Her entire life, dreams, and plans were radically interrupted. And, I can only imagine the questions she faced, as Jesus hung on the cross.

Today, we may face impossibilites. If so, I pray (by His grace) we choose to participate in His miracles:
by recognizing it's not about our abilities, by saying yes to His plan and surrendering our life... NO MATTER the cost!



Original Article, December 19, 2011, His Love Extended


Julie Miller Gorman
Visit Julie Gorman at any of these ministry pages:
ForYourInspire For Your Inspiration
http://hisloveextendedministries.com
On Facebook  

Saturday, September 15, 2012

Day 939 of Giving Thanks


God said, “Rest”.
I said, “Not now”.
Needless to say, He wins!

“And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, because the power is perfected in weakness.” Therefore rather I will boast most gladly in my weaknesses, in order that the power of Christ may reside in me.” ~2 Corinthians 12:9 (Lexham English Bible)

My activities, or lack of them are not of my choosing, in fact, I would be going non-stop if I had my way, for that is my comfort zone. Obviously, God has other things in mind. Learning to heed His instruction, and dismiss my ambition that is blind by itself, but with Him, it is perfect vision.

With every day that goes by, and every emotion that is let go, every lie in my heart that is released and every thought that is not meant for me, I am more confident - not in my strength, but in His. With every day that goes by I become more like Him only because I am His.

Yes our hearts can be deceived, but we are instructed to search our hearts... With this said, LORD, expose all that needs to be exposed so Your changes can be done... and fill my heart with You, You and more You.

“He must increase and I must decrease.”  ~John 3:30 (Common English Bible)

The environment is ever changing, but the BIG PICTURE does not change… how we get there may change; often times, an obstacle or frustration is actually a redirection by the Holy Spirit pointing me to the right path or way of doing things. Look at disappointments, not as failure, but as opportunities.

Learning to "live one day at a time". (Matthew 6:34)

God gave us the very same means to create, that He is. Power of thought is God’s gift to us, through free will. Every day we are making a decision of some nature. We are constantly making decisions. All things include thought… (10,000 thoughts a day, Wow!). Our whole existence comes in our mind (it begins here), but it’s real. We can perceive things much differently than they are. We react to things based on our relationship with God. Our purpose, according to His will, we can achieve and we can experience and know joy. It is not possible to have peace or joy without being in God’s will. Our whole being needs to be set upon “pleasing the LORD”.

I trust You with all this LORD, and although it's a minor effort compared to others who have much more to endure, I hang on to that through of touching "the hem of Your robe", the healing promises of scripture, but mostly to the ultimate healing of salvation for which I am so grateful. This lesson of rest, through trust has been a very humbling experience. Sometimes the lessons of humility come as hard and long lessons. God is always merciful and He reveals the right way to do everything, my prayer is that I can hear His direction, and I move promptly toward Him.

Yes our hearts can be deceived, but we are instructed to search our hearts... Again I say, “with this said, LORD, expose all that needs to be exposed... and fill my heart with You, You and more You”.

Let us not place so much value on what man thinks or does, but on what Jesus did on the cross and let our gratitude speak for itself.

© 2012 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150327530757809

*****************
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).

Friday, September 14, 2012

Day 938 of Giving Thanks - Guest Writer, Julie Gorman


An Open Invitation
Today, as I awakened early, God filled me with a passion to slip away and spend time with Him. As I retreated to my study, His Spirit was so evident, I couldn't help but respond...and boy did the tears flow. I felt prompted to turn to the Book of Esther. As I read her story, the Holy Spirit highlighted a rather obscure verse and compelled me to share it with you.

Esther 4:11, "All the king's officials and the people of the royal provinces know that for any man or woman who approaches the king in the inner court without being summoned the king has but one law: that he be put to death. The only exception to this is for the king to extend the gold scepter to him and spare his life. But thirty days have passed since I was called to go to the king." 

Ok, I told it was obscure...but as I read this passage of Scripture...I immediately thought how difficult it is to press into God, to approach His throne, especially when we feel as though He hasn't commissioned or called us into His presence (for a long period of time). King Xerxes hadn't called for Esther for 30 days. The law forbade anyone to enter the Kings Presence without having been called.  But, like Esther, we are positioned as a bride to the King, God's BRIDE. He positioned us as such in Christ Jesus and NOTHING can separate us from His love. And through Jesus, He extended an open invitation to come into His throne room boldly and to make our requests known to Him. As I read about Esther, I couldn't help but notice her humility in approaching the King. And again, felt impressed with this thought...when we come to God in true humility...we find His favor.

Isaiah 66:2 says, "This is the one I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at my word."

So, as we approach God humbly and ask anything in accordance with His will, I believe, He extends His gold scepter to us like King Xerxes did Esther and says, "ASK ME WHAT YOU WILL... UP TO HALF THE KINGDOM AND IT IS YOURS."

Friends, 2 Chronicles 16:8-9 says, "For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him."

Today, I want to encourage you to press in to draw near to God. Share your concerns with Him; ask Him to intervene; uphold your confidence in WHO HE IS and REMEMBER WHAT HE HAS PROMISED; maintain your hope in the promise of His Word: "This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us--whatever we ask--we know that we have what we asked of him." (1 John 5:14-15, NIV)

PRAYER: Father, we come to You humbly with so many needs. We praise You God that You hold the power to grant our requests. We ask that You would move on our behalf, intervene when our enemies try to destroy, and ask that You would perform miracles on our behalf. Lord I ask that you provide for us, heal u, restore us, and empower us to fulfill all that You have called us to. May we sense Your favor and Presence today. Thank You for Your goodness, Your mercy, and Your love. In Jesus name, amen.

(New International Version)

Original Article, December 30, 2010, His Love Extended


Julie Miller Gorman
Visit Julie Gorman at any of these ministry pages:
ForYourInspire For Your Inspiration
http://hisloveextendedministries.com
On Facebook 

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

Day 937 of Giving Thanks - Guest Writer, Julie Gorman


The Key to Pressing On Boldly

Friends, before we begin the New Year and venture off into making New Year's Resolutions I sense God prompting me, to encourage each one of us, to wait patiently before Him, to listen intently to hear what He is saying and where HE is leading us.

KNOWING WHAT GOD HAS SAID gives us the confidence to press on securely... no matter what else comes our way.

Hebrews 11:1-2 says, "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." (New International Version) So, "What is faith? And where does TRUE faith come from?"

Faith is not conjuring up some noble notion or incredible feat and commanding God to bless and empower...True faith is a direct step of obedience, a response to follow after God's promise and commission.

In Hebrews 11:8-12 we read, "By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country; he lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God. By faith Abraham, even though he was past age — and Sarah herself was barren — was enabled to become a father because he considered him faithful who had made the promise. And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore."

But the truth God has revealed over and over to me, in the past couple of years, is that ABRAHAM never FULLY witnessed the fulfillment of GOD'S PROMISE.

"All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country — a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them." ~Hebrews 11: 13-16, (New International Version)

The KEY to PRESSING ON BOLDLY and LIVING LIFE TO ITS FULLEST occurs when we step out to follow after, responding to GOD'S voice alone.
 
Anyone can venture off into the unknown tagging God's name to their quest...but true faith never originates from "SELF"...true Faith derives directly in response to God's command.

True faith presses on when others shrink back, not because of self will or sheer determination, but because confidence in "WHO GOD IS" compels no other possibility.

Beloved, what is GOD calling you to in this New Year? Where is He leading? What does HE require from YOU? Our hope, our confidence, and our ability to press on, demands we know the answers to these questions. My prayer going into this NEW YEAR is that we might KNOW more intimately WHO GOD IS and that every ounce of our soul KNOWS exactly what HE IS SAYING and where HE IS LEADING.

PRAYER: Father, thank you for all the lessons You've taught us in today. Thank You for Your faithfulness. Thank You for Your leading. Thank You that You have a plan for us in tomorrow. Help us to HEAR what YOU are saying. Speak clearly. Direct our steps. We commit to follow YOU!


MY THEME SONG FOR 2011 is Chris Tomlin's new song, "I WILL FOLLOW": check it out on YouTube.

Original Article, December 31, 2011, His Love Extended


Julie Miller Gorman
Visit Julie Gorman at any of these ministry pages:
ForYourInspire For Your Inspiration
http://hisloveextendedministries.com
On Facebook 

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Day 936 of Giving Thanks - Guest Writer, Julie Gorman

The Eyes of The Lord

What are you believing for? What matter have you lifted to Him time and time again in prayer? What private desire of your heart has, for too long, laid exposed to doubt or shame?

Several years ago, God gave me a really big promise. At times, it's easy to get discouraged; I look at my present circumstances and wonder, Did I really hear God correctly? But the truth of the matter is God's Word will not return void of accomplishing all that He said it would.

"For the eyes of the Lord move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His..." ~2 Chronicles 16:9 (New International Version)

The Lord Almighty, Maker of Heaven and Earth, is faithful. And His eyes, according to this Scripture, search back and forth, across the land, seeking to strongly support any person whose heart is sold out for Him.

You my friend have been purchased with a great price, Jesus. And God is looking to support you STRONGLY! Scripture says He works all things together for our good.

So trust Him. Rest in His love. And let your faith be strengthened... God is Good!

Hebrews 11:1-3,and verse 6 says, "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the men of old gained approval. By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things which are visible. And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him."

Remember Who it is you serve. Remember Who you have put your trust in. Remember Who it is that has loved you with an everlasting love.



Original Article, November 24, 2009, His Love Extended


Julie Miller Gorman
Visit Julie Gorman at any of these ministry pages:
ForYourInspire For Your Inspiration
http://hisloveextendedministries.com
On Facebook


Monday, September 10, 2012

Day 935 of Giving Thanks - Guest Writer, Julie Gorman

Rising Above Life's Circumstances and THANKFULNESS

Today, I awoke thinking, "Life is but a vapor, here today, gone tomorrow; may I never waste the breath God's granted me, by uttering shallow complaints...For even if my health, wealth, and worldly gain be stripped away, I can ever hold fast to the awaited promise of my salvation!"

If we want to rise above life's circumstances we must practice giving "THANKS"!

Today's Word is Thankfulness!

Philippians 4:4-7 says, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving , present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (New International Version)

Of all the apostles, Paul quite arguably had the most right to be discouraged or complain. Five times, Scripture said he was left for dead, beaten so severely his attackers thought he'd died. His boat shipwrecked. Authorities put him into prison. But Paul learned the secret of soaring above life's circumstance.

Read what he wrote in 2 Corinthians 4:7-18, "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed...It is written: "I believed; therefore I have spoken." With that same spirit of faith we also believe and therefore speak, because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you in his presence. All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God. Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (New International Version)

Friends, we live for something far greater than our own life. OUR HOPE, OUR CALL, is to fix our eyes on what is unseen and what is eternal!

Today, I had to ask myself, "What are you living for? Is it for worldly gain? For the here and now? For immediate spiritual anointing and blessings?" OR is it to honor and praise THE ONE WHO gave it all for me? I had to search my heart to see if I lived for getting or giving?

When we abandon ourselves to God's cause, take up our cross and follow Him regardless of the cost, and thank Him for HIS PRESENCE and the HOPE of our salvation, we too can declare like Paul..."We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed!"

May we learn to practice THANKFULNESS in our hearts at all times. As we do, we will joyfully rise above life's circumstances and live life abundantly!

PRAYER: Father, of course we would love to live free from persecution and pressures, but even more so, we want to live thankful lives. Thank You for the hope of our salvation. Thank You for the breath You just gave us to breathe. Thank You that You will never leave us or forsake us. Thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit. Fill us today with Your Power and Your Presence. May Your peace, joy, and love overflow in our hearts. IN JESUS name and authority we pray! AMEN!

Original Article, November 22, 2010, His Love Extended


Julie Miller Gorman
Visit Julie Gorman at any of these ministry pages:
ForYourInspire For Your Inspiration
http://hisloveextendedministries.com
On Facebook

Sunday, September 9, 2012

Day 934 of Giving Thanks Daily - Guest Writer, Julie Gorman

"...'Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the LORD Almighty..." ~Zechariah 4:6 (New International Version)

The greatest exploit of life is to learn to fall gently back in the arms of The One Who created us and recognize He is in control; His purposes will be established.

Recognizing that God is in control gives me peace. I know that, at just the right moment, He can instantaneously open a door that I have been pushing against for years.

God called me into the ministry over 28 years ago. At the time, I thought I knew how that ministry would look. I was pretty certain I would serve as a travelling evangelist, preaching the gospel across the nations.

Today, though a small part of that is true, I find that God's call is so much greater than what I anticipated... I minister to my husband... I minister to my children... I minister to the next door neighbor who quietly struggles with the possibility of a brain tumor... I minister hope to the one who wants to have children but is told she cannot... I intercede for countless people who may never even know...

My journey has had a lot of twists and turns...disappointments...painful encounters...and seemingly set backs...But I recognize now, the heartache and disappointment that I once thought shattered any possibility of ministry, provided the testimony from which I can minister the unconditional love of Christ.

Over the years I have learned, that in my wrestling, I can strangely rest, knowing, God will open up the doors He's intended for me to walk through. After all, He is The One Who opens the door that no man can shut and He shuts the door that no man can open.

So, let me encourage you to...
Keep asking , knowing that you will receive.
Keep seeking, knowing you will find.
Keep knocking, knowing that the door will be opened to you.

My prayer for you today is that you will find rest in your labor, strength for your journey, and peace in the knowledge that you are loved unconditionally.






Original Article, November 16, 2009, His Love Extended


Julie Miller Gorman
Visit Julie Gorman at any of these ministry pages:
ForYourInspire For Your Inspiration
http://hisloveextendedministries.com
On Facebook

Shawn Delia Boreta

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