Thankful Life - October 15, 2014

It really is a beautiful day, rain or shine… Isn't it? Let's make these questions that we have in our head and in our heart about the Lord into explanation points.

God loves you! No question there.

Jesus died so that you could live! No question there.

Nothing is impossible because of God! No question there.

You were created with a purpose to fulfill God's plan! No question there.

Seek Him today!

Father we come to you this today and we just thank You for your presence and Your love. We thank You that You love us so much. We thank You God there is nothing we can ever want because we have You! Help us tear the walls down that hinder our progress to a greater faith and closer relationship with You. Help us let go of the burdens in the woes of this life. Let us come to You and praise and worship many moments today. Thank you Jesus. In the midst of busyness Lord I forget to praise You and worship You… I forget that without You, I have nothing. That with You I am part of something amazing. That without you there would be a void and emptiness but nothing in this world could fill. With You Lord my life is overflowing, and I am so grateful to know You. I am so thankful that Jesus is for me and in me. Help me Lord to be thankful and every moment. Help me Lord to show others how much You love me but how much I love them. Help me love the unlovable, the unapproachable, the undesirable. Help me glorify You, while taking no credit. Help me, humble me And strengthen me as only You can. This I seek Lord in the precious name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

"But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and [a]show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me!" ~2 Corinthians 12:9 (Amplified Bible)

©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta

#lifeincolorandWORDs

#thankfullife

Thankful Life - October 13, 2014

Breaking through the thoughts that do not honor my LORD’s accomplishments with my life. That is my prayer today. Actually, these past few (or five) weeks have been a reprogramming of sorts. In the moments when “enough is enough”, I have to remember that “God is enough” and it’s time to redirect where my eyes, heart and ears focus.

Changing the way I think about what I am feeling, and how to manage emotions.

Yes, there is a whole new outlook for me. In my seeking God for daily strength, I sensed Him showing me to "see Me Shawn"... "it's all you need..." In the moments of my Father’s whispers and urgings I am comforted in a new way.

I could hear my inner most fears and inadequacies rise to the surface, “but what about the pain Lord” was the only thought I had… yet, immediately I understood what God had in mind. It’s the “about Him” part, not the going on with me part that He desires me to seek right now. And, really when I think about it, I don’t have to go far to find the “about me” part – but I do have to let go of it to seek Him wholly.

WOW Father, it is so clear – help me to live and relate to the daily application of my walk what is so deeply important to You.

“And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires.

 "In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone.” ~2 Peter 1:4-7 (New Living Translation)

There is no fear… no worry about “how long will this go on…” (Psalm 118:6). No matter how many times my body aches, my heart will yearn even more. And, in the trials of the flesh, my spirit through the Spirit will rise above, soar and hold on, for there is nothing that this world can bring that my God will not handle on my behalf. Because I am His and there is nothing that can change this truth.

“No, but in all these things we prevail completely through the one who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” ~Romans 8:37-39 (Lexham English Bible)

Rest indeed today... rest indeed!

“But those who listen to me will live in safety and comfort. They will have nothing to fear.”  ~Proverbs 1:33 (Easy-to-Read Version)

©2014 Giving Thanks Daily
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#ThankfulLife

Thankful Life - October 12, 2014

"Today you rest..." 

In letting go of the ‘old’ and allowing the new, there is much to consider… yet nothing to do. But, in our flesh, we do… and do… and do… and do!

“Today you rest…” easily said.

I awoke earlier than anticipated and started my day.  As I headed down the hill this morning, I was ready to receive the LORD’s Word and words today.

Let me Father hear and be moved… let me realize the relevancy and application as I seek Your guidance and act wisely in this life.

“Today you rest…” insisted my thoughts again.

Working through “Our Identity in Christ” again this week, and I am humbled again, and honored even more. Some of what I am hearing today is…

God speaks to you - individually and personally!

(Genesis 3:9, Jeremiah 1:5)

He knows you by name.

(Matthew 10:30)

I am learning that in these times of that I am 'tired', that I need to redirect my thoughts often – regardless of what I feel my physical body needs, I know that I am to focus on the spiritual. How is this done? One day – one moment at a time.

Again I hear, “Let go of the old – IDENTIFY AND EMBRACE THE NEW identity in Christ.
Don’t go back, don’t look back… leave behind our old identity to GAIN His… leave everything I know and leave behind ALL that does not glorify our LORD. Daily I know this is impossible on my own, but I do KNOW it is possible through the power and strength of the Holy Spirit in me. IT IS POSSIBLE.

What I know today about this... it is an exercise that must be done often.

“Now the LORD said to Abram,
“Go forth from your country,
And from your relatives
And from your father’s house,
To the land which I will show you;” ~Genesis 12:1 (New American Standard Bible)

“So Abraham went as the LORD had told him…” ~Genesis 12:4

So as I close out my day, I contemplate, “How does God see me? How will I know?”

Oh, thank You Father for Your Word and all that is revealed to my heart and continues to dwell in my thoughts and in my actions. Thank You for loving me ENOUGH and in such an overwhelming way. Thank You that I will never be without You providing I seek and abide; and pray and pursue! Thank You for leading me, as You pursue my heart and life to fulfill Your desires and will through my purpose. In Christ Jesus I am grateful and thankful as I pray and praise… Thank You Lord for giving me instructions to rest today, for it truly has been exactly what I needed today. Thank You for filling my heart and life so fully. Amen!

Rest indeed today... rest indeed!

So, what is the old that need to be "released"? It is the focus of the moment - the engagement of seeking Jesus, rather than comfort. Pursing a life that will glorify my LORD, and lead me to a deeper Christ-like outlook and path. It is letting go of prayerful moments for healing, and hanging onto the reality and gift of salvation that is already accomplished... it is letting go of allowing anything else to take priority, when it's all about living for Jesus - in His strength and power... it is letting go of any despair, for there is not sorrow in the promise of eternity with my Savior... it is letting go of unbelief and engaging in believing that God is for me, regardless of what is going on around or about me. It is trusting that I am His, and that is ENOUGH! Just as Jesus is ENOUGH!

REST INDEED... in the knowledge that resting in Him, because of Him that is all I need.

Other references for today (Genesis 12:2-3; 17:3-6: Revelation 62:2; Revelation 21:27)

©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta

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#givingthanksdaily
#thankfullife

Thankful Life - October 10, 2014

“I’m late, I’m late for a very important date”, said the White Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland. And, those were my thoughts as I woke up and worked toward the front door to leave this week. I ran late every day this week… alarm… snooze, alarm… snooze, alarm… snooze – repeatedly, every morning this week. I am getting ‘enough’ sleep, but my body just does not recognize the rest. There are days when I am so tired of exhaustion, that I want to sit and cry, and others where “throwing my hands up” in frustration is a pointless and wasteful use of energy… so what do I do?  

Yep... really needing prayer. My faith is strong... yet, there are moments when the exhaustion and physical pain greatly distracts my spiritual progress. I need to read more, ponder more and believe more. But I have our LORD to see me through every single moment, but I do have to call upon Him.

I am grateful for all the moments that I NEED JESUS more. And, truly there are many of those to look forward to, I’m sure. And yet, in these times I can see more clearly – take in my environment more fully – love the good moments more deeply – ALL WHILE KNOWING GOD IS GOD, and I am His. That assurance is “to die for…” To be more precise, to die to self.

 “For [as far as this world is concerned] you have died, and your [new, real] life is hidden with Christ in God.

When Christ, Who is our life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in [the splendor of His] glory.

So kill (deaden, deprive of power) the evil desire lurking in your members [those animal impulses and all that is earthly in you that is employed in sin]: sexual vice, impurity, sensual appetites, unholy desires, and all greed and covetousness, for that is idolatry (the deifying of self and other created things instead of God).

It is on account of these [very sins] that the [holy] anger of God is ever coming upon the sons of disobedience (those who are obstinately opposed to the divine will),

Among whom you also once walked, when you were living in and addicted to [such practices].” ~Colossians 3:3-7 (Amplified Bible)

As I move through my day, and ponder God’s goodness often today, I am drawn more and more to ‘my’ Jesus and in AWE of the knowledge that He intercedes (at every turn and in every thought) for me before the Throne. How can I not be grateful? How can I not abide toward His commands and desires for my life? How can I not love Him more deeply every day? But even in His presence, the world, my habits, the physical pain and doubt can seep into my thoughts… so again, I seek and command in Jesus’ name for my thought life… for my actions… in these moments.

Back off satan... there is NO ROOM FOR you in my thoughts, or with anything or anyone around me. Father God, my Mighty Fortress, pursue my heart even more diligently today. Help me overcome myself and be overwhelmed with the Saving Grace so wonderfully gifted to me, and accepted into this heart.

“Hear my cry, O God,
    listen to my prayer;

from the end of the earth I call to You
    when my heart is faint.
Lead me to the rock
    that is higher than I,
for you have been my refuge,
    a strong tower against the enemy.

Let me dwell in Your tent forever!
    Let me take refuge under the shelter of Your wings! Selah
For You, O God, have heard my vows;
    You have given me the heritage of those who fear Your name.

Prolong the life of the king;
    may his years endure to all generations!
May he be enthroned forever before God;
    appoint steadfast love and faithfulness to watch over him!

So will I ever sing praises to Your name,
    as I perform my vows day after day.” ~Psalm 61 (English Standard Version)

©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
#lifeincolorandWORDs
#ThankfulLife

Thankful Life - October 8, 2014

Let it be known, that God already WON... 
Bought with blood... the greatest transaction ever recorded!
It is finished... My debt is paid and I now live in hope.  Simply stated, Thank You Father for washing us of our sin with Your work at the Cross and with Your Word daily.
These past few weeks have been interesting, to say the least. In the moments when I thought "I was done... tired, worn out and unable to continue" - God shined energy, love, help and amazing power in my life. I have learned that I can never pray enough for others or set my sights on the LORD Jesus near enough, but I hope and pray that I can try for every moment that I live in this world.
Knowing how much I am loved, have been loved and will be loved - regardless!!! Is enough!
It has been a challenge, physically, emotionally and spiritually lately. Everything seems like so much work. I am grateful that I am praying daily - and seeking in so many moments throughout this life... through this ministry that our loving Father has engaged me with and asks me to lead, I am constantly challenged to 'do better' and live rightly. With this said, I fall short daily... and that is why I am so thankful for His leading.

1 Thessalonians 1 Lexham English Bible (LEB)

Greeting
Paul and Silvanus and Timothy, to the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace to you and peace.

Thanksgiving for the Thessalonian Believers

"We give thanks to God always concerning all of you, making mention constantly in our prayers,  because we remember your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father, knowing, brothers dearly loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel did not come to you with word only, but also with power and with the Holy Spirit and with much certainty, just as you know what sort of people we became among you for your sake. And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, receiving the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all those who believe in Macedonia and in Achaia, for from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but in every place your faith toward God has gone out, so that we have no need to say anything. For they themselves report about us, what sort of welcome we had with you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to await his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus, the one who delivers us from the coming wrath."

These thoughts came as I prayed with, and as the LORD ministered to my heart and soul...
Is there anyone here having a challenge, or several? 
I would like you to pray about, ponder and write a testimony of how God helped you get through it... So, obviously, that doesn't mean you will be writing this at this moment... what it means, is that as you seek guidance, listen for His comfort and see His mercies through this process, take note... keep track and stay accountable to the journey. Also, I want you to give thanks daily... maybe even many times during the day. Every time you see yourself cycling downward, look and seek upward. GIVE THANKS! PRAISE GOD... seek strength and wisdom from the Holy Spirit, and cry out to Jesus.
If you are not in a storm now, you either just came out of one, or are heading in... be prepared, stay in tune with the Spirit and our Father in heaven.
What say you?
I end tonight with this prayer, for you, for me... for those we love.
Father forgive me, for leaving my responsibilities… For letting my own worries and concerns be the center. I want to lift our brothers and sisters, on this page and our other ministry pages, and all of our wonderful PS139 group of edifiers. There have been so many challenges Father that we are overwhelmed, overburdened. We pray for strength to make it through the days, to see through the moments that seem just so hard to push through. Let us in our own moments remember those who are also in need, our brothers and sisters… Those who have yet to be saved... for our countries and the leadership, and the nations around the world. Help us be mindful of Your presence. You are our God, our everything. Thank you for being with us now in Your Son's glorious and precious name we pray, amen.
Lord, let me be humbled daily and glorify You through the days I am honored to live out here before I go home to be with You.

©2014 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta

#thankfullifeGTD

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Thankful Life - September 27, 2014

How much focus do we put on ourselves every day? I pray for God's reminders to let go of my "petty" needs and to learn and grow toward focusing on Jesus and the purpose God has placed in my heart. Which, by the way, is definitely not... "Pray for a removal of this physical pain"... but, "Lord, show me how to use all things to serve You". As I sit here this morning, taking in the LORD's words, and the writings of others, I am humbled yet again.

My morning reading and "catch up" time in my social media arenas had me a little annoyed by so much of the false teaching and impostors who prey on the hearts of the non-content... I am very fortunate to connect with so many great Christian teachers here on Facebook... both personally, and through their public profiles. Often I get a connection with someone and think, "something isn't right"...

There is so much desperation to be "recognized" and to "be somebody" that people are willing to pretend they are someone else to realize this. Their words can be kind, and prayerful, but underlying they are deceitful in their request to "pray for you" or "send God's blessings".

We, in our discerning spirits, through the Holy Spirit have a responsibility to make others aware when liars are about... Yes, we must pray for them, but we must now allow ourselves to be weaved into their folly. (2 Timothy 3 in its entirety)

"Indeed all who delight in piety and are determined to live a devoted and godly life in Christ Jesus will meet with persecution [will be made to suffer because of their religious stand].
But wicked men and imposters will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and leading astray others and being deceived and led astray themselves.
But as for you, continue to hold to the things that you have learned and of which you are convinced, knowing from whom you learned [them]," ~2 Timothy 3:12-14 (Amplified)

My thoughts did not ponder long on that sort of depravity of those who deceive and take from the desperate. I pray to be thoughtful in my actions and work from intention - so I read on! And, thought on! 

How can I be so selfish, are my momentary thoughts... when really God is not condemning me for being human, but drawing me to be Christ-like... CHRIST-LIKE. What does that look like?

As I sit here and ponder... my thoughts go in several directions. Am I thankful for the provisions... the lessons... corrections... my job... my family... a warm house.... MY FAMILY and FRIENDS... of course, but today - after reading Ann Voskamp's article When You are Flat Out Desperate to Live... the internal camera of my head just reels - and the pounding in my soul to "live right" beats even harder. We, I live like "this is life", and ignoring the calling out that is all around me. How LORD do we work through what is not silent, and needs so much, "in Your name"? How do we help... pray... give... serve?

Come to Me"At that time Jesus said, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and intelligent and have revealed them to infants. Yes, Father, for this way was well-pleasing in Your sight. All things have been handed over to Me by My Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father; nor does anyone know the Father except the Son, and anyone to whom the Son wills to reveal Him.

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” ~Matthew 11:25-30 (New American Standard Bible)

I no answer today, but I do know that He is the answer.

Father, my heart is grieved in so many ways. Not just for those who revolve in the 3 degrees closest to me, but that I ponder the world at my fingertips and within a "post shot" away. Help me see the needs of the world, the blood of those truly living for You - TRULY CHRIST-LIKE. Help me to not only mourn their losses, but to grow in ways to pray wisely, act profoundly in Your eyes and persuade toward You, as You pursue me more deeply.  Thank You for Your light that shines for those to see when the darkest moments are revealed. I pray for all those parents who lost children to the evil doer's deeds in all parts of the world... from the child-abuse that exists here and arises daily to those loosing their lives to stand for You. Let us all be so faithful Father. Let us/me do this in Christ Jesus and in the strength, power and wisdom of the Holy Spirit. Amen.


©2014 Shawn Boreta, Giving Thanks Daily
#givingthanksdaily
#thankfullife
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Thankful Life - September 23, 2014

Many years ago, some of you may remember… I was working extremely hard at a full-time job and a business. The Lord revealed to my heart during this time, the business had become my idol. Maybe not the business itself, but the pursuit, the chase, the sale… 

The last couple of weeks I've had that desire once again. I found myself daydreaming about winning this or winning that, growing team… I was getting pretty comfortable. I was doing the same all thing, "oh this is a product it's good for people, and may even cure me… " 

I got home, did my workout and decided to broach the subject with my husband. Immediately, as I saw his face in response to my, "I think I want to do this business..." 

I knew that immediately the pain and grief that had been caused during the first round.

Lord, I am thankful that even though I get sucked in, that You remind me what my priorities are. I'm thankful that I have a great support around me and I just need to remember that my God in the strength of the Holy Spirit and through Jesus Christ I can do the right thing. Thank you that I caught this error early. And again, Just thank You for being there. Then to show me the right path to get on, and being here now to write this path today...

"Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.
There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand." -Proverbs 19:20-21 (King James Version)

©2014 Shawn Boreta, Giving Thanks Daily

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#givingthanksdaily

My Life is a Prayer - September 13, 2014

We live this life, which by no means is perfect in anyway... and we cannot respond with that expectation. It has truly been a week of continuous prayer and seeking. My God (your God, if you choose) is always there - assuring, and reassuring as necessary when I seek Him. I am learning, though it has been a very hard lesson, to seek Him in silence with my problems and challenges. The more I 'share my feelings' with others, the longer it takes to work through the issue. How about you? My prayer today, for me and you, is that we can come to Him and seek His comfort in right ways - with whole hearts and minds. He is for you (and He is for me)... Repeat after me, "GOD IS FOR ME!"


I responded poorly and reacted even worse. Lord help me to get through the next few hours. The attack of the enemy has been great this week! I'm tired and worn, in real need of reprieve. Help me not to react anymore. It with me Lord as I lay all of this before you. In Jesus' precious name I seek and pray.


"But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one." 2 Thessalonians 3:3 (New International Version)


In the times when my heart is grieved, I am reminded that we are to complain and grumble in silence. Bringing it to our mighty God, is the way to see that through. Praise allowed! Praise allowed! Praise, praise, praise! He is faithful… Father, my heart is broken. The years of being blamed, and ridiculed… It's really hard to take Lord. Strengthen me to see this through.


For me, when I keep sharing my grief with others, it's a reliving of it rather then a healing from it. Everyone is different, but for me I need to bring it all to the Lord! I need to let him fulfill that need to be healed and restored.


Thank you Father God for never leaving me, and always comforting me in pain and sorrow! I know you are faithful. The flesh needs to be willing to see it. I lay this all before you in Christ Jesus, amen.
I am grateful for my Heavenly Father and His everyday mercies.


“Through His faithfulness, you are guarded by God’s power so that you can receive the salvation He is ready to reveal in the last time.” 1 Peter 1:5 (Common English Bible)


Lord I am praying this evening. This heart is broken! Sometimes I'm at a loss as to how to respond so that it can be Christ-like in my actions and reactions. Help me know the right way to move forward , To step back to look away. Bring the person that should be closest to me toward you Lord. Help me with this havoc but cycles on anon anon. I'm seeking you, desperately seeking you to fulfill the promise of salvation to my household. Please don't let it be under deathbed, I when I have thought and prayed for years and years and years. I'm asking you Lord to move him toward you. In the strength of the Holy Spirit let my walk be worthy. In Christ Jesus I pray... amen.


Broken Hearts… Lord I'm praying for those who are heartbroken, heartsick, broken Period!!
Praying for those who say, "I can't do it anymore"… For those who are tired and weary Lord God I pray for a new peace, Your presence.


"But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me!" ~2 Corinthians 12:9 (Amplified Bible)


Again, my prayer today, for me and you, is that we can come to Him and seek His comfort in right ways - with whole hearts and minds. He is for you (and He is for me)... Repeat after me, "GOD IS FOR ME!"


Joy in the Lord is strength.
"The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise Him." ~Psalm 28:7 (New King James Version)

©2014 Shawn Boreta, Giving Thanks Daily

#givingthanksdaily

#mylifeisaprayer

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Thankful Life - August 15, 2014

In the midst of "life" good or bad, we MUST stay grounded, engaged and moved by the Holy Spirit. After speaking and praying with my sister and ministry leader last night, we heard much from God. I am determined to stay on track... keeping the LORD first and at the forefront no matter what goes on around me is the key. Wisdom, strength and clarity to do this is sought through prayer and petition.

We mustn't depend on others to fill our gaps and our needs, that creates 'neediness', which essentially is 'independence' from God. Seeking God and knowing we are dependent on Him fulfills and develops our daily walk in freedom.

"He has told you, O man, what is good;
    and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,[steadfast love]
    and to walk humbly with your God?" ~Micah 6:8 ESV

I am being very convicted to seek counsel and prayer for these personal struggles, and to the masses encourage as I am encouraged through the amazing Word of God, and encourage as to be encouraged.

As I met with my sister and friend last night, it was 'made very clear', that I am not trusting, "God's got this!" when I dwell in the hollowness of this world, or the depravity of all that is delivered of this world - WE MUST DWELL in the place of our Almighty God. "Blinders On" in this case are good.

"In your unfailing love you will lead
    the people you have redeemed.
In your strength you will guide them
    to your holy dwelling." ~Exodus 15:10 NIV

Faith without action is dead (James 2:17). 

For me, that means serving others in my own times of desperation... reaching out, encouraging and depending on Christ through the Holy Spirit to strengthen me to do so... we cannot grow when we are constantly 'waiting' for God to change our circumstances, we grow when we move to action despite our circumstances. We often become paralyzed in our situations (me included). Focusing on the obvious instead of the Divine Promises... 

We are already healed through salvation.

Our God will never leave or forsake us.

He will protect us, encourage us. 

Through our obedience and abiding, our prayers are answered. 

We must ask God to give us eyes to see, ears to hear and the voice to minister... In my own experiences, His words will come as I pray for, minister to, encourage others....

So today, in this thankful life I seek to serve more, as well as more graciously. I seek to be humbled and lifted, and today I pray. Father God You always know the Word and encouragement I need, thank You. You guide me amazingly to this daily when I obey and do what You request. My heart is full today of hope and contentment that You are 'for me', 'with me' and 'desire me to know joy'. HOW GREAT ARE YOU LORD! How great is Your will! I lift those up Abba who are struggling today in light of news or their past or the deliveries of what this life brings - that they too will be strengthened, encouraged, filled with hope AND they will step out and serve toward healing today. It truly is a thankful life! In the power of the Holy Spirit, I start another day and seek You throughout. In Jesus' mighty name, I pray and petition... amen.

#givingthanksdaily

#lifeincolorandwords

©2014 Shawn Boreta

Thankful Life - August 7, 2014

Today, I am grateful for friendship and the leading of my Father to keep me in His Word.  As this week has progressed, so has my study in the Book of Acts. There have been some key passages - words - urgings. Sometimes in the midst of busyness, we are challenged to seek solitude. Lord, help me with that today. Help me to let go of the moments that are overwhelming me and lead me to that quiet place and those quiet times to be with You.

Thank You for this time with You Father.

Acts 2:

“And everyone who calls

on the name of the LORD will be saved;

for on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem

there will be deliverance,

as the LORD has said,

even among the survivors

whom the LORD calls.” -Joel 2:32

Vs. 37 Pierced at the heart.

Received His Word and were baptized in the Holy Spirit!

“Feeling a sense of Awe…” vs. 43 - Don’t we want that sense of AWE? That sense that all is good and He is working in all aspects of our heart, through our hearts and His desires for our lives? Desiring to see the “wonders and signs”? Father, it’s in this time of being in Your Word, seeking Your presence that I am at peace and wrapped in Your tender mercies. Even in the roughness of the days end, I know You are here – pursuing, stretching and giving me what I need. Help us LORD to grow in praising Your every direction, correction and elimination of the flesh as we seek to be wholly engaged, wholly present and wholly committed.

Acts 3:

Vs. 6 “I don’t possess silver or gold, but what I do have I give to you” and with that Peter healed the beggar – the heart of a servant. The draw of our Lord and Savior to His Work and purpose. And the beggar did not just ‘get up’ he leaped.

What are your thoughts?

#givingthanksdaily
#lifeincolorandwords

©2014 Shawn Boreta

Thankful Life - August 6, 2014

Good morning... Today we have a choice - to have a good day, or not. The "nots" are not so good, I am sure you agree. Decide today that no matter 'what' comes up or at you, that God can strengthen you to get through it. That with the Holy Spirit, the battle is not of flesh. You decide how to respond or not... in this case, the "nots" might just be the good answer. But in the case of listening to the Holy Spirit, we must comply.

Daily, we come before our King and request His favor for our day, and daily, we can trust that He has us. I am grateful for His Word, His Instructions, His Protection!



"And he said to them, “Men and Israelites, take care for yourselves what you are about to do to these men! For before these days, Theudas rose up saying he was somebody. A number of men, about four hundred, joined him. He was executed, and all who followed him were dispersed and came to nothing. After this man, Judas the Galilean rose up in the days of the census and caused people to follow him in revolt. And that one perished, and all who followed him were scattered. And now I tell you, keep away from these men, and leave them alone, because if this plan or this matter is from people, it will be overthrown. But if it is from God, you will not be able to overthrow them, lest you even be found fighting against God.” So they were persuaded by him. And they summoned the apostles, beat them, commanded them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and released them. So they went out from the presence of the Sanhedrin rejoicing, because they had been considered worthy to be dishonored for the sake of the name. Every day, both in the temple courts and from house to house, they did not stop teaching and proclaiming the good news that the Christ was Jesus." ACTS 5:35-42 (Lexham English Bible)


Brothers and sisters, despite what is to come in this life, we give thanks... Give thanks and do what you have been called to do.



"It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High; to declare your steadfast love in the morning, and your faithfulness by night, to the music of the lute and the harp, to the melody of the lyre. For you, O Lord, have made me glad by your work; at the works of your hands I sing for joy. How great are your works, O Lord! Your thoughts are very deep!" ~Psalm 91:1 (English Standard Version)



"But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and [a]show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me!" ~2 Corinthians 12:9 (Amplified Bible)



You control you responses, but not your circumstances. We can be prepared for mishaps and the unexpected because we know "they are part of this life". So, now what? HIS WORD... GOD's promises apply here. NEVER LET THEM GO.


Move from being a worrier to a Warrior! We do this knowing that we already own victory!

God is for you!



Wooah... and all His people said Amen!







#givingthanksdaily
#lifeincolorandwords

©2014 Shawn Boreta

Thankful Life - July 27, 2014

We have to be very careful in how we approach this life... if we worry, fret and live in fear, we miss out on the blessings that are in the midst of real challenges. I know for me, I have (over the years) created my own disasters because I 'thought' wrong. How about you?

Today, I reflect and look deep in my heart to see what I really need to let go. Confronting situations are definitely not one of my strongest attributes and I desire to be bolder and less fearful when it comes to speaking up and defending my ground in certain areas. Yet, looking back, I have seen change... and for that I am truly grateful and I pray I not become complacent in what is already done, and focus on what God can yet do in His strength and toward His will for my life. In a recent teaching, we were asked... "what is abundant life?" My first thought was simply, "knowing God"... and onto, "knowing God's mercy, tenderness and the knowledge that He does have a plan", seemed to finish the thought so much more satisfactory. We all struggle, fight the flesh and can get sucked into despair because "we just can't get 'there'". Friends, let us know that God, yes, the God who loves you passionately, desires you to KNOW ALL THAT HE IS FOR YOU.... to know that His love is like nothing you can ever fathom. but He will pursue you over and over (continually) so you will know. And this, I am telling myself as much as I am sharing it with you!!!

Abundant Life... is not a bank account or stuff... it is knowing whose you are and knowing His love is everything... the blood of Jesus will cover and carry you through. Get to know the power of the Holy Spirit... not as a 'fix all', but as the mighty and perfect mercy and grace of our Savior. I am thankful I have so much to learn... as well as so much to heal from. Thank You LORD for pursing my heart and Your will for abundancy.

And again, I am facing an internal challenge to step out and speak up... Father, there is something that really needs to be done. This thing that is uncomfortable, because I was uncomfortable with what and how something was said to me. Help me to, not only be bold, but to be wise with my words and attitude. Help me to present my case lovingly, while intelligently and with conviction. I want firm boundaries, yet flexibility to work well with others. As I come to You Father, help me to lean in to Your desires for my life and my life's work. Help me to see Your will as I carve out this life and what is to be done and how I do it.

In the mighty name of Jesus, help me keep my eyes on You and doing what You will have me do... serve - love - encourage - engage with and believe that You are for me.

"We should consider these examples and Christ the perfect example

Surrounded then as we are by these serried ranks of witnesses, let us strip off everything that hinders us, as well as the sin which dogs our feet, and let us run the race that we have to run with patience, our eyes fixed on Jesus the source and the goal of our faith. For he himself endured a cross and thought nothing of its shame because of the joy he knew would follow his suffering; and he is now seated at the right hand of God’s throne. Think constantly of him enduring all that sinful men could say against him and you will not lose your purpose or your courage." ~Hebrews 12:1-3 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

We mustn't wait til "things" are good to serve others... We serve knowing God is good.

#givingthanksdaily
#lifeincolorandwords

©2014 Shawn Boreta

Thankful Life - July 22, 2014

Today Father, I just want to thank You for the people in my life. For those who know they are an influence, and those who have no idea, I thank You. As I sit here tonight, reflecting back on my day, I am so grateful for moments of weakness; those moments when I fall flat, yet can remember that I am Yours and be comforted. I am grateful for moments of weariness; those moments I scrape and scramble to get by, because I AM YOURS and find peace in that very instant. I am grateful for moments of recognition; those moments when I see Your hand, more than mine, and realize I desire to be like You even more deeply.

Today Father, I just want to thank You always finding ways to remind me of who I am becoming is not who I was... and I was has no relevance of who I am now...

Today Friends, I just want to remind you that You have a Creator who divinely loves you and desires your life to be His, wholly. For those who have yet to 'believe', I pray for you now... that there will be many around you, who surround your every day life with love and example of a Christ-like life. That during times of weakness, weariness and need to recognize something more is here for you, that you will cry out, call upon and believe that you were created for His pleasure and to live this life out for His glory. 

May we Father be wholly Yours and desire to be wholly committed to living the life that You desire for each of us. Let us know that there is nothing perfect outside of God. We must be content with the perfecting process that God has for each and everyone of us. In moments of my defensiveness, I would often say "well, I'm not perfect.… "and really, does anyone really expect you to be? And, if they do we do have the right to set that expectation straight. This also goes for many of us, who have the 'perfectionist' in them. Let us remember who actually is perfect and who He is for each of us.

#givingthanksdaily

#lifeincolorandwords

#thankfullife

©2014 Shawn Boreta

Thankful Life - July 21, 2014

Digging into the Word is essential for this life. We cannot survive the strife, pain, obstacles or even the good without the right direction and insights. This only comes from His Word and guide of the Holy Spirit. We must be careful to dwell in and meditate on the Word of God. Let us, LORD God depend on the Spirit for every step, every thought and desire to be in Your will.

"I have chosen the way of truth and faithfulness; Your ordinances have I set before me." ~Psalm 119:30 (Amplified Bible)

Remember to note the things of joy in your life... so that, when the times of challenges and obstacles arise, you can remember... "this is only temporary"... Why? Because we have an amazing, wonderful, faithful and perfect God directing our paths, loving us intensely and who has already prepared "the Way".

#thankfullife #givingthanksdaily #lifeincolorandwords

©2014 Shawn Boreta 

Being His - July 12, 2014

As I sit here tonight, I am once again reminded how fortunate I am for this journey of gratitude and truly grasping His gift of His Word and promises. It truly seems like a lifetime ago, or even someone else's life, when I think of the road traveled with my Savior began. In the "trenches", not in the "glow" is where I see His light shining brightest for me. It has been through the harshest of circumstances and the bleakest of moments that He lifted my heart, soul and mind to meet His glory. And, it's the gift I so desire for everyone I meet, and the greatest news is our Creator, our Savior, our Helper also desires that for our lives.

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

Heartache....

Don't let the enemy have any of these moments... all your moments belong to God... belong to God to work out, filter through and repair. JESUS LOVES YOU... so much that He left us with the Holy Spirit (Him in us) to help us with all the details of living this life. Allow Him to work...

Hope...
His Orchestrated Purpose [toward] Eternity

First, choose Him!
Believe that He is your Salvation.
Trust He knows your circumstances and will not leave you stranded!

You Know that people will tear you down.
You know the enemy wants you to believe that.
You KNOW THAT GOD IS ALWAYS PRESENT.

Let the Holy Spirit be your GATEKEEPER!

There is no "but" in this life we lead with God... we say, Yet God!

Yet God, has great things for you. Yet God, desires His children to KNOW His promises...

God promised that He is all you need... "My grace is sufficient for you..." (2 Corinthians 12:9)

"But He said to me, My grace (My favor and loving-kindness and mercy) is enough for you [sufficient against any danger and enables you to bear the trouble manfully]; for My strength and power are made perfect (fulfilled and completed) and [a]show themselves most effective in [your] weakness. Therefore, I will all the more gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ (the Messiah) may rest (yes, may pitch a tent over and dwell) upon me!" ~2 Corinthians 12:9 (Amplified Bible)

Thankful Life - June 6, 2014

How do I get to be the person I need to be? Help others get to the next level…

Look at the end, and it’s all about relationships we forge during our lifetime that truly matters.

We under estimate our power – that is within us – through the power of the Holy Spirit (God in us). When we are true to our self in our faith, we can see and experience that true power, daily.

It’s not always what you are willing to do for others, but how you interact with them.

Buck the FEAR…

When we think too much of ourselves, we don’t step out, we don’t reach out, we neglect to love other enough to put faith in front of our fear. Be open to step out in faith today.

“Through His faithfulness, you are guarded by God’s power so that you can receive the salvation He is ready to reveal in the last time.”  1 Peter 1:5 (Common English Bible)

©2014 Giving Thanks Daily

#givingthanksdaily
#lifeincolorandwords

Thankful Life - June 5, 2014

There is no doubt about it.... I am getting older, and this body is dying. We live in this "dying" world - this world where pain and disappointment are ever present - but it's in the living daily that we are able to appreciate the time we have. But did you know that this "dying" world was created and everything about it is known by the LIVING GOD? Living for Jesus gives meaning to that which seems dead. Nothing in this life matters except pursing Him and LIVING WITH HIS PURPOSE in mind. Regardless of what this world is, we are not of this world. He is pursing you... your hopes and joy... your desires and purpose... you!

We live greatly when we love greatly... encourage those around us... inspire others to seek God. Holy Spirit help us engage and to be present for all Your divine interactions and opportunities.

"Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing." ~1 Thessalonians 5:11 (English Standard Version)

Love one another, extend love and carry His truth in our hearts... May you all have an amazing day celebrating our Father's beautiful gift through Jesus.

Today, decide to LIVE FOR HIM... in pursuit of your creator... the ONE who loves YOU MOST!

Life in the living...

We live life when we give life through encouragement... LOVE... compassion and passionate living.

So, are you part of the land of the living?

In this season of life, please share yourself most of all.

Thankful Life - May 31, 2014

Good day brothers and sisters... preparing for my day... getting quiet and leaning on my LORD for the day.

Enjoy this beautiful day that our LORD has made and our Lord has made possible for us to walk in hope, joy and love.

(John 3:16-17, 1 Thessalonians 5:18)

"And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." ~Ephesians 5:20 (New Living Translation)

“I thank my God always for you because of God’s love and kindness given to you through the Messiah Yeshua, in that you have been enriched by Him in so many ways, particularly in power of speech and depth of knowledge." ~1 Corinthians 1:4-5 (Complete Jewish Bible)

Living a thankful life has its perks... you begin to see things differently and the light is always on. Just my thoughts.

Help me LORD to know that this mountain before me, or this climb ahead of me will be strengthened and fortified by Your promises and hope. Thank You mighty and faithful God for loving me so much. thank YOU Father for never leaving me, and pursuing me, even in my mess, and among my messiness. I love You Abba Father and cannot imagine this life without You. In the name of Christ Jesus, let me LIVE rightly and wholly as Yours. Amen.

You do it "one thought"... one word, one verse... at a time. You dive in, drive forward and don't let the enemy take any credit for anything that you don't accomplish. You fight your own will by giving all the desperation, depressive thoughts and uncertainty to God... HE WILL FIGHT THE BATTLE because the battle that is not flesh is HIS... all His, and Jesus already won.

What is our job? 

"Putting on the whole armor of God" ~Ephesians 6:11

"Dwell in Him... He is our refuge our fortress" ~Psalm 91:1-16

Remember "...we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds...Hold every thought captive…” remember that He is the victor... ~2 Corinthians 10:3-5

"God is our shield..." ~Psalm 84:11

So what are you focusing on today? 

Is it your 'circumstance'? Or what Jesus did for you?

“Trust in the LORD and do good;
Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness.
Delight yourself in the LORD;
And He will give you the desires of your heart.
Commit your way to the LORD,
Trust also in Him, and He will do it.” ~Psalm 37:3-5 (New American Standard Bible)

I love this.... "DELIGHT YOURSELF IN THE LORD.....

...and HE WILL GIVE YOU THE DESIRES OF YOUR HEART."

The more you focus on HIM, the more His desires for your life, will become YOUR DESIRES...

Thankful Life - May 21, 2014

Oh LORD, I seek You... Father, come in - I know it's messy and in disarray at times, but YOU are welcome. Show me how not to hide, how to exude You. Help me know that You are in Your dwelling place, my Tabernacle... Your Temple... Let the doors of this tent fly wide open and let me know YOUR presence in this place. Remove the mess LORD, as I follow and love through obedience. Correct me. Let me see Your blessings. Let me know Your daily and moment to moment mercies. Let me grow in Christ... and be more and more like Jesus through every moment of growth. Let Your light shine, and my light that is YOU be seen to others.

Help me LORD to know that this mountain before me, or this climb ahead of me will be strengthened and fortified by Your promises and hope. Thank You mighty and faithful God for loving me so much. thank YOU Father for never leaving me, and pursuing me, even in my mess, and among my messiness. I love You Abba Father and cannot imagine this life without You. In the name of Christ Jesus, let me LIVE rightly and wholly as Yours. Amen.

I want to encourage you to seek Him diligently. In the midst of sorrow and turmoil, He is waiting. In the circumstance that seems hopeless, He is waiting. In the times when you don't see an out, He is waiting.

He is waiting. He pursues You throughout your life, and delivers salvation unconditionally, and free to you. Will you meet Him as He waits?

Often times, we worry needlessly... we allow the enemy, habit or our past dictate our worry barometer... We truly need to live today - allow our past to help us make better decisions, while today gives us permission to let go of the past. Jesus is our NOW - not the abuse, not the illness, not a failed relationship, not the abuse you have gone through... it is not dismissing those things or you, but negating who they came from. You are not alone. Allow God to heal and take what is not edifying to Christ or encouraging scripturally. He will take it all, and leave you with hope, but you have to let Him have it. Let us not keep picking up the past, the hurt, the heartache, BUT HANG ON TO HIS PROMISES.

Often times, we worry needlessly... we allow the enemy, habit or our past dictate our worry barometer... We truly need to live today - allow our past to help us make better decisions, while today gives us permission to let go of the past. Jesus is our NOW - not the abuse, not the illness, not a failed relationship, not the abuse you have gone through... it is not dismissing those things or you, but negating who they came from. You are not alone. Allow God to heal and take what is not edifying to Christ or encouraging scripturally. He will take it all, and leave you with hope, but you have to let Him have it. Let us not keep picking up the past, the hurt, the heartache, BUT HANG ON TO HIS PROMISES.

When we allow our past to become our present, we dismiss all of what God has for us. Let today be the day you allow the ashes of the past to become beauty of His victory on the cross for you. Healing comes when we let go of our own beliefs about our life... and who we are AND hang on to His promises of hope... keep your focus on the LORD, and He is faithful.

For this I am grateful.

I have been needing time with my God... and being reassured of who I am through Christ, as well as whose I am because I chose to believe... I chose to trust... I chose to live for Christ. And daily, I choose to believe... I choose to trust... I choose to live for Christ.

Join me?
Join me!

#givingthanksdaily
#lifeincolorandwords

It's a Choice

We come into this world heading for a place that none of us want to end up. That place is darkness and desolate. It is hell!

We enter into this world, with the DNA of an amazing creator – our Creator. And our amazing Creator, pursues us and pursues us and pursues us.

So what do we do?
We choose!

We believe that Jesus is who He says He is.

We believe that God loves us passionately, as well as compassionately.

We believe in a Savior.

We believe to believe what He tells us through His Word.

And we live out that choice, in action.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." ~John 3:16 (King James Version)

"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in[a] Christ Jesus our Lord." ~Romans 6:23 (New International Version)

#givingthanksdaily for His grace and gift.

"This means that our knowledge of men can no longer be based on their outward lives (indeed, even though we knew Christ as a man we do not know him like that any longer). For if a man is in Christ he becomes a new person altogether—the past is finished and gone, everything has become fresh and new. All this is God’s doing, for he has reconciled us to himself through Jesus Christ; and he has made us agents of the reconciliation. God was in Christ personally reconciling the world to himself—not counting their sins against them—and has commissioned us with the message of reconciliation. We are now Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were appealing direct to you through us. As his personal representatives we say, “Make your peace with God.” For God caused Christ, who himself knew nothing of sin, actually to be sin for our sakes, so that in Christ we might be made good with the goodness of God." ~1 Corinthians 5:16-21 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)