Day 760 of Giving Thanks

“What is my purpose, Lord? What am I supposed to be? Where am I supposed to go? What am I supposed to do? How am I going to pay my bills when I can’t get a job? How am I going to repay these student loans when I have no income coming in?”

Sound familiar? I don’t know how many times I have had this conversation with God. I don’t know how many times I have fallen on my knees begging Him for answers…yet, I keep getting drawn back to this verse

"I know the plans I have for you," announces the Lord. "I want you to enjoy success. I do not plan to harm you. I will give you hope for the years to come.” ~Jeremiah 29:11 (New International Version)

We have all heard that verse. It’s one of the most encouraging verses in the Bible. When we go through hard times, our well meaning friends tell us to look to this verse. I myself have told people to hold to this verse, but does it really help?

It is encouraging, but it’s more encouraging when you look at the verse before it:

“The Lord says, "You will be forced to live in Babylonia for 70 years. After they are over, I will come to you. My gracious promise to you will come true. I will bring you back home.” ~Jeremiah 29:11 (New International Version)

Wow, Where was that verse when my friends were trying to lift me up? Where was that verse when I was asking God “What is my purpose?” Yes, the Lord has a plan for the Israelites, but looks like they had 70 years of hard living to go through first. I sure do not hope I have to have 70 years of hard living to go through as well. But, wait…there is more than just being forced to live in Babylon for 70 years, God goes on to promise that “I WILL BRING YOU BACK HOME”.

That’s His promise, He will bring them back home…and then, He tells them that He knows the plan for this. He knows that there is a reason they have to spend those 70 years in Babylon and that there is a reward at the end.

The passage after verse 11 continues:
“Then you will call out to me. You will come and pray to me. And I will listen to you. 13 When you look for me with all your heart, you will find me.
"I will be found by you," announces the Lord. "And I will bring you back from where you were taken as prisoners. I will gather you from all of the nations. I will gather you from the places where I have forced you to go," announces the Lord. "I will bring you back to the place from which I sent you away."  ~Jeremiah 29:12-14 (New International Version)

He hears us when we call. His glory is in everything and we will never leave us. He will bring us back to the place He wants us to be. Like a potter, He has made us, He has created us.

The word says in Isaiah:
“Lord, you are our Father.
      We are the clay. You are the potter.
      Your hands made all of us”. ~Isaiah 64:8 (New International Reader's Version)

Have you ever seen the way a potter creates his final masterpiece? He knows the clay. He knows in his mind, what the end product should be and feel and look like. He takes the lump of clay and molds it, over and over again, breaking it down, building it back up, breaking it down, building it up again. This process happens over and over again until finally, the clay conforms to the shape that fits the image of what it’s creator means it to be. Once the final product is complete, the potter shows off his master piece.

God is our potter.
"People of Israel, I can do with you just as this potter does," announces the Lord. "The clay is in the potter's hand. And you are in my hand, people of Israel.” ~Jeremiah 18:6 (New International Readers Version)

As He has molded me and revealed a path to me, my questions have changed. Now they are:

What is Your purpose for me Lord? What is it You want me to do?
Where is it You want me to go?

Lord, I have faith that you will take care of my bills and show me a way to repay my student loans. Where you go I go, where you lead I will follow. Lord, I will work for you and allow you to take care of my paycheck

God is truly faithful. I have been broken down and built back up many, many times. But through out the process, God has revealed a little bit more of His plan for my life, but He only reveals as I submit myself to Him to be molded like the clay. As my life becomes more of a God thing and less of a Darci thing, I am allowing His purpose to shine through, not mine. This life isn’t about me, it’s about how I can serve my Lord. And, the Lord has shown me recently, that He truly does have some amazing plans for me. I can’t wait for this next chapter in my life to unfold and I am humbled to know that it wouldn’t be possible if it weren’t for God.

Lord, I am so thankful that you are my potter. That you have been patient during my growing pains and that you love me enough to break me down and build me back up because you have your idea in your mind of how I am supposed to be. Thank you for not giving up on this masterpiece even though I have been difficult to work with at times. Lord, I ask your forgiveness for being so stubborn and obstinate and rebellious and I am so grateful that you keep showing up in my life. Thank you Lord, for being You and for loving a sinner like me. Amen



© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Darci Escandon
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150432918742809

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

Day 759 of Giving Thanks

GOD... can You hear me?
GOD... my heart aches, can you fix it?
GOD... I am tired, can I get rest?
GOD... GOD... GOD... I love You.
GOD... I need You.

"How lovely is your dwelling place, 
LORD Almighty! 
My soul yearns, even faints, 
for the courts of the LORD; 
my heart and my flesh cry out 
for the living God. 
Even the sparrow has found a home, 
and the swallow a nest for herself, 
where she may have her young— 
a place near your altar, 
LORD Almighty, my King and my God. 
Blessed are those who dwell in your house; 
they are ever praising you." Psalm 84:1-4 (New International Version)

I am encouraged daily by hearing God’s voice ring through my life and it seems that the more I get to know Him, the more I call on Him. And, quite honestly, I believe we are designed to do. Once we know Him, we are drawn in to be nearer and nearer. And as I need Him more, my desire to be more like Him becomes the part of me that I admire the most.

This week, I grew. I learned something new about myself; and although it is something that I really want to change, through dealing with my own inability to ‘let go’ and forgive completely in this one area of my life. I hadn’t really figured out who to forgive until the other day. Learning to forgive my bad actions, leaving bitterness behind me, my misreading of circumstances, and allow the grace of God to flood through to every part of me so that I can ‘move on’ and step into where God will have me.

“Let all bitterness and indignation and wrath (passion, rage, bad temper) and resentment (anger, animosity) and quarreling (brawling, clamor, contention) and slander (evil-speaking, abusive or blasphemous language) be banished from you, with all malice (spite, ill will, or baseness of any kind).
”And become useful and helpful and kind to one another, tenderhearted (compassionate, understanding, loving-hearted), forgiving one another [readily and freely], as God in Christ forgave you.” ~Ephesians 4:31-32 (Amplified Bible)

I believe it is our thoughts that start our down spirals. I am not saying that illness cannot be an attack of the enemy, I am saying that our thoughts will dictate how we view healing.

Through all my trials, in the midst of every challenge and storm, I am upheld mightily in strength for I know that victory is already accomplished.

Jesus, thank You for always meeting with me. Even when I am late, stubborn, afraid, unsure... You are here, always near, always available. What is it that I can do to honor You? How can I possibly show how much I love You?

I will show Jesus in me. I will, be strong in the Lord, walk in His light... show His strength through every part of this journey.

... shine for others the Jesus in me, that is what I can do.

Here’s what I know, there are many out there who will judge your faith, mock your ways, and even tell you that you are not "good enough"... the question really is, "Would Jesus say (whatever they say) to you?" Is there grace in their words or mannerism toward you? Are they following John's relay of Jesus' command to "Love one another" and "Encourage one another"? Am I living my life with a “yes” answer to all these questions as well?

I can only do that by allowing God to be my guide toward Him.

So much is a mystery LORD and I am grateful that some of it is a blessings, some of it is miracles, some of it is just the wonderful daily surprises of being Yours.

The LORD has given me amazing gifts. Gifts, meaning talents, as well as all the gifts within my life - my family, my work, my friends... and mostly peace, the ability to forget and move on, and permission (and the command) to do so. This ability only comes from the Holy Spirit, thankfully God's got that one covered for me too.

The journey is a path of few – what an honor to walk this path. 

“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."~Matthew 7:13-14 (New International Version)

The narrow gate and the road that leads to it, is unpopular by the world, yet revered by His chosen. Once you are on it, the road of the world is restrictive, confining and defeating. I will head toward freedom, how about you?

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.” John 15:5,8 (New International Version)

Every day I start out saying the same thing, “Jesus you’re all I need today.’

2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150418958162809

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

Day 757 of Giving Thanks by Sue King

Walls

I love the wall on my facebook page. It’s covered with greetings from friends, quotes, photo’s, song and video links. I administrate on a few more pages- so these walls are walls where I write but am identified as the page I am writing for.  I am protected by anonymity. Then there are the walls behind the walls- support pages where I meet with other writers to support and encourage and teach each other. Many many walls each with many varying levels of intimacy and exposure of self to others.

These walls are so similar to the walls I write on and build within me. There are the public walls that I build and write on. They show the real me but are ‘sanitised’ for public consumption. The support walls operate between friends and family members. There is another wall that my spiritual family and my Pastor write on that often overlaps the ‘friends’ wall, and lastly my innermost wall that God and I write on. Most of the walls serve their own distinct purposes and have differing levels of need and expression of those needs, differing levels of giving and receiving.

Lately I’ve been called to answer how many of those walls have been built and written on by the fear of rejection. We all have that fear and all have experienced it to varying degrees. The fear of being cast aside, disregarded, not acknowledged, abandoned. A feeling of being inferior, not accepted, seen to be of lesser value. It may have come as a result of being unwanted at birth, forced to vie for parental affection, struggle due to physical, mental or emotional disabilities, or the pain of physical, sexual or emotional abuse. Perhaps it is just that you perceive you aren’t being rewarded with the attention you think you deserve. It may come from fear of the future- of being old, feeble and cast aside, or of losing your mind to alzheimers. Regardless of where and why the fear of rejection began, satan will make sure that the root of rejection flourishes within your life and that it grows with the speed and vigour of the most detested weed it is.

The pain of rejection causes us to build wall after wall of protection within our minds to ward off that pain. The walls are fortified by our negative thoughts and defective coping strategies. Even as Christians who walk in the knowledge of the love  and acceptance  that we have in our beautiful Jesus, we can still build walls to protect ourselves from the rejection we feel directed towards us from the world. Know this though- each wall we build separates us from the work the Father would have us do. It separates us from the people we were sent to love. It separates us from the spirit that resides within us as we fail to surrender to the renewing work of  healing and restoration. With each wall we build to ‘protect’ ourselves, we deny our potential to grow and become all that we can be in Christ. We must brick- by- brick tear down each of our walls with the help of the Holy Spirit and trust that God will do the protecting. He IS all we need. God will build your walls of protection and He will protect you from all harm- we just need to trust Him.

 “Afflicted city, lashed by storms and not comforted,
   I will rebuild you with stones of turquoise,
   your foundations with lapis lazuli.
 I will make your battlements of rubies,
   your gates of sparkling jewels,
   and all your walls of precious stones.
 All your children will be taught by the LORD,
   and great will be their peace.
 In righteousness you will be established:
Tyranny will be far from you;
   you will have nothing to fear.
Terror will be far removed;
   it will not come near you.
 If anyone does attack you, it will not be my doing;
   whoever attacks you will surrender to you.


  “See, it is I who created the blacksmith
   who fans the coals into flame
   and forges a weapon fit for its work.
And it is I who have created the destroyer to wreak havoc;
 no weapon forged against you will prevail,
   and you will refute every tongue that accuses you.
This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD,
   and this is their vindication from me,”
declares the LORD.”~ Isaiah 54:11-17 (New International Version)

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Sue King
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150418958162809

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

Day 756 of Giving Thanks by Darci Escandon

Being in a relationship is hard. It doesn’t matter if it is a friendship, a marriage or being part of a family. Oftentimes, I used to be so quick to point the finger of blame at others…As I have grown in God, He has shown me glimpses of who I was, who I am now and Who I can become. The person I was…well, it wasn’t pretty. I am starting to like the person I am now much, much better and I can’t wait to see the person He has shown me I can become.

However, there is one thing that I find that keeps me from moving forward sometimes. IT’s the old blame game. It’s always someone else fault that something goes wrong in my life…my sister is too spoiled, my husband doesn’t make me feel all warm and fuzzy inside, the next door neighbors dog ate my paper so now I don’t know what’s going on in the world. Ok, well, that may be a bit extreme, but I am sure you get the picture. It’s always someone else’s fault…That line of thinking has caused me to be judge and jury. There are so many verses in the Bible about judging others and blaming other people as well as forgiveness, however the one that stands out to me the most is this:

“Forgive someone, and you will strengthen your friendship. Keep reminding them, and you will destroy it.” ~Proverbs 17:9 (Easy To Read Version)

Wow. What does forgiveness have to do with blame? To me it is everything. If I hold back forgiveness and I am always blaming and telling someone over and over again what they did wrong, I find that I definitely experience broken relationships.

I want so much to have a heart like His. I want to show compassion and forgiveness and tolerance and kindness just like Jesus did to those around Him. I am so thankful for this verse because I am thankful that God loves me enough to show me how I truly look, the good, the bad and the ugly. I love how His word speaks to me and speaks truth into my life whether I want to hear it or not and I am so thankful that He loves me enough to speak truth to me. I am thankful that He helps me to become the person He created me to be. He guides me, He listens to me, He forgives me and He molds me.

Lord, thank you so much for showing me who I am so that I can be who you created me to be. Thank you for your patience in this growth process and thank you for never giving up on me. Lord, I am on my knees begging your forgiveness for harping on others when I should be looking at myself. I ask that you help me heal those broken relationships and help curb my tongue so that I can forgive automatically and love without expectations. Thank you Lord, I praise your name. Amen.

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

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

Day 755 of Giving Thanks

Moving toward who He will have me become – carrying on in His strength, in spite of me or my fears and hang-ups. That is the power of the Holy Spirit. When you cannot push any longer, or drive any further or stand on your own… He is there!

“Is anyone crying for help? GOD is listening, ready to rescue you.” ~Psalm 34:17 (The Message)

I can tell you that the tears flowed freely this week, and there was a moment that I "felt" as though there would be no end. And, now in retrospect, I wonder what the fuss was all about. There are times when our emotions run away with us. When "things" are just too much to bare. But there is hope in running into the arms (no really, close your eyes and picture it) of your heavenly Father. COMFORT...

Lord, thank You for always having Your arms extended for me. Thank You for sharing Your will for my life, so I can live toward it more and more daily.

I am on the path of learning a valuable lesson. Lord, help me keep my eyes on You as You lead me through toward this truth. Thank You for Your patience, understanding and amazing mercies.


“O give praise to the Lord, for He is good: for his mercy is unchanging forever.” ~Psalm 136:1 (Bible in Basic English)

In the moments when all I could do is request strength, and yet even more recognition of God’s grace all around me, my mouth utters, “Lift me Lord. Bring me up. Take me in… Let me exercise my new thoughts Lord.” And, yet even more tears, and more release of what is old, what is not desired, what is not His desire for me, but that is moving closer to who He will have me be. I am grateful for truth. And, I am grateful that even in the moments when I thought comfort was needed, the harsh reality of the changes I need to realize hit me today like a wind storm.

God says, "Do more. Do more with a cheerful heart."
You ask, "Do more what?"
The right answer, “Everything that pleases and glorifies Him.”

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.” ~ Romans 12:1-2 (New International Version)

I must remember that my job is to love the Lord, and allow the transformation to occur and not conform to the world’s ways, but only hold dear His ways.

“And all of us, as with unveiled face, [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit.” ~1 Corinthians 3:18 (Amplified Bible)

2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150418958162809

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

Day 754 of Giving Thanks

"His perfect love expels all fear!" ~ Sean Palmer

The opening line of the pastor's teaching, and that got my thoughts fueled. Is this something that I can completely wrap my mind around, while following this with my actions? Your will Lord, that is what we seek and praise.  I love You LORD. Thank You for unending mercies, amazing favor and grace beyond measure.

How many times do I bypass God because I am afraid? I need to be over the top faithful. Know that I can trust Him for all things. Your will Lord, that is what we seek and praise. I must remember that fear, doubt and complaining cause death and that is what the enemy seeks to do. Create those things in our minds, to detract from our life giving actions.

“Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” ~John 10:7, 9-10 (New International Version)

Understanding grace and mercy! 
Forgive me Lord for the doubt I feel and project, and help me always recognize all I have because of You. Let me recognize the grace and mercy in all my life and in all of my circumstances.

When I trust Him with everything, all HIS goodness OVERFLOWS into my life.

I choose life LORD… I choose to see Your miracles. I will submit to be used according to Your will LORD, that is what I desire. To believe, trust and expect is what I choose.

‎"But Jesus said to them, You yourselves give them something to eat. They answered, All we have are five loaves and two fish. Do you want us to go and buy food for this whole crowd?" Luke 9:13 (Good News Translation)

Jesus will do the miracles, we just have to allow ourselves to be the conduit.


"After the disciples had done so, Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up to heaven, thanked God for them, broke them, and gave them to the disciples to distribute to the people." Luke 9:15-16 (Good News Translation)

Notice that the miracle had not yet happened in Jesus' hands, but when the food was distributed...

He will work through us, we just have to trust that He will. We must be in His will, love follow His commands from the heart and from the depths of us.

We must be enthusiastic even when we realize what God really wants us to do. Remember Moses was all excited when He knew God would take care of the injustices... then he hemmed and hawed about him being who God would use...

Remember that it is how God uses me, not that I support His efforts. It's time to do... not just pray for others to do, but for me to do as He desires and wills me to.

Amazing grace...
Let us truly know that that means for us LORD. Let me give grace to others, as you extend to me.

“He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”
 “You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.” ~Luke 10:27+28 (New International Version)

Jesus is my perfect shelter... His tenderness, grace and mercies are all around me. Without Him even of the smallest of storms can destroy, but with Him even the greatest of storms are restoratative. Thankfully, it is not my perception that defines God's miracles. Thankfully, I experience miracles daily. Thankfully, God is giving me better eyes to see them with.

Believe...
Trust...
Expect...
Know that He is Your God, who loves you so much that He executed a plan so you could be with Him in eternity, and gives you a helper until then - but (BIG BUT HERE), YOU HAVE TO CHOOSE HIM.

But know this, He loved you first.

My friends, Jesus did not die on the cross so we can dwell in doubt, fear, anger or complaining - Realize that we have FREEDOM. A freedom to trust and believe that we are children of a King - to dwell in His presence and constantly glorify His name with our lives. 

What does that look like to you?

Don't believe? Running from God? Know this, He will surround you with His people, who will love you, pray for you and wait patiently for God to do His work in you. That is my expectation for all whom I love and for all whom God waits on. Thank You God.


Once again, I hear, "God's got this, really." BELIEVE.

2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150418958162809

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

Sean Palmer is senior teaching pastor at Redwood Church in Redwood City, CA.
http://redwoodchurch.org/#/sermons

Day 753 of Giving Thanks

Today was just another Saturday full of running errands. We had to go to the grocery store and little did I know what a madhouse it would be. The meat department was having a HUGE sale…buy one get one free, 50% off, slice and wrap for free…you name it, it was on sale. As I stood at the butcher counter talking to the young man behind the counter, I was reminded of how far our family has come over the past few months. This young man, who, ironically was named “Angel” was telling me how stressed he was. It wasn’t the customers that got to him…it was the amount of work…more work, with less pay and less time to do it. I remarked how lucky he was to have a job and he told me it wasn’t that he was complaining, but that he was just tired. “When will I ever get a break” he said with a look of defeat in his eyes and a smile on his face.

I remember those days as if it was yesterday. The days where things are finally starting to work out and then WHAM! The car breaks down or the heater goes out. It was like for every one step forward we took, we would get knocked back 10.

People would tell me things would get better, but those words sounded so empty. “Easy for you to say, you are not walking in my shoes, your life is perfect” I would reply. The feeling of defeat weighed so heavy on my heart. I was jobless, and my husband was the only one working. Our daughter was growing and needing new clothes and stuff for school. The dog needed medication……and the Jeep did break down.

Then, something happened. I remembered the words a dear friend told me 3 or 4 years ago:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” ~Jeremiah 29:11 New Living Translation

 The Message Bible words it this way:

“This is God's Word on the subject: "As soon as Babylon's seventy years are up and not a day before, I'll show up and take care of you as I promised and bring you back home. I know what I'm doing. I have it all planned out—plans to take care of you, not abandon you, plans to give you the future you hope for.” Jeremiah 29:10-11 Message Bible

I then thought of people like Habakuk and Job. Old Testament figures that endured hard times and were angry and confused and asking God “Why?? Why is this happening to me?” In fact, if you open up the book of Habakkuk in the Bible, the 2nd verse reads like this:

“Lord, how long do I have to call out for help?
      Why don't you listen to me?
   How long must I keep telling you
      that things are terrible?
      Why don't you save us?” ~Habakkuk 1:2 New International Version

Wow. That really opened my eyes that day just a few short months ago. Of you skip ahead to the end of the books of Job and Habakkuk, you see that God keeps His promises. You see that both Habakkuk and Job are given that hope for the future. You see that because of their faith, they win.

I want to win. I am already a winner because the battle has been fought and my God has won the war for me. I will go through trials and hard times. There will be times where I wonder if I am alone or if I will ever get a break. But just because I feel it doesn’t mean I have to be it.

God is faithful, He is consistent and He keeps His promises. I have hope for a future now, because I have faith in the promise He made to me.

Lord, I lift up Angel into your hands. I ask that you help him see that he has hope and a future through you. I don’t know if he is a Christian or not, but Lord, he needs to fee your comfort and needs to know he has hope. Thank you Lord, for showing me I don’t have to live a defeated life anymore. Thank you for showing me that you are Alive and working in my life. Lord, the battle is raging and the enemy is near. Lord, your word says that you have given me the armor and protection (Ephesians 6) and I will put on my armor every day so that I can battle the things that come my way. Thank you Lord, for your strength and your grace and your Mercy. Lord, I praise your name. ~Amen

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Darci Escandon
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=10150418958162809

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

Day 751 of Giving Thanks

Today, as I once again come to You Lord, I cannot imagine what it was like before I came to You. And, I never want to remember those times. I only want to reflect on the goodness of how my life has changed, my life is now transformed.

God’s orchestration is truly amazing, unexpected, unexplainable, unbelievable and undeserved, yet He creates an incredible journey, and when looked back upon, plays just like a perfectly performed symphony. I cannot wait to hear the harps, cymbals resounding and the trumpets sounding.

“PRAISE THE Lord! Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in the heavens of His power! Praise Him for His mighty acts; praise Him according to the abundance of His greatness! Praise Him with trumpet sound; praise Him with lute and harp! Praise Him with tambourine and [single or group] dance; praise Him with stringed and wind instruments or flutes! Praise Him with resounding cymbals; praise Him with loud clashing cymbals! Let everything that has breath and every breath of life praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!)” ~Psalm 150 (Amplified Bible)

Isn’t it just like God to be so fond of music? A melody of perfection at the hand of my Creator. WOW!

My God’s got me. I see it every day evidenced through change, favor and mercy. I am grateful for every day, every moment, every challenge and every unknown today.

When we remember that we are the bride (all of us, man and woman) of our savior, who already died for us... nothing on this earth should affect us on during our wedding preparation (life). We are to prepare, anticipate perfection, exude excitement for the day when we will be united with our King. Sing, dance, celebrate and praise Him.

Every time I need an attitude adjustment, I just think about that, and all is changed. And through this journey, I will change, transform as I live according to His will.

“So then, my friends, because of God's great mercy to us I appeal to you: Offer yourselves as a living sacrifice to God, dedicated to his service and pleasing to him. This is the true worship that you should offer. Do not conform yourselves to the standards of this world, but let God transform you inwardly by a complete change of your mind. Then you will be able to know the will of God—what is good and is pleasing to him and is perfect.”
“And because of God's gracious gift to me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you should. Instead, be modest in your thinking, and judge yourself according to the amount of faith that God has given you. We have many parts in the one body, and all these parts have different functions. In the same way, though we are many, we are one body in union with Christ, and we are all joined to each other as different parts of one body. So we are to use our different gifts in accordance with the grace that God has given us. If our gift is to speak God's message, we should do it according to the faith that we have; if it is to serve, we should serve; if it is to teach, we should teach; if it is to encourage others, we should do so. Whoever shares with others should do it generously; whoever has authority should work hard; whoever shows kindness to others should do it cheerfully.” ~Romans 12:1-8 (Good News Translation)

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

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

Day 750 of Giving Thanks

New eyes Lord, that is what I truly desire. 

In the midst of an attack, whether the enemy or from the depths of our own mind (because of memories and past hurts), HE IS THERE. Here is right here with me, ready for me to be wrapped securely in His promises.

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of sympathy (pity and mercy) and the God [Who is the Source] of every comfort (consolation and encouragement),
“Who comforts (consoles and encourages) us in every trouble (calamity and affliction), so that we may also be able to comfort (console and encourage) those who are in any kind of trouble or distress, with the comfort (consolation and encouragement) with which we ourselves are comforted (consoled and encouraged) by God.
“For just as Christ's [own] sufferings fall to our lot [as they overflow upon His disciples, and we share and experience them] abundantly, so through Christ comfort (consolation and encouragement) is also [shared and experienced] abundantly by us.” ~2 Corinthians 1:3-5 (Amplified Bible )

It takes me taking my eyes off God for just an instant to know that doing so is not a good idea at all. It is making sure that I see Him in all I do, as well as being with me, in my heart and never leaving my thoughts, in all I do as well. I missed some part of that over the past few days. Somehow I forgot that He will take what I cannot, but I have to let it go first. I have to submit and release. Sounds pretty easy, right? Well it is when I finally let go of my “control mentality”, stop being prideful, and maybe letting go of the self-pity.

“Take my yoke on you and become like me, for I am gentle and without pride, and you will have rest for your souls;” ~Matthew 11:29 (Bible in Basic English)

There is a tremendous weight that He takes on without hesitation, without strain and without struggle, yet that same weight will debilitate me, hinder my progress and lead me into horrendous struggles. So why do I insist on trying to carry it at all? Why can't I just give it up for good? It is a choice. A choice just like everything else in my life. Last night I chose to pass it on, let it go and let Him take it all. And, today just like the relief the rain brings during a long run, I breathed deeply for the first time in a few days.


“Come to me, all you who are troubled and weighted down with care, and I will give you rest.” ~Matthew 11:28 (Bible in Basic English)

It is days like today, after a fall, as I climb up and onto His lap of comfort, that the true meaning of relationship is realized. It is days like today, after the tears have dried and the pain is a distant memory, soon to be forgotten, that the true meaning of hope is realized. It is my relationship with my heavenly Father, my Creator that gives me continual hope.

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

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

Day 749 of Giving Thanks

Tonight, I pray for relief and run into Your arms LORD, here I come. LORD, You already know the need I have, I see it as a miracle needed, let me see it as You do.

Today and every day, I trust in His word… His promises, this verse, "‎"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."" ~Jeremiah 29:11 (New International Version) – all my hope is in what He has for me, not what I am in right now, or even tomorrow. I am expectant for all that He has for me toward heaven and perfection. That’s enough for me - more than enough for me.

Goal: Take everything God has for me in my life.
Objective: Give praise and thanks no matter what that "everything" includes.
Results: Trusting in Him always for everything, EVERY THING.

“Your righteousness, God, reaches to the heavens, you who have done great things. Who is like you, God? Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up. You will increase my honor and comfort me once more.” ~Psalm 71:19-21 (New International Version)

Lord, help me to be more forgiving of those in my life. Help me to see them as You want me to see them. Help me to not only act according to Your will, but react according to Your will, as I live toward my purpose. Help mend my broken heart when others act and react in ways that are hurtful, selfish and foolish. Keep me from being hurtful, selfish and foolish in my responses. I rebuke all that is not loving to my soul, encouraging to my heart or healing to my body. Remove from me Lord, all that inhibits me from growing. I accept whatever it takes to move yet closer to You and likened more of Jesus.

I am grateful that what is written on a piece of parchment paper is not really who I am. As I contemplate many things tonight, I am assured, that who I am with Christ is not in question. And, I pray, yet again and some more Lord, for wisdom, clarity and that little miracle of inspiration. That the words will flow, the accomplishments of these past few years will be brought to the front of my mind and delivered to that parchment in perfect order.

Waking up to what I am directed to do, is all I ask Lord. Remove this sleep from my heart, my mind and deep in my soul. Awaken me to my purpose, through You, wholeheartedly.

A song of ascents. Of Solomon.
“Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat—for he grants sleep to those He loves.” ~ Psalm 127:1-2 (New International Version)

Thanks to Sue King for this wonderful close tonight, your thoughts last night inspired this for sure.

I choose to embrace my Maker’s choice for me!

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

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

Day 748 of Giving Thanks

Today Chris asked me, “What do you want for Christmas?” As I pondered the question, I realized that there was nothing I need, much that I want or think I want, but to what degree? What benefit? Whose benefit, is the real question.


I have been given and receive so much. A question popped into my head on my way to work, and was almost audibly. I heard, “Who will you give to?” And, not necessarily the Christmas question, but in general. Part of me wants to completely dismiss the societal Christmas, and sit at Jesus’ feet and that’s it, not think of celebrating any other way. What is the meaning in my heart? How do I celebrate in complete honor to Christ and give to others to attract them to Christ? These are the questions that will not be answered here, but I know His answer for me. These are the questions that are sitting right on top of my heart, and waiting on a settling within my heart.

I BELIEVE AND KNOW that He hears me... He hears all my supplications, my thoughts, my whispers, my cries and my mumblings of the heart. I let Him hear my voice, my questions, my ponderings and my heart’s desires. Today, I am moving from me to Him in a way that is like becoming brand new, shiny and brilliant.  

The greatest of gifts is truly this: Did you know, that when you chose Christ all your broken or missing pieces were put back into place? All we have to do is catch up with the work in us. Sometimes when we focus on where we have been, we miss out on who we are with Him. Don't miss it. Know that although you may have moments of brokenness, you are not broken. In moments when all the world seems against you, you don't need the world. You already have all the power and resources you need from the Holy Spirit, YOU ARE ALREADY VICTORIOUS.

I am grateful that I can ask these questions, that the importance of how to celebrate moves me to think and pray on an answer that really is already deep within my soul. It is up to us individually to be relational with our God. It is up to me to get to know Him for me, to hear Him for me and hear what He says to me. I am not looking for opinions or rules or even insights, I am just seeking God through my pondering for that is what I am drawn to do. And, Lord, I am so grateful that it’s not important what the questions are, but that I come to You…

This morning as I lay in the darkness, in the calm, in the quiet, in the moment right before I awake, I am comforted. I not only sense, but know that I am not alone, know that I am not afraid, not forgotten or forsaken... I am HIS, ALIVE, FORGIVEN AND SAFE. And, truly that is what it, this life is all about, regardless of the day, the celebration title or name on the calendar. It’s truly all about Him. 

Deliver my soul Lord, that is my heart’s desire. That is all I need. 

For the choir director. A Psalm of David.
"The heavens are telling of the glory of God; 
And their expanse is declaring the work of His hands. 
Day to day pours forth speech, 
And night to night reveals knowledge. 
There is no speech, nor are there words; 
Their voice is not heard. 
Their line has gone out through all the earth, 
And their utterances to the end of the world. 
In them He has placed a tent for the sun, 
Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber; 
It rejoices as a strong man to run his course. 
Its rising is from one end of the heavens, 
And its circuit to the other end of them; 
And there is nothing hidden from its heat.
The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul; 
The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. 
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; 
The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. 
The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; 
The judgments of the LORD are true; they are righteous altogether. 
They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; 
Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb. 
Moreover, by them Your servant is warned; 
In keeping them there is great reward. 
Who can discern his errors?  Acquit me of hidden faults. 
Also keep back Your servant from presumptuous sins; 
Let them not rule over me; 
Then I will be blameless, 
And I shall be acquitted of great transgression. 
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart 
Be acceptable in Your sight, 
O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer.” 
~Psalm 16 (New American Standard Bible)

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

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

Day 747 of Giving Thanks Daily by Tina Wetor

When I can’t see through the situation, I have to trust God’s hand to lead me.  As children of God, we are promised the steps of the righteous are ordered by the Lord.  Yet, I admit at the moment, I am wondering if my feet are listening to God.  Life at the moment isn’t making sense, it feels really unpleasant or reminders of the difficulties of the past.  Again, I am working for this company, a place I totally hate.  It was only a few years ago, I was overjoyed the moment I left the doors vowing to myself never to return.   Again, I have to “prove” myself to upper staff of my capabilities for this position.  So, it’s very reassuring of God’s guidance in life with all of the mess ups, disappointments, and tests.

As the enemy's lies try to destroy my confidence or my self-worth with whispers, gossip, or slander.  I refer to the truth-I am highly favored and blessed of God.  As I look back on those dark years of my life, I learned some vital truths-God’s power will sustain me.  Regardless of what others say or do, God will never leave me.  Even through those darkest periods, God’s love still prevailed.  It was only through relying on the Lord, the darkest times didn’t prevail.  He is my strength, my song and my salvation!

Although others may have misgivings about my qualifications or experience, God sees potential in me.  God didn’t create me to be another body upon this earth to occupy space; He created me for a good purpose that’s prepared in advance for me.  So, although my job isn’t what I desire, God has great lessons ahead, new adventures, and people who I can touch with the love of God.  So instead of focusing on what I despise, I will focus on what I adore-My Savior.  It’s only when I work for Him, joy will enter my soul to show life’s worth more.  My worth isn’t built on what others say about me, it’s built on what God says, “I am a child of God.”

When the enemy’s lies surround me, I still have a choice whether to listen or resist.  Although an army surrounds me, I will not fear the tens of thousands drawn up against me on every side.  (Psalm 3:6) My God always promised to protect me, lead me, and will lift up my head.  When my heart is confident of the Lord’s love: I am impossible to stop, my purpose is clear, and nothing can defeat me.

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Tina Wetor
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/notes/giving-thanks-daily/november-27th-day-477-of-giving-thanks/10150405196152809

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

Day 746 of Giving Thanks by Darci Escandon

Homesick for God... I am grateful to be homesick, as that is how my yearnings become actions... Let me explain...

“We need to find God, and He cannot be found in noise and restlessness. God is the friend of silence. See how nature -- trees, flowers, grass -- grows in silence; see the stars, the moon and the sun, how they move in silence. We need silence to be able to touch souls.” - Mother Theresa

Sometimes, I feel distant from God. I feel homesick for my Lord, my amazing and wonderful Father in Heaven. I have the good intentions of starting off the day in His Word, so that I can have my Armor of God on before I start my day (see Ephesians chapter 6) but it seems as if those intentions get thrown by the wayside. The more distracted I get, the less focused I am and the less time I am spending in His word, seeking Him out, learning and growing in Him.

Distraction comes so easily in my life.

“Be Still…and Know that I AM GOD!” ~Psalm 46:10

How can I be still when I get distracted so easily? How can I be still when my mind keeps racing and thoughts keep flowing???

In the New Testament, Jesus came to visit Mary and Martha, however Martha is distracted:

“But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made.” ~Luke 10:40a
The Greek word used for this word, distracted is “perispaō” which means “to draw away”.

When I think of my distractions lately, even the ones that came up when I was trying to write this, that is exactly what they did…they “drew me away” from God. They drew me away from my Bible and away from what God is trying to tell me.

I can only truly hear from Him when I am still. I want to be in His presence and I want to feel His touch..but when my brain is distracted by the TV or Cell Phone or Facebook or Telephone or my Dogs or whatever else may pop up, I draw further and further away from Him.

My focus needs to be on God and God alone. I need to focus on His word. I need to set aside and be disciplined in my quiet time with God every single day, regardless of what is going on around me.

“Be Still…and Know that I AM GOD!” ~Psalm 46:10

Be Still, Be Still and Be Still some more! Seek out His Word. Do not be drawn away from God. That is how we learn, that is how we grow!

“Making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding; yes, if you call out for insight and raise your voice for understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. “ ~Proverbs 2:2-5 English Standard Version

In my times of distraction, I need to call out to God and ask for help so I can focus on what He wants me to learn. I need to truly meditate on His Word, day and night, twenty four hours a day, seven days a week, fifty-two weeks a year!

“Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delights is in the law of the LORD and on His law he meditates day and night” ~Psalm 1:1-2

That is why I have been homesick for God. I have been drawn away from Him, from His word. I have not spent my quiet time with Him and have succumbed to the distractions of this world!!! However, my God is always near, He is always with me and I can overcome my homesickness just by opening up the pages of my Bible and I am close to my Father in Heaven once more!!!

Lord, thank you for not going anywhere while I was drawn away from you. Thank you for showing me how easy and simple it is to get back into your Word. Thank you for helping me with my distractions today and I pray that I can avoid them throughout the rest of my day. Lord, you are always near and You never leave me. Thank you for helping me to see this. Lord, I praise your name! ~Amen

(New International Version used)
© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Darci Escandon
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/notes/giving-thanks-daily/november-26th-day-476-of-giving-thanks/10150405196152809

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

Day 745 of Giving Thanks

Enjoy every day, and find God in all your moments.

Thank You LORD for giving me a sense of humor and showing me it is ok to laugh at myself. And, today, to laugh at myself, while my husband laughed at me too. What a day. Wow. We have been working on a home improvement project, let me just say, I am sure glad that God's abilities to restore, repair, build or rebuild are much greater than ours are. We accomplished what we set out to do when we began today, so thankful for that.

We moved into our home three years ago, yesterday to our home, which is really our weekend job. Thankfully, we do get time off for good behavior and work completed. We set a project, get to it, complete, then decide what is next. Today, was replacing the drywall, in what we lovingly call the “granny unit”, which will ultimately be our gym. It’s a building on the lower part of our property and has been a major effort. Every time I think of the work that has gone into this “room”, I am humbled by memories of God working on my marriage, my sense of humor, my pride, my tongue and me loving all of my life.

As I looked at the ceiling Chris and I hung today, I can see that it is much like life. Things cave-in, and they are dug back out and new supports are put into place; things will leak, and with pressure, they can expand to gaping cracks, and sometimes complete brokenness. But never, ever will our Creator leave us in disrepair, disarray or disorder. He is faithful.

“Everything you do or say, then, should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, as you give thanks through him to God the Father.” ~Colossians 3:17 (Good News Translation)

I am so thankful for so many things, all things that have gone from disrepair to complete restoration, from disarray to complete and amazing arrangement, and all things from disorder to complete order and organization.

I have learned to say, “Yes, God... tell me when and direct me how. I know that you have the why already covered. I love You."

So, back to our ceiling. Tonight, it is everything, but presentable, but I know that, even in our amateur abilities, tomorrow as we tape and mud the seams, restoration of this home project will move toward completion. And, you can guarantee that we better keep our sense of humor intact, as Chris always says, “It’s just gonna be the gym!”

Tonight I feel the affects of hours on my feet, hands over the head and problem solving, so I am ready for rest, HIS REST.

"How lovely is your dwelling place, 
LORD Almighty! 
My soul yearns, even faints, 
for the courts of the LORD; 
my heart and my flesh cry out 
for the living God. 
Even the sparrow has found a home, 
and the swallow a nest for herself, 
where she may have her young— 
a place near your altar, 
LORD Almighty, my King and my God. 
Blessed are those who dwell in your house; 
they are ever praising you." Psalm 84:1-4 (NIV)

It is in His presence that all makes sense and my life come to order. Thank You LORD that I can dwell in Your house.

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

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

Day 744 of Giving Thanks

‎"I'm thanking You, God, from a full heart, I'm writing the book on Your wonders. I'm whistling, laughing, and jumping for joy; I'm singing Your song, High God." ~Psalm 9:1&2 (The Message)

Thanksgiving Day has incredible meaning nowadays. And, it isn’t “all about the turkey” and all the stuffing as it once was, although those are still things I enjoy. Nowadays, it is a time to remember that it is ‘this time of the year’ when God gave me the gift of understanding thanksgiving as a life necessity, not a holiday.

This necessity is one that He desires for us, and I chose for myself. This necessity allows me to understand God’s grace. This necessity has allowed me to grasp His mercy in so many areas of my life. This necessity lets me see His favor through growth and healing.

It was two years ago, November 3rd that I acted on a nudge from God. This was not the first time that nudge was delivered; it was a nudge that had been embedding deeper and deeper in my soul for years.  November 1st, 2009 I saw a status on Facebook; a challenge to give thanks for the month came from a friend. I honestly believed that I would run out of things to give thanks for in a few days. I began simply, and now I cannot imagine not giving thanks on a daily basis.

I personally invite you to hear this nudge as well, Giving Thanks Daily, is… Your journey to daily gratitude begins with your decision to find something good in every situation.

It is His Word and work in my life that I am most grateful for and all the amazing gifts He gives me every day and the miracles that I am now able to recognize in my life.

DAY 295 - There are many moving parts in my life right now, and I have things that I “feel” need to happen quickly, and I am trusting that it will all be handled. And, this morning, as confusion and anxiety fill my heart and mind. I stop and become very silent - seeking the presence of my Lord. I ask for a lifting in my heart, a clearing of my mind. For it is in His presence that I can release all these feelings that are not good.
http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/2010/09/september-2-nd-day-295-of-giving-thanks.html

DAY 432 - I am drenched in the fuel of the Holy Spirit. Jesus is the match... and God is the flame.
http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/2011/01/day-432-of-giving-thanks.html

DAY 292 - God uses our life to display His works. And, I take that personally.
http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/2010/08/day-292-of-giving-thanks.html

DAY 478 - Every day as I embark on my day, I will ask myself, "am I living my life with fleshly responses? Or, am I allowing the Holy Spirit within me to dictate and guide my actions? To answer the direction? To fulfill my purpose through the power of a perfect and mighty God in me, is His will…
http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/2011/03/day-478-of-giving-thanks.html

I have heard many words, and so many of His Words are imprinted on my heart and embedded deeply in my soul, and it is my daily prayer that I will hold even more as He brings me toward perfection. 

‎"Be joyful always, pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." If you live like this, the rewards are tremendous." ~1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (New International Translation)

"Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." ~Philippians 3:13-14 (New International Version)


‎"Live your life with love, following the example of Christ, who loved us and gave himself for us. He was a sacrificial offering that smelled sweet to God." ~Ephesians 5:2 (Common English Bible)


“Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.” ~Jeremiah 33:3 (English Standard Version)


“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” ~Matthew 7:7-8 (New International Version)

DAY 365 (year 1 complete) – I am richly blessed. http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/2010/11/november-11-th-day-365-of-giving-thanks.html

Lord, thank You for Your many gifts and the realization of my need for my savior, Jesus, the ultimate gift that was so amazingly extended to me, and my choice to accept it.  May every day be a day of thanksgiving!


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

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

T.G.I.F. -Thank God I'm Fabulous- (testimony series) by Tina Johnson-Bale

T.G.I.F. Thank God I'm Fabulous
by Tina Johnson-Bale (TJB)

It’s Ok to be confident if you know where you confidence lies-
To consider thanking God for yourself might seem foreign to many, but think about how amazing YOU are for a moment. Take a careful look at the complexity of your hands and feet, your skin and hair, the complexity of your eyes or the sound of your voice! Even consider how every scar is there to point out how your body has been created to heal itself! If we were not designed this way, no Band-Aid or antibiotic would work.  It is humbling to think of how God is so powerful and mighty, yet took such care into fashioning us!

"When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him?" ~Psalm 8:3-4 (New International Version)

It has taken me a very long time, but I can say that I like myself now. It has not been an easy road, as for most of us, but I am learning to appreciate me.

“T.G.I.F {Thank God I'm Fabulous}”, was written on a friend’s wall and I decided to embrace it because scripture back it up…

"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." ~ Psalm 139:14 (New International Version) 

I continue to wage war against the images society has pinned as perfect. I have come from such a warped self-image. At one point in my life I can remember looking in the mirror and seeing myself as grotesque and obese. I was weighing in at 82 pounds and 22 pounds from my goal weight. How is that even possible? It is possible because the enemy was programming me through years of sexual abuse at the hand of adult men young and old who should have been protecting me. These key male figures were under the same yoke of bondage to their mind and living by the lust of their own flesh.

“The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.  
“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”  ~2 Corinthians 10:4-5 (New International Version)

We have an enemy of our souls and he will take hold of our mind if we let him and our grip on reality will be compromised. Do not be mistaken, he wants us dead.

Take those thoughts captive declare they are false and be in the Word of Truth which is God’s written word of the Bible. When we look into scripture we can see that God is glorified in us. We are His creation and when we are confident in Him and see ourselves through His eyes we can live to the potential He desires for us to. Just look at us, we are created in His image.

Thank YOU, Lord, for loving us and choosing each of us. You love and care enough to ensure we continue to be transformed into Your likeness. It is all YOU and you choose to bestow Your transforming grace upon us.

A little about Tina...
Tina lives in Western Canada with her husband and four children, two dogs and cat. She is currently studying toward her Bible degree through online resources while serving the Lord in her home and community in however she can. Her passion lies with helping others find freedom from bondage and learn to walk in the freedom of a life in Christ.

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

Day 743 of Giving Thanks

My life in words…
…for years, I could not find “my words” when I spoke. I spoke what was expected or rehearsed. Today, I am excited and reeling in anticipation because I have my own words through His Word, reflection of His Word and lessons from His Word to share like a song of hope. Please hear me on this, His words through my life are very different from His Word; my words are my words, I am just greatly inspired and encouraged daily to share! Whoa!*

“It is the same with My word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit.  It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.  You will live in joy and peace. The mountains and hills will burst into song, and the trees of the field will clap their hands!” ~Isaiah 55:11-15 (New Living Translation)

Settle in, let Him lead.
Seek, ponder, reflect, REJOICE...
He truly has this and that and all that is.

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, remembering that as members of the same body you are called to live in harmony, and never forget to be thankful for what God has done for you.” ~Colossians 3:15 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

It is the anticipation of hope that keeps me hoping! How about you? The Lord Jesus left us a helper, the Holy Spirit, which is my power, my strength, my teacher, my guide and my friend.

Thank You Jesus for delivering all my needs perfectly to the Father and thank You Father for hearing my prayers. In the strength, every day, from the Holy Spirit I live. Amen.

"I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency]. ~Philippians 4:13 (Amplified Bible)


Sickness is defined as this world and the only cure is Jesus. My security comes from God the Father and knowing I am His.

"But the Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, Standby), the Holy Spirit, Whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will teach you all things. And He will cause you to recall (will remind you of, bring to your remembrance) everything I have told you." ~John 14:26 (Amplified Bible)

Every day is a lesson, and every day I have the wisdom through my relationship with my Father to share these lessons in words, “my words”, which come through His strength and the hope that His promises bring and reveal. Trials are blessings that I just need to acknowledge. Once this happens, hope is truly everywhere.

“Live by the Spirit and Reject the Deeds of the Flesh
But I say, live by the Spirit, and you will never carry out the desire of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh, for these are in opposition to one another, so that whatever you want, you may not do these things.18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.” ~Galatians 5:16-20 (Lexham English Bible)

Let Him BE...
Let Him BE the someone I cry my heart out to.
Let Him BE the comfort I seek when comfort is required.
Let Him BE the only voice I hear in times of turmoil or tragedy.
Let Him BE the One and only God for me.

*~*~*~*~**~*~*~*~*
By the way, the word “standby” means (ref: Amplified Bible translation of John 14):
1. Staunch supporter or adherent; one who can be relied upon.
2. Something upon which one can rely and therefore choose or use regularly.
3. Kept readily available for use in an emergency, shortage, or the like: a standby player.

Whoa definition from the Urban Dictionary:
1. To express surprise (interj)
2. To express astonishment(interj)
3. To indicate a desire for one to end that of which they are speaking (interj)
4. Evolved from a song to describe something that you're not quite sure exactly how to describe (adj)

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

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

Day 742 of Giving Thanks

‎"I thank my God at all times for you because of the grace (the favor and spiritual blessing) of God which was bestowed on you in Christ Jesus…”
Every moment is a blessing, NO DISGUISE, JUST A BLESSING. I just have to remember who we belong to and KNOW that He loves me. And in every moment, He continues to draw me near and lead me through to perfection...
"[So] that in Him in every respect you were enriched, in full power and readiness of speech [to speak of your faith] and complete knowledge and illumination [to give you full insight into its meaning]." ~1 Corinthians 1:4-5 (Amplified Bible)
Today, I see every moment as a confirmation of my many treasures. In the strength and wisdom of the Holy Spirit, I will ALWAYS be ready for what comes my way, is what I need to get through and respond to.

Even though all the moments that are not all that I expect them to be, I do know that very day is a better day than the one before.

“A single day in your courts is better than a thousand anywhere else! I would rather be a gatekeeper in the house of my God than live the good life in the homes of the wicked.
“For the LORD God is our sun and our shield. He gives us grace and glory. The LORD will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right.
“O LORD of Heaven’s Armies, what joy for those who trust in you.” ~Psalm 84:10-12 (New Living Translation)

I have the greatest opportunities every day to shine the Jesus light for those around us. I believe we do that by staying in His word, understanding that we ARE LOVED GREATER than we will ever know, seeing GOD all around us AND KEEPING OUR EYES and HEARTS on the things that are important to God…

...and the greatest of these is love, LOVE, LOVE!

"But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love." ~1 Corinthians 13:13 (The Message)

I may see all the cracks in my life, and God sees opportunity for repair and refurbishing. May we all have cracks to fill and repair. Even with the cracks, He overfills me with blessings and love.  I have learned that when it pours circumstances, God will overflow me with fulfillment toward my purpose. Sometimes the pouring is manifested in tears and regardless of what pours out, I know that with every blink of my eyes, there can be a change in perspective.

Today I choose to let go of my insecurities and see the security that holds true with God in me... All things, Lord, are possible today and every day with You in me.

Truly, we are all inadequate on our own... but it is through Him that we become more than adequate.

“When the world says, "Give up," Hope whispers, "Try it one more time.”  ~Author Unknown

Why is there hope, you might ask, it is because I have eternity to look forward to and life here with the Holy Spirit with me. I see so many moments as entering the “God Room”, and not that God isn’t everywhere else, but that all my intentions and my whole heart are revealed and revered. My place where I can confirm my lessons, question my concerns and edify my savior. It is where my thoughts and prayers conjoin and He edifies me too.  My sanctuary where honesty lives and is harvested with vigor and passion for The Word.

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

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

Day 741 of Giving Thanks by Tina Wetor

A woman with no name taught us the most important lesson, anyone who truly touches Jesus is NEVER the same.  From all of the passages recorded of this woman, I wrote a story about her.  Although we don't know her name, we can learn so much from her.  Yes, it's a beautiful story, one of what the power of faith can do.  (This is paraphrased of one of the most precious miracles of Jesus.)

Daily a woman walks the streets amongst a busy town, everyone sees her but nobody knows her.  Why would they dare too?  She is a helpless beggar with nothing to offer.   A helpless beggar, does anyone care to know the circumstances of her life?  No one bothers to ask or to show compassion in their eyes instead they just pass her by.  Life is too busy to help a homeless beggar, so again she walks down the road alone.  Empty, broke, and sick of life’s difficulties but pain seems to be her only friend.  It comes daily to remind her, hope is lost.

As she walks down the street, the city is busy as usual except there seems to be excitement in the air.  All of the people are heading in one direction, what could be happening?  Why is there so much excitement today?  So, she dares to discover what the commotion is all about.  Silently she walks, so nobody will notice her.  She doesn’t want to scare anyone or risk being seen, she is an outcast.  An outcast for something beyond her control, she is sick.  So, sick the doctors have sent her away to die.  There is no hope, no cure.  All of her savings is gone.  She spent all her wealth with the hopes of being strong again.  Or is that some vague memory?

As she gets closer to the crowd, it’s hard to see what’s going on.  So, she keeps trying to see, she stands upon her toes to see above the crowd.  At that moment, she gets a glimpse of someone she has heard stories about.  Could it be?  Oh, it can’t be him!  Really, is it him?  So, she tries to get around the crowd but there are too many people.  Yet, her heart is fearful if the crowd notices her, she is unclean.  If she touches anyone, she could be stoned.  Death awaits her if she stays here or death comes if she goes.

Regardless of what others say, she refuses to listen to their words.  Yet, she knows all her wealth is gone, she is broke.  She spent all of her wealth to find hope but received empty promises.  Broken dreams and broken promises have left her a broken heart.  Her heart can’t reach anymore but at this moment, the crowd is getting heavier.  What’s all of the excitement?  As she lifts her eyes, she sees the man approaching, “It can’t be!”  Is it really him?  She is almost afraid to follow.  Inside her heart, she weighs all the options but she recalls the stories.  All of the marvelous stories of miracles everyone has been talking about.  Could the stories be true?  Would he help me?  As she sees the man approaching, she is so frightened.  What do I do?  Oh, here he comes, where shall I go for him to notice me?

Will he notice me?  As the crowd thickness, a moment of hope comes, she see his face.  It is Jesus!  How do I get closer?  The crowd is heavy, it’s beyond her reach.  Yet, she looks down to see his robe.  She can’t get his attention but she can touch him.  The crowd is focused on Jesus, so no one will notice me.  Inside her heart she says, “If I can only touch the hem of his garment, I will be whole.”  So, she presses towards the ground to touch the hem, she touched it.

Instantly she notices a difference, the sickness is gone.  Yet, she hears the terrifying words, “Who touched me?”  She hears one of the disciples, “Lord, why are you asking, “Who touched you?”  So, she comes trembling before the crowd and admits her wrong.

A midst a crowd of people who didn’t care about her or notice her, she awaits her destiny.  Death should be her sentence but Jesus comes to her.  “Daughter, go in peace.”  “Your faith as made you well.”

Wow!  Jesus called me, “Daughter!”  As she walks away from the crowd, tears roll down her cheeks.  “I am whole!”  “I can’t believe it!   As she starts walking home, she hears the words of Jesus, “I am a daughter!”

A woman without a name is remembered for a simple act of faith.  She only had one opportunity but she took it, she had to touch his hem.  What’s so amazing about this?  Jesus noticed instantly that someone touched him with faith, so His power touched her.  Sadly, so many people feel unworthy to touch Jesus.  Besides all of the rumors, some are true.  He wouldn’t want me, I am sure.  What can I give Him?    

What you need to realize in this Biblical story, she didn’t have nothing to offer but her faith.  She was willing to push through the crowd of people who wanted to see Jesus.  All of people wanted an opportunity, she took it.  What’s so precious, Jesus was on the way to help a family who lost a daughter.  It was a tragic day but instead it was a miraculous moment.  God isn’t a respecter of persons; He is willing to help anyone.  Yes, He wants to help you!  How can I be sure?  The nail scared hands, it says it all.  He is compassionate toward ALL He made.  He made you.  So, He wants to be near you even if you have nothing to offer but brokenness, debt, and pain.

Often, I think about this story:  A broken woman without hope, enormous debt and removed from society. Yet, she took one step of faith to touch His hem. She was an outcast who was left to die but Jesus felt her touch of faith, one touch is all it took. She was no longer an outcast, she was a daughter. She was healed in her heart, mind, and soul because Jesus touched her. Jesus changes everything. (Luke 8:43-47, Mark 5:25-34, Matthew 9:20-22)

© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Tina Wetor
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/notes/giving-thanks-daily/november-19th-day-740-of-giving-thanks/10150391349612809
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We are Wonderfully Made (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Wonderfully-Made/130178720330362), living to encourage and Equip His People (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Equip-His-People-Ephesians-411-13/170487976325407) and completely committed to believing greatly Psalm 139 with purpose (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Psalm-139-with-purpose/183264461708034).

Day 740 of Giving Thanks

Do you ever stare at a sink full of dishes and wish that they would clean themselves? As embarrassing as it is to say this, I think I have even prayed that God would make the dishes miraculously clean themselves. That’s a prayer that He has yet to answer.

Yet, as I think about it, life is that way sometimes. Life is full of mundane tasks, boring, dirty, “unfulfilling”. It is full of tasks and things that we wish would just do themselves. Yet, these little mundane things have to get done. What would happen if we never had clean dishes? What would we eat on? We need clean dishes in our lives. These are the small details that, if not completed, can affect a lot more than we realize.

“In the eleventh year in the month of Bul, the eighth month, the temple was finished in all its details according to its specifications. He had spent seven years building it.” ~1 Kings 6:38 New International Version

““All this,” David said, “I have in writing as a result of the LORD’s hand on me, and he enabled me to understand all the details of the plan.”~ 1 Chronicles 28:19 New International Version

God is a God of details. EVERY little thing matters to God, every little small minute detail matters to Him, even the most mundane and dull tasks are important to Him. Even the dishes.

Next time you look upon a sink full of dirty dishes, look at it as an opportunity to praise God. Turn on your worship music and sing to Him as you wash. Be thankful that you have running water to use and dishes to eat off of. Thank Him for the blessings you have rather than concentrating on the task you hate doing the most.

Lord, thank you for my dishes. Thank you for providing me one more opportunity to praise your name. Lord, thank you for showing me that every little detail matters to you and obeying you is what is important. Lord, help me get my sink full of dishes clean with a warm and loving heart!!! Thank you Lord, for your faithfulness and for your blessings! Amen!


© 2011 Giving Thanks Daily, Darci Escandon
Web: http://shawnsgivingthanksdaily.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/notes/giving-thanks-daily/november-19th-day-740-of-giving-thanks/10150391349612809
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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).