My Life is a Prayer - March 11, 2014

I am grateful for Your Word... for being Yours and being led to perfection daily... I praise You LORD. I am thankful for every single day. Help me to live in a way that gratitude describes me.

Another day in victory, yet... help me Father, as this road I am on seems so long... dry and full of pot holes. As I stop, catch my breath tonight and hold on to You, I am in great need to exhale the negative that comes in and breathe in Your Word... James 1:2-3 says, "Regard it all as joy, my brothers, when you face various kinds of temptations; for you know that the testing of your trust produces perseverance." (Complete Jewish Bible).

I love this text... Regard (care, concern, respect, consider, appreciate) IT ALL AS JOY... that means everything... the trials; the obstacles.... "How LORD?" I think, and He assures, "Just as you are - through my Word; in my promises; because I am here and will never leave you".

Temptations (my urge to run... hide... give up or in... the enemy's desire to see me submit to his ruin and deceit) - NO! I will not.

I am weary, yet You, my God are here to carry me, lift me and sustain me in every possible way. I remember to CALL ON YOU - Matthew 11:28 reminds me, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and loaded down with burdens, and I will give you rest." And in the International Standard Version, I see "loaded down"... does anyone else feel that way when it comes to their marriage - and the enemy's plotting to destroy? KNOW THIS, OUR FATHER IS GREATER, BIGGER, STRONGER AND PERFECT in His plans.

As I search the Word, Your Word, I see so many ways that You love and guide me Father. Thank You for being with me, for "clearing my path", making a way... drawing me nearer and "leading me toward perfection". Your ways LORD God... Your ways I desire and seek.

"30 God! His way is perfect;
    the Lord’s Word is tried and true.
He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him.
31 Now really, who is divine except the Lord?
    And who is a rock but our God?
32 Only God! The God who equips me with strength
    and makes my way perfect,
33     who makes my step as sure as the deer’s,
    who lets me stand securely on the heights,
34     who trains my hands for war
    so my arms can bend a bronze bow.
35 You’ve given me the shield of Your salvation;
    Your strong hand has supported me;
    Your help has made me great.
36 You’ve let me walk fast and safe,
    without even twisting an ankle." Psalm 18:30-36 (Common English Bible)

Assured, I step forward, IN FAITH (beseeching even more faith) toward perfection every day, in every moment. And, as Your Word envelops my heart, and moves this little faith, I trust. Yes Father, I trust. I request ALL the strength I possess through the Holy Spirit to bring me a calm to my heart and a lifting of my soul tonight...

And, again I repeat my prayer from the morning, and trust... Yes LORD, I trust in the mighty name and powers of my Savior, Jesus... I trust.

A Pouring Out Lord I am coming to You this morning, tired and weary of this battle. It grows old. Renew me today. Put that fire in my heart to work diligently in the most important ministry I have! Pour out Your compassion and let it indwell greatly in my heart, let my eyes see as You see, let my ears hear Your words of encouragement. In this battle, even without arrows shooting or bullets penetrating, it's the deep unresolve of sin in the heart of those who do not know You. The enemy has not won, but the battle rages as he has. His only goal is to kill, steal and destroy and satan you will not, WILL NOT get my household. So Father, I am coming to YOU NOW for your strength and courage in this and every single moment. Help me to submit to the strength of the Holy Spirit and not to the desires for peace – keep my sights on You and help me do what's right I want to speak truth and allow You to reveal Your amazing Grace, Your amazing healing, Your amazing glory to those who don't believe; but Father You know the needs I share. Let me not be hindered by the battle, BUT encouraged, energized and joyful in Your victory. Remind me Lord, continue to remind me. In my tearful times I don't want to be afraid to cry, or afraid that the tears won't stop. Help me and my unbelief today. Help me and my doubt today. Help me let go of the fear that this is all there is today. In the mighty name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

And, as the day progressed, the prayers continued... "I have such a narrow view of things at times LORD... and I want to focus on the right things... the day to day... the moment to moment... Thank You for not leaving me, nor forsaking me – in the fire, I am covered and protected - I know it's when I reach beyond You that I get burned. It's when I decide to place my dependence on me, rather than You that I go under. Help me to stay above all that is strife and distracting AND distancing. Humbly and Yours, I come to You in Jesus' name. Amen."

And tonight I am reminded once again... Live as though every moment is a miracle, and every moment leads to the next miracle. And you know what? This life truly is a miracle, as is every moment.

#givingthanksdaily
#lifeincolorandWORDs
#mylifeisaprayer

My Life is a Prayer - February 6, 2014

WORDS...
There are many words that ran through my thoughts today, and many that I pondered... much of what I 'thought on' was prayer.
We are instructed to 'hold every thought captive', and for me, that is where my day begins and my life prevails... 'every thought' that is God - Christ edifying and in obedience to His will.

Big command, and totally doable through He who loves me so much.

Father, I need You today, actually all of this week… It has really been trying for me. I don't want to be a complainer and the grumbler, but I feel like that's what I am doing this week. I'm overwhelmed! I'm tired… And in need of Your wisdom. Help me in this time of busyness to know what to say, how to react, how to be an example in the hardest of situations. Not that these are the hardest of times, but I see You trend in my life. I get farther and farther behind by not saying no. I allow myself to be overwhelmed, and to what end? Help me LORD… Help me LORD! I ask for your help in the precious name of Jesus I pray, amen.

#givingthanksdaily
#lifeincolorandWORDs
#mylifeisaprayer

Thankful Life - January 30, 2014

Yesterday as I began my morning, I knew that I had 'a day' before me... plenty to do, more to be added and so much that I would be inspired to do as the day progressed. And, yep, just as I expected - it was ALL and MORE than all that. Thank You LORD for strength and gumption. And, it was a good day.

As I start again today, I have to submit Father 'it all' to You! And, it will be a good day. Fear is not an issue in the moment to moment, but an underlying theme of this daily journey. This week, I am listening to and reading through Isaiah 43.

"Do not be afraid, because I have reclaimed you.
    I have called you by name; you are mine.
When you go through the sea, I am with you.
    When you go through rivers, they will not sweep you away.
    When you walk through fire, you will not be burned,
    and the flames will not harm you.
I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
    Egypt is the ransom I exchanged for you.
    Sudan and Seba are the price I paid for you.
Since you are precious to me, you are honored and I love you.
    I will exchange others for you.
        Nations will be the price I pay for your life." ~Isaiah 43:1-4 (GOD's WORD Translation)

Every day I need reminding that He paid the price, and every day I just need to believe a little bit that He is All for me, and ALL IS GOOD.

Father, from the roadblocks that thought and circumstances allow, help me to be in Your presence to see every breakthrough, every stopping point and mountain top that You have me in. Thank You for yesterday's challenges, resources and the friends who helped me see more clearly. Thank You for today, the plan and changed details that will occur... thank You Jesus for providing and doing 'it all' TODAY AND EVERY DAY, grateful in Your amazing and perfect name, amen!

#givingthanksdaily
#lifeincolorandWORDS

It's Quite Simple - by Shawn Boreta

Every day I am blessed with new ideas... new assumptions... and in every moment, I am assured through His truth.

Someone said the other day, "that's their truth, and I have mine..." in love, I did not agree... but added, "their perception of 'THE' truth... since the reality is, things happen one way, and the situations are relayed another.

As I think about this, I wonder... "what if" (one of my favorite thoughts...) - what if we saw things the same way?

We would have nothing to look forward to in my opinion. We would see colors the same, the weather the same... YUCK... I love that "I love" the sunshine, and my best friend "loves" the rain. I love that "I love" vegetables, and I am challenged to make them "loved" by my husband, which he does not...

Love our difference, embrace the challenge to work together, love one another for our differences and see truth from God, and perception as an opportunity to connect with other or change our out own outlook.

#givingthanksdaily
#LifeincolorandWORDS

Thankful Life - January 13, 2014

HMMMMMMMMMMMMM...

What if... 
all children in need of a home, received one? (Acceptance/Chosen)
all children were loved and never needed to look outside their home for acceptance, and had a community surrounding them for guidance and extended love? (Freedom)
all children, young and old, healthy or ill, knew where they 'came from', and where they 'are going'? (Hope)

Just some thoughts today... 

In March, we will be launching my ART LINE and so excited to bring awareness to my favorite organizations, and for their benefit. 

...stay tuned!Please check out - Bethany Christian Services, Hope's Not a Crime and Love Never Fails (http://loveneverfailsus.org/)

It's quite simple... by Shawn Boreta

God wants you to believe Him... when He says, "you are already healed..." we are to believe. We can step in to the change necessary to know His healing. We must let go...

It was years of reprogramming my mind, that now indwells my heart.

You have to believe... you have to choose. BELIEVE... move forward... let go... embrace change.... love the challenge of change... KNOW THAT YOU ARE ALREADY HEALED... you just have to accept that you are His child and everything in Him is possible.

It is possible, because it is already accomplished for me and for you.

My journey of daily gratitude forged the path necessary so I can step in His confidence every day - His desire is for us to KNOW His grace and mercies. My prayer, daily, is for you to have the same confidence and awareness of His presence. Not every day is perfect, but every day is being perfected through Him.

Today, I invite you to join this journey of daily gratitude... to give thanks in new ways and realize His daily gifts for you - through the storms, in the hurricane of daily circumstances and in the calm that only He can bring. I encourage you to take a stand for your own life by giving it all to your Creator and Redeemer. It's time. It's your time to know His time for you.

#shawnboreta

It's quite simple... by Shawn Boreta

Today I am grateful for the desires of my heart. I'm grateful that in obedience, the desires of my heart, will be HIS will. I have learned, that when I am obedient, I see things differently; I see things through different eyes and I hear things with different ears. Our Creator pursues us and desires us to know His call.

Thankfulness is a gift we, not only give ourselves, but a gift we give to those around us... One thing I have learned greatly, is it's really hard to be down and out when you are focusing on gratitude.

Today was a crazy-busy day. A good day, but much going on. In the process of the day, I was able to speak to so many wonderful, dedicated and giving people. I truly have a great team to work with. The LORD is so amazing in His plans. Tonight I was able to visit with two sisters in Christ and it was revealed in my heart, that I have changes to make; a softening so to speak in regards to this one area. I heard that urge last night in my soul as well. Father, help me to be more like You, and engaged wholly in the Spirit as I walk on this earth. Help me Father to hold on to the thankfulness that You put into my heart through salvation. Help me to see all Your gifts of this life through to the next. Thank You for loving me, guiding me and giving me all that I need, and more of what I desire - help me know Your desires in all things. I love You Abba and am truly humbled by the lessons of the days, and the blessings of this Kingdom building and work.

#givingthanksdaily

Thankful Life - January 9, 2014

To be bold in faith, often means, doing things others will not even attempt. Let us be bold. In our boldness, He is with us every step and every breath of the way. He will strengthen, guide and give us the wisdom during this journey.

We can count on His presence and we can know that, as His children won by the blood of Jesus, we can do all things in confidence and in obedience because of WHO we hold inside us.

Let us be bold, and walk in His light and shine His glory in this world. You have to allow God to work in your family's life... to help them grow. Because of your example, they will change, however, they may not realize it was your ongoing and steady influence that help them get there. Gratitude in your every moment is where we begin. Be thankful in all things.

“Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His love endures forever.” ~1 Chronicles 16:34 (New International Version)

In your moments of thankfulness, remember to recognize the changes in your own life, as well as those you love. And be grateful for all the I will not be preoccupied with the 'what ifs', but grateful for all that HE HAS DONE WITH MY 'what did nots'. Not sure if this makes since, but for years I thought that I could be so much 'farther along' if something would have been different - BUT WHAT I HAVE FOUND that because of all the 'what did not', bad decisions and in spite of 'me', HE HAS DONE AN AMAZING WORK IN ME.

It's quite simple.. by Shawn Boreta

Today I am grateful for questions I cannot answer... and the feeling of restlessness to keep fighting toward His wisdom. 

Often, less than it used to be, I get flustered when I have question after question thrown at me - even if I know how to answer it in my head, my mouth will not mutter a coherent or intellectual word.

Why am I thankful for this? Today, I realized that this is a trigger - not necessarily a good response, but I now know what to work on... and pray for guidance with.

What are you thankful for? 

Thankful Life - January 1, 2014

What if what you see is so small that you miss the heavenly beauty of what is outside of your scope of vision? What if your circumstances are limiting your vantage point? What if you could see things from God's perspective for just glimpses and moments?

I believe we can... and it comes when we dive into the Word... learn from our experiences... pay attention to His instruction and guidance as we seek Him through the full strength and power of the Holy Spirit. Our wholeness in Him, and because of Him, is limitless.

Our Creator, who is also our Redeemer and Teacher has Hope for us in BIG WAYS... We not only hope for what is to come, we have hope in what has already passed. Today, I am so thankful for time to reflect and be challenged. I am completely challenged today to see my every challenge as a blessing - not just at the end of the challenge, but in the middle of it.

"However, He was the one who lifted up our sicknesses,
and He carried our pain,
yet[and] we ourselves assumed him stricken,
struck down by God and afflicted.
But[AND] He was pierced[wounded] because of our transgressions,
crushed because of our iniquities;
the chastisement for[of] our peace[healing] was upon Him,
and by His wounds[wound] we were healed[it was healed for us]." ~Isaiah 53:4-5 (Lexham English Bible)

If you are sick, weary, discourage or disheartened, KNOW that because He was nailed to the cross to suffer for our sin, died and rose again (all three), when we choose to believe and receive His gift, we are healed of the greatest sickness of all - eternity without Him. If you are not His, or if you are unsure of where you stand... cry out to Him and He (through the power of the Holy Spirit) will show you the way. It's time... it's your time to allow His gift to envelop your heart, mind and soul.

Happy New Year - 2014

We will not know how many people are influenced by us in this lifetime... good or bad - we will get inklings on occasion, however others exposure to us happens every single day. Bad behavior, inadequate attitudes, not enough grace, lack of compassion is evident everywhere... let us submit to Christ-like character and actions in all things - in this season my prayer is that as we are out and about, His light shines through and tenderness, love and compassion are evident and many are witnessed to through His power and strength that comes from our submission and obedience.

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.

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

Thankful Life – December 31, 2013

I have been so fortunate in my life. Even through struggles and challenges, I can see God's work in so many things. As long as I can remember, there have been struggles around me.

This life delivers many opportunities to exercise faith... are you taking them?

What are some of your recent opportunities? Those that stretched your faith, strengthened your faith and shared your faith as you walked through them hand in hand with our Heavenly Father?

So quickly, again we are coming up on a new year. I can't remember times moving so quickly as they have these past few years. I don't want to miss anything that God has for me, so I am really working on avoiding the busyness. Enjoying the moments! Savoring everything that God has for me in this life. To be bold in faith, often means, doing things others will not even attempt. Let us be bold. In our boldness, He is with us every step and every breath of the way. He will strengthen, guide and give us the wisdom during this journey.

We can count on His presence and we can know that, as His children won by the blood of Jesus, we can do all things in confidence and in obedience because of WHO we hold inside us. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16 (New King James Version)

Let us be bold, and walk in His light and shine His glory in this world. I will not be preoccupied with the 'what ifs', but grateful for all that HE HAS DONE WITH MY 'what did nots'. Not sure if this makes since, but for years I thought that I could be so much 'farther along' if something would have been different - BUT WHAT I HAVE FOUND that because of all the 'what did not', bad decisions and in spite of 'me', HE HAS DONE AN AMAZING WORK IN ME. Let us remember to LET GO.

I share this because this is a time of renewal, as is every single day of our journey. I share this because this is a time of believing His greatness for your life. “Look at the proud: he is inwardly not upright; but the righteous will attain life through trusting faithfulness." ~Habakkuk 2:4 (Complete Jewish Bible)

YOU HAVE PURPOSE. He has a plan. "And Jesus said, [You say to Me], If You can do anything? [Why,] all things can be (are possible) to him who believes!" ~Mark 9:23 (Amplified Bible)

It's time to be expectant daily.

Thankful Life – December 3, 2013

I am grateful for knowledge. Knowledge that I am His… knowledge that God is who He says He is… knowledge that is yet to come through the power of the Holy Spirit… knowledge that obedience is not an obligation, but is my joy and brings joy and hope and contentment. Thinking back on the many years of pleading with God to 'heal this', 'deliver me from that' or 'take this from me', I am greatly aware that my prayers, although sincere, are not always wise... Today, I find the prayers that relay thankfulness first for what is being lived through, allows me to look at things much differently and gives me God's perspective a bit more. I continue to pray for wisdom... His knowledge embedded deeply in my heart, lived out in my life.

The other day as I read through Romans 1... I was struck by these words...

"Therefore God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts..." Vs. 24
"Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts..." Vs. 26
"Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind..." Vs. 28

I don't want to take anything out of context, but these words hit a chord...

It is my pleasure and joy to seek God's Word, to know His desires for my life... when I “go my own way”, often which is the way of this world, I dismiss His instruction AND, I dismiss His love and care for my life.

What is it that is so worthwhile of this world that we would exchange the glory and grace of God for? I desire to be thankful, and thankful to He who is all deserving, all powerful and all knowing. I desire to submit more, obey more and live more like Christ... Let me seek His will and His desires for my life. Let it be known, not by my judgment or opinions, but by my example and works who I belong to.

I continue to pray for His hand upon my life, and the strength of the Holy Spirit to move me in the right direction - living in hope, joy and expectation!

How about you? What is your desire?

Let us not hide in the darkness – He will be the light in all the darkness of days and from moment to moment, “Come to me”, He says. Is that not encouraging? Is that not all that we need? “Come to me”, He says! These are truly encouraging words and His words for each and every one of us. I know this greatly, I choose daily to choose… to choose Him, and to choose wisely – my thoughts, my words, my path and my obedience to Him.

He never changes, it is us who change daily through our experiences and choices – through our desires, those that are our own, and those as we are directed and instructed and are His.

Father, let my heart break for those who insult me, hurt me and attack me… for they need You.

God does bless, restore, fill and lead those who, not only call upon Him in need but those, who call Him to save them. I once believed that I needed nothing, but know that He is what I need. I expect daily to see God work in and around my life. That is the true blessing I see. I have been restored from hurt, illness, pitfalls, bad decisions and things outside my control, and am led to seek Him and know that He is the one who fulfills.

I cry out to our Father, in the full strength of the Holy Spirit and in Jesus' name that YOU TOO KNOW HIM LIKE THIS. That you too will trust and believe Him to be who He says He is.

On this day, I pray, it's today you choose.

  

©2013 Giving Thanks Daily

Thankful Life – November 25, 2013

My King is SO EXTRAVAGANT.

Don't we all want the good things from Jesus? Don't we all want the blessings that He so lovingly gives? Do we pray for submission and obedience? Why is it so hard for us to submit to Him, and let go of ourselves and to be obedient?



Let us stand in prayer for those who desire all that He has.

"I have set the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken." ~ Psalm 16:8 (New International Version)

I have been completely stripped away and left naked; and His is the only robe that can carry and cover me appropriately. What is it that He has cleared away for you and restored to better than before? What baggage do we all carry? How do we leave it behind without running back to pick them back up? Don't we find that we can lay down the baggage much easier than leaving it behind?
Let us not be people who say, but people who give… give it all to Him. Allow the Spirit to move you toward complete healing and all that He has for you. He is all we need – when we submit and obey. Often, in the past, I saw those two commands as ‘giving up’ something that I wanted or felt I needed to comply… Today, I see submitting as allowing myself to see God and His promises before the desires of the flesh; and obeying as allowing God to do what God does. Again, you can’t get much greater than that.


“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)

I am needy LORD... yet, there is no one around to fulfill that need. Help me to run to You on all occasions, during every crisis and in all the moments where need surfaces (which really is all moments). Help me to see You through the noise of this life, and the distractions that are everywhere. I am needy LORD, and You are the fulfiller. We are all in the process – the phases and steps of the journey shift, move, and advance as well as retreat... He's got this... just remember whose you are. In this process we engage with one another and that is our design. We are designed for relationship – first and foremost with our heavenly Father and then with others.


©2013 Giving Thanks Daily

 

Thankful Life – November 23, 2013

WOW, nothing too big for God.... especially a wayward heart. Inspired.... God speaking - time to pray BIG, speak little and wait.

My normal days are still quite wonderful. Even in the normal and ordinary of the every day. A wonderful life.

He is for you... and you have been created to live in His light, in His power and strength... to love one another, live for Him and know His goodness. Let us not love this worlds and the things in it, but love Him exclusively and live rightly...

"Never give your hearts to this world or to any of the things in it. A man cannot love the Father and love the world at the same time. For the whole world-system, based as it is on men’s primitive desires, their greedy ambitions and the glamour of all that they think splendid, is not derived from the Father at all, but from the world itself. The world and all its passionate desires will one day disappear. But the man who is following God’s will is part of the permanent and cannot die." ~1 John 2:15+17 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

See “the world” for what it is.... And see God for who and what He is. There is nothing like knowing the living and true God – and nothing like living for my Creator and King.

"As for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more." ~Psalm 71:14 (New International Version)

Today started out normally for a Saturday. I was able to sleep in a bit and spend some time with my hubby before meeting up with my best friend and daughter for our 5 mile walk. Fortunately, I was able to fight through a case of ‘exhaustion’ and make it through. Our little routine is great. Walk, coffee, chat and encouragement for one another. Can’t ask for better than that. Tonight, as I settle in and really ponder all that there is to be grateful for, my heart keeps coming back to the wonderful life I have… not perfect, not flawless, not without challenge, but wonderful, nonetheless.

“Here is a last piece of advice. If you believe in goodness and if you value the approval of God, fix your minds on the things which are holy and right and pure and beautiful and good. Model your conduct on what you have learned from me, on what I have told you and shown you, and you will find the God of peace will be with you.” ~ Philippians 4:8-9 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

Wonderful Life!
This life is not promised as perfect, but as joyful when we can W.elcome challenges and O.stacles with open arms and hearts. When we can knowingly count on the promises of our heavenly Father… with the understanding that with Him, through Him and because of Him, we want for N.othing. And, in the strength and power of the Spirit, the D.esires of our heart, according to His will are ours wholly. We can truly live E.xpectantly and R.ealize the daily blessings and F.ortunes of forgiveness that are extended so freely and amazingly. I am grateful for the U.nending love and tenderness that

He so desires for us to experience. I am grateful for the treasures that overflow and overwhelm my

L.ife in the here and now.

 

We are told to L.ove one another and live for the Kingdom I.ntentionally with our eternal perspective and understanding that our F.ulfillment comes only from our Father. I am grateful that I can E.xperience His best daily! The truly is a wonderful life, one that I am fortunate to live out. It is a daily prayer to do it well… Thank You Father for all that You have done, and all that You have promised.

 

Nonetheless… there is nothing less than His best for me. Now, when I step into every day with this thought in mind, I will realize the ‘amazingness’ of every day – the wonderfulness of every moment – the blessings of this life, with the expectation of perfection in eternity. How could I not believe in the wonderful life of the here and now?

“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)

©2013 Giving Thanks Daily

Thankful Life - November 18, 2013

Today I have to step back and evaluate my heart... I not only became very anxious, but I also became a bit passive aggressive in my mood. Honestly, things were not going well, so I got grouchy... ARGH! Father, I so don't want to react that way. I want to react well, respond greatly.... and let go of the things that are said. Help me to adjust, re-approach and lay down my own hurt feelings to pick up Your armor, Your humility and Your ability through the Spirit to act rightly; beginning with rightly thinking!

As I drove home tonight, I examined… and He exposed! The war, at times, is the harshness of the flesh – the selfishness that misguides and misdirects my thoughts. As I sit here tonight, engaging and dwelling, I am reminded “Be gentle and forbearing with one another…” for me, it all comes down to thought, reflection and contemplation (you might even call it the internal complaining dialog). 

“Clothe yourselves therefore, as God’s own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper].

“Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference (a grievance or complaint) against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has [freely] forgiven you, so must you also [forgive]. 

“And above all these [put on] love and enfold yourselves with the bond of perfectness [which binds everything together completely in ideal harmony]. 

“And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always].

“Let the word [spoken by] Christ (the Messiah) have its home [in your hearts and minds] and dwell in you in [all its] richness, as you teach and admonish and train one another in all insight and intelligence and wisdom [in spiritual things, and as you sing] psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making melody to God with [His] grace in your hearts.

“And whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus and in [dependence upon] His Person, giving praise to God the Father through Him.” ~Colossians 3:12-17 (New American Standard Bible)

I love His Word... the gift of life through our minds, into our souls... AWE... awesome God!!!!

"The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?" ~Psalm 27:1 (New International Version)

In the testing we see His strength. Perseverance is the finisher of work. His love gives us everything we need to accomplish this. And it's only when we believe His promises for life that “His will” will be done.

Father, it’s in my inward motives that I see Your love and tenderness so vividly. Help me to stay in tune with Your desires for my life, thought, action, reaction and motives… Purify me and let me dwell in the engagement. 

©2013 Giving Thanks Daily, Shawn Boreta

Thankful Life - November 17, 2013

His Masterpiece… living toward perfection, but not perfect!

“Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” ~ Ephesians 2:9-10 (New Living Translation)

I have felt much better lately, and I know that there are several other writers here who are having more challenges. I praise God for His mercies for all of us; for the good days, amazing moments and times that need even more tenderness from our Father. Over the past few years I have gone from devastation and depletion of energy to a kind of normal - really, normal is something I am not familiar with, but something that seems normal in my head anyway. Last week I had a scare.... a run to the emergency room from work with chest pains, shortness of breath and other unexplained symptoms... no explanation for any of it, EXCEPT, enemy attack. Although, the doctors and tests revealed nothing of notability, there has been some aftermath from the ordeal... my normal tired was even more tired... and my rapid heart rate was a bit more rapid this past week - but I am truly grateful for the awareness that comes from the physical challenges that come up.

My heart is Yours LORD... fast or slow and I am grateful that You have it.

I find that I can get quite settled into my days. And when I am 'settle', I tend to become lax in my routine. I don't want routine, I want God. And, as I prayed a few weeks ago for the dryness to leave, I was urged on several occasions to let go and move in to being uncomfortable... needing guidance and prayer and His sustaining presence.

It's not that I crave physical challenges, it's that I seem to need them to be drawn in... so I welcome whatever He has that does just that. Thank You Father for creating me with need... moving me toward Your hope in times of challenge... and giving me new desires of my heart through trials.

So, what does His masterpiece in me look like? UNFINISHED… UNREFINED…. UNCULTURED…..

He is all I need, and all I need is to know my need for my King, my Savior, my Hope, my Redeemer and the love of my life.

The emptiness that comes from contentment is deafening for my heart and soul. It sucks the life right out of me… I desire to be drawn near, and nearer! My prayer tonight is, “Do this LORD in any and all ways You see fit; thank You Father for not letting me settle in to the world’s contentment and satisfaction; help me be like Christ, in desire, actions and appeal to others”. DAILY FATHER, LET IT BE YOU, THROUGH IT ALL!

“Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ.” ~Colossians 2:8 (New Living Translation)
  

I have felt much better lately, and I know that there are several other writers here who are having more challenges. I praise God for His mercies for all of us; for the good days, amazing moments and times that need even more tenderness from our Father. Over the past few years I have gone from devastation and depletion of energy to a kind of normal - really, normal is something I am not familiar with, but something that seems normal in my head anyway. Last week I had a scare.... a run to the emergency room from work with chest pains, shortness of breath and other unexplained symptoms... no explanation for any of it, EXCEPT, enemy attack. Although, the doctors and tests revealed nothing of notability, there has been some aftermath from the ordeal... my normal tired was even more tired... and my rapid heart rate was a bit more rapid this past week - but I am truly grateful for the awareness that comes from the physical challenges that come up.

I find that I can get quite settled into my days. And when I am 'settle', I tend to become lax in my routine. I don't want routine, I want God. And, as I prayed a few weeks ago for the dryness to leave, I was urged on several occasions to let go and move in to being uncomfortable... needing guidance and prayer and His sustaining presence.

 ©2013 Shawn Boreta, Giving Thanks Daily

Thankful Life - November 16, 2013

Thank You Lord for awakening the words again.

Living for Today

Somewhere with a past, a story, a heartache, a hardship, a shipwreck... and knowing that He is the shore that never changes... the ending that is always possible... the healing that overcomes all... the power and strength that is mine with the asking, and often without saying a word... that is my faith today.

Knowing that I have come from "somewhere" is often a challenge and requires a change of perspective... living for today while knowing that who I am through Christ is my source of freedom to live today... letting go of yesterday, because where we will be in eternity allows us to truly live today.

“If the LORD delights in my ways, He makes my steps firm; though I stumble, I will not fall, for the LORD upholds me with his hand.” ~Psalm 37:23-24 (New International Version)

If you are in pain, weary, afraid.... know this, you have a God who loves you perfectly, intentionally and will never leave you if you choose Him. He provided salvation through Jesus' death and resurrection from the cross - atonement through the greatest of sacrifices, derived from the most amazing love imaginable.

Have you chosen to accept His amazing gift? If you haven't, can you do it now? It's simple, just speak to Him - with an open heart, ask Him to be Your Savior, Your God, Your healer, Your everything. Acknowledge that you have sinned, will sin and cannot reach the Father by your own efforts and works, that His plan of salvation was and is the only way.

He has a way... He is your way.

He blesses my life! Today is the day (as is every day) that our LORD has made... let us rejoice... REJOICE!!

"But now you also, put them all aside: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, since you laid aside the old self with its evil practices, and have put on the new self who is being renewed to a true knowledge according to the image of the One who created him— a renewal in which there is no distinction between Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and freeman, but Christ is all, and in all.

So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.  Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.” ~Colossians 3:8-17 (New American Standard Bible)

Praise Him - and today, extend that love.

My LIFE, my LIGHT, my HOPE, my SALVATION, my EVERYTHING... Lord Jesus, You are my eternity and assurance of love, tenderness and all that is good, pure and amazing. As I prepare for this very busy day, let me settle and be overwhelmed with Your goodness, NOT the busyness and pulls of this day. Steady me, my heart, my all today. Thank You for being with me, strengthening me and pursuing me through the moments when my thoughts are not pure, kind and edifying. I love You...

In remembering His love and living today, I am comforted through His Word yet again! "Here is a last piece of advice. If you believe in goodness and if you value the approval of God, fix your minds on the things which are holy and right and pure and beautiful and good. Model your conduct on what you have learned from me, on what I have told you and shown you, and you will find the God of peace will be with you." ~Philippians 4:8-9 (J.B. Phillips New Testament)

Deeply... I love You Father. Deeply.... I desire to know Your love and tenderness in NEW AND AMAZING WAYS...

Your love amazes me and Your grace intrigues my every sense - knowing that You have gifted to me what is not even possible, feasible or logical, and I thank You for that!! For loving me in the impossible ways, encouraging me through the help of the Spirit - oh how awesome the thoughts of You are.... how unfathomable Your love and tenderness are.... how truth moves through me as continued gifts from my Father in heaven, and only because of my Jesus' life, death and resurrection and continued life of salvation - my hope.... eternity which comes only through You! WOW... You are unforgettably generous - love and faith drive me closer - pain and frequency of need keep me humbled and engaged. GRATITUDE ALLOWS ME TO BELIEVE YOUR PROMISES, and I desire to be all of You - and seeing You move the flesh out and the Spirit in... I thank You, desire You, hold onto You... I love You Abba Father. You have a SAVIOR, WAITING AND READY TO RECEIVE YOU.

I am grateful daily, and today for His love and kindness... I am grateful that I can know the joy of this life because He gave His for me. My prayer is that if you do not know my Jesus, that you will by allowing Him to be revealed in your life, into your heart. If you are open and ready, He is waiting and available! JUST CALL TO HIM NOW. 
© 2013 Giving Thanks Daily

Thankful Life - September 20, 2013

I am being challenged in a way I have never been challenged before... due to my own INaction and INability to deal with something, I have created quite a mess... I am at the end of me - so different than ever before. Father it is Your strength I seek and need. Your words to flow through me and Your grace that I so desperately appreciate at this very moment. 

Help me be still... to trust... prepare...expect to see Your work in all this. I am so crushed by my own disobedience. Lead me in this in a great way. Uphold me as I have no strength left and there is so far. Yet to go.

Oh LORD, I so need your strength to pursue this confrontation that is so overdue. The unraveling of it all is completely in Your hands. As I pray and come to You in whole heart, broken of pride and determined to see Your mercies in this endeavor, I ask for more belief and even more after that to be truthful, tactful and tenacious in speaking what so desperately needs to be spoken. I am Yours LORD and so humbled by my own inabilities; I pray for favor as this is done... as my unraveling becomes Your weaving - help me to be all that You desire me to be, today and through it ALL!

Tonight I give Him thanks that in this moment of preparing, I can see His strength in my steps and words. I give Him thanks because He is my every bit of courage when I am less than courageous... I give Him thanks because through all the challenges, I have seen His mercies and favor. I give Him thanks in spite of the enemy's efforts to thwart all His perfect efforts to show me blessings in trouble and in trials.

He is.

AND I TRUST HIM NOW DURING THIS TIME

."The sluggard does not plow after the autumn,

So he begs during the harvest and has nothing.

A plan in the heart of a man is like deep water,

But a man of understanding draws it out.

Many a man proclaims his own loyalty,

But who can find a trustworthy man?

A righteous man who walks in his integrity—

How blessed are his sons after him.

A king who sits on the throne of justice

Disperses all evil with his eyes.

Who can say, “I have cleansed my heart,

I am pure from my sin”?" 

~Proverbs 20:4-9 (New American Standard Bible)

Father it is these things that You truly desire for us... integrity, trustworthiness, turning from evil and a true clean heart. For these things the Holy Spirit must be present and working.

Thankful Life - August 26, 2013

August 26, 2013

People say hurtful things, sometimes out of anger - sometimes because of their past - sometimes in love and correction. It has been a lot of years of allowing myself to fall into hurt over words. This weekend, I had a revelation and am being moved to evaluate all things according to God... in the midst of a firestorm of words, I must put on His shield... allow the filtering, protection and discernment of the Spirit to look through the unnecessary words and fight through to the helpfulness of the underlying message.

I don't think it will always be 'easy', but it is completely possible - the Holy Spirit is our helper in all things toward God... this one, He can fully do and is capable of guiding.

"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted

And saves those who are crushed in spirit."

~Psalm 34:18 (NASB)

"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to 

you; not as the world gives do I give to you.

Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it 

be fearful." ~John 14:27 (NASB)