You know, one of the things, I enjoy the most about believing in God, about having this connection with our Father, is getting to see Him use me for others.

I’m a giver. It’s my biggest “love language” if you will. If I love you, I give you things. Sometimes, they’re small and handmade, sometimes I go all out. But, I’m just someone who gives. I love it. I don’t expect things in return, I just enjoy seeing the people I love happy. And one of the biggest parts of that, is that I love seeing people happy because of something I did.

Today, it’s been on my heart to share one of the best moments I’ve had that continues to bless me back. A few years ago, I had a budding relationship with a coworker. We were still kinda just getting started, and feeling things out. And, one day, I noticed that she seemed a little out of sorts. She was bummed out, something was bothering her. At the time, I couldn’t really stop and talk too terribly much and her schedule is always really crazy – so it’s not like there was a lot of time to connect. But, she just seemed like she needed something. So, as I was pondering this, it came to me. I decided to make her an origami bee. I looked online for a little bit during my lunch, and I found a yellow piece of paper, and I got to work. A few minutes later, I had a rough origami bee. I got a black Sharpie and put some stripes and a face on him, and wrote, “Bee Happy” because I’m super cheesy like that. Then, I trotted over to her office and dropped it on her desk while she was gone. We connected later that day and she’s like, “Was this you?” I said, “Yeah, just wanted to give you a little something, seemed like you were having a day.” And she was overjoyed! She ended up pinning it to her wall above her desk, it remains there to this day. And, it makes me happy every time I see it. It cost me nothing – I’m pretty sure she knows that. But, for me and for her, it’s a token of love and a reminder of our friendship.

Another aspect of this relationship with the Father, is the wisdom He has bestowed upon me. The incredible growth as a human being that I have gone through because of our connection. Every morning, I pray that the Father “bless the words from my mouth and the work of my hands, that they bring glory and honor to Him.” And, every day, I grow closer and closer to Him and enjoy the bounty that He gives me through the work I do to His glory, and my words that bless others and myself.

It happened again yesterday, but it’s happened so many times in recent years. I was talking to someone who needed advice, and I said, exactly what they needed to hear. As we moved this summer, I was being put in an impossible spot by the landlord but through calm and words that were not my own, we navigated the situation and came to resolution that accommodated us both. Deep in the throws of anxiety and fear, I have calmly talked to friends and family, and through words that were not my own have given them deep insight and understanding in difficult situations. Even with work, in discussions and negotiations with many people I have never actually met face-to-face, I am able to speak the exact words that need to be said to help navigate these trying and interesting situations we have faced in order to overcome and reach solutions that help everyone accomplish their goals. Through this blog, I believe I have touched lives and helped others gain perspective and understanding, and helped them grow in their faith as well. And, my seemingly small impact on this world has left has resounding ripple, I feel. That others may see His light through me. That I may help guide them down the paths that are meant for them. That we may continue to grow in the Father. That others may see me and know there is something different about me – because the Father lives in me. That I may shine His light.

Seems, I have stumbled upon one of the lesser recognized gifts of the Father. The gift of us, on others. I’m thinking that not many people think of themselves as a gift to others, and in this day and age, not a gift at all. But, as my mother was reminded this week as she looked upon an incredible sunset and thought, “Look at that beautiful creation from God”, and He reminded her – You are a part of that creation too. We are sent here to be blessings, and we are blessed through our interactions with others. We are blessed beyond words. These are some of the most cherished moments in life, are the moments, that you know and realize that the world is a better place because YOU are IN IT.

Let’s Pray

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for these words today. Thank you for the blessings you bestow upon us, and that as the Heavenly Father and Holy Spirit you are working through us to show Your light to others. Thank you for making us blessings. Thank you for guiding us and protecting us. Thank you for helping us grow. That we may continue to glorify and honor you Father, all the days of our lives. That you may watch over us, and lead us in Your ways Father. That You may use us to make the world a better place. That others may be drawn to You through us, and receive the blessings You have to give. As the Good, Good Father who only wants good things for us, and that we are a part of that. That we may forever bring glory and honor to you – through the words from our mouths and the work of our hands. IN JESUS’ NAME!! AMEN!!

God is with me. This was definitely a week that was a reminder of that. It’s something I know, but sometimes life is so challenging, that you need that reminder. That reverting back to last week’s Back to the Basics, made this week, so much easier to bear. Which is God’s yoke, easy. Sometimes, I have seriously wondered how people get through life without God. Life is hard enough, how do you survive without God? Which to be fair, God knew, and that is why He sent His son, to give us the connection to God that we need to get through this life.

Problem too hard to face – hand it over to God.

Need direction – ask God.

Need strength, patience, understanding, compassion, love – Use God’s.

I always remind myself that God has faced all my problems before, I have not. He is the ultimate mentor, counsellor, and friend. He’s literally has it all figured out. It’s like living life with an answer key. And, all the basics from last week, keep you in tune to that answer key. I think the most mysterious thing about the relationship sometimes is how to utilize your answer key. How to stay in tune to the Spirit that you know which problems need what answers.

Personally, the Year of Great Loss, was the biggest growth I have ever experienced. Not that I wish those experiences upon anyone. But the things I learned during that time are invaluable. And, to put them simply: I cannot control my problems and I have to live each moment the best that I can, trusting God for the answers.

The key, is that while this was all going on, I was working on growing my faith. I was growing with God. Everything that happened to us that year, I could not control nor could I do much about any of it, except to trust God. I was focusing on God and God was focusing on me. I was not focusing on my problems (toward the end anyway. In the beginning, I was focusing on the problems, which I believe is why things only got worse.) But, once I figured out, that I was just supposed to stay the course, and focus on God. It all started making sense and I was able to cope with everything that was happening. God’s yoke is easy. Ever since that point, I have found, that I can be upset in the moment, I can get ruffled about the circumstances, but that is momentary and fleeting. I just move on to the next moment. I deal with what has happened the best that I can and do what I believe is right, and move on. God doesn’t want us living in the past. Satan is the only one who wants us to wonder the what if’s and maybe’s. You cannot change the past, only the now. And, God doesn’t want us worrying about tomorrow, He is already there. He knows what He has in store for us (Good Things!). SO – the only moment to deal with is the Now. And, He is with us in the Now.

The other thing the Year of Great Loss taught me – is that You have absolutely no idea what could happen next. You can make up ten million scenarios in your mind and worry about every one of them, and yet, what can happen next is not one of those scenarios and you are absolutely not prepared for it. – SO, WHY? Why do that to yourself? Why live in all that angst? I have put that burden down. And, I’ve come to find, that burden is one of the heaviest. God’s yoke is easy. Whatever comes next, God will help me through it. He is with me.

Let’s Pray

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You!! Thank You for blessing us. Thank you for making your yoke easy. Thank you for being the infinite book of answers. Thank you that you guide us and protect us each and every step of the way. Thank you for your everlasting life! Thank You for all that You have done for us Father, and all that You will do. For Your guidance and understanding, for being everything that we need, all of the time. That You are in the future and in the now. That You only want good things for us Father. That You are our strength and our comforter. Thank You for your many blessings and all that You do. May You bless the work of our hands, and the words from our lips that they may bring glory and honor to You each day. IN JESUS’ NAME!! AMEN!!

I’m kinda at a loss this week. I’m not sure what I’m supposed to be writing about today. I’ve been in a bit of a lull, as things open back up and cases rise, getting back into schedules and the swing of things, I have been struggling for growth.

The one thing I can tell you, is that during this time, my routines of fellowshipping with God have been very important to keeping me in line with the Spirit. Of not letting my lull become a backward slope. Just as important as they were when churches shut down and interpersonal fellowship wasn’t possible any more, here they are again, keeping me grounded in the faith. One thing I’ve realized is that maybe this concept could help others. Years ago, I smashed the sides of God’s box and let him in to all aspects of my life. And that, has truly changed my relationship with Him, and who I am as a person. This has grown my faith exponentially, and contributed to so many things that I am grateful for today.

One disclaimer I would like to put here, is that I did not add all of these things to my life at once, it was a slow process, but now that I am here, I cannot imagine not doing these things all the time. And, I am grateful for their constant reminders and continued contribution to my faith and keeping me connected and growing as much as possible.

I listen to Christian music as much as possible. I started with DC Talk since they were some of the first “cool” Christian bands I had heard of way-back-when. This has evolved into several different Christian stations between live worship music, DC Talk attitudes, old gospels, and anything in between that keeps me in the constant worship attitude. I do also listen to secular music from time-to-time, but I do try to limit it to bands with minimal/no swearing, positive messages, and the like. Just because I have personally noticed that tripping down that rabbit hole of other music does tend to change my attitude to my environment.

I pray every morning. To start my day off right. Now, I’m not perfect, I do miss some days, but for the most part, I try to make a point of praying every morning. I used to have lists of what subject I was particularly praying for on what days, and sometimes I still revert back to that. But, I’ve grown so much in my prayer life, that I no longer find these reminders necessary. I pray for general subjects every day and sprinkle in specific subjects as needed, but really it’s the time of talking with God and getting started on the right foot. And, I always pray, that he guides my path today, blesses the words from my mouth and the work of my hands, that they may bring glory and honor to Him.

I go to church. Now, I did get to go to church a while back, and it was very refreshing and filled me up, but sadly as cases have increased in our area, and as I’ve been getting back in the swing of things, this tidbit has fallen by the wayside. But, I don’t find this to be as critical since I am further along in my faith. And, I also have had a Bible Study that I am consistently able to attend (either in person, or virtually during the time when in person was not necessarily “allowed”). This enriching ability to discuss growth and needs and concepts with others helps keep perspective and growth possible. This interaction with other believers is part of what the body of Christ needs. Whether through going to church or meeting together on a smaller scale. The body of Christ needs to be connected. You have to have others around you to connect with and grow, just like children and family. That accountability, perspective, and support is vital. There are parts of church, of course, that you don’t get from a Bible Study, and vice versa, and it is best when you can have both, but during these times, you take what you can get.

One of the biggest parts of missing Church, is missing the sermons. The ability to just sit back and have your cup filled. Which is part of why I listen to podcasts of sermons. Sometimes, I binge on sermons and really get the cup filled, and other times I just need to be “topped off” and I’ll just listen to one or two. One aspect I really enjoy about this, is that I’m able to listen to various speakers, and I’ve started to realize I can listen to certain ones when I’m struggling with particular topics. Or some give you meat and potatoes and others give you milk and bread. Really just depends on your needs and where you’re at.

Then, of course, there’s actually reading your Bible! I haven’t done this one for a while, and as I sit here writing this, I realize that maybe this is what I need to get worked back in. I personally enjoy the YouVersion Bible app, that allows you to pick studies and get them in daily doses on truly whatever subject you want, and set little reminders to get your daily dose in. And, one thing I’ve found with reading the Bible is that it really fills you up. Seems to me, that a little bit, goes a long way. You really have to take time to digest what you’re reading, and that’s the nice thing about the app, it gives you insight from the author on what they pulled out of the scriptures to chew on. But really, however you can get some scripture in, you should. The Word fills you up. Breathed straight from the mouth of God. Speaking to you. Every time you read it.

So, I hope this helps, as usual, I see it has helped me. Sometimes, getting back to the basics, is how we move forward. Maybe there is something in here that you would like to integrate. Wherever you’re at, just remember that God is with you, and as long as you are trying to move forward, you will.

Let’s Pray

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for this day, and all the days. Thank you for your incredible patience with us. Thank you for all the ways you’ve given us to connect with You. Thank you for being with us in our ebbs and flows. Thank you for your incredible love that is unconditional and never ceases. Thank you for all that You do for us. That You are the Good, Good Father, that guides us, protects us, sustains us, comforts us, and is all things to all men. That we may all continue to grow in Your Love, in Your Spirit, in Your Everlasting Self. That we may continue to become better versions of ourselves and we continue to strive to be more like You and Your Son. Thank You Father, for all that You do, and all You will continue to do. May we all enjoy Your blessings, all the days of our lives. IN JESUS’ NAME!! AMEN!!

Mission’s Circle

Please forgive me this week, as I do not know much about this mission at all, but just discovered it recently and it seems really neat. There is a online shopping website that donates a portion of it’s proceeds to missions, and it has quite a few faith-based items (wall-hangings, jewelry, etc.) I am not receiving any of the proceeds nor am I affiliated with them in any way. I just think it’s neat and wanted to share.

Feel free to check it out: https://www.premierdesigns.com/

“You are what you eat.” That has been on my mind this morning, and in my life this week. You are what you eat. Simply put, you put good stuff in, you get good stuff out. Garbage in, garbage out. I’ve had a couple instances throughout the past two weeks that really reinforce this fact. And, I’ve talked about it before as well. Prepare for Battle, Battle!, and Speak Life all touch on this concept.

But this week, it really feels like the news has become Satan’s soapbox to get everybody wound up. Which reminds me of some good information my mother gave me at one point: You know, the news, used to be a 10-15 minute segment on TV, once a day. That was it. 10-15 minutes of news, just the headlines, and if you wanted more information, you could grab the local newspaper. Now, there are channels dedicated to news 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You want to hear about how insanely horrible it is out there? You want a quick shot of depression? You want to spiral into a rollercoaster of sensing impending doom, watch the news for a minute. We have human trafficking over here, a double-dose of brink of war over there, a full cup of injustice and oppression for today’s special, and oh yeah, just in case that wasn’t overwhelming enough – let’s give you today’s death tolls from COVID, from war, from murders, from anything else we can get our hands on because you all need to know every single detail so you become so frozen with fear and angst and everything else that you can’t live your own life because look at all of this!!!

Ugh. What a nightmare. Now, I’m not saying these things are not important. They absolutely are. But, it’s like eating a balanced diet. There is absolutely no need to gorge yourself on the news. Besides the fact that they broadcast so much news and so many stories that you could get lost all day in there, which is not healthy. I would like to say it’s like chocolate, but you know, chocolate is actually good.

I personally do not watch the news at all. I read articles about the news, when I want to, when I’m in the right mindset and feel like I can handle it. I also take most of the news with a grain of salt, because I understand that there are a million different views about the situation and I’m only reading one flawed human’s interpretation of what happened. – Which by the way, let’s remember that even the best reporter is simply regurgitating “facts” they could find about an event, let alone the many people that are simply giving you their interpretation of events sprinkled with facts.

Another thing I keep in mind about the news, is that – Am I going to do anything about what I’m reading? Yes, the Russians doing whatever they’re doing these days is probably not good, but am I, going to do anything about it? – Probably not. So therefore, if I’m not going to invest my time and energy into doing something about this, should I be reading it? If I still feel like I should be reading it, fine, but then, if I am upset by what I have read, I have to decide how much time I’m going to be upset about it, then I need to let it go and let God handle it.

You know why I believe the news is Satan’s Soapbox? Because it gives people are spirit of fear. Which is not from God. The Spirit of Fear never comes from God. Never. God gives us the spirit of peace, love, understanding, and compassion.

I will say that I found it very interesting: Here we were, just a few months ago, mid-pandemic, and the news was full of articles about how much everyone was helping each other. How much humans were all getting together and loving on one another. We were going to get through this. All was not lost. Whispers of Revival were happening. So many people were just being the better side of humans, and it was touching and beautiful. Then, the news took a hard turn, and we’re back to every man for himself, and you can’t trust anybody, and nobody cares about you. Satan got scared, and he turned up the heat. Can’t be having that love stuff going around, can’t be letting God into the situation. – Because God is Love. And you know, that you hardly ever see articles about Love in the news… another good indicator of who’s really running the headlines.

So, I’ve said all of that, to say this. You are what you eat. If you are constantly munching on bones of bad news and everything that Satan wants you to focus on for items that more often than not, you can literally do nothing about, then you are going to be overwhelmed, depressed, and afraid. But, if you focus on the Word of God. If you read your Bible, and listen to sermons, and worship music, and spend your time loving your neighbor and trying to win souls for Christ, then You are putting good out there. You are being the light of the World. You are showing that there is Hope and Peace and Love to be had. By the blood of Jesus. By the redemption of our Savior. If you just try to change the world, by loving the circle that You are in, and showing love to your fellow man, and loving your neighbor as yourself, then THAT is what God’s plan is for you. And if you can do more – AMAZING!! If you have an idea about how to help some of the situations you are seeing in the news, God BLESS YOU!! But, do not let it be a tool from the devil to hold you down and let it be a spirit of fear that paralyzes you into not being the Light that God wants you to be. Break the chains that Satan aims to put on you. Be diligent for he stalks around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he can devour. If you have been gobbling it up like Thanksgiving dinner, then maybe it’s time to consider a diet. Because You are a CHILD OF GOD. YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. YOU ARE AN OVERCOMER. YOU ARE VICTORIOUS. YOU CAN WIN LIFE.

Let’s Pray

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You!! Thank you for being the Good, Good Father that you are. Thank you for being the love in the world. Thank you that you give us hope. That you give us life. Thank you for your amazing grace and your overwhelming peace. Thank you for giving us the supernatural peace that surpasses all understanding. Thank you that you never give us the spirit of fear. Thank you for loving us, for loving us so much that you sent your son to die for us that we may be redeemed, that we may know what your love feels like. That we may show your love to others. That we may put on the garment of praise to cast of the spirit of fear. That you have good plans for us and not to harm us, but to bless us. That we may bask in your love and be the light of the world for others, that they may also know your love. Thank you Father, for all you do for us, and all that you continue to do. That you may bless the work of our hands and words from our lips that they bring glory and honor to you Lord. IN JESUS’ NAME!! AMEN!!

Trusting God. I had someone tell me this week, that they don’t trust God. That really threw me for a bit of a loop. You don’t trust God? But then, I remembered that there was a time, where I didn’t trust Him either. For that matter, I went through years of my life, with my back turned – not even believing in Him. Guess, the only reason it took me by surprise was because I trust Him so implicitly now, that the concept seemed foreign.

I reached out to this person, later in the week, and shared one of my trust building exercises that I did to learn how to trust God. Because, for me, that’s kinda what you have to do. It’s a relationship, a very difficult one at that, to get started. Because your relationship is with someone you can’t see or hear, but you can feel. And, you can see the evidence of, but not actually see God. When you think about it that way, it really makes a lot of sense, that it’s hard to trust God, because in order to trust Him, you have to have a relationship. And the relationship you build with God, isn’t going to be like any other for many reasons, but if not, solely for the fact that you can’t interact with Him like you do anyone else. And, that is a hard relationship to build on, when you’re getting started at least.

So, way back when, God and I did trust building exercises. I made the conscious effort to pray as much as possible, (like once a day), but then I would remember what I prayed for. And, I would continue to pray for my list of things, every time, until they got answered. Then – when I would get an answer, I would write it down on a slip of paper, and put it in my prayer box *pictured above*. (I decorated a shadow box, but really you could use a shoebox, a mason jar, whatever container you like.) And, it didn’t have to be long or anything. I prayed for “Jamie’s job opportunity” or “healing for Linda”. But once the prayer was answered, it was written down, and put in the box. Next thing I knew, the box was so full, that I needed to empty it! I wanted to continue to keep my answered prayers, so I also bought one of those film sheet photo albums, and laid the answered prayers in there. Then, started the process all over again. I now have quite the collection of answered prayers, which is fun and neat to share. Look at all the time’s #Godshowedup! But, really, in retrospect, it was a trust building exercise. I’m sure there are plenty of ways to learn how to trust God, but I really enjoyed mine that gave me actual physical evidence that God was working on me, and cared about me. That we were in this relationship together. I wasn’t testing Him, I was giving myself actual, viable proof that He was doing exactly what He said He would.

And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him.

1 John 5:14-15

If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.

John 15:7

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.

Mark 11:24

Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.

Psalm 37:4-5

But as for me, I will look to the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation; my God will hear me.

Micah 7:7

And call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.”

Psalm 50:15

Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you.

Jeremiah 29:12

Let’s Pray

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for everything. Thank you for your Good Words. Thank you for showing up! For giving us an incredible opportunity to have a relationship with you. Thank you for everything you’ve done for us. For continuing to be there for us, to help us along the way. Thank you for answered prayers Father. That you bless us Father, each and every day. That You are always working in our lives. That You care about each and every one of us. Words cannot express my appreciation for you. How much my soul rejoices to be in this relationship with you. The gratitude I have that you are my salvation, and my rock, and my shield, and my comforter, my Father, and friend. Thank you for blessing me Father, all the days of my life. IN JESUS’ NAME!! AMEN!!

Mission’s Circle

What better mission to focus on this week, than the Gideon’s. You know those Bibles you find in your hotel room? The Gideon’s make that happen. The Gideon’s number one request of their sponsors, is prayer. You can join and receive a daily prayer guide.

Part of their mission statement:

“We exist as an advocate for the lost, to bring them the saving knowledge of the Word through not only placing and distributing Scriptures, but also through personal witnessing and by associating together for service. As a united force for the Gospel, we remain rooted in tradition, but we operate under the firm belief that anyone can be a valuable asset to this invaluable cause. We provide many opportunities to partner with us through either prayer or financial support. Join us, and let’s spread the Good News.”

Check them out here

Become a prayer partner here

“Make a plan, then go with the flow.” – Pastor Dave Kaufman

“Failing to plan is planning to fail.” – Pastor Dave Kaufman

Both of these statements have had a profound impact on me. I heard them quite some time ago during a sermon about financial responsibility, but really they apply to most things in life. They have also helped me accept change so much. I used to be someone who was completely “put out” when someone messed with my plans. But, now, that seems to be the constant state. My life has become this ever-evolving state of “making a plan, then going with the flow.” And, really, the Bible, is almost nothing but examples of how people had a plan, then ended up going with the flow, either willingly or after repeatedly kicking against the goads.

Sarah and Abraham

Joseph (and the coat of many colors)

Elijah

Job

The Apostles (particularly Peter)

Jesus

All sorts of people that had lives heading in a particular direction that they had planned out for themselves, and then having to adapt to a hard left turn, or several turns. One of the many things, I have brought out of this concept of making a plan, and going with the flow, is the simple fact that understanding that the chances of the plan going my way is less than likely, has made me incredibly willing to accept change. And, the ability to understand that and to know that at any moment the plan will change, has also given me a certain peace. That supernatural peace that surpasses understanding. This ability to shuck off the yoke of worry about tomorrow, tonight, 3 weeks from now.

If I have gained anything in the most recent years, it has been that I have no idea what’s going to happen next, and there is absolutely no way to prepare for it, except to make a plan, and go with the flow. And, the making a plan part, is still critically important. You still have to have a general heading, an intended direction. Otherwise, it’s like you’re going along and you get thrown in a deep pool… you still have to know which way is up. Whether it brings you to the other side of the pool, or just above the place where you went in. And, God is like your lifeguard. You have to be willing to let Him help you navigate your way out. <– That thought reminds me of lifeguard training. They actually teach lifeguards how to grab someone in a rescue situation, because, they state – you are going to have some people who are panicking so much that they will endanger your life while you are trying to save them. God knows how to hold onto you, whether you are being cooperative or flailing about hysterical.

Let’s Pray

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for your supernatural wisdom. For your amazing grace to us, and our situations. That You, Father, are our lifeguard. That you hold onto us, and protect us from harm. That you bless us in all that we do. That You, are the good, good Father who reaches out and lifts us up with your mighty right hand. Thank you for your guidance Father, that You have given us Your Word filled with examples of people who plan, adapt, and overcome. That we are sided with You, Father, the great Overcomer! The Victor, in all things. That we may join with you, Father, in each day, through each trial, through each plan and come out on the other side, exactly where we need to be. Thank You Father, for your many blessings, that you guide us and protect us, each step along the way. Thank You for all that You are, and all that You would have us be. IN JESUS’ NAME!! AMEN!!

You know, if there’s one thing I’ve learned through my most recent experiences, it’s been, that having a personal relationship with God – is what you need the most. You can’t count on being able to go to church, you can’t count on being around other believers to lift you up, you can’t count on having someone else help fill you up. You have to learn how to have the personal connection with God, in order to keep yourself going. And, when you’re down and out and you don’t know what to do, you’re not always going to be able to reach out to someone for direction. Especially, when you don’t really know what’s wrong with you. The Father knows His children. He knows just what you need. And, He will provide.

These past several months, I haven’t been attending church because of the coronavirus. I was able to attend Bible Study because we got it set up online. I was still in contact with other believers throughout the time, but not nearly like it was before. And what really helped me through all of this, and ultimately what helped lead me out of being burnt, was prayer.

What helped me when my back was injured. Prayer.

What helped me through the Year of Great Loss. Prayer.

What helped me when I was working two jobs and couldn’t make ends meet. Prayer.

What helped me get through sickness. Prayer.

What helped me get through months of isolation. Prayer.

That personal time with God. Talking to the Father. Prayer is the key. The key that unlocks so many things. That helps us tap into the Father, tap into ourselves. Helps bring the Father’s kingdom to earth. Manifesting His will among us and in our lives and in other’s lives. I cannot emphasize it enough. I really enjoyed a post I did a while back on Prayer, so I’m going to leave you with that today, and some links to all the other ones I’ve done on Prayer. I hope it helps. I hope it heals. I hope it helps you move forward in your faith and have a deeper relationship with the Father.

Prayer Life

Salvation

Praying Through

God answers prayer

Battle!

Prayer

Prayer (continued)

The Long Game

Speak Life

Let’s Pray

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for this day, and all the days. Thank you that you sent Your Son so that we may have a personal relationship with you. That we may talk to you anytime and all the time. Thank you for blessings us now and forever after with all the many blessings that you have for us. That you guide us and watch over us Father. That you keep your Word and that we may keep Your Word in our hearts that we may know your truth. Thank You Father that you have given us one of the most powerful tools there is, the ability to talk directly to You, anytime, anyplace. That we may grow deeper in our connection with You Father. That we may know you, on the deepest level. That we may help manifest Your Word and Your Will here on Earth, through the mighty power of prayer. That you may know us Father and guide us according to your will. That you may forever change our lives for the better, and that others may know you through us. Thank you for all that You have done, and all that You will have us do. IN JESUS’ NAME!! AMEN!!

As I have been recovering from burn out, I was reminded of this post a little while back. It was during the recovery from flu season a while ago:

I just went through a rough season, my entire month of February was a wreck. Like, freight train. First, my son got the flu, then my husband, then myself. Only, my son got a fever and some gut rot deal, my husband had a fever for 5 days and pretty much slept the whole time. And, I got some sort of stomach flu deal, that made it impossible for me to keep anything inside me. Day 3 of my flu, I had become so dehydrated, that I required medical attention. I woke up as soon as the clinic opened and told them that I needed to get in ASAP. They could see me within the hour. Amazing. I opened up my front door, blizzard. I seriously was so delirious from my illness that I considered calling an ambulance. But, I knew that if I could just get there, I would be ok. So, I get the last of my strength, and I get in the car to go to the clinic. I’m practically delusional by this point, my mouth and throat are dry, every time I take a drink my lips and throat instantly need more fluids and are dry again. The doctor pretty much just looked at me and said, “We need to get some fluids in you.” I had lost 10 pounds, at least, maybe more. I’m not someone who can afford to lose 10 pounds. I didn’t even recognize myself in the mirror. As they took me back to a room and got me situated, my messenger app buzzed. It’s the women’s feed from church. We use it as a way to share encouraging words, or request prayers, quick notes, etc. The Pastor shared her morning devo: “Come to me for rest and refreshment. This journey has been too much for you, and you are bone-weary. Do not be ashamed of your exhaustion. Instead, see it as an opportunity for Me to take charge of your life.” – (which is an excerpt from Shannon Stoddard on beliefnet) But, this word came to me, right as they are plugging IVs into my arm, and I just shed a tear. Yes, Lord. You are my rest and refreshment. I ended up needing two bags worth of fluids to get me back to some sort of human. And, I rested while they pumped me full of fluids, but I knew I was going to be fine with that word. Amen.

I have been experiencing an emotional season of being “bone-weary” – what a great expression. Deep down in your bones weary, the kind of exhausted that doesn’t go away with a nap and some food. The kind of can’t-give-any-more that you just don’t know what to do with. God knows. He knows this happens. That’s why He tells us that He is our Living Water. That He is our rest and refreshment. That we can tap into Him and He will take us through the rest. Just like the “Footsteps” poem, where when there was only one set of footprints – He carried us. We don’t need to be strong, He is strong for us. We don’t need to be everything we need, He’s got us covered.

“But whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

John 4:14

And he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment.

Revelation 21:6

For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour my Spirit upon your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants.

Isaiah 44:3

On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink.

John 7:37

And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.

Isaiah 58:11

That he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word,

Ephesians 5:26

Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.

John 6:35

God wants to refresh us. God doesn’t want us to feel bone-weary. And, one of the most refreshing and powerful ways to feel refreshed by God, is to pray and to worship. Prayer is the most intimate and refreshing time with the Father. A time to discuss, to speak our needs and to listen. To let Him overwhelm our souls with the answer. To let Him work in our Spirit to give us the living water that we need. And then, to worship out loud our exhaltation to the Lord. It’s a renewing interaction to shout to the Lord and praise Him for all that He does for us. To look back and see all that He has done, and to know that in the looking forward, He will do even more. He never fails, His words do not return void. He will always be there for us, and will lift us up, and even carry us – when we need it most. Do not let yourself struggle through the exhaustion, turn to the Lord who has everything you need to get you through whatever season in your life. He is the Living Water. He has everything you need to refresh your soul. Take a drink and thirst no more.

Let’s Pray

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you! Thank you for being our Living Water. Thank you for refreshment. Thank you for your blessings in overflow. Thank you that You bless us, and have given us Your Word, full of encouragement. Your Word which holds the key to our salvation, both eternal salvation, and salvation every day. That You bless us with the exact words we need, when we need them. Thank you for sending Your son, and making it possible for us to have a personal relationship with You. That we may seek You in prayer. That You will answer us. That You will bless us, and not only meet our needs, but exceed them. That we may know that You are the good, good God who never fails and who loves His children. That You know that we become bone-weary and that is why You have given us the words that You are the Living Water. That we may live forever in You. That You help us win Life. Life in the here and now, and Life eternal. Thank You for Your many blessings Father. Thank You for ALL that You have done, and all that You will continue to do. In JESUS’ NAME!! AMEN!!

I don’t know about you, but there’s been a few times in my life where things just get super hectic. I’m a busy person anyway, an “A” personality type. Always got something going on, but believe it or not, even so, I still always feel like I’m managing it… most of the time, or right up-until I’m not. A few years ago, I fell and hurt my back, which did cause me to slow down some. And, at the time, caused me to slow down a lot. But, even when I recuperated, I had learned from the experience and still tried to manage my busy-ness a little better. That time made me realize that I could take a lot of things off my plate, because really, I was the only one who had put them there. Then, a bit later, I was working two jobs trying to keep our heads above water, and once again realized that I didn’t need to be doing as much as I was – and more things fell off my plate. Even further back, I had a realization that in all the busy-ness, it was essential to take time for myself. And, I have found ways to do that over the years, and it’s really helped me manage the busy times. But, recently, something happened that I realized I had never experienced before…. I got burnt out. It was like a switch had flipped. And suddenly, I wasn’t me anymore. Now, I’m still burnt out, but I feel like I’m coming out of it.

Now, I’m a google-er. Symptoms, Google. How to, Google. What’s this, Google. But, this time, Google kinda failed me. I Googled “burn out” and visited a variety of sites to see what could be done about this new experience, and read about all my options, and was kinda like, “I can’t really do any of this stuff right now.” I need something to do – today. You know what never fails? God. God never fails. In this intense moment of how do I handle this? I dug into my experiences. What did I do when I hurt my back? Leaned into God. What did I do when I was working two jobs? Leaned into God. Well, sad to say, but that’s not going to be one of the results that Google brings up for you. “Have you tried asking God to help you through this?” “Maybe you should double-down on listening to sermons and worship music” But that’s what’s helping me here. God’s strength, God’s patience, God’s intersession. Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned, when I can’t do it, God can. And, I just need to channel the Holy Spirit to work through me. I’m not doing it anymore, God is. He knows what to do, and I can’t do it without Him.

One of the most powerful prayers I have ever learned is Ephesians 1:15-23:

¹⁵ Ever since I first heard of your strong faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for God’s people everywhere,^[a] 16 I have not stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly, ¹⁷ asking God, the glorious Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom^[b] and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. ¹⁸ I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope he has given to those he called—his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance.^[c]

¹⁹ I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power ²⁰ that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms. ²¹ Now he is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else—not only in this world but also in the world to come. ²² God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church. ²³ And the church is his body; it is made full and complete by Christ, who fills all things everywhere with himself. – (emphasis -my own)

Let me say that again, “I ALSO PRAY THAT YOU WILL UNDERSTAND THE INCREDIBLE GREATNESS OF GOD’S POWER FOR US WHO BELIEVE HIM. THIS IS THE SAME MIGHTY POWER THAT RAISED CHRIST FROM THE DEAD AND SEATED HIM IN THE PLACE OF HONOR AT GOD’S RIGHT HAND IN THE HEAVENLY REALMS.” — That’s the power you have inside you when you believe. I don’t know about you, but every time I pray this prayer, I feel like Superman. I have access to the power that raised Christ Jesus from the dead. When I don’t have the strength to go on, I have the power that raised Christ from the dead. When I don’t have the patience to understand, I have the patience of the God who waited 3 days to raise his Son from the dead – which must’ve seemed like an eternity. When I cannot fully fathom the situation, I have the same God who created the universe living inside me who will help me understand when the time is right, or give me the peace needed to know that I don’t need to understand. SAME GOD. It’s one of the most important things I’ve learned as a Christian. The SAME GOD I’m praying to and worshiping because of all His Awesomeness, is the SAME GOD living inside me. AND WE CAN DO ANYTHING.

Let’s Pray

Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for your infinite wisdom. Thank You that you save us from ourselves. Thank You that you drop eternal understanding deep into us that we may always know what to do in every situation. That You have Power beyond our understanding. That You always have the strength to do more. That You will always guide our steps if we just hold up the lantern. That you are an endless spring of everything we need. That the answer is always You, God. We just need to have the sense to remember it. Thank You Father for having Paul write down these words that we may always remember that the SAME GOD who rose Jesus Christ from the dead – lives inside us. And that we may always be able to face each and every situation with the understanding that it’s not us, it’s You. IN JESUS’ NAME!! AMEN!!