Numbers 6:24-26; Romans 12:1-2; I Peter 1:13-16 - "Holiness Is What I Long For"

 

I woke up with Numbers 6:24-26 in a text from a friend. God directed Aaron and his sons to speak these words over the people of Israel. We need to speak life over people today. There are so many hurting people in this world. Some are hurting because of choices they made and others are hurting over choices others made. No matter what the hurt the reason it is real. Hurt can push people into places they would not normally go. It can push people to make 'bad' decisions that will affect them the rest of their lives. It also can put hurtful words into their mouths. 'Hurting people hurt people' is so true. I went to bed early last night after feeling like I could not continue. I asked God to use rest to restore my body. I am thankful for the day ahead with nothing on the calendar but I do not want to miss any opportunities He has for me. I accept this blessing my friend sent this morning. I desire to not only be blessed but to be a blessing. Earlier in Numbers 6 there was discussion about the requirements for those who took the Nazarite vow. The purpose of taking such a vow was to surrender totally to God. The Hebrew word nazir means 'to be separated or consecrated.' The desire of my heart is to live a life of obedience to Him by walking in His will. It is the way I have chosen to do life. Am I always successful? No because I am human. I make mistakes. But as I told my Bible study group last night the more we strive to be Christ-like the more we will succeed. Romans 12:1-2 were written by Paul to encourage all how to live. Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. These verses go hand-in-hand with the Nazarite vow. Both show the need to be separated from the world and be consecrated to God. We need to be holy people if we truly desire to live as He desires of us. The words of I Peter 1 come to my mind this morning. Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming. As obedient children, do not conformto the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy." Yes! I know my goal for life is to spend eternity with Him. I also know the only way for that to happen is to live in His will while on this earth.

Holiness, holiness is what I long for
Holiness is what I need
Holiness, holiness is what You want from me, from me…

Dear Jesus, Thank You seems like such inadequate words for the way You blessed me this morning through a text from a friend! You knew what I needed and provided. May she be blessed in abundance today. I pray blessings over my day ahead. You know I am struggling physically which probably is caused by a bit of emotional 'junk' in life. You also know what I need and will provide. MS is a tricky disease that can have issues not just when I overdo physically but when emotionally I am taxed. I am so grateful for the knowledge You are greater than MS! Woo hoo! I pray that same knowledge over many going through difficult situations. May You be greater than the hurts of life. When people say things to hurt us, may Your love soothe us and flow from us. When it seems like we can't take another 'bad' thing, may You remind us of all the blessings we have in life. Lord, cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May You flow from my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts today even if I don't get out of bed. May You be so real to so many struggling with life. My sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Ben and Colleen; Steve; Tony and Madeline; the Pottenger Family; the Edwards Family; the Garrison Family; Little Ivy's Family; Gay and Doug; many with COVID; Ms Savon; Norma Hall; Kayla; Sharon Sebolt; William Younger and his family; Melanie; Frank who is having major surgery to remove cancer; Ed with stage 4 cancer; Rachael and Bill Watts; Stacy as she recuperates from surgery; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues and another just released with addiction issues; a friend who needs protection in a hostile workplace; ones who are dealing with verbal attacks from 'friends' and loved ones; four year old Jensen who needs a heart transplant; Joan; Ashley who is going through cancer testing; a friend's niece undergoing radiation for stage 1 breast cancer; and so many others. Thank You for a good doctor appointment for my Momma yesterday! Thank You for the garden tools Jerry donated to the church! Thank You for Scott having good scan results! Thank You for going before Rickey and giving him safety as he travels today for lessons! Thank You for our time of laughter last night over the phone! Thank You for being My Holiness! Amen.

Psalm 10 - "Jesus I Believe"

The Lord took me to Psalm 10 this morning. I read it in different versions and He brought to my mind so many people going through 'tough' days. Some are leaning into the Lord and others are allowing the enemy open doors into their life. The words to Big Daddy Weave's song "Jesus I Believe" came to my mind.

I need to hear You now
I need to know it's You
I'm standing on Your promises
I know Your Word is true
You're bigger than what I see
It's You in exchange for me
'Cause even the impossible can be reality
Jesus I believe

The mountains before us can be overwhelming. People's words against us can cut deeply. The bills piling up can make us feel like we are drowning. All of the 'junk' of the world can be what breaks us or what takes our faith stronger. We have a choice to make. We can either allow God to be our focus or we can flounder around in life. We must remember God does not leave us but is always there for us. He is not the One who is far off but instead it is us who have allowed circumstances to make us feel as such. My heart hurts for so many but I am so proud of those going through 'tough' days and leaning into God. I am proud of those who refuse to give the enemy an open door. 

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for the blessings of yesterday with meeting with Beth and Darrell and the blessings ahead in this day! Thank You for my Ladies Bible Study last night that encouraged me greatly to continue to be who You have called me to me! What a blessing You have given me in this group! Thank You for blessing me with Rickey in my life! I pray blessings over his life. Thank You for cleansing me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You! May You flow from my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts today in a mighty way! May people see/hear You instead of me. Father, I continue to pray for so many going through 'tough' days to stay focused on You. When words spoken over them cut their heart, may You be there to soothe. When the mountains in life are overwhelming, may You be the strength needed. When there is more out-going than incoming with finances, may You give Your wisdom. Lord be greater than the hurts of life. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Ben and Colleen; Steve; Tony and Madeline; the Pottenger Family; the Edwards family with Randy and Vicki's deaths; many with COVID; Little Ivy's family; Gay and Doug; Ms Savon; Carrie and Chris; Donna and Mike with recent loss of spouse; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt; Melanie; Stacy as she recuperates from surgery; some young ladies with anxiety; Rachel and Bill Watts; Ed with stage 4 cancer; a man in rehab for anger issues and another just released with addiction issues; a friend who needs protection in a hostile workplace; ones who are dealing with verbal attacks from 'friends' and loved ones; four year old Jensen who needs a heart transplant; Joan who is going through testing for her stroke; Jeremy who is regaining strength from COVID; Ashley who is going through cancer testing; a friend's niece undergoing radiation for stage 1 breast cancer; and so many others. Thank You for being My Reality! Amen.

Hebrews 13 - "Same God"

Yesterday as I rested I started thinking about how God loves me when I'm 'doing' and He loves me when I'm resting. He loves me when I am loving on others with His love and He loves me when I am taking care of myself. No matter what is happening in life He loves me. That is pretty exciting to think about. There are people in our lives who only 'love us' when we are doing something for them. God is not like that. He loves us no matter what. It seemed like every time I woke up from a nap yesterday a song Hannah Kerr sings was going through my head. When I was awake during the night it was there. What a blessing!

You're the same God
You're with me in the middle of it all, God
You're catching every tear as it falls
I know You'll never change
Even when I'm feeling far away
You love me the same, God
You love me the same, God
You love me the same, God
You love me the same

I was thinking yesterday about how much God loves me. He blesses me in abundance by loving on me. He guides me with His love and directs me to stay on the right path in life. When I miss an opportunity He puts before me, He still loves me. When I misspeak, He still loves me. When it takes me a while to get something He is trying to get me to realize, He still loves me. I read about this song...

“Same God” has a clear message. “This song, that came out of a Zoom call, is a cry from a heart that is broken, a person who doesn’t have it all together, a Christian who still has doubts and fears,” said Kerr. “But most importantly, this song is about God, who loves us and reminds us of the truth when we need it the most. He’s the same God, and He loves us no matter what!”

When we are out in God's creation, we see Him in some spectacular ways. Up north the leaves will be changing soon into great beauty. Soon after up north the snow will fall and blanket the earth in its beauty. Even though we don't have such season changes it still will become cooler and more enjoyable to be outside in His creation. No matter what the temperature God is there creating beauty in His creation. I remember being in the stage of life where I was too busy to enjoy the beauty of His creation. I missed so much due to busyness. My heart breaks to see/hear families so busy with parents work, kids sports, etc. that they miss out on much of what God has for them. God took me to Hebrews 13 this morning. I read it in different translations and settled into The Passion Translation. This chapter gives all kinds of advice as to how to live. We are to love one another, show compassion for those who are going through 'tough' days, be faithful in our relationships, etc. The beginning of verse five is one I think to be a great reminder when working so hard to acquire things. Don't be obsessed with money but live content with what you have, for you always have God's presence. Praise God for this knowledge! Verse eight tells us why to live in this manner. God does not change. He does not walk away from us when life becomes too busy but instead is right there loving on us so we will get back on track doing His business.

Dear Jesus, Thank You for a day of rest yesterday that restored my body! Thank You for giving me this song and Scripture to encourage me! It makes me think of the old saying to 'stop and smell the roses'! We miss out on so much of life due to busyness. Lord, help us all to stay focused on You so we do not miss any opportunity You put before us to experience Your love. Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May my focus not waiver from You today. May I do Your business and not become too busy to miss what You have in store for me. Lord, I pray for so many going through 'tough' days. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Ben and Colleen; Steve; Tony and Madeline; the Pottenger Family; the Edwards family with Randy and Vicki's deaths; many with COVID; Little Ivy's family; Gay and Doug; Ms Savon; Carrie and Chris; Donna and Mike with recent loss of spouse; Norma Hall; Sharon Sebolt; Stacy as she recuperates from surgery; some young ladies with anxiety; Rachel and Bill Watts; Ed with stage four cancer; a man in rehab for anger issues and another just released with addiction issues; a friend who needs protection in a hostile workplace; ones who are dealing with verbal attacks from 'friends' and loved ones; four year old Jensen who needs a heart transplant; Joan who is going through testing for her stroke; Jeremy who is regaining strength; Ashley who is going through testing; and so many others. Lord, be greater than the hurts of life. Thank You for the fun time Rickey had last night playing at a church function! Thank You for the laughs You gave me through phone conversations with him and his friends last night! You bless me in abundance through him. Thank You for the strength You will provide me today as I go about doing Your business! Thank You for being My Anointed One! Amen.

Psalm 7 = "Rescue"

God took me to Psalm 7 this morning and I immediately started thinking of some situations I am praying for. These situations include people who are being slandered by people they thought were their friends and some are even being slandered by their own family members. My heart breaks for such situations. I think of that saying 'hurting people hurt people' and can truly say it is true. I see people hurting others only because they are hurting themselves. What a shame to see the enemy get a hold of people like he is doing. It hurts to see people pull others into their 'junk' just to make themselves feel better. Prayers is what I can do to help them. God is the Only One who can vindicate them. Psalm 7 is a lament David wrote when Cush was telling lies about him. David cried out to God for help. That is what we need to do in such situations. We need to cry out to God when we feel attacked. David felt like he was being attacked verbally just as an attack would be physically from a lion. The attack caused deep cuts just as a physical attack would do. It caused anguish and deep emotions just as a physical attack. David did as we all need to do when presented with words against us. We need to ask ourselves if we are guilty in any way. If so, we need God to reveal that to us and ask for forgiveness. David is confident (vs 7-13) God will take care of the situation he is in. We can have that same confidence no matter what we face in life. David ends this Psalm in praise. We need to remember no matter what the outcome God should be praised! The outcome we desire may be different than what God desires. It may not come in the timing we desire but we must always remember two things. God knows best and God needs praised no matter what. We also need to remember we are not in this life alone. God is there for us for the 'good' days and the 'tough' days. I am reminded of a song Lauren Daigle sings called "Rescue"...

I hear the whisper underneath your breath
I hear you whisper you have nothing left

I will send out an army
To find you in the middle of the darkest night
It's true, I will rescue you
And I will never stop marching
To reach you in the middle of the hardest fight
It's true, I will rescue you

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for Psalm 7 and this song which remind me to pray for so many being attacked by others! Thank You for the comfort You give in such situations! Thank You for going before these ones today and empowering them to be who You have called them to be! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May You shine brightly through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts today. Thank You for the eleven hours of sleep last night! Oh how I pray for restoration in my body today as I rest. Thank You for my brother getting home safely from his trip to Ohio! Thank You for being with many going through 'tough' days! May they experience Your empowerment in a mighty way today. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Dan; Ben and Colleen; Steve; Tony and Madeline; the Edwards family with Randy and Vicki's deaths; many with COVID; Gay and Doug; Ms Savon; Carrie and Chris; Donna and Mike with recent loss of spouse; Norma; Sharon Sebolt; Stacy as she recuperates from surgery; some young ladies with anxiety; Rachel and Bill Watts; Ed with stage four cancer; a man in rehab for anger issues and another who was just released with addiction issues; a friend who needs protection in a hostile workplace; ones who are dealing with verbal attacks from 'friends' and loved ones; and so many others. Lord, be greater than the hurts of life. Thank You for being My Vindicator! Amen.

Isaiah 60:19 - "From The Inside Out"

Another first....woo hoo! Officiating for Allison and Jose's wedding was so special. From the moment I received the phone call from Eddie Wednesday morning throughout the entire weekend I was blessed. Even when I saw there was a delay in my connecting flight to Savannah I still felt blessed. I am so thankful for the way God made it possible for me to get back to preach this morning even though I was a just a tad late. I also am thankful to have friends from Ohio in service today and then they took me to lunch. Praise God for all of the blessings He contiually pours out over me. The words to the song "From The Inside Out" have been on my mind throughout today.

Your will above all else
My purpose remains
The art of losing myself
In bringing you praise

Everlasting
Your light will shine when all else fades
Never ending
Your glory goes beyond all fame

My heart and my soul
I give you control
Consume me from the inside out, Lord
Let justice and praise
Become my embrace
To love you from the inside out

I am so blessed by God every day. I pray I bless Him too. I pray I make Him proud of me. The desire of my heart is to fulfill the desire of His heart for me. I want to love Him so much that there is no doubt of who He is in my life. Woo hoo!

Dear Jesus, Thank You for loving me so greatly! Thank You for a safe trip home and for the opportunity to officiate Allison and Jose's wedding! Thank You for my tribe who pray for me no matter what or when I ask for prayer! Thank You for being with Joan and her family during these difficult days! Thank You for being with many going through 'tough' days! My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Dan; Ben and Colleen; Steve; Tony and Madeline; the Edwards family with Randy and Vicki's deaths; many with COVID; Gay and Doug; Ms Savon; Carrie and Chris; Donna and Mike with recent loss of spouse; Norma; Sharon Sebolt; Stacy as she recuperates from surgery; some young ladies with anxiety; Rachel and Bill Watts; Ed with stage four cancer; a man in rehab for anger issues and another who was just released with addiction issues; a friend who needs protection in a hostile workplace; and so many others. I pray blessings on Homer and Darlene as they begin another adventure. Lord, may we all remember You desire us to live in Your will. Thank You for Rickey picking me up and dropping me off at the airport! What a blessing he is in my life! Thank You for being My Everlasting! Amen.

Matthew 6:10 - "Jesus I Believe"

As I drove from Orrville to Willard yesterday a lot of memories came flowing into my mind. I thought about the days I would drive home after working all day at Smucker's. Those were some crazy times in life. As I look back on it I don't know how I did it. Driving past the hospital brought back a lot of memories of when I was a Medical Chaplain and by McDonald's of the times Mordecei would stop and lay down on the sidewalk wanting French fries. So, so many memories from the fifteen years we lived there. God truly blessed us in those years. Today He is blessing me with giving me the privilege AKA 'opportunity' to officiate the wedding of Allison and Jose. I remember receiving the 'save the date' card and wishing I could be at the wedding but thinking there wasn't any possible way. I am thankful it worked out even though I wish it wasn't under these circumstances with Pastor James being sick. I woke up this morning with a song Big Daddy Weave sings called "Jesus I Believe" going through my head. 

I need to hear You now
I need to know it's You
I'm standing on Your promises
I know Your Word is true
You're bigger than what I see
It's You in exchange for me
'Cause even the impossible can be reality
Jesus I believe

I love living for the Lord. I love knowing He is always there for me. He will direct me as I allow Him. Woo hoo! I love the part of this song that is part of the Lord's prayer.

So let Your kingdom come
And let Your will be done
Here on the earth
Just like it is in heaven

These words are how I strive to live my life. With His will being accomplished through my life. As I live in this manner on this earth I am confident I will live with Him for eternity.

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the opportunity to be here to officiant Allison and Jose's ceremony! Thank You for the memories You brought back to me last night as I drove into town! Thank You for Bill and Marlene's hospitality last night and for my visit with Sharon Foor! Thank You for loving me so greatly and showering me in so many ways! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May You shine brightly through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts today. May people hear/see You instead of me. Father, I pray for peace over the day ahead not just for me but for many. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Dan; Ben and Colleen; Steve; Tony and Madeline; the Edwards family with Randy and Vicki's deaths; many with COVID; Gay and Doug; Ms Savon; Carrie and Chris; Donna and Mike with recent loss of spouse; Norma; Sharon Sebolt; Stacy as she recuperates from surgery; some young ladies with anxiety; Ed with stage four cancer; a man in rehab for anger issues and another who was just released with addiction issues; a friend who needs protection in a hostile workplace and another who needs protection from a family member; and so many others. Thank You for calming the hurts of our hearts! Thank You for being My Will! Amen.

Matthew 5:4 - "When We Fall Apart"

Yesterday was probably one of the 'toughest' days I have experienced. It was not a 'first' so it didn't make sense why it was so hard to get through. When it was Doc's birthday, I enjoyed thinking of how much he enjoyed life. On holidays I enjoy thinking of how we spent ones when he was on this earth. This anniversary made me so sad. I woke up this morning with the tears close again. Yesterday as I sat in the airport the tears flowed. I know tears are healing. I know God uses tears to get us through 'tough' times. I know God is with me. I know these things yet the sadness is overwhelming. A song Ryan Stevenson sings called "When We Fall Apart" came on the radio on the way to the airport yesterday and I thought I was going to have to pull over as the ugly tears fell. 

It's ok to cry
It's ok to fall apart
You don't have to try
To be strong when you are not
And it may take sometime to make sense of all your thoughts
But don't ever fight your tears
'Cause there is freedom in every drop
Sometimes the only way to heal a broken heart is when we fall apart

I thought about how I must really be receiving a healing with as many tears that fell. Yesterday I asked God to be my strength and He was. I asked Him to get me through the day and He did. I asked Him to empower me so I didn't just get through the day but glorify Him in the process and He did. He is such a good, good God. He loves me so. I have said it before and I will say it again. I do not know how people get through life without Him. As I start another day, I once again am dealing with sadness. I should not feel sad with my present circumstances. I was at my Momma's overnight, I saw my brother for the first time in years, I get to be with friends later today to prepare to officiate my first wedding tomorrow, I'm meeting Rickey for lunch...the list goes on and on of blessings. But I still feel sad. I am sad for all the things that will never be. I am sad for all the people who will never experience learning under Doc's ministry. I am sad the grand babies will never experience any more Papa Doc moments to remember, I do not want to be sad. I pray God gets me through this time with greater insight into how to love with His love when I face people going through such times as this. We cannot completely understand what someone goes through but if we have gone through it ourselves it gives us insight. 

Dear Jesus, Thank You for being with me yesterday every step of the way! Thank You for the encouragement I received through texts, posts, calls, etc.! Thank You for getting to see my Momma and brother! Thank You for the opportunity You have given me to minister in a new way! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May I be Your hands and feet today in a great way. May people see/hear You through me. Lord, I do not want to be sad nor do I want the tears to flow so much but I know You are with me and for that I am grateful. Use this time in my life to help me see how to love hurting people better. My heart breaks for so many going through 'tough' days and I pray they know You are with them. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Ben and Colleen; Scott; Dan; Tony and Madeline; Steve; Little Ivy's family; Gay and Doug; Ms Savon; many with COVID; Carrie and Chris; Donna, Vicki, and Mike with recent loss of spouse; Norma; Sharon Sebolt; Ed with stage 4 cancer; a friend who needs protection in a hostile workplace and another who needs protection from a family member; a man in rehab for anger issues and another dealing with addiction; Stacy as she recuperates from knee surgery; some young ladies with great anxiety; and so many others. Thank You Jesus for Rickey taking me to dinner and us seeing Raynard and Sharon! What a blessing You give me through friends. Thank You for being with me in the day ahead and giving me exactly what I need to not just get through the day but to glorify You through it! Thank You for being My Comforter! Amen.

Jeremiah 29:11-14 - "Look What You've Done"

Thirty-two years today the remnants of Hurricane Hugo were going through Ohio. I will never forget that day because it is the day Doc and I were wed. Yesterday when I received a call asking to go to Ohio to officiate a wedding I was blessed in abundance in so many ways. As I read through the ceremony I had a lot of memories flow through my mind. Our wedding, the homes we lived in, our ministry, our boys and their wives and babies... The list goes on and on. I thought about how I am who I am today because of Doc. He loved me unconditionally as my husband. He mentored me as my pastor. He took care of me 'in sickness and health' as I took care of him. There were many mountains in our marriage but God was our Mountain Mover. There were many times where we had no clue how bills would be paid but God was our Provider. When God told us to move to South Carolina, we did. It did not make sense to most but when God tells you to do something you do it. If it were not for Doc, I may have never came to the Church of the Nazarene. It was there I was introduced to the doctrine of holiness. I strive every day to not only hear His voice but to walk in obedience to His will. Pleasing God and sharing His love is my top priority. I remember so many people being surprised I stayed in South Carolina after Doc took his last breath on this earth. Most thought I would move back to Ohio. Probably in the human aspect of things that would have made more sense. But I don't live in the human aspect of life. I life in God's aspect doing as He desires. I prayed and His answer was I was called here to do a work. Even though Doc was no longer here for the work I was and I was to continue on. When we finally received occupancy for the church building, it was a great day to celebrate Doc's dream. Many times since we have celebrated things he had a vision to do. Last Saturday as the one hundred and thirty families came through the parking lot for the Food Distribution another dream of his was fulfilled. His list was long but as long as God directs I will continue to fulfill his dreams. I am so grateful for his last months on earth where we had a lot of time to converse about our memories, our dreams, and the future. I am grateful God continues to use my tribe to support me and encourage me. I am grateful for the memories Doc and I made over the years but especially for the ones made after our move to South Carolina. When we crossed the bridge from town and looked out over the water, one of us would always say 'and we live here!' We spent a lot of time at the beach or the waterfront downtown. This picture was taken four years ago when we took a walk on the beach to celebrate another year of marriage. We had gone through my breast cancer the year before which was a hard time in life. Little did we know what was ahead with the pancreatic cancer that took him. We both knew then and I continue to live in the knowledge God is in control and will never leave me. He will guide me as I allow Him to be my King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He will sustain me as long as I keep my focus on Him. Woo hoo! Last night was a short night but when I was awake the words to Tasha Layton's song "Look What You've Done" were in my mind and again this morning...

Look what you've done
Look what you've done in me
You spoke your truth into the lies I let my heart believe
Look at me now
Look how you made me new
The enemy did everything that he could do
Oh, but look what you've done

If Doc and I would not have repented and came back to the Lord many years ago, life would be so, so different. Thankfully God is a God who forgives and loves us back when we fall. Many people throughout the years have tried to tear me down for my past mistakes. Thankfully God is there to soothe the hurt caused by words. He is there to remind me I am not who I was but who I am in Him today. My past is no longer. It is over. All I have to do is continue to live in His presence allowing Him to love me through every day. There is where I will be safe and know His will for my life.

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the phone conversation with Paul and Ben last night! What a treasure! Thank You for this day with all the memories of anniversaries in the past with Doc here! Thank You for the opportunity Eddie gave me to go to Ohio to officiate Allison's wedding! Thank You for the way You took care of everything to make it happen! You are such a wonderful Father. Thank You for giving me a spirit of flexibility when the schedule changes! Thank You for cleansing me so You can fill me! Father, I pray for many people today who need to realize their past does not have to dictate their future. A young man in rehab for anger issues, another young man dealing with addiction, two teens who have made 'bad' decisions, and many others. I pray for relationships to be restored in marriages and families. Oh how I pray for more couples to realize You need to be the Center of their marriage. I pray for more husbands to be the head of their households and I pray for the wives who are not allowing that to happen. I was thrilled to hear Heather Johnson's husband accepted You. Their life is going to change so much with this decision made. I continue to pray for many going through 'tough' days to realize Your peace. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Dan; Ben and Colleen; Scott; Tony and Madeline; Gay and Doug; Ms Savon; Carrie and Chris; Donna, Vicki, and Mike with recent losses; Norma;  Little Ivy and her family; many with COVID; Ed with stage 4 cancer; Sharon Sebolt; a friend who needs protection in a hostile workplace and another who needs protection from a family member; Stacy as she recuperates from surgery; and so many others. I pray for safe travels and for peace throughout this day as I bask in the memories of anniversaries of the past. Lord, be greater than the hurts of life. Thank You for being My Past, Present, and Future! Amen.

Psalm 42 - "Be Alright"

The Lord took me to Psalm 42 this morning. My heart is breaking for so many people who are going through 'tough' days. I pray they will realize it is through such days that our faith goes deeper. Verses seven and eight in The Message reads: 

Chaos calls to chaos, to the tune of whitewater rapids. Your breaking surf, your thundering breakers crash and crush me. Then God promises to love me all day, sing songs all through the night! My life is God’s prayer.

In The Passage Translation verse seven reads:

My deep need calls out to the deep kindness of your love.
    Your waterfall of weeping sent waves of sorrow
    over my soul, carrying me away,
    cascading over me like a thundering cataract.

Deep calls to deep (NIV)...chaos calls to chaos (MESSAGE)...My deep need calls out to the deep kindness of your love (TPT). No matter what translation is read the meaning is the same. When we get into the depth of 'tough' days, God is there in a more prominent way. As we live in His presence we will be comforted and strengthened. Matthew Henry wrote:

He was overpowered and overwhelmed with a deluge of grief, like that of the old world, when the windows of heaven were opened and the fountains of the great deep were broken up. Or it is an allusion to a ship at sea in a great storm, tossed by the roaring waves, which go over it (Psalm 107:25). Whatever waves and billows of affliction go over us at any time we must call them God’s waves and his billows, that we may humble ourselves under his mighty hand, and may encourage ourselves to hope that though we be threatened we shall not be ruined; for the waves and billows are under a divine check. The Lord on high is mightier than the noise of these many waters... After the storm there will come a calm, and the prospect of this supported him when deep called unto deep.

Yes! I have been through many storms and God has been right there with me. I wish more people would realize He has not left them but instead needs them to cry out to Him and accept His help. I know of some right now that are feeling like He has left them as the Psalmist wrote in verse three. I pray they will realize all is takes is completely focusing on Him and soon they will realize His strength. Verse five is repeated in verse eleven. It reads in The Message: 

Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul?
    Why are you crying the blues?
Fix my eyes on God—
    soon I’ll be praising again.
He puts a smile on my face.
    He’s my God.

Yes! He makes everything alright. It may not happen in the timing we desire but it will happen as we focus on Him. It may not happen in the manner we desire but it will happen as we focus on Him. People may try to put doubts in our minds but as long as we focus on Him everything will "Be Alright."

Through my faith and my doubting
I know one thing for sure
His word is unfailing
His promise secure

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for this Scripture and song that remind me to pray for so many going through 'tough' days! I pray they will realize victory comes through staying focused on You. I pray peace in the midst of the storms they are experiencing in life. But most of all I pray for them to lean into You to realize such peace. May You be greater than the hurts of life. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Ben and Colleen; Dan; Scott; Tony and Madeline; Chris and Carrie; Donna, Vicki, and Mike with recent losses; Norma; Gay and Doug; Ms Savon; Little Ivy and her family; many with COVID; Ed with stage 4 cancer; a young man in rehab for anger issues and another young man recently released; Sharon Sebolt; a couple with serious marital issues and a family in turmoil; a friend who needs protection in a hostile workplace and another who needs protection from a family member; and so many others. Thank You for Rickey being in my life and for all the ways he encourages me! Thank You for technology that keeps us connected even though we are seven hundred miles apart! Thank You for cleansing me so You can fill me! May You ooze out of my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts in a mighty way in the day ahead. I pray I will be able to visit Marion even with the new guidelines to follow. May You be with her and all who are in facilities or living alone to not be lonely. Thank You Jesus for being My Depth! Amen.

Psalm 119:169-176 - "Ever Be"

This morning the Lord took me to Psalm 119. The last section of this Psalm is one that encourages me to keep on keepin' on when life gets tough. It reveals to me the heart of David.  In The Passion Translation this section is entitled "I Want To Follow You" which is exactly what I desire to do in life. David desired to praise God through life. I desire the same. No matter if it is a 'good' day or a 'tough' day I desire to praise Him. Yesterday was an 'ok' day as I rested in between cleaning, getting fall decorations out, and working on Children's Ministries material. There were some emotional moments as I thought about how my anniversary gift to Doc for years was not to get the decorations out until after our anniversary. It was also emotional as I prayed for some people I love who are in some nasty situations. My heart breaks for many and many tears have been shed over circumstances. I praise God He brings people to my prayers yet at times I question Him as to why He does. Verse one hundred seventy three is one I pray with deep meaning. Place Your hands of strength and favor upon me, for I've made my choice to follow Your ways. Yes!  It is only with His strength I can get through every day. Actually, it is only with His strength I not only get through these days but He is glorified through my days. I love how Matthew Henry describes David:

The psalmist desired grace and strength to lift up his prayers, and that the Lord would receive and notice them. He desired to know more of God in Christ; to know more of the doctrines of the word, and the duties of religion. He had a deep sense of unworthiness, and holy fear that his prayer should not come before God; Lord, what I pray for is, what thou hast promised. Henry continues: Let this psalm be a touchstone by which to try our hearts, and our lives. Do our hearts, cleansed in Christ's blood, make these prayers, resolutions and confessions our own? Is God's word the standard of our faith, and the law of our practice? Do we use it as pleas with Christ for what we need? Happy those who live in such delightful exercises.

I like the words touchstone by which to try our hearts, and our lives.  A touchstone determines the quality of soft metals. It tests metals for their strength. We have Scripture as our touchstone. We need to compare ourselves with His Word to measure our lives. I Peter 1:15-16 reads in the ESV: But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, "You shall be holy, for I am holy." He is the only One we should compare ourselves, not others. Praise His Holy Name!

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for being the example I have to live by! Thank You for giving me many opportunities to pray! Thank You for putting Rickey in my life who encourages me so much in the 'good' and the 'tough' days of life! Thank You for cleansing me so You can fill me with more of You! May You flow from my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts today in a mighty way. May I find more reasons to praise You than to complain about life. I pray the same for all. When people hear us complain, they wonder how we can say we live for You yet complain so much. Lord, help us all to put more praises on our lips than complaints. I prayed throughout the night for many going through 'tough' days and I bring them before You once again. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Ben and Colleen; Dan; Scott; Tony and Madeline; many with COVID; Gay and Doug; Ms Savon; Little Ivy and her family; Ed with stage 4 cancer; a couple with serious marital issues and a family in turmoil; Donna, Vicki, and Mike with recent losses of spouses; a young man in rehab for anger issues and another young man released from rehab yesterday; Norma; Sharon Sebolt; a friend who needs protection in a hostile workplace and another who needs protection from a family member; and so many others. Lord, may we all remember to praise You through the 'tough' days so You can work in and through us in mighty ways. Thank You Jesus for being The One I Praise! Amen. 

Matthew 21:21-22; II Chronicles 20 - "Battle Belongs"

I was awake a couple times during the night with a song Phil Wickam sings called "Battle Belongs" going through my mind. When I woke this morning, it is still with me. I am praying for many people who are going through horrific battles right now. Some are physical with illnesses, diseases, and injuries. Some are mental due to addiction. Some are emotional due to issues in relationships with their spouse or family members. Some are financial due to loss of job, cut hours, bad choices, etc. Some are spiritual because they won't allow God to be their King of Kings and Lord of Lords. 

When all I see is the battle
You see my victory
When all I see is the mountain
You see a mountain moved
And as I walk through the shadow
Your love surrounds me
There's nothing to fear now
For I am safe with You

So when I fight I'll fight on my knees
With my hands lifted high
Oh God the battle belongs to You
And every fear I lay at Your feet
I'll sing through the night
Oh God the battle belongs to You

Jesus reminds us in Matthew 21:21-22 what it takes to not only get through 'tough' days but to have victory through them. It takes faith. It takes being in relationship with God so He can guide us through them. We cannot do life on our own but instead need to lean into Him. When I did research on this song, I was blessed in seeing it was released September 4, 2020. That was the day Doc took his last breath on this earth. God was with us through the sixteen months with the pancreatic cancer. I had faith He would continue to be with me. When King Jehoshaphat cried out to God in II Chronicles 20, he was told to allow God to take care of his battle. That is exactly what we need to do. I love King Jehoshaphat's story. He told God he would stay focused on Him as the army came upon them. He asked God for direction on how to handle the situation. God's response was to not be afraid but instead to allow Him to handle things. His words were: 

‘Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God’s. Tomorrow march down against them. They will be climbing up by the Pass of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the gorge in the Desert of Jeruel. You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you.’

I love how King Jehoshaphat listened to God and the result from his obedience. He not only received victory but he was creative in his battle. He sent his worshippers to the front lines of battle instead of his army. The worshippers praised God for His love and protection. The army going against them didn't know what to do and turned against one another. God took care of King Jehoshaphat and his people then and he will take care of us today. Woo hoo! He moved the mountain before King Jehoshaphat and He will move the mountain before us too. Woo hoo! All we have to do is focus on Him and allow Him to be our King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for all of the ways You blessed me over the weekend! Thank You for being with me yesterday and providing physical, mental, emotional, and most of all spiritual strength to not just get through the day but to receive victory through it! Having the opportunity to talk to one after presenting an evangelistic sermon for the Celebration of Life was truly victory. Woo hoo! Thank You for the day ahead that has nothing on the calendar and for the rest You will provide! Thank You for the nine hours of sleep last night! Thank You for all the ways You shower me with Your love like my church family who made yesterday go so well! I am so blessed by their hearts. Thank You for putting Rickey in my life to encourage me when I feel lonely! What a blessing he is to me. Thank You for going before others who may feel lonely or are tired of fighting battles in life! My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Dan; Ben and Colleen; Scott; Tony and Madeline; many with COVID; Gay and Doug; Ms Savon; Little Ivy and her family; Ed with stage 4 cancer; a couple with serious marital issues and a family in turmoil; Donna, Vicki, and Mike with recent losses of spouses; a young man in rehab for anger issues and another dealing with addiction; Norma; Sharon Sebolt; one who needs protection in a hostile workplace and another who needs protection from a family member; and so many others. Lord, may Your peace be realized by all. I pray for those who heard the message yesterday to think about what they need to change in their life if they want to spend eternity with You as Roxanne is doing. Thank You Jesus for being My Mountain Mover! Amen.

Psalm 23:6 - "Hold Onto Me"

Yesterday was such a long but rewarding day. I thanked God in the morning for being my yesterdays, today, and tomorrows and was once again blessed by HIm. The Food Distribution blessed me in abundance. Knowing one hundred and thirty families were blessed with food was amazing. It also warmed my heart to know they all received information about our ministry. As I prayed with one young military wife and her two small children I was overwhelmed to the point of tears. When I looked out across the parking lot and saw all the ones who came to help, the tears came. As I thought about how we were fulfilling something on Doc's list the tears once again came. On the way home I was so tired and once again the tears came. When I became frustrated over losing a paper, the tears came. Goodness there were a lot of tears yesterday. I am thankful God gives me tears to cleanse me. As I look to today I know it is only going to be in God's empowerment I will make it through. Only I don't want to just make it through but I want to glorify Him throughout the day. It is a full day with Sunday School, church service, calling hours and funeral followed by a meal. I must stay focused on Him and not allow the enemy an open door. I must remember He was with me yesterday and will be with me today. I do not have to fear today nor tomorrow because God is with me. He provides exactly what I need when I need it. He gives me my tribe to encourage me. What a blessing it is to know I am not alone on this journey of life. I am reminded this morning of the words to a song Lauren Daigle sings called "Hold Onto Me"...

When I start to break in desperation
Underneath the weight of expectation
Hold on to me
Hold on to me

Hold on to me when it's too dark to see You
When I am sure I have reached the end
Hold on to me when I forget I need You
When I let go, hold me again

Yesterday when the tears fell He was with me. When I felt like I had no physical strength left, He was with me. I am so grateful for the knowledge He is always with me. He was with me a year ago on this day with Doc's Celebration of Life service in Ohio. He is with me today with the Celebration of Life service for Roxanne. He will empower me to do whatever is ahead in this day and will love me through it. Woo hoo!

Dear Jesus, Thank You once again for the opportunities You gave me yesterday to love with Your love! Thank You for the 130 families who received food and information about our ministry at the Food Distribution! I was amazed at how many of them asked me if we had service every Sunday. Lord, bless our efforts. Thank You for all of the volunteers that came from Pastor Brenda's ministry and from my church! What a blessing to look out over the parking lot and see Doc's dream fulfilled! Thank You for the young man who helped me at Staple's yesterday morning! Thank You for all of the tears that fell throughout the day that cleansed my spirit! Father, cleanse me so You can fill me today with more of You. May You flow from my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts in a mighty way. May people see/hear You instead of me. Thank You for Rickey being there for me yesterday so many times when I needed encouraged! I am so thankful for today's technology that gives me the opportunity to make a phone call at any time. I continue to pray peace for Mike and his family with the service today. I also continue to pray peace over many going through 'tough' times. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Dan; Ben and Colleen; Scott; Tony and Madeline; Ms Savon; many with COVID; Gay and Doug; Little Ivy and her family; Ed with stage 4 cancer; Lee; a couple with serious marital issues; a family in turmoil; Carrie and Chris; Donna and Vicki with recent deaths of their husband; a young man in rehab for anger issues and another for addiction; Norma; Sharon Sebolt; and many others. I pray protection over one in a hostile workplace situation and another in a hostile family situation. Lord, be close to all. Thank You for my conversation with my friend David last night! He always encourages me greatly! May You bless his congregation as they continue to seek Your will. I prayed last night before going to bed, once in the night, and again this morning for pastors to lean into You. These are 'tough' days to be a pastor. We must all remember we are not alone but need to seek Your will in all we do. Thank You Jesus for being My Yesterdays, Today, and Tomorrows! Amen.

Psalm 39 - "My Jesus"

Death is all around me. It seems like every time I turn around I hear of another one. I had one tell me yesterday they are tired of going to funerals. Holding a crying friend last night as she grieved the death of her mother broke my heart. She has the assurance of where her mother is but it still hurts to have her leave this earth. There is comfort in death when you know your loved one is at peace yet it is still hard. Sometimes death on this earth is long and drawn out and you wonder why. Sometimes it happens quickly and you wonder why. No matter how or when it happens there are always questions. God knows we hurt and and He knows we have questions. He knows our hearts and is ready to soothe them. He soothes through His Word, music, people, situations that arise, etc. He is a good Father who is ready to give us exactly what we need, when we need it. He gives us insight in how to live on this earth so we can live with Him for eternity. We must be ready to leave at all time because we never know when our time will be. Matthew Henry wrote:

In our greatest health and prosperity, every man is altogether vanity, he cannot live long; he may die soon. This is an undoubted truth, but we are very unwilling to believe it. Therefore let us pray that God would enlighten our minds by his Holy Spirit, and fill our hearts with his grace, that we may be ready for death every day and hour.

We must be ready at all time. Our time on this earth is short. It will not last forever. Therefore, we must do our best to live as He desires. We must be in relationship with Him where we not only hear His voice but walk in obedience to it. Then, and only then, will we live for eternity with Him. Oh how I pray for more people to come into such a relationship. The only way people will know Him is for believers to share Him. If we truly want others to come into relationship with Him, we have to share Him. We must be bold in our witness. It is not just up to pastors to share Him but for all to do so. I love the words to a song Anne Wilson sings called "My Jesus"...

He makes a way where there ain't no way
Rises up from an empty grave
Ain't no sinner that He can't save
Let me tell you 'bout my Jesus
His love is strong and His grace is free
And the good news is I know that He
Can do for you what He's done for me
Let me tell you 'bout my Jesus
And let my Jesus change your life

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the safe travels You provided Cait and I to go see Carrie, Chris, and the boys last night! Thank You for being with them today with the funeral! May they feel Your peace and comfort. I continue to pray for so many with recent deaths. Mike, Donna, Vicki, and many more. Thank You for being with Monica who had oral surgery and Rhonda's granddaughter who had another procedure yesterday! I pray for those going through 'tough' days to feel Your peace. My Momma, my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Dan; Ben and Colleen; Scott; Tony and Madeline; many with COVID; Gay and Doug; Ms Savon; Little Ivy's family; Ed who is dealing with stage 4 cancer; a couple with serious relationship issues and a family in turmoil; a young man in rehab for anger issues and another young man for addiction; Norma; Sharon Sebolt; and so many others. I pray protection over one in a difficult situation in their work place and another one with a family situation. Lord, be greater than the hurts of life. No matter how many hurts we experience in life You are there for us. Praise Your Holy Name! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. I pray for many opportunities to love with Your love during the Food Distribution today. May Your strength continue in my physical, mental, emotional, and most of all spiritual being throughout the day ahead. I pray blessings over Rickey and his day. Thank You for bringing him into my life! Last night you knew I needed laughter and provided. Thank You for the way You use him to love me with Your love! Thank You Jesus for being My Yesterdays, Today, and Tomorrows! Amen.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 - "Scars In Heaven"

Yesterday when the song "Scars in Heaven" came on the tears fell as I sang along. Doc, my Daddy, my brother...so many people are no longer battling disease, addictions, the enemy, etc. but instead have new bodies in heaven. Physical, mental, emotional, and most of all spiritual. I remember growing up and having a love/hate relationship with fall. It was always my favorite season with the beauty of God's creation. The leaves changing color was so miraculous to me as a little girl. But the 'hate' part of fall was knowing my Daddy was going to shed a lot of tears and be depressed. My sister was murdered the end of October. It seemed like as September drew to a close my Daddy would start reliving the horrid experience again. Many tears were shed as September drew near for me knowing it was the first anniversary of Doc taking his last breath. Many tears have fallen since. Thankfully I have good memories to associate with his death. He was at home where he wanted to be with me and Mordecei to take his last breath. He was so ready to be done with 'C' and have a new body. He didn't want to leave but he knew it was time. I knew it was time. I am so thankful for the strength and peace the Lord gave/gives me. As I watched the Ohio service for him again I was so blessed in how many lives Doc touched. I know he sure made an impact on me. I would not be a pastor today if it were not for the encouragement and mentoring he gave me. In his last days he told Pastor Sam it was my faith keeping him going. Those words bless me in abundance. I ministered to him the best way I could and am so grateful for the strength the Lord gave me to do so.

I know the road you walked was anything but easy
You picked up your share of scars along the way
Oh, but now you're standing in the sun, you've fought your fight and your race is run
The pain is all a million miles away

The only scars in heaven, they won't belong to me and you
There'll be no such thing as broken and all the old will be made new
And the thought that makes me smile now even as the tears fall down
Is that the only scars in heaven are on the hands that hold you now

The only way we can have a new body in heaven is to live for God on this earth. As I wrote the sermon for Roxanne's Celebration of Life service I was reminded of this. We are only here for a season. Some people's season is longer than others but it is always God's time. Sometimes I think God protects people who are taken early. He knows what is ahead and saves them from it. God knows what those still on this earth need and He provides. He gives us strength when we feel like we cannot carry on. He gives us wisdom with decisions. He gives us a renewal in our spirit for the days ahead. I think about what I said yesterday, "Thank You Jesus for being My Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow!" This is exactly who He is in my life. He was always with me in my yesterdays. He will be with me in my today. He is preparing me for my tomorrows. Woo hoo! The only way to live is by walking in obedience to His will, knowing you are headed to eternity with Him.

Dear Jesus, Thank You for my yesterdays, today, and tomorrows! Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ways You gave me to love with Your love! Thank You for the cleansing in my spirit as the tears fell with the song "Scars In Heaven" being sung! Thank You for all of the times Rickey text/called me to encourage me! What a blessing You gave me in Him! Thank You for the testimony he had after a phone conversation with a new friend! Lord, cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. I desire to be Christ-like so people will see/hear/feel You through me. Thank You for the lunch with Colette and Marion's family! We are so blessed by this dear family. Thank You for my time with Jack and Paula! Another blessing in my day. Thank You for getting me home before dark and with little rain! I have so much to be thankful for and praise You for giving me opportunities to praise You. Lord, may others going through 'tough' times find reason to praise You today. I think of Donna as they have her husband's funeral today; and Carrie and Chris with calling hours tonight and the funeral tomorrow for her Momma; and Mike as he prepares for the service Sunday. I pray Your peace over all. I pray for many going through 'tough' days to find Your peace. I pray for Monica who is having oral surgery and Rhonda's granddaughter who is having another procedure this morning. Lord, be near to them. I pray for: My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; Dan; Ben and Colleen; Scott; Tony and Madeline; many with COVID; Gay and Doug; Ms Savon; Little Ivy's family; Vicki; Ed who is dealing with stage 4 cancer; a couple with serious relationship issues and a family in turmoil; a young man in rehab for anger issues and another young man for addiction; Norma; Sharon Sebolt; and so many others. I pray protection over one in a difficult situation in their work place and another one with a family situation. Lord, be greater than the hurts of life. Thank You for giving Kenny and Terri safe travels and for their time with Kenneth! Lord, You are so, so good! Thank You again for being My Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrows! Amen.