John 10:13-14 - "Woman At The Well"

Yesterday was such an awesome day! Wow God sure blesses me in abundance! Starting with an awesome children's Sunday school class, preaching what God gave me to share, lunch with part of my church family, and the rest of the day resting was so, so good. I woke up during the night and again this morning with the song "Woman At The Well."

I heard a story from the Bible
When I was just a little girl
About a broken hearted woman
Who met the savior of the world

Cause tonight I feel just like
The woman at the well
Wondering how someone could love me
When I can't love myself
But you want me as I am and that sounds crazy
I guess maybe that's why grace is so amazing

I remember a time where I felt unloved. I know God never quit loving me when I walked away from Him but in my humanness that is the way I felt. I believe God puts such feelings in us for a reason. We have to get to the end of ourselves so He can love us. We have to realize life is about Him and not about us. God loves us just as we are. He is not looking for perfect people but is looking for people who will allow Him to love them so they can love others with His love. 

Dear Jesus, Thank You for all the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for being Who You are in my life! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May people see/hear You instead of me through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. Father, I pray for those who feel unloved to have someone love them today with Your love. I pray for those going through 'tough' days to experience Your love. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Tony and Madeline; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Mary Lilley; Preacher Bill Watts; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Patty's daughter Tracy; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; Debbie's husband Kelly; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Patti Perkins; Tammie; Little Ivy and Dorothy's grandson with leukemia; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor, the Long Family, Baby Henry, and Karl Stein. I pray for all our military and their families to lean into Your strength. Thank You Lord for being with Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself in these days without my Rickey with us. Thank You for keeping us connected! They bless me in abundance. Thank You for being My Savior! Amen. 

Job 11:17 - "Brighter Days"

I prayed for pastors before going to bed, when I was up at 3AM, and again this morning. I prayed for those experiencing 'good' days to not allow them to get to their head. I prayed they would stay focused on God and allow Him to lead them. I prayed for those going through 'tough' days in their personal life, family, and/or church to realize God is there for them. I prayed for people around them to show them support through God's love. Life is 'tough' but God has everything under control. I remember years ago doing a Women's Ministries event where I spoke on 'When Life Gives You Lemons Make Lemonade.' That is exactly what we need to do. No matter what comes our way we must allow God to empower us through it. We need to have His wisdom and His strength to be who He has called us to be. This morning the song "Brighter Days" is on my mind. When we feel like life is giving us lemons, we need to hang onto these words...

I know there's gonna be some brighter days
I swear that love will find you in your pain
I feel it in me like the beating of life in my veins
I know there's gonna be some brighter days

Yes! There will be "Brighter Days" both here on earth and especially when we get to heaven. Woo hoo! We just need to hang on to Jesus to get through 'tough' days on this earth. The prize of living with Him for eternity will be worth it all. I was reminded this morning of advice given to Job in the eleventh chapter of Job. He was encouraged to be right with God so God could be Who He desired in his life. If we truly desire to be faithful servants, we must be right with Him. I pray every day asking Him to cleanse me so He can fill me with more of Himself.

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for the blessings of yesterday with meeting a new friend, Will and Sandy taking me to lunch, rest in the afternoon, and then time with the Reeder boys last night! You know what I need to fill my tank and provide. I am so blessed. Thank You for Adam Bowers who takes care of my Momm's computer issues! Lord, cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. I pray when I preach it will not be me people hear but You. You had me praying fo pastors last night, at 3AM, and again this morning. I know of many going through 'tough' days. May they feel Your empowerment in a mighty way today. I pray the same for those on my list going through 'tough' days. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Tony and Madeline; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cade and Lauren; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Mary Lilley; Kristen Batten; Preacher Bill Watts; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Patty's daughter Tracy; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Debbie's husband Kelly; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Patti Perkins; Tammie; Little Ivy and Dorothy's grandson with leukemia; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor, the Long Family, Baby Henry, Karl Stein, and Lisa's grand babies. Thank You for Shirley's friend having successful back surgery! I pray for all our military and their families to lean into Your strength. Thank You Lord for being with Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself in these days without my Rickey with us. Sundays always seem to be the day I miss him the most. I was so blessed by the way he 'talked me to church' every Sunday morning. Oh how I miss our conversations. Thank You for being My Brighter Days! Amen. 

Lamentations 3:22-27; II Timothy 1:7 - "Promises"

Yesterday was a very emotional day. I posted on facebook at the beginning of the day:

Sometimes being a pastor is hard...Sometimes being a widow is hard...Sometimes being a widowed pastor his hard...II Timothy 1:7

These words are where I am. I do not have to fear the days ahead because I know God is with me. He has brought me through so many 'hard' times and will continue to do so. Once again this morning I woke to the song "Promises" on my heart. 

Though the storms may come and the winds may blow
I'll remain steadfast
And let my heart learn, when You speak a word
It will come to pass

Great is Your faithfulness to me
Great is Your faithfulness to me
From the rising sun to the setting same, I will praise Your name
Great is Your faithfulness to me

I am so thankful for the knowledge of the truth in this song. I am thankful for God being Who He is in my life. I try to not complain or whine but some days are just harder than others. Some situations in life are just harder than others. I can be going along thinking things are going well and boom something hits. Thankfully God is there to get me through every single moment of every single day. He is there when the tears fall. Sometimes the tears are sad ones. Sometimes they are ugly ones. Yesterday the ones that fell were a mixture of sad and joyful. My first glimpse of the altars as Cait and I unwrapped them opened the floodgates. It is just another part of Doc's plan coming into existence that he did not get to see. That saddens me yet at the same time it brings me joy that I get to experience it. As I lovingly touched the altars I thought of all the people who will be blessed as they seek God at them. It reminded me of when the pews came into the building and thinking about all the people who were blessed from sitting in them over the years. God is so good. He is faithful as we are faithful. I cannot allow the 'hard' times to discourage me but instead need to allow God to take my faith deeper through them. Many times when I voice those words to people I hear 'easier said than done.' In our humanness that is true but when we allow God to be Who He desires to be in our life He will be faithful as we are faithful. 

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the physical, mental, emotional, and most of all spiritual strength You provided yesterday! Thank You for Joshua Cole's phone call yesterday morning! Thank You for Andy's text of encouragement after he read my facebook post..."It's the other times that make those sometimes worth living." I am so blessed by all You put in my path. Thank You for the altars being delivered and for the delivery man helping get them into the church! Thank You for another part of Doc's dream being fulfilled through the generosity of so many! Thank You for all of the work Cait and I accomplished at the church yesterday! Thank You for being with me as I met a new family and for Carrington's taking me out for a family dinner! Lord, You are so good to bless me. Even little things like helping me remember where I saw my Momma's box of Easter decorations that she couldn't find. No matter if small or big You take care of things. Cleanse me so You can fill me so people will see/hear You instead of me today. May You flow from my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. I pray for many going through tough days to realize Your faithfulness. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Tony and Madeline; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cade and Lauren; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Mary Lilley; Kristen Batten; Preacher Bill Watts; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Patty's daughter Tracy; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Debbie's husband Kelly; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Patti Perkins; Tammie; Little Ivy and Dorothy's grandson with leukemia; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor, the Long Family, Baby Henry, Shirley's friend who had back surgery yesterday, and Lisa's grand babies. Thank You Lord for being with Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself in these days without my Rickey with us. Yesterday Cait and I both had a 'Rickey moment' which blessed me in abundance. I was thinking yesterday how he would be soaking up this beautiful sunshine with low humidity if he were still with us. Thank You for being My Faithfulness! Amen. 

Acts 1:2; Hebrews 13:5 - "Promises"

I woke up with the song "Promises" on my mind. God is faithful at all time. He loves me so much and is always with me. I am struggling right now with a decision before me yet I know God will direct me as I allow Him. He will protect me from making the 'wrong' decision if I just stay focused on Him. These words are priceless...

Great is Your faithfulness to me
Great is Your faithfulness to me
From the rising sun to the setting same, I will praise Your name
Great is Your faithfulness to me

When the seasons change
You remain the same

Seasons have definitely changed drastically over the last few years. Last night in my new group there were many tears fall by not just me but by many ladies. I was so thankful to hear many proclaim great faith. I know I would never make it through life without Jesus being Who He is to me. I also am thankful for the way my parents raised me to depend upon Him. I am grateful for the Church of the Nazarene that showed me what it means to live a life sold out to Him. I am grateful for all of life experiences I have gone through that have taken my faith deeper. I am thankful eleven years ago God called me into ministry. I am grateful He has called me to lead the Beaufort Church of the Nazarene. Plain and simple. I am grateful! God has been faithful from the beginning of time. He is so good to lead me where He desires me to go. The key is I must allow Him to do so. In my humanness I can mess things up. That is why it is so important to stay focused on Him. The disciples had the privilege to have Him with them on earth. They had the privilege to sit under His teaching. Even though we do not have Him here in human form we still have the privilege to sit under His teaching and leading. I was reading in Acts yesterday and in the first chapter, verse two stuck out at me. It reads in The Passion Translation, Just before he ascended into heaven, he left instructions for the apostles he had chosen by the Holy Spirit. He not only instructed the disciples but He instructs me every day. The more I dig into His Word the more I am blessed by Him. Woo hoo!

Dear Jesus, Thank You for Laurie who facilitated last night's group and for all the ladies who participated! What a blessing I received through my time with them. Thank You for reminding me of my call as Cait and I did her licensing paperwork! Thank You for my dear friend Ms Savon who called me yesterday and for the privilege I had to look at a house for Dave and Carol! Thank You for all the ways You bless me and are faithful to me! Lord, cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing so I can be who You desire of me. I pray for You to be seen/heard through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts in the day ahead. I also pray for Your wisdom with a decision to be made. I pray Your peace over many going through difficult times. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Tony and Madeline; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cade and Lauren; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Mary Lilley; Kristen Batten; Preacher Bill Watts; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Patty's daughter Tracy; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Debbie's husband Kelly; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Patti Perkins; Tammie; Little Ivy and Dorothy's grandson with leukemia; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor, the Long Family, Baby Henry, Shirley's friend having back surgery today, and Lisa's grand babies. Thank You Lord for being with Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself in these days without my Rickey with us. May we all hold onto the memories we have and not be sad. You gave him to us for a season and for that I am grateful. Thank You for being My Faithfulness! Amen. 

Matthew 26:35; 22:36-40 - "All That I Am"

Yesterday was such a beautful day. Eighty degrees and pure sunshine. Perfect! I wish I would have been able to go to the waterfront but it was not in the schedule. As I felt the sun shine down on me I was so blessed to know the Son shines down on me. We do not understand the 'whys' of things that happen in our life but there is one thing we can know. Jesus loves us. Woo hoo! He loves us so much that He died and rose again so we can live. Last night's discussion in Bible study about Jesus' last days reiterated that in my mind. It breaks my heart to read of Jesus being betrayed by those closest to Him but I must remember it was all part of God's plan. I have been through some heart breaking things in life. God allowed them to happen to strengthen my faith. He allows things to happen to draw us closer to Him. Peter's declaration in Matthew 26:35 did not work out as the words said yet God was still there in the midst of things. But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same. What would happen if I were put into a position where I had to stand up for Him or die? Would I be strong in my faith or cave? I would hope I would stay strong in my faith. I hope when persecution comes I am strong and grounded in the Lord. God is always here for me. I need to always be here for Him. He is always ready to provide me strength  and wisdom. He is always loving on me. I need to be prayed up and ready for what lies ahead. I think of the words to "All That I Am" sung by The Afters....

Love You with all of my heart
Jesus I'll love You with all of my mind
Jesus I'll love You with all of my souls
Jesus I'll love You with all that I am

Yes! This is my goal in life. Love Him with all of me is what He desires of me. When I love Him in this manner, I will be empowered to love others with His love. That is why He put me on this earth. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt He put my Rickey in my life for that very reason. He needed to be loved and he needed reminded of Jesus' love for him. I am so thankful for that time. I never expected it to be cut so short but I am thankful for every moment the Lord gave him to me as a gift I will always treasure.

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for Chris trimming 'Doc's trees' and for the time last night with dinner and activities at church! Thank You for comforting Anna, Michael, and the kids with the loss of Sampson! Thank You for the day ahead! I am so excited for the altars to be delivered and for my gathering tonight with ladies from the area. Cleanse me so You can fill me so Your love will ooze out of my words, actions, thoughts, and attitude. Father, be with those going through 'tough' days. I pray someone will speak life over them today. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Tony and Madeline; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cade and Lauren; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Mary Lilley; Kristen Batten; Preacher Bill Watts; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Patty's daughter Tracy; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Debbie's husband Kelly; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Patti Perkins; Tammie; Little Ivy and Dorothy's grandson with leukemia; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor, the Long Family, Dave and Carol Goodwin, Baby Henry, and Lisa's grand babies. I praise You for Brooklyn getting her cast off. Thank You Lord for being with Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself in these days without my Rickey with us. I am thankful for texts, a voice mail, and all the memories I have from my time with him. He was truly a treasured gift. Thank You for being The One I Love! Amen.

Ruth - "I Will Follow"

I love the story of Ruth. Her love for her mother-in-law is one of great devotion. I was reading a book yesterday from Nancy that shared Ruth's story. Her story is one I never tire reading of nor do I ever change the way I feel about her after reading her story again. Her love for Naomi was one that was many do not experience. After her husband died she had no ties to Naomi yet she not only made sure she made it back to Bethlehem safely but she stayed with her to care for her.  There is much to learn from Ruth. We learn how to truly love others. She never gave up even after all she went through. She was brave as she found ways to make sure Naomi and her had food and shelter. Even though she was not raised to know God once she found Him she leaned into His strength. One of the blessings Ruth received was that of being King David's great grandmother. If Ruth would not have lived as she did, King David would never had been born. Her faith is one I desire to have in my own life. She never quit believing God would take care of her and Naomi. Even though she was new to her faith she still believed. Sometimes those new in their faith falter easily because they do not have much experience in life. But this was not the case with Ruth. It was through her faith God redeemed her and her faith grew stronger. Her life shined brightly by her love for Naomi. Ruth ended up marrying Boaz who loved her greatly. Her story is a modern-day 'Cinderella' type of story. All believers can have such a 'happily ever after' story as we live with joy and hope with eternity with Jesus as our focus. Matthew Henry wrote of the first chapter of the book of Ruth:

Thus, many have a value and affection for Christ, yet come short of salvation by him, because they will not forsake other things for him. They love him, yet leave him, because they do not love him enough, but love other things better. Ruth is an example of the grace of God, inclining the soul to choose the better part. Naomi could desire no more than the solemn declaration Ruth made. See the power of resolution; it silences temptation. Those that go in religious ways without a stedfast mind, stand like a door half open, which invites a thief; but resolution shuts and bolts the door, resists the devil and forces him to flee.

We must stay close to God no matter what happens in life. We cannot allow the enemy an open door. If we do, he will play havoc in our life. I am reminded this morning of a song Chris Tomlin sings called "I Will Follow"....

Where you go, I'll go
Where you stay, I'll stay
When you move, I'll move
I will follow you
Who you love, I'll love
How you serve I'll serve
If this life I lose, I will follow you
I will follow you

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for the opportunities You provided yesterday for me to love with Your love and for the ones ahead today! Thank You for being my wisdom on some decisions I made yesterday! Thank You for going before me with a decision ahead! Father, You are so good to point me in the direction I need to go. Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing so I can continue to be who You desire me to be. I pray today as Lisa's grand babies and Baby Henry are home their parents will seek Your wisdom with their care. Thank You for Tracy getting the Homebound tote from the library for my Momma yesterday! Thank You for the way You blessed me as I prayed in the car with bringing Chrissy's Momma to my prayers and then me passing her on the road! Wow, God! I love how You work! I pray You will find the missing package that shows was delivered yesterday. Thank You for the time I had last night with Tony, Gary, and Brent on the zoom call! I pray for great things to happen in the life of our churches through this project. Thank You for working in the lives of so many who are struggling! My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Tony and Madeline; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cade and Lauren; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Mary Lilley; Brooklyn with her broken arm; Kristen Batten; Preacher Bill Watts; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Patty's daughter Tracy; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Patti Perkins; Tammie; Little Ivy and Dorothy's grandson with leukemia; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor, the Long Family, and Dave and Carol Goodwin. Thank You Lord for being with Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself in these days without my Rickey with us. Yesterday as I pulled into Hobby Lobby and saw a couple walking in holding hands I prayed God was in their relationship. I was so blessed to have both Doc and my Rickey to enjoy going shopping with me. Instead of tears falling the prayers were raised for couples. Last night on the zoom call we were encouraged to show our appreciation to people. I thought about how we never know when people will be gone from this earth and we need to show appreciation to them while we have them. I pray I showed both Doc and my Rickey how much I loved and appreciated them. Thank You for being The One I Follow! Amen.

Ephesians 3:14-21 - "I Am Yours"

I woke up with the song "I Am Yours" going through my head. It is such a blessing to be a daughter of the King. He loves me so much and blesses me every day. I had the conversation in children's Sunday school this past Sunday about us being princes and princesses. If all children had this instilled in them, the world would be a better place. My heart breaks for children who are not uplifted in their daily life. I was reminded yesterday of a 'bad' memory of a time where hurtful words were spoken over me by a teacher in elementary school. That was fifty years ago yet I can hear those words in my mind just like it was yesterday. It is not just children who need to hear words of affirmation but everyone. Ephesians 3:14-21 are words of affirmation Paul spoke over the Ephesians. These are words of not only God's love but of Paul's love for the people. I love the words to this song that speak God's love over us...

If I had to write a story
Of the greatest love in time
I would have to sing of you
How I'm this branch and you're the vine
And the romance that we have, oh, it's easy by design
I was fortunate to find you, I'm still blown away you're mine

'Cause I am yours
And you will always be mine
It seems like madness, I'm invited
To the table by your side
'Cause I am yours
And you will always be mine
I'm a man whose one ambition
Is to dance with my divine
'Cause I am yours
And you are, you are, you are
You are mine

My story is different the story of others in many instances but not in the way He loves. He loves us all so greatly and desires to be our focus in life. He desires to be Who we lean into during 'good' days and 'tough' days. Matthew Henry writes of Paul's requests in this prayer:

Strength from the Spirit of God in the inner man; strength in the soul; the strength of faith, to serve God, and to do our duty. If the law of Christ is written in our hearts, and the love of Christ is shed abroad there, then Christ dwells there. Where his Spirit dwells, there he dwells. We should desire that good affections may be fixed in us. And how desirable to have a fixed sense of the love of God in Christ to our souls! How powerfully the apostle speaks of the love of Christ! The breadth shows its extent to all nations and ranks; the length, that it continues from everlasting to everlasting; the depth, its saving those who are sunk into the depths of sin and misery; the height, its raising them up to heavenly happiness and glory. Those who receive grace for grace from Christ's fulness, may be said to be filled with the fulness of God. Should not this satisfy man? Must he needs fill himself with a thousand trifles, fancying thereby to complete his happiness?

God sustains us and satisfies us as we allow Him. The desires of His heart are poured down upon us in blessings as we live for Him. His greatest joy as our Heavenly Father is seeing us live in obedience to His will. I pray every day for Him to cleanse me so He can fill me to overflowing with more of Himself. Then, and only then, can I live as He desires.

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for the opportunity to be in Pastor Elaine's on-line summit yesterday! Thank You for all of the speakers who gave of their time to share! Thank You for a productive board meeting last night! Thank You for the strength You continue to provide as I struggle from the after effects of COVID! Thank You for the way You are going to show Yourself through me today! Cleanse me so You can fill me with more of Yourself. May people see/hear You instead of me in the day ahead. Thank You for Baby Henry and Lisa's grand babies being released from the hospital! What little miracles these three are! Thank You for Mike taking my trash and for Tracey picking up my Momma's homebound tote from the library! Thank You for all the ways You shower me with Your love! I pray Your love will be experienced in a mighty way by those struggling. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Tony and Madeline; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cade and Lauren; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Mary Lilley; Brooklyn with her broken arm; Kristen Batten; Preacher Bill Watts; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Patty's daughter Tracy; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Patti Perkins; Tammie; Little Ivy and Dorothy's grandson with leukemia; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor and the Long Family. Thank You Lord for being with Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself in these days without my Rickey with us. Yesterday the tears fell as I drove through town and had the memory of him being in Ohio on the phone playing and me here in South Carolina singing "How Great Thou Art." The memories are so precious. May You continue to heal the hurt of our hearts. Thank You for being My Root! Amen.

II Corinthians 2:14-16 - "Take The Name of Jesus With You"

I woke up this morning with the hymn "Take The Name of Jesus With You" and immediately thought of one of the Scriptures in yesterday's sermon. Paul wrote in II Corinthians 2:14-16 in the ESV: But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient for these things? We ended the sermon with the challenge to ask God to give us the desire to put off 'an aroma of life to a dying world.' Waking up with this hymn reminded me that I can fulfill this challenge by sharing Jesus with all I meet. I can "Take The Name of Jesus With You" through my words, actions, thoughts, and attitude. I pray every day for God to cleanse me so He can use me in the way He desires. I desire to be who He has called me to be but in order for that to happen He first must be allowed to be Who He desires to be in my life. As I "Take The Name of Jesus With You" I will spread His sweet aroma to all. In the sermon I talked about there being the aroma of destruction with those who do not follow Christ and the aroma of life for those who do. I desire to have the aroma of life. I desire to have words of life flow from my lips and a sweetness flow from me. I desire to see others to follow Christ too. Plain and simple. I desire to live for eternity with Him. The only way that can happen is to live for Him while on this earth. In this hymn, I read when I take His name into the world it "will joy and comfort give you." Woo hoo! There is one phrase in the hymn, "Hope of earth and joy of heaven" that blesses me in abundance. We have hope on this earth through Jesus. He is the Hope of our Salvation while we are on this earth. We also have the hope of the joy we will receive in heaven. What we must remember is we can bask in His joy on earth too as we live a life of obedience to Him. As we live such a life people will see/hear Him through our words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. Then, and only then, will we put off 'an aroma of life to a dying world.' 

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for loving me so greatly! Lord, cleanse me so You can fill me with more of You. I desire to put off 'an aroma of life to a dying world.' Oh how I pray for more of Your followers to have this same desire. Lord, I pray for many going through 'tough' days to realize Your peace today. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Tony and Madeline; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cade and Lauren; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Mary Lilley; Brooklyn with her broken arm; Kristen Batten; Preacher Bill Watts; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Patty's daughter Tracy; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Patti Perkins; Tammie; Little Ivy and Dorothy's grandson with leukemia; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor; a set of twins who were born premature; Baby Henry; and the Long Family. Oh Lord, be so close to these families. Thank You Lord for being with Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself in these days without my Rickey with us. Some days are just harder than others without him. May You continue to heal the hurt of our hearts. Thank You for being My Fragrance Maker! Amen.

Psalm 122:1; Deuteronomy 30:11-14 - "House of the Lord"

Before going to bed, during the night, and again this morning I prayed for pastors. The joke is Sunday is the only day they work but we all know that is not true. A pastor is on-call 24/7 and always ready to do whatever God puts before them. All believers should be ready to walk in obedience to what God desires of them. I am reminded of a quote by Elisabeth Elliott:

“The obedient heart is the heart that will learn, the heart that is ready to change, the heart that doesn’t take its cues from everything the world is saying but is ready to line that up with the Word of God.”

God's Word has all we need to know how we are to live. His Word has every bit of wisdom we need to make right decisions. It has great insight on how we are to live a life pleasing to the Lord. As we walk in obedience to Him we will realize what He desires of us. The only way to live is to allow Him to be Who He desires to be in our life so we can be who He desires us to be. Moses' words in Deuteronomy 30 give us the direction to choose life. Jesus had not even been born yet at the time of Moses. They lived under the Old Covenant. God expected him and the Israelites to keep that covenant by adhering to the Law and the practice of sacrifices when the Law was not kept. The Israelites had the choice to live by the Law or not. Today we have the choice to live by the New Covenant, Jesus or not. Deuteronomy 30:11-14 reads in the New International Version: 

Now what I am commanding you today is not too difficult for you or beyond your reach. It is not up in heaven, so that you have to ask, “Who will ascend into heaven to get it and proclaim it to us so we may obey it?”  Nor is it beyond the sea, so that you have to ask, “Who will cross the sea to get it and proclaim it to us so we may obey it?”  No, the word is very near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart so you may obey it.

Verse fourteen is key in how we are to live. It shows the choice of living as He desires of us as we make the choice to live by His Word. I am reminded of a children's Sunday School lesson from a few weeks ago when I was teaching on the statement 'I Am the Bread of Life.' I told the children we need to live Jesus out every day. We need to 'eat' Him as our Bread of Life. Verse fourteen tells us when we have His Word in our heart we will live it out. That is the desire of my heart. As I prepare to go to church to worship with my church family I will rejoice. There is much to rejoice over. Last week we were unable to meet due to me having COVID. I already know of several not going to be there today due to travels, working, or being sick. I cannot allow that to take away my joy. God's Word tells me over and over again to be joyful. Therefore, I will find positives to look at instead of negatives. I will seek His will more intently so I can rejoice. I am reminded of a song Phil Wickham sings called "House of the Lord"...

There's joy
In the house of the Lord
There's joy in the house of the Lord today
And we won't be quiet
We shout out
Your praise
There's joy in the house of the Lord
Our God is surely in this place
And we won't be quiet
We shout out Your praise

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the time with new friends yesterday over lunch, the rest You provided afterward, the projects I was able to work on, and for loving on me so much! Thank You for the memories of both Doc and my Rickey that I cherished yesterday! Cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. I pray You will be seen/heard through my actions, attitude, thoughts, and words in the day ahead. Lord, You know I prayed for pastors before going to bed, when You woke me during the night, and again this morning. I pray we all will walk in obedience to You. I pray for the pastors at retreat to be renewed and ready to return to where You have placed them. Father, You know the obstacles before all of us in ministry. May You be greater than anything that comes before us. May we all lean into Your strength and wisdom. I pray the same for many going through 'tough' days. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Tony and Madeline; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cade and Lauren; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Mary Lilley; Brooklyn with her broken arm; Kristen Batten; Preacher Bill Watts; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Patty's daughter Tracy; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Patti Perkins; Tammie; Little Ivy and Dorothy's grandson with leukemia; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor; a set of twins who were born premature; Baby Henry; and Kenny and Terri as Kenneth is deployed. Oh Lord, be so close to these families. Thank You Lord for being with Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself in these days without my Rickey with us. I pray we all will hold the memories close to our heart as we figure out how to do life without him. Thank You for being My Joy! Amen.

Psalm 105; Jeremiah 29:13 - "Weary Traveler"

This morning the Lord took me to Psalm 105. In the first few verses of this Psalm we are told to be grateful for all He has done for us. Then we are told to take it a step further by telling others of what He has done for us. If we do not tell the world about Jesus, who will? If we do not share our personal story, it will never be known. Verse four is key to life. It reads in the New International Version: Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always. The more we live in His presence the more we will experience what He desires of us. The more we walk in obedience to Him the more we will know His will for our life. I am reminded of Jeremiah 29:13. It reads in the New International Version, You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. This is what life is all about. Seeking God so we can love with His love. We do not need to worry about what happened yesterday or what will happen today. Instead we need to seek Him so we can live in His empowerment. Psalm 105 talks of how God saw the Israelites through the wilderness. He did not take all of the obstacles of life away. It is in the obstacles of life our faith grow deeper. He did not make life easy for them. It is in the 'tough' days we realize we must rely on Him instead of ourselves. He cared for the Israelites in the way they needed cared for. He cares for us in the way we need cared for. He loves us greatly and wants what is best for us. Sometimes our circumstances cloud our focus on Him. We must be very careful to not allow that to happen. There are some discouraging things in my life right now. Some things I don't understand but I know He loves me and will see me through them just as He has always done. There are some things I do not understand but as I wait in Him He will reveal Himself to me. There are some things and people who disappoint me but I cannot allow them to stop me from being who Jesus desires me to be. Some days are just harder than others. I can so relate to the song "Weary Traveler."

Weary traveller, restless soul
You were never meant to walk this road alone
It'll all be worth it so just hold on
Weary traveler, you won't be weary long...

Someday soon we're gonna make it home

Dear Jesus,

Thank You for another day of life! Thank You for the luncheon today where I am going to meet new friends! Thank You for cleansing me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You! May people see/hear You instead of me through my words, actions, attitude, and thoughts. Thank You for my Momma's electric staying on with the bad weather! Thank You for texts from Ben and Paul, chats with Matt, completing my sermon, and finishing a gift yesterday! Thank You for my time with Cait as we discussed church things and for the long nap afterward! You are so good to give me exactly what I need. I do not want to be a 'weary traveler' yet that is how I am feeling. Lord, empower me to be stronger physically, mentally, emotionally, financially, and most of all spiritually. I pray the same for many feeling weary. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Tony and Madeline; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cade and Lauren; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Mary Lilley; Brooklyn with her broken arm; Kristen Batten; Preacher Bill Watts; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Patty's daughter Tracy; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Patti Perkins; Tammie; Little Ivy and Dorothy's grandson with leukemia; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor; a set of twins who were born premature; Baby Henry; and Kenny and Terri as Kenneth is deployed. Oh Lord, be so close to these families. Thank You Lord for being with Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself in these days without my Rickey with us. Thank You for putting him in our lives and for the love he gave all of us! Lord, be greater than the hurts of life. Lord, I pray for the pastors and spouses at retreat to be renewed over this weekend. Thank You for being My Eternal Father! Amen.

Psalm 61; Psalm 16 - "Come What May"

Sometimes there are disappointments in life. They are part of life. People disappoint. Circumstances disappoint. We disappoint ourselves. The One that never disappoints is God. He may not always answer our prayers as we desire but He always answers them in the best way for us. Today is a day of disappointment. I was so looking forward to going to Pastor's Retreat. I enjoy getting together with my colleagues. There is great conversation, learning, sharing of life, etc. It is a time of refreshment. I prayed and asked God to give me His wisdom about going. Deep down I already knew His answer. My body is just not able to make a four and a half hour trip let alone function for gatherings and such. It was a disappoint to cancel yet God knows best. He is so good to speak to me. It takes an openness to listen but I am blessed as I do. This morning He took me to Psalm 61 where David wrote of his longing for God. He was depressed as his enemies were gathering closer. He cried out to God for refuge. He knew God was with him and also knew God would protect him from his enemies. Once again I think about disappointments. They can be a great enemy in our life if we allow the enemy an open door through them. David knew God was there to lead him through 'tough' times (vs 1-5). We have that same knowledge as we lean into God's strength. David vowed to be faithful to God in verse eight. This is a vow I stand upon whether it is a 'good' day or a 'tough' day. As I read this Psalm I was reminded of another Psalm David wrote. Psalm 16 encourages me greatly to lean into God no matter what is happening in life. The words of Psalm 16 are great in reminding me He is my protection, my portion, and my praise. The last verse of Psalm 61 are words I will forever declare. So I will sing praise to Your name forever, That I may daily perform my vows. Yes! I will sing praises to Him for Who He is in my life. I know the more I allow Him to be Who He desires to be in my life the more I will be who He desires me to be. Praise His Holy Name! This morning the song "Come What May" that We Are Messengers sings came to my mind...

There is deep joy that You give to me
Where hurt meets the healing is a holy thing
I see goodness, Your goodness
In all things

In every high, in every low
On mountaintops, down broken roads
You're still my rock, my hope remains
I'll rest in the arms of Jesus
Come what may

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the blessings of yesterday and the ones ahead today! Thank You for dinner out with my new friend Marilyn! Thank You for the accomplishment of getting some gifts finished and ready to mail for Rickey's grand babies! Thank You for Carol's visit and helping me with the project! Thank You for more strength in my body! May You continue to give me more physical, mental, emotional, financial, and most of all spiritual strength. It is harder for me to deal with the 'COVID brain' right now than the physical limitations. Thank You for the call from the library to get my Momma set-up with the Homebound Program! Lord, I continue to pray for protection over her from the ice from last night. I pray her electric does not go out and I pray for those who lost electric as they wait for it to be restored. Lord, cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May people see/hear You instead of me. May You shine brightly through me. May You direct my steps throughout this day to stay turned to You. May You keep my focus on You. May I declare Psalm 61:8 throughout the day. So I will sing praise to Your name forever, That I may daily perform my vows. Lord, be with many going through 'tough' days and empower them to stand in Your strength. My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Tony and Madeline; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cade and Lauren; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Mary Lilley; Brooklyn with her broken arm; Kristen Batten; Preacher Bill Watts; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Patty's daughter Tracy; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Patti Perkins; Tammie; Little Ivy and Dorothy's grandson with leukemia; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor; a set of twins who were born premature; Baby Henry; and Kenny and Terri as Kenneth is deployed. Oh Lord, be so close to these families. Thank You Lord for being with Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself in these days without my Rickey with us. Thank You for the memories we have that help us through days of loneliness without him! Thank You for pictures, texts, and voice mails that mean so much! Thank You for our connection as we love on one another through his love! Lord, be greater than the hurts of life. Thank You for being My Protector! Amen.

II Timothy 1:7; Philippians 4:13; Jeremiah 29:11-13 - "Be Alright"

God is so good. He loves me so much and I appreciate every blessing He gives me. Conversations with my Momma throughout the day, walks in the beautiful sunshine, a text from my daughter-in-law Rachel, gathering last night for activities at the church, hearing the children and teens chattering, leading the adults in Bible study, chatting with Rickey's son Matthew, getting close to finishing a gift project I started while down with COVID, getting more organization done in the office/craft room...goodness yesterday was full of blessings. This time of COVID has taught me to be more aware of every little blessing throughout the day. I am so thankful I am getting my strength back. I also am thankful for the ways God shows Himself throughout my days. Some days are just harder than others. Physically, mentally, and emotionally. Some days seem like they will never end and others seem to fly by. I was thinking last night as I crawled into bed about how different life is from two years ago when Doc was fighting the pancreatic cancer. It is different from one year ago when my days were blessed with texts and phone calls from my Rickey. It is different from last week when I was struggling with being sick from COVID. Life changes. There are mountains and there are valleys we must lean into the Lord's strength to accomplish. We all have a choice to look at the cup half full or half empty. We have the choice to allow God to be in charge of our life or not. We have the choice to love with His love or to hang onto anger, unforgiveness, etc. that will effect every part of our day. God gives us freedom to make choices. Oh how I pray I make good choices every day. I do not want to be fearful but instead want to stand in God's empowerment as II Timothy 1:7 tells me. I do not want to be weak but instead want to stand in God's strength as Philippians 4:13 tells me. I do not want to manipulate my future but instead want to stand in the promises of Jeremiah 29:11-13. God's Word is so good to remind me of how I need to live. Some days are harder than others but God is always here for me. I am reminded this morning of two things. One is the words He spoke over me on Christmas Day. The other is the words from a song Danny Gokey sings called "Be Alright"....

In the darkness and the trials
He's faithful and He is true
The whole world's in His hands
Y todo va a estar bien
Ohh
Everything will be alright
Ohh

Dear Jesus, Thank You for the all of the blessings of yesterday and the ones in the day ahead! Thank You for loving me so greatly! Thank You for the reminders of II Timothy 1:7, Philippians 4:13, and Jeremiahs 29:11-13! Thank You for the reminder that "Everything will be alright" from this song! Lord, cleanse me so You can fill me to overflowing with more of You. May people see/hear You instead of me today. I am so excited to meet a new friend this evening. Bless our time together and use me to love on her with Your love. Thank You for helping me get my Momma set-up for the homebound program at the library! I pray You will provide people to help get the books/tapes to her. Thank You for last night with being back together for Wednesday activities! I love hearing the chatter of the children and teens. I pray today will be a day of blessings for many going through 'tough' days. May they remember "Everything will be alright" with You. May we all make choices that include You. May You be close to: My Momma; my sisters Linda, Sally, and Mary; my brother Richard; Ben and Colleen; Tony and Madeline; Pete and Delores; Steve; Cade and Lauren; Cait; Mike; Norma Hall; Little Jensen who needs a heart; Sharon Sebolt and her Momma Shirley; the Pottenger Family; Serena and her husband; some young ladies with anxiety; a man in rehab for anger issues; a young man out of rehab who needs strength in his daily walk; a husband/father separated from his wife; Mary Lilley; Brooklyn with her broken arm; Kristen Batten; Preacher Bill Watts; those with COVID either themselves or in their family; and many others. I also pray healing prayers over many who are dealing with 'c' and/or going through treatments...Doug and Gay; Patty's daughter Tracy; Sharon's daughter Ashley and niece Amy; Chrissy's cousins; George and Sharon; Cait's friend with leukemia; my pastor friend with daily chemo; Elaine Stoltzfus; Patti Perkins; Tammie; Little Ivy and Dorothy's grandson with leukemia; Betty's friend in New York' and my friend diagnosed with mesothelioma. I pray for: Jonathan whose mother was diagnosed with a brain tumor; a set of twins who were born premature; Baby Henry; and Kenny and Terri as Kenneth is deployed. Oh Lord, be so close to these families. Thank You Lord for being with Anna, Michael, Matt, and myself in these days without my Rickey with us. It is hard for all of us to do life without him. Lord, be greater than the hurts of life. Thank You for being My Everything! Amen.