No Satisfaction!

"These people say, 'The time has not yet come to rebuild the Lord's house'....
The Word of the Lord says, "Is it a time for you yourselves to be living in your paneled houses, while my house remains a ruin?"
"Give careful thought to your ways. You have planted much, but harvested little. You eat, but never have enough. You drink, but never have your fill. You put on clothes, but are not warm. You earn wages, only to put them in a purse with holes in it." 
The Lord says, "Give careful thought to your ways. Go up into the mountains and bring down timber and build my house, so that I may take pleasure in it and be honored. You expected much, but see, it turned out to be little. Haggai 1:2-9

The temple of the Lord still lay in ruins. The Israelites started to rebuild after their arrival from captivity, but opposition hindered them and eventually discouraged them. They quit building and focused instead on their own houses and lives.

Fifteen years later, complacency and procrastination set in. They kept saying, "it's not time yet to rebuild the temple. It's not good timing right now, other things are higher up on the priority list, etc....

Frustration and distractions now settled in. nothing seemed to go well. They expected so much, but it turned out to be little. Why? Why is their path so hard? Does it have to be such a struggle? Nothing seems to satisfy. I'm so disquieted.

God's word cut through to the heart of the problem. They have used all their efforts, put all their hearts into enriching their own lives and homes while God's house lay in ruins. They have neglected the most important thing. 

We are a temple of the Holy Spirit, when we give our hearts to Jesus, His Spirit dwells within. 

Our enemy tries to distract us. To skew our priorities. Our focus can become distorted. And so we turn away to other things. Give our hearts and efforts to fill the emptiness. 

It just doesn't work. Nothing quite does it. Life is a struggle. Our expectations of people, work, etc.... falls short and disappoints. 

The Temple is neglected. That most Holy Place inside where we meet with Jesus. We commune with Him. Lay down all the hurts and disappointments. Satisfaction is there. Our starved, battered souls finds rest and peace. 

Why do we neglect this? Why do we push Him away? I don't have an answer. Sadly, I do it too. But He woos me, calls to me, and pulls me back. I pray He never stops. I need Him so badly. 

Beloved, answer His call. Go to Him now. Don't neglect your Temple. Rebuild it, keep the oil lamps burning, spend time there in His presence. You will never regret it. 

I gave up Candy Crush and ended up with far more than I asked for

I honestly never thought about Lent for most of my life. The church I attended never talked much about it. But I'll never look at it the same after this season. 

The early English meaning for Lent is "Lengthen." Daylight lengthens as we reset our clocks. 

Lent reflects on the forty days Jesus spent in the wilderness, before His three years of ministry, death and resurrection. He went without food, was tempted and strengthened by His Father. 

Lent is a time to slow down, stretch out and grow spiritually. To rest in the presence of God, rather than force the pace. Not that we shouldn't do this all year round, as we should. 

If you follow Lent, you give things up. Something we feel we can't do without. This sounds laughable now, but I gave up Candy Crush. 

Early this spring in a women's study, we were asked to give up something. It was kind of a "Lent". 

Then the virus happened. Quarantine happened. Lent was basically forced upon us. Days have definitely lengthened! March seemed to be an eternity. 

We've been forced to give up things we wouldn't have volunteered, surrendered before. We've been stripped down to the bare necessities. Even control has been taken away from us. 

I've been forced to slow down. I've had to do without luxuries I've enjoyed before. I've been close to tears many times. 

Nevertheless, this Lent season has changed me. For the better. I probably won't be the same afterward. I've prayed more, leaned more on Jesus. I've been present more, which ironically is why I gave up Candy Crush. 

I've been stretched. But like a muscle, stretching is good and needful to grow and be stronger. It can be uncomfortable and painful, but in the end my faith is stronger. I've drawn closer to Jesus. The unnecessary weights have been removed. 

Eventually Lent will be over and hopefully normal life will resume. But I don't want this season to be a waste. I pray the Lord uses this time to grow me and change me. 

After Jesus' time in the wilderness, it says He returned to Galilee in "the power of the Spirit." Luke 4:14 

It's my prayer that when I walk out of this wilderness/Lent season: that I will be more tender to the Spirit's leading 
that I hear His voice more clearly
that I be more effective in however He uses me
that I have pure motives

So many more I could list. So thankful for His faithfulness to me, His servant. 

The Piece of Wood

When they came to Marah, they could not drink its water because it was bitter. (That is why the place is called Marah.) So the people grumbled against Moses, saying, "what are we to drink?"

They Moses cried out to the Lord, and the Lord showed him a piece of wood. He threw it into the water and the water became fit to drink. Exodus 15:23-25

This has been a tough season for me. Places, circumstances and people I thought would sustain me or come through for me have failed to live up to my expectations. And yes I've complained and grumbled. Even to God. 

I've been here before. I should recognize this place. I've tasted the bitter waters of disappointment. This barren and bitter place has left me hungry and thirsty. 

Complaining and grumbling never helps. NEVER DOES. But I indulge anyway. Live in the pit for awhile. Until He looks down and asks the same question He asked Elijah in the cave, "What are you doing here?" 

I know the way out. I see the piece of wood and hear Him say throw that thing in there! 

The piece of wood that sweetens the bitter places is thankfulness, gratitude and praise. Ultimately it's Him. When I choose to pick it up and release it to that bitter place, I find the waters sweetened. I feel a sweet breeze come into my stagnant place. 

It always comes down to a choice. I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. Philippians 4:11

Practice. It's takes practice to be grateful. Sometimes it's a fight to choose to be thankful. The Holy Spirit always seems to help me find that piece of wood. The song, the praise...whatever it is to lift my eyes to Jesus and out of the pit. 

I can do all this through Him who gives me strength" Philippians 4:13 

There is a reason this verse follows the one about learning to be content. I'm no better than the ungrateful Israelites. I can be miserable with the bitter waters. left to myself. 

I desperately need Him. He's always enough. He satisfies. 

When I cannot speak

I can feel it deep inside when Moses said, "Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue." Exodus 4:10

This is me to a T! I write better than I talk. I feel awkward and uneasy talking to people. So how crazy is it that God would use me sometimes to share my heart and His word talking??

Well the same God was faithful to Moses when he stood in front of Pharaoh and spoke God words. He was faithful when Moses stood in front of millions of Israelites to lead them. 

Won't He be faithful to me? Isn't He powerful enough to use my words to impact people? I say yes, and I choose to do so in faith when I feel so feeble to speak when He leads me to do so. 

David prayed in Psalms 119:43, "Never take your word of truth from my mouth, for I have put my hope in your laws." 

What a powerful prayer to hold on to when I feel disabled from speaking. When weakness overwhelms. When there seems to be no willing audience. 

He is the treasure in the jar of clay. He's powerful enough to take the words I offer Him and bless and multiply it. Even to impact those who hear. 

Has He given you a testimony? A message to share? The people He's placed around you need to hear. Trust your God, speak those words and watch what He does.

Will it thrive?

Will it thrive? 

This vine of Egypt that King Zedikiah relies on to save him and Jerusalem. Can Egypt deliver Judah from Babylon's army?

Zedikiah refuses to listen to God's warnings. He pushes Jeremiah the prophet away, and stubbornly revolts. 

God asks, "Will he thrive?"

Relying on this weak vine will not save him and will only doom him and Judah.

Nebuchadnezzar the King of Babylon will just yank up this Egyptian vine from the roots. It will shrivel and die. There's nothing there.

Will it thrive?

These weak, low vines I sometimes rely on and cling to will ultimately fail. If I turn away from my true Refuge, my strong tower and cling to a lesser vine, will I thrive? 

Jesus stoops down and rips up this vine. Holding it up in front of me, He shakes it and asks, "Will this vine thrive?" 

And will you thrive clinging to it? 

Of course I can't. I thrive only by my trust in God alone. He alone is my strength. He is my anchor. My joy and peace. 

I am the tree planted by the Living water. I am rooted in Him. I cannot be shaken. I will thrive regardless. 

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5

Rotting Flesh

"What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of sin?" Romans 7:24

This corrupting carcass chained to me is slowly saturating my soul till it dominates and eventually kills me. 

I cannot save myself from it. I am a wretched person. 

Such is the fate of condemned murderers in Roman society. The murdered victim is chained to the back of the murderer. The rotting flesh eventually overwhelms the person carrying it around. Even infecting them. A rather gruesome picture isn't it?

This body of sin was chained to me. My Jesus unchained me and set me free from this rotting, corrupting carcass. "Therefore there is no more condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus!"

Yet what if I walked around like I was still chained? Still cowered under the imaginary weight? Influenced and enslaved to this dead body even though it exists no more?

What kind of life is this?

Initially I was saved by faith by Christ's work on the cross. Declared righteous before God. I already have His favor. I stand securely in His grace.

So does God do a bait and switch on me now? Now after the initial salvation, do I have to earn His favor? Do I grow in faith by rule keeping? 

Is this how you want me to live? Constant struggles, wrestlings and strivings of the flesh? "My yoke is easy and my burden light." Matthew 11:28-30

I am no longer enslaved to the body of sin, the flesh. Yet, there is a war between my spirit and flesh. It will continue till I die. 

Nevertheless, I have a new nature. I have God's spirit residing within. His power at work in my life. 

Through Him I.....
have life, I know the truth
I am justified
I am more than a conqueror
I have access to the Father
I have strength
I am reconciled to God perfectly
the powers and authorities are disarmed, completely defeated!
I offer sacrifices of praise to the One I adore. 

Close as my breath

The Word is near you; it is in your mouth and in your heart, that is, the Word of faith we are proclaiming. Romans 10:9

Do I feel so far from Him? Perhaps from neglect, or distractions? 

He is as close as a breath-a whispered prayer. He is there, at the ready. 

I make it so hard sometimes. I'm too hard on myself sometimes. I can close myself away rather easily. 

Yet He is so near. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you. Jeremiah 29:13

He longs for me. Desires me with an everlasting love. He left the ninety nine to search out the lost one. He ran to meet the prodigal son. 

Just a word of faith, a confession that I need Him so badly. An invitation to come, is all that is needed.

I do believe, help me overcome my unbelief. Mark 9:24

Sometimes I need the Spirit's help to even pray. I don't have the strength, or I lack sufficient words to express. My faith rises above it all, and I touch Him. His presence is the breath of fresh air breaking up the stale air. 

So when you are feeling far from God, and are having a lonesome day, take a deep breath and remind yourself, 
"God is only a breath away"
He's only a breath away
Louvenia Duncan

Drive the car

A kid is given the keys to a Cadillac on his eighth birthday. "Here you go son, now go drive it downtown!" 

Rather absurd isn't it? A eight year old kid is in no way capable of driving. 

But let's say he's given a superpower to drive it. And like Mario Andretti! People are just blown away by this kids awesome driving ability. 

The kid's head gets inflated. He flashes this gift all over. Struts around like he owns it. He eagerly takes in the worship and adoration. 

Take away the superpower though and you get what you see....an eight year old kid. 

I am that kid. I've been entrusted with gifts. Supernatural gifts. Empowered by the Spirit of God.

Me? Fallen, weak, imperfect, unable, prone to pride, prone to false humility...and so on and so forth. Given these gifts?? Entrusted by Almighty God? Crazy isn't it?

God what are you thinking? Why me? Yet...He knows what He's doing. He's the potter and I am the clay. Who am I to question His purpose?

These gifts are to serve and build others up. Draw unbelievers to Christ. 

How foolish it would be to get a big head about this. Yet neither am I to disqualify myself. "What if I fail?" "What if I do get prideful about it?" 

Silly questions in the light of day, yet I sometimes falter, hesitate when it comes to getting behind the wheel. Instead of driving the car and just enjoying the ride, going where He leads me; I won't even open the door. 

The One who gave me the gifts, equips me to use it. He is able to use me powerfully and effectively. His grace is sufficient for me. 

He's in the car with me, will He allow me to crash? I think not! Sure I may mess it up. But His grace is so much more powerful. Even to overcome my failings. 

Beloved, just get in the car, and drive it. He just wants a willing messenger. He will handle the rest. 

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us." 2 Corinthians 4:7


#notesalongthejourney #encouragement #soulsisters

Plans and hopes

"I know that when I come to you, I will come in the full measure of the blessing of Christ" Romans 15:29

I plan to do so...I hope to see you...I will go to Spain...

Paul had plans, hopes and dreams of going to Rome and eventually to Spain to further the gospel. He had no idea when he finally came to Rome it would be as a prisoner.

Trials, hardships, and shipwrecks lay ahead between his plans and reality.

"I know, I am sure." A bold statement. Yet, it's not a self confidence. It's a confidence in His God. It's based on the Divine promises. Past experiences of Divine faithfulness and imparted Grace.

Yet in spite of his plans being thwarted, hopes seemingly dashed, God used him more powerfully. His ministry more effective, reaching more.

Four Epistles of the Bible were written as a prisoner in Rome.

Two years he was free and believed to have gone to Spain after all.

"He proclaimed the Kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ-with all boldness and without hindrance." Acts 28:31

"Expect great things from God, attempt great things for God."  Carey

I've had dreams that didn't turn out quite the way I planned, but ended up much better, because God placed me where I can be more effectual and more powerful in ministry.

I have dreams and plans for the immediate future. I place those precious things in His hands,  stand back and watch Him work.

I've seen what He can do. I've stood in wonder at the work of His hands. But just like the boy with his lunch, I have to place it in His hands. He will take it, bless it and feed hungry hearts.

So dear one, go attempt great things for God. But also allow room for Him to do His work. Follow His leading. After all, He sees way ahead of you and knows what you don't know.

Dust

"My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word." Psalm 119:25 ESV

Amazing how dust can cling to things. Sitting on my couch, I see the evidence of that. 

The dust of this world clings to me. It can weigh me down. Slows my walk. Sometimes it can be a slog. 

Does life have to be a slog? Do I have to be weighed down day after day? The evidence of this clinging dust is everywhere. 

Preserve my life, quicken my life according to your word. Revive me.

Your promises build my faith. Your Word changes the atmosphere, shakes off the dust. 

"He has blessed me in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ." Ephesians 1:3 

His incomparable great power is for me, working for me. 

He has shown to me the riches of His grace expressed in His kindness to me, in Christ Jesus.

"His Divine power has given me everything I need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called me by his own glory and goodness. 2 Peter 1:3

"I cling to your testimonies O Lord; let me not be put to shame." Psalm 119:31 ESV

What am I clinging to? Am I tying my identity to the dust? No, I cling to Your Word, to You Jesus. My identity is based in what You say. 

"I will run in the way of your commandments when you enlarge my heart." Psalm 119:32 ESV

Oh yes, my heart once weighed down by the dust, is now enlarged. Enlarged to run in the path of your word. I'm all out! No hesitation! No looking back, no looking inward.

Free of the dust, free of self. 

#notesalongthejourney #dust 

Reboot

Call it a reboot, a reset if you will. It's been awhile since I've written here. I've been led in different creative directions. It's been an amazing couple of years. God has opened unexpected doors and I've watched Him move in wondrous ways. 
So yea it's been a minute. I feel a tug to come back to my blog and share once again. I have awesome things to share with you ahead. 
Stay tuned and please visit me again. 

#reboot #notesalongthejourney 

The Ugly Curve

When life throws you an ugly curve, and your life changes dramatically, you start to question your purpose. You’re tempted to question God. You wonder about tomorrow. 

“I was doing well in this vocation, this ministry. What happens to the God given dreams now? Where do I go from here? Are all the doors of opportunity closed for good? Will I be stuck here the rest of my life?”

Or, “Have I let God down? Will I ever rise from this? Am I still valuable?”

I’ve struggled with these feelings sometimes. I’ve floundered at times. My confidence has been shaken. 

I remember the ones in the Bible who experienced this. Moses, who was cast away in the wilderness, supposedly to be never heard from again. David, who was constantly on the run, living in caves. Elijah, hiding out in a cave, bowed down in depression. Jonah, in the belly of a whale in the bottom of the ocean. Peter, back in the boat fishing, convinced he is a complete failure. 

And yes, Joseph. You had to know I was getting to him right? 

When you read their stories, it encourages and builds your faith so much. Because you find out that what looked to be the “end” only was a stepping stone to a greater ministry. It ended up to be a spiritual promotion. 

God wasn’t done with them yet. He had greater plans for them. In fact, it was way beyond their imaginations wasn’t it? It went far deeper than they expected. 

Because you see, spiritual promotion is far different than worldly promotion. It takes you deeper than you ever been. It pulls you closer to the Father’s heart. It tenderizes your heart. Your spiritual perception is clearer. Your spiritual appetite is more acute. 

In other words, He has your heart now like He didn’t before. 

Deep intense work like this involves you letting go. You need to rest in His hands and learn from Him. Like the Potter and the clay. The clay on the spinning wheel rests in the Potter’s hand as He molds and forms the yielding clay into something beautiful. 

The clay doesn’t rise up and ask the Potter, “what are you doing? And why are you doing it this way?” 

Beloved, please know that the Potter knows the plans He has for you. He can and will make something beautiful of you. You are valuable to Him. This season you are in now is only a preparation for what is to come. Your character is being formed now. Because of your trust, you will be a powerful vessel in His hands. 

Nothing can sway His intentions for you. Joseph himself said this to his brothers, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” 

He is entrusting others to you. There are needy lives you will touch and point to Jesus. Do you understand why this deep inner work is so needed? 

I am realizing this in my life as well. God gives me glimpses sometimes to remind me of my purpose. I’m still a beautiful vessel in His hands. 

Know beloved, that you are valuable and beautiful to Him. You will testify to His goodness and faithfulness. The ones you touch will too. 

Don't Get Ugly

I’ve developed a personal rule to allow myself to complain or whine one time. Just once I’ll indulge myself. 

I’ve been around people, and I’m sure you have too, that indulge a little too much, if you know what I mean. I don’t want people hiding from me when they see me coming. So I’ve chose to do this. 

Because it’s slowly occurred to me that I can spread seeds of negativity pretty easily. Notice that I say slowly. It’s hard to learn this, because we all are rather selfish if you want to be honest about it. At least I am learning right? Better to be growing and maturing in my spiritual walk, then to still be a miserable old cow, (yes I said it!) when I’m in my 80’s. 

And I say easy, because it is so much easier to focus on yourself and indulge in self pity. It’s remarkably easy to spread poison around. 

Again, it comes down to a choice. It always seems to don’t it? I can choose to go around and whine, gripe, and rage to whoever will listen about what a victim I am, how mistreated I am. Or  I can stand up and be the woman of grace that I truly am. Because I’ve been given Grace. I am remarkably blessed. 

Instead of seeing the weeds in the garden of life, I want to see the beautiful flowers. I want to plant the flowers. 

If you want butterflies, you must plant flowers.  If you are focused on garbage, you get flies. 

As I’ve studied the life of Joseph, it became glaringly true that he didn’t allow the ugliness to diminish his integrity. He left such an impression on those around him by his character and diligence. 

Think about it; here’s the favorite son, who’s been doted on, now a slave. He’s doing menial work. The Bible says clearly that Potiphar was so impressed with Joseph that he entrusted his whole household to him. 

Then Potiphar’s floozie wife slanders him and gets him thrown into prison. 

But in the prison, Joseph still shined. It says that the warden eventually put Joseph in charge of those imprisoned. He entrusted him with everything. 

When a person has been mistreated, and reduced to such a lowly position, the temptation is strong to not give a care. Why even try? Just do enough to slide by. Who’s going to care anyway? What difference does it make if I don’t give an effort.

Joseph didn’t do that. He did more than just work hard, he proved to be trustworthy. I don’t think it would be a stretch to say that he was a joy to be around. 

And it’s obvious he didn’t bend everybody’s ear to spread negative poison around either. Although who could blame him if he did? 

Very sobering stuff I know right? You can understand now why he has been such an inspiration to me. 

As I was pondering on these things, and writing this blog, I thought of the passage in Romans 7.

“I've tried everything and nothing helps. I'm at the end of my rope. Is there no one who can do anything for me? Isn't that the real question? The answer, thank God, is that Jesus Christ can and does. He acted to set things right in this life of contradictions where I want to serve God with all my heart and mind, but am pulled by the influence of sin to do something totally different.” The Message

The pull of self is very strong as you know. But thank God, It doesn’t have me in a stranglehold. I’m not helpless in its pull. I need Him so badly. He’s the Vine to my branch. 

Because of Him, I don't have to be ugly, just because life is ugly. 

False Impressions

False impression....an idea formed in the mind that is based on mistaken ideas. Not genuine or real. Intended to be misleading or deceptive. 

“Don’t go into that department, the women there aren’t very friendly and they don’t want to be bothered.” 

These words were spoken to my friend from her boss. She was told these women were chilly and hateful. So she believed this and stayed away. If she had to venture into this department, she approached reluctantly, expecting the worst.

Slowly over time, she began to spend a little more time with these women as she did her job in that area. A discovery was made that changed her perspective. These women were not chilly and hateful. As a matter of fact, they were rather nice. Friendly and approachable. Nothing at all like she was told. And so a relationship was formed.

False impressions can be damaging. It keeps us from potential friendships or relationships. And it’s all based on lies. We believe a lie about somebody and then keep them at arms length.

We never explore the truth about them. But if we dare to do so, usually we find out that we were mislead. 

So what is your impression about God? How do you feel about Him? Is it based on what you have been told? Has it been shaped from your circumstances? From what someone posted on Facebook, or what the media portrays? 

Did you ever consider that you may be pushing Him away because of false impressions? We do have an enemy of our souls. And our enemy hisses lies into our ears coaxing us to doubt God.

“He can’t be trusted.” 

“He doesn’t care about you.” 

“He will strike you down.” 

“You’re not good enough for Him”

“You messed up your life too much” 

“You’re not worth the trouble.” 

“There’s no hope for anything better.”

“This is as good as it will get.”

And so on and so forth. I’ve heard it all myself. And yes I believed some of those lies too. 

Just like my friend who stayed away from the “hateful” women, I have pushed God away. I have doubted Him. I believed lies about myself. 

These are false impressions, a deception from the pit of hell to keep you and me from knowing, really knowing God. Because when you really know Him, it changes everything. The blinders are removed from your eyes and your whole perspective changes. 

To know Him personally is liberating. It is freedom. Otherwise you are walking around believing a lie. Robbed of the most important relationship you will ever have. 

The truth is that you were created to have a relationship with God. And nothing or nobody will ever be sufficient. The aching and emptiness remains. And so we attempt to fill it anyway we can. And still we yearn. 

He’s standing at the door of your heart, knocking. He has a place for you at His table. Sweet communion awaits you. Don’t push Him away because of your false impressions. 

I guarantee that you will never regret giving your heart to Him. 

Disappointments

As the Cupbearer left the prison, he gave a thumbs up. “It won’t be long now. You’ll be out soon!” For the first time in a long time, Joseph’s hopes were surging. 

This was surely a “God” thing right? He sent this erstwhile cupbearer across his path in the prison. The cupbearer had a dream, and God gave Joseph the meaning. The cupbearer would be freed and retain his position. 

It happened just as God said. He urged the cupbearer to plead his case before Pharaoh. “Remember me and show me kindness. Mention me to Pharaoh and get me out of this prison. I was forcibly carried off from the land of the Hebrews, and even here I have done nothing to deserve being put in a dungeon.”

Every morning he work up with anticipation. Would this be the day? He expected any day now to walk out of here. 

But days and weeks pass and nothing happens. A sad commentary is Genesis 40:23; “The Chief Cupbearer, however did not remember Joseph, he forgot him.” 

One disappointment is bad enough, but when you get hit numerous times it can take a toll. It can become a mindset. You get used to being let down, the second option, forgotten about, ignored. 

You learn new habits: keep your expectations low, close yourself in, tuck in another hurt. After all, you have to protect yourself from another hurt. 

And it’s just a short step from disappointment with people to disappointment with God. We pray for God to move in our favor. That He would change people’s hearts toward us. 

Do you think Joseph prayed passionately in the prison? “Please God, make the Cupbearer remember me. Get me out of here. Move on my behalf.” 

Yes, God did use the Cupbearer, and yes, He did answer Joseph’s prayers. Just not in the way Joseph imagined. It was “beyond what we can ask for or imagine” wasn’t it? 

In my opinion, disappointment has to be a favorite weapon of the enemy. Perhaps there are those who are indifferent; they can just brush it off. 

But I’m sure they are in the minority. And believe me, I’m not one of them. 

The truth of the matter is, if you are walking around on this earth, eventually you will face disappointment. It is inevitable. 

So where does our security lie? 

“The chief cupbearer however did not remember Joseph, he forgot him.” 

Yes, people can forget. People can be fickle. Was the Cupbearer purposely out to get Joseph? No I’m sure he wasn’t. He forgot. 

I forget. I let people down. Do you? 

You may feel completely forgotten, that even God has forgotten. But this is not so. 

He does not treat you as the world does. He alone is your resting place. Your security. 

Psalm 27:10 says, “ Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me”  Isaiah 49:16, “See I have engraved you on the palms of My hands; your walls are ever before me.” 

Tomorrow is unknown to us. But we can walk in confidence and authority because God is in our tomorrows. He is already there and will be sufficient for us. 

He will answer in a way not imagined or even asked for. Trust Him in this and see if He won’t prove true. 

Rambling Thursdays

I’m sharing another travel location on today’s Rambling Thursdays edition. If you enjoy antiques, flea markets, food, cheese, anything Amish made; then Holmes County Ohio is for you. Click here for a website full of information. 

Holmes county has gentle rolling hills with neat as a pin farms. Charming villages dot the county.  We spent an enjoyable weekend. I would go back again. 

Millersburg is the centerpiece of the county. It is a quant town with plenty of shopping. You could easily spend a day here. Other nearby towns are Sugarcreek, Berlin, and other tiny villages. Click here for maps. Each town has something for you. 

We stayed overnight in Millersburg. Click Here for a list of options. There are plenty of hotels or bed and breakfasts. 

If you can’t find food, cheese or a baked item, there’s a problem. These wonderful items are Everywhere! The hard choice will be what to eat now and what to take home. Make sure you bring a cooler. You will bring stuff home to enjoy later. Here is a list of all Amish Fare.

We ate at Chalet in the Valley, which as the name suggests sits in a beautiful valley. Right across from the restaurant is a cheese house, just in case you didn’t get that cheese fix yet. They serve authentic Swiss and Austrian cuisine. The building alone looked like it belonged in Switzerland. The food was really good. Highly recommend it. 

The county is full of antique shops, flea markets and various other shops. You will find something to buy. I guarantee it! Here is a shopping guide. 

While you are in the area you must visit Lehman's in Kidron, which is just to the Northeast of Millersburg. The 35,000 square feet store is a unique shopping experience. There are items here that you will not see anywhere else. Plan to visit for awhile, it’s that big! 

Just to the west off of US 30 is Orrville, home of Smuckers.Yes, the jam. They have an awesome store. We’ve been here a few times and always leave with a bag full of goodies. There’s a cafe where you can get a toasted PB&J with of course... Smuckers jelly. 

As you can see, this is a wonderful getaway to enjoy great food and shopping. Perhaps not so much for kids, although we did drive up to Canton to the Football Hall of Fame. Since both of us are huge football fans, we loved it. Kids would love this. 

I highly recommend visiting Holmes County. We loved our time there and would go back. Happy Vacation Planning! 

The Pregnant Pause

I'm sharing this blog post from a few years ago. It encouraged me this morning. I want you to know that in whatever season you may be in, that God has not forgotten you. It is not a wasted season in His plan. 


Pregnant Pause: A pause that gives the impression that it will be followed by something significant. 

Since we have a DVR, I love the pause button. It comes in quite handy when a interruption breaks up a great show or scene. Instead of missing out, I can pick up the remote and click pause. After tending to the interruption, I can click play and pick up right where I left off. 

Needless to say, this has transformed my TV viewing. 

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could apply this to life? If we could pause those nasty interruptions that barge into our lives? Better yet, if we could click play and go back to the much longed for days we had before? A nice thought, but alas it can never be. 

I read the definition of a pregnant pause this morning. The pause I’m in right now doesn’t feel like a pregnant pause. I honestly feel sometimes nothing significant will come from this.  Perhaps you feel the same way about yours. 

Do you think Joseph felt that his situation was a pregnant pause? We all know that yes, something very significant happened at the end. But in the middle of a pause, the outlook can be quite grim sometimes. 

Somewhere along the way, Joseph began to see that God had him and this situation well in hand. Genesis 45:5-8 reveals his awesome faith in his God. Listen to what he said when he revealed himself to his brothers:

 “And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you. For two years now there has been famine in the land, and for the next five years there will not be plowing and reaping. But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance.  "So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God."

Reading this really elevates your faith doesn’t it?  When you know your purpose and whose hand is on your life, the interruptions of life will not sway you.

It also means that the pauses of life aren’t wasted seasons. We don’t just endure this “wasted” season of our lives until favorable conditions return. There isn’t a pause in His presence, His grace, in His purpose for us. 

God is working now. He is preparing our hearts. Changing us from the inside out. Easing the bitterness out of the wound, and creating a tender heart. He is blessing others through us now. Yes even now in this pregnant pause. 

Joseph was a blessing to his master, and to his fellow prisoners. God used him powerfully in the middle of the pause. But you and I have to let Him do this don’t we? It’s alway a choice isn’t it? 

I don’t always want to choose the right way. The old twisted sister would love to wallow around in self pity, moan and groan to whoever will listen about my sad lot in life, indulge in those ugly thoughts, and just be miserable to everybody. 

Like David, I’m speaking to myself the truth. That my God is still at work now. His purpose for me has not ended. I can be a blessing now. 

This isn’t just a pause, an interruption. It’s a pregnant pause. Because of the faithfulness of my God, something significant will happen. 

The Maker of heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them-- the LORD, who remains faithful forever. Psalm 146:6 NIV

Identity Scam

I became a victim of identity theft a few months ago. In spite of all we did to protect ourselves, nevertheless this happened at my husband’s job by a fake email scam. Because I recently worked there, my Social Security number was stolen, along with many others. 

As a result our lives will probably be altered from now on. We had to freeze our credit reports and keep a watchful eye on all our accounts. 

I had to make an inconvenient trip to an IRS office to clear my identity, which meant gathering written proof of who I am. Social Security card, Driver License, Tax Returns, Birth Certificate, Bills, etc...

Thankfully the IRS agent was very helpful and cleared it all up. After looking over all my proof, there was no doubt of who I am. He couldn’t deny the truth after that.

My identity may be in doubt. I may have to prove it again. Another trip to the IRS may be in order in the years to come. But I’ll just pull out the proof again and hopefully it will be cleared up. 

I have my own unique identity, which has been formed since my birth. Formed from my surroundings, circumstances, and my choices. What is my identity? What do I believe about myself? 

I don’t know about you, but I’ve had my own identity scams. Lies I believed about myself. Negative garbage I’ve heard, or perceived about myself.  

“You’re not loved”, “You’ll never amount to much,” “You’re ugly”, “You will always be a victim”, “You can’t rise above this”..and so on and so forth. 

I can’t change my past. I can’t go back and undo the pain. I can’t retrace my steps, my choices. Ugly things have been done and said to me. I have the scars to prove it. So is this to be my lot in life? Is this my identity? Will it define me forever?

My friend, if we are believing these lies about ourselves, then it is a identity scam. It’s a scam to get us to live way beneath ourselves. To live short of our God given potential. The cold iron links of lies can chain us for years. 

But it doesn’t have to be like that. My God is a God of redemption. He can free the captive heart. He restores the pain. He can heal those open wounds. I can testify to His great power to do this. 

He healed and restored me completely. The chains have been broken and I am free. He longs to do the same for you. If you let Him. 

Sometimes an identity crisis can happen. Doubt and fear harasses me and I question myself. But I have written proof. Proof that shuts up even the enemy of my soul. It’s the truth that can’t be denied. 

The Word of God tells me,  “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away, the new has come!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 

I’m not merely renovated, I’m transformed. A new creature. 

 “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10

How can I question the Potter of the clay, “Oh I’ll never amount to anything?” I am His workmanship and I am beautiful in His eyes. 

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” Ephesians 1:7

In and through Jesus I have restoration and redemption. He has lavished His grace on me. 

I’ve only shared three verses. I could fill pages and pages of promises. Written proof that will clear up any identity scam. It is the Word of God that has the power to transform our minds, the way we think. 

I’m ending with a beautiful promise. Let Him free you. 

“What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?  Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.” Romans 8:31-34

Rambling Thursdays

Summer is fast approaching and I’m sure some of you are planning vacations or long weekends. So I’ll be giving you some ideas on my Rambling Thursdays. Today I’m talking about Parke County Indiana. 

Parke County is one of my favorite places to visit here in Indiana. It’s a beautiful rural area; wooded and hilly. Great for a country drive, antiquing, hiking, photography, food, river activities and just getting away from it all. Click here for any detailed information. 

Of course Parke county is known for Turky Run State Park. This is an awesome state park. Sugar Creek runs through the middle of the park. A suspension bridge adjoining each side. Awesome hiking, some of it rugged. It has a beautiful inn, horseback riding, campground, swimming pool, and nature center. You can easily spend a few days in the park, if you so desire.  But there’s much more to do in Parke County. 

Shades state park is also close by. In my opinion, it’s just as beautiful as Turkey run. Some of it more so. It’s also more quieter than Turkey Run. I’ve hiked there on occasions without meeting a soul. Pine Hills Nature Preserve which is inside the park is probably the best hike I have ever done in Indiana. Bar none! Highly recommend it. 

Canoeing and kayaking on Sugar Creek is an awesome way to spend the day. Sugar Valley Creek Canoes is a great way to start. These people will get you started. They also have tubes for floating the river. They do all the work shuttling you around. 

If you love antiques, there’s plenty of shops for you. Click here for a list. Of course Parke county is the epicenter for the Covered Bridge festival every October. 

Yes, Parke County is known for their covered bridges. Here's a list, and also a link to a map. They are all unique and quite beautiful. It makes for an enjoyable country drive to visit them.

Rockville is the county seat. It is a very small town, but there are a few nice restaurants and plenty of antique shops. The county is full of tiny towns, but Bridgeton is probably my favorite town to visit. There’s a beautiful covered bridge and a grist mill on the creek. 

Parke county has plenty of options for lodging. Motels, cabins, camping and bed n breakfasts. Here's a list of what is available.

Lastly, if you desire to drive a little further out, Saint Mary of the Woods, just north of Terre Haute, Saint Mary of the Woods is a beautiful place to visit. The grounds are so peaceful and beautiful. And the Sunday brunch is to die for! I highly recommend it. 

If you love pottery, drive south to Clay City Pottery They make beautiful pottery and sell them in a store there in Clay City. 

You will love Parke County as a getaway. I’ll have another vacation idea in my next Rambling Thursday. 

Willing Savior Pt 2

There in the garden, they had Him surrounded. The betrayer did the dirty deed through an intimate kiss. Now they closed ranks to seize Him.

The peaceful garden of Gethsemane broke loose in chaos. Swords flashed, blood flowed, and then His words stop everyone. The words still stop our hearts. 

 Put your sword back. People who live by the sword die by the sword. Surely you realize that if I called on My Father, He would send 12 legions of messengers to rescue Me. But if I were to do that, I would be thwarting the scriptural story, wouldn’t I? And we must allow the story of God’s kingdom to unfold. 

Why did you bring these weapons, these clubs and bats? Did you think I would fight you? That I would try to dodge and escape like a common criminal? You could have arrested Me any day when I was teaching in the temple, but you didn’t.

This scene has come together just so, so that the prophecies in the sacred Scripture could be fulfilled. Matthew 26:52-56 The Voice Bible

Get ready...hold on to your seats! Because this is a powerful life changing truth. Jesus wasn’t forced to die. He could have stopped it. He could have called down armies of angels to clean house. 

He did it willingly. The Almighty God allowed Himself to be betrayed, led away and killed. He was a willing, suffering Savior. Jesus entered my hot mess of a life. He dove deep in my pain and suffering; Felt. it. all.

So this begs the question...if He was willing to suffer and die for me, then how much more is He willing to transform my life? And how willing is He to love me? 

And that is where it gets difficult sometimes. Because to be honest I don’t feel worthy to be loved like that. I am well aware of how unlovely I can be. The enemy of my soul hisses in my ear that I am not worth it. He could never love me. Ugly thoughts harass and torment me. But that’s not the truth is it?

The life changing truth is that we’re not talking about mere human love. This is God’s love. His love isn’t a “soft”, “mushy”, “fickle” kind of love. His love is fiery, passionate, and righteous. 

He never began to love you. He has always loved you. And He will never stop loving you. “I have loved you with an everlasting love.” Jeremiah 31:3 

I think Charles Spurgeon says it so beautifully: 

He loved you without beginning, before years and centuries and millenniums can be counted, your name was on His heart. Eternal thoughts of love have been in God’s bosom towards you. He has loved you without pause. There was never a minute in which He did not love you. Your name once engraved on the palm of His hands has never been erased. Nor will He ever blot it out of the book of life. 

Since you have been in this world He has loved you most patiently. You have often provoked Him. You have rebelled against Him times without number, yet He has never stopped the outflow of His heart towards you. And, blessed be His name, He never will! You are His and you always shall be His. Jesus says, "Because I live, you shall live also." God's love to you is without boundary. He could not love you more, for He loves you like a God—and He never will love you less. All His heart belongs to you. "As the Father has loved Me," says Jesus, "even so have I loved you."

This transforming, powerful love changed my life forever. I don’t understand it. I even question it at times. Nevertheless, He has my heart. This is what you and I were created for. No other will fill our emptiness. 

He’s wooing you now. He’ll never stop drawing you. Even to death’s door He will call to you.