One of the hardest things to do is to smile in the midst of pain. It's almost incomprehensible that someone would rejoice during some of their darkest moments. The reality is that, often in the word, we have been encouraged to pray when we are in pain, to sing when we are suffering greatly.
Putting on the garment of praise when you are weighed down with a spirit of heaviness is no easy thing and is a deliberate act with the help of God. When everything in you wants to curl up into a ball of self pity and hide, it is only pushing past it all with the strength of God that you get a breakthrough.
While in the hospital last week, I said to my son one day, "I know you are in a lot of pain son, but I want you to try and still praise God. Remember He has been with you all the way and He will continue to be with you throughout your recovery and beyond." He said, "Ok mummy." I don't know if he wondered or thought it was unreasonable of me to ask him such. After all, sometimes he could barely talk, because of the pain, so how could I ask him to even think of God?
But I know that when the word says, to pray without ceasing, or be anxious for nothing, it means to do it even when we are in pain.
Later that same evening, I was reading 1 Thess. and this was what Paul said to the church at Thessalonica; "You welcomed the Message(0f the gospel) in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit."
One of my son's favorite verses is "The joy of the Lord is my strength." (Nehemiah 8:10)
I know it is only with the joy given by the Holy Spirit that he was able to join with me in prayer everyday that we spent at that hospital.
We don't always understand God's methods, but anyone who dare try them, will prove that they work. To get He says we should give, to live He says we should die, to be exalted he said we should humble ourselves.
My heart rejoices in the God of my salvation. I can't imagine my life without Him. I can't imagine going through my days without acknowledging Him.
I said to God at the beginning of this year that I will meet the conditions in His word no matter what it costs me. I will do my part in seeking His kingdom because I know He will keep His end of the bargain. I will draw near to Him and I know He will draw near to me.
I have purposed to praise God in spite of my circumstances.
I don't know your area of suffering today, it may not be as severe as my son's last week, but I encourage you not to hide behind your pain. Please don't turn away from God because you are depressed or because you are hurting. If anything we need to turn to Him more. If there is sin in your life, give it over to Him. He promises to forgive you when you do.
In the midst of your turmoil, welcome His message of peace.
In the midst of your loneliness, welcome His message of companionship.
In the midst of your financial burden, welcome His message of prosperity.
In the midst of your sorrow, welcome His message of relief.
In the midst of your pretense, welcome His message of reality.
In the midst of your mess, whatever it is, welcome Him.
Dear Jesus, thank you for welcoming me with open arms. Thank you that no matter how I suffer you are right there, waiting and willing to fill me with your joy through the Holy Spirit. Thank you for being my peace who has broken down every wall. Thank you that nothing can separate me from your love. I love and appreciate you so much. Thank you for loving me with a love that will not let me go. In Jesus name. Amen
Blessings,
Vickie
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Monday, September 29, 2008
Praise God we're home!
Hi everyone, just wanted to let you all know that my son came home from the hospital Sunday afternoon. I was pleasantly surprised, since the doctor had hinted that he may discharge him sometime Monday or so.
God has been truly working and he is healing nicely. He was up walking around the hospital. All his 'connections' were gone. No tubes, IV"s, nothing. He is still not allowed to eat anything too heavy duty yet, just some chicken soup and a few crackers, a bit of ice-cream for a treat. However he is absolutely happy to be at home in his own bed. He has been wearing a big broad smile ever since he was given the o.k. by the doctor.
Of course I will be keeping a close watch on him to make sure he is doing well, but it feels so good to be home. I didn't even realise how tiring it was being there with him a whole week. After settling him in and giving him something to eat, I crashed for about 3 hours or so.
Anyway, I just wanted to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who posted inquiring about his well-being and most of all those of you who prayed for us. Please continue to keep him in your prayers for a complete recovery.
God spoke some things to my heart while being there with him and I do want to share some of them later.
Bless you all.
Vickie
God has been truly working and he is healing nicely. He was up walking around the hospital. All his 'connections' were gone. No tubes, IV"s, nothing. He is still not allowed to eat anything too heavy duty yet, just some chicken soup and a few crackers, a bit of ice-cream for a treat. However he is absolutely happy to be at home in his own bed. He has been wearing a big broad smile ever since he was given the o.k. by the doctor.
Of course I will be keeping a close watch on him to make sure he is doing well, but it feels so good to be home. I didn't even realise how tiring it was being there with him a whole week. After settling him in and giving him something to eat, I crashed for about 3 hours or so.
Anyway, I just wanted to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who posted inquiring about his well-being and most of all those of you who prayed for us. Please continue to keep him in your prayers for a complete recovery.
God spoke some things to my heart while being there with him and I do want to share some of them later.
Bless you all.
Vickie
Friday, September 26, 2008
Over and over again
My son and I have been here at the hospital for one week now.
Since his surgery and even before in anticipation that he could have surgery, we have been hearing the same thing over and over and over again. We hear it from the nurses, the nurses' aides, the surgeon, the surgical team, the physicians' assistant and the physician himself. The message has been consistent. My son needs to walk, he needs to be moving, this is very very important to his recovery. Even if we tire of hearing it, they are never tired of saying it, because it is a message that needs to be heard.
Such is the message of the bible as I sat on my son's bed this morning, hearing the same message again, and thinking on it. We need the word of God all the time. We need to read it as often as possible, we need to hear it as often as possible. Hear it on our cd's, on our Ipods, we need to write it on our blogs, on our websites. We need the word of God all the time, from all kind of sources. It is not enough to talk about ourselves and how we are living, we must proclaim the Living God each chance we get. He must be part of our conversations. On our thoughts as we meditate.
It's important for the doctors to say it because the message is important. Sunday isn't enough for our souls. Reading it once in a while isn't enough either. We must be constantly filled with the knowledge of God.
Since every doctor and nurse on every shift has been saying the same thing over and over, Chad himself is now initiating movement. He is asking to walk instead of me having to ask him. He is recognizing the importance of the message.
We place more value on God's word in our lives, the more we read it and the more we hear it. It becomes a part of us. We are more prone to obedience if we frequently hear the word of God.
Colossians 3:16 "Let the message of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another..........
Being rich in something is not just having a lot, but having an excess. I want to be really really rich in God's word. Even as I stay by my son's side, I use every opportunity to read and study while he is asleep. Even if it's only a small bit at a time.
I encourage you today to get in the Word, get more and more and still more of it. Be determined to fill on God's word today.
Blessings,
Vickie
Since his surgery and even before in anticipation that he could have surgery, we have been hearing the same thing over and over and over again. We hear it from the nurses, the nurses' aides, the surgeon, the surgical team, the physicians' assistant and the physician himself. The message has been consistent. My son needs to walk, he needs to be moving, this is very very important to his recovery. Even if we tire of hearing it, they are never tired of saying it, because it is a message that needs to be heard.
Such is the message of the bible as I sat on my son's bed this morning, hearing the same message again, and thinking on it. We need the word of God all the time. We need to read it as often as possible, we need to hear it as often as possible. Hear it on our cd's, on our Ipods, we need to write it on our blogs, on our websites. We need the word of God all the time, from all kind of sources. It is not enough to talk about ourselves and how we are living, we must proclaim the Living God each chance we get. He must be part of our conversations. On our thoughts as we meditate.
It's important for the doctors to say it because the message is important. Sunday isn't enough for our souls. Reading it once in a while isn't enough either. We must be constantly filled with the knowledge of God.
Since every doctor and nurse on every shift has been saying the same thing over and over, Chad himself is now initiating movement. He is asking to walk instead of me having to ask him. He is recognizing the importance of the message.
We place more value on God's word in our lives, the more we read it and the more we hear it. It becomes a part of us. We are more prone to obedience if we frequently hear the word of God.
Colossians 3:16 "Let the message of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another..........
Being rich in something is not just having a lot, but having an excess. I want to be really really rich in God's word. Even as I stay by my son's side, I use every opportunity to read and study while he is asleep. Even if it's only a small bit at a time.
I encourage you today to get in the Word, get more and more and still more of it. Be determined to fill on God's word today.
Blessings,
Vickie
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Word Filled Wednesday.
This is Word-filled Wednesday.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil for you are with me; your rod and staff they comfort me. Psalm 23:4
For the last four and a half days my 13year old son has been in hospital. He has been there because of terrible stomach cramping and vomiting. After four days of no food or drink, hoping that what seems to be a bowel obstruction, would correct itself, nothing happened. Yesterday they performed a CT Scan and confirmed that there was a blockage in his small intestine, so surgery was scheduled for today at 3pm.
In reassuring him today, he asked that I read him something from the bible and we read Psalm 23.
Talking to him about the Psalm and who wrote it and so on, I focused on verse four, where it says, though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil. I explained to him what a valley in life was. We talked about the fact that this was a valley, a low point in his life. But his eyes brightened when I was able to say to him, Jesus is known as the 'Lily of the Valley', so that means even in your valley he is there. That gave him the peace he needed to have his operation without fear or worry, because God wasn't waiting until he came from the operating room, He was going in before him, he would be there with him, and he would be there when he came out.
Even in speaking to him, it reassured my own heart, because this was my valley too and even as I showed him the face of faith these last four days or so, I too needed to remember that God's rod and staff would comfort me.
For more word filled Wednesday's go here
Be blessed
Vickie
Ps. As I was writing this waiting in his room, the surgeon came in and said that the surgery was successful. There was a band around the lower part of his small intestine and he was able to successfully correct it. Praise God.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil for you are with me; your rod and staff they comfort me. Psalm 23:4
For the last four and a half days my 13year old son has been in hospital. He has been there because of terrible stomach cramping and vomiting. After four days of no food or drink, hoping that what seems to be a bowel obstruction, would correct itself, nothing happened. Yesterday they performed a CT Scan and confirmed that there was a blockage in his small intestine, so surgery was scheduled for today at 3pm.
In reassuring him today, he asked that I read him something from the bible and we read Psalm 23.
Talking to him about the Psalm and who wrote it and so on, I focused on verse four, where it says, though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil. I explained to him what a valley in life was. We talked about the fact that this was a valley, a low point in his life. But his eyes brightened when I was able to say to him, Jesus is known as the 'Lily of the Valley', so that means even in your valley he is there. That gave him the peace he needed to have his operation without fear or worry, because God wasn't waiting until he came from the operating room, He was going in before him, he would be there with him, and he would be there when he came out.
Even in speaking to him, it reassured my own heart, because this was my valley too and even as I showed him the face of faith these last four days or so, I too needed to remember that God's rod and staff would comfort me.
For more word filled Wednesday's go here
Be blessed
Vickie
Ps. As I was writing this waiting in his room, the surgeon came in and said that the surgery was successful. There was a band around the lower part of his small intestine and he was able to successfully correct it. Praise God.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
A Walk of Faith
Since Saturday afternoon around 3pm my 13 year old son has been hospitalised. He had been vomiting with terrible stomach cramps all Friday night and Saturday morning. After taking him to the emergency room he was given some x-rays which revealed there might be some kind of small intestinal blockage that's causing this all. He had surgery at 10months old and they believe this could be some scar tissue from that surgery causing the blockage. He hasn't had anything at all to eat or drink for all this time as they are hoping that it would fix/heal itself naturally without any surgery. So far nothing is staying down nor is there any kind of bowel movements. His belly noises are few and sometimes nothing.
Through it all we've have been faithfully lifting him and the situation in prayer before God constantly. It is only the strength of God that is keeping us. I thankGod that he knows Jesus as Lord and savior and he trusts Him with his life. Just last night he said to me, Mom, I am praying to God in my heart all the time.
The first night he came in, after settling him down, I took out my bible and after a couple verses was reasurred by Philippians 4:6 & 7. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
I was especially encouraged reading, "the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard and rule your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
I know in these kind of situations how easy it is to let your minds and hearts run from fear to worry and worry to fear. So I truly bless God for guarding my heart and my mind so that they won't go the way of fear and worry and discouragment. With the help of God I am trying hard to shown my son what the face of faith looks like. We have talked about it often but I know it's more important that he sees it.
I am thankful for the medical staff, they are doing an awesome job, but my hope and my trust is in Jesus Christ. He died to give my son life so I know He will take care of that same life.
Blessings,
Vickie
Through it all we've have been faithfully lifting him and the situation in prayer before God constantly. It is only the strength of God that is keeping us. I thankGod that he knows Jesus as Lord and savior and he trusts Him with his life. Just last night he said to me, Mom, I am praying to God in my heart all the time.
The first night he came in, after settling him down, I took out my bible and after a couple verses was reasurred by Philippians 4:6 & 7. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
I was especially encouraged reading, "the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard and rule your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
I know in these kind of situations how easy it is to let your minds and hearts run from fear to worry and worry to fear. So I truly bless God for guarding my heart and my mind so that they won't go the way of fear and worry and discouragment. With the help of God I am trying hard to shown my son what the face of faith looks like. We have talked about it often but I know it's more important that he sees it.
I am thankful for the medical staff, they are doing an awesome job, but my hope and my trust is in Jesus Christ. He died to give my son life so I know He will take care of that same life.
Blessings,
Vickie
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Word Filled Wednesday.
Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:13-17
I have been working my way through the Pauline epistles and today was the end of Ephesians. While reading and meditating on this final chapter on my way to work, God spoke some things I would like to share for today's WFW.
We are encouraged in these verses to put on all the armor of God that is available to us. As soldiers in a battle we know that if we put on some of our armor and leave off some, we are open for attack in certain areas.
Paul says, "Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist". You and I know the truth, we know what a belt is for, but what good does that do us if we don't use it? Many times we go shopping and my daughter would say my pants is dropping off mom. My question is always the same,"Are you wearing your belt?" Nine times out of ten the answer is no. If we don't have that belt of truth, which is the truth of God's word buckled around our waist, our spiritual pants are sure likely to fall off. We need the word of God deeply entrenched in our beings. It's not good enough to just know where the verses are or just what they say, we really really need to cement His word deep inside of us. Have the belt of truth buckled, don't just wear it, make sure it's buckled for the times when harsh cold reality of life comes at us, it's only the truth of God's word that will keep us.
He also went on to say, "have your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace." The peace that comes from God word, keeps us prepared. If we have turmoil and frustration in our lives all the time we will never be ready and prepared to go places with the gospel. Feet that are fitted properly can walk purposefully. I think one of the most uncomfortable feelings is wearing shoes that are not fitted, either too big or too small. Ugggghhhhh!!! It's a terrible feeling. Shoes that slip off as well are just as bad. How can we walk out the purpose God intended for us if we are not prepared and ready with the gospel? I don't want to drag my feet anymore in doing God's work. I want to have the peace that passes all understanding so I can be ready in body and spirit to do His will. Otherwise I won't be able to stand.
Finally I thought about the next two urgings that came from Paul. He said, "Take up the shield of faith." I have faith, we all have faith, because the word says God has deposited a measure of faith in each of us. That's a start for us all. God gives us something to build on, He hasn't left us defenseless. We have to take up the shield of faith Paul says. Move it from where it has been lying dormant. Activate the faith that God has given you. Use it to extinguish the flaming arrows that the enemy is throwing your way. This is such a challenge to myself as well to take up my faith and use it for the building of the kingdom. Stop using it as a decoration Vickie.
Take up the helmet of Salvation and the sword of the spirit. Get a new attitude of mind, through the word of God. Change your thought patterns and change the world around you. Jesus did a finished work on Calvary. He has placed all the tools and weapons we need to make it. Everything that we have ever needed to make it and to make a difference has already been provided. We just need to take up and put on our gear and get ready for the battle. Why be afraid? We already know the outcome. We are victorious..
Blessings,
Have a great day in the Lord.
Don't forget to visit WFW right here.
Vickie
I have been working my way through the Pauline epistles and today was the end of Ephesians. While reading and meditating on this final chapter on my way to work, God spoke some things I would like to share for today's WFW.
We are encouraged in these verses to put on all the armor of God that is available to us. As soldiers in a battle we know that if we put on some of our armor and leave off some, we are open for attack in certain areas.
Paul says, "Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist". You and I know the truth, we know what a belt is for, but what good does that do us if we don't use it? Many times we go shopping and my daughter would say my pants is dropping off mom. My question is always the same,"Are you wearing your belt?" Nine times out of ten the answer is no. If we don't have that belt of truth, which is the truth of God's word buckled around our waist, our spiritual pants are sure likely to fall off. We need the word of God deeply entrenched in our beings. It's not good enough to just know where the verses are or just what they say, we really really need to cement His word deep inside of us. Have the belt of truth buckled, don't just wear it, make sure it's buckled for the times when harsh cold reality of life comes at us, it's only the truth of God's word that will keep us.
He also went on to say, "have your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace." The peace that comes from God word, keeps us prepared. If we have turmoil and frustration in our lives all the time we will never be ready and prepared to go places with the gospel. Feet that are fitted properly can walk purposefully. I think one of the most uncomfortable feelings is wearing shoes that are not fitted, either too big or too small. Ugggghhhhh!!! It's a terrible feeling. Shoes that slip off as well are just as bad. How can we walk out the purpose God intended for us if we are not prepared and ready with the gospel? I don't want to drag my feet anymore in doing God's work. I want to have the peace that passes all understanding so I can be ready in body and spirit to do His will. Otherwise I won't be able to stand.
Finally I thought about the next two urgings that came from Paul. He said, "Take up the shield of faith." I have faith, we all have faith, because the word says God has deposited a measure of faith in each of us. That's a start for us all. God gives us something to build on, He hasn't left us defenseless. We have to take up the shield of faith Paul says. Move it from where it has been lying dormant. Activate the faith that God has given you. Use it to extinguish the flaming arrows that the enemy is throwing your way. This is such a challenge to myself as well to take up my faith and use it for the building of the kingdom. Stop using it as a decoration Vickie.
Take up the helmet of Salvation and the sword of the spirit. Get a new attitude of mind, through the word of God. Change your thought patterns and change the world around you. Jesus did a finished work on Calvary. He has placed all the tools and weapons we need to make it. Everything that we have ever needed to make it and to make a difference has already been provided. We just need to take up and put on our gear and get ready for the battle. Why be afraid? We already know the outcome. We are victorious..
Blessings,
Have a great day in the Lord.
Don't forget to visit WFW right here.
Vickie
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
O For a Thousand Tongues!!
Lord if I had ten thousand tongues,
I could not praise You for what you've done,
And it would take eternity
To tell of all You've done for me.
I could not praise You for what you've done,
And it would take eternity
To tell of all You've done for me.
This is a really nice song that we've sung a couple times at church. It's a song that I kind of remembered us singing mostly when all the churches in our district come together. Not sure why, but that's basically the only time I remember singing it. Anyway whenever I sing it, it reminds me of an old hymn of the church that says, 'O for a thousand tongues to sing, my great redeemer's praise." Another one that I also love from my days of going to the Moravian church with my grandmother.
These are both great songs, and they are based on the premise that we couldn't praise God enough even if we had ten thousand tongues. However in thinking on the words of these songs one day, I asked myself, but why ten thousand tongues? Why even a thousand tongues?
God has given us one tongue with so much power in it.
We can praise God over and over and over again with just one tongue. One tongue has the ability to do so much for God.
We have not even used up or explore the potential of only one tongue to effectively give God glory.
I believe one tongue, sanctified by God’s Holy Spirit, can bring Him so much glory.
One tongue armed with God’s word can do so much damage to the kingdom of darkness.
Only God can tame my tongue, but He has given me the power and the strength to discipline it.
I intend to work with God, become a partner with Him and let Him use my one tongue for His honor and His glory.
The tongue of the wise brings healing. Truthful lips endure forever.
Proverbs 12:19&19
Lord, I offer my lips to you. Thank you for your help in keeping my lips from speaking guile. May I bless you Lord at all times and may Your praise be continually in my mouth.
blessings,
Vickie
These are both great songs, and they are based on the premise that we couldn't praise God enough even if we had ten thousand tongues. However in thinking on the words of these songs one day, I asked myself, but why ten thousand tongues? Why even a thousand tongues?
God has given us one tongue with so much power in it.
We can praise God over and over and over again with just one tongue. One tongue has the ability to do so much for God.
We have not even used up or explore the potential of only one tongue to effectively give God glory.
I believe one tongue, sanctified by God’s Holy Spirit, can bring Him so much glory.
One tongue armed with God’s word can do so much damage to the kingdom of darkness.
Only God can tame my tongue, but He has given me the power and the strength to discipline it.
I intend to work with God, become a partner with Him and let Him use my one tongue for His honor and His glory.
The tongue of the wise brings healing. Truthful lips endure forever.
Proverbs 12:19&19
Lord, I offer my lips to you. Thank you for your help in keeping my lips from speaking guile. May I bless you Lord at all times and may Your praise be continually in my mouth.
blessings,
Vickie
Monday, September 15, 2008
Cleaning the heart valve
My mother just came home on Thursday last, from 5 weeks of being in the hospital. She had heart surgery to replace a leaking valve. The doctor said there was a lot of bacteria there which was making her really sick in other areas of her body as well. According to her, he said that there is still some kind of bacteria hiding out in her body and there is a big possibility that it could happen again because it will find its way to her heart. He wasn't sure how it got there but he said sometimes our lifestyle causes these things to happen. We have talked about it and I have been praying for her a lot as well as encouraging her to give that same heart over to God.
While reflecting on our conversation this morning, I started to think about my heart and where it could be leaking. I thought about the valves of my own heart. I thought about the bacteria that forms in our bodies and hides out and when we least expect, it attacks our heart.
The doctor isn't sure of the source of my mother's particular bacteria, but my mind went to the things that God says could cause bacteria to grow in my heart. Ephesians 4 tells us to, "Put off falsehood, get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice, let there not be even a hint of sexual immorality or any kind of impurity among us, or greed, nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place." All these things I realize have the potential to cause a great stench in my life. In Proverbs 4:23 we are told to "guard our hearts, for everything we do flows from it."
I ask myself, "Am I guarding my heart? Am I allowing bitterness, and rage and slander, foolish talking, greed, selfishness, am I allowing these things a place in my life to form bacteria ?"
I noticed that the word constantly says to put off certain things. It also says don't do certain things or get rid of these things. The responsibility is mine to lay aside anything that could cause my heart valves to leak, anything that could spread to other areas of my life and cause contamination.
I want to live a life holy and pleasing to God. I want to be a sweet sweet smell in His nostrils and pleasant sound in His ears.
Lord I just thank you for Your Holy Spirit and for your cleansing blood. I thank you for your the mirror of Your word that shows me where I need to make adjustments. I thank you Jesus that if I confess my sins you are faithful and just to cleanse me from all unrighteousness. Wash me today Lord and I know I shall be whiter than snow. Thank you in Jesus name.
Blessings,
Vickie
While reflecting on our conversation this morning, I started to think about my heart and where it could be leaking. I thought about the valves of my own heart. I thought about the bacteria that forms in our bodies and hides out and when we least expect, it attacks our heart.
The doctor isn't sure of the source of my mother's particular bacteria, but my mind went to the things that God says could cause bacteria to grow in my heart. Ephesians 4 tells us to, "Put off falsehood, get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice, let there not be even a hint of sexual immorality or any kind of impurity among us, or greed, nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place." All these things I realize have the potential to cause a great stench in my life. In Proverbs 4:23 we are told to "guard our hearts, for everything we do flows from it."
I ask myself, "Am I guarding my heart? Am I allowing bitterness, and rage and slander, foolish talking, greed, selfishness, am I allowing these things a place in my life to form bacteria ?"
I noticed that the word constantly says to put off certain things. It also says don't do certain things or get rid of these things. The responsibility is mine to lay aside anything that could cause my heart valves to leak, anything that could spread to other areas of my life and cause contamination.
I want to live a life holy and pleasing to God. I want to be a sweet sweet smell in His nostrils and pleasant sound in His ears.
Lord I just thank you for Your Holy Spirit and for your cleansing blood. I thank you for your the mirror of Your word that shows me where I need to make adjustments. I thank you Jesus that if I confess my sins you are faithful and just to cleanse me from all unrighteousness. Wash me today Lord and I know I shall be whiter than snow. Thank you in Jesus name.
Blessings,
Vickie
Friday, September 12, 2008
A heartfelt longing
Shut in with God, in a secret place,
There in His presence, beholding His face,
Lord, give me power to run in the race,
I long to be shut in with God.
There in His presence, beholding His face,
Lord, give me power to run in the race,
I long to be shut in with God.
This is an old chorus, or part of an old hymn I heard my husband singing one day, many years ago. I had never heard it before, and there aren't many songs/hymns that he knows that I don't, but he said his mother used to sing it all the time when he was a little boy. Immediately I fell in love with it. The words brought such a longing and a desire to my heart then.
Recently, well within the last couple days, every time I woke up in the morning, this song just came straight to me. Not sure why, I haven't heard it sung, nor have I been singing or thinking about it. All I can say it is an accurate expression of what my heart has been feeling as I read the word and pray. So it has been in my spirit day in and day out for the past week. I went into my time with God in so much tears just singing this song. My heart so long to be shut in with God. I truly desire to know Christ in a way that I have never known Him before. I long to just kneel at His feet and behold His glorious face. I have physical needs in my life and that of my family, but God has brought me to such a place that I could literally just spend time praising and magnifying His name without even asking for one thing.
David said in the Psalms, "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul longs after you Lord. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. Where can I go and meet with God" Psalm 42.
My longing, my desire, and my thirst for God is so deep and so strong, that I have been reduced to tears, lots of them, every time I get into His presence. He is such a holy and righteous God.
Lord, I thank you so much that you are a God who knows the longing of our hearts. I thank you Lord that you promised if we seek after you, we would find you. Thank you Lord, for those who have that similar desire and how you are showing yourself to them in ways unimaginable. Thank you Holy Spirit, for fulfilling the longing in my heart to know the true and real God. Thank you Lord for giving me the desire to seek Your heart and not Your hand. You are holy Lord, and I love you. In Jesus name.
Blessings,
Vickie
Recently, well within the last couple days, every time I woke up in the morning, this song just came straight to me. Not sure why, I haven't heard it sung, nor have I been singing or thinking about it. All I can say it is an accurate expression of what my heart has been feeling as I read the word and pray. So it has been in my spirit day in and day out for the past week. I went into my time with God in so much tears just singing this song. My heart so long to be shut in with God. I truly desire to know Christ in a way that I have never known Him before. I long to just kneel at His feet and behold His glorious face. I have physical needs in my life and that of my family, but God has brought me to such a place that I could literally just spend time praising and magnifying His name without even asking for one thing.
David said in the Psalms, "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul longs after you Lord. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. Where can I go and meet with God" Psalm 42.
My longing, my desire, and my thirst for God is so deep and so strong, that I have been reduced to tears, lots of them, every time I get into His presence. He is such a holy and righteous God.
Lord, I thank you so much that you are a God who knows the longing of our hearts. I thank you Lord that you promised if we seek after you, we would find you. Thank you Lord, for those who have that similar desire and how you are showing yourself to them in ways unimaginable. Thank you Holy Spirit, for fulfilling the longing in my heart to know the true and real God. Thank you Lord for giving me the desire to seek Your heart and not Your hand. You are holy Lord, and I love you. In Jesus name.
Blessings,
Vickie
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Word Filled Wednesday.
The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Cor. 10: 4 & 5
This is my first Word-filled Wednesday post.
I meditated on these verses from 2 Corinthians yesterday while working on a poem about the word of God. Just thinking on them; seeing words like demolish, and taking captive, caused a fighting spirit to rise up within me. The word of God truly is spirit and life. I literally got so excited when I saw the authority and the power that God has placed at our disposal to destroy whatever the enemy would want to bring our way The word says "We demolish, We take captive." That means it is up to us saints to stand up, knowing that we have got the backing of heaven, to take back whatever the evil one has stolen from us. We are the ones with the authority to stand on the word of God and declare that we will not let the enemy run rough-shod over our family, our friends and our loved ones.
Saints, the word of God is sharper than any two edged sword. It cuts and it heals. It is our weapon of warfare. Don't just read the word, put it into action and see your desires fulfilled, see change in your situations, see others set free and delivered.
I encourage you today to take a fresh approach to the word of God. Look at it through new eyes, see what's really in your hand.
If you would like to become a part of Word-filled Wednesday, you can join up here.
Blessings,
Vickie
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
It's encouraging to be an encouragement.
As the body of Christ, we are constantly invited in the word to bear each others burdens, to look out for one another, and even more to put others before ourselves. It is not an easy thing to do when life just seems to point you in the direction of yourself all the time. It's pretty natural to be selfish, especially when "I" am always in need of attention.
One of my heart's desires is to be a support to others however I can. I was very encouraged on Sunday when I received a note from an usher in church that came from a lady who attends a book club that I started in my home a few months ago. Her note was one that truly blessed my heart and gives me the desire to go on being a vessel fit for the Master's use.
In part her note said:"Vickie, I just want to say thank you. Before I met you I was a sometimes Bible reader and now I study my Bible daily. I never thought I could place notes in my bible (My bible is full of notes all over, whatever the Spirit speaks to my heart as I read, so I guess she noticed that). I think I have written a book in my bible. I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy the book reading club that you started. When I am at your house at the book club, I am at my most peaceful and I do not want to give that up. I want you to stay encouraged in the Lord."
I once had a desire to do things for God, and there was nothing wrong with that, but I thank Him for bringing me to the place where I now allow Him to work through me as He sees fit. What I desire to do for Him may not always be what He wants to do through me. It is satisfying when you see or hear of changes in the life of others because you allowed God to do what He wanted to do through you. This book club was formed because I felt God constantly impressing it on my heart.
Left up to me, I would have left it up to someone else.
Thank you Lord for helping me to be obedient to Your calling.
Whatever you know or believe God has laid on your heart, do it with all your heart.
P.s. I had thoughts recently of stopping the club, God. it appears and as always, had other plans.
Blessings,
Vickie
One of my heart's desires is to be a support to others however I can. I was very encouraged on Sunday when I received a note from an usher in church that came from a lady who attends a book club that I started in my home a few months ago. Her note was one that truly blessed my heart and gives me the desire to go on being a vessel fit for the Master's use.
In part her note said:"Vickie, I just want to say thank you. Before I met you I was a sometimes Bible reader and now I study my Bible daily. I never thought I could place notes in my bible (My bible is full of notes all over, whatever the Spirit speaks to my heart as I read, so I guess she noticed that). I think I have written a book in my bible. I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy the book reading club that you started. When I am at your house at the book club, I am at my most peaceful and I do not want to give that up. I want you to stay encouraged in the Lord."
I once had a desire to do things for God, and there was nothing wrong with that, but I thank Him for bringing me to the place where I now allow Him to work through me as He sees fit. What I desire to do for Him may not always be what He wants to do through me. It is satisfying when you see or hear of changes in the life of others because you allowed God to do what He wanted to do through you. This book club was formed because I felt God constantly impressing it on my heart.
Left up to me, I would have left it up to someone else.
Thank you Lord for helping me to be obedient to Your calling.
Whatever you know or believe God has laid on your heart, do it with all your heart.
P.s. I had thoughts recently of stopping the club, God. it appears and as always, had other plans.
Blessings,
Vickie
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Faith on Sunday
Today was a beautiful day. The weather co-operated nicely after an all night rain from Hanna. The fresh smell of the new day really made me appreciate the night rain........also appreciate the fact that I wasn't in it.............I took a few minutes to give God praise for using the rain to cleanse the streets we walk on, for watering the trees to make them greener, and just for watering the earth. I thanked Him for helping me not to see the rain as an inconvenience any more but truly as a blessing, a much needed blessing.
The message at church today was on faith. It was a timely reminder from the book of James. A few interesting things that my pastor said was that James doesn't argue about whether faith works or not, he tells you that it works. I like that. When you have proven something beyond a shadow of a doubt, you don't need to waste time trying to establish its existence all over, you can speak with confidence that yes it exists. Many of us have proven over and over again that faith in God works. We have trusted God when things looked impossible and He has come through for us over and over again.
Another thing he said that challenged my heart, was that faith must be tested. It's no use having faith and not putting it to the test. Where's the proof? I have been pondering that in my heart, because time and time again I say that I trust God but then I don't put my faith to the test, so how can I say with confidence that I have faith? Faith without works is dead.
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1
Lord, help me to trust you not just in word but also in my actions. Help me Lord to put feet to my faith so that it would walk with me whereever I go, for your word says without faith it's impossible to please you. I want to please you Lord. I want to be so sure of what you promise me Lord, that I would not hesitate to step out. I confess I need your help Lord and I ask it in Jesus name. Thank you Lord.
Blessings,
Vickie
The message at church today was on faith. It was a timely reminder from the book of James. A few interesting things that my pastor said was that James doesn't argue about whether faith works or not, he tells you that it works. I like that. When you have proven something beyond a shadow of a doubt, you don't need to waste time trying to establish its existence all over, you can speak with confidence that yes it exists. Many of us have proven over and over again that faith in God works. We have trusted God when things looked impossible and He has come through for us over and over again.
Another thing he said that challenged my heart, was that faith must be tested. It's no use having faith and not putting it to the test. Where's the proof? I have been pondering that in my heart, because time and time again I say that I trust God but then I don't put my faith to the test, so how can I say with confidence that I have faith? Faith without works is dead.
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1
Lord, help me to trust you not just in word but also in my actions. Help me Lord to put feet to my faith so that it would walk with me whereever I go, for your word says without faith it's impossible to please you. I want to please you Lord. I want to be so sure of what you promise me Lord, that I would not hesitate to step out. I confess I need your help Lord and I ask it in Jesus name. Thank you Lord.
Blessings,
Vickie
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Walking together
With the threat of Hurricane Hanna hanging over our heads this morning, my husband and I thought we would take an early trek to the supermarket to get some much needed food. It appeared that while we slept Hanna paid us a visit, so it was pretty wet outside already. We were planning on taking the bus the short distance, but I felt I needed to find some umbrellas for our walk to and from the bus stop, since we had no idea if Hanna would go with us the store or if she would wait until we got back and then pay us another visit. I did some searching hoping to find two small umbrellas and while I looked I saw instead a fairly big one that we had standing in a corner. Instantly I thought, I want this one. Having this one meant we would be walking together, step by step. That is an accomplishment when you have a husband whose long strides always keep him walking slightly ahead of you.
Even though we ended up not using the umbrella, it gave me reason for thought. Thoughts that drifted toward the body of Christ. What if each of us did whatever it took so that we could always walk together? What if each of us did whatever we could to make sure there was unity? What if each of us did our part, in our marriages, or with our relatives, to create a sense of oneness? What if each of us took the initiative to walk away from strife and arguments, instead of having to have the last word, even if you are right, just for the sake of peace? What if instead of provoking our children we encourage them, nurture and correct them in love?
Hebrews 12:14 says, "Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord."
That verse says so much to me. It tells me I can't control what any one else does, nor can I control their responses to whatever happens, but I can make as much effort as possible to walk in unity with them. God will step in because of my effort and obedience to His word.
Lord, help me to obey the conditions you set out in your word, no matter what. Lord help me to be determined in creating an atmosphere of peace where ever I am. This I am able to do with the help of Your Holy Spirit and because your word says I can. In Jesus name. I thank you Lord.
Blessings,
Vickie
Even though we ended up not using the umbrella, it gave me reason for thought. Thoughts that drifted toward the body of Christ. What if each of us did whatever it took so that we could always walk together? What if each of us did whatever we could to make sure there was unity? What if each of us did our part, in our marriages, or with our relatives, to create a sense of oneness? What if each of us took the initiative to walk away from strife and arguments, instead of having to have the last word, even if you are right, just for the sake of peace? What if instead of provoking our children we encourage them, nurture and correct them in love?
Hebrews 12:14 says, "Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord."
That verse says so much to me. It tells me I can't control what any one else does, nor can I control their responses to whatever happens, but I can make as much effort as possible to walk in unity with them. God will step in because of my effort and obedience to His word.
Lord, help me to obey the conditions you set out in your word, no matter what. Lord help me to be determined in creating an atmosphere of peace where ever I am. This I am able to do with the help of Your Holy Spirit and because your word says I can. In Jesus name. I thank you Lord.
Blessings,
Vickie
Friday, September 5, 2008
Keeping watch, while waiting
For the whole summer I traveled to work taking the bus on my own. Now that school has started again, my son, my daughter, and myself do what we normally do all throughout the school year; we take the bus together. They go for a short distance, just a few stops, one a little further than the other. I take it much further and transfer to another bus on my way to work.
However, starting out in the mornings is never an easy thing and so one of us is always a little ahead of the other. In order to make sure we all get the same bus, whoever has finished dressing, goes ahead and keeps watch at the bus stop. On any given morning one or two of us are at the bus-stop waiting and watching, ready to alert the other in case the bus is approaching.
This was the case this morning, two of us were there keeping watch for the one that wasn't. Isn't that how we're supposed to be in the body of Christ? Aren't we encouraged to look out for each other? Paul says, practice hospitality, especially to those of the the household of faith. We are even encouraged to give up eating certain foods if it would cause one that is weak or new in the faith to stumble.
While we wait for the Lord, we should have a watchful attitude. We are to be our brother and sister's keeper. Those of us who are stronger in the faith should watch in prayer and love. Paul says in 1Peter4:8-10, "To love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have to serve others."
God expects us to use our resources and our connections as much as we can to help meet the needs of others. Jesus said, by this shall all men know that you are my disciples if you have love one for the other. His word invites us older women to watch out for the younger ones, in love, in gentle correction, in direction, in advice . It also tells us to watch out for the widows and the orphans.
Today, my heart's reminder is that I will watch out for others while I wait for the return of my Lord.
Love is not self-seeking, it always protects. 1Corinthians 13:4
Blessings,
Vickie
However, starting out in the mornings is never an easy thing and so one of us is always a little ahead of the other. In order to make sure we all get the same bus, whoever has finished dressing, goes ahead and keeps watch at the bus stop. On any given morning one or two of us are at the bus-stop waiting and watching, ready to alert the other in case the bus is approaching.
This was the case this morning, two of us were there keeping watch for the one that wasn't. Isn't that how we're supposed to be in the body of Christ? Aren't we encouraged to look out for each other? Paul says, practice hospitality, especially to those of the the household of faith. We are even encouraged to give up eating certain foods if it would cause one that is weak or new in the faith to stumble.
While we wait for the Lord, we should have a watchful attitude. We are to be our brother and sister's keeper. Those of us who are stronger in the faith should watch in prayer and love. Paul says in 1Peter4:8-10, "To love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have to serve others."
God expects us to use our resources and our connections as much as we can to help meet the needs of others. Jesus said, by this shall all men know that you are my disciples if you have love one for the other. His word invites us older women to watch out for the younger ones, in love, in gentle correction, in direction, in advice . It also tells us to watch out for the widows and the orphans.
Today, my heart's reminder is that I will watch out for others while I wait for the return of my Lord.
Love is not self-seeking, it always protects. 1Corinthians 13:4
Blessings,
Vickie
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Fresh and new
I stood this morning and watched my 13 year old son go off to school. He loved the summer vacation and the leisure that came with it. He loved being able to play ball at the park with his friends and not have to worry about doing homework. But I know he was looking forward to going back to school. Not so much that he wanted to be in school, but there were the prospects of knowing who was going to be in his cluster this year. Who would be his teachers now he was going into 8th grade. He would get the chance to see some of his friends that he hadn't seen all summer long. He was wearing his new pants and shoes, an almost new book bag filled with new school supplies. He looked good. He had a new hair cut and he looked fresh.
I watched him walk off with his dad and I stood on the step and prayed for God to guide him through this new time of his school life. He was going back to his old school, but this was going to be a new and challenging time for him as this would be his last year in middle school.
While thinking of him again as I was on my way to work, I switched my thoughts to the newness and the freshness of it all. I thought of how everyday we get a chance to start anew and to start afresh with God. Everyday we wake up God is saying, come into my presence today since you didn't quite make it yesterday. The word says He gives us new and fresh mercies everyday. As good as yesterday's was, we are drenched from heaven with fresh mercies for a fresh day. Each day presents its own challenges so God knows we need a brand new touch from Him. The psalmist David invites us to seek God early in the morning because he discovered the benefits of starting a new day with God.
I want to encourage you as I encourage myself to value each new day that God gives you. Grab hold of the fresh opportunities He present to you every day. Areas that you have been holding on to, make a fresh commitment to turn them over to God. The old and the familiar is very comforting, but there's excitement in walking with God and giving Him all of you like you never have before.
Blessings,
Vickie
I watched him walk off with his dad and I stood on the step and prayed for God to guide him through this new time of his school life. He was going back to his old school, but this was going to be a new and challenging time for him as this would be his last year in middle school.
While thinking of him again as I was on my way to work, I switched my thoughts to the newness and the freshness of it all. I thought of how everyday we get a chance to start anew and to start afresh with God. Everyday we wake up God is saying, come into my presence today since you didn't quite make it yesterday. The word says He gives us new and fresh mercies everyday. As good as yesterday's was, we are drenched from heaven with fresh mercies for a fresh day. Each day presents its own challenges so God knows we need a brand new touch from Him. The psalmist David invites us to seek God early in the morning because he discovered the benefits of starting a new day with God.
I want to encourage you as I encourage myself to value each new day that God gives you. Grab hold of the fresh opportunities He present to you every day. Areas that you have been holding on to, make a fresh commitment to turn them over to God. The old and the familiar is very comforting, but there's excitement in walking with God and giving Him all of you like you never have before.
Blessings,
Vickie
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
A Flower In His Garden
As a caregiver God has given me a special job. A job not only to care for my patient but to care for her/his possessions, belongings, to have a tender heart and a listening ear, among other things. Recently while taking care of my patient, I was taking care of some plants and flowers she had and I noticed among them one that had no leaves, no flowers, nothing on it. It was just one long green stem/stick. I asked about it and was told that it was once a lovely orchid given to her while she was recovering in a rehab center some time last year but after blooming for a while all the leaves fell off. She said the friend that had given it assured her that it would someday bloom again. Looking at it, I seriously doubted it would. There was no life whatsoever, only a long, dry, stick.
But I decided it didn't cost anything to water it, after all I was watering the other plants daily or at least every other day. So I started to water the long, dry, stick. I watered it, and I watered it, and I watered it, and nothing happened. That is, until one day, after a long weekend away, I saw a bud, and I saw another bud, and another bud, and yet another bud. Pretty soon it had about six buds with some bigger than the others. Could this really be happening? After all this time, I asked myself, could this really be happening? Sure it was, right in front of my eyes. The orchid began to bloom. Within a week of seeing those buds one opened and out came the most gorgeous purple flower I have ever seen. A couple more days and with their faces turned to the sun, four purple orchids stood proudly in full bloom
What an amazing testimony to the greatness of God!! What a wonderful process that takes place from seed to plant or from seed to flower.
Just like those orchids, our lives look so hopeless sometimes. No shape, no structure. We are discarded by those who have no use for us, but what a joyous day when Christ enter our lives. Like the giver of that flower, He knows that when we are watered by His love and fed by His word we can bloom again. The entrance of His word brings light into our lives. He never stops giving up on us. He never stops pouring His love out on us. His Holy Spirit keeps on tugging at our heart until we open up to Him.
Let's ask God today to water our lives afresh. To renew the dry and cracked areas that only He can give life to.
As the rain and snow come down from heaven and do no return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth. Isaiah 55:10 & 11
Blessings,
Vickie
But I decided it didn't cost anything to water it, after all I was watering the other plants daily or at least every other day. So I started to water the long, dry, stick. I watered it, and I watered it, and I watered it, and nothing happened. That is, until one day, after a long weekend away, I saw a bud, and I saw another bud, and another bud, and yet another bud. Pretty soon it had about six buds with some bigger than the others. Could this really be happening? After all this time, I asked myself, could this really be happening? Sure it was, right in front of my eyes. The orchid began to bloom. Within a week of seeing those buds one opened and out came the most gorgeous purple flower I have ever seen. A couple more days and with their faces turned to the sun, four purple orchids stood proudly in full bloom
What an amazing testimony to the greatness of God!! What a wonderful process that takes place from seed to plant or from seed to flower.
Just like those orchids, our lives look so hopeless sometimes. No shape, no structure. We are discarded by those who have no use for us, but what a joyous day when Christ enter our lives. Like the giver of that flower, He knows that when we are watered by His love and fed by His word we can bloom again. The entrance of His word brings light into our lives. He never stops giving up on us. He never stops pouring His love out on us. His Holy Spirit keeps on tugging at our heart until we open up to Him.
Let's ask God today to water our lives afresh. To renew the dry and cracked areas that only He can give life to.
As the rain and snow come down from heaven and do no return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth. Isaiah 55:10 & 11
Blessings,
Vickie
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
The Lion of the tribe of Judah
I spent some time watching a program on television yesterday about various animals getting into uncomfortable situations. Some of the situations presented danger to the animals themselves and some posed danger to the people who were trying to rescue these animals. The last segment of the program was about two young men in London who took a cub (I forgot where they got him) and kept him in their apartment for a while. He became quite a fixture in London, traveled all around with them etc. As was expected he grew really really big and was deemed quite dangerous then even though he didn't show any signs of aggressive behavior towards those around him.
While closing off the program the commentator shared some information about lions that I found quite interesting. He said a lion's ears can twist and move to hear his prey about a mile away. He also said the lion's sense of smell is heightened because his hearing is so sharp. Another interesting fact was that the lion's eyes are bigger and sharper than those of other cats in the jungle.
I sat and thought about all this and I started to let my mind dwell on the fact that Jesus is the Lion of the Tribe of Judah. His ears are able to sense the danger the enemy is planning for me way in advance when I have no idea what could befall me. His eyes are sharper than those of my enemy and He is watching over me day and night. Hallelujah! He can sniff out the plans of the devil and expose them before they have a chance to bring destruction to my life and those that I care about.
Revelation 5:5 says the Lion of the tribe of Judah has triumphed. He has already won the battle for us. We don't have to live defeated lives. The victory is already ours. Let us take some time today and meditate on the protection God has given us through Jesus Christ. He is our banner our shield and our fortress.
Blessings,
Vickie
While closing off the program the commentator shared some information about lions that I found quite interesting. He said a lion's ears can twist and move to hear his prey about a mile away. He also said the lion's sense of smell is heightened because his hearing is so sharp. Another interesting fact was that the lion's eyes are bigger and sharper than those of other cats in the jungle.
I sat and thought about all this and I started to let my mind dwell on the fact that Jesus is the Lion of the Tribe of Judah. His ears are able to sense the danger the enemy is planning for me way in advance when I have no idea what could befall me. His eyes are sharper than those of my enemy and He is watching over me day and night. Hallelujah! He can sniff out the plans of the devil and expose them before they have a chance to bring destruction to my life and those that I care about.
Revelation 5:5 says the Lion of the tribe of Judah has triumphed. He has already won the battle for us. We don't have to live defeated lives. The victory is already ours. Let us take some time today and meditate on the protection God has given us through Jesus Christ. He is our banner our shield and our fortress.
Blessings,
Vickie
While I walk, I'll write....
I know it can be a dangerous thing to write while walking, but since God orders my footsteps, His word becomes a light to my path and a lamp to my feet that will keep me from stumbling. My walk of faith has been designed by God before I was formed in my mother's womb. It has taken me quite a while to get on the course He has laid out for me. I've been side-tracked by the enemy, and I've put stumbling blocks in my own path at times by not heeding the promptings of the Holy Spirit or taking advantage of opportunities He sent my way. But through it all He has lovingly led me on. I am so thankful that He already had a plan of remedy to bring me back to where He always intended me to be. It is quite a relief to surrender to His call, and my soul is excited at the prospects He has outlined for me.
My journey, I know, is so far from over, but I am forever grateful and my heart truly humbled to think that He could even consider using me. I don't know where He will take me in my writing, but I know as I walk by faith and in obedience things will become clearer.
My prayer is that whatever He prompts me to write will first of all challenge my own heart to come up higher in Him, and then that challenge will be extended to those who would read my words.
My journey, I know, is so far from over, but I am forever grateful and my heart truly humbled to think that He could even consider using me. I don't know where He will take me in my writing, but I know as I walk by faith and in obedience things will become clearer.
My prayer is that whatever He prompts me to write will first of all challenge my own heart to come up higher in Him, and then that challenge will be extended to those who would read my words.
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