Here's a thought

"For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true." Ephesians 5:9

As Christians, does the love we have for Christ shine or is it dimmed by the crowd?

I have been so intrigued by people and what makes each one of us stand out. It is very obvious that not one looks the same, which is a whole other amazement to me, but when it comes to the light within us, what makes it shine?

If we were in a crowd of 50 people and no one is saying a word, what is going to make you stand out-Spiritually?

If you think about it people pass by us every single day and unless we know them, we have no idea how many of our brothers and sisters we are passing by. To those who don't know, well are they able to see Christ in us, without words. Is the presence of Jesus so strong within us that it is felt by all who walk by us, stand next to us, or sit next to us?

Do people know Jesus is in you, without you telling them? 

Something to think about it!

Jesus I desire nothing more than to be able to stand in silence and Your light illuminate from within me. No words, nothing! Just Your amazing Spirit and love within me. Make it be so, Lord, make it be. Amen

Straight from the LORD Himself

If I had not been on the interstate driving 70 miles an hour I would have been able to capture a picture of the billboard that said May 21 is the end of the world.

I couldn't help but to laugh out loud at the silliness of man.

I have to say The Lord and I had a great time giggling about it. I wondered why May 21 was the day and why it couldn't have been two days ago or tomorrow.

Knowing the word brethren is of such importance! I am sure the people passing me thought I was weird because I truly was laughing and in full blown, moving my mouth, conversation with the Lord.

Oh, mercy God is just so good. Brethren the Lord speaks very clearly about His return and I can assure you, that if the Son himself, and the angels don't even know...well, NEITHER DO YOU. It is biblical! I can assure you one thing, when it is time, and He comes, it will be SPECTACULAR! Better yet instead of me saying anymore, let's just hear it straight from the LORD Himself.

"I really don't need to write to you about how and when all this will happen, dear brothers and sisters. For you know quite well that the day of the Lord will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. When people are saying, 'All is well; everything is peaceful and secure,' then disaster will fall upon them as suddenly as a woman's birth pains begin when her child is about to be born. And there will be no escape." 1 Thessalonians 5:1-3


"However, no one knows the day or the hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. ONLY THE FATHER KNOWS. When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah's day. In those days before the Flood, the people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat. People didn't realize what was going to happen until the Flood came and swept them all away. That is the way if will be when the Son of Man comes." Matthew 24:36-39


So don't be scared and PLEASE don't believe what those people say or plaster on a huge billboard. Trust in the word of God, be prepared and spend every day getting ready. Be mindful of all you do and where you go. You would hate for Jesus to return while you were somewhere you shouldn't be. Well, again hear it for yourself from Jesus.

"But you aren't in the dark about these things, dear brothers and sisters, and you won't be surprised when the day of the Lord comes like a thief. For you are all children of the light and of the day; we don't belong to darkness and night. So be on your guard, not asleep like the others. Stay alert and be sober. Night is the time for sleep and the time when people get drunk. But let us who live in the light think clearly protected by the body armor of faith and love, and wearing as our helmet the confidence of our salvation. For God decided to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out his anger on us. he died for us so that we can live with him forever, whether we are dead or alive at the time of his return. So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:4-11

Aren't you excited? I hope you are spending each second getting ready and being prepared, I sure don't want anyone who is willing to miss the ride home! 

I just have to say, wouldn't it be absolutely amazing to be spending intimate time with the Lord in His word and then the next thing you know you are face to face with Him. Oh my goodness gracious, Jesus let it be! 

One day brethren when we least expect it! Hasten the day Lord Jesus, hasten the day.

Jesus I just had the best time with You, laughing and talking. Thank You that my sweet boys love to join in visiting and laughing with You. I pray it will become a daily routine for them as well. Jesus we are excited about Your coming and spending eternity with You. Help us stay alert, working, and focused on You at all times. Jesus when You come I hope You find us sharing Your word, spending time with You and serving. What devastation there would be if we were in a place that brought You sadness and sorrow. We love You and we are just thrilled about Your coming. Amen

Oh, Lord one more thing, bless those sweet private readers who are unseen that come to Godly Gossip. You know them by name and I pray You bless them. Saturate them with Your word. Amen

It’s worth it

“So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord’s work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.” 1 Corinthians 15:58

Have you ever felt as though the time you have spent investing in someone or something has been a waste?

I have felt that way on many occasions and when that thought creeps in, you know the "What was the point of this, they just don't get it or care, or this project has no real purpose." type of thought?

I have had several of those frustrating moments over the last couple of years. Just today the Lord reminded me that though it can be very frustrating, if I keep working for Him and not for me, there will be nothing wasted or time spent that will be useless, even if it seems like it.

God uses all things for His glory. I know that, it just feels differently at the time.

God sees the end result. He knows whether the seed planted will sprout and be nourished or whether it will be smothered and die. I love what Revelation 14:13 says, “Write this down: Blessed are those who die in the Lord from now on. Yes, says the Spirit, they are blessed indeed, for they will rest from all their toils and trials; for their good deeds follow them!”

Praise You Jesus! I don’t always see the work You are doing at the time but I know You are working. You know every choice we make and will make. You know whether we will choose to live in sin or repent. You know whether forgiveness will be given or withheld. You know when we praise You one moment and curse another the next. Jesus You see the difference between real and fake.

You know whether we make the world our idol or make You our idol. You know whether our devotion is sincere or for show. You know whether our efforts are for Your glory or our own.

You know our differences, our hearts, thoughts and intentions. You know the very ones You place in our path and the very things we seek. From each, You use it for Your glory and for our good.

I praise You for the lessons You have taught me over the last few years and for those You brought into my path. Though at the time it seemed vexing, I know that each one was to grow me and shape me into the woman You desire me to be. Thank You for showing me the importance of keeping You center in all areas of my life. Growing is not easy but it is worth every bit of the work. Keep me in a state of continual growth. I am sticking to the vine Jesus.

Keep me humble, gentle, sincere, consistent, and faithful. May I daily be groomed, shaped, and molded to Your image and not one I try to create for myself. Amen

Pray, then pray some more, and more, and more, and more...

"Keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:17

When their are no words...pray

When the heart is weak...pray

When you feel alone...pray

When tension arises...pray

When anger creeps in...pray

When disappointment strikes...pray

When your scared...pray

When your sick...pray

When you need to vent...pray

When you need guidance...pray

When you have a question...pray

When tragedy strikes...pray

When your confused...pray

Pray when your happy, pray when your sad. Pray when your eyes open, pray as you walk, pray while you work, pray when you sit. Pray when you lay down, and pray yourself to sleep.

I hope it will become a natural part of you!

Jesus there is nothing like being in constant communication with You. Thank You for opening up the Most Holy Place for all to access. What a glorious place it is. Thank You that Your ears never get tired of hearing. May each prayer be of the sweetest aroma and consist more of praise and thankfulness for what You have done and for who You are. Amen

Looking for work...Jesus work

"If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seek me. I will be found by you, says the Lord." Jeremiah 29:13-14


Jesus I am looking for You today. Show me where You are needed then place me there to be Your hands and feet. Please Lord don't let me miss working with and for You today. I have wasted to many days doing that.

Put me to work Jesus, use me until I am all used up and then use me some more. Amen

From the hearts of other sisters

“Your godly lives will speak to them better than any words. They will be won over by watching your pure, godly behavior.” 1 Peter 3:1-2

Brethren I am blessed to have so many of you walk this journey with me. I am so thankful to these Sisters in Christ who took the time to respond to the Devotion “Come on Sisters, help this sister out”

I was blown away by the responses I received and very encouraged by so many of you. Thank you for sharing your heart and for allowing me to share your heart on Godly Gossip. If one woman comes to know the Lord or finds the encouragement she needs to press more into Jesus…well that is what Godly Gossip is all about. Spreading Gods’ word!

My sweet sisters I love and adore you. Thank you!

Names have been left off for privacy!

"Looking through our husbands to Christ and serving Him" - that is such a wonderful reminder for me.  Honestly, through the years - that is what it has come down to.  If it had not been Christ as our foundation - the house would have washed away many years ago.  However, it was not about us - it was about Him.  No matter how bad things get - it is always about Him.  He is the reason to fight for our marriages - if not Him why else?  Yes, marriage is full of sacrifices and in our selfishness - we don't like to have to give up our rights and control but Christ requires that of us. John 13:4-17”He got up from the meal....poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples feet.....When He had finished washing their feet he said "Do you understand what I have done?...Now that I, Your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash another's feet....now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them."   Well, there have been times along the way that I did not want to wash my husband's feet so to speak but Christ commands that I serve and honor Him by serving and honoring and respecting my husband.  It is a humbling experience to do that even when it is hard but the blessings of doing what Christ commands are so rewarding.  Do I still fail sometimes - you bet I do.  In all honesty, I want to throw the water at him instead of washing his feet but I am always reminded of Jesus great sacrifice for us and am brought back to my knees with a grateful heart.  Sometimes it has taken longer than other times but thankfully God has never given up on me and continues to draw me as His child to do what I know is right.  "Create in me a clean heart, Oh God, and renew a right spirit within me" has been my cry many times and He never fails to answer.  
Thanks for reminding us all to "look through our husbands to Christ and serve Him."  That makes our husbands look very sweet when they are not looking so sweet to us.  Yes, that still happens from time to time even after 35 years but Christ is worth it all.

I probably shouldn't respond while I'm put out with my husband :)  Because when I'm put out, even though I know what I'm supposed to do/feel, it is extremely difficult and I'm just doing it out of obligation rather than love and then I start feeling like I have no life of my own, that he's just trying to turn me into a carbon copy of him and then you know what happens after that!  Straight downhill!  It will all be ok though.

I was writing in response...
I have now been staying home for three years which has been a HUGE blessing that I never expected.  It has led to some financial issues, but out of it we received K after three years of failed fertility and it allowed me to get to know my oldest K in a different way.
Staying home truly opened the door for me to see and experience the biblical plan for my relationship with my kids and my husband.  The change in rolls was hard at first and I won't lie...S and I have had some major life issues the last two years but by the Grace of God we are still standing together and not falling apart.
I realized that I actually put my love and hope in Christ on S and after counseling realized how unfair that is.  Although it was a huge compliment to the extent of my love for S and what I saw in him it wasn't healthy.
Now I strive to serve the Lord by serving my family without confusing the two.
All of life is overwhelming and much can be lost in translation but it is my prayer daily to go to bed RIGHT with the Lord.  If the answer to that is yes...everything else will fall into place.

Our Husbands are a gift from God himself and should be treated with love and respect
 I'm not telling you nothing that we all don't already know, but sometime we forget, and need to be reminded that they have feeling just as we do. They sometimes just have a hard time showing us what’s inside. They feel that their problems are theirs to deal with and that yours are for them to fix.  God has called us to be their helpers NOT their boss and sometimes we girls seem to treat our sweet MEN as one of our children. Don’t get me wrong, they like to be taken care of, but there is a fine line that we as wives and moms cross at times, that we really don't mean to cross but do. We all love our husbands very much, and from time to time we as their helper and friend need to ask God to make us better wives than we can make ourselves. to ask for His guidance, His will for us as wives .God did make Eve from Adams rib and made Eve his help mate, And God still intends for our husbands to be the head of our family and God the head of our home, And last the advice that we all were given on our wedding day, never go to bed angry. And always remember that first kiss and you will fall in love all over again. Those kisses may not be as passionate like they once were, but the love is greater now, than it was then.  

In a flash

“No wonder my heart is filled with joy, and my mouth shouts his praises! My body rests in safety.” Psalm 16:9

Just hours before I was basking in the beauty of the sunset as it hit the water and sparkled.  There is always something so amazing about being on the boat with G, fishing and watching the sun go down. It is as though it adds a whole new dimension to beauty.

The minute my eye caught a glimpse I put my pole down and turned to take it all in, the sun, Jesus, and G. It was the most beautiful sight and one my soul needed.

I took full advantage of the peace and quiet and beauty to pray and thank the Lord for being ever so present in the life of my family and for this time of “getting to know” one another again while the boys are away.

And this is where God Himself becomes even more amazing.  As I sat there spending time talking to the Lord, I remember so specifically praying and praising Him for the safe travel thus far, for me and the boys, G, His dad, and my family.  I asked for His protective hand to stay upon each of us as we traveled to our final destinations.

Now fast forward about three hours later…

I am in the ditch, my airbags are out, On Star is talking to me and I am in complete shock and panic. I have no idea what happened, if I am hurt, and what just hit me. G makes his way to my car, opens the door, reaches in grabs me to calm me down and says, “Baby you are okay, a deer hit you.” I never even saw it!

But, I saw the hand of God as He revealed His protective hand upon me. Though my car is in the junk yard in a town 4 hours away, I am alive, my boys were not with me, the deer is dead, my soreness is going away, and God’s hand was, is and will forever be upon me. For that I am eternally grateful.

Jesus it does not matter what happens, You are there. You never left my side and I know You never will. In moments like these it is the reality of Your presence, protection, beauty and Holiness that make You even more amazing. Thank You for the work of Your hands. Amen

Delivery errors

Godly Gossip is experiencing some delivery errors.

Sorry for the repeated devotionals. We are working on getting this resolved.

Thank you!

Ladies thank you for responding again the Lord always has a purpose!

I love each of you

Dear Jesus,

"I want my life to be an example to many, because you have been my strength and protection." Psalm 71:7


Place my entire body in Your word. Keep me mindful of what I say and do. Remove me from the state of "Me".


Place me in and where You want me. May I be a living testimony. Let my life be a life that produces an example of Your love, joy, forgiveness, kindness and a walking reflection of You. 


Help me be slow to speak, slow to anger, and slow to be puffed up with self. Make me quick to love, quick to forgive, quick to help, quick to listen, and quick to comfort. Make me mindful of Your word Lord. 


Bring each thought into captivity. Examine it and purify it. Forgive me Lord for the thoughts that I have had, have, and will have that displease You. 


May I walk in the showers of Your grace today. Amen

His presence displayed

I knew He was waiting, so I got up and hurried down to meet with Him. As I found Him sitting at the table I rushed over to join Him. I sat down with a smile and excitement because I knew our time together was going to be great. It always is! 

I looked up to greet Him and this is what I saw. 

"The heavens tell of the glory of God. The skies display his marvelous craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. They speak without a sound or a word; their voice is silent in the skies; yet their message has gone out to all the earth, and their words to all the world. The sun lives in the heavens where God place it. It bursts forth like a radiant bridegroom after his wedding. It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race. The sun rises at one end of the heavens and follows its course to the other end. Nothing can hide from its heat. The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The commandments of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are clear, giving insight to life. Reverence for the LORD is pure, lasting forever. The laws of the LORD are true: each one is fair. They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb. They are a warning to those who hear them; there is great reward for those who obey them." Psalm 19: 1-11

Jesus, Jesus, Jesus Your beauty brings joy to my heart. Your words nourish and quench my thirst. Your presence in me is more precious than the air that I breathe. The warmth of You the One true Son brings my soul to full bloom. Let it sprout Your beauty for all to see. Amen

Jesus and the Donkey

Featured writer-Ryan Burchett

“ 1As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples, 2 saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. 3 If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ tell him, ‘The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.’”  4 They went and found a colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway. As they untied it, 5 some people standing there asked, “What are you doing, untying that colt?” 6 They answered as Jesus had told them to, and the people let them go.”
-Mark 11:1-6

​What do you know about donkeys?  Generally, we know that donkeys, especially when compared to their relatives, the horse, they are pretty ugly animals.  They aren’t the most graceful of animals and they certainly aren’t the smartest.  They are very humble animals in terms of appearance, stature, and ability.

​When we read this short account, just before Jesus’ triumphal entry into town, we see that the preparation for that entry was well thought out and it was crucial.  Jesus knew long beforehand what He needed and here He executes the plan.

​What I’d like for us to get from this account is a very different way of looking at it; however, it’s still an important example nonetheless – we are that donkey!

​How so?  Without this colt, prepared for the Lord by the Lord, Jesus could not have entered into town the way He intended.  This same concept applies to us as Christians today.  God uses the humble at heart to glorify His kingdom through the sharing of the gospel.  He won’t use the proud or self-exalting, the ‘stallions’ if you will; rather he uses the humble, the servant-hearted, the ‘donkeys.’

​This colt was prepared especially to bring Jesus to the people.  It could have very well bucked and kicked and acted stubborn when the disciples showed up, but it didn’t.  It fulfilled its purpose.

​We, my Christian friend, are the donkeys prepared for Christ by Christ to carry His message to the people.  Won’t you be willing to do so?

The Wonders

"So God has given us both his promise and oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can take new courage, for we can hold on to his promise with confidence.” Hebrews 6: 18



As I watch the people come and go I wonder if they know the promises of God?

Do they know the very One that breathed life into them?

Do they rest in His promise of everlasting life? Have they even accepted Him to have everlasting life?

What is their quite time with the Lord like? Do they have a quite time, and if so, what sweet words of love does He whisper to them?

Oh how I would love to hear what the Lord is teaching them. Would they pull a chair up and share? I really would love to hear!

Maybe even have the opportunity, Lord willing, to share the promises of God with them!

I wonder how many of them walking by are having a conversation with the Lord right now?

I do know that one day every thought, every conversation, and every heart will be on Him. Hasten that day Lord Jesus!

Jesus You have offered Your promise to all who accept Your Son, so today i lift up every person that passes by me. At some point throughout their day I ask that You get their attention and place their thoughts on You, so they might rest in Your promises. Amen

The difficulty

 
“So God has given us both his promise and oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can take new courage, for we can hold on to his promise with confidence.” Hebrews 6: 18

Why is it so hard to wrap our minds around the promises of God?

Does suffering affect our belief in His promises? Do trials affect our belief in His promises? Does our sin and shame affect our belief in His promises?

How can we go from reading His promises, to knowing His promises, to living in His promises, no matter the suffering, trial, sin, or shame?

It is hard! 

Jesus keep me from doubting Your promises when the circumstances of life arise. Amen

 

Celebrating 50!!

We are approaching our 50th week of S.S.A.L.S (Study, store, apply, learn and share) can you believe it?

I know I have strayed here a little towards the end, but God has been in control and each stray was for His purpose, Praise You Lord.

I cannot tell you how wonderful it has been to have you walk this year with me. Thank you!!

I hope you have heard from the Lord over this last year, and have even grown closer to Him as you have studied, stored, applied, learned, and shared of His goodness.

Thank you for going the distance with me. I pray you will stick with me and finish the race.

I love you brethren!

Jesus bless my brothers and sisters who remain so faithful to You and Your word. Bless each one that has been on this journey with me, the ones seen and the ones unseen. May Your word continue to enrich their lives everyday. Amen

Because of...

I am only able to be the mom I am because:

 

Of their love

 I am only able to be the mom I am because:

She set the perfect example of how to be a God-loving mama. 

Jesus thank You for choosing Donna to be my mommy. Thank You for living in her and for filling her with the sweetest love a child could desire. I have been blessed to see Your reflection every time I look at her. I pray I will produce the same reflection in the eyes of my boys. 

I know she is who she is because her mama was who she was. Bless my mom as she reflects upon the love of her mommy who is with You. May the mention of her name and every thought bring a smile to her face and joy to heart. 

Thank You Jesus for the honor You have given me to be a mommy to Avery and Dax. I pray I do more than just wear the title as mommy. Amen

So?

"Don't be troubled. You trust God, now trust in me. There are many rooms in my Father's home, and I am going to prepare a place for you. If this were not so, I would tell you plainly. When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know where I am going and how to get there." John 14:1-4

I laugh when I read this for many reasons. One is because we move ALOT! I believe since G and I have been married we have moved a total of 6 times and 4 of those have been to a new town! This sign was on the U-Haul we rented and I just found it so intriguing. When I saw it, it was at a time when the reality of moving really hit me. I was about to leave a group of women that I have absolutely fell in love with, a church home where God's presence was THICK, and a home that I brought my second baby boy home to.

Second, being the me that I am, it had a deeper meaning than what was intended, a Jesus deepness!

Where WILL you go next? Though we will go many places while we are alive, there are only two places we will go that will be permanent, Heaven or Hell.

For many of us we plan out our next move, our next vacation, where we will retire and even where we will be buried. We spend months preparing, ensuring to have all the details and specifics covered. The crazy thing about all of this is how much time we spend in preparation for these events than we do in preparation for our eternal destination.

The great thing about where we will go next spiritually is how easy Christ has made it for us. He is the best travel agent, Home builder, decorator, He is free of charge and all that is required is our hearts. We will not need any boxes, we will not have to take out any loans, rent any U-Haul’s, unpack, say goodbye, or stress out about what our home will be or look like. He has already prepared it for us, plus all our brothers and sisters will be there too!!!!

I am ECSTATIC about my final destination, mine will be in Heaven with the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords, it will be perfect and everything I have ever wanted. Actually it will be beyond what I could have ever wanted or imagined. Thank You Jesus!

Jesus it truly is a relief to know where I am going when my time here is through. I look forward to my forever home with You in heaven. I pray that if there is anyone reading this today who does not know where their forever home will be, that they will turn to You and that You will become Lord and Savior of their life, ensuring that heaven is their home for eternity. Amen

Overcoming the urge

"Not to us, LORD, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness." Psalm 115:1

Have you ever had your mind made up about something and were just about to do it when...

The Holy Spirit approaches you and asks, "Will this bring Jesus glory?"

The question leaves you saddened, frustrated, thankful, and humbled. 

You know the answer and you know the decision you need to make, however you are  still contemplating whether or not to just do it? 

Okay, well I have, and let me clarify something. It is in no way sinful! It is just something that really has no purpose for the Kingdom.

And for me, if it has NO purpose for the Kingdom or God's glory it is pointless to me. EXCEPT this one issue I battle every now and then. It is rather vexing! 

Not to me, not to me, but to You Lord be the glory. 

Jesus Your honor and glory is of greater importance than making a decision that would bring You none! You know this battle Jesus, help me to overcome the urge and press on towards the goal. Amen

Are we Innocent?

Featured writer today-Ashleigh Duncan-

Psalm 26

This psalm really hit me...should we be considered innocent? Do we hang around liars and hypocrites? How many times have we watched someone do something as simple as throw a piece of trash on the ground or cheat on a test or important document and not tell anyone? We just let them do it. That makes us just as guilty. How many of us have just made estimates on things like tax reports or whatever else and we think there's nothing wrong with it? How many of us have participated in or listened to dirty jokes and maybe laughed along with them? And here's a biggie: How many of us have made excuses for not doing something or being late instead of just telling the truth? "I just plain forgot." "I was lazy this morning and hit my snooze 3 times instead of getting up." "I took my time driving here because I really didn't want to be here." "Honestly, you irritate me a little and I didn't want to work on my patience today so I avoided you." We feel so much better when we open up to our close friends and family, to that one person or group of friends that you know you can tell anything to and they won't look at you any differently, so why don't we just be honest? Why do we care what those people think of us? If God changed Pharaoh's heart in Moses' time, why can't He change people's hearts now? If you tell people something honestly and with love, God will take care of the rest. If they're not meant to be your friend then, sadly, we lose some friends along the way but it's much better to be surrounded by those who truly care and who love God like you do rather than be around people who are telling you things against your beliefs, don't you think? I hope you all have a wonderful day!! Love you!!

In Christ,

Bridget Ashleigh

Today I am thankful for the time I got before class today to just relax a bit. It's been nice :)

Through a kiss, a mothers arms, a Doctors patience and his stillness

"I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me." Psalm 16:8

Today is another one of those days when I woke up went through my morning routine except in a different town, different home and with a hospital bound destination.

Though my scenery is quite different, my mind set of routine mode is the same.

Drive to the hospital, wait, test, wait, fill out paperwork, wait, see the doctor, discuss everything ALL over again, wait, listen, check out, go home!

Then it happened...

We pull up and Jesus completely rearranges this routine mind set I am in.

I glance out the window to see two beautifully bald little girls wearing the cutest as can be masks to prevent breathing in any sickness floating around, and my heart fills with two emotions that overwhelms me to tears.

Gratefulness and brokenness!

Routine-numb routine might just be the very thing those parents are in as well, and all to mask their pain, fear, weariness, anger and frustration.

So from the parking lot to lab, to now the waiting room, we have yet to be put back into a normal everyday mindful routine (If that even makes sense)

To be honest I type, look up and cry! It is a vicious cycle. One that has grown more over this last year due to our own battle with Dax.

Though the severity of Dax's disease is not life threatening, it is still our battle. But one we are ever so grateful for, even as weird as that might sound.

I need to be shaken from routine. To much routine makes me become complacent and closed off from seeing Jesus around me, and boy is Jesus' presence around in this place.

There are 13 floors and we have covered four of them and amazingly Jesus has been on each floor.

Right now on the ninth floor I sit across from a young man, his mom and dad as they wait to see the Neurologist. He is unable to talk but can sign and make noises. As I sneak a peek due to the sound of mama coming from his mouth, I watch as she wheels him around and gently encourages him to tell her what he needs, when, sigh, he leans in and gives her a kiss on the lips and forehead!

Hmmmmmmm.... More tears..

Oh, merciful Jesus in the midst of sickness, stress, routine, and even frustration, You continue to be ever so present in our lives and all around us. Even in those who refuse and ignore You. You sit by our sides and give us grace, peace and an unfathomable amount of fight and strength to do so.

You do it all through love and it comes in ways that catch us off guard. Thank You for showing Yourself through the sweetest kiss, the comfort of a mothers arms, the patience of doctors and the stillness of Dax as he finally drifts off for a much needed nap.

Jesus I know You are always with us, for that we will not be shaken, because You are right beside us.

Jesus I pray that all these parents and even doctors will be aware of Your presence in the good, bad, scary, frustrating and stressful times. Amen

I feel…

"Even if we feel guilty, God is greater than our feelings, and knows everything." 1 John 3:20

What was your last reaction to a comment someone made to you, whether good or bad?

Did you pause and allow the Holy Spirit to step in and take charge OR were your feelings SO strong in that moment that you went with them?

Oh, mercy me have I been in both positions. Praise God for being greater than my feelings because He and I both know they can be OUT OF CONTROL.

It is so fitting that a year or two ago I spoke on feelings and not living our lives on them but on what we know-God’s word. Never free from the conflict, brethren, just hopefully becoming wiser in the process.

So let’s throw out a few feelings and see how they fair to the leading of the Holy Spirit. I made a checklist for myself and then asked the Lord to reveal to me the ones that He saw and that displeased Him. So NOT fun, but very, very NEEDED.   

The list below is feelings I deal and have dealt with through out my life. It is not the checklist I made-you can find that list in Galatians 5:19-21. I am putting myself out there brethren!

Let’s just say I have become a little too comfortable acting and reacting off of my feelings a little too much and the Lord has brought it to my attention-thank You Jesus.

I feel...                                                                                  

Inadequate

Not good enough

Incompetent

Angry

Bitter

Selfish ambition

Jealous

Quarrelsome

Out bursts of anger

Not good at anything

Of little importance

Not valued

Like a bad mother/wife

Like I am to sinful

To worldly

Ashamed

These are FEELINGS that I live in conflict with, sometimes daily and other times on occasion, but for the most part it is a BATTLE every SINGLE day.

So what happens when those feelings arise within me? Well lately I have given into them. Okay so maybe I have given into them a TON over the last 21 years of my life. However, I have also over the last 21 years of my life let the Holy Spirit control me.

The more I study the works of the Holy Spirit the more I am able to discern the difference between the two. I know when I begin to feel grumpy, or angry, or self-consumed I need to stop and let God’s word remind me that those feelings are not from Him.

I know when those moments happen I better make the CHOICE to listen and push through the urge to sit in those nasty feelings and let the Holy Spirit take charge. I need not to lash out, but be gentle. I need not to focus on the “ME” and focus on others. I need not to feel shame, incompetent, not good enough, angry, bitter, jealous, etc. Instead I need to claim forgiveness and believe I am capable, I am good enough, I am of value, I am blessed, I am who I am and loved for it, because of Christ Jesus.

I need you to know, it is SO very hard to do it, but we are very CAPABLE and we have the choice of which to choose.

We can love the friend who hurt us instead of sit and wailer in our hurt feelings

We can forgive the one who mistreated us instead of sit and roast in the feeling of anger.

We can put others before us instead of sit and let our feelings demand to be first.

We can claim God’s love for us instead of sit in the feeling of shame.

We can CHOOSE self-control instead of letting our feelings make us act OUT OF CONTROL.

Those choices are choices that represent the leading and control of the Holy Spirit. Christ gives us the choice to choose. We can either choose the path of feelings which lead to regret or we can choose the path of the Holy Spirit which leads to wisdom and peace.

Jesus I don’t always make the wisest choice when it comes to my feelings. But I am so thankful that You sent the Holy Spirit to control me, help me, and guide me in making the choice that pleases You and reflects You. Thank You for not leaving me to fight this battle alone. Amen