His Spirit Blogs

“Some have…suffered the shipwreck of their faith.” I Timothy 1:19

I just read about a 3^rd grade teacher who gave a challenge to her students. Each year she would bring into her classroom some mud and a little straw. She gave a portion to each of her students. Their eyes shone for what little one—or big one for that matter—doesn’t like to play in mud? There was, of course, a lesson to be learned.

Next, the teacher showed her students examples of nests made by real birds. Then she turned the students loose to make their own nests with the mud and straw that she had given them. As the story goes, none of the students made a nest as well as the birds! Even though the nests didn’t make the grade of the expertise of nest making that the bird’s nests displayed, the teacher explained that each of them had abilities of their own to discover and use for the greater good of all.

The 23^rd Psalm reads: “The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.” (Vs 1 NLT) And Isaiah writes: “those who trust in the Lord will renew their strength, they will sour on wings like eagles,” (40:31)

The point I am trying to make is this:–God knows who you are—He knew you before you were born (Jeremiah 1:5) and He knows your every need. He has given you special abilities not for your own edification, but to enhance the lives of those to whom He calls you. Don’t think that you cannot do this or that. If you have an urge to create, to paint, to speak, to write, to reach out and touch the less fortunate; then perhaps God is calling you to those things. And if God is calling you, then He has provided you with everything you need to accomplish the goal net before you.

One last thing, these gifts—abilities, talents—were not bestowed upon you for your own edification, but for the good of all as you share them. Do not boast of what you can do, but share your testimony of what God has done through you and will do the same for others, as well. For you see, God created mankind in His own image; He blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it.: (Genesis 1:27-28) Our gifts and talents are given to us to make this life productive, joyous, and a blessings for all. He takes great pleasure in watching us sore like eagles. He is greatly saddened by those who are shipwrecked. Which are you? How well can you make the nest?

Father, You continue to challenge me. Make me up to the challenge. You love to see your children soar like eagles. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Romans 15:13

“Your eyes saw me when I was formless; all my days were written in Your book and planned before a single one of them began.” Psalm 139:16

The words of the Psalmist, David, are a resounding affirmation of your life and mine. God knew us before we were born. Jeremiah repeats David’s words in his first chapter as he documents the Lord’s words to him: “I chose you before I formed you in the womb…” This is not true of just David and Jeremiah, but of you and me also.

Every single life in the world today—human, animal, nature—matters to God. We hear a lot about “Black Lives Matter,” and they do, but so do every different skin color, race, and creed. We need to take God’s living word to heart and live in harmony with one another. The words of a song come to mind: “Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.”          *see below (#431 United Methodist Hymnal; by Sy Miller and Jill Jackson) A beautiful sentiment and image of what God had in mind when He created this world, indeed, the Universe.

Doctors and nurses, all those in the medical profession, work tirelessly and diligently saving lives. Do they look at a person and decide if they deserve saving? NO! Every person that is brought to them receives exactly the same care. A veterinarian also cares for every animal that is brought to them without thinking if he/she is worth their time. Those who care for the things of nature, do likewise. These people truly understand that every life matters!

How have we lost our direction? Reading the Book of Job we may begin to understand. Job was well-to-do and owned much land, sheep, all kinds of material things; he had workers, herders, protectors; everything that one man would want. All this made him turn into himself—he was important! As a result, great trouble came upon him. He lost his land, animals; children; everything he held dear. He even lost his health. What was the reason God allowed all of this? In the end we find out that Job never lost faith in God, although some, including his wife, tried to persuade him to do so. And, because of his faith, God restored all that He had taken away and more. Job learned that everything he possessed was not of his own doing, but God’s. Perhaps, that is what the world needs to learn, also.

Every one of us matters! Will we pass the test as Job did? I surely hope and pray so, or those who do not will be lost forever. That person may be the one who is closest to you—how sad.

Yes, Black lives matter—EVERY LIFE MATTERS!

The one life that the world thought didn’t matter is the One that mattered most—Jesus Christ!

Father, thank You for helping us when we cannot help ourselves. Hear our cry. In Jesus’ name I pray. AMEN

“They will still bear fruit in old age…” Psalm 92:14

Yesterday, (9/6/20) according to the calendar, was Grandparents day. It made me think of my grandparents who are at home with the Lord. When we are young, however, we automatically think that they will be with us always. Thank God, we always have our memories.

 I remember the huge sugar cookies my Grandmother always baked. I’d walk into her home and the fragrance was awesome. No matter what time of the day it was, she always offered me one saying, “Don’t tell your mother.”

Then there was Grandpa. It seemed like he was a huge man to a little girl like me. He was a lion on the outside, but a kitten on the inside. I loved climbing into his lap and he sat in his overstuffed chair in the living room, by the window, smoking his pipe. His lap seemed so safe. I snuggled down into his comfy body. The two of us would just sit there. But, that was 80+ years ago! Now, all I have is my memories. Thank you, Lord.

Many children waste precious time not being with their grandparents. I feel so blessed that I was able to be with mine as much as I was. There is so much to do in this lifetime that we do not think any farther than this moment. We go through life like “chickens with their heads cut off!” If you have ever done that, you would know what I mean. My Dad raised and butchered chickens for us to eat—and for the eggs they would produce. I’d watch him as the axe came down and the chickens’ head fell to the ground. Then he would lay the rest of the headless chicken on the ground and, wouldn’t you know, that chicken would flop around all over the place! That is what many do throughout their lifetime—wasting precious moments.

This is where I am today—in my old age. But, God’s word tells me that even in my old age, He will not abandon me. (Psalm 72:18) I will be able to still bear fruit (Psalm 92:14) Even when I am old and gray He will be with me. (Isaiah 46:4)

I read a story about an 88 year old woman who was very beautiful. She was very meticulous about her appearance. Then one day she fell breaking bones in her neck. Of course, she was hospitalized, and while in rehab she had to wear a Martian-like brace on her head and neck. She worked hard at her re-habilitation. One day she looked at herself in the mirror. She was horrified! She said, “I look terrible! I need to go to the beauty shop!” Her daughter made the appointment and took her mother to get her hair fixed. Next she wanted her nails done and her make-up. What she said next resonated with me and perhaps it will with you. She said, “I might seem old and rickety, but I’m still me.” (Strength & Grace, 365 Daily Devotions, Sept 7, by Pat Dyson)

Now, I am a grandparent who is old and gray. I’m a little less agile and a little un-kept at time, but I am still the same on the inside and have much to offer my children and grandchildren—if they would but listen. Don’t miss any time you could spend with your grandparents or parents. Each moment is precious and one day all you will have is your memories.

“Even when I am old and gray, God, do not abandon me. Then I will proclaim Your power to another generation and Your strength to all who are to come.” Psalm 72:18

Father, thank You for bringing me through all the circumstances and situations of my life. I continue to rely upon Your wisdom, even now, in my old age. There is much yet to do. In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, I pray. Amen

“Call Me and I will answer you and tell you great and wondrous things you do not know.” Jeremiah 33:3

Many may not remember the old dial-up telephones. (1930’s–1940’s) Ours sat on a little table in the kitchen of the old farm house in which my Mom, Dad and I lived. You picked up the receiver, listened for the dial tone, then dialed the number assigned to the person you wanted to call on the rotary dial, on the front of the base of the phone. There were 4 or 5 others on the same line, it was called, a party line. Each one had a different ring when you were being called. You were supposed to only pick it up when it was your ring, but when Mom wasn’t in the kitchen, I would pick it up and listen to the conversation. And, if the truth be known, others did the same.

In much the same way we can “dial-up” the Lord. He is on a “party-line” also. He tells us through the words of Jeremiah “Call to Me and I will answer you…” (33:3) God promises to answer His phone whenever we dial Him up. It is called prayer. God longs to hear from us, much like a friend or a loved one waits patiently to hear from us. And how often do we disappoint that friend family member of loved one by neglecting to call them? The same can be asked—“How many times have we disappointed God?”

Why is it that it is not until we have exhausted all other options, before we close our eyes, bow our heads, and ask God for help? I suffer from IBS. Sometimes, the pain is overwhelming. Last night, for instance, was one of those times I endured it for a couple of hours—getting up, lying down, groaning, trying not to wake my husband, then when I couldn’t think of what else to do—I prayed. “Oh, Lord, take this pain from me!” The next thing I knew several hours had gone by, I awoke and the pain was gone! All I could do was say, “Thank you, Lord. Forgive me for not calling you sooner.”

God waits patiently for us to recognize that he means what He says when He says, “Call upon me and I will answer you.” The Prophets of the Old Testament and the Disciples and Apostles of the New Testament knew this. It is not just a story we read, but it is the Living Word! This means that what was true centuries ago is still true today. Prayer is a necessary part of life for a believer.

James tells us (1) “The prayer of faith will save the sick person.” (5:15a) He also warns that when we ask God we should ask in faith with doubting. “For the doubter is like the surging sea, driven and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.” (1:6-7)

(2) “Is anyone among you suffering? He should pray.” (15:13a)

(3) “Is anyone cheerful? He should sing praises.” (15:13b) Paul writes in Colossians…”singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, with gratitude in your hearts to God.” (Colossians 3:16)

(4) “The intense prayer of the righteous [believer] is very powerful.” (15:16b) Whatever is attacking you cannot stand in the face of Almighty God! The Psalmist writes, “Call on Me in a day of trouble; I will rescue you and you will honor Me” (Psalm 50:15)

I hope that you and I will not neglect to dial-up our Lord and Savior in all things, at all times. Maybe we could begin to realize that there is joy in our hearts even in the worst of times. No matter what time of day, God is listening. He is saying to you right at this very moment, “Call upon Me and I will answer you and tell you great and mighty things you do not know.” This is God’s phone number: 537-3333 (Jere. 33:3).

Dial Him up—He promises to answer!

Dear Lord, help me to come to You first not last. Open my heart to sing praises to You no matter what the circumstances around me. Bless me this day as I seek to walk with You. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

I call upon the Lord in my distress, and He answers me. Psalm 120:1

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not My ways. This is the Lord’s declaration. Isaiah 55:8

I was sitting looking out at the beauty of God’s creation, not really thinking anything, just admiring what my eyes were seeing. Somewhat inside my head my brain was assessing the images that were entering my mind. But what was it going to become? Then thoughts began to filter in—one after another I just let them come and go—I didn’t try to hold on to any of them. In this process, my time of sitting quietly, became a meditation through which I began to realize that there is nothing over which God doesn’t have control and there is nothing I need to do but remain faithful to His word.

So many times we’re impatient and try to “fix’ things ourselves—at least, speaking for myself, I do. But, God has told us over and over again that He will and, He is faithful. In the 36^th chapter of Ezekiel verses 22-30, God tells the Hebrew people 12 times “I will,” yet they didn’t listen. Ezekiel relates to them as “Dry Bones” covered with dust as if they were dead and buried (Ez. 37:1-14)

When we cannot hear God speaking to us because of the clutter of thoughts we are holding onto, we become like those “Dry Bones.” We only hear a bunch of babbling that makes no sense at all.

God wants to plant His thoughts in your mind, as well as, His love in your heart, together they form the right path to Eternal Life. You know there is only 12 inches between your heart and your mind, but sometimes there may as well be 10,000 miles.

Your thoughts are not God’s thoughts. Sit with Him a while and HE WILL calm any storm that you may be experiencing.

Dear Lord, help me to be still and know that You are God. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen

Hebrews 10:22-23   Ezekiel 36:25-27   Hebrews 9:14  

“…And I tell you, you will not see Me until the time comes when you say. Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!”

Luke 13:35

The Lord has laid something very heavy on my heart. And I believe it is something I need to tell the world. Those who have ears, let them hear.

I remember six or seven months ago having a conversation with my husband about how we were living. It seemed that each day we woke up and “rumbled” through each day like a freight train. As we watched the news and talked to our friends, family, and neighbors, everyone was needing to get things done as fast as they could—everything needed to be instantaneous! It seemed that pretty soon the world would spin right off its axis and thrust us out into the great unknown.

But, instead of doing that all of a sudden everything came to a screeching halt. It was like we had hit a brick wall. For a while we were stunned. Then as the shock wore off we were angry. Then we slowly began to accept the fact that we were in trouble and needed to find out what to do.

Why did this happen? Why did God allow such disaster to come upon His creation? People were getting sick and dying all over the world! People were blaming others for letting it happen! Instead of banning together to find a solution, everyone was hurling insults and tearing one another apart. Evil had done its job well. Confusion ran rampant through-out the world.

We needed a leader—a strong leader. We were blinded to the fact tht we had such a leader, but were refusing to acknowledge Him—His name is Jesus. Like the people who Jeremiah ministered to and said, “Hear the Word of the Lord” (Jere. 22:2-5) but they did not listen and they wondered why things weren’t going as they thought they should. This is the answer to our question and to theirs centuries ago; “Because they abandoned the covenant of the Lord their God and worshiped and served other gods.” (Jere. 22:9)

So here we are now—6 months later—pretty much in limbo. When, people, are we going to open our eyes and see beyond the end of our noses? There is never going to be any peace until there is peace in our hearts. This is not a combined effort, it is individual. It needs to happen with each one individually! Then we will be able to work together with a single goal of peace and prosperity for ALL! It begins with laying aside preconceived notions of how others should live and think and examine yourself. Bow your head in prayer—God is patiently waiting and will come in when You invite Him. (Rev. 3:20) He will forgive you make you whole. You see it’s like the words of the song:

“What the world needs now is love, sweet love,

It’s the only thing there’s just too little of

What the world needs now is love, sweet love,

Not just for some but for everyone.”

(Sung by Jackie De Shannon; written by Burt F. Bacharach/Hal David/Burt Bacharach)

And John writes: “God is love…” (I John 4:7-16)

“Because he is lovingly devoted to Me, I will deliver him;” Psalm 91:4a

“When he calls out to Me, I will answer him…” Psalm 91:5a

One of my most favorite portions of Scripture, and one to which I return over and over again, is Psalm 91. It speaks of the protection that God promises to those who love Him and call upon His Holy name. And, Lord knows, you and I need His protection in this day and age!

If we claim His name and make Him our refuge and our fortress, He will protect us like the wall around Jerusalem. Like a chicken or a duck or geese protect their young under their wings. Don’t go to close to a Mama goose or you will regret it! God ferociously protects His young children who have proclaimed their love for Him, as well.

Perhaps, in this time of Covid-19 we can claim the promise held out to us in verses 9 and 10:–“Because you have made the Lord—my refuge, and Most High—your dwelling place, no harm will come to you; no  plague will come near your tent.” God’s word is true and He will fulfill His Promises, but we have to do our part and be obedient to His word—take on the responsibility of a child of the Most High God. This has been proven to me once again.

I had been struggling with a computer problem for some time. Finally, things began to escalate and I was threatened with not being able to us my printer. These scoundrels somehow were able to affect and infect my computer and Wi-Fi. I was frantically trying to figure out what to do. I even had to call the bank and cancel my credit card. I became so stressed I couldn’t breathe and thought I was having a heart attack. Well, this was the last straw!

That night when I went to bed I said a fervent prayer asking the Lord for help (mind you this was after a week of struggling to fix the problem myself with the help of some others) I heard my Lord say, “It will be all right, Betty. Lie down now and sleep.” So I repeated my scripture verse—“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for, You, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.” (Psalm 4:8) And fell asleep.

The next morning I was still struggling with what to do. I sat in my prayer chair and poured out my heart to my Lord. There was no definite answers, but as the day went forth things began to unfold. First, I called a friend whom I hadn’t heard from and was blown away by an uplifting conversation with her husband! God was working in me. Second, I called Geek Squad who reconnected my wireless printer and gave me some good advice. Thirdly, I persevered until I was able to cancel what had been causing my problem.

God’s word is true. “When he calls out to Me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble. I will rescue him and give him honor.” (Psalm 91:15)

I cannot take any credit for the events that took place, except to say I was obedient. It was God who orchestrated the series of events of that day. It was a day of glory and honor for my Creator, Savior, and Friend, Jesus Christ.

Dear Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. I love you. Thank you for rescuing me from the “terror of the night, the arrow that flies by day, the plague that stalks in the darkness, [and] the pestilence that ravages at noon.” (Psalm 91:5, 6) In the precious name of Jesus, I pray. AMEN

“They will still bear fruit in old age…”  Psalm 92:14

Yesterday, according to the calendar, was Grandparents day. It made me think of my grandparents who are at home with the Lord. I remember the huge sugar cookies my Grandmother always baked. I’d walk into her home and the fragrance was awesome. No matter what time of the day it was, she always offered me one, saying, “Don’t tell your mother.”

Then there was Grandpa. It seemed like he was a huge man to a little girl like me. He was a lion on the outside, but a kitten on the inside. I loved climbing into his lap as he sat in his overstuffed chair in the living room, by the window, smoking his pipe. His lap seemed so safe. I snuggled down into his comfy body. The two of us would just sit there. When we are young, we automatically think that they will be with us always. But, that was 80+ years ago, now all I have is my memories.

Many children waste precious time being with their grandparents. There is so much to do in this lifetime that we do not think any farther than this moment. We go through life like “chickens with their heads cut off!!” If you have ever seen that you would know what I mean. My dad raised and butchered chickens for us to eat—and for the eggs they would produce. I’d watch him as the axe came down and the chickens’ head and fell to the ground. Then he would lay the rest of the headless chicken on the ground and, wouldn’t you know, that chicken would flop around all over the place! That is what many do though out their lifetime—wasting precious moments.

This is where I am today—in my old age. But, God’s word tells me that even in my old age, He will not abandon me. (Psalm 72:18) I will still be able to bear fruit. (Psalm 92:14) Even when I am old and gray He will be with me. (Isaiah 46:14)

I read a story about an 88 year old woman who was very beautiful. She was very meticulous about her appearance. Then one day she fell breaking bones in her neck. Of course, she was hospitalized and then, in rehab, and had to wear a Martian-like brace on her head and neck. She worked hard at her re-habilitation. One day she looked at herself in the mirror. She was horrified! She said, “I look terrible! I need to go to the beauty shop!” Her daughter made the appointment and took her. Next she wanted her nails done and her make-up. What she said next resonated with me and perhaps it will with you. She said, “I might seem old and rickety, but I’m still me.” (Strength & Grace 365 Daily Devotions, September 7, by Pat Dyson)

Now, I am a grandparent who is old and gray. I’m a little less agile and little un-kept at times, but I am still the same on the inside and have much to offer my children and grandchildren—if they would listen.

Don’t miss any time that you could spend with your parents and grandparents. Each moment is precious and one day all you will have is your memories.

“Even when I am old and gray, God, do not abandon me. Then I will proclaim Your power to another generation. Your strength to all who are to come.” Psalm 72:18

Father, thank You for bringing me through all the circumstances and situations of my life. I continue to rely upon Your wisdom, even now, in my old age. There is much yet to do. In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, I pray. Amen

“Vengeance belongs to Me, I will repay,” says the Lord.

Romans 12:19 b

I’m sure you have heard these words, or may even have said them: “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never harm me.” I remember shouting those words to some kids who were making fun of me on the playground. I use to come home and tell my mother about it and she would repeat those very words to me. I understand now that she wanted me to rise above their meanness and see the truth that I had worth.

But the truth is, words do matter, they do hurt, and they do leave an unseen scar on our soul. So what are we to do? Once words are said, there is not taking them back. They are like arrows streaking through the air aimed at a target and they always seem to hit the bullseye. Again, what can we do?

Well, first of all, do not be the one shooting the arrow. Second of all, if you are the target, remember who you are—more importantly, whose you are. The most important answer is prayer. Launch into prayer as a ship is launched into the sea. With diligence and determination that this voyage you are on is guided and directed by the Captain. And, He will make sure you will get to your destination safely, maybe not without some scratches or bruises, but He will bring you safely home.

You see, God is the Judge. He has said, “Vengeance is mine!” You do not need to waste your energy on retaliating, only pray that those who do not seem to know better, will gain some wisdom through your loving responses. Stephen (Acts 7:60) in the midst of being stoned to death by a crowd of angry, misled people, cried out to the Lord, “Do not charge them with this sin!” Just as Jesus cried from the cross (Luke 23:34) “Father, forgive them because they do not know what they are doing!” Can we—who believe—do any less?

Let us pray: Father, give me words that sow peace and dispel anger.

In Jesus’ name I pray. AMEN

Further study–Matthew 5:44   Luke 6:27/23:34   Acts 7:60   Romans 12:20 

 I Cor. 4:12-13   I Peter 2:23