For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am frearfully and wonderfully made; I know that full well.
My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are your thoughts, O God!
How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, They would outnumber the grains of sand. When I awake, I am still with you.
I PRAISE GOD FOR EVERY DAY HE HAS GIVEN ME TO BE ABLE TO PRAISE HIM!
Friday, December 21, 2012
MY SAUCER IS FULL
I read a poem once titled My Cup Has Overflowed. It made me stop and think about my life. How God has blessed me. I could not say it any better than this.
I've never made a fortune, and it's probably too late now.
But I don't worry about that much, I'm happy anyhow.
And as I go along life's way, I'm reaping better than I sowed.
I'm drinking from my saucer, 'cause my cup has overflowed.
Haven't go a lot of riches, and sometimes the going's tough-
But I've got loving ones all around me, and that makes me rich enough.
I thank God for His blessings, and the mercies He's bestowed.
I'm drinking from my saucer, 'cause my cup has overflowed.
If God gives me strength and courage when the way grows steep and rough,
I'll not ask for other blessings; I'm already blessed enough.
And may I never be too busy to help others bear their load.
Then I'll keep drinking from my saucer, 'cause my cup has overflowed.
Author Unkown
I've never made a fortune, and it's probably too late now.
But I don't worry about that much, I'm happy anyhow.
And as I go along life's way, I'm reaping better than I sowed.
I'm drinking from my saucer, 'cause my cup has overflowed.
Haven't go a lot of riches, and sometimes the going's tough-
But I've got loving ones all around me, and that makes me rich enough.
I thank God for His blessings, and the mercies He's bestowed.
I'm drinking from my saucer, 'cause my cup has overflowed.
If God gives me strength and courage when the way grows steep and rough,
I'll not ask for other blessings; I'm already blessed enough.
And may I never be too busy to help others bear their load.
Then I'll keep drinking from my saucer, 'cause my cup has overflowed.
Author Unkown
Friday, October 19, 2012
TIME OFF
As you can see I have not posted a devotional for a while. I will be devoting my time to finishing my novella, research, and my blog on genealogy.
Please stop by and check out my genealogy blog. www.sandralcleary.blogspot.com
Thank you for reading what I have posted and I pray you have shared a devotional with someone.
May God Bless you.
Please stop by and check out my genealogy blog. www.sandralcleary.blogspot.com
Thank you for reading what I have posted and I pray you have shared a devotional with someone.
May God Bless you.
Friday, September 7, 2012
MEANINGLESS
Ecclesiastes 4:10 NAS
Pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up.
For the past two days I've been reading Ecclesiastes and it has made me take a hard look at my life, a hard look at me. The me that will go out and buy a new blouse to make me feel good or because nothing in my closet fit just right this morning. The me that needed one more thing in my craft room because I knew I had one but couldn't find it. My craft room is full of stuff.
All of this stuff is meaningless. When I die there will be no luggage rack on the top of the hearst taking my body to the cemetery. I cannot stuff goodies in the casket with me hoping to use them later.
What I need to be looking at is what have I done in my life, not the things, or stuff I have in my life. Did I really take the time to talk to my neighbor instead of waving at them when they pulled out of the driveway this morning? Did I listen to my children when they tried to get my attention wanting to talk. Did I brush them off and say later, perhaps when I have more time.
For the homeless have I helped serve them a meal, speak to them about Jesus, give them a blanket to keep them warm, or just sit and listen to them talk? The widows in the nursing home, did I take time to brush their hair, hold their hand when they were feeling alone, or read to them because their eyes are failing them.
Ecclesiastes has opened my eyes.
Dear Father thank you for opening my eyes. Forgive me for my short comings and I pray with Your help to be the person You want me to me. Amen.
Pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up.
For the past two days I've been reading Ecclesiastes and it has made me take a hard look at my life, a hard look at me. The me that will go out and buy a new blouse to make me feel good or because nothing in my closet fit just right this morning. The me that needed one more thing in my craft room because I knew I had one but couldn't find it. My craft room is full of stuff.
All of this stuff is meaningless. When I die there will be no luggage rack on the top of the hearst taking my body to the cemetery. I cannot stuff goodies in the casket with me hoping to use them later.
What I need to be looking at is what have I done in my life, not the things, or stuff I have in my life. Did I really take the time to talk to my neighbor instead of waving at them when they pulled out of the driveway this morning? Did I listen to my children when they tried to get my attention wanting to talk. Did I brush them off and say later, perhaps when I have more time.
For the homeless have I helped serve them a meal, speak to them about Jesus, give them a blanket to keep them warm, or just sit and listen to them talk? The widows in the nursing home, did I take time to brush their hair, hold their hand when they were feeling alone, or read to them because their eyes are failing them.
Ecclesiastes has opened my eyes.
Dear Father thank you for opening my eyes. Forgive me for my short comings and I pray with Your help to be the person You want me to me. Amen.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
GOD TALKING
Isaiah 6:4 NAS
And the foundations of the thresholds tremembled at the voice of him who called out.
While the granddaughter was visiting she told me she took my three year old, great, granddaughter to Vacation Bible School at a Catholic Church this summer. One day she was early so she slipped inside the door, and they were praying. She tried to be quiet but her daughter looked up and saw her. She said. "Mom it's God. God's talking."
Out of the mouths of babes. Or is it? Have you stopped to think about God talking to you? I'd like to think that when I get a certain tugging on my heart, my mind, or whatever you want to call it, it's God talking to me. You might say it's your conscience.
God is gentle, kind, all knowing, loving, merciful, mighty, and slow to anger. When He speaks mountains bow down, thunder rolls, lightening cracks across the sky. Foundations tremble and oceans pound at the surf.
God speaks to each one of us differently. He may appear in your dreams, whisper in your ear, or tug at your heart. Your inner being. He wants and waits to talk to you.
Abba Father thank you for wanting to talk to me, your daughter. Amen.
And the foundations of the thresholds tremembled at the voice of him who called out.
While the granddaughter was visiting she told me she took my three year old, great, granddaughter to Vacation Bible School at a Catholic Church this summer. One day she was early so she slipped inside the door, and they were praying. She tried to be quiet but her daughter looked up and saw her. She said. "Mom it's God. God's talking."
Out of the mouths of babes. Or is it? Have you stopped to think about God talking to you? I'd like to think that when I get a certain tugging on my heart, my mind, or whatever you want to call it, it's God talking to me. You might say it's your conscience.
God is gentle, kind, all knowing, loving, merciful, mighty, and slow to anger. When He speaks mountains bow down, thunder rolls, lightening cracks across the sky. Foundations tremble and oceans pound at the surf.
God speaks to each one of us differently. He may appear in your dreams, whisper in your ear, or tug at your heart. Your inner being. He wants and waits to talk to you.
Abba Father thank you for wanting to talk to me, your daughter. Amen.
COMPANY
The second thing that has held my writing back is company. Now mind you I LOVE my family, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. But it slows the mind, my mind down. I got up early, extra early, but that didn't help. So I am trusting God to make the time and give me His insight on what He wants me to say.
Oh yes, company went home. It was a nice visit though.
Oh yes, company went home. It was a nice visit though.
COMPUTER PROBLEMS
Well here it is......I have been having computer problems for a couple of weeks, so there has not been any devotionals. The problem was the wiring coming in from the house. Hopefully that is corrected and I can get back to doing what I like to do. WRITE!!! AND praising God's love and grace.
Thank you for bearing with me.
Thank you for bearing with me.
Monday, August 20, 2012
A DAY HEMMED IN PRAYER
Matthew 21:22 And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you shall receive.
I have a bad habit of leaving church bulletins in my Bible right along with those cute, little, laminated, 2" by 3" cards. The ones by the cash register in the Christian book stores. You know the ones I'm talking about. The ones you can put in your pocket and pass on to a friend.
Well the other day while I was looking for verses to go along with my devotionals one of those cute little cards fell out of my Bible. It said "A day hemmed with prayer rarely unravels".
I started thinking back to another time in my life. Back when I thought just because I was a Christian I didn't need to say a prayer in the morning. Prayer at night was enough, after all I did thank God for giving me the day. What more could He want?
Fast forward to today living my Christian life. You see I accepted Jesus when I was sixteen but did not always live a life reflecting that. When in trouble I asked for help and God, who is a loving God, was always there to keep me safe and answer me.
I could go into detail but that's not the point. Now I start my day with prayer and end it in prayer. I praise God for allowing me to see another day. I thank Him at night for seeing me through the day He gave me. I have quiet time with Him in the morning when I read His Word. I talk to Him, not in words that are flowered, prim, and proper. That's not who I am. I talk to Him as if He is my daddy, and He is my daddy. My Heavenly daddy.
Most Gracious Abba Father thank you for listening to me when I am sad, when I am happy, and most of all thank you for being my Daddy. Amen.
I have a bad habit of leaving church bulletins in my Bible right along with those cute, little, laminated, 2" by 3" cards. The ones by the cash register in the Christian book stores. You know the ones I'm talking about. The ones you can put in your pocket and pass on to a friend.
Well the other day while I was looking for verses to go along with my devotionals one of those cute little cards fell out of my Bible. It said "A day hemmed with prayer rarely unravels".
I started thinking back to another time in my life. Back when I thought just because I was a Christian I didn't need to say a prayer in the morning. Prayer at night was enough, after all I did thank God for giving me the day. What more could He want?
Fast forward to today living my Christian life. You see I accepted Jesus when I was sixteen but did not always live a life reflecting that. When in trouble I asked for help and God, who is a loving God, was always there to keep me safe and answer me.
I could go into detail but that's not the point. Now I start my day with prayer and end it in prayer. I praise God for allowing me to see another day. I thank Him at night for seeing me through the day He gave me. I have quiet time with Him in the morning when I read His Word. I talk to Him, not in words that are flowered, prim, and proper. That's not who I am. I talk to Him as if He is my daddy, and He is my daddy. My Heavenly daddy.
Most Gracious Abba Father thank you for listening to me when I am sad, when I am happy, and most of all thank you for being my Daddy. Amen.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
God Is Just
Nehemiah Chapter 9: 29-31 NAS
Verse 29: God admonished them in order to turn them back to Thy law. Yet they acted arrogantly an did not listen to Thy commandments but sinned against Thine ordinances. They turned a stubborn shoulder and stiffened their neck, and would not listen.
When things weren't going their way they turned their backs on God and started worshiping idols. Reminds me of my childen. When they've been told no to something they go behind my back and do it any way. They know better than I do.
Verse 30: However, Thou didst bear with them for many years. Yet they would not give ear. Therefore Thou didst give them into the hand of the peoples of the lands. Although I do not like to have to punish my child for their wrong doing, I know that I need to because of their disobedience.
Verse 31: Nevertheless, in Thy great compassion Thou didst not make an end of them or forsake them. For Thou art a gracious and compassionate God. Because I love my child I will not forsake them for their wrong doing. Like my Heavenly Father, who loves me, I let my child know I do not like what they've done but I'll always love them.
Praise God for His love, because I know I have been a disobedient child at times in my life. I thought I knew what was best for me. How could I trust a God I could not see or feel? Life is the present and what I can touch and smell.
How wrong I was. After I confessed my sins and opened my heart to God, He has been present in my life. Its the peace I feel, the tugging on my heart when I see someone hurting. The wanting to help others who are less fortunate than myself. And I cannot out give my God. The more I give the more I receive.
Dear Father thank you for being my Father and present in my life. Amen.
Verse 29: God admonished them in order to turn them back to Thy law. Yet they acted arrogantly an did not listen to Thy commandments but sinned against Thine ordinances. They turned a stubborn shoulder and stiffened their neck, and would not listen.
When things weren't going their way they turned their backs on God and started worshiping idols. Reminds me of my childen. When they've been told no to something they go behind my back and do it any way. They know better than I do.
Verse 30: However, Thou didst bear with them for many years. Yet they would not give ear. Therefore Thou didst give them into the hand of the peoples of the lands. Although I do not like to have to punish my child for their wrong doing, I know that I need to because of their disobedience.
Verse 31: Nevertheless, in Thy great compassion Thou didst not make an end of them or forsake them. For Thou art a gracious and compassionate God. Because I love my child I will not forsake them for their wrong doing. Like my Heavenly Father, who loves me, I let my child know I do not like what they've done but I'll always love them.
Praise God for His love, because I know I have been a disobedient child at times in my life. I thought I knew what was best for me. How could I trust a God I could not see or feel? Life is the present and what I can touch and smell.
How wrong I was. After I confessed my sins and opened my heart to God, He has been present in my life. Its the peace I feel, the tugging on my heart when I see someone hurting. The wanting to help others who are less fortunate than myself. And I cannot out give my God. The more I give the more I receive.
Dear Father thank you for being my Father and present in my life. Amen.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
A HATRED HEART
Leviticus 19:17 NSA
You shall not hate your fellow countryman in your heart; you may surely reprove your neighbor, but shall not incur sin because of him.
I write this devotional with a heavy heart. A loved one is going through some trying times and has become hateful towards relatives because of things that have happened to her. Her children have turned from her. I've tried talking to her but now she has cut me off.
Life sometimes deals us a nasty blow. How do we deal from that blow? Do we wallow in the mire and make it miserable for everyone around us? Do we seek Jesus or do we handle it by ourselves?
God says in Psalm 9:9 that He will be a stronghold for the oppressed, in times of trouble. 1 Peter 3:14 says do not be troubled.
If God's Word tells us this then we should lean on Him. Go to Him and tell Him how you feel, tell Him you are hurting, that life isn't fair, and tell Him you don't know where to go from here. His presence will give you the peace you are seeking.
That doesn't mean everything is going to be better from there on out. Each day is a learning opportunity by going to Jesus and asking Him to carry your burdens and give you direction. He will never let you down. Life won't be easier but it's lighter knowing you have Him holding you up each day.
Dear Father in Heaven forgive me when I try to muddle through my life without your help. I pray you give me the strength to take each day at a time. Amen.
You shall not hate your fellow countryman in your heart; you may surely reprove your neighbor, but shall not incur sin because of him.
I write this devotional with a heavy heart. A loved one is going through some trying times and has become hateful towards relatives because of things that have happened to her. Her children have turned from her. I've tried talking to her but now she has cut me off.
Life sometimes deals us a nasty blow. How do we deal from that blow? Do we wallow in the mire and make it miserable for everyone around us? Do we seek Jesus or do we handle it by ourselves?
God says in Psalm 9:9 that He will be a stronghold for the oppressed, in times of trouble. 1 Peter 3:14 says do not be troubled.
If God's Word tells us this then we should lean on Him. Go to Him and tell Him how you feel, tell Him you are hurting, that life isn't fair, and tell Him you don't know where to go from here. His presence will give you the peace you are seeking.
That doesn't mean everything is going to be better from there on out. Each day is a learning opportunity by going to Jesus and asking Him to carry your burdens and give you direction. He will never let you down. Life won't be easier but it's lighter knowing you have Him holding you up each day.
Dear Father in Heaven forgive me when I try to muddle through my life without your help. I pray you give me the strength to take each day at a time. Amen.
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
MAN'S BREATH
Psalm 144:4 Man is like breath, his days are like a fleeting shadow. NIV
I read this verse a few days ago and wrote it down. It has plagued me each day as I sat at my computer. I've dismissed it but somehow it keeps looming back up.
Each day passes by so fast I cannot even begin to get all the things done that I want to do. By the end of the day I've gotten upset with myself because I did not write any new pages to my novel. With this snail crawl I'll never get it finished.
Oh, I get up early enough, but then it's take care of this, take care of that, lawn, laundry, dusting, vacuuming, running errands, do this for one of the kids, do that for another one of the kids, whew!!! Then it's time to fix dinner and spend time with hubby.
When I was growing up each day seemed to linger. I could lay in the grass and watch the clouds float across the sky. Skip rocks on the pond, ride my bike, play marbles, skip a rope, and maybe sit and read a book. Life drug on each day. I looked forward to my birthday with great anticipation, Christmas, school letting out for summer vacation, and then autumn when school would begin again.
I look back and wonder where did all those days, weeks, months, and years go. I grew up, went to school, fell in love, got married, had children, raised children, and now I'm in the autumn of my life. My life went by too fast. Yes, I still have a lot of years left but the growing up of my life seems like a blur, a fleeting shadow.
My life has been blessed because I'm a child of God. He has given me strength to begin each day. My fortress in whom I trust. He gave me salvation when I asked Him for forgiveness of my sins. He is my shield and my protector.
Dear Heavenly Father thank you for being my shelter, provider,and armor. Amen.
I read this verse a few days ago and wrote it down. It has plagued me each day as I sat at my computer. I've dismissed it but somehow it keeps looming back up.
Each day passes by so fast I cannot even begin to get all the things done that I want to do. By the end of the day I've gotten upset with myself because I did not write any new pages to my novel. With this snail crawl I'll never get it finished.
Oh, I get up early enough, but then it's take care of this, take care of that, lawn, laundry, dusting, vacuuming, running errands, do this for one of the kids, do that for another one of the kids, whew!!! Then it's time to fix dinner and spend time with hubby.
When I was growing up each day seemed to linger. I could lay in the grass and watch the clouds float across the sky. Skip rocks on the pond, ride my bike, play marbles, skip a rope, and maybe sit and read a book. Life drug on each day. I looked forward to my birthday with great anticipation, Christmas, school letting out for summer vacation, and then autumn when school would begin again.
I look back and wonder where did all those days, weeks, months, and years go. I grew up, went to school, fell in love, got married, had children, raised children, and now I'm in the autumn of my life. My life went by too fast. Yes, I still have a lot of years left but the growing up of my life seems like a blur, a fleeting shadow.
My life has been blessed because I'm a child of God. He has given me strength to begin each day. My fortress in whom I trust. He gave me salvation when I asked Him for forgiveness of my sins. He is my shield and my protector.
Dear Heavenly Father thank you for being my shelter, provider,and armor. Amen.
Monday, July 23, 2012
BLESSED
Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him. Romans 4:8 NIV
I wrote this verse down this morning during my quiet time. It has stuck with me all day, gnawing at me, as if God Himself was saying I want you to write about this. Every time I sat down at the desk I pushed the note around trying to dismiss it. But when God wants you to do something, you need to do it.
Satan has a way of sneeking in to my subconscious every now and then to remind me of the things I've done that were not up to par. But I know, from this verse, I count myself blessed beyond anything I could ever imagine. I know my Lord has forgiven all my sins and will never bring them up again.
I could go on and list them. I know what they were, God knows what they were, and for sure Satan knows. The difference is Satan wants to keep reminding me but God has wiped them clean. Never to be brought up again.
Dear Father thank you for wiping my slate clean. Amen.
I wrote this verse down this morning during my quiet time. It has stuck with me all day, gnawing at me, as if God Himself was saying I want you to write about this. Every time I sat down at the desk I pushed the note around trying to dismiss it. But when God wants you to do something, you need to do it.
Satan has a way of sneeking in to my subconscious every now and then to remind me of the things I've done that were not up to par. But I know, from this verse, I count myself blessed beyond anything I could ever imagine. I know my Lord has forgiven all my sins and will never bring them up again.
I could go on and list them. I know what they were, God knows what they were, and for sure Satan knows. The difference is Satan wants to keep reminding me but God has wiped them clean. Never to be brought up again.
Dear Father thank you for wiping my slate clean. Amen.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
STAND FIRM
I Corinthians 16:13 NAS
Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.
My husband and I decided it was time to sell our rental house so we contacted a realtor friend of ours to discuss our options and what we needed to do. We had downsized about four years ago but the market for housing sales wasn't too good at the time. So we thought it was best to rent the house.
Our realtor put everything together for us and contacted the tenants. Our home would soon be vacant and that meant two house payments again. We had been loosing quite a bit of money each month to begin with, but with the thought of now another payment, well it was a bit over whelming.
I go to God with all kinds of I wants and please let me have this or that. So going to Him about the sale of the house was natural. I know in my heart and mind God is in control. I also know it is in His timing and not mine. After praying I felt at peace knowing He will take care of it.
But there it was......that little nudging began. Satan sitting on my shoulder whispering in my ear. What if the house doesn't sell right away? What if the house will need so many repairs you will be deeper in debt? What if, what if, what if........ Satan has a way of worming his way into your everyday life ever so subtly. You start to doubt.
Knee time.
Dear Father I am so glad I can turn to you for everything. Thank you for taking care of my life. I know I am not in control, You are. Thank you for loving me and keeping the evil one where he belongs, far from me. Amen.
Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong.
My husband and I decided it was time to sell our rental house so we contacted a realtor friend of ours to discuss our options and what we needed to do. We had downsized about four years ago but the market for housing sales wasn't too good at the time. So we thought it was best to rent the house.
Our realtor put everything together for us and contacted the tenants. Our home would soon be vacant and that meant two house payments again. We had been loosing quite a bit of money each month to begin with, but with the thought of now another payment, well it was a bit over whelming.
I go to God with all kinds of I wants and please let me have this or that. So going to Him about the sale of the house was natural. I know in my heart and mind God is in control. I also know it is in His timing and not mine. After praying I felt at peace knowing He will take care of it.
But there it was......that little nudging began. Satan sitting on my shoulder whispering in my ear. What if the house doesn't sell right away? What if the house will need so many repairs you will be deeper in debt? What if, what if, what if........ Satan has a way of worming his way into your everyday life ever so subtly. You start to doubt.
Knee time.
Dear Father I am so glad I can turn to you for everything. Thank you for taking care of my life. I know I am not in control, You are. Thank you for loving me and keeping the evil one where he belongs, far from me. Amen.
Monday, May 7, 2012
PSALM 105
Psalm 105: 1-4 NIV
1. Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done.
Call on Him and His holy name, El Elyon, The Most High God; Jehovah, The Lord That Healeth; Adonai, Lord, Master
Let Him know what He has done in your life and thank Him for it. Give praises to His Holy Name.
2. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts.
Shout for joy and give Him recognition for your health, your family, your spouse, your job and the money to pay your bills. Praise Him for each day He gives you, for the ability to see and smell the flowers or the fresh rain He has sent you. Praise Him for the deep valleys you walk through.
3. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.
Give Him all the glory that is due Him. Without Him there was and is nothing. No majestic, snow, covered mountains, deep gorges with rivers running through, forrests filled with trees and animals, no birds of the air, no sun or moon.
4. Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.
Ask Him, El Shaddai, The All-Sufficient One, to be with you every day and to guide you in all you do. Meditate with Him, clear your mind and speak to Him. Let Him be your refuge daily. Without Him you could not walk through those deep valleys.
Dear Heavenly Father fill me with spirit each day and guide me to do Your will and not mine. Thank you for all You do in my life. Amen.
1. Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done.
Call on Him and His holy name, El Elyon, The Most High God; Jehovah, The Lord That Healeth; Adonai, Lord, Master
Let Him know what He has done in your life and thank Him for it. Give praises to His Holy Name.
2. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts.
Shout for joy and give Him recognition for your health, your family, your spouse, your job and the money to pay your bills. Praise Him for each day He gives you, for the ability to see and smell the flowers or the fresh rain He has sent you. Praise Him for the deep valleys you walk through.
3. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.
Give Him all the glory that is due Him. Without Him there was and is nothing. No majestic, snow, covered mountains, deep gorges with rivers running through, forrests filled with trees and animals, no birds of the air, no sun or moon.
4. Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always.
Ask Him, El Shaddai, The All-Sufficient One, to be with you every day and to guide you in all you do. Meditate with Him, clear your mind and speak to Him. Let Him be your refuge daily. Without Him you could not walk through those deep valleys.
Dear Heavenly Father fill me with spirit each day and guide me to do Your will and not mine. Thank you for all You do in my life. Amen.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Psalm 100
Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Whorship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.
Know that the Lord is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and
praise his name.
For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness
continues through all generation.
My husband and I had been sick for a few weeks and every day was a challenge. It was a challenge to get out of bed to let the dogs out, to put the food in their bowls, fix a bowl of soup for each of us, let alone make sure the laundry was done and things picked up.
I let my daily Bible reading slack, zoned out in my rocker watching mindless television shows.
In my quiet time before bed I talked to my Father, apologized for letting things slip, thanked Him for giving me another day, and asked for still a new day tomorrow.
Through the agony of coughing, fever, blowing my nose, and asking for health for my husband, God knew what was in my heart. Praise God, my all-knowing Father.
He held me in His hands through all of the sickness and returned me to health to praise Him. My Heavenly Father who is faithful and loving. Great is Hid love.
Dear Father thank you for Your love and forgiveness of this daugher. You are the Master of my life. You answer my prayers. I praise Your Holy Name every day. Amen.
Whorship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.
Know that the Lord is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and
praise his name.
For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness
continues through all generation.
My husband and I had been sick for a few weeks and every day was a challenge. It was a challenge to get out of bed to let the dogs out, to put the food in their bowls, fix a bowl of soup for each of us, let alone make sure the laundry was done and things picked up.
I let my daily Bible reading slack, zoned out in my rocker watching mindless television shows.
In my quiet time before bed I talked to my Father, apologized for letting things slip, thanked Him for giving me another day, and asked for still a new day tomorrow.
Through the agony of coughing, fever, blowing my nose, and asking for health for my husband, God knew what was in my heart. Praise God, my all-knowing Father.
He held me in His hands through all of the sickness and returned me to health to praise Him. My Heavenly Father who is faithful and loving. Great is Hid love.
Dear Father thank you for Your love and forgiveness of this daugher. You are the Master of my life. You answer my prayers. I praise Your Holy Name every day. Amen.
Monday, April 9, 2012
Growing Old Shouldn't Hurt
Jeremiah 30:17 NAS
For I will restore you to health and I will heal you of your wounds declares the Lord.
I awoke early this morning ready to get all the things done that I had to do, without my two small granddaughters I take care of. But before I could put my feet on the floor my stomach gave a lurch and I felt a pounding in my head. No, I cried, not today, I have so much to do. I laid my head back down and closed my eyes.
About an hour later I opened one eye and looked at the clock. Seven, I have to get up and let the dogs out and feed them. Every joint in my body resisted as I made my way into the kitchen. My head pounded and my stomach jumped up and down reminding me it could let loose at any time. I called my girl friend and told them I wouldn't make it for breakfast this morning. I let the dogs out, gave them their dish of food, and headed for the couch with my blanket.
By ten I told myself no matter how bad you feel you need to get up and do your running around with out children. I headed to the pharmacy to refill my prescriptions. Every step from the car to the door was excruicating. My knees didn't want to co-operate and my head pounded each time I set my foot down. By this time I was beginning to think where did this come from?
I've always prided myself with being able to take care of everyone else. I take my vitamins each morning along with my prescribed medications. My turn table is full of flaxseed oil, ginko bilboa, B-12, vitamin C, and anything else you can think of to keep me healthy. Why even Jack LaLane took a hand full of vitamins every day and look how long he lived.
After making two trips to the pharmacy, because of a mix up at the doctor's office, I finally arrived home. Tired, my stomach was feeling much better, but the knees were reminding me I was not getting any younger. It brought to mind the saying. "Getting old is not for sissies."
Before dinner I went in to check my e-mail and noticed my Bible laying under some of the things I was working on. I'm not very tidy when I'm working on a project. Things get stacked on top of each other, but it made me stop and think of how my body was going to feel when I'm taken home to live with my Savior for eternity. Praise God there will be no more pain. I'm not a runner but I'll bet I'll be able to run. Maybe even skip like I did as a child. God gave me and you that promise when He said He will restore our health.
Dear Father in Heaven thank you for always keeping your promises. Amen.
For I will restore you to health and I will heal you of your wounds declares the Lord.
I awoke early this morning ready to get all the things done that I had to do, without my two small granddaughters I take care of. But before I could put my feet on the floor my stomach gave a lurch and I felt a pounding in my head. No, I cried, not today, I have so much to do. I laid my head back down and closed my eyes.
About an hour later I opened one eye and looked at the clock. Seven, I have to get up and let the dogs out and feed them. Every joint in my body resisted as I made my way into the kitchen. My head pounded and my stomach jumped up and down reminding me it could let loose at any time. I called my girl friend and told them I wouldn't make it for breakfast this morning. I let the dogs out, gave them their dish of food, and headed for the couch with my blanket.
By ten I told myself no matter how bad you feel you need to get up and do your running around with out children. I headed to the pharmacy to refill my prescriptions. Every step from the car to the door was excruicating. My knees didn't want to co-operate and my head pounded each time I set my foot down. By this time I was beginning to think where did this come from?
I've always prided myself with being able to take care of everyone else. I take my vitamins each morning along with my prescribed medications. My turn table is full of flaxseed oil, ginko bilboa, B-12, vitamin C, and anything else you can think of to keep me healthy. Why even Jack LaLane took a hand full of vitamins every day and look how long he lived.
After making two trips to the pharmacy, because of a mix up at the doctor's office, I finally arrived home. Tired, my stomach was feeling much better, but the knees were reminding me I was not getting any younger. It brought to mind the saying. "Getting old is not for sissies."
Before dinner I went in to check my e-mail and noticed my Bible laying under some of the things I was working on. I'm not very tidy when I'm working on a project. Things get stacked on top of each other, but it made me stop and think of how my body was going to feel when I'm taken home to live with my Savior for eternity. Praise God there will be no more pain. I'm not a runner but I'll bet I'll be able to run. Maybe even skip like I did as a child. God gave me and you that promise when He said He will restore our health.
Dear Father in Heaven thank you for always keeping your promises. Amen.
Monday, March 26, 2012
TAKING A SHORT BREAK
I will be taking a short break from writing devotionals. I have two things going on at this time and find that I am unable to keep up with all of it.
I am also a genealogist and I'm working on my family history for our big family reunion that is scheduled for the last week end of June. With that I'm working on a novel about my great great grandfather. Plus trying to keep my genealogy blog up to date.
If you are interested in genealogy you can go to my other blog and catch a glimpse of what I'm working on. The link is www.sandralcleary.blogspot.com.
I will continue the devotionals but will wait until June to start again. If you like what you have read please let me know as I am thinking of putting together a book of devotionals in the near future.
Thank you and may you have a blessed day, week, month, and year. May God be with you.
I am also a genealogist and I'm working on my family history for our big family reunion that is scheduled for the last week end of June. With that I'm working on a novel about my great great grandfather. Plus trying to keep my genealogy blog up to date.
If you are interested in genealogy you can go to my other blog and catch a glimpse of what I'm working on. The link is www.sandralcleary.blogspot.com.
I will continue the devotionals but will wait until June to start again. If you like what you have read please let me know as I am thinking of putting together a book of devotionals in the near future.
Thank you and may you have a blessed day, week, month, and year. May God be with you.
Friday, March 2, 2012
DESTINY
Isaiah 25:1 (NAS)
O Lord, Thou art my God; I will exalt Thee, I will give thanks to Thy name; for Thou hast worked wonders, plans formed long ago, with perfect faithfullness.
This morning as I was puttering around doing the usual, washing dishes, brushing my teeth, and so on, my mind wandered. Of course my mind wanders a lot but this morning I started thinking about my destiny. Where am I going? What does God want of me? I know what I want to do, or at least I think I know. But my God has plans.
Jonah, Moses, David, Ruth, great men and women of the Bible all asked God "Why me? I am nobody."
In the King and I, Debra Kerr travels to Siam and becomes a teacher to the King's children, and ends up changing the destiny of thoses around her.
Inn Of The Sixth Happiness, Ingred Bergman went to China and helped people, and in the process used active compassion to overcome cultural and racial taboos.
In the Dead Poet's Society a teacher inspired his students to make their lives extradordinary by creating their own destiny as they struggled with the coming of age obstacles.
God uses the ordinary person to make a difference in another person's life. You may not touch a thousand lives like Billy Graham but He can and will use you to lead a person to Christ. You may not see the fruitation but you can plant the seed.
I know that in my own life, when I feel that tug on my heart, my head, my inner being, I know that it is God speaking to me. He does not want me to run from Him but to run to Him. To let Him fill my small self with His courage to be able to go forth for Him. Greet the stranger, put my arm around someone that is hurting, cry with a friend, or just sit quietly and listen to someone who wants to talk.
So I sit here and ponder my destiny. Will He inspire me to write devotionals to touch lives, pen the greatest novel to show others their pathway to God, or will I be the one in the shadows working hard, putting words on paper, but always helping others with their work. Whatever He wants me to do I am His.
Dear Father thank you for loving me enough to show me what You want me to do. I cannot do enough for You. Lead me and guide me throughout my days, however long they may be. Amen.
O Lord, Thou art my God; I will exalt Thee, I will give thanks to Thy name; for Thou hast worked wonders, plans formed long ago, with perfect faithfullness.
This morning as I was puttering around doing the usual, washing dishes, brushing my teeth, and so on, my mind wandered. Of course my mind wanders a lot but this morning I started thinking about my destiny. Where am I going? What does God want of me? I know what I want to do, or at least I think I know. But my God has plans.
Jonah, Moses, David, Ruth, great men and women of the Bible all asked God "Why me? I am nobody."
In the King and I, Debra Kerr travels to Siam and becomes a teacher to the King's children, and ends up changing the destiny of thoses around her.
Inn Of The Sixth Happiness, Ingred Bergman went to China and helped people, and in the process used active compassion to overcome cultural and racial taboos.
In the Dead Poet's Society a teacher inspired his students to make their lives extradordinary by creating their own destiny as they struggled with the coming of age obstacles.
God uses the ordinary person to make a difference in another person's life. You may not touch a thousand lives like Billy Graham but He can and will use you to lead a person to Christ. You may not see the fruitation but you can plant the seed.
I know that in my own life, when I feel that tug on my heart, my head, my inner being, I know that it is God speaking to me. He does not want me to run from Him but to run to Him. To let Him fill my small self with His courage to be able to go forth for Him. Greet the stranger, put my arm around someone that is hurting, cry with a friend, or just sit quietly and listen to someone who wants to talk.
So I sit here and ponder my destiny. Will He inspire me to write devotionals to touch lives, pen the greatest novel to show others their pathway to God, or will I be the one in the shadows working hard, putting words on paper, but always helping others with their work. Whatever He wants me to do I am His.
Dear Father thank you for loving me enough to show me what You want me to do. I cannot do enough for You. Lead me and guide me throughout my days, however long they may be. Amen.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
WILL YOU CRY FOR ME
Psalm 130:1-2
Out of the depths I have cried to Thee, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice! Let Thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications. (NAS)
My feelings were rubbed a bit this last week end. Some of my children and grandchildren cried uncontrollably for a step mother, step grandmother, when they heard she had a mini stroke. I do not wish a stroke, even if it is a mini, nor do I wish anyone to have a heart attack. But, I did ask myself. "Will they cry for me?"
Like any human being feelings can get hurt, even if done so without thought. I am no different. But am I? I kept thinking I was the one that went through nine months carrying you, labor pains, watching you grown into adulthood, getting married, having your own children, and when you became a grandparent. There were good times and bad times.
We grew apart. Maybe it was the miles. I chastized myself for feeling like this. Who was I to feel like I mattered more. We are all God's children and we, each one of us, matter to Him. Whether we are saved or not, God loves us. He gives us all the same opportunity to ask His forgiveness for our sins and accept Jesus Christ into our lives. For Jesus to live within us. To share His love with others and let others see Jesus through us. I fell short of that.
Back to my question. "Will you cry for me?" Who cried for Christ when He was crucified on the cross? Did they cry for themselves or did they cry for Him? He fulfilled His destiny and bore the sins of the world as He hung on the cross. Are we going to let Him do that for nothing? God our Father, asks only one thing from each of us. To confess our sins, accept Christ into our hearts, and go tell others of His never ending love.
Dear Heavenly Father thank you for Jesus who died for my sins. I am not worthy. Thank you in knowing I will live for eternity with You in my heavenly home. Amen.
Out of the depths I have cried to Thee, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice! Let Thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications. (NAS)
My feelings were rubbed a bit this last week end. Some of my children and grandchildren cried uncontrollably for a step mother, step grandmother, when they heard she had a mini stroke. I do not wish a stroke, even if it is a mini, nor do I wish anyone to have a heart attack. But, I did ask myself. "Will they cry for me?"
Like any human being feelings can get hurt, even if done so without thought. I am no different. But am I? I kept thinking I was the one that went through nine months carrying you, labor pains, watching you grown into adulthood, getting married, having your own children, and when you became a grandparent. There were good times and bad times.
We grew apart. Maybe it was the miles. I chastized myself for feeling like this. Who was I to feel like I mattered more. We are all God's children and we, each one of us, matter to Him. Whether we are saved or not, God loves us. He gives us all the same opportunity to ask His forgiveness for our sins and accept Jesus Christ into our lives. For Jesus to live within us. To share His love with others and let others see Jesus through us. I fell short of that.
Back to my question. "Will you cry for me?" Who cried for Christ when He was crucified on the cross? Did they cry for themselves or did they cry for Him? He fulfilled His destiny and bore the sins of the world as He hung on the cross. Are we going to let Him do that for nothing? God our Father, asks only one thing from each of us. To confess our sins, accept Christ into our hearts, and go tell others of His never ending love.
Dear Heavenly Father thank you for Jesus who died for my sins. I am not worthy. Thank you in knowing I will live for eternity with You in my heavenly home. Amen.
A WRITER'S PSALM
Psalm 37:1-8 NKJ
1. "Do not fret because of evildoers."
Evildoers, those who do not encourage. They think your
writing is a hobby.
"Nor be envious of the workers of iniquity."
Do not be envious of other writers who have already
been published. Remember your work will be in
God's time.
2. "For they shall soon be cut down like the grasss,
and wither as the green herb."
3. "Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land
and feed on His faithfulness."
Feed on His Word. He is always with you. Open
your Bible and feel His presence as you read what
He wants you to hear.
4. "Deight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall
give you the desires of your heart."
Delight,be happy, be in His Word, talk to Him. He
wants to give you gifts, things that are
the best, just for you. You are special.
5. "Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him,
and He shall bring it to pass."
Commit to the Lord. Turn your life around and
do for Him. He, in turn, will do for you.
6. "He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light,
and your justice as the noonday."
He will bring it to pass in His wonderful timing.
His timing is always right. He knows when you are
ready for it. Focus on Him.
7. "Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him;
do not fret because of him who prospers in his way,
because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass."
8. "Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; do not
fret--it only causes harm."
Do not fret--give it to the Lord. The right editor and
publisher will be there when it's time. You do not
need the ulcers. He can handle it.
1. "Do not fret because of evildoers."
Evildoers, those who do not encourage. They think your
writing is a hobby.
"Nor be envious of the workers of iniquity."
Do not be envious of other writers who have already
been published. Remember your work will be in
God's time.
2. "For they shall soon be cut down like the grasss,
and wither as the green herb."
3. "Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land
and feed on His faithfulness."
Feed on His Word. He is always with you. Open
your Bible and feel His presence as you read what
He wants you to hear.
4. "Deight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall
give you the desires of your heart."
Delight,be happy, be in His Word, talk to Him. He
wants to give you gifts, things that are
the best, just for you. You are special.
5. "Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him,
and He shall bring it to pass."
Commit to the Lord. Turn your life around and
do for Him. He, in turn, will do for you.
6. "He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light,
and your justice as the noonday."
He will bring it to pass in His wonderful timing.
His timing is always right. He knows when you are
ready for it. Focus on Him.
7. "Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him;
do not fret because of him who prospers in his way,
because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass."
8. "Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; do not
fret--it only causes harm."
Do not fret--give it to the Lord. The right editor and
publisher will be there when it's time. You do not
need the ulcers. He can handle it.
Monday, February 13, 2012
MONEY
Matthew 6:24 NIV
You cannot serve both God and Money.
I saw the movie Mamma Mia probably ten times and I cannot get the one song, although there were a lot of good songs, out of my mind. You know the one I mean, Money, Money, Money, ain't it funny. Yes, that's it.
Movies show how people will lay out plans to hold up banks and higher institutions. Also you see in the news the breakins into a person's home to holding up the people working in fast food restaurants. All for getting money the easy way. Or at least they think it's easy.
God says you cannot serve Him and money. You must love either Him and live eternaly or love money and live forever in the pit of fire.
Psalm 34:11 says "Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. Then verse 19 says "A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all."
Whatever trouble you maybe going through, homeless, no money, or maybe you are suffering from an addiction be it either alchol or drugs. If you only turn to Him who created you and talk to Him. Talk to Him like you would to another person. He is not unapproachable. He is there waiting for you. Ask for His forgiveness and confess your sins. Know that He gave His one and only Son, Christ Jesus, to died on the cross for you. Ask Jesus to reside in your heart and help you through each day. He is waiting.
Dear Father I praise You for who You are and for sending Your Son to die for my sins. Forgive me for all my transgressions. Thank you for all You do and what You will do in my life. Amen.
You cannot serve both God and Money.
I saw the movie Mamma Mia probably ten times and I cannot get the one song, although there were a lot of good songs, out of my mind. You know the one I mean, Money, Money, Money, ain't it funny. Yes, that's it.
Movies show how people will lay out plans to hold up banks and higher institutions. Also you see in the news the breakins into a person's home to holding up the people working in fast food restaurants. All for getting money the easy way. Or at least they think it's easy.
God says you cannot serve Him and money. You must love either Him and live eternaly or love money and live forever in the pit of fire.
Psalm 34:11 says "Come, my children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. Then verse 19 says "A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all."
Whatever trouble you maybe going through, homeless, no money, or maybe you are suffering from an addiction be it either alchol or drugs. If you only turn to Him who created you and talk to Him. Talk to Him like you would to another person. He is not unapproachable. He is there waiting for you. Ask for His forgiveness and confess your sins. Know that He gave His one and only Son, Christ Jesus, to died on the cross for you. Ask Jesus to reside in your heart and help you through each day. He is waiting.
Dear Father I praise You for who You are and for sending Your Son to die for my sins. Forgive me for all my transgressions. Thank you for all You do and what You will do in my life. Amen.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
UNCONDITIONAL LOVE
1 John 3:1 NIV
How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God.
My husband had asked me to put together receipts, etc. so he could look at it before we took it to our appointment with the income tax man. I wrote down every bit of money spent, from donations to credit cards. Everytime I looked at it I felt like a failure. I wasn't doing enough to put money in the savings or keeping the bills down to a minumum.
I know I spend money and can get caught up with the other ladies when I'm out shopping, but I have cut back. I went over all the events of last year and pieced together our expenditures. There were trips made, children moving in and out, and just the over all cost of living going up and up.
When we sat down to talk I was nervous. I expected him to really be upset with me but he wasn't. There wasn't any accusing, yelling, or finger pointing. I felt relieved but I also felt the love he has for me. I was bathed with the warmness of unconditional love.
Our Lord loves us with a love that is more than that. He loves us enough to send His one and only Son to live on earth and to die for our sins. He gave us His most precious gift. God wants to fellowship with each one of us. He desires to walk, talk, and sing with you daily. He is a loving Father wanting only His best for us. God loves you and wants to live with you for all eternity. Your decision to receive Christ as your Saviour means confessing your sins and believing that the Lord Jesus Christ died for your sins on the cross and was raised for your justification.
Heavenly Father thank you for sending Your son Jesus to die for my sins. Thank you for Your love. Amen.
How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God.
My husband had asked me to put together receipts, etc. so he could look at it before we took it to our appointment with the income tax man. I wrote down every bit of money spent, from donations to credit cards. Everytime I looked at it I felt like a failure. I wasn't doing enough to put money in the savings or keeping the bills down to a minumum.
I know I spend money and can get caught up with the other ladies when I'm out shopping, but I have cut back. I went over all the events of last year and pieced together our expenditures. There were trips made, children moving in and out, and just the over all cost of living going up and up.
When we sat down to talk I was nervous. I expected him to really be upset with me but he wasn't. There wasn't any accusing, yelling, or finger pointing. I felt relieved but I also felt the love he has for me. I was bathed with the warmness of unconditional love.
Our Lord loves us with a love that is more than that. He loves us enough to send His one and only Son to live on earth and to die for our sins. He gave us His most precious gift. God wants to fellowship with each one of us. He desires to walk, talk, and sing with you daily. He is a loving Father wanting only His best for us. God loves you and wants to live with you for all eternity. Your decision to receive Christ as your Saviour means confessing your sins and believing that the Lord Jesus Christ died for your sins on the cross and was raised for your justification.
Heavenly Father thank you for sending Your son Jesus to die for my sins. Thank you for Your love. Amen.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
CHILDREN ARE LITTLE SPONGES
Proverbs 22:6 NAS
Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it.
I watch my granddaughters a couple of days of the week while mommy works. One is two and the other is four years old. I have to say they do not attend Sunday school or church regularly. You can count Christmas and Easter as a regular on their parent's schedule. Last week we were playing tea party when I started singing Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Sweetest Name I know. After a few rounds of this they began to chime in.
The following week when they were with me they both were playing on the floor with their tea set and dolls again. I was busy in the kitchen putting away the lunch dishes. I stopped what I was doing when I heard the oldest one singing Jesus, Jesus, Jesus. I went over to where they were playing and started singing along with her. Pretty soon all three of us were praising together.
Growing up I always heard my mother say "Little pictures have big ears". I never knew what she meant until I married and had children of my own. Children are like little sponges soaking up and imitating everything we say and do. Our actions and words don't go unnoticed when children are around. How then are we to set the example for them?
We are to be in God's Word each day asking for His guidance in speech, conduct, and guard our anger. To set an example for the innocent. God has given us the gift of children, but with that gift we are to train them, making sure they know God loves them.
Dear Heavenly Father I want to thank you for allowing me the priviledge of guiding Your children until they are living in heaven with You. I ask for Your help every day to do what You would have me do and say. Amen.
Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it.
I watch my granddaughters a couple of days of the week while mommy works. One is two and the other is four years old. I have to say they do not attend Sunday school or church regularly. You can count Christmas and Easter as a regular on their parent's schedule. Last week we were playing tea party when I started singing Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Sweetest Name I know. After a few rounds of this they began to chime in.
The following week when they were with me they both were playing on the floor with their tea set and dolls again. I was busy in the kitchen putting away the lunch dishes. I stopped what I was doing when I heard the oldest one singing Jesus, Jesus, Jesus. I went over to where they were playing and started singing along with her. Pretty soon all three of us were praising together.
Growing up I always heard my mother say "Little pictures have big ears". I never knew what she meant until I married and had children of my own. Children are like little sponges soaking up and imitating everything we say and do. Our actions and words don't go unnoticed when children are around. How then are we to set the example for them?
We are to be in God's Word each day asking for His guidance in speech, conduct, and guard our anger. To set an example for the innocent. God has given us the gift of children, but with that gift we are to train them, making sure they know God loves them.
Dear Heavenly Father I want to thank you for allowing me the priviledge of guiding Your children until they are living in heaven with You. I ask for Your help every day to do what You would have me do and say. Amen.
Friday, January 20, 2012
HIS WORDS REVEALED
Matthew 13:35 NAS
I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world.
I've read the Bible through in a year a long time ago but have felt the tugging on my heart lately to read it through again. Although it is still early in the year so many new things have opened my heart and eyes. I can't wait until I open my Bible each day.
As a child I would memorize the verses the Sunday school teachers gave the class. The teachers would then tell us the meaning. But when left on my own to read the scriptures I felt confused. I couldn't make sense of what Jesus was telling His disciples. They too, had to ask Jesus what he meant. How was I to understand if His disciples didn't understand. Satan was at work confusing me, so I would not continue to read His word, because in the end, I ended up closing my Bible and laying it to the side.
I've grown as a Christian and have learned to ask God to open my heart to the meaning of His word when I read. The evil one can no longer shield my eyes to the what the Lord is revealing to me.
Most Gracious Father thank you for giving me Your Word so that I may grow as a follower of Christ Jesus. Thank you for Your love, mercy, and grace for a sinner like me. Thank you for opening my eyes to the meaning You've given in Your word. Amen.
I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world.
I've read the Bible through in a year a long time ago but have felt the tugging on my heart lately to read it through again. Although it is still early in the year so many new things have opened my heart and eyes. I can't wait until I open my Bible each day.
As a child I would memorize the verses the Sunday school teachers gave the class. The teachers would then tell us the meaning. But when left on my own to read the scriptures I felt confused. I couldn't make sense of what Jesus was telling His disciples. They too, had to ask Jesus what he meant. How was I to understand if His disciples didn't understand. Satan was at work confusing me, so I would not continue to read His word, because in the end, I ended up closing my Bible and laying it to the side.
I've grown as a Christian and have learned to ask God to open my heart to the meaning of His word when I read. The evil one can no longer shield my eyes to the what the Lord is revealing to me.
Most Gracious Father thank you for giving me Your Word so that I may grow as a follower of Christ Jesus. Thank you for Your love, mercy, and grace for a sinner like me. Thank you for opening my eyes to the meaning You've given in Your word. Amen.
Monday, January 9, 2012
WHO AM I
Acts 17:29 NAS
Being then the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and thought of man.
WHO am I.....who AM I....who am I? It's all on the emphasis. Cecil Murphey asked the same question in his December newsletter. I had been thinking along this line for quite some time myself. Sorry Cec I need to add to your answers.
I am a wife, a mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, daughter, and I am also me. The me who is asking the question. Yes I know I am a child of God, His daughter, and that He loves me, but who am I? I believe most people have asked themselves the same question at some time in their life too.
Wife-I am the one who lifts my husband to God every day in prayer. Stand by his side when he is sick and rejoice when well. Keep his home comfortable, cook his meals, run his errands, and soothe his brow.
Mother-lift them in prayer every day, kiss the boo boo's, play dolls or ball with them, drive them to games, dances, movies, or friend's homes. Be there to listen when they are hurting and share their victories. Guide them with their choices.
Daughter-praise my parents for a job well done. Respect them for who they are whether I agree with them or not. Lift them in prayer every day.
And now I'm back to my first question. Who am I? I've changed through the years but I'm still me. I'm still searching for what I want as a person. Sometimes feeling like I'm the shadow for everyone else, but I'm confident I'm still a child of God. I am His daughter.
Dear Heavenly Father thank you for letting me be Your daughter. I am a sinner and not worthy but through Your Grace I know I will live with You and Your Son Jesus Christ throughout eternity. Praise God. Amen.
Being then the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by the art and thought of man.
WHO am I.....who AM I....who am I? It's all on the emphasis. Cecil Murphey asked the same question in his December newsletter. I had been thinking along this line for quite some time myself. Sorry Cec I need to add to your answers.
I am a wife, a mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, daughter, and I am also me. The me who is asking the question. Yes I know I am a child of God, His daughter, and that He loves me, but who am I? I believe most people have asked themselves the same question at some time in their life too.
Wife-I am the one who lifts my husband to God every day in prayer. Stand by his side when he is sick and rejoice when well. Keep his home comfortable, cook his meals, run his errands, and soothe his brow.
Mother-lift them in prayer every day, kiss the boo boo's, play dolls or ball with them, drive them to games, dances, movies, or friend's homes. Be there to listen when they are hurting and share their victories. Guide them with their choices.
Daughter-praise my parents for a job well done. Respect them for who they are whether I agree with them or not. Lift them in prayer every day.
And now I'm back to my first question. Who am I? I've changed through the years but I'm still me. I'm still searching for what I want as a person. Sometimes feeling like I'm the shadow for everyone else, but I'm confident I'm still a child of God. I am His daughter.
Dear Heavenly Father thank you for letting me be Your daughter. I am a sinner and not worthy but through Your Grace I know I will live with You and Your Son Jesus Christ throughout eternity. Praise God. Amen.
Monday, January 2, 2012
A New Year, A New You
Genesis 1:1 NIV
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
It's a new year and time to bring out the read my Bible through each day for the year. It's all laid out for me, 365 days, a couple of chapters a day, and at the end of the year I've read it all.
When we sit down to read we start from the beginning of the book and read it through to the end. We begin a project by looking at the directions and follow it through until we have a finished product.
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. He spoke and each day there was something new. Light, darkness, separated the water from the dry land. Created vegetation, animals, and then man. Then on the seventh day God rested.
God has always desired to fellowship with man and still wants that today. Today is a new day, a new year, and time to take the first step to fellowship with God the Father. My Father in Heaven, with whom I want to spent eternity.
He is waiting for you too. It's not hard, all you have to do is ask His forgiveness and accept His love and mercy. By grace through faith are you saved to live with God forever and ever.
Dear Father in Heaven please forgive me for my sins. My desire is to live with You and Your Son Jesus who died on the cross for me. I want Jesus to live in my heart forever. Amen.
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
It's a new year and time to bring out the read my Bible through each day for the year. It's all laid out for me, 365 days, a couple of chapters a day, and at the end of the year I've read it all.
When we sit down to read we start from the beginning of the book and read it through to the end. We begin a project by looking at the directions and follow it through until we have a finished product.
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. He spoke and each day there was something new. Light, darkness, separated the water from the dry land. Created vegetation, animals, and then man. Then on the seventh day God rested.
God has always desired to fellowship with man and still wants that today. Today is a new day, a new year, and time to take the first step to fellowship with God the Father. My Father in Heaven, with whom I want to spent eternity.
He is waiting for you too. It's not hard, all you have to do is ask His forgiveness and accept His love and mercy. By grace through faith are you saved to live with God forever and ever.
Dear Father in Heaven please forgive me for my sins. My desire is to live with You and Your Son Jesus who died on the cross for me. I want Jesus to live in my heart forever. Amen.
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