Let His Light Shine!

Recently, singer, songwriter, author, and speaker, Kathy Troccoli tweeted that: "the lord will take a flashlight to your heart if you let him..."  In total agreement, I believe that 'flashlights' are good!   Living in a part of the country where thunderstorms and hurricanes can come from seemingly out of nowhere, I've reached for one on many occasions!  So my usage of flashlights has generally been during crisis situations. Think about it, how often does one reach for a flashlight when the lights are on?  Or when the sun is shining?  Generally speaking, we tend to need that light when the power goes out!  When the flashlight switch is turned on, that light can make a welcomed and needed path through the darkness, granting the possessor the ability to navigate with greater skill.   

Without wanting to add to or take away from Kathy's intriguing comment,  I do want to say that I have and do allow Jesus to shine His light in my life. I have to! The Bible says that, “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked;" (Jeremiah 17:9a)..."Who can know it?" (Jer.17:b) Only He can truly identify those areas that still need to be yielded to Him. Make no mistake, He already knows the content of my heart and yours, the what and the why of what we do--"I, the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind, even to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.(Jer.17:10)  Being the Light of the world, Jesus makes a path for us to navigate through life optimally, yet granting grace when we fail--"Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” (John 8:12)   

Yes, flashlights are good...especially in, but not limited to, e M e R g E n C i E s!  So when the choices and decisions of life beckon to tempt my heart to act like it's old (wicked) nature (Jer. 17:9a), I will need to turn to the Light of life for direction, wisdom and strength.  If need be, recall His plan for mankind, in general. More specifically, His plan for me. Whatever it takes to regain my attention and to align my will to His once again.

With a heart like mine, the 'flashlight approach' is my only hope!  In fact, most times it is a welcoming, comforting place to be; in the spotlight of His loving scrutiny. He re-DE-fines and RE-fines a heart's motive--“If you love Me, keep My commandments." (John 14:15).  Am I acting out of love for Him?  Or is something else the driving force?  Isn't the reason for following Christ, one that desires to live in His presence always?  Even forever? As believers we do and will! (John 14:1-3).

"But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin."(1 John 1:7)..."these things we write to you that your joy may be full." (1 John 1:4)!!!

Let His light shine! 

Make His Thoughts Your Thoughts

Have you ever reached a point in your thinking where you thought that your life just didn't matter much anymore? A time when you questioned your very existence? Ashamedly, I know I have. But I want to remind you, as well as myself, that those thoughts originate from the pit of hell. 

You'll recall the classic Christmas-time movie, "It's A Wonderful Life"? In it the main character, George Bailey, reached this same assumption. George was 'assigned' an angel named Clarence who showed him otherwise. Clarence walked George through the different events in his life and challenged him to consider how things would've turned out if he'd never been born. It's truly a stirring story line that one never tires of!

Friend, if I could assume the place of an angel in your life today, I would tell you that YOU are here for a reason too! Don't give in to the lies that whisper in your ear telling you otherwise. If you woke up today, God wants you to know that He loves you! What more evidence is needed to get out of bed and to literally DANCE on through the day?? Okay, maybe a little BOUNCE in the step would be a great start! Listen,

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward YOU, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give YOU a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11 (emphasis mine)

Read again His letter to you, the Bible. You'll re-discover and confirm what His thoughts are toward you and what the future holds, or better, Who's hands the future is in!

RESPECTING ONE ANOTHER

When I first started to  read the Bible in my teen years, I began to see the truth that every man, woman and child is created in the image of God.  Created in His image is reason enough to grant other a certain level of respect too.  In fact, as a mother, I try to instill this principle in my children by not tolerating name calling, hitting each other, or taking advantage of someone else's property.  My family is not perfect. For us, it's generally three steps forward, two back kind of thing. 

Because I have this view of others, I tend to think that it should be reciprocated back to me, not elaborately, just simply, in a kindly fashion.  But as I sat with this thought in mind, I began to consider our precious Savior (Philippians 2:8-11).  Who SHOULD be respected, loved or admired more than He?  My life cannot even compare to the sacrifice He made for all of mankind!  Let alone, think that I DESERVE any kind of appreciation.  Oh, don't get me wrong.  I enjoy when others show thanks for my deeds of kindness or when I get a hug for just being 'Mom', but I cannot allow myself to become tift over not getting those PERKS.  I need to do right, regardless of the pending level of appreciation returned.

The example of Jesus, "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.(Romans 5:8)...should be my standard (Romans 8:29).  He gave of Himself with no real proof that others would give reverence, love, or appreciation in return.  I'm not advocating that we be 'doormats' for others to wipe their feet on, for that is not respecting what God made our own selves to be!  The one doing the 'wiping of the feet' shows that he doesn't understand that even he was created for more, more than the disrespect shown to his brother by such actions.  

I believe that if God's love/love for God was the motivation for our actions, both on the giving and receiving end of respect for one another, the less disappointment we would experience (Hebrews 11:6). Our reverence, love, gratitude, and appreciation for what Jesus did for us,  cannot help but overflow in altruistic ways toward others.  But FEAR of un-reciprocated respect sometimes is, but should not be, the reason for not allowing our lives to yield that fruit of the Spirit that we possess in Christ (Galatians 5:22-26).  Could fear be a good enough reason to shrink back from His plans for each of our lives?  I dare say that I've failed miserably in that regard. For "perfect love (for the Savior) casts out fear (of everything else) (1 John 4:18)--my interpretation.  

God is the ultimate Judge in all things (Joel 3:12). His word says to 'love one another as I have loved you' (John 15:12).  Each one of us will make application of His commandments in the unfolding of our everyday circumstances.  He sees the heart of the giver, and the receiver (1 John 3:20).  To build our lives on the wood, hay or stubble foundation of expectation is, well, worthless. But the foundation of 'gold, silver and precious stones' of Jesus example is eternal.  The crucible will be used for the defining Day of reckoning (1 Corinthians 3:11-13). 

I WANT to be found faithful!  Lord, help me in my weakness.   

Friendships and Our Children

For the believer, the biblical standard for choosing FRIENDS  has always been not yoking ourselves to UNBELIEVERS. That's easy enough to comprehend.  The other facet of FRIENDSHIP/FELLOWSHIP to consider then involves FLESHLY brothers and sisters.  This is a more challenging aspect of the matter being discussed.

As a mother, I don't really have issues with my kids WANTING to befriend unbelievers. They do not have a desire to do so, UNLESS it is to bring testimony of Jesus' love. They are not rude to those who've not accepted Christ as Savior, but they don't seek a closeness as do they with true believers. Albeit, the world and all it's 'pleasures' calls out to them and to me from every corner!  Even from within the realm of Christendom.

I can say that the trend in our experience that we've come across believers who are WANTING to be part of the world. I realize the naivety of youth and it's desire to want to feel accepted and loved among peers. That desire extends even into adulthood. It's a NATURAL desire.  

However, it's difficult to explain to my own kids that friendship with the world, that some misguided friends actually desire, makes us/them enemies of God (James 4:4).  So the challenge to teach the truth of God's word and to continue to be an example to these He's placed in my world is...HUGE.  My children desire fellowship too.  Indeed, the Bible encourages us not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together (Hebrews 10:25). But by endeavoring to obey this imperative will their God-given gifts, talents, and abilities  be used for HIS glory?  Or because of association, will mine fall prey to the same hedonistic world view that the church appears to be embracing, also take hold of my children's hearts as well? They were meant for so much more! 

PRAYER: Lord, help ME to accept who You made ME to be so that I can be a confident example of one who calls herself Yours. I acknowledge You as my Maker and trust that Your hand is ever present in my life, leading me through each challenge that parenting children brings.  Grant wisdom in those areas I lack insight from Your Word and help me to teach/train these children that Your principles are always right and good. When the temptations arise, and they will,  grant the strength and courage to choose Your ways. Amen.

The Little Things

I USED TO THINK THAT the Fruit of the Spirit was only shown while doing "spiritual" things like preaching or becoming a missionary! Very respectable positions indeed!

But there are in fact, innumerable ways that the fruit of the Spirit shows up in the life of a believer who truly seeks to know and bring glory to the Lord. Why, today alone our basket was filled to overflowing! 

Here's what I mean: 
1.) By pressing shirts, preparing meals, and feeding the pets shows that we LOVE one another.

2.) We reJOYced with a friend in celebration of her birthday ♥ We brought her flowers and candy. 

3.) Those members of our family eligible to vote, did so...that shows FAITHFULNESS to our fellow countrymen and a desire to uphold PEACE, if only for the time being.

 
4.) After grocery shopping the family helped to bring the parcels in from the van...that was very KIND and GOOD. (I only purchase dark chocolate candy for my sweet tooth...that's SELF-CONTROL! =D) 


See? It's not too difficult to catch a glimpse of His hand in our lives. We have only to acknowledge the little things. After all, isn't it the little things that seem to matter most? Even as we lay our heads down to rest after a long day, He will GENTLY remind us that our LONG-SUFFERING in this life will one day be rewarded. 

Deuteronomy 4:29 "But from there you will seek the LORD your God, and you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul."

A Faithful Friend

I'll begin with a quote today:

"A true friend to your destiny does not diminish, downplay, deny, detract, decrease, discount, or disdain your contribution! They recognize!" ~Christine Caine

Having been in the body of Christ for 36yrs I've felt both the sting of rejection and the warmth of loving friends. The latter honestly desired God's best for me. They wanted me to fully grow into and rejoice over the new creation God said that I was and continue to become even now. (2 Cor.5:17)  They made it easy to enjoy my walk with Christ. They shared His love extravagantly and prayed consistently for me.  I can testify that we can benefit so much from the love and support of the Godly influence of others in our lives! (1 Cor. 12:26ff)

On the occasions of felt rejection from both the world and fellow believers, I was moved to prayer, consideration of my steps and at times maybe even, much introspection. In those times I went to God's word and found true peace, acceptance, temperance and love.  Even in the rejection, He taught me that I am accepted in Him through Christ.  The sadness over not feeling like I fit in or couldn't please everyone, led me to the arms of the waiting Savior.  He saw my tears and patted them dry.  My heart in pieces, mended again and again.

See, what was very painful to experience, actually drew me closer to the One I needed to be running to in the first place. Only He deserves the place of honor, worship and adoration.  I don't need to be loved by everyone, only One.  When I understand and begin to live this life in the assurance of His love, I am better able to reflect His character.  After all, isn't that the purpose of all mankind anyway?

The exhilaration of those mountain-top experiences is breath-taking, but the valley (Psalm 23) has become a most welcomed place where I've continually found His peace and sustenance.  Oh, I can let the negative bring me down or I can choose to understand with new eyes, His constant transforming work of this new creation that I am becoming...for His glory!

A Work In Progress

Did you know that I, have trials and tribulations just like everyone else?! Is that too hard to believe??  I ask because sometimes I'm cited for always looking like I  "have it all together". Well, I thank you for that vote of confidence, I think.  But to be honest, I experience the shame of defeat somewhat regularly. Just ask any of my family members how I respond when rooms aren't picked up or if I only get half the truth in a matter, or don't get enough sleep in any given night!  After all, I am still in the flesh. Can I get a witness?!

This is reality. I do not like that the 'old' nature coexists with my new life in Christ.  Just wish it somehow didn't.  I understand that in Christ, I have His strength to grant victory over sin, but He still permits me to choose His way or mine.  And we all know what the consequences of taking the low road is.  First and foremost, it's broken fellowship with the Savior.  Thankfully He graciously restores that fellowship when sought out, and I do seek!

I hesitate to share my struggles in this venue, but I do have one or two trusted, believing friends that I can honestly share my 'ugly' side with, if you will. I know that they will pray for me and offer solid counsel from scripture.  So here, as in much of what I share, I'd rather encourage others with the scriptures that are either getting me or have gotten me THROUGH the struggles instead.  So if it looks like I have it all together, let it be known that I'm really a broken vessel who's resting in the certainty of His promises working their certainty in my life! For now, I'm a work in progress on the conveyor belt of His wonderful truths!

WHATEVER trials, struggles or concerns you may be facing today, or those you've been dealing with for what seems like forever, know that there stands One who understands completely.  His name...Jesus. Stay in the race! Press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus! (Philippians 4:13)  It aint over, till it's over!


TODAY'S SCRIPTURE <3
12 Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; 13 but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy ~ 1 Peter 4:12,13 (NKJ)

27 The eternal God is your refuge, And underneath are the everlasting arms;
He will thrust out the enemy from before you, And will say, ‘Destroy!’  ~ Deuteronomy 33:27 (NKJ)

Our University Experience

Due to unusual heavy traffic this morning, what should have taken Gina and I twenty minutes to get to the University of South Florida, took an hour! We guessed there must have been an accident on the interstate that caused such a back up on the back roads.  But we were relieved to have made it to the campus on time, as Gina had an exam to get to.

Little Clayton and I accompanied Gina to school today so that we could then drive on to the airport from there. Gina was headed to Washington, DC for a prayer and worship event hosted by David's TentDC.  While walking in the direction she motioned and encouraged us to go in to reach the campus Starbucks, I was pleased to witness so many young people deciding to further their education! So young and full of life!  My prayer was that as their knowledge increases, may their love for the Creator do so as well.  We all have heard stories of how young people's faith has been tested when they enter college and whose lives unfortunately run a-muck.  But thank God for ministries like Campus Crusade, Intervarsity and others who offer studies and fellowship that maintain and even bolster faith in our young people.

Well, after walking for what seemed like miles (when you're wearing heels, it's always too far) anyway, we reached our destination!  We joined many students partaking of their morning cup joe as they peered into the screens of their laptops.  It amazes me that the information that used to be compiled in so many books can now be researched through one source...the internet!  Do you remember the Encyclopedia Britannica??  Volumes of information!  Yup, it's all online. How cool is that?!   But there's just something about holding a book in my hands that I still kinda enjoy.  Granted, some of those books were ginormous!

We finally got to sit down at a table to enjoy our breakfast goodies!  One toasted cranberry/raisin bagel and a Venti with a shot of hazelnut for me, and chocolate milk and a doughnut for the little man!  Delightful!  It made our already favorable University experience even that much more pleasant indeed!

"On The Road Again"

Do you sometimes feel the shame of  past choices weighing heavy on your heart? Do you compare your choices to those of others who seem to be unaffected by theirs. We all  allow ourselves to go down this road from time to time. But what happens when we do this?  We get further away from from His truth!  I, for one don't like to get off course. An occasional detour here and there, maybe.  Ugh, not to mention the time it takes to back-track which depends on how far we've gotten off course.

When we take a wrong turn, all is not lost. But we can't just sit there either. Have you been there?  We do have to stop, check the GPS or map and take appropriate measures to regain ground and reach our destination.  Who knows?  We may even get another Starbucks stop in for having to be on the road a little longer. Yes!

Hey, I like simple analogies from life to share God's truths. I hope you don't mind me taking you around the block.  But, the One who loves us most has His arms extended and has given His life to prove He knows the way, and in fact, is the Way.  Those  not-so-wise choices we've made or those of others that somehow affect us (or not) can actually point us to the road of redemption.  For if we made no wrong choices, we'd not need the Saviour!

Don't let past sins, yours or others, get you down and off course.  Instead look up!  Get back in the car of life and drive on!  His word gives direction, His Spirit enables!  So keep beeping, er, believing! ;)
                                                                                              
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   "This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to ALL WHO BELIEVE. There is no difference, 23 for ALL HAVE SINNED and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and (all) are JUSTIFIED FREELY by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." (Romans 3:22-24-NIV-1984)