Fleas

Flea-less Mazie

A couple of years ago I was doing the obligatory flea check on our poodle.  This is the dog that barely walks outside if she can help it, so I was not even remotely concerned. (I have caught Mazie doing her business in the garage under the truck to avoid getting her feet wet on a rainy day.)  Imagine my shock, horror, and overreaction when I saw one. 

A flea. 

On my dog... in my house.

I called the vet in a panic.  Seriously, I was so over the top I am sure the vet tech was scared.  I was willing to do whatever I needed to Mazie to get rid of this flea;  I was sure it was covering for a thousand more hiding in her doggy pits.  Everything slightly short of Mazie's death was an option.  The vet tech suggested a $40 medication that would kill all fleas, but not the poodle, within one hour of a single pill being ingested. This magic internal flea bomb would also kill any unborn fleas or new riders that hopped on and bit.  Sold!

I get a type of flea sometimes.  Lie fleas.  These little bugs jump into my thoughts and heart and take bites that create a small itch at first, but become more intense as I scratch.  Here are some common examples of lie flea bites:

1.  Someone thinks you are trying to get attention, so you back out of anything that puts you in front of others.  God gifted you in areas that require you be in front of others?  Oh well!

2. Your child is struggling in reading, math, science… or everything.  Obviously, you are a lousy homeschooling teacher and should send all your kids to a brick and mortar school tomorrow morning.  God called you to teach your kids at home?  Oh well!

3. Your friend and her husband just bought a new car and are taking their whole family on a trip to Disney World for two weeks.  If your husband took on another job, then you could do stuff like that.  God hasn’t directed your husband to get a second job and His Word says you should not nag him about it?  Oh well!

In each of the above scenarios, the Truth is being ignored. 

1. If God has called you or me to teach or sing or lead a Bible study and we decide to let someone else’s opinion of us direct our ministry, or lack thereof, then we are placing man’s opinion above God’s calling in our lives.  

The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe. Proverbs 29:25

2. If our child is struggling in a certain area academically and we feel God’s call to homeschool, then we are to push through.  Each child is unique with strengths and weakness that we as their parents are to help them grow and overcome as needed.  If you feel inadequate, call out to the Lord who promises to guide and give wisdom to those who ask in faith.   

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.  But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. James 1:5, 6  

I called on the Lord in distress; The Lord answered me and set me in a broad place. The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man [or my kid’s math lesson] do to me? Psalm 118: 5, 6 

If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, [or the depths of Apologia Biology] even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me. Psalm 139:9-11

3. Jealousy is a nasty thing.  It will eat away at our thoughts, affecting our words and interactions with others.  

Wrath is cruel and anger a torrent, but who is able to stand before jealousy? Proverbs 27:4  

We can become dissatisfied and bitter over the short stick we think we are getting.  In turn, we might pressure our husband to possibly step outside of God’s calling and direction for our family and end up playing Junior Holy Spirit in his decisions.  

A foolish son is the ruin of his father, and the contentions of a wife are a continual dripping. Proverbs 19:13 

The truth in Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to trust in the Lord with all our heart and lean not on our own understanding.  In all our ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct our paths – to Disney World or otherwise.

Just like that $40 internal flea bomb I fed to my poodle in a hunk of hot dog, we need to give ourselves a truth bomb when the lies of the enemy bite at us.  Don’t live with the itching, nip it in the bud!

Prayer:

Father, thank You for Truth.  Nothing else matters.  Amen.

Challenge:

Determine to speak truth to your self at every turn.  The minute you feel the itch to believe a lie of the enemy, combat it with Scripture that is applicable to the situation.  Jesus’ time in the wilderness is an awesome example of using truth bombs liberally.  Identify the most common areas in which the enemy lies to you.  Arm your self ahead of time with Scriptures addressing those areas.  Have the Scriptures on index cards, ready to read the truth into any circumstance.

Jen G. 2012

Distracted by Worship

Distract: to turn or draw from any object; to divert from any point, towards another point or toward various other objects; as, to distract the eye or the attention.

King David was the master of distracting himself with worship.  Over and over in the Psalms you read his heart wrenching prayers.  He poured out his hurt and anger when friends and family betrayed him, his fear and frustration when people plotted to kill him or take the throne, his grief over his sin with Bathsheba and the final consequence resulting in the death of their child.  Each time, however, David returns to worship.  He never allows a prayer to end without reminding himself of the goodness and faithfulness of God.

LORD, how they have increased who trouble me! Many are they who rise up against me. Many are they who say of me, “There is no help for him in God.”  BUT You, O LORD, are a shield for me, My glory and the One who lifts up my head.  Psalm 3:2b, 3a

They confronted me in the day of my calamity, BUT the LORD was my support. He also brought me out into a broad place; He delivered me because He delighted in me. Psalm 18:18, 19

When the wicked spring up like grass, and when all the workers of iniquity flourish... But You, LORD, are on high forevermore.  Psalm 92: 7a, 8

My days are like a shadow that lengthens, and I wither away like grass. But You, O LORD, shall endure forever, and the remembrance of Your name to all generations. Psalm 102:11, 12

Life is not easy.  We are faced daily with our own sin and the sin of others.  It all affects us in some way.  We can choose to follow the lead of hurt and anger and confusion, consequently falling into a pit of depression or bitterness, or we can stand firm and declare "BUT GOD".  He is the final authority, not our circumstances.  

CHOOSE to be distracted by worship of the most holy God!

Prayer:

You, O Lord, are worthy of praise in every circumstance.   Allow me to be immersed in Your presence as I turn from the discouragement and schemes of the enemy.  Amen

Challenge:

There is a Psalm for every situation that might draw your attention away from the truth of God's character.  Gossipy friends, wayward children, depression, financial troubles, illness - there's a Psalm for that.  Find them and use them to pattern your own prayer times.  David did not hide under a rock or put on a happy face when trouble came around.  He faced it head on, called it what it was, and then reminded himself of who God is and what He has promised to His children.

Jen G. 2012

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He Will Strengthen Your Heart

“I wish I could just crawl into a hole and pull it in behind me.”

Staring into a bottomless pit, numb, wrung out, heartsick and hopeless; these are all words that describe someone who has lost heart.  Losing heart is not something reserved just for those who experience traumatic events such as the death of a child or a divorce.  It can happen to anyone at any time for any reason.  For me, it comes most often with seasonal changes that impact my emotions.  For you it might be the result of a bad choice with your words or regrets in your parenting. 

I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. 

Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; 

Wait, I say, on the LORD!  Psalm 27:13,14

Whatever the reason for your heart sickness, there is but one cure.  Only One can strengthen your heart and give the courage needed to push through or wait it out.  Faith in the Lord and His goodness, regardless of your circumstances or feelings, can give the hope and the courage you need.  

One thing I have desired of the LORD,That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD All the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in His temple. For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; in the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock. Psalm 27:4,5

In the presence of the Lord you can find refuge and that secret place in which you long to hide away.  While in His presence you will be nurtured, refreshed, and restored!  Seek Him each day and when the dark, heart sick times come there will be shelter and encouragement in His secret place.  His Word will be hidden within your heart, reminding you of the truth you may not feel in the midst of pain, hurt, loss or depression.  

Regardless of our feelings or circumstances, the Lord's Word and His character never change; they are always faithful and true.  Do not lose heart - believe that you will see the goodness of God!  Wait on Him, have courage, allow Him to strengthen your heart.

Prayer:

Lord, You are constant, never wavering in Your faithfulness.  Please help me to cling to You when it seems I am sliding in a downward spiral of confusion, pain, fear, etc.  You promise to strengthen my heart.  Let me rest in You and be a testimony of Your joy in every circumstance.  Amen.

Challenge:

Copy Psalm 13 and commit it to memory.  When you feel the darkness closing in, pray the beautiful words and allow His peace to fill you.

Suggested reading for those dealing with depression: http://pmcrawford.blogspot.com/2012/01/quiet-time-reflections_09.html?spref=fb

Jen G. 2012

The B-I-B-L-E!

by Jen G. 2011

The B-I-B-L-E! Yes, that’s the Book for me!

I stand alone on the Word of God,

The B-I-B-L-E!

I remember singing this song in Sunday School at Calvary Baptist Church in Daytona Beach, Florida as a preschooler. At the time it was simply a catchy tune that I sang over and over again not realizing the importance and truth of the words.

In the book of 2 Timothy Paul writes to warn his young friend – and us - of perilous times filled with selfish, greedy, bragging, proud, blaspheming, disobedient, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slandering people who have no self control, are brutal despisers of good, traitors, stubborn, stuck up and pleasure loving. To top it off, these people have a form of godliness with out the power of the risen Christ. (vs. 1-5)

Could there be any more bad news coming in this chapter? Yep. These convincing people “creep into households and make captives of gullible women loaded down with sins, led away by various lusts.” (v. 6)

Ouch.

The gullible women Paul spoke of in his letter were certainly not stupid. On the contrary, they were always learning. Like Eve, the women desired knowledge. Unfortunately, they were never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. (v. 7) Paul delivers more bad news: the deceivers were only going to get worse and the deceived were only going to grow in number (as we see today).

Is there hope? How do we protect ourselves from becoming the deceiver or the deceived?

The B-I-B-L-E!

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16, 17

Sometimes false things are incredibly obvious – like burying a potato at midnight to get rid of warts. Some things are not so obvious, however, and that is why we need to have a solid foundation in the Word of God.

Books, Christian radio, the internet, Bible studies and magazines are fabulous resources that can sometimes help us be more knowledgeable of the Word. However, caution must be used. Today’s ‘Christian’ climate is rife with misapplied Scripture for everything from gender identity to hell to divorce to the actual substitutionary death of Christ. Without a firm foundation in Scripture, it is incredibly easy to be deceived by words that sound good and godly. As Christ followers, we need to stand alone on the Word of God - the only faithful infallible, accurate record of God’s Truth.

Prayer:

Father, open my eyes to see Truth and with that Truth help me to identify the lies of the enemy. My heart desires to be faithful to Your Word alone, not the latest church style or new doctrine. Help me to guard my heart and know Your Truth. Amen.

Challenge:
Take time this week to examine the basis for your beliefs. Are you getting your Scripture-view and worldview from a magazine, Bible teacher, or book, or are your views based on God’s view of the world? Really look at your heart and mind and see if you are a gullible woman. If you are, repent and change! Seek the wisdom that comes from above and allow it to make you wise unto salvation through Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 3:15)

Jen G. 2011

Thoroughly Equipped Flamingos

by Jen G. 2011

Let’s talk about chicken and flamingos…

Did you know that chickens live in every continent on the planet except Antarctica? They are pretty easy going birds – they can live in a barnyard or in the woods or even the side of the road. They lay eggs in the yard or hen house and eat bugs, grass, grain and a myriad of other things. Chickens are made to be adaptable to many different habitats and circumstances.

Every year, a whole bunch of Lesser Flamingos fly to salty Natron Lake in Tanzania, Africa. While there, the big pink birds eat algae to give them their rosy color, find a mate and prepare to lay eggs. As the temps rise and the water begins to evaporate rapidly, the salt settles on the top of the lake and forms crusty sheets, eventually floating to the center of the lake and forming a salt island. It is in this harsh, hot, floating plain that the Lesser Flamingo builds a nest of salt and lays its eggs. Of the 2 million Lesser Flamingoes born in Africa, all 2 million are born on the salt crust of Natron Lake. Flamingos are made for this bizarre habitat and have been equipped with the necessary tools to survive there.

Just as chickens and flamingoes have a unique purpose in God’s creation, Christ followers have a special purpose in the kingdom of God. As believers, we have been created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:10)

Maybe you feel like a chicken on a salt lake or a flamingo in a barnyard; your circumstances are not ideal to your thinking. You live in a 700 sq. ft. appt. or have a chronic illness or a rebellious child or a rough marriage. A tiny budget demands that you buy used curriculum or shop at thrift stores for clothing. OR, maybe your life is pretty much perfect and you feel guilty for having it so ‘easy’ when your friends are having a rough go of it.

Be assured that no matter what your life looks like right now, the Lord has given you the tools to accomplish His good purposes for you. He has equipped you to handle what life holds.

How has the Lord equipped you?

2 Timothy 3:16,17 says,

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. (emphasis added)

Are you using the tool of Scripture to walk out your calling? Do not believe the lie of the enemy that you can not do what the Lord has called you to do. Spend time in the Word, study it, know it, learn from it and allow it to transform your thinking. Then walk confidently in your circumstances, knowing that He has given you all that you need to be what He has created to be.

Sort of like a flamingo.

Prayer:

Father, thank You for the beautiful examples in creation that point us right back to You and Your wisdom. Thank You that Your Word is life to me! Help me to hold fast to it, drawing the strength I need to walk out the good works You have prepared for me. Amen

Challenge:

Spend time in the word each day and allow it to renew your mind. When you find yourself second guessing what the Lord has called you to do, remind yourself that in Him you can walk out His purposes. Audibly express your thanksgiving to Him for His perfect plan for your life.

Jen G. 2011

I Forgot I Was Naked

Please enjoy this 're-run' of a devotional posted in 2009.
By Jen G. 2009

Countless times in my married life I have caught a glimpse of myself in that bathroom mirror after a shower, each time lamenting my size and shape. The distress I experienced didn’t last long, however. After that post-shower shock I usually headed into a day of eating what ever tempted my taste buds. Each trip to the fridge or pantry could have been drastically changed if only I had not forgotten what I looked like naked.

Many times I have experienced something very similar spiritually. I spend time in the Word and am convicted by the Holy Spirit about some sin issue in my life. Afterwards I stumble right into the same sin pattern, completely forgetting what the Lord showed me. I have heard the Word of the Lord, yet I walk away failing to do (obey) what He said.

But be doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the Word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. James 1:22-24

In the first part of the passage the man observed himself and then walked away deceived. He was deceived because he thought he had done all that was required of him by simply hearing the Word. Think of telling your child to clean up his room and then finding that he did not. When you approach him he assures you that it is okay. After all, he heard you, isn’t that enough? Obviously that is beyond ridiculous, but I do the same thing in my walk with the Lord. As always, when the Lord points out a common problem in the Christian walk He also gives the solution.

But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does. James 1:25

The key is to “continue” in the Word. I obviously can not tote a Bible around with me all day long ignoring those around me so I can stay in the Word, but I can study and hide that Word in my heart. When I hear God’s Word through reading or listening it is imperative that I do more than just hear it. I must DO it. I must walk out what He has graciously shown me. If I do not then I am deceiving myself into thinking that simply hearing it is okay. Hearing combined with doing is what will bring blessing to my life. I must look into His perfect law of freedom and walk it out. I must continue to hear and examine and do what He tells me. His way brings blessing and freedom. My way leaves me walking around naked. And who wants to do that?

Prayer:
Father, thank You that Your Word exposes sin in my life. Please help me to be obedient when You reveal something to me. I desire to walk in Your perfect law of freedom each day. Amen

Challenge:
This week do more than glance at yourself in the mirror of the Word. Look deeply into it, taking note of specific areas where you need to obey the Lord. If you have a hard time remembering those areas make a sign and post it on your refrigerator or wall. For example: “Arguing with my husband is a sign of pride in my life. God’s Word says where there is self-seeking that evil and confusion abound. (James 3:16).”

Jen G. 2009

Turn to Him

Turn to me now, while there is still time.
Give me your hearts. Come with fasting,
weeping, and mourning.
Do not tear your clothing in your grief,
but tear your hearts instead.
Return to the Lord your God,
for he is merciful and compassionate,
slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.
Joel 1:12,13
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Recently my eyes were awakened to an issue that I was not even aware I had. One day out of the blue I was assaulted with signs, clues, and discussions pointing to the fact that I had a problem. What was my problem? I waste a lot of time during my day on useless activities. Not only do these activities take away from time with my family but more importantly they take from my time with God. I was not getting as much done around the house like I should have been. Meal planning never quite got done. House cleaning happened when I remembered. In addition to my household chores not being completed like they should have, I was not spending time in the Word on a regular basis. I came up with every excuse in the book as to why I could not read the Bible that day. Well, one day I think God finally had enough with my bad attitude and poor choices. He put articles, scripture, Facebook posts, and even a conference talk in my path telling me that He had had enough. Talk about a slap in the face! Finally I heard Him loud and clear. No more wasted time during my day. Reading His Word is now a priority in my day. Beginning my day in prayer and devotion puts the rest of my day off on the right foot.
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Where is your faith in God? Are you all in or are you dabbling your toes in the sea of Christianity? Does your study of the Word and commitment to prayer ebb and flow like the tides? Today is the day to commit yourself whole-heartedly to God. He wants you all in. Give Him your hearts! Tear your heart open for God and let His love for your pour in. It is so easy to get caught up in the daily grind, the struggles and challenges that bombard us from all angles. Time in the Word is often sacrificed for time on the Internet or time gossiping with friends. Where are your priorities? If you regularly put God and your faith second then you are dabbling your toes in the water. Repent today dear friend. He is waiting.
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Remember time with your Father in Heaven comes in many different shapes, forms, and fashions. Prayer can happen anytime the world around you is quiet. Taking a shower, washing dishes by hand, cleaning the house, driving in the car between your children’s events; these are just a few of the times you can pray and give praise to Him. Download podcasts of the Bible to spend time in the Word while you workout, drive around town, take the dog for a walk, or get things done around the house. If your faith is important to you then there is time in your daily life.
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Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father I come before you today with a repentant heart. Forgive me O Lord for my sinful ways. I have lost sight of what is important in my life. It is You O Father that must come first in my life. Please show me the ways and the times in my life where I can make time for you and Your Word throughout my day. Please give me the strength and wisdom to change my ways so that my daily faith remains renewed, refreshed, and encouraged. All glory and honor is owed to you O Lord. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
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Challenge:
Can you reduce or eliminate one from your day, every day this week, that takes time away from the duties God has set before you? How many activities in your life detract from God’s work? Make a list it will help visualize the full impact these choices have in your daily life. Talk to your children and spouse about this topic. What are areas they need to work on?

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Alexis M. 2010

Not Forgotten

“How long, O LORD? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me? How long shall I take counsel in my soul, Having sorrow in my heart daily? How long will my enemy be exalted over me?” (Psalm 13:1,2)
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In the movie Bruce Almighty, the main character is suddenly given God’s powers. Into his hands is placed the enormous responsibility to hear and answer all prayers. This human is completely overwhelmed by the voices in his head and the notes in his ‘divine’ inbox. He simply starts to hit ‘yes’ over and over and over again with no thought of the people in need.
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Have you ever felt that the Lord is like Bruce in the movie? Maybe you have felt forgotten and unheard. In your mind, you are thinking, ‘At least Bruce hit ‘yes’! God doesn’t even speak to me anymore.” Sometimes the fear of a financial situation or a health crisis causes me to question the goodness of God. Does He really care about me? Does He really see what is happening? Maybe I am simply a blip on His radar screen and He is too busy helping people with bigger problems. I forget that He has promised me, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5b) Jesus also promised that He would be with us to the very end of the age. (Matthew 28:20)
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It is not always easy to feel the presence or care of the Lord, but we can be assured of those things. Romans 8:38 and 39 says, “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Regardless of how I feel, God’s word is true and faithful. My human heart will fail me, but the Lord never will. His love never fails. I am so thankful that the god of Bruce Almighty is not my God!
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Prayer:
Father God, even when my heart and flesh fail, You are the strength of my life. You are all-knowing, all-powerful, and always present, even when I forget. Please help me to remember that You are working in my life, even when I do not see or feel You. My lack of perception does not negate Who You are! Amen
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Challenge:
Focus on the “I am with you” Scriptures this week. Print them on index cards, stamp decorated Scripture cards, make a screen saver for your computer. Keep the true and unshakeable Word of the Lord before you always.
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Jen 2010

Clueless

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Proverbs 2: 10-11
When wisdom enters your heart, And knowledge is pleasant to your soul, Discretion will preserve you; Understanding will keep you...
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This 2004 picture was taken because I wanted to remember what my daughter looked like right before I gave her away. I think the look on her face speaks volumes, so I will skip the details of the hours leading up to the photo shoot. Suffice it to say, I felt completely helpless and out of control. I ended up putting Liddy in her crib, shutting the door, and walking away from her furious screams. I think a video camera was involved at one point to document our suffering for my husband.
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As a mother of five children, six to fifteen years old, there is not a day that goes by that I do not feel clueless in some area of parenting. From questions about God to quarrels between siblings, there is a laundry list of things brought to my mommy lap, with the expectation of wisdom from my lips being dispensed. It scares me. Really, it does. After all of these years I think I should always have the answers immediately. And yet, I do not.
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Proverbs 2:3-5
Yes, if you cry out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding, If you seek her as silver, And search for her as for hidden treasures; Then you will understand the fear of the LORD, And find the knowledge of God.
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The book of Proverbs is my life line as a mom. To date, there has not been one situation that has arisen in our home that has not been addressed in this 31 chapter book. Even if King Solomon and the other wise contributors did not mention messy bedrooms, they did address laziness. They might not have talked about the latest top rated TV show, but they did speak on guarding one’s eyes. Proverbs targets the heart issues behind the behavior issues. It also directs us to search the commands and precepts of God’s entire Word to gain understanding.
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I am so thankful for God’s Word, an eternal source of wisdom. Daily I run to my Bible for guidance on a certain subject or area of parenting. Daily I am given the wisdom needed to handle the circumstances and questions before me. Do you feel clueless in your parenting, marriage, relationships? Cry out for wisdom and discernment as you open your Bible and search for the treasures God has for you there.
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Prayer:
Father, thank You for Your perfect wisdom. When I feel unqualified and incapable of making wise decisions remind me to call out to You. You are faithful to answer and give me the wisdom needed for each moment. Amen.
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Challenge:
Read the chapter in Proverbs that corresponds with each day. There are 31 chapters in all, enough to take you through an entire month. Watch how the Lord will give you circumstances to use the wisdom your have gained by reading His Word.

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I also highly recommend the book For Instructions in Righteousness from Doorposts. This topical guide is invaluable in every area of life from marriage to toddlers.
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Jen 2010

Jesus, Our Peace

Tonight we did the bills. As always, I started to get a little freaked out and panicky over those needs and desires that we had to subtract from our checkbook. What if the Lord did not meet every need? What if He wanted to teach us to deny ourselves fun stuff like the zoo and fried chicken? He would understand if we held that tithe check an extra week, wouldn’t He? After all, we did make it out first. Does it really matter if we actually put it in the plate right away? What if we need it!!! Can you hear the pitch of my voice going higher and higher?
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That, my friends, is the sound of a lack of peace that comes from a lack of trust in Almighty God.

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One of the purposes of Jesus’ life was to bring us peace; Isaiah 9:6 refers to Him as the Prince of Peace. The Old Testament prophecies that foretold of His coming referred over and over again to the gift of peace He would bring to the world. Jesus was coming to spread good news of the peace that only He could bring between God the Father and the people of the earth. (Isaiah 52:7) And Jesus did not just bring peace; He is peace according to Micah 5:5.
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I am reminded of a beautiful thing Jesus said in John 14:27 as He was preparing His disciples for a potentially unnerving time – His physical departure from their midst.
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Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
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What comforting words. Not only does this promise apply to me, but I am shamelessly thrilled to know that the original fathers of the Christian faith were also easily stressed out and needed reminders of the attributes and goodness of the One they worshipped.
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As for the bills: ever faithful, the Lord graciously provided for every need that we had, even throwing in a little extra to cover some simple desires that were not necessary for our daily life. Like the zoo and fried chicken.
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Prayer:
Thank You, Jesus, for Your gift of peace to me. Please help me to remember that it is there! When I begin to rely on my own logic and reasoning, giving in to fear, draw me back to rest in You. Amen.
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Challenge:
During this second week of Advent, I encourage you to be watchful of areas that you easily fall into peace-less-ness. When those times arise, whether in your parenting or even your trips to the grocery store, stop and remind yourself that Jesus came to bring peace and that He actually IS peace.
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Advent – Week Two:
Theme: Bethlehem (Peace)
Scriptures: Sun. Is. 11:1-10, Mon. Zech. 6:12-13, Tue. Mic. 5:2-4, Wed. Mal. 3:1-6, Thu. John 1:1-8, Fri. John 1:9-18, Sat. Mark 1:1-3 (You can limit your readings to one day if you that works better for your family.)
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Jen 2009

Jesus, Our Hope

The Muppet Christmas Carol is a huge part of our family’s Christmas preparation each year. Instead of beautiful carols in the background while we trim the tree, we hear Rizzo yelling, “Light the lamp! Not the rat! Light the lamp! Not the rat!” For some that might not bring warm and fuzzy feelings, but for us it does.
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Another part of our Christmas tradition is celebrating Advent. Each year the children delight in arguing over who gets to light the candle of the week, while my husband and I strive to keep the main focus on the Light of the World. Some years we go all out and other years is it a simple weekly event. This year, I truly feel that it will be much more meaningful, at least for me personally.
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I began preparing my heart for Advent in November. During that time I studied all the characters of the beautiful story, as well as the Old Testament prophecies. As I read through them, I was blessed to be reminded again and again of the fulfillment of each foretelling. Here are just three of those pre Messiah messages that we are all familiar with:
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He would be born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:13-14) Fulfilled: Luke 1:26-28
He would be of the tribe of Judah (Genesis 49:10) Fulfilled: Luke 3:33
He would be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2) Fulfilled: Luke 2:4-7
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There are many, many more that cover not only Jesus’ birth, but his ministry, torture, death, and resurrection. I encourage you to look them up along with their corresponding New Testament fulfillments. The thing that is so exciting to me, especially as I focus on those prophecies during Advent’s first week, is the hope that those ancient words give me as a believer in Christ Jesus. Each and every word about the Messiah’s life proved true. That gives me great assurance that all the prophecies regarding His second coming and my eternal life with Him in Heaven are 100% trustworthy as well.
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As you enter this new Christmas season, take the time to enjoy the beautiful decorations and fun traditions, but take even more time to relish the beautiful, eternal Hope that is Jesus Christ, the Messiah.
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Prayer:
Father, thank You for Your Son, Jesus, our Hope Thank You that although we do not know the exact day of His miraculous birth we can still set aside a time each year to rejoice in the gift that He is to all mankind. Amen
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Challenge:
Celebrate Advent with your family in some form. Learn more about it here. Our family is using an iron looking decorator tree with five tea light holders for our Advent ‘wreath’. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and fit the tradition to your family. A great book to use over the Christmas season is The ADVENTure of Christmas by Lisa Whelchel.
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Advent – Week One:
Theme: Prophecy (Hope)
Scriptures: Sun. Is. 40:1-5, Mon. Is. 52:7-10, Tue. Is. 40:9-11, Wed. Gen. 3:8-15, Thu. Gen. 15:1-6, Fri. Deut. 18:15-19, Sat. Ps. 89:1-4 (You can limit your readings to one day if you that works better for your family.)

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Jen 2009

The Perfect Sin-o-Meter

This past year has been the most wonderfully difficult time I can remember in my adult years. You might think the words ‘wonderfully’ and ‘difficult’ do not belong in the same sentence, but I can tell you that they certainly do! The Lord has been taking me through the deepest, darkest parts of my heart exposing and rooting out selfishness, unforgiveness, resentment, pride, harshness, anger – the list is long and ugly. I was unaware that most of these things where even in there. Thankfully, the Lord has a handy attribute called Omniscience and He is not afraid to use it.
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In His goodness, the Lord has allowed me to see, read, and hear my own ugliness. This year long process came to a head this past month when He directed me to Psalm 19, having me read over and over again how His Word is the perfect sin-o-meter.

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Who can understand his errors? Cleanse me from secret faults. Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins; Let them not have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, And I shall be innocent of great transgression. Psalm 19:12,13

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When I see justification for an offence taken, the Word sees an excuse to set up walls to keep others out. (Proverbs 18:19) When I see a reason to withhold forgiveness, it sees a woman who is willing to receive the precious forgiveness of Jesus but is unwilling to extend that same forgiveness to a peer. (Matt. 18:23-35) When I see a situation that is ripe for sarcasm and anger, He sees a heart that is refusing to live at peace with all men. (Romans 12:18)
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I encourage you not to stuff and ignore those nagging feelings that pop up. Trust me on this - I tried to ignore the conviction and it only extended the process, creating more issues along the way. Recognize the niggling for what it is: a warning to be heeded (Psalm 19:11), and the reward for paying attention and taking action is great and worth the pain of facing and dealing with your sin.

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When we allow the Lord to work freely in our hearts, the process is usually very uncomfortable. The great thing is that with that pain there is the gain of having a clean heart before Him. The secret faults, the presumptuous sins – none can be hidden from the lamp of God’s Word. When those secret sins are exposed and dealt with the effects are long reaching to our homes, churches, friendships, and workplaces, making the result of the difficult process truly wonderful!

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Prayer:
Father, thank You for exposing my sin. Thank You for doing it little by little, bringing me to a place of repentance. Help me to walk in Your ways in every area of my life, never resisting Your good and perfect plan for me.
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Challenge:
Read Psalm 19 in its entirety each day this week, focusing especially on verses 7 through 14. Make special note of what the Word of God is. Be careful not to fall into presumptuous sins - things that tend to be given a stamp of approval because, well, we are human after all. Some of those might include your tone of voice with your kids (They made me mad!), your critical spirit over the worship at church (It is just not my style. Why can't we sing more [insert favorite style here]?), your resistance to do something your husband has asked (He knows I hate fish! Why should I have to cook it?). Those justified sins can be the most dangerous and quickly gain dominion over you (Psalm 19:13).
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Jen Gorton 2009

Psalm of Life

This week I would like to share some very simple thoughts from a journal I keep while having my quiet time. For the record, I do not write in it every day. Occasionally I even forget that I have a journal. So, any ideas that I am some super together chick can be put to rest right now.
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The thoughts I would like to share are from Psalm 23. For years I have thought of this passage as the "Death Psalm". Movies use this passage for dying moments; many people repeat it in times of fear and uncertainty. As I read it this past week I saw it in a completely different light.
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1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

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In King David's time shepherds guarded their flocks fiercely, killing lions and those who would try to steal or inflict harm on the sheep. A shepherd was also responsible for guiding the flock to good grazing areas. They would comb through the fields pulling out poisonous weeds and plants that the sheep might eat and in turn be sickened. This verse shows me that the Lord is my protection and my provision in every area of my life.

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2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters.

3 He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

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The Lord brings me to a place of rest through His Word. He feeds me spiritually and gives me refreshment. Through His Word I am led down paths of righteousness in order to bring glory to His name.

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4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil;

For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

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Sometimes I must have faith in God's perfect character based solely on what He has shown me in previous good times. If I have been faithful in studying His Word and hiding it in my heart then I can rely on those times of refreshment and filling to remind me of His faithfulness and guidance, even when I feel alone and dry in my present spiritual walk.

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5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;

You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over.

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When I am struggling with relationships or persecution He prepares exactly what I need to deal with the situation. The Lord pours His healing on me and gives abundantly what I need for the moment.

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6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life;

And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

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The goodness and mercy of the Father are with me always. At the end of an earthly life filled with His presence, felt or not by me at times, I will spend eternity with Him. What a beautiful promise! I will no longer think of Psalm 23 as the "Death Psalm". It is a Psalm of Life!

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Prayer:

Father, thank You that in these six verses are promises of life, guidance, mercy, goodness, protection, provision, comfort, rest, and eternity with You. You truly are good and merciful! Amen.

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Challenge:

Take one verse each day this week and meditate on it. Throughout the day think of how the Lord is working out that verse in your life.

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Jen Gorton 2009

In Your Heart

Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is One! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your might. And these things, which I command you today shall be in your heart; you shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, and when you lie down and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. Deuteronomy 6:4-9

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This is a favorite passage of Christian families. I, too, love this scripture, but am concerned that for some these beautiful words of instruction have become a slogan rather than a true conviction. It is possible that some of us have lost sight of true obedience to Scripture, and only possess an outward appearance holiness. Perhaps the Word has not taken root in the heart because it is read out of fear; fear of what others will think of us if it is revealed that we have not had “our quiet time” lately. Or, do we open the Word and read a quick passage out of a sense of duty instead of love for the gift our Bibles are from our gracious Lord. I cannot stress enough the importance of truly knowing and loving the Scriptures, not just using them to prove how good we are or to argue our point of doctrine. To know God’s Word is to know God. Isn’t that what every believer longs for?
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For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12

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According to Hebrews 4:12, the Bible is the only book that is alive with the power of God! This powerful gift reveals the true thoughts and intentions of of our very hearts. Things that we keep hidden for fear of rejection and judgement by others are seen clearly by the Lord. His Word helps us to see them clearly as well. How can we ever truly know the conviction of the Holy Spirit in our lives if we avoid the very tool He has given us for this purpose?

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It is because of what God reveals in His Word that we can know Him and believe in His Son. Because of His Word we can grow, change and become more like Jesus. What a wonderful promise to all who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and love to live in the Word! Let the Word of God truly be in your heart.

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Prayer:

Father, please forgive me for not always using the Word the way You intended. Help me to run to it rather than away from it. Holy Spirit, please show me through the Scriptures what I need to change in my life so I can be holy inside and out. Amen

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Challenge:

Have you been avoiding the Bible because you are afraid of what the Lord might reveal to you about your own heart? Maybe you have been using the Bible only to prove your goodness to others. If you are guilty of either, repent and begin to study for the sake of holiness alone. Search your heart and see if you are being a 'standard' bearer instead of an 'image' bearer. Read Norm Wakefield's excellent articles on The Curse of the Standard Bearer at http://www.spiritofelijah.com/.

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Jen Gorton 2009