Tag: bible

20 Years and Counting

It really does go by so quickly.

We weren’t young when we married and yet, I know we were quite naive about a lot of things. (Maybe it was just me.)

I went from just me and my cat to me, my cat and 4 other people. A lot of adjustments. A lot of prayer. Some things went well and some things definitely did not.

But today we celebrate 20 years together. It’s amazing. It’s definitely a God story.

One thing I have always loved about Tim (there are many more, of course) was that he always let me say whatever I wanted to say. The good. The bad. And the very ugly.

Sometimes downright repulsive.

This was so helpful – especially in the early years. I didn’t know how to be a mom. It was weird that things moved about during the night. And we had a strange unseen person named “Not me” living with us too.

A lot of change at one time. Of course, I was so nervous to do the wrong thing, a lot of the time I did nothing. That was not helpful to Tim nor the kids. It definitely showed I was trying to do it in my own strength instead of relying on God.

But one thing we did do (and still do) was talk. We have definitely learned how to communicate better after twenty years.

We took a trip to visit my family shortly after we wed. When we arrived, Tim didn’t have any clothes in the suitcase. I remember seeing them in neat piles on the bed near the suitcase before we left home. But he neglected to tell me he expected me to pack for him. We can laugh about it now.

Instead of asking, “What time do you want to be there?” I ask, “What time do you want to leave?” When Tim suggests going out to eat after church, I try NOT to remind him we have food at home.

Another thing we do is pray together. This, by far, is my favorite thing.

He prays over me before he leaves for work in the morning. We both pray together before he goes to sleep. We even ask for prayer during the day too.

We know that God needs to be the center of the marriage. If we both are growing closer to God, we will naturally grow closer to each other.

We are so very blessed. A lot of people (including our parents) prayed for us for many years. Mom continues.

Tim and I still have a lot of growing and learning to do. We want to finish well. We know we are not perfect but we look to the One who is.

Truth

The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me? Psalm 118:6

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7

My God shall supply all we need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:9

I will never leave you or forsake you. Hebrews 13:5

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old is gone and the new has come! 2 Corinthians 5:17

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. Psalm 103:12

Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. James 4:7

The Lord is near to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18

We are His masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

Expectant

When I googled the definition, expectant is an adjective that means “having or showing an excited feeling that something is about to happen, especially something pleasant and interesting.”

On the morning that Tim proposed, he left a voice mail saying that it was going to be the best day and he would see me later that night.

I was pretty sure he was going to propose that Thursday. I was excited and expectant. Definitely getting engaged was something ‘pleasant and interesting.’

However, I didn’t dress up. I didn’t prepare a fun dessert or even do my hair. As I recall, I was in some lounge attire and was sweeping crumbs off the kitchen counter when he rushed in to ask me to spend the rest of our lives together.

Even though I was expecting it, I didn’t prepare myself for it. Why was that?

Perhaps I didn’t want to be disappointed if what I was expecting didn’t happen? I don’t know.

I do that with God too. I say I expect Him to show up and to show off. But I don’t prepare myself for it. Why is that?

King David wrote, “Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord. Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly.” (Psalm 5:3)

Morning, Lord. Here is what I’m asking. Can’t wait to see what You do.

And then I take everything back in my own hands. Sigh.

I can’t imagine being in the early days of AD (or even the days of BC) and waiting expectantly for God to rescue Jerusalem.

Of course, now we are awaiting His return. Somedays I look so forward to it. And then there are others when I think, people I know aren’t ready for it. I’m not ready for it.

These are the days of preparation. These are the days we are to be telling others about Christ. These are the days to live fully surrendered to what He has for us and to realize what He is doing and to look expectantly at what He will do.

Morning, Lord. I’m looking for You and can’t wait to see how the day unfolds. Get me out of the way. Help me to see You move. All for your glory. Amen.

Stolen Blessings

Sometimes I think I am making things easier. But, occasionally that has unexpected results.

I was scheduled to have surgery on a Thursday. I had to be there mid-day and needed a ride because Tim was in a class all week and was unavailable.

I asked our daughter in law. She readily accepted. She always is willing to help and especially loves to help family.

Well, as the date grew nearer, I changed things. I asked a friend who lived closer and had a more flexible schedule. So I canceled with my daughter in law and didn’t think a thing about it.

Until after the surgery.

Our family was blessed with meals and gift cards for a week. I had told them not to worry about it but it was indeed something we needed and were blessed because of their generosity.

And they were happy to do it. They also received a blessing knowing they helped us too.

And that’s when it clicked. I had stolen that blessing from our daughter in law.

I called to apologize and she was very gracious. She even said that someone else may have needed the blessing to help.

Friends, as the body of Christ, we are to be in community – to help and to receive help. I am a recovering independent boob who is continuing to learn to reach out and ask and to accept.

A friend I haven’t seen in months texted last night. Her mother is in surgery this morning. I’m so thankful she asked for prayer. I was pleased to do it. And to continue to do it.

My encouragement to you today – reach out. Ask. Let people help. Let people know how to pray for you. Let people inside the muck that is your life. God is moving. He is always working.

Sometimes He uses ordinary people like us.

Adulting

Yes, I started this post with slang.

Adulting is an informal term to describe behavior that is seen as responsible and grown-up, if mundane and unpleasant—like bills and chores, according to Dictionary.com.

I’ve been above the age of 21 for sometime now. I should be used to it. I should be thriving in adulthood.

And sometimes, I am.

But then there are days like today. I just don’t want to (insert anything here.)

There are bills to pay, dishes to wash, dog hair to vacuum and a lot of clutter to clear. But I don’t want to.

But, I know it’s better for me if I do. It’s better for this household also.

The Apostle Paul states in Romans 7:11, “For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate.” (ESV)

I don’t like being lazy. I don’t like wasting time. But I still do.

Shift my focus!

Everything I have comes from God. Everything I need comes from Him too.

Should I ask the Lord to help me clear the clutter? Absolutely!

Should I ask the Lord to help focus me on the mundane tasks? Yes!

All with a thankful heart! Thankful that we were able to seek and receive medical attention when we needed it. Thankful that we have the dishes to serve the food that is in our refrigerator. Thankful for the clothes we have and a machine that washes them. Thankful for the dog that brings me so much joy. Thankful that I can serve Him where I am with what I have.

Have you ever thought about that? Everything we have to worship God with – our minds, bodies, voices, hands, etc. – everything we have, came from Him.

And He has more for us. So be faithful in taking care of what He has given you today. He has more for us.

Let’s get started! Are you moving yet? Here I go!

(Originally posted May 15, 2025. But every bit relevant on this day too. Lord, please redeem this day!)

Busy Day

Hello, 2026! Woo hoo!

My once blank calendar is being filled with appointments. I have the mundane and also have things to look forward to.

Today is one of those days when there is a lot to do. I need to…I want to. How to fit it all into the day?

Our church begins each year with 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting. During the week, service starts at 6am and on Saturday it’s at 9am. Building a habit to read scripture and to pray takes time. But it is so beautiful to see the line of cars pulling into the church so early in the morning.

It’s a great way to start the day. But if I am not careful, it will be just that one hour. I will leave the service and immediately start to think, “Ok, that’s done. What’s next?”

God doesn’t just want the first hour of my day. He wants my heart.

He doesn’t want to just be on my to-do list. He wants my heart.

As I was praying this morning, I was reminded that His Spirit lives in me. I carry Him with me throughout my day.

When I constantly surrender myself to Him, I hear His voice. He will tell me which way to go.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him….

In all your ways – everything you do, trust Him, don’t try to figure everything out. Submit to Him.

You want to stop being confused? Stop trying to figure everything out. Trust Him.

The verses from Proverbs 3 also come with a promise.

…and He will make your paths straight.

I have always wanted God to just give me the outline of the next year, month or day of my life. So I know what to expect. So I know how to prepare. Basically, so I can control.

But He wants me to trust Him. To submit, to surrender. To abandon my life – in all areas to Him.

And He promises to guide and direct me. He doesn’t leave me! He also promises an abundant life. His ways are higher and better.

Lord, I believe. Help my unbelief. Grow my faith and trust. I give You this day and my agenda. Help me to hear your voice.

Please join us for these prayer services. Live or on demand. Let me know if you do. (https://21days.churchofthehighlands.com/)


All Things New

Happy New Year!

The freshness of a new year – a blank slate – a fresh start – a new beginning.

That sounds good. But unless you deal with the old – thoughts, habits, attitudes, words – you are just bringing them with you into a new year.

Dealing with these things requires focus, intentional reflection and heaping amounts of courage. Some of us have been operating with this norm for so very long that it has become like a comfortable shoe.

“Known bondage is easier than unknown freedom.” I love this quote from Kristi McLelland. (https://www.instagram.com/kristimclelland)

Notice it says easier. Not better. Not more desirous. Not more helpful. Just easier.

I know it’s been said that when you get sick of yourself, that’s when you change.

And we don’t have to wait until the new year to start. Every new week, day, hour and moment begins with a choice. Do you want to remain in the same comfortable shoe of bondage?

Or do you want to experience the new norm of freedom, intimacy with God, purpose for your life, vision and wholeness?

What changes will you make to your routine? Let’s start small.

Stop saying words like – This is just who I am. I’m not going to change. There is no hope.

Words have power! Speak life over yourself. Talk with God about who He created you to be! Ask Spirit what He wants you to do today and what changes need to be made. He’ll tell you.

Remember you are not alone. Holy Spirit lives in you and will guide you.

The enemy can’t steal your soul if you belong to Jesus. He can only make you ineffective and mediocre in your life.

Jesus came that you might have an abundant life. Choose!

Christmas Funk

One week to Christmas! Are you excited? Thrilled with anticipation? Looking forward to time with family and friends? Singing Christmas songs while wrapping presents? Planning menus?

Or are you in a funk? Remembering that the season doesn’t live up to the ‘Hallmark’ hype? Not happy with the amount of presents under the tree? Wishing for more? Wishing for less?

I have been in a funk, for sure. But when I really focus on how I got here, it is pretty obvious.

I have been concentrating on what I DON’T have (or think I should have) instead of fixing my eyes on what I DO have.

What do I think I don’t have or I should have?

It’s not more presents (although I always like the unwrapping part.)

It’s not more get-togethers (although I enjoy seeing people but I don’t always spend my time with the people. Such a Martha!)

I know I would enjoy it if my kids/grands would come to church with us. I know I would enjoy it if they even acknowledged the invite.

I know I would love to give a thoughtful, personal gift to people that would be treasured and used.

What do I have?

Family and friends that love me and challenge me with truth.

A church that loves God and people and encourages me to do the same.

Health. Home. Work. Food. Clothes. Both for us and our kids and grands.

A daughter in law who did acknowledge my invitation to church and has visited in the past. A scheduled time for all of us to be together after Christmas.

I have a personal relationship with the God of the universe. He provided a way for my sins’ penalty to be paid. Now, I can live with Him in heaven for eternity.

And this relationship can be yours too. You can never ‘out sin’ God’s love.

God sent His Son, Jesus, to be born in a manger. He is Christ the Lord!

And if I focus on that, worship will come and the funk will disappear.

Thank you, Jesus!

Thank You

I came home from grocery store complaining about people in the grocery store.

I complained about unexpected things happening and ‘ruining’ my plans for the day.

I griped when the maraschino cherry juice spilled on the counter, the cabinet, the floor and stained my fingers.

Xena, the wonder dog, awakened me 5 times during the night to go outside. I guess her tummy was upset. I was not happy.

Shall we shift focus, please?

Lord, thank you for food and the money to buy it. Thank you for the variety of choices and the vehicles to get us to and from the stores. Thank you for safe travel.

Father, I pray for these seemingly angry people in the store. Perhaps they are missing a loved one, lost their job, or are going to be alone. Maybe I can only give them a smile. Please help it be sincere.

You, God, direct my steps. I make my plans but You have the final say. Perhaps the delay kept me from running into traffic. Lord, You know the number of my days. Help me to live for You.

Thank you for this house, Lord. I am grateful that I have a space to prepare and store food. I have a switch that changes from heat to cool quickly. Thank you that I can still move my body to clean things off the floor and to open jars. Thank you for your provision. I am also grateful for the people in the house.

And Father, I am thankful that Xena, the wonder dog, awakens me when she needs to go outside. I’m grateful that she has been the best dog and in my life for the past 10 years. I am thankful that she is feeling better.

Please, Lord, bless our time this afternoon with family and friends. Change my heart of stone to one of flesh. I think protecting my heart keeps me safe but that is a lie.

Living with and blessing others with the joy and light of the Lord is what this world needs.

And I want others to know You too. How can I show that with a callous heart? How can I show Your light if I want to be dim and dark?

Change me, O Lord. Thank You in advance. Give me Your words to share with others.

Amen.

Think on Purpose

Anyone an over thinker? Both of my hands are raised.

Anyone run down various rabbit trails in your mind? Again, both hands are raised.

I started my card business on September 1 (http://goGoddesigns.myshopify.com) and was very focused for about 10 days.

But then life happened – nationally, locally, within family – and I became distracted and quite sullen.

I found myself escaping to the lure of the scroll. I told myself I was learning. But I was actually escaping and avoiding.

I was asking the big questions – why, how, what, who…. But I wasn’t talking to the One who knows the answers. I was avoiding Him too.

I was invited to a worship night. I didn’t want to go. I had enough of people. But I knew I needed to.

I reminded myself that worship wasn’t about how I was feeling. Worship was about who my God is.

And He is worthy.

After making my joyful noises and listening to others speak of Jesus, I was refreshed. I spent time in His presence. He held my hand.

A couple of nights later, it was small group time. Again, I didn’t want to go. But I knew I needed to.

Being around people who are like minded and who are discussing Jesus is exactly what I needed. Time and time again, we said we need to focus our thoughts (think on purpose), determine what lies we are believing, and replace those with God’s truth.

How many times have I believed the lie that I can do things alone. I’m better off without people. I don’t need anyone. Or, I’m not good enough for God to love me so why talk with Him?

Stupid defeated enemy. He knows he can’t keep me out of heaven. His goal, however, is to make me ineffective here on earth.

When you find yourself escaping or avoiding, stop! Think on purpose! What lies are you believing? What truth do you need to remind yourself of?

Run TO Him – not away from Him. He is the Comforter. He is the Truth.

Choices lead and feelings follow. Choose to read, hear and accept His Word and His Truth.

Think on purpose!