Have you ever had your heart feel like it was weighed down with a heavy burden? You feel like you just keep dragging it with you hoping it will be lifted and knowing the One who can and will but only in His time.
So you keep waiting. And praying. And hoping.
Romans 5:5 ...hope does not disappoint because the love of G-d has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit.....
This morning a blessing and promise came when I was least expecting it. Someone thought about me and the L-rd gave them a treasure to pass on to me. I feel like I have been kissed by G-d.
I'll share it with you:
"Ah L-rd G-d, thou has made the heavens and the earth by Thy great power.
Ah L-rd G-d, thou has made the heavens and the earth by Thine outstretched arm.
Nothing is too difficult for Thee, Nothing is too difficult for Thee
You're the great and mighty G-d; great in counsel and mighty in deed
And NOTHING, NOTHING, ABSOLUTELY NOTHING
NOTHING IS TOO DIFFICULT FOR THEE!"
Walk in faith......
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Monday, September 10, 2012
Little Blocks Sweater
There is a pattern at the LionBrand.com website that I just love. It is a baby layette in a crochet pattern called "Little Boxes." I downloaded the pattern and worked on it with various yarns and could not get the crocheted fabric to look like the picture. Evidently, I was not the only one according to the comments/reviews with the pattern. There were a couple of comments I thought would help and that led me to realize that even though the stitch was very easy, it was important to insert the hook in just the right place for the little boxes to form as you crocheted. Once I applied this technique, the pattern started developing.
I found a really soft and light baby cotton at Yarnworks in Gainesville called Cotton Candy in a soft yellow/neutral color. Exactly what I had in mind. I spent as much time searching for the perfect buttons as I did crocheting the sweater. The little lamb buttons on the sweater really add to the sweetness of this sweater (in my opinion). Can't wait for the new baby to get here at the end of this month so "he?" can wear it. I've included a couple of pictures of the sweater. And I've also included the link for the pattern:
http://www.lionbrand.com/patterns/90073AD.html
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Weak People G-d Used
Noah was a drunk.
Abraham was too old.
Isaac was a daydreamer.
Jacob was a liar.
Leah was ugly.
Joseph was abused.
Moses had a stuttering problem.
Gideon was afraid.
Sampson had long hair and was a womanizer.
Rahab was a prostitute.
Jeremiah and Timothy were too young.
David had an affair and was a murderer.
Elijah was suicidal.
Isaiah preached naked.
Jonah ran from God.
Naomi was a widow.
Job went bankrupt.
John the Baptist ate bugs.
Peter denied Christ.
The Disciples fell asleep while praying.
Martha worried about everything.
The Samaritan woman was divorced, more than once.
Zaccheus was too small.
Paul was too religious and Lazarus was dead!
Abraham was too old.
Isaac was a daydreamer.
Jacob was a liar.
Leah was ugly.
Joseph was abused.
Moses had a stuttering problem.
Gideon was afraid.
Sampson had long hair and was a womanizer.
Rahab was a prostitute.
Jeremiah and Timothy were too young.
David had an affair and was a murderer.
Elijah was suicidal.
Isaiah preached naked.
Jonah ran from God.
Naomi was a widow.
Job went bankrupt.
John the Baptist ate bugs.
Peter denied Christ.
The Disciples fell asleep while praying.
Martha worried about everything.
The Samaritan woman was divorced, more than once.
Zaccheus was too small.
Paul was too religious and Lazarus was dead!
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
A Mansion Built by the Master Builder
This morning I was reading my daily devotion and something occurred to me in the reading that didn't have a lot to do with the point of the devotion but had a profound impact on me.
Yeshua was a carpenter by trade while He lived on this earth. We also know that He was there when G-d created the heavens and the earth. Obviously, Yeshua inherited His carpentry skills from the Master Builder and the two are one.
With that in mind, consider the words of Yeshua Himself as recorded by John 14:1-3 "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in G-d, trust also in Me. In My Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with Me that you also may be where I am."
It must be a beautiful place and knowing the skills of the Master Builder as evidenced in creation around me, the work is first-rate. I am sure it meets or rather exceeds the building codes of this earth. We are all individuals with various likes and dislikes. We all have different tastes and opinions of what is beautiful, what color is our favorite, what period or style we are drawn to..... But scripture says that there are MANY rooms. Yeshua knows us intimately and the Psalms state that we are engraved on the palm of His hand. I imagine that my room is custom-built for me. Yeshua knows me better than I know myself so I will be totally satisfied with "my" room built just for me by the Lover of my soul. I seriously doubt I will grow weary with the color on the walls and I feel certain that the color will never fade and need re-painting. He can do exceedingly more than I can ask or think.
So today if you are weary with this life and feel guilty for your dissatisfaction..... remember that the master builder has been commissioned by your Heavenly Father to construct a place just for you to dwell with Him in eternity in blissful happiness. A place where moth can not destroy and where you will never grow bored or get lonely. He understands you, your desires, your dissatisfactions and He is intimately acquainted with all your ways. All the times you've fallen or made a fool of yourself did not diminish your worth in His eyes and His opinions are the ONLY ones that count.
Trust Him with all your heart and do not let your heart be troubled by anything on this earth. Put one foot in front of the other and keep on doing what is right according to the Torah preserved through all generations for you. He has it all in control and heaven is not in a panic.
Shalom
Yeshua was a carpenter by trade while He lived on this earth. We also know that He was there when G-d created the heavens and the earth. Obviously, Yeshua inherited His carpentry skills from the Master Builder and the two are one.
With that in mind, consider the words of Yeshua Himself as recorded by John 14:1-3 "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in G-d, trust also in Me. In My Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with Me that you also may be where I am."
It must be a beautiful place and knowing the skills of the Master Builder as evidenced in creation around me, the work is first-rate. I am sure it meets or rather exceeds the building codes of this earth. We are all individuals with various likes and dislikes. We all have different tastes and opinions of what is beautiful, what color is our favorite, what period or style we are drawn to..... But scripture says that there are MANY rooms. Yeshua knows us intimately and the Psalms state that we are engraved on the palm of His hand. I imagine that my room is custom-built for me. Yeshua knows me better than I know myself so I will be totally satisfied with "my" room built just for me by the Lover of my soul. I seriously doubt I will grow weary with the color on the walls and I feel certain that the color will never fade and need re-painting. He can do exceedingly more than I can ask or think.
So today if you are weary with this life and feel guilty for your dissatisfaction..... remember that the master builder has been commissioned by your Heavenly Father to construct a place just for you to dwell with Him in eternity in blissful happiness. A place where moth can not destroy and where you will never grow bored or get lonely. He understands you, your desires, your dissatisfactions and He is intimately acquainted with all your ways. All the times you've fallen or made a fool of yourself did not diminish your worth in His eyes and His opinions are the ONLY ones that count.
Trust Him with all your heart and do not let your heart be troubled by anything on this earth. Put one foot in front of the other and keep on doing what is right according to the Torah preserved through all generations for you. He has it all in control and heaven is not in a panic.
Shalom
Monday, June 18, 2012
Power or Weakness?
I started to slip into "pity-party" mode this morning on my way into work. But as my thoughts started to go that way I heard a verse on the radio that was playing in the background of my thoughts. The verse reached out and grabbed me and pulled me back> The verse was 2 Cor 12:9 - "...power is perfected in weakness."
Immediately I was filled with the most explicable peace and the assuarance that this thing is not too big for my G-d. My life and fate are in His hands and I am so glad that He has the controls.
But in looking at this verse in context, there is a lot more that can be understood and there are other applications.
I have undergone true deliverance in my life and I can tell you that deliverance is a process. I have rarely exerpienced deliverance as an immediate and overnight occurance. My experience with deliverance took many turns and struggles. A lot of them mental,but our minds are very powerful - they can affect our physiological being. In my experience there was a true dying to self to get to the point that I had to recognize the power of G-d in my life to exact change within myself. G-d did not tap me on the head with some sort of "magic wand" to take away my struggle. Rather, He made me so aware of what "grace" means. Grace is the power to do G-d's will. I had to put that power in motion.
Much like a weapon is poweful it does not become poweful by just sitting on a surface next to you. It becomes powerful when it is picked up and the trigger pulled. Grace is the same way. It has to be put into motion by applying it. I had to determine within myself to stop doing the thing I was working to be delivered from. The power was mine and given to me by G-d but the execution of that power/grace came from the very strength G-d gave me and required me to do something.
This gives clarification to this verse in 2 Corinthians 12:9 - He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness."
For me, I needed deliverance from jealousy. It is a long story but I knew the precise moment when the demon of jealousy jumped on my back. And it really did seem like I had the proverberial "monkey on my back" controlling my thoughts and actions. I had to defeat those demons and the demonic power waged against me. The demon attached itself to me through unforgiveness but once it did, it required a strength and determination I never experienced before. It required almost 10 years of constant struggle, defeat, repentance, prayers, fasting, and finally "grace in motion." It was a process of change and did not happen overnight.
I can now say with perfect and complete confidence that truly, "power IS perfected in weakness."
Just remember that definition of grace: The power to do G-d's will! And remember this:
2 Peter 1:3 - ...seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.
Shalom
Immediately I was filled with the most explicable peace and the assuarance that this thing is not too big for my G-d. My life and fate are in His hands and I am so glad that He has the controls.
But in looking at this verse in context, there is a lot more that can be understood and there are other applications.
I have undergone true deliverance in my life and I can tell you that deliverance is a process. I have rarely exerpienced deliverance as an immediate and overnight occurance. My experience with deliverance took many turns and struggles. A lot of them mental,but our minds are very powerful - they can affect our physiological being. In my experience there was a true dying to self to get to the point that I had to recognize the power of G-d in my life to exact change within myself. G-d did not tap me on the head with some sort of "magic wand" to take away my struggle. Rather, He made me so aware of what "grace" means. Grace is the power to do G-d's will. I had to put that power in motion.
Much like a weapon is poweful it does not become poweful by just sitting on a surface next to you. It becomes powerful when it is picked up and the trigger pulled. Grace is the same way. It has to be put into motion by applying it. I had to determine within myself to stop doing the thing I was working to be delivered from. The power was mine and given to me by G-d but the execution of that power/grace came from the very strength G-d gave me and required me to do something.
This gives clarification to this verse in 2 Corinthians 12:9 - He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness."
For me, I needed deliverance from jealousy. It is a long story but I knew the precise moment when the demon of jealousy jumped on my back. And it really did seem like I had the proverberial "monkey on my back" controlling my thoughts and actions. I had to defeat those demons and the demonic power waged against me. The demon attached itself to me through unforgiveness but once it did, it required a strength and determination I never experienced before. It required almost 10 years of constant struggle, defeat, repentance, prayers, fasting, and finally "grace in motion." It was a process of change and did not happen overnight.
I can now say with perfect and complete confidence that truly, "power IS perfected in weakness."
Just remember that definition of grace: The power to do G-d's will! And remember this:
2 Peter 1:3 - ...seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.
Shalom
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Gratefulness
Have you ever thought about the scriptures that tell us to "bless the L-rd?" Like Psalm 100 or Psalm 103. How can we bless the L-rd? We who are nothing without Him? What have I got to bestow a blessing on the L-rd?
It didn't take long meditating on this question years ago when I was thinking about this to realize the answer..... the only way we can possibly bless the L-rd is to bless Him with a heart of thanksgiving. A heart of gratefulness. That is all we have to give Him.
And have you ever wondered why Hebrews 13:15 says to offer a "sacrifice" of praise? Why should praising the L-rd who gave us life be a sacrifice?
I think the answer to that last question is that our flesh doesn't want to. Our walk on the narrow road leading to life seems to be a constant battle against the flesh.
Lately my flesh has been getting me down. Down into a pit of pity, despondence, depression, and discouragement. And I know the best cure for those feelings is gratefulness.
There is ALWAYS something to praise G-d for no matter what is going on in my life. I have learned through my 55 years on this planet, in this skin, that there is definitely ALWAYS, without a doubt, something to praise G-d for even in the direst of circumstances.
Even during the Holocaust in the concentration camps, many jews came to realize that the Germans could not take everything - they could not take away their hope. The hope that we only have in G-d Almighty. So even in a circumstance when they were stripped of everything material and even their dignity, they had hope. And scripture tells us that hope does NOT disappoint. Romans 5:5
My circumstances are certainly nothing to compare to a holocaust so it should be easy for me to praise the L-rd and get my eyes off of my circumstances and my flesh. Oh L-rd, please forgive me.
As I've been meditating on these thoughts I realized that though I feel like I have been running from G-d, He has not gone anywhere. In fact, I realized that I cannot run from Him. He is attached to me; I cannot go anywhere that He is not there. I instantly thought of this Psalm and the truth of these words penetrated my sin-crusted heart.
Psalm 139:7
Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
So today I stand up against my flesh who wants to destroy me. I choose to prasie and bless my L-rd with a grateful heart and rest in His arms instead of running from them.
Psalm 139:23-24
Search me, G-d and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
Amen.......
It didn't take long meditating on this question years ago when I was thinking about this to realize the answer..... the only way we can possibly bless the L-rd is to bless Him with a heart of thanksgiving. A heart of gratefulness. That is all we have to give Him.
And have you ever wondered why Hebrews 13:15 says to offer a "sacrifice" of praise? Why should praising the L-rd who gave us life be a sacrifice?
I think the answer to that last question is that our flesh doesn't want to. Our walk on the narrow road leading to life seems to be a constant battle against the flesh.
Lately my flesh has been getting me down. Down into a pit of pity, despondence, depression, and discouragement. And I know the best cure for those feelings is gratefulness.
There is ALWAYS something to praise G-d for no matter what is going on in my life. I have learned through my 55 years on this planet, in this skin, that there is definitely ALWAYS, without a doubt, something to praise G-d for even in the direst of circumstances.
Even during the Holocaust in the concentration camps, many jews came to realize that the Germans could not take everything - they could not take away their hope. The hope that we only have in G-d Almighty. So even in a circumstance when they were stripped of everything material and even their dignity, they had hope. And scripture tells us that hope does NOT disappoint. Romans 5:5
My circumstances are certainly nothing to compare to a holocaust so it should be easy for me to praise the L-rd and get my eyes off of my circumstances and my flesh. Oh L-rd, please forgive me.
As I've been meditating on these thoughts I realized that though I feel like I have been running from G-d, He has not gone anywhere. In fact, I realized that I cannot run from Him. He is attached to me; I cannot go anywhere that He is not there. I instantly thought of this Psalm and the truth of these words penetrated my sin-crusted heart.
Psalm 139:7
Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
So today I stand up against my flesh who wants to destroy me. I choose to prasie and bless my L-rd with a grateful heart and rest in His arms instead of running from them.
Psalm 139:23-24
Search me, G-d and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts.
See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
Amen.......
Friday, March 16, 2012
Dressing in Character
Colossians 3:12-17 - Therefore, as the elect of G-d, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Messiah forgave you, so you also must do.
Colossians 3 goes on to say that Love is "the bond of perfection."
I thought of this today as a non-believing acquaintance at work was sharing a family tragedy with me. My heart went out to her. I wanted to tell her to have faith and pray. I wanted to tell her to stand on G-d's promises for her family but I couldn't bring myself to share that since she does not believe. I also started to tell her I would pray for her but I knew it would sound hollow to her ears. An empty promise to one feeling destitute and hopeless.
But I know the power of prayer and so I purpose in my heart to intercede for her and her family before my Father in Heaven.
When I came back to my office I re-read these verses from Colossians 3 and I was encouraged to remember that I am called by G-d and have chosen to follow Him. I have His blessed hope to stand on and I am so grateful that Yeshua did not leave us alone but He left His own Spirit to guide us.
Sometimes when I get up in the morning, I feel sluggish and slightly depressed because I don't want to go to work. But then I remember all I have to be grateful for and it helps spur me on and shrug off those feelings. The verses and topic in this post remind me that I need to not only put on my work clothes for the day I need to also put on the garments befitting an elect child of a Risen King. The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness (Is 61:3) and also the garment of mercy (Col 3:12).
Then I will be ready to give an answer for the hope that is within me (1 Peter 3:15) and be able to offer encouragement to someone else.
Shalom
Colossians 3 goes on to say that Love is "the bond of perfection."
I thought of this today as a non-believing acquaintance at work was sharing a family tragedy with me. My heart went out to her. I wanted to tell her to have faith and pray. I wanted to tell her to stand on G-d's promises for her family but I couldn't bring myself to share that since she does not believe. I also started to tell her I would pray for her but I knew it would sound hollow to her ears. An empty promise to one feeling destitute and hopeless.
But I know the power of prayer and so I purpose in my heart to intercede for her and her family before my Father in Heaven.
When I came back to my office I re-read these verses from Colossians 3 and I was encouraged to remember that I am called by G-d and have chosen to follow Him. I have His blessed hope to stand on and I am so grateful that Yeshua did not leave us alone but He left His own Spirit to guide us.
Sometimes when I get up in the morning, I feel sluggish and slightly depressed because I don't want to go to work. But then I remember all I have to be grateful for and it helps spur me on and shrug off those feelings. The verses and topic in this post remind me that I need to not only put on my work clothes for the day I need to also put on the garments befitting an elect child of a Risen King. The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness (Is 61:3) and also the garment of mercy (Col 3:12).
Then I will be ready to give an answer for the hope that is within me (1 Peter 3:15) and be able to offer encouragement to someone else.
Shalom
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Perseverance
Sometimes life seems like it is all up hill..... The constant climbing becomes tiresome and seems like it will never end. This thought has been on my mind for the last week or so. I've been meditating on the difficulties of life and trying to summon up the strength to go on and realized that I just have to "keep on keeping on" to get where I am going. Shaul (Paul) said to run the race in such a way that you may win (1 Cor 9:24). And I love the encouragement to do that very thing and to know where our help comes from:
Psalm 121:1-2 I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; from where shall my help come? My help comes from the L-rd, who made heaven and earth.
I've read this verse so many times but never has it spoken to me the way it has this morning. Life many times is like climbing and climbing - but as we climb let us also look up to the top of the mountain (hill) because there comes our help.
And the L-rd is well acquainted with our struggles and trials. He did not create the world and all that is in it in one day..... but He kept at it for 6 days before He rested. And He has set up His moadim for us to do the same thing. We climb for 6 days through the trials of life and then have a blessed rest on the seventh day to sit in His lap and contemplate His goodness.
Reflect on this devotional I received if you are feeling like you can't keep climbing:
This is no time to get stuck in circumstances that seem to be overwhelming. When something seems to be beyond your ability to deal with, trust Me for the help that you need, says the Lord. I will give you direction, wisdom and strength in all things.
Romans 5:1-5 - Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with G-d through our L-rd Yeshua Messiah, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of G-d. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character, and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of G-d has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
Praise Hashem with a grateful heart - and have a great day.
Psalm 121:1-2 I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; from where shall my help come? My help comes from the L-rd, who made heaven and earth.
I've read this verse so many times but never has it spoken to me the way it has this morning. Life many times is like climbing and climbing - but as we climb let us also look up to the top of the mountain (hill) because there comes our help.
And the L-rd is well acquainted with our struggles and trials. He did not create the world and all that is in it in one day..... but He kept at it for 6 days before He rested. And He has set up His moadim for us to do the same thing. We climb for 6 days through the trials of life and then have a blessed rest on the seventh day to sit in His lap and contemplate His goodness.
Reflect on this devotional I received if you are feeling like you can't keep climbing:
This is no time to get stuck in circumstances that seem to be overwhelming. When something seems to be beyond your ability to deal with, trust Me for the help that you need, says the Lord. I will give you direction, wisdom and strength in all things.
Romans 5:1-5 - Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with G-d through our L-rd Yeshua Messiah, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of G-d. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character, and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of G-d has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
Praise Hashem with a grateful heart - and have a great day.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
How Many Kings?
How many Kings step down from their thrones?
How many L-rds have abandoned their homes?
How many Greats have become the least for me?
And how many G-d's have poured out their hearts
To romance a world that is torn all apart?
How many fathers gave up their Sons for me?
I've heard this song from "Downhere" so many times but this morning the reality of what the chorus words are saying went through my heart and soul like a knife! All of a sudden I actually saw myself as ROYALTY!
In the 70's there was a popular saying among christians: "I'm the child of a king." Which we are but it sort of became an overused quote and lost a lot of its emphasis. I was reminded of that truth again this morning during my epiphany.
The truth that I serve the G-d of all g-d's..... the L-rd of all l-rd's..... a RISEN Savior who cares about little ole' me..... that truth made me feel 10 feet tall. The reality of who I am gave me the confidence and belief and understanding that I CAN DO ALL THINGS because the Creator of heaven and earth is on my side. He is my Father. He cares for me and has plans for me - plans to make me prosper. He has sent His Holy Spirit to comfort me, guide me, and keep my feet on the narrow path leading to everlasting life. Whom shall I fear? No one! Nada! Zilch! There is no one who is bigger than my G-d.
And because I trust in HIM, even in draught I will NOT be thirsty because my roots are grafted into the Mayim Chayim (Yeshua HaMashiach) who is the river of life that flows from the throne of G-d and NEVER will run dry!
Don't believe me? Read these verses and gird your loins with the truth and fasten on the armor of the Living G-d who gives to all men/women generously and is not a respector of persons. Put your trust in the everlasting King, the Prince of Peace, your Provider, Protector, Lover of your Soul .... - His river never will run dry and the Praises of Him fill the temple to overflowing.
L'Chayim - Choose Life
Shalom
How many L-rds have abandoned their homes?
How many Greats have become the least for me?
And how many G-d's have poured out their hearts
To romance a world that is torn all apart?
How many fathers gave up their Sons for me?
I've heard this song from "Downhere" so many times but this morning the reality of what the chorus words are saying went through my heart and soul like a knife! All of a sudden I actually saw myself as ROYALTY!
In the 70's there was a popular saying among christians: "I'm the child of a king." Which we are but it sort of became an overused quote and lost a lot of its emphasis. I was reminded of that truth again this morning during my epiphany.
The truth that I serve the G-d of all g-d's..... the L-rd of all l-rd's..... a RISEN Savior who cares about little ole' me..... that truth made me feel 10 feet tall. The reality of who I am gave me the confidence and belief and understanding that I CAN DO ALL THINGS because the Creator of heaven and earth is on my side. He is my Father. He cares for me and has plans for me - plans to make me prosper. He has sent His Holy Spirit to comfort me, guide me, and keep my feet on the narrow path leading to everlasting life. Whom shall I fear? No one! Nada! Zilch! There is no one who is bigger than my G-d.
And because I trust in HIM, even in draught I will NOT be thirsty because my roots are grafted into the Mayim Chayim (Yeshua HaMashiach) who is the river of life that flows from the throne of G-d and NEVER will run dry!
Don't believe me? Read these verses and gird your loins with the truth and fasten on the armor of the Living G-d who gives to all men/women generously and is not a respector of persons. Put your trust in the everlasting King, the Prince of Peace, your Provider, Protector, Lover of your Soul .... - His river never will run dry and the Praises of Him fill the temple to overflowing.
L'Chayim - Choose Life
- Jeremiah 17:5-8
- John 4:10
- Philippians 2:6-8
- Matthew 28:7
- Job 42:2
- Philippians 4:13
- Hebr3ews 4:15
- Daniel 4:32
- Psalm 37
- Psalm 77
- Deuteronomy 30
- 1 Peter 5:7
- Ephesians 6:10-17
- Jeremiah 29:11
Shalom
Friday, December 9, 2011
David and Yeshua
There is a show that comes on TV called Reflections. The show is so peaceful and calm. All it really is are gorgeous video clips of nature scenes with beautiful calming music playing in the background and scripture periodically pasted on the screen. I love to sit and just let the Word of G-d portrayed this way minister to all my spiritual aches and pains. It truly is like medicine for the soul.
This morning as I was meditating with help from these visions, I came across a verse from 1 Samuel that really spoke to me as if Yeshua Himself spoke it to me. In chapter 22 David has fled to the cave of Adullam and placed his father and mother in the care of the king of Moab. Saul slaughtered the priest of Nob because of their betrayal to him. One of Ahimelech's sons escapes and found David. After he relayed to David what Saul did, David said this in verse 23: "Stay with me; do not be afraid, for he who seeks my life seeks your life, for you are safe with me."
That verse is what Yeshua spoke to my heart this morning. I realized that Yeshua had spoken very similar words in John 15. In verse 18 Yeshua begins to explain the talmidim's relation to the world. He told them that if the world hated Him (Yeshua) then it would also hate any of His students (or followers). He also cautioned them to not be astonished at this. But Yeshua did not leave them in a destitute state without a helper or guardian to watch over them. It had already been established beforehand that G-d would send the Holy Spirit. In the following verses, Yeshua did not say that the Helper would protect them from persecution but He promised them that the Holy Spirit would do several things:
So when I feel lonely on this Torah observant path I'm on or I feel persecuted and out-numbered by world views, I will remember David and Yeshua's words and will hide myself in the Rock of Salvation
This morning as I was meditating with help from these visions, I came across a verse from 1 Samuel that really spoke to me as if Yeshua Himself spoke it to me. In chapter 22 David has fled to the cave of Adullam and placed his father and mother in the care of the king of Moab. Saul slaughtered the priest of Nob because of their betrayal to him. One of Ahimelech's sons escapes and found David. After he relayed to David what Saul did, David said this in verse 23: "Stay with me; do not be afraid, for he who seeks my life seeks your life, for you are safe with me."
That verse is what Yeshua spoke to my heart this morning. I realized that Yeshua had spoken very similar words in John 15. In verse 18 Yeshua begins to explain the talmidim's relation to the world. He told them that if the world hated Him (Yeshua) then it would also hate any of His students (or followers). He also cautioned them to not be astonished at this. But Yeshua did not leave them in a destitute state without a helper or guardian to watch over them. It had already been established beforehand that G-d would send the Holy Spirit. In the following verses, Yeshua did not say that the Helper would protect them from persecution but He promised them that the Holy Spirit would do several things:
- Convict the world concerning sin (because they do not believe)
- Convict the world concerning righteousness (because Yeshua goes to the Father and we no longer see Him)
- Convict the world because of judgment (because the ruler of this world has been judged)
- Guide us into all truth
- Take of the Father (Yeshua) and disclose it to us
So when I feel lonely on this Torah observant path I'm on or I feel persecuted and out-numbered by world views, I will remember David and Yeshua's words and will hide myself in the Rock of Salvation
For the grace of G-d has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great G-d and Savior Messiah Yeshua, who gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds. Titus 2:11-14
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Rendezvous
The time is approaching fast for the annual River Alafia Rendezvous. My husband has been several times - this will be my second year going and I can't wait. It is a reenactment of a time in history when the mountain men would rendezvous at a pre-planned point and they would trade their animal hides/skins for much needed supplies before they headed out again. It was also a time of relaxation and getting with others.
At the Alafia Rendezvous, attendees select their personna and dress accordingly. Much effort goes into making sure that things inside the camp are kept "period-appropriate." Generally newcomers will start out "poor" because it takes awhile to accumulate the right outfits, supplies, etc. and because most of the time newcomers are not sure how they will fit in or want to fit in. I find it very interesting how our natural personalities and societal placement seem to overflow into the personna we are trying to portray.
I love all forms of needlecrafts so this is a nice outflow for my normal interests. I've made almost all of my and my husband's clothes. What's really neat too is that you can have a blanket of items to sell while you are at camp and there is also a "marketplace" where vendors sell their wares. They sell anything from home-baked bread to elaborate clothing, antique items, and buffalo hides. My son-in-law is really into the Indian personna and has got a wonderful talent for leather-working and beadwork. Here is a picture of a purse my husband made me out of hand-tanned leather with a beaded medallion my son-in-law made me.
At the Alafia Rendezvous, attendees select their personna and dress accordingly. Much effort goes into making sure that things inside the camp are kept "period-appropriate." Generally newcomers will start out "poor" because it takes awhile to accumulate the right outfits, supplies, etc. and because most of the time newcomers are not sure how they will fit in or want to fit in. I find it very interesting how our natural personalities and societal placement seem to overflow into the personna we are trying to portray.
I love all forms of needlecrafts so this is a nice outflow for my normal interests. I've made almost all of my and my husband's clothes. What's really neat too is that you can have a blanket of items to sell while you are at camp and there is also a "marketplace" where vendors sell their wares. They sell anything from home-baked bread to elaborate clothing, antique items, and buffalo hides. My son-in-law is really into the Indian personna and has got a wonderful talent for leather-working and beadwork. Here is a picture of a purse my husband made me out of hand-tanned leather with a beaded medallion my son-in-law made me. Last year I crocheted several watchcaps from fishermans wool and they were a big hit. I was able to get the wool very cheap and then was able to sell the caps at a lot lower price than people could order them from suppliers.
My husband made beautiful wooden toys but they did not sell very well. I am not sure why as if my children were little I would have loved to have them. Maybe he will have to display them several years in a row for them to "catch on." I will try and post pictures of them soon.
My son-in-law did additional beadwork medallions for my husband which my husband then applied to them a sort of "necklace" he wears at camp and a knife pouch he made.
I will be off two weeks during the christmas break and plan on finishing my sewing for the Rendezvous then. I am finishing a new Missouri Boatman's shirt for my husband out of some gorgeous Egyptian cotton I bought at 60% off! I am also making myself another skirt, chemise, and bonnet. If time permits I will try and make myself a "bed jacket" which was not necessarily worn to bed but was a coat or blazer type garment women wore over their shirtwaist.
Pictures will follow as items are accumulated for packing. I will also post pictures of the newly sewn garments and of our time there. Check out this link for more information:
Monday, December 5, 2011
His Witnesses
This morning I've been pensive about the witness I portray to the world. Or more specifically, "my" world. My specific sphere of influence. I am chastened to the core when I recall certain events where I did not display G-dly character or missed an opportunity to bring glory to the L-rd. I can't undo those things or re-live those times and correct my mistakes. I can only confess and pray for G-d's grace to cover those times and help me change.
It appears from this verse that King David prayed the same prayer. The words in this Psalm echo the cry of my heart and I'm so grateful once again for G-d's Word preserved through time. I am so amazed at how alive G-d's Word really is. As recorded in Deut 30:14 - His Word is nigh thee, in my mouth and in my heart that I may observe it.
The L-rd desires truth in the innermost part of our being. Psalm 51:6 One way we can have this truth is to spend time in the Word so that it soaks into us. Even if you do not purposely set out to memorize portions of scripture, G-d's Word will get down into your spirit as you read it, drink from it, be nourished from it and allow it to answer the cries of your heart. He will answer your cries by bringing portions of His Word to your remembrance.
Jeremiah 31:33 - The L-rd says that He will put His law within us and will write it upon our hearts.
Allow Him to do that today. I encourage you to get into His Word daily - even if it is just a few verses every morning.
There are times I just don't know what to read or where to find an answer. One way I have found to combat this is to read the Psalms and Proverbs and this is how I do it.
If today is Kislev 9 I would read, Psalm 9, Psalm 39, Psalm 69, Psalm 99, and Psalm 129. I would also read Proverbs 9.....
Get the picture? And sometimes I commit to reading Psalm 119 all by itself because there is so much meat there.
Psalm 69:6 NASB - May those who wait for You not be ashamed through me, O L-rd G-d of Hosts; may those who seek You not be dishonored through me O G-d of Israel.
It appears from this verse that King David prayed the same prayer. The words in this Psalm echo the cry of my heart and I'm so grateful once again for G-d's Word preserved through time. I am so amazed at how alive G-d's Word really is. As recorded in Deut 30:14 - His Word is nigh thee, in my mouth and in my heart that I may observe it.
The L-rd desires truth in the innermost part of our being. Psalm 51:6 One way we can have this truth is to spend time in the Word so that it soaks into us. Even if you do not purposely set out to memorize portions of scripture, G-d's Word will get down into your spirit as you read it, drink from it, be nourished from it and allow it to answer the cries of your heart. He will answer your cries by bringing portions of His Word to your remembrance.
Jeremiah 31:33 - The L-rd says that He will put His law within us and will write it upon our hearts.
Allow Him to do that today. I encourage you to get into His Word daily - even if it is just a few verses every morning.
There are times I just don't know what to read or where to find an answer. One way I have found to combat this is to read the Psalms and Proverbs and this is how I do it.
If today is Kislev 9 I would read, Psalm 9, Psalm 39, Psalm 69, Psalm 99, and Psalm 129. I would also read Proverbs 9.....
Get the picture? And sometimes I commit to reading Psalm 119 all by itself because there is so much meat there.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Thanksgiving 2011
Though a few of my family members were absent this year and sorely missed we had a wonderfully "Norman Rockwell" Thanksgiving. It was a beautiful day, delicious food, totally enjoyed my family and had loads of fun with my grandchildren. Here are a few pictures my daughter-in-law snapped for me.
My husband sets a beautiful table.....
My husband sets a beautiful table..... |
The turkey looks good and it tasted pretty good but wasn't what I was expecting. Used PioneerWoman's brine but wasn't totally thrilled with the results. |
And one more of the table. We fed the children first at a different table as they are so little and require so much care. During our meal they played in the play room and ran back and forth to provide our dinnertime entertainment.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
The Love of G-d
This morning I was reflecting on what a frustrating day I had at work. I find myself getting so exasperated with some people usually because of little things. As is usual for me, one thought led to another and I began thinking about the verses that define LOVE - 1 Corinthians 13. I was so convicted because I do not love like that. It's easy to love SOME people like that but we are called to love ALL people like that. And then I had the most amazing thought of all and I asked myself, "How and Why does G-d love us like that?" We may think we are loveable but the down and dirty truth is that we aren't loveable all the time - I don't think anyone is. Some people may be closer than others but go with me here.
Scripture tells us that we love because He first loved us.....but what does He loves about us? We are rebellious and stubborn. We have the capability of doing dastardly deeds and we fail to trust Him most of the time.
The easiest way for me to understand this is to reflect on the love I have for my children. No matter what they do, no matter how stinky their diaper, no matter WHAT! I love them so much it hurts. That must be the love my Heavenly Father has for me and ALL His children.
Is it a coincidence that my morning devotion today included this verse from Romans 8?
In the devotion this morning the author went on to say that we can have head knowledge about G-d but we cannot learn to love like Him unless we KNOW Him not just know about Him. The following verse supports this:
I had a conversation with my daughter this past weekend and was trying to explain to her the need to trust G-d in all situations - to REALLY trust Him. This means that we will sometimes have to walk through things that don't feel so good. During this waiting period we will begin to feel that things are hopeless. We may feel frustrated and we may even feel sorry for ourself because we don't have what we want and it looks like everyone else does.
This waiting and walking period is a great time to learn about the love of G-d. Isaiah 40 says that if and when we wait on G-d we will renew our strength and will mount up with wings as eagles. We will be able to soar over our problems because we've learned that G-d's love is bigger than our problems and He is a G-d we can trust because He has everything under control and He has our best interests at heart.
To borrow from my devotion this morning: "Trusting G-d begins and ends with the fierce love of G-d. Trusting G-d really is all about wrapping our hearts and minds and lives around the reality of G-d's love." Girlfriends in G-d - November 30
Scripture tells us that we love because He first loved us.....but what does He loves about us? We are rebellious and stubborn. We have the capability of doing dastardly deeds and we fail to trust Him most of the time.
The easiest way for me to understand this is to reflect on the love I have for my children. No matter what they do, no matter how stinky their diaper, no matter WHAT! I love them so much it hurts. That must be the love my Heavenly Father has for me and ALL His children.
Is it a coincidence that my morning devotion today included this verse from Romans 8?
"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demon, 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 G-d that is in Messiah Yeshua our L-rd." Romans 8:38-39
In the devotion this morning the author went on to say that we can have head knowledge about G-d but we cannot learn to love like Him unless we KNOW Him not just know about Him. The following verse supports this:
1 John 4:8-9 "The one who does not love does not know G-d, for G-d is love. By this the love of G-d was manifested in us, that G-d has sent His only begotten Son into the world so that we might live through Him."
I had a conversation with my daughter this past weekend and was trying to explain to her the need to trust G-d in all situations - to REALLY trust Him. This means that we will sometimes have to walk through things that don't feel so good. During this waiting period we will begin to feel that things are hopeless. We may feel frustrated and we may even feel sorry for ourself because we don't have what we want and it looks like everyone else does.
This waiting and walking period is a great time to learn about the love of G-d. Isaiah 40 says that if and when we wait on G-d we will renew our strength and will mount up with wings as eagles. We will be able to soar over our problems because we've learned that G-d's love is bigger than our problems and He is a G-d we can trust because He has everything under control and He has our best interests at heart.
To borrow from my devotion this morning: "Trusting G-d begins and ends with the fierce love of G-d. Trusting G-d really is all about wrapping our hearts and minds and lives around the reality of G-d's love." Girlfriends in G-d - November 30
Trust in the L-rd with all your heart and do NOT lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
The Truth Will Set You Free
For the last few weeks (maybe 3?) I can sense the L-rd speaking to me. My spiritual gifting is primarily a teacher so I analyze, and re-analyze in my effort to really understand something.
Sometimes in my thoughts I will ponder the why's of things like a lot of people probably do. I compare myself or my possessions or my state of being with others and many times the enemy will confuse me with rubbish. This thought process is not fruitful but it is damaging to the psyche. It is so easy to get caught up in feeling sorry for yourself or thinking you got the short end of the stick. If you take your eyes of your blessings and begin to look at your lack you will quickly fall into a trap and not realize it.
But I have found a cure or remedy for pulling yourself right back out. Counter-attack the lies that you THINK are truths with TRUTHS that you know are TRUE! I had an experience with this Friday afternoon on my way home from work. One thought led to another and pretty soon I could not remember what the first thought was but I was really getting the doldrums. I realized my dilemma and quickly put into practice my "cure." I began bringing to mind the things I know for sure that I never waiver on. I started with creation. G-d created the world and me and He created me to praise Him. He has everything in control (all the powers of heaven and all the peoples of earth - Daniel 4:32).
You get the picture ..... - pretty soon it became evident that I had fallen victim to the enemy's schemes. My head felt like it was "screwed on right" again and my peace was restored. I re-counted many blessings that came to mind and began praising G-d instead of wallowing in pity and what-if's.
Another return to foundational truths during this 3 week period occurred when I read Tim Hegg's latest article entitled, "Hope of the Gospel." It is tremendous and I highly recommend you read it. I have devoured it 4 times so far and I will keep going back to it. He reminded me of the precious gift of the Holy Spirit's presence in my life and I have really sensed and relied on that presence in the last few days especially.
One more I will share occurred this morning as I listened to the radio on my commute to work. The radio host was sharing that she heard some false teaching on the TV one day and looked in the Word for verses from II Corinthians which warns about false teachers. The bottom line was the same - your best offense against false teaching (or false thoughts that confuse and create chaos) is to KNOW the truth. Counter-attack lies with truth.
To do that you need to have truth ingrained in you. You need to feast on it daily. The truth will set you free if you arm yourself with truth.
Shalom
Sometimes in my thoughts I will ponder the why's of things like a lot of people probably do. I compare myself or my possessions or my state of being with others and many times the enemy will confuse me with rubbish. This thought process is not fruitful but it is damaging to the psyche. It is so easy to get caught up in feeling sorry for yourself or thinking you got the short end of the stick. If you take your eyes of your blessings and begin to look at your lack you will quickly fall into a trap and not realize it.
But I have found a cure or remedy for pulling yourself right back out. Counter-attack the lies that you THINK are truths with TRUTHS that you know are TRUE! I had an experience with this Friday afternoon on my way home from work. One thought led to another and pretty soon I could not remember what the first thought was but I was really getting the doldrums. I realized my dilemma and quickly put into practice my "cure." I began bringing to mind the things I know for sure that I never waiver on. I started with creation. G-d created the world and me and He created me to praise Him. He has everything in control (all the powers of heaven and all the peoples of earth - Daniel 4:32).
You get the picture ..... - pretty soon it became evident that I had fallen victim to the enemy's schemes. My head felt like it was "screwed on right" again and my peace was restored. I re-counted many blessings that came to mind and began praising G-d instead of wallowing in pity and what-if's.
Another return to foundational truths during this 3 week period occurred when I read Tim Hegg's latest article entitled, "Hope of the Gospel." It is tremendous and I highly recommend you read it. I have devoured it 4 times so far and I will keep going back to it. He reminded me of the precious gift of the Holy Spirit's presence in my life and I have really sensed and relied on that presence in the last few days especially.
One more I will share occurred this morning as I listened to the radio on my commute to work. The radio host was sharing that she heard some false teaching on the TV one day and looked in the Word for verses from II Corinthians which warns about false teachers. The bottom line was the same - your best offense against false teaching (or false thoughts that confuse and create chaos) is to KNOW the truth. Counter-attack lies with truth.
To do that you need to have truth ingrained in you. You need to feast on it daily. The truth will set you free if you arm yourself with truth.
Shalom
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Tunisian Crochet
The problem is that there are not that many patterns or books available. I have been getting frustrated buying books that have MAYBE one pattern I can use and usually are not really what I had in mind.
So the next step I guess is to start creating my own patterns. I played around with a few different attempts and ideas and have now settled down with a fairly simple crocheted sweater. The pattern has a knit version done in a garter stitch that I am trying to imitate with a Tunisian Purl stitch. I have found that a detailed diagram of the garment with measurements is necessary so that the pieces of or the garment itself will be shaped and sized correctly.
I will post pictures Friday and explain my progression in more detail.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Do First, Understand Later
Exodus 10:7-8 So Moses wnet back and summoned the elders of the people and set before them all the words the L-rd had commanded him to speak. The people all responded together, "We will do everything the L-rd has said." So Moses brought their answer back to the L-rd.
The Israelite people, the people who G-d had called out of the darkness of slavery to Egypt (sin) did not hesitate to say, "Yes, L-rd." They did not stop to contemplate, intellectualize, or try to understand all the words of the law. They did not even ask, "why?". They simply said, "Naase V'nishma - we will do first and afterwards understand."
I was listening to a devotion this morning and the person sharing quoted an Oswald Chambers statement, "Simplicity is the secret to seeing things clearly." In the course of this devotion the speaker gave an illustration of a parent teaching a child to look both ways before crossing the street because a small child doesn't yet understand the dangers of traffic and the reasons for looking both ways. But once a child matures and grows and understands the danger and his own mortality he know longer looks both ways out of obedience but out of understanding.
As I listened to this illustration I couldn't help but make the comparison to the state of mind of the Israelite children when Moses presented the L-rd's words to them and their response. They were like the little child who obeyed first before he understood because the child first recognized the authority of the parent and understood the necessity of obedience and dependence. They first obeyed because they recognized G-d's authoruty and in obedience to His authority they followed literally the words in His law recorded in Deuteronomy 6:4-8: ...to write the commandments on their hearts, to teach them to their children, to talk about them all the time.
So in accordance to the example and commandment set before us, every Shabbat we read a portion of the Torah, we discuss it with our children and with each other. We learn more and understand more each and every Shabbat that we obey G-d and spend time in His Word. And we are eternally grateful to our people for protecting and guarding the Torah these 6000 or so years so that we still have it today.
1 Corinthians 13:11-12 - When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
One day, L-rd willing, we will leave this temporary residence and spend eternity with our L-rd and Savior. We will know fully then but for now, we are children feasting and growing on the Word left for us.
If you want to know why we need to still keep and do the commandments the illustration of the little child and these verses should shed a little more light on the whys.....
But in spite of the evidence I have now with 20-20 hindsight.....I say
Na'ase V'nishma - Yes L-rd.....
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Words Paint Pictures
Restoration Specialist
Father Knows Best
This morning I was listening to the radio as I was driving to work and the news came on. I wasn't totally focused on what the news person was saying but I caught one phrase, "restoration specialist." I believe he was saying that some company called "restoration specialists" was funding the program on the air. But when I heard the phrase, "restoration specialist" I immediately thought of Father G-d. He is in the business of restoration. He restores us to a right relationship with Himself through His Son, Yeshua. He also restores relationships. He is the only One who can through His infinite love, grace and unbounding mercy.
After I arrived in my office and checked my email I began reading a daily devotion I receive in my email. The person writing the devotion began by alluding to the old TV show, "Father Knows Best." Again, I made the connection between this TV show title to our heavenly Father. He does know best. Always.....
Words are something aren't they? G-d used them to create our universe and He later said that no one can control the tongue. Words can be used for for evil. Scripture also tells us that the heart is deceitful above all things and Yeshua said, that what is in the heart will proceed out of the mouth. Jeremiah 17:9 and Matthew 12:34
Jeremiah sums it up this way in chapter 9, verse 8: Their tongue is a deadly arrow; it speaks deceitfully. With their mouths they all speak cordially to their neighbors, but in their hearts they set traps for them.
What is the remedy, therefore, for our tongue? How can we tame it and put it in submission that only wholesome and praiseworthy words are spoken?
Those are good questions and some that we should come back to frequently. A good tool to use is something like BibleGateway where you can search for passages of scripture even with just one word. Try doing a keyword search with the word "mouth" and you will be astounded about how much is in scripture concerning "mouth" and "words." This is a good place to start in healing your speech.
Psalm 37 is one of my favorites. There is so much in this Psalm. Concerning what we are thinking about this morning, look at verses 27 to 34:
Another way to let the law of G-d get in and stay in our heart is to DO the law. If you reading the Torah every Shabbat you will be reading the laws and commandments. You will know what G-d thinks about tatoos, eating, holidays, deaths, prayers, dress, relationships, and all other life lessons. In Exodus 19, Moses spoke the L-rd commanded words to the people and all the people answered, "All that the L-rd has spoken we will do!" In Hebrew this read, Na'ase V'nishma!. We will say and we will do.
John 14:15 says that of we love G-d we will obey His commands. And Psalm 37:31 says that the righteous man's tongue speaks justice and the righteous man is one who has the law of his G-d in his heart. Need I say more?
Psalm 119:1 - Blessed are those whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of the L-rd......
Father Knows Best
This morning I was listening to the radio as I was driving to work and the news came on. I wasn't totally focused on what the news person was saying but I caught one phrase, "restoration specialist." I believe he was saying that some company called "restoration specialists" was funding the program on the air. But when I heard the phrase, "restoration specialist" I immediately thought of Father G-d. He is in the business of restoration. He restores us to a right relationship with Himself through His Son, Yeshua. He also restores relationships. He is the only One who can through His infinite love, grace and unbounding mercy.
After I arrived in my office and checked my email I began reading a daily devotion I receive in my email. The person writing the devotion began by alluding to the old TV show, "Father Knows Best." Again, I made the connection between this TV show title to our heavenly Father. He does know best. Always.....
Words are something aren't they? G-d used them to create our universe and He later said that no one can control the tongue. Words can be used for for evil. Scripture also tells us that the heart is deceitful above all things and Yeshua said, that what is in the heart will proceed out of the mouth. Jeremiah 17:9 and Matthew 12:34
Jeremiah sums it up this way in chapter 9, verse 8: Their tongue is a deadly arrow; it speaks deceitfully. With their mouths they all speak cordially to their neighbors, but in their hearts they set traps for them.
What is the remedy, therefore, for our tongue? How can we tame it and put it in submission that only wholesome and praiseworthy words are spoken?
Those are good questions and some that we should come back to frequently. A good tool to use is something like BibleGateway where you can search for passages of scripture even with just one word. Try doing a keyword search with the word "mouth" and you will be astounded about how much is in scripture concerning "mouth" and "words." This is a good place to start in healing your speech.
Psalm 37 is one of my favorites. There is so much in this Psalm. Concerning what we are thinking about this morning, look at verses 27 to 34:
Depart from evil and do good, so you will abide forever. For the L-rd loves justice and does not forsake His godly ones; they are preserved forever, but the descendants of the wicked will be cut off. The righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever. The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks justice. The law of his G-d is in his heart; his steps do not slip. The wicked spies upon the righteous and seeks to kill him. The L-rd will not leave him in his hand or let him be condemned when he is judged. Wait for the L-rd and keep His way, and He will exalt you to inherit the land; when the wicked are cut off, you will see it.This passage answers the question of how can we tame the tongue? Verse 31 describes the righteous who controls his tongue like this: Let the law of G-d be in your heart. How do we do this do you say? First of all, study and read the law over and over. This is something we do on Shabbat. There is a Torah reading for every Shabbat of the year and we repeat this cycle over and over. It is necessary to give health to our bones and strength to our souls. Psalm 119 is the longest Psalm and the entire missive is given to the subject of the law.
Another way to let the law of G-d get in and stay in our heart is to DO the law. If you reading the Torah every Shabbat you will be reading the laws and commandments. You will know what G-d thinks about tatoos, eating, holidays, deaths, prayers, dress, relationships, and all other life lessons. In Exodus 19, Moses spoke the L-rd commanded words to the people and all the people answered, "All that the L-rd has spoken we will do!" In Hebrew this read, Na'ase V'nishma!. We will say and we will do.
John 14:15 says that of we love G-d we will obey His commands. And Psalm 37:31 says that the righteous man's tongue speaks justice and the righteous man is one who has the law of his G-d in his heart. Need I say more?
Psalm 119:1 - Blessed are those whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of the L-rd......
Friday, September 9, 2011
Beauty For Ashes
I have had a heavy burden on my heart and mind for several days now. I can think of some tangible things that are bothering me but I really don't think it is any one thing that is brining me down. Joy seems like something I have to work to dredge up from within.
I turn to the L-rd of course in times like these; I hate feeling down and depressed. I try to flip those feelings over and think on "good and pleasant things." Phil 4 - But still that heaviness is like a blanket. The talk this week at work, on the news, on the radio, etc. has been all about remembering 9/11 - certainly a horrific event that we should never and couldn't possibly ever forget. The only certainity we have in this life is that all of us will die someday. Not a very pleasant thought really.
But this morning in the middle of all this turmoil swirling in my thoughts I remembered Rosh Hashanah is coming soon. Rosh Hoshanah is a holiday that celebrates a new year full of hope and promise. It reminded me that G-d is bigger than all of the depressing things around me.
I was reading through some notes written by Tim Hegg at www.TorahResource.com concerning the High Holy day of Rosh Hashanah. My heart was revived when I read these words:
This Rosh Hashanah as you listen for the sound of the shofar, I pray that you will be compelled to trust HaShem's description of reality and purpose in your heart to follow Him no matter what happens in this world.
I turn to the L-rd of course in times like these; I hate feeling down and depressed. I try to flip those feelings over and think on "good and pleasant things." Phil 4 - But still that heaviness is like a blanket. The talk this week at work, on the news, on the radio, etc. has been all about remembering 9/11 - certainly a horrific event that we should never and couldn't possibly ever forget. The only certainity we have in this life is that all of us will die someday. Not a very pleasant thought really.
But this morning in the middle of all this turmoil swirling in my thoughts I remembered Rosh Hashanah is coming soon. Rosh Hoshanah is a holiday that celebrates a new year full of hope and promise. It reminded me that G-d is bigger than all of the depressing things around me.
I was reading through some notes written by Tim Hegg at www.TorahResource.com concerning the High Holy day of Rosh Hashanah. My heart was revived when I read these words:
On this Yom Teruah we are called, once again, to reassess, to reconsider our priorities in light of G-d's rule. We are asked by HaShem to remember that even though it often does not appear to be so, He actually is reigning upon His throne, and He is bringing to pass those things which accomplish His will. We are compelled again to put away our natural way of thinking and seeing, and trust His description of reality.What a timely message this Rosh Hashanah. The L-rd of Hosts knows our makeup and He knew and knows that life on this earth separated from Him through our sin would be difficult and He, in His infinite and vast wisdom established His Holy days before the world began. I am so grateful to Him that His ways are higher and His thoughts are greater and His power is greater than anything I can even imagine. Ephesians 3:20
This Rosh Hashanah as you listen for the sound of the shofar, I pray that you will be compelled to trust HaShem's description of reality and purpose in your heart to follow Him no matter what happens in this world.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Baby Birthday Outfits
The three new grandbabies born last summer all celebrated first birthdays this summer 2011. To celebrate, I sewed an outfit for each and a matching doll for the girls. I thought I had captured pictures of all three outfits/sets but for now I only have one to share. This one is a dress for the youngest of the three born August 25th. She lives in Montana so I haven't been able to see her wear the outfit yet. And I forgot to take a picture of the doll. I will update my blog with pictures of all of these as soon as possible.
Not the best picture. I should have taken the picture of the dress hanging. And I didn't button the pinafore over the dress so you can't really see the effect. It's quite lovely and I cannot wait to see it on her.
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