Do not keep thinking about things in the past. If you do you will give them power over you and it will keep you in bondage. Christ died so that you might be free! You cannot change yesterday. Thinking unduly about it keeps those things alive in your mind. No good will come of that! you just inflict suffering upon yourself. To keep going down the same road, or round the same mountain will get you nowhere. Bring it all to God in prayer and ask His help for you to discipline your mind. You have the mind of Christ, but you have to let that mind control your thoughts. You need to renew your mind with the Christ mind. Let it take precedence. You can choose what or who you listen to! if you choose to dwell on unhelpful things, then your attitude in life is tinged with darkness. A shadow is cast over your thinking and it affects how you live. You can be free! Face the fact that part of you is dwelling on seperation, hurt, unforgiveness. Do not relive the pain. Start by forgiving yourself for not thinking wholesome thoughts and then ask God to cleanse and restore the mind of Christ again in you. THEN LET THEM GO!
'Stand fast in the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free, and don't be entangled again with the yoke of bondage' Gal 5:1
'Be Still'
'Be Still And Know That He is God'
Monday, 30 April 2012
Party Time!
I saw in my minds' eye a child sitting on a metal tray in party clothes. It was winter with snow all around. The child was sliding down hills and slopes laughing with arms in the air having a wonderful time.
The Lord is saying that you have entered a season of discovering fun again. It is the best adventure yet! The metal tray speaks of ordinary things. It was not a big sledge. It was something easy to acquire and did the job adequately. You will experience the wonder of each day as a child does. Simple things will become a delight. Just the exhilaration of being alive is being returned to you as a gift. You have known this before, but your life has become clouded with the burdens and cares of the world. He says that He also is enjoying the fun with you. Take Him along with you into every opportunity and relationship and see what He will do as you adventure together! The child on the tray was oblivious of the risk of falling off! Don't look at the risk factor! Everything involves some kind of risk, especially adventure!
' Don't trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy' 1 Tim 6:17
The Lord is saying that you have entered a season of discovering fun again. It is the best adventure yet! The metal tray speaks of ordinary things. It was not a big sledge. It was something easy to acquire and did the job adequately. You will experience the wonder of each day as a child does. Simple things will become a delight. Just the exhilaration of being alive is being returned to you as a gift. You have known this before, but your life has become clouded with the burdens and cares of the world. He says that He also is enjoying the fun with you. Take Him along with you into every opportunity and relationship and see what He will do as you adventure together! The child on the tray was oblivious of the risk of falling off! Don't look at the risk factor! Everything involves some kind of risk, especially adventure!
' Don't trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy' 1 Tim 6:17
Thursday, 26 April 2012
Come And Collect.
I am watching over you. Watching eagerly your every thought and action. Watching and waiting for signs of earnest, steadfast, seeking of Me. I wait for you to come to Me with ALL your petitions, thanksgiving and worship. Often I wait in vain. I am so much more ready to give to you than you are to receive. Because you are often restless I have to delay in my blessing to you. Still your heart again. I speak with a still small voice. Become more acquanted with My voice. Make sure that you draw apart and spend time with Me.
Do not think that your seeking is in vain. Those that seek, find. It is a promise. You feel that you are seeking and seeking and it is a long time until you find. Take heart! there is an end to this journey. When you come into the place I have prepared for you, you will find new joy, new hope and new strength for the next stage. There is a place by Me waiting for you to fill it. You are always in My thoughts, and I have already prepared that which is your inheritence. You do not need to wait until you reach heaven. It is for you now. There is a down payment that is waiting for you to collect. Come now!
'Without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him' Heb 11:6
Do not think that your seeking is in vain. Those that seek, find. It is a promise. You feel that you are seeking and seeking and it is a long time until you find. Take heart! there is an end to this journey. When you come into the place I have prepared for you, you will find new joy, new hope and new strength for the next stage. There is a place by Me waiting for you to fill it. You are always in My thoughts, and I have already prepared that which is your inheritence. You do not need to wait until you reach heaven. It is for you now. There is a down payment that is waiting for you to collect. Come now!
'Without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him' Heb 11:6
Rivers Shall Flow
For the water to flow there has to come a breaking. Moses struck the rock for the children of Israel to have water. Jesus side was pierced with a spear, and both blood and water issued forth. For the child to be born, the waters in the womb have to break.
A person who has been broken, chastened and disciplined, by the Lord is someone He can use. The person who has had nail prints in their hands, and experienced the cross in their lives, who has suffered as part of His sufferings, is pliable and compassionate in a way that others are not. This kind of person easily forgives, because they know in their hearts that they also have been forgiven much. They reach out with a hand of friendship and understanding, giving kindness to others. Because they know Him who has loved them beyond knowing.
This kind of person does not seek gain for themselves, they do not quickly judge another, they do not always want the best seat, the best clothes, the recognition of others. Instead they bless, and seek the promotion of those around them and delight when others are blessed.
This person has suffered setbacks, disillusionment, disappointment, discouragement until they have been bled dry of it all. Yet still something within them keeps going. Something within them issues forth life. Death works in them that life might come forth in others. This is a spiritual principle hard to understand. Pure waters come forth from their innermost being. They are like Jesus.
'For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. So that death worketh in us, but life in you' Rom 7:11,12
A person who has been broken, chastened and disciplined, by the Lord is someone He can use. The person who has had nail prints in their hands, and experienced the cross in their lives, who has suffered as part of His sufferings, is pliable and compassionate in a way that others are not. This kind of person easily forgives, because they know in their hearts that they also have been forgiven much. They reach out with a hand of friendship and understanding, giving kindness to others. Because they know Him who has loved them beyond knowing.
This kind of person does not seek gain for themselves, they do not quickly judge another, they do not always want the best seat, the best clothes, the recognition of others. Instead they bless, and seek the promotion of those around them and delight when others are blessed.
This person has suffered setbacks, disillusionment, disappointment, discouragement until they have been bled dry of it all. Yet still something within them keeps going. Something within them issues forth life. Death works in them that life might come forth in others. This is a spiritual principle hard to understand. Pure waters come forth from their innermost being. They are like Jesus.
'For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. So that death worketh in us, but life in you' Rom 7:11,12
Wednesday, 25 April 2012
Paying The Price!
Allow God to weave the pattern of your life. Let Him choose the colours of your days. He is a Master Artist and knows exactly how to arrange the right mix. You see, days of pleasantness and blue skies will not make you an overcomer. Shades of ease and sweet roses will not shape your character in the way he needs it to be. For you to count in the Kingdom of God you have to pay a price. And that price is displayed in the kind of crown you wear.
Your God wants you to reign with Him as a King on this earth. He wants you to have authority and power, and to wield it on His behalf. So you have to earn the right to make decrees and administer in His kingdom. He has to be able to trust that you won't leave the ship at the last minute in case it sinks! When you up against it, and all around you seems chaos, He needs you to be there as His ambassader and trust you won't crumble too.
So you have to pass through the fire, and through the waters, and through the valleys, so that you become seasoned and mature, and trustworthy. God does not give His tasks to people with no backbone! If you really want to know His glory then you have to suffer with Him over His world, and be willing to 'muck in' by taking on His burdens of prayer and His assignments.
Sometimes the shadows are long, and the colours of your days dark. But shadows are needed to give depth to the landscape. Everything would be flat without the darker things in this life throwing the highlights into view. So if your days that He has chosen for you seem tinged with sadness and pain, know that He is allowing it all for a purpose. Your life will count. You are paying a price. That is if you have asked Him to use you and made yourself available for His purposes.
'And He said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt' Mark 14:36.
Your God wants you to reign with Him as a King on this earth. He wants you to have authority and power, and to wield it on His behalf. So you have to earn the right to make decrees and administer in His kingdom. He has to be able to trust that you won't leave the ship at the last minute in case it sinks! When you up against it, and all around you seems chaos, He needs you to be there as His ambassader and trust you won't crumble too.
So you have to pass through the fire, and through the waters, and through the valleys, so that you become seasoned and mature, and trustworthy. God does not give His tasks to people with no backbone! If you really want to know His glory then you have to suffer with Him over His world, and be willing to 'muck in' by taking on His burdens of prayer and His assignments.
Sometimes the shadows are long, and the colours of your days dark. But shadows are needed to give depth to the landscape. Everything would be flat without the darker things in this life throwing the highlights into view. So if your days that He has chosen for you seem tinged with sadness and pain, know that He is allowing it all for a purpose. Your life will count. You are paying a price. That is if you have asked Him to use you and made yourself available for His purposes.
'And He said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt' Mark 14:36.
Tuesday, 24 April 2012
Prove All Things.
You will reap! Just be patient. You have sown many seeds over the years. Different seeds take varied amounts of time before they germinate. Usually the ones that germinate quickly also fade quickly! if you are after long term fruitfulness go for sowing the larger seeds that take more time to grow. Some Cactus in the desert can take over twenty years to grow, but see how they tower above the scenery and how they store water!
Be careful where you plant your seed. Test the ground first. Do not waste your time sowing into poor soil. Not everyone wants to be saved. Not everyone wants to honour the Lord and live a righteous life. Not everyone wants to do good. Make sure that you are praying about the things God wants you to pray about. Some people will not respond to your prayers, so don't pray for them. Ask God who and what you should be praying for.
Treat everyone with grace and respect, even the girl at the supermarket till! But be wise in who you open your heart to, and who you trust. Trust the Lord only.
'Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces' Matt7:6
Be careful where you plant your seed. Test the ground first. Do not waste your time sowing into poor soil. Not everyone wants to be saved. Not everyone wants to honour the Lord and live a righteous life. Not everyone wants to do good. Make sure that you are praying about the things God wants you to pray about. Some people will not respond to your prayers, so don't pray for them. Ask God who and what you should be praying for.
Treat everyone with grace and respect, even the girl at the supermarket till! But be wise in who you open your heart to, and who you trust. Trust the Lord only.
'Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces' Matt7:6
Monday, 23 April 2012
Turn Around!
It is painful to resist God. To pull against Him cause exhaustion and grief. Sometimes we are foolish! We think we know best and chaff against His leading. We pull one way and God is leading us another. We allow our natural mind, our own desires, our Christian ideas, to influence us. Human nature is strong, especially when we feel that we are right in any given situation. We may be right to our own mind, but not to God's. The simplest way to resolve the situation of aimlessly wandering around with no sense of purpose is to get right back to where you took the wrong turning.
Ask the Lord to show where you ignorantly went astray in your thinking or actions. You might need to change your plans, or take back something you said, or face in another direction. The gifts and calling of God in your life stay the same Rom 11:29 He has not changed His mind. He is merciful and you can return to the pathway intended for you.
I saw picture of someone walking down a road that led to a 'dead end' with a wall in front of them. They tried to get out by climbing over the wall but just wearied themselves. They had to turn around and go back the way they had come until they were out of it. And then begin again.
'Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you' Ps 32:9
Ask the Lord to show where you ignorantly went astray in your thinking or actions. You might need to change your plans, or take back something you said, or face in another direction. The gifts and calling of God in your life stay the same Rom 11:29 He has not changed His mind. He is merciful and you can return to the pathway intended for you.
I saw picture of someone walking down a road that led to a 'dead end' with a wall in front of them. They tried to get out by climbing over the wall but just wearied themselves. They had to turn around and go back the way they had come until they were out of it. And then begin again.
'Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you' Ps 32:9
Friday, 20 April 2012
In A Process
The Vine is a plant that is not grown for its ornamental shape, shade, fragrant blossoms, or its wood! It is grown soley for the fruit it produces. It only produces fruit in abundance as it is trained, shaped, and pruned. If not pruned it can run away with itself, and grow straggly, and become unfruitful! The world loves the fruit of the Vine! The wine produced from it is sampled with relish, drunk in abundance, discussed with fervour! It is no wonder that Christ used the illustration of the Vine to teach us to 'Abide in Him'. Not one Vine is planted without the owner thinking only of the fruit. So our 'Husbandmen' looks at our lives and desires fruit, more fruit, much fruit from us. And this is accomplished through pruning.
We do not like the idea of pruning, it speaks of loss and some pain. But when we suffer the Spirit of God and glory rests on us. When we are afflicted, God shows us His tenderness and that leads us to understand and sympathise with the misery of others. Left to ourselves we would become self centred, and become straggling branches on the Vine. The things we learn whilst we go through the pruning process, teach us to pray for the blessing of others, not just ourselves. Our times of affliction, sorrow, suffering, can become times of the greatest blessings in life. The secret is to'Abide in the Vine'. Rest in Jesus love, stay put in His presence, believe that He is using this time for your profit not for your punishment. You are in a process that will lead to you bearing much fruit.
'I am the vine, you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing..............This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples'. John 15: 5,
We do not like the idea of pruning, it speaks of loss and some pain. But when we suffer the Spirit of God and glory rests on us. When we are afflicted, God shows us His tenderness and that leads us to understand and sympathise with the misery of others. Left to ourselves we would become self centred, and become straggling branches on the Vine. The things we learn whilst we go through the pruning process, teach us to pray for the blessing of others, not just ourselves. Our times of affliction, sorrow, suffering, can become times of the greatest blessings in life. The secret is to'Abide in the Vine'. Rest in Jesus love, stay put in His presence, believe that He is using this time for your profit not for your punishment. You are in a process that will lead to you bearing much fruit.
'I am the vine, you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing..............This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples'. John 15: 5,
Thursday, 19 April 2012
Care Free?
I only ask of you that you abide with Me. I delight in your friendship and presence. Let us be together as one. I am meek and lowly of heart and do not put heavy demands upon you. Let us enjoy the friendship we have and rest in it. I will not dissapoint you, or change in My attitude of pure love towards you. All I ask is that you return to Me and don't run away. Be sure that I am always available to you and will not for one moment forsake you. Share your heart with Me and I will open my heart to you. Look above the wind and the waves around you and walk on the water! I am reality. I am here. I am constant in my love and purpose towards you. I enjoy your friendship. Let us laugh and cry together. I feel your hurts and pains and come to help you. You can be 'care free' as you let Me shoulder your burdens. Try it!
'Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart'. Ps 37:4
'Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart'. Ps 37:4
Wednesday, 18 April 2012
He Cares About You!
Give God ALL your worries. Because He cares about you. Carrying them around with you will wear you out. It is like taking huge amounts of luggage,hoisting them on your shoulders, stretching your arms around them, and making such slow progress! You were not made to carry all that burden.
The Bible speaks about 'casting' our care on the Lord. It is like a fisherman with a rod flinging the line high and purposefully into the deep. Fling everthing on the Lord, deliberately, decisively, desperately! in an act of abandonment and surrender. Don't hold back anything. Give it all to God as soon as you feel concerned, heavy, even depressed..
In that way you are humbling yourself before the Lord. You are saying 'I can't manage this thing, but YOU can'.You are handing over the control, and He will take the strain. Surrender yourself again today. He will not let you down. If you continue to hold onto it you will be saying that you are better than Him at managing your affairs, that He can't cope with it, and that amounts to pride.
'Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast ALL your anxiety on him because he cares for you' 1Pet 5:7.
The Bible speaks about 'casting' our care on the Lord. It is like a fisherman with a rod flinging the line high and purposefully into the deep. Fling everthing on the Lord, deliberately, decisively, desperately! in an act of abandonment and surrender. Don't hold back anything. Give it all to God as soon as you feel concerned, heavy, even depressed..
In that way you are humbling yourself before the Lord. You are saying 'I can't manage this thing, but YOU can'.You are handing over the control, and He will take the strain. Surrender yourself again today. He will not let you down. If you continue to hold onto it you will be saying that you are better than Him at managing your affairs, that He can't cope with it, and that amounts to pride.
'Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast ALL your anxiety on him because he cares for you' 1Pet 5:7.
Tuesday, 17 April 2012
More Haste, Less Speed!
You are trying to rush yourself. You are running hard as if you have missed the train. You have not missed anything. Nothing is ever wasted, there are always crumbs left over. Remember the loaves and fishes. My timing is perfect, and always on schedule. Do not think 'there is little time left to get everything accomplished' for I can do in a moment what you think will take a life time.
'Beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day'. 2 Pet 3:8
'Beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day'. 2 Pet 3:8
Monday, 16 April 2012
Be Still.
Just sit before me. You don't need to DO anything or SAY anything. But come and wait expectantly. I am about to come and need you to be there. You will miss Me if you are not available to wait. I have things to tell you, plans to give you, and new strength to impart to you. All you need to do is wait before me. Above all I want you to enjoy the presence of My Spirit. You have already poured out your heart to Me. I have heard your requests made with thanksgiving. So now just come. Be still in my presence. Don't keep repeating words to me, I have already heard. Sit with Me and I will sit with you. There is great comfort in just 'being' together. Come and just 'be'.
'Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart: wait, I say, on the Lord'. Ps 27:14
'Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart: wait, I say, on the Lord'. Ps 27:14
Friday, 13 April 2012
Small Steps.
Your obedience is tested by the things you can do. Don't waste your time thinking about things you would do if you had opportunity! Just take the next step on your agenda. Be kind to those who come your way. Your life is a witness even though you cannot see it. Most people are trapped in their own world of sorrow, grief, hopelessness, and unbelief. But your presence brings a light into their lives, and even a smile from you can unlock the pain in someone else and cause them to think on God.
Small steps of obedience, taken by love, lead to much greater fruitfulness. I am looking, watching, and caring for you in ways you do not comprehend. It only takes one small match to start a roaring fire. You can be that person, just like the Hebrew servant girl. She spoke the right word, because she cared, to the wife of Naaman, about there being a prophet in Israel who would heal him of his leprousy. So keep on being yourself, and LET My Spirit flow through you unhindered. LEAN on Me. Things will not be accomplished YOUR way, but they will flourish MY way!
'Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding'. Prov 3:5
Small steps of obedience, taken by love, lead to much greater fruitfulness. I am looking, watching, and caring for you in ways you do not comprehend. It only takes one small match to start a roaring fire. You can be that person, just like the Hebrew servant girl. She spoke the right word, because she cared, to the wife of Naaman, about there being a prophet in Israel who would heal him of his leprousy. So keep on being yourself, and LET My Spirit flow through you unhindered. LEAN on Me. Things will not be accomplished YOUR way, but they will flourish MY way!
'Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding'. Prov 3:5
Thursday, 12 April 2012
Speak Lord!
An important part of the Christian life is receiving instructions from God. We have the Bible to teach us, but also we need that word to come direct from the Lord in our particular need or circumstances. It has to be living and vital for each day. We can count on God to teach us His way, and show us His path in special difficulties or times of perplexity. Jesus said that His sheep hear His voice. And there is nothing more wonderful than when He speaks into the heart with a direct word of instruction, encouragement, and enlightenment.
There is something He wants to say especially for you! Not for others, but for YOU in your circumstances and life. He is so interested in your life and longs to communicate His purposes to you. But you need to wait quietly before God, in your times of prayer, in your heart as you go about your daily tasks. Show God that you are 'waiting' to hear what He has to say to you. He WILL speak, when you are ready to hear.
"Show me thy ways, O Lord; Teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: For thou art the God of my salvation: On thee do I wait all the day" Psalm 25:4,5
There is something He wants to say especially for you! Not for others, but for YOU in your circumstances and life. He is so interested in your life and longs to communicate His purposes to you. But you need to wait quietly before God, in your times of prayer, in your heart as you go about your daily tasks. Show God that you are 'waiting' to hear what He has to say to you. He WILL speak, when you are ready to hear.
"Show me thy ways, O Lord; Teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: For thou art the God of my salvation: On thee do I wait all the day" Psalm 25:4,5
Wednesday, 11 April 2012
My Desire.
I am waiting for you Lord! I am watching each day for your leading. It is your presence alone that I desire. it is your favour that I want. It is YOU alone who can satisfy my deepest longings. And ONLY You who answers prayer. If I turn to the right, I need you. if I turn to the left I need You. In all my ways I acknowledge You O Lord. Your presence satisfies my heart and your power upholds my going. Establish me O Lord and answer me , for it is You I long for. Without You I am lost, there is no hope, and purposeful living evades me. Only You deal kindly, only You are just. Thank You for walking with me and sustaining me. Thank You for giving Joy and Peace, and Love to me. Fill me again that I may see the rivers flow out of my innermost being.
'I am the Vine, you are the branches: He that abides in Me and I in him, the same brings forth much fruit: for without me you can do nothing'. John 15:5
'I am the Vine, you are the branches: He that abides in Me and I in him, the same brings forth much fruit: for without me you can do nothing'. John 15:5
Tuesday, 10 April 2012
Answer To Prayer!
Four years ago I stood in an isolated village in Uganda. I was offerred some water for washing my hands. It was a dirty, milky colour, and the children gathered around had plastic bottles filled with the water. I asked a woman if they had any clean water to drink and her reply was that this was all they had. My heart went out to those people and I stood there and asked God to provide them with a well.
I have been in many villages in over twenty years and never prayed that prayer. As I left Uganda that year I hoped that there would be some provision for those lovely people.
But nothing came until just a few months ago when a friend called me from Canada. He said his church wanted to put a well in Uganda and did I know who could organise it? I replied that Pastor Ruth, who I work with out there, could oversee the work and that I knew where the well could go. The total cost was about £3,000 and with gifts from the uk together with the Canadian Dollars we were able to find enough money.
Two weeks ago the well was finished. The children in that village have pure crystal water to drink. Everyone knows that God has done this wonderful thing for them! AND THAT HE ANSWERS PRAYER!
You can see a short video (8 mins) of the well being opened by Pastor Ruth on this link:
Chris Reading (uk)
Open Door Missions International.
Monday, 9 April 2012
Start Again!
Yes! the best is really yet to come! Do not think that the days of laughter, freedom, pleasure are over, and you are to languish in mediocrity, just fulfilling the routine's of each day. No! there is joy untold prepared for you. There are adventures in My kingdom planned for your life. Do you want them? There is no age in my kingdom, only growth. There are things I have to say to you if you will still your heart to hear My voice. Position youself to receive my teaching each day through the still small voice of scripture, circumstances and daily contacts.
I have come that you may have Life in abundance regardless of your circumstances. I am able to fill you to overflowing so that out of your being will flow rivers of water. LET Me give you laughter today and joy in abundance so that others will see the light on your face and hope in your eyes. Stop looking at the impossible and start over again, trusting, believing, and receiving. I am here for YOU!
'So Sarah laughed to herself as she thought, "After I am worn out and my master is old, will I now have this pleasure?" Then the Lord said to Abram, "Why did Sarah laugh and say "Will I really have a child, now that I am old?" Is anything too hard for the Lord?" Gen 18:12
I have come that you may have Life in abundance regardless of your circumstances. I am able to fill you to overflowing so that out of your being will flow rivers of water. LET Me give you laughter today and joy in abundance so that others will see the light on your face and hope in your eyes. Stop looking at the impossible and start over again, trusting, believing, and receiving. I am here for YOU!
'So Sarah laughed to herself as she thought, "After I am worn out and my master is old, will I now have this pleasure?" Then the Lord said to Abram, "Why did Sarah laugh and say "Will I really have a child, now that I am old?" Is anything too hard for the Lord?" Gen 18:12
Friday, 6 April 2012
A Dusty Road.
Two disciples were walking along a road going towards a village. They were busy discussing events that were on their minds. They were confused, despondant, disappointed, and doubting because all their hopes were dashed. Jesus was walking that same road. He saw that they were sad and downcast. He asked them all about it Lk 24:13-17. They poured it all out to Him, just thinking He was a stranger.
Jesus has walked through everything we walk through in life. He has been there before us, and even knows what we think and feel beforehand. The two people said 'we had hoped' but now all is lost. To them all their dreams had come to an end; there was no future hope. Looking at it the way they saw it all, nothing made sense.
But it was only half the truth! There was more to come that turned out to be 'the best'. Jesus was with them, when they thought He was dead. Jesus explained the scriptures to them when they could not understand. Jesus came and ate with them and revealed His presence. Sorrow was suddenly turned to joy!
Often we jump to conclusions in our lives. We don't give God a chance to finish what He was saying to us; we pre-judge the outcome insted of waiting for Him to unfold new things and bring light. We want to 'know the end before the beginning'! When you pour your heart out to Him you can be sure that there is another chapter to come in your life that will put things in a new light.
Jesus has walked through everything we walk through in life. He has been there before us, and even knows what we think and feel beforehand. The two people said 'we had hoped' but now all is lost. To them all their dreams had come to an end; there was no future hope. Looking at it the way they saw it all, nothing made sense.
But it was only half the truth! There was more to come that turned out to be 'the best'. Jesus was with them, when they thought He was dead. Jesus explained the scriptures to them when they could not understand. Jesus came and ate with them and revealed His presence. Sorrow was suddenly turned to joy!
Often we jump to conclusions in our lives. We don't give God a chance to finish what He was saying to us; we pre-judge the outcome insted of waiting for Him to unfold new things and bring light. We want to 'know the end before the beginning'! When you pour your heart out to Him you can be sure that there is another chapter to come in your life that will put things in a new light.
Thursday, 5 April 2012
Stick With Me!
Do not think that I have abdicated responsibility for your life and circumstances because you cannot 'see' the changes that you want. I am at work 'behind the scenes', in the depths of your soul. This time is necessary for a deeper relationship with me to become 'real', not superficial, but a bonding with me to the very core of your being. The reality of something is proved by it standing the test of time and circumstances.
You have heard the phrase 'a fair weather friend', someone who walks with you, desires to know you, when it suits them. They don't stick with you through thick and thin, as they say, when things get tough, the tough get going!
I am one who sticks closer than a brother! Please stick to me in that same way. I will bring you through, and truly this season WILL change and you will have much light at the end of it.
'For with God nothing shall be impossible' Luke 1:37
You have heard the phrase 'a fair weather friend', someone who walks with you, desires to know you, when it suits them. They don't stick with you through thick and thin, as they say, when things get tough, the tough get going!
I am one who sticks closer than a brother! Please stick to me in that same way. I will bring you through, and truly this season WILL change and you will have much light at the end of it.
'For with God nothing shall be impossible' Luke 1:37
Wednesday, 4 April 2012
Sifting!
I woke up this morning with these words on my mind, "I have prayed for you, that your faith fail not: and when you are converted, strengthen your brethren " Luke 22:32 where Jesus speaks to Peter about Satan desiring to have him and sift him like wheat.
Jesus did not tell Peter that he would avoid being 'sifted' but rather that Jesus Himself had prayed personally for Peter that his faith would not fail. And Peter experienced the answer to that prayer, though he had to pass through deep waters as when he denied Christ.
Because it was the first thing I thought of when I awoke, I felt God was telling me that Jesus himself, personally, had prayed for me. And that though I was being sifted my faith would not fail. I felt loved, secure, and strengthened. When God speaks to us, whether it be within as a still small voice, or through the scriptures, or by some other means, we are always encouraged and helped. There is never any condemnation, only LOVE.
God was telling me that though the sifting, wrought through the actions of Satan, was heavy and dark. That I was being tossed one way then the other, and the instruments used were sharp causing pain, the outcome was for the strengthening of the Brethren. There was a purpose in it all. I was becoming stronger than ever, my faith was unfailing because He had prayed for me!
How does He pray for us? Through His brethren all over the world who are in tune with the Spirit of God. He is not confined to one place, or in one person. He is in all who believe, and they pray His prayers for Him.
Jesus did not tell Peter that he would avoid being 'sifted' but rather that Jesus Himself had prayed personally for Peter that his faith would not fail. And Peter experienced the answer to that prayer, though he had to pass through deep waters as when he denied Christ.
Because it was the first thing I thought of when I awoke, I felt God was telling me that Jesus himself, personally, had prayed for me. And that though I was being sifted my faith would not fail. I felt loved, secure, and strengthened. When God speaks to us, whether it be within as a still small voice, or through the scriptures, or by some other means, we are always encouraged and helped. There is never any condemnation, only LOVE.
God was telling me that though the sifting, wrought through the actions of Satan, was heavy and dark. That I was being tossed one way then the other, and the instruments used were sharp causing pain, the outcome was for the strengthening of the Brethren. There was a purpose in it all. I was becoming stronger than ever, my faith was unfailing because He had prayed for me!
How does He pray for us? Through His brethren all over the world who are in tune with the Spirit of God. He is not confined to one place, or in one person. He is in all who believe, and they pray His prayers for Him.
Tuesday, 3 April 2012
Speak Out!
Esther was raised into the position of queen for a specific purpose. God worked through human circumstances to bring her into an influential place. Her heart had been prepared and she was equipped for the task that lay before her, the deliverance of God's people. Above all things she was abandoned to God (Mordecai, symbolic of the Holy Spirit) and said "If I perish, I perish".
As we are obedient to the Lord He places us in positions where we can influence people and circumstances around us. Some things we cannot change, but there are things that we can change. Focus on the things you are in a position to change, and don't fret over the things you cannot change. There is a time to speak out and not remain silent! Your words may be just the very thing that effects change for the good. If you remain silent when God wants you to speak and act, He will raise up someone else to do the job. But you will be in lack because of it. But first make sure that you have entered the throne room of God and spoken out on the behalf of those you are involved with. Stand in the gap. Interceed for them. Present your requests to the King, and He will stretch out the sceptre to you!
'If you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this' Esth 4:14.
As we are obedient to the Lord He places us in positions where we can influence people and circumstances around us. Some things we cannot change, but there are things that we can change. Focus on the things you are in a position to change, and don't fret over the things you cannot change. There is a time to speak out and not remain silent! Your words may be just the very thing that effects change for the good. If you remain silent when God wants you to speak and act, He will raise up someone else to do the job. But you will be in lack because of it. But first make sure that you have entered the throne room of God and spoken out on the behalf of those you are involved with. Stand in the gap. Interceed for them. Present your requests to the King, and He will stretch out the sceptre to you!
'If you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this' Esth 4:14.
Monday, 2 April 2012
Living Water
Today I will give you water. Water in abundance. Everlasting water that will quench your thirst and flood your dry soul. Are you thirsty for Me? Then sing! You may not feel like it. It may seem strange to you, but do it. Sing! Allow your innermost being to rise up and petition Me for streams to flow out of you. You do not need people to bless you. You have Me. I will bless and restore your soul.
Where there is no water, where you are in spiritually dry conditions, and all those around you are in unbelief, you can call to Me. I will refresh YOU. Dig your own well. Sing! sing! to it. The water will begin to bubble and rise and then you can move on in the refreshing that will come to you.
'They continued on to Beer, the well where the Lord said to Moses, "gather the people together and I will give them water." Then Israel sang this song: "Spring up O well! Sing about it." Num 21:17 Beer was a place that had involved weeping and mourning for the Israelites. It was there that they sang the song of the well!
Where there is no water, where you are in spiritually dry conditions, and all those around you are in unbelief, you can call to Me. I will refresh YOU. Dig your own well. Sing! sing! to it. The water will begin to bubble and rise and then you can move on in the refreshing that will come to you.
'They continued on to Beer, the well where the Lord said to Moses, "gather the people together and I will give them water." Then Israel sang this song: "Spring up O well! Sing about it." Num 21:17 Beer was a place that had involved weeping and mourning for the Israelites. It was there that they sang the song of the well!
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