“And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” ~Philippians 2:8
Daily Inspirations – April 9, 2017
Happy Palm Sunday! As we move forward into this Holy week let us keep our gaze on Jesus and be reminded of what He did for us.
“Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest.” ~Matthew 21:9
2016 in Review – Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! 🎄🎄🎄
If I had one word to sum up 2016, I would say hard. This year I had high hopes that my health would be restored but things have not worked out that way. However, things have happened exactly as they were supposed too. One quote describes exactly how I feel. Kelli Stuart states, There is a lot of evil in the world but there is also a lot of good, so let’s focus on the good. In 2016, I have seen a lot of good in the midst of hard. When I’m feeling down I remind myself of the good God has done. His grace is sufficient. I do not know what my future holds, or if my prayers will be answered in the way I think they should be. Although, I do know God will give me His strength to press on. Since being sick, I have begun to view life in a different way.
Life is short and none of us know what is ahead so instead of spending our days weary, bitter, or worried, we should be obedient to Jesus and live everyday to the fullest. Also, we need to live each day offering love and forgiveness to those around us. His yoke is easy and His burden is light, and we need to accept the peace that Jesus longs to give us.
I have started writing a list of what I call “Daily Joys.” Each day I write about the joys of my day and this helps me fight the battle of discouragement. I plan to chronicle my daily joys throughout 2017, and I hope you will do the same. You will be surprised how much cheer this exercise brings to a difficult day. Below are a few of my “Daily Joys,” and the good I have found in this year.
– My Salvation – My relationship with Jesus makes life worth living, He is my Savior and the Lover of my Soul.
-God has literally walked my family and I through fires and have helped us stand firm in the midst of difficult circumstances.
– Grace upon grace. Jesus revealed this to me in the deepest ways this year. One of my favorite songs says, “your grace abounds in deepest waters.” That is so true, and such a gift. This year when I’ve felt like everything was caving around me, Jesus always rescued me.
– Wondeful home health and Palliative nurses – This group of ladies bless and encourage me daily. All of my nurses and my palliative care physician have gone above and beyond what is expected in their care for me this year. I love each of you. Thanks for serving me so well and fighting for me!
– Everything has been stripped away. My health, job, finances, etc. While this may not sound good at first, it is. It is good because it has allowed me to lean on Jesus more than ever before, and I’ve seen a Him show up in amazing ways. He always provides.
– My Family – My parents have always been my best friends but during this trial we have gotten even closer. They take such good care of me, and I’ve treasured the extra moments we’ve had together. Also, I’m thankful for the extra time I get to spend with my extended family. My Gran stays with me two days a week to help out and my aunt and cousin Lexi visit me every Saturday. I’m so grateful for the extra time spent with them. They truly bring goodness and joy to my days.
– My Friends – When you experience trials, it shows you who are your true friends are. While most of my best friends aren’t local, they have encouraged me this year, and God has used them to bless me tremendously. They are my prayer warriors, encouragers, and counselors. I know I can always count o these ladies. They hold me up and are my tribe.
– My dogs Coco and Lucy – Animals are a gift from the Lord and they bring me so much joy each day. I thank God for them.
As you go throughout this Christmas week, take some time to reflect and thank God for the good He has given you this year.
Also, stay tuned to my blog as I have some new blog series that I will be announcing in the new year. In the meantime though I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I will see you in 2017!
Longing for Christ – Love
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” ~John 3:16
Love. Love represents everything God is and 1 John reminds us of that for it says that “God is love” (1 John 4:8). God loved us so much that He sacrificed his one and only son Jesus Christ on the cross to pay for our sins. It all started with a loving God, an obedient teenage girl named Mary, and a baby born in a manger. This is a gift that we could never repay. However, in return God wants our heart. Our whole heart. He wants us to die to self, live for Him, and according to His Word. Luke 1o:27 commands us to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and, Love your neighbor as yourself.”
As theologian Jeremy Taylor states, “Love is the greatest thing God can give us, for himself is love, and love is the greatest thing we can give to God, for it will also give ourselves. . . . The apostle calls love the bond of perfection. It is the old, and it is the new, and it is the great commandment, and it is all the commandments, for it is the fulfilling of the law.”
No matter who you are, where you’ve been, or what you’ve done — God is always ready for you to come to Him and receive His love and forgiveness. He is always there ready for us to come to Him. Only His perfect love will give the ultimate fulfillment we long for on this earth. Spouses, family, and friends may love us greatly, but Jesus’ love is the only love that will never fail in this life. As we fully accept the love of Christ, we are able to love others as the Bible commands and be the people God desires us to be.
As Christmas approaches the central focus should be on the birth of Christ and the love that He represents. It is so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays and lose sight of what the season is all about.
Christmas is not about me. Christmas is not about you. Christmas is not about presents or food. Christmas is about the Eternal love that was born in a manger to bring hope to the hopeless, peace to the restless, joy to the grieving, and love to the lost and hurting. It is a time to truly celebrate this baby who became our Savior, and praise Him for all He has done and will continue to do.
If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed this week, or if the holidays are a sad and lonely time for you please take a moment to remember that you are not alone. God’s love for you surpasses anything that you could ever imagine and the love of Christ is the greatest gift He has ever given so accept that love and a peace and joy that is unexplainable will fill your soul. Also, spend some time today doing something nice for someone else, and spend time encouraging them with the love of God because you never know how your act of kindness will impact their Christmas.
Longing for Christ – Joy
“And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” ~Luke 2:10-11
Joy. The Bible calls us to have joy every single day. Philippians 4:4 says to rejoice always. Even when we do not feel like it we are supposed to rejoice. That sounds good until you are going through a really hard season and then it just plain rough.
I have found myself during many sleepless nights saying “But God my health is terrible can’t you have a little sympathy? I don’t feel like rejoicing right now. What is joyful in this?” Some others may be saying, “but God my job is so hard and this is not at all where I thought I would be right now in my life. I am miserable and don’t know what my purpose is. When will one of my dreams finally come true?” Or “but God married life is not what I thought it would be. What happened to living happily ever after? I just don’t love him anymore or feel loved. And lastly, “but God I am in my 30s and STILL single. I have dreamed of being married for years and being a helpmate to someone. When will it be my turn already? ”
All of these scenarios many have experienced, and none of these make it easy to have joy, and are even worse during the holidays. How can we rejoice at Christmas when life is in shambles? This past two eeeks I have been on two strong iv antibiotics for a chronic bladder infection. These medications and the infection have wiped me out. This is not at all how I wanted to spend my days leading up to Christmas. After the year I have had I wanted a bit of a break.
However, that is when God so gently reminded me yet again that —Joy is not defined by the circumstances of life. Joy is simply Jesus. Joy is found in the tiny baby who was born in a manger. Joy is found in the one who lowered himself to be a servant and washed the disciples feet. Joy is found in Him who performed many miracles. Joy is found in the man who died on the cross and in the Savior who rose again. Joy is found in Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
When I take the focus off myself and put it on the Lord my circumstances suddenly feel lighter. As we focus on the greatness of Jesus and what He has done for us — our circumstances will not always change, but our perspective towards them will. Then, a great joy that we didn’t think was possible will fill our hearts and minds. Also, along with that joy the Lord will give His strength to help us walk the hard roads in a way that is honoring to Him.
As Christmas week is approaching take time to dwell on the only one who can make your joy complete.
Circle of Love
” Circle of love, halo of light. When Jesus was born on that Christmas night, and oh what a night, that holy night was, when Bethlehem glowed with a circle of love.”
If you know me, you know that I love Christmas movies, and for the last two years NBC has aired two movies written and produced by Dolly Parton. Both movies were inspired by true stories from Dolly’s childhood. The first one was called “Coat of Many Colors” based on the song that shared the same name. The second one is “Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love.” Dolly’s family was poor and didn’t have many earthly possessions but they were close to one another, and shared the love of Christ. These movies act as reminders for us today regarding what is most important. We would all benefit by learning a few lessons from Dolly and her family.
In the first one, Dolly’s mom made her a coat using old patchwork material. She treasured it and thought it was wonderful but her peers made fun of her. The experience upset and embarrassed her at first, but as she matured she was proud, and wore it each day acting as if it was the latest fashion. That coat was more than a coat, it represented the sacrifice and love of a mother. Throughout the movie, the Partons endured much suffering but the best gift to the family was Dolly’s Father accepting the gift of Salvation. This was a true miracle, and an answer to prayer.
The second movie focused around Christmas again, and the family seemed closer to the Lord and each other more than ever before. However, money was tight and getting Christmas presents for each other was a real sacrifice. Dolly and her siblings decided to come together, earn money, and help buy their mother the wedding band she wanted. They were even willing to give up their own gifts so they could do this. This was such a reminder of selflessness and loving one another. Most children (or even adults) would not do what the Parton family did, especially with such a joyful spirit.
These movies shared truths of what is most important, but in the society we live in today those standards and values are no longer respected. The most impressive fact during each movie was the emphasis the writers put on Jesus Christ, and everyone’s need for Salvation. Dolly shined the light of Jesus and didn’t tone down the Gospel message even once. This is a rarity, especially for a network such as NBC. The movie dwelled on a simpler time and shared with us the priorities of loving Jesus, family, and others. The movies also portrayed great humility and selflessness. Those principles can never be taken away no matter how rich or poor someone is. By living with these attitudes peace and joy will fill your hearts.
Careers, money, or extravagant things won’t last forever, but loving Jesus, family, and others with a humble heart and mind will never fade.
We live in a world of hustle and carry the mindset that portrays “it’s all about me,” and the entertainment industry feeds this attitude. However, that makes for a miserable and chaotic life.
As you go through December spend some time loving Jesus and adopt His heart for others. Ask God to give you wisdom on how to best love and encourage those around you. Live in and accept God’s love because that is the best gift of all.
Visit here for more information and to watch the movie online, and be sure to watch with your family.
Longing for Christ: Peace
Thanks for joining me on the second week of celebrating Advent. My post last week was about hope, and today’s focus will be on peace. One of my favorite verses within the Christmas story is Luke 2:14 which states, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
Not only did God give us the gift of Eternal life when He sacrificed His son on the cross, but with that came the gift of peace. All through the Bible there are references to the peace of God.
Because of this peace we can remain calm during chaos.
Because of this peace broken relationships can be restored.
Because of this peace fear no longer reigns supreme. God’s peace gives us victory and replaces our fears with His love.
Lastly, because of this peace the trials of life do not have to overwhelm us. As Philippians 4 states, God will give us peace beyond our understanding.
There are seasons in life when it seems this type of peace is impossible, but in Christ it is not. Two years ago when my health began to decline and my colon was removed, I never dreamed that years later things would be this difficult. I had hoped the surgery would eventually make me stronger and give me The quality of life I desired. However, that is not what happened. My health is still in a steady decline but life is not bad. Sure, I wish my health was better but thanks to God, my life is still good. The reason I can write these words, and genuinely mean them, is because of the peace I’ve found in Christ. He never fails to give me the peace I need everyday, and it is always enough.
Amidst the sickness, weariness, and hard days, God’s peace can always be found and that is what keeps me going, His peace is the greatest gift I have been given this year, and it can be yours as well. Whether you are going through a joyous season, or one with trials, God’s peace is yours for the taking. He desires and is delighted when we surrender our lives to Him and accept His peace. When you relinquish control, and give up your rights to Jesus, and let Him rule you will never be without it.
Spend some time talking to Jesus this week and allow His peace to fill your heart. It will make the road ahead easier to walk!
Happy Day After Thanksgiving!
Happy Black Friday! I hope you all enjoyed Thanksgiving yesterday. I did, and of course ate way too much. I cannot resist my mom’s pumpkin cake. It is delicious! I plan to spend the remainder of the holiday weekend relaxing and doing a whole lot of nothing – ha!
I’m addicted to Hallmark movies so a marathon of those is on the agenda. In addition to that, Robin Jones Gunn just released a brand new book in her new series Christy and Todd – The Baby Years. The first book in the series is titled “Sandy Toes,” and I can’t wait to spend my weekend reading it. I grew up reading “The Christy Miller Series” by Robin and they aided in my relationship with Christ as a teenager. Even though her books are fiction I am always encouraged spiritually by her writing, and I know this new one will be no exception. She has fiction for all ages so her books would be the perfect Christmas gift for the readers in your life.
Most importantly, I wanted to share with you that I will be writing an Advent series again this year, and it will begin on Sunday. The series is called “Longing For Christ,” and I look forward to writing and sharing about the hope of our Savior during this season. While this weekend is busy for most as you are traveling and spending time with family, be sure to spend some time with Jesus thanking Him for all He has done.
Glorifying Him above all else should be the most important part of our days and Holiday season so spend some time delighting in Him.
Also, thanks again for all of your prayers for my health. Thanksgiving exhausted me, but it was still wonderful and the Lord sustained me. It seems the bladder infection is returning. I had another culture done on Wednesday and will know the results of that next week. I am so thankful for all of my prayer warriors. Your prayers and encouragement keep me going!
Happy Thanksgiving Eve!
Happy Thanksgiving Eve! This might be my most favorite day of the year (aside from tomorrow).
For as long as I can remember, I have always loved the day before Thanksgiving because that is when my mom starts cooking and preparing for the ginormous Thanksgiving feast that we will enjoy on Thursday.
When I was in college I could not wait to be home for Thanksgiving break. This was always a special time and I always loved waking on both Wednesday and Thursday morning to the smell of Thanksgiving in the house. My college days are long gone, but the traditions are much the same. For the past few years I always spend this day with mom as she is preparing everything. I enjoy her food as we talk and prepare together. And of course we have holiday movies (Thank you, Hallmark) playing in the background. Although this year we may be enjoying a Gilmore Girls Marathon. Don’t judge, you know you do it too.
Even though I’m home and settled in for the holiday, I know today is busy and stressful for many of you. Whether you are frantically trying to clean, cook, and prepare your house for guests, or trying to finish up work, fighting the traffic and airport crowds — today is known to be one of the busiest days of the year. However, in the midst of all the busyness that comes with the holiday I hope that you can take some time to be still, dwell, and give thanks to Jesus for what He has done for you this year.
Over the past few days I have shared different things I am grateful for. To close the series, I am most thankful for my relationship with Jesus. When you experience suffering, things that once seemed important diminish and priorities are no longer as complicated. That is definitely the case for me.
Corrie Ten Boom said it best – “You don’t realize Jesus is all you need, until Jesus is all you have.” The last year of my life has been spent being homebound as I continue to deal with health problems. Although, it has not been all bad, and that is because of Jesus. It seems that all was stripped away but unlike everything else in this life –Jesus has never forsaken me, or let me down.
Jesus will always remain the same and will never change and that gives me the hope to press on. The death of Jesus on the cross and His resurrection is the best gift I’ve ever received, and I am most thankful for His Salvation. Because of his salvation I can get through anything that comes my way and so can you with His help. Allow yourself to receive His love and grace over this holiday season. Nothing else compares to it
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
In Everything Give Thanks – Family
To continue my Thanksgiving Series today’s post will focus on my family.
I may be biased, but I have the best family in the world! God has blessed me with a wonderful group of people and I am thankful more than ever before, for the people that make up my tribe! Thankfully, most of my family lives nearby which makes it easier to talk and spend time with them.
I can honestly say that my parents are my best friends. I am thankful to the Lord every day that He chose them to be mine. They have been there through all the joyful times, and the hard times. Two years ago when my health problems worsened they helped me move back in with them and have taken care of me since. Through every pain, emotion, and many sleepless nights — they have been there, and never complained one time. Each day they represent Jesus to me, and I will never be able to thank them enough for how they have blessed me over the past 31 years. They are my heroes!
In addition to my parents, my extended family have been amazing as well. You know you are. Thanks for all the prayers, calls, visits, flowers, treats, and encouragement that you’ve sent my way lately. I love you all.
Special thanks to my sweet Gran who over the past couple of months have visited me every Tuesday and Thursday and spoils me by cooking lunch for me on those days! Love you, Gran, and so thankful for the time we spend together. Also, thanks to my aunt Ellen and my favorite four year old Lexi who visits me every Saturday. My hang out time with my “Mini BFF” brightens my week.
To all of my family, and friends who are like family – I love you more than words can say. Thanks for loving me so well. As Philippians 1:3 states, “I thank my God every time I remember you!”
Take a moment today to thank God for the family He has given you and tell them how grateful you are for them.
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