I don't like the status quo. I don't like static, or stagnation. I am self-diagnosed A.D.D. I can't sit still because I feel like I'm wasting time. If I'm not doing at least 3 things at once, I don't feel productive. Every position I've been in, every project given, every task assigned - it is my goal to produce growth. I have a masters in counseling but I didn't pursue licensure because I couldn't help people who wouldn't help themselves. I felt like I had failed if I didn't see growth. It's been my job - in every job - to make things happen. I like vision. But I also like a plan. I need action items. There's no point in having a meeting full of great ideas if we don't leave with a plan in place and action to follow up with - otherwise they're just ideas.
I suppose someone could look at my life circumstances over the past few weeks and months and wonder. There's a lot of things to wonder: is this punishment? Is it a testing of faith? Is it failure?Is it for growth?
There are no accidents in the life of a child of God. I firmly believe that. So here I am. Knowing that my life circumstances aren't accidents. Knowing that Sovereign God knows what I'm facing - before it comes my way - and He knows what I need to get through.
I can tell you in all things I feel blessed. Most of my life has been fairly uncomplicated. So going through trial after trial after trial has certainly taken its toll.
I don't know what the reasons are for the trials. I don't know what I'm supposed to learn from the pain. I don't know what I must do other than fall on my face and seek the Lord. So no, I don't like the status quo. I don't want to remain stagnant. I pray for growth. I pray for grace. I pray for strength. I pray the journey is a blessing - no matter what it brings. Because living as the status quo just doesn't suit me. That's not who God created me to be and that's why I trust He's not finished with me yet!
Showing posts with label Devotionals. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Devotionals. Show all posts
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Psalm 119
"May my cry come before You, O Lord; give me understanding according to Your Word." (169)
It's ok to cry. It's ok to not understand. But in my tears, I pray for Your Word to bring wisdom."May my supplication come before You; deliver me according to Your promise." (170)
In earnest prayer, I bring my requests before You, asking for Your assurance to be fulfilled.
"May my lips overflow with praise, for You teach me Your decrees." (181)I cry out to You, I pray to You, I present my requests before You - but I also bring a sacrifice of praise!
"May my tongue sing of Your word, for all Your commands are righteous." (172)
I bring forth songs to You, knowing Your ways are good."May Your hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen Your precepts." (173)
I choose You. I choose Your way. I choose Your Word. I pray for Your hand to uphold me. "I long for Your salvation, O Lord, and Your law is my delight." (174)I need You, to come to my rescue. I delight in Your ways."Let me live that I may praise You, and may Your laws sustain me." (175)
I pray my life will praise you and Your commands will be my guide."I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek Your servant, for I have not forgotten Your commands." (176)Forgive me for seeking my own way. Find me, Lord, and know I have not forsaken Your way.
It's ok to cry. It's ok to not understand. But in my tears, I pray for Your Word to bring wisdom."May my supplication come before You; deliver me according to Your promise." (170)
In earnest prayer, I bring my requests before You, asking for Your assurance to be fulfilled.
"May my lips overflow with praise, for You teach me Your decrees." (181)I cry out to You, I pray to You, I present my requests before You - but I also bring a sacrifice of praise!
"May my tongue sing of Your word, for all Your commands are righteous." (172)
I bring forth songs to You, knowing Your ways are good."May Your hand be ready to help me, for I have chosen Your precepts." (173)
I choose You. I choose Your way. I choose Your Word. I pray for Your hand to uphold me. "I long for Your salvation, O Lord, and Your law is my delight." (174)I need You, to come to my rescue. I delight in Your ways."Let me live that I may praise You, and may Your laws sustain me." (175)
I pray my life will praise you and Your commands will be my guide."I have strayed like a lost sheep. Seek Your servant, for I have not forgotten Your commands." (176)Forgive me for seeking my own way. Find me, Lord, and know I have not forsaken Your way.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
The Glory of Suffering
I know the prayers of many have been heard on our behalf. I'm thankful for that. Even in midst of the trial, there have been times I simply didn't know what to pray. The words just wouldn't come. So I needed to know there were intercessors standing in the gap. Thank you, dear friends.
And now I come to a place where I'm not questioning why God's plan is this - but I'm trying to discover what it is He wants me to learn from it.
Today I found 2 Peter 4:12-13, "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the spiritual trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His glory is revealed."
I can honestly say that I'd much rather NOT go through the fire and trial. It's painful. It hurts. It's exhausting. But if this is what I must do to see His glory revealed, I willingly accept. As Oswald says, "Does it really matter that our circumstances are difficult? Why shouldn't they be! If we give way to self-pity and indulge in the luxury of misery, we remove God's riches from our lives and hinder others from entering into His provision."
I can attest to that. Had it not been for a house fire, a total loss, and all the things that still remain "unknown," I wouldn't also be experiencing the blessings, the prayers, the encouragement - and ultimately God's provision.
Oswald continues, "Before God becomes satisfied with us, He will take everything of our so-called wealth, until we learn that He is our source." Oh what a painful lesson to learn. To have everything stripped away. But what a freeing liberation to be unhindered and baggage-less to experience His full and abundant supply!
It doesn't mean it doesn't hurt. It doesn't mean it isn't painful. It just means that I can know and have faith that no matter the cost, no matter the sacrifice, no matter the level of perseverance, I can know He is working out His plan so that I might see His glory revealed.
And now I come to a place where I'm not questioning why God's plan is this - but I'm trying to discover what it is He wants me to learn from it.
Today I found 2 Peter 4:12-13, "Dear friends, do not be surprised at the spiritual trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when His glory is revealed."
I can honestly say that I'd much rather NOT go through the fire and trial. It's painful. It hurts. It's exhausting. But if this is what I must do to see His glory revealed, I willingly accept. As Oswald says, "Does it really matter that our circumstances are difficult? Why shouldn't they be! If we give way to self-pity and indulge in the luxury of misery, we remove God's riches from our lives and hinder others from entering into His provision."
I can attest to that. Had it not been for a house fire, a total loss, and all the things that still remain "unknown," I wouldn't also be experiencing the blessings, the prayers, the encouragement - and ultimately God's provision.
Oswald continues, "Before God becomes satisfied with us, He will take everything of our so-called wealth, until we learn that He is our source." Oh what a painful lesson to learn. To have everything stripped away. But what a freeing liberation to be unhindered and baggage-less to experience His full and abundant supply!
It doesn't mean it doesn't hurt. It doesn't mean it isn't painful. It just means that I can know and have faith that no matter the cost, no matter the sacrifice, no matter the level of perseverance, I can know He is working out His plan so that I might see His glory revealed.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Happy First Day of Fall!
I'm the one in the Spelling Bee who would have asked, "May I have the definition please?" It's usually not enough for someone to just tell me - I need you to show me. I want to understand. Let me grasp it. I will let it marinate as I process.
It is the first day of Autumn (Happy Fall, by the way) and I love the change of seasons. Sure, I'm indulging in Pumpkin Spice Lattes and all-things-pumpkin. My drive to work down the mountain has become increasingly enjoyable as the fall sunrise shines brilliantly on the leaves that are starting to change color. And I'm reminded; it's a new season.
As you may be able to tell, I fully embrace any opportunity to celebrate - mainly because I love to share joy. So the thought of costumes for Fall Fun Fests is followed by the quickly approaching Holiday season filled with turkey and all the trimming and the celebration of my Savior's Birth. (I cannot WAIT to have a Birthday cake for Jesus with Elijah this year!)
I guess part of the reason why I love the changing seasons is because it is our Creator's reminder that all things are temporary. When my adolescent years were a challenge I claimed 2 Cor. 4:18: "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen but what is unseen; for what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." I had to remind myself - it's temporary.
It may come as no surprise that even today, the beginning of Fall, I'm inclined to celebrate. Not only that, I needed to dig deeper.
As a noun, "season" can be defined as a period of time.
As a verb, it is described as becoming seasonsed, or in other words, maturing.
When something is "in season" it is understood as being in its prime, or in a state of use.
I don't know what season you may be going through. Maybe celebrating a new beginning. Maybe just as happy to see the end of something else. Maybe stuck wondering when this season will pass. Maybe desperately thinking it's not temporary.
What I'm reminded of with these definitions is that whatever season we may be going through, it is not just a period of time we must endure or enjoy, but a process we go through to become seasoned - to mature - so that we may reach our prime.
Consider the season you're going through God's way of seasoning you so that you may become in season.
"For everything there is a seaon..." The rest of that verse says "and a time for every purpose under heaven." The Hebrew for "purpose" is defined as "that in which one takes delight." Delight, dear one. Even in this time that may seem as bleak as the coldest, darkest day of winter. Rejoice because just as the leaves are changing, so are you being transofmred, seasoned, matured. Maybe without even realizing it, He is preparing you for His purpose.
Enjoy a Pumpkin Spice Latte for me on this first day of Fall and be reminded of God's purpose to prepare you for whatever season He may be bringing you to or through.
It is the first day of Autumn (Happy Fall, by the way) and I love the change of seasons. Sure, I'm indulging in Pumpkin Spice Lattes and all-things-pumpkin. My drive to work down the mountain has become increasingly enjoyable as the fall sunrise shines brilliantly on the leaves that are starting to change color. And I'm reminded; it's a new season.
As you may be able to tell, I fully embrace any opportunity to celebrate - mainly because I love to share joy. So the thought of costumes for Fall Fun Fests is followed by the quickly approaching Holiday season filled with turkey and all the trimming and the celebration of my Savior's Birth. (I cannot WAIT to have a Birthday cake for Jesus with Elijah this year!)
I guess part of the reason why I love the changing seasons is because it is our Creator's reminder that all things are temporary. When my adolescent years were a challenge I claimed 2 Cor. 4:18: "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen but what is unseen; for what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." I had to remind myself - it's temporary.
It may come as no surprise that even today, the beginning of Fall, I'm inclined to celebrate. Not only that, I needed to dig deeper.
As a noun, "season" can be defined as a period of time.
As a verb, it is described as becoming seasonsed, or in other words, maturing.
When something is "in season" it is understood as being in its prime, or in a state of use.
I don't know what season you may be going through. Maybe celebrating a new beginning. Maybe just as happy to see the end of something else. Maybe stuck wondering when this season will pass. Maybe desperately thinking it's not temporary.
What I'm reminded of with these definitions is that whatever season we may be going through, it is not just a period of time we must endure or enjoy, but a process we go through to become seasoned - to mature - so that we may reach our prime.
Consider the season you're going through God's way of seasoning you so that you may become in season.
"For everything there is a seaon..." The rest of that verse says "and a time for every purpose under heaven." The Hebrew for "purpose" is defined as "that in which one takes delight." Delight, dear one. Even in this time that may seem as bleak as the coldest, darkest day of winter. Rejoice because just as the leaves are changing, so are you being transofmred, seasoned, matured. Maybe without even realizing it, He is preparing you for His purpose.
Enjoy a Pumpkin Spice Latte for me on this first day of Fall and be reminded of God's purpose to prepare you for whatever season He may be bringing you to or through.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
The Nature of God
I remember a conversation I had with my sister's mother-in-law, Cathey, around New Year's. She was talking about her own grandchildren and how even at such young ages they teach you about the nature of God.
I am seeing that come to fruition in the life of my little man. At just nine months - and even before now - he already demonstrates his strong will and determination. I cannot pinpoint this as a learned or inherited behavior because we all know Ed and I both share these traits, and what we know about his birthmom, she seems to have them too.
You know the story. Elijah reaches out for something and we tell him "No Touch" and he continues in hot pursuit of whatever he desires that we have told him is not allowed. Another, firmer, "No Touch" and he usually turns to look at you and laughs or squeals with delight. I admit, we have a hard time not laughing. He's so stinkin' cute...but he's also so defiant. Okay, maybe that's not the right word - but he is determined to do what HE wants to do.
What we know is that most of the time we are prohibiting him from something that could be dangerous or harmful. He doesn't know that. He just thinks we're restricting him. He has not yet learned how dangerous some of these experiences could be.
There have been a few times where he persists without heeding our warnings and he has quickly learned the repercussions are unwanted. This typically causes the knee-jerk reaction where he pulls his hand back and immediately reaches for whatever parent has done the scolding so he can now be consoled.
This tells me so much about my Heavenly Father. Even when I think He is prohibiting me from something that I might find enjoyable or desirable, I can rest assured He is probably trying to protect me from harm. Despite how wrapped up I may be in getting my own way, His gentle persistent may have to lead to a firmer scolding. Until, at last, I don't heed His warning and I may face the consequeces.
What I know to be true is that despite how 'hard' it may hurt, I can turn to Him and He will meet me with open arms. Just as I accept Elijah and console him after he's disobeyed, so my Father accepts me when I need His comforting.
It's an unconditional love that I could never quite fully grasp until I became a parent.
I praise You, Lord, for loving me unconditionally. For showing me mercy when I've deserved to face the consequences. For bestowing grace that I have completely unearned. For teaching me how good you are, despite my failures. May I become more like You so I may teach my son more of You.
I am seeing that come to fruition in the life of my little man. At just nine months - and even before now - he already demonstrates his strong will and determination. I cannot pinpoint this as a learned or inherited behavior because we all know Ed and I both share these traits, and what we know about his birthmom, she seems to have them too.
You know the story. Elijah reaches out for something and we tell him "No Touch" and he continues in hot pursuit of whatever he desires that we have told him is not allowed. Another, firmer, "No Touch" and he usually turns to look at you and laughs or squeals with delight. I admit, we have a hard time not laughing. He's so stinkin' cute...but he's also so defiant. Okay, maybe that's not the right word - but he is determined to do what HE wants to do.
What we know is that most of the time we are prohibiting him from something that could be dangerous or harmful. He doesn't know that. He just thinks we're restricting him. He has not yet learned how dangerous some of these experiences could be.
There have been a few times where he persists without heeding our warnings and he has quickly learned the repercussions are unwanted. This typically causes the knee-jerk reaction where he pulls his hand back and immediately reaches for whatever parent has done the scolding so he can now be consoled.
This tells me so much about my Heavenly Father. Even when I think He is prohibiting me from something that I might find enjoyable or desirable, I can rest assured He is probably trying to protect me from harm. Despite how wrapped up I may be in getting my own way, His gentle persistent may have to lead to a firmer scolding. Until, at last, I don't heed His warning and I may face the consequeces.
What I know to be true is that despite how 'hard' it may hurt, I can turn to Him and He will meet me with open arms. Just as I accept Elijah and console him after he's disobeyed, so my Father accepts me when I need His comforting.
It's an unconditional love that I could never quite fully grasp until I became a parent.
I praise You, Lord, for loving me unconditionally. For showing me mercy when I've deserved to face the consequences. For bestowing grace that I have completely unearned. For teaching me how good you are, despite my failures. May I become more like You so I may teach my son more of You.
Monday, February 2, 2009
The Lord is...
Every night, I rock Elijah while he drinks his bottle. He stares, watching the fish projected across the ceiling. I pray over him, we pray for all our loved ones by name, and I recite scripture to him. Undoubtedly, each night we end with the 23rd Psalm:
1The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
(King James Version, the way I learned it so many years ago.)
This morning I've begun a study on this brief, but highly recognized Psalm. Going phrase by phrase, I've started with the foundation: The Lord is my shepherd.
Max Lucado writes, "Though he creates, God was never created. Though he makes, he was never made. Though he causes, he was never caused. Hence the psalmist's proclamation: "Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and hte world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God." Psalm 90:2
He continues, "Counselors can comfort you in the storm, but you need a God who can still the storm. Friends can hold your hand at your deathbed, but you need a Yahweh who has defeated the grave. Philosophers can debate the meaning of life, but you need a Lord who can declare the meaning of life."
Before I can even get to God as my Shepherd, I stop at three simple words: The Lord is...
Whatever you need, whatever you lack, whatever you seek, the Lord is...
Despite my insufficiencies, an all-sufficient God is...
Even when I don't understand, the Lord is...
He is...
He was...
He will always be...
Today I rest in my God, the everlasting of everlastings, who is...
What is he to you today? The ... is your own fill in the blank. It's your own way of calling on the Yahweh of the universe to seek and find him.
1The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
(King James Version, the way I learned it so many years ago.)
This morning I've begun a study on this brief, but highly recognized Psalm. Going phrase by phrase, I've started with the foundation: The Lord is my shepherd.
Max Lucado writes, "Though he creates, God was never created. Though he makes, he was never made. Though he causes, he was never caused. Hence the psalmist's proclamation: "Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and hte world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God." Psalm 90:2
He continues, "Counselors can comfort you in the storm, but you need a God who can still the storm. Friends can hold your hand at your deathbed, but you need a Yahweh who has defeated the grave. Philosophers can debate the meaning of life, but you need a Lord who can declare the meaning of life."
Before I can even get to God as my Shepherd, I stop at three simple words: The Lord is...
Whatever you need, whatever you lack, whatever you seek, the Lord is...
Despite my insufficiencies, an all-sufficient God is...
Even when I don't understand, the Lord is...
He is...
He was...
He will always be...
Today I rest in my God, the everlasting of everlastings, who is...
What is he to you today? The ... is your own fill in the blank. It's your own way of calling on the Yahweh of the universe to seek and find him.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Psalm 139
It's a little hard to explain now, but I know at some point you'll wonder - maybe even come to us and ask, "Why didn't my birthmother want me?"
I read Psalm 139 this morning:
For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
I know that full well.
My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of hte earth,
your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.
(Verses 13-16)
I'm preparing myself even now for what I will say to you - how I will explain. All I know to say is this:
Elijah, He knit you together in Sara's womb.
Elijah, He knit you together in Sara's womb.
He created you to be a masterpiece - but also a miracle.
When He formed you, He knew full well you were being created to bless our family - to bless lives with the story of His own faithfulness.
We praise Him because you are fearfully and wonderfully made.
His works ARE wonderful - and YOU, Elijah Riley Barnhouse, are a wondeful miraculous work He has made.
You were not hidden from Him even as He formed you - your tiny hands and feet, your sweet little mouth and little button nose.
Each and every part of you He fashioned together knowing full-well, He would place your in our lives.
His eyes saw your unformed body and as He created His masterpiece.
He knew - before you even took your first breath - the plan He had for each and every day of your life.
He knew that just 22 days after you entered this world, you would be placed in our arms.
You, my son, were created not by us but for us - and for Him...for His glory.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
A New Day
Oh baby...
You kept us up all night. Daddy and I were so frustrated because we simply couldn't calm you ... and we were so tired - including you! We turned on the projector that flashes stars and moons on the ceiling and usually captures your attention. We had the ocean noises in the background that typically seem so calming. We rocked you. We held you. We tried letting you sleep with us (get over it, Baby Wise moms)...but you simply couldn't be satisfied.
We went to work with blood shot eyes and dark circles underneath. Thank goodness it's a new day.
It reminds me of Lamentations 3...Great is the Lord's unfailing love, His mercies are new each morning. I'm so glad that we get to start over each day. Every day is so unpredictable - we never know what will come. We never know what to expect. It's hard to plan how things will go - good or bad - but each day is new and different and that's what makes it so much fun. I heard a quote once that has stuck with me and now I'll share it with you..."The fact that you are alive today is proof positive that God has something for you to do." Just remember that. As long as you are given breath, you have a purpose on this planet to continue to glorify your Creator.
And yes, I mentioned "work"...yesterday was your first day with the nanny. Up to this point, you've only been with family. But you did so good for Miss Donna. She had you sleeping in the crib (something mommy and daddy can't even do) and took you for a walk and took such good care of you. We had such a peace about you being with your nanny and it made seeing you after work so sweet! I missed you so much...but I'm so happy to share with you that God is so gracious and providential and providing for even the job situation to work out so you won't have to be with the nanny more than a day or two a week. Praise the Lord!
At your doctor's visit two weeks ago, the doctor told me you were an active baby. You are now constantly on the move - kicking your legs, swinging your arms - sometimes punching us. You even hit Jackson on the nose last night and he looked so stunned. After all, he has spent every moment right by your side. You two will be such good friends just as soon as you can throw his ball. I am anticipating the days when we'll be running to catch up with you, but for now we savor everyday we can still hold you in our arms.
People often ask how I even have time to keep this blog updated for you but as I type you are resting comfortably on my lap, kicking your little slippered feet on the keyboard. So far, I think I've managed to correct all the extra keystrokes you have helped add.
nnnnnnnnnnnnnnttn nmj mmmmmmmmmmmmmmnnmnmsmmnjne vvv
That was just for you to add your own two cents to the blog. Thank you sweet boy!
When you're awake, you're wide awake - with big bright eyes that are still changing color with everything you wear. I wonder everyday what color they will turn out to be.
You love to pucker up your lips and make noises. You're even clicking your tongue, though I'm not sure that it's intentional. You're still getting so vocal.
You've now kicked off one of your powder blue baseball embroidered slippers. You're getting frustrated because we're not on the move, so for now, we'll wrap things up.
Thank you to Lana and Deb for the wonderful bibs and burp cloths that bear your name or initials! We absolutely love them.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
God is So Good!
Jehovah Jireh - our provider.
We got an email Saturday with 35 pages of paperwork to complete and an 18 point checklist of action items to complete for the adoption. We were so discouraged, thinking placement would be weeks away - especially when we found out our background checks might have to be repeated and that would take 4 weeks.
I just have to tell you that GOD IS SO GOOD! In just 3 days, we've managed to check off every item but one on the list and fill out all the paperwork. All we have left to do is the Baby Care class and that takes place tomorrow night. We asked you to pray specifically for those background checks and GOD ANSWERED! (Are we surprised? Why don't we have more faith?!) We found out today they don't have to be repeated...PRAISE THE LORD!
We talked to the agency in Ohio today and they work quickly and efficiently (apparently). We still don't know when placement might be but we did find out we'll need to be in Ohio for a week to 10 days. We will have the baby with us the entire time, though, so that will be some good bonding time - a mini family vacation - maybe?!
We are just elated - overjoyed - beyond blessed that God has answered every single prayer. Seriously, every single detail He has worked out and orchestrated each part of the process.
It hasn't been an easy journey. My labor pains and stretch marks have come in the form of mountains of paperwork and an adoption loan...but soon - very soon - we will hold our son in our arms. To Him be all the glory!
We got an email Saturday with 35 pages of paperwork to complete and an 18 point checklist of action items to complete for the adoption. We were so discouraged, thinking placement would be weeks away - especially when we found out our background checks might have to be repeated and that would take 4 weeks.
I just have to tell you that GOD IS SO GOOD! In just 3 days, we've managed to check off every item but one on the list and fill out all the paperwork. All we have left to do is the Baby Care class and that takes place tomorrow night. We asked you to pray specifically for those background checks and GOD ANSWERED! (Are we surprised? Why don't we have more faith?!) We found out today they don't have to be repeated...PRAISE THE LORD!
We talked to the agency in Ohio today and they work quickly and efficiently (apparently). We still don't know when placement might be but we did find out we'll need to be in Ohio for a week to 10 days. We will have the baby with us the entire time, though, so that will be some good bonding time - a mini family vacation - maybe?!
We are just elated - overjoyed - beyond blessed that God has answered every single prayer. Seriously, every single detail He has worked out and orchestrated each part of the process.
It hasn't been an easy journey. My labor pains and stretch marks have come in the form of mountains of paperwork and an adoption loan...but soon - very soon - we will hold our son in our arms. To Him be all the glory!
Saturday, May 24, 2008
It's a BOY!
"Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him." Psalm 34:8
Have you heard?! God is good - oh yes, all the time.
We had an interview this week. It was the third birthmother we've interviewed with. She was quiet and shy and didn't make eye contact at first - but then throughout the interview, she opened up, we laughed and talked and we left feeling good about it, but knowing that anything can happen. We've learned to remain somewhat guarded after the first two interviews didn't result in a baby.
We prayed all week for wisdom and peace and discernment - but most importantly we prayed for God's perfect will. Thursday was a big day. We knew the birthmother was meeting the second and final couple. We prayed all day. That morning I knew God had given me a perfect peace about this baby and it was the first time I allowed myself to pray specifically for him to be ours. It wasn't until we got home from work that Ed shared he had felt the same peace come to him that day. No sooner had we discussed it, the phone rang.
Our caseworker was on the line saying we needed to come back in on Friday. Ed said he thought it was a trick for her to tell us she picked us, but I did NOT want to get my hopes up.
When we got there Friday morning, we made small talk for awhile and then she asked if we remembered when we were talking about Winnie the Pooh. In our interview she asked if the baby could watch Winnie the Pooh because she grew up with it and loved it. This time she said she had something to show us - and pulled out a Winnie the Pooh stuffed animal holding Piglet and a hand-written card.
It read: "There's a boy named Riley and he needs parents and I'm hoping you can help him out because I'm let'n ya know I want you to be his!"
We were so overwhelmed we were speechless! We couldn't speak, cry, react - we just sat stunned. I was shaking - literally shaking. She had chosen us to raise this little boy - to be his parents - to love him and raise him in the fear and knowledge of the Lord. Oh how unbelievably blessed we are!
Riley is the name she has chosen and we have decided to keep that as part of his name. We can't decide if Elijah or Noah will be his first name - or Ed has suggested Riley Cane - as in Hurricanes. He's so excited, he already bought him Miami onesies, hat and pacifier!
And now the fun begins - we scramble to get together a nursery so everything is ready to bring him home in the next two to four weeks.
We ask for your continued prayers as this is a unique situation where the birthfather hasn't been involved or even located to sign over his rights. There is still a slight risk he could show up, but given the track record thus far, it doesn't seem highly probable. Still, we ask you to pray:
- Baby Riley, as he is in foster care, to be loved and provided for, healthy and to get on a schedule!
- Placement to happen BEFORE Father's Day, June 15
- The birthfather's rights to be terminated quickly and without contest
- Us as we get ready for baby!
We will keep you posted as soon as we know more details. We have so much to be thankful for and so much to continue praying about. We are simply overwhelmed by God's faithfulness, His provision, and His sovereignty.
"May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.
We will shout for joy when you are victorious and will lift up our banners in the name of our God. May the LORD grant all your requests." Psalm 20:4-5
We know that God has allowed us to take this journey to increase our faith and to show us what He is capable of. Truly, we are witnessing a miracle. We pray that through this, you will experience Him too!
Have you heard?! God is good - oh yes, all the time.
We had an interview this week. It was the third birthmother we've interviewed with. She was quiet and shy and didn't make eye contact at first - but then throughout the interview, she opened up, we laughed and talked and we left feeling good about it, but knowing that anything can happen. We've learned to remain somewhat guarded after the first two interviews didn't result in a baby.
We prayed all week for wisdom and peace and discernment - but most importantly we prayed for God's perfect will. Thursday was a big day. We knew the birthmother was meeting the second and final couple. We prayed all day. That morning I knew God had given me a perfect peace about this baby and it was the first time I allowed myself to pray specifically for him to be ours. It wasn't until we got home from work that Ed shared he had felt the same peace come to him that day. No sooner had we discussed it, the phone rang.
Our caseworker was on the line saying we needed to come back in on Friday. Ed said he thought it was a trick for her to tell us she picked us, but I did NOT want to get my hopes up.
When we got there Friday morning, we made small talk for awhile and then she asked if we remembered when we were talking about Winnie the Pooh. In our interview she asked if the baby could watch Winnie the Pooh because she grew up with it and loved it. This time she said she had something to show us - and pulled out a Winnie the Pooh stuffed animal holding Piglet and a hand-written card.
It read: "There's a boy named Riley and he needs parents and I'm hoping you can help him out because I'm let'n ya know I want you to be his!"
We were so overwhelmed we were speechless! We couldn't speak, cry, react - we just sat stunned. I was shaking - literally shaking. She had chosen us to raise this little boy - to be his parents - to love him and raise him in the fear and knowledge of the Lord. Oh how unbelievably blessed we are!
Riley is the name she has chosen and we have decided to keep that as part of his name. We can't decide if Elijah or Noah will be his first name - or Ed has suggested Riley Cane - as in Hurricanes. He's so excited, he already bought him Miami onesies, hat and pacifier!
And now the fun begins - we scramble to get together a nursery so everything is ready to bring him home in the next two to four weeks.
We ask for your continued prayers as this is a unique situation where the birthfather hasn't been involved or even located to sign over his rights. There is still a slight risk he could show up, but given the track record thus far, it doesn't seem highly probable. Still, we ask you to pray:
- Baby Riley, as he is in foster care, to be loved and provided for, healthy and to get on a schedule!
- Placement to happen BEFORE Father's Day, June 15
- The birthfather's rights to be terminated quickly and without contest
- Us as we get ready for baby!
We will keep you posted as soon as we know more details. We have so much to be thankful for and so much to continue praying about. We are simply overwhelmed by God's faithfulness, His provision, and His sovereignty.
"May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.
We will shout for joy when you are victorious and will lift up our banners in the name of our God. May the LORD grant all your requests." Psalm 20:4-5
We know that God has allowed us to take this journey to increase our faith and to show us what He is capable of. Truly, we are witnessing a miracle. We pray that through this, you will experience Him too!
Friday, May 16, 2008
Unlovable Yet Loved
"The Holy Spirit reveals to me that God loved me not because I was lovable but because it was His nature to do so." -Oswald Chambers
If I ever think, for a second, that I deserve a blessing or have earned an answer to prayer, I must remember that it is by nothing I have done, but by the grace of God. I can't earn His love. I can't be good enough, smart enough, talented enough, or qualified enough to be deserving of His blessings. What I am given and what I have is simply an out-pouring of His goodness.
When I see my accomplishments as my own, or I place myself above those around me, I forfeit the opportunity to fully receive His blessings. When I mistake His goodness for something I've earned, I neglect to see His glory. Instead of giving thanks, I take the credit.
Despite this huge short-coming, He still loves me unconditionally. He chooses to bless me, in spite of myself. Not because I deserve it or earn it. Not because it's a reward for good behavior. It's simply who He is...Jesus, lover of my soul.
"The knowledge that God has loved me beyond all limits will compel me to go into the world to love others in the same way." -O. Chambers
The realization of this gift is my motivation to share His love with others. To love as He loves, to give as He gives, and to know that even the most unlovable are loved.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Put Me In My Place
This morning I watched as a mentally challenged lady lead a blind man into a building. She held his arm with one hand and held the door open with the other. He could not see her twisted face, marred by society's stamp that she is different from the rest – but he was also blind to the judgment that her mental disabilities might lead him astray. She might not have understood the complexity of his physical challenge, but that did not stop her from assuming responsibility to be by his side.
I just bawled. Who am I that I am so blessed with my health, my sight, and fully functioning mental capabilities? And yet in spite of the wealth I've been given, it is my carnal tendency to look upon others not like me as a little less lovely. Shame on me! How dare I – for one second – think that I deserve my present state. And may I never forget that in one instant it can all be taken away.
Lord, help me to see your children as you see them – created in Your image. Loved by God so much that He sent His Son to die even for just one of them. Yes, I have long since known that even if it were just for me, God would have still sacrificed His Son for my eternal life. But do I realize that He would have done the same for that mentally challenged girl? Or for that blind man? He doesn't love me more and, thank God, He doesn't love me less.
God, pierce my heart with the things that pierce Your heart. May I be broken for them – to weep for their souls to come to Your saving grace. May I share with them Your unconditional love. Don't let my pride get in the way. Help me to see them the way You see me – a sinner saved by grace, loved by God, and blessed beyond what I deserve.
May there be no one too lost for me to love; no one too low for me to serve.
[Written on October 26, 2006]
I just bawled. Who am I that I am so blessed with my health, my sight, and fully functioning mental capabilities? And yet in spite of the wealth I've been given, it is my carnal tendency to look upon others not like me as a little less lovely. Shame on me! How dare I – for one second – think that I deserve my present state. And may I never forget that in one instant it can all be taken away.
Lord, help me to see your children as you see them – created in Your image. Loved by God so much that He sent His Son to die even for just one of them. Yes, I have long since known that even if it were just for me, God would have still sacrificed His Son for my eternal life. But do I realize that He would have done the same for that mentally challenged girl? Or for that blind man? He doesn't love me more and, thank God, He doesn't love me less.
God, pierce my heart with the things that pierce Your heart. May I be broken for them – to weep for their souls to come to Your saving grace. May I share with them Your unconditional love. Don't let my pride get in the way. Help me to see them the way You see me – a sinner saved by grace, loved by God, and blessed beyond what I deserve.
May there be no one too lost for me to love; no one too low for me to serve.
[Written on October 26, 2006]
Thursday, April 10, 2008
I will sing praise!
I don't think I'd ever before discovered Psalm 104 in its entirety. The entire poem speaks of God's magnificent creation - how it is working and moving, how it was all done in His infinite wisdom and how every living thing is fed and satisfied by Him to bring Him glory.
Truly, if I don't give praise, creation will cry out in my place!
The Psalmist spends 32 verses talking about the glory of the Lord's creation until he can bear it no more...he cries out, "I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live." It's as if his heart is so overwhelmed with joy at the thought of everything his Maker has crafted that he can't help but cry out in praise! Contemplating the glory of God's masterpiece - creation - he gives his life over to praising God for all eternity. What a glorious picture of what heaven will be like. We will not be able to help ourselves - we will fulfill what we were created to do - praising our Savior all the day long.
All of this has made me realize - if He spent so much time and wisdom knitting all of creation so perfectly together, and if it brings Him such joy and delight, how much more does He delight in me? To think He masterfully crafted me, selectively chose my family, place and time of birth and then ordained each and every circumstance of my life - it just blows my mind. I can't help but cry out in praise of Him! OH God, I spend my life in praise of who You are!
For your reading pleasure, and for His glory, here is this treasure of a Psalm:
Psalm 104
1 Praise the LORD, O my soul.
O LORD my God, you are very great;
you are clothed with splendor and majesty.
2 He wraps himself in light as with a garment;
he stretches out the heavens like a tent
3 and lays the beams of his upper chambers on their waters.
He makes the clouds his chariot and rides on the wings of the wind.
4 He makes winds his messengers,
flames of fire his servants.
5 He set the earth on its foundations;
it can never be moved.
6 You covered it with the deep as with a garment;
the waters stood above the mountains.
7 But at your rebuke the waters fled,
at the sound of your thunder they took to flight;
8 they flowed over the mountains,
they went down into the valleys,
to the place you assigned for them.
9 You set a boundary they cannot cross;
never again will they cover the earth.
10 He makes springs pour water into the ravines;
it flows between the mountains.
11 They give water to all the beasts of the field;
the wild donkeys quench their thirst.
12 The birds of the air nest by the waters;
they sing among the branches.
13 He waters the mountains from his upper chambers;
the earth is satisfied by the fruit of his work.
14 He makes grass grow for the cattle,
and plants for man to cultivate—
bringing forth food from the earth:
15 wine that gladdens the heart of man,
oil to make his face shine,
and bread that sustains his heart.
16 The trees of the LORD are well watered,
the cedars of Lebanon that he planted.
17 There the birds make their nests;
the stork has its home in the pine trees.
18 The high mountains belong to the wild goats;
the crags are a refuge for the coneys.
19 The moon marks off the seasons,
and the sun knows when to go down.
20 You bring darkness, it becomes night,
and all the beasts of the forest prowl.
21 The lions roar for their prey
and seek their food from God.
22 The sun rises, and they steal away;
they return and lie down in their dens.
23 Then man goes out to his work,
to his labor until evening.
24 How many are your works, O LORD!
In wisdom you made them all;
the earth is full of your creatures.
25 There is the sea, vast and spacious,
teeming with creatures beyond number—
living things both large and small.
26 There the ships go to and fro,
and the leviathan, which you formed to frolic there.
27 These all look to you
to give them their food at the proper time.
28 When you give it to them,
they gather it up;
when you open your hand,
they are satisfied with good things.
29 When you hide your face,
they are terrified;
when you take away their breath,
they die and return to the dust.
30 When you send your Spirit,
they are created,
and you renew the face of the earth.
31 May the glory of the LORD endure forever;
may the LORD rejoice in his works-
32 he who looks at the earth, and it trembles,
who touches the mountains, and they smoke.
33 I will sing to the LORD all my life;
I will sing praise to my God as long as I live.
34 May my meditation be pleasing to him,
as I rejoice in the LORD.
35 But may sinners vanish from the earth
and the wicked be no more.
Praise the LORD oh my soul.
Praise the LORD.
Truly, if I don't give praise, creation will cry out in my place!
The Psalmist spends 32 verses talking about the glory of the Lord's creation until he can bear it no more...he cries out, "I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live." It's as if his heart is so overwhelmed with joy at the thought of everything his Maker has crafted that he can't help but cry out in praise! Contemplating the glory of God's masterpiece - creation - he gives his life over to praising God for all eternity. What a glorious picture of what heaven will be like. We will not be able to help ourselves - we will fulfill what we were created to do - praising our Savior all the day long.
All of this has made me realize - if He spent so much time and wisdom knitting all of creation so perfectly together, and if it brings Him such joy and delight, how much more does He delight in me? To think He masterfully crafted me, selectively chose my family, place and time of birth and then ordained each and every circumstance of my life - it just blows my mind. I can't help but cry out in praise of Him! OH God, I spend my life in praise of who You are!
For your reading pleasure, and for His glory, here is this treasure of a Psalm:
Psalm 104
1 Praise the LORD, O my soul.
O LORD my God, you are very great;
you are clothed with splendor and majesty.
2 He wraps himself in light as with a garment;
he stretches out the heavens like a tent
3 and lays the beams of his upper chambers on their waters.
He makes the clouds his chariot and rides on the wings of the wind.
4 He makes winds his messengers,
flames of fire his servants.
5 He set the earth on its foundations;
it can never be moved.
6 You covered it with the deep as with a garment;
the waters stood above the mountains.
7 But at your rebuke the waters fled,
at the sound of your thunder they took to flight;
8 they flowed over the mountains,
they went down into the valleys,
to the place you assigned for them.
9 You set a boundary they cannot cross;
never again will they cover the earth.
10 He makes springs pour water into the ravines;
it flows between the mountains.
11 They give water to all the beasts of the field;
the wild donkeys quench their thirst.
12 The birds of the air nest by the waters;
they sing among the branches.
13 He waters the mountains from his upper chambers;
the earth is satisfied by the fruit of his work.
14 He makes grass grow for the cattle,
and plants for man to cultivate—
bringing forth food from the earth:
15 wine that gladdens the heart of man,
oil to make his face shine,
and bread that sustains his heart.
16 The trees of the LORD are well watered,
the cedars of Lebanon that he planted.
17 There the birds make their nests;
the stork has its home in the pine trees.
18 The high mountains belong to the wild goats;
the crags are a refuge for the coneys.
19 The moon marks off the seasons,
and the sun knows when to go down.
20 You bring darkness, it becomes night,
and all the beasts of the forest prowl.
21 The lions roar for their prey
and seek their food from God.
22 The sun rises, and they steal away;
they return and lie down in their dens.
23 Then man goes out to his work,
to his labor until evening.
24 How many are your works, O LORD!
In wisdom you made them all;
the earth is full of your creatures.
25 There is the sea, vast and spacious,
teeming with creatures beyond number—
living things both large and small.
26 There the ships go to and fro,
and the leviathan, which you formed to frolic there.
27 These all look to you
to give them their food at the proper time.
28 When you give it to them,
they gather it up;
when you open your hand,
they are satisfied with good things.
29 When you hide your face,
they are terrified;
when you take away their breath,
they die and return to the dust.
30 When you send your Spirit,
they are created,
and you renew the face of the earth.
31 May the glory of the LORD endure forever;
may the LORD rejoice in his works-
32 he who looks at the earth, and it trembles,
who touches the mountains, and they smoke.
33 I will sing to the LORD all my life;
I will sing praise to my God as long as I live.
34 May my meditation be pleasing to him,
as I rejoice in the LORD.
35 But may sinners vanish from the earth
and the wicked be no more.
Praise the LORD oh my soul.
Praise the LORD.
Monday, February 4, 2008
What are you waiting for?
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will guard your hearts and you rminds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
Have you wondered, like I did, what "supplication" means? I've come across the most profound meaning - continuance in earnest. So I am to continue in earnest prayer, making my requests known to God.
The means I'm allowed the opportunity to pour out my heart to Him, over and over again. What's more is that I'm given the assurance that his perfect peace will help me understand whatever answer to prayer I receive.
I was praying specifically for something this weekend. I asked God for an answer on or before our 6th anniversary (February 2). I received my answer. It wasn't yes or no...the answer was "continue to wait." Ordinarily, that would not have been good enough for me. But I knew that God had not only answered my request, but He had also given me such perfect peace to understand now was not HIS time.
Then God gave me Psalm 13. David is crying out to God, "How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?" (v.1) That's how I felt. As if I was praying and crying out to God, but that He wasn't answering. All the while, I knew He heard. I knew He was listening, but His lack of response somehow translated to me as a lack of interest. And yet, as Psalm 13:5-6 says, "But I trust in your unfailing love, my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord for He has been good to me."
Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane is a familiar scene. Mark 14:34, Jesus prays, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorry to the point of death..."
I find comfort in knowing my Savior was so overwhelmed with the literal cross He was given to bear that He could barely find the words to pray. His situation so overcame Him with sorrow, He could not imagine living through it.
Vs. 36, "Abba, Father....everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me."
Everything is possible for God! He CAN remove the trial. Do we have enough faith to be so bold to ask Him to change our circumstances?
He continues..."Yet not what I will, but what you will."
If removing the trial means I miss the greater blessing, if it means not being part of His perfect plan, that I choose His will over mine.
Vs. 39, "Once more He went away and prayed the SAME THING."
It's more than okay to make our requests known to God. In fact, it's necessary. We can and should plead and ask and rest confidently knowing that He hears. It doesn't mean He'll answer the way we want Him too, though. We have to be willing to go to Him and ask for the trial to be removed. We have to have the faith that He can do it. But we also must be prepared for His response that might say, "No, I need you to walk through this. Trust me. I have a plan."
Even if the cross we bear means certain death -whether literal like Christ's or emotional like most of us face - we can rest in knowing His perfect will being accomplished means He will be glorified!
So, I continue to wait and continue in earnest prayer. I'm making my requests known to God.
Have you wondered, like I did, what "supplication" means? I've come across the most profound meaning - continuance in earnest. So I am to continue in earnest prayer, making my requests known to God.
The means I'm allowed the opportunity to pour out my heart to Him, over and over again. What's more is that I'm given the assurance that his perfect peace will help me understand whatever answer to prayer I receive.
I was praying specifically for something this weekend. I asked God for an answer on or before our 6th anniversary (February 2). I received my answer. It wasn't yes or no...the answer was "continue to wait." Ordinarily, that would not have been good enough for me. But I knew that God had not only answered my request, but He had also given me such perfect peace to understand now was not HIS time.
Then God gave me Psalm 13. David is crying out to God, "How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?" (v.1) That's how I felt. As if I was praying and crying out to God, but that He wasn't answering. All the while, I knew He heard. I knew He was listening, but His lack of response somehow translated to me as a lack of interest. And yet, as Psalm 13:5-6 says, "But I trust in your unfailing love, my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord for He has been good to me."
Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane is a familiar scene. Mark 14:34, Jesus prays, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorry to the point of death..."
I find comfort in knowing my Savior was so overwhelmed with the literal cross He was given to bear that He could barely find the words to pray. His situation so overcame Him with sorrow, He could not imagine living through it.
Vs. 36, "Abba, Father....everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me."
Everything is possible for God! He CAN remove the trial. Do we have enough faith to be so bold to ask Him to change our circumstances?
He continues..."Yet not what I will, but what you will."
If removing the trial means I miss the greater blessing, if it means not being part of His perfect plan, that I choose His will over mine.
Vs. 39, "Once more He went away and prayed the SAME THING."
It's more than okay to make our requests known to God. In fact, it's necessary. We can and should plead and ask and rest confidently knowing that He hears. It doesn't mean He'll answer the way we want Him too, though. We have to be willing to go to Him and ask for the trial to be removed. We have to have the faith that He can do it. But we also must be prepared for His response that might say, "No, I need you to walk through this. Trust me. I have a plan."
Even if the cross we bear means certain death -whether literal like Christ's or emotional like most of us face - we can rest in knowing His perfect will being accomplished means He will be glorified!
So, I continue to wait and continue in earnest prayer. I'm making my requests known to God.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Let Us Pray
"...On Him we have set our hope that He will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will gives thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many." 2 Corinthians 1:10b-11 His word tells us to bear with one another and to lift each other up. He promises that where two or more are gathered in His name, He is there. But this - OH WOW! This scripture is blowing my mind to see how vital intercession is to the requests we make known to God. It's not only to get us on our knees (or our faces) before Him but it is to get others to come to Him, too.
"He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord." Psalm 40:3 The two verses before this talk about being lifted out of the pit. Are you in a pit of despair? Have you cried out for help? Wait patiently for the Lord to deliver you, but in the meantime, ask your brothers and sisters to prayerfully lift you up. Why?! So that many will see His powerful deliverance and they will put their trust in Him as a result of the miracle He has performed.
Won't you join with us in prayer?! We invite you to witness the miracle in the making. We know God is already at work. Here's how you can pray specifically:
- The Birthmother - for strength and peace as she makes such a difficult decision
- The Baby - health, protection, loving foster parents
- Us - to trust and wait for His perfect plan
We can't wait to share what God does and we want you to share in this journey with us so you, too, can experience the miracle He is creating! We covet your prayers.
God Speaking
Waiting. When the answer is not "no" or "yes" but just "not right now" waiting can be the most difficult burden to bear. I understand this holding pattern. Our current situation lends itself to no answers, no news, just waiting. Praise God, all of our paperwork is into the agency - as well as the album - and now we wait. Not really knowing how to plan, when God will move, or exactly what His plan is. Yet, in the midst of my waiting, He is not silent!
I praise the Lord for giving me such splendid words of hope and encouragement, such feasting for my soul. A friend recently shared she was having a hard time even reading those verses of promise. I understand that. Sometimes it is hard to hear that God has a plan, to be still and wait for the Lord, or to rest under His wing. Why? Because when you're waiting for YOUR answer, your ears aren't always attuned to His voice. When we are only listening for the direct answer to our request, and when we don't hear it right away, our carnal flesh has the tendency to tune everything else out. Sometimes we even miss His voice.
"December 21, 2006 - My Anthem" is written in the margin of my Bible beside Psalm 37:4-7. "Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and He will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun. Be still before teh Lord and wait patiently for Him..."
When I started cross-referencing this verse only recently, I found such riches!
Job 22:26-27 talks about finding delight in the Almighty, praying to Him and the promise that He will hear! Let Him be your delight. Know that your prayers do not fall on deaf ears - He hears!
Isaiah 58:14 says I will find Joy in the Lord and feast on the promised land! There is joy to be found in our Savior. He will not disappoint! Even if it is not the answer you are searching for, He still brings joy.
Jeremiah 29:13 and Isaiah 58:9 assure us He will hear and answer, "Here am I." Yes, He will answer. It may not be the answer you are looking for, but rest assured, He is there and always listening to you.
Beloved, do you know how good it is to hear His voice...even in times when you're not hearing the answer you so desperately seek?
Be still and wait patiently - one of the hardest things to do. Why do we do it? Because He will turn to you and hear your cry (Psalm 40:1). How do we do it? Finding rest in Him alone and putting our hope in Him (Psalm 62:5).
God is still speaking. He is ever-present and these 'quiet' times prove He still has something to say.
I praise the Lord for giving me such splendid words of hope and encouragement, such feasting for my soul. A friend recently shared she was having a hard time even reading those verses of promise. I understand that. Sometimes it is hard to hear that God has a plan, to be still and wait for the Lord, or to rest under His wing. Why? Because when you're waiting for YOUR answer, your ears aren't always attuned to His voice. When we are only listening for the direct answer to our request, and when we don't hear it right away, our carnal flesh has the tendency to tune everything else out. Sometimes we even miss His voice.
"December 21, 2006 - My Anthem" is written in the margin of my Bible beside Psalm 37:4-7. "Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and He will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun. Be still before teh Lord and wait patiently for Him..."
When I started cross-referencing this verse only recently, I found such riches!
Job 22:26-27 talks about finding delight in the Almighty, praying to Him and the promise that He will hear! Let Him be your delight. Know that your prayers do not fall on deaf ears - He hears!
Isaiah 58:14 says I will find Joy in the Lord and feast on the promised land! There is joy to be found in our Savior. He will not disappoint! Even if it is not the answer you are searching for, He still brings joy.
Jeremiah 29:13 and Isaiah 58:9 assure us He will hear and answer, "Here am I." Yes, He will answer. It may not be the answer you are looking for, but rest assured, He is there and always listening to you.
Beloved, do you know how good it is to hear His voice...even in times when you're not hearing the answer you so desperately seek?
Be still and wait patiently - one of the hardest things to do. Why do we do it? Because He will turn to you and hear your cry (Psalm 40:1). How do we do it? Finding rest in Him alone and putting our hope in Him (Psalm 62:5).
God is still speaking. He is ever-present and these 'quiet' times prove He still has something to say.
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