When reading through scripture it’s not okay to skip over the difficult verses. Today, I read from Ephesians 5:22, which says, Wives submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior.
My guess is that this verse has raised more than a few disputes in churches and households across our nation. I’ve struggled to understand just what God is saying to me as a wife.
My personality is not conducive to submission. My sister Myrn once compared me to one of two rivers that run through our community. The first is a small river called Little River and the other, the North Umpqua, is large and powerful. The two collide, meeting head on at a place we call Colliding Rivers. It’s an unusual phenomenon. In my discussion with my sister, she said, “Bonnie, you are like the Umpqua and I’m like Little River.” I was floored by her statement, mostly because I didn’t view our relationship that way or see her as “a little river".
If I'm going to be honest with myself, then I must agree with my sister's perspective of my personality. I tend to be strong-minded, which can be a good thing, but sometimes not so good.
So . . . when the Lord says I’m to submit to my husband, Greg, it’s like fingernails on a chalk board. Why should I be the one to submit?
Read on to verse 25. It says, Husbands love your wives just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. Hmm. That sounds sacrificial. After all, Christ gave his life for the church.
I’ve been given a husband who is to love me unconditionally and sacrificially. Greg doesn’t get it right all the time, but he tries. He’s loved me when I haven’t deserved it and he's given much of himself to me in our thirty-six years of marriage. Why then, does it rankle me to submit to that kind of love?
The answer is easy; because I make it about me.
My husband and I are both imperfect. We struggle and sometimes just like the two rivers in our community we bump heads. More often than not we mesh and continue downriver working together in harmony, being a team just as God intended. And sometimes when we get it really right we become refreshment to those around us, just like the cool waters of the river that flows into the valley.
God is wise and His plans are admirable and reasonable. If we would only listen and obey we might be surprised at the beauty that can be created between two people, neither of which is better than the other, but who are linked by honor and love and submission to each other.
When we truly love another it always comes back to bless us. So, may you love well and be blessed.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Tips for triumphant living -- Be a winner.
On my 56th birthday I received a touching card from my youngest daughter. The gist of the card was that I’d always been there when she needed me. It mentioned circumstances like when she needed someone to lift her spirits, encourage her dreams, give her a gentle push, do a favor, give a pat on the back or a reassuring word, or offer a bit of advice. She wrote that she couldn’t remember a time that I’d let her down. Even now, the thought of it warms my heart.
Of course, I have let her down. I’m human. But there is One who will always be there for us, One who truly will never let us down, our Lord. Knowing that He’s there to offer Himself in whatever way I need makes me feel stronger, more courageous.
If we remember His presence through the good times and bad we can never really fail. Taking Him with us through all circumstances makes us winners every time.
Grace and peace to you from God,
Bonnie
Of course, I have let her down. I’m human. But there is One who will always be there for us, One who truly will never let us down, our Lord. Knowing that He’s there to offer Himself in whatever way I need makes me feel stronger, more courageous.
If we remember His presence through the good times and bad we can never really fail. Taking Him with us through all circumstances makes us winners every time.
Grace and peace to you from God,
Bonnie
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Quiet Moments With God--A Final Word
Imagine this is your last day on earth and the ones you love most have gathered to spend a few moments with you. What do you think you’d say?
If it were me, I’d share whatever was pressing intensely on my heart. I’d tell them whatever mattered most, what they needed to hear more than anything else.
In Mathew 28:19, before Jesus ascended to His Father he said, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
These were Jesus’ last words to His disciples. Like us, don’t you think He’d share what was of utmost importance? He did. His words are well known and are often referred to as “The Great Commission”.
He gave three instructions; go make disciples, baptize, and teach. This is not a suggestion but a command. All Christians need to be doing these three things.
Does this mean we must travel across the globe to a village somewhere in Africa? No. But as we go we are to share the love of Christ with others.
Baptism is an outward statement of our faith. It tells others that we believe in Jesus as Savior. And encouraging them to make their own public statement is obeying Christ.
We are to teach, but that doesn’t mean we’re required to stand in front of a classroom or a congregation and present a speech. We need only share the truth of God’s Word with others and build up one another, in love, with honesty and integrity.
The last line of the Great Commission is powerful and reassuring. “I am with you always, even unto the very end of the age.”
We’re never alone. Never. I know that the idea of witnessing to others can make some of us quake, but God would not ask us to do something we can’t. And we can count on Him to stand with us, offering His guidance and strength.
Many times I’ve failed at fulfilling this mission. But that’s not an excuse. I can’t disregard Christ’s command. I may not do things beautifully or take advantage of every opportunity, but I can do my best, do better, because He lives in me.
He is our source of strength and wisdom. Nothing is impossible with Christ.
Grace & peace to you from God,
Bonnie
If it were me, I’d share whatever was pressing intensely on my heart. I’d tell them whatever mattered most, what they needed to hear more than anything else.
In Mathew 28:19, before Jesus ascended to His Father he said, All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
These were Jesus’ last words to His disciples. Like us, don’t you think He’d share what was of utmost importance? He did. His words are well known and are often referred to as “The Great Commission”.
He gave three instructions; go make disciples, baptize, and teach. This is not a suggestion but a command. All Christians need to be doing these three things.
Does this mean we must travel across the globe to a village somewhere in Africa? No. But as we go we are to share the love of Christ with others.
Baptism is an outward statement of our faith. It tells others that we believe in Jesus as Savior. And encouraging them to make their own public statement is obeying Christ.
We are to teach, but that doesn’t mean we’re required to stand in front of a classroom or a congregation and present a speech. We need only share the truth of God’s Word with others and build up one another, in love, with honesty and integrity.
The last line of the Great Commission is powerful and reassuring. “I am with you always, even unto the very end of the age.”
We’re never alone. Never. I know that the idea of witnessing to others can make some of us quake, but God would not ask us to do something we can’t. And we can count on Him to stand with us, offering His guidance and strength.
Many times I’ve failed at fulfilling this mission. But that’s not an excuse. I can’t disregard Christ’s command. I may not do things beautifully or take advantage of every opportunity, but I can do my best, do better, because He lives in me.
He is our source of strength and wisdom. Nothing is impossible with Christ.
Grace & peace to you from God,
Bonnie
Friday, April 18, 2008
Tips for triumphant living--Seek more than a snapshot.
We look at circumstances, weigh choices, consult friends and think we possess wisdom, believing we know what is best. But Isaiah 3:22 says, "Stop trusting in man, who has but a breath in his nostrils. Of what account is he."
Whoa! That catches one's attention. I love God's Word, but sometimes I'm unable to rest in it. I search for guidance in all kinds of places, which includes my Bible, my Lord, my friends. And, still, I worry about what I should or shouldn't do. God says I'm to rest in Him. He offers me true peace of mind.
In truth, what good is my knowledge and wisdom when compared to God's? Think about it; He created the entire universe; He spoke it into being. He knows the beginning and the end and everything in between. I have only a snapshot of life, one piece of a very large puzzle. God sees the entire picture. It makes little sense to trust in my own perspective when I can have God's.
Being residents of this world, we often trust in what we feel, what we believe and see. In light of who God is it seems that true wisdom would drive us to Him. He welcomes us; we can approach His throne with confidence and place our burdens at His feet.
God has all the right answers. If we trust in our own views rather than His then we are behaving foolishly and may well pay the consequences. And we need to keep in mind that God loves His children enough to allow those consequences.
He has a better plan. The best plan. Trust Him.
Grace and peace to you from God,
Bonnie
Whoa! That catches one's attention. I love God's Word, but sometimes I'm unable to rest in it. I search for guidance in all kinds of places, which includes my Bible, my Lord, my friends. And, still, I worry about what I should or shouldn't do. God says I'm to rest in Him. He offers me true peace of mind.
In truth, what good is my knowledge and wisdom when compared to God's? Think about it; He created the entire universe; He spoke it into being. He knows the beginning and the end and everything in between. I have only a snapshot of life, one piece of a very large puzzle. God sees the entire picture. It makes little sense to trust in my own perspective when I can have God's.
Being residents of this world, we often trust in what we feel, what we believe and see. In light of who God is it seems that true wisdom would drive us to Him. He welcomes us; we can approach His throne with confidence and place our burdens at His feet.
God has all the right answers. If we trust in our own views rather than His then we are behaving foolishly and may well pay the consequences. And we need to keep in mind that God loves His children enough to allow those consequences.
He has a better plan. The best plan. Trust Him.
Grace and peace to you from God,
Bonnie
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Tips for Triumphant Living--Walk Close to God.
There was a time when Adam and Eve lived in the Garden with God. They walked with Him and they talked with Him. Life was as it should be. Nothing separated them from their Father. Oh, how I yearn for such days.
We live in a very different world, but it helps to remember that we're merely pilgrims, sojourners, who are here for a short time only. I look back at our beginnings with longing. How incredible it must have been to experience the kinship Adam and Eve had with their heavenly Father. One day, we too shall have such a relationship when we see Him face to face. What a wonder it will be.
Today our lives are busy, filled with jobs, family, endless activities and responsibilities. I don't mean to belittle our lives; they matter and much of what we do is important. God gave us life to be lived. The trouble is that too often busyness robs us of precious time with our Lord. We will never live “triumphantly” if we don’t seek Him out and join Him in fellowship and worship. We must desire Him above all else.
During my life I've experienced spiritually dry seasons. Each time, the stagnation of my faith could be traced back to lack of meaningful fellowship with my Lord.
He longs to spend time with us. Do you remember the days as a child when you climbed into your father's lap and felt safe and protected? Our Abba Father wants to embrace us in the same way. When He does we feel His heart and his spirit. We are given assurance and power and feel utterly protected. We are reminded that all things are possible with Him. He is our source of hope and strength.
Remain in Him and He shall remain in you.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
We live in a very different world, but it helps to remember that we're merely pilgrims, sojourners, who are here for a short time only. I look back at our beginnings with longing. How incredible it must have been to experience the kinship Adam and Eve had with their heavenly Father. One day, we too shall have such a relationship when we see Him face to face. What a wonder it will be.
Today our lives are busy, filled with jobs, family, endless activities and responsibilities. I don't mean to belittle our lives; they matter and much of what we do is important. God gave us life to be lived. The trouble is that too often busyness robs us of precious time with our Lord. We will never live “triumphantly” if we don’t seek Him out and join Him in fellowship and worship. We must desire Him above all else.
During my life I've experienced spiritually dry seasons. Each time, the stagnation of my faith could be traced back to lack of meaningful fellowship with my Lord.
He longs to spend time with us. Do you remember the days as a child when you climbed into your father's lap and felt safe and protected? Our Abba Father wants to embrace us in the same way. When He does we feel His heart and his spirit. We are given assurance and power and feel utterly protected. We are reminded that all things are possible with Him. He is our source of hope and strength.
Remain in Him and He shall remain in you.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Quite Moments With God--Tender Kisses
God blessed my socks off today. I'd just returned from a women's retreat, hosted by my church. I went expecting to be blessed and I was. Our speaker, Karen Ball, was phenomenal! My heart was full and I had so much I wanted to share with you when I got home. Something changed my mind about what I wanted to say, a message left on my telephone.
A woman called while I was out of town and left the message asking me to call her. I did.
This elderly woman had recently read my Matanuska series and wanted to thank me for writing the books. You see, she grew up in a village not far from the Matanuska Valley and she's been missing her home. The stories carried her back to her childhood, reminding her of all the things she'd done as a girl living in that wild part of the world. Sounding tearful, she repeatedly thanked me for the books and told me how much they had blessed her. My heart filled with gratitude. God had once again reminded me why I write.
As with most writers I sometimes wonder why I plant myself at my desk hour upon hour, month upon month. Am I really making a "big enough" difference? I've even asked if all the work and toil that goes into creating a novel is worth it.
Then I hear from someone like this woman, whose heart has been touched by one of my stories. I'm filled with the wonder of it all, that God has seen fit to bless me this way. First by allowing me to do what I love and secondly that He prompts people to reach out and let me know how my hard work has made a difference in their lives. My joy feels like a sterling sunrise or a toasty sunset.
I praise my Lord for the honor of serving Him and for the tender kisses sent my way through kindhearted souls.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
A woman called while I was out of town and left the message asking me to call her. I did.
This elderly woman had recently read my Matanuska series and wanted to thank me for writing the books. You see, she grew up in a village not far from the Matanuska Valley and she's been missing her home. The stories carried her back to her childhood, reminding her of all the things she'd done as a girl living in that wild part of the world. Sounding tearful, she repeatedly thanked me for the books and told me how much they had blessed her. My heart filled with gratitude. God had once again reminded me why I write.
As with most writers I sometimes wonder why I plant myself at my desk hour upon hour, month upon month. Am I really making a "big enough" difference? I've even asked if all the work and toil that goes into creating a novel is worth it.
Then I hear from someone like this woman, whose heart has been touched by one of my stories. I'm filled with the wonder of it all, that God has seen fit to bless me this way. First by allowing me to do what I love and secondly that He prompts people to reach out and let me know how my hard work has made a difference in their lives. My joy feels like a sterling sunrise or a toasty sunset.
I praise my Lord for the honor of serving Him and for the tender kisses sent my way through kindhearted souls.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
Tips for triumphant living -- Take a flying leap of faith.
Jump and build your wings on the way down is one of my favorite quotes. I don't know who penned it, but it paints a picture of the way I'd like to live my life . . . taking flying leaps of faith.
Perhaps the reason it speaks to me is because I’m not very adventurous. I tend to step out cautiously. In that way I'm very different from my husband. He loves adventure and consequently he has more fun than I do.
There's an Indiana Jones movie, The Temple of Doom (I think that's the title), where Mr. Jones must cross a deep chasm. The secret of crossing the bottomless ravine is that he must step out onto an invisible bridge, believing it's there. Only after taking this step of faith will it appear. If he's to move forward in his journey he's required to make what appears to be a suicidal plunge into the abyss. Any other choice means failure.
We each have moments like that (perhaps not quite so dramatic), when we need to believe and step out in faith without assurance of success or reward. I must confess I often approach these opportunities with trepidation, but some of the results have been remarkable.
One incident comes swiftly to mind. It happened about a year after my accident. I was still in terrible physical shape when I was offered a scholarship to the Oregon Christian Writers Summer Conference. It made no sense for me to attend, considering my circumstances, but I was certain God had provided this opportunity. I decided to trust and to believe He would take good care of me. That doesn't mean I wasn’t scared; I was.
After four days of soaking in writing expertise offered by teachers and mentors I returned home inspired and ready to write. The Lord had a plan.
The 1992 conference launched my writing career. When I showed up that first day of the conference I didn't know where the experience would take me, but I stepped onto my own invisible bridge. The Lord has blessed my small leap of faith. I've written and published fifteen novels and I'm in the midst of a new series.
It's healthy to move out of our comfort zones and take risks. Do we? If not what might we be missing?
Do you have a story of a time when you or someone you know leapt and built wings on the way down? I'd love to hear it, and I know others who read these posts would be inspired. After all, it's not easy to live triumphantly.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Perhaps the reason it speaks to me is because I’m not very adventurous. I tend to step out cautiously. In that way I'm very different from my husband. He loves adventure and consequently he has more fun than I do.
There's an Indiana Jones movie, The Temple of Doom (I think that's the title), where Mr. Jones must cross a deep chasm. The secret of crossing the bottomless ravine is that he must step out onto an invisible bridge, believing it's there. Only after taking this step of faith will it appear. If he's to move forward in his journey he's required to make what appears to be a suicidal plunge into the abyss. Any other choice means failure.
We each have moments like that (perhaps not quite so dramatic), when we need to believe and step out in faith without assurance of success or reward. I must confess I often approach these opportunities with trepidation, but some of the results have been remarkable.
One incident comes swiftly to mind. It happened about a year after my accident. I was still in terrible physical shape when I was offered a scholarship to the Oregon Christian Writers Summer Conference. It made no sense for me to attend, considering my circumstances, but I was certain God had provided this opportunity. I decided to trust and to believe He would take good care of me. That doesn't mean I wasn’t scared; I was.
After four days of soaking in writing expertise offered by teachers and mentors I returned home inspired and ready to write. The Lord had a plan.
The 1992 conference launched my writing career. When I showed up that first day of the conference I didn't know where the experience would take me, but I stepped onto my own invisible bridge. The Lord has blessed my small leap of faith. I've written and published fifteen novels and I'm in the midst of a new series.
It's healthy to move out of our comfort zones and take risks. Do we? If not what might we be missing?
Do you have a story of a time when you or someone you know leapt and built wings on the way down? I'd love to hear it, and I know others who read these posts would be inspired. After all, it's not easy to live triumphantly.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Saturday, April 05, 2008
Quiet Moments With God -- A strong hand.
Recently, while reading My Utmost For His Highest I was struck by this phrase, "God speaks in the language you know best, not through your ears but through your circumstances."
Sometimes Oswald Chambers is so right on with where I am that it takes my breath away. I've been seeking, but trying to ignore cirsumstances because they led in a direction I wanted to avoid.
Isaiah 8:11 says, The Lord spoke thus to me with a strong hand. The circumstances used were harsh.
The Lord knows us well. He knows what it takes to get our attention. We just need to tune in and then we'll see Him in the midst of life's events.
I want to know God's will, in the every day and down the road. In Psalm 119:105 it says, Your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light for my path. The Lord wants to show me the way, offering light at my feet so I don't stumble as well as down the path so the decisions I make today will not negatively effect tomorrow.
Although my spirit longs to know and to be in God's will the "me" part of me resists. In spite of that, I've learned to pay attention to circumstances, most of the time. The more intimate my relationship is with God the more attentive I am to His leading.
Sometimes God uses a strong hand, but only out of love. He wants the best for us. Because I know this, life is less intimidating. I need not fear the difficulties. Instead I can anticipate the next adventure, knowing that whatever it is it will draw me closer to Christ and mold me into the person God wishes me to be.
May we praise Him in the circumstances!
Grace & peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Sometimes Oswald Chambers is so right on with where I am that it takes my breath away. I've been seeking, but trying to ignore cirsumstances because they led in a direction I wanted to avoid.
Isaiah 8:11 says, The Lord spoke thus to me with a strong hand. The circumstances used were harsh.
The Lord knows us well. He knows what it takes to get our attention. We just need to tune in and then we'll see Him in the midst of life's events.
I want to know God's will, in the every day and down the road. In Psalm 119:105 it says, Your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light for my path. The Lord wants to show me the way, offering light at my feet so I don't stumble as well as down the path so the decisions I make today will not negatively effect tomorrow.
Although my spirit longs to know and to be in God's will the "me" part of me resists. In spite of that, I've learned to pay attention to circumstances, most of the time. The more intimate my relationship is with God the more attentive I am to His leading.
Sometimes God uses a strong hand, but only out of love. He wants the best for us. Because I know this, life is less intimidating. I need not fear the difficulties. Instead I can anticipate the next adventure, knowing that whatever it is it will draw me closer to Christ and mold me into the person God wishes me to be.
May we praise Him in the circumstances!
Grace & peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Tips for triumphant living -- Do you remember?
How did you feel those first moments, the first hours and days after you discovered Christ as Savior? Do you remember? I do.
I was beyond ecstatic. I'm not certain my feet touched the ground those first months. I probably should have been locked up. You see I had lived in darkness for so long I couldn't contain the light. For the first time that I could remember I knew I was loved without condition. I wanted to tell everyone . . . and I did, whether they wanted to hear or not.
That was thirty-three years ago, and today I could use a bit more of that enthusiasm. In the first days of my salvation the world looked as if it had just been freshly washed as if in a spring rain. Life was filled with hope, joy and grace. I understood that Christ had gone to the cross, died, and had taken my sins upon Himself. His act of obedience to His heavenly Father and His love for God’s children, which includes me, lit the joy that radiated inside me.
Most of every day my thoughts remained on Him. Nothing seemed impossible because I was one of God's kids; I belonged to Him! I’d read scripture until my vision blurred, and talked with my friends about God’s power and love until the wee hours of the morning. I spent time every day thanking Him and praying. There seemed to be an endless stream of joy flowing through me. The light of God's love surrounded me, and I could see it.
Today, although my love for God is deep and I feel His power in my life, the newness is not as sharp or fresh as it once was. I’ve grown used to being loved and I sometimes forget where I came from. I lived in a pit of fear and misery, without hope.
And so, I choose to remember. I close my eyes and consider the old me and think on that moment of realization, the moment of renewal, and joy rushes back. I am again reminded that God's love is forever and that nothing is impossible with Him.
May we all remember and rejoice!
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
I was beyond ecstatic. I'm not certain my feet touched the ground those first months. I probably should have been locked up. You see I had lived in darkness for so long I couldn't contain the light. For the first time that I could remember I knew I was loved without condition. I wanted to tell everyone . . . and I did, whether they wanted to hear or not.
That was thirty-three years ago, and today I could use a bit more of that enthusiasm. In the first days of my salvation the world looked as if it had just been freshly washed as if in a spring rain. Life was filled with hope, joy and grace. I understood that Christ had gone to the cross, died, and had taken my sins upon Himself. His act of obedience to His heavenly Father and His love for God’s children, which includes me, lit the joy that radiated inside me.
Most of every day my thoughts remained on Him. Nothing seemed impossible because I was one of God's kids; I belonged to Him! I’d read scripture until my vision blurred, and talked with my friends about God’s power and love until the wee hours of the morning. I spent time every day thanking Him and praying. There seemed to be an endless stream of joy flowing through me. The light of God's love surrounded me, and I could see it.
Today, although my love for God is deep and I feel His power in my life, the newness is not as sharp or fresh as it once was. I’ve grown used to being loved and I sometimes forget where I came from. I lived in a pit of fear and misery, without hope.
And so, I choose to remember. I close my eyes and consider the old me and think on that moment of realization, the moment of renewal, and joy rushes back. I am again reminded that God's love is forever and that nothing is impossible with Him.
May we all remember and rejoice!
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Monday, March 31, 2008
Quiet Moments With God--Crazy Drivers
Over the weekend I made a trip to Seattle and back, traveling more than 800 miles. I’ve made the trek many times, but this time it was an enlightening experience. Before I left home I asked God to reveal something new to me or to show me something familiar with new eyes. He’s faithful to answer our prayers, and He didn’t let me down.
The weather was spectacular on my way up, rain, hail, snow, wind, sun . . . a little of everything. The trip was definitely not boring. However, my focus was on my destination and I didn’t pay a lot of attention to the gorgeous surroundings.
As I approached Tacoma, heavy traffic socked in travelers. Some drivers seemed to have a death wish, diving in and out of lanes. Soon we no longer raced along, but slowed to a crawl and finally stopped. The minutes ticked by and frustration set in. I had a bit of a melt down. I just wanted to get to my daughter’s, get out of the car and away from all the “crazies” on the road.
Three days later I headed home, shamefully remembering my terrible attitude when I’d arrived. Again, the weather was spectacular. There were stacks of gray and white clouds that looked like piles of pillows. Others were black walls filled with moisture. Wind buffeted my car, and a mix of snow, rain, and hail pounded my windshield and flooded the highway. Unexpectedly the sun would burst through the mounded mountains of clouds, turning open fields to emerald green and gold. Hillsides and forests were cloaked in white from recent snowfalls. It was a spectacular display of God’s handiwork.
Most drivers were not focused on God’s creation. Instead they gripped steering wheels and kept their feet hard on gas pedals. Most flew past me, intent on their destination and unaware of the journey.
More than once I was forced to move into the fast lane to get around a snail-moving truck or trailer. It usually took only a moment before another car came up behind me to ride my bumper, pushing me to hurry. God whispered, “That’s all right. Just pull into the slow lane and let him pass. You enjoy the view.”
I did and found myself praising God. He had created this immeasurable beauty and most human beings didn’t even notice. He offered a gift and we couldn’t take the time to even look.
My trip home was filled with worship and intimate fellowship with God. It was a blessed time, unlike my excursion north.
God loves to display his splendor; He understands that it ministers to our hearts and draws us closer to Him. In the future, I hope to spend fewer hours being one of the “crazy” drivers and instead be a blissful sojourner on God’s highway.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
The weather was spectacular on my way up, rain, hail, snow, wind, sun . . . a little of everything. The trip was definitely not boring. However, my focus was on my destination and I didn’t pay a lot of attention to the gorgeous surroundings.
As I approached Tacoma, heavy traffic socked in travelers. Some drivers seemed to have a death wish, diving in and out of lanes. Soon we no longer raced along, but slowed to a crawl and finally stopped. The minutes ticked by and frustration set in. I had a bit of a melt down. I just wanted to get to my daughter’s, get out of the car and away from all the “crazies” on the road.
Three days later I headed home, shamefully remembering my terrible attitude when I’d arrived. Again, the weather was spectacular. There were stacks of gray and white clouds that looked like piles of pillows. Others were black walls filled with moisture. Wind buffeted my car, and a mix of snow, rain, and hail pounded my windshield and flooded the highway. Unexpectedly the sun would burst through the mounded mountains of clouds, turning open fields to emerald green and gold. Hillsides and forests were cloaked in white from recent snowfalls. It was a spectacular display of God’s handiwork.
Most drivers were not focused on God’s creation. Instead they gripped steering wheels and kept their feet hard on gas pedals. Most flew past me, intent on their destination and unaware of the journey.
More than once I was forced to move into the fast lane to get around a snail-moving truck or trailer. It usually took only a moment before another car came up behind me to ride my bumper, pushing me to hurry. God whispered, “That’s all right. Just pull into the slow lane and let him pass. You enjoy the view.”
I did and found myself praising God. He had created this immeasurable beauty and most human beings didn’t even notice. He offered a gift and we couldn’t take the time to even look.
My trip home was filled with worship and intimate fellowship with God. It was a blessed time, unlike my excursion north.
God loves to display his splendor; He understands that it ministers to our hearts and draws us closer to Him. In the future, I hope to spend fewer hours being one of the “crazy” drivers and instead be a blissful sojourner on God’s highway.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Tips for triumphant living -- Don't just do something, sit there.
Society says keep busy. We feel compelled to race about and do something, anything. But the best thing we can do is to be still and listen . . . listen to the voice of God. Some of what we do is good and productive and necessary, but too often we carelessly charge forward and then miss the best while settling for good.
The story of Martha and Mary and their different approaches to life is an excellent example of the choices we make. Although Martha was doing something good her busyness kept her from experiencing the best. In the end, it was Mary who reaped the greater reward.
So . . . let us slow down and give heed to what God has to say. He speaks to us in the beauty all around, in the voice of a loving friend, through His Word and in the quietness of our hearts. And oh how he loves it when we listen!
Grace and peace to you from God,
Bonnie
The story of Martha and Mary and their different approaches to life is an excellent example of the choices we make. Although Martha was doing something good her busyness kept her from experiencing the best. In the end, it was Mary who reaped the greater reward.
So . . . let us slow down and give heed to what God has to say. He speaks to us in the beauty all around, in the voice of a loving friend, through His Word and in the quietness of our hearts. And oh how he loves it when we listen!
Grace and peace to you from God,
Bonnie
Friday, March 21, 2008
Quiet Moments With God -- The Battle
This Easter weekend has been a reminder to us that Christ went to the cross and died. And that He rose again. His sacrifice offers the greatest of all gifts—eternal life with God. But between here and heaven lie battlefields, wars to be won. In order to win, we must recognize the enemy.
I wrote a series of books addressing the theme that if we fail to recognize our adversary when He comes and if we’re ill-prepared to do battle then He will have the upper hand and may well destroy us. We need not be defeated, for God has given us the armor for victory.
Ephesians 6:10 – 18 has much to say about this subject. Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God so that when the day of evil comes you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
This is not passive living. Two times we are told to put on the armor of God and twice we are told to take up our shield and then our helmet of salvation. We are called to battle. And when we go, we must heed God's instruction, which clearly state that worldly weapons are ineffective. They are useless against principalities and power. We’re to use spiritual weapons—the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit. Only then can we triumph against the enemy.
When we are strong in His power we will stand. Be ready. Do not wait until the day of battle and then, being unprepared, call upon God. Generals never go to war illprepared. They train and practice and build up their strength so they are ready when the time comes.
As soldiers in God’s army we can accomplish all that's required of us. Accept God’s gift of salvation, take on faith and peace, know His Word and stand on it. The enemy prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Be alert. Pray for one another. And fight to win.
We have been offered all we need to overcome the enemy and so let us go forth, standing together with the strength of the heavenlies.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
I wrote a series of books addressing the theme that if we fail to recognize our adversary when He comes and if we’re ill-prepared to do battle then He will have the upper hand and may well destroy us. We need not be defeated, for God has given us the armor for victory.
Ephesians 6:10 – 18 has much to say about this subject. Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God so that when the day of evil comes you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
This is not passive living. Two times we are told to put on the armor of God and twice we are told to take up our shield and then our helmet of salvation. We are called to battle. And when we go, we must heed God's instruction, which clearly state that worldly weapons are ineffective. They are useless against principalities and power. We’re to use spiritual weapons—the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit. Only then can we triumph against the enemy.
When we are strong in His power we will stand. Be ready. Do not wait until the day of battle and then, being unprepared, call upon God. Generals never go to war illprepared. They train and practice and build up their strength so they are ready when the time comes.
As soldiers in God’s army we can accomplish all that's required of us. Accept God’s gift of salvation, take on faith and peace, know His Word and stand on it. The enemy prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Be alert. Pray for one another. And fight to win.
We have been offered all we need to overcome the enemy and so let us go forth, standing together with the strength of the heavenlies.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Tips for triumphant living -- Face Your Giants
I don’t like giants.
My first inclination is to run from the things in life that are scary, painful or just plain difficult. I try to face my giants, but often I'm quaking in my boots.
When reflecting on battling giants you’d think my first thought would be David. After all, he stood up to Goliath even after being warned not to.
David didn't listen to men. He obeyed God and knew he’d been called to that moment, that challenge. And so with nothing more than a sling, a stone and his faith, he brought down the giant and saved his people from slavery.
Still, it isn’t David I think of when my thoughts go to giant slaying. It’s my sister.
Several weeks ago I sat in a courtroom and watched her stand up to one of her giants. She did so with resolve and courage even though the giant she faced was the man responsible for her nineteen-year-old daughter’s death.
Two and a half years before her daughter, Crystal, died in an automobile accident. The man who’d been driving had been drinking when he drove off an embankment. Crystal died instantly. The driver had no injuries and I can only guess at those he carries inside.
With no noticeable remorse he sat in the courtroom awaiting his sentence. My sister remained composed as she faced the accused. Bravely and eloquently she told him all that he had taken from her and her family in hopes that it would impact him enough to change his ways. She spoke with honesty and without malice.
I wept, and in my heart I cheered. I was proud of my sister, not because she spoke eloquently, not because she was honest, or because she lacked malice, but because she faced this “giant” with courage and grace. She offered him mercy. And she told him about the love of Jesus, sharing God’s grace with him. She asked him to place his trust in Christ so that he too could spend eternity in heaven, right beside her daughter who already resides there.
My sister’s strength and faith is an inspiration to me. The same God who stood with David stood with my sister and He stands with me and with you. He offers courage and strength.
He whispers in our hearts, “Do not fear. I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Do you have a story about one of the giants you've faced? We'd love to hear about it.
My first inclination is to run from the things in life that are scary, painful or just plain difficult. I try to face my giants, but often I'm quaking in my boots.
When reflecting on battling giants you’d think my first thought would be David. After all, he stood up to Goliath even after being warned not to.
David didn't listen to men. He obeyed God and knew he’d been called to that moment, that challenge. And so with nothing more than a sling, a stone and his faith, he brought down the giant and saved his people from slavery.
Still, it isn’t David I think of when my thoughts go to giant slaying. It’s my sister.
Several weeks ago I sat in a courtroom and watched her stand up to one of her giants. She did so with resolve and courage even though the giant she faced was the man responsible for her nineteen-year-old daughter’s death.
Two and a half years before her daughter, Crystal, died in an automobile accident. The man who’d been driving had been drinking when he drove off an embankment. Crystal died instantly. The driver had no injuries and I can only guess at those he carries inside.
With no noticeable remorse he sat in the courtroom awaiting his sentence. My sister remained composed as she faced the accused. Bravely and eloquently she told him all that he had taken from her and her family in hopes that it would impact him enough to change his ways. She spoke with honesty and without malice.
I wept, and in my heart I cheered. I was proud of my sister, not because she spoke eloquently, not because she was honest, or because she lacked malice, but because she faced this “giant” with courage and grace. She offered him mercy. And she told him about the love of Jesus, sharing God’s grace with him. She asked him to place his trust in Christ so that he too could spend eternity in heaven, right beside her daughter who already resides there.
My sister’s strength and faith is an inspiration to me. The same God who stood with David stood with my sister and He stands with me and with you. He offers courage and strength.
He whispers in our hearts, “Do not fear. I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Do you have a story about one of the giants you've faced? We'd love to hear about it.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Quiet moments with God--Unusual Gifts
Ephesians 3:20 – 21 says, Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever. Amen.
Every time I come to this verse I am reminded of all that I’ve hoped for and prayed for. Even when I thought I was praying big prayers and trusting in a big way God did more than I could have even imagined.
I don’t know about you, but I often think too small; I sometimes forget how great our God truly is. He’s always surprising me with gifts I couldn’t have anticipated. Sometimes those gifts come in unusual packages. In fact, for the last two days I’ve been laid up with my “bad” back . . . again. I’m tempted to feel the wounds of my affliction rather than see the blessings. But God wastes nothing in my life. How can I ignore the extra love I've received the last two days? My husband has seen to my every need and helps me get from from room to room. My daughter has kept a close eye on me and made sure I don't go hungry. And my grandchildren have all made sure to tell me they love me. I've truly been blessed. Therefore, I choose to see these last two days as a gift.
His plans are bigger than mine and sometimes I see his blessings through a veil. I trust Him; He knows just what He wants for me and for each of us. Small thinking has the potential to sidetrack us from His greater purpose.
His course may move us into the unknown but we can trust Him to carry us through whatever storms there are in life and to accomplish what He set out to do. Having faith in our heavenly Father is more than saying yes, we must also step out and do.
Grace and Peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Every time I come to this verse I am reminded of all that I’ve hoped for and prayed for. Even when I thought I was praying big prayers and trusting in a big way God did more than I could have even imagined.
I don’t know about you, but I often think too small; I sometimes forget how great our God truly is. He’s always surprising me with gifts I couldn’t have anticipated. Sometimes those gifts come in unusual packages. In fact, for the last two days I’ve been laid up with my “bad” back . . . again. I’m tempted to feel the wounds of my affliction rather than see the blessings. But God wastes nothing in my life. How can I ignore the extra love I've received the last two days? My husband has seen to my every need and helps me get from from room to room. My daughter has kept a close eye on me and made sure I don't go hungry. And my grandchildren have all made sure to tell me they love me. I've truly been blessed. Therefore, I choose to see these last two days as a gift.
His plans are bigger than mine and sometimes I see his blessings through a veil. I trust Him; He knows just what He wants for me and for each of us. Small thinking has the potential to sidetrack us from His greater purpose.
His course may move us into the unknown but we can trust Him to carry us through whatever storms there are in life and to accomplish what He set out to do. Having faith in our heavenly Father is more than saying yes, we must also step out and do.
Grace and Peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Tips for Triumphant Living -- Learn to be content.
Paul says in Philippians 4:11-13 “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content. In any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.”
There have been many moments of discontent in my life. I remember once standing at my dining room window and looking out at the fields and forests surrounding my home and feeling such frustration with my life. I asked God, “Is this it? Do I have to be content with just this?” His answer . . .“YES!”
That’s not what I wanted to hear, but I knew what He would say before I asked. Did His yes mean that I’d never have anything more than I did at that moment? Not necessarily. What it did is ask questions. “Where is your gratitude? Where is your faith? Have you forgotten that above all else you are to tell others about me?"
God has given me more than I’ve even dreamed to ask. And yet, discontentment shadows my life.
I’m convinced that no matter how much we have there will always be something else that tantalizes us, one more thing that’s just out of reach. We think, if only I could achieve just this objective or possess that one more “whatever it is” then I’ll be happy. It’s a lie. Accomplishments and possessions never comnpletely satisfy.
When I consider the people I most admire it’s never their talent, the kind of car they drive or the beautiful home they live in that I value. It’s who they are that matters. The people I want to emulate are “just folks” whose hearts and minds are set upon Christ. They are people who listen instead of talk, people who give instead of take.
Discontent comes in all shapes and sizes. Our need for more time, more money, more recognition, more intelligence, even more knowledge . . . distracts us from what should be our true goal, God’s will.
How much sweeter life would be if we could rest in Christ; offer up our lives to him and allow His will to be what motivates us above all else.
Take heart, for as Paul says, “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”
Blessings to you,
Bonnie
There have been many moments of discontent in my life. I remember once standing at my dining room window and looking out at the fields and forests surrounding my home and feeling such frustration with my life. I asked God, “Is this it? Do I have to be content with just this?” His answer . . .“YES!”
That’s not what I wanted to hear, but I knew what He would say before I asked. Did His yes mean that I’d never have anything more than I did at that moment? Not necessarily. What it did is ask questions. “Where is your gratitude? Where is your faith? Have you forgotten that above all else you are to tell others about me?"
God has given me more than I’ve even dreamed to ask. And yet, discontentment shadows my life.
I’m convinced that no matter how much we have there will always be something else that tantalizes us, one more thing that’s just out of reach. We think, if only I could achieve just this objective or possess that one more “whatever it is” then I’ll be happy. It’s a lie. Accomplishments and possessions never comnpletely satisfy.
When I consider the people I most admire it’s never their talent, the kind of car they drive or the beautiful home they live in that I value. It’s who they are that matters. The people I want to emulate are “just folks” whose hearts and minds are set upon Christ. They are people who listen instead of talk, people who give instead of take.
Discontent comes in all shapes and sizes. Our need for more time, more money, more recognition, more intelligence, even more knowledge . . . distracts us from what should be our true goal, God’s will.
How much sweeter life would be if we could rest in Christ; offer up our lives to him and allow His will to be what motivates us above all else.
Take heart, for as Paul says, “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.”
Blessings to you,
Bonnie
Sunday, March 09, 2008
Quiet Moments With God -- Unyielding Love
This week, verses I’ve carried close to my heart for many years were part of my reading. I love God’s Word; it’s enduring and compelling. If my mind is set upon Christ I will hear what God has to say to me. And once again Ephesians 3:17-18 reminded me that Christ’s love is a supernatural choice He makes.
Paul said to the Ephesian church, “And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love may have power, together with all the saints to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
I was a young mother when I first read these verses. While my little ones napped I took my Bible, went to my back porch and dropped into a patio chair. It was my “God time”. These passages were a balm to my soul. Yet, I couldn’t fully grasp their meaning. So, as I often do, I asked God to show me. And He was faithful to answer. I looked out over a broad valley that stretched into the hills and up into the mountains. It was wide and long. God said to me, “See that. Even that valley cannot contain the love I have for you.”
As the reality settled in, I took a deep breath and felt awash in His love. Even now, when I think about that first glimmer of understanding my eyes fill with tears. How could anyone love me that much? Only God.
There is no human measurement for His love. The closest I can come is a parent’s love for their child. I remember the first time I saw my son. An indescribable and unfamiliar love swelled inside me—powerful and unyielding. I’d never felt that way about anyone before that moment. And I knew I’d die for that little boy if need be.
When I visited the Grand Canyon several months ago I gazed at the astounding view, barely able to believe the splendor. Again, I heard the voice of God whisper, “Not even this can contain the love I have for you.”
His love is infinite and without conditions. He loves us . . . period. I rest in that, knowing I can depend upon Him to embrace me as a father does his child even when that child lets Him down.
So dear friends, rest in the one true and enduring refuge--the arms of our Lord.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Paul said to the Ephesian church, “And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love may have power, together with all the saints to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
I was a young mother when I first read these verses. While my little ones napped I took my Bible, went to my back porch and dropped into a patio chair. It was my “God time”. These passages were a balm to my soul. Yet, I couldn’t fully grasp their meaning. So, as I often do, I asked God to show me. And He was faithful to answer. I looked out over a broad valley that stretched into the hills and up into the mountains. It was wide and long. God said to me, “See that. Even that valley cannot contain the love I have for you.”
As the reality settled in, I took a deep breath and felt awash in His love. Even now, when I think about that first glimmer of understanding my eyes fill with tears. How could anyone love me that much? Only God.
There is no human measurement for His love. The closest I can come is a parent’s love for their child. I remember the first time I saw my son. An indescribable and unfamiliar love swelled inside me—powerful and unyielding. I’d never felt that way about anyone before that moment. And I knew I’d die for that little boy if need be.
When I visited the Grand Canyon several months ago I gazed at the astounding view, barely able to believe the splendor. Again, I heard the voice of God whisper, “Not even this can contain the love I have for you.”
His love is infinite and without conditions. He loves us . . . period. I rest in that, knowing I can depend upon Him to embrace me as a father does his child even when that child lets Him down.
So dear friends, rest in the one true and enduring refuge--the arms of our Lord.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Monday, March 03, 2008
Tips for Triumphant Living -- Choose Life.
When I was eighteen years old, my father was diagnosed with incurable lymphoma. He was a relatively young man. The doctors said he couldn’t be saved. Their prognosis—two years at most, and only if he chose treatment.
He had five children and a wife so his decision was to reach for more moments. Immediately the physicians put him on a punishing course of chemotherapy and radiation.
What I remember is not that he was dying, but that he was living.
His example of courage and his proactive way of tackling each day has stayed
with me. He eagerly grabbed hold of six additional years.
Terminal illness didn’t stop him. He loved to hunt and so he did, spending days alone in his beloved Cascade Mountains. He never missed a day of work, not until the very end. And nearly every night, after working all day, he’d putter around in his shop or put in hours in the vegetable garden. He adored fishing and sailing and whenever there was opportunity he’d sail. Foul weather only made an excursion better.
He made time for his family—taking us camping or on fishing trips. We also enjoyed water skiing, berry picking and a number of other fun excursions. Often he and my mother would dance about the house, all smiles and with love for each other in their eyes.
My dad embraced every moment. And in the six years that he battled I never heard him complain or ask, “Why me?” Instead there was almost always a smile on his face and mischief in his eyes.
I have a picture of my father that was taken on one of his sailing trips. The seas were heavy, just the way he liked them and a tiny bird, needing a place to rest, landed on the tip of his index finger, a refuge in the storm. Someone on the boat took a photo.
That picture is on my office wall. It and the memory of my father, brave and resolute, has been a refuge to me. It is a wonderful reminder that my father had the audacity to believe he could keep living while dying.
His example shouts—LIVE EVERY MOMENT!
Blessings to you from Bonnie.
He had five children and a wife so his decision was to reach for more moments. Immediately the physicians put him on a punishing course of chemotherapy and radiation.
What I remember is not that he was dying, but that he was living.
His example of courage and his proactive way of tackling each day has stayed
with me. He eagerly grabbed hold of six additional years.
Terminal illness didn’t stop him. He loved to hunt and so he did, spending days alone in his beloved Cascade Mountains. He never missed a day of work, not until the very end. And nearly every night, after working all day, he’d putter around in his shop or put in hours in the vegetable garden. He adored fishing and sailing and whenever there was opportunity he’d sail. Foul weather only made an excursion better.
He made time for his family—taking us camping or on fishing trips. We also enjoyed water skiing, berry picking and a number of other fun excursions. Often he and my mother would dance about the house, all smiles and with love for each other in their eyes.
My dad embraced every moment. And in the six years that he battled I never heard him complain or ask, “Why me?” Instead there was almost always a smile on his face and mischief in his eyes.
I have a picture of my father that was taken on one of his sailing trips. The seas were heavy, just the way he liked them and a tiny bird, needing a place to rest, landed on the tip of his index finger, a refuge in the storm. Someone on the boat took a photo.
That picture is on my office wall. It and the memory of my father, brave and resolute, has been a refuge to me. It is a wonderful reminder that my father had the audacity to believe he could keep living while dying.
His example shouts—LIVE EVERY MOMENT!
Blessings to you from Bonnie.
Sunday, March 02, 2008
Quiet Moments With God -- When God Calls
One morning while reading from Oswald Chambers book, My Utmost for His Highest, I was struck by God’s perfect timing. He made sure I was reading exactly what I needed to hear at the precise moment I needed to hear it.
I’ve been struggling about the direction my life ought to take. What is it I ought to be doing? Should I stick with what I know and do well? Should I do what is expected? Or stay with what has proven successful?
Sometimes being reasonable makes absolute sense, but occasionally God asks us to do the unreasonable thing. How do we know the difference? We wait patiently, listen to Him and allow Him to guide us. And sometimes we need to shut out other voices, especially our own practical one.
Oswald said, "The call of God is not a reflection of my nature; my personal desires and temperament are no consideration. As long as I dwell on my own qualities and traits and think about what I am suited for, I will never hear the call of God."
Weighty words.
I remember when I felt called to write. There was nothing about my education, my brain power or my nature that said “Yes, this is it! This is what you ought to do.” To the contrary. I had very little college, and although I’d always loved to read, I’d written little. But how could I ignore the sudden powerful desire to write, to put my thoughts and my heart down on paper? I was literally dragged toward the calling.
My inner voice told me I couldn’t do it. “Who do I think I am?” I asked myself more than once. I knew I needed to be reasonable. Money was short and a full-time job was a must.
God put a stop to that thinking and set me on a new course. It took months of searching and asking that He show me His will. He did, through His Word and in that quiet voice that belongs only to Him. He opened every door and encouraged me to step through. When I grabbed hold of His plan I clung to it, sometimes by fingertips, but hanging nonetheless.
So dear friends, cling to the Lord, trust in Him not your strengths or your personal desires. He and He alone knows what He’s calling you to do. Go then, and do it.
Grace and Peace to you from God.
Bonnie
I’ve been struggling about the direction my life ought to take. What is it I ought to be doing? Should I stick with what I know and do well? Should I do what is expected? Or stay with what has proven successful?
Sometimes being reasonable makes absolute sense, but occasionally God asks us to do the unreasonable thing. How do we know the difference? We wait patiently, listen to Him and allow Him to guide us. And sometimes we need to shut out other voices, especially our own practical one.
Oswald said, "The call of God is not a reflection of my nature; my personal desires and temperament are no consideration. As long as I dwell on my own qualities and traits and think about what I am suited for, I will never hear the call of God."
Weighty words.
I remember when I felt called to write. There was nothing about my education, my brain power or my nature that said “Yes, this is it! This is what you ought to do.” To the contrary. I had very little college, and although I’d always loved to read, I’d written little. But how could I ignore the sudden powerful desire to write, to put my thoughts and my heart down on paper? I was literally dragged toward the calling.
My inner voice told me I couldn’t do it. “Who do I think I am?” I asked myself more than once. I knew I needed to be reasonable. Money was short and a full-time job was a must.
God put a stop to that thinking and set me on a new course. It took months of searching and asking that He show me His will. He did, through His Word and in that quiet voice that belongs only to Him. He opened every door and encouraged me to step through. When I grabbed hold of His plan I clung to it, sometimes by fingertips, but hanging nonetheless.
So dear friends, cling to the Lord, trust in Him not your strengths or your personal desires. He and He alone knows what He’s calling you to do. Go then, and do it.
Grace and Peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Tips for triumphant living -- Godly Comebacks
Chuck Swindoll said, “I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it.”
Evidently I'm not done with last week's topic about "dancing" because this is what came out when I sat down to write. I promise to move on to something new next week. :-)
I wholeheartedly agree with Mr. Swindoll. We may think that reacting in an appropriate way to difficuties is easy, but for most of us it’s not. We have to choose how we’re going to respond to what comes at us. Sometimes we don’t look or act anything like Christ.
The problem may be something “small” like a moment of irritation with a store clerk (I’ve had to apologize more than once) or it might be something significant or even life-threatening. I’ve had personal experience with this kind of thing as well.
Seventeen years ago one of the biggest tests of my faith smacked in to me in the form of a log truck. My immediate response was to praise God for His goodness—He’d saved my life. But pain filled weeks and months piled up and what followed was fear, anger, and depression. I waited for God to make me better inside and out, but with each passing day, each painful test, and each additional disappointment I sank further into desolation and wondered what had become of my faith.
I accept that drastic changes in our lives often require time and that there are phases of growth. I needed time to grow through all that was happening to me, to learn to accept and even embrace the new me. It didn’t come easy. And there were days of shame and tears when I wondered why I wasn’t responding to this “tragedy” in a more Godly manner.
But it’s the fruit of what came out of the dark days that really matters. God understands grieving and the process of becoming who He wishes us to be. He was patient with me. I finally climbed out of the pit of despair and went on, deciding to live my life—to find out what I could do and then do it. A fabulous truth is that I didn’t have to make one step of that journey alone. God was and is with me every moment.
I believe nothing touches me that God does not allow. So . . . if that’s true who am I to question His choices for me? He wants me to grow up and become more like Christ. That can’t happen without pressure, which often comes in the form of hardships or trials.
How are we going to respond to the challenges? If we rely on our Lord in the day-to-day, trusting and growing in Christ will be an automatic result, which offers immeasurable blessings. And the beautiful thing is that our blessings flow over into the lives of other people.
How will we respond to the next “something” that comes into our life? It can happen at any moment. So let’s be prepared and set our minds upon Christ.
Abundant blessings,
Bonnie
Evidently I'm not done with last week's topic about "dancing" because this is what came out when I sat down to write. I promise to move on to something new next week. :-)
I wholeheartedly agree with Mr. Swindoll. We may think that reacting in an appropriate way to difficuties is easy, but for most of us it’s not. We have to choose how we’re going to respond to what comes at us. Sometimes we don’t look or act anything like Christ.
The problem may be something “small” like a moment of irritation with a store clerk (I’ve had to apologize more than once) or it might be something significant or even life-threatening. I’ve had personal experience with this kind of thing as well.
Seventeen years ago one of the biggest tests of my faith smacked in to me in the form of a log truck. My immediate response was to praise God for His goodness—He’d saved my life. But pain filled weeks and months piled up and what followed was fear, anger, and depression. I waited for God to make me better inside and out, but with each passing day, each painful test, and each additional disappointment I sank further into desolation and wondered what had become of my faith.
I accept that drastic changes in our lives often require time and that there are phases of growth. I needed time to grow through all that was happening to me, to learn to accept and even embrace the new me. It didn’t come easy. And there were days of shame and tears when I wondered why I wasn’t responding to this “tragedy” in a more Godly manner.
But it’s the fruit of what came out of the dark days that really matters. God understands grieving and the process of becoming who He wishes us to be. He was patient with me. I finally climbed out of the pit of despair and went on, deciding to live my life—to find out what I could do and then do it. A fabulous truth is that I didn’t have to make one step of that journey alone. God was and is with me every moment.
I believe nothing touches me that God does not allow. So . . . if that’s true who am I to question His choices for me? He wants me to grow up and become more like Christ. That can’t happen without pressure, which often comes in the form of hardships or trials.
How are we going to respond to the challenges? If we rely on our Lord in the day-to-day, trusting and growing in Christ will be an automatic result, which offers immeasurable blessings. And the beautiful thing is that our blessings flow over into the lives of other people.
How will we respond to the next “something” that comes into our life? It can happen at any moment. So let’s be prepared and set our minds upon Christ.
Abundant blessings,
Bonnie
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Quiet Moments With God -- Take Possession of the Land.
Earlier this week while reading Joshua my mind went to a special day, a moment when God answered the prayer of a broken-hearted woman. On that day He gave me all I’d asked for and more.
There was a time when my husband and I were getting a divorce (that’s another story). As a new believer I understood, as a child does, that her Daddy can do anything. So I asked God to restore my marriage, bless us with children, and allow me the privilege of being part of a Christian family. And I also asked if He’d mind giving us a home on acreage. I know it sounds silly, but having a little farm was part of my dream.
God honored my prayer. My husband and I were reconciled. When, Greg, asked me to try again I was afraid; I’d been deeply wounded. But like Joshua God wanted me to take possession of the land—to be courageous and to obey. So with what little faith I had I stepped forward, trusting in the promise. My husband and I fell in love again and in the years that followed we were blessed with three children. We worshiped together and served together. And then one day we were given the home I’d prayed for so many years before.
When the land (five acres) was offered it made no sense to purchase it and move from one state to another. My husband had a terrific job in Seattle and the United States was in the midst of a terrible recession. But God said, “Go, take possession of the land I give you.” With our shield of faith in place we moved to the foothills of Southern Oregon.
The transition wasn’t easy—the recession had taken hold in our rural community. We faced innumerable obstacles and challenges, but God walked with us through each and every one. We’ve spent twenty-seven years in this place that He gave us. We raised our children here, served our community and our church and have offered hospitality to many who have walked through our door. And we’ve loved each other here. This place is our promised land.
There are days when all I see are the ruts in the driveway, the mud tracked in on the carpet, the garden that needs tending and I think that a small place in town with sidewalks and city water might be nice. God in His graciousness reminds me of all that He’s given. Me and my family have been blessed beyond measure here in the foothills of the Cascades. If my husband and I had been too afraid or too distracted or too something and had not listened to our Lord’s leading we would have missed out on His special gift to us.
I am living a dream. God gave me more than I could ever hope for. My Christian children are grown now with children of their own. And I am privileged to be a part of their lives. I am still in love with the man I married 36 years ago and we still reside on the land God gave us.
Is God offering you “a promised land”? Don’t be afraid. He knows the beginning and the end and He will stand with you while you take possession.
Grace & peace to you from God.
Bonnie
There was a time when my husband and I were getting a divorce (that’s another story). As a new believer I understood, as a child does, that her Daddy can do anything. So I asked God to restore my marriage, bless us with children, and allow me the privilege of being part of a Christian family. And I also asked if He’d mind giving us a home on acreage. I know it sounds silly, but having a little farm was part of my dream.
God honored my prayer. My husband and I were reconciled. When, Greg, asked me to try again I was afraid; I’d been deeply wounded. But like Joshua God wanted me to take possession of the land—to be courageous and to obey. So with what little faith I had I stepped forward, trusting in the promise. My husband and I fell in love again and in the years that followed we were blessed with three children. We worshiped together and served together. And then one day we were given the home I’d prayed for so many years before.
When the land (five acres) was offered it made no sense to purchase it and move from one state to another. My husband had a terrific job in Seattle and the United States was in the midst of a terrible recession. But God said, “Go, take possession of the land I give you.” With our shield of faith in place we moved to the foothills of Southern Oregon.
The transition wasn’t easy—the recession had taken hold in our rural community. We faced innumerable obstacles and challenges, but God walked with us through each and every one. We’ve spent twenty-seven years in this place that He gave us. We raised our children here, served our community and our church and have offered hospitality to many who have walked through our door. And we’ve loved each other here. This place is our promised land.
There are days when all I see are the ruts in the driveway, the mud tracked in on the carpet, the garden that needs tending and I think that a small place in town with sidewalks and city water might be nice. God in His graciousness reminds me of all that He’s given. Me and my family have been blessed beyond measure here in the foothills of the Cascades. If my husband and I had been too afraid or too distracted or too something and had not listened to our Lord’s leading we would have missed out on His special gift to us.
I am living a dream. God gave me more than I could ever hope for. My Christian children are grown now with children of their own. And I am privileged to be a part of their lives. I am still in love with the man I married 36 years ago and we still reside on the land God gave us.
Is God offering you “a promised land”? Don’t be afraid. He knows the beginning and the end and He will stand with you while you take possession.
Grace & peace to you from God.
Bonnie
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