Challenges are coming our way. It's not a matter of if, but when. Are you ready? Some of what we must face will feel like we're running a gauntlet. Our personal challenges and crisis will not be the same, and they will come into our lives for diverse reasons, yet we as believers share a commonality of the battle. And we need to be ready to fight.
I can remember thinking that I had nothing to be concerned about, that when I'd face my battles God would be there. He'd give me whatever I needed. To a degree that's true, but as believers we're not without responsibility. Hebrews 5:12-14 makes it clear we're not to remain infants, living on milk, but we must mature by feeding on the solid food of God's Word.
God is with us. He loves us. He is our Father and we can trust Him to stand with us. Time, experience and study of The Word builds our relationship with The Father and we will become true comrades, linked arm in arm, ready for battle.
Ask yourself,"Do I REALLY know Him well? If not, why not?"
He offers us all we need--His presence, the Holy Spirit, His Word, His Son. Therefore, if we're not well acquainted it's our fault not His. If God seems far away take a close, honest look at your spiritual walk. You will discover the reason for the distance. I can assure you it is not God who has moved away. If you long to know God commit to discovering Him. He is waiting.
Don't be afraid. God understands that growth takes time. He will meet us where we are. I've experienced that many times. One of the most dramatic events was many years ago when my now thirty-year-old daughter was just eight months old. She contracted spinal meningitis. In a coma and with septicemia I feared she'd die. My husband and I were baby Christians with little spiritual knowledge. God understood and provided faith and close friends. They held us and prayed for us and for our daughter. I will never forget those dear ones who were mature in their faith and stood with us in our time of trouble.
Since that time I've walked through many fires with the Lord and I've matured, yet am still far from the mark of perfection. Today God expects more from me than He did all those years ago. I'm no longer a babe, nor should I be. Because of His Word, prayer, worship and experiencing the ups and downs of life I've come to know God and to trust Him more. I still struggle, but I have a history with God and know I can count on Him.
Ephesians 6:10 - 18 offers a list of weapons we all need. Hold onto them. They will not let you down.
Be strong in the Lord and be ready.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Tips For Triumphant Living -- Try Something New
Friday, September 15th, my husband and I went to a local concert where we were treated to the Big Band Sounds of the Glenn Miller Orchestra. Glenn Miller was before my time. I grew up with Sonny & Cheri, Joan Baez, the Beatles, and The Mama's and the Papa's. So, you might ask, why was I at a Glenn Miller concert? Simply because my cousin's husband is one of the band members, and he provided free tickets.
Sounds shallow, but it isn't really. I'd never met Gary Meggs, a fabulous musician and family member. We've been corresponding via the internet for several years and this was my first opportunity to meet him face to face. After the concert, we had a fun chat over some good food. It was thrilling to spend time with Gary and to catch up on news of relatives who live on the other side of the country. I'm looking forward to seeing more of him and the rest of the family.
I love family, but tonight I want to talk about the concert. The auditorium was packed, mostly with senior citizens--a sharp group of people I might add. They know good music when they hear it. There was a group of older women sitting behind my husband and I. They were talking about the songs they hoped would be played. One woman said exuberantly, "If they play "In the Mood" I'm on my feet." They did and she was. :-)
As I looked around the auditorium young and old, were swaying to tunes like Moonlight Serenade. Some snuggled as they were carried back to the good old days by the chords of String of Pearls. I teared up when I a young man gently sang Danny Boy. Enthusiasm bubbled up inside as I discovered a sound that had captivated an entire generation. And when they played I Know Why I looked at my husband and fell in love all over again. I wanted to get up right then and there and dance. Dance lessons are now on my list of things I'd like to do some day--don't tell my husband. ;-)
For two hours a lot of us forgot our troubles and our aches and pains. We simply felt happy and blessed to be in that place at that time. I haven't enjoyed an evening as much for a very long time. The music was beyond fabulous! And the escape into joy . . . well priceless. I actually purchased a CD and plan to enjoy more of the Glenn Miller sound.
Most of the time we fall into blessings unintentionally. This was one of those times for me. I encourage you to try something new. You just might like it.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Sounds shallow, but it isn't really. I'd never met Gary Meggs, a fabulous musician and family member. We've been corresponding via the internet for several years and this was my first opportunity to meet him face to face. After the concert, we had a fun chat over some good food. It was thrilling to spend time with Gary and to catch up on news of relatives who live on the other side of the country. I'm looking forward to seeing more of him and the rest of the family.
I love family, but tonight I want to talk about the concert. The auditorium was packed, mostly with senior citizens--a sharp group of people I might add. They know good music when they hear it. There was a group of older women sitting behind my husband and I. They were talking about the songs they hoped would be played. One woman said exuberantly, "If they play "In the Mood" I'm on my feet." They did and she was. :-)
As I looked around the auditorium young and old, were swaying to tunes like Moonlight Serenade. Some snuggled as they were carried back to the good old days by the chords of String of Pearls. I teared up when I a young man gently sang Danny Boy. Enthusiasm bubbled up inside as I discovered a sound that had captivated an entire generation. And when they played I Know Why I looked at my husband and fell in love all over again. I wanted to get up right then and there and dance. Dance lessons are now on my list of things I'd like to do some day--don't tell my husband. ;-)
For two hours a lot of us forgot our troubles and our aches and pains. We simply felt happy and blessed to be in that place at that time. I haven't enjoyed an evening as much for a very long time. The music was beyond fabulous! And the escape into joy . . . well priceless. I actually purchased a CD and plan to enjoy more of the Glenn Miller sound.
Most of the time we fall into blessings unintentionally. This was one of those times for me. I encourage you to try something new. You just might like it.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Quiet Moments With God -- Know My Heart
How often have we heard the term, "be real"? More times than I can count. I suspect when people coin this phrase they're not thinking about being real for God but more likely considering being transparent with people. In my Bible reading I came across a verse where David has quite another perspective.
Psalm 129:23-24 says, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." David invited God to examine him. He so loved and trusted his Lord that he completely opened himself up to God's scrutiny.
David was willing to look at who he was--no pretenses, no masks. David is often lifted up as an example of a Godly man and yet he had no shortage of sins. He slept with another man's wife, then had the man killed. In my opinion this comes under the category of odious sins. I would think it took great courage for David to look at who he really was.
David's devotion to God drove him toward transparency. He longed for unvarnished truth, but only because God had reigned in his heart.
So it should be with us, to desire God above all else and let Him shine a light on who we are. Then we can be fully and completely His. Being all His enables us to walk with confidence. God knows all there is to know. Even before we've taken a breath of sin He knows and loves us anyway.
Let us not forget that it is in brokenness of spirit and obedience that we discover our Lord and are empowered by God. Only then will we fully see the possibilities He offers.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Psalm 129:23-24 says, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." David invited God to examine him. He so loved and trusted his Lord that he completely opened himself up to God's scrutiny.
David was willing to look at who he was--no pretenses, no masks. David is often lifted up as an example of a Godly man and yet he had no shortage of sins. He slept with another man's wife, then had the man killed. In my opinion this comes under the category of odious sins. I would think it took great courage for David to look at who he really was.
David's devotion to God drove him toward transparency. He longed for unvarnished truth, but only because God had reigned in his heart.
So it should be with us, to desire God above all else and let Him shine a light on who we are. Then we can be fully and completely His. Being all His enables us to walk with confidence. God knows all there is to know. Even before we've taken a breath of sin He knows and loves us anyway.
Let us not forget that it is in brokenness of spirit and obedience that we discover our Lord and are empowered by God. Only then will we fully see the possibilities He offers.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Tips For Triumphant Living -- Don't Forget To Smile
While reading scripture this morning and thinking about all my "obligations" I was struck by my serious nature. It's good to be thoughtful, even reflective. But in this daunting world I think there are too many somber, dour faces out there. If you're one of them, don't beat yourself up--we're only human.
When I saw this truth about my nature it hit me in the gut. I need to "chill", at least a bit. I need to smile more, laugh more and spend more time thinking about the wonders in this world, and the gift of life.
I think God wants us to have fun. If not, why did He give us to much to enjoy?
Philippians 4:8 says, "Whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things."
Good advice. We need to get out of the grumpies and consider the wonders around us. If I were to make a list of things that bless my life it would begin with a husband who loves me (even after 40 years together), a caring family, grandchildren who live close and who make me laugh, every day. There's nothing that warms me more than chubby arms wrapped around my neck and a kiss from a little one who says, "I love you, grandma." On my list I'd also have to include good friends, a beautiful home set in one of the most stunning places on earth, and I must not forget that I have a Lord who loves me just as I am and who died for me so I might live.
With all these blessings, and more, how can I feel grumpy? The sad answer is ingratitude. In light of this revelation I'm mortified at my lack of thankfulness. I have lots to smile about. I'll have to make sure to include praise time in my prayer time. :-)
You might like to put your own list together--write down all the good stuff in your life. I bet there's more than you realize. And when it's written down, post it some place where you'll see it every day, then remember to be grateful.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
When I saw this truth about my nature it hit me in the gut. I need to "chill", at least a bit. I need to smile more, laugh more and spend more time thinking about the wonders in this world, and the gift of life.
I think God wants us to have fun. If not, why did He give us to much to enjoy?
Philippians 4:8 says, "Whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things."
Good advice. We need to get out of the grumpies and consider the wonders around us. If I were to make a list of things that bless my life it would begin with a husband who loves me (even after 40 years together), a caring family, grandchildren who live close and who make me laugh, every day. There's nothing that warms me more than chubby arms wrapped around my neck and a kiss from a little one who says, "I love you, grandma." On my list I'd also have to include good friends, a beautiful home set in one of the most stunning places on earth, and I must not forget that I have a Lord who loves me just as I am and who died for me so I might live.
With all these blessings, and more, how can I feel grumpy? The sad answer is ingratitude. In light of this revelation I'm mortified at my lack of thankfulness. I have lots to smile about. I'll have to make sure to include praise time in my prayer time. :-)
You might like to put your own list together--write down all the good stuff in your life. I bet there's more than you realize. And when it's written down, post it some place where you'll see it every day, then remember to be grateful.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Monday, September 07, 2009
Quiet Moments With God -- Flowers for Crystal
Today my daughter and I took orange roses to the cemetery. Orange roses were my nineteen-year-old niece's favorite flower and orange was her favorite color. Today is the four year anniversary of her death. It feels like Crystal left us only yesterday. There is still a hole where she belongs. We miss her and long for her one of a kind smile and the great "Crystal Hugs" she used to give.
Yet, even with the pain of her absence my family and I are assured that the separation is only for a time. Crystal is in heaven. And God has promised that we will be reunited. I'm looking forward to a "Crystal Hug".
On my way to the cemetery I was thinking how different my perspective would be if I had no assurance of heaven. The tearing away of a loved one would be unendurable. I was overwhelmed with gratitude. God has made a way. He has given me hope and a future. I will see Crystal again and so many others who have already gone ahead.
John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." Christ gave His life for me and because of His sacrifice I am assured of heaven--there is no guessing and wondering whether or not I get the gift of eternal life. It is mine, just because I believe.
Even the prisoner who hung beside Christ on our Lord's last day on earth was promised a place in heaven. He believed and the gift was his.
To know our farewells are temporary is the greatest comfort. But I think of those who have no hope. I remember. As a young woman I met each day with the terrifying thought that one day I would die. And then a friend introduced me to Christ. And I didn't have to be afraid any longer.
There are many who live in terror. Tell them about Jesus. God opens doors and provides opportunities. Don't be afraid. Love enough to take a risk. I'm grateful my dear friend, Kathy, took a chance and told me. Now I live with hope and when I take flowers to my loved one's graves I know it is only a place for them to be remembered--they aren't there--they wait, with The King, for a grand reunion.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Yet, even with the pain of her absence my family and I are assured that the separation is only for a time. Crystal is in heaven. And God has promised that we will be reunited. I'm looking forward to a "Crystal Hug".
On my way to the cemetery I was thinking how different my perspective would be if I had no assurance of heaven. The tearing away of a loved one would be unendurable. I was overwhelmed with gratitude. God has made a way. He has given me hope and a future. I will see Crystal again and so many others who have already gone ahead.
John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." Christ gave His life for me and because of His sacrifice I am assured of heaven--there is no guessing and wondering whether or not I get the gift of eternal life. It is mine, just because I believe.
Even the prisoner who hung beside Christ on our Lord's last day on earth was promised a place in heaven. He believed and the gift was his.
To know our farewells are temporary is the greatest comfort. But I think of those who have no hope. I remember. As a young woman I met each day with the terrifying thought that one day I would die. And then a friend introduced me to Christ. And I didn't have to be afraid any longer.
There are many who live in terror. Tell them about Jesus. God opens doors and provides opportunities. Don't be afraid. Love enough to take a risk. I'm grateful my dear friend, Kathy, took a chance and told me. Now I live with hope and when I take flowers to my loved one's graves I know it is only a place for them to be remembered--they aren't there--they wait, with The King, for a grand reunion.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Tips For Triumphant Living -- Surrender Yourself
Most mornings begin with Oswald Chambers and his book "My Utmost For His Highest". His thoughts have a way of touching my spirit and clearing away the cobwebs that distract me. Several days ago while reading his devotional his thoughts again carried me closer to God. I wish I were able to thank him for his ministry that has touched so many lives.
He said, "Living a full and overflowing life does not rest in bodily health, in circumstances, nor even in seeing God's work succeed, but in the perfect understanding of God and in the same fellowship and oneness with Him that Jesus Himself enjoyed." And then he added, "The first thing that will hinder this joy is the subtle irritability caused by giving too much thought to our circumstances."
The thought of having the oneness with God that Jesus did is mind boggling. Is it possible? What a glorious thought! Some day.
I long to know God, truly know Him. Christ's sacrifice opened the door to that kind of relationship, but there is something I must do--surrender. I need to offer up all of me to Him. I remember many years ago when this thought first presented itself to me. I was terrified. What if God wanted me to become a minister in Africa or something like that? The idea was just too scary. But I soon saw that no matter where it was that God called me it was the best place for me. I needed to trust Him.
It is my heart's cry to know God well, to draw so close to Him that I know His every thought, His heart, and to feel His presence in every moment. I'm not there and while tied to this earth will never be. But I press closer. It is in that closeness that I will find Him, along with true joy, peace, and contentment. He is everything.
God offers rivers of living water -- rivers that run deep, cool and powerful. Rivers that never dry up. Rivers that will always refresh and strengthen his children. All we need is to thirst and drink.
I'm commited to seek after Him, to desire His will and His love, and to push aside all other distractions. Again and again I must yield myself to Him. Join me. Shall we pray for one another and discover our God together?
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
He said, "Living a full and overflowing life does not rest in bodily health, in circumstances, nor even in seeing God's work succeed, but in the perfect understanding of God and in the same fellowship and oneness with Him that Jesus Himself enjoyed." And then he added, "The first thing that will hinder this joy is the subtle irritability caused by giving too much thought to our circumstances."
The thought of having the oneness with God that Jesus did is mind boggling. Is it possible? What a glorious thought! Some day.
I long to know God, truly know Him. Christ's sacrifice opened the door to that kind of relationship, but there is something I must do--surrender. I need to offer up all of me to Him. I remember many years ago when this thought first presented itself to me. I was terrified. What if God wanted me to become a minister in Africa or something like that? The idea was just too scary. But I soon saw that no matter where it was that God called me it was the best place for me. I needed to trust Him.
It is my heart's cry to know God well, to draw so close to Him that I know His every thought, His heart, and to feel His presence in every moment. I'm not there and while tied to this earth will never be. But I press closer. It is in that closeness that I will find Him, along with true joy, peace, and contentment. He is everything.
God offers rivers of living water -- rivers that run deep, cool and powerful. Rivers that never dry up. Rivers that will always refresh and strengthen his children. All we need is to thirst and drink.
I'm commited to seek after Him, to desire His will and His love, and to push aside all other distractions. Again and again I must yield myself to Him. Join me. Shall we pray for one another and discover our God together?
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Quiet Moments With God -- The Greatest Gift
A few days ago a friend called. She wanted to know how I was doing--life's thrown some challenges my way recently. After I groused a bit, she asked, "Is there anything good going on?"
I felt a thud in my gut. Nothing came to mind. I couldn't think of anything. Not because there aren't good things in my life, it's just that I'd lost sight of them. My focus was on my troubles.
I am so thankful for God's grace. He soon reminded me of the abundance of blessings in my life, and a rush of thankfulness came over me. I am surrounded by love--the Father's love, that of my church and friends, and my family.
My husband, daughters, son, parents, and grandchildren fill my days with love. They share their lives with me, pray for me, forgive me, laugh with me, offer lots of hugs, and we even tell stories together, to see who can come up with the most creative tale. No matter how difficult life is we can count on one another. How could I ask for more? Love is the greatest gift another person can give. And God has given me an abundance.
No matter what storm bears down on us I can count on love to calm the tempest.
Thank you Lord!
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
I felt a thud in my gut. Nothing came to mind. I couldn't think of anything. Not because there aren't good things in my life, it's just that I'd lost sight of them. My focus was on my troubles.
I am so thankful for God's grace. He soon reminded me of the abundance of blessings in my life, and a rush of thankfulness came over me. I am surrounded by love--the Father's love, that of my church and friends, and my family.
My husband, daughters, son, parents, and grandchildren fill my days with love. They share their lives with me, pray for me, forgive me, laugh with me, offer lots of hugs, and we even tell stories together, to see who can come up with the most creative tale. No matter how difficult life is we can count on one another. How could I ask for more? Love is the greatest gift another person can give. And God has given me an abundance.
No matter what storm bears down on us I can count on love to calm the tempest.
Thank you Lord!
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Tips For Triumphant Living -- Be Flexible
Flexibility is not one of my strengths—I always have a plan. And whenever possible I stick to it. My kids have told me many times that I need to be more spontaneous. I’m practicing—honestly.
Life throws detours at us so we all need to be flexible some of the time. When I write I always have a plot outline and character outlines. But one of the fun and exciting things about writing is the detours. I encounter characters I didn’t know existed and discover plot twists and turns I’d never dreamed of. However, being flexible is easier for me when it’s part of a fictional story rather than real life.
The last few weeks life pressed in. It threw things at me I didn’t expect and I had to force myself to “go with the flow”. I’ve been absent from my blog for a couple of weeks because I’m trying to be flexible. I had other things to do that took precedence. And although not all of them were pleasant, I've actually had fun.
So, I ask myself why I’m compelled to push on, to fulfill the plan or the obligation no matter what? I’m sure my personality as well as routines imprinted on me while growing up have a lot to do with it. But, I also believe it has to do with trusting myself more than trusting God. That sounds ludicrous, but let’s get honest with ourselves—we all do it. God has surprises for us. And I know if I’d learn to rest in Him and enjoy the unexpected life would be less stressful and a lot more fun.
So . . . I’m back. I’ve missed sharing with you. However, I did finish my book and can’t wait to get the OK from my editor so I can start shouting about it. I had family here from California and enjoyed them immensely. My sister and brother-in-law are still here, visiting from Alaska. I’ve loved quiet mornings over coffee with my sis and I’m looking forward to an afternoon of fishing, an evening watching stars and maybe even a night at the movies before she returns to her tiny hamlet in the north.
So, before we miss something that truly matters, take a deep breath and step out of the plan. It’s okay, really. God might have something special for you.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Life throws detours at us so we all need to be flexible some of the time. When I write I always have a plot outline and character outlines. But one of the fun and exciting things about writing is the detours. I encounter characters I didn’t know existed and discover plot twists and turns I’d never dreamed of. However, being flexible is easier for me when it’s part of a fictional story rather than real life.
The last few weeks life pressed in. It threw things at me I didn’t expect and I had to force myself to “go with the flow”. I’ve been absent from my blog for a couple of weeks because I’m trying to be flexible. I had other things to do that took precedence. And although not all of them were pleasant, I've actually had fun.
So, I ask myself why I’m compelled to push on, to fulfill the plan or the obligation no matter what? I’m sure my personality as well as routines imprinted on me while growing up have a lot to do with it. But, I also believe it has to do with trusting myself more than trusting God. That sounds ludicrous, but let’s get honest with ourselves—we all do it. God has surprises for us. And I know if I’d learn to rest in Him and enjoy the unexpected life would be less stressful and a lot more fun.
So . . . I’m back. I’ve missed sharing with you. However, I did finish my book and can’t wait to get the OK from my editor so I can start shouting about it. I had family here from California and enjoyed them immensely. My sister and brother-in-law are still here, visiting from Alaska. I’ve loved quiet mornings over coffee with my sis and I’m looking forward to an afternoon of fishing, an evening watching stars and maybe even a night at the movies before she returns to her tiny hamlet in the north.
So, before we miss something that truly matters, take a deep breath and step out of the plan. It’s okay, really. God might have something special for you.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Monday, August 17, 2009
Quiet Moments With God -- He's Got Our Back
While reading today I came across a powerful verse. Isaiah 33:21-22 says, The Lord will be our Mighty One. He will be like a wide river of protection that no enemy can cross, that no enemy ship can sail upon. For the Lord is our judge, our lawgiver, and our king. He will care for us and save us.
As I read these verses, God's peace spilled over me. I was reminded that no matter what life throws my way the Lord will be there to stand with me.
The verse says he will be our "Mighty One". I suppose to each of us this statment brings a unique image to mind. I see a warrior who will prevail against any and all enemies. With Him there is nothing to fear.
There's more. The verse says, He will be like a wide river of protection. I love that picture. I can see myself sitting in the midst of a quiet lake where no foe can come near. It is a place of absolute peace.
Isaiah goes on to describe the Lord as the only one who can decide right from wrong—He is the judge, the lawgiver. We don't have to figure out right from wrong--He's already got it all worked out. God's Word has the answers and they are a resilient and reliable foundation.
And finally, it says He will care for us and save us. God provided a Savior who guarantees an eternal refuge for all who believe in Him. We know without a doubt that there is a place for us in heaven. What better way can a father care for His children than to offer a Savior?
With God there is no reason to fear. He offers peace. He is our foundation. And He has provided a Savior. God is generous with his gifts. We have no reason to worry. He’s got our back.
Grace & peace to you from God.
Bonnie
As I read these verses, God's peace spilled over me. I was reminded that no matter what life throws my way the Lord will be there to stand with me.
The verse says he will be our "Mighty One". I suppose to each of us this statment brings a unique image to mind. I see a warrior who will prevail against any and all enemies. With Him there is nothing to fear.
There's more. The verse says, He will be like a wide river of protection. I love that picture. I can see myself sitting in the midst of a quiet lake where no foe can come near. It is a place of absolute peace.
Isaiah goes on to describe the Lord as the only one who can decide right from wrong—He is the judge, the lawgiver. We don't have to figure out right from wrong--He's already got it all worked out. God's Word has the answers and they are a resilient and reliable foundation.
And finally, it says He will care for us and save us. God provided a Savior who guarantees an eternal refuge for all who believe in Him. We know without a doubt that there is a place for us in heaven. What better way can a father care for His children than to offer a Savior?
With God there is no reason to fear. He offers peace. He is our foundation. And He has provided a Savior. God is generous with his gifts. We have no reason to worry. He’s got our back.
Grace & peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Friday, August 14, 2009
Tips For Triumphant Living -- Star Gaze
A few nights ago a spectacular meteor shower was forecast. My daughters and I decided we’d stay up late to watch and include the children. As the day went on, my grandchildren’s anticipation grew. In their minds I think they envisioned a fireworks display.
As darkness fell over our country home, we double checked the best time and location for viewing and set out our chairs on the patio. Wrapped in blankets we settled down to watch the show.
It was a very dark night with brilliant stars and an occasional flash from a meteor. A light appeared just below the tree line on the ridge above us. A brilliant half moon climbed into the sky. Its light brightened the heavens and dimmed the meteor show that was just beginning. Still, we saw flares of light in the night sky. One brilliant meteor burned brightly as it shot in an arc across the heavens. After that the display was more hushed, less spectacular. There was a sense of disappointment. We’d expected more.
Sometimes life is like that—our expectations are greater than the reality. Does that mean we have cause for disappointment? Maybe. But more likely we simply need to change our mindset.
The meteor display wasn’t what we’d expected, and yet we’d been given a spectacular view of God’s handiwork. And while we sat together gazing up at the cosmos wonder and gratitude filled us. My grandchildren were full of questions about the universe and God. They talked about their adventures and their fears. We made wishes and shared hopes and dreams. We hugged, laughed, and told stories, and we felt like part of God’s creation.
It was a simple evening spent on a patio gazing at a night sky, and yet it was so much more—it was a night filled with love. God surprises us. He is love and sometimes that love spills over into our lives when we least expect it.
His gift of that precious night will go into my book of memories. And the amazing thing is I can go there and open that book whenever I wish and relive the wonder. Memory making is important--they will be there when we need them most.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
As darkness fell over our country home, we double checked the best time and location for viewing and set out our chairs on the patio. Wrapped in blankets we settled down to watch the show.
It was a very dark night with brilliant stars and an occasional flash from a meteor. A light appeared just below the tree line on the ridge above us. A brilliant half moon climbed into the sky. Its light brightened the heavens and dimmed the meteor show that was just beginning. Still, we saw flares of light in the night sky. One brilliant meteor burned brightly as it shot in an arc across the heavens. After that the display was more hushed, less spectacular. There was a sense of disappointment. We’d expected more.
Sometimes life is like that—our expectations are greater than the reality. Does that mean we have cause for disappointment? Maybe. But more likely we simply need to change our mindset.
The meteor display wasn’t what we’d expected, and yet we’d been given a spectacular view of God’s handiwork. And while we sat together gazing up at the cosmos wonder and gratitude filled us. My grandchildren were full of questions about the universe and God. They talked about their adventures and their fears. We made wishes and shared hopes and dreams. We hugged, laughed, and told stories, and we felt like part of God’s creation.
It was a simple evening spent on a patio gazing at a night sky, and yet it was so much more—it was a night filled with love. God surprises us. He is love and sometimes that love spills over into our lives when we least expect it.
His gift of that precious night will go into my book of memories. And the amazing thing is I can go there and open that book whenever I wish and relive the wonder. Memory making is important--they will be there when we need them most.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Sunday, August 09, 2009
Quiet Moments With God -- Pray Big Prayers
I recently watched a movie called Faith for Potatoes. It’s based on a true story of a man, Angus Buchan, who lives in South Africa. As a young man his life was filled with struggles and hardship and his heart was full of anger and fear. One day he joined his wife in church and he heard the Word of God and believed in Jesus as Savior. Angus was transformed.
His Christian walk began like many of ours. Deep joy and hope bloomed inside even though his life remained painfully difficult. Through struggles, he learned to trust God. One night during a storm Angus’s neighbor was hit by lightening and died, but God raised up the person, gave him his life back and Angus saw that his God could do anything.
Angus became a voice for Christ. And when it looked like he would lose his farm, he prayed a "ridiculous" prayer and then he waited . . . believing.
I don’t want to give away the ending of the story, but I was struck by how puny my prayers are. God is powerful. He can do all things. And yet I live as if He is frail and faint of heart. In spite of my weak faith God still listens to my prayers and answers them. Sometimes He says yes, other times He tells me I must wait, and there are circumstances that require a no. But there is peace in relying on God's greater wisdom.
I wonder how different my life would be, how different I would be if I truly grasped how BIG God is. What might I accomplish?
I say it's time to begin praying BIG PRAYERS and trusting God to overcome impossible odds. Shall we believe together for the impossible? I say, a great big YES!
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
His Christian walk began like many of ours. Deep joy and hope bloomed inside even though his life remained painfully difficult. Through struggles, he learned to trust God. One night during a storm Angus’s neighbor was hit by lightening and died, but God raised up the person, gave him his life back and Angus saw that his God could do anything.
Angus became a voice for Christ. And when it looked like he would lose his farm, he prayed a "ridiculous" prayer and then he waited . . . believing.
I don’t want to give away the ending of the story, but I was struck by how puny my prayers are. God is powerful. He can do all things. And yet I live as if He is frail and faint of heart. In spite of my weak faith God still listens to my prayers and answers them. Sometimes He says yes, other times He tells me I must wait, and there are circumstances that require a no. But there is peace in relying on God's greater wisdom.
I wonder how different my life would be, how different I would be if I truly grasped how BIG God is. What might I accomplish?
I say it's time to begin praying BIG PRAYERS and trusting God to overcome impossible odds. Shall we believe together for the impossible? I say, a great big YES!
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Friday, August 07, 2009
Tips For Triumphant Living -- Trust in God's Perfect Timing
I’m weary from back-to-back trips—one to the OCW Summer Conference and the other to Washington State to see my mother. It’s a physical challenge to combine travel jaunts. And a long list of tasks waiting for me make it even more difficult. But I needed to spend time with my mother.
As it turns out she needed me too. Not five minutes after arriving at her home we were on our way to the hospital. Mom was in terrible pain. The episode felt very similar to one she’d had when blood clots had run amuck. My stepfather and I spent the afternoon and evening in the ER.
Mom had been poked and prodded, undergone numerous tests, and had been given what seemed to be large doses of morphine, although it did little to ease her suffering. We waited.
I sat beside her while monitors blinked and chimed their unsettling annotations. I prayed this was only a bump along her path of life. Yet I knew it could be the end. Mom’s eighty-four years old, and heaven may not be far off.
I was grateful to be there with her. Our hands clasped, we prayed together, then we chatted as her pain allowed. It felt good to be a comfort to her. I remembered all the times she’d sat with me—through every kind of flu and virus, through heartache and change. Now it was my time to be there for her. She told me over and over how thankful she was for my presence.
I thank God. He made sure I was with her. Although the timing for my trip seemed all wrong He knew it was perfect. And the gentle loving experience that I had with my mother in that sterile room was a gift to me and to her.
I’m glad to say, Mom’s home now. She’s feeling much better. The doctor’s don’t know what’s wrong but they’re working to figure it out. And I’m home, exhausted and wishing I could have stayed longer, but grateful for the time I had there.
For years, the miles between my mother and I have been a sorrow to me. And I’ve often wished I’d never moved away from my Washington home. My mother never complained and the years here have been rich and filled with blessings. I figure God knows best and so I thank Him for my wonderful life here in the Oregon forest. However, I’m going to visit home more often and trust that God’s timing is always perfect.
No matter where we are or what we’re doing He is with us. He knows all things. So, when we feel the prodding of the Holy Spirit we best listen. He may have something important for us to do that we have no knowledge of.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Sunday, August 02, 2009
Tips for Triumphant Living -- Show Up
After spending four days at the Oregon Christian Writers Summer Conference, I trekked down I-5 to my home in Southern Oregon. I haven’t missed a conference since 1992. Lonnie Hull DuPont closed the conference with a stirring personal story and I set out for home with my heart full.
I love to teach and have a special affection for OCW. Members of Oregon Christian Writers were my first and long-time mentors. In the days preceding the conference, however, fear taunted me. I had committed to teaching the Advanced Critique Class, and students who had worked hard depended on me to show up. I wondered if I’d make it through.
I’ve battled physical disability and chronic pain since an auto accident in 1991 and this year I’ve had several painful flairs. I fought a voice in my head that told me I couldn’t do it, not this time. God reminded me I wouldn’t be alone. He would be there. And so I went.
The first morning, I joined five students around a table and realized that each of them had most likely faced their own fears or doubts. I can only guess at the battles they waged. Knowing the enemy wants to stop quality writing by Christian authors I expect getting there wasn’t easy. I felt a surge of pride for them—they’d made it.
With each session I was more and more impressed, not just by their quality of writing (which was excellent) but by their character. Marion was steady and thoughtful. Dan expectant, yet capable. Barbara, quiet and studied. Joel, mentally sharp and bold. And Marlene brave and determined.
I am privileged to be part of their writing journey. They are serious writers who took a risk and showed up. We learned from one another, and the time we spent together will stay with me. I pray I was a help to them—I know they were to me. I believe because of our time together we’ll become better writers. However, we were required to face our fears and insecurities, battle our demons and show up.
Life waits—don't forget to show up.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Tips For Triumphant Living -- Don't Quit
Mother Teresa once said, “God didn’t call us to be successful, just faithful.”
Her words are an encouragement to me. It’s exactly what I believe . . . and yet I sometimes lose site of God’s plans because my own get in the way. Being a writer means I work a lot of hours for very little pay. This doesn’t apply to all writers, just about 98% of us. :-) And in light of Mother Teresa’s work my contribution seems insignificant.
I’m sure God doesn’t see it that way. Writing is what He asked me to do, along with a variety of other tasks. And so I persevere in an effort to be faithful to Him. I love to write, but . . . there are times the work seems endless and the compensation meager. And I lose heart.
When I’m thinking about the “work” and lack of reward it’s a dead giveaway that I’m not tuned in to God, but rather I’m thinking about me. When I set my heart on God He reassues me that He’s working in me and through me—using my efforts in His great plan. Just the idea of being included is mind boggling. I feel humbled and grateful and can barely believe that the God of the universe wants me to be part of what He’s doing. I feel swamped in His love and am honored to be counted as one of His children.
There are days, for us all, when we simply endure, push on, and obey. It is these times when God does His best work—refining us and stretching us beyond ourselves. And although we may not see the fruit of our labor it’s there. And a day will come when we stand before our Lord and we’ll see the wood, hay and stubble, but we'll also see the fruit and receive our reward.
If God calls us to something, we need to do it. The difficulty lies in believing in Him rather than in ourselves. It’s all part of growing up. Growth requires courage. Sometimes it hurts. It always requires endurance. The good stuff never comes easily.
My dear friends push on, be faithful and trust God, then wait expectantly for what He has in store for you. I’m sure it’s something spectacular.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Her words are an encouragement to me. It’s exactly what I believe . . . and yet I sometimes lose site of God’s plans because my own get in the way. Being a writer means I work a lot of hours for very little pay. This doesn’t apply to all writers, just about 98% of us. :-) And in light of Mother Teresa’s work my contribution seems insignificant.
I’m sure God doesn’t see it that way. Writing is what He asked me to do, along with a variety of other tasks. And so I persevere in an effort to be faithful to Him. I love to write, but . . . there are times the work seems endless and the compensation meager. And I lose heart.
When I’m thinking about the “work” and lack of reward it’s a dead giveaway that I’m not tuned in to God, but rather I’m thinking about me. When I set my heart on God He reassues me that He’s working in me and through me—using my efforts in His great plan. Just the idea of being included is mind boggling. I feel humbled and grateful and can barely believe that the God of the universe wants me to be part of what He’s doing. I feel swamped in His love and am honored to be counted as one of His children.
There are days, for us all, when we simply endure, push on, and obey. It is these times when God does His best work—refining us and stretching us beyond ourselves. And although we may not see the fruit of our labor it’s there. And a day will come when we stand before our Lord and we’ll see the wood, hay and stubble, but we'll also see the fruit and receive our reward.
If God calls us to something, we need to do it. The difficulty lies in believing in Him rather than in ourselves. It’s all part of growing up. Growth requires courage. Sometimes it hurts. It always requires endurance. The good stuff never comes easily.
My dear friends push on, be faithful and trust God, then wait expectantly for what He has in store for you. I’m sure it’s something spectacular.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Monday, July 20, 2009
Quiet Moments With God -- Shipwrecked Faith
Recently while reading the first chapter of First Timothy I came across a verse I’ve read before, but this time it seemed to jump off the page, and I saw it with new eyes. I love that about God’s Word—the learning never ends.
Verses 18 & 19 in Second Timothy One say, "Timothy, my son, I give you this instruction in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by following them you may fight the good fight, holding on to faith and a good conscience. Some have rejected these and so have shipwrecked their faith."
What does a shipwrecked faith look like? My mind carries me to a picture of a ship on a broad ocean. Dangerous rocks are spotted far off and don’t appear treacherous. The waves then carry the ship closer and the crashing thunder of breaking surf can be heard. Finally the ship is carried onto the rocks and broken by the power of the sea. The ship sinks and ends its life on the ocean floor.
Like a ship at sea, we take gradual steps toward being shipwrecked. First we’re vigilant and wary and understand that trouble lurks “out there” somewhere. But sometimes we are carried away by the folly and temptations of the world and are unknowingly dragged toward calamity. Do we pray? Do we seek God? Do we know what’s at stake? If not, we’ll suddenly be overcome by the consequences of our choices and lose our grip on faith.
The Holy Spirit directs us through our conscience. When we are pierced or stirred by our conscience we need to listen. We need to pay attention. If we ignore His voice the day will come when we’re not certain whether something is right or wrong. And we will tell ourselves it’s not a big deal—all things are relative. But they are not. God’s Word is our standard.
Living with a shipwrecked faith is torture, so perilous that Paul went on to say in verse 20 that he handed over Alexander and Hymenaeus to satan because of their blasphemy. Our unwillingness to listen to the guidance of the Holy Spirit will drive us into satan’s hands. He waits, salivating.
This could be a tragedy, but there is hope. Suffering often restores relationships, especially those with God. When we find ourselves in the deepest pit, God waits for us. If we are willing, He will lift us out and set us on solid ground.
So, before you decide to disregard that voice inside think about the rocky shoreline that lies in the distance. We have options and although we’re unable to live perfectly we can live lives that inspire others and please God.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Verses 18 & 19 in Second Timothy One say, "Timothy, my son, I give you this instruction in keeping with the prophecies once made about you, so that by following them you may fight the good fight, holding on to faith and a good conscience. Some have rejected these and so have shipwrecked their faith."
What does a shipwrecked faith look like? My mind carries me to a picture of a ship on a broad ocean. Dangerous rocks are spotted far off and don’t appear treacherous. The waves then carry the ship closer and the crashing thunder of breaking surf can be heard. Finally the ship is carried onto the rocks and broken by the power of the sea. The ship sinks and ends its life on the ocean floor.
Like a ship at sea, we take gradual steps toward being shipwrecked. First we’re vigilant and wary and understand that trouble lurks “out there” somewhere. But sometimes we are carried away by the folly and temptations of the world and are unknowingly dragged toward calamity. Do we pray? Do we seek God? Do we know what’s at stake? If not, we’ll suddenly be overcome by the consequences of our choices and lose our grip on faith.
The Holy Spirit directs us through our conscience. When we are pierced or stirred by our conscience we need to listen. We need to pay attention. If we ignore His voice the day will come when we’re not certain whether something is right or wrong. And we will tell ourselves it’s not a big deal—all things are relative. But they are not. God’s Word is our standard.
Living with a shipwrecked faith is torture, so perilous that Paul went on to say in verse 20 that he handed over Alexander and Hymenaeus to satan because of their blasphemy. Our unwillingness to listen to the guidance of the Holy Spirit will drive us into satan’s hands. He waits, salivating.
This could be a tragedy, but there is hope. Suffering often restores relationships, especially those with God. When we find ourselves in the deepest pit, God waits for us. If we are willing, He will lift us out and set us on solid ground.
So, before you decide to disregard that voice inside think about the rocky shoreline that lies in the distance. We have options and although we’re unable to live perfectly we can live lives that inspire others and please God.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Tips For Triumphant Living -- Love Sacrificially
Because of my "job" I'm privileged to hear from a lot of special people. Just this week I received a note from a dear friend, Jeannie St. John Taylor. She remembered my blog about Enduring Love and had a story she wanted to include. It's one I feel compelled to post. Please read and enjoy.
The Great Man
© Jeannie St. John Taylor
Even as a young child I sensed greatness in my Uncle Eldon. I remember wondering if he used the bathroom like the rest of us; surely he was too great for something so earthy. When I questioned my mother about it, she assured me all humans had to do those things, and Uncle Eldon was human.
As I grew older and viewed him more realistically, I still saw him as a well-respected man who excelled in his profession, but I knew he wasn’t superhuman. In fact he was very human, which his final years clearly revealed. Childless and completely alone after my aunt died, he moved through the halls of his nursing home in a wheel chair and yet, amazingly, his attitude still shone with greatness.
With shaky handwriting, he’d sign his Christmas cards, “Jesus is indescribably wonderful! This might be the most wonderful Christmas season ever! The eternal, almighty, all loving Word became flesh and dwelt among us. What a mystery! What a miracle!” When he broke his hip and could no longer leave his room, he cheerfully proclaimed Jesus’ love to visitors. I never heard a single complaint when I called across the country to chat with him, all he wanted to talk about was Jesus. He told me he prayed for each of my children by name every day, and I knew he spoke truth.
So when he passed away at age ninety-one, I cried and Googled his name: Dr. Eldon R. Fuhrman. Several pages popped up – 5,640 hits in .024 seconds. Most of the sites revealed podcasts of vintage messages, one listed a New Testament commentary my uncle had written and Wikipedia said he’d been elected president of Wesley Biblical Seminary in 1977 and stepped down to teach in 1985.
But it didn’t tell why.
Yet the why of his resignation as seminary president and eventual retirement from teaching while still mentally and physically capable of doing the job he loved tells the story of his greatness.
Just a few years after my uncle resumed teaching in his late sixties, Aunt Blanche began her gradual descent into dementia. Some forms of dementia, though sad, are almost sweet. I knew one woman who sat in her wheelchair swaying from side to side humming hymns. My aunt’s dementia was of the more difficult sort. So even though my uncle still wanted to work, he retired. Aunt Blanche needed him. She was his responsibility and far more important than his job; she was the love of his life. He would be the one to care for her.
He and my aunt left their gracious Mississippi home and occupied a small apartment in an assisted living facility where meals would be prepared for them. For the next fifteen years, Uncle Eldon dedicated every waking moment to my Aunt Blanche. When she grew too ill to continue living in their apartment and had to relocate across the courtyard in the nursing home wing, he rose early every morning and walked across the courtyard to eat breakfast with her.
After feeding her oatmeal and toast he’d take her for a drive. They’d park across the street from the seminary dorm named for him where he’d pray by name for each young man living there. Afterwards, he’d take her with him to his apartment for the rest of the day, returning her to the nursing home just before curfew. The only peace my aunt knew came when Uncle Eldon held her hand; he was her security. She was his treasure.
He fed her every meal. He longed to simply be with her and comfort her; she was distraught when he had to leave for the evening. Long after anyone else saw the elderly woman as attractive, he spoke almost reverently of her. “She is so beautiful,” he once told my mom in an awe-struck voice. “sitting there with her snow white hair and pearls . . . she’s beautiful, just beautiful!” And he meant it. She passed away two Julys before he did, and he never stopped missing and loving her.
Yes, my Uncle Eldon was a great man, but not for the reason you might think. While others may have considered him a man of note because of his educational accomplishments, my uncle achieved true greatness because he loved sacrificially; he overflowed with the love of Jesus.
Thank you, Jeannie, for this beautiful story of an exceptional man.
If you'd like to read more from Jeannie St. John Taylor you might try some of her books, which I've listed below.
Grace and Peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Culture Proof Kids . . . Building Character in Your Children
Am I forgiving
Together Forever
Am I Praying?
The Great Man
© Jeannie St. John Taylor
Even as a young child I sensed greatness in my Uncle Eldon. I remember wondering if he used the bathroom like the rest of us; surely he was too great for something so earthy. When I questioned my mother about it, she assured me all humans had to do those things, and Uncle Eldon was human.
As I grew older and viewed him more realistically, I still saw him as a well-respected man who excelled in his profession, but I knew he wasn’t superhuman. In fact he was very human, which his final years clearly revealed. Childless and completely alone after my aunt died, he moved through the halls of his nursing home in a wheel chair and yet, amazingly, his attitude still shone with greatness.
With shaky handwriting, he’d sign his Christmas cards, “Jesus is indescribably wonderful! This might be the most wonderful Christmas season ever! The eternal, almighty, all loving Word became flesh and dwelt among us. What a mystery! What a miracle!” When he broke his hip and could no longer leave his room, he cheerfully proclaimed Jesus’ love to visitors. I never heard a single complaint when I called across the country to chat with him, all he wanted to talk about was Jesus. He told me he prayed for each of my children by name every day, and I knew he spoke truth.
So when he passed away at age ninety-one, I cried and Googled his name: Dr. Eldon R. Fuhrman. Several pages popped up – 5,640 hits in .024 seconds. Most of the sites revealed podcasts of vintage messages, one listed a New Testament commentary my uncle had written and Wikipedia said he’d been elected president of Wesley Biblical Seminary in 1977 and stepped down to teach in 1985.
But it didn’t tell why.
Yet the why of his resignation as seminary president and eventual retirement from teaching while still mentally and physically capable of doing the job he loved tells the story of his greatness.
Just a few years after my uncle resumed teaching in his late sixties, Aunt Blanche began her gradual descent into dementia. Some forms of dementia, though sad, are almost sweet. I knew one woman who sat in her wheelchair swaying from side to side humming hymns. My aunt’s dementia was of the more difficult sort. So even though my uncle still wanted to work, he retired. Aunt Blanche needed him. She was his responsibility and far more important than his job; she was the love of his life. He would be the one to care for her.
He and my aunt left their gracious Mississippi home and occupied a small apartment in an assisted living facility where meals would be prepared for them. For the next fifteen years, Uncle Eldon dedicated every waking moment to my Aunt Blanche. When she grew too ill to continue living in their apartment and had to relocate across the courtyard in the nursing home wing, he rose early every morning and walked across the courtyard to eat breakfast with her.
After feeding her oatmeal and toast he’d take her for a drive. They’d park across the street from the seminary dorm named for him where he’d pray by name for each young man living there. Afterwards, he’d take her with him to his apartment for the rest of the day, returning her to the nursing home just before curfew. The only peace my aunt knew came when Uncle Eldon held her hand; he was her security. She was his treasure.
He fed her every meal. He longed to simply be with her and comfort her; she was distraught when he had to leave for the evening. Long after anyone else saw the elderly woman as attractive, he spoke almost reverently of her. “She is so beautiful,” he once told my mom in an awe-struck voice. “sitting there with her snow white hair and pearls . . . she’s beautiful, just beautiful!” And he meant it. She passed away two Julys before he did, and he never stopped missing and loving her.
Yes, my Uncle Eldon was a great man, but not for the reason you might think. While others may have considered him a man of note because of his educational accomplishments, my uncle achieved true greatness because he loved sacrificially; he overflowed with the love of Jesus.
Thank you, Jeannie, for this beautiful story of an exceptional man.
If you'd like to read more from Jeannie St. John Taylor you might try some of her books, which I've listed below.
Grace and Peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Culture Proof Kids . . . Building Character in Your Children
Am I forgiving
Together Forever
Am I Praying?
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Quiet Moments With God -- Enough For Today
While in the midst of physical suffering or sorrow, we sometimes feel that even one more day is more than we can manage. When we find ourselves in that place, what should we do? There are lots of solutions, but the one that is most helpful for me is to not look at tomorrow or the many more tomorrows that stretch out before me in a line of unendurable hours.
God offers a beautiful example of how we can do one day at a time. When the Israelites escaped pharaoh and wandered into the desert God provided just enough for the day. Manna was was given in the morning and quail in the evening. When the Israelites tried to horde or save for the next day their stash turned into maggots. Yuck!
God’s example says, trust me for today. I will see to tomorrow.
Sounds simple enough and for some it may be. Me—I’m a planner. And I worry myself into a stomachache with regularity. Today, I’m going to contemplate on God’s provision for the Israelites. His Word has the power to transform my thinking. So, today I’m not thinking about tomorrow. Today is all I need to trust for. God will meet with me today, and when I get to tomorrow, He’ll be there too.
Rest in him.
Grace and peace to you from God.
God offers a beautiful example of how we can do one day at a time. When the Israelites escaped pharaoh and wandered into the desert God provided just enough for the day. Manna was was given in the morning and quail in the evening. When the Israelites tried to horde or save for the next day their stash turned into maggots. Yuck!
God’s example says, trust me for today. I will see to tomorrow.
Sounds simple enough and for some it may be. Me—I’m a planner. And I worry myself into a stomachache with regularity. Today, I’m going to contemplate on God’s provision for the Israelites. His Word has the power to transform my thinking. So, today I’m not thinking about tomorrow. Today is all I need to trust for. God will meet with me today, and when I get to tomorrow, He’ll be there too.
Rest in him.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Tips For Triumphant Living -- Dream
Saturday mornings should be leisurely. I love to stay in my pajamas, cuddle up in my chair with a blanket and a cup of coffee and watch a movie. That kind of morning is rare and treasured. I lucked it out today and settled down to watch an old movie—October Sky. It’s the true story of Homer Hickman, the son of a Virginia coal miner, who was inspired by the first Sputnik launch to send off his own rocket.
He and three of his friends set out to fulfill a dream. Homer’s father and most of the folks in town see their vision as foolishness. The boys are ridiculed and made fun of, yet they persist. They have good analytical minds, but that is only a help in carrying them toward their goal. It’s tenacity, determination and the will to stand against the tide that makes the dream attainable.
Failure follows failure as the boys work toward their dream. But each explosion or misfired rocket teaches them something that enables them to plow toward success. In the end, they did succeed. Homer received a national science award, which opened educational doors and countless opportunities. He became a NASA scientist and was part of the team that put together our U.S. Shuttle program.
I love stories like this. Life is filled with challenges, successes and failures. For some, disappointments strengthen their resolve, but others are like a house made of straw—the slightest wind blows them down.
We give up on dreams intimidated or embarrassed by the opposition. It’s been my experience and that of history’s that those who persevere will accomplish great things.
In Homer Hickman’s life there were a handful of people who cheered him on, people who believed in him when no one else would. We need to stand with each other, pray for one another, encourage and cheer each other on toward our dreams.
Scripture tells us to uplift our brethren. Just as the Holy Spirit points us always to the Savior never toward Himself, may we also be more concerned with building up others rather than ourselves. There is great joy in witnessing the success of dreams fulfilled, even those who are held by someone else.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie Leon
He and three of his friends set out to fulfill a dream. Homer’s father and most of the folks in town see their vision as foolishness. The boys are ridiculed and made fun of, yet they persist. They have good analytical minds, but that is only a help in carrying them toward their goal. It’s tenacity, determination and the will to stand against the tide that makes the dream attainable.
Failure follows failure as the boys work toward their dream. But each explosion or misfired rocket teaches them something that enables them to plow toward success. In the end, they did succeed. Homer received a national science award, which opened educational doors and countless opportunities. He became a NASA scientist and was part of the team that put together our U.S. Shuttle program.
I love stories like this. Life is filled with challenges, successes and failures. For some, disappointments strengthen their resolve, but others are like a house made of straw—the slightest wind blows them down.
We give up on dreams intimidated or embarrassed by the opposition. It’s been my experience and that of history’s that those who persevere will accomplish great things.
In Homer Hickman’s life there were a handful of people who cheered him on, people who believed in him when no one else would. We need to stand with each other, pray for one another, encourage and cheer each other on toward our dreams.
Scripture tells us to uplift our brethren. Just as the Holy Spirit points us always to the Savior never toward Himself, may we also be more concerned with building up others rather than ourselves. There is great joy in witnessing the success of dreams fulfilled, even those who are held by someone else.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie Leon
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
Quiet Moments With God -- Lions & SPIDERS and Bears Oh My!
Three days ago my husband and I climbed into our jeep and headed to an isolated pond in the forest. I love to fish so was thrilled to settle into a comfy chair on a dock that floated on the edge of the tree-mirrored pool. I cast out my line and waited.
The air was hot, but the trees that hugged the bank provided shade and the breeze that stirred the forest cooled my skin. Deep throated calls of bull frogs accompanied bird song. I felt as if I were being serenaded and thanked God for the special moment.
In the midst of my peace, however, something lurked. It wasn’t a bear or a cougar, although they might have been nearby. No . . . it was a spider. I was unaware of the creepy-crawly, otherwise I would have been doing my “Oh my gosh, it’s a spider dance.” I don’t like the little critters. Without my knowing it, he bit me.
My hand itched and I rubbed it against my pant leg. The itching intensified, but I tried to ignore it, thinking an especially toxic mosquito had drilled into my flesh. After a while, the hand started to ache and holding the pole became painful. Ignoring the discomfort, I remained in my peaceful state of mind.
Once back in the jeep I looked at my hand and was stunned to see something that resembled the Pillsbury Doughboy stuck to the end of my arm. By the time we made it back to the house the swelling had spread to my wrist and lower arm, and my hand was red and heated.
Upon closer examination I discovered two little fang marks left by a not so friendly spider. Eewww. The hand and arm ached, but there didn’t seem to be any other “terrible” symptoms so I decided against an emergency room trip.
As I write this my hand is beginning to look more like itself and the pain is gone. My spider encounter reminded me of 1 Peter 5:8 & 9 which says, “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”
Even while in serene surroundings, in the midst of beauty, a lion prowls, hoping to destroy us. I know a spider bite isn’t anything like a lion bite, but while I wasn’t looking, just like a lion, that spider got me. God tells us to be aware, to be diligent, and to stand firm.
We don’t need to fear. God is on our side. So, enjoy the wonder but be prepared for lions with destruction in their hearts.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
The air was hot, but the trees that hugged the bank provided shade and the breeze that stirred the forest cooled my skin. Deep throated calls of bull frogs accompanied bird song. I felt as if I were being serenaded and thanked God for the special moment.
In the midst of my peace, however, something lurked. It wasn’t a bear or a cougar, although they might have been nearby. No . . . it was a spider. I was unaware of the creepy-crawly, otherwise I would have been doing my “Oh my gosh, it’s a spider dance.” I don’t like the little critters. Without my knowing it, he bit me.
My hand itched and I rubbed it against my pant leg. The itching intensified, but I tried to ignore it, thinking an especially toxic mosquito had drilled into my flesh. After a while, the hand started to ache and holding the pole became painful. Ignoring the discomfort, I remained in my peaceful state of mind.
Once back in the jeep I looked at my hand and was stunned to see something that resembled the Pillsbury Doughboy stuck to the end of my arm. By the time we made it back to the house the swelling had spread to my wrist and lower arm, and my hand was red and heated.
Upon closer examination I discovered two little fang marks left by a not so friendly spider. Eewww. The hand and arm ached, but there didn’t seem to be any other “terrible” symptoms so I decided against an emergency room trip.
As I write this my hand is beginning to look more like itself and the pain is gone. My spider encounter reminded me of 1 Peter 5:8 & 9 which says, “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings.”
Even while in serene surroundings, in the midst of beauty, a lion prowls, hoping to destroy us. I know a spider bite isn’t anything like a lion bite, but while I wasn’t looking, just like a lion, that spider got me. God tells us to be aware, to be diligent, and to stand firm.
We don’t need to fear. God is on our side. So, enjoy the wonder but be prepared for lions with destruction in their hearts.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Friday, July 03, 2009
Tips For Triumphant Living -- Do Not Fear
Matthew 8:23-26 says, "Then Jesus got into the boat and started across the lake with his disciples. Suddenly, a fierce storm struck the lake, with waves breaking into the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him up, shouting, Lord, save us! We’re going to drown! Jesus responded, Why are you afraid? You have so little faith! Then he got up and rebuked the wind and waves, and suddenly all was calm."
This is a powerful and familiar passage.
Obviously the storm referred to here is treacherous. The disciples believe they’re about to drown. They go Jesus asking him to save them and what is he doing—sleeping. How does anyone sleep in the midst of a deadly storm?
This is a beautiful picture of absolute trust. Jesus is so closely connected with His Heavenly Father that He’s absolutely unafraid, so much so that in the face of death he's asleep. He knows not to worry. Jesus rebukes his disciples and then rebukes the storm and it obeys Him.
Unlike us, Jesus is more than human. He is God. However, we’re called upon to see Christ as our example. That’s intimidating. After all, we’re just humans. Nevertheless scripture is clear in that we are to love one another, endeavor to be stronger, more faithful, trusting and all the rest of what Christ is. So when the storms of life strike do we walk in faith or do we cower and quake?
If we're quaking, perhaps we need to remember that our heavenly Father has not lost sight of us or our circumstances. In Him there is rest even in the midst of the worst storm. Rest in Him.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Quote—Fear not that thy life shall come to an end but rather fear that it shall never have a beginning.
This is a powerful and familiar passage.
Obviously the storm referred to here is treacherous. The disciples believe they’re about to drown. They go Jesus asking him to save them and what is he doing—sleeping. How does anyone sleep in the midst of a deadly storm?
This is a beautiful picture of absolute trust. Jesus is so closely connected with His Heavenly Father that He’s absolutely unafraid, so much so that in the face of death he's asleep. He knows not to worry. Jesus rebukes his disciples and then rebukes the storm and it obeys Him.
Unlike us, Jesus is more than human. He is God. However, we’re called upon to see Christ as our example. That’s intimidating. After all, we’re just humans. Nevertheless scripture is clear in that we are to love one another, endeavor to be stronger, more faithful, trusting and all the rest of what Christ is. So when the storms of life strike do we walk in faith or do we cower and quake?
If we're quaking, perhaps we need to remember that our heavenly Father has not lost sight of us or our circumstances. In Him there is rest even in the midst of the worst storm. Rest in Him.
Grace and peace to you from God.
Bonnie
Quote—Fear not that thy life shall come to an end but rather fear that it shall never have a beginning.
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