Quiet Moments With God -- Forgive Me

Sometimes I hate being human. I react too quickly and open my mouth when I should keep it closed, particularly when I'm offended or hurt for someone else. The Holy Spirit quickly convicts me, reminding me who I am. I am a child of God. And all that I do and say I do as a representative of Him. When I'm at my worst I dishonor Him.

This morning I did just that. And I know of no way to retrieve my words. Once spoken they can't be undone. An apology may be helpful, but the damage is done.

Like all mankind I'm plagued by sin--plain and simple.

Paul understood all of this well. In Romans 7:14-16 he said, "We know that the law is spiritual, but I am unspiritual,sold as a slave to sin. I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do I agree that the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do--this I keep on doing."

Forever on my knees--that is where I find myself, seeking God's forgiveness. I suppose I should be thankful that at least I know when I've done wrong. There was a time I wouldn't have recognized my sin. I am growing in Christ, but sadly I have a long way to go. I'm guessing we all do.

Don't give up. When you do or say something that dishonors God or hurts another seek God. He will forgive. And after you've done that, do your best to correct the wrong done or seek forgiveness from the one you've wronged. They may not forgive, at least not right away. Give them time. If it doesn't happen, go on but never forget the consequences of sin. Lean hard on God for strength, compassion and love for we are to love even our enemies.

We will never achieve perfection while on this earth, but when we place our whole selves in God's hands we can be assured that we will grow and become more like Him. And the more we're like Him the more people will see God. And that can change the world.

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

TOPIC OF THE DAY: Just Another Saturday?

It's been all over the news -- Judgment is coming. It's true. But it didn't come last Saturday. Only God knows the time and day. Even Christ said He didn't know. It's foolish for man to believe he can figure it out. My heart aches for those who believed and prepared, some giving up everything. And then they waited and there was no return. It really was just another Saturday.

What was I doing last Saturday? I was living. And because of that Saturday wasn't JUST another day. It was special, filled with love and laughter. I watched my two eight-year-old grandsons play baseball. And I loved every minute of it. It was most definitely not ordinary.

Though I wait for Christ's return, He tells me to live and to love and to share His love with others. And then at the right time, He will return. My job, as it were, is to follow Him and be an ambassador for Him. I read and study His Word. I pray and worship. But I also spend time with the people I love and meet new people and pray that one day I will be able to share the good news of Christ with them.

Being at that baseball game was part of a bigger picture. I chatted with my daughter, husband and neighbors. We cheered for the kids out on that field. They were learning about discipline, sportsmanship and about having a good time. I saw a lot of smiles, leaps of joy, expressions of surprise and comradarie. Those kids were having a good time and they blessed my socks off.

I encourage each of you to look and wait for Christ, but while you do remember that as you go about your every day tasks enjoy God's gift of life and share His truths with others.

I thank God for grandsons and for baseball, for every good thing. And I look forward to the return of Christ, but until He comes I don't plan to waste the days given to me. There's so much to be done, so much to enjoy.

Treasure every moment.

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

Quiet Moments With God -- If No One Shows Up

We've all heard the question, "What would happen if there was a war and no one came?" That would likely be a good thing, but I got to thinking about the concept, only in the context of church. What if the doors of the churches were open and no one came? If statistics are accurate that's where we're heading. Attendance is down, the 20 and 30 something's are staying home. There's a spiritual war going on and we need to be ready to battle. But first we must be prepared.

I love church so showing up is usually easy for me. Christ told us to gather together. And when He speaks we need to listen. He means what He says. There are important reasons for us to attend church. Sadly many people choose not to go. Others show up, but they're not really there. They are simply filling space, doing what's expected. If we claim to be followers of Christ what does it say about us when we can't give our Lord a couple of hours once a week?

Let's be honest. Sometimes Sunday morning comes and we've got other things to do that don't include God. Maybe we've got a garden that needs our attention, or a fishing trip planned. Sometimes all I want to do is plunk down on the sofa, with a blanket wrapped around me, a cup of coffee in hand and a movie running on my television. Occasionally that's how I spend a Sunday morning.

I don't want to get legalistic about church attendance. Sometimes we miss church for good reason. And God doesn't stomp on us if we decide to go fishing on occasion or do some gardening or even watch a movie. But I think our Heavenly Father is grieved when His children refuse to make time for Him. They don't understand that He wants to meet with them. Getting together with God happens in all sorts of settings, and church is one of them.

When I choose to remain home wrapped in my blanket I miss out. I miss out on worship, on fellowship, and on the teaching of God's Word.

Corporate worship lifts my spirits and helps me see God. Sometimes when I'm surrounded by the voices of other believers I know my Lord is there.

My pastor works hard to prepare and share lessons from God's Word. It is spiritual nourishment. Without it we will starve. Starvation destroys lives. But when we know the treasures hidden within the heart of God life is so much sweeter. How amazing it is to know that He speaks directly to us through His Word. And though we do not see it, a spiritual battle is being waged. We cannot win that war without the armor of God. Only in His Word will you discover the armor you need to fight and win.

At church we spend time with our Christian family. Consider how we feel when long periods of time pass without seeing our husband or wife, our mother and father, our children, brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles. Time spent with family refreshes our soul. Sunday means family time.

Gathering together is a gift. Be there.

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

Quiet Moments With God: Submit?

How many of you like the word SUBMIT? Come on, be honest. I admit right here in front of God and everyone -- I don't like it. I understand its importance. And even when I'm living a submissive life, rebellion niggles at me.

Why? I'm always asking why. When I was a child, I'm sure I drove my parents mad with all of my "why" questions.

God is good and He understands my need to know why. I can count on Him. He always answers me. Just this week, during Bible Study the topic of submission came up. God's way of addressing my "why" question? Possibly. :-)

The world has distorted the meaning of the word SUBMIT. The enemy is at the core of this distortion. He tosses lies at us and in the barrage we must know the truth if we're to recognize the lie. Like many others I've accepted distortions, including this one.

During our study time on Tuesday I was reminded that throughout his life Christ submitted to The Father. In the Garden of Gethsemane, the night before His arrest, Christ set before us a perfect and exquisite picture of true submission. He fell to the ground and prayed, "Abba Father, everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will." Christ knew what awaited Him at the hands of those who hated Him. He understood not just the physical torture he would endure, but the spiritual weight of the world's sin that would be placed upon Him as well the separation between Him and His Father that must occur. He and the Father are one. How excruciating that one and only time of separation must have been. Yet, Jesus said yes to all that was required of Him. He submitted to His Father's will.

SUBMIT is a word of excellence. God's divine imprint. Christ submitted to His Father, the Holy Spirit submitted to the Father and the Son. The Church honors and submits to its leaders. A wife submits to her husband (who is to love her as Christ loved the church), and children submit to their parents. We submit to the authorities. God's imprint is everywhere.

What happens when we refuse to submit? The world tells us that life is all "about me". Me. Me. Me. Take a look around. How do you think that's working out?

God's divine imprint is all about relationship. The kind of relationships that honor God, family, friends and leaders. Submission brings order and peace. And our Father is the God Head whom we submit our lives.

Honor Him. You'll like it. I promise.

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

Topic of the Day: Work

In today's economy, finding work is on the minds of many Americans. Living without a job is something far too many American are well acquainted with. Most are willing to take whatever they can get--they just need a job. Our area has been hit hard. In fact,not long ago while reading the classifieds in our local paper I was stunned to see only one job opening listed--one. Unbelievable!

Yesterday, while reading from "My Utmost For His Highest" the final line said something amazing, although it disturbed me at first. Oswald Chambers wrote, "No one has any right to demand where he will be put to work." My mind went to the previous night's news cast and its dismal jobs report and I thought who is demanding these days. But of course my wandering mind had moved out of the context of the devotional. Context is critical if we're going to understand the true meaning of a statement.

Mr. Chambers was not talking about "jobs", but rather discipleship. When God chooses men and women to build His Kingdom He goes to those who love Him, people who have a close relationship with Him and who are passionate about their devotion to Him. Disciples desire whatever God desires. However, we are just human and so we don't always stand up and cheer when we discover our "job" description. But those who seek God's will above their own step out in obedience even if they sometimes do so with fear and trembling.

When we hand our lives over to God, His desires become ours and even if we set out upon the path of His choosing with dismay and uncertainty we will discover joy and fulfillment. God knows the beginning and the end and His design for our lives is always best even when it's not what we would have chosen.

Working for the Master Builder means following His way, doing His work and finding peace and contentment in the work--no matter what that work might be.

And to those of you who are without a job, God knows and He sees. He will not desert you. And He may bless you with a job that is also placed upon the path He has chosen just for you. I pray you're needs will be met as you wait for His will.

God doesn't let anything in our lives go to waste and no life that is dedicated to Him can ever be a waste.

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

Quiet Moments With God: What Is

Last weekend I attended a church retreat. I love retreats! They are good places to connect with old friends and to make new ones. There is time for rest and for fun, and it seems God always has something new to teach me. This retreat was extra special because it was my first trip away from home since I hurt my back in August. I left home with some trepidation, but all turned out well. Praise God!

Our speaker this year was Judy Dippel. What a special woman--she's fun and wise and she had good stuff to share with us ladies. At the end of the weekend, I left with a lot to think about.

One of Judy's statements really stuck.--"Think about what is, not what isn't." When she said that, I felt it right in my gut. I spend too much time thinking about what isn't. I miss my old life (before my back went bad) and I admit here and now that I long for the person I once was. But the plain and simple truth is, I can't change what happened. And no good will come from pondering on my loss.

I decided to make a list of what is and what isn't. I hoped that having a visual comparison would help me see the truth. Here's a little part of my what is list.

God created me.
I am His child.
His Son, Jesus died for me.
God has blessed me with a loving family and good friends.
Tomorrow is filled with hope.
God's Word is true and can be trusted.
God will never forsake me.
My eternity will be spent in the presence of God.
God hears my prayers.
He has blessed me with a home in the midst of His creation.
My husband loves me, even after forty years of marriage.
My children bless my life.
I lack for nothing.

I'll stop there--I have a long list of what is.

I'm left with a question -- With all that I have to be thankful for, why does my mind often go to what isn't? I cringe at what I see. Self. It's all about me.

Life's challenges can drag us into a whirlpool of self pity. And seeing what others have--their successes or their possessions drag us into the sin of covetousness. Once caught up, we go around and around, unable to break free. But God loves us too much to leave us there. He'll use something or someone to remind us how much He's given, how full our lives are. And that we have a Holy and merciful God who loves us even when we forget Him. Our lives are secure and full of promise in His capable hands. The possibilities are endless. Tomorrow is another day filled with potential.

Make your own list. See what is and be thankful. God promises us hope and a future.

Get excited about WHAT IS!

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

Quiet Moments With God -- He Has A Plan

God is persistent. I love that about Him. Whenever He's trying to make a point or get me to see something important I'll hear His truth from all sorts of sources and usually in a short period of time, which helps to make the point.

This morning when I opened my devotional, these were the words meant for me today. "Your life path has been difficult, draining you of strength. Come to Me for nurture. Let Me fill you up with My presence. I in you and you in Me."

I in you and you in Me. Me and God together. Love that.

Last night during our group study this truth was one of those God meant for me to hear. The study was filled with nuggets of truth, but when we turned to the story of the pilgrims it was as if God reached into my heart. Called by God, Puritans fought religious persecution. They set sail for America, convinced that God had called them to the new world where they could honor Him and bring glory to Him without persecution. It would be a new beginning.

They set off on a difficult journey, convinced they'd been set on a new path by God. They could do nothing less than obey. I can't even begin to imagine how much courage it took for them to leave everything they knew and sail across a broad and dangerous sea. They landed in Plymouth in 1620 and that first winter half of the people died. In the spring, the captain of the ship that had brought them to the new land begged them to return to England. Not a single one left. They would stay even if it cost them their lives. God's strength and their convictions held them steady as they stood against unbelievable hardships. They knew in whom they believed. And I think they understood they were part of a much bigger story. We all are part of that same story.

No matter how difficult our journey, when we are called by God we must push on, trusting that He has us in the palm of His hand. He knows where and why He has called us.

Have you considered why you do what you do? And whom you serve? God will help each of us fulfill our calling, but we need to remember who we are. We are His. And He has called us to become part of the greatest story ever written.

What role are you meant to play?

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Topic of the Day: Where is Christ?

Today is Good Friday, the day Jesus Christ was nailed to a cross and died. A momentous day in world history. A day when the Son of God allowed Himself to be nailed to a cross and where He willingly hung there until He died . . . for us. His sacrifice offered mankind entrance into heaven. And yet, the headlines don't mention Jesus Christ or the greatest gift ever offered.

On google trends there is no mention of Him. Instead I found articles about Doris Day and Donald Trump. Other headlines talked about how to decorate Easter Eggs or how to get the best car deal. And one addressed the problem of smelly feet. But Christ didn't make the headlines.

Society has lost its way. We should offer up this day to the King of Kings, contemplating the God man who gave everything to set us free from our sins. Instead, we talk about fashions, movies, and Easter recipes. I don't think there's anything wrong those things, but what disturbs me is who is not mentioned.

The night Jesus was arrested, He waited and prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane. He knew what lay ahead of Him. He understood the suffering that would soon be laid upon him. He even asked His Heavenly Father if there were another way. While He prayed, he sweat blood. In the end, he gave up His will for the Father's.

Should we not give Him a little of our time? Should we not remember what was done for us and then offer Him our thanks?

It's easy to forget what Christ went through. Anyway, it is for me. I lose sight of the horrendous price that was paid. Because I know that about myself every year during the Easter season I watch the movie, The Passion of Christ. And then I remember and invariably as the movie comes to a close I sob, my heart broken beause I'm overwhelmed with gratitude and guilt, for it is my sin that placed my Savior on that cross.

My family and I will watch the movie again tonight and be reminded of the greatest gift ever given to man. We will remember that our Savior made a way for us. With His final breath He said, "It is finished." His work here on earth was finished and His death made a way for all who believe.

The captives have been set free. May we be a light to the world.


Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

Quiet Moments With God: Lonely?

Sometimes I'm lonely. And I wonder what God was thinking when He set me atop a mountain in front of a computer. Recently, from many quarters, I've been hearing about lonely people who can find no way out of their isolation. Sadly, this is common in our present society, which seems to have given up on personal relationships. We have too many tasks to do to be bothered with others.

I always counted on family to fulfill the empty places. I've been blessed with a family who loves and cares for and about one another. But we've scattered. My mother lives a state away. I have one brother and sister who live in Alaska (I'm in Oregon) and I have another brother who lives on the other side of the country. It's difficult to remain close when the distance is so great.

Now that my children are grown, they have lives of their own and that often means little time for Mom and Dad. That's been a hard pill to swallow.

My husband and I, thankfully, have each other but we also have busy lives and cutting out time together can be difficult. We're trying.

Friends . . . well they have families of their own. And like me they're busy. There's just not enough time for fellowship and fun.

So, what do we do? Being lonely is painful and it seems to feed upon itself. The lonelier we feel the lonelier we feel. Depression and despondency can set in and each empty day becomes a sorrow we must get through, and there seems to be no way out of our solitude.

Our church family can be the answer, but even they can disappear into the mist. I've always been involved in church activities and spent a good deal of time with my church family. Life was full. However, after an injury trapped me in my house most of this year all of that changed. I miss them. And the life I had.

So... what to do.

First we need to acknowledge that we are never truly alone. God makes that clear in Psalm 139:1-12. David says, "O Lord, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O Lord. You hem me in--behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain. Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, 'surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me', even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for the darkness is as light to you."

I am comforted to know that God is truly always with me. I am never alone.

However, God created us for fellowship. We need one another. And when we try to live our lives in isolation it just doesn't work. We've got to connect--with a family, a group or just a single good friend. How do we do that? We begin with prayer. And then we must be courageous enough to remove our masks and get honest about how we're feeling. Let someone else know. Be a friend.

I understand that reaching out takes courage. But we can do it. Years ago when my husband and I first moved to this little town, I spent many lonely months. It was my husband who took the first steps for me by asking a local merchant if they knew of any Christian women in my community. Armed with their phone numbers the next step was mine. I called each of them and invited them to a luncheon. That was the beginning of lifelong friendships.

Sometimes we have to step out and find our family. What do you like to do? Find others who are interested in the same things and you'll connect. And while you wait, get to know The One who loves you most.

And those of you who are content and surrounded by family and friends, keep your hearts open to someone who is still searching. They may need you and if you reach out, you may discover that you need them too.

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

Topic of the Day: Congressional Mess

These past months, or more accurately years, we've watched our leaders step into office with high ideals and hopes of making the country they love better and then over time, many lose sight of who they had intended to be. They discover if you want to get something done in Washington you have to learn to play the "game", you have to compromise your principles, make deals and sometimes even break laws. And eventually many (too many) lose their way and forget what truth and service is all about.

Today our congress is a mess. It's a place of back-stabbing, deception, power grabbing and self service. I'm disappointed and I fear for my country. And I wonder what happened to the honorable men and women who stepped into office to serve?

Our congressional mess has been nagging at me, and this morning I came across a familiar scripture verse that helped me understand what I can do to help. "In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight." I read through it and moved along, without giving it a lot of thought. I was pulled up short by the Holy Spirit and went back to reread the verse. "Acknowledge Him" tugged at me. Just how do I do that? I thought on it and prayed on it and this is what I got.

Seek God's will in EVERYTHING. Slow down and listen to Him. Desire His will above all other desires. This isn't easy. We've got to make time for Him, spend time reading and studying His Holy Word. He waits for us, longs to spend time with us. He wants us to lay our hearts and our needs before him. The whole concept of God wanting to spend time with someone like me is hard to comprehend, but it's true. The other side of all this is that we've got to listen and wait for His answers. And when we place ourselves under His authority He will show us the path we're to take. That path will not lead to lies or deception, but to decency and honor.

Who we are is linked with who God is. Our leaders are not excluded. If we're going to get out of the mess we're in, we need more than political and financial experts. We need men and women of God, for God is the only one who knows exactly what we ought to do.


Turn to The One who knows it all.

Be an example. Do the right thing even when it's hard.

Pull our own weight.

Ask, how can I help?

Be honest.

Be kind.

Honor God.

Pray for our leaders. Pray they will know God.

Tough days are ahead, but we're not alone.

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

Quiet Moments With God: Do The Deer Know Something We Don't?

Last week a group of six deer decided to spend the day grazing in an open field behind our house. We had a downpour all day, yet the deer persisted in staying out in the open, grazing, investigating and sleeping . . . in the rain. I thought it made more sense to find shelter and I wondered what the deer knew that I didn't.

And then I remembered what nature felt like when I was a little girl. I loved the wind and when we had a windy day I made the most of it. I remember adults encouraging me to come in out of the weather. Instead I'd head outdoors and simply run, reveling in the sensation of my long hair being caught up and blown about my face. I'd stop from time to time and turn into the invisible power of the wind, close my eyes and allow it to caress my skin, feeling the energy and untarnished honesty of it. Sometimes I'd take an umbrella with me and open it up, capturing the wind inside the small dome and then run, exhilarated by the strength of something I couldn't see.

In my reminiscing I considered how many times I splashed through puddles or stood in the rain, feeling the splattering wetness and tasting the purity of water that fell from the sky--God's shower. Do you remember?

Observe children. Life is filled with firsts. They relish discovery, and enjoy the simple things in life. The things of God.

When was the last time you purposely stood in a breeze and tasted the pleasure of it? Or listened to the sound of tree boughs blowing in the wind? Or stood in the rain just because? Or buried your toes in the sand? Has it been a long time since you've strolled through a field and picked wild flowers? Or sat on your porch and listened to the birds sing?

We say that we're too busy for such foolishness. No. When we're busy that's when we most need to stop and treasure the gifts of God and allow them to refresh our spirits.

Take a time out. Be a kid again. Lay in the grass and smell its sweetness. And don't complain about the inconvenience of freshly fallen snow. A child wouldn't do that.

Nature is never ordinary. It's always something more. God's splendor, perhaps?



Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

Quiet Moments With God: Is He Big Enough?

I have a prayer book. It's just a tablet that I've divided into days of the week. I pray for certain needs on different days and I have a section for special needs that a pray for everyday. In the back of my booklet I have answered prayers listed. They are a wonderful reminder when I'm feeling discouraged and wondering what's up or where's God?

Today is Monday and as I usually do I started down my list of prayer needs. When I came across a particular person I've been praying for, for quite some time without any outward evidence of change, I felt a niggle of doubt. Could God really change this person? Maybe it was time to remove him from my requests.

The Holy Spirit caught me up right away, reminding me that nothing is too difficult for God. I know the person I'm praying for has a free will of his own, but God isn't about to give up on him and neither should I.

This issue of prayer is something of a mystery to me. I know God knows it all, that He doesn't need me, but. . . He tells me to pray. I know that my time with Him is enriching and His Word says He wants to spend time with me. But . . . as to answered prayer--that's up to God. All I can do is what He asks of me--to pray. And so I do.

We all have needs, hopes and dreams. We pray and sometimes it feels like God isn't listening or He doesn't care. But God always answers with either a yes, a no or wait. We need to accept His will. He always knows best.

In the matter of this young man I'm praying for I know I'm praying God's will because I'm asking that he fall in love with Jesus and accept Him as Savior. God's Word is clear about that--He wishes that none would perish.

I will continue to pray and hope that one day this young man will see that God loves Him so deeply that He gave His own Son for him. The moment he believes, he will become a new creation and there will be rejoicing in heaven.

Just like this young man, I was once lost, thinking I had no value, no purpose. And then I met Christ. I'd been longing for Him, only I didn't know He was what I needed. I never told anyone how alone I felt. But a good friend had the courage to share the truth with me and I was changed. Now my life is filled with the love of God and the hope He offers. I wonder who was praying for me.

Thank you dear saint for your faithfulness. I'm never alone, never lost and always under the Shepherd's care.

Do you have something or someone you've been praying for and it seems God's not listening? He is. He knows our thoughts, our dreams and passions and He understands our hearts.

He loves us.

Trust Him.

Keep praying.

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

Topic of the Day: April

Today is April 1st. It's always been a special day in my family. It's my youngest sister's birthday. Sadly we lost her to lupus many years ago, but the day of her birth never arrives that I don't think of her. Mom always said that Leslie played a practical joke on her by arriving three weeks early and on April Fools Day.

As youngsters we always had fun trying to fool one another. We'd do our best to be creative, but we had a running joke every year that had to do with our neighbors' cows and a poorly built fence. Occasionally the cows would get out and into our garden. On the morning of April 1st we'd act distraught and run to tell our father that the cows were in the garden again. He'd grab a pitchfork and run to head them off. We tricked him the first couple of years and then he caught on, but he still played along.

For me April 1st is a day that symbolizes the beginning of spring. I envision sunshine, daffodils, singing birds and trees filled with blossoms. And on this April 1st, God blessed me with all of that plus boisterous frogs and grazing deer, some with rounded tummies. Soon we'll have spotted, wobbly legged fawns standing alongside their mothers. I love spring!

April is also a time when I think of Christ--His death and resurrection. Easter usually falls sometime during the month of April. Like spring, Christ offers hope and promises of better days.

When April arrives life seems rich with hope and it speaks of warm summer days to come. A date can't promise anything, but there's something about sunshine and the sweet smell of cut grass that helps us leave behind the frigid winter. Like the seasons we have our bitter times, and then the Son comes out and brings brighter days with Him.

I'm making plans for a garden this year and I can't wait to get my fingers in the dirt. I love to be part of the miracle of new life.

How do you feel about this day? Did you prank someone? Do some gardening? Or are you making plans for the upcoming summer? No matter what, I pray you've had a special April 1st and that you even managed to pull a prank or two on someone you know.


Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

Quiet Moments With God: Just Do It.

We're all familiar with the statement, "Just do it." But have you asked yourself, what IT is?

In my reading this morning from My Utmost For His Highest Oswald Chamber's last statement is "Whatever He says to you, do it." The reference he uses is taken from John 2:5. "But his mother told the servants, "Do whatever he tells you."

As the story goes, Jesus was at a wedding in Cana and the hosts had run out of wine. Jesus mother told the servants to do whatever Jesus said. He asked them to fill stone jugs with water, a seemingly insignificant duty, yet the servants did as they were told. Mary submitted to Jesus and so did the servants. Jesus turned the water into wine, the best wine. It was his first miracle.

Sometimes it feels as if the Lord is telling us to do something we think makes no sense or is of no importance. Can you think of a time? What did you do?

Too often we ignore his instructions, and decide for ourselves that whatever it is can't be from the Lord or certainly can't be of much importance. He wouldn't ask us to do something insignificant. After all, what can be gained by doing something as simple as filling water jugs, or by gathering a few fish and loaves of bread to feed five thousand? Why waste our time? Serving Christ is never a waste of our time. It is always amazing.

However, my guess is we've missed out on lots of special moments and opportunities because we've tuned God out. We've forgotten who He is, and that even the little stuff matters--that all of His guidance is of value.

When you hear Him, listen. And then do whatever it is he asks of you. We're not the ones to decipher what matters and what doesn't, not in God's realm. Only He knows.

So, do IT, whatever it may be, and watch and see God's plans unfold.

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

Topic of the Day: Elizabeth Taylor Dies & What of Legacies?

Elizabeth Taylor died today. She wasn't a personal friend of mine, but I feel as if I knew her. She made more than fifty movies, her photo could often be seen in the tabloids and the stories of her turbulent life were snatched up by the press.

I remember my first introduction to Elizabeth Taylor. It was in the movie National Velvet. I loved that movie and still do. She entertained hundreds of thousands of movie goers, stood passionately and bravely for causes and people she cared about. She was beautiful, complicated and controversial. And although she and I certainly disagreed on many issues she left a legacy. Those close to her found her to be fun, compassionate and full of fire. She impacted the world. I will miss her.

Scripture tells us there is a day to be born and a day to die. What we do between our birth day and our last breath says everything about who we are. How do we react to trials and triumphs? What kind of choices do we make and how to we respond to the consequences, both positive and negative? What are we passionate about?

Like Elizabeth Taylor, we will leave a legacy. What will ours look like? Where do we spend our time and treasure? Are we wrapped up in ourselves or in others? If Christ is our example, as He should be, clearly life can't be about "me". He came to testify to the truth. And where do we find that truth? The only trustworthy place is God's Holy Word.

Read it. It's astonishing, mind blowing and life changing. It answers the questions like-Who is God? What is truth? What is sin and where did it come from? How are we supposed to live and why?

Life is a gift. Make the most of it.


Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

Quiet Moments With God: Tsunamis

Like most of you, I've watched the terrifying images of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. My heart breaks for the people who have lost loved ones and who are now suffering. The numbers of dead are staggering.

My grandmother, who lived in Unalaska as a young woman, witnessed a tsunami that swept into the shores on the Aleutian Chain of Alaska. Her encounter was what inspired my first book, The Journey of Eleven Moons. The character of Anna lost everyone she loved, except for her sister Iya. She blamed God.

It's hard to understand the why of tragedies on the scale of the one in Japan. Sadly, since Adam and Eve made a very bad choice all those years ago in the garden tragedies have been part of the human experience.

Most tragedies don't make the headlines. When a doctor's diagnosis, the death of a loved one, the loss of our home, or the impact of (in my case) an oncoming truck hit us, we feel as if we've been swept away by a tsunami--caught up in the turbulence and debris of tragedy. Sometimes our lives are changed forever. We long for what was and wonder if we'll ever find our way back to what we've known.

When our "normal" has been swept away, how do we make sense of it all? Where is our hope? Deuteronomy 31:6 says this. "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

When you've been swept away by an agonizing torrent remember, God is with you. You are never alone. "I will turn the darkness into light", he says in (Isaiah 42:16) and "For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear." (Isaiah 41:13).

Pray for the people of Japan. Pray for those in the Middle East. Pray for one another. And thank the Lord who loves us and who stands with us in the midst of the storm.

Do not doubt -- God always keeps His promises.

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

Quiet Moments With God -- Gracie's Truth

Perspective is everything.

Four days ago I adopted a twelve pound little girl, half dachshund and half chihuahua. She's sweet and funny and full of energy. Sadly, she brought home a tummy bug from the dog shelter. So today we made a trip to the veterinarian's office. While on our way, Gracie whined, gave me the worried dog look, shivered and panted. Although she was on the seat right beside me and I made sure to remind her everything was fine, she was freaked out. My guess is she hasn't ridden in cars much.

I knew Gracie was safe, but my being there, talking to her and keeping a hand on her didn't help Gracie. She was scared the entire thirty minute trip into town and home again. I couldn't comfort her.

Gracie didn't know the truth. All she knew was that the space she traveled in was filled with new smells, sounds, and sensations. No matter what I did, she didn't believe all was well. She trusted the environment rather than me--the one who loves and cares for her and will only do what's best for her.

As God often does He used something from my life, in this case Gracie, to remind me of the truth. He loves and cares for me and does only what is best for me. However, just like Gracie, when I get into a difficult place I look at circumstances instead of God. He's right beside me. He comforts me. He takes my hand. And yet, I quake and worry and wonder how this problem can be resolved.

In Matthew 6 Jesus pointed out that our Heavenly Father feeds the birds of the air and he clothes the lilies of the field. And he asks, "Are we not much more valuable than they?" Yes. We are.

I'm going to take Gracie on lots of rides so she will learn to trust me and that together we can have fun. Likewise, my Heavenly Father will take me on many adventures, some of them will frighten me, but the sooner I learn to trust Him the sooner our time together will be relished.

The next time I'm feeling overwhelmed or scared by life I'm going to think of Gracie and remember God has everything under control.

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

Topic of the Day: Vivian Schiller Resigns--Who Is Next?

I've been loosely following the coverage of Vivian Schiller's resignation from NPR. She is the latest to fall victim to political correctness. Last year it was Juan Williams, a man I much admire, but often disagree with. He had the audacity to speak honestly during an interview about the discomfort he felt when sharing space on an airliner with Muslims. That was too much for NPR and he was quickly shown the door.

Today Ron Schiller, also an employee of NPR, was given the boot. During what he thought was a private conversation, he made some disaparaging remarks about Republicans and members of the Tea Party.

The atmosphere in this country is heating up. In recent years we've seen a number of people who live in the limelight ridiculed, fired and even threatened with their lives for stating an opinion that was viewed as being politically incorrect. What happened to the first amendment? Are we no longer allowed to have opinions of our own?

I'm a conservative and a supporter of the Tea Party and therefore a target of Ron Schiller's statements, but he had the right to say them. It is my understanding that he was speaking for himself and not NPR. I don't like what he said, in fact I'm sickened by the climate of disrespect that runs rampant in our nation. Still, Ron Schiller has a right to his own beliefs.

Where will it all end? Who decides what is acceptable? Last time I checked we were still a free country. It is our freedoms that make us unlike other countries and although some of our diversity gets my dander up, it's that diversity which is part of the tapestry that strengthens who we are. We have the freedom to be different and to speak about those differences. Our rights to think for ourselves and speak for ourselves is gradually being stripped away. We are like a home built along an ocean beach. One wave at a time washes away the foundation beneath us and when enough of the foundation is carried out to sea the home crumbles.

I'm a Christian, and every week I enjoy the freedom of sharing my faith and beliefs with my readers. Some of what I have to say may be hard for some people's senses. Will I one day be forced to shut down for fear of offending someone? The idea may sound unbelievable, but If we don't return to common sense and the foundational truths that our country was built upon it's where we're headed. The Truth Police will decide who can speak and who can't. Who will appoint these protectors of our souls?

I understand, sometimes it's downright painful to listen to the hateful fomenting moving across the land, but if we feel compelled to shut them up one day we'll be the ones who cannot speak.

I can't change the world, but I can touch one life at a time. And when I get frustrated it helps to think upon Philippians 4:8 & 9, which says, "Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable and right and pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me -- everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you."

There's a better way. Let's find it. I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

QUIET MOMENTS WITH GOD: WHY?

Last week I wrote about following God and then yesterday at church our pastor touched on the reason why we follow. I've been thinking on it. "Why do I follow the Lord?"

Take a moment to pray and then ask yourself, "Why?" Contemplate and wait for the answer.

In the book of Mark Jesus made an interesting statement to evil spirits that fell down before him. He gave them strict orders not to tell anyone who he was. Why would he say that? Didn't he want people to know who he was?

Of course He did. But who does the telling matters. The enemy can't be trusted. The demons only wanted to infiltrate and offer alternatives to what Christ was teaching.

The people God wants to speak up about His Son and to spread the truth are
believers--Christ followers. And so we return to the question, "Why do we follow?"

With fear and trembling I walked down the path of self examination. Was it possible that I followed out of a sense of duty? Could it be nothing more than a habit? What about personal gain? Or do I follow because that's what people expect? I wouldn't want to disappoint anyone. I cringe at the truth that my motives are not always pure. The world tugs at me.

While I pondered the question of why my mind carried me back to a day when I first met the Lord. The day I knew and understood, for the first time, that He loves me. I was so overwhelmed by this powerful love that I cried and cried as His Spirit was poured upon me. I wanted to tell the world about the God who loves us just as we are. The God who allowed His son to die for us so we would have a place in heaven. I still want to tell others. I love Him because He first loved me.

I searched my heart and found the truth--I follow because I love Him. I love Him!

Why do you follow?

Grace and peace to you from God.

Bonnie

QUIET MOMENTS WITH GOD -- Follow Me

What do we do when we hear the Lord's voice say, "Follow me," and we don't know where that is? Or when we're afraid to step out into the world with all of its uncertainties. And again He says, "Follow me."

We need to take time to rest in Him, to soak in God's love and wisdom. But Jesus said to the paralytic, "Take up your mat and walk." And to the blind man, He said, "Go."

Lingering with our Lord is restful and fulfilling, but it can't be all that we do. Even when we feel faint of heart when our Lord calls us to follow we must go. I always want to know where. Where are we going Lord? But he says simply, "Follow."

When Peter and Andrew were fishing, Jesus said to them, "Follow me." They didn't ask where are we going master? Scripture says they put down their nets immediately and followed. Christ told them He would show them how to be fishers of men. Because they followed that's just what happened.

When the road before us seems daunting and unclear, we don't need to be afraid. The Lord will never lead us astray. Not ever. With confidence we can put one foot in front of the other and follow Him. He has a place for us, work for us, a calling for us. And when life seems to spin out of control, we can place our hand in his and He will hold on tightly.

When worries, doubts and the temptations of the world call to us hang on to the only one who will never let go.


Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie