David LaFrance

In Over My Head

Have you ever thought, prayed, cried out, “Save Me, O God!”? Often, when we feel overwhelmed, scared, angry, devastated, and or afraid these idioms can come to mind: “Being in deep water” or “In over your head“. We initially can try to do things on our own then once we realize we can’t we collapse or are driven to despair. Psalm 69 is a reminder that we need to turn to God and ask for help. Even better, in turning to Him, God will save you! This picture reminds me of a time when my sister Dawn who fell in the pool as a kid and I had to jump in to get her out. She was OK, and actually just gave birth to her third beautiful daughter Vivienne. What a blessing! This picture also reminds me how we can live many moments of my life before a relationship with Christ. Today I can still find myself feeling like this but, I’m thankful for His word and the reminder of how a meaningful relationship with God can change this feeling.

Today’s Reading: Numbers 26; Psalm 69; Isaiah 16; 1 Peter 4

May 16, 2016

Jesus has faced many adversaries and had to endure much physical and mental suffering. This even came in many forms including his own brothers who he loved mocking Him. I cannot even begin to imagine what Jesus went through! When I think about that time I envision the movie Passion of Christ, which puts a knot in my throat as I write. Today in our lives, we often can be mentally and physically beaten down, tempted to turn from God, lose trust, and eventually end up giving up. Psalm 69 can help and coach you not to just throw in the towel. Reminder, it’s not if we will face various trials in our lives, its when. Each of us have these moments when you feel overwhelmed and the list can be extensive to include issues surrounding: work, money, love, family, friends, appearance… The list can go on and vary based on your season of life.

I sink in deep mire, where there is no foothold; I have come into deep waters, and the flood sweeps over me. I am weary with my crying out; my throat is parched. My eyes grow dim with waiting for my God. Psalm 69:2-3

Thankfully, God knows us. He knows you. Psalm 139:1-3 tells us, God knows everything about us and the world. O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. He knows our past and the plans he has for us. We can be humbled, heartbroken, or ashamed when we sin. God knows the secrets of our hearts. He understand our humanness and our lack of wisdom when we make wrong choices.

O God, you know my folly; the wrongs I have done are not hidden from you. Psalm 69:5

In our fleeting lives we need to realize that we are never separated from His care and we need to reach out to God. We need to pray asking him to deliver us. 1 Peter 4:2 says “so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God.”

But as for me, my prayer is to you, O Lord. At an acceptable time, O God, in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness. Deliver me from sinking in the mire; let me be delivered from my enemies and from the deep waters. Psalm 13-14

Take time to praise God and lift him up today. Even when I wasn’t focused on God, He has always been focused on me. He is focused on you. Even in our despair He comes to us and says I’ve been here the whole time. Waiting. It’s not God who isn’t present, its us. Sometimes our choices are only focused on we forget about talking to God. We need to pause and ask Him about your next choice and trust in His plan. He will hear you. He will rescue you. Remain faithful. Jesus’ invitation to follow is for all of us. In our small group we have been going through the study Follow by Andy Stanley I’m reminded that he offers an invitation to a relationship with our Father in heaven to everyone. Who can we share that invitation with today?

When the humble see it they will be glad; you who seek God, let your hearts revive. For the Lord hears the needy and does not despise his own people who are prisoners. Psalm 33-34

Where are you at today? Is the water getting deep? Your most faithful friend is waiting for you. He wants to save you and walk with you every step.

Dear God,

We don’t need any of the things we run around trying to acquire or impress. We struggle along this marathon, we need you. I need you. Amazingly you are always with us. Psalm 139:9-10 says “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”. No matter if I’m, “In Over My Head” or “In Deep Water” you already know who I am, where I’m at, and what I need. Thank you for your never-ending love and never-ending care. Amen

In Over My Head A little music for the day. ~Whether I sink, whether I swim, it makes no difference when I’m beautifully in over my head.” Jenn Johnson –

Continue to shower love and prayers to the McGriff Family Meal Train Plus for The McGriff Family (Click Here)

In God We Trust

Today’s Reading: Numbers 19; Psalms 56–57; Isaiah 8–9:7; James 2

May 10, 2016

Who can you trust? Many people put their trust in a variety of things or people. People trust in diets, oils, knowledge, jobs, money, and organizations or individuals. People often trust in others and are upset and angry when they get let down. I want to share that this initial pain and suffering we go through isn’t the “end all be all” or a reason you can talk bad about a person, but a reminder where our trust needs to be. Our life is too short and fleeting for us to become angry at someone for breaking our trust causing a period of time where you reject that person. (I’ve selfishly made this mistake many times in my life including with my family.)

Psalm 56:4 In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. what can flesh do to me? – Amen

My prayer is that in our fleeting lives we are putting all our trust in God in all things. Understanding that by His grace and love we are here. The more trust you put in God with your life, the less afraid you will be. Share this faith with your family, children, and others. What an amazing and priceless gift to say I give it All to Him. Even in our deepest fear, pain, and sorrow, God cares! God understands. Like Jill referenced yesterday the testing of our faith (trust) produces steadfastness. (James 1:2-4) He knows everything about us including the number of hairs on our head and the plans he has for us. (Matthew 10:30 & Jeremiah 29:11)

There is a rare but serious condition in which an infant or child doesn’t establish a healthy attachment with parents or caregivers. This condition is called Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD). This disorder may develop if a child’s basic needs of love and care are not met. This disorder reminds me of a life without God. The symptoms are withdrawal, fear, sadness, or irritability that is not readily explained. Sounds familiar. The treatment includes positive child and caregiver interactions as well as a stable and nurturing environment. To me, the treatment is God.

Psalm 56:11 In God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?

God is here! He is with us and he goes before us. For some he is just waiting for you to put all your trust in him. I know I still selfishly try to do things on my own and God reminds me that in all we do we should trust in Him.

So what keeps you up at night?
When do you replace your faith in God with worry?
How do you live so others plainly see your trust in God?

Dear God,

Thank You for everything You do for us. Reminding us that it’s not about me, but You. Give us the courage and heart to be willing to surrender all aspects of our life to You. The true joy in our life comes when we surrender it all to you.

Here is a song to start off your day. Eye of the Storm

While listening look over some of these verses on trust.

Love Songs

Picture Date: 12/23/2015

Today’s Reading: Numbers 10; Psalms 46–47; Song of Solomon 8; Hebrews 8

May 3, 2016

What is true love? As we finish up the Songs of Solomon I reflect on my own love, wedding, and marriage. God has an expectation for our love and marriages. I’d like to also share a story of a wonderful marriage between a couple, and a husband who was committed through it all. The other story is of the commitment and promise made by Christ to love us.

For at least a year my Uncle Fred would literally carry my Aunt Betty. Tireless arms that carried my aunt everywhere she wanted or needed to go. This physically took off about 50 lbs of his already small frame, but it did’t matter. Nothing else does. When she wasn’t able to walk from the couch to the bed, or if she needed to go to the bathroom, or when she needed a shower, it was all done together and by him. My Aunt Betty Baker went to be with the Lord December 25, 2015. We love you and miss you and look forward to seeing you again in paradise. My Aunt was one of the most fun, loving people you would meet. She has two sons (Shawn & Chris), her husband (Fred), and siblings (Donna & Carl) who would do anything for her if asked. They learned this from my aunt, who modeled this and gave everything to others. She put everyone before herself. My Aunt Betty & Uncle Fred’s stories remind me of Jesus when he told us to put others first. Philippians 2:3. Ultimately Jesus gave his life for ours.

The lifetime of my Aunt’s diabetes was bad and about a year before her passing she was given the option to go through dialysis daily. She decided not to do this and had faith that God was in control of her life. Psalm 46 allowed my Aunt Betty to let Him be her strength. In our moments where hope could be lost she would “Be still” and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10). Faith is not the assurance that everything will be OK; it’s the assurance that He is in control. We can often forget this.

Song of Solomon 8:6-7 says: (6) Set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm, for love is strong as death, jealousy is fierce as the grave.
Its flashes are flashes of fire, the very flame of the Lord. (7) Many waters cannot quench love, neither can floods drown it. If a man offered for love all the wealth of his house, he would be utterly despised.

Love is stronger than death; it doesn’t fold in time, or collapse by disaster, and it cannot be bought for any price. Love is priceless and will never die. It is a gift from God.

The book of the Song of Solomon reminds me of this gift of Love to us and his guidelines he has established for us to live by in our marriages. He is part of our marriages and in the love between my Aunt Betty & Uncle Fred in their marriage. Song of Solomon reminds me of the love God has for his people. My Uncle Fred would model characteristics of Ephesians 5:25-33 . (Walking in love and putting others before yourself. JOY = Jesus Others Yourself) My Uncle Fred retired early to meet all her needs. Jesus does the same for us. All we have to do is call Him. Psalm 55:16

1 Corinthians 13 shares with us The Way of Love message. It’s one of my favorites because it defines real love and how it is available to all people.

My Aunt Betty and I had many conversations in that last year about her faith and her comfort of what was ahead. I cried each time, but also had tears of joy knowing her eternal life and faith. Though physically fragile, she would overwhelm anyone with her huge heart and love for others. Song of Solomon tells of love, commitment, problems, and beauty. Through all things God loves us and has a place waiting for everyone who believes. A husband and wife can honor God when they love and enjoy each other. I saw this in them and in my own marriage. I pray all our marriages exemplify what God’s love means. His love endures all things and will never end. God will take all our choices, mistakes, and failures and turn them into something good.

As you reflect on your marriage or others, think of your relationship with Christ. God’s love is freely there for us to take hold of. He is ready to start a new relationship with you that will be eternal. This year our marriage has been created new because of our relationship with Christ in our marriage. Those who walk daily with Him have heavenly resources available all the time. As we grow closer to Him, we’ll grow closer to each other. When you walk in the light, you’ll grow in fellowship with each other.

Dear Father,

I pray for the strength, love, and guidance for all that have lost loved ones. That we keep our faith in God and help us find joy in all we do. If you haven’t had faith in God I pray You’re love touches our heart and you understand He loves us and cares. Jeremiah 31:3 tells us about His everlasting love he has for us. Thanks for the priceless gift of love and grace you share with us. Lord we need you to continue to pour out your love to us. Thank you for giving us ways to show this love.

Amen

The Strongest Dad

April 26, 2016

Today I want to introduce one of our brothers in Christ, Kris Walker. I have been blessed to get to know him and his family through our All Pro Dad meetings we have monthly. Today, Kris shares a wonderful message on The Strongest Dad!

Today’s Reading: Numbers 3; Psalm 37; Song of Solomon 1; Hebrews 1

“My dad can beat up your dad!!!” Did anyone else say this as a kid?? Wasn’t our dad our hero?!?! He was the strongest man we knew, he could throw us up in the air, he could catch us, no matter how high we jumped from… And…. He was THE STRONGEST DAD!!

Psalm 37 spoke to me about OUR father.. It shows no matter what we can think of.. No matter the scenario… OUR father, OUR LORD, has our back… It’s is up to us to trust in, wait on, and believe in him…

Psalm 37:3, “Trust in the lord, and do good…”
Psalm 37:7, “Be still in the lord, wait patiently for him….”

It talks about the evil doer… And how they succeed… I can’t tell you, how many times I’ve sat back and watched someone “succeed” in their crooked ways… They have achieved “success” and are living the good life, while I’ve felt I’ve worked my butt off, only to get dirty, tired and feel like I’m coming up short… It’s hard to remember.. That I have a father I can trust in… And if I only wait for him… BELIEVE in him, TRUST in him, and WORK for HIM…. That’s when I can achieve true success!! It’s so easy to get angry at the “success of the evildoer” but if we need the words of this chapter… We can trust that our Heavenly Father will take care of us! There is no reason to be angry, or upset… We are told that God will take care of us:

Psalm 37:23-24, “The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him;
24 though he may stumble, he will not fall,
for the Lord upholds him with his hand.”
Psalm 37:16-17, “Better the little that the righteous have than the wealth of many wicked; for the power of the wicked will be broken, but the Lord upholds the righteous.
I find this truly encouraging… We have a daddy, that wants to take care of us.. If we stumble, he is there to catch us.. So we don’t fall… We have a father who is going to uphold us… The power of the evildoer means nothing in the end..
The the part I find encouraging about this… We are all… Or were all evil doers… I know I was, and sometimes feel like I still am… But our father even gives us hope for that…
Psalm 37: 27-28, “Turn from evil and do good. then you will dwell in the land forever. For the Lord loves the just, and will not forsake his faithful ones.”
All we have to do is turn away from evil! It sounds too simple… Turn away from evil.. But it makes me think: I need to start thinking like that every day… When the evil things come up… TURN AWAY!! When those tempting devices come into our path… TURN AWAY!!!
This chapter really spoke to me.. I want to trust more in OUR father… I want to work for him… Not for my success, but for his praise and honor.. Then I… We will obtain true success..
Father, I pray you keep these words true, I pray you strengthen us, comfort us, catch us when we stumble, so we don’t fall! Help us not focus on the temporary success of the evil doers around us, but help us focus on the eternal success we can achieve through working for you!! Thank you for keeping us safe! Thank you for letting us find our rest in you!!
Amen.

Good Soldiers, Athletes, Farmers

Today’s Reading: Leviticus 23; Psalm 30; Ecclesiastes 6; 2 Timothy 2

One significant and meaningful spiritual transformation occurred last year during a time when I was blessed to go through, A Little Manual for Servant Leaders by J.K. Jones & Jim Probst. J.K, Jim, and six other brothers in Christ, John, Josh, Chad, Eric, Shawn, and Scott, along with myself, shared eleven weeks together studying scripture and testimonies on servant leadership. This is definitely a great manual that provides all servant leaders, like you and I, with bible based tools to continue to “fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith.” Thank you God for divine appointments to be among wonderful people who share their knowledge of You and help others build an eternal relationship.

Today when I read 2 Timothy 2 I was reminded of this chapter we discussed in the Servant Leaders Manual. After reading the following verses I was asked what metaphor would you most relate to the soldier, athlete, or farmer. Which one would you pick? Are you all of them?

2 Timothy 2: 3-6 says, 3 Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him. 5 An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. 6 It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops.

The good soldier modeled a disciplined life. The Greek word for “good” is kalos which means noble or excellent. A disciplined life involves training all the time in order to always be battle ready. This includes making sacrifices and showing courage, commitment, and willingness to discipline yourself. Jesus followers give up worldly security to focus on our God that enlisted us. Ephesians 6:10-18 provides us with the whole armor of God to protect us in the battle.

The honest athlete trains hard and follows the rules to the game. This training will help you to compete in the race and includes no short-cuts or cheating. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 affirms that athletes needs to exercise self-control in all things and must discipline their body. 1 Timothy 4:7 says to train in Godliness.

The hard-working farmer works tirelessly all day long, with no glamour or crowds, and in hopes of a bountiful harvest. The farmer receives a share of his own crops after spending much time preparing for the harvest. 1 Corinthians 9:7 talks about person who plants a vineyard and eats some of the fruit. There is also the Parable of the Sower in Luke 8:5-8. Likewise, the Christian life and sharing His word requires a lot of hard work and patience. We face adversities during every season, but if we remain consistent in our own faith and steadfast in our sharing with others, we will reap a bountiful spiritual harvest.

Does one person connect with you more? No matter the metaphor we keep fighting for victory, focus on victories, and patiently toiling for a bountiful harvest.

What does a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer all have in common? They are all occupations that require perseverance! Soldiers, athletes, and farmers all face adversities which require tremendous patience and steadfast endurance to achieve their respective goals, whether it is prevailing in battle, winning a competition, or reaping a bountiful harvest. All of our hard work will be worth it when we realize it is to glorify our God. When we share this love with others and spend eternity with Him. What kind of soldier, athlete, or farmer will you be?

Are you enduring in your faith right now? Are you enduring with Christ in the midst of your current adversities and sufferings? Remember it’s not if we face trials its when. Are we willing to suffer in our efforts to please the Lord? Are we willing to discipline ourselves to receive an imperishable crown? Are we willing to work diligently that we might benefit from our first fruits of our labors?

Dear God,

Please provide us with the endurance we need to persevere through the adversities we face. You alone are what we need to recognize your blessing through it all. We thank you for providing us with a focus and ambition to look to you and make you the center of our hearts and lives. God help us always to think over what you say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything. 2 Timothy 2:7.

God Speaking To Us

Today’s Reading : Leviticus 16; Psalm 19; Proverbs 30; 1 Timothy 1

Last Sunday Cal Jernigan talked about our times of darkness, dryness, despair, doubt, and discipline and reminded us about the Lord being our True Vine. Eleven times in John 15 Jesus tells us to, “abide in me.” In order for us to abide, we need to submit and be patient. Reading this passage about “abiding in me” helped me to reflect on parts of Psalm 19.

Psalm 19: 7-9 The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul;
the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; ⁸the precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes; ⁹the fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the Lord are true, and righteous altogether.

As I reflect on these few verses often I would think of “the law” and look at it as something that kept me from doing something or handcuffing us from fun. Except, in the case of His law that actually converts us, makes us wise, rejoices our hearts, enlightens our eyes, warns us, and rewards us. This is our law provided by Him, for us, and a way we should live.

The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple:

This Law of the Lord, is perfect, it provides us with the direction we need to move from our fallen state to a fulfilled eternity with Him. If our last sunrise or sunset is today, His perfect Word can revive your soul, giving you the hope you need to make it through anything. Since I have created a habit of being in the scripture daily I can not begin to explain the difference it has made in my life. It has truly strengthen my soul and state of mind. I would encourage spending time in the word throughout your day. Currently, my best time is in the morning before everyone is up with a nice cup of coffee. This time revives my soul and reminds me of His will for my day. Being revived or restored allows one to give his or her soul back to God and not try to use one’s own moral compass that often can point the wrong way. For myself when my soul is struggling during moments of the day where I try to do it all myself, I can turn to His Word and the right verse helps me in that situation. It truly breathes new life into me.The definition of sure is: confident in what one thinks or knows; having no doubt that one is right. For believers having this confidence in the Lord is different then when we didn’t have this faith. Our physical, fleeting lives have been filled with instability and change. When we are without understanding of the scripture, it can leave you unsure of everything. As my earthly, carefree, young, adult superman years fly lower; I realize it is less about me and more about Him. Life is different when you have faith in His Word. The promise He has made to us in Christian confidence is to be ready for our next life no matter when our time may be. I’m thankful for the simple and perfect example of Grace and Love our Lord poured out for all of us. At times I have and still let the world get the best of me and control my attitude and thoughts to the point where I’m trying to please everyone. This verse reminds me I need to focus on the Lord and be humble and teachable through his Word. Always continue to be a disciple. Jeremiah 17:7 says But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord,whose confidence is in him.

The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes; The Bible gives us an example of what is right and has always has been pure. Knowing the law is perfect reminds us that his precepts and decrees are founded on righteousness. Free Grace given to us sets our hearts free. His Word converts our hearts and pours out joy into everyone and everything. Our eyes that were once blind, can now see. Psalm 33:4 The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the Lord are true, and righteous altogether. This fear of the Lord is what washes us away from sin and sanctifies our heart. God has provided us with His Word, and His commandments. He reminds us there will be a judgment for us all. The fear of the Lord is internal and lies in our heart, mind, and soul. God is never changed or shaken. He has gone before us and will never leave us. Deuteronomy 31:8.

In today’s reading we also read; Proverbs 30:5 Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Followed by multiple verses in 1 Timothy 1 not to teach any other doctrine and that this law was not laid down for the just but for the lawless and disobedient. This law is good and the aim of our charge is love. Abide in the Word

Dear God,

Thank you for your law you have provided for us. Help us to use the Bible as a guideline for our life. Thank you for giving us your Word that we can go to at any moment and be in the presence of you. Thank you for giving us the light for our path that warns us of danger, and points us to the path that will lead to eternal life with God. We ask to keep us attached to the living Word throughout all our times of need.

Grateful to be Thankful

Today’s Reading: Leviticus 8; Psalm 9; Proverbs 23; 1 Thessalonians 2

I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all your wonderful deeds. Psalm 9:1

How many times do we say thank you throughout your day? Some of our thank you’s can just role right of the tongue possibly without eye contact with the person you are talking with. Other times saying thank you can bring you to your knees with tears of joy. Whether your thank you’s are out-loud or part of a prayer how often are they said with your whole heart?

Psalm 9:1 is a convicting and inspiring verse for me. I know, personally I have been at both ends of the spectrum with my use of saying “thank you“. Examples can include; the everyday exchanges of small talk thank you ( E.g. How are you today? Good, thank you!). A joyful, open arms, heartfelt, eye watering, thank you that you have with God for your significant other when you find out they are alright after a scare, for your child and wife while in labor, (and every instance that comes after that where your child or spouse requires serious medical attention) a family member uniting with their another family after time away of not seeing each other, a mother who loses one of her twins during pregnancy and thankfully prays for the health of the other. The thank you share when hearing or seeing testimonies of a people who’s lives have been changed through God. We have so much to be thankful for, we just need to stop and recognize and recount these blessings.

God has provided a life for us that deserves a whole hearted “thank you”. Everyday is different and whatever way you spend your hours, minutes, and seconds in a day, everything deserves praise and thanksgiving. It’s so easy just gloss over the amazing deeds He provides like we deserve them? God wants us to be thankful, He has provided and will provide all our trials and joyful moments. Our challenge is one of being whole hearted in being thankful during these times. I often take what we have for granite without taking more time to recount His wonderful deeds. In our prayer life you may have been taught the acronym A.C.T.S or P.R.A.I.S.E pattern for praying. This was recently discussed in our small group and reminded me about giving thanks during each of our prayers. ACTS stands for Adoration, Confirmation, Thanksgiving, and Supplementation. PRAISE stands for Praise, Repentance, Ask, Intercede, Speak, Enjoy. Both patterns require us to thank God for who He is and all He has done. Whether you use either one or neither format for praying God has purposely put people and events that deserve whole heart thank you’s in our journey towards an eternal destination with Him. He has a reason for everything.

Here are a few verses to highlight verses that refer to giving thanks or being thankful.

Numbers 11:4-6 ⁴Now the rabble that was among them had a strong craving. And the people of Israel also wept again and said, “Oh that we had meat to eat!⁵We remember the fish we ate in Egypt that cost nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic. ⁶But now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at.” (just like the Israelites are we grateful for what God has given us or are we always thinking about what we would like to have? Some situations God puts us in helps develop an attitude of being grateful)

1 Chronicles 16:8-34 David’s Song of Thanks – (a continuous part of life)

Psalm 86:12 I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, and I will glorify your name forever.

Psalm 92:1-2 It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High;²to declare your steadfast love in the morning, and your faithfulness by night, (all day long!)

Psalm 138: 1-3 I give you thanks, O Lord, with my whole heart; before the gods I sing your praise;²I bow down toward your holy temple and give thanks to your name for your steadfast love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word. ³On the day I called, you answered me; my strength of soul you increased. (in all areas of life)

Luke 17:16 and he fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. (demonstrated by the Leper)

Ephesians 5:20 giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, (for God’s strength)

Colossians 3:16 And be thankful. ¹⁶Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. (increasing your thankfulness)

1 Thessalonians 5:18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (how to give thanks in everything)

Hebrews 12:28 Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, (we receive a kingdom that cannot be shaken)

Dear God,

We lovingly thank you for all you do. You love us and have given a grace we don’t deserve. Lord I pray you will lead us along the path you want us to take giving us the recognition to pause and recount your amazing blessings you fill our day with. Help me to live in balance and not chase after things that are not of your will. Help us to think of you every time we say Thank You and lift up your name knowing its all in your hands. God thank you for your Son Jesus and providing us with the Word to guide us along this journey to an eternal destiny that is with you.

Amen

Past, Present, and Future

This week we were asked to reflect on our:

I was________.

I am__________.

Today’s Reading Link:Exodus 40; John 19; Proverbs 16; Philippians 3

I do not consider that I have made it on my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining toward what lies ahead. I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13-14

I know something about each and everyone one of us. Guess? We are all different. You are a masterpiece! There is no one in the world like you. We all have a different set of fingerprints. This unique and humbling information is also accurate for our lives. For myself, I truly wished I would’ve been in the word more earlier in my life, but I wasn’t. I also understand now that God has a divine plan for everyone and everything. As we recently come off the official celebration of Jesus’s resurrection I reflect also on our past, present, and future in Him. I love thinking of what Jillian said yesterday as starting my New Year in Christ. I’m excited for it! I love this opportunity to be in the Word with others daily. God knows our past and He plans our future.

For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you. To give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

Past: Often we can catch ourselves trying to compare, copy, or just want things that others have. This can include a certain lifestyle, relationship, and of course physical or material things. This was definitely evident for me growing up. An upbringing that included much adversity in home dynamics and living in poverty to our American standards. I would do anything to get or make others believe that I had some kind of perfect life. Acting in one way where on the inside there was an insecure kid who would try to impress others through lies. I was truly selfish in all things doing whatever to look and act a certain way no matter who was hurt. It was all about me. This was all the center of my world and God wasn’t visible in any of it, and it showed. We tend to want what someone else has or the next best thing. Not until some rock bottom experiences did I realize I needed to have a closer relationship with God. I wasn’t able to do any of it.

God grabbed a hold of my heart and put some brothers and sisters in Christ in my life. I started to give more of my own life and desires to Him. So we press on knowing that Christ has made us his own and that is his desire for us.In order to receive this life you need to repent and open your eyes, answer the door, let Him into your heart. Repentance can be a momentary confession but is a lifelong process.

The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, Acts 17:30 (We could dwell on the past and point fingers but we realize that isn’t the answer, Jesus is.)
If anyone would come after me , let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but lose his life for my life, will save it. Luke 9:23-24

Present: We live in tension between who we have been and who we want to be. Faith in God allows us to let go and look forward to what he wants us to become. Not to hang onto our past, but grow in the knowing of God and a building of your relationship with Him. We have been forgiven, so we can look forward to a more purpose guided life with God. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us

Future: God knows our final plans but in doing God’s will along the way our efforts in this partnership need to center on Him and not ourselves. We need to use our minds and heart. As we live for him, pray for guidance as you plan, and act in faith when working your plan.

The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. Proverbs 16:9

What’s your:

I was________?

I am_________?

Dear God,

I was selfish now I am changed while still a work in progress. Thank you for the change in my life. Please continue encourage us to put our Faith in you and not ourselves. Release us from the weight of our past and allow us to focus on our eternity with you. We don’t deserve the sacrifice you made for us but we know you are a loving God who gives grace. You know our past, you know or future. I pray you keep us attentive to your lifeline in your Word that you have provided and remembering the perfect example of your son Jesus. We lift this day up to you. Let Your will be done.

Everlasting Light

Today’s Reading Link: Exodus 33; John 12; Proverbs 9; Ephesians 2

Weekly one of the great opportunities I cherish is meditating and praying for some additional meaning about our daily scripture readings. One dedicated time comes while I wait in the car to enter church with our son naps in the back seat. Today I landed on John 12:36 where Jesus let’s us know we can be “children of light”. Where I previously just underlined this verse. It has taken new meaning.

While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of the light. John 12:36

I’m mesmerized by the physical light of the sun when I run in the morning and get to watch the sunrise. I praise God for this beauty and adore this majestic sight as a reminder of the importance of His spiritual light. I have previously shared the essential light of the Lord in our lives. Knowing who the light is and allowing him to take control of your life in order to spend eternal life with God is necessary. Jesus told us while we have this light available we need to believe. As our daylight hours get longer starting Spring our physical days are growing shorter. There are many who don’t believe who’s spiritual days grow shorter or can be non-existent based on those willing to share the “good news” or “light” of Jesus with them. As Christians we are to be Christ’s light bearers, letting his light shine through us. I have plenty of weak excuses as to the “almost” syndrome that can plague us. I almost said something to him. I almost turned around to give some money to that homeless person. I almost signed up for that mission trip. I almost shared my love for our Lord, but I ran out of time. It’s hard for selfish reasons in our daily lives to remember God’s purpose for us when we don’t know when He is coming back or when God has determined our physical life to end. What if next week I’m not sitting here in the parking lot looking at Eastview? Did I truly believe the light? Am I a son of the Light? My prayer is yes, but I know its all by his will. God wants us to share his light to those whose days are growing darker. Am I sharing? Am I serving? Am I loving?

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Matthew 28:19

Mary is wiping Jesus’s feet with expensive ointment with her hair. Serving and loving Jesus, preparing him for what is to come. Judas questions this act and mentions how much money they could get for the sale of this ointment. Jesus reminds him in (v.8) that the poor we will always have, but we won’t have him. Our seconds turn to minutes, hours to days, how do we spend our time? I’m convicted on the use of my time and sharing God’s light with others. Whatever I do is Jesus my focus? Through whatever our calling do we glorify Him? During our fleeting life Jesus shows us the ways to count our days. James 4:14-15 says Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. Instead, you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that.” (v. 46) That no matter the hour of day, year of age, or season of life Jesus says I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness. My life was dark for many days with moments of light I couldn’t sustain. Days I can never get back that were a negative influence myself and on others. I was a stranger to the truth of God and his light. I pray for the influential people who shared his word, placed biblical truths in my hands, and spiritual truths on my heart revealing the truth and pointing us to GOD. Jesus will give you an everlasting light that will never go away. Now that we have seen this light its important for us to share this light with others so no one remains in darkness. So all can be saved from just wandering. Seize the moment today, serve the Lord and glorify His name. You got this! Don’t worry about how or what you should say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you n that very hour what you ought to say (Luke 12:11-13)

In Ephesians Paul says we were all dead in trespasses and sin, but God being rich in mercy and the great love he has for us. has saved us. Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. Ephesians 5:8 for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light

John 8:12 Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

We don’t know the day or time the Lord has determined to return or take us to be with him. Are we sharing his love with others like it had been shared with you? This Word of Light that redeems us through his blood and forgives our trespasses according to the riches of his grace. This grace was given and proves to others the riches of Christ, bringing the light that shines form the inside out.But you are not in darkness, brothers, for that day to surprise you like a thief. For you are all children^[of light, children of the day. We are not of the night or of the darkness. How brightly is our light shining?

Dear Lord,

We stumble in the darkness, you provide us with the light necessary to conquer the darkness. Your spiritual light has allowed us to repent for our sins and shines a light on our daily paths. God I pray this light continues to shine bright and I stay focused on your light. Thank you God

I am Working

Today’s Reading: Exodus 26; John 5; Proverbs 2; Galatians 1

I’ve heard the idiom that “a mother’s work is never done.” I see this idiom lived out daily in our lives as our two energetic, imaginative, loving boys play from sun up to sun down and then some. Thank you to my wife, Jennifer, for being such a wonderful mother and a blessing to our children. I can also say this phrase is true when you have to raise a son like myself.(Sorry mom) The phrase, a parents work is never done, is also true. I’m sure all parents will agree with me. So when I read through today’s reading I paused on John 5:17 When Jesus says to the Jews after healing a paralyzed man, “My Father is working until now, and I am working.” To me, I think how Jesus is always working in us and he commands us to do the same. Colossians 3:23 Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men,

Recently I was listening to a series on Effective Parenting in a Defective World by Chip Ingram and heard about the parenting phases we can go through. I talked with some parents about these working stages of parenting and the different roles parents play throughout our children’s lives. In the beginning years we can identify with being the commander of our children. Parents have to physically provide, watch over every move, protect, and help them learn what they should and shouldn’t do. We are their lifeline of survival. Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

As they get to around 4+ years we then transition into a teaching role where you are still telling and modeling what to do but often having to answer the “Why?” question. As you teach 3 John verse 4 says I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. There are also moments when you need the verse Proverbs 29:15 The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother. In either case God is still working in our children and us.

As your children hit the middle school, high school, college years you turn into a coach who teaches specific skills and are able to call timeout when needed to focus on a skill, praise, or discipline. It’s an important time to influence their spiritual future. Provide them with experiences that help them see the reality of your faith and theirs. An important principle throughout parenting is to remember to only teach children what they are mentally and emotionally capable of learning. In addition to not habitually doing for your children what they can do for themselves. Allow our children to “fail forward” and turning their mistakes into stepping stones.

Our last phase of parenting falls into your children’s 20’s, 30’s, and beyond. Your role as a parent becomes a “consultant”. This is when your children refer back to you and share their situations with you to gain your expertise. This continuum of parenting phases can vary based on our situation. It is meaningful in the aspect of parenting as it is an opportunity to always be working in our children. Like our spiritual Father, He has and will always be working in us. God wants has told us to go and do work also. Through our work we serve others. We are on Mission all the time to share the Good News. In our children, family, work, and with people we meet. The opportunities are endless. God sent us a perfect example in Jesus and the Living Truth in the Bible. Philippians 2:13 for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

Through our work we can show love to God. One of God’s love languages is obedience. I’m amazed in Exodus the detail that goes into the building of the tabernacle. From the skillful making of a curtain to the placing of each acacia wood beam. I believe God is reminding us that we also need to pay attention to detail in our work. 2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,

God continues to demonstrate His theme of work in us through Proverbs 2. Sharing the importance of spiritual work in us that helps gain wisdom of His Ways and understanding of His Word. God wants us to treasure up His commandments and walk with integrity. Incline our hearts to righteousness. Our work we put into the understanding of His Word will guard you and deliver us from evil. Proverbs 2:6-7 For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding; (7)he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk in integrity

So in the start to your Tuesday morning, what are you working on?

Who are you working for?

Does our work show the love of the Lord or love of men?

Dear Father,

You are always working in us and through us. I pray that as we work in our own lives, our children’s, and in others, we make our work about You and building Your Kingdom. Thank you for sending your own Son for us to have the perfect example. Thank you for showing us how to work at being a parent and living for You. I pray that in whatever calling you have put us in we work with integrity and have a genuine love for others. Lord I know I fall short many times in many areas. I’m grateful for the work you are always doing in me and pray for a consistent clear picture of a daily walk with You. Dear God I pray that the work I do focuses less on me and more about you. Thank you for being with us in our daily work in our family, homes, or other work places.God promises to never leave you.

“I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)