Tuesday, January 21, 2014
New Blog Soon!!
Hey blog followers!! There will be a new blog soon, along with a slight change in name.
The new name will be 317Ministry.... 316Ministry was taken from John 3:16, because, you know, that whole Gospel thing applies to everyone, right? Well, we all know that verse so well that I think we tend to forget what follows. And I think sometimes BECAUSE we forget the next verse, we grant ourselves permission to become more (or simply remain) judgmental and critical of one another.
"What is that verse?"
Glad you asked!
John 3:17
New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)
17 “Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.
You see, I've seen it more than I haven't the Bible being used as a weapon of condemnation; or worse, the church itself gets caught up in "The Land of the Pharisee" and forgets that not only is EVERYONE invited AND welcome to the table of Jesus Christ.... They are invited to the table EXACTLY AS THEY ARE, wherever they are in life's journey.
Translation: You don't have to clean up before you come to God.
And another, the church isn't the cleaner.... That's to be left to God as well.
So, I'm working to launch a new blog site (I'll provide a link here when that's ready); as well as a Facebook page dedicated to the continued response of encouragement to others about #loveinaction and #bethechange.
God calls each and every one of us to love. That isn't simply a role of a Pastor, an author or a speaker. Each of us can love others right where they are and reveal to them God's message of love and hope through our own lives.
This ministry launch will be one to simply provide encouragement and ideas on being a vessel of light, hope and love for the deeply hurting world.
This world doesn't need more critics.
This world doesn't need more hoarding.
This world doesn't need more closed doors.
This world doesn't need more rejection.
This world doesn't need more darkness.
This world needs more love.
Stay tuned!!
Jeani
Friday, January 28, 2011
Hide and Seek
I am inspired to write things during the craziest of mundane activities in my life. Today, I was cleaning the bathroom. Mind you, not my favorite task by ANY means. As a matter of fact, I rather enjoy living in a clean and organized home, but I don't like the effort required to get it that way. You can ask my mother. "Neat and tidy" was never my nickname as a kid. Now that I'm an adult, I am responsible for it. And I still don't like to do it.
As I was cleaning, it crossed my mind how we often "hide" things when we are having company. We'll stash this or that instead of taking the time to really clean it, because, you know, "they'll never know." Who is going to come for a visit and immediately look under the bed, in the drawer or the closet? Most people wouldn't, right? I mean, how rude to walk into someone else's home and start digging through their closets!
I was chuckling to myself about that thinking, if we'd all give the time required to keep things neat and tidy we wouldn't have to hide things. Then, a new thought crossed my mind, what if our guest was Jesus? What would we try to hide?
I've done that in my spiritual life often during the course of my journey. I'll bring something to God that is a complete and utter mess. It's chaotic. It's disorganized. It's filthy. Covered. I've done all I can to clean it up and finally relented it's impossible under my own strength. And I realize God is the only "cleanser" for this problem. Finally, with my head ducked and my tail tucked, I will present it at the His feet and sheepishly mumble something about how I can't do it and I need Him once again. All the while, there are a thousand other things I've crammed into my closet in an attempt to hide them from the One who can cleanse it all.
Why do we do this?
As I ponder that question in light of my own life and walk with God, I think it boils down to my view of Him. It's kind of fluid. And it really should be static, in my opinion. It moves from the Angry God I learned about as a child. To the loving God I've met as an adult. Depending upon what needs cleaning and how "horrible" I see that mess determines where I see God on the continuum.
Here's my revelation for the day, God is love. He's always love. He's never shame. He's never condemnation. Nothing I do surprises Him. Nothing I hide is hidden. He patiently waits for me to swallow the pride of this world I so arrogantly display and come to Him in humility realizing once again that this mess I give Him, this convoluted, tangled, mud covered, sin stained mess doesn't shock Him and doesn't decrease my value to Him. Because I've run crazy trying to "handle" this world, trying to change things that aren't mine, trying to orchestrate the stars for my gain, trying to think I can do things better than God -- none of that decreases my value to Him. And He's never surprised that I tried again. And when I return to Him with my latest mess, or sometimes the same mess He wasn't finish cleaning that I stole back, He greets me the same: open arms, loving face, kisses on my head to tell me, "Child, let me do it this time. Just be still. Just be patient. I love you. I have plans for you. Not harm. Trust me, daughter."
I needed to "get this" again today. I needed to remember God is love. I needed to remember that I have the ability to pick and choose this mess or that mess to give to Him; but He wants all of my messes. He wants all of me. And even though I've stacked the closet full until the door won't shut, He does know what's in there. And He wants it all.
What are you hiding? He loves you. Open your door. He won't shame you. He will help you.
Be blessed my friends.
Jeani
Matthew 11:28 (New Living Translation)
28 Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.
As I was cleaning, it crossed my mind how we often "hide" things when we are having company. We'll stash this or that instead of taking the time to really clean it, because, you know, "they'll never know." Who is going to come for a visit and immediately look under the bed, in the drawer or the closet? Most people wouldn't, right? I mean, how rude to walk into someone else's home and start digging through their closets!
I was chuckling to myself about that thinking, if we'd all give the time required to keep things neat and tidy we wouldn't have to hide things. Then, a new thought crossed my mind, what if our guest was Jesus? What would we try to hide?
I've done that in my spiritual life often during the course of my journey. I'll bring something to God that is a complete and utter mess. It's chaotic. It's disorganized. It's filthy. Covered. I've done all I can to clean it up and finally relented it's impossible under my own strength. And I realize God is the only "cleanser" for this problem. Finally, with my head ducked and my tail tucked, I will present it at the His feet and sheepishly mumble something about how I can't do it and I need Him once again. All the while, there are a thousand other things I've crammed into my closet in an attempt to hide them from the One who can cleanse it all.
Why do we do this?
As I ponder that question in light of my own life and walk with God, I think it boils down to my view of Him. It's kind of fluid. And it really should be static, in my opinion. It moves from the Angry God I learned about as a child. To the loving God I've met as an adult. Depending upon what needs cleaning and how "horrible" I see that mess determines where I see God on the continuum.
Here's my revelation for the day, God is love. He's always love. He's never shame. He's never condemnation. Nothing I do surprises Him. Nothing I hide is hidden. He patiently waits for me to swallow the pride of this world I so arrogantly display and come to Him in humility realizing once again that this mess I give Him, this convoluted, tangled, mud covered, sin stained mess doesn't shock Him and doesn't decrease my value to Him. Because I've run crazy trying to "handle" this world, trying to change things that aren't mine, trying to orchestrate the stars for my gain, trying to think I can do things better than God -- none of that decreases my value to Him. And He's never surprised that I tried again. And when I return to Him with my latest mess, or sometimes the same mess He wasn't finish cleaning that I stole back, He greets me the same: open arms, loving face, kisses on my head to tell me, "Child, let me do it this time. Just be still. Just be patient. I love you. I have plans for you. Not harm. Trust me, daughter."
I needed to "get this" again today. I needed to remember God is love. I needed to remember that I have the ability to pick and choose this mess or that mess to give to Him; but He wants all of my messes. He wants all of me. And even though I've stacked the closet full until the door won't shut, He does know what's in there. And He wants it all.
What are you hiding? He loves you. Open your door. He won't shame you. He will help you.
Be blessed my friends.
Jeani
Matthew 11:28 (New Living Translation)
28 Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Won't You Be My Neighbor?
It's been an interesting year so far, to say the least. Twenty days into 2011 and I'm about to start working again. Praise God for that. Provision is amazing! God's timing is even better.
There is a battle going on in our family. We're fighting an illness. And I thank you all for your prayers, love and support with regard to that. It's brought more stress than I care to endure. But even through it, I see God's hand moving. I see His protection. I see Him fighting for us as well. And I praise Him daily.
You've seen from me more than once share my belief that we don't always understand why things happen. But there is usually a purpose. And if no other purpose can be seen, trust that whatever it is God can bring glory to Him from it. It could be something tragic, something terribly painful, something tremendously scary. And yet, if we can find it within ourselves to calm our minds and shift our focus from the obstacle, and from the attacks of the enemy (which purpose only to keep our eyes off our Creator), and we can actually shift our gaze to Him instead, it's amazing what we might find hidden within a kind word from a total stranger, love from family and friends, random expressions and reminders of Who sits on the throne.
I feel sometimes like 2011 has already been going for several months. And I could easily adopt the opinion that I am not looking forward to this year if it's to be anything like these first 20 days. However, it's not my attitude toward things. I've made myself become aware of God's movement in my life more in the past 20 days than maybe in the past few years.
I am amazed.
I am humbled.
I am grateful.
And I am excited to see what else is in store for the rest of 2011.
All of that said, I've felt challenged for some time about involving myself directly with a few of the charitable organizations I discover through billboards here in Nashville, musicians who are active with different organizations, family, friends, etc.
I've learned to recognize the tug. You know the one I'm talking about? Where you see the ad, and you think to yourself, "Aw. That is SUCH a good cause!! I should do something with that."
And then you keep driving. And think to yourself that you're going to donate money. Or you're going to donate clothing. Or food. Or just whatever it is. Right? You've been there.
And you get home. And you become distracted by daily life. And you go about your business. For me, that means Farmville or some other game, chores around the apartment, grocery shopping. Maybe watching some basketball. Football is about to go away for the season. Maybe some movies. Reading a book. And then it's time to drive along and dang it!! There is that billboard again!! Yes! Yes!! Okay, today, today is the day. I will do it!!
And you get home. Repeat previous paragraph.
Well, today, I was watching a podcast sermon. And this particular sermon (several weeks old now) was a challenge to that congregation to leave their shoes they were wearing THAT day for Souls4Soles. And I thought to myself, "DOH!!!!" There it is again.
This time, I went to my closet. And I pulled out every pair of shoes I have. And I set them on the bed. I have 17 pairs of shoes. Know how many I typically wear? Four.
Now, in time, I might get rid of a few more. I decided to keep eight pairs. A couple are seasonal and one pair is "dressier" than anything else I own. But I'm going to donate nine pairs of shoes.
I followed this link and clicked on locations. It lists the donation locations here in Nashville close to my zip code. There is a place not far from here. I called them and discussed their "drop off" system.
http://www.soles4souls.org/
What about you? How many pairs of shoes do you own? How many do you ACTUALLY wear? The ones you don't wear, can you part with them so someone somewhere who doesn't have ANY shoes could have ONE pair?
If we attend church together, allow me to remove one excuse, "I don't have time to drop them off." Bring them Sunday. In a black plastic trash bag (if you have several pair) and I will take them for you.
If you don't attend church with me, what about offering to be the collection person for your church, social group, workplace?
Let's save some folks from some blisters. Let's give someone something that will make it easier to walk that long walk to collect water, to go to work, to stand in line for food or medicine. These shoes are taking up space in our closets. And they could be helping someone who may not otherwise receive a pair.
You wear all of your shoes? No problem. You can donate on their site.
Let's make 2011 the year we got involved. Let's make 2011 the year we "cleaned house" and helped out. Let's make 2011 the year we showed love and gave back. For I assure you, each of us are very blessed.
Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV)
37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'
Friday, October 1, 2010
Prayer of Gratitude
Hello friends! Please join me in the following prayer:
Father God, I thank you for each and every test or trial you allow into my life. I thank you for the opportunities to lean into you more, to come closer to you, to believe your promises and expand my faith. Father, thank you that I can always trust your timing and your provision. Lord, thank you that these events in my life have been orchestrated by you. Thank you, God, that you have a plan and you have a way when one doesn't seem possible to me. I'm excited, Lord, to see your hand in my life and the provision that will come. Thank you in advance for meeting every immediate and future need. Thank you, God, for demonstrating your constant unconditional love even when I least deserve it. Keep my heart and mind focused on the blessings you shower upon me daily. And keep my heart bent toward glorifying and honoring you. Thank you for my next opportunity! Thank you for my friends and family who lift me in prayer! And thank you for the lessons I can learn from everyone you bring into my life. In Jesus' name, Amen!
Gratitude goes much farther than worrying. :)
Be blessed!!
Father God, I thank you for each and every test or trial you allow into my life. I thank you for the opportunities to lean into you more, to come closer to you, to believe your promises and expand my faith. Father, thank you that I can always trust your timing and your provision. Lord, thank you that these events in my life have been orchestrated by you. Thank you, God, that you have a plan and you have a way when one doesn't seem possible to me. I'm excited, Lord, to see your hand in my life and the provision that will come. Thank you in advance for meeting every immediate and future need. Thank you, God, for demonstrating your constant unconditional love even when I least deserve it. Keep my heart and mind focused on the blessings you shower upon me daily. And keep my heart bent toward glorifying and honoring you. Thank you for my next opportunity! Thank you for my friends and family who lift me in prayer! And thank you for the lessons I can learn from everyone you bring into my life. In Jesus' name, Amen!
Gratitude goes much farther than worrying. :)
Be blessed!!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Don't Suffer
In the past week or so I've had a couple of people mention they are worried about me with the job situation and such. And while I absolutely welcome any and all support I want to challenge everyone who loves me, heck, everyone who loves someone else.... Don't.
Don't worry about me. Don't worry about your loved one. Don't worry about yourself.
Pray.
Rejoice! Find the things in life that ARE working. Look at life and praise God for the beauty you can enjoy. Thank God that He has a plan, that He will turn things around, that He will meet all needs, that He will protect His children, that He will strengthen each of us to endure the trials and that He provides for us joy!
Listen, I know this is tough. I've been in the rut recently myself. I've been slowly drifting back to that place where I only see what I cannot change and what I wish would change. Who ever looks at a job and says, "I wish I was unemployed. I wish my income was reduced. I will be glad when the bills don't change but the money coming in does." Who wishes for that??
But here's the reality, there will be things in our lives for which we can plan accordingly. And there will be things in our lives that will surprise us and have the potential to knock us off our feet.
1 Peter 4:12 (New International Version)
12Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.
Peter let all of us know we shouldn't be surprised when trouble comes our way. He was reminding us what Jesus said.
John 16:33 (New International Version)
33"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
"In this world you will have trouble."
There isn't much wiggle room with that statement. Christ said we will face trouble. But let us also remember Job. He faced tremendous suffering and tragedy. And nothing that was brought upon him by the enemy was permitted to take his life. God allowed Satan to test Job's resolve. But not to destroy him entirely.
Sometimes the trouble we're facing is a result of sowing bad seed. That is true. We do have consequences for our actions. If we live financially irresponsible, eventually that will catch up to us. If we decide to overdo the party life in our teens and twenties, in our forties and fifties, we'll feel it. Contact sports in college? You'll know about it when you're 40!
But many times, our troubles are a test of our resolve and our faith. Many times it is an opportunity for God to use something that was meant for our harm to show His faithfulness, to show His love, to reveal His glory. He may use it to prove to the enemy that we are faithful, that we do believe in His provision and ability to work out our difficulties and elevate us above our troubles. And an opportunity for us to demonstrate our trust in Him.
Philippians 4:11-12 (New International Version)
11I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
Philippians 3:12-14 (New International Version)
12Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:4-7 (New International Version)
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Hebrews 12:28-29 (New International Version)
28Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, 29for our "God is a consuming fire."
Colossians 3:2 (New International Version)
2Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
Romans 8:28 (New International Version)
28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Isaiah 54:17 (New International Version)
17 no weapon forged against you will prevail,and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD,and this is their vindication from me," declares the LORD.
No matter what adversity you are facing: health, relationships, finances, temptations, etc. remember the promises. Remember to find the blessings. Remember you control the obsessions of your mind. You control your thoughts and where they go. Force them to go against the negative things, the reasons for your suffering, the tragedies you're facing, the losses you've had.
Force your thoughts to focus on life. Focus on the blessings. Remember, someone in the world is in a worse position than you are. Someone doesn't have a home, a car, a job, food, medicine, love, hope, joy. Someone doesn't know Jesus Christ. Someone doesn't see a way out of their hopeless situation. Someone needs to see God's light shining through your life. Someone needs their faith restored. Someone needs to see God working through your life to be encouraged their own situation can turn around. Someone needs to hear how God is providing for you in order to believe He will provide for them, too. Someone needs to see His restoration in your hope, your faith, your dreams so they can believe.
I'm not perfect at this. I can become discouraged, too. I can shift my thoughts to what is missing or what isn't the way I wish it to be. I can listen to the enemy's lies and become full of anxiety and stress and worry. I can shift my eyes from my Father to the problem. I can fall into the trap of trying to figure it out in my strength rather than recognizing I need God's grace to get through and to get out of His way and let Him work in His timing and with His method.
Let me tell you, I've seen Him work in the lives of others. And I've listened to their testimonies about how He has given them the grace to stay in peace and joy even amidst the storm. I was hesitant. I thought to myself, "But they've never felt _______." And I was wrong. The emotion of hopelessness is the same at it's very core regardless of what caused it. The circumstances causing it may be very, very different. The experiences may be very different indeed. But the feeling itself of being overwhelmed and without hope is the same.
And so is the answer.
I'm in the process of practicing what has been preached and even what I myself have shared. I'm in the process of taking the head knowledge of the promises and engraving them upon my heart. I'm in the process of walking the talk.
Hear what I'm saying to you, it's working. I am finding myself facing a tremendous unknown. The potential is there to be consumed with anxiety, worry and stress. The potential is there to allow these three things to destroy my physical and mental health. But I'm not allowing it.
Do I have moments? Sure! I'm human! I have moments of doubt. I have moments when I question things and I look at things with that shifty look of disbelief. But if I shake my head once or twice and speak aloud the promises of my Creator, I change my thoughts. I change my focus. And I remember to give it back to the One in control. I look around me and appreciate what I do have and I pray for those who are lacking. I remind myself of all of the ways God has showed up in just the past year, let alone the past 37, and I'm overcome with humility and disbelief about why He would continue to be faithful.
But even that is for another time.
Stay in your blessings. Stay in faith. Keep your hope alive. Immerse yourself in His grace. Bask in His light. Believe what He tells you. Trust Him. And embrace the joy and peace that comes with it.
Stand strong my friends! Redemption is just around the corner!
Live blessed!
Jeani
Don't worry about me. Don't worry about your loved one. Don't worry about yourself.
Pray.
Rejoice! Find the things in life that ARE working. Look at life and praise God for the beauty you can enjoy. Thank God that He has a plan, that He will turn things around, that He will meet all needs, that He will protect His children, that He will strengthen each of us to endure the trials and that He provides for us joy!
Listen, I know this is tough. I've been in the rut recently myself. I've been slowly drifting back to that place where I only see what I cannot change and what I wish would change. Who ever looks at a job and says, "I wish I was unemployed. I wish my income was reduced. I will be glad when the bills don't change but the money coming in does." Who wishes for that??
But here's the reality, there will be things in our lives for which we can plan accordingly. And there will be things in our lives that will surprise us and have the potential to knock us off our feet.
1 Peter 4:12 (New International Version)
12Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.
Peter let all of us know we shouldn't be surprised when trouble comes our way. He was reminding us what Jesus said.
John 16:33 (New International Version)
33"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
"In this world you will have trouble."
There isn't much wiggle room with that statement. Christ said we will face trouble. But let us also remember Job. He faced tremendous suffering and tragedy. And nothing that was brought upon him by the enemy was permitted to take his life. God allowed Satan to test Job's resolve. But not to destroy him entirely.
Sometimes the trouble we're facing is a result of sowing bad seed. That is true. We do have consequences for our actions. If we live financially irresponsible, eventually that will catch up to us. If we decide to overdo the party life in our teens and twenties, in our forties and fifties, we'll feel it. Contact sports in college? You'll know about it when you're 40!
But many times, our troubles are a test of our resolve and our faith. Many times it is an opportunity for God to use something that was meant for our harm to show His faithfulness, to show His love, to reveal His glory. He may use it to prove to the enemy that we are faithful, that we do believe in His provision and ability to work out our difficulties and elevate us above our troubles. And an opportunity for us to demonstrate our trust in Him.
Philippians 4:11-12 (New International Version)
11I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
Philippians 3:12-14 (New International Version)
12Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:4-7 (New International Version)
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Hebrews 12:28-29 (New International Version)
28Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, 29for our "God is a consuming fire."
Colossians 3:2 (New International Version)
2Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
Romans 8:28 (New International Version)
28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Isaiah 54:17 (New International Version)
17 no weapon forged against you will prevail,and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD,and this is their vindication from me," declares the LORD.
No matter what adversity you are facing: health, relationships, finances, temptations, etc. remember the promises. Remember to find the blessings. Remember you control the obsessions of your mind. You control your thoughts and where they go. Force them to go against the negative things, the reasons for your suffering, the tragedies you're facing, the losses you've had.
Force your thoughts to focus on life. Focus on the blessings. Remember, someone in the world is in a worse position than you are. Someone doesn't have a home, a car, a job, food, medicine, love, hope, joy. Someone doesn't know Jesus Christ. Someone doesn't see a way out of their hopeless situation. Someone needs to see God's light shining through your life. Someone needs their faith restored. Someone needs to see God working through your life to be encouraged their own situation can turn around. Someone needs to hear how God is providing for you in order to believe He will provide for them, too. Someone needs to see His restoration in your hope, your faith, your dreams so they can believe.
I'm not perfect at this. I can become discouraged, too. I can shift my thoughts to what is missing or what isn't the way I wish it to be. I can listen to the enemy's lies and become full of anxiety and stress and worry. I can shift my eyes from my Father to the problem. I can fall into the trap of trying to figure it out in my strength rather than recognizing I need God's grace to get through and to get out of His way and let Him work in His timing and with His method.
Let me tell you, I've seen Him work in the lives of others. And I've listened to their testimonies about how He has given them the grace to stay in peace and joy even amidst the storm. I was hesitant. I thought to myself, "But they've never felt _______." And I was wrong. The emotion of hopelessness is the same at it's very core regardless of what caused it. The circumstances causing it may be very, very different. The experiences may be very different indeed. But the feeling itself of being overwhelmed and without hope is the same.
And so is the answer.
I'm in the process of practicing what has been preached and even what I myself have shared. I'm in the process of taking the head knowledge of the promises and engraving them upon my heart. I'm in the process of walking the talk.
Hear what I'm saying to you, it's working. I am finding myself facing a tremendous unknown. The potential is there to be consumed with anxiety, worry and stress. The potential is there to allow these three things to destroy my physical and mental health. But I'm not allowing it.
Do I have moments? Sure! I'm human! I have moments of doubt. I have moments when I question things and I look at things with that shifty look of disbelief. But if I shake my head once or twice and speak aloud the promises of my Creator, I change my thoughts. I change my focus. And I remember to give it back to the One in control. I look around me and appreciate what I do have and I pray for those who are lacking. I remind myself of all of the ways God has showed up in just the past year, let alone the past 37, and I'm overcome with humility and disbelief about why He would continue to be faithful.
But even that is for another time.
Stay in your blessings. Stay in faith. Keep your hope alive. Immerse yourself in His grace. Bask in His light. Believe what He tells you. Trust Him. And embrace the joy and peace that comes with it.
Stand strong my friends! Redemption is just around the corner!
Live blessed!
Jeani
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Sometimes We Cry
When I was a kid, I was really, really -- and I do mean REALLY -- opposed to crying. I tried to control it. I tried to control the fear. I tried to control emotional pain. And I decided that when those emotions tried to surface, they should be replaced with anger. The result? If I was crying, especially if there was an audience, it was only because the anger had boiled my insides to the point I could no longer suppress the tears. And if I had an exit route, you'd better believe I would be alone quickly.
As I've become an adult, I've realized there is something to be said about compassion. I had it when I was a kid. But I didn't want to show it. I didn't want to be vulnerable in front of others. So, I would extend a word here or there, offer a hug or pat on the back, but my most common weapon against sadness was humor. I remember being 3 years old seeing my mother sitting across the table from me crying and thinking to myself, "Be cute. Make her laugh."
But sometimes, you just need to cry.
John 11:33-35 (New International Version)
33When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. 34"Where have you laid him?" he asked.
"Come and see, Lord," they replied.
35Jesus wept.
This section of scripture refers to the compassion Jesus felt toward the family of Lazarus, a man who'd been a friend to Him who had been sick and died several days before His arrival. The family believed that Jesus could heal their sick brother. But Christ knew He was to raise Lazarus from the dead to honor and glorify God and so the Jews would see He really was the Son of God. He knew this pain and suffering they experienced was temporary. He knew in mere moments their heavy hearts would be freed of the grief and overwhelmed with joy as they would have Lazarus back. But their pain affected Him. And He wept.
There is no shame in displaying or demonstrating compassion. There is nothing wrong with being moved to tears of joy or tears of sadness for our friends and loved ones.
And sometimes we just need to let others know we care.
Sometimes, we cry.
As I've become an adult, I've realized there is something to be said about compassion. I had it when I was a kid. But I didn't want to show it. I didn't want to be vulnerable in front of others. So, I would extend a word here or there, offer a hug or pat on the back, but my most common weapon against sadness was humor. I remember being 3 years old seeing my mother sitting across the table from me crying and thinking to myself, "Be cute. Make her laugh."
But sometimes, you just need to cry.
John 11:33-35 (New International Version)
33When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled. 34"Where have you laid him?" he asked.
"Come and see, Lord," they replied.
35Jesus wept.
This section of scripture refers to the compassion Jesus felt toward the family of Lazarus, a man who'd been a friend to Him who had been sick and died several days before His arrival. The family believed that Jesus could heal their sick brother. But Christ knew He was to raise Lazarus from the dead to honor and glorify God and so the Jews would see He really was the Son of God. He knew this pain and suffering they experienced was temporary. He knew in mere moments their heavy hearts would be freed of the grief and overwhelmed with joy as they would have Lazarus back. But their pain affected Him. And He wept.
There is no shame in displaying or demonstrating compassion. There is nothing wrong with being moved to tears of joy or tears of sadness for our friends and loved ones.
And sometimes we just need to let others know we care.
Sometimes, we cry.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Drought
Sometimes we find ourselves in a place we don't want to be. We want to move forward. We want things to change. The mundane routine of our lives has reached a place of boring and without purpose. We're required to do something or to be somewhere and that passion is lacking. We know we have to perform or give what we no longer feel inspired to give. We're stuck in between one level of glory and the next. And we feel like nothing good is happening.
But we're wrong.
Jeremiah 29:11 (New International Version)
11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Romans 8:28 (New International Version)
28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Deuteronomy 31:6
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."
What are we to do during these seasons of our life we no longer "feel" the presence of God and we no longer feel motivated to even live up to our current expectations? We are longing for a change and something to inspire us to action, but it just isn't there.
The answer may be different for each of us. Some of us will spend money and buy something exciting. Some of us will enter into new relationships and ride the wave of that buzz for a bit. Some of us will start new jobs. Take time off. Go on a trip. Many times we seek a new experience. And it is generally successful in providing that spark we seek - for a moment.
What I am learning is to embrace a few things in order to rejuvenate myself and help me redirect my focus.
1. When I realize I'm in a rut, I begin to first practice Psalm 46:10 -- "Be still. And know I am God." When I don't know which decision to make, when I don't know the direction I should turn, when I feel easily confused because my mind is convincingly arguing two opposing sides of a decision, I need to sit still. I need to make no decision. And I need to remember I am not in control of the universe, but simply myself. I need to become quiet and remember I serve a loving God Who will not lead me down the wrong path.
2. The second thing I need to do is rejoice.
1 Thessalonians 5:16 (Amplified Bible)
16Be happy [in your faith] and rejoice and be glad-hearted continually (always);
Philippians 4:4 (New International Version)
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
I need to take my eyes off the dirt surrounding me (rut analogy, remember?) and focus upon the things in my life that are blessings. Sometimes, if I've allowed myself to sink deeply into mediocrity, this list might have to start with the fact that I'm breathing, which means there is still a purpose I need to meet. Quickly, if I force my mind to focus upon it, I can add family, friends, simple things like blue skies, the sun, fall colors, children's laughter, etc. The goal here is to shift my attention from what is weighing me down and to the things that will lift me up. Not only do I inventory this list, but I also consciously thank God for each item on this list.
3. Rejoicing is important and it is referenced in several verses in the Bible. But the following verse in 1 Thessalonians chapter 5 is extremely important as well.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 (New Living Translation)
17 Never stop praying.
Depending upon my level in the rut, I may pray for a light so that I may see the intended path. I may pray for grace to overcome some judgmental attitude, resentment, anger, or unforgiveness. I may pray for direction. I may pray for supportive people to emerge. I may pray for forgiveness for myself. At the very least, I enter into a conversation with my Heavenly Father about my condition.
4. I have faith. I believe that through these steps and by petitioning in prayer asking God to fight my battles for me, that God is doing what He says He will do. I trust that He will fulfill His promises. I know that He has my best interest in mind. And I accept that whatever He may bring to pass may not be what I've asked Him for, nor what I want. But I know it will be for my benefit.
Hebrews 11:1 (New Living Translation)
1 Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.
5. Finally, and sometimes even more difficult than the four preceding steps: obedience. The absolute best example of obedience to the Father against the fleshly will is when Christ prayed to God asking Him for another way to fulfill His will. But He committed to do what the Father asked of Him regardless.
Luke 22:42 (King James Version)
42Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.
I have a strong internal desire to be obedient. And it strengthens the more time I spend with God. I want to glorify and honor Him. I want to extend the grace, mercy, hope and love I've been given without earning it and certainly undeserved.
But often, I can feel that deep, internal tug in my gut advising me to keep my mouth closed, or alternately, to speak; to act in some manner that seems completely ridiculous. And I do exactly the opposite of what I feel should or shouldn't act. And later realize why I should have done what I didn't do (or shouldn't have done/said what I did/said.)I may see an intersection of life that I blew by and later realize down the road I didn't want to take is a blessing I missed.
On the flip side of this, when I am obedient, I see those red lights and the wrecks that were avoided. I see the protection and the provision. And I feel humbled and grateful.
Are you in a rut? Are you living a mediocre life and tired of the mundane? Do you find yourself day dreaming of the "perfect" life?
Try this process. Give it a sincere try. Open your heart and mind to it. Be willing to be silent with God. Be willing to give decisions some time rather than being impulsive. Don't go to the other extreme and never make decisions. But be willing to test it against the direction of God.
Expand your relationship with the Father beyond asking Him for healing when a loved one is ill; or asking for protection during days of traveling.
Ask Him what He wants you to change to spring you from mediocrity into excellence. Is it priorities? Is He first in your life? Is it a bitter heart? A mouth spewing lies, gossip or hatred? Maybe you never speak the things you really think, but inside you feel resentment. Perhaps you aren't even judging others harshly because you're too busy judging yourself and you are filled with remorse and guilt; and maybe these two emotions have you paralyzed from believing you have the option to move forward.
None of us are perfect. We all sin in some manner. We're not here to judge one another's relationship with the Father. We're simply here to begin our own and allow Him to change within us what He wills so that He can bless us in His perfect way.
Fall at the feet of the cross. Rest in the arms of your Father. Open His Word and learn of His love and the promises He gives you for taking care of you. And dare to believe it. Then look around and I'd bet you're no longer looking at dirt. I bet you'll be out of your rut.
Be in peace my friends!
Jeani
But we're wrong.
Jeremiah 29:11 (New International Version)
11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Romans 8:28 (New International Version)
28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Deuteronomy 31:6
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."
What are we to do during these seasons of our life we no longer "feel" the presence of God and we no longer feel motivated to even live up to our current expectations? We are longing for a change and something to inspire us to action, but it just isn't there.
The answer may be different for each of us. Some of us will spend money and buy something exciting. Some of us will enter into new relationships and ride the wave of that buzz for a bit. Some of us will start new jobs. Take time off. Go on a trip. Many times we seek a new experience. And it is generally successful in providing that spark we seek - for a moment.
What I am learning is to embrace a few things in order to rejuvenate myself and help me redirect my focus.
1. When I realize I'm in a rut, I begin to first practice Psalm 46:10 -- "Be still. And know I am God." When I don't know which decision to make, when I don't know the direction I should turn, when I feel easily confused because my mind is convincingly arguing two opposing sides of a decision, I need to sit still. I need to make no decision. And I need to remember I am not in control of the universe, but simply myself. I need to become quiet and remember I serve a loving God Who will not lead me down the wrong path.
2. The second thing I need to do is rejoice.
1 Thessalonians 5:16 (Amplified Bible)
16Be happy [in your faith] and rejoice and be glad-hearted continually (always);
Philippians 4:4 (New International Version)
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
I need to take my eyes off the dirt surrounding me (rut analogy, remember?) and focus upon the things in my life that are blessings. Sometimes, if I've allowed myself to sink deeply into mediocrity, this list might have to start with the fact that I'm breathing, which means there is still a purpose I need to meet. Quickly, if I force my mind to focus upon it, I can add family, friends, simple things like blue skies, the sun, fall colors, children's laughter, etc. The goal here is to shift my attention from what is weighing me down and to the things that will lift me up. Not only do I inventory this list, but I also consciously thank God for each item on this list.
3. Rejoicing is important and it is referenced in several verses in the Bible. But the following verse in 1 Thessalonians chapter 5 is extremely important as well.
1 Thessalonians 5:17 (New Living Translation)
17 Never stop praying.
Depending upon my level in the rut, I may pray for a light so that I may see the intended path. I may pray for grace to overcome some judgmental attitude, resentment, anger, or unforgiveness. I may pray for direction. I may pray for supportive people to emerge. I may pray for forgiveness for myself. At the very least, I enter into a conversation with my Heavenly Father about my condition.
4. I have faith. I believe that through these steps and by petitioning in prayer asking God to fight my battles for me, that God is doing what He says He will do. I trust that He will fulfill His promises. I know that He has my best interest in mind. And I accept that whatever He may bring to pass may not be what I've asked Him for, nor what I want. But I know it will be for my benefit.
Hebrews 11:1 (New Living Translation)
1 Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see.
5. Finally, and sometimes even more difficult than the four preceding steps: obedience. The absolute best example of obedience to the Father against the fleshly will is when Christ prayed to God asking Him for another way to fulfill His will. But He committed to do what the Father asked of Him regardless.
Luke 22:42 (King James Version)
42Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.
I have a strong internal desire to be obedient. And it strengthens the more time I spend with God. I want to glorify and honor Him. I want to extend the grace, mercy, hope and love I've been given without earning it and certainly undeserved.
But often, I can feel that deep, internal tug in my gut advising me to keep my mouth closed, or alternately, to speak; to act in some manner that seems completely ridiculous. And I do exactly the opposite of what I feel should or shouldn't act. And later realize why I should have done what I didn't do (or shouldn't have done/said what I did/said.)I may see an intersection of life that I blew by and later realize down the road I didn't want to take is a blessing I missed.
On the flip side of this, when I am obedient, I see those red lights and the wrecks that were avoided. I see the protection and the provision. And I feel humbled and grateful.
Are you in a rut? Are you living a mediocre life and tired of the mundane? Do you find yourself day dreaming of the "perfect" life?
Try this process. Give it a sincere try. Open your heart and mind to it. Be willing to be silent with God. Be willing to give decisions some time rather than being impulsive. Don't go to the other extreme and never make decisions. But be willing to test it against the direction of God.
Expand your relationship with the Father beyond asking Him for healing when a loved one is ill; or asking for protection during days of traveling.
Ask Him what He wants you to change to spring you from mediocrity into excellence. Is it priorities? Is He first in your life? Is it a bitter heart? A mouth spewing lies, gossip or hatred? Maybe you never speak the things you really think, but inside you feel resentment. Perhaps you aren't even judging others harshly because you're too busy judging yourself and you are filled with remorse and guilt; and maybe these two emotions have you paralyzed from believing you have the option to move forward.
None of us are perfect. We all sin in some manner. We're not here to judge one another's relationship with the Father. We're simply here to begin our own and allow Him to change within us what He wills so that He can bless us in His perfect way.
Fall at the feet of the cross. Rest in the arms of your Father. Open His Word and learn of His love and the promises He gives you for taking care of you. And dare to believe it. Then look around and I'd bet you're no longer looking at dirt. I bet you'll be out of your rut.
Be in peace my friends!
Jeani
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