There are times when my prayers start with Please GOD, followed by Please Help me, continued with Please save me, almost pleading to Please Rescue me, to Please arrange.... do you see where I am going with this? Not yet, well let me try to explain it differently by writing out what one of my imbalanced prayers sounds like: "LORD JESUS, I have messed up once again, and I need you to please help me NOT to do that. Please forgive me, and please don't leave me, as I feel so utterly weary and weakened. Please help me to..... blah blah blah blah blah..... Basically, I pretty much tell HIM, Hey GOD if you have some time to spare for me, please help me, save me, rescue me, be with me, please, please, please, please.....
HIS Daily Teachings today is really convicting me of letting go of my incessant need to pray imbalanced prayers. HE is wanting me to know that HE hasn't been teaching me this last year about HIS plan and HIS purpose for my life, and what that means for me, just so I can back track, and fall flat on my face, and begin to pray "please" prayers.
HE is telling me that the days where I being my prayers with "please" are over. Today HE is teaching me the right way to come to HIM in prayer, and HE is doing it through my current read by Bill Hybels titled "Too Busy NOT to Pray."
HE is telling me that HE wants me to be steadfast in my prayers by praying authentic prayers, but even when I "think" I'm being authentic, I fall into the trap of doubting whether or not things that matter to me, actually matter to HIM. HE is wanting me to know that whatever concerns me, HE cares about as well. HE is wanting me to know that this is the reason WHY it is written for me to cast ALL of my cares to HIM, as HE is THE ONE WHO cares for me!"
"Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken." Psalm 55:22
HE is calling me to be all in, in my prayers, by saying, "LORD whatever you are doing in this situation, I wan to be a part of it. Whatever is breaking your heart, break mine the same, let there be so much more of you in me, and so much less of me."
There are so many times where I might start out praying something like that, but then guilt strikes, and shame builds, and that is when I pretty much fall of the face of the earth with my prayers. It is in those times where I "feel" as if though I don't have the right to pray and ask for HIS goodness, HIS grace, HIS mercy, HIS love, as I have made a mess of things once again, and I am too shameful to face HIM.
"Sensing the carelessness and one-sidedness of your prayers, you begin to feel guilty about praying." Bill Hybels, "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
It really struck my heart today when I read that, as it describes me to a T, and today I am so thankful that HE knows me so well, and is getting right to the matters of my heart, to show me, teach me, lead me, and guide me straight to HIS open and loving arms. Today I am thankful HE is setting me back on HIS path, which is HIS will for my life, by teaching me that I must choose to be balanced in my prayers to HIM.
HE is telling me that it is when I "feel" guilty while praying, that is when I stop praying. HE is revealing to me that the guilt that I "feel" is attached to shame, which causes me to be faint at heart, and ultimately I become weary and weak in my FAITH. HE is wanting me to know that this is Satan's plan of attack to wipe me off the face of this Earth. HE is telling me that in order to fight the good fight with HIM, I must learn to pray balanced prayers.
HE knows me so well, and knew that I would "feel" overwhelmed in wondering how in the world do I know if I am praying balanced prayers, which is why HE blessed me with this book so many years ago. This morning HE is teaching me how to set up a prayer routine, and the importance of WHY I need to follow it.
In our home with our five children I have "tried" in vain to keep us all on a routine, however it's been very difficult, as we all have different agenda's of what we would like to be doing, and what we would like to see accomplished. HE is letting me know that the same goes for my prayer routine with HIM.
HE is letting me know that I must choose to pray in a way that lets HIM know that I'm all in, that means that I am letting go of my own agenda's and the please prayers are left outside the door. HE is telling me that HE delights in hearing my adoration for HIM, and I need to start each and every prayer in adoration for HIM.
To me, this concept is foreign, and after reading the book today, I realized that I'm not alone it that thinking. Thankfully HE knew I would struggle, and HE blessed me with the tools I am needing to understand what prayers of adoration mean, and look like for me.
"Adoration sets the tone for the entire prayer" Bill Hybels "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
"When we commit ourselves to beginning all our prayers with Adoration, we have to slow down and focus our attention on GOD." Bill Hybels, "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
HE is telling me that it is up to me how I will set the tone of our daily meetings, and HIS Daily Teachings. HE is wanting me to know that this is WHY there are some days that I don't "feel" as though I am really hearing anything from HIM. HE is telling me it is because I have chosen to pray imbalanced prayers.
"Adoration reminds us of GOD's identity and inclination" Bill Hybels "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
I used to think of GOD as someone in the clouds. Even in my early walk with HIM, I felt as if though HE was unattainable to me. I felt as is HE was way too busy to help a hott mess like me. It wasn't until I starting praising HIM for all HE has done, is doing, and will continue to do through me, in me, and for me, that I really began to fulling grasp and understand WHO HE really is for me.
Today HE is filling me with HIS loving reminder that HE is my FATHER, HE is my Abba. HE is wanting me to always acknowledge that HE is THE ONE WHO is in control, NOT me. HE is Omnipotent. HE is wanting me to always acknowledge that HE is with me always, and that HE is never too busy to be with me. HE is Omnipresent. HE is telling me that I must meditate on this knowledge that HE is in control, and HE is everywhere!
I am comforted by HIS loving reminder this morning that HE is always with me, and is always in control of my life, especially in those times where I feel so out of control. I am comforted to know that though I may be weary and weak in my FAITH, HE is there, and HE is waiting to help me, HE is waiting for me to acknowledge HIM that HE is the only ONE WHO can help me. I am thankful to know that HE is always fighting for me, and that everything that HE does is for me, and NOT to me. I am comforted in knowing that HE makes all things come together for my good, and that HE knows and loves me best. I am comforted that even when I can't figure things out, HIS plan and HIS will have been perfectly written for my life.
HE is telling me that in choosing to pray with adoration for HIM means that I am to praise HIM for HIS faithfulness, for the fact that HE is Righteous, that HE is Just, and HE is Merciful! HE is reminding me that anyone else would have packed up and left me by now, in fact there have been people who have packed up and left, in seeing and knowing what a hott mess I am.
HIS loving reminder to me today is this, I am HIS HOTT MESS. I am comforted in knowing that HE is refining and renewing my brokenness, and is sustaining me, and strengthening and growing my FAITH in HIM through every single test, storm, and trial that I encounter. I am comforted that this has been HIS plan all along to take my hott mess of a life, and turn it into HIS beautiful message.
"Adoration Purifies the one who is praying" Bill Hybels "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
HE is telling me that when I come into HIS presence, I become soft at heart, and I breathe easier. HE is wanting me to know that when this happens that is when I begin to let go of seeing my own agenda be met, and instead seek HIS will, and HIS way for my life. HE is wanting me to know that is when I am able to let go of my full of desperation imbalanced prayers, and begin to pray strong at heart, soul, and mind, lead by HIS HOLY SPIRIT, bring ALL PRAISE, HONOR, and GLORY to HIS HOLY, JUST, and RIGHTEOUS NAME, that is when I will know I am praying balanced prayers.
HE is teaching me that in choosing to utilize a prayer routine in my daily walk with HIM ensures me the stability that when the water's rise, and the storms rage, I will have NO fear. That is when I will be able to boldly declare that HE is my HOPE, which anchors my FAITH to HIM, that HE's got this, and HE will make everything turn out for my good!
"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure." Hebrews 6:19
HE is telling me that HE delights hearing me tell HIM that I enjoy being with HIM. HE loves hearing me say, "LORD it is well with my soul." Which leads me to a memory I have as a little girl in our small church that I attended every Sunday with my Gram. I remember singing "It is Well with my Soul" and I remember it being one of my favorite hymns. Although I never really new what it meant, I just loved how I felt, and seeing the smile on my Gram's face whenever she sang it.
Today I now know what it means, and it's the acknowledgement that HE is omnipotent, in control, HE is omnipresent, everywhere, and in knowing that I shall have NO fear. HE is always working on my behalf to ensure that I am living HIS best for my life. It brings me such JOY, PEACE, and COMFORT to know that no matter how bad things get in my life, HIS timing and provision are always perfect.
"Adoration purges your spirit and prepares you to listen to GOD." Bill Hybels "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
"GOD is worthy of Adoration" Bill Hybels "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
"See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him." 1 John 3:1
HIS words bring me such comfort in knowing that HIS love is great, and HE is my HEAVENLY FATHER, that I am the daughter of the KING, and it makes me sing "then sings my soul my SAVIOR GOD to THEE, HOW GREAT THOU ART, HOW GREAT THOU ART" Which is so cool, as it too was another one of my favorite hymns, and as I loved my Gram's reaction to seeing me sing it with her in church. So many great memories are flooding my heart today, and I know it is because I have been all in for HIS Daily Teachings today in learning, and understanding what it means to pray balanced prayers, and that it starts when I enter the THRONE ROOM with pure ADORATION pouring, and spilling out of me for my HEAVENLY FATHER.
"Adoration become a necessity in your prayer life. You can no longer get alone without it." Bill Hybels "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
LORD JESUS, I pray that I will always be overflowing with PRAISE and THANKS to you for all you have done for me. If ever I forget please give me a good GOD smack, and set me back on track. LORD I PRAISE YOU for YOUR faithfulness to me, in wrecking my heart everyday, to show me what I need to be focused on. I thank you for taking my eyes off of me, and putting them on you, and your works. I praise you for another day I get to spend with YOU here on this Earth. I pray today that those who I encounter will see so much more of YOU and so much less of me, I love YOU, I PRAISE YOU I thank YOU, in YOUR HOLY, JUST, and RIGHTEOUS NAME, Amen.
Dear friends I pray today that you will have the courage to let go of your own agenda and seek HIM to show you HIS. I pray that you will see that HIS plans, and HIS will have been perfectly written for your life. I pray that you will know that in everything HE is there, HE is in control, and that HE is just waiting for you to acknowledge WHO HE is, and WHAT HE has done for you. I pray that you will be able to seek HIM and ask HIM to break your heart for what breaks HIS, and that you will have the courage to go all in. I pray that you too will be able to begin your prayers in adoration for HIM, and that you will then start a prayer routine of Balanced Prayers.
With much love, prayers, peace, and blessings,
Heather
This is an account of my early morning walks of faith with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In searching for accountablity for me, the LORD used it as encouragement for others. I pray blessings for each and every life who reads HIS Daily Teachings
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Authentic Prayers
This morning began with me pouring my heart out to HIM in my journal, followed by today's declaration that talked about remorse of my sins, and asking HIM to cleanse me of my sins. Seeking repentance, and growing and strengthening my FAITH because of my obedience. Naturally it would be NO surprise to me that HE would finish off with today's Power Thought which talked about how I must choose to be active in my FAITH. Joyce Meyer writes about the importance of praying without ceasing. She goes on to say that this means that I must choose to train myself to think, speak, and act positively. Not on my own, but by seeking HIM, and allowing HIM to do HIS work through me. Finally she writes about the importance of when I fall flat on my face, to be kind to myself. She reminded me that my life is THE journey towards wholeness with HIM, one step at a time, one prayer at a time.
"We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith,your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Thessalonians 1:3
HIS Daily Teachings today is teaching me how to pray Authentic Prayers. HE is teaching me that in order to know how to pray, I must read, soak in, and meditate on HIS word, as it is written to show me, how to pray Authentic Prayers. HE is reminding me that whenever I need help with something, all I have to do is ask HIM, and HE will help me.
"One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.” Luke 11:1
HIS word is HIS reminder that NO one has ever, or will ever pray as earnestly and intentionally as JESUS did. HE is letting me know however, that if I am truly sincere in wanting to learn how to pray Authentic Prayers, HE is there, ready to teach me, so that I will be able to live my life as HIS living testament of what happens when we bring everything, all concerns, thoughts, desires, needs to HIM. Today HE is teaching me to do just that.
When I started out on this journey well over a year ago now, it all started in my living room at 4 am, while my family were all still sound asleep in their beds It was just me, HIM, my journal, pen, and my bible, HIS word. It all began with LORD JESUS, I need YOU, HELP ME. Looking back on my prayer walk with HIM, I am saddened as I realize that there have been times where I have only prayed with words, and NOT with my heart. Today HE is letting me know that my days of praying words is over. HE is telling me that it's not about the quantity of my words, rather it is about the quality of my words that I speak to HIM, bring to HIM through worship and praise in my prayers. Today HE is taking me straight into HIS word, and showing me how I can learn to pray Authentic Prayers.
HE is telling me that first I must choose to go someplace quiet, somewhere I can shut the door, to life, and all of its distractions. This for me also means I must get up before the rest of our house. These days that's around 5 am, as I only have about 2 hours of alone time before my little one's begin to wake up for the day. HE is letting me know that I will be rewarded for choosing to get up early just to spend time with HIM.
HE is wanting me to know that in learning to pray Authentic Prayers, I must refrain from asking HIM to be with me, as HE can't start something, HE is already do. HE is letting me know that HE is always with me, and I never have to ask HIM to be with me.
"and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:20
"Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." Hebrews 13:5
HE is wanting me to know that in order to pray Authentic Prayers, I must always remember that I am NOT an orphan left in this world to die alone, rather HE is my FATHER, therefore I must go to HIM and talk to HIM as HE is my FATHER, and HE cares for me.
"So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith" Galatians 3:26
HE is telling me that when I pray, I am to pray in private, and NOT in the presence of others, because it's not about other's seeing me pray, or hearing my prayers, but rather about being obedient in praying earnest Authentic Prayers, which will release HIS power into my life. HE is reminding me of the great miracles that have happened, are happening, and will continue to happen in my life, when I go to HIM with everything in my prayers.
Today HE is breaking down the way it is written that I am to pray:
"This, then, is how you should pray: Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be your name" Matthew 6:9
HE is telling me that HE is sovereign, meaning HE is the ONE WHO is in control, NOT me. HE is the ONE WHO moves the mountains in my life. HE is bigger than my problems, therefore I must choose to tell my problems just how big my GOD is. Though I am unable, HE is able!
"Your Kingdom come, your will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven" Matthew 6:10
HE is wanting me to know that this means I must choose to worship and praise HIM when I come to HIM in prayer. This means that I must seek HIS will for my life, and live out my life according to HIS will. In every single area of my life, my marriage to D, being Mama to my amazing five, writing the blog, financially, my health, my relationships with others, and my church.
"Give us our day our daily bread" Matthew 6:11
HE is my provider, HE will meet all of my needs. HE is telling me that this means that I must pray about absolutely everything as an act of obedience that shows that I know, trust and choose to BELIEVE that HE is there, and that HE does indeed care for me, and delights in meeting all of my needs in abundance. HE is telling me that in receiving my daily bread, that is HIM meeting all of my daily needs.
"and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" Matthew 6:12
HE is telling me that this means that I must choose to pray Authentic Prayers in seeking forgiveness, and also for HIM to cultivate a forgiving heart within me. HE is wanting me to know that I am able to forgive, as I know I have been forgiven, therefore it shouldn't be hard for me to extend HIS grace and HIS mercy to others. -- Oh if only I could remember this when someone offends or hurts me. It's so hard for me to let go of offenses at times, and other times its no big deal. LORD JESUS please cultivate a forgiving heart for people in me. Help me to see them as you see them, and to remember that YOUR grace is YOUR gift to me that enables me to forgive. I need YOU, break me apart LORD reveal my faults, and teach me and show me your ways. Amen.
"and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one" Matthew 6:13
HE is letting me know that NO temptation is too great for HIS power. All I have to do is seek HIM in my prayers in choosing to pray Authentic Prayers. HE is telling me that when I seek HIM, I will find HIM, and HE will help me. HE is telling me that though temptation will always be biting at my heels, HE will always give me a way out. Through HIM I will overcome, therefore I must choose to pray Authentic Prayers that will grow and strengthen my faith in HIM through each day passing.
I will be honest in saying that I haven't always wanted to pray to HIM, in fact in my early walk with HIM, I used to cringe at the thought of praying. Especially after hearing other people pray with such big words. It wasn't until about six years into my journey where I actually felt like I could pray to HIM, let alone in front of other people.
Today I am a prayer warrior, and once again HE is taking me to the next level and showing me what it means for me to be able to pray Authentic Prayers, for my life, and the life of others Today I am thankful for HIS Daily Teachings, that is pushing me to go further, and dig deeper into my FAITH. Today I am thankful that HE is shaking up my world once again, and showing me once again that without HIM I can't do anything, but with HIM all things are possible.
Today I am accepting Bill Hybels challenge to "Pray JESUS' way; make your prayers private, sincere, and specific." Today starts the next chapter of my journey towards wholeness with HIM in my prayer walk. Today I am seeking HIM, with just plain words, nothing fancy, and pouring my heart out to HIM. Today I am running straight to my loving Daddy's arms, and breathing in all that HE has to say to me. Today I am soaking in HIS presence. Today it is well with my soul.
Dear Friends, I pray that you will have the courage to go to HIM today, to pour your heart out to HIM, and let HIM fill you with HIS presence. I pray friends, that HE will reveal HIS will for your life, and that you will turn from your sinful ways. I pray that you will be able to let go of the hurts that keep you in the bondage of unforgiveness. I pray that you will seek HIM earnestly in your prayers so that HIS power will be released into your life, and through your obedience HE will rain HIS favor and blessings over your life. I pray today that you too will accept the challenge to pray Authentic Prayers.
Praying many blessings over your lives today, with much love,
Heather
Monday, August 11, 2014
doubtless Faith
Yesterday after I finished writing the blog, D, myself, and our amazing five children headed off to our church. When we got there, I could sense that GOD was really going to speak to me in a way that I had been needing to hear. Of course in knowing that GOD was about to do something big in my walk of FAITH with HIM, I "tried" my best to prepare myself for it. So much in fact that I said to D, "I hope I don't cry again today during worship, I hope that I can be JOYFUL, and NOT full of sorrow."
As soon as the music started, I realized the band was playing one of my new favorite songs, and I began to clap and dance. As soon as our Worship Pastor started singing, I threw my arms high into the air, and sang with all of my heart. When the song was over, I praised HIM, and thanked HIM for HIS loving reminder that HE is there, no matter where I am, or where I may go HE is always there. At the end of my prayer, I said, "LORD JESUS, it is well with my soul."
The next song that we sang, completely knocked me over in gratitude and thanks. As I began to sing "Bless the LORD oh my soul, oh my soul, worship HIS holy name, Sing like never before, oh my soul, I'll worship HIS holy name!" From there we sang about HIS goodness, HIS kindness, and how amazing HIS love is. The more I sang, the more tears fell, it was in that moment that I felt HIM say to me, "let GO of your doubtless FAITH Heather."
Upon hearing HIM, I sang even louder, with my arms held high. When we finished worshiping the message began, and our Pastor asked questions of who in this room struggles with anxiety, fear, and worry? I raised my hand for every single question.
HIS Daily Teachings today has taken me on a journey to show me what it would look like for me if I actually chose to live with doubtless FAITH. HE is reminding me that because I have been born again, I must choose to live with my new nature, HIS nature, this means abandoning all that I have learned from this world, and seek HIS will, and HIS way for my life, so that I will be living my life according to HIS plans by fulfilling HIS purpose for my life.
"No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God." 1 John 3:9
During my devotional this morning it talked about the importance of seeking HIM to create in me a desire to live honorably. This for me has become my hearts greatest cry, that is to live my life to be so much more like HIM, and less like the broken, lonely and lost old me. HE is wanting me to know that HE hears my hearts cry, and is letting me know that in order to truly live my life and be like HIM, I must first choose to live my life with doubtless FAITH.
HE is telling me that I have yet to live with doubtless FAITH, because I even though I am praying to HIM, and asking HIM to change my circumstances, I'm still holding back, holding onto the doubt of whether or NOT HE's really interested in helping me. HE is wanting me to know that HE delights in me, and loves to hear from me, that HE is listening all day long to hear my voice. Therefore, I must choose to be BOLD in my prayers and seek HIM and ask HIM to teach, lead, and guide me to live my life with doubtless FAITH.
HE is wanting me to know that living with doubtless FAITH means that I know and trust that HE has the power to change my circumstances, no matter how dire they may be. HE is reminding me of how HE has taken me from being a closet CHRISTIAN, to becoming a strong woman of FAITH, who isn't afraid of anyone knowing that she is a faithful follower of JESUS, that she is steadfast in her FAITH. HE is letting me know that it has been HIS plan all along to take me from being a shy CHRISTIAN, to a strong CHRISTIAN LEADER. HE is wanting me to know that I am able to do this because I have begun walking on a journey with HIM as HE teaches me about what it means for me to live with doubtless FAITH.
HE is telling me that in my past I have walked, and chose to live with doubtless FAITH about somethings, but HE is letting me know that I am still praying with clenched fists, and my breath held, as the doubt creeps in questioning of whether or not HE really is going to come through for me. HE is telling me that in choosing to live with doubtless FAITH, means that I am to pray with HIS true confidence that HE loves me, HE cares for me, and that HE delights in hearing from me. HE is telling me that HE has been creating in me a desire to seek HIM to meet all of my needs. So much in fact, that HE has made it impossible for me to have my needs met by anyone other than HIM.
Yesterday the message at church talked about how when we get discouraged we often times quit. This is true for me, as I have such a small human mind, and I "think" well I can't figure this out, so surely GOD is questioning as well. HE is letting me know that just because I may not be able to see the outcome as being good for me, HE knows, and isn't surprised by anything.
Right now my needs that I am praying about are overwhelming for me to even "try" to have be met, and HE is wanting me to know that HE is so happy that I realize that without HIM they won't be met, but with HIM they will all be met.
For the longest time I have felt like such a burden to D, as I am a pretty high maintenance woman, as I need hearing aids to hear, glasses to see, a chiropractor to keep my back strong and in alignment. My needs overwhelm me, and because they do that to me, I "feel" so incredibly bad about the pressure that this puts on my husband.
HE is wanting me to know that HE wants me to live with doubtless FAITH that HE will come through for me. HE is telling me that it has been HIS plan all along for me to depend fully on HIM to meet all of my needs. Part of me "feels" so guilty for being so needy, and HE is letting me know that HE has known all along that I would have these needs. HE is telling me that it has been HIS plan all along to show me that in choosing to live with doubtless FAITH, that is when HIS power is released into my life, and that is when HE is able to do miracles in my life, and HIS blessings and favor are poured over my life.
He is taking me back into HIS word this morning and showing me that in choosing to live with doubtless FAITH, I will then see that HE is Omnipotent, meaning HE is the same today, as HE was yesterday, and will be tomorrow, and forevermore!
"GOD is omnipotent -- that GOD has the power to do anything to change anyone and to intervene in any circumstance. A person who truly believes this refuses to doubt GOD." Bill Hybels "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
"I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed." Malachi 3:6
HE is wanting me to know that in choosing to live with doubtless FAITH, will enable me to live without worry, anxiety, or fear. HE is wanting me to know that though I may grow weary of the problems that come up in my life, HE will NEVER grow weary. HE is wanting me to know that HIS power is everlasting, meaning that it will always be there, for me, working on my behalf, and that everything that HE does is for me, and NOT to me. HE is wanting me to know and trust HIM completely that HE has absolutely everything worked out for my own good.
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary,and his understanding no one can fathom." Isaiah 40:28
HE is wanting me to know that in order to live with doubtless FAITH I must remember to be steadfast in my prayers. HE is telling me that this means that I must choose to pray continually with HIS true confidence that NOT only does HE hear me but that HE cares for me, and delights in my voice, and loves it when I come to HIM and seek HIS guidance, to help me through all the storms, tests, and trials, that I encounter in my walk with HIM, on this journey towards wholeness.
"pray without ceasing" 1 Thessalonians 5:17
HE is wanting me to always know and remember that whenever I am "feeling" tired and weary, HE is there, waiting to take those burdens from me. HE is wanting me to know that I will know that HE is always there when I choose to live with doubtless FAITH.
"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls" Matthew 11:28-29
I am learning that in choosing to live with doubtless FAITH means that every single morning that I wake up I realize that I have once again received HIS invitation to be able to live my life according to HIS will. This means that I will know that when I choose to seek HIM, and ask HIM to teach, lead, and guide me, HE can, will, and does!
This morning I am receiving HIS message loud and clear that living with doubtless FAITH is only made possible when I choose to pray about absolutely everything, and NOT worry about anything. HE is telling me that in knowing this, no matter how quickly the world is falling apart around me, HE is there, HE is my refuge, HE will protect me, no matter what may happen in my life.
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;" Philippians 4:6
"God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though its waters roar and be troubled,Though the mountains shake with its swellingSelah" Psalm 46:1-3
HE is telling me that in choosing to live with doubtless FAITH, means that I will know that I will know that I can pray to HIM at anytime, no matter where I am, I can always cry out to HIM, and know that HE is there, and that HE cares for me, and that HE is waiting for me to ask HIM for HIS help.
" I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting;" 1 Timothy 2:8
In choosing to live with doubtless FAITH, I know that this means I must remember to always pray BOLD audacious prayers. This means I must choose to pray in a way knowing full well that only HE will be the one to answer those prayers. I must choose to pray in a way that will ensure to require HIS divine intervention. HE is letting me know that it is HIS desire to show me, through my doubtless FAITH of NOT only WHO HE is, but what HE can do, when I chose to trust HIM, completely with every single area of my life.
"Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:16
HE is wanting me to know that living with doubtless FAITH means that I know and trust that NOT only does HE hear me, but our loving HEAVENLY FATHER hears me as well. HE is wanting me to know that when I choose to pray, GOD hears me. I know this because it is written that HE is in HIS FATHER, and HIS FATHER is in HIM.
"In that day you will ask in My name, and I do not say to you that I shall pray the Father for you; 27 for the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me, and have believed that I came forth from God." John 16:26-27
"Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the sake of the works themselves." John 14:11
This morning HE is letting me know that HE is waiting for my call for help for me to come along side of me, to show me HIS will, and HIS way for my life, so that I will be able to live my life according to HIS plans, and HIS purpose for my life.
"GOD is interested in your prayers because HE in interested in you." Bill Hybels "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
"Whatever matters to you in a priority for HIS attention -- in other words what I care deeply about, so does HE -- because HE cares for me." Bill Hybels "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
"Nothing in the universe matters as much to HIM as what is going on in your life this day." Bill Hybels "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
HE is wanting me to know that when I choose to live with doubtless FAITH that is when I will be able to pray steadfast prayers without ceasing. HE is wanting me to always remember how much HE loves me, as HE has proven this to me time and again, just by looking back on my journey with HIM thus far. HE is wanting me to always know and remember that HE is there, HE cares for me, and is waiting for me to realize just how much I need HIM.
Yesterday after church I was talking to my women's bible study leader, and was talking about how weary I feel lately, and how heavy my heart is. She said to me, "Heather it's okay to say, I can't, but JESUS CAN!" She hugged me and assured me that I wasn't alone. I now know that was HIS loving reminder of just how much HE does truly care for me. So much that HE would send one of HIS messengers to be sure that I would know. This is how I know that HE is creating in me doubtless FAITH.
If I have learned anything in my journey with HIM is that HE wants me to come into HIS presence and talk to HIM about anything, and absolutely everything! HE wants me to share all of my concerns with them, no matter how silly they may seem to someone else. HE is making HIS voice be heard loud and clear in my heart that HE is my FATHER, my Daddy, my PAPA,and my ABBA. HE wants me to live with doubtless FAITH that HE is more than able to help me. HE is reminding me once again that HIS power is more than enough, therefore I must choose to continue on this journey with HIM as HE deepens the desire in my heart to be more like HIM, and one of the ways I will be like HIM is when I choose to live with doubtless FAITH.
Dear Friends, I pray that if you too are struggling with doubt, that you will choose to say each and every morning that you wake up, "I have decided to follow JESUS, no turning back, no matter what happens in my life today, HE is there, HE cares for me, and HE is fighting on my behalf." I pray today that when you do, you will see that HE is there, HE loves you and HE will deepen the desire in your heart to live with even louder doubtless FAITH!
Much love, prayers, and compassion,
Heather
As soon as the music started, I realized the band was playing one of my new favorite songs, and I began to clap and dance. As soon as our Worship Pastor started singing, I threw my arms high into the air, and sang with all of my heart. When the song was over, I praised HIM, and thanked HIM for HIS loving reminder that HE is there, no matter where I am, or where I may go HE is always there. At the end of my prayer, I said, "LORD JESUS, it is well with my soul."
The next song that we sang, completely knocked me over in gratitude and thanks. As I began to sing "Bless the LORD oh my soul, oh my soul, worship HIS holy name, Sing like never before, oh my soul, I'll worship HIS holy name!" From there we sang about HIS goodness, HIS kindness, and how amazing HIS love is. The more I sang, the more tears fell, it was in that moment that I felt HIM say to me, "let GO of your doubtless FAITH Heather."
Upon hearing HIM, I sang even louder, with my arms held high. When we finished worshiping the message began, and our Pastor asked questions of who in this room struggles with anxiety, fear, and worry? I raised my hand for every single question.
HIS Daily Teachings today has taken me on a journey to show me what it would look like for me if I actually chose to live with doubtless FAITH. HE is reminding me that because I have been born again, I must choose to live with my new nature, HIS nature, this means abandoning all that I have learned from this world, and seek HIS will, and HIS way for my life, so that I will be living my life according to HIS plans by fulfilling HIS purpose for my life.
"No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God." 1 John 3:9
During my devotional this morning it talked about the importance of seeking HIM to create in me a desire to live honorably. This for me has become my hearts greatest cry, that is to live my life to be so much more like HIM, and less like the broken, lonely and lost old me. HE is wanting me to know that HE hears my hearts cry, and is letting me know that in order to truly live my life and be like HIM, I must first choose to live my life with doubtless FAITH.
HE is telling me that I have yet to live with doubtless FAITH, because I even though I am praying to HIM, and asking HIM to change my circumstances, I'm still holding back, holding onto the doubt of whether or NOT HE's really interested in helping me. HE is wanting me to know that HE delights in me, and loves to hear from me, that HE is listening all day long to hear my voice. Therefore, I must choose to be BOLD in my prayers and seek HIM and ask HIM to teach, lead, and guide me to live my life with doubtless FAITH.
HE is wanting me to know that living with doubtless FAITH means that I know and trust that HE has the power to change my circumstances, no matter how dire they may be. HE is reminding me of how HE has taken me from being a closet CHRISTIAN, to becoming a strong woman of FAITH, who isn't afraid of anyone knowing that she is a faithful follower of JESUS, that she is steadfast in her FAITH. HE is letting me know that it has been HIS plan all along to take me from being a shy CHRISTIAN, to a strong CHRISTIAN LEADER. HE is wanting me to know that I am able to do this because I have begun walking on a journey with HIM as HE teaches me about what it means for me to live with doubtless FAITH.
HE is telling me that in my past I have walked, and chose to live with doubtless FAITH about somethings, but HE is letting me know that I am still praying with clenched fists, and my breath held, as the doubt creeps in questioning of whether or not HE really is going to come through for me. HE is telling me that in choosing to live with doubtless FAITH, means that I am to pray with HIS true confidence that HE loves me, HE cares for me, and that HE delights in hearing from me. HE is telling me that HE has been creating in me a desire to seek HIM to meet all of my needs. So much in fact, that HE has made it impossible for me to have my needs met by anyone other than HIM.
Yesterday the message at church talked about how when we get discouraged we often times quit. This is true for me, as I have such a small human mind, and I "think" well I can't figure this out, so surely GOD is questioning as well. HE is letting me know that just because I may not be able to see the outcome as being good for me, HE knows, and isn't surprised by anything.
Right now my needs that I am praying about are overwhelming for me to even "try" to have be met, and HE is wanting me to know that HE is so happy that I realize that without HIM they won't be met, but with HIM they will all be met.
For the longest time I have felt like such a burden to D, as I am a pretty high maintenance woman, as I need hearing aids to hear, glasses to see, a chiropractor to keep my back strong and in alignment. My needs overwhelm me, and because they do that to me, I "feel" so incredibly bad about the pressure that this puts on my husband.
HE is wanting me to know that HE wants me to live with doubtless FAITH that HE will come through for me. HE is telling me that it has been HIS plan all along for me to depend fully on HIM to meet all of my needs. Part of me "feels" so guilty for being so needy, and HE is letting me know that HE has known all along that I would have these needs. HE is telling me that it has been HIS plan all along to show me that in choosing to live with doubtless FAITH, that is when HIS power is released into my life, and that is when HE is able to do miracles in my life, and HIS blessings and favor are poured over my life.
He is taking me back into HIS word this morning and showing me that in choosing to live with doubtless FAITH, I will then see that HE is Omnipotent, meaning HE is the same today, as HE was yesterday, and will be tomorrow, and forevermore!
"GOD is omnipotent -- that GOD has the power to do anything to change anyone and to intervene in any circumstance. A person who truly believes this refuses to doubt GOD." Bill Hybels "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
"I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed." Malachi 3:6
HE is wanting me to know that in choosing to live with doubtless FAITH, will enable me to live without worry, anxiety, or fear. HE is wanting me to know that though I may grow weary of the problems that come up in my life, HE will NEVER grow weary. HE is wanting me to know that HIS power is everlasting, meaning that it will always be there, for me, working on my behalf, and that everything that HE does is for me, and NOT to me. HE is wanting me to know and trust HIM completely that HE has absolutely everything worked out for my own good.
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary,and his understanding no one can fathom." Isaiah 40:28
HE is wanting me to know that in order to live with doubtless FAITH I must remember to be steadfast in my prayers. HE is telling me that this means that I must choose to pray continually with HIS true confidence that NOT only does HE hear me but that HE cares for me, and delights in my voice, and loves it when I come to HIM and seek HIS guidance, to help me through all the storms, tests, and trials, that I encounter in my walk with HIM, on this journey towards wholeness.
"pray without ceasing" 1 Thessalonians 5:17
HE is wanting me to always know and remember that whenever I am "feeling" tired and weary, HE is there, waiting to take those burdens from me. HE is wanting me to know that I will know that HE is always there when I choose to live with doubtless FAITH.
"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls" Matthew 11:28-29
I am learning that in choosing to live with doubtless FAITH means that every single morning that I wake up I realize that I have once again received HIS invitation to be able to live my life according to HIS will. This means that I will know that when I choose to seek HIM, and ask HIM to teach, lead, and guide me, HE can, will, and does!
This morning I am receiving HIS message loud and clear that living with doubtless FAITH is only made possible when I choose to pray about absolutely everything, and NOT worry about anything. HE is telling me that in knowing this, no matter how quickly the world is falling apart around me, HE is there, HE is my refuge, HE will protect me, no matter what may happen in my life.
"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;" Philippians 4:6
"God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, Even though the earth be removed, And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though its waters roar and be troubled,Though the mountains shake with its swellingSelah" Psalm 46:1-3
HE is telling me that in choosing to live with doubtless FAITH, means that I will know that I will know that I can pray to HIM at anytime, no matter where I am, I can always cry out to HIM, and know that HE is there, and that HE cares for me, and that HE is waiting for me to ask HIM for HIS help.
" I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting;" 1 Timothy 2:8
In choosing to live with doubtless FAITH, I know that this means I must remember to always pray BOLD audacious prayers. This means I must choose to pray in a way knowing full well that only HE will be the one to answer those prayers. I must choose to pray in a way that will ensure to require HIS divine intervention. HE is letting me know that it is HIS desire to show me, through my doubtless FAITH of NOT only WHO HE is, but what HE can do, when I chose to trust HIM, completely with every single area of my life.
"Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:16
HE is wanting me to know that living with doubtless FAITH means that I know and trust that NOT only does HE hear me, but our loving HEAVENLY FATHER hears me as well. HE is wanting me to know that when I choose to pray, GOD hears me. I know this because it is written that HE is in HIS FATHER, and HIS FATHER is in HIM.
"In that day you will ask in My name, and I do not say to you that I shall pray the Father for you; 27 for the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me, and have believed that I came forth from God." John 16:26-27
"Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the sake of the works themselves." John 14:11
This morning HE is letting me know that HE is waiting for my call for help for me to come along side of me, to show me HIS will, and HIS way for my life, so that I will be able to live my life according to HIS plans, and HIS purpose for my life.
"GOD is interested in your prayers because HE in interested in you." Bill Hybels "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
"Whatever matters to you in a priority for HIS attention -- in other words what I care deeply about, so does HE -- because HE cares for me." Bill Hybels "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
"Nothing in the universe matters as much to HIM as what is going on in your life this day." Bill Hybels "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
HE is wanting me to know that when I choose to live with doubtless FAITH that is when I will be able to pray steadfast prayers without ceasing. HE is wanting me to always remember how much HE loves me, as HE has proven this to me time and again, just by looking back on my journey with HIM thus far. HE is wanting me to always know and remember that HE is there, HE cares for me, and is waiting for me to realize just how much I need HIM.
Yesterday after church I was talking to my women's bible study leader, and was talking about how weary I feel lately, and how heavy my heart is. She said to me, "Heather it's okay to say, I can't, but JESUS CAN!" She hugged me and assured me that I wasn't alone. I now know that was HIS loving reminder of just how much HE does truly care for me. So much that HE would send one of HIS messengers to be sure that I would know. This is how I know that HE is creating in me doubtless FAITH.
If I have learned anything in my journey with HIM is that HE wants me to come into HIS presence and talk to HIM about anything, and absolutely everything! HE wants me to share all of my concerns with them, no matter how silly they may seem to someone else. HE is making HIS voice be heard loud and clear in my heart that HE is my FATHER, my Daddy, my PAPA,and my ABBA. HE wants me to live with doubtless FAITH that HE is more than able to help me. HE is reminding me once again that HIS power is more than enough, therefore I must choose to continue on this journey with HIM as HE deepens the desire in my heart to be more like HIM, and one of the ways I will be like HIM is when I choose to live with doubtless FAITH.
Dear Friends, I pray that if you too are struggling with doubt, that you will choose to say each and every morning that you wake up, "I have decided to follow JESUS, no turning back, no matter what happens in my life today, HE is there, HE cares for me, and HE is fighting on my behalf." I pray today that when you do, you will see that HE is there, HE loves you and HE will deepen the desire in your heart to live with even louder doubtless FAITH!
Much love, prayers, and compassion,
Heather
Sunday, August 10, 2014
The Great I AM
I have been silent in my walk lately. Sadly I have been silent in my prayers as well. Life has well, knocked me down. I have been struggling with being Mama to my five children, and have struggled in my marriage to D. I have fallen short of HIS glory too many times to count, and this morning I have realized that all of this has happened, because I have remained silent in my prayers.
HIS Daily Teachings today is HIS loving reminder that HE is THE GREAT I AM! As I began to read through my current book by Bill Hybles "Too Busy NOT to Pray" (which I might add, I've had for years, and felt as if though, well I pray enough, surely this book is meant for someone else in my household) ahhhhh..... "sigh" Will I ever learn?!?
Thankfully because HE is a loving GOD HE is there to change my way of thinking, and revealing HIS truth to me. Today HE is taking me through all of the doubts that are overtaking my heart, of which are keeping me from being able to pray effectively, and BELIEVING HE is ABLE, and that HE is THE GREAT I AM.
This morning HE is reminding me of WHO HE is, and WHAT HE has done in my life, and the lives of others. Today HIS truth is being poured over my life, and HE is showing me that even though I am praying, they are weak prayers. Today HE is getting right to the matters of my own weak heart, that is a direct result of my weak FAITH. This saddens me as I have being mislead to "think" that I was actually strong in my FAITH, only to find out that I am completely weak in my FAITH when it comes to trusting and believing that HE is ABLE, because HE is THE GREAT I AM.
"The mountains shake before You. The demons run in fear. At the mention of the name. King Of Majesty. There is no power in hell, or any who can stand. Before the power and the presence of the Great I Am." "The Great I am" by New Life Worship
This has been hands down one of my favorite songs for a very long time now, and this morning HE is revealing to me, that just because it is my favorite song, doesn't mean I actually know it to be true. Today HE is taking me through my lack of FAITH that I have in HIM, and revealing to me all that HE has done as it is written in HIS word. Today HE is taking me through HIS word, and revealing HIS truth to me, and letting me know that my needs, and circumstances in my life are NOT a match for HIS unending power, love, and grace that HE is waiting to pour over my life.
I have worn hearing aids for twenty eight years now. This for me has been difficult, as right away I was told the cost of them were outrageous, and what a burden I was to my caretakers that they would have to pay for NOT only them, but also for my monthly supply of batteries. As I got older, I had to start paying for them on my own, and it was most definitely a burden for me. The words, the lies that were spoken over my life, and penetrated deep into my heart, still linger today.... well that is until HE said rather loudly "I am the GREAT I AM, I made you, I planned your life, I knew long before you did that you would need hearing aids, don't you know that I will provide for your every need?"
Upon hearing that I began to write in my journal about all of our most dire needs to be met right now. Not because HE didn't already know them, but to show HIM that I trust HIM, and know that HE will meet all of our families most dire needs in abundance. Even as I wrote out the needs, my mind knew it, but my heart was still lagging behind. That is when HE took me straight into HIS word, and here is what HE revealed to me.
HE IS THE GREAT I AM. HE is the GOD who parted the Red Sea when Pharaoh and the Egyptians were chasing (relentlessly as GOD made Pharaoh stubborn) Moses and the Israelites.
"Moses spoke to the people: “Don’t be afraid. Stand firm and watch God do his work of salvation for you today. Take a good look at the Egyptians today for you’re never going to see them again.God will fight the battle for you. And you? You keep your mouths shut!” Exodus 13:14 The Message Bible
I am hearing HIS truth loud and clear this morning, that no matter what is happening in my life, I am to stand firm and watch GOD do HIS work of Salvation for me today.
"God said to Moses: “Why cry out to me? Speak to the Israelites. Order them to get moving. Hold your staff high and stretch your hand out over the sea: Split the sea! The Israelites will walk through the sea on dry ground." Exodus 14:15-16 The Message Bible
This to me is amazing as to how GOD is setting this all up for Moses and the Israelites own good. This tells me that HE is the very same GOD today for me, as HE was that day for them.
HIS Daily Teachings today is HIS loving reminder that HE is THE GREAT I AM! As I began to read through my current book by Bill Hybles "Too Busy NOT to Pray" (which I might add, I've had for years, and felt as if though, well I pray enough, surely this book is meant for someone else in my household) ahhhhh..... "sigh" Will I ever learn?!?
Thankfully because HE is a loving GOD HE is there to change my way of thinking, and revealing HIS truth to me. Today HE is taking me through all of the doubts that are overtaking my heart, of which are keeping me from being able to pray effectively, and BELIEVING HE is ABLE, and that HE is THE GREAT I AM.
This morning HE is reminding me of WHO HE is, and WHAT HE has done in my life, and the lives of others. Today HIS truth is being poured over my life, and HE is showing me that even though I am praying, they are weak prayers. Today HE is getting right to the matters of my own weak heart, that is a direct result of my weak FAITH. This saddens me as I have being mislead to "think" that I was actually strong in my FAITH, only to find out that I am completely weak in my FAITH when it comes to trusting and believing that HE is ABLE, because HE is THE GREAT I AM.
"The mountains shake before You. The demons run in fear. At the mention of the name. King Of Majesty. There is no power in hell, or any who can stand. Before the power and the presence of the Great I Am." "The Great I am" by New Life Worship
This has been hands down one of my favorite songs for a very long time now, and this morning HE is revealing to me, that just because it is my favorite song, doesn't mean I actually know it to be true. Today HE is taking me through my lack of FAITH that I have in HIM, and revealing to me all that HE has done as it is written in HIS word. Today HE is taking me through HIS word, and revealing HIS truth to me, and letting me know that my needs, and circumstances in my life are NOT a match for HIS unending power, love, and grace that HE is waiting to pour over my life.
I have worn hearing aids for twenty eight years now. This for me has been difficult, as right away I was told the cost of them were outrageous, and what a burden I was to my caretakers that they would have to pay for NOT only them, but also for my monthly supply of batteries. As I got older, I had to start paying for them on my own, and it was most definitely a burden for me. The words, the lies that were spoken over my life, and penetrated deep into my heart, still linger today.... well that is until HE said rather loudly "I am the GREAT I AM, I made you, I planned your life, I knew long before you did that you would need hearing aids, don't you know that I will provide for your every need?"
Upon hearing that I began to write in my journal about all of our most dire needs to be met right now. Not because HE didn't already know them, but to show HIM that I trust HIM, and know that HE will meet all of our families most dire needs in abundance. Even as I wrote out the needs, my mind knew it, but my heart was still lagging behind. That is when HE took me straight into HIS word, and here is what HE revealed to me.
HE IS THE GREAT I AM. HE is the GOD who parted the Red Sea when Pharaoh and the Egyptians were chasing (relentlessly as GOD made Pharaoh stubborn) Moses and the Israelites.
"Moses spoke to the people: “Don’t be afraid. Stand firm and watch God do his work of salvation for you today. Take a good look at the Egyptians today for you’re never going to see them again.God will fight the battle for you. And you? You keep your mouths shut!” Exodus 13:14 The Message Bible
I am hearing HIS truth loud and clear this morning, that no matter what is happening in my life, I am to stand firm and watch GOD do HIS work of Salvation for me today.
"God said to Moses: “Why cry out to me? Speak to the Israelites. Order them to get moving. Hold your staff high and stretch your hand out over the sea: Split the sea! The Israelites will walk through the sea on dry ground." Exodus 14:15-16 The Message Bible
This to me is amazing as to how GOD is setting this all up for Moses and the Israelites own good. This tells me that HE is the very same GOD today for me, as HE was that day for them.
“Meanwhile I’ll make sure the Egyptians keep up their stubborn chase—I’ll use Pharaoh and his entire army, his chariots and horsemen, to put my Glory on display so that the Egyptians will realize that I am God.” Exodus 14:17-18 The Message Bible
When I read HIS word this morning, it became very apparent to me, that HE was going to use their FAITH for HIS glory, for a living testament for generations to come of just how amazing HIS power and HIS glory is for those WHO chose to trust HIM, to seek HIM, to know HIM, as HE is THE GREAT I AM.
"The angel of God that had been leading the camp of Israel now shifted and got behind them. And the Pillar of Cloud that had been in front also shifted to the rear. The Cloud was now between the camp of Egypt and the camp of Israel. The Cloud enshrouded one camp in darkness and flooded the other with light. The two camps didn’t come near each other all night." Exodus 14:19-20 The Message Bible
Reading this brings tears to my eyes, as this is HIS loving reminder to me, that when I am weary, HE will give me rest. When I am feeling lost in the darkness, HE is my light. No matter what the circumstances may be in my life, HE is there, waiting to SHINE HIS glory on my situation to make known WHO HE is, and my job, my calling is to be known as someone WHO made sure that HIS glory SHONE the brightest in my life, and through it all I remained steadfast in my FAITH and prayers to HIM, that HE is THE GREAT I AM.
" Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea and God, with a terrific east wind all night long, made the sea go back. He made the sea dry ground. The seawaters split." Exodus 14:21 The Message Bible
WOW! Seriously, I knew of HIM being THE GREAT I AM, and I have read HIS word many times in my life, however never in this way. In fact as I was typing out HIS word, I realized that I was actually reading The Message Bible, and I know now that it is of NO coincidence so that I would be able to fully grasp that HE is indeed THE GREAT I AM.
"The Israelites walked through the sea on dry ground with the waters a wall to the right and to the left. The Egyptians came after them in full pursuit, every horse and chariot and driver of Pharaoh racing into the middle of the sea. It was now the morning watch. God looked down from the Pillar of Fire and Cloud on the Egyptian army and threw them into a panic. He clogged the wheels of their chariots; they were stuck in the mud. The Egyptians said, “Run from Israel! God is fighting on their side and against Egypt!” Exodus 14: 22-25 The Message Bible
HIS loving reminder to me today comes straight from HIS word, that when I am in trouble, HE is there, therefore I must TRUST HIM and know that HE already has a plan it's already been written for my life. That nothing that happens in my life takes HIM by surprise. That even though I may be caught completely off guard for the timing of the difficulties in my life, HE knew, and has it already planned on how HE is going to rescue me just as HE rescued Moses and the Israelites.
" God said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand over the sea and the waters will come back over the Egyptians, over their chariots, over their horsemen.” Exodus 14:26 The Message Bible
This morning HIS word is HIS challenge to me in calling on me to trust and BELIEVE HIS word, so that I too will experience HIS amazing power, love, grace, mercy, hope, which in the end will fill me with HIS endless JOY.
"Moses stretched his hand out over the sea: As the day broke and the Egyptians were running, the sea returned to its place as before. God dumped the Egyptians in the middle of the sea. The waters returned, drowning the chariots and riders of Pharaoh’s army that had chased after Israel into the sea. Not one of them survived." Exodus 14:27-28 The Message Bible
HIS word is teaching me this morning that no matter what my situation is in my life, HE is there, working on my behalf, and nothing can neither hurt nor destroy me when I choose to follow HIS plan, HIS will, HIS way for my life. I am covered by HIS protection, HIS power, when I choose to put on HIS armor and fight the good fight with HIM by obey HIS every word as I know that HE truly is THE GREAT I AM!
"But the Israelites walked right through the middle of the sea on dry ground, the waters forming a wall to the right and to the left. God delivered Israel that day from the oppression of the Egyptians. And Israel looked at the Egyptian dead, washed up on the shore of the sea, and realized the tremendous power that God brought against the Egyptians. The people were in reverent awe before God and trusted in God and his servant Moses." Exodus 14:28-31 The Message Bible
In thinking about the magnitude of the level of fear that they must have all felt, and seeing that there was no other way than GOD's way to insure their safety, I can only imagine what that must have been like. HE is telling me that the same goes for me today, as it did in HIS word all those years ago. HE is calling on me to make myself be known as HIS disciple, WHO chose to do whatever HE called me to do. Someone WHO was a living testament to HIS plans through HIS timing and HIS provision. To be known as a vessel to do HIS good works, and to shout it, scream, and tell it to the masses that HE is THE ONE TRUE LIVING GOD, that HE is THE GREAT I AM!
"Nothing is too difficult for GOD to handle -- but HE is waiting for us to recognize HIS power and ask for HIS help" Bill Hybels "Too Busy NOT to Pray"
Today I am so incredibly thankful for HIS relentless love and pursuit of my heart, soul, and mind. Today I am thankful for HIS word, that is leading me right back onto the path that I need to be. Today I am thankful for HIS peace that HE is working on my behalf, and that everything will work out for my good. Today I am thankful for the opportunity that I have been given to make myself known as a steadfast follower of JESUS, someone WHO didn't hide her faith, and WHO boldly declared to any and all WHO hear, that HE IS THE GREAT I AM!
Dear friends, I pray today that you will seek HIM, and find HIM. That HE will reveal to you that HE is indeed THE GREAT I AM. I pray that you will know that nothing in this world that you face, you face alone. I pray that you will know that HE is there, HE is fighting for you always. I pray that you ask HIM to come into your heart, to strengthen and renew your FAITH in HIM, so that you will be able to answer HIS calling for your life. I pray that when you do, HIS blessings and favor will be poured over your life through your steadfast obedience.
Much love, prayers, understanding, compassion, and blessings,
Heather
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