JOY

Last night D and I were going to have "date night," however after assessing how cold it was outside, we decided to stay in.  From there, things just went sour.  What was to be a happy relaxing night, became a night of tears, anxiety, stress, and him saying to me, "I miss my happy cheerful wife, is she still in there?"

I stayed up really late, feeling like such a failure that "date night" was ruined because of me.  I went to bed asking GOD please, LORD, please help me find my JOY again.  Even thought I was asking, I was doubtful that I would be able to find my JOY again.

I laughed this morning when I realized what HIS Daily Teachings would be about today.  Today HE is wanting me to know that in all circumstances there is JOY to be found.  HE has let me know that I have let the JOY robber, steal my JOY for far too long.

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." John 10:10

I wasn't sure at first what book I was to read, or what scripture HE wanted me to read, and after about 5 minutes of sitting and wondering, HE led me straight to Kendra Smiley's book titled: "Empowering Choices." I have had this book for roughly eh, four years.  I bought it at one of the Hearts at Home National Conferences one year.  I had intended on reading it right way, however due to my life's circumstances I had yet to read it.  Well actually I read one chapter, and then tucked it away, stating,  "this is NOT the book for me!"

I have come to the conclusion that surely I must humor GOD, as I am always making a fool of myself, and what HE is trying to tell me.  I am forever "thinking" that I know what is best for me, and what I really "need."  Once again, humble pie awaits for me.  Once again, I have been brought to me knees in seeking HIM, and asking HIM to teach, lead, and guide me through every single step of my journey.

HE is wanting me to know that I will be able to choose JOY in HIM through my prayers.  HE is telling me that though my life may be difficult, HE wants me to choose JOY so that I will NOT be overcome with sadness, hatred, anger, strife, or worry.  HE is teaching me that I, Heather, a broken hott-mess can laugh, despite what has happened, is happening, and will happen to me.  HE has reminded me once again, that when I seek HIM, HE answers my calls, and therefore I BELIEVE in miracles, and that with HIM there is always HOPE and always JOY to be found!

"And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” John 12:32

"That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day." 2 Timothy 1:12

HE is wanting me to remember that even when I "feel" the JOY robber (Satan) creeping in on me, I must remember that HE is always there for me, and in HIM there is always HOPE and JOY to be found.  HE is wanting me to remember that in all my times of trouble, trials, and storms of my life, HE has been there, is there, and will continue to be there.  HE is wanting me to declare that when I chose HIM, I chose HIS JOY, HIS HOPE, HIS LOVE, HIS MERCY, HIS GRACE, HIS FORGIVENESS, and in knowing that I chose all of those things, I know that HE will never leave me, nor will HE ever forget about me.

“Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5

"I have held many things in my hands and have lost them all;  But the things I have placed in GOD's hands those I always possess."  Earline Steelburg

Once again, HE is teaching me that "my ways" are NOT  "HIS ways," and for that I am thankful.  I am comforted in knowing that HE truly is the perfect gift for me.  I know that I can feel at peace, as HE is the reason that I am going to one day be able to live an eternal life in HEAVEN with HIM and HIS FATHER.  I am grateful, and thankful that HE saved me right when HE did, and for giving me the courage to be at peace with my past, content with my present, and now because of choosing to be filled by HIS HOPE and HIS JOY I can be excited about my future.  I know who holds my future, and I know that my future is being held in HIS more than capable hands.

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord."
Isaiah 55:8

"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." Jeremiah 29:11

HE is teaching me once again that with HIM there is always hope.  I do BELIEVE in miracles, as it is truly a miracle that I am still here living this life.  I do BELIEVE in miracles, as it is truly a miracle that D and I are still married, despite of everything we have been through in our 18.5 years together.   The other night D and I were talking, and I asked him, "If tonight were our last night together, what would you say to me."  He took a moment, and then looked at me and said, "It's been amazing crazy ride!"  Wow if that isn't the truth.

This morning HE has reminded me that D and I have been able to endure some really tough things in our marriage, and we have somehow been able to smile through it all.  HE has shown me that even though our life's circumstances have been viewed as more than hopeless, we have found HOPE in HIM.  I know that HE has taken me down memory lane once again to show me that my life's trials right now are nothing compared to what I have gone through in my past, therefore I must choose JOY, as that truly is HIS plan and HIS purpose for my life!

"Daily prayers will diminish your cares" Betty Mill

HE is wanting me to know that in choosing JOY there is no room for "what ifs and if onlys."  HE is telling me that I must strike those two life-draining thoughts from my vocabulary.  HE is wanting me to know that HIS plans have absolutely NO room for me looking back.  HE is telling me that HE wants me to keep my eyes pointed forward, centered on HIM.  I am learning that HE wants me to continue to seek HIM daily and ask HIM to teach, lead, and guide me through every single step of my journey.

HE is lovingly reminding me this morning that this is the reason HE died for me, for GOD's purpose and GOD's plans, for not only me, but for everyone who BELIEVES that JESUS CHRIST is the SON of GOD, and that HE was a gift, sent to EARTH, to teach us, how to live our lives, who was crucified, and died on the cross, for my sins, and the world's sins.  HE WHO OVERCAME DEATH!  WHO rose from the grave, all so that one day I, and the rest of HIS followers could join HIM and HIS FATHER in HEAVEN.  IF that isn't enough to be JOYFUL about then, I don't know what is!

" For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

I am in awe, as I didn't even realize how much HIS Daily Teachings would affect me today.  As I sit here typing, I am being overcome with emotions that I haven't  had in so long.  I am in awe that once again, I can look at my life's circumstances, and choose JOY as I know that HE is growing me, and stretching my FAITH in HIM even further.  I am thankful that HE never wants to keep me at the same level of FAITH, that HE will continue to grow, and move me further in my commitment with HIM.

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,whenever you face trials of many kinds" 
James 1:2

Today I am thankful as I am being reminded by another song of WHO HE is, and WHAT HE has done, is doing, and will continue to do in my life.

"Joy unspeakable that won't go away, Just enough strength to live for the day, So I never have to worry what tomorrow will bring,  'Cause my faith's on solid rock and I'm counting on God" "Counting on GOD" Phillips, Craig & Dean

I am thankful for HIS loving reminder that had I not lived the life that I have, I wouldn't be able to write this blog.  I most likely won't have the level of compassion for other's as I do.  I know that it is because of my life happenings that I have been blessed with HIS MERCY, DISCERNMENT, and WISDOM.  HE truly has taken my broken mess, and turned it into HIS beautiful MESS-AGE!

"Happiness is based on happenings.  JOY is an inside job.  It is a fruit of HIS HOLY SPIRIT." Kendra Smiley "Empowering Choices"

This is so true for my life, therefore I know that I must choose JOY!

"Laugh Often, Laugh Much!"

"Laughter is a tranquilizer with no side effects!" Arnold Glasow

"A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." Proverbs 17:22

I must choose to be cheerful!

"A happy heart makes the face cheerful,but heartache crushes the spirit." Proverbs 15:13

I must choose to have a happy heart! I must seek HIM and ask HIM, "LORD create in me a happy heart, so that I will smile from the inside out!"

"Light in a messenger’s eyes brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones." Proverbs 15:30

One thing that I remember most of about my wonderful Gram was that no matter what was happening to her in her life, she chose JOY!  You could see it in her eyes, and you knew how she felt, and the JOY she was experiencing.  She truly was contagious!  She left an amazing legacy, and I BELIEVE that HE is asking me to do the same!

"All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast."

 Proverbs 15:15

I am learning that when I seek HIM I will be filled with unspeakable JOY!

" This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” 

Nehemiah 8:10

I will REJOICE, as HE is the ONE WHO brings me so much JOY!  HE is my strength!  HE is the only reason that I can get through the tough circumstances of my life!  Today I am choosing JOY! Today I am choosing to count on GOD!  

"JOY is the HOLY FIRE that keeps our purpose warm and our intelligence aglow." Helen Keller

"The most wasted of all our days are those in which we have not laughed" Sebastian Chamfort

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." Hebrews 13:8

I pray today that no matter what may be happening in your life right now, that you will be filled with HIS hope, HIS peace, and you will seek JOY in HIM, as HE truly does love and care for you. I pray that in the darkness of your world you will SEE HIS light shining on you.  I pray that you will know through HIM you can BELIEVE in miracles.  I pray that though there may be pain throughout the night, you will know that when you seek HIM, you will receive HIS Blessed Assurance, that JOY truly does come in the morning!

Blessings,

Heather

the only reason....

After writing yesterdays blog, I began to put away six loads of laundry.  Some had been sitting for two days waiting to be put away, and of course some of the clothes needed to be ironed. As I was ironing, HE began to speak to me about how I missed the mark yesterday.  Meaning, here I "thought" I was to write about that I am not to reason when it comes to HIM.  I "thought" that I was supposed to write about not making excuses, or allowing distractions in my life.  

HIS Daily Teachings that began yesterday lasted all day long, and continued in my sleep, and woke me up this morning with HIS "whisper" saying, "I am the only reason."  I called my soul-sister A yesterday and told her about what I was hearing while ironing, and told her that I felt like HE was going to have me write a second part to the blog.  I told her that I wasn't sure that I wanted to do that, as well frankly, I didn't want to look like a fool in not getting what HE was teaching me the first time.

Well, as you can imagine after I hung up with her, yes there it was, a nice HUGE slice of humble pie just waiting for me to choke down.  I felt as if I needed to write another blog introducing myself as, "Hi I'm Heather, and not only am I a slow learner, but I am an idiot!"  Seriously, that is how I felt after hearing that I missed the mark.  

This morning, HE has been filling me with HIS love and HIS grace, and encouraging me to write out what I have learned.  HE is teaching me that HE loves it when I fall flat on my face, and admit to it!  HE is wanting me to know that HE loves to serve me humble pie.  HE is reminding me that I should be learning something new from HIM, every single time I seek HIM.

I am learning that what I ask for, HE truly does deliver.  So when I prayed and asked for more of HIM, HE was more than happy to oblige.  When HE did deliver, there I was saying, "What GOD, why?  Why are  you making me eat humble pie?  Why do I have to do this, or that?"  Seriously, I am that slooooow.

I have this cross that sits on my night stand, it was my Grams.  Written on the cross are all the names that HE has been given.  This morning HE had me grab that cross and bring it to HIS teaching for today.  As I was reading it, I was overcome with peace, as I read each of HIS names on the cross.  The cross reads:

I AM, LORD OF LORDS, THE WAY, ANOINTED ONE, REDEEMER, LAMB OF GOD, ALMIGHTY, MEDIATOR, CORNERSTONE, MORNING STAR, PRINCE OF PEACE, LIGHT OF THE WORLD, DAYSPRING, EMMANUEL, SAVIOR, ALPHA & OMEGA, BREAD OF LIFE, JESUS, MESSIAH, ADVOCATE, HOLY ONE, GOOD SHEPHERD, SON OF GOD......

As I read those names, I kept hearing HIM say to me, "Heather I am the only reason that you will ever need."  I began to write out all those names in my journal, and started meditating on what HE was saying to me, and as I wrote them out, I claimed them, and I declared them.  In writing the final set of HIS names, I wrote this: "YOU are the GREAT I AM!  YOU are the only reason I will ever need.  With YOU I need not to doubt, worry, or be anxious.  With you I know YOUR word is truth.  I know YOUR plans, and YOUR purpose are perfect for me.  I know your loves is unfailing, and unending, just as YOUR word is infinite."

As if that part of HIS Daily Teachings wasn't enough, I read today's declaration.  "I am YOUR GOD, and MY HOLY SPIRIT is good.  I will lead you in the land of uprightness and teach you to do MY will. Whoever does MY will is MY brother and sister and mother.  MY love is with those who fear me, and MY righteousness, is with those who keep MY covenant and remember to do MY will.  How can a young woman stay on the path of purity?  By living according to MY word and by seeking ME with all your heart that you might not sin against Me.  Mediate on MY precepts and consider My ways."

"Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground." Psalm 143:10

"For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.” 
Matthew 12:50

"as far as the east is from the west,so far has he removed our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him" Psalm 103:12-13

"Then I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands. I will praise you with an upright heart as I learn your righteous laws. I will obey your decrees; do not utterly forsake me." Psalm 119:6-8

"How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.  Praise be to you, Lord; teach me your decrees. With my lips I recount
all the laws that come from your mouth. I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches. I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word." Psalm 119:9-16

When I finished reading HIS word, I wrote out what HIS word meant to me.  "LORD JESUS, it is written, YOUR words have been written  of what I am to do.  I must obey!  Create in me a steadfast unwavering heart to obey YOU LORD.  Help me to know that YOU are the only reason I will ever need! I will praise YOU all day long.  I will seek YOU and ask YOU to teach, lead, and guide me every single step of my journey towards wholeness with YOU.  LORD bless me with the knowledge and the wisdom to obey YOUR commands.  Let everything I say and do be a reflection of YOU.  Fill me with YOUR HOLY SPIRIT, and tear down and destroy all my reasons, excuses, distractions that flood my mind.  Keep me focused solely on YOU, as YOU are the only reason I will ever need!  I ask that YOU please pour YOUR favor and blessings over my life as I obey YOUR commands.  In YOUR HOLY, MIGHTY, and JUST name ~ Amen."

Today I am grateful that HE didn't let me go on thinking that I got HIS teaching right the first time.  Today I am thankful that HE continues to prove to me, that when I seek HIM, I will find HIM. I am thankful that once again HE has revealed to me the next step in my journey with HIM.  I am thankful that I have been chosen to live this life that HE has chosen for me.  I am honored that HE has called upon me to write this very blog, and to share my daily face plants with all of my readers.  I am thankful that I am able to show that HIS mercy truly is great, and that HIS grace is unfailing.

I pray today that if you only get one thing out of this blog, is that HE truly is the only reason you will ever need.  I pray that if you are struggling with something that has troubled you for a long time, that you will bring it to HIM, so that you will be set free.  I pray that through this blog you will be encouraged to seek HIM, and start your own personal relationship with HIM. I pray for HIS favor and blessings to be poured over your life when you make HIM first in your life.

Blessings,
Heather 

reason....

"I'm not a perfect person, there's many things I wish I didn't do.  But I continue learning. I never mean to do those things to you.  And so I have to say before I go.  That I just want you to know.  I've found a reason for me, to change who I used to be.  A reason to start over new, and the reason is YOU." Hoobastank

HIS Daily Teachings today is to remind me that HE is not interested in whether or not I understand the why, or the reason things are happening the way they do, rather HE is interested in my understand that HE is the GOD who HE says HE is, and HE will do what HE says HE will do.  HE is asking me to trust HIM, and not try and reason why everything is happening in my life the way it is.

This morning HE revealed this to me through the current "why" in my life.  That is, "Why didn't HE move us to GA?"  That is what I truly desired, it's what I wanted, my children wanted, and D was willing to do.  So "why" didn't HE move us there?  In my choice to "try" and reason as to "why" HE moved us there, HE is letting me know that HE didn't move us there, because it wasn't in HIS plans to move us there.  In hearing that I asked, "why" wasn't it in your plans?  HIS response was, "because I have something better planned for you."  "When" is the something better going to take place?"  By now, I am thinking "surely I have exasperated you in my reasoning......"  HE answered "YOU must trust that MY timing is perfect!"

"Reasoning leads to confusion" Joyce Meyer "Battlefield of the Mind"

This morning HE is showing me that all the time I have wasted in trying to "reason" why things happened the way they have, I have failed to TRUST HIM, and have failed to let go...... and let GOD take over control over every area of my life.  

HE is wanting me to know that it is NOT in HIS plans that I understand everything, and dissect everything HE tells me.  I must trust HIM, completely and fully.  I must let go of my foolish "need" to try and reason everything.  HE is teaching me that a curious mind, is a confused mind.  HE is wanting me to know that when I truly let go..... and let HIM take control, I will be much happier.

I am learning that because of my humanness, I tend to only BELIEVE things that seem logical to me.  As to say, that if I, Heather a small minded person couldn't think of what to do in a certain situation, then surely  HE must be wracking HIS brain?!?!? It's astonishing to me, that I even allowed myself to go there.  Really?!? How could I, Heather, person who makes a mess of her life daily possible know more than my creator?  

HE is telling me that its not important for me to know the "why", but it is important for me to understand "WHO."  Hearing this from HIM, reminds me of how each day ends for me.  That is, I lay my head on my pillow, and spill everything to HIM.  Almost every night I go to sleep wondering if tomorrow I won't be a failure.  HE is wanting me to know that I allow myself to feel this way, as I always try to reason, and in return I get confused, and when I get confused I get frustrated, and that leads to anger.

HE is showing me this morning, that my "trying" to find reason in everything, is the reason I have so much anger inside of me.  I am a person who can be easily overwhelmed.  Especially because I like to be in control.  I like things done "my way."  HE has been slowly showing me that it's not important that things be done "my way," rather that they get done at all.

For example, when I "think" that the way I do laundry is the only way to do laundry, then I am missing out on HIM blessing me by having someone else in our house do it.  HE is letting me know that HE has heard my cries for help, and when HE sends it, I must not "try" and control how I receive the help, but rather just graciously accept it.  Since I have let go, and allowed other's to bless me by doing laundry, a HUGE weight has been lifted off my shoulders, and I am able to better manage other domestic duties in my home.

"The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit." 1 Corinthians 2:14

HE is teaching me that reasoning clashes with HIS discernment.  HE is wanting me to know that HE is more interested in teaching me to be able to discern when I need to allow myself to be led by HIS HOLY SPIRIT, and not reason with my fleshly desires.  I am learning that discernment is the hardest thing for me, as I always find and excuse NOT to obey HIM.  

I am learning that I must let go of my incessant "need" to control everything.  I must stop trying to solve things with reason.  I must trust HIM with everything!  HE is wanting me to know that the sooner I stop "trying" to figure everything out, the sooner I will stop being confused.

HE is wanting me to know that it is okay for me to wonder about things, and bring those questions to HIM, however the moment I start reasoning  as to "why", then I need to know that I have gone too far.  HE is reminding me once again that it sis not about "why" things are the way they are.  Therefore, I must remember that it is all for HIS plan, and HIS purpose for my life.  HE is wanting me to remember that the reason things are the way they are, is because it is in HIS plans for my life!  I must seek HIM, and allow myself to be led by HIS HOLY SPIRIT!

"I speak the truth in Christ—I am not lying, my conscience confirms it through the Holy Spirit—" Romans 9:1

I am learning that my desire needs to be having the satisfaction of not knowing, and being comforted in knowing that HE does.  Once again HE is asking me to "go all in."  HE is asking me to trust HIM completely!

"And so it was with me, brothers and sisters. When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified." 1 Corinthians 2:1-2

Joyce Meyer writes: "The less I know, the happier I am"

Today is the day where I will stop with my "need " to try and reason all of the "whys?" in my life.  Today I will trust HIM because of WHO HE is.  I will let go..... and let HIM lead me.  I will seek HIM and ask HIM to teach, lead, and guide me throughout every single moment of my day today.  I will be comforted in knowing that HE is my SAVIOR, HE loves me, and know me best.  I will be filled by HIS peace in knowing that my life is all about HIS plans, and HIS purpose, and it is through HIS timing and HIS provision that things will happen just as they are supposed to happen in my life.  Today is the day that I have gained a new appreciation and understanding of WHO HE is, and have asked HIM to create in me the desire to let go of my "need" to reason.

I pray today that you will be comforted in knowing that HE is the reason the way things are they way they are in your life.  I pray that you will know that it is HIS plans, and HIS purpose, and that HE is the reason you are here.   I pray that you will seek HIM, and that you will be filled with HIS truth, that HE is the reason and the only reason that you need in understanding the "whys" of your life. 

Blessings,
Heather 

valley

Once again, I am in a season of waiting.  Waiting rather impatiently, waiting in despair.  Living in the "valley" of despair.  Every day is a struggle as where HE has placed me to live, is my home, however I am not truly living.  In my "valley" of despair I have fallen short of HIS glory more times that I would ever want to admit.

Last night was no exception.  Even though I prayed for HIS words to be my words, and for HIM to lead me, and show me how to be the woman of faith HE has called me to be, I have once again fallen flat on my face.  I my need to be right, and heard, I hurt someone whom I love very much.  

My day started out just like most days in my life.  I began by getting into HIS word, and I read about being "too busy" and not letting my mind wander.  Clearly I didn't take HIS Daily Teaching very seriously yesterday, as I didn't even finish it.  I went about my day doing what I wanted, with no regard for what HE was wanting me to do.  I managed to make it through to the afternoon with my boys, without losing my temper.  

About an hour before my daughters were due home from school I began to praise GOD and thank HIM for giving me the right frame of mind, and getting my heart right before my daughters got home.  However, within one hour of my oldest being home, I lost it.  I said things, that I cannot take back.  I let my anger and frustration of this current "valley" I am living in, come out in the form of anger, hatred, and rage.  

I left my sweet daughter in its dust, and as she sat there shocked that her Mama said these things to her, she quietly sat there with tears falling down her face.  Very quickly the magnitude of how far I let things go hit me..... I messed up BIG time, and I couldn't take it back.  Once again, I could feel myself sinking deeper into the "valley" of despair.

This morning HE is showing me that once again  I have allowed myself to become consumed with despair and hopelessness.  Sadly those two life-altering things have spilled over into the lives of my children.  HE is reminding me that I am the thermostat, I do set the tone as to how to deal with circumstances in our lives.  I must choose to NOT allow myself to become discouraged, and distracted in the "valley" that I am currently in.  

HIS Daily Teachings today is to remind me that my being in a "valley" is all for HIS plans and HIS purpose for my life.  I must understand that even if I don't "see" HIM working in my life, I must seek HIM and be filled with HIS Blessed Assurance that HE is in fact working behind the scenes in my life.

HE is wanting me to know that the "valley" I am in is a "waiting place" that HE will keep me in until HIS plans and HIS timing are perfect.  I must really truly trust HIM, and BELIEVE HIM.  I must NOT just talk the talk,  I must walk the walk.  I must NOT just talk about my faith, I must live out my faith.

HE is telling me that I must say what I mean, and mean what I say.  HE is telling me that I am in this "valley" this "waiting place" too see if I really am being genuine in my faith.  HE is wanting me to know that it is because I have been seeking HIM and asking HIM to teach, lead, and guide me every single moment of my life, that HE is doing just that!  Therefore, I cannot be upset that I am currently in a "valley" that is my "waiting place," while HE is working behind the scenes in my life.  I must trust HIM, and BELIEVE HIM!

It never fails that HE gives me opportunities to pray for other people who have been wronged by someone they love.  I pray genuinely for the hurting hearts, and praise HIM that I don't have those struggles in my life.  I quickly take on a false sense of security that I am "safe" from that type of harm.  How quickly Satan sees that as a challenge, and almost every time I fall for it.   The very thing I pray for someone else, creeps into my life, and wreaks havoc over my relationships with the people whom I love and care for the most.

This morning as my head is hanging low, HE is meeting me right where I stand.  HE is once again reminding me that HE is the lamp unto my feet.  HE is the one who guides the path of my life.  HE is the light in my very dark world.  His reminders made me confess to HIM this morning, " feelings of despair overwhelm my heart these days.  It is all so much more than I can bear."

Through my tears this morning, I am asking HIM these very questions:

"Why are you allowing this?"  ~ HE is telling me that I am in this current "valley" to grow my faith and trust in HIM.  It is all part of HIS plans and HIS purpose for my life.  HE is wanting me to know that though I may not feel HIM, or see HIM working in my life, HE is there, working behind the scenes, and fighting gallantly for me.

"What is the purpose in this?"  ~ HE is teaching me that it is for HIS purpose, everything that happens in my life is for HIS purpose.  HE is telling me once again, that in choosing to trust HIM, I must let go..... and let HIM take over.  I must let go of my incessant "need" to control the things in my life.

"Are you there?" ~ HE is wanting me to know that HE most certainly is there.  I must be patient, and hold tight to my faith in HIM, and trust HIM that HE has everything worked out for my own good.

"Do you care?" ~ HE is saying to me, "I care, I hear your cries for help.  I catch every single one of your tears."  "I know the cries of your heart."  I care, I love you so very much, trust in ME, rest in ME."  "Wait for ME."

This morning I heard HIS "whisper," "Heather, where is your faith?" "Do you not trust that I will calm your storm?"

"One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side of the lake.” So they got into a boat and set out. As they sailed, he fell asleep. A squall came down on the lake, so that the boat was being swamped, and they were in great danger. The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master,we’re going to drown!” He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. “Where is your faith?” he asked his disciples. In fear and amazement they asked one another, “Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him.” Luke 8:20-25

HE is telling me that is is during my season of waiting in the valley that HE has place me in that I must not grow weary in my faith.  HE is wanting me to know that though I may not see HIM, I must trust that HE is there, and HE can, will, and does calm my storms.

"My eyes fail, looking for your promise;I say, “When will you comfort me?” Psalm 119:82

"I am worn out calling for help;my throat is parched. My eyes fail,looking for my God." 
Psalm 69:3

"He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed." Psalm 107:29

"The hardest part of faith is the last half hour" 
"Waiting on GOD test us like nothing else does"
"The problem is we give up, just before GOD shows up"
"In the darkness, we tend to give up, just before the light breaks through" 
~  Waiting on GOD by Cherie Hill

This morning HE is telling me that HE is the light in my darkness!  I must not give up!  

"Your word is a lamp for my feet,a light on my path." Psalm 119:105

"We love GOD's grace, but we don't like HIS watch" Cherie Hill

Once again HE is telling me that HIS timing and HIS provision are perfect!  HE is wanting me to know that HE is the one who will guide my steps and direct my life.  HE is the one who has brought me into the "valley" that I am currently in where I have been crying out for HIS mercy.  HE is wanting me to know that HE has allowed the circumstances  that have brought me into the "valley" I am currently in.  HE is letting me know that I am in this "valley" so that HE can bring me to my knees, so that I, Heather, control freak, will let go.... and let HIM lead me.  HE is reminding me once again that this all for my own good, and is for HIS plans, and HIS purpose for my life.

This morning I am hearing HIM say to me "Heather I have brought you to this valley, so that you will be still............

HE is telling me that I must trust HIM completely.  I must strike from my thoughts, and words the negativity I feel about the current valley I am in.  I must choose to trust HIM and be filled up with HIS Blessed Assurance.

HE is teaching me that it is when I am weary, that Satan, the enemy will pounce on me.  HE is wanting me to know that it is when I am down that the enemy will strike and will begin to taunt me by saying, "where is GOD?  HE isn't going to show up..... you must do something!  GOD's too busy to care that you are in a valley."

This morning HE is answering my cries from the valley of despair I am in.  "Wait on me..... I will save you! I will deliver you!  I hold your precious life in my hands, I love you.  Do NOT believe the lies that are surrounding you in the valley.  Your "waiting place" is NOT a "wasted space!"  Hold tight to your faith!  Trust me completely and I will bring you, Heather, my Daughter, out of the valley."

"Trust in ME, rest in ME"

"Since ancient times no one has heard,no ear has perceived,no eye has seen any God besides you,who acts on behalf of those who wait for him." Isaiah 64:4

Dear friends, I pray that if you are currently in a "valley" of despair, you will know that HE does indeed care for you.  I pray that you will wait for HIM, and trust HIM that HE has it all worked out for your good.  I pray that you will know that HE catches everyone of your tears.  I pray that when you seek HIM, HE will reveal HIMSELF to you, and you will be filled by HIS over abundance of grace, and peace.  I pray that you will be comforted, by HIS words, and HIS truth that you are indeed HIS!

Blessings,
Heather 

like-minded

I am finding it very comforting that HIS Daily Teachings has been filling me with HIS Blessed Assurance that HE is mine.  That HE continues to call on me Daily, and when I allow HIM to teach me, HE does, and after each of HIS teachings, I am never the same person that I was before that very teaching.

This morning is no different.  As I sat down to do today's bible study, I began to think about what it is that I am needing from HIM, and I realized that what I needed more than anything was to become more CHRIST LIKE with each new step of my journey that I am taking.

HIS Daily Teachings today was to remind me that in order to be CHRIST-LIKE I must allow HIM to transform and renew my mind so that I will become like-minded with HIM.  HE is wanting me to know that I was created in HIS image, therefore I must allow myself to become like-minded with HIM.

“Who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ." 1 Corinthians 2:16

There have been many times in my life where my ability to trust HIM, to BELIEVE HIM, has come so natural to me.  However, there have been plenty of other times where doubt, worry, and fear have taken up residence inside of me, and deep into my thoughts.

HE is reminding me today that in order to be like-minded to HIM, I must chose to not be led by worldly thoughts, rather I must seek HIM daily, and allow HIM to transform and renew my mind, so that I will become more like-minded to HIM.

HE is wanting me to know that as a CHRIST FOLLOWER there is no room for me to have a critical, judgemental, and suspicious mind.  HE is wanting me to know that I must abandon anything and everything that comes against what HE is teaching me.  HE is wanting me to know that it is imperative that I understand that anything that comes against HIS word, is a thought that I must abandon.

It never fails that I could be on fire, reading, learning, and being filled with HIS teachings, and then next thing I know I have been day dreaming for ten minutes.  If I am not careful I will allow my thoughts to be changed to what I am going to do that day, something that happened yesterday, and worrying about what will happen tomorrow.  HE is wanting me to know that when I choose to be led by HIS HOLY SPIRIT, I am given HIS power, and HIS authority to ward off the distractions that Satan has strategically placed in my thoughts, to "try" and keep me from becoming and being like-minded to my LORD and SAVIOR.

HE is showing me this morning, that for the longest time I have failed to realize that the condition of my mind has played a major role in how I have allowed myself to feel, to act, and react.  HE is reminding me that my thoughts choose the words that I speak, and most importantly affect my ability to BELIEVE!

Once again I am learning that my thoughts play a HUGE role in my life, therefore I must be sure that I relinquish control over my life, and allow myself to be taught by HIM.  I know this is only possible, when I, Heather a mess maker, surrender, seek HIM, and ask HIM to teach, lead, and guide me through every single step of my journey towards wholeness.

I find it very comforting that HE keeps showing me in my bible where it says in HIS word what I am to be doing.  Over and over for the past few weeks HE has brought me right back to the book of Romans, and HE has been teaching me that I must not be of this world, I must abandon the ways of the world, and seek HIM, and HIS guidance.  I must allow myself to be led by HIS HOLY SPIRIT!

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2

In learning this, over and over again, HE is teaching me that the more that I learn HIS ways, and just how great they truly are, the more SATAN digs at my heels, and "tries" in vain to trip me.  HE is wanting me to know that Satan is after me with a vengeance, where he will stop at nothing to see that I am destroyed.  Thankfully through HIS Blessed Assurance, I know that I am covered by the stripes of the blood of JESUS CHRIST WHO is my LORD and SAVIOR.  HE is the one fighting for me always, and with HIM, I am learning that I am never alone, HE is always there, helping me, guiding me, loving me, and teaching me.  I must BELIEVE! 

HE is reassuring me by HIS Blessed Assurance to know that it in choosing to follow HIM Daily, and being intentional in building my relationship with HIM, nothing can keep me apart from HIM.  HE is wanting me to know that HIS power, and HIS authority reign over my life, therefore nothing can harm me, or keep me from being like-minded to HIM.

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7

When I read HIS words this morning, HE took me back to the first time in my adult life where I remember hearing about HIM, and where I met HIM for the first time in my life.  I will never forget the pain and the anguish that I felt the first time I heard HIS words, and learned of this TRUE LIVING GOD that everyone was talking about.  

Today HE has reminded me that just as HE met me all those years ago, right where I stood.  HE can, will, and does meet me right where I stand in this very moment.  I am learning that when I choose to be like-minded to HIM, HE is always there, and never again will I ever have to feel abandoned.

"I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.  I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people" Ephesians 1:17-18

This morning HE is reminding me once again that I have been blessed by HIS gifts of mercy, discernment, and wisdom.  HE is wanting me to know that because I have been blessed with those three gifts, I must be intentional in using them for HIS good.  I must be intentional in seeking HIM to show me how to use the gifts HE has blessed me with.  I am learning that with each new step of my journey that I am taking with HIM, I must seek HIS guidance, and I must obey HIS commands, and do whatever HE tells me to do.  I must allow HIM to transform and renew me to be like-minded to HIM.

HE is wanting me to know that HE will continue to call on me until the day CHRIST JESUS returns, and even then HE will call on me to be HIS faithful warrior in HIS army, and to continue in HEAVEN to praise and to worship HIM.  I am thankful that today I can say with confidence, that I am in a loving and growing personal relationship with JESUS, and I have no fear of abandonment.  I know that this assurance has only come to me because I have chosen to be intentional in my walk with HIM, and I have allowed myself to be transformed and renewed to be like-minded to HIM.

People often ask me how I was ever able to forgive my step-grandfather for what he did to me.  I tell them it is through the love of my SAVIOR, that I am forgiven, and therefore I have become like-minded to HIM, and I am able to forgive in the same way that I have been forgiven.  I know that I have been chosen to love just as HE loves, to extend grace, just as HIS grace has been extended to me.  I know that I have been called to show HIS mercy, just as HE has shown HIS mercy to me.  I know that it is not my place to judge people, but rather to live my life as a living testament of what it is to have a deep, intentional relationship with my LORD and SAVIOR.  I am learning once again, that I have been called to live as a contagious CHRISTIAN.  I am called to live in a way that other's will desire to have the same Blessed Assurance, and peace that I feel.

HE is showing me that it is only because I have allowed myself to be transformed and renewed to be like-minded to HIM that I am able to see past the faults of those who hurt me, and who hurt others.  HE is showing me that it is also the reason I am able to love, just as HE loves, and not just to love in a superficial way but to really love the sinner, as HE loves me, a sinner.

In learning all of this today, I am filled with HIS Blessed Assurance that I must continue to allow HIM to transform and renew my mind Daily so that I will be more and more with each day passing like-minded to HIM.  HE is telling me that what I know and am able to understand, is only possible because I am choosing to be led by HIS HOLY SPIRIT.  HE is wanting me to know that the only one who truly understands anything is HIM, therefore in order to navigate through this journey that I have been taking, I must choose to be led by HIS HOLY SPIRIT.

"For who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God." 1 Corinthians 2:11

I know this all to be true, as HE has reminded me once again that when I accepted JESUS as my LORD and SAVIOR HIS HOLY SPIRIT began to dwell inside of me.  As each day passes HE has been revealing more and more to me, that even just a year ago I wouldn't have been able to fully comprehend.  Today I am thankful that HIS plans didn't include keeping me where I was, and staying where I am.  I am thankful that with each day passing is another opportunity for me to become more like-minded to HIM, and with HIS Daily Teachings I am better able to discern what HIS plans and HIS purpose is for my life.  I know that I must continue to become more and remain like-minded to HIM.

I pray that today you will allow yourself to be led by HIS HOLY SPIRIT.  I pray that when you do you will be filled with HIS Blessed Assurance that HE has everything worked out for your own good.  I pray that you will be filled by HIS peace, and will feel HIS unfailing, and unconditional love.  I pray that HE will show you HIS mercy, so that you will be able to show mercy to others.  I pray that HIS grace will be extended over your life, so that you will be able to extend grace to those who hurt and offend you.  I pray today that you will allow HIM to transform and renew your mind so that you will become more like-minded to HIM.

Blessings,
Heather