It’s Not There…Nor There..

As a Christian I’ve learned that the way to get answers or fix a bad mood or even just to find a little lift to a normal day, is by connecting with God. I’ve also learned that there are many ways to connect with God. Not just the traditional read the bible, pray, fast and fellowship ways…but by reading Christian blogs, meditating on devotionals, worshipping to music, staring at the sky and reading a well written Christian novel. I know from experience that I “get something” from all of the above, but it’s more fun/entertaining/interesting to choose from the second list as opposed to the first.

But what happens when you choose from the 2nd list 90% of the time? I’ve found that you end up living a bit too spiritually. It becomes very easy to come up with your own theories, meditate on certain scriptures and ignore others that are also important, become judgemental of others (specifically traditional Christians) and worst of all, you end up having a 2nd hand relationship with God and cheat yourself of the connection your soul desires.

Lately I find myself in this boat. I’m praying and reading blogs, waiting for that divine revelation. I’m praying and listening to music, waiting for that one line to bring me to tears. I’m praying and going for a walk, waiting to hear God’s voice. And sometimes it really happens that way. But I’m finding more often than not, God impressing on my heart “you won’t find it there…nor there. It’s in my word.”

Why is it so much harder to sit down and read my bible than to do any of those other things? I know the answer, yet honestly, it doesn’t often change my actions for long. I know God’s truth is within his word. I know words spoken that pertain to today are sitting in there for me to read first hand. I know learning and hearing about God are done through other people’s interpretations when you don’t go directly to the source yourself. But still, day after day, I find it hard to sit down and open my bible. But I know that when I do, oh man, I regret every other time I didn’t. I just wish that feeling would last. But no, the struggle continues.

Anyone else with me on this? I know there has to be someone out there that isn’t the perfect Christian we want everyone to think we are. Well whether you admit it or not, I just want you to know that you’re not alone. There is no perfect person and no perfect Christian. This is my weakness – admit to yourself, what’s yours?

 “As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him.” – 2 Samuel 22:31

Immortal? I Don’t Think So.

I’ll be honest with you, this non-stop talk of 2012 and Jesus’ return is kinda driving me nuts. I wholeheartedly believe we should be living every day as if this could be our last day. Sure, it’s likely that you’ll live tomorrow. And it’s definitely possible that the year 2013 will come and the only thing that’s different is that you gained a few pounds. But how is it that people have been ignoring their own mortality until now? I mean come-on, we’ve all known for a very long time that one day we will die. We all know people that were living one day and weren’t the next. Most of us even know people that died unexpectedly. So why is it that “the end of the world” makes things more realistic?

Is it because a lot of people live day to day without realizing that a day just passed that they’ll never get back? Maybe even weeks stuck in a routine. Years fly by without a conscience thought of death being a possibility. Or have some people gotten to the point of actually thinking they’re immortal? Not in a superhero sense, but in a “living in my own world” sense.

Ya know what, it doesn’t REALLY matter the reason. What matters is that people need to wake up and realize that one day, whether it be in 3 years or in 50 years, we’re all going to leave this earth and face God and the reality of what we did during our life span. I’m not trying to scare anyone, if anything, I’m trying to set you free. Don’t be afraid of the future, just be aware of it. Live each day on purpose. Aware of what you’re doing and what you’re saying. Don’t waste time with things you aren’t supposed to be doing. Love a lot. Live a lot. Make a difference. And do everyone a favor (and please pass this on), stop talking about the world ending. You don’t know what’s going to happen. Instead, start speaking LIFE into people and encouraging them not to waste theirs. It’ll do more good.

There is Freedom

“There is freedom in the name of Jesus”

Man, what a phrase. What a statement. What a declaration. I can’t shake it. Nor do I want to.

Day after day I wake up knowing that no matter what, I’m free. I’m free from the world’s opinions. I’m free from the bonds that hold many people down. I’m free from sickness and disease. I’m free from addictions. I’m free to be me.

Don’t forget it. With the name of Jesus, you are free. So put on a smile, sing a song, do a dance, bang on something, jump around, make some noise. YOU’RE FREE AND NO ONE CAN TAKE IT AWAY!

Cha-Cha-Changes!

Ever pray a prayer that you wish God didn’t take so seriously? Ya know, He could answer the prayer in a nice, easy to swallow way…but nothing too dramatic. Oh if only God worked that way.

A few months ago I specifically remember crying out to God that I needed some changes in my life. I was bored and feeling stale. Life didn’t have it’s usual color and I was desperate for a new adventure. Maybe a change in job or a new friend…I didn’t really know what I wanted, but I knew I wanted something to change.

Well you can’t convince me that God doesn’t hear my prayers because God is now taking Chris and I  not only on an adventure, but a complete life change. Just a few short months after I begged for a change, we received a bundle of them. First, we decided that it’s time to move. Maybe not out of the area, but definitely to a bigger place…maybe even a house. We knew we wanted a music studio and maybe even a room for “the future.” We started looking around but nothing jumped out at us so we decided to just keep it in prayer and move on with life as it was. Then, I found out that I’m pregnant. So much for wanting to move — now we HAVE to move. We definitely need more space and do not feel the “luxury lifestyle” is exactly necessary. But we decided that we’re not ready to buy something, so we’ll be needing somewhere to rent. Following that, Chris found out that he’s being let go from his job in March. So now we need a new home and Chris needs a new job and we will become a family of 3 in July. How’s THAT for change? Thanks God. Couldn’t do it just one at a time huh?

Well to be honest, I know God is in all of this craziness. Chris’ job ends in March, our lease is up in April and the baby comes in early July. Sure sounds like a recipe for an AWESOME new life to start. So now we’re just waiting to see what God has planned. And I can honestly say that life is no longer boring, stale or colorless. I look forward to updating you on what unravels in the next few months!

What Only Jesus Can Do For Women

I really loved this post by Lysa TerKeurst. So today’s blog is actually a blog she wrote. Please find the original post on her website. Enjoy, comment, share. It’s a good one.

Has anyone else struggled with the Twilight rage?

I’ll admit I have. It was the same struggle I had with the Harry Potter rage. But my kids were never interested in Harry Potter so it was a mute issue in my home.

Now, before we go any further, I have to say I’m not writing this post to debate whether or not Christians should see these kinds of movies. I’m not judging anyone that loves these novels and lets their kids read them.

I’m not.

I’m actually not even writing this post to debate the movies at all. I am writing this post to point out one danger in the twilight movies. Something for us all to consider, ponder, pray and if you have older teenage daughters who see the Twilight movies- discuss.

My first inclination was to tell my teenage daughters that we were absolutely not going to see movies about vampires and blood mixed with unrealistic teenage hormones. But then I decided I wanted to enter into a more intelligent discussion of my concerns over these movies than just saying, “vampires are bad.”

My daughters expect more from me than that. I expect more of myself. And as a Christian mom, I need to equip my daughters to approach things in this world not from a harsh judgmental view point- but rather a spiritually sound, discerning veiwpoint.

There will be lots of “Twilight” type situations along their spiritual journey. And I want them to be Jesus girls who can see through the surface of the story.

So, I went to see the “New Moon” movie last night.

On the surface, I now see why this series is so appealing to young girls. Cute boys. Teenage love. Danger from which the cute boys always rescue the girl. The feeling that the teenagers know more about life and love than any of the adults in the film. And the hope that it really is possible to find a love that escapes the realities of everyday life. A love that is always thrilling, always passionate, always fireworks and rose petals.

Therein lies the dangerous thread I want to address.

No man can ever be what these types of movies portray. And if young girls fall in love with the notion that they too can find a man who will sit by their bed and stare at them adoringly all night just to say, “I’ll protect you forever,” they will set themselves up for failure.

No man’s love is ever perfect. No man can protect his love against all the evils of the world. No man can ever satisfy the deepest longings of a woman. No man can ever fully complete the hole in a woman’s soul.

Because even a great man, makes for a very poor God.

Only Jesus can do this for a woman.

We were designed as women to crave the affections and attention of the Great Lover of our soul. We were designed to want that enchanting love song sung over us. We are the perfect match for an embrace so tenderly fierce it strips away all our insecurities and envelops us in the best way. Our hearts were designed to receive a love letter written with words that move us, change us, direct us, and complete us.

We were made to live in angst without Him and in joy with Him. Even when sorrow comes, He really can make all things okay.

Misplacing those affections by placing unrealistic expectations upon our earthly love is disappointing at best, devastating at worst.

Earthly love can be wonderful. But it won’t ever be complete. And setting our girls’ hearts up to desire this from a boy is not healthy.

I want my girls to have Jesus in the deepest parts of their soul so that they are free to one day tenderly, realistically, forgivingly, and excitedly give the gift of their purity to a young man.

A young man who will have to get past my shotgun toting husband with a load of questions and a keen awareness of just how precious his girls are. And a young man whose skin better not glow like diamonds. I’m just saying.

I know many will see this movie and think it’s a simple chick flick. A fun escape that doesn’t need to be discussed. But I think these things are worth considering for both teen girls and us big girls as well.

Appreciation Week

Thanksgiving is one of those holidays that most people enjoy. It’s filled with warm food, family and/or friends and for most people, a few days off of work. I’d even venture to say that a good amount of people do stop for a few minutes and think about what they’re thankful for. Whether it be health, wealth, family or toys, most people can come up with at least 1 thing they are appreciative for having in their life.

I know this is all good and I’m probably asking for a lot…but why do we only do this for 5 minutes before we stuff our mouths with turkey? I’d like to make the bold statement that we should be giving thanks for the things we have on a DAILY basis. Now if you’re anything like me, you’re probably agreeing…but won’t do it. You’ll have days and weeks where you will complain and envy others. You’ll hate the job you have and wish your car was nicer. You’ll be stuck on the couch missing out on the fun your friends are having while you’re sick or staying in because you’re on a budget. You’ll murmur while making a grilled cheese sandwich and everyone around you eats Chinese food or you’ll wish you had…fill in the blank here. It happens to all of us. But the thing is, we allow it to happen.

I’m preaching to myself on this one. It’s about your attitude. Appreciation is an attitude. It’s choosing to ignore the things that you don’t have or can’t do and thanking God for the things you do. Hate your job? Hey, at least you have one. Wish you could go out to eat? How about those kids that die of starvation every day? Wish you weren’t sick on the couch with the flu? How about those swine flu NON survivors? Wish you had a newer or nicer car? How about those people on the side of the road who now have no car because of a car accident? Wish you could find the right person and get married? What about all of those people stuck in abusive relationships – I bet they wish they were single right about now. The list goes on and on.

But the point is that we should all be choosing to thank God for what we have more than on Thanksgiving. So I propose this. Just increase your time of appreciation. Make this appreciation week. Find something to thank God for once/day this week. If you already thank God once/day, thank Him multiple times/day! You could always do more.

Happy Appreciation Week everyone! Can’t wait to hear your stories 

Walk in Other Shoes

In life we have so many opportunities to judge people. I’m talking countless times per day. From the smallest things of “can you believe what she’s wearing?” to the larger things of what choices people make in their lives. If we’re not careful, we start to believe that our small little bubble of a world is actually the world. If we don’t agree with something or understand it, we write it off as wrong or “weird.”

But the thing is, what’s weird to us, is not weird to the person experiencing it. We have no right to judge another life.

I don’t have much more to say about this issue. To me it’s pretty simple. You’re not right when you probably think you are. Sure there are issues that are yes or no, but the majority of the issues aren’t so. Before you make the decision to assume something about another person, take a minute and put on their shoes. Maybe, just maybe, they’re not so weird after all.

Attitude of Worry

It’s Saturday morning and like all normal households, I’m reading/blogging and Chris is DJing for his monthly podcast. Not normal? No I guess not. But either way, creativity is a huge part of our lives and we both agree that it’s how God speaks to us most frequently. Today is no exception.

As I’m finishing up reading chapter 6 in the book of Matthew Chris starts playing a song that (I think) says the word attitude over and over again. (If you’re into dance music you probably understand why I’m not positive this is what’s being said!) Anyway, so while reading Matthew 6:25 – 27 God speaks to me not only about the worry that He’s teaching us about in His word, but that it’s more than that. It’s not just about faith in God and not worrying about things beyond our control, but it’s about the attitude you have towards life. The attitude you have about God. You can have faith in God but still walk around with doubt leaking from your pores. Or you could have faith in God and walk around with a smile so big no one would ever question it. What it comes down to is choice. It’s our attitude and it’s our God that make life what it is.

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?” – Matthew 6:25-27, NIV

Hmm…I also just read about forgiveness AND the song he just played DEFINITELY said forgiveness over and over again….our God is so awesome. I think I have a phone call to make.

A Note to My Future Self

I’m currently reading “Through Painted Deserts” by Donald Miller and I have to say, it’s a very enjoyable book. While I’m reading it I’m able to drift off into this peaceful journey with my 2 friends Don and Paul as they experience the simplicities of life.

In the chapter I just finished, Don wrote a note to his future self. He decided it was important to note the way he was feeling rather than the things he was seeing. He wanted to remind himself in the future of these things, in case somehow he forgets as the years pass by. What an awesome idea! Here is his letter:

“I figure you might forget what kind of person you were back when you were on this trip. I want you to know you weren’t a bad guy. But you fell into thinking a lot of money and a lot of stuff and a lot of social collateral would get you somewhere. And I don’t know who you are now, and what you’ve done with your life, but try to remember, God doesn’t expect you to accumulate a lot of stuff. You were really happy here in the canyon, you know, I promise it’s true. I guess I just want you to remember there was a time when you did a pretty difficult hike, and you decided that you didn’t need to carry a bunch of stuff on your back because the climb was hard. And I don’t know who is around you, whether you met a woman or have some kids, but I really hope you have shown them this stuff, that life is going to be okay, that you just have to enjoy it. If you can’t buy a nice car for your family or anything, don’t worry about it. Just go into your kids’ room and kiss them on the forehead, okay, ’cause there is all kinds of beauty and it doesn’t have anything to do with having some stuff. Also, don’t kick yourself around. If you can’t climb up out of a canyon real quick, just do it slow. And also just remember that this guy Paul is one of the most incredible people in your life. There was a time when he showed you a lot of grace. I don’t know what else to say. You’re a pretty good person, you know. God made a whole beautiful earth and decided to put you in it, to experience all of this beauty. You can’t do that watching television all the time. Nothing else. I have to go climb out of a hole. Maybe you do too. All the best. Feel like I’m talking to myself, for crying out loud.”

I’m encourage. I think I’ll write a letter to the future me. Maybe you should too.

The Most Important Time of My Day

Well kids, work is wearing me out and therefore blogging an original idea isn’t as easy as it once was. But bear with me, in 3 weeks I’ll be back to normal! But for now, here’s a devotional that really encouraged me. I hope it encourages you too. And hey – if you have any suggestions/comments/techniques you want to share – please leave a comment! We’re all in this together.

With love and sleepy eyes,

Jess

22 Oct 2009 - Lysa TerKeurst

“‘… Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Matthew 4:4 (NIV)

Is it really that important to have a quiet time with the Lord everyday? I mean the Lord knows how busy my life is, so if I just toss up a few prayers and listen to a Christian song on the radio while rushing into my day, that should suffice. Right?

It’s easy to let the busyness of life crowd out time for prayer, Bible reading, and sitting with the Lord. There are a million things on all of our to-do lists, time is tight, and quiet moments seem few and far between. But I’ve learned that if I make the choice to be with the Lord first thing in the morning, my outlook on life that day and my ability to handle things seems to go so much smoother.

Also, I’ve had to change my mindset on having a quiet time. Spending time with the Lord in the morning doesn’t end when I say “amen” and put my Bible back on the shelf. I’ve just invited the King of kings to participate in my day. So, I get up from spending time with the Lord in the morning and start eagerly looking for His hand of activity in my life.

I think about the Bible verses I read that morning and look for ways to apply them to my life that very day. I watch the circumstances that come my way hour by hour and ask the Lord to constantly give me wisdom to process life in the way that would be most honoring to Him. My mindset is healthier, my attitude more positive, and my ability to extend grace to those who rub me the wrong way is increased just by setting aside some time to be with the Lord.

If you are struggling with having quiet time with the Lord each day, try these helpful ideas:

1. Be honest with God and admit your struggle. Ask God to give you the desire to set aside time to be with Him.

2. Start with just a small amount of time. Even if it is just 5 minutes at first, give this 5 minutes solely to the Lord without any other distractions. Over the next weeks and months, your desire for more time with Him will increase.

3. Use a version of the Bible that lends itself to study. I use the NIV Life Application Study Bibleand I love it. It helps me understand the context each book was written in and gives me commentaries to understand specific verses.

4. Ask God for understanding as you read the Bible. When I first started reading the Bible I had a hard time. So, I started praying that God would open my spiritual eyes to see the truths in a life changing way for me.

5. Write some of the verses that seem most applicable to your life on 3×5 cards and use them in your prayers. For example, Matthew 6:19-20 says, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” So, I could use this verse in my prayer time by praying, “God, help me to know how to store up treasures in Heaven. Help me to relinquish my tight hold on my earthly possessions so I can use them to build Your kingdom now. Show me how to best use that which You have blessed me with. Give me Your mindset for the money I have.”

6. Get involved in a Bible Study with friends. This will help hold you accountable to getting your study time done and will open up great discussions to deepen everyone’s understanding of applying God’s truths to everyday life.

I’ve found a daily quiet time with the Lord is very important and very doable as well.

Dear Lord, I want a more vibrant relationship with You and I know having a daily quiet time is an important part of that. Help me make this my most important priority each day, no matter how busy life is. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

A Welcome Season

Is it me or are people really looking forward to Fall this year? Maybe people usually do…but I have to say that people are much more vocal about it this year. But the thing is, it’s not just excitement about the weather and long sleeve shirts…it’s almost this desperate hope for a new season…a season of change.

Fall is representing the refreshing breeze that it guarantees to deliver. Maybe things will be different now. Life will be different. Things will start looking up.

I’m talking to people who are tired of being down. They’re tired of the negative. They’re tired of the recession. They’re ready for hope. They’re ready for change. And it’s a good place to be. Because people are getting to a place where things will change and miracles will happen. Just wait and see. Faith, hope and expectation can change everything.

Ottawa – The Spiritual Journey

Wow guys – I’m sorry about my inconsistent blogging! I’ve been pretty good about blogging every day but with traveling and being sick and work being busy – the blogs remain in my head for a few days longer than I’d like! But as promised…here is the spiritual journey I took to and from Ottawa, Ontario last weekend.

Chris and I have had our hearts set on London for a while. We weren’t quite sure why but we figured that we would do all in our power to be prepared for anything God might want to do. So this past winter we got our passports (can’t be sent if you can’t get in!). Well the passports came in…and a few weeks later an offer to visit Canada appeared in front of us. “Sure!” was our automatic response. There was something about Canada that just seemed…appealing. We didn’t care the cost or time, we just knew that we wanted to go (I give Joel partial credit for this…being all Canadian and cool). Anyway, as the trip approached the excitment grew. Something inside of me knew that I’d fall in love with the city and the people. And as most of you know, it happened. I’m in love haha.

Rachelle and Tyler amazed me. It was so great to spend a weekend with 2 people who are so incredibly in love with Jesus that they can’t help but talk about him all of the time. Walking up and down the streets of downtown Ottawa Rachelle thought nothing of speaking in a normal tone about how awesome Jesus is for saving her. She shared her testimony and was eager to hear ours. And man, Tyler is even bolder and louder for Jesus than she is! Tyler amazes me. He’s just this cool guy with such an amazing heart and passion. A guy who has literally seen miracles and knows the power of God. He lives his life with boldness. Seriously. This couple is amazingly contagious. Within minutes of being with them something inside of me felt humbled. “Why aren’t I like them? Why does my voice resemble a whisper IF the name of Jesus comes off of my tongue in a public place? I WANT TO BE MORE LIKE THEM.” Rachelle greets EVERYONE. She doesn’t get offended if she walks into a store and someone doesn’t say hi to her because she’s already said hello to them with a smile and joy that should be trademarked.

It got me thinking…if we truly believe that Jesus is king and we’re really trying to take our town/city/state/country back from the devil…why do we let unbelievers determine what we do and say? I’ve never heard anyone pray over food in a restaurant as loud as Tyler did Sunday morning. He’s not afraid of what people think. In fact. He knows what people think and is doing everything he can to change their minds.

And then there is the rest of the HEAT Worship Team. Each person individually is on their own amazing adventure through being a Christian. It was so great to sit around with them, listen to their stories and have discussions with them about books, movies, music, ministry and God.

HEAT really taught me about freedom and boldness. Normally I’m a shy worshipper. I go into my own little world and move around a little but mostly just lift my hands and praise God in my head and heart. HEAT taught me to worship God with EVERYTHING I am…and that includes my body. I was jumping around the dance floor with freedom that I haven’t felt in a long time. Free to dance. Free to sing and to shout and to be myself. I just closed my eyes, focused on God and went to that secret place where I was free.

The last thing I want to say is that this trip made me realize how little I pray and carry Jesus with me. Of course I believe in Him and love Him but I realized that a true Christian has Jesus inside of him/her at all times. A true Christian thanks Jesus for the smallest of things, not just the biggest. When someone is in love, they can’t stop talking about the person they’re in love with…shouldn’t we be the same with God? If we say that we love Him, we should be acting like we LOVE him. We need to be praying constantly if that’s what it takes to not forget about Him.

Anyway, I can’t think of a pretty way to end this blog so I’ll end it by saying this: Thank you Ottawa. You changed my life.

Canada Trip: Facts & Stories

So for those of you in the dark, Chris and I went up to Ottawa, Ontario in Canada this past weekend. It was our first time out of the country (well, except a cruise I went on in high school) and we had such a great experience. The car ride up was filled with beautiful trees and deep spiritual conversation. Then we crossed the border and had the excitement of seeing new road signs and landmarks we had never seen before. Around 8pm we parked at the St. Paul’s church where we were meeting everyone, across from the beautiful Gasthaus Switzerland that we were graciously given a room for the night by our hosts, HEAT Worship House.

Within minutes a very excited Rachelle came out to greet us and help us into our room. We then spent the night with Rachelle and Tyler setting up for the weekend and getting a tour of downtown Ottawa. Within the first hour in Ottawa I fell in love with the city. It’s clean and beautiful and unlike the city I know (NYC) it’s not crowded and doesn’t smell bad. I love the bilingual aspect even though I don’t speak a word of French and the architecture is amazing. The people are friendly and filled with life and seem really artistic and passionate.

It was a really fun night is quite the understatement, but is the only thing that seems to come to mind at the moment.

Due to some alcohol loving young b&b neighbors, we didn’t get much sleep.  So Saturday was a LOOONG day. It started with a wonderful homemade breakfast at the inn and the best coffee I’ve ever had. It then continued with lunch at a cute healthy Cora’s Restaurant and then a visit to the Christian Book Store that James works at. We spent a while hanging out and looking at things around the store. We talked about the things of God and the irony of a gay book store being across the street. But eventually James had to get back to work and Rachelle had to get some things done so Chris and I were left with the afternoon to wander around the city.

Ottawa is the best of both worlds. It’s a beautiful city with lots of things to do and look at…museums and shopping, food and coffee…but within the city is grass and paths to ride bikes. Tunnels to walk under while looking at art and buildings to tour around. Sidewalks of houses and people walking dogs right next to boutique stores and farmers markets. And just minutes away are suburbs and parks…Canadian nature as they call it It really makes me reconsider my “I hate cities” mentality. Maybe I just hate New York City lol. And I’m not insanely thrilled with Philly either (sorry all you PA kids!).

Anyway, Saturday night was the “rave” – Psalm 119. It was a great time of dancing, art, God and worship. It’s hard to explain what it was like so look for the pictures and videos coming soon in another post! The rave ended at 2:30am and by the time we were done cleaning up and back at Tyler’s, it was 5am. We got to hang out with their core group eating ribs and rice and talking about God and books and their vision for HEAT. Although we were beyond tired, it’s definitely a day that I will never forget.

Sunday we woke up (after 4 hours of sleep) and had brunch at a Vietnamese Restaurant. We had Pho soup for the first time and mmmmm we need to find some closer to home! We then went to Rachelle’s to pick up her dogs and go to a park in Quebec. Although only there for a short time, it was a very enjoyable outing. I was amazed how quickly the signs changed from English/French to only English!

So around 3:30pm Chris and I said our goodbyes and headed back to NY. Although exhausted, our trip home was as great as the one there. It’s so wonderful being married to your best friend. Not only can we joke around and listen to music, but we have some of the best conversations I’ve ever had.

And about those Canadians…guys…you blessed us tremendously.  In the next few days I’m going to blog about the deeper spiritual aspects of our trip but for now I’ll just say: I can’t believe we only just met you all. I’m not used to having such immediate, deep connections with people…it was a real treat. We can’t wait to see you all again and hope you keep in touch!

I’m Not Alone, You’re Not Alone

I honestly believe this is a message specifically for someone who is going to read this blog. I don’t know if it’s one person or many. I don’t know if the person will read it today or in a week or in a month. But I do believe that this is for someone specific. Someone special. So please read it and share it with others. I know it is meant to reach the right person.

For the past hour I’ve been overwhelmed with the fact that I’m never truly alone. While driving in my car, I’m not alone. While smiling and dancing, I’m not alone. And while crying, depressed and feeling alone, I’m not alone. There is a God who knows me (and you) by name. He’s the same God that created the earth that we’re walking on today. He’s the same God that decided to make the grass green and decided that 5 fingers would be on each hand of mine. He’s the same God that spoke to Abraham and raised up King David. He’s the same God that has answered some of my prayers. He’s the same God that has raised the dead. He’s the same God that thousands of people have believed in and died for willingly.

Listen to me. No matter what you’re going through and no matter what you’re feeling. Whether you’re the center of attention or the silent kid who no one notices, YOU ARE NOT ALONE. If you haven’t given your heart to God and spoke to Him lately…what are you waiting for? Do you really LIKE hearing others talk about God but not knowing Him? Maybe you hear people talk about God and prayer and you think “that’s great for them, but I don’t think that’s possible. I don’t believe it.” Have you ever given it a try? Have you ever closed your eyes and prayed THE prayer? Not the “God I want this” prayer or the “God fix this” prayer…but THE prayer. The one that goes “God, show me who you are. I want to know you like others know you. I want to know what this Christianity thing is all about. Reveal yourself to me…I want to know that you’re real.” Have you ever thought it possible to be a Christian? Not just go to church or say the right things. Not stop swearing and listening to dirty music. Forget all of that stuff right now. Have you ever desired to know the creator of it all? The God that will ALWAYS be there for you. The God that does miracles. The God that wants to do a miracle for you. The God that wants you to take the step and get to know Him personally.

Forget about what church you go to and what your family believes. It doesn’t matter what “religion” you are. Geez, I’m Jewish!! I was born to 2 Jewish parents. Where you come from doesn’t matter!! Forget about how you don’t want to be “like those Christians.” Think about yourself…in a room…alone…do you really want to be alone? Or do you want to know that God is ALWAYS with you — watching out for you and guiding your steps on the path that He specifically designed for YOU?

Think about it. And pray THE prayer. It’ll change your life.

I sure know it changed mine.

Shelter from the Storms

As my facebook friends have already been informed, I’m a bit under the weather today. And for my lady readers, it’s the type of under the weather that guys can’t possibly understand. Enough said I hope

So for that reason, today’s blog is not written by me. It’s a daily devotional I get from

Shelter from the Storms
11 Sep 2009
Melanie Chitwood

“Trust in Him at all times, O people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us.” Psalm 62:8 (NAS)

The thunder and lightning of a powerful storm rattled our house last night. As rain slashed against the windows and lightning lit up the dark sky, I woke up just long enough to make room for my youngest son and yellow lab to join me and my husband in bed. I remember thinking with surprise that I didn’t even know it was going to storm.

What a picture of my life lately. It’s been a year of unexpected rain. Some just drizzles, but others, like the storm hitting me most recently, have rattled windows with wave after wave of thunder and bursts of lightning.

What about you? Is there stormy weather in your life right now? Where are you finding shelter from the storms?

My friends and family have been a shelter for me this year, just like my family was last night as we all huddled together in bed. They’ve encouraged and supported me. And most importantly, they’ve pointed me to the strongest shelter from the storms, my Heavenly Father.

As I’ve turned to Scripture this week, I’m amazed at the number of times it reminds us God is our shelter. God knows that we will encounter hard times and His Word reminds us that the strongest and safest shelter is God Himself.

As always we have a choice: get drenched in the rain or seek shelter. You see, the storms of life can cause us to run toward God, but just as easily they can cause us to turn away. A whole range of emotions can leave us standing in the rain to get drenched: bitterness, anger, confusion, helplessness, or hopelessness. If you can relate to these emotions, you might feel badly for having these emotions, but don’t let these feelings keep you from God.

Read the Psalms and you’ll see that God can handle every emotion. Negative emotions are not a reason to turn away from God. They’re the very reason to turn to Him, desperately wanting the kind of faith and strength only God can provide.

Keep turning to God, continue to tell Him in prayer how you feel, and leave your emotions with Him. As you do, you’ll start to feel His nearness, His hope, His promise, and His comfort. If you find yourself returning to feelings of fear or hopelessness, just go back to God. Be honest in your prayers. Acknowledge that you’re having a hard time, but that you want to trust Him in your circumstances. Know that He loves you and will consistently and constantly be your shelter from the storms.

Dear Lord, “Hear my cry, O God; give heed to my prayer. From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For You have been a refuge for me, a tower of strength against the enemy. Let me dwell in Your tent forever; let me take refuge in the shelter of Your wings” (Psalm 61:1-4, NAS). In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Application Steps:
Find comfort as you read Psalm 61, 62 and 91 today. Write out and display in a prominent place in your house a particular verse that helps you keep your eyes on God.

Reflections:
Have you been turning away from God? Can you turn back to Him today? He is waiting for you with open arms and a loving heart. He loves you and wants to be your strength and comfort in the storm you’re facing.

Power Verses:
2 Chronicles 20:12, “… For we are powerless before this great multitude who are coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are on You.” (NAS)

Psalm 91:1-2, “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the LORD: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him.” (NLT)