Read: Psalm 27; Psalm 91; Colossians 1:9-14
It’s been dark for months, maybe not literally, but very real emotionally. I have felt as if there is this shadow over my life that no matter which way I turn I can’t get away from it. I’ve desperately wanted it to lift or move away. I’m sure I’m not alone in feeling this way. I’ve learned when you really get to know others well you learn everyone has a shadow of their own – at least one time or another.
My shadow has been dealing with breast cancer, but it hasn’t been the actual illness that seems to haunt me. It’s what comes after – dealing with the changes that have occurred throughout my body, not feeling like I’m the same woman anymore, dealing with the financial burdens, and the never ending doctor appointments – still after almost two years. Some days the shadow is encapsulating.
This morning I was reading Psalm 23. I’ve read this Psalm many, many times but this morning as I read, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,” I could actually feel the shadow, and could see it over me as I’ve been traveling through the valley. Describing it would almost be too dark to write. As I was thinking about this shadow, I was given a different insight through a paragraph written in a Bible study I’m working through. “It has been said that where there is a shadow there must also be light.”1 I knew in my heart instantly that the light for me was that of God Himself. The shadow that I have been thinking is this darkness might possibly be just the shadow of God’s hand as He is with me on this journey.
Here are a few verses that helped redirect my perspective:
Psalm 27, verse 1 says – “The LORD is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The LORD is my strength of my life, of whom shall I be afraid?” Another verse that I need to put to memory is John 8:12 – “Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” James 1:7 tells us that He is Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.
I’ve been looking at this all wrong. I’ve allowed myself only to focus on the broadness of the shadow, and what it seemed to represent, instead of looking at the source of the light, and by which the shadow was formed. I thought to myself, “If this shadow represents God’s presence during my journey in this valley, do I want it removed? Maybe this shadow is not to have been to bring a gloom but a protection from harmful effects of this disease?” As Psalm 121:5 says – “The LORD is your keeper; The LORD is your shade at your right hand.” When I think of shade I do think more of protection. I believe it’s more about the type of perspective you have. I would rather have the shadow, or the shade, from God’s hand during a difficult time. I can’t imagine if I wouldn’t have felt His presence, knowing He was with me during one of the most difficult times in my life.
Just realizing this truth has brought a peace to my heart that is hard to explain. It’s just as Psalm 18:28 says, “For You will light my lamp. The Lord my God will enlighten my darkness.” Sometimes it’s not our situation that needs to change but how we see the situation. As Paul prayed for the Colossians, it is my own prayer for myself that I may be filled with the knowledge of His will, in all wisdom and receive spiritual understanding.
I’ve allowed myself to rest under the shade of His protection.
“The one who lives under the protection of the Most High dwells in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, "My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." Psalm 91:1-2
1 – 1997 Janis Vance and Linda Osborne – Harvest Bible Study/The Life of David, Lesson 1, Page 13
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Great Faith
Recently, I listened to a message I just can't get out of my mind. It was so encouraging. It was a message series by Andy Stanley - Faith, Hope, and Luck. I only heard the last part of the series which he talked about having great faith.
I encourage you to download a copy of the message or the whole series. I've provided a link:
http://resources.northpoint.org/store/shop.do?cID=10&pID=1586
I will always remember that great faith requires great surrender. It's so hard, yet very true.
May your faith be encouraged today, as you allow yourself to surrender to the One who holds everything in His hands. We can surrender because He is trustworthy and faithful.
I encourage you to download a copy of the message or the whole series. I've provided a link:
http://resources.northpoint.org/store/shop.do?cID=10&pID=1586
I will always remember that great faith requires great surrender. It's so hard, yet very true.
May your faith be encouraged today, as you allow yourself to surrender to the One who holds everything in His hands. We can surrender because He is trustworthy and faithful.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Which Way to Go?
Read: Psalm 19:7-9; Psalm 25:4-5; John 14:1-7; Hebrews 12:2
A few years ago I had the privilege of homeschooling my children while we were living overseas. As part of their history course, we included a weekly assignment of learning how to read a map. We studied every aspect of a map. We learned (yes, I learned right along with them) how to read latitude and longitude coordinates, the difference of the hemispheres, facts about the Equator and the Meridian, and so much more. It provided a lot of interesting conversations.
Some people love following maps as they like to visually see how to get from point A to point B, and others would rather not bother with the hassle of dealing with any type of directional tool (they are likely not the type to ask for directions either). With the new technology of Global Positioning Satellite systems there will be a generation that will miss the challenge and thrill of folding a map back into its original layout. Trust me I know from personal experience this can be a true accomplishment.
Several times a year our family would take road trips, and I was the keeper of the map. I would help guide my husband as he drove. We haven’t been on a driving trip yet since owning our own GPS system. It just doesn’t seem as adventurous to me. I mean where is the fun of having your map turned upside down or spread out all over the dashboard? Of course we do have the new thrill of hearing the GPS yelling, “Recalculating.”
Maps do intrigue me and I’m amazed when I think of those individuals who have spent their life making sure they are completely accurate. Could you imagine if someone decided to publish maps that were purposely incorrect only to confuse and direct someone off track? How frustrating would that be?
All of this map thinking was because I read a passage in The Message the other morning that made me understand how God’s Word is a similar tool for direction in our lives. It’s perfect to help course our way.
The Message - Psalm 19:7-9
The revelation of God is whole and pulls our lives together.
The signposts of God are clear and point out the right road.
The life-maps of God are right, showing the way to joy.
The directions of God are plain and easy on the eyes.
You see, God is the Cartographer of life. If you read His Word and seek direction in your life there is a perfect outline. I’ve heard some say the Bible is not relevant or accurate. I’ve found both statements to be completely false. Many have set out to disprove the Word of God but none have been able to accomplish this. Why? It’s the truth!
The more I read the more I’m amazed how applicable His Word is to everyday events. I even find that the promises and scriptures of encouragement meet every aspect I have dealt with in life. God wants to help us with the details of our lives.
I have a friend who doesn’t believe in the Bible, and doubts that God exists. As I was thinking about this the other day it is clear that one of us is wrong. It’s that plain and simple. I wasn’t thinking I need to prove her wrong, so that I would be right. I thought I would consider that I was the one wrong and what that would mean for me.
I thought about it simply – not trying to rationalize it theologically. If I’m wrong what does that mean for my life? What have I missed? How would my life be different? What would my life be like without using the Bible as my foundation for how I live (or should live)? What if I didn’t use this map for my life?
I came to the conclusion that I would have been miserable without Jesus in my life. I do remember the years before I believed, and a couple of years when I decided I knew which direction I should go. I was so off course and felt like my life became a disaster. Jesus Himself told his disciples, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” It really is that simple. We are the ones who complicate the truth.
Yes, I’ve found forgiveness, acceptance, and love, but it’s the true strength I receive from God’s Word that makes a difference in my life each and every day. In my hardest circumstances (I’ve had a few) I have experienced peace that couldn’t be found if God did not exist. God’s ways have given me a deep joy. I feel that the Word is my compass. The Spirit is the force in which it points me in the way I should go and directs the path I’m supposed to take.
Does that mean my friend who doesn’t believe doesn’t experience peace or joy? Absolutely not, but the joy seems only to last for a short time. There is a searching and lack of contentment in her life that is evident. I almost sense there is a pain and loneliness due to her unbelief. As if she is constantly trying to fight against the truth.
As I’ve journeyed through one of the most difficult times in my life recently, I have trusted that Jesus was with me and would help me. It has in no way been easy and there are days I’m not proud of how I responded, but I can truthfully say I still experienced a peace and a purpose. It’s not about me – it’s about Him.
During this same time I have watched friends as their lives are actually falling apart, during the “best of times” in their lives. I believe it’s because they have no direction or guidance. The so called “maps” they are using are not based on truth. Their way is clouded and it does not bring contentment. I hurt for them.
Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; He’s the one who will keep you on track. Proverbs 3:6 (The Message)
If you feel lost, get your map out, begin reading, and trust that you will be directed in the right direction.
You can even do it right where you are right now at: http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/readingplans/
May Psalm 119:50 be the praise on your lips – “For Your word has given me life.”
A few years ago I had the privilege of homeschooling my children while we were living overseas. As part of their history course, we included a weekly assignment of learning how to read a map. We studied every aspect of a map. We learned (yes, I learned right along with them) how to read latitude and longitude coordinates, the difference of the hemispheres, facts about the Equator and the Meridian, and so much more. It provided a lot of interesting conversations.
Some people love following maps as they like to visually see how to get from point A to point B, and others would rather not bother with the hassle of dealing with any type of directional tool (they are likely not the type to ask for directions either). With the new technology of Global Positioning Satellite systems there will be a generation that will miss the challenge and thrill of folding a map back into its original layout. Trust me I know from personal experience this can be a true accomplishment.
Several times a year our family would take road trips, and I was the keeper of the map. I would help guide my husband as he drove. We haven’t been on a driving trip yet since owning our own GPS system. It just doesn’t seem as adventurous to me. I mean where is the fun of having your map turned upside down or spread out all over the dashboard? Of course we do have the new thrill of hearing the GPS yelling, “Recalculating.”
Maps do intrigue me and I’m amazed when I think of those individuals who have spent their life making sure they are completely accurate. Could you imagine if someone decided to publish maps that were purposely incorrect only to confuse and direct someone off track? How frustrating would that be?
All of this map thinking was because I read a passage in The Message the other morning that made me understand how God’s Word is a similar tool for direction in our lives. It’s perfect to help course our way.
The Message - Psalm 19:7-9
The revelation of God is whole and pulls our lives together.
The signposts of God are clear and point out the right road.
The life-maps of God are right, showing the way to joy.
The directions of God are plain and easy on the eyes.
You see, God is the Cartographer of life. If you read His Word and seek direction in your life there is a perfect outline. I’ve heard some say the Bible is not relevant or accurate. I’ve found both statements to be completely false. Many have set out to disprove the Word of God but none have been able to accomplish this. Why? It’s the truth!
The more I read the more I’m amazed how applicable His Word is to everyday events. I even find that the promises and scriptures of encouragement meet every aspect I have dealt with in life. God wants to help us with the details of our lives.
I have a friend who doesn’t believe in the Bible, and doubts that God exists. As I was thinking about this the other day it is clear that one of us is wrong. It’s that plain and simple. I wasn’t thinking I need to prove her wrong, so that I would be right. I thought I would consider that I was the one wrong and what that would mean for me.
I thought about it simply – not trying to rationalize it theologically. If I’m wrong what does that mean for my life? What have I missed? How would my life be different? What would my life be like without using the Bible as my foundation for how I live (or should live)? What if I didn’t use this map for my life?
I came to the conclusion that I would have been miserable without Jesus in my life. I do remember the years before I believed, and a couple of years when I decided I knew which direction I should go. I was so off course and felt like my life became a disaster. Jesus Himself told his disciples, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” It really is that simple. We are the ones who complicate the truth.
Yes, I’ve found forgiveness, acceptance, and love, but it’s the true strength I receive from God’s Word that makes a difference in my life each and every day. In my hardest circumstances (I’ve had a few) I have experienced peace that couldn’t be found if God did not exist. God’s ways have given me a deep joy. I feel that the Word is my compass. The Spirit is the force in which it points me in the way I should go and directs the path I’m supposed to take.
Does that mean my friend who doesn’t believe doesn’t experience peace or joy? Absolutely not, but the joy seems only to last for a short time. There is a searching and lack of contentment in her life that is evident. I almost sense there is a pain and loneliness due to her unbelief. As if she is constantly trying to fight against the truth.
As I’ve journeyed through one of the most difficult times in my life recently, I have trusted that Jesus was with me and would help me. It has in no way been easy and there are days I’m not proud of how I responded, but I can truthfully say I still experienced a peace and a purpose. It’s not about me – it’s about Him.
During this same time I have watched friends as their lives are actually falling apart, during the “best of times” in their lives. I believe it’s because they have no direction or guidance. The so called “maps” they are using are not based on truth. Their way is clouded and it does not bring contentment. I hurt for them.
Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; He’s the one who will keep you on track. Proverbs 3:6 (The Message)
If you feel lost, get your map out, begin reading, and trust that you will be directed in the right direction.
You can even do it right where you are right now at: http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/readingplans/
May Psalm 119:50 be the praise on your lips – “For Your word has given me life.”
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
VICTORY!
I just have to briefly share that God gave me victory yesterday.
I was able to face one of the hardest things I deal with and came through victoriously. I was so excited and thank Him for every mile He got me through (approximately 200).
"All the glory to Him who alone is God, our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord. All glory, majesty, power, and authority are His before all time, and in the present, and beyond all time! Amen." Jude 1:25
I prayed for a miracle in my soul yesterday "in the present", and I believe I received one.
He is so good!!
I was able to face one of the hardest things I deal with and came through victoriously. I was so excited and thank Him for every mile He got me through (approximately 200).
"All the glory to Him who alone is God, our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord. All glory, majesty, power, and authority are His before all time, and in the present, and beyond all time! Amen." Jude 1:25
I prayed for a miracle in my soul yesterday "in the present", and I believe I received one.
He is so good!!
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Facing Difficult Circumstances
Read: Psalm 103:14; 1 Corinthians 3:16; and Philippians Ch. 4
Tomorrow, I must face a difficult circumstance. It's hard for me, because it's something I've struggled with for 22 years. I've tried so many things to help me deal with the fear that is a stronghold over my life. How does one, who has the faith as large as a watermelon (the mustard seed is just way too small), not be able to deal with a paralyzing fear? This fear has prevented me from truly living. I've failed to do things as places because of it. I'm so embarrassed to even share it. I'm just so exhausted living with it, and I’m sure my family is as well.
Once the fear takes over it controls my body. The symptoms I deal with are terrible and difficult to handle. I know the triggers in my brain, but for some reason I haven't been able to deal with these triggers. Panic attacks can be ugly and so embarrassing. I feel for anyone who is around me.
I've battled cancer and so far have won. The battle for me tomorrow seems harder and is more frightening to me. It just doesn't make sense?
I have my list of scriptures, and I'm praying for some victory.
God is so good! No matter what I'm dealing with, He is the same. This morning when I opened my devotional, He gave me a verse He has given me over and over again. I know it was not by coincidence – it’s God-incidence. He wanted me to remember this verse for tomorrow. I need to believe it, use it as my sword, and battle on. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13.
I know I'm not alone. I know we all have something. I had to share a little of what Mary Hollingsworth wrote (Hugs for Women) about "Soul-Esteem." She had been searching for a word to replace self-esteem. She wanted a word that would describe how "God knows that we are made of dust," but "our bodies are the temples of the living God.” She wanted a word that would show that even though we are flawed and weak as human beings, we are strong and capable because the Holy Spirit lives and works through us. She came up with the term soul-esteem.
"Our selves may be imperfect, incapable, and weak, but our souls are perfect, capable, and strong through brotherhood with Christ. Our souls are the image of the living God." She continues - "When I look in the mirror, I still see self, but I also look beyond self to my soul. I can finally look at the real me in the eye and smile. I'm reminded of 1 Corinthians 13:12 - "For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known."
I need Him not only to do a miracle in my health, but a miracle in my soul. I pray that He would help me conquer my fear and forever prevent it from holding me back to do what He has willed me to do. Beth Moore wrote in her book, So Long, Insecurity, "We can choose to become well equipped and get out there and do some real living."
If you are like me, and have something that holds you back from living. A fear that you have no idea why you can't seem to deal with, I pray you will pray this along with me, and keep battling on so that nothing could prevent us from fulfilling our callings, or just from plain on living.
Oh, LORD, I pray you would help me conquer this fear that has held me captive for too many years. I pray that others would know that you are the One who strengthens me, and through You - I can do all things. I'm expecting a miracle. I pray this in the power of Jesus' name. Amen!!
Tomorrow, I must face a difficult circumstance. It's hard for me, because it's something I've struggled with for 22 years. I've tried so many things to help me deal with the fear that is a stronghold over my life. How does one, who has the faith as large as a watermelon (the mustard seed is just way too small), not be able to deal with a paralyzing fear? This fear has prevented me from truly living. I've failed to do things as places because of it. I'm so embarrassed to even share it. I'm just so exhausted living with it, and I’m sure my family is as well.
Once the fear takes over it controls my body. The symptoms I deal with are terrible and difficult to handle. I know the triggers in my brain, but for some reason I haven't been able to deal with these triggers. Panic attacks can be ugly and so embarrassing. I feel for anyone who is around me.
I've battled cancer and so far have won. The battle for me tomorrow seems harder and is more frightening to me. It just doesn't make sense?
I have my list of scriptures, and I'm praying for some victory.
God is so good! No matter what I'm dealing with, He is the same. This morning when I opened my devotional, He gave me a verse He has given me over and over again. I know it was not by coincidence – it’s God-incidence. He wanted me to remember this verse for tomorrow. I need to believe it, use it as my sword, and battle on. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13.
I know I'm not alone. I know we all have something. I had to share a little of what Mary Hollingsworth wrote (Hugs for Women) about "Soul-Esteem." She had been searching for a word to replace self-esteem. She wanted a word that would describe how "God knows that we are made of dust," but "our bodies are the temples of the living God.” She wanted a word that would show that even though we are flawed and weak as human beings, we are strong and capable because the Holy Spirit lives and works through us. She came up with the term soul-esteem.
"Our selves may be imperfect, incapable, and weak, but our souls are perfect, capable, and strong through brotherhood with Christ. Our souls are the image of the living God." She continues - "When I look in the mirror, I still see self, but I also look beyond self to my soul. I can finally look at the real me in the eye and smile. I'm reminded of 1 Corinthians 13:12 - "For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known."
I need Him not only to do a miracle in my health, but a miracle in my soul. I pray that He would help me conquer my fear and forever prevent it from holding me back to do what He has willed me to do. Beth Moore wrote in her book, So Long, Insecurity, "We can choose to become well equipped and get out there and do some real living."
If you are like me, and have something that holds you back from living. A fear that you have no idea why you can't seem to deal with, I pray you will pray this along with me, and keep battling on so that nothing could prevent us from fulfilling our callings, or just from plain on living.
Oh, LORD, I pray you would help me conquer this fear that has held me captive for too many years. I pray that others would know that you are the One who strengthens me, and through You - I can do all things. I'm expecting a miracle. I pray this in the power of Jesus' name. Amen!!
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Adjusting
I am so sorry I haven't posted anything in two months.
I have been adjusting to returning to work, keeping my home in order (if that's possible), and dealing with additional health issues.
My desire is to continue to write, open the site up for more personal interaction, and use it as an avenue to help each other memorize God's Word. I'm up to four verses in 2010...yeah!!
Give me a couple more weeks and I should be back to writing, and the site will be up and running again.
I thank all of you who enjoy the One Thing blog and bless me with your support and love.
I have been adjusting to returning to work, keeping my home in order (if that's possible), and dealing with additional health issues.
My desire is to continue to write, open the site up for more personal interaction, and use it as an avenue to help each other memorize God's Word. I'm up to four verses in 2010...yeah!!
Give me a couple more weeks and I should be back to writing, and the site will be up and running again.
I thank all of you who enjoy the One Thing blog and bless me with your support and love.
I continue to pray for His blessings over you!
Traci
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)