wondering

Friday, December 28, 2018 (6:56 a.m.)

Dearest, Blessed, Holy God,

I’m confessing a deep sadness this morning. There is news of the unexpected deaths of people I do not know personally. I am always surprised when I feel this deeply the pain and loss of others.

Here, too, I look to You Father. Tears rolling gently down my cheeks as I again wonder what it is about me that feels emotions so deeply.

Thank You Lord. Thank You that I get to wonder things with You. And thank You that I am learning to wonder those things without judging myself too harshly.

(7:48 a.m.)

Deep breath. More reading. Hoping. Thinking. Asking. Father God, guide me in Your Word this morning.

Reading in the psalms I smile. The “book of praises” (Illustrated Bible Handbook). One of three “books of truth” [see also Job and Proverbs].

THE BOTTOM LINE PURPOSE in The Life Recovery Bible determines this book was written “to demonstrate that God is holy and loving and intimately involved in every aspect of our human experience.” Thank You God.

The comment for 2:1-6 begins with the question “If God is in charge of the world, why do we continually try to do things our own way?” Why indeed!

Thank You Father that I feel in such good company when I relate to Your Word. Psalm 77:6 states, “I call to mind my music; it keeps me company at night. Together with my heart I contemplate; my spirit searches, wondering, questioning:”.

Illustrated Bible Handbook describes: “Psalm 77. This deeply introspective psalm shares feelings and thoughts while in distress, and explains how hope was restored by recalling God’s miracle work for His people.” Again I say thank You Father.

It is so easy for me to focus on disaster and sadness. Thank You for teaching me to search Your Word at such times as this.

And here “David’s poetic praise [Psalm 101; The Passion Translation] Lord, I will sing about your faithful love for me. My song of praise will have Your justice as its theme. I’m trying my best to walk in the way of integrity, especially in my own home. But I need Your help! I’m wondering, Lord, when will You appear?” (verses 1-2).

The description for this song of praise in Illustrated Bible Handbook declares, “God’s love and justice find reflection in the worshipper’s relationship with others.” Mm, Father. Do all You must that I would truly come to reflect Your love and justice.

I love You Father. And I long to serve You exactly as You wish. Do all You must in, with, by, through and for me. I love You. Thank You. Amen.

(451 words ~ 8:38 a.m.)

first taste

Thursday, December 27, 2018 (6:18 a.m.)

Happy 3rd Day of Christmas Lord,

Yes. Happy. Joyful. Celebrate.

(6:38 a.m.)

Mm. Yes. Father, it is You who began my first taste of the actual twelve days of Christmas. Yes. A legitimate first taste. All those (over 50) years ago with a gift box of fruit. One to be opened each day.

How perfect.

(7:01 a.m.)

Yes Father. Perfect. Like You. And Jesus.

Taking time to read more about celebrating these blessed twelve days, I truly invite You in to the mix. Lead me. Guide my thinking. Direct my steps.

Even here my desire is to bring honor and glory to You as I learn more about celebrations of old. Wassailing. How have I never looked into this word before?

An early English toast to someone’s health. Waes haeil ‘be in (good) health!’ Also a very tasty hot spiced cider with apples we served just the other night. Thank You Father for yet another surprise.

All of this to bring us back around to celebrating Your Son’s miraculous birth. As I read Your Word (Luke 2:8-24) I ask You to keep my thoughts as Mary kept hers (v. 19). Quietly treasured in her heart.

Blessed, Holy Father God, I long to know more of Your Truth. Take verse 24 for example. It’s the first time I remember seeing “a pair of [two] turtledoves” mentioned in Your Word. And I smile. Feeling blessed. Kept. By You.

Use me this day in readying us for our continued celebration of Your twelve days. I love You. I long to serve You. And I thank You. So much. Amen.

(281 words ~ 8:00 a.m.)

switching gears

Wednesday, December 26, 2018 (5:49 a.m.)

Holy God,

Good morning. Thank You. We’re going to be switching gears. And I’m asking You to be present in every single way.

The season of preparation has given way to the time of celebration. The second day of Christmas and I am already feeling a sense of loss. Sadness. Change.

I recognize this as part of my pattern. It’s definitely not the first time. Thank You that even this I get to bring to You.

Earlier in the month I mistakenly referred to Advent as being part of Christmastide. Upon studying and reading more I realize that this time right now, the Twelve Days of Christmas, is actually what is known as Christmastide.

Again I am asking You to change all You must that I would not slip into a vapid case of the doldrums. Father, I love You. I am grateful for the birth of Your Son and all He came to save.

(6:56 a.m.)

A moment of rest. More reading. Searching. And Nehemiah 8:10. The Message. “He [Nehemiah] continued, ‘Go home and prepare a feast, holiday food and drink; and share it with those who don’t have anything: This day is holy to God. Don’t feel bad. The joy of GOD [the Lord] is your strength!’ ”

You have so very much to teach me about joy. And sharing. Mm. Yes. Keep working in me Father. With, by, through and for me. There are so many changes to be made. Shift the gears You know need to be shifted.

I love You. I long to serve You. Exactly as You wish. Thank You Father. Amen.

(278 words ~ 7:38 a.m.)

C-H-R-I-S-T

Christmas Day, Tuesday, December 25, 2018 (6:03 p.m.)

Happy Birthday Jesus,

Thank You. Thank You for all You have done and are doing in our lives. We love You. And are so very grateful that Christmas truly begins with You ~~ C-H-R-I-S-T.

Mm. C-H-R-I-S-T. Yes. Thank You Jesus. Happy Birthday to You! Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(69 words ~ 6:21 p.m.)

divine power

Christmas Eve Monday, December 24. 2018 (5:32 a.m.)

Blessed Holy God,

Thank You for the time we’ve had together already. Thinking. Thanking. Smiling. Hoping. Remembering. Planning. Praising.

Holy God, You are so good. Thank You that Your promises are sure. Thank You that I get to read in and of Your Word. And through it all we get to come to know You and Jesus better.

Thank You for the music singing itself within me right now ♪Noel, Noel Come and see what God has done♪ And ♪Through It All, through it all my eyes are on You♪ Thank You for the many ways and times You speak to me.

Reading Your Word, in 2 Peter 1, is especially challenging right now. Ah. There it is. The reminder to “keep it simple sweetheart”. Just read verse three. For now. It’s so exciting for me, I want to go on. Every time I do ♪Through it all♪ begins again.

“Everything we could ever need for life and complete devotion to God has already been deposited in us by His divine power. For all this was lavished upon us through the rich experience of knowing Him who has called us by name and invited us to come to Him through a glorious manifestation of His goodness” (The Passion Translation).

Just as part of me starts to wonder “Whaaaat?”, another is again singing ♪Through It All, through it all♪ reminding me to focus on Your divine power. Is it really that simple? Hmm… I wonder.

And here in the Worldwide English (New Testament) I find once more that simpler really is better for me. Verse 2, “May the loving kindness of God bless you and give you more and more peace because you know God and Jesus our Lord.” What a truly comforting thought.

“Christ is God and by His own [divine] power He has given us everything we need to live and to please God. He has given this to us because we know Him, and He has called us because He is great and good” (v. 3).

Divine power. Great and good. Do everything You must in empowering me to living this day as You would have me. Freely. Lovingly. Pleasing You as I go. I love You. Thank You. Merry Christmas Eve! Amen.

(389 words ~ 6:35 a.m.)

peace and love

Sunday, December 23, 2018 (5:06 a.m.)

Blessed, Holy God,

We’ve been talking together for hours already. The most prominent words being peace and love. Thanks Dad.

(5:41 a.m.)

And here I sit. With tears. Again. Most Holy God, I love when reading Your Words stirs me to such emotion. I find I don’t even know which way to turn.

Jude. 2 John. James. 2 Timothy. Ephesians. Galatians. Proverbs. Psalms. And especially 2 Corinthians 13:11. Thank You Father.

The Passion Translation. “Finally, beloved friends, be cheerful! Repair whatever is broken among you, as your hearts are being knit together in perfect unity. Live continually in peace, and God, the source of love and peace, will mingle with you.”

Blessed God, this has truly been an Advent season like no other for us. We have absolutely experienced reparations in the traditions of our household. Thank You. Praise You. Bless You. Keep You.

You have transformed us from the self-absorbed, immature, stubborn individuals we’ve been in the relatively recent past into a genuinely bonded team. Thank You for teaching us through these past three weeks of hope, faith and joy. Continue working in us in this coming week of peace and love.

The comment for 2 Corinthians 13:11 in The Life Recovery Bible speaks so perfectly of the apostle Paul’s challenge to the church at Corinth. “In essence, he admonished the people to open their minds and hearts to personal change and the healing of their relationships. Such spiritual growth and interpersonal harmony can be fueled by faith in God, the ultimate source of healing love and peace. As modern readers of this letter, we, too, can benefit by acting on Paul’s wise counsel.”

You do this for us Father. We open our hearts to You and You fill them with Your peace and love. How I thank You. Use me this day, this upcoming week as only You know is best. Empower, embolden and enable me in sharing the hope, faith, joy, peace and love I have experienced this blessed Advent season.

Thank You Father. I love You. Amen.

(355 words ~ 6:30 a.m.)

Truly.

Saturday, December 22, 2018 (6:33 a.m.)

Most Holy God,

We are quickly approaching the end of our time of preparation for the coming [Advent] of Your Son. Thank You Father. Truly. Thank You for this season. Thank You for the hope, the faith, and the joy we have been experiencing this year.

(7:18 a.m.)

Mm, yes Father. You have truly been working in us. Through us. With us. Thank You for the changes in us that only You could orchestrate.

(7:40 a.m.)

Searching and reading Your Word truly brings joy to my being. Ephesians 4:23-24, Easy-to-Read Version. “You must be made new in your hearts and in your thinking. Be that new person who was made to be like God, truly good and pleasing to Him.”

You are leading us Lord. Thank You. Continue doing all You must in truly turning us into the people You would have us be.

The Life Recovery Bible (NLT) tells us “there must be a spiritual renewal of your thoughts and attitudes” (v. 23). You have been doing that. Truly.

Thank You Father. I love You. Use me exactly as You wish. Amen.

(201 words ~ 8:19 a.m.)

"Emmanuel"

Friday, December 21, 2018 (5:29 a.m.)

Good morning Blessed God,

Thank You for sleep. Thank You for progress. Thank You for order. Thank You for Your presence. Yes. Especially Your presence. You with us. Emmanuel.

And now I have tears. Huge tears. And the need for a tissue.

Father, I love You. I thank You. And I need You. You with us.

We have a very sad morning planned. A funeral of a dear young woman. How I pray Your presence, Your “Emmanuel”, for her precious family.

Holy God, I love the ways You get my attention. Sometimes subtly. And others, right in my face.  Emmanuel. You with us. Matthew 1:23.

I can’t even read for the tears. My heart breaks. Mind wanders. Isaiah (7:14) foretold the circumstances of Jesus’ birth 700 years before and Joseph was reminded of it in a dream.

Thank You for his willingness to believe. Trust. Hope. Have faith. In You. Your Word. Your promises.

Reading the RECOVERY PROFILE of JOSEPH & MARY in The Life Recovery Bible my mind is boggled by all the emotions being stirred within. Balancing their "Strengths And Accomplishments, Weaknesses And Mistakes, Lessons From Their Lives and Key Verses", (Matthew 1:19-20) I am encouraged.

Joseph didn’t know what he thought he knew. He made false assumptions. An angel spoke to him in a dream. Then he believed and trusted You. Thank You God for his commitment to You. And ultimately to Mary.

Father, use their example of “rebuild[ing] trust and repair[ing] love in relationships that were once very fragile” as we go about this day. This day that begins with a family saying good bye to their most dear one.

They need Your presence Lord. Your “Emmanuel”. As do we all.

I love You. I need You. I trust You. I want You and I thank You Father. Use me as You know is best. Thank You. Amen.

(318 words ~ 6:28 a.m.)

prophetic word

Thursday, December 20, 2018 (4:27 a.m.)

Blessed, Holy God,

Good morning. Where in Your Word shall we go this very early time of the day?

2 Peter 1:19.

(6:44 a.m.)

And then… more sleep! Thank You God.

Mm. Morning. Morning Star. Prophetic word.

The apostle Peter wrote to “all believers everywhere to help his readers keep their focus on God’s grace and truth” (The Life Recovery Bible THE BOTTOM LINE). At the beginning of his greeting Paul said, “I am writing to all of you who share the same precious faith we have, faith given to us by Jesus Christ, our God and Savior, who makes us right with God (v. 1)

“May God bless you with His special favor and wonderful peace as you come to know God and Jesus our Lord better and better” (2). Yes please Father.

(8:08 a.m.)

Thank You that I get to come before You asking where to go in Your Word and You answer me. The Life Recovery Bible tells us, “Get to know God. The God of the universe has made Himself available to us on a personal level. As we get to know Him, He will help us overcome our shortcomings and replace them with self-control, kindness, love, forgiveness, perseverance, patience, and peace.”

And You do. I notice it in so many ways. You truly are everything we need. And I thank You. Being particularly aware that “Christmas begins with Christ” has helped me look to You more readily and often. Thank You.

Thank You for the especially early start to this prayer. My actual glimpse of the morning star (Venus) shining in the eastern sky. The reason I grasped so firmly to verse 19 this morning. Peter recounting his history with his dear Friend.

“We heard that voice from heaven while we were with Jesus on the holy [sacred] mountain. This makes us more sure about the message the prophets gave [or And we also have a reliable message from the prophets; And we have the prophetic word confirmed; probably referring to the Old Testament]. It is good for you [You do well] to follow closely what they said as you would follow a light [lamp] shining in a dark place, until the day begins [dawns] and the morning star rises in your hearts [Num. 24:17; Rev. 22:16; the planet Venus as seen before sunrise, here symbolizing Christ]. Most [First] of all, you must understand this: No prophecy in the Scriptures ever comes from the prophet’s own interpretation [or is a matter of one’s own interpretation]. No prophecy ever came from what a person wanted to say [human will/intention], but people led [carried; moved] by the Holy Spirit spoke words from God. [True prophecy originates with God, not with the prophet.]” (Expanded Bible; vs. 18-21).

So many variations of referring back to the writings of Your prophets and their prophetic words. Let me hear You clearly this day. Guide me. Direct me. Use me. Exactly as You know is best.

I love You. I long to serve You. And I thank You. Amen.

(524 words ~ 8:28 a.m.)

great joy

Wednesday, December 19, 2018 (6:24 a.m.)

Blessed God,

Thank You. Sleep happened. Off and on through much of the night. And earlier this morning.

(7:14 a.m.)

With the breaks between being awake and asleep there were a lot of thoughts. Wonders. Reading. And reminders. The best for me? Luke 2:10. The Voice, “Messenger: Don’t be afraid! Listen! I bring good news, news of great joy, news that will affect all people everywhere.”

Important stuff here. A reassuring angel. The call to pay attention. An announcement of Good News and great joy for everyone. Holy God, it is Your great joy I long to experience. Thank You for this opportunity.

This Season of Advent has been wonderfully exciting for me. One like none before. Truly I struggled to hope that first week. Followed by seven days of forsaking all and trusting You [faith]. And now, a week of joy. Great joy. Yes, please!

The Life Recovery Bible comment for this section tells us, “2:8-12 Encounters with the living God inevitably elicit fear. The angels reassured the shepherds: ‘Don’t be afraid!’” Because the shepherds believed what they were told, they “realized that God accepted them and wanted to communicate with them, they were free to worship the Christ child.”

Good News. Great joy!

“Jesus’ coming in the flesh reassures us that our holy and almighty God is a personal God. God is with us and for us. We need not fear the unknown future or the all-too-familiar past. When we put our faith in the living God of yesterday, today, and tomorrow, His perfect love expels all fear (see 1 John 4:18).”

Good News. Great joy. Perfect love. Advent. "A time of expectant waiting and preparation for both the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas and the return of Jesus at the Second Coming." Hope. Faith. Joy. Great joy. Thank You Father.

Use me this day. Exactly as You know is best. I love You. Thank You. Amen.

(337 words ~ 8:09 a.m.)

Priorities!

Tuesday, December 18, 2018 (5:48 a.m.)

Holy God,

Thank You for the ways You are changing our hearts. Interests. Priorities.

Yes Father. Priorities! Your Word. Your plans. Your love. Joy. Peace. Patience… (Galatians 5:22-23).

Speaking of joy, I made another mistake the other day. Even this is a change for me. Being able to quickly identify and admit errors. Thank You Father!

The third week of Advent is traditionally known as one of joy, not peace. Peace is symbolized next week. Thank You Father.

Thank You for the work You do. In our hearts. Our souls. Our minds. Our strength. It’s You. Wow! Would You even look at this?

What seems to come completely out of nowhere, suddenly I am singing in Spanish. Two words. But still! Eres Tú. It Is You.

See? Even this. A second language with which I am mostly unfamiliar, singing perfectly to me of some of Your aspects. Thank You Father. I have chills and tears at Your perfection. Thank You.

Thank You that Your Word speaks to us in so very many ways. Turning to it we are encouraged. Warned. Compelled. Promised.

Most dear and holy God, this morning I ask You to guide and direct us in pleasing and serving You as You wish. Thank You for all You are and all You do. Use us to Your good and to Your glory.

I love You. I thank You. I need You. I trust You. Enable and empower me in sharing Your joy. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(260 words ~ 7:26 a.m.)

align me

Sunday, December 16, 2018 (6:28 a.m.)

Most Holy God,

Thank You that I get to come to You. Anywhere. Anytime. Yes Father. Thank You.

I am confessing to feeling a little off-kilter. Yes. That’s the word. Not aligned or balanced. Thank You even for this Dear God.

Turning to You during the long, somewhat sleepless night I asked Your blessing and keeping of others. Loved ones. Those who are hurting. Now, during the light of day, I am asking You to align me to Your will. Your way.

Even here I thank You. There’s a smile on my face. A lightness to my spirit. Thank You that I get to ask You for a spiritual alignment. Mm. Yes. Arrange my thinking, our plans, in Your “correct or appropriate relative position” [alignment].

I am settling in to Your Word. Smiling as I go. Thank You so much Father.

Guided over to Romans 8 (v. 27 in The Voice) I read of “The Spirit’s Power New Life Through the Spirit ” (Illustrated Bible Handbook). And I hope. Rest. Breathe. Give in. Asking again, align me to Your will Dear Lord.

Make it so that what matters most to You matters most to me. “Don’t you know that He who pursues and explores the human heart intimately knows the Spirit’s mind because He pleads to God for His saints to align their lives with the will of God?” (Romans 8:27).

Beginning with verse 26 in The Life Recovery Bible I fully exhale and then inhale without even thinking. Breathing in the freshness of Your Spirit. “And the Holy Spirit helps us in our distress. For we don’t even know what we should pray for, nor how we should pray. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will.”

“In harmony with God’s own will.” Yes Father, please! Align my heart with Yours. My soul, mind and strength. Settle the turmoil I am experiencing within. I love you and I long to represent You as You know is best.

Thank You for this time together. Use me to Your good and to Your glory. Pointing to the peace this third Sunday of Advent symbolizes. I love You. Thank You. Amen.

(390 words ~ 7:45 a.m.)

quiet patience

Saturday, December 15, 2018 (5:40 a.m.)

Holy God,

It’s early. And I’m grateful.

Yes Father. Grateful. For more things than I can even begin to count. Warmth. Lights. Quiet. Mm, yes. I do love quiet, don’t I?

Okay Dad, let’s talk about me and my love of quiet. What’s that about? Just how far back does it go? Better still, what does Your Word have to say about quiet? A lot! So much.

For now I ask You to guide me through the 24 verses found in The Passion Translation. The quiet brook of bliss is mentioned for Psalm 23:2. Quiet patience is listed as a must have in Ephesians (4:2).

Yes. That’s the one! “With tender humility and quiet patience, always demonstrate gentleness and generous love toward one another, especially toward those who may try your patience.” Oh yes Father. Teach me this.

While in prison the apostle Paul wrote to encourage the believers in Ephesus to live together in unity. The Message says, “And mark that you do this with humility and discipline - not in fits and starts, but steadily, pouring yourselves out for each other in acts of love, alert at noticing differences and quick at mending fences.”

Oh yes. Most dear and blessed God, let me live this day not in fits and starts, but steadily, pouring myself out for others in acts of love, alert at noticing differences and quick at mending fences. This is my prayer Most Holy God.

I love You. It’s time to get started. How I ask You to enable and empower me to approach this day ‘with tender humility and quiet patience, always demonstrat[ing] gentleness and generous love toward others, especially toward those who may try my patience’ (TPT).

I love You. I need You. Use me exactly as You know is best. Thank You Father. Amen.

(311 words ~ 6:26 a.m.)

promises

Friday, December 14, 2018 (5:21 a.m.)

Blessed, Holy God,

Thank You for Your awesomeness. Thank You for Your promises. Thank You for the hope that comes from believing You.

Thank You that I get to sit here, reading Your Word. Smiling. Hoping. Trusting. Believing. Isaiah 35. Mm, “Hope for Restoration”.

Most Holy God, I have been living in Your hope! Thank You Father.

Illustrated Bible Handbook describes this chapter as “Kingdom Joy for the Redeemed; 35:1-10… one of the most beautiful chapters in the OT.” I concur!

“Even the wilderness will rejoice in those days. The desert will blossom with flowers. Yes, there will be an abundance of flowers and singing and joy!” (Isaiah 35:1-2a).

My smile grows bigger with each word I read. Such description of hope. The Voice begins verse 2 with the promise, “It will happen!” Thanks Dad. Thank You for Your promises.

As we prepare to go off into this day, I ask You to go before us. Behind us. Above, beneath, beside and especially within us. The excitement that comes from believing and trusting Your promises is monumental. Use Your Words to guide us throughout this day I pray.

Thank You for Your love. Thank You for Your plan. Thank You for Your promises. I love You Father. Use me as only You know is best; that I will truly be “…singing songs of everlasting joy” (v. 10b). Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(240 words ~ 6:39 a.m.)

"BEL1EVE the Magic"

Thursday, December 13, 2018 (4:42 a.m.)

Blessed God,

Thank You. Once more You have reminded me to stay in this moment. Not jump ahead to anything that may or may not happen next. Don’t think about things from before. Just stay here. In this moment. This magic moment.

I honestly could not wait to get out here and start exploring this magic moment with You. Of course it’s the song I grew up singing by Marvin Gaye. But taking it deeper, it truly sums up my feelings toward You.

♪This Magic Moment so different and so new was like any other until I kissed You♪ But then I felt awkward as I considered kissing You. I know I have skirted this issue before.

Imagine my delight just now as I searched out “a Biblical kiss” and found what it represents. Respect and honor, love, fidelity, deep emotional attachment, joy or sadness, loyalty. Yes on all accounts!

Thank You God. Thank You for musical reminders of what we experience in our relationship with You.

♪And then it happened. It took me my surprise I knew that You felt it too By the look in Your eyes. Sweeter than wine Softer than a summer night Everything I want I have Whenever I hold You tight♪ It’s so true! We really do have everything we want when we hold tightly to You. Your teachings. Your promises. Thank You Father.

♪This magic moment While Your lips are close to mine Will last forever Forever till the end of time♪ On Your lips is the promise of eternity. ♪Forever till the end of time♪

Now, just as playfully as possible at 5:30 in the morning comes the musical strain of Perry Como singing ♪Magic Moments, when two hearts are caring Magic moments, memories we’ve been sharing I’ll never forget…♪

Mm, yes Father. Make it so I never forget! There is so much talk about magic these days. Thank You for reminding me that mercy and grace in Christ is what it is all about for me.

And as I took it that one step further so much earlier I came up with the need we each have to “BEL1EVE the Magic”. Not the magic of a merchandising holiday blitz. No! The True belief that: “Before everything, lived 1 eternally vast entity [Genesis1:1]; the mercy and grace in Christ.”

Father, You call me to Truth. You remind me that I am to fully esteem and revere You. Staying in this moment. This very magical moment. Thank You Father. I love You. Use me as You know is best. Thank You. Amen.

(449 words ~ 6:14 a.m.)

Goodness.

Wednesday, December 12, 2018 (5:59 a.m.)

Holy God,

Good morning. Good sleep. Good work. Good God. There seems to a theme running through here.

Thank You Father. Thank You for the goodness that comes from You. Mm, yes. Goodness. Your goodness.

I get to search and read Your Word. Right now? Psalm 31. A crying out from David. Surrender. Trust. Commitment. A complete reliance on You. Even words spoken by Jesus on the cross, verse 5.

(6:28 a.m.)

Just now, a reminder to look outside the window. Your glorious goodness expressed in living color! Bright, vibrant colors. Thank You God.

Thank You for signs of Your goodness that come to us in so many ways. Continue Your work in me that I will truly share that goodness with others.

David knew to turn to You. To trust (14) Your great goodness (19). Thank You for his example Dearest Lord. Empower and embolden me in being strong and taking courage (24a) as one who truly loves (23) and puts my hope in You (24b).

Mm, yes. Goodness. Your great goodness and blessings. Use me this day, exactly as You know is best. I love You Father. Increase my faith in all You are and all You do. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(214 words ~ 6:45 a.m.)

f.a.i.t.h.

Monday, December 10, 2018 (6:00 a.m.)

Holy God,

Good morning. I’m here asking You to teach me about faith. I’ve come to know it as “forsaking all I trust Him” [Jesus]. Thank You Father.

Hmm. Yes. This morning I ask You to teach me more about what it really is to forsake all and trust You and Your Son. Mm. Forsaking [abandoning, deserting, leaving high and dry, turning one's back on...].

Of all places in Your Word, I find myself with David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17:20-47). David’s faith in You led him to forsake all fear and trust in You. And he was successful in his quest. Why? He forsook all and trusted You.

Thank You Father. Thank You for the Great Examples of Faith (Hebrews 11) that pepper both Your Old and New Testaments. Thank You for Your obedient followers who wrote and told the history of those believers who had come before.

And the overwhelming theme? Again and again, “Do not be afraid.” Thank You Father. Your chosen people were told repeatedly to “Be strong and courageous” (Deuteronomy 31:6) and words to that effect.

I look to You this morning Blessed God. To You in truly teaching me to forsake all and trust Jesus. Thank You.

Use me as only You know is best. Hoping. Trusting. Believing. Knowing that You will never leave nor forsake [abandon] us (Deuteronomy 31:6, 8). Thanks Dad.

David knew that his battle with Goliath belonged to You (1 Samuel 17). Embolden and empower me to faith like that. You know? That faith the size of a mustard seed. Yeah. Again I say, “Thanks Dad!”

I love You. I trust You. I thank You. Amen.

(277 words ~ 7:08 a.m.)

choosing "faith"

Sunday, December 9, 2018 (6:14 a.m.)

Holy God,

Good morning. Thank You. Lead me this morning, won’t You?

(7:07 a.m.)

Very close to an hour has been spent searching which word You would have me associate with the Second Sunday of Advent. I have it written as “love”. Some refer to it as the Sunday of Hope, which I celebrated last week. Others prefer “peace”. I confess confusion.

Speak loudly to me please. Guide. Direct. Calm. Settle.

The Scripture verses I find cited most direct us to preparing the way. So here I sit. Settling in to Your leading. Choosing “faith”. Mm. Yes. Holy God, forsaking all I trust Him!

Zechariah’s Prophecy (Luke 1:67-80) at the birth of his son, John [the Baptist].

John the Baptist Prepares the Way (Matthew 3:1-2).

Comfort for God’s People (Isaiah 40).

It all takes faith. My focus for this week. Thank You Father. I love You. Amen.

(161 words ~ 7:59 a.m.)

so big

Saturday, December 8, 2018 (7:03 a.m.)

Holy God,

I had planned to thank You much earlier. Before 3 a.m. to be exact. I smiled so big the moment I walked outside.

Christmas lights on the fence. Stars shining brightly in the sky. All these hours later and my heart still mimics my face. Smiling. So big.

Thank You Father.

(7:33 a.m.)

Mm, yes. Turning in Your Word I read of a mustard seed, “the tiniest seed you can sow” (Mark 4:31, The Voice) being likened to the kingdom of God. “But after that seed is planted, it grows into the largest plant in the garden, a plant so big that birds can build their nests in the shade of its branches” (32).

Peter’s good friend John Mark goes on to tell the Christians in Rome, “Jesus spoke many parables like these to the people who followed Him. This was the only way He taught them, although when He was alone with His chosen few, He interpreted all the stories so the disciples truly understood ” (33).

Illustrated Bible Handbook tells us “that these sayings are designed to hide truth from those without spiritual perception, and that they are carefully explained to the disciples” (Mark 4:1-34). Following a discussion of the Parables of the Kingdom over to Matthew 13:3-50, I read: “3. Mustard seed 13:31-32”.

As a side note; I just took great delight in finding the verse numbers in Matthew 13 being so similar to those in Mark 4. Thank You God for surprising and simple delights!

This discussion of the parables starts off with Expected Form and Unexpected Form. The expected form for the Kingdom is that it begins in majestic glory. The unexpected form tells us “Kingdom begins in insignificance; its greatness comes as a surprise.”

Immediately I think of Jesus’ birth. Thank You Father.

Thank You for the desire You place in our hearts. Desire to know more. To do more.

Thinking of things the size of a mustard seed, I wonder about faith. Both Matthew and Luke speak of Jesus teaching on having “faith as small as a mustard seed” in chapters 17. Matthew in verse 20 and Luke, verse 6.

Luke (17:1-10) shares Teachings about Forgiveness and Faith. The Life Recovery Bible ends a devotional on this section stating, “Faith is a mysterious commodity. Jesus says that if we have faith, real faith, it only takes a small amount to make a big difference.”

Thank You for this reminder Dearest God.

“We may be exercising faith without even realizing it. It takes faith to believe that a Power greater than ourself could restore us to sanity. It takes faith to work through the steps of a recovery program. It is comforting to know that God only needs a tiny bit of faith in order to work in powerful ways to restore our sanity.”

How I thank You that this section on faith (vs. 5-6) is immediately preceded by Jesus’ teaching of the disciples' need to extend unlimited forgiveness to one another (1-4). Thank You Father. Am I correct in relating the ability to forgive with a mustard seed size of faith? I think so.

And then, completely unrelated to Your Word comes another story about this time of year. Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas. Beginning with the idea that “his heart was two sizes too small” the story continues with descriptions of the Grinch's monstrous antics of attempting to stop Christmas.

Thank You Father for childlike reminders from the Whos down in Whoville who taught the Grinch that the spirit of Christmas doesn’t depend on material things. “And what happened then? Well, in Whoville they say - that the Grinch’s small heart grew three sizes that day. And then - the true meaning of Christmas came through, and the Grinch found the strength of ten Grinches, plus two!”

Faith. The size of a mustard seed. And all this brought on by a smile so big because of a strand of Christmas lights strung on a backyard fence. Thank You God. Thank You for giving us reason to look up into a very early morning’s starry sky.

Use me this day Father, exactly as You know is best. I love You. I need You. I thank You. I trust You. Indeed. Thank You. Amen.

(726 words ~ 10:29 a.m.)

delightfully surprised

Friday, December 7, 2018 (5:01 a.m.)

Blessed God,

Thank You. I just smiled again. Christmas lights, hung by the dear husband, just came on in our patio. Surprise! Yes. Delightfully surprised. Again.

I first wrote these two words much earlier this year. While putting away Christmas decorations, without an inventory list. It was my effort to put a positive spin on an otherwise frustrating situation.

That simple strategy has worked wonderfully well throughout the year. Thank You Father.

This morning I again look to You for delightful surprises. Like just now, finding these two words together in The Passion Translation. Luke 1:30. The angel Gabriel calming Mary as he prepares to tell her of Your plan for her.

My heart settles as my hope soars. A new way of looking at the phrase, “Do not be afraid.”

In this particular translation we are told, “Mary was deeply troubled over the words of the angel and bewildered over what this may mean for her. But the angel reassured her, saying, ‘Do not yield to your fear, Mary, for the Lord has found delight in You and has chosen to surprise you with a wonderful gift” (Luke 1:29-30).

“Do not yield to your fear.” Hmm. Don’t give in to fear. Thank You for speaking to us Father. 

You found delight in Mary and surprised her with a wonderful gift. Let my thoughts this day center on Your Truth Blessed God.

I love You. I want to serve You. Do all You must in teaching me not to yield to fear. Thank You for Your delightful surprises Father. Amen.

(268 words ~ 6:08 a.m.)

Psalm 25

Thursday, December 6, 2018 (6:03 a.m.)

Holy God,

Good morning. Thank You. You are good. We are grateful. Work in me again this day, I ask.

(6:53 a.m.)

Mmm, and You do.

I get to read in and of Your Word. Directed to Psalm 25:8-10, I settle in. Breathing fully. Hoping. Trusting. Believing You to be all that David says You are. Good (v. 8). Saving (5). Merciful (7). Rescuing (15). Protective (20).

Yes Father. I sit. Read. And smile. All it takes is one word [settle] or phrase [be still] and my mind takes another unexpected turn. “Be still and know that I am God!” (Psalm 46:10).

You ‘speak’ to us always. Thank You for the times I am able to ‘hear’ You. You provide us the faith, hope and love (1 Corinthians 13:13) we need to proceed everyday. Thanks Dad.

The United States of America is going through a time of grief and reflection right now. The death and ultimate burial of our “kinder and gentler” forty-first president. People are mourning. Suspending hostilities of otherwise bitter exchanges.

Work in our vulnerabilities right now Dearest God. While hearts are softened and reflective, come in and fill the void left by a man who truly led by Your example.

You alone are good Blessed God. You absolutely know what is best. Lead us. Guide us. Use us. Change us.

I love You. I long to serve You. Do all You must. Thank You God. Amen.

(254 words ~ 7:34 a.m.)

more about hope

Wednesday, December 5, 2018 (6:18 a.m.)

Most Holy God,

Thank You! You’re working in me. I can tell. Smiles come more easily. Thoughts are truly brighter.

Sleep happened. There were dreams. Some awake time. And then, more sleep. Thanks Dad!

Again I am asking You to teach me more about hope. This morning I’m looking into Hebrews 11:1 which works to define faith. Now I am all the more confused. Yet still smiling.

Thank You Father. Thank You that we get to come to You with questions. Wonders. Hopes. Dreams. Even doubts. And fear.

Your Word tells us of the numerous times people were told to come. Thank You Father. Jesus told ‘all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, come to me and I will give you rest’ (Matthew 11:28). I get to come. With all I am. And all I carry. Thank You Father.

Thank You that in the apostle John’s Revelation we are called to hope. Here Jesus said, “Look! Here I stand at the door and knock. If you hear me calling and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal as friends” (Revelation 3:20). Hmmm. Hope.

Yes. You provide us hope. And faith. Now I’m asking for understanding of their meanings.

A devotion entitled Hope in Faith in The Life Recovery Bible poses these questions relating to Hebrews 11:1-10, “How can we be confident that something we want is going to happen, especially if all of our hopes have been dashed? How can we risk believing that the life we hope for is waiting for us just around the bend?”

I saw a glimpse of something I have long hoped for come to fruition just last night. This Advent Season the husband is actively involved and excited about decorating the house, something that had rarely been the case in the past. Thank You for the ability to recognize a true hope come to pass.

It is to You I turn in my wondering and hoping. “Step Two [of the twelve] is often referred to as ‘the hope step.’ In coming to believe that a Power greater than ourself can restore us to sanity, we will remember what it was like to live sanely and have the faith to hope that sanity can return.”

The faith to hope. Hmmm… Continuing in the devotional, “The Bible tells us that the key is in the nature of the higher Power we look to. We are told that ‘anyone who wants to come to Him must believe that there is a God and that He rewards those who sincerely seek Him’ (Hebrews 11:6).”

There’s that word again. “Come.” Mm, yes! Thank You Father.

This particular devotional concludes with this Truth, “If we see God as one who is reaching out to help us, we will be more eager to look for Him. If our faith has not matured to that point yet, we can… start by asking God to help us have more faith. Then we can ask Him for the courage to hope for a better future.”

Yes please Father. Give me not only the courage to hope, but the wisdom to know what true hope really is.

Do in, with, by, through and for me that which only You can. Teach me to truly have faith and thus, hope. Thank You God. I love You. Amen.

(596 words ~ 10:58 a.m.)

In You

Tuesday, December 4, 2018 (5:05 a.m.)

Most Blessed, Holy God,

How I thank You Lord. And I ask You. Please teach me about hope.

(6:36 a.m.)

I realized yesterday that I tend to put my hope in circumstances. Works. Results. Where am I truly meant to place my hope? In You!

Thinking about my own resistance [refusal] to freely hope, I realized my hope is generally related to outcomes. Cause and effect. Do this, get that. Hope, receive.

Teach me Father.

The chorus ♪In You♪ has been singing to me loudly since yesterday. Countering every thought of disappointment related to misplaced hope, my heart truly reminded me that ♪My life… strength… hope is in You, Lord♪

The thought just came to me; maybe I don’t know how to hope. What do You think Lord? Am I on to something? Asking You to teach me how to hope?

Yes. I think so.

James wrote to show Your people how to live, telling them “If you need wisdom - if you want to know what God wants you to do - ask Him, and He will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking” (James 1:5).

Thank You Father. Thank You for the privilege to come before You with every single aspect of our beings. Indecision. Hopelessness. Fear. And finally, “Faith, hope and love” (1 Corinthians 13:13). The three things that will endure.

Yes Father. Thank You.

I keep going back and forth between Romans 5:1-6 and James 1:2-4, noting the similarities of rejoicing in problems and troubles as a way of growing in endurance. Faith Brings Joy (Romans) and Faith and Endurance (James).

Father, as I ask You to continue Your work in me I keep noticing the smile breaking through on my face and in my heart and soul. Thank You Father. It is to You I turn. In You I place my hope and faith and trust. Keep teaching me I pray. Especially at this particularly sacred time of year.

I love You, Dad. I long to be the woman You would have me be. A woman of hope. In You. Yes. Please. I love You. I thank You. Amen.

(372 words ~ 8:17 a.m.)

an Advent of Hope

Monday, December 3, 2018 (5:04 a.m.)

Most Dear God of all things,

(5:43 a.m.)

Even a simple salutation distracts me to search and seek and learn more.

Wanting to make sure that calling You the most dear God of all things is accurate. After searching and seeking and reading a few things I’m even more confused than ever.

(6:06 a.m.)

Let me then start over.

Oh Most Good and Glorious God,

Thank You. Thank You that You know me and You love me. Confusion and all.

My thoughts get ahead of me.

Thank You for the glorious beauty of Your sky just now. Father, I truly don’t know where to turn. To Your Word. In Your Word. Where?

Hope.

Yes! Thank You Father.

Now I have tears.

I spent much of yesterday avoiding spending time alone with You. I didn’t know what to do with the frustration that comes when my hopes and plans are not realized in the ways I think I want.

Thank You that You know best. You really do. Align me with Your best for me.

I confess to folding easily. One thing or another comes along to challenge my direction and I often just give up. Change that in me I pray.

And here I get to confess just as readily my unwillingness to hope. Hide? Yes. Mope? Uh-huh. Hope? Not so much.

It’s risky. I might get hurt. Or disappointed.

Forgive me Father. You call us to hope. Empower me in heeding this call.

The apostle Paul wrote to encourage Timothy in his faithfulness to You. “It is God who saved us and chose us to live a holy life. He did this not because we deserved it, but because that was His plan long before the world began - to show His love and kindness to us through Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 1:9).

The Life Recovery Bible comment for this verse includes 1:7-14. It speaks of Timothy’s tendency toward fear and timidity (v. 7). “Paul said that God gives ‘power, love and self-discipline.’ Paul told Timothy not to let his weakness stop him from ministering to others. His success was not based on his ability, skill or courage. It was based on the Holy Spirit’s power working in him.”

Oh most Holy and Worthy God, do in and with, by, through and for me all these things I cannot do on my own. Simple things. Like being willing to hope. In You!

“In recovery we don’t have the inherent strength, courage, and self-discipline needed to overcome our dependency. Through God’s power, however, we can succeed in recovery” (TLRB comment above). Do all You must Dear Father. I long to hope as You would have me.

Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(469 words ~ 7:29 a.m.)

meditate

Sunday, December 2, 2018 (5:47 a.m.)

Blessed God,

My thoughts are quiet this morning. Not at all forthcoming. Quite inattentive. I’m asking You to bring me back around. Where would You have me? Thinking and meditating on what?

(6:57 a.m.)

On You! Thank You God.

Here I do sit. Bible in lap. Distractions come and go.

Christmastide!

Saturday, December 1, 2018 (5:53 a.m.)

Holy God,

Good morning. We’re going to be getting ready for Advent. I look to You Blessed Lord. Guide us in our efforts of honoring and acknowledging You.

(6:39 a.m.)

So here I sit. Bible and Hymnal on my lap. Searching one and then the other. Reading lyrics to songs of worship that I do not know.

Turning to the referenced Scripture verses I marvel at the hope and trust of Your people. Thank You Father for their example.

(6:57 a.m.)

Right this minute I’m going to pause and be honest with You. I’m feeling frustrated and irritated at the moment. Rather than blindly continuing in the thanks and praises that I really truly do feel, I thought I should confess to You what You already know. I want different than I have. My ears are now both plugged. The cough continues. Changing my food intake is way harder for me than in the past. Whine, gripe, grumble, grouse…

Thank You Father that I can even lay that at Your feet. And You know? Just by doing that, I feel lighter! I’m smiling. And truly grateful. Thanks Dad!

The Joyful Certainty of Justification; (Romans) 5:1-11 which I am reading in Illustrated Bible Handbook has me equally excited and confused. Again, I look to You for guidance and understanding.

(7:37 a.m.)

An interruption of sheer shock. News of the completely unexpected death of a vibrant, lively young woman. Oh Blessed God how I ask Your presence with her loving family and many friends.

As I switch gears back to preparing to celebrate Christmastide, my heart stays with those suffering loss. Most Blessed God, comfort and keep Your hurting ones.

Father, I did not expect this morning’s time with You to take so many directions. Reading of Justification (Illustrated Bible Handbook) I learn, “It is a judicial act of God by which He declares us righteous. It is intimately linked with forgiveness of sins. And it is the beginning of a new life of faith in which we desire to please God.”

Hmmm… desire to please You. What would it be like if we were to truly spend this Advent Season desiring to please You?

Romans 5:11 tells us, “So now we can rejoice with God - all because of what our Lord Jesus Christ has done for us in making us friends of God.” Oh yes Father!

(9:32 a.m.)

And I’m back. Again.

Starting once more with the hymn that began this whole line of thought. ♪O Thou Joyful, O Thou Wonderful♪ Mm. This phrase repeats for each of the three verses.

♪ …Grace revealing Christmastide! …Love revealing Christmastide! …Peace revealing Christmastide!♪ Each verse teaching us more.

♪ …Jesus came to win us From all sin within us; Glorify the holy Child! …Loud hosanna singing And all praises bringing: May Thy love with us abide! …Darkness disappeareth, God’s own light now neareth: Peace and joy to all betide!♪

This dear Father is my prayer, that this Christmastide we will reflect the hope, love, joy and peace that Christ came to bring this world.

We love You. We need You. We ask You to use as You know is best. Thank You Father; for Who You are and all You do. Amen.

(554 words ~ 10:02 a.m.)

brink

Friday, November 30, 2018 (6:46 a.m.)

Holy God,

Thank You.

(9:11 a.m.)

Yes Father, thank You.

Thank You for choices. Options. Ideas. Plans. Thank You for the ones that work. And even for those that don’t.

Holy God, I’m in a situation. I know I have to change the way I have been eating. When I think about it, it’s been over two years that I’ve known it. Yet, I keep playing with the persuasion that this one little thing can’t possibly hurt.

I’m here to tell You what You already know. I guess that borders on confessing. No. Much more like a brink!

Mm, yes most Holy God. You are so incredibly good and kind. Forgive me for my foolishness. I continue eating all the things I want to believe will not harm me. Just this one little taste. I’m even going to go so far as to tell You that right at this very moment I don’t even want to change.

Much earlier, as I was waking, I knew I had to. I was committed. Ready. Willing. Here we are, a few hours into relearning good common sense and it’s harder this time. I look to You for help.

As I come to You on the brink of change again I thank You. Brink: a point at which something, typically something unwelcome, is about to happen. Yep! Exactly that.

Getting to turn to Your Word (Psalm 86) and read A prayer of David, I smile. And hope. Focusing on verses 11-17 humbly I ask You, “Train me, GOD, to walk straight; then I’ll follow Your true path. Put me together, one heart and mind; then undivided, I’ll worship in joyful fear. From the bottom of my heart I thank You, dear Lord; I’ve never kept secret what You’re up to. You’ve always been great toward me - what love! You snatched me from the brink of disaster!”

I believe this Father. How I ask for the strength and courage to make good on this commitment to You. And to my body for it’s own good health’s sake.

“God, these bullies [read here as: deceitful thoughts] have reared their heads! A gang of thugs [again; lying justifications] is after me - and they don’t care a thing about You. But You, O God, are both tender and kind, not easily angered, immense in love, and You never, never quit. So look me in the eye and show kindness, give Your servant the strength to go on, save Your dear, dear child! Make a show of how much You love me so the bullies [deceivers] who hate me will stand there slack-jawed, As You, GOD, gently and powerfully put me back on my feet.”

Oh yes Blessed God. Yes. Yes. Yes!

Illustrated Bible Handbook describes this chapter as “Psalm 86. God’s abounding love meets David’s deepest needs (1-10) as he chooses to commit himself fully to God’s Truth (11-17).”

That description describes me well as I confess my careless, foolish ways to You. Asking, seeking, knocking (Matthew 7:7) for the strength of will and heart to eat as You are commanding me. Mindfully. Systematically. Controlled. For four days.

“86:11-17 We only know God’s will as we seek to know Him through prayer and the study of His Word. The more we know about God, the more we know what He expects of us. As we get to know God better, we will discover the He gives us not only direction but also the strength and encouragement we need to walk the pathway He has chosen for us” (The Life Recovery Bible).

Yes Father. I believe this to be true. Your pathway. Your direction. Your strength and encouragement. Please. Thank You. I love You. And desperately need You. Thank You. Amen.

(639 words ~ 10:19 a.m.)

barely scratching the surface

Wednesday, November 28, 2018 (6:36 a.m.)

Nearing Ensenada, MX

Holy God,

Thank You again. Sleep. Your Word. And another visit to the book of Galatians.

(7:40 a.m.)

The more I read, the more I realize I am barely scratching the surface of all Your Word has for us.

I started out to learn more about “Freedom to Live Love; 5:13-26”. Following directions to see one area or another I’ve read of our old nature and the new. Old Testament law and New Testament righteousness. And freedom.

Truly Father my head swirls. There is so much hope in Your Truth. I currently find it to be like sifting sand. I want to find more. To understand all it is You want me to know.

Galatians 5. Freedom in Christ (vs. 1-15). Living by the Spirit’s Power (16-26). Oh yes Blessed Father, we get to choose “power and freedom in Christ or slavery through useless and destructive solutions” (The Life Recovery Bible 5:1-12).

As I continue reading, I find myself once again singing ♪Holy Spirit You are welcome here Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere Your glory, God, is what our hearts long for To be overcome by Your presence Lord♪

Yes Father, continue Your work in me. Deep beneath the surface.Teaching me to truly be a Jesus [not rule] Follower.

I love You Father. I need You. I trust You. And I ask You. Make me fully Yours. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(259 words ~ 8:07 a.m.)