looking for the gratitude

Thursday, February 28, 2019 (6:05 a.m.)

Blessed God,

(6:25 a.m.)

Trying again...

Good morning. Hello.

Grr. Growl. Grumble. Looking for the gratitude.

(6:48 a.m.)

Yes, Lord. I truly am looking for the gratitude.

And it’s not that hard to find. At all.

Colossians 3:16. Common English Bible. “The word of Christ must live in you richly. Teach and warn each other with all wisdom by singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Sing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”

Mm, yes. With gratitude in our hearts. Yes Father. Yes. Thank You. There it is! A real and  honest “Thank You.”

Thank You for the way You love us. Thank You for the choices You continue giving to us. Thank You for the various ways there are for us to express our gratitude. Corporately. And individually.

Thank You Father. Thank You that I can feel dismal and gloomy and down in the dumps one moment and decide to seek You and Your kingdom and righteousness instead (Matthew 6:33). Thank You for the sparks of joy that are generated just by choosing to look for gratitude.

Father God, You are so good. You provide our every need. I look to You to supply the 'strength and sanity I need in order to accept this day’s realities' (The Life Recovery Bible Serenity Prayer Devotional).

There are things in the world of which I am truly fearful. Here I choose the faith we have in You to work all things together for Your good (Romans 8:28). I ask for the strength of Your mighty power (Ephesians 6:10) to make me successful in whatever YOU choose for me this day.

I confess to currently being unable to manage my own life. “I don’t understand myself at all, for I really want to do what is right, but I don’t do it. Instead, I do the very thing I hate” (Romans 7:15).

Thank You Father that I am not alone in this. Thank You that You are so much bigger than my failings. Here I ask You to take the messes I have been making and turn them in to the masterpieces that only You can create.

I love You Father. I need You. I trust You. I depend on You. And I thank You. Oh how I thank You.

Thank You for helping me find the gratitude. Use it, and me, this day exactly as You know is best. I love You. Amen!

(404 words ~ 7:35 a.m.)

And...

Wednesday, February 27, 2019 (5:48 a.m.)

Absolutely Holy God,

Thank You! Thank You for dreams. And waking. And surprises. And Your love. And Your presence. And…

Yes Blessed Father, thank You for all the things I can’t even think of to thank You for right now.

It started as I was waking. Wondering if there was a song, I listened. Internally. Intently. Nothing. I even thought of attempting to jog one loose. 

The very next thing, I was seeing, because of a dream, off to the right, a tiny white arc, very low in the sky. A faded rainbow if You will. It served to remind me of the glorious rainbow we were blessed to experience last month.

Truly the most magnificent rainbow I have ever seen in my life. Such was its beauty that I still remember the details. Seen by family and friends for miles around. Brought only to my attention by the phone call of a much loved one.

Father it is the majestic beauty of this one particular, unduplicated rainbow with which I come to speak with You this morning. I ask You to guide and direct me in Your Word and in my thinking.

(7:02 a.m.)

My easy, most direct verse was Genesis 9:13. Your permanent promise to Noah and all the earth. I kept looking though. Yes. You will not send another flood to destroy the earth.

Believe it or not, I needed more. How crazy is that? “Oh, no, God. That’s not what I want.”

Thank You Father that we get to be this honest with You. You provide us Your Word. Your Truth. Your promises. We are so blessed to be able to come before You exactly as we are. Thank You Father. Praise You.

Turning to 2 Chronicles 6:14 and then back over to 1 Kings 8:61 I stand firm on the hope we find in You. Praise You Father for Who and all You are. We are so blessed to trust in the hope that You offer through Your promises.

“He [Solomon] prayed, ‘O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like You in all of heaven and earth. You keep Your promises and show unfailing love to all who obey You and are eager to do Your will” (2 Chronicles 6:14).

Blessed, Holy God, we can so easily get side-tracked in our day to day experiences. It’s only when we take the time to focus our attention back to the hope of Your promises that we are buoyed. Uplifted. Heartened. Thank You Father. Praise You.

“And may you, His people, always be faithful to the LORD our God. May you always obey His laws and commands, just as you are doing today” (1 Kings 8:61).

Illustrated Bible Handbook tells us, “Solomon exhorts them [‘the entire community of Israel’ (v. 55)], for ‘your hearts must be fully committed to the Lord our God, to live by His decrees and obey His commands…’ (1 Kings 8:61).”

Yes Father! It is to You that I long my heart be fully committed, living by Your decrees, obeying Your commands. Thank You for the reminder of Your promises.

Father, I love You. Empower me to live this day as You desire. Lovingly. Truthfully. Giving You all praise and glory.

I love You Father. How I thank You for Your promises and the hope we have in them. Use me as You know is best. Thank You. Praise You. I love You. Amen.

(586 words ~ 7:35 a.m.)

Because of YOU

Tuesday, February 26, 2019 (5:34 a.m.)

Most Holy and Blessed God,

Thank You!

Because of You I got to wake up singing a love song for my husband. A song by Cher which speaks of starts, stops, memories, decisions and love. Yes Father. Thank You for Your love. Your love that has kept us together these many years.

♪After All♪ these years of getting to know one another, being married and still choosing to love, honor and respect each other, I have tears because of the blessings You have provided. I can’t even find the words with which to praise and thank You for all You’ve done in, with, by, through and for us.

The phrase, “But for the grace of God” quickly comes to mind. Yes Father. It is absolutely Your mercy and grace that has kept us ♪coming back to these two hearts♪ through all these years.

The decision to follow You rather than our own emotions, or the courts of public opinion in many cases, is what allows us to continue singing love songs to each other. Thank You Father.

♪When love is truly right This time it’s truly right It lives from year to year It changes as it grows And oh, the way it grows But it never disappears♪ Thank You for Your years of teaching us Father.

Teaching us to listen when we’d rather speak. Stand firm and not give up. Humble ourself for the good of the other. YOU are teaching us these Truths. Thank You Blessed Father.

You, and only You, are the reason I can wake before dawn, singing a love song for my husband. How I ask You to use it and us for Your good and to Your glory. We love You. And we long to serve You. Well.

Thank You Father. Amen.

(306 words~ 6:27 a.m.)

HUGE smile

Monday, February 25, 2019 (6:46 a.m.)

HUGE smile! Yes, Blessed God, You have given me the HUGEST smile.

Thank You Father. You give us so many reasons to smile.

This morning it's the ease with which I found the song that was in my head. Using only the words, “who, god of glory, king above all kings, lyrics” and there it was. Phil Wickham ♪This Is Amazing Grace♪ Yes! This IS amazing grace!

♪YOU break the power of sin and darkness! YOUR love is mighty and so much stronger! The King of Glory, the King above all kings♪ And the smile just keeps getting bigger. Thank You Father.

We get to choose to believe that ♪YOU shake the whole earth with holy thunder And leave us breathless in awe and wonder♪ You ARE the King of Glory, the King above all kings! Praise You Father.

Here is where the smile nearly explodes across my face. ♪This is amazing grace This is unfailing love That You would take my place That You would bear my cross You laid down Your life That I would be set free Oh, Jesus, I sing for All that You’ve done for me♪

I honestly don’t have the words to express the hope that swells within as I read and sing ♪Who brings our chaos back into order? Who makes the orphan a son and daughter? The King of Glory, the King of Glory♪

Oh most Holy God thank You for the Truth that becomes clear when we are willing to listen. How I ask You to guide and direct me in Your Truth this day.

This day that represents a 42 year old decision I made that has turned out more wonderfully than I could have ever imagined. Thank You for Your leading and providing us the willingness to follow You all these years.

How I ask You Father to continue Your work in our hearts and our marriage. You are such an incredibly good God. This is indeed amazing grace. And the smile just got even bigger.

Thank You God. Use us this day exactly as You know is best. Guiding and directing us in Your loving Truth. Thank You Father. ♪Oh Jesus, I sing for All that You’ve done for US♪ Thank You. Praise You. We love You. Use us. Amen.

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

from a rant to a rave

Sunday, February 24, 2019 (7:10 a.m.)

Blessed, Holy God,

Thank You! Truly. Sincerely. Thank You!

Just moments ago I was stomping and growling and generally irritated. With Y-o-u, of all things!

My first word here was going to be, “ARGH!” Then I remembered why I coined it all those years ago. To remind myself to “Always Revere God’s Holiness!”

It took a moment to settle in. Then came the smile. Yes. “Always Revere God’s Holiness!”

Thank You Father. Thank You for reminding me that as often as I become annoyed and irritated with myself and/or circumstances I can always choose You. Choose to come to the foot of the cross and look to You rather than the irritants.

Even there, I find another smile. What do oysters do with irritants?

Make pearls!

And when life gives us lemons? Make...

... margaritas!

Thank You Blessed Father that I even get to make jokes and laugh freely with You. It’s so very much better than grumbling and growling and kicking wildly at circumstances.

And with that I wind myself over to John 16:33. Jesus’ discourse with His disciples before His betrayal and ultimate death. Assuring them that ‘whatever happens in the next hours, He will not be alone’ (Illustrated Bible Handbook).

Mm, yes Father. This mess I have around me here in no way compares to the fate Jesus was facing. Where I truly take heart is in choosing to believe Your Truth that even in this I am not alone. Intentionally 'cherry-picking' this verse for my particular situation.

“I’ve told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I’ve conquered the world” (The Message).

The Life Recovery Bible comment spells me out nicely. “16:33 In this world, especially in recovery, we encounter ‘many trials and sorrow,’ many of them beyond our control. These can be endured with God’s help. On the other hand, some of our suffering is self-inflicted and can be avoided. In such situations, God still offers us peace as we muster the courage to make needed changes in our life.”

Hmm... Muster the courage to make necessary changes in my life. Yes Father, please! It’s so much easier for me to storm and stomp. Keep my focus on You. Your power. Your Truth!

Continuing in the comment, “God’s forgiveness and loving acceptance can give us peace as we face all our trials and sorrows. God’s power can lead us through recovery; He has already overcome all the obstacles that stand in our way!”

Thank You Father. Praise You Jesus. Dwell in me Holy Spirit. I am not alone here!

Do all You must in ‘giving me the grace to accept with serenity the things that cannot be changed, Courage to change the things which should be changed, and the Wisdom to distinguish the one from the other.’

Father I have decisions to make that I can’t pull off on my own. Do all You must in making me able. Yes Father. Just like turning what was initially going to be a rant here into a rave.

Thank You Father. Yes. I love You so much. Use me exactly as You know is best. I love You. Thank You! Amen.

(551 words ~ 8:35 a.m.)

♫ The Stand ♫

Saturday, February 23, 2019 (7:12 a.m.)

Holy God,

Thank You! The melody started hours ago. A note here. Phrase there. Interspersed with a completely different song.

How I thank You for the many ways our minds work. My eyes weren’t even open as the two songs were merging together. It was right there that I realized if I chose to go with the dominate, easy tune I would lose the essence of the other one.

Father God, You do not disappoint! Staying my mind on the elusive phrasings, it solidified right as I turned in my worship journal to find it.

I knew the word eternity was involved. With one note connecting to another the lyrics were right on the tip of my tongue. Just as I was opening my notes to begin the search a full phrase jumped to the forefront.

♪So I’ll stand with arms high and heart abandoned♪ The Stand. Of course.

Here my thought of this past week is cemented. We get to choose where we put our focus. I could have easily switched my thinking over to the song from yesterday and started singing ♪I Have Dreamed♪ Thank You for staying my mind instead on those very few elusive notes.

Father God, You present us with choices all the time. Life or death (Deuteronomy 30:19). Whom we will serve (Joshua 24:15). Obey You, or not (Isaiah 1:15-20). Turn from indifference, repent and answer Your knock (Revelation 3:19-20).

Continue Your work in me Dearest Dad. Growing me as only You know is best.

You are good. We get to turn to You “for cleansing and renewal. Religious activity is no substitute for a genuine life with God. It is only when we confess our sins and ask God to help us that He will make us ‘as clean as freshly fallen snow’” (Isaiah 1:9-20 The Life Recovery Bible comment).

“As clean as freshly fallen snow.” Again, another choice! Yes Father. Forgive me for those times I choose chaos instead of order (1 Corinthians 14:33). Grudge holding rather than forgiveness (Leviticus 19:18).

Mm, yes Father. I long to stand on Your Word (Ephesians 6:10-12). Loving as You would have me love (1 Corinthians 13:4-8a). Do all You must in making it so!

♪So I’ll stand, my soul Lord to You surrendered All I am is Yours♪ Yes Father. All I am is Yours! Thank You. Praise You. I love You. Use me as You know is best. Thank You. Amen.

(426 words ~ 8:31 a.m.)

♪ I Believe… ♪

Friday, February 22, 2019 (6:06 a.m.)

Oh Most Dear and Holy God,

Thank You. Praise You. Bless You. Keep You. Mm, yes. Thank You Lord!

So many blessings and the sun isn’t even out yet. Thank You for the way one thing so often just leads to another.

Not yet awake but unable to sleep I wanted to sing so I manufactured a song. ♪This Is The Day… That the Lord has made… We will rejoice… And be glad in it…♪ That’s when I noticed the smile.

Coming out here the song switched to ♪Be Thankful for all He has done, Be thankful from the bottom of your heart. Be thankful, come on everyone ‘Cause Jesus is good to you!♪

Searching the lyrics I can across a video as well. The very next thing I was watching a flash mob that I had wondered about way last week. Hezekiah Walker ♪Every Praise♪ and the tears just flowed.

Father God how I thank You for the choices You allow us. Because of his singing of this particular song five years ago a kidnapped little boy was released unharmed. Talk about “out of the mouths of babes”!

Mm, Father. Guide my thinking this morning. Lead me to the blessings You have for us.

(7:12 a.m.)

And You did! Thank You Father.

I knew there was more to my much earlier thinking and singing. ♪ I Believe…♪ Oops. It's actually ♪I Have Dreamed♪ from The King and I. Taking a bit of poetic license here I will continue singing ♪I Believe…♪

Holy, Blessed God thank You that we really, truly have the choice to believe You at Your Word. Or not. Sitting here, swaying back and forth to the musical score that swells within my being I am so incredibly grateful.

Father I ask You to continue Your work in all You are doing to change long held misbeliefs. ♪Nothing, nothing, absolutely nothing Nothing is too difficult for Thee♪ (“Ah, Lord God”).

Indeed! NOTHING is too difficult for You (Jeremiah 32:17; 27). Hallelujah Jesus! Thank You Father.

Work in, with, by, through and for me this day. Providing every single necessary thing that Your will be done exactly as You know is best.

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

Thank You for these just now found by me words in Illustrated Bible Handbook. Concerning the prophet’s (Jeremiah) purchase of a field, “The purchase is a sign of trust in God’s faithfulness.”

Yes Father. Steel me in trusting Your faithfulness! Yes. Oh, yes! Do all You must. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(437 words ~ 7:57 a.m.)

"a narrow path"

Thursday, February 21, 2019 (6:39 a.m.)

Blessed God,

Thank You! This morning I awoke with eagerness. Excited. Agog! Thank You Father.

I have ideas in my head. Thoughts. Potential plans. “A narrow path.” Those were the words. Along with the song ♪Open My Eyes, That I May See♪ Oh yes Father. Yes!

♪Open my eyes that I may see Visions Glimpses of Truth Thou hast for me; Place in my hands the wonderful key, That shall unclasp and set me free♪ Yes Father, yes!

Mm. Set free. A narrow path. Different ways of looking at things. Wow Father. Sign me up!

Even a song from over fifty-five years ago speaks Your Truth to me right now. ♪Come and Get These Memories… so my mind and my heart can leave that easy♪ Yes Father. Oh yes please!

I’m so stuck in the memories of the past. Cards. Letters. Notes. Potential information. Let it all go? How?!

So here I am. Seeking YOUR narrow path for me. Sitting differently. Choosing my thoughts carefully.

Oh yes Blessed God! Thank You that we do get to choose our thoughts. Thoughts that lead us to life. Away from death (Deuteronomy 30:19).

Holy Moly, God! The more I read, the more excited I become. I consider Your Word, Your Truth and a genuine excitement sparks within me. Thank You Father.

Blessed God, how I ask You to lead and guide me this day. Yes to those ♪Glimpses of Truth Thou hast for me♪ Those glimpses that will ultimately lead me to “the gate that opens the way to true life” (Matthew 7:14a Easy-to-Read Version).

That gate which is narrow. “And the road that leads there is hard to follow. Only a few people find it” (14b, c). I want to be one of the few Father.

The Voice says, “Now then that narrow door leads to a narrow road [path is my word choice] that in turn leads to life. It is hard to find that road [path]. Not many people manage it.” Most Holy God, make me one of the not many!

I already am so incredibly different than my counterparts. Somewhat wacky [funny or amusing in a slightly odd or peculiar way] if You will. Keep doing all You must in leading me to all the glimpses of grace You would have me share.

You provide each of us with the choices we need to be able to find Your narrow path. Please take hold of my right hand (Isaiah 41:13) and don’t let go.

(9:50 a.m.)

I want to serve You Father. As You so rightly and justly deserve. Do all You must in, with, by, through and for me that Your will be done as only You know is best.

I love You. I thank You. I praise You. And I ask You, do all these things in Jesus’ mighty and powerful name. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(477 words ~ 9:54 a.m.)

Grateful praise.

Wednesday, February 20, 2019 (5:43 a.m.)

Holy God,

Thank You for Your love. Thank You for a song. And a smile. Yes Father. Thank You.

♪For the beauty of the earth… Brother, sister, parent, child… Lord of all, to Thee we raise This our hymn of grateful praise♪ Yes! Grateful praise.

Psalm 107:8, “Give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love and His wonderful deeds.” Many times the thanks and praise come more easily and readily than others. And often, like this morning, it gets jump started by You.

Just the hint of a verse considering the beauty of the morning sky and the next thing I know I’m singing. Smiling. Staying my mind on You and Your Word. Even stretching to some small degree as I remember the importance of loving You with all of my heart, soul, mind and strength (Mark 12:30).

Father, thank You. It is so easy to get side tracked by my failings. The areas in which I am weak. Ashamed. Embarrassed. Then You remind me to think outside of myself.

To look around. Be grateful. Aware of Your loving kindnesses. Your beauty.

There’s an opportunity this morning. A visit to the beach to celebrate the birth of a much loved one. Most Holy God how I invite You to go before us. Beside us. Behind, beneath, above and within us all the day. Pointing out Your goodnesses and Your grace.

Oh most Dear and Holy God, how deeply and truly we love You. Be our focus of this day. Making us fully aware of the numerous blessings that stem from Your “great love and wonderful deeds.”

Thank You. We love You. Amen.

(283 words ~ 6:20 a.m.)

awe and wonder

Tuesday, February 19, 2019 (5:43 a.m.)

Most Dear and Holy God,

Thank You for the view I just had of the “Snow Moon”. This year’s “largest and brightest supermoon”. Whatever the heck that means!

Yes Father. Here I am thanking You for yet another event I do not understand. Hmm. Yes. Thank You for the awe and wonder that can accompany things of which we previously have little or no knowledge.

Thank You that as I consider beauty and learning and choices and all the things You provide for us, I truly do come before You in awe and wonder. Thank You Father.

Yesterday I asked for help in an otherwise overwhelming task. Sorting stuff that may or may not be necessary to my life. Even saying that, I am fully aware that YOU are what is necessary to my life! Thank You Father.

Yes. Thank and praise You.

Just a bit ago I realized I was about to again mis-sing a song from yesterday. Right in the midst of ♪Sing praise♪ I remembered that it’s ♪Be praised…♪ Thank You Father.

Thank You that just as I recognized my mistake, the song quickly switched to ♪O Sing to the Lord, O sing God a new song…♪ And the very next verse? ♪For God is the Lord, and God has done wonders…♪ Yes Father. Yes!

You are our God. Our Lord. And You have done [and are doing] wonders. Thank You Father. Praise You too.

Following this Truth over into Your Word I actually just said, “Wow!” Yes Father. “Wow” [Wonder of wonders!] to Psalm 96:1. “Sing a new song to the LORD! Let the whole earth sing to the LORD!”

And the rest of the psalm exhorts us to bless Your name (v. 2). Publish Your glorious deeds (3a). Tell everyone about the amazing things You do (3b). Praise and revere You (4). Recognize You as glorious and strong (7). Give You the glory You deserve (8). Worship You in all Your holy splendor (9).

The Life Recovery Bible comment for this section (96:1-9) tells us, “The way we live demonstrates what we believe about God. If we stay in our prison of sin, we show that we are either unaware of God’s power to save us or indifferent about Him and the help He offers.”

You are able God “to do exceedingly abundantly, beyond all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20). Oh praise You Father!

“Now glory be to God, who by His mighty power at work within us is able to do far more than we would ever dare to ask or even dream of - infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, or hopes” (Living Bible).

Here again [quoting The Life Recovery Bible comment 3:14-21] we “must be driven by God’s dynamic and unlimited love… We may feel that our life is hopeless and beyond recovery. But through God restoration and healing are possible. When we are grounded in God’s love, recovery will follow.”

Talk about awe and wonder! I can think of nothing more awesome or wondrous than having the God of the universe, my Holy Father in heaven, ground me in His love. Thank You God. Thank You Father.

Use me exactly as You know is best. Do all You must in growing my ability to make solid decisions as to what stays and what all needs to go.

I love You Father. I thank You. You are indeed my awe and wonder. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(593 words ~ 8:58 a.m.)

Be praised!

Monday, February 18, 2019 (5:46 a.m.)

Most Holy God,

Thank You Father. Thank You that You are good. And holy. Thank You for Your loving forgiveness.

(8:01 a.m.)

Here I am. Trying again. Wanting to be willing to Your leading. Confessing to being reluctant. Resistant.

And right there. That fast. ♪Sing praise♪ starts singing in my mind. But I can’t find the song I’m looking for. So I turn again to You Dearest God.

There is absolutely a hardness in my heart. A temper tantrum of huge proportion. And I am asking You Father to change all You must.

(8:32 a.m.)

And here it is! Thank You Father.

♪BE praised… ♪ Yes Father. Let me praise You as You so rightly deserve. My thoughts can so easily take me down a rabbit hole. Thank You that focusing on You, Your Word, Your Truth brings me back into Your light.

Thank You that confessing my state and following Your lead yields freedom. Yes. Freedom to express. Freedom to hope. Freedom to ramble.

Thank You Father. Praise You. Confessing my inability to make sense of any given circumstance [Step One of Twelve] and then inviting You into it [Step Two] restores me to a sanity I wasn’t even aware I was lacking.

Steps One, Two and Three in a nutshell: “I can’t. God can. I’ll let Him.” Thank You Father. Yes!

Praise You. ♪Cause You’re always good Always good… Be Praised, let our worship rise in this place To the King of Love... ♪ (Gary Rea ♪This Is A Good Day♪)

It’s the song I sang to You just the other day and it took me this long to find it. Thank You for guiding me. Thank You for Your willingness to lead especially when I am behaving so petulantly.

Just for confessing I get to smile. Honestly. Openly. And willingly. Praise You God!

Use this day. Exactly as You know is best.

You provided me the song. The smile. And the perseverance to stay my mind on You. Here I am seeking the strength to stretch and accomplish what You will.

I love You. I thank You. And I ask You (Matthew 7:7) to fill me with all You know is necessary for Your good and Your glory. I love You. Use me. Thank You. Amen.

(389 words ~ 9:07 a.m.)

justification

Sunday, February 17, 2019 (7:24 a.m.)

Blessed God,

I’m starting off with a confession of feeling disappointed. With myself. I had what I believed to be some rather easily attainable goals. And I’ve missed the marks. Hmm… sin.

Ack! Ouch. And here I am. Seeking Your justification on my heart. My soul. My mind. And my strength.

good day

Saturday, February 16, 2019 (7:22 a.m.)

Blessed Holy God,

Thank You! Thank You for every single time I think of You without even knowing it. Like just earlier.

While still in a very dreamlike state I realized I was ready to sing ♪This Is the Day, that the Lord has made I will rejoice and be glad in it♪ More asleep than awake I knew I was smiling. Hope-filled.

Thank You Father. Thank You for the ease with which I just now found the corresponding Bible verse. Psalm 118:24. Blessed God, thank You for the choices we have over our thoughts. Even while mostly sleeping.

Coming out here, the tune changed. Along the same lines Gary Rea’s words are singing within me. ♪This Is a Good Day ‘Cause Jesus Your mercy Is new for me It is new for me Be praised, let our worship rise in this place To the king of love ‘Cause You’re always good Always good♪

Holy God, as many times as I’ve sung this song I don’t know if I’ve really paid attention to the words. ♪How great, how glorious Is the Lamb of God who was slain for us, He’s the King of us, He’s the King us♪

Thank You for surrounding and infusing us with Your loving presence. Thank You that You are good. And this IS a good day! Use me as You know is best. I love You. Thank You. Amen.

(244 words ~ 8:18 a.m.)

doors of positivity

Friday, February 15, 2019 (7:13 a.m.)

Oh Most Dear and Holy God,

Thank You!

Much earlier I was thinking “Holy, Holy, Holy God” which led me to singing ♪Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God Almighty♪ (Revelation 4:8). As soon as I realized I was singing I remembered the boredom I experienced while working in the yard the other day. And then I smiled.

Thank You Father. Thank You for the various ways You work in us. Changing our focus. Our thinking. Thank You for Your Word that leads and guides us to Your will and to Your way.

Unable to manufacture my usual excitement concerning yard work, I was able to maintain momentum by singing. Very simply ♪God has a plan for my li-i-ife God has a plan for me li-i-i-ife I just can’t wait to see What’s in store for me ‘Cause God has a plan for my life♪

Thank You Father for the Truth we get to experience when we turn to You and Your Word. Thank You that the deeper we dig the more of Your loving kindness we discover.

Thank You for the various doors of positivity that open before us simply by saying, “Thank You.” You definitely have plans for each of us (Jeremiah 29:11). And You are willing to be found by us when we look for You in earnest (v. 13).

Thank You Father. Yes, thank You!

With so many verses providing Your best for each of us, this morning I settle in with Living as Children of Light (Ephesians 4:12-32). Focusing mainly on the last two verses.

Because of the Truth of Your Word we get to choose how we will grow. Either according to Your Your best for each of us or continuing to believe the lies of the evil one.

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of malicious behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another. Just as God through Christ has forgiven you” (Ephesians 4:31-32).

This ability I ask in Jesus’ most holy name. Father God, I love You. And I long to serve You as You know is best. Do all You must in growing me into the woman You created me to be. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(397 words ~ 8:50 a.m.)

deemed

Thursday, February 14, 2019 (6:13 a.m.)

Happy Valentine’s Day Father,

Thank You for Your love. Yes God. Thank You for Your perfect love.

(8:12 a.m.)

Waking up singing ♪Should I Stay or Should I Go♪ allows me to once again take a look at all the choices we have. Each day. Every day.

Thank You Father, that even when we aren’t paying direct attention to You, there You are. Leading. Guiding. Directing us to turn and look to You.

Mm. Thank You Father.

Thank You that we can offer You the simplest of thoughts and You just “take the ball and run with it”. You know exactly all You are doing in our lives. Thanks Dad.

Yesterday I used the word ‘deemed’ in one regard and it just came up in my thinking again. Thank You that I can even follow this into Your Word and be blessed.

2 Thessalonians. Hmm. Written to “encourage the Thessalonian believers to fulfill their day-to-day responsibilities while anticipating Christ’s return.” Thank You Father.

Thank You that I get to read RECOVERY THEMES (The Life Recovery Bible) and be blessed by the Truth that Your Word provides. God Is the Source of Our Hope, The Importance of Perseverance and God’s Reassuring Power and Presence.

As I exhale fully and inhale deeply Your peacefulness surrounds me. Thank You God.

Reading of “Paul’s Prayer; 1:11, 12 ” (Illustrated Bible Handbook) I am so grateful to learn of ‘The long-range perspective Paul held that shaped his prayers for the Thessalonians.’ My heart smiles as I consider all that Paul’s prayers back then does for me now.

“The apostle does not ask God to relax the pressures. Instead he asks that the believers might be found worthy of their calling. He asks God to empower them, enabling them to fulfill the good purposes He has in mind for them in their tribulations.” Thank You Father for reminding us that there truly IS ‘growth in the struggle!’

“It is by living for the Lord in tribulations that ‘the name of our Lord Jesus’ will be glorified. Through suffering we will find glory waiting for us when Jesus comes.” Amen Father!

As I continue playing around with the query ♪Should I Stay of Should I Go♪ how I thank You for the Truth of Your Word. “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You” (Isaiah 26:3). Thank You Father.

Thank You that on this day set aside to celebrate love, let us continue learning all that Your love truly is. Thank You Father. I love You. Use me as You know is best. Amen.

(451 words ~ 9:16 a.m.)

gradually changed

Wednesday, February 13, 2019 (7:01 a.m.)

Blessed God,

How I thank You. I’m moving slowly. Not yet thinking clearly. And feeling somewhat subdued. A little down. Not too peppy.

Oh, but then I noticed I’m stretching. Without even realizing it. Moving this way. And that. Yes. Thank You Father.

Thank You that You move in my being without my even noticing. Thank You for every time I pause long enough to pay attention to what is going on in and around me. A smile here. A stretch there. Yes Father, thank You.

I’m reading in and about the book of Acts. And here comes another smile. Bigger. Deeper. Fuller. Yes. The Life Recovery Bible introduction for this book tells us, “Through the examples of these early believers, we see that the Holy Spirit has the power to change lives.”

It is here that we get to read of the transformations of both the apostles Peter and Paul. “These men should be an encouragement to us. Both made serious mistakes as younger men, but as they turned their lives over to God, they were gradually changed.”

That’s me. Gradually changed. You do it every single day. Occasionally by leaps and bounds. Most often little by little. Subtly. Steadily. Maybe even at a turtle’s pace. Slow and steady. Thank You Father.

Thank You for the gift of acceptance that You have been nurturing in me all these years. The ability to trust You at Your Word.

Take this time with You this morning for example. I came out here a little on the mopey side. Thinking I was going to have to do something grand to shake myself out of it. Instead I confessed it all to You. And turned to Acts 17:28.

Since then I’ve been aware of each smile as it starts. I may not be singing yet. But my mind is definitely stayed on You. Along with the hope that continues to build.

Thank You Father. Thank You for the Truth that rings out as I read of Paul’s preaching in Athens. Again introducing us to the importance of a genuine relationship with You over mere religious activity.

We are invited to know You. Trust You. Love You. Personally. Thank You Father. Praise You. I give You my heart this morning. Asking only that You guide and direct me in the best use of the time You have afforded me.

Thank You Father. Use me as You know is best. I love You. I thank You. I praise You. And I ask You to continue Your good and mighty work in me. Thank You. I love You. Amen.

(442 words ~ 8:21 a.m.)

♫ It Is Well ♫

Tuesday, February 12, 2019 (6:13 a.m.)

Blessed, Holy God,

Thank You! The song I woke up with yesterday just returned. Along with the biggest grin. Thank You Father!

♪Through It All, through it all, my mind is on You♪ That was what I sang most of yesterday’s early morning. Then throughout the day could no longer remember it.

Waking up just now I was wondering about a song. Even going so far as to try to bring one to mind.

Thank You for the absolute surprise of this seeming to automatically start, with no forethought whatsoever. Thank You for the ease with which I found it. Wrong title, wrong lyrics and all.

Thank You Father that it is okay to be wrong! Mistakes happen. And can be forgiven. Again, a choice You allow us. Time after time. Again and again.

Holy, holy God, I love You! Thank You for reminding me again how important it is for me to sing. Smile. Stay my mind. And to stretch. Each day. Everyday. Physical representations of loving You with all of my heart [singing], soul [smiling], mind [staying], and strength [stretching] (Mark 12:30).

You have been working mightily throughout the decades of my life and I am supremely grateful. ♪Through it all, through it all My eyes are on You Through it all, through it all It Is Well♪

Yes, Father. Through it all, it IS well! Thanks Daddy God! Thank You for truly taking out my heart of stone. Yes Father, yes!

Thank You for the promise You gave to Ezekiel to share with the exiled Jews. Chapter 36, verse 26, “And I will give you a new heart - I will give you new and right desires - and put a new spirit within you. I will take out your stony hearts of sin and give you new hearts of love” (Living Bible).

You did that with me Blessed God. ALL those many years ago as You began melting me and molding me, filling me and using me. You did it before. You are doing it now. And you will continue doing it in the future. “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10). Yes. Please! Thank You God.

Thank You for all You have done. All You are doing. And all You will be doing in making me the woman You would have me be. I love You SO very much. Use me exactly as You know is best. Thank You Father. I love You. Amen.

(427 words ~ 8:11 a.m.)

loyalty and kindness

Sunday, February 10, 2019 (5:10 a.m.)

Holy God,

Thank You. Thank You for sleep. Thank You for loyalty. Yes Father. Teach me this morning what it is to be loyal.

I confess. I did not see this coming. And there is a huge degree of awkward that continues to grow.

I was called out yesterday when my conversation appeared inconsistent with my convictions. While I truly believed myself to be presenting a loyal discourse, there were huge discrepancies between my thoughts and my words.

Oh most Blessed God, how I ask You to help me here. Again I struggle with what I think I know and what truly is.

Thank You that Your Word speaks also to this. Thank You that we can depend on You and others to align us back to Your best for us. Even [especially] when it’s awkward.

So here I am Father, asking You to work Your Word and Your will into my heart. Into my soul. My mind. And my strength (Mark 12:30).

Thank You for a friend’s willingness to challenge a conversation that I have come to regard as unseemly. As hard as it is to hear and struggle through, thank You Father for Your Truth.

Mm, yes. Father, thank You for Your Truth!

Guide me this morning into Your Word. Okay ~ 1 Corinthians 13:7 it is. Now please direct me to the version. It’s a tall order, I tell You right now. And exactly what I thought of yesterday.

When I read “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (MOUNCE) I wonder how is this even possible? No one can do all this all the time. Then I remember that it’s You that empowers and enables us to love.

Thank You Father. Thank You that when it’s hard and we think we’re left out on our own we can look to You. We can always choose to look to You.

Yes, Father. Yes. Thank You for Your love. Your love that teaches each of us how to love one another. When we practice and apply it. Even [especially] in the hard times.

You have so much more to teach me. And I’m still struggling with the basics. “Love one another” (John 13:34).

Too often what I think is love really isn’t. Help me Father. Help me love as You would have me love. Loyally. Faithfully. Wholeheartedly. Freely. Genuinely. Forgivingly. Trustingly. Hopefully. Enduringly.

We each have choices. All day. Everyday. Make mine that I would ‘Never let loyalty and kindness get away from me!’ (Proverbs 3:3a). Truly Father, I long to ‘Wear them like a necklace; written deep within my heart’ (3b).

The Passion Translation tells us, “Love is a safe place of shelter, for it never stops believing the best for others. Love never takes failure as defeat, for it never gives up” (1 Corinthians 13:7). You alone know how I have longed to be a safe place of shelter for others. It truly is a deep desire of my heart.

You have Your work cut out in making that happen. And I know You are able!

Ephesians 3:20, “Never doubt God’s mighty power to work in you and accomplish all this [living together as family and loving one another as Christ loved us]. He will achieve infinitely more than your greatest request, your most unbelievable dream, and exceed your wildest imagination! He will outdo them all, for His miraculous power constantly energizes you” (The Passion Translation).

I believe this Father. I trust You at Your Word.

Do all You must in making and shaping me in to the woman You created me to be. I love You. I long to serve You as You have the right to be served. And to represent You well. With loyalty and kindness toward others.

Thank You Father. I love You. Amen.

(629 words ~ 7:20 a.m.)

inclination

Saturday, February 9, 2019 (6:00 a.m.)

Blessed God,

Thank You. Thank You. Thank You!

Thank You for the inclination to be thankful. Joyful.

(6:40 a.m.)

Mm, yes. Inclination: “a person’s natural tendency or urge to act or feel in a particular way; a disposition or propensity”. You have changed this in me. You are the One to thank for the hope that continues to grow in my heart.

Thank You for changing my “inherent qualities of mind and character” [disposition]. You have been growing me all these years. Nurturing; looking after; taking care of and bringing me up into the woman You created me to be. Thank You. Thank You. Thank You.

There is a genuine, authentic peace about me that I have rarely experienced before. A calmness that continues teaching me the importance of singing, smiling, staying my mind and stretching various times throughout each day. Thank You Father.

Let’s take this morning for example. Just by using the word ‘inclination’ I get to remember who I was before I invited You in to begin Your work in me.

Looking back several decades ago, thank You for helping me the learn difference between all the things that love is and what it is not (1 Corinthians 13:4-8a). “Love is patient. Love is kind. It does not want what belongs to others. It does not brag. It is not proud. It does not dishonor other people. It does not look out for its own interests. It does not easily become angry. It does not keep track of other people’s wrongs. Love is not happy with evil. But it is full of joy when the truth is spoken. It always protects. It always trusts. It always hopes. It will never give up. Love never fails” (New International Reader’s Version).

(12:19 p.m.)

Thank You Father. Thank You for the opportunity of traveling with friends. Thank You for Truth spoken in love (Ephesians 4:15). Yes Father. Thank You for teaching us to “let our lives lovingly express truth [in all things, speaking truly, dealing truly, living truly]. Enfolded in love, let us grow up in every way and in all things into Him Who is the Head, [even] Christ [the Messiah, the Anointed One]” (Amplified Bible, Classic Edition).

(2:18 p.m.)

Now back to being inclined to thankfulness. And here (reading Acts 13:44-14:6) I smile again. Because of the Jewish leaders’ jealousy and disinclination to believe the bold declaration of Paul and Barnabas “this Good News” of which they spoke was instead offered to the Gentiles. Thank You Father.

Thank You that while “The Jews debate[d] the message among themselves; the Gentiles respond[ed] enthusiastically” (Illustrated Bible Handbook). Thank You for the choice to believe You at Your Word, or not.

Just as Paul and Barnabas experienced various responses as they preached the Good News to others, we each have choices as to how we handle circumstances right in front of us. Relying on Your power and strength, we can ask for courage to hang in there with unreceptive, problem presenting people. Or we can seek Your wisdom in knowing when it is that we may need to cut our losses and run. It is on You to Whom we rely in any given situation.

Thank You Father. Thank You for Your love. Thank You for Your guidance. Thank You for Your plan. Thank You for the hope we have in You. Thank You that we get to unashamedly declare our love for You. Yes Father. Thank You for Who and All You are. I love You. Thank You. Amen.

(2:54 p.m.)

moving forward

Friday, February 8, 2019

Entering Long Beach Harbor

Oh Blessed God,

Thank You! Thank You for stars. Thank You for light. Thank You for the optical illusion that develops when looking back while slowly moving forward and appearing to be standing still. Thank You for the truth that is revealed when we look forward while moving forward.

Oh yes, Father! Thank You for moving forward. And the determination to sing. Smile. Stay my mind on You. And stretch. Everyday. Yes Father. Thank You.

♫ I'm Growing Up ♫

Thursday, February 7, 2019 (6:22 a.m.)

Almost to Ensenada, MX

Holy, Holy God,

Thank You. Thank You. Thank You!

3:41 came really early this morning. And with it? Such JOY. Real, true JOY. And music. Truly my own private praise party in my mind.

Thank You Father for whatever tune it is that I have changed the words to ♪I’m growing up… I want the world to see…♪ Truly Father, thank You.

Thank You for this trip. Thank You for fun. Thank You for friendship. Thank You for choices. Mm, yes Father. Thank You for choices. Choices to fear or hope. Bless or curse (Deuteronomy 11:26). Live or die (Deuteronomy 30:19).

♫ Ladies Night ♫

Wednesday, February 6, 2019 (4:24 a.m.)

Anchoring off Avalon, CA

♪Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty! Early in the morning my song shall rise to Thee; Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty! God in Three Persons Blessed Trinity!♪

(6:10 a.m.)

Oh Most Dear and Holy God, thank You. Thank You for the love that has brought us to this place. Thank You for the stars that shone throughout the night. And the music that sang softly in my head. ♪On My Own♪ and ♪Oh yes it’s ladies night Oh what a night♪

Holy God, how I thank You for the honor and privilege of coming before You. Exactly as I am. Truly full of worship and admiration for Who and All You are.

Thank You Father for having our backs. Thank You for enveloping every aspect of our being. Thank You for Your light and Your love. Thank You for Your Word of Truth.

Oh! And thank You for another song that has just started singing itself to me. ♪Living Out Loud♪ Yes Father, again I ask Your guidance and ability to ♪shatter the silence It’s a beautiful sound when each moment counts Starting right now, I’m gonna start living out loud♪

Turning in Your Word (Mark 9:7) to read of being enveloped by You and Your love, I’m surprised to be reading of healings as well. Once again Dearest Lord, You do not disappoint. Or cease to amaze.

How I thank You for the various ways You get my attention. Thank You for the choices You provide. Again I find myself considering Deuteronomy 30:19.

“Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, that you and your descendants might live! Choose to love the LORD your God and to obey Him and commit yourself to Him, for He is your life. Then you will live long in the land the LORD swore to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob” (v. 20).

♫ This Moment in Time ♫

Tuesday, February 5, 2019 (3:50 a.m.)

Southern California coast

“Fun Day At Sea”

Thank You God,

Thank You for the opportunity of waking up and literally seeing stars. Beautifully intriguing stars, right out our cabin window.

Thank You too for the awareness of this current incredible blessing. And for the ability to wholeheartedly be singing ♪This Moment in Time♪

new experiences every day

Monday, February 4, 2019 (5:28 a.m.)

Holy God,

Thank You.

There’s a new experience coming today. Just saying that I realize that we have new experiences every day. Thank You Father.

And here I follow Your Word over to Proverbs 16:3. The Passion Translation, “Before you do anything, put your trust totally in God and not in yourself. Then every plan you make will succeed.”

I’m smiling as I read all of the chapter. You know each of us. Inside and out. How I ask Your blessings on this brand new adventure.

Father, I love You. I long to do Your will. I ask Your presence in every single aspect of this day. Travel. Camaraderie ~ “mutual trust and friendship among people who spend a lot of time together”.

Yes Father. Make it so. Do all You must in making us the women You would have us be. Loving. Kind. Using gentle, encouraging and healing words (Proverbs 15:1, 4).

Oh blessed God, how I ask You to do exactly what You know is best. Thank You for Your love. Empower each of us in using it well. Thank You God. I love You. Amen.

(197 words ~ 6:11 a.m.)

on eagle's wings

Sunday, February 3, 2019 (4:52 a.m.)

Blessed Holy God,

There are so very many things that I simply do not understand. Thank You Father that I don’t have to. I get to turn to You. Trusting. Singing.

(6:16 a.m.)

And then exploring. Your Word. The internet. Writings about Your Word. And songs.

Father, there is no end to all I don’t know. Thank You that You provide for our every need. And teach us in the process.

Tears are welling up deep inside me. Thoughts and Truth bounce from one to another. Holy God, thank You!

Thank You for the beauty and kindnesses that abound around us. Thank You for all there is for us to learn.

Singing to You several hours ago I am surprised to find out that the Scripture verse I have always associated to one song is not its origin. All these years [decades] I have thought of Isaiah 40:31 as I belt out, ♪And He will raise you up on eagle’s wings Bear you on the breath of dawn Make you to shine like the sun And hold you in the palm of His hand♪

As it turns out Exodus 19:4 and Psalm 91 are more often referenced in regards to ♪On Eagle’s Wings♪. And now I learn of a book written by the composer detailing his bout with Guillan-Barré Syndrome (GBS).

Thank You for Father Jan Michael Joncas’ willingness to share his experience with this “catastrophic and chronic illness”. I ask You to use On Eagle’s Wings: A Journey Through Illness Toward Healing exactly as You know is best.

The unexpected twists and turns this time with You has taken again make me aware that I don’t know what I think I know. How I ask You Dearest Lord to continue Your work in growing me. Teaching me. Bringing me ever closer to Your shelter and safety.

Reading Psalm 91:1-4 I am reminded of having seen a mother hen shelter her chicks from impending danger. She sat. Strong. Unruffled. Protecting her young.

Your Word promises that for us. Father, here I am asking [seeking, knocking ~ Matthew 7:7] Your blessing and keeping upon myself and others. You are everything we need in life.

Continue doing all You must in making each of us aware of the love You have to so freely share with us all. I love You Father. And I thank You. Use me exactly as You know is best. Thank You. Amen.

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

a gift of laughter

Saturday, February 2, 2019 (5:26 a.m.)

Holy God,

Good morning.

(6:57 a.m.)

And thank You.

I got to read Your Word. And go back to sleep. Warm. Dry. Safe. Sound. Thank You Father.

Let me be honest Dearest Lord. There’s an overwhelming part of me that is feeling tremendously guilty. And I am struggling to figure out if this is true or false guilt.

While I am so incredibly grateful for all the blessings You provide, what about the people who are cold and wet right now? Here I have the nerve to be rejoicing about the recent gift of laughter (Psalm 100:2 The Message) I have been experiencing lately, while others are shivering and trying to stay warm.

Holy God, speak to me here. I love You. I long to do Your will. Yet I sit. Safe. Warm. Dry. Not giving of myself. Or my resources. Is it sin that I am aware of the needs of others and do little to nothing to meet them?

I confess Father I am at a loss. I truly don’t know which way to turn in Your Word. Is satan distracting me from praising You? Or is The Holy Spirit directing me to do more than just pray Your blessing and keeping of others (1 Thessalonians 5:19)?

(1:49 p.m.)

All these hours later and I’m still in my head. I love You so much. I go back and forth between being incredibly grateful and feeling tremendously guilty for being warm and dry. Safe. And sound.

Holy God, I am going out on a limb here. Not wanting to be the least bit insensitive. Rather than staying locked in perceived guilt, I choose to praise You as I had originally intended.

Father, You are good. You are holy. You are kind. And I depend on You to do all You must for the benefit of others. Should You want me to do more than pray, I call on You to guide and direct me into action.

Until then I will continue to praise and thank You. “Always be joyful. Keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

Back and forth. Hope. Then concern. Rejoicing. Followed by sadness.

And then back to where I started. Psalm 100 A psalm of thanksgiving. “On your feet now - applaud GOD! Bring a gift of laughter, sing yourselves into His presence” (vs. 1-2).

Yes God. I do applaud You! A gift of laughter is what originally brought me here much earlier this morning. These past few days I have been extremely aware of my willingness and ability to laugh. Readily being joyful. Genuine gifts from You.

“100:1-5 We always have reasons to rejoice. We live in God’s presence, under His continual care, and we experience His love each day. Each time we come into His presence, our heart should be filled with gratitude and praise. God never stops showering us with His love, He always keeps His promise to help us when we call on Him” (The Life Recovery Bible comment).

It’s on behalf of others for whom I call on You now Blessed God. Asking, seeking, knocking (Matthew 7:7). Depending on Your provision and care. Guide and direct me in what You would have me do for others Lord.

I love You. I thank You. Amen.

(573 words ~ 5:02 p.m.)