ALL FOR JESUS!

All for Jesus! All for Jesus! All my being’s ransomed powers; All my thoughts and words and doings; All my days and all my hours."

The words of this beautiful old hymn popped into my mind one morning as I sat at the kitchen table for my daily time of Bible reading and reflection with the Lord. I had not been thinking about songs or hymns or commitments—I was just reading and thinking and praying, the same as every other day. But the song was suddenly there—full-blown, with all the words and melody in place.

It was not the first time (or the last time) this has happened. Very often when I’m struggling with a challenge or worried about something, I’ll find myself randomly humming a song. Usually as I follow the words through in my mind, they will surprise me with a thought or an answer that is exactly what I needed to hear at the moment. Isn’t God good?!! I’ve learned to welcome the songs that just appear in my mind, because I know it means God has something to remind me of or to teach me.

But this particular morning I was intrigued, because the words seemed unusual. “All my being’s ransomed powers?” What is that? I even went to find an old hymn book to make sure those were the right words. Yes. That’s what they said.

Well, since it seemed so obvious that this was a God thing, I spent some time thinking about the hymn, and the commitment it promised. Was this what Jesus was asking of me? I decided it must be.

Quite glibly, not really thinking through what it meant, I agreed. After all, isn’t this what being a Christian is about? And so this is the promise I made: “I am all for Jesus! All of me—for now and for all eternity I belong to Jesus. I live, always and only, all for Him!”

The Father must have smiled tolerantly at my enthusiasm. In His lavish grace He did not show me at that moment exactly what it would look like or the changes He wanted to make in me. I still don’t know all of what’s in store for me, and I won’t until I get to Heaven. But here’s a promise:

Philippians 1:6 (NLT) “And I am sure that God, who began the good work within you, will continue His work until it is finally finished on that day when Christ Jesus comes back again.”

I freely agreed that morning to what Jesus was asking of me. The compliance, however, is taking much longer and is so much more difficult that I imagined it could be. But Jesus is working on me—teaching and molding me, grinding off the sharp edges, gradually shaping me into the person He created me to be. I am so grateful for His patience and forgiveness, His compassion and unfailing love!

Months have passed since then (without a blog post), and God is bringing about monumental changes in my life, relationships, career and ministry. Some of the lessons have been extremely painful, and others very satisfying. But I’ve been reluctant (or afraid) to share the process because . . . well . . . um . . .

You might remember that old saying, “Please be patient. God’s not finished with me yet.” Years ago—probably in my college days—I wore a big bright button on my shirt for awhile with the letters “PBPGNFWMY”. It was cute, and people asked me what it meant. At that time it was easy to say, and possibly insincere.

But there’s the truth of it. God is not finished with me yet. He’s still working on me daily. I do need your patience.

Here’s the reason I decided to write about the process now: maybe God is also working in your life. And maybe you need someone to share the journey with. Or it could be you’re looking for something more in your Christian walk—a renewed faith, or deeper commitment, or more joy. Whatever it looks like, I would be so honored to have you join me! We can move forward together.

Leave a comment. Send me an email. Let’s talk!

All for Him!
Deborah

DO YOU EVER FEEL LIKE MOSES?

Not like Moses when he was a mighty leader of the Israelite nation, or when he was privileged to see God's glory, but way back when he was a lonely shepherd on a deserted mountain. Do you ever feel like Moses when he said, "I can't, Lord." Do you ever have the audacity, like Moses did, to actually argue with Almighty God when He gives you a job to do?

I do, I'm sad to say. God tells me to do something, either through the instructions in His word, or by the prompting of the Holy Spirit in my heart, or by arranging circumstances so I couldn't really miss His intention unless I was trying to. Sometimes I have the insolence to simply ignore what I know God wants me to do. Other times, worse yet, I actually argue with God. "I can't, Lord." Or, "I would do this if I really believed it was what You wanted for me, but surely You wouldn't ask ME to do this." Or, like Moses, "I'm not good enough, Lord. You really need to find someone who is better qualified than I am."

I am so grateful for the kindness God showed to Moses that day on the mountain. God did get angry with Moses.

"Who makes mouths?" the Lord asked him. "who makes people so they can speak or not speak, hear or not hear, see or not see? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go, and do as I have told you. I will help you speak well, and I will tell you what to say." Exodus 4:11-12

But even in His anger, God did not give up on Moses. God patiently and kindly worked with Moses' insecurities, even providing a spokesman for him. God blessed Moses with His power and presence, and Moses eventually became a great leader for God. Moses could not see his own potential, and he was having a hard time trusting God to be in control, but when he finally was obedient God accomplished great things through him.

God most likely will not require us to become leaders of a great nation, but the principle is the same. It works no matter how big or small the job is that God entrusts to us. With God's hand upon us, we really can accomplish the work He gives us to do--not in our own strength but in His.

May God bless you with the courage today to answer His call and do His bidding, no matter the size of the task in front of you. He, after all, is God. He is able, especially when we are not.

Deborah

LIFE IS STRANGE

"Life is strange with its twists and turns, as everyone of us sometimes learns . . ." The words of the old poem ran through my mind this week, and with them a rush of memories of my father. In an orator's voice, looking over his glasses, he would quote those old words dramatically, bringing a smile to my face. The words and the sentiment were true then. They're still true today--even in difficult situations it's always too soon to quit. Not quite able to remember all of the words, I searched the internet and discovered this poem is often quoted. It's called "Don't Quit", written by C.W. Longenecker. Here's just a piece of it--

"When things go wrong as they sometimes will, When the road you're trudging seems all uphill, When the funds are low and the debts are high, And you want to smile but you have to sigh, When care is pressing you down a bit, Rest if you must, but don't you quit. Life is strange with its twists and turns, As every one of us sometimes learns, And many a failure turns about, When he might have won had he stuck it out . . ."

The Apostle Paul said nearly the same thing, in Philippians 3:12-14. He called it pressing on.

". . . but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers (and Sisters), I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

What is it that has you "down a bit" today? First, would you take a step back and consider whether this challenge really matters in light of our ultimate goal--becoming more like Jesus and joining Him in Heaven? If it does, then I encourage you to press on. "Rest if you must, but don't you quit."

On the other hand, if you hold the difficulty up to the light of Jesus, you may discover that it's not as important as you thought it was. In any case, looking to Jesus is always the right answer. I believe that's what Paul was talking about in the very next chapter of Philippians when he told us to think about things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. Nothing and nobody fits that description like Jesus does! (See Philippians 4:8)

God bless you today as you press on---

Deborah

EMMALISE CHRISTIAN

It took a few days for Mommy and Daddy to decide on the perfect name for their precious new bundle of joy. They needed to cuddle with her, and look into her eyes as she struggled to focus on her new world. They wanted to get to know her a little, listen to her voice, and watch her face responding to their words and touch. After much deliberation the name was decided: Emmalise Christian. A beautiful first name along with her daddy's middle name--a forever reminder of her heritage.

Watching this process of connection, I was reminded that, though she was new to us, God knew all about her. He had been faithfully and patiently knitting her together in the darkness of the womb. Even before her birth He knew all the days He had ordained for her. She will never be out of His thoughts or beyond the reach of His unending, never-failing love.


I was privileged to spend two weeks with Emmalise, big sister Rebekah, and their Mommy and Daddy. What a joy it was to welcome Emmalise on her first day in the big, bright world. And it was so much fun to read to two-year-old Rebekah, play with her in the dollhouse, and sing with her. At the end of every song she would urge, "Nana, sing more." Sometimes she just listened, but often she would sing along with me, her words a jumble but her voice raised with enthusiasm. The time was so precious, and flew by way too fast. Being with Rebekah and Emmalise took me back to the days when my own children were small. We sang together and read stories then, too. It seems like such a short time ago.


As I go about my days back home, my two granddaughters and my children are never far from my thoughts and prayers. Sometimes God even wakes me up in the night to pray for one of them. I don't usually know at the time why I need to pray for that child, although I may find out the next day. But God knows. He is faithfully watching over each one of them. He never sleeps or slumbers. He never forgets. His love never fails. I'm so grateful that He is in control!

Psalm 136:1 "Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever."

Psalm 139:9-10, 17 "If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there Your hand will guide me, and Your strength will support me. How precious are Your thoughts about me, O God! They are innumerable!"

What a wonderful privilege it is to be part of God's forever family!


God bless you with the knowledge of His presence,
Deborah

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

January 3, 2011, the beginning of another new year. Hopefully you have your new year off to a great start, with plans to make it a wonderful year.

For some reason this week, in and around thinking about what I want to accomplish in 2011, my mind wandered back to December of 1999. Do you remember the dire predictions and worries floating around during that fall and winter just before the calendars turned over to 2000? I remember very distinctly having dinner in October of 1999 with friends who had filled their basement with every kind of provision they might possibly need. They were prepared for the disaster they knew was coming. Then when New Year’s Eve came and went without a hitch, they good-naturedly invited all of their friends to come to a party and share the bounty.

The memory was probably triggered by an article I read last week predicting disastrous times still ahead for America—again recommending people stockpile food and supplies because we could encounter very difficult circumstances in the upcoming months and years. The article was disturbing because it was very logical and made sense, drawing events from history to prove the point. If these predictions do come true, those who are prepared will be in a much better position than those who are not.

So will I do anything different as a result of reading the article? I don’t know. This I’m sure of, however. If I really believed the predictions I read, my belief would cause me to take action. Just like my friends did in 1999. They were absolutely convinced of the need to prepare for a disaster, and so they did.

Here’s another prediction that requires action and preparation: Jesus is coming back to take us home with Him. (John 14:4) He talked about it with His disciples the night He was betrayed and taken away to be crucified. He was offering His promised return as a comfort and encouragement for them because He knew they would miss Him.

Earlier He had told a parable about it, comparing Himself to an eagerly anticipated bridegroom. In Matthew 25:13 He warned us, “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.” The context of this story implies a great celebration at His return—for those who are ready.

Paul mentioned it in his letter to the Thessalonians, telling them to “encourage each other with these words.” Again, for the prepared, Jesus’ return will be a time of incredible rejoicing.
But what about those who are not prepared? Now that would truly be a disaster. We see reminders all around us in everyday life of the difference between those who are prepared and those who are not. Like in the Christmas season we just celebrated—some people were prepared and could enjoy the peace and beauty of the season, taking time to worship the Savior as Christmas Eve approached. Some were not prepared at all, and were still frantically trying to get ready on the day before Christmas.

We read stories and watch movies and enjoy the drama of the last minute scramble or gift hunt, happy and relieved when the hero comes skidding in at the last possible moment.
But that’s not how it will be when Jesus comes. This one is too big, too important to miss. Too crucial to put off.

Have you made your preparations yet? I hope you have. I hope you’re ready to meet Jesus when He returns for you. But if by chance you’re not, would you make it a priority this year of 2011 to be ready to meet the King of Kings and Lord of Lords when He returns to claim His own?

Happy New Year--
Deborah

"CALL TO ME, AND I WILL ANSWER"

This week I finally fixed a problem on my business website--one that has been bugging me for over a month. I had tried everything I could think of, without success. Well, every thing but one. Finally I did what I should have done weeks ago.

I picked up the phone and called technical support. The young man who answered my call was helpful and pleasant, and the problem was fixed in about ten minutes. From there I went on to improve a few other things that needed work--on my own. It felt terrific! Like a major victory! Building on that satisfaction and the confidence it provided, I have been able to get more work done and move forward in ways I had not thought of before. It has been a great week!

Even so, this morning I sat down at my desk feeling overwhelmed, with the demands of two businesses and ministry weighing on me, as well as things I want to get done for Christmas and our upcoming trip. All of them (well, almost all of them) things I really want to do--things that are important to me, that I love doing.

Making a list of all the "to-do's" was even worse. Then I could really see in black and white that it was impossible to get it all done. As the frustration level began to climb, my eyes fell on the ceramic scroll that always sits right in front of me on my desk.

Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know. Jeremiah 33:3 (NKJV)

I had been overlooking the words for weeks. And I definitely needed to be reminded of their truth. Although I had already spent time with my Bible and prayer earlier in the morning, at that moment I needed to specifically ask for God's direction and blessing on my schedule.

So I did just that--stopped everything and called out to the Lord for His help and guidance. He is so faithful! He already knows how to take whatever twists and turns are tripping us up and smooth out the path in front of us. He'll do it when we ask Him to, but often He waits to be asked. He wants us to call out to Him, and He will show us things we would never have thought of on our own--"great and mighty things, which you do not know."

I still won't be able to fit my entire list into this one day. But God showed me what was most important, and gave me His grace to cover the rest. I'm so glad I called!

Whatever it is you need in your life today, I hope you call out to Him, and look for the great and mighty things He has for you.

Blessings,

Deborah

THIS IS LIFE

What a wonderful, busy, satisfying summer this one has been--packed full with so many of the things that bring me joy. As I began to make a list of the things we have enjoyed this summer, the recurring themes that jumped out at me were PEOPLE and TIME.

Time with our daughters, son-in-law and granddaughter at our rustic family cabin in the Colorado Rockies--hiking, climbing, making homemade ice cream, relaxing.

Sharing laughter and memories with my extended family, gathered around a blazing bonfire on the beach.

Climbing rocks and walking along the beach with my sisters, sharing hilarious laughter one minute and deep things of the heart the next.

Exploring lighthouses and waterfalls on the Oregon coast with my husband and daughter.

Teaching Bible studies and sharing God's truth with Christian women, in group settings and one-on-one.

Accepting the gift of a perfectly toasted marshmallow from my husband during our weekend camping trip in the Arizona mountains, celebrating 35 years together.

Earnest prayer with friends and family in need.

Singing to our precious granddaughter, who quickly asks for "more" at the end of each song. Reveling in her heart-filling hugs.

Preparing meals with my sisters and daughters in Denver, where we gathered for our nephew's wedding. Posing for photos in our dress-up clothes, and then comparing and sharing the pictures.

Long phone conversations with far-away loved ones while I walked around the lake near our home.

Impromptu coffee and ice-cream with friends on a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Morning talks with our visiting daughter, me pushed back from my home-office computer, she curled up in my antique rocker, resting against her grandmother's wedding-ring quilt.

These are the things life is made of--the time taken out of busy lives to connect, share, laugh, cry, pray and just be together.

I hope you are taking time in your busy life for the things that really matter--the things that fill you up and bring you joy.

And I pray that your days (and your life) are centered in the Source of life--our Savior Jesus. "I am the way, the truth and the life." Jesus, in John 14:6

JESUS LOVES YOU

Masses of people lined the beach, intent on enjoying the beautiful weather and a day of leisure. Many were there with family--children, parents, cousins laughing together, grandparents holding the hands of little ones. Others came with friends, neighbors or church groups. There must certainly also have been some in that crowd who were lonely and afraid, even surrounded as they were by hundreds--all strangers.

As with any huge gathering of people, they came in all shapes and sizes and nationalities, speaking many different languages. The colors and variety of apparel and beach paraphernalia were amazing. Smells of hundreds of picnics mingled with damp ocean air to overwhelm the senses.

In the middle of the crowds a banner boldly declared the love of Jesus for the hordes of people. Busily working away under the shade tents, individuals prepared food for the large group-men flipping burgers on a row of barbecue grills while women set out assorted bowls of food and desserts. Although the setting was different, the atmosphere might have been similar to the day Jesus fed the hungry masses by the Sea of Galilee, breaking apart five loaves of bread and two fish. As must have also happened on that day long ago, people waiting for their meal jostled together, enjoying the fresh sea air and sunshine while the meal was prepared. Through the miraculous provision of Jesus the crowd by the Sea of Galilee was well fed and everyone was satisfied. It appeared that the people who planned this event had plenty of food to go around as well.

Although it has been two thousand years since the unplanned picnic by the sea, one thing has never changed from then until now. Jesus loves people--large rowdy groups, small family get togethers, a few friends, and lonely individuals who have nobody to share a holiday at the beach with.

Jesus loves them all! Jesus loves you. He knows your heart. He knows your needs and wants to meet them. In John 6:32-33 Jesus said, "it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world." Jesus knows that your greatest need is not a full stomach, but eternal life. He longs to satisfy your soul. Have you trusted in Him and accepted His gift of eternal life?


God bless you,
Deborah

John 6:35 "Then Jesus declared, 'I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.'"

JOIN THE CHEER CLUB

This morning I sat at my breakfast table watching the hummingbirds flit around the feeder on our deck, and I had to laugh at their antics. One hummingbird (I call him Mr. Stingy) was sitting in the tree near the feeder guarding it from the others. He couldn't fly around and enjoy the beautiful morning because one of the others might get by him and drink the nectar. In spite of his diligence, they did occasionally sneak in to get sips, and were quickly chased off.

Of course all they had to do was go to the other end of the deck where another feeder was waiting for them, also filled with fresh nectar. The rest of the hummingbirds (I call them the Cheer Club) swooped and dived, chasing each other around joyfully, chattering in their pleasure. But Mr. Stingy stayed faithfully at his post, never joining in the fun, and only leaving his branch to do his guard duty.

At first the whole scenario was funny to watch, but soon I began to feel sorry for Mr. Stingy. By hoarding the nectar, refusing to share, and worrying that he might run out, he was missing out on the joy and abundance that was available to him. It's too bad he didn't know his nectar supply was endless so he could quit hoarding it and join in the fun. Yesterday I had filled the feeders to the top, happy to supply as much nectar as the hummingbirds could use, and eager to refill them as often as necessary. Poor Mr. Stingy.

And yet isn't this just what we do with God? He has promised to supply all of our needs as long as we put Him first, and pay attention first to matters to do with His kingdom. But instead of going about our life and work joyfully and with abandon, as the Cheer Club were doing, we worry and fret like Mr. Stingy. We worry that we might not have enough to pay our bills and meet our needs, as if God's provision might run out.

In the process of our worry, we don't pay attention to the small miracles of joy that are around us everyday--like the smile on the face of a loved one, a lilac bush in full bloom, the bright blue of the sky, a child's happy giggle, a daisy with its face turned to the sun, the caress of a soft breeze, or the comfort of a friend. The lesson in Matthew 6:25-33 is about this subject. It says, ". . . your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need." NLT

Yes we need to be responsible with our resources, putting them to good use and not squandering

what God has blessed us with. And Proverbs says that it's wise to save for a rainy day. But we also need to recognize that God owns the universe. His supply is endless. He has promised to provide for us when we keep our priorities in order. Jesus said He came to earth to give us an abundant life. Are you noticing the abundance around you, like the Cheer Club? Or are you guarding the supply like Mr. Stingy, and missing out on the abundance of God? (Check out what Proverbs 11:24-25 has to say about hoarding.)

God bless you with joy and abundance as you trust in Him.

Deborah

CHOOSING JOY

"Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again--rejoice!" Philippians 4:4 NLT

I've been thinking about joy today. Well no, actually, I've been thinking about the lack of joy--when sometimes the troubles of this world seem to get the best of me and I think I have a good excuse not to be joyful. Really I suppose if you just call it what it is, I guess I've been wallowing in the mud (self-pity). But all day God has been bringing two scriptures to mind. The first one is Philippians 4:4 where Paul tells us to rejoice--to always be full of joy in the Lord. And the second one is James 1:25 NLT "If you keep looking steadily into God's perfect law--the law that sets you free--and if you do what it says and don't forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it."

Just before that, in James 1:23-24 Paul says that if we just listen to God's word and don't do anything about it--don't obey, it's like looking at ourselves in the mirror and then walking away with a dirty face or messed up hair, or broccoli in our teeth. (My own loose paraphrase.)

So why do these two scriptures keep rolling around in my mind today? The answer is obvious, I suppose. Philippians 4:4 doesn't tell me to rejoice if I feel like it, or if everything is going just right. It says "Rejoice!" and "Be full of joy in the Lord". And James 1:25 says if we do what God's word tells us to do (whether we feel like it or not) He will bless us for it.

Sure enough, when I make the effort to think about all the wonderful things God has done for me, instead of letting my mind keep playing in the mud, I feel better. The blessing comes quickly. Just like fixing our hair and putting on a little makeup gives us a quick lift, looking for the good and choosing joy in the Lord will give our spirits a boost every time.

Circumstances around us may be exactly the same way they were before, but our outlook is changed. The extra effort is so worth it!

God bless you with joy today!

Deborah

WORKING FOR THE LORD!

Colossians 3:23 says "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men."

It's Sunday evening and almost time for bed. The weekend is over, a new work week starts tomorrow morning, and it's going to be a busy one! Clients to meet with, employees to lead and encourage, meetings to attend, other meetings to conduct, paperwork to take care of--you know how it goes.

Some of the work I really enjoy, and find stimulating and challenging. Some not so much. And sometimes I find myself wishing I could just work for God instead of being a business owner. This week He reminded me that I already do work for Him. In everything I do, with every client and every project, as well as every Bible study, prayer, writing assignment and ministry action, I work for Him. He's the Boss, the Lord, the King. What a privilege it is to be in His employ--forever!

Thinking about that, I find myself actually looking forward to Monday morning, with the intention of doing my work for my Lord.

God bless you in your work this week. I pray that you find joy and satisfaction in working for Him.
Deborah

AS HIGH AS THE HEAVENS

While driving home from my office tonight I was enjoying the longer days, with more daylight left after working hours. Looking up into the sky I noticed streaks of clouds way up in the heavens, like the tails of lost kites. Behind the gray and white streaks, way beyond and much higher, the pink of the sky faded softly away into clear white.

It struck me that I was looking into infinity, way up there beyond the wispy clouds, past the sky. The sky looked bigger and deeper than I can remember noticing before, and the immensity of it was awesome and thrilling. A scripture from yesterday's Bible study popped into my head, and the thrill became shivers of delight.

"For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His love for those who fear Him." Psalm 103:11 (NIV)

Really, Lord? That's how big Your love for us really is? AMAZING LOVE!

In Jeremiah 31:3 God told His people, "I have loved you with an everlasting love." Love as big as the heavens, and without end. Love that wraps around us, holds us up, helps us out, provides for and protects us, knows us by heart and calls us by name. Love that sent His Son Jesus to die in our place. It's there for you. Have you claimed it for your own?

Love,
Deborah

PEACE INSTEAD OF PANIC

If you're like me, I'm guessing at sometime or another you have experienced that feeling of panic that can strike when circumstances feel totally out of control. When your chest feels like it's being squeezed so you can't breathe, and you break out in a cold sweat, and fear grabs your heart. Have you ever felt that way? Well I have, and unfortunately it has happened more times than I would like to admit. The reaction can come in response to all kinds of things--medical emergencies, financial pressures, family issues, or time worries--like when I suddenly realize I am way overcommitted and I can't see a way out without looking foolish.

But lately, as I've been more intentional about looking for the abundant life Jesus came to give me, I realize this panic reaction does not please Him. What pleases Him in those situations is for me to "cast all my anxiety on Him" (1 Peter 5:7), and "don't be anxious about anything, but in everything present my requests to God with thanksgiving" (Philippians 4:6), and "pray continually" (1 Thessalonians 5:17). God really does know all about our troubles, He loves us with an amazing never-ending love, and He has the power to work in our circumstances. But sometimes it seems like He's standing back waiting for us to ask Him for His help before He steps in.

When we do give Him our anxieties, and learn to rejoice in Him in spite of circumstances, here is the promise: "And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7 Wow! What an amazing, wonderful promise!

This peace He promised is one part of that full, abundant, joyful life God wants for us. I'm ready to turn my panic over to Him, and exchange it for the peace He offers. Are you ready?

God bless you with peace--
Deborah

A FULL AND ABUNDANT LIFE

What do you suppose Jesus was talking about in John 10:10 when He told us that He came to give us life in all its fullness? This statement comes right after His warning that the enemy came only to steal, kill and destroy. We talked about this recently in our ladies' Bible study, linking it with Ephesians 1:18 where Paul prayed for his Christian family in Ephesus. Paul's prayer included the hope that their spiritual eyes would be opened to understand the wonderful future God had given them in Christ. So we spent some time thinking about what Jesus and Paul meant. Yes, we know they were in part talking about our future in Heaven. But Jesus also wanted us to have a full and abundant life here on earth, as did Paul. What does that mean exactly?

As we talked through this we realized that the two (our future in Heaven and our future here) really can't be separated. Because knowing we have a future in Heaven makes all the difference here on earth. Once the eternity question is settled, everything in our daily lives takes on a whole new meaning.

For example, nearly everyone would agree that a full and abundant life would include the love of family and friends. When we share the bond of love in Christ and the promise of Heaven, friendships and family relationships grow deeper and sweeter. Another abundant life quality is the freedom from fear. Knowing our place in Heaven is secure, and that God is in control, takes the fear out of our day-to-day lives. Nothing is going to happen to us here that is too big for God to handle. (See John 16:33)

God bless you today with His abundant life, and the kind of joy you see here on the face of my precious granddaughter Rebekah! We'll talk more about what that looks like in the days ahead, but in the meantime I hope you're rejoicing, as I am, in the awesome knowledge that Jesus truly does want the best for us, today and everyday, and He knows exactly what that is! "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." John 10:10

Deborah

December 31. The last day of 2009. All day I've been working down through my to-do list, marking off each item as I complete it, and then moving on to the next one. It has been very satisfying to see the long list shrinking as I work to close out the year at my office, and also prepare to be gone out of town for a long weekend. But at the back of my mind something has been nagging at me, a nervous dissatisfaction that I couldn't quite place, a vague anxiety. And all of a sudden, as I pause in my busy schedule to write out some end-of-the-year thoughts, I know exactly what it is. A realization bursts into my mind with absolute clarity, and the busy day fades into insignificance.

This morning I looked down through everything I wanted to accomplish today, and mentally calculated the time the tasks would require. In so doing, without conscious thought, I made the decision to neglect my regular time of Bible reading and prayer. Instead, during my appointed devotional time, I jumped right into getting those "important" things done. Things like finishing the apron I was making for my daughter, getting a gift ready for my granddaughter's birthday party tomorrow, laying out clothes to put in my suitcase after work, taking out the trash, and a few other items. By my actions, I was giving more importance to these to-do's and ignoring my daily appointment with the King of the Universe.

But my King wants me to spend time with Him. All through the day, as I've rushed about, He has been patiently waiting for me to keep my commitment to Him, whispering for me to slow down and come before Him with praise.

It seems like this subject is very much like what I wrote about on my last post. I must not yet have learned the lesson that my Lord is trying to teach me. His word tells me, "Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for Him to act." Psalm 37:7 (NLT) In Psalm 23 I read, "The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; He leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength." At the end of the chapter, my heart clutches in my chest as I see the words, "Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life."

Even on one of my busiest days, when my list is long, my Lord is pursuing me with His unfailing love, tugging at my heart strings. He is inviting me to come away with Him for a few moments to dwell on His goodness, to rest beside His peaceful stream, to recognize again that time spent in His presence truly is the most important thing on my life's to-do list. He won't give up on me, just as He won't give up on you. He'll continue to pursue each of us for as long as it takes to get our attention

So what about you? The King of the Universe wants to spend time with you. He wants to show you His unfailing love and goodness, and give you His peace beside a quiet stream. Have you given Him His rightful place in the busyness of your life?

Will you join me in a renewed commitment as we begin the new year of 2010?

God bless you with His grace and peace in 2010.

Deborah

GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST!

What a beautiful season of the year, the time when we pause to reflect on God's wonderful gift to us in His Son, Jesus.
Or do we? Do we take time to be grateful for God's gift of salvation? Do we open our eyes to the light to be found only in Jesus? Do we allow our spirits to swell with joy as we ponder His amazing, unconditional love for us? Or are we so busy with our Christmas preparations that we don't have time to bask in the true reason for the season?
Many years as I get ready for Christmas, I find myself feeling stressed and overwhelmed, with too much to do and not enough time to get it all done. For the last few years I've given myself a much needed time-out by attending the Christmas concert of our local choral society. Today was my time-out day.
Again this afternoon as I sat in the full auditorium listening to the songs of Christmas, the beautiful old words calmed me and pointed me back to Jesus. I was reminded anew that my Lord is not concerned about external Christmas preparations. He is looking at my heart, waiting for me to thank Him for His beautiful gift, waiting patiently for me to sit in stillness before Him and worship Him in all His glory.
This Christmas may your heart be filled with quiet wonder as you ponder the humble birth of the King of Kings, come to earth to bring us the salvation found only in Him.

Peace and joy to you--
Deborah

A CHEERFUL GIVER

Hands busy in the simple Mexican kitchen, she worked diligently for hours, mixing up the dough, forming small balls, rolling them out impossibly thin, and browning them on both sides in a hot skillet. The result was delicious homemade tortillas, a still-warm stack wrapped in plastic for each of us. Twenty-one people had been in Mexico for two and a half days, building a new home for her and her family, and she wanted to send us off with a gift in return.

The fresh tortillas were wonderful, and much appreciated. They were also a not-so-subtle reminder to me, that I should be more grateful for the blessings God has entrusted to me. Our new friend was graciously and generously sharing with us from the resources she had. How could I possibly do any less?

Lord, please remind me often of the joy and gratitude and generosity displayed in that humble kitchen. And help me follow her lead by passing along Your blessings to the people I meet.

2 Corinthians 9:7 "Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."

Grace to you--

Deborah

YOU ARE ON HIS MIND!

"How precious are your thoughts about me, O God! They are innumerable! I can't even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand!" Psalm 139 17-18 (NLT)

Amazing thought, that God spends time thinking about me! Not just once in awhile, but all the time. So many times, in fact, that His thoughts about me cannot be counted--like sand on a seashore. What's even more mind boggling is that God can think about each one of us like that. Because God is infinite, without limit, He can be smoothing your path in front of you, at the exact same time that He is holding my hand and encouraging me on, at the same time that He is listening to your sister's prayer, and on and on.

In His infinity, His attention to you is not diminished by His attention to me, or to anyone else. Isn't it wonderful to know that God doesn't get distracted! He's not going to get overwhelmed. He's not going to miss anything. And He's thinking about me (and you) all the time. Oh, thank you, Lord!

Grace to you--

Deborah

OH, I NEED THAT!

God blessed me this week with the privilege of starting a noon Bible study for working women who don't normally get to participate in a women's group study. As I've talked to different ones and told them what we're doing, a common response has been, "Oh, I need that."

You probably know how it is. We get busy taking care of children, or parents, or working long hours at a job, or whatever it might be, not really noticing how parched we're becoming--like working long hours in the sun without a drink. Until someone says, "Slow down, take a break, come meet with us to pray and share scripture." And then, just like someone bringing us a cool glass of water, or like seeing an oasis in the desert, our souls say, "Oh, I need that."

God made us for fellowship and connection--the kind where we take time to share our thoughts, prayers, concerns, blessings. Where we can encourage and lift each other up, and grow together in love. Hebrews 10:24-25 says, "Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another . . ."

As you go through this beautiful fall season, I hope you make the time to connect with a friend, share a scripture and a prayer, encourage each other, and let God quench the thirst within you.

Grace to you--

Deborah

"The steps of the godly are directed by the Lord. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will not fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand." Psalm 37:23-24 (NLT)

Last weekend we were privileged to spend a few days in Colorado with two of our daughters, our son-in-law, and our granddaughter Rebekah. Rebekah, who is almost ten months old, is just learning to walk. Still a little unsure, and not quite ready to do it alone, she loves to walk with someone helping her. Here she is, stumbling over a pile of rocks, with her Mommy holding her firmly by the hand. We laughed at her eagerness, her little steps unsteady yet with no risk of falling as long as Mommy was holding her.

What a great reminder of how God is with us--delighting in every detail of our lives, just as we delight in our granddaughter. It's easy to forget, isn't it, that we're safe. That God is directing our steps and holding our hand, keeping us from falling as we stumble on our way. Oh how comforting it is to have this promise we can depend on, even when the circumstances around us may be rocky and uneven.

Grace to you--

Deborah