Fearful of Evil Tidings

He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord. Psalm 112:7

A few years ago, while reading through my Bible, this verse jumped out at me. Since that time, I have clung to it many times. How often are we worried or anxious about receiving bad news? When the phone rings and your heart starts pounding, because you are fearful of who will be on the other end, calling to share news you’ve been dreading.

All through my teen years, I looked forward to one day traveling to visit missionaries. Several times I had planned a trip, only to have it fall apart. It was my one big dream and I tried opening so many doors on my own, but it was not meant to be. Finally, I gave it to the Lord. I told Him that I was ready for whenever He was ready to send me. I stopped trying to open closed doors and rested in His leading and timing. Several months later, an opportunity dropped into my lap from out of the blue. My good friend, Bro. D asked me to come North to live with his family and help at their small Christian school. That particular location had never crossed my radar before, but it was definitely of God. With a very short amount of time I was in Inuvik, NWT.

My brother had gotten married Friday evening and Monday morning I was on my way to Inuvik. We arrived Tuesday evening and by the next day, I was working at the school. Things were going well and I was getting adjusted to being away from family and “on my own.” Sunday evening, we were just getting home from church, when the phone rang. I had this weird feeling that the call was for me. But I instantly dismissed it, because I didn’t really know anyone yet in town, so no one local would be calling me and everyone back home would be at church. Yet, a few seconds later, I was told the call was for me. It was a close family friend calling to inform me my mother had been in a serious car accident the previous night. She had already had a couple surgeries and was currently in ICU.

It was such a weird feeling… I was so far away, that it was hard to believe it was real. There really was no emotion on my part at first, because I was only hearing of it and not seeing any physical evidence. It took a couple days for it to sink in. My dad called a couple days later and we talked about the entire situation. My mom would be in the hospital for a while and even after she got out, it would be a long recovery. My older brother had just gotten married, I as the oldest girl was away from home for the first time and my next brother was working fulltime. That left my middle sister, who was only 14 at the time to take care of the youngest two siblings. My dad still had to work and he also spent a lot of time at the hospital. I asked him if he thought I should come home to take care of the family. But he said no. We both knew God had given me this opportunity and he felt I should stay where God had led. God always gives grace, does He not?

A few weeks later, I received another phone call. This one came after I was already in my bedroom for the night, but I got up to take the call. A friend from home called to let me know a guy I had grown up with had been killed in a motorcycle accident. His sister and I had been good friends for a few years and while he and I never were that close, it was still a shock. How does one handle getting news like that? Yet, God is good and He always provides grace and peace when we need it most.

Fast forward to a year later. I now found myself in Outer Mongolia, completely cut off from the world around me. The village we lived in had no electricity, no running water, no radio, no cell phones. We had a landline, but it didn’t always work. One time my mom tried calling for 2 weeks before she could get through. During my first couple months there, every time the phone would ring and someone would say the call was for me, fear was my first response. My heart would pound, until I answered and realized my family had simply called to see how I was doing, not to tell me bad news. It’s a horrible way to live, always dreading the next phone call. Then I read Psalm 112:7- “He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord.” The ‘he’ in the verse speaks of “the man that feareth the Lord, that delighteth greatly in his commandments,” found in verse one of the chapter. I realized that I was not trusting God the way that I should have been.

Instead of resting in Him, I was constantly worried about what evil tidings I would hear next. I was dreading the future and the pain and hurt I might face, instead of dwelling in the present moment and being at peace. I knew then that God wanted me to trust Him completely. Did that mean I would never receive bad news again? No. But I didn’t need to worry about something that hadn’t happened yet. And I could be confident that when I did receive bad news again, God would still be by my side, giving me the grace, strength and peace to deal with each situation. I clung to that verse, holding it as a promise from God. I could fix my heart and mind on His constant love, instead of dreading the future.

That year in Mongolia, I never did receive a phone call with difficult news. Instead, God taught me many other things. But He had given me Psalm 112:7 to hold on to and prepare me for the future. Years later, I was once again in Mongolia, when I would receive heart wrenching news. No, it wasn’t easy to deal with, but I had chosen not to fear the future, but trust that God would provide the grace and strength I needed when those times came. And once again, He proved Himself faithful in my life.  

Breath of Fresh Air

We all have times when we wonder what others think of us.

What do people think when I leave the room? Is there a smile on their face that wasn't there before? Or do they breathe a sign of relief that she's finally gone? Do I leave them happier or more irritated and tense? 

I know what I'd want them to say, but is that really what they're thinking? 

Been pondering about this a lot lately... 
God's given me several opportunities recently to be His hands and feet. It's easy to live life for yourself and forget about all the people surrounding you that need a friend. God's been redirecting my attention and opening doors into people's lives. (for which I am very grateful!) I want those people to feel better when I leave... not because they are glad I'm gone, but because they could sense true joy from God and that has spilled over to bless them. 

My desire is to be a conduit of grace, truth and joy. That can only happen if I am truly filled with the Word of God and his grace and joy has penetrated my soul. Only then can it flow over into the lives of those around me. 

I want even strangers to feel as if they inhaled a breath of fresh air after my departure. They may not know my name but hopefully they know my sincerity and joy. My name is not important, but the name of my Saviour is. And that's who I want them to know. 

Are you fresh air? or stale, stuffy air? 

Finish Strong

A couple weeks ago, I was listening to a 10 year old preaching tape in my car while going back and forth to work and school. Sometimes I get tired of listening to music while driving, so this is a good alternative. Especially since my new car only has the radio and a cassette player. So I had to dig out my old cache of preaching cassettes. 

The sermon was a great message, but I started thinking about the guy preaching. My mind went back to the year he preached that particular sermon.... he was such an on-fire young man. At the time was attending Bible college, serving at church, involved in all kinds of ministries, both at school and at his home church during the summers, greatly interested in missions. He was a likable young man, was passionate about the Lord and great preacher. Humanly speaking, most who knew him saw such a great future lay in front of him.

Now, he is still serving in the church, but his passion has seemed to fade. Still a great guy, but I wonder if the fire still burns in his soul. It is not my place to judge, but it made me examine my own life. 

I go back ten years and think about who I was then..... scary thought. haha Honestly, sometimes I wonder how people could stand being around me. So rough around the edges. And then my mind recollects the years between then and now. I look back at the times God was molding me. Pruning me. Putting me through the fire. All to conform me to His image. Times where I wondered why, and now can see how God used those times to draw me to Him. 

I've decided I may not have started well, but I want to finish strong. I would much rather keep progressing each year and come to the end of my life and know that my passion has grown, my love for God has increased and my service never slacked, then to be a ball of fire in the beginning and slowly fade into ashes. 

In Paul's words: 
            "Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 3:12-14)

Alone, and yet Not Alone

Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts. I sat not in the assembly of the mockers, nor rejoiced; I sat alone because of thy hand: for thou has filled me with indignation.   Jeremiah 15: 16-17

Ever have those moments (or days), that you feel so alone? Surrounded by people, and yet alone. I am so glad that I may be alone, yet I am never truly alone. For my God is my constant Companion. 

God created us to be social people. He said of Adam, "it is not good that the man should be alone;" We are a people who long for love and fellowship. I do not know a single person who really, truly wants to be unloved or unwanted. Personally, it makes me happy to know that people love me. Compliments make me smile. Friends wanting to spend time with me encourages my heart. 

And the opposite is true as well. A friend stops talking to me and I ask myself what I did wrong. Negative comments hurts my feelings. Having noone to spend time with is frustrating. And no one is exempt. Everyone likes being wanted and loved. 

That's why I'm glad I have something and Someone who remains constant in my life. I never have to worry if God loves me today or not. I never have to wonder if He is listening and speaking to me. If I feel He is far away, I am the one who has moved, not Him. I may have to remind myself of His love, but that does not change the fact His love is consistent and unchanging. 

So today I may be alone. And maybe again next week. But God is still with me. So really I am NOT alone. 

Two Week Trip to India

So the adventure I alluded to last post.... I just got back from south India, where I spent two weeks teaching English. It was a GREAT time. On the way there, it took four flights and 36 hours traveling. Left home Friday morning early and arrived local time Sunday late morning. Yes, I was tired, but it only took a day and a half to adjust to the new time (14 1/2 hours ahead of Alaska). 

view from the roof of the guest house

I stayed on the campus of a Bible campus. My class consisted of only seven students and they worked hard for the two weeks at English Writing. I thoroughly enjoyed teaching this class and this subject. We had a great time not only working on writing, but also singing, laughing and getting to know each other. I now have a desire to visit their home places. 

MABT students

walking to class

It was an encouraging time for me. Getting to know other young people with a great desire to serve God with their lives is always encouraging. God also worked on my heart much during this time, through my students, our singing, the chapel services and His Word.

God is faithful. 

Heart Issues

"Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls."           Matthew 11:28-29

I am a planner and a doer. I enjoy living my life to the fullest. My mind is constantly thinking ahead, looking for new adventures, setting goals, strategizing how I can accomplish everything, scheduling visits with friends, searching for airfare deals, etc. While my mind is whirling with future ideas and plans, I am also trying to juggle work, ministry, online English class, online TESOL class, online training for a 2nd job, books that have to be read, Bible studies to teach, friends and other random projects, all with deadlines, of course.  My mind just goes and goes and goes..... until my heart yells,  "Stop!"

Physically, my heart can only handle so much. Doing too much, compounded by lack of sleep and too much caffeine causes my heart to act up. There have been times that my blood pressure has been.... well, let's just say one time a nurse friend told me I needed to go to the ER cause it was so high. Add to that the fact that one of the valves in my heart is thicker than it's supposed to be. Not a big deal, they really won't do anything about it unless it gets worse, but it's enough that I can tell when my heart's not right. When I get so busy that I barely have enough time to remember my name and age, it puts undo stress on my heart. 

Not just my physical heart though. My spiritual heart. That's why I love the verses above. I have to remind myself to stop. To be still. To know God. To spend time in His presence. If I don't, my spiritual heart gets out of rhythm. It doesn't matter how many Bible studies I teach. How many friends I encourage. How many missions trips I take. If my heart is not in tune with God, all of it is pointless. 

It's a daily task - reminding myself to slow down so I can enjoy God and life. I want to rest in my Saviour's arms. Want to enjoy His presence that brings joy (Ps. 16:11) Desperately want my life to reflect His light and grace and that will only come as I spend quality time with Him. 

I'm working on my heart.... how's yours? 

The Climax of Scripture

Recently, my brain has been a whirlwind trying to maintain order of all my school assignments, travel arrangements, scheduling of the summer, getting ready for AWG (more info. on that later), staying busy at work, etc. Whew, that's tiring just typing/thinking about it! 

In the midst of so much chaos and activity, I love the blessings God gives. With my English class the past few weeks, I've been brushing up on the fundamentals and structure of literature. Relearning about the plot, setting, characters, theme and literary devices within a story. My teacher has pointed out that each author is the creator of his fictional work. He or she determines what needs to be included into the story and nothing is there by accident. Everything has a reason, even little details and descriptions. He equated it to the author being the "god" of the story. Every plot has a climax, the conflict of it's characters reaching that one pivot point in the narrative that ultimately has the potential of changing the ending.

Couple days after that English review, I was reading in Mark 15 about the trial and crucifixion of Jesus. I came to verse 38. Here was the climax, the pivot point. Now the Bible isn't a fictional story book, it is the true, accurate account of God's creation of earth and mankind, man's sin and God's redemption plan for sinful man. But with all those English aspects of stories flowing through my brain, I couldn't help but connect the two. God's perfect, amazing story of love summed up within one verse. 

Mark 15:38 - And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom.

That verse may not seem like much to you, but when I read it, it jumped out at me. This is the climax of the incredible story of God's love for us humans. You see, the veil in the temple separated man from God. Beyond that huge, thick veil was the Holy of Holies where the Ark of the Covenant and during the ancient days of Israel where God was said to dwell. That veil symbolized the disconnect between us and God. Only one person was allowed past that veil in the temple and only once a year. When Jesus died on the cross, God tore the magnificent veil separating us from Him in half! He was telling us, that no longer would we have to offer sacrifices and go to a priest to get our sins forgiven and to know Him. We could now freely come into His presence! As Hebrews says, we can come boldly into the throne room of God, we do not need a priest to intercede for us. Jesus Christ paid our sin debt with His life, thereby allowing us free access to Almightly God. 

I'm thankful for even English classes, because it has made me recognize in Scripture that I would otherwise pass right over. And even more thankful for God's amazing, abundant love for me that He would choose to die in my place!!

Love - Unconditionally

"love like you've never been hurt"

Just walking through Fred's on my lunch break, when the above saying caught my eye. I was looking for some new wall art for my bedroom and there it was, a pretty plague with that saying scrolled across it.

Wasn't something to purchase, but the words sure stuck with me.

Moments throughout my life, I've been tempted to stop showing love to certain individuals. A person who perhaps hurt me, betrayed me or just showed me a little bit of cold shoulder. It is my tendency to withdraw after such experiences. Why should I be a friend to them? Why should I open my heart to them? When all I get in return is rejection or indifference?

When you love someone, you open yourself up to hurt. An offending remark from a stranger is easy to brush off, but when it comes from a dear friend, it stings. Loving someone makes you the lover, vulnerable.

Honestly, I don't like being vulnerable.

My natural response is so say "no thanks;" to love someone without opening my heart to them.

Then my spirit reminds me, "Christ loved you by opening Himself up to you, when you still rejected Him." God loved me before I loved Him. He made Himself vulnerable to hurt and shame on my behalf!

While I'd rather just love someone simply without being deeply involved, Christ wants me to love as He loved. Yes, I may get hurt in the process - but then I can share in the "fellowship of His sufferings." (Philippians 3) It's still not an easy choice, but it is the right choice.

Choose to Love.

Unconditionally.

choosing love....

Betrayal, Pain, GRACE

Gut-wrenching heart-ache - that's how I would describe deep betrayal. 

Have you ever thought about how Christ felt when Judas betrayed Him? 

Sure, He was God and He knew it was coming and even that it was needed for Him for be crucified. But that doesn't negate the fact that He was betrayed. Betrayed by one of those closest to Him. A person He had worked with, laughed with, traveled and lived with. A man He had taught and mentored. 

And then. 

Judas turned on Jesus and betrayed Him.

Stabbed Him in the back. 

There's no way you can tell me that Christ was not hurt. 

Perhaps the knowledge of Judas' betrayal added to the enormous weight He carried in the Garden when Christ prayed. The betrayal by a close friend is not an easy boulder to scale and then just continue on down the path of life unaffected. 

Sometimes the hurt and pain remain in your heart for many months afterward. It will never be completely erased from your memory. 

The boulder of betrayal may be blocking your path. There is no way around it. It cannot be brushed aside and not dealt with. If you are to press forward in your spiritual walk, it must be ascended. You can choose to let it defeat you so that you no longer have the energy to travel the upward journey of faith. But you are the one who loses, if that is your choice. 

I understand to a small extent the anger, frustration and pain that accompanies a friend's betrayal. Not the kind of pain that stems from a friend who perhaps no longer speaks to you or speaks evil of you behind your back. Not an elementary school betrayal.

But the heartache caused by a close confident and mentor who has spurned the Truth of God's Word, the Truth they have proclaimed for many years. The pain generated when the choices this friend made severely injures numerous loved ones around them.

Hebrews 4: 15 - "For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin."

Christ is our High Priest. He understands our weaknesses, our emotions, our trials. He knows how betrayal feels! He can comfort and give grace, because He has been through it already. Only He can give sustaining grace and peace in a dark time of life. What a comfort it is to rest in the knowledge that my Lord loves me, He understands the anguish of my soul and He will carry me over the hurdle of betrayal.

Betrayal is only one of many dark trials that a person can encounter in life. But my God is the Sustainer and Peace-Giver for each one of our trials - whether it be the death of loved one, the betrayal of a dear friend, the kidnapping of a child, sickness, financial loss. Each of our circumstances may be different, but...

God is the Constant.

You can look to Him and He will never let you down. Men will fail us. I'm thankful for the good, godly friends God has allowed me to meet, but none will ever replace the Lord and what He can do for me.

His Strength is made strong in my weakness, His Grace sustains me when I don't have the will to go on, His Peace comforts my heart when I am burdened, His Word refreshes my soul when I am down, His Love embraces me when I feel alone.

My heart still aches as I write this, my stomach still churns and tears threaten to flow, but my trust is in the God of Heaven. By allowing Him free access to my life, yes, I will endure trials. But those trials will make me stronger, more confident in my Saviour - in the end, I consider it a blessing.

I am today closer to my Father because of this trial.

and I am willing to accept this trial and others in the future if my God will be glorified. 

Desires

"Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart."

Psalm 37:4

The above verse has been a close companion for the past ten years or so. I have claimed the promise in the second part of the verse time and time again as I strive to delight myself in the Lord.  He has fulfilled that promise many times; providing many of the opportunities that I desired. 

Over the years this verse has taken on new meanings for me. At one point I realized that not only does God give us the desires of our heart, but as we delight (ie, spend time with Him, get to know Him better, seek His ways, obey His commandments, love what He loves, etc.) in Him, He actually puts desires in our hearts and then gives them to us! As we love Him and seek His face, our heart changes. Our desires change to be more aligned with His desires for us. 

Recently, this verse has been in the forefront of my mind. But for a little different reason. You see, I have a desire (yes, I have more than one, but I'm talking about one in particular) in my heart. It's a good desire. But it is a desire that God has not yet given to me. I find myself now evaluating my heart. 

Am I truly delighting 100% in the Lord? Am I seeking His desires or my own made up desires? Am I okay if the Lord never gives me this desire? Am I willing to give up this desire to bring God glory? Am I willing to accept and desire what He desires? 

A friend and I were talking about this the other day. We know that God directs our steps if we follow Him. At times though, it seems tough to distinguish between our heart's desires and what God is actually trying to teach, show and direct us. I think it always comes back to the first part of this verse. It does not say that when God gives us our desires, we will love Him for that and in return delight in Him. No, we are to first and foremost, delight in Him!

I am confident that as I delight in the Lord, He will make my path clear. It may not be tonight or tomorrow or even this year. But He will continue to guide and direct my steps. And if I delight in Him completely, I will understand what the true desires of my heart are because He will have given them to me. And will be able to let go of my selfish desires for His glory!

Fullness of Heart

Some days one just doesn't have the words to express what is in their heart. 

This past weekend, I wanted (needed) to get away and spend some time alone with my Saviour. I planned on going north to my dad's cabin for a day or so. I drove out Friday night and came back Saturday afternoon. It wasn't  much, but it was what I needed. Sometimes this life threatens to overwhelm me; the busyness, instant communication, relationships and even ministry obscure my view of my Lord. Going North provided me some valuable time away from my phone and the internet (yes, there are still places in this world, where there is no cell reception), away from people, my job and responsibilities and enabled me to enjoy the Lord's presence.

I've had a lot of my mind lately, all these decisions about what to do with this next year of my life, constantly weighing on me. I simply wanted the Lord to point out the next step. While I can't say I have much more concrete direction about what to do this year, I do have peace. Peace - knowing my Lord cares for me and He will lead my steps. Assurance - that He is in control and I can rest in that. 

Coming back to "civilization" yesterday, the cares of this life flooded back. Trials that dear friends are facing, relationships that need work, friends that need salvation, jobs that need done. BUT GOD is my shelter. He is my refuge. My place of comfort. The Rock when all else in my life is storming around me. 

Again, my heart is full tonight. Full of joy for the truth of God's Word and the preaching of His servants. Full because the challenges and inspiration to keep on serving my Saviour. Full because of the sadness of goodbyes. Full because heartache of those who reject the goodness of God. 

I long for the day when God calls me home. Home to be with Him FOREVER!

Until then, however, He has deemed it best that I remain on this earth to serve Him and bring Him glory with my life. Are you bringing Him glory? whether in joy or sorrow - He alone is worthy!!

Bitterness - Tear Gas

Bitterness is the unresolved violation of my personal sense of justice. 

My pastor has been preaching/teaching much about bitterness recently. The above definition is the one he gave during his sermons. With that description of bitterness it is easy to see why so many people are caught up in the plague of it. We humans are all about fairness. As kids, we quarreled if a sibling got a bigger piece of cake than we did or got to play the computer longer than we did. Fairness - or the sense that my justice is being violated. When we refuse to resolve the act of unfairness, we commit to allowing bitterness into our hearts. The bitterness left alone festers and grows until it consumes our life completely. 

You know, it kind reminds me of tear gas. When bitterness consumes your life, you can't escape from it. Exposure to tear gas changes your life (well temporarily) also. Sneezing becomes an every few minute occurrence, your nose and throat burn, eyes burn and water. No matter what you are doing - cooking/eating dinner, exercising, talking with your family, etc. the effects of tear gas still accompany you. So, is bitterness - one may be able to laugh and joke around, but the effects of the plague still trouble constantly. (and yes, I do know what I'm talking about)

As blood-bought believers of Christ, we are to be dead to self. I no longer live for myself but for Christ. A dead person cannot be offended. I cannot treated unfairly or violated, because I have no sense of justice. I am dead.

"I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me." Galatians 2:20

I challenge you, as I have challenged myself, to live as if I were truly dead. There is no reason to be offended by someone's words or actions. Live for Christ Alone!

"Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ," Philippians 3:8

Let go of offenses, so you can know Christ more fully. 

Shopping, Baking and Blessings!

Earlier this week I went to the дэлгүүр (store) by myself! I am housesitting for a friend and there wasn't much in way of food at the house. So, off to the store I went. I used Mongolian mostly and the lady shopkeeper understood me! They didn't have everything I wanted but I was able to get a few things so I could have something to eat at least. I was just pleased with myself that I went alone and used my Mongolian. :) 

the store I went to - right across the road from my cabin

All this for $10USD!! pretty good I'd say. 

Then, when I got home I make myself some biscuits. (of course always reminded of Nicole!) And boy, did they taste good! Most anything would taste good since all I had eaten was one slice of bread in about 30 hours. Was reminded again how thankful I am for food! Especially the variety of American food. Here the norm is meat (sheep, yak or cow), potatoes, cabbage, carrots, onions and flour. Now I like all those things but if that's all you have to work with..... day after day. 

my biscuits. tribute to Nicole :)

Today was a blessing. 

We had a ladies prayer meeting at Сайхнаа's house. I spoke on how praying together can bring us all together. One of my favorite passages in the Bible is Acts 2, where it says that the first church was gathered in one place in one accord. It fascinates me that so many different diverse people can be gathered at one location and been of the same mindset. They had Jesus in common and because of it, they put everything else aside. Prayer is an important tool to our Christian life and to the church. When we pray together, we come together and are united. I spoke for maybe 20 minutes, then we shared requests for another 20-30 minutes. We finished up by praying.... for an hour! 

What a sweet time it was. At one point while one of the ladies was praying, I thought of Hebrews 4:16. 

"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to to help in time of need."

There we were six ladies (five Mongols and one American) praying in our native tongue, beseeching the throne of grace. Pleading for healing, for lost family and friends, for God to move in our community. 

I think I caught a glimpse of heaven today. 

The bond we as believers have is powerful. Though I can't sit and talk more than small talk to most of those ladies, we have a bond of sisterhood. We love each other because we all love the Lord. 

Also today something happened that I never thought would happen! 

Four years ago when I was here working, I lost my high school class ring. I had no idea how or where I lost it. When I realized it was gone, I was here in Hatgal, but thought it might have been lost in UB. I looked and looked and asked numerous people if they had seen it. After returning home, I thought about it every now and then and kept praying that someone would find it. Eventually I gave up and forgot about it. 

Well, today Сайхнаа brought out my ring and asked "is this yours?"

I was shocked to see it! She said her husband found it 2 years ago! But they had no idea who's it was and everyone they asked didn't recognize it. I had given it up as lost forever and wasn't really concerned about it. But isn't God good to bring it back to me!? 

I just want to say again - My God is an Awesome God. Not only did He create this entire world. He loves me.... Unconditionally! And His Son died for my sin debt, so I could be reunited with Him. 

I'm so glad I know Him. 

Do you?

Psalms & Apple Pie

Everyone has days that they are discouraged. Guess its just part of living here on a sin filled earth. Even Paul had to remind himself to be content in all states of life. When I am down, I have several things I do to encourage myself. Lately, I have discovered another way. Now, we are not all alike, so what works for me may not work for you and vice versa. 

The past few days, I have taken to reading the Psalms OUT LOUD. It is easy for me to get distracted when I am reading the Word of God silently. So, I've been reading out loud and putting much emphasis on the reading. I try to read it as if I was the one saying or writing it. It has greatly encouraged my heart. There is so much truth in the book of Psalms about our God and what He thinks of us and how He takes care of us.

"I cried unto the LORD with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah. I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me. I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about."
"I will praise the LORD according to his righteousness: and will sing praise to the name of the LORD most high."
"LORD, thou hast heard the desire of the humble: thou wilt prepare their heart, thou wilt cause thine ear to hear:"
"But I have trusted in thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in thy salvation."
"Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."

And, another way to cheer me up.... :)

Apple Pie!

well, any kind of baking would probably do, but that's the one we chose last night. I had three helpers that were very anxious to help, I think so they could eat it faster. :p The type of apples were new to me and probably not my favorite, but we made do. And of course, a square pie is not the norm, but hey we are in India, guys! And who cares what it looks like as long as it tastes good!
and it was yummy!!!

Life and Death

According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. 

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. 

Philippians 1:20,21

These verses were part of a passage that was discussed the other night in a small group devotion. The question came up - "how does one magnify Christ with death?"

During our discussion, we agreed that if one is to portray God in their death, they must first magnify Him with their life. How one lives is a reflection of who they are and what they believe in their heart. It is no easy task to glorify the Lord every day, every moment of every day. It takes consecration and dedication. 

But when a faithful servant of the Lord dies - the focus of their life should be directed back to Christ. 

One's dying for Christ has more significance if their life also proclaimed Christ. 

Another thing I just thought of - we talk of dying to self. Putting the flesh in subjection and yielding to the Holy Spirit's direction. Isn't this a way of magnifying Christ through death? It is not a physical death, but death to our wishes, desires and ambitions. Isn't He glorified when we deny ourselves and yield to Him? 

I am reminded of Hebrews 11, when it says that "[Abel] being dead yet speaketh." Though Abel had been dead for thousands of years, his life still speaks to us because of his actions and response to God's commands. I too, want to live in such a way, that Christ is magnified in my life and one day in my death as well. 

Just recently I visited the Great Wall of China. It is the only man-made structure that can be seen from space. Built hundreds of years ago, it still stands as a monument to a people and kingdom from long ago. 

I want my life to be like the Great Wall, in the sense that I want to stand strong for my Saviour. And even years after my death, when people remember my name they don't simply think of my crazy hair or loud laugh, but instead they say I lived for God. 

Just a thought for today. 

I Know!

In this life, it can be so easy to be discouraged and dismayed. At least for me, I find that I can go through several emotions all in the course of one day. I experience joy, sadness, peace, anger, happiness and discouragement all in a day's time. I have to remind myself that I am God's child and He Loves Me! 

So to remind myself, I was challenged to think of what I KNOW -

I KNOW that my Redeemer liveth! Job 19:25

I KNOW that God is for me! Psalm 56:9

I KNOW that my salvation is secure in Jesus Christ! Titus 2:11

I KNOW that God directs my steps and He has led me in this direction! Psalm 37:23

I KNOW that greater is He that is in me than he that is in the world! I John 4:4

I KNOW that God protects me and my life is in His hands! Psalm 118:6

One thing is sure and that is the Word of God. His Truth will last forever. 

When I get discouraged, I need to remind myself that He is with me and will never leave me. He is the same yesterday, and today and forever. :) 

Leave a comment with what encourages you when you're down. 

Well, that time has come and I am about to set out on another adventure. In a few short hours, I'll be boarding my flight plane of many. Soon, I'll be in the great continent of Asia. 

Ready or not, the time is here. 

I and my new traveling buddy are ready for this adventure! 

Next post will be from a different country! :p

Bruce the Moose ready to travel! 

Increase my Faith

This week I had to put my faith to test and really trust in the Lord and He came through once again! 

A few weeks ago, the opportunity was presented to me to go to India to help out a missionary. When my decision was made to go, I had to get an application for a visa done ASAP. I already have tickets for leaving the country and of course need my passport to do so. At the time the decision was made, I had 3 weeks to send in my passport and visa app. and have it returned before my departure. 

With the days usually required to have the visa processed at the consulate, I thought I would have my passport back maybe two days before I left. That was cutting it close and I was nervous about it. But I thought - if this is of the Lord (which I was sure was) then it's no problem, He'll make sure I have in time. 

So, the application was sent. The first week went by. 

Then the second week started and I began to be concerned. I told myself that God was in control and I am doing His work. I reminded myself of Psalm 37:5 and committed to trusting the Lord. 

Sometimes though with our flesh, trusting is hard to do. 

Yesterday morning, I was praying specifically about my visa. I asked the Lord to increase my faith. 

My prayer was that my visa would be approved this Wednesday- which meant it would have been processed in 5 days. The normal is 7-9 business days. 

Not even 10 minutes after I prayed that specific prayer, I checked my email. 

I had an email from the Visa Co. and my visa had been approved! 

It was processed and sent back in 3 days!!!

today's sunrise thru the trees

My God is an Amazing God! 

He delights in me!

and He answered my prayer - before I even prayed it and much more abundantly than I asked for!!!

Thankful and in Awe of the God I serve

God Delights in Me!

When was the last time you were amazed that the Creator God who holds this world together, 

Who provided a way of escape for eternal condemnation, 

Who thoughts and ways are SO far above ours, 

LOVES you!

and DELIGHTS in you!

This past year I've been trying to focus more on my Saviour. 

This truth that God delights in me still amazes me every time I think of it!

"He brought me forth also into a large place: he delivered me, because he delighted in me."

II Samuel 22:20

Not only does God delight in me, but He also has accepted me as one of His own! Only by His grace. 

"To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved."

Ephesians 1:6

I challenge you this next couple days -

take some time and just meditate on the Lord and what He has done in your life. 

He has truly changed my life and I owe all to Him. 

When was the last time you thanked Him for what He's done in your life? 

God's Promises

This past weekend I heard from a friend that a young man I knew in California had gone to Glory Saturday night.  A few years back, he had had some heart problems, but all seemed be well for quite some time. Then Saturday night while he was out walking, he had a heart attack and died. He was just 22 years old. It was a little bit of a rough weekend to say the least. But I am comforted by the fact that I will see him again. For God's Word say that all those who place their faith and trust in Jesus Christ as their personal and only Saviour will live forever. Michael had done this, so I am confident that one day we will meet again up in heaven.

over the school building

God's promises are sure. I was reminded of that fact just this past Tuesday. I left the school building thinking of Michael, when I looked behind me, I saw the most vivid, vibrant rainbow I think I have ever seen. The rainbow is another of God's promises to mankind and it reminded me of all God's promises. Course I didn't have my camera with me that moment and be the time I walked to my house and got it, the rainbow wasn't as vivid. But here is a picture of it anyways. Within 15 minutes the rainbow had completely disappeared from the sky. But God's promises never fade!!! 

One Day at a Time!!!

The Lord has been impressing on my heart lately the fact that I only have today to live. I am such a planner. I love looking ahead in life and planning out what I want to do in a month or 6 months or even a year away. While there is nothing really wrong with that, sometimes it takes my focus off living today the way I should. 

I am not promised tomorrow, so I need to focus on living today in such a way that it brings glory to my Saviour's name. So many times, I think of things I want to accomplish in a new year, but big things are accomplished by doing little things first. For example, I am still working on a quilt that I started, oh about 6 years ago... That quilt as much as I'd like it to, is not completed all in one day. It takes many small steps to put it all together.

So, my verse for this month is Isaiah 28:10 - "For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:"

And my goal is to accomplish thing I've wanted to do for a long.... by simply LIVING TODAY!

some pics from last years trip to Lithuania

"as a tree planted by the river..."