We Can Choose to be the Storm or the Eye of the Storm

The eye of the storm is that still, calm place in the middle of a storm. We may think we've been in a storm for some time now with the fierce intensity of the pandemic and the political and racial issues and now Hurricane Isaias has prompted warnings in the Bahamas and parts of Florida. I have known violent weather, spiritual and physical storms. I was tossed about and worn out by them. I also know the eye of the storm when peace prevailed as storms swirled around about me. I realized God actually kept us in the "eye" of the storm throughout the storm. And, better yet, I've realized that I can actually BE the eye of the storm for others in the middle of their situations, conflicts, stresses, circumstances and controversies.

Don’t we desire that others see something genuine in us that represents a safety net for them – someone to go to for consolation, for comfort, for wisdom, for assurance that everything is going to be alright? That safety net or life-vest that we provide during someone’s storm, can be the “eye of the storm” where they find comfort and solace. That is part of the “Love your neighbor as you love yourself” commandment that Jesus said was second only to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul and all your mind.” (Matt 22:37-39)

I’m sure you’ve heard it said that the longer we are married, the more we start to favor our spouse and even take on each other’s characteristics. Last week, I laughed at my kids, Larry and Staci. Time and again, they would finish each other’s sentences. And, better yet, the more we hang out with God, read His Word, cherish it and speak it, the more we’ll start to look and act like Him and take on His characteristics of peace, calm, love, joy, kindness, etc., and the more we'll be able to bring about all those characteristics in situations we may be in or encounter. And, when we listen to His Word spoken or read – we’ll even begin to quote passages of His Words.

So, if we represent His peace in the middle of chaos, then even our presence, can cause peace to come to the storm. The atmosphere of the storm can change simply because we are so calm and peaceful. He can make us the EYE of the storm, not only to ourselves and our families, but even to those around us.
To you, today, my dear friends and family, I pray you not only encounter He who is our peace in the middle of the storms you are facing today, but that you BECOME the peace (the EYE of the storm) that settles the score.....John 14:27 “I’m leaving you peace. I’m giving you my own peace. I’m not giving it to you as the world gives. So, don’t let your hearts be troubled, and don’t be afraid."

I love Ryan Stevenson's song, “In the Eye of the Storm”......
“In the eye of the storm, You remain in control.
In the middle of the war, You guard my soul.
You alone are the anchor, when my sails are torn.
Your love surrounds me, in the eye of the storm."

Taking the Hide Road

Speaking as a gal whose done her share of travelling some high and low roads, I highly recommend the high roads. I've taken some perilous, torrential-rain, "low" roads that I had to turn around to take a higher road to travel. And, in the spiritual sense, I've taken some precarious "low" roads of doubt and fear and turned myself around to get back on the "high" roads of hope and faith.

There's some very angry, hurting people out there who are traveling some pretty low roads. Their hearts are broken for reasons only they know -- but most of all, they've never encountered love -- the true love of Jesus. Acting out and speaking vile and profane language is how they think they can make a difference in their world. I'm so sorry for them. If only they knew the freedom in taking the way of peace and joy that comes from our Savior. Oh, Lord, help us help them through our prayers and our living examples as Christ's followers. Here’s what God says:

~ Colossians 3:8 “But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth.”
~ Ephesians 4:29 “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up that it may give grace to those who hear.”
~ Matthew 12:37 “For by your words you will be justified, and by your words, you will be condemned.”
~ Colossians 4:6 “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.”

So, how “different” are we from those who have no sense of "gracious, seasoned-with-salt" words? Some say that “It’s normal to vent and say it like you feel it. It’s normal to be angry and to speak hatefully. Normal to some is ranting and raving right along with everyone else who is travelling on those same low roads. But, those of us who take the "High Road" way, know that God called us to live a radical love-walk-and-talk life where kindness, love, joy and peace rules. There are many differences to be found in devoted God-followers.

~ We are LOVINGLY different -- extending His love freely and unconditionally to others.
~ We are TRUTHFULLY different -- believing the truth and loving the truth, speaking the truth and living the truth.
~ We are MERCIFULLY different -- knowing that God’s mercies are new every morning, we extend His mercies to those who have failed and disappointed us.
~ We are PRAYERFULLY different -- we pray in faith, we pray because of who God is and what He can do, we pray because of what God has said in His Word. We pray because we have the assurance that God hears us and answers our prayers.

We are DIFFERENT, and DIFFERENT never felt and looked so good! Being a difference maker to those on the low roads just might be the answer to this world's problems. I think I'll grab someone's hand on the low road and show them the way on the high road! How about you?

The Sky is Falling!!! Oh, No, it’s Not!

Remember the story of Chicken Little? Chicken Little was having a great day when an acorn fell from a tree, hitting the top of her head and she cries out: "The sky is falling! The sky is falling!"

Proverbs 4:23 says "Be careful what you think, because your thoughts run your life." Isn't that so true? From just an acorn, Chicken Little thought the world was coming to an end. We have encountered something far greater than an acorn. The COVID-19 has consumed our thoughts and actions and our "normal" is no longer normal.

I’ve heard many talks about this being the “end-times”, so in a sense we could be thinking “the sky is falling” or rather, the end is near. But, rest assured, only God knows "the end", but I do believe that "what the enemy meant for evil" (Genesis 50:20), God in His "Master Plan" mode is causing us to have an “upward” perspective towards Him. COVID-19 is nothing compared to our God. If we continue to immerse ourselves in daily binge-watching the news and dwelling on the 33,000 people who have died from the C-virus versus the 150,000 who have recovered out of the 778,000 confirmed cases (statistics from WHO), we’ll get as worked up as Chicken Little.

We must get a grip. Are we going to live by news reports or recognize the enemy who wants to keep us in fear, worry and doubt? We can turn those thoughts inside out and into thoughts like "We will overcome. I am strong. I am protected by the blood of Jesus. I have an assignment to fulfill. I walk in divine health. No weapon formed against me shall prosper. God is for me and who can be against me? God holds my todays and tomorrows, so why should I worry or fret?" I know this about God:: “Fear is reality minus God. Faith is reality plus God.”

The sky is NOT falling! So, there is no need to buy paper goods and antibacterial soap till the shelves are empty every day. Unfortunately, some people get the virus and recover and sadly some die. (Last year 18,000 to 20,000 died in the U.S. from the flu). Let’s keep everything in proper perspective. Let’s do what the medical professionals and our government officials are telling us to do – social distancing, washing our hands, etc. – and spread positivity while the scientists around the world are working on the solution to kill the virus.

The most important is to PRAY – big time. Many faith groups are setting up the Sign-Up Genius app for around-the-clock prayers for our health professionals, laborers who are on the front lines and for those who are relegated to stay at home and especially for those who are struggling with their finances and for anyone who has contracted the virus. Lord, have mercy!

There are NO negatives in the Kingdom of God. Every obstacle in our life has a promise and a provision attached to it. The Father is not up in Heaven losing sleep over the COVID-19 virus. He is not filled with fear for His children and He does not feel like He is losing control. Let’s be like Him and apply His Word (like these) to our daily routines:

“The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.” (‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭23‬). God gives us His wisdom, so ask His advice before we leave our home or do something that we think could possibly put us at risk.‬‬‬

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (‭Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭6-7‬). God wants us to come to Him with thanksgiving -- thankful that He directs our steps, gives us His wisdom, fills us with hope, and casts out all our fear.‬‬‬

“No evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling; For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways.” (‭Psalms‬ ‭91‬:‭10-11‬). This promise wasn’t only for the Israelites. In Jesus name, and by the healing power of His blood, we are protected from this plague!‬‬‬

Heavenly Father, Your faithful love endures forever! Nothing surprises You. You delight in steering us clear of fear, anxiety, panic, sickness, and any other negative in our life. We ask for divine revelation to come to scientists and medical teams for a cure and it is administered quickly. Help us to be a light to those that are filled with panic. I pray that our peace would draw them to You. You are a good, good Father, and we love You! In the healing name of Jesus, amen, and so be it. 🙏🙏🙏

No Fear Here!

I stumbled across this little doll girl on Facebook while scrolling through my timeline. It was a video of her jabbering away as she turned the pages of her book. She had her own joy-filled language – free of any worry or fear. What drew me in even more was the music playing in the background, Josh Baldwin’s “Stand in Your Love” : “My fear doesn't stand a chance when I stand in Your love....."

How befitting to hear a song that spoke volumes to my heart in the wake of this, may I say, crazy crazy time we’re living in. It would be one thing if it was in only China. We’d cast a look, and maybe a prayer said to help them through their troubles, then be on with our lives. But here we are experiencing a worldwide pandemic that crosses borders and invades our lives.

Here’s what I commented on this mama’s post: “Oh I love this so much. That little angel knows no fear! I love that you are making your home a sanctuary of praise and worship where you have no fear either. She sees it and feels it. Oh, that other families would embrace making our domestic homes a place where Jesus abides. “My fear doesn’t stand a chance when I stand in your love.” You blessed me so much in actions and not just words!"

No wonder Jesus said, “Most certainly I tell you, unless you turn, and become as little children, you will in no way enter into the Kingdom of Heaven.” (Matthew 18:3) That kingdom is here right now. “For the kingdom of God is not meat or drink, but is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Romans 4:17

What are we manifesting to our children and grandchildren right now? Children see and sense fear. Maybe it’s dispensed to them, unintentionally, but still our actions and the words we speak may expose them to real fear. Children absorb fear and anxiety just as much as they absorb courage, faith, love and peace. So, do they see us in a place of peace, courage, joy and faith by “Being still and knowing God” whose infinite love for us will not be shaken? (Psalm 46:10) Giving them fun, family times and the most they’ll remember is a crisis came but it was the best of times for us? Or do they see us overcome with fear and hustling around, standing in long lines for fear that toilet paper and paper towels are soon to be a thing of the past?” Do we fear and cower to the lies of the enemy who goes around seeking whom he may devour? Or, does our faith level cause the faith level in those in our sphere of influence to skyrocket?

I read an article by Dr. Abdhu Sharkawy, an Infectious Disease Specialist: “I’m scared about what message we are telling our kids when faced with a threat. Instead of reason, rationality, open-mindedness and altruism, we are telling them to panic, be fearful, suspicious, reactionary and self-interested. Covid-19 is nowhere near over. It will be coming to a city, a hospital, a friend, even a family member near you at some point. Expect it. Stop waiting to be surprised further. The fact is the virus itself will not likely do much harm when it arrives. But our own behaviors and “fight for yourself above all else” attitude could prove disastrous. I implore you all. Temper fear with reason, panic with patience and uncertainty with education. We have an opportunity to learn a great deal about health hygiene and limiting the spread of innumerable transmissible diseases in our society. Let’s meet this challenge together in the best spirit of compassion for others, patience, and above all, an unfailing effort to seek truth, facts and knowledge as opposed to conjecture, speculation and catastrophizing. Facts not fear. Clean hands. Open hearts. Our children will thank us for it.” -- Dr. Abdhu Sharkawy

And I concur. God isn’t surprised at any of this and if we know Him, He has brought us to THIS kingdom “for such a time as this”! May we prove to be the lighthouses that light the way for those who need to know the Way Maker, Miracle Worker, Promise Keeper, and the Light in the darkness. Our God – that is Who You are!

Replacing Fear with Trust

Though I was a young, vulnerable mom, I still considered myself a strong woman of faith. But, it was still so difficult to see my baby girl and my baby boy suffer. I’ve heard it said that “It’s harder on the mom to watch her child suffer than the child suffering.” I don’t believe it for second, but sincerely, one of the hardest thing for a parent to do is watching their children hurt – for any reason – and whether they are young or older. I wished many times that I could haven taken their place.

As Christmas is almost here, I’m drawn to the story of another mother who watched her child suffer. At our “Advent Meditations with Mary” study this week, we talked about Mary’s true grit as she endured watching her beloved Son suffer. Like most mothers, she loved and cared for her Baby Boy and 40-days after his birth, Joseph and Mary presented Jesus in the temple. Simeon prophesied to Mary “And a sword will pierce through your own soul also” (Luke 2:35). She was forewarned. In our group, we talked about how she must have carried those words with her all of her beloved Son’s life.

I’m grateful that my own son and I have a very close relationship. He has been an open book to me – telling me his innermost thoughts and feelings most all of his life. Even when he started dating, he couldn’t wait to tell me about the date. As we talked in our discussion group, we envisioned that it was probably like that between Mary and her Boy. It was most likely that their relationship was intimate and endearing and He talked to her about His road up ahead. He prepared her. We suspect that she told Him that she would never leave Him no matter what the future looked like – and she didn’t.

When He was 33, Mary’s Son hung on a rugged cross to bear the weight of humanity’s sin. As He suffered, she never left His side. When He died, His body was placed in a tomb, and a large stone rolled over the opening. Three days later, the stone was rolled away and Jesus was no longer there. That day, a physical stone was rolled away from the mouth of a tomb, but so was the burden on a mother’s tender heart. Scripture doesn’t speak to it, but we moms just know that she had, literally, INSIDE information that she would see her Son again. And, she did and she does today. Her Son suffered but His life left an eternal impact on the world. Throughout Jesus’ life, and even in His death, Mary stood close to Her son, but God drew even closer. And in our suffering, God draws even closer to us.

Over the months and years, as I loved and cared for my own children, I learned to replace fear with trust. I still do that today when I pray for them. To exchange uncertainty with truth that God’s hand is over my children, in health, in peace, and still in times when I see them suffering in any way. Remembering God has a plan for them as He did with His own Son, I know God has a great plan for my children and me -- even though I may not fully understand what that looks like. But He sure does.

As this Christmas approaches, we will praise and worship God for His great gift to Joseph and Mary and to all of us. We will worship this precious Baby in the manger -- but the story gets so much better. Simeon had a painful message for Mary. But she discovered that for those who trust God, He uses soul-piercing events to unleash more grace, salvation, and joy into the world than we could have ever imagined. We know the massive stone of fear was rolled away, revealing our Savior lives, and because He lives – SO DO WE! Praise God forevermore!

“Do Not Fear” Seems to be a Theme Here

Those three words “Do not fear” pack a punch, don’t they? While I stay on the bandwagon about living by trust and faith, the fact is I am not so Pollyanna-ish that I am unaware of the fears we all face: taking care of bills, repairs, health concerns, pain and struggling relationships, etc.. And, I'm very cognizant of the seriousness of those who are at the end of their rope in coping with fear. It is no laughing and quick-fix matter.

So where do we start when worry, fear and concern dominate our lives? Can we live above our fears? Or at least quiet their gnarly voices? I really feel this season puts the answers for us in neon, flashing lights. By this season I don’t mean the "Christmas carols playing, Santa ho-ho-hoing, colored lights and sentimental old Christmas movies." I mean how Christmas can point us to deeper sources of hope, courage and fearlessness.

Those of us in the Christian tradition believe that this time of year presents us with the answers we need that can change the whole picture. No wonder the angels announce to the main characters in this drama, “Do not be afraid.” Mary hears it. Joseph hears it. The shepherds, scared witless by all the radiance in the sky, hear it from a chorus of angels. No wonder “Don’t be afraid” appears in the Bible more than 100 times.

It sure sounds like God delights in turning around “fearing times into holy, providential moments" of His presence and His promises to keep us in spite of times of fear.

But God. The ONE and ONLY -- the same God Who told Mary, Joseph and the shepherds to not be afraid, is still telling us "Do not be afraid." The "Do Not Fear" words don’t sound like a suggestion to me. Why does God COMMAND us not to be afraid when every day there are situations that occur and it seems impossible NOT to fear?

Throughout the Bible we learn that our Lord is a Lord of miracles and we are not to fear or have a lack of trust, because all of it, even the tough times, even in the uncertainty of the 21st century (or the 1st century) God’s plan is greater than our fears. So whether in this season, or the days to come, let’s remember that the perfect love of God casts out fear. The message of the Angel of the Lord is for every day - not just Christmas… “Fear not, for I bring you tidings of great joy, which shall be unto all people. For unto you is born this day … a SAVIOR which is Christ the LORD! (Luke 2:9-11) Picture the God of the universe handing you his Son, wrapped in swaddling clothes. Hear him say, "Don't be afraid of anything….ever. I give you joy. I give you peace. I give you comfort. I give you hope. I give you good news of great joy! I give you peace that passes understanding. I give the the perfect love that casts out all fear. I give you JESUS!

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear.” Psalm 41:1-2

God's Hand of Protection

Remember how life seemed to just coast along when we were youngsters? I’ve witnessed that in my grandsons for the last week – making the grade in class, making the varsity baseball team, making the animals happy, making their Nana happy with helping out, making the decision on which Saturday activity to do. Thankfully my boys don't have this trouble yet, but do you remember the boy or girl friend trouble that all encompassed our lives? But, then life raced along and we got older, got married and had children of our own. THEN, they became our number one focus when it came to their protection and safety, especially in this age that we are living in today.

There is nothing that causes us to be prayer warriors like having children. There was no more coasting along. Suddenly we were caretakers of little people -- all consuming loving and making sure of their well-being. My children are grown with children of their own -- and they are still at the top of my prayer petitions. So many unknowns, so many reasons to stay tight with God in keeping them secure in His love and care for them.

In raising my children and having some responsibility at times like these couple of weeks here in Austin with my youngest grandsons, I’ve always found encouragement from how Jesus boldly prayed for His followers. The night before His crucifixion, Jesus prayed this prayer: “My prayer is not that You take them out of the world, but that You protect them from the evil one.” (John 17:15).

Notice Jesus didn’t pray for fame, wealth, safety or for a great escape for Himself or even that His disciples get a pass and go directly into heaven. Instead, He asked His Father to protect them from our enemy, Satan, the “evil one.” Right here in this world. We don’t have to look far – to recognize him and his evil tactics. Oh, I know those times. He is easily recognizable at what started to be a pleasant, loving and communicative family time and just one wrong word gets thrown out, and suddenly chaos breaks out and replaces the peace that was there before. “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.” (James 3:16)

Oh how the enemy of our souls wants us to be at odds with each other. He wants us in fear and doubt. If he can plant those seeds in our minds, he can dissuade us from stepping out in faith and causing us to be fighters instead of lovers. Jesus knew we would need “protection,” because every time we say yes to God, we step a bit further into enemy territory. Yet when we take risks for God, He will protect and preserve us from the evil one.

Following God doesn’t always mean knowing each step, but knowing each step He is with us. And as we leave the concern to Him, we can watch in awe as He grants reassurance from all our doubts. Trusting God every step of the way gives us sweet assurance of seeing God’s hand of protection in miraculous ways.

Peace Even When Anxiety Comes in Like a Flood

I love the words of St. Francis' Prayer that goes "Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace". That is sincerely my prayer -- to be a peacemaker AND to live in that peace.

But, HELLO, anxiety! After two beautiful days in Tulsa, the finale was to be another first-weekend-of-November Sister Marie Pierre Retreat at Helmerich & Payne’s Cherokee Lodge in Hulbert, OK. It was on our calendars for more than a year. First, was the spring mini-retreat with Sister back in April. We thought maybe that might be the end, but Sister, at her almost 91 years, fragile, but with a no-quit spirit, reserved the lodge for us and game-plan was on. It was my joy to be her escort! I was bearing a huge responsibility seeing after this precious saint!

So, it’s 4:30 am on Saturday. I’m awake to pack up for heading to Austin after the retreat, get my blog posted, and pick up Sister by 7 am. I am in the moment. I get my phone to listen to my Bible readings as I get ready and….OH NO! My phone didn’t charge during the night. It is as dead as a doornail. I try the cord in another outlet. Nada. My mind begins to race. An Apple Store won’t open until 10 am in Tulsa and the retreat is in Hulbert OK – an hour away. My dilemma intensifies when I remember that I’m driving straight to Austin after the retreat ends at 3:30 pm. An 8-hour drive, as a single gal, in a car with over 130K miles on it, at night. My friends wake up because of the my debacle outside their bedroom door and proceed to help me resolve my conundrum. Then I remember I have a second charging cord in the car. I try it and whoa la! It starts to charge my phone. Now, I can be at peace, but I’m way behind schedule now in getting to Sister. As I hasten down the hall carrying my Yeti metal mug filled with ice and water, I slip on the floor runner and begin to fall forward but catching myself three times – not falling, but dropping the mug that opens and splashes water everywhere, including the gorgeous drapes. My friend quickly gets her hair dryer to dry the drapes while I’m using my towel to get up the water. Lord, have mercy! Anxiety overload!

I am finally out the door to pick up Sister and I’m fifteen minutes behind schedule. But, when I call her, it seems she, too, is having the same kind-of-morning. She says “If anything could go wrong, it has.” We’re finally on our way by 7:45 am We both survive this morning and it is by no means a surprise when Father Jack Gleason, the pastor we all loved for so many years, is speaking to us about the “Antidote to Anxiety” found in Luke 12:22-31. Imagine that!

“Jesus said to His disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry….notice the ravens: they do not sow or reap….yet God feeds them. How much more important to you than birds? If even the smallest things are beyond your control, why are you anxious about the rest? Notice how the flowers grow. They do not toil or spin. If God clothes the grass….” Father Jack explains that Jesus is trying to get us to look outward instead of inward. His antidote is found in creation. Birds – flowers – grass. All trusting in the providence of God. I receive his message loud and clear. Sister and I survive our early morning fiascoes because God is looking out for us – even in the midst of the anxiety that we both know came from the enemy of our souls to keep us in a frenzy about a day that would turn out to be glorious and spectacular in every way.

Sister Pierre follows later in the day with her own message of peace, resting in who God made us to be – beings, instead of doings. “God cannot not love you. He is always shining on you even when you feel like you’ve blown it. Rest in his peace and let anxiety go. Settle down.” Paul said in Philippians 4:6-8 "Do not be anxious about ANY-THING, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

St. Paul lived by example for you and me. He showed us how to trust God in all things….even in a prison cell or cell phone mishap or a slip and fall. He said "Do NOT be ANXIOUS about any-THING!" When we have the mindset “It’s nothing but a thing,” we take on a heavenly perspective and eliminate needless anxiety and can settle in to our confidence in God’s words in Romans 8:28 – “ALL THINGS work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purposes.”

A Prescription for the Dumps, the Mulligrubs, & the Grumpies

Do you need a prescription today because you’ve had it, you’ve just drawn the “last straw that broke the camel’s back”, someone got on your last nerve, and you’re just D-O-N-E done! Well, I’m happy to write this prescription for you today – one that you don’t even have to go to the corner drug store to get it filled. You need a Word break. If you'll just pick up your Bible, you'll find the hope you need. “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope” (Romans 15:).

God gave us the Bible to encourage us. It's a mood picker-upper. Everything in Scripture is written for our encouragement. Even the tough parts of God’s Word are there to ultimately encourage our lives in the right direction. That’s why we need to spend time alone with God every single day. Whether it’s our quiet time, daily devotional, or our personal inspiration time, we need to be getting alone with God, reading his Word, and talking to Him. Psalm 119:114 says: “You’re my place of quiet retreat; I wait for your Word to renew me”.

I’ve become pretty good at diagnosing the dumps, the mulligrubs and the grumpies. Better put -- if you’re discouraged and have lost hope, I can tell you one thing about your life without ever “getting into your business” -- you’re not spending time in God’s Word. You’re not spending time with Him. From having personally lived in the pity party zones, I know if you’re down and out, and having a pity party – it’s because God has become an uninvited guest to your miseries. I know from firsthand experience. Know God – know joy. No God – no joy.

So, today, I give you this prescription. I give you Jesus. He’s the peace that passes all understanding. I give you Jesus. He’s the perfect love that casts out all fear; I give you Jesus, He's the water that you drink and never thirst again; I give you Jesus, my friend, I give you Jesus. You will find Him in His Word.

The more we read God’s Word when we’re down, the more He lifts us up. So the next time discouragement comes knocking on your heart's door, don't open it. Open up your Bible instead -- and read it. God’s Word has the power to change your life. It has God’s power in it. Nothing else does. The Bible will give you the “real stuff” — true encouragement. Start out with this "real stuff"!

Psalm 16:5-11 "You, Lord, are all I have, and You give me all I need; my future is in Your hands. How wonderful are Your gifts to me; how good they are! I praise the Lord, because He guides me, and in the night my conscience warns me. I am always aware of the Lord's presence; He is near, and nothing can shake me. And so I am thankful and glad, and I feel completely secure, because You protect me from the power of death. I have served You faithfully, and You will not abandon me to the world of the dead. You will show me the path that leads to life; Your presence fills me with joy and brings me pleasure forever."

They Say, We Say, I Say, You Say

We can say so many defeating and negative things about ourselves – when we need to be saying what God says about us instead. Others may cast shadows of doubt in us by what they say to us and then there’s the times when WE (you know, misery loves company) speak negative and self-deprecating things about ourselves. I love Lauren Daigle’s song “You Say”. It is an anthem to what God says about us and His is the only voice we should be listening to, unless others agree with us about what God says about us. We must silence other voices that tell us otherwise.

Lauren Daigle, two-times grammy award winning artist and songwriter, said the following about her song “You Say”. She was being challenged with the issue of her identity and was trying to figure out how to exist when she felt like so many things were pulling her in so many different directions. She said, “I think a lot of times we build these complexes based on insecurity, based on fear, based on rejection, and lies that we have to constantly overcome. And so, this song for me was just a reminder of identity. It was a reminder that I know when I’m weak, He’s strong—so how do I change that and bring that into my everyday life? When I feel inadequate, how is it that there’s always these moments where I feel like God just steps in and supersedes my inadequacies. This entire song was so every single day I would get up on stage and remind myself—no, this is the truth, this is the truth, this is the truth. Don’t get buried in confusion. Don’t get buried in waywardness. Just remember to steady the course, steady the course." Here is the chorus:

You say I am loved when I can't feel a thing
You say I am strong when I think I am weak
And you say I am held when I am falling short
And when I don't belong, oh You say I am Yours
And I believe, Oh I believe, What You say of me. I believe.

Lauren’s worth, according to her song's lyrics, is found in God and whatever He says about her strength and ability. I agree with Lauren. It is so easy for me to fall into the trap of allowing what others think of me to determine my identity. There is really only ONE who has the authority to tell me who I am...and that is my Creator. This song, “You Say” encouraged me so much the first time I heard it. And, it inspired me to do a little treasure hunt for scriptures that we can all use to discover who we really are in Him. Let's discover what God's Word has to say about it and stand in faith and belief on what it says.

I am a child of God. (John 1:12)
I am a friend of Jesus. (John 15:15)
I have been justified and redeemed. (Romans 3:24)
I have been set free from the law of sin and death. (Romans 8:2)
As a child of God, I am a fellow heir with Christ. (Romans 8:17)
I have been accepted by Christ. (Romans 15:7)
I am a new creature in Christ. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
I am no longer a slave, but a child and an heir. (Galatians 4:7)
I am chosen, holy, and blameless before God. (Ephesians 1:4)
I am seated in heavenly places with Christ. (Ephesians 2:6)
I am a citizen of heaven. (Philippians 3:20)
The peace of God guards my heart and mind. (Philippians 4:7)
I have been made complete in Christ. (Colossians 2:10)
God loves me and has chosen me. (1 Thessalonians 1:4)

All of those “I am” scriptures prove who we are if we have believed in the Lord Jesus Christ and committed to serve Him in word and actions. I've seen way too much evidence that He sees me right where I am today, and I know His love for me is vast. I've experienced way too many of God's blessings, and I know they didn't come to me by coincidence. I've been loved so much that it's the story of my life. And, I want it to be the story of your life as well. I want it to change everything -- including how you look at God, and yourself, and other people. I want you to live in confidence that when God looks at you, He sees beauty. He sees value. He sees hope. He sees a precious treasure beyond compare. And when you're hiding, or when you feel so beaten down, and you can't see anything clearly, He's still hard at work, crafting for you a beautiful future. He sees you. He loves you. We are SO loved by ALMIGHTY God -- doesn't that AMAZE you? It sure amazes me. Listen to this song and let it resonate within your spirit that YOU ARE HIS!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sIaT8Jl2zpI

Be Fearless

Fearless in these days and times? Get real, girl! Who can be fearless when from the smallest fear (like a snake in a flowerbed -- that was me yesterday) to my friend's upcoming major surgery or another friend's livelihood being challenged after a hard fall that fractured some bones? I get it. There are plenty of reasons to be in fear about what tomorrow holds. But God has solutions for us to squash those fears. We can be fearless. It's not a suggestion from God -- it's an actual command! Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God..." God Almighty is our back-up and our back-up plan for being FEAR-less.

Clearly, God's solution for annihilating fear is Himself. He shows us how to be fearless. It is by trusting in His sovereignty and power which keeps us in peace when everything else in the world screams out for us to FEAR. My husband identified FEAR in an acrostic -- "False Evidence Appearing Real". Reality tells us that so much of what we spend our time worrying about never even happens. Living under the weight of the "what if's" is a mighty heavy blanket to live under.

My younger self struggled with fear and worry for years, so much so that I developed acute colitis. My amazing Christian doctor coached me to healing by giving me the prescription of taking God's Word into my heart and meditating on it as soon as anxiety showed up. I took that prescription, faithfully. I learned to call on the Prince of Peace (Jesus) to give me peace and I found it as I relied implicitly on what He promises in His Word. In time, I began to find that the things that I once feared, no longer affected me. Change happened. Anxious thoughts disappeared. Worry released its constant grip. God's words became "life" words, soothing to my soul, calming my spirit, giving power to my days. It wasn't always easy, and it often came down to a choice. Choosing not to allow fear and anxiety to control my life. Choosing to guard my heart. Choosing to focus my mind on what is truth in the midst of uncertainty.

If you're relating to what I'm speaking about today, and FEAR has you in its grip, I urge you to take the same prescription that Dr. Gregory gave me. As many times a day as you can -- take God's Word in, speak it, pray it, meditate on it and be healed. Our Master Physician is on call 24/7. Find Him in His Word that is full of His promises. Be assured that He is a promise keeper!

~ Psalm 34:4: "I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears."
~ Isaiah 41:10 “Fear not, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
~ John 14:27 "Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be ~ worried and upset; do not be afraid.”
~ Psalm 118:6-7 “The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me? The Lord is with me; He is my helper.”
~ Isaiah 26:3 "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you."

PEACE be with you! Be FEAR-less!

Soaring Above it All

I saw this photo on a friend's FB post about her recent vacation. Right away a blog started forming in my head. Her FB comment was: “Oh, today, let’s be adventurers! Feel the wind and fly.” Obviously, she and her husband took her words to action. I commented on her post: "I love that! I sense that’s a word from God telling us to rise above anything that is keeping us earthbound. He will carry us above all as we place our trust in Him. God gives us wings as eagles to fly and strength to rise above it all. When our feet begin to stumble and our dreams begin to crumble, we mount up on eagle’s wings. Instead of doubt and fear, we get adventurous!! Count me in!"

Their adventure reminded me of my parasailing two years ago while in Zihuatanejo, Mexico for my son’s birthday celebration (2nd photo here). It looked like a cinch to me to be strapped into the harness and take to soaring behind the boat. But, I missed an important detail: “Sit back in the harness.” I didn’t and for the entire experience, I prayed and held on for dear life hoping I wouldn’t fall out of it. It felt so loose. I wouldn’t have fallen out, but still my mind wasn’t on soaring but staying locked in.” Indeed, it was an adventure for me.

No matter whether we’re walking on water with Peter (yesterday’s blog), earthbound and never flying in an airplane or a para-sail or jumping from an airplane in a parachute – there is no 100% guarantee that we will arrive safely to our destination. We don't know the equipment, the pilots and, as trained and skilled as they are, they just can't predict everything. Then what about the potential wackiness of other passengers on an airplane? With bombs found in shoes and bags, everyone is suspect when boarding a plane. The reality is that many things can go wrong and, despite the airline's stellar track record, and parachutes and para-sails working properly -- history has proven that bad things can happen.

Still, I fly. Still I para-sail. Still I raise my hand “Pick me!” when offered an adventure. And, the same is true about my faith. Like that enormous aircraft getting off the ground -- my faith even defies human logic. We are told our Savior is one who died, then came back to life. How can that be possible? But I BELIEVE. We're asked to trust God Who we can’t even see. But when we do, and we put our lives in His hands and have faith that His flight plan is the best course for us, we arrive safely at our faith destination -- fulfilling our destiny and purpose.

We were handcrafted by our Creator to soar far above this earth, going to places that would be impossible to go under our own power and doing things we never imagined. If we let go of inhibitions and fears, we can expect a faith journey of soaring high above this earth's worries and concerns, and, He guarantees 100% ON-TIME arrival! WOW! That's a record that can't be beat! Come, fly with me!

At Least He Got Out of the Boat!

I was inspired by my "anchor" blog yesterday enough to give me "meat" for my blog today. Here comes Jesus walking on the water. He calls Peter to come to Him, so in a bold, audacious step of faith, Peter got out of the boat and started walking on water. He didn't hesitate. He took a leap, rather a walk, of faith. But when he took his eyes off of Jesus, he started sinking. Jesus saved the day for him and picked him up. (Matthew 14:22-33). Way to go, Peter! Way to save, Jesus!

I’ve heard many messages and sermons on Peter’s lack of faith. But, I started thinking, at least he had the faith to get out of the boat. After all, the other disciples just sat there in their fear. We shouldn’t criticize Peter for sinking. If only he would have kept his eyes on Jesus – the story would be one of great faith! Our story would be one of great faith, too, if we would keep OUR eyes on Jesus and not on our circumstances.

I am sure the boat squatters thought Peter was un poco loco for what he did. They were huddled, yearning to be free, and not trusting in Jesus like Peter did. I'm not saying those men didn’t have faith. Just saying they didn’t have enough faith to step out of the boat. Just the same, we cannot say anything to Peter because too often we are not getting out of the boat either! No matter the storm or situation we are faced with, it's up to us to get out of the boat and trust Jesus!

You know the deal -- when we stretch our faith, and go for it: "Yes, we're buying a house" or "Yes, we're going to start our family" or "Yes, we are going to adopt" or "Yes, I'm accepting the job offer even though the pay is less. It's what I love to do" or "Yes, I will run a marathon" or "Yes, I will start a Bible Study in my home" or "Yes, I'm quitting smoking" or "Yes, we're moving!" It's all about TRUSTING God to hold us up, when we stretch our faith to "walk on water"!

It's that first step that holds so many of us back. But, it's time for us to get out of our comfort zone. Sometimes God shakes things up around us to make us so uncomfortable that we will strive to move from where we are, to the next level of our destiny. And, those adversities we are facing? God could be allowing them to push us out of the boat and into the deep, so He can bless us with a new level of faith, maturity and blessings! It's time to live with "no regrets" and for us to learn to let go of our fears and insecurities, and to reach out for life at its fullest. Even if we fall, as Peter did, there will always be SOMEONE to reach out and help us get our balance again! And, by the way, our Lifeguard DOES walk on water -- so no need to worry or fret!

My Perspective Changed and So Did I

We’ve all seen that FedEx logo. And, often we are excited to see it because an important package finally arrived. My perspective of express is getting to a destination quickly. I think of an express train or bus that has little to no stops before reaching its destination and then there's the express elevator that goes straight to the top instead of stopping on other floors.

My perspective changed when the FedEx logo was put up on the screen during a speaker's talk. He said: "Look between the E and the X and see if you can see the white arrow.” And, with a little intentional focus, it was easy to see. Since then, when I see that FedEx logo, whether it's on a truck, an airplane, or a box being delivered to me, I see that arrow!

Maybe you wouldn't have given a second thought to that FedEx logo including a right-arrow. Or maybe you've always seen it. That's because we're ALL different. We all have a different way of viewing things. We often hear sayings such as: “different strokes for different folks", "let's agree to disagree", or "couldn't see the forest for the trees," These expressions verify that we all have different perspectives.

My "God" perspective certainly changed over the years. As a child, I viewed God as a hard taskmaster. I saw Him as the authority figure that would "get me" if I didn't act or perform to please Him. I lived in fear of what He would do to me. My perspective changed when I came to know God's love and grace. I came to know Him as my “Abba Father” -- a Daddy that I can literally "blow it", but with arms open wide, He beckons me to Him, forgives me and gives me mercy. Romans 8:15 says: “The Spirit you received doesn’t make you slaves. Otherwise you would live in fear again. Instead, the Holy Spirit you received made you God’s adopted child. By the Spirit’s power we call God Abba. Abba means Father.”

The key to knowing what's best for my life, is KNOWING GOD!" And that's why my perspective has changed -- because the more time I spend in His Word, in fellowship with His people, in communication with Him, in trusting Him with my whole heart, in wanting with all my heart to please Him.....I've come to know HIM…..REALLY know Him. My perspective changed.....and I could never see Him in any other way again.

Now, with the Apostle Paul, I really do have a perspective of God that causes me to love Him more. And the better I understand His nature and ways, the more I understand how very much He loves me. Paul prayed "May you be able to feel and understand, as all God's children should, how long, how wide, how deep, and how high His love really is" (Ephesians 3:18). Take that to heart, and you'll never see God the same way again either.

My Rolling in the Hay Adventures

Not only do I blog every day, but I also write in my journal the highlights of each day -- the "God" encounters, the strange, the off-kilter, the wacky, and the wild adventures. Truly I amuse myself. Believe me, I have plenty to write about -- even outside of my normal routine. A couple of weeks ago I volunteered at the "Roar" VBS which spotlighted the wild exploits of jungle animals and in our Faith Station where I was a co-leader, we taught about the wild adventures that took place in the Bible.

Those Bible adventures carry on in the wild adventures I take on when I take care of my family's critters: 8 hens; 2 ducks, a huge longhorn, 8 goats, 3 donkeys, a dog and a cat, plus the wildlife (note the wild turkeys that showed up a couple of days ago) AND all the varmints that lurk in the dark at night.

I read my journal for this date a year ago and I was here, like this time, while the family was on their summer vacation. Oh my! Here's an excerpt: "OMG -- again! I went to check on the chickens and get in the eggs, and lo and behold, two hens were outside the pen. Blistering hot outside and they were running from me. Finally, one flew to the top of the wall and I chased her back into the pen and the other, I finally lasted longer than she did and caught her. Thank you, Lord, for strength in this day!" Here I am one year later saying "Bring it on, girls and boys!" Now we know that those hen girls regularly fly out of the pen for a little adventure of their own, but they fly back in. Now we give them a little leeway and they always come home where they belong. There's just no place like home!

Sometimes it’s a good thing to explore and experience some out-of-the-box times that produce growth, some new muscle, new insight, and a fresh new perspective. When I take on the care of these animals, it is definitely out of my comfort zone. Last year, I knew those animals sensed my trepidation. The goats and donkeys took advantage of me, the novice farm-hand, by overpowering my obvious inexperience. And then some of the chickens escaped under the fence and I was chasing them -- pardon the pun -- like a chicken with her head cut off. And if you didn’t know, chickens are fast. I’m sure you would have been greatly entertained if you had seen me. I finally cornered them and took them home, and then commenced to haul over rocks to the fence to cover the just-big-enough-to-escape holes. This time it’s easy-peasy. Note my relaxing morning devotion location and sweet Bentley, their Havanese dog who is my side-kick!

I am so pleased to report that my mentality changed from “out-of-sync” to “I’ll show you who's boss” this year! It’s smooth, calm and in-sync here at Old Mac-Donna’s farm. In fact, I think I’ve conquered any fears or concerns. The bigger animals respect me when I come out with their feed bowls. Now, I have a well-thought-out plan that calmly separates them, respectfully, at meal-time. They love it when I scratch their heads and backs. The ducks and chickens are behaving like well-behaved critters (instead of “gangsters” like I called those who escaped their pen last year), and those mama hens are producing a lot of eggs for me – so yummy! There’s nothing like fresh eggs.

I am so blessed to have a “King David” moment (1 Samuel 30:6) when he encouraged himself. I encourage myself by God's words about “taking dominion” in Genesis 1:28. “And God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” I muster up that dominion attitude with wisdom and strength and an empowered mindset. I take matters into my hands that are empowered by God's strong and mighty hands and even celebrate His marvelous creation – His critters and His masterfully designed scenic view! Life is good because God is good. All the time.

When We’ve Run Out of Hope……

This is my second day in a row to blog about hope. Maybe it has to do with some of the assignments God has given me in the last few months to encourage others to hold onto hope.

So many are sick. Sick and tired. Sick of hearing so much negativity and hate. Sick of trying so hard to make changes in their lives. Sick of being sick. A scripture that answers that SICK-ness is this one: “Hope deferred makes the heart sick.” (Proverbs 13:12)

When we lose hope, we lose our health, our ability to dream, our determination to keep trying and our desire to face another day. No wonder so many are sick, hopeless and even die from heart illnesses or suicide. It’s truly a matter of the heart. The question, “Is there hope?” is asked every day:

~ When someone is sitting in the doctor’s office awaiting test results.
~ When a couple gets nowhere despite months and months in counseling.
~ When talking to an accountant before walking into a bankruptcy court.
~ When waiting for the results of a passing grade.
~ When waiting for a callback from a job interview.
~ When wondering if we can come together as a nation

Hope is a necessary source of life. Because hope is in such short supply today, people easily fall for all kinds of scams. They trust in false hopes, like get-rich-quick schemes, psychic hotlines, palm readings, and quack cures. Nothing disappoints worse than false hope. So where do we turn to find real hope? In Romans 15:13, the Apostle Paul gives us the answer – the answer is in God: “May God, the source of hope, fill you with joy and peace through your faith in Him. Then you will overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit”. Now that’s what I call a HOPE boat riding on a HOPE river – overflowing in hope. God is the only source of hope that will never disappoint. When we place our faith in Him, He provides joy, peace, and hope that overflows. Oh, how our world needs that hope.

The most common lie that satan uses to instill fear into us is to make us feel our desires, dreams and goals are hopeless. If you've felt that way -- welcome to the club! We've all had that uneasy feeling of hopelessness, but the sooner we squelch that lie and trust in God Who is the source of our hope, the sooner we will begin to be filled with joy and peace.....and even start to see positive results to all those hopes and dreams.

God is always with us. He’s in our past, in our present, and in our future. He’s with us in the good and bad places. He is everywhere. And we are never, ever alone. Where God is, hope is. So for a good physical, mental and spiritual report? Bring on the hope!

HELP! If You Have a Great Passage – Send it my Way!

When we are far removed from the turmoil and fear that others go through during storms, tornadoes, torrential rains and now flooding, we pray and give positive thoughts and hopes for them, but still, we’re not in the middle of it. It's not touching us, so we go on about our business.

But this is Oklahoma, where our roots were for over 38 years, so my heart naturally gravitates to my friends and family there. Social media gives us visuals that tenderize our hearts. This photo is of Skiatook, OK (near Tulsa) that is under water right now. The relentless rain has raised the river and lake waters and can’t hold back the deluge. My friend’s drug store is under water. My sister and brother-in-law were helping to evacuate some of their employees because the flood waters are expected to cover their homes and more rain is on the way. Reports are that never has there been flooding so serious as is expected.

I saw a frantic FB post two days ago from a Tulsa friend. Her children were in the middle of the storm. She tagged me in her message. This is an excerpt of this desperate mom: “I can’t even keep tabs on them all, 40 plus tornadoes since Friday, now all over the State of Oklahoma -- homes lost, lives lost, flooding everywhere. Almost to the top of our bridges. Now time to be prepared to go down into our fraidy hole, again! I will be up all night now worrying about all our loved ones/friends and complaining it may seem, but I'm actually just venting and fear-filled, so please guys, pray for Oklahoma! Donna Wheat Wuerch if you have a great passage/message, please send it my way, Thank you and GOD BLESS AMERICA!”

Bless her heart. I did pray. The fact she called out my name put me on the spot of prayer and encouragement. I am humbled and honored that she called out my name while she was calling out God’s name. This is some of my response to her and it is my response to you today because you may be in a physical or spiritual storm and you need words of encouragement too:

“Oh, yes, sweet girl, I know those concerns. We lived in Oklahoma for 40 years and am well acquainted with storms and tornadoes. We knew those violent winds. I remember those times of concern when we went to our safe place in the middle of our home many times. It can be scary but we always trusted and placed confidence in God. We would speak to the storm, "In the name of Jesus, be gone!" I recalled scriptures like this one: "But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him." (Jeremiah 17:7) As Jesus did, we spoke to the storm "Peace be still!" And then we'd hover until the storm passed over. Eventually, it did. It's a huge test of our faith to be in a storm and trust in God, but it's those times, we have nothing left to do but to hunker down and trust in His mighty hand. Sweet girl, let peace in the storm be yours. God was always faithful to us and He will be to you, too! I pray for "cease and desist" to those storms now, in the mighty name of Jesus! I read your words: "I will be up all night now worrying…” Precious girl, worrying gets you nowhere, but praying God's Word, believing in His faithfulness and being confident that He is with you and your family gets you somewhere. Here are some to pray:

~ Nahum 1:7 "The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in Him."
~ Psalm 107:29 "He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed."
~ Psalm 91:1-2 "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
~ Isaiah 41:10 "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God."
~ Isaiah 26:3 "I will keep Him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Me."
~ Matthew 8:26 "He replied, 'You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm."

Stand strong for you and your family. Be the faith-talker, God-can-do-anything, nothing-is-impossible-for-Him, mighty woman of God you know you are! God’s peace be with you. Love you much. <3

Dear Jesus, wrap your loving arms around these families and bring a peace that is unexplainable and unending. I pray that a DIVINE sense of your presence invades their hearts and homes right now. Thank you for bringing light and hope to their lives. Thank you for the safety of my family and friends today. In Jesus' mighty name I pray, Amen!

Behind Locked Doors Because of Fear

I'm so happy the Easter Story doesn’t end with the resurrection. There's so much more! The next verse in John 20:19 says this: “That Sunday evening the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders." They locked the door, they shut themselves off, they locked away the world. Out of fear. And what does Jesus do? He shows up in spite of locked doors and says "Peace be with you"! Can you imagine? “Here today and gone tomorrow. Gone yesterday, here today!” Abracadabra! He was there.....right there!

The disciples were hiding because they were afraid. Bless their hearts. I can’t blame them. The Lord had been crucified and maybe they were next. They didn’t grasp the words of Jesus that they had heard throughout the three years they were with Him. He said over and over “Do not fear!” "Do not be afraid!"

Today, you may have things that you are really afraid of -- spiritually/emotionally/physically. You may be really afraid. It’s okay. We’ve all felt that way; we’ve all been there. And what we want to do when we are afraid, is lock the doors. Don’t do it. Hear the words of Jesus – peace. He has this. He’s alive. He has overcome. We don’t have to be afraid. We don’t. Trust. Love. Laugh. Live. We don’t have to lock the doors of our hearts anymore. We can trust. We can. Today, and each day.

I read a precious mom’s FB post a couple of days ago. She is pregnant with triplets and while one baby appears to be healthy, he/she is being compromised by the other two who have major issues. That is reason enough to fear. But, I also read how she is choosing joy and peace in the midst of their crisis. And, like that young mom, we can’t protect ourselves from pain. But every day we can choose faith, joy, and peace over fear.

Suddenly Jesus was in the disciples' presence. Fear must bow to the presence of God. When we invite Him into our circumstances, peace comes in with Him. Suddenly everything He said over and over again was true. The disciples had a history with Him and so do I. I survived many crises and I’m still standing. The faithful God of my past is my trustworthy and faithful God today. When I’m afraid, I need to welcome His presence into my room and my heart – turning on worship music, finding solace in prayer and fellowship with other faith-filled friends. Bottom line, I chase fear away with knowing that right in the middle of my “locked doors” is Jesus in the room with me and because He’s here, I know Romans 8:28 will be the end result! “We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him, those whom he has called according to his purpose." Let's unlock the door of our hearts today. We won't give into fear. We welcome the sweet presence of Jesus in and we receive His peace!

My Fear Doesn't Stand a Chance When I Stand in Your Love

My morning routine -- make my daily blog post, check emails, scroll through my social media, encourage and pray for those who reflect they need “team” support and prayer. A valiant, warrior mom’s post stopped me in my tracks yesterday.

This most amazing wife and mom has fought the good fight of faith for her precious son for many years. She is typically in full on battle mode as she keeps him comfortable, celebrates his victories (often a smile does that), dotes on him and does everything she can to help him thrive. But this day, she says (in an excerpt from her post): “Today was one of those days that I feel like I’m in a shoot for a movie that I never signed up for a role in. The doctor is talking...I know he’s looking at me and saying things that I’m supposed to remember but all I can feel is the storm. Three people all looking at me in a doctor’s office. Waiting. Waiting for me to make the call. I can’t even remember what the choices were. If that’s what you even want to call them.
Why do I have to make the choice? I’m not ready. What did you say? My husband isn’t here. Why? Why us? Why more? All the while looking around the room in a half daze like where are the cameras? There must be cameras here because this doesn’t happen in real life. Touché. Oh, how I wish this cup could pass us. I feel like I’m starting to lose hope. I feel like this war we have been faithfully waging will never be won. I’m tired of having bad days more than we have good days.”

Early this morning, I was hearing (in my head) Josh Baldwin’s song: “Stand in Your Love”. I thought about the lyrics when I read this friend’s post so I commented: “I know why I was thinking about this song this morning before I read your post. Sweet girl! You are such a valiant warrior and a most amazing mother to this precious little man! We continue to stand and when we've done all to stand -- we keep standing because we're standing in God's love! Listen to this song because I know it will minister to you! Love you so much!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1T2tMt0Ky6g

I don’t typically pass along someone’s post, but this day I sensed there are others who feel just like my friend. You’ve been given news that has jolted you. You are overcome with pressures and concerns about what today and tomorrow will hold for you and your loved one. You are ready to throw in the towel and give up. The strong faith you once had feels like it has drained entirely out of you. You, too, are ridden with starting to lose hope and you think the war you are waging will never be won.

I tell you what I told this sweet friend. STAND!!! Don’t give up! God is saying “Hold on, My child! Weeping lasts for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5)

I believe Josh Baldwin’s song lyrics are for you today, too:
When darkness tries to roll over my bones;
When sorrow comes to steal the joy I own;
When brokenness and pain is all I know;
Oh, I won't be shaken, no, I won't be shaken.

My fear doesn't stand a chance;
When I stand in Your love.

The good news is this sweet mama put her combat boots back on and she is standing strong another day – for a miracle. I love her Facebook banner. It says: “Expect a miracle. All things are possible.” And I speak that to you, too, mighty warriors! You and God have got this! You are an overcomer and are equipped for victory! Tough times don't last, but tough people, with God's help, do!

Weathering the Storm

We’re stoked about the Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon being given by the downtown Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital which includes our North location volunteers. It’s going to be a great way to spend a Saturday with some other volunteers going with me. We are decked out in our 50s and 60s outfits because, after all, a prize is going to the best dressed.

First thing, I see an email from Sally: “It looks like the weather is going to be too bad for us to go to the luncheon.” My optimistic, no-worries, "What’s-a-little-storm-anyway?" reply was: “I don't mind taking my car and driving in the rain (I'm used to it. I'm often on the road to Austin or Tulsa in the rain). And when we get there, we'll be parking in the garage. I'll be happy to pick you girls up and we go for it! Let's be adventurous and live with no regrets!” So the girls were onboard for “dragging Main”, until heading out, opening my garage door and a gust of tornadic winds and rains blew back at me. My granddaughter texted me “Tornado!” I went back in and we canceled our outing.

I remembered this photo of a bird weathering the storm and the words: “Sometimes, you just have to bow your head. Say a prayer, weather the storm and trust that this too shall pass.” Many of us handle the challenges in our lives like that bird. We stand in the rain soaking wet with a smile on our faces in our cute pair of galoshes and say, “I’m dry, really, I’m dry.” I know what that’s like because I’m a “STORM-move-out-of-the-way" kind of girl. I can grin and bear it when the weather channel maps are covered with red and sending warnings to take shelter immediately. There were terrifying tornadoes that took the roof off our barn, our parents lost their home in a tornado, ice storms caused a loss of electricity for days, snow storms kept us homebound for days, hail storms devastated our home's roof, and, now, wind and rain storms kept us from a great luncheon. But, I could grin and bear it through most of them!

But, there were times when the storms of life prevailed in my life that brought hurt, disappointment, fear, concern, and pain, unlike those literal storms. Those storms were slow in passing. Those torrential storms upheaved my comfort and security. Those storms shook me physically, mentally and spiritually. I had to admit that my optimistic, no-worries, "What’s-a-little-storm-anyway?" reply didn't work those times.

But, in the midst of some of my darkest hours, LOVE showed up in the form of family and friends who encouraged me with comforting words, but most comforting that I heard within my heart was God's whisper, “I’m here with you.” I also realized I wasn’t the only one who was soaking wet from the storms. Others began to open up to me. It seemed I wasn’t the only one with a storm in her life. Many of us were drenched from the rain and I found out we all had some type of rain in our lives. We were great, big, beautiful soggy messes, and God loved us all.

Maybe you’re muttering under your breath, “I’m dry, really, I’m dry” but your soaking wet from the storms in your life. It's okay to admit it. When we open our eyes to the Peace-Maker and Storm-Chaser walking on the water to us, we’ll finally be free to discover that LOVE is waiting for us right in the center of our storms. Along with this brave little bird, we remind ourselves "to bow our heads, say a prayer, weather the storm and trust that this too shall pass.” I assure you, I’m proof positive that we can weather any storm when we know God is with us and we are safe, sheltered in His loving and sovereign arms. Forecast for tomorrow? Blue skies, sun shining, calm winds.