Sometimes I catch myself worrying . . . about the future of our country and how it could affect the lives of our children. Or about the possibility of unforeseen tragedy . . accidents . . . diseases . . . unexpected poverty.
Or, on the other hand, I may harbor guilty thoughts, knowing that I have so much in the way of relationship and material blessings while others around the world are needy and hungry. Feeling ashamed to enjoy the things I possess. Wondering if I should give it all away. . .
Can you identify at all with those thoughts?
When I get in a mood like that, I remind myself of an illustration God put in my mind a while ago.
Suppose . . . just for a moment . . . that I decide to give my precious grandson, Big C, a bright, red, shiny, new toy fire engine. I imagine myself wrapping the gift carefully in colorful paper with red, blue and yellow balloons. My thoughts jump ahead to images of him playing contentedly with the new truck for hours at a time, racing the vehicle to imaginery fires, sharing it with his younger brother, little c, maybe even going to sleep with it on the floor next to his bed.
On his birthday, I hand Big C the package with as much excitement in my own heart as he must feel in his young heart. I watch eagerly as he tears the wrapping off and see his eyes light up . . . no, his whole face light up . . . at the pleasurable sight.
"Thank you, Grandma!" He gives me a big hug and immediately runs off to play with his new toy, little c following closely behind.
I sit contentedly, recording the moment in my mind's journal, when Big C suddenly appears, standing quietly before me, puts down the truck, and with dejected shoulders, turns to walk away.
"Wait a minute, Big C," I call him back. He turns and looks at me despondently, tears running down his cheeks. "What is wrong, sweetie? Did your fire engine break?"
"Oh, no, Grandma," he answers. "I love the truck. It's the nicest one I've ever had!"
"Then why did you stop playing with it?"
"I'm afraid."
"Afraid?" Puzzlement clouds my face. "Why?"
"Well," he hesitates, then spills out his fears. "Maybe someday I will lose it or break it. Or somebody will take it away from me and then I won't have it any more.
"Or I'm thinking maybe I should give it to Jason, the boy down the street who doesn't have a firetruck. If I don't play with it, I won't miss it so much when he gets it."
"Come here," I pat the seat next to me. He sits, and I wrap my arm around him. "None of us knows what will happen tomorrow or the next day. But I chose that fire truck especially for you, and I want you to enjoy it! I am happy when you are generous and share and give to others. It pleased me when you gave some of your allowance money to the poor children downtown. But this gift was intended just for you, and it will give me happiness to see how much you enjoy it. Please don't worry about what could happen to it, or feel guilty that you got it instead of Jason, and have fun with it today."
"OK, Grandma," he smiles again, reaches for the truck and says, "I'm going to bring it over to Jason's house and let him play fireman with me!"
Obviously, God doesn't want me to put material things above my desire for Him and I believe He is delighted when I give to others and share my possessions. But I also know He doesn't want me to worry that people or things will be taken away from me! God wants me to rest in Him and enjoy the wonderful gifts He gives me now.
Maybe in the future, I'll have less, but I can't let an unknown future spoil a known present. The pleasant things God gives us truly are special gifts from Him, chosen for His beloved children, to be relished with joy and thanksgiving! And the greater truth is that all I really need to be joyful is Him!
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice." Philippians 4:4 This statement was written by the apostle Paul when he was in prison, which only affirms that all we need is Jesus to live in a state of joy!
Job said "The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away." Job 2:21
Whatever God does is always for the best because He has proven His love for me when He let His Son, Jesus, died in my place on the cross.
So when I sigh with appreciation for my beautiful back yard view, pause to smell the fragrance of a lilac bloom or laugh with my family and friends, I believe that gives God pleasure. Pleasure that I show appreciation for His gifts and I am trusting Him to choose and provide for my needs and happiness, allowing Him to hold my future and the future of my loved ones in His capable and loving hands.
So Father God, please forgive me once again for giving into fears. Help me to relax and enjoy each wonderful day you have chosen just for me and leave the future up to You.
If you are new to this blog, please feel free to sign up at the box on the right side to have my weekly blogs delivered right to your inbox, and receive a free e-book of Joshua's Story, the true tale of the miracle birth of my youngest son.
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Hope to see you next week for our new Hospitality series!
Showing posts with label joy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label joy. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
KEY #E1: EASTER THROUGH GOD'S EYES
SEEING EASTER . . . THROUGH GOD'S EYES . . . (another writing from my Library Stacks)
It was the night before Easter. I had spent the entire day in semi-frantic preparations for the holiday. My house sparkled, clean and shiny like a new toy. A chocolate cheesecake was cooling in the fridge along with brightly-colored eggs decorated by my youngest son, Joshua.
At ten years, Joshua is a budding artist. He delights in using colors to create unique designs for the eggs. He writes the name of a family member or relative on each one.
Sometimes we talk about names. Joshua feels honored to have his special name. He knows that "Jesus" is the Greek form of the Hebrew word, "Joshua," which means "the Lord saves."
When I dragged my weary limbs into bed that night and snuggled under the covers, I realized my mind needed redirecting. Closing my eyes, I tried to focus on Christ and His resurrection, on the joy that comes with knowing Jesus as my Lord and Savior.
Drowsiness threatened to overtake when, unexpectedly, a horrifying image flashed into my mind.
It was a picture of Joshua. His gentle, innocent face was covered with blood, rivulets of blood streaming down endlessly.
My eyes snapped open. "Lord," I silently cried out in the oppressive darkness, "take this away. I don't want a nightmare. I can't look at this. I want to think about Easter!"
Then I knew. I knew that God was showing me the true image of Easter, through His eyes. The image of His beloved Son, Jesus, whose holy and innocent face was covered with blood, rivulets of blood flowing down endlessly.
This was no brief vision to God. No nightmare. This was Reality. The God of all creation made Himself look upon the agony and torment of His Son, the One who would pay the penalty of sin for the whole world.
I know that I would not be willing to give my son to die for anybody. Yet God willingly chose to give His Son, Jesus Christ, to die for me . . . and for you.
"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life." John 3:16
It was the night before Easter. I had spent the entire day in semi-frantic preparations for the holiday. My house sparkled, clean and shiny like a new toy. A chocolate cheesecake was cooling in the fridge along with brightly-colored eggs decorated by my youngest son, Joshua.
At ten years, Joshua is a budding artist. He delights in using colors to create unique designs for the eggs. He writes the name of a family member or relative on each one.
Sometimes we talk about names. Joshua feels honored to have his special name. He knows that "Jesus" is the Greek form of the Hebrew word, "Joshua," which means "the Lord saves."
When I dragged my weary limbs into bed that night and snuggled under the covers, I realized my mind needed redirecting. Closing my eyes, I tried to focus on Christ and His resurrection, on the joy that comes with knowing Jesus as my Lord and Savior.
Drowsiness threatened to overtake when, unexpectedly, a horrifying image flashed into my mind.
It was a picture of Joshua. His gentle, innocent face was covered with blood, rivulets of blood streaming down endlessly.
My eyes snapped open. "Lord," I silently cried out in the oppressive darkness, "take this away. I don't want a nightmare. I can't look at this. I want to think about Easter!"
Then I knew. I knew that God was showing me the true image of Easter, through His eyes. The image of His beloved Son, Jesus, whose holy and innocent face was covered with blood, rivulets of blood flowing down endlessly.
This was no brief vision to God. No nightmare. This was Reality. The God of all creation made Himself look upon the agony and torment of His Son, the One who would pay the penalty of sin for the whole world.
I know that I would not be willing to give my son to die for anybody. Yet God willingly chose to give His Son, Jesus Christ, to die for me . . . and for you.
"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life." John 3:16
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
KEY #A18: LAUGHTER . . . JOY OVERFLOWING!
Laughter . . . We all need it!
"A joyful heart is good medicine. . ." Proverbs 17:22a. We can't experience the Abundant Life without it! When we are filled with the joy of the Lord, we often find that we are able to laugh even in the midst of trying conditions.
Today, in the middle of winter here in Minnesota . . . admittedly the mildest winter that I can remember . . . still a bit of "cabin fever" seems to be going around. So I decided to share some laughter with you today. I have my husband's permission to publish a short story I wrote many years ago, when my two oldest children were still young. E, was 7 years old, and K was 4 years old.
Both previously divorced, Gary and I had gotten re-married about a month earlier. Gary normally had to work on Sundays, but my parents, who lived at a lake, were on vacation and my dad told us to feel free to come over and use his boat whenever we felt like it. So Gary decided to take the day off and treat the family, along with our dogs, Abby and Dolly, to "A Day at the Lake." The following is what happened, in vivid detail,when my husband borrowed his brand new father-in-law's boat for the first . . . and last . . . time!
Please note: I have written the story in the old "Dick, Jane, and Sally" format. Anyone remember those books that we learned to read with back in the "olden days?"
Sample: "See Dick run. See Jane run. See Sally run. 'Come here, Dick,' said Jane. 'Come here, Sally,' said Jane." Got the idea?
"A DAY AT THE LAKE" by Linda Ruth Stai
"Let's go for a boat ride," said Daddy.
"Ok," said Mommy. "I'll go and get the life jackets." Mommy went into the house.
E climbed into the boat. Abby jumped into the boat. Dolly jumped into the boat.
Daddy started the motor. Slowly they backed off from the dock with E, Dolly and Abby in the rear of the boat.
K yelled, "Wait for me!"
"Sput, sput," went the motor.
"Oh, oh," said Daddy. "The motor is not working properly. I will jump into the water and keep the boat away from the rocks." Daddy jumped into the lake. The back of the boat went down. Water rushed in.
"Eek!" screamed E.
E swam out of the boat. Abby swam out of the boat. Dolly swam out of the boat.
"Oh, dear," said Daddy. "I did not put the plug in the boat. Mommy!!!"
Mommy ran down the steps to the lake. "What have you done, Honey?" she said. "Oh, my."
"Help me," said Daddy.
"The boat is full of water," said Mommy.
"I know," said Daddy.
"Where is the plug?" asked Mommy. "Why don't you put it in?"
"I cannot find it, dear," said Daddy.
"Why are you turning red?" asked Mommy.
"Grrr," said Daddy.
"Daddy," said K. "Look at the big waves coming in the boat!"
"I see them," said Daddy.
"Daddy," said K. "Why don't you put the boat in the boat lift?"
"Grrr," said Daddy.
"Can we help?" said E.
"Go get some cans and start bailing," said Daddy.
E and K ran into the house.
"Help me lift the boat up," said Daddy to Mommy.
"It's heavy," said Mommy.
"Grrr," said Daddy.
Mommy and Daddy pushed the boat up. Then the boat went down. More water came into the boat.
E and K came back with two little plastic bowls.
"I will go find buckets," said Mommy.
Mommy ran upstairs and got two wastebaskets. Daddy and Mommy bailed water out one side. Waves rushed in the other side.
"I don't think this is working," said Mommy.
"Help me lift in onto these cement blocks," said Daddy. Mommy and Daddy lifted the back of the boat up. A tidal wave filled up the front.
"Why don't you put a plug in?" asked Mommy.
"Grrr," said Daddy. "Bail."
Mommy and Daddy bailed. Waves kept coming in. E and K watched patiently.
"I think we need help," said Mommy. "I'll go and get the next-door-neighbors."
Mommy went to get the neighbors. They were out for a boat ride.
"I've got an idea," said Daddy. "Let's push the boat to the lift."
Daddy and Mommy pushed the boat under the water all the way to the boat lift.
"Isn't the boat supposed to go on top of the water?" asked K.
"Go away," said Daddy.
Mommy and Daddy tried to lift the boat onto the lift. It didn't work.
"Go and find some other neighbors," said Daddy to Mommy.
Mommy and K went to find some other neighbors. Daddy hung onto the boat in the water and waited . . . and waited . . . and waited.
Mommy came back with two little boys.
"Is that the best you could do?" asked Daddy.
"There are more coming," said Mommy.
Three men came over to help. A crowd gathered on a neighbor's dock to watch. A few children offered to help. The men lifted the boat onto the lift. A waterfall fell over the side.
"Thank you," said Daddy.
"Thank you," said Mommy.
"That was fun," said E.
"Let's do it again," said K.
"No," said Daddy.
THE END
May you have a day that is blessed with laughter!
"A joyful heart is good medicine. . ." Proverbs 17:22a. We can't experience the Abundant Life without it! When we are filled with the joy of the Lord, we often find that we are able to laugh even in the midst of trying conditions.
Today, in the middle of winter here in Minnesota . . . admittedly the mildest winter that I can remember . . . still a bit of "cabin fever" seems to be going around. So I decided to share some laughter with you today. I have my husband's permission to publish a short story I wrote many years ago, when my two oldest children were still young. E, was 7 years old, and K was 4 years old.
Both previously divorced, Gary and I had gotten re-married about a month earlier. Gary normally had to work on Sundays, but my parents, who lived at a lake, were on vacation and my dad told us to feel free to come over and use his boat whenever we felt like it. So Gary decided to take the day off and treat the family, along with our dogs, Abby and Dolly, to "A Day at the Lake." The following is what happened, in vivid detail,when my husband borrowed his brand new father-in-law's boat for the first . . . and last . . . time!
Please note: I have written the story in the old "Dick, Jane, and Sally" format. Anyone remember those books that we learned to read with back in the "olden days?"
Sample: "See Dick run. See Jane run. See Sally run. 'Come here, Dick,' said Jane. 'Come here, Sally,' said Jane." Got the idea?
"A DAY AT THE LAKE" by Linda Ruth Stai
"Let's go for a boat ride," said Daddy.
"Ok," said Mommy. "I'll go and get the life jackets." Mommy went into the house.
E climbed into the boat. Abby jumped into the boat. Dolly jumped into the boat.
Daddy started the motor. Slowly they backed off from the dock with E, Dolly and Abby in the rear of the boat.
K yelled, "Wait for me!"
"Sput, sput," went the motor.
"Oh, oh," said Daddy. "The motor is not working properly. I will jump into the water and keep the boat away from the rocks." Daddy jumped into the lake. The back of the boat went down. Water rushed in.
"Eek!" screamed E.
E swam out of the boat. Abby swam out of the boat. Dolly swam out of the boat.
"Oh, dear," said Daddy. "I did not put the plug in the boat. Mommy!!!"
Mommy ran down the steps to the lake. "What have you done, Honey?" she said. "Oh, my."
"Help me," said Daddy.
"The boat is full of water," said Mommy.
"I know," said Daddy.
"Where is the plug?" asked Mommy. "Why don't you put it in?"
"I cannot find it, dear," said Daddy.
"Why are you turning red?" asked Mommy.
"Grrr," said Daddy.
"Daddy," said K. "Look at the big waves coming in the boat!"
"I see them," said Daddy.
"Daddy," said K. "Why don't you put the boat in the boat lift?"
"Grrr," said Daddy.
"Can we help?" said E.
"Go get some cans and start bailing," said Daddy.
E and K ran into the house.
"Help me lift the boat up," said Daddy to Mommy.
"It's heavy," said Mommy.
"Grrr," said Daddy.
Mommy and Daddy pushed the boat up. Then the boat went down. More water came into the boat.
E and K came back with two little plastic bowls.
"I will go find buckets," said Mommy.
Mommy ran upstairs and got two wastebaskets. Daddy and Mommy bailed water out one side. Waves rushed in the other side.
"I don't think this is working," said Mommy.
"Help me lift in onto these cement blocks," said Daddy. Mommy and Daddy lifted the back of the boat up. A tidal wave filled up the front.
"Why don't you put a plug in?" asked Mommy.
"Grrr," said Daddy. "Bail."
Mommy and Daddy bailed. Waves kept coming in. E and K watched patiently.
"I think we need help," said Mommy. "I'll go and get the next-door-neighbors."
Mommy went to get the neighbors. They were out for a boat ride.
"I've got an idea," said Daddy. "Let's push the boat to the lift."
Daddy and Mommy pushed the boat under the water all the way to the boat lift.
"Isn't the boat supposed to go on top of the water?" asked K.
"Go away," said Daddy.
Mommy and Daddy tried to lift the boat onto the lift. It didn't work.
"Go and find some other neighbors," said Daddy to Mommy.
Mommy and K went to find some other neighbors. Daddy hung onto the boat in the water and waited . . . and waited . . . and waited.
Mommy came back with two little boys.
"Is that the best you could do?" asked Daddy.
"There are more coming," said Mommy.
Three men came over to help. A crowd gathered on a neighbor's dock to watch. A few children offered to help. The men lifted the boat onto the lift. A waterfall fell over the side.
"Thank you," said Daddy.
"Thank you," said Mommy.
"That was fun," said E.
"Let's do it again," said K.
"No," said Daddy.
THE END
May you have a day that is blessed with laughter!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
KEY #A10: GIFTS FROM GOD
Are you excited about Christmas gift giving? I am! I try hard to select the perfect gift for those on my list, especially my children and grand-children. I had the most fun choosing birthday and Christmas presents for my two grandsons this month. I can't wait to give them their presents and see their precious faces light up with joy!
Do you suppose that is how God feels about the things He gives us? The Bible says "Every good thing bestowed and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights . . . " James 1:17 So we know that everything in our lives that is good is a gift from our heavenly Father. If I take such care to choose the perfect gift for my children, imagine how much thought and preparation God puts into choosing just the right gifts for His children! And how much joy He feels when He sees our excitement in receiving them!
I think it's time for a brief explanation to any of you who happened to drop by here recently without knowing how I got started blogging. For several months, I have been exploring the Land of Abundant Life in my little lavender flowered vehicle. I was given KEYS to open one of a multitude of doors each Wednesday and use my findings to enrich my life and, hopefully, the lives of those around me.
Today I hold the KEY: GIFTS FROM GOD and feel like a little child who can hardly sleep the night before Christmas, eagerly anticipating the surprises in store upon awakening!
The door itself looks like the outside of a giant box with gold and silvery sparkling gift wrap, shimmering with a multitude of translucent stars. My finger shake like a bowl full of jello as I attempt to insert the key into the golden lock. After three tries, I succeed and swing the door wide.
Oh my goodness! The tree planted in the center of the enormous, open space is the largest one I've even seen. Giant redwood trees in California are like matchsticks compared to this one. It reaches all the way to the heavens! I can't see the top of it even when I tip my head way back. The leaves, shining in brilliant shades of green (I didn't know there were so many shades!) hold glittery fruits of all colors, sizes and shapes on its sturdy branches.
My gaze is drawn to the boxes under the tree. There are nine containers of different sizes and shapes, all wrapped in vivid hues of fabulous colors. And guess what ?! They all bear my name: To my precious daughter, Linda Ruth, from her heavenly Father.
Incapable of moving at first, I stand and stare, frozen like a snowman (or snow-woman) until I hear a voice saying "Open and enjoy."
Then, like a dog let off the leash, I run to the tree and kneel besides it, my heart fluttering with anticipation. Rather than taking the time here to describe each gorgeous box, I'll open them one by one and elaborate on the contents. In the midst of my excitement, an intruding though catches me off guard. I briefly hesitate. Do I tear the paper, or save it? (My economical streak comes into play here) I'm too excited; I'll tear!
The first one holds an abundant supply of LOVE. "We love, because He first loved us." 1 John 4:19 Of course! It is only because of God's active love for me when sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, to the cross to pay for my sins, that I am able to receive even one of these treasured gifts. Oh, this is something I have wanted for so long; how good of You to provide it for me, Father God. You are so amazing! Words can't express my thanks; I will hold this gift of love to my heart forever.
Next, I open the gift of JOY. ". . . the joy of the Lord is your strength." Nehemiah 8:10b How fun, Father! This one will be most enjoyable and I can share it with everyone else that You put into my life. That will make it even more exciting!
Third is PEACE. "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you . . . Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful." John 14:27 Oh, Lord, you know how much I needed this! I hope I never lose it; I must remember to put it in a safe place where I can find it easily whenever I need it. Better yet; I'll carry it with me.
Now I receive PATIENCE. "On Thee I wait all the day." Psalm 25:5b Lord, You are so practical. Yes, I really do need this one. You know of course about that situation . . . and that person . . . I will make good use of this gift.
Next is KINDNESS. "And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you." Ephesians 4:32 How thoughtful of You, Father. This is another one that I can pass along to others.
GOODNESS. " . let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith." Galatians 6:10b Oh, I see right away this present will be most useful, on a daily basis. It is the gift that just keeps on giving!
FAITHFULNESS. "Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life." Revelations 2:10b Thank You so much for this one. I was starting to worry that I wouldn't be able to use all these gifts wisely. But as long as You are helping me to be faithful, I know it can be done.
GENTLENESS. "Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth." Matthew 5:5 Oh, I do so want this one to look good on me! I hope it matches my eyes. Do You think it does, Father?
SELF-CONTROL. What a perfect fit, Father! This one will go with any of the other presents and even maximize their usage.
This is all too overwhelming! Help me to remember, Lord, that You have given me each one of these so I put them to good use every day of my life. Or, on second thought, should I save some of them for an emergency?
What was that? Any unending supply? Oh, how perfect!
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control." Galatians 5:22-23a
Have you checked out your personal gift room in the Land of Abundant Living?
How are you doing with the contest? ILIVEBYTHEG . . . In a couple of more weeks, someone may be ready to venture a guess. Remember you only get one chance!
See you next week!
I think it's time for a brief explanation to any of you who happened to drop by here recently without knowing how I got started blogging. For several months, I have been exploring the Land of Abundant Life in my little lavender flowered vehicle. I was given KEYS to open one of a multitude of doors each Wednesday and use my findings to enrich my life and, hopefully, the lives of those around me.
Today I hold the KEY: GIFTS FROM GOD and feel like a little child who can hardly sleep the night before Christmas, eagerly anticipating the surprises in store upon awakening!
The door itself looks like the outside of a giant box with gold and silvery sparkling gift wrap, shimmering with a multitude of translucent stars. My finger shake like a bowl full of jello as I attempt to insert the key into the golden lock. After three tries, I succeed and swing the door wide.
Oh my goodness! The tree planted in the center of the enormous, open space is the largest one I've even seen. Giant redwood trees in California are like matchsticks compared to this one. It reaches all the way to the heavens! I can't see the top of it even when I tip my head way back. The leaves, shining in brilliant shades of green (I didn't know there were so many shades!) hold glittery fruits of all colors, sizes and shapes on its sturdy branches.
My gaze is drawn to the boxes under the tree. There are nine containers of different sizes and shapes, all wrapped in vivid hues of fabulous colors. And guess what ?! They all bear my name: To my precious daughter, Linda Ruth, from her heavenly Father.
Incapable of moving at first, I stand and stare, frozen like a snowman (or snow-woman) until I hear a voice saying "Open and enjoy."
Then, like a dog let off the leash, I run to the tree and kneel besides it, my heart fluttering with anticipation. Rather than taking the time here to describe each gorgeous box, I'll open them one by one and elaborate on the contents. In the midst of my excitement, an intruding though catches me off guard. I briefly hesitate. Do I tear the paper, or save it? (My economical streak comes into play here) I'm too excited; I'll tear!
The first one holds an abundant supply of LOVE. "We love, because He first loved us." 1 John 4:19 Of course! It is only because of God's active love for me when sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, to the cross to pay for my sins, that I am able to receive even one of these treasured gifts. Oh, this is something I have wanted for so long; how good of You to provide it for me, Father God. You are so amazing! Words can't express my thanks; I will hold this gift of love to my heart forever.
Next, I open the gift of JOY. ". . . the joy of the Lord is your strength." Nehemiah 8:10b How fun, Father! This one will be most enjoyable and I can share it with everyone else that You put into my life. That will make it even more exciting!
Third is PEACE. "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you . . . Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful." John 14:27 Oh, Lord, you know how much I needed this! I hope I never lose it; I must remember to put it in a safe place where I can find it easily whenever I need it. Better yet; I'll carry it with me.
Now I receive PATIENCE. "On Thee I wait all the day." Psalm 25:5b Lord, You are so practical. Yes, I really do need this one. You know of course about that situation . . . and that person . . . I will make good use of this gift.
Next is KINDNESS. "And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you." Ephesians 4:32 How thoughtful of You, Father. This is another one that I can pass along to others.
GOODNESS. " . let us do good to all men, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith." Galatians 6:10b Oh, I see right away this present will be most useful, on a daily basis. It is the gift that just keeps on giving!
FAITHFULNESS. "Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life." Revelations 2:10b Thank You so much for this one. I was starting to worry that I wouldn't be able to use all these gifts wisely. But as long as You are helping me to be faithful, I know it can be done.
GENTLENESS. "Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth." Matthew 5:5 Oh, I do so want this one to look good on me! I hope it matches my eyes. Do You think it does, Father?
SELF-CONTROL. What a perfect fit, Father! This one will go with any of the other presents and even maximize their usage.
This is all too overwhelming! Help me to remember, Lord, that You have given me each one of these so I put them to good use every day of my life. Or, on second thought, should I save some of them for an emergency?
What was that? Any unending supply? Oh, how perfect!
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control." Galatians 5:22-23a
Have you checked out your personal gift room in the Land of Abundant Living?
How are you doing with the contest? ILIVEBYTHEG . . . In a couple of more weeks, someone may be ready to venture a guess. Remember you only get one chance!
See you next week!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
KEY #A8: HAPPINESS IS . . . THANKSGIVING PIT STOP
Want to see a picture of my little vehicle? Thanks to these photos provided by RG from Edinbrook Sunday School, I am able to provide a picture of a similar automobile, though of a different color.
(Since my own vehicle is in my mind, it would be difficult to take a picture of the exact car.)
I'm sure you understand. Remember, my car is painted lavender and decorated with delicate green vines.
(Since my own vehicle is in my mind, it would be difficult to take a picture of the exact car.)
I'm sure you understand. Remember, my car is painted lavender and decorated with delicate green vines.
The car in the photo has special memories for me because my son, J, and I did Vacation Bible School dramas in it as a team many years ago. We had the most fun going through the car wash! "Our" car has been preserved all these years and is now making a come-back on stage as part of the Edinbrook Sunday School's current theme, which is in their curriculum for the year:
Pit Stop . . . Pull over for Gratitude Adjustment!
Pit Stop . . . Pull over for Gratitude Adjustment!
So come with me today as we use our Happiness Key to open the door to our Pit Stop where we'll take a Thanksgiving Break to check and see if our Gratitude Tanks need to be filled!
Oh dear, mine is getting low. It's good I pulled over and stopped! Sometimes my tank gets low when I find myself taking for granted all the blessings God immerses me in each day of my life. So many in this world don't have a warm, comfortable bed to sleep in, a fresh, hot shower every day, the privilege of choosing basically any food they want from the shelves of a local grocery store. May God give me a thankful heart this Thanksgiving season and the desire to share His gracious, bountiful gifts with others.
I wasn't sure whether to entitle this blog "Happy Thanksgiving" or "Happiness is . . . " because, you see, happiness is so tied in with thanksgiving. When I think about all the good God gives me, I have to really struggle to remain unhappy. And, believe me, the effort is not worth it!
Do you remember that little song of years back?
"Happiness is to know the Savior,
Living a life within His favor,
Having a change in my behavior,
Happiness is the Lord.
Real joy is mine,
No matter if tear drops start,
I've found the secret,
It's Jesus in my heart!"
So what is Happiness/Joy and how do we get it?
First of all, I have heard many people complain that God doesn't want them to be happy.
I read a passage in my daily Bible reading today from John 15 where Jesus is talking to His followers. He has told them "As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Now remain in My love. If you obey My commands you will remain in My love . . . I have told you this so that My joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. " John 15:9-11
God wants His children to be full of joy. In fact, joy is one of the fruits of His Spirit, a gift to those who put their trust in Him. Happiness can be a fleeting emotion, sparkling on top of the stream of life, whereas joy flows deeper, providing the sustenance of our stream and producing currents hold us up and provide direction through life.
So, as the little song says, how can we find happiness/joy in our daily lives?
Let's take it line by line:
1. "Happiness is to know the Savior." Joy is a by-product of the relationship we have with our heavenly Father, through faith in Jesus Christ. One of the greatest secrets of happiness is that when we stake our lives on His goodness and mercy, even if everything in our world seems to crash to the ground, we can depend on the knowledge that we have a future in heaven where we will experience the state of constant, total joy forever.
2. "Living a life within His favor." In the Bible verse I quote above, it states, "If you obey my commands, you will remain in My love." When we obey God's commands (which are given for our own good, for example: God forbids us to steal partly so no one will steal our stuff!) we live without the bondage of guilt that takes the joy right out of our lives. Guilt is a huge joy-stealer.
3. "Having a change in my behavior." When I choose to live the way God wants me to live I feel at peace with Him. When I focus on trying to make other people happy, they usually respond to my consideration of them, which gives me pleasure.
4. "Happiness is the Lord." The Bible says, "Rejoice in the Lord . . . " Philippians 4:4a
He alone is the source of real joy!
5. "Real joy is mine." Here we will focus further on the difference between joy and happiness. As human beings living in this fallen world, we cannot expect to exist in a state of constant happiness. Normal life is full of ups and downs. "Christian women (and men) can go through periods of depression and still have an underlying sense of peace, knowing that God and His purposes are greater than our emotions. Our faith is based on truth, the certainty of His Word, not our feelings." (taken from The View From Eternity, written by myself.)
Happiness does not mean a life with no problems. Jesus said "In this world you will have trials and tribulations, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." John 16:33b
Now I need to check my tank for my own Gratitude Attitude.
1. Do I belong to God? Am I sure I am His child? Am I aware of and expressing thanks to God for all that He gives me?
2. Am I trying to please my loving heavenly Father by obeying Him?
3. Am I focusing on trying to make others happy? A passage in Isaiah 58:6-11gives us a prescription for finding happiness during those gloomy days when we try to fight off feelings of self-pity or loneliness. Verse 10 states:
"And if you give yourself to the hungry,
and satisfy the desire of the afflicted,
then your light will rise in darkness, and your gloom will be come like midday."
Note that last verse especially, "Your gloom will become like mid-day.' Picture our gloomy expressions replaced with sunny (mid-day) faces because of the satisfaction we find when we help others!" (Taken from The View From Eternity, written by myself.)
4. Am I looking to God, prioritizing my relationship with Him, expecting Him to fill my "joy" tank?
5. In spite of my circumstances, am I training my mind to know contentment? Have you ever felt discontent, greedy and happy at the same time? Or contented and unhappy at the same time? Neither combination works, does it? Philippines 4:8 gives us the formula for "Happy thinking." A great passage to memorize!
This Thanksgiving, and afterwards, let's pour our lives into pleasing God and making other people happy. Then we'll see our Gratitude tanks filled to the brim and overflowing!
I wasn't sure whether to entitle this blog "Happy Thanksgiving" or "Happiness is . . . " because, you see, happiness is so tied in with thanksgiving. When I think about all the good God gives me, I have to really struggle to remain unhappy. And, believe me, the effort is not worth it!
Do you remember that little song of years back?
"Happiness is to know the Savior,
Living a life within His favor,
Having a change in my behavior,
Happiness is the Lord.
Real joy is mine,
No matter if tear drops start,
I've found the secret,
It's Jesus in my heart!"
So what is Happiness/Joy and how do we get it?
First of all, I have heard many people complain that God doesn't want them to be happy.
I read a passage in my daily Bible reading today from John 15 where Jesus is talking to His followers. He has told them "As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Now remain in My love. If you obey My commands you will remain in My love . . . I have told you this so that My joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. " John 15:9-11
God wants His children to be full of joy. In fact, joy is one of the fruits of His Spirit, a gift to those who put their trust in Him. Happiness can be a fleeting emotion, sparkling on top of the stream of life, whereas joy flows deeper, providing the sustenance of our stream and producing currents hold us up and provide direction through life.
So, as the little song says, how can we find happiness/joy in our daily lives?
Let's take it line by line:
1. "Happiness is to know the Savior." Joy is a by-product of the relationship we have with our heavenly Father, through faith in Jesus Christ. One of the greatest secrets of happiness is that when we stake our lives on His goodness and mercy, even if everything in our world seems to crash to the ground, we can depend on the knowledge that we have a future in heaven where we will experience the state of constant, total joy forever.
2. "Living a life within His favor." In the Bible verse I quote above, it states, "If you obey my commands, you will remain in My love." When we obey God's commands (which are given for our own good, for example: God forbids us to steal partly so no one will steal our stuff!) we live without the bondage of guilt that takes the joy right out of our lives. Guilt is a huge joy-stealer.
3. "Having a change in my behavior." When I choose to live the way God wants me to live I feel at peace with Him. When I focus on trying to make other people happy, they usually respond to my consideration of them, which gives me pleasure.
4. "Happiness is the Lord." The Bible says, "Rejoice in the Lord . . . " Philippians 4:4a
He alone is the source of real joy!
5. "Real joy is mine." Here we will focus further on the difference between joy and happiness. As human beings living in this fallen world, we cannot expect to exist in a state of constant happiness. Normal life is full of ups and downs. "Christian women (and men) can go through periods of depression and still have an underlying sense of peace, knowing that God and His purposes are greater than our emotions. Our faith is based on truth, the certainty of His Word, not our feelings." (taken from The View From Eternity, written by myself.)
Happiness does not mean a life with no problems. Jesus said "In this world you will have trials and tribulations, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." John 16:33b
Now I need to check my tank for my own Gratitude Attitude.
1. Do I belong to God? Am I sure I am His child? Am I aware of and expressing thanks to God for all that He gives me?
2. Am I trying to please my loving heavenly Father by obeying Him?
3. Am I focusing on trying to make others happy? A passage in Isaiah 58:6-11gives us a prescription for finding happiness during those gloomy days when we try to fight off feelings of self-pity or loneliness. Verse 10 states:
"And if you give yourself to the hungry,
and satisfy the desire of the afflicted,
then your light will rise in darkness, and your gloom will be come like midday."
Note that last verse especially, "Your gloom will become like mid-day.' Picture our gloomy expressions replaced with sunny (mid-day) faces because of the satisfaction we find when we help others!" (Taken from The View From Eternity, written by myself.)
4. Am I looking to God, prioritizing my relationship with Him, expecting Him to fill my "joy" tank?
5. In spite of my circumstances, am I training my mind to know contentment? Have you ever felt discontent, greedy and happy at the same time? Or contented and unhappy at the same time? Neither combination works, does it? Philippines 4:8 gives us the formula for "Happy thinking." A great passage to memorize!
This Thanksgiving, and afterwards, let's pour our lives into pleasing God and making other people happy. Then we'll see our Gratitude tanks filled to the brim and overflowing!
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