the path

"You are on the right path. Listen more to Me, and less to your doubts.

I am leading you along the way I designed for you."

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

Psalm 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light to my path.

*****

The path you are on is where Jesus wants you to be. He has brought you to this place for a reason. Walk with Him and listen to Him. Don't keep questioning. He has a plan for you.

*****

one thousand gifts

569. finishing Beth Moore's "Mercy Triumphs"

570. beautiful "spring" day

571. Tom's energy when I have none

572. the path I am on

judging

"Stop judging and evaluating yourself, for this is not your role... Don't look for affirmation in the wrong places: your own evaluations, or those of other people. The only source of real affirmation is My unconditional love.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that who ever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.

the future

"I am leading you, step by step, through your life. Hold My hand in trusting dependence, letting Me guide you through this day. Your future looks uncertain and feels flimsy--even precarious. That is how it should be. Secret things belong to the Lord, and future things are secret things. "

Deuteronomy 29:29 The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of the law.

*****

Oh, how often I've thought if I just knew what was going to happen, I could deal with it. I have always hated being in 'limbo' and not knowing or waiting to see what was going to happen next. I've not ever thought about the future being one of God's secrets. A secret that He chooses and controls. A secret that He reveals at just the right moment. I am to trust Him and focus on the truths that He has already revealed to me: His unending love, His purpose for my life, His sovereignty... and so much more.

How about you? Are you wasting your time wanting to know God's secret of your future, when He is desiring for you to enjoy this day that He is revealing to you? Let's celebrate today!

*****

565. breakfast good-byes to Kurylos

566. visit with Dad

567. listening to love and respect

568. safe trip home

our day

"Rest in My presence, allowing Me to take charge of this day. Do not bolt into the day like a race horse suddenly released. Instead, walk purposefully with Me, letting Me direct your course one step at a time. Thanking Me for each blessing along the way;

this brings Joy to both you and Me."

Jesus Calling

Colossians 4:2 Devote yourself to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

*****

How did you start out your day? Were you off to the races or walking purposefully with God? Let's slow down and spend some time walking with God. Let's spend some time talking with God and thanking Him for all the many blessings He has given us. Let's let him guide us through the rest of our day.

my weakness

"You need Me every moment. Your awareness of your constant need for Me is your greatest strength."

I Thessalonians 5:17 pray with out ceasing.

John 26:24 Until now you have asked for nothing in My name; ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be made full.

*****

Since I began my new diet, Leanness Lifestyle, a few weeks ago, my life seems to be crazy. I have to spend several hours reading, logging what I eat, and exercising. These are all good things, but they seem to be putting a lot of pressure on me. I know that the first couple of months will be the busiest and then it should become easier. With my depression I really need to keep my life very simple and keep God as my top priority. Please pray for me that I can find a good balance in my life. How about you? Are you too busy? Is it time to reevaluate what your priorities are? Let's commit to keeping Jesus foremost in our lives.

*****

one thousand gifts

552. Beth Moore Bible studies

553. sunshine

554. my car

555. Jesus foremost in my life

trust and thankfulness

"Trust and thankfulness will get you safely through this day. Trust protects you from worrying and obsessing. Thankfulness keeps you from criticizing and complaining..."

Colossians 2:6-7 As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, having been firmly rooted and now being established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.

*****

What does your day look like? Mine started a little hectic,

but God is faithful and I will praise Him.

*****

one thousand gifts

549. Tom's tests

550. getting things done

551. the faithfulness of God.

true center

"Learn to live in your true Center in Me. I reside in the deepest depths of your beign, in eternal union with your spirit."

Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of Christ rule in you hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body, and be thankful.

problems

"You are feeling weighed down by a plethora of problems, both big and small. They seem to require more and more of your attention, but you must not give in to those demands. When the difficulties in your life feel as if they're closing in on you, break free by spending quality time with Me." Jesus Calling

Exodus 3:14 And God said to Moses, "I am who I am," and He said, "Thus you shall say to the sons of Israel, "I am has sent me to you.' "

*****

Lately several things have been weighing me down. It seems like I keep thinking and thinking about them, coming up with no solution. This is when I need to readjust my focus back to God. He is the I Am. He alone can truly fix what is wrong.

*****

hard eucharist: Matt's bike stolen

548. talking to Mom

God with us

I am with you. These four words are like a safety net, protecting you from falling into despair. Because you are human, you will always have ups and downs in you life experience. But the promise of My Presence limits how far down you can go.

Psalm 73:23-24 Nevertheless I am continually with Thee; Thou hast taken hold of my right hand. With Thy counsel Thou wilt guide me, and afterward receive me to glory.

*****

Life is hard, but we know that God is with us, holding our hand.

546. the sun shining on the frosted grass

547. a breakfast date with Tom

changing

"I am the Risen One who shines upon you always. You worship a living Deity, not some idolatrous, man-made image. Your relationship with Me is meant to be vibrant and challenging. as I invade more and more areas of your life. Do not fear change, for I am making you a new creation, with old things passing away and new things continually on the horizon." Jesus Calling

II Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man is in Christ, he is a new creature, the old things have passed away, behold new things have come.

*****

Do not fear change. Hard words for me. But I know that Jesus is wanting me to change and become more like Him. How about you? Is there something Jesus is wanting to change in you? Let's let go of the old and rejoice at the new.

*****

one thousand gifts

546. the sun shining on the frosted grass

547. a breakfast date with Tom

God can handle it

"Come to Me with all your weaknesses: physical, emotional, and spiritual. Rest in the comfort of My Presence, remembering that nothing is impossible with Me. Pry your mind away from your problems so you can focus your attention on Me. Recall that I am able to do immeasurably more than all you ask or imagine. Instead of trying to direct Me to do this or that, seek to attune yourself to what I am already doing." Jesus Calling

Luke 1:37"For nothing will be impossible with God."

*****

What has been bothering you? Focus on God and let Him handle it.

*****

one thousand gifts

541. exercise

542. friendly people

543. Tom, my rock

love, not fear or worry

"Give yourself fully to the adventure of today. Walk boldly along the path of life,, relying on your ever-present Companion. You have every reason to be confident, because My Presence accompanies you all the days of your life--and onward to eternity. Do not give in to fear or worry, those robbers of abundant living. Trust Me enough to face problems as they come, rather than trying to anticipate them. " Jesus Calling

Isaiah 41:13 For I am the Lord your God, who upholds your right hand. Who says to you, "Do not fear, I will help you."

*****

Today let's have our day filled with love and not worry and fear.

*****

one thousand gifts

538. Amelia dancing

539. my valentine Tom

540. God's love

peace

"Peace be with you! Ever since the resurrection, this has been My watchword to those who yearn for Me...Receive My peace abundantly and thankfully."

Jesus Calling

John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful."

*****

Today already seems a little hectic... I need Jesus' peace. How about you? Let's take a few minutes and sit in His presence and receive His peace!

*****

one thousand gifts

533. Tom taking the early shift with Amelia and Asher

534. sunshine

thoughts

"I am ever so near you...My Spirit, who lives within you, helps you to think My thoughts. As your thinking goes, so goes your entire being." Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

*****

Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinks within himself, so he is.

*****

We may think that our thought life is private, but the Spirit knows what we are thinking. If we think on something long enough it will become evident in our lives. God wants to be the center of our thoughts. What are you thinking about today?

*****

one thousand gifts

530. worship

531. over 20 baptisms this afternoon

532. finding my tooth!

peace

My peace is like a shaft of golden Light shining on you continuously. During days of bright sunshine, it may blend in with your surroundings. On darker days, My peace stands out in sharp contrast to your circumstances.

John 1:4-5 In Him was life and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.

*****

Jesus' peace does not depend upon our circumstances. He gives his peace all the time!

*****

526. a safe trip to Illinois

527. lunch with the girls

528. dinner with Andy and Kelly

529. Jesus' peace

time with Jesus

"Trust Me enough to spend ample time with Me, pushing back the demands of the day. Refuse to feel guilty about something that is so pleasing to Me, the King of the universe...as you align yourself with My perspective, you can sort out what is important and what is not." Jesus Calling

Psalms 32:8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you.

*****

Time with Jesus is the most important time of our day.

*****

one thousand gifts

523. Tom home safely

524. an hour of exercise

525. time with Jesus

journey of intimacy

"Seek My Face more and more. You are really just beginning your journey of intimacy with Me. It is not an easy road, but it is a delightful and privileged way: a treasure hunt. I am the Treasure, and the Glory of my Presence glistens and shimmers along the way."

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

Isaiah 12:2 Behold, God is my salvation and I will trust and not be afraid. For the Lord God is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation.

*****

No matter how old we are or how long we have known the Lord--we really are just beginning this journey of intimacy with Him. We will have and eternity of intimacy where we can see Him face to face.

*****

one thousand gifts

520. a helpful neighbor, Bill

521. being back in a Ladies Bible study

522. a great day with Amelia and Asher

"I am above all things: your problems, your pain, and the swirling event in this ever-changing world...When you feel yourself sinking in the sea of circumstances, say "Help me, Jesus! and I will draw you back to Me. If you have to say that thousands of times daily, don't be discouraged. I know your weakness and I meet you in that very place." Jesus Calling

Matthew 1:28-31 "Lord, if it is you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water," Come" He said. Then Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind he was afraid and beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord save me." Immediately Jesus reached out His hand and caught him.

*****

Are the events of your day swirling out of control? Just call out to Jesus.

*****

one thousand gifts

517. Excederin for migraines

518. Bible study

519. a light snow

rest and refreshment

"Come to Me for rest and refreshment. The journey has been too much for you, and you are bone-weary. Do not be ashamed of your exhaustion. Instead, see it as an opportunity for Me to take charge of your life. Remember that I can fit everything into a pattern for good, including the things you wish were different...However, you are on the path of my choosing, so do not give up! Hope in Me, for you will again praise Me for the help of My Presence." Jesus Calling

Psalm 42:11 Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him. The help of my countenance, and my God.

*****

Yesterday was a hard day for me. Amelia, Asher, and I were cranky. I think we were all just tired. So good to know that God is there to give me rest and refreshment today. I know I am exactly where God wants me to be... here in Indianapolis, being able to spend time with the grandchildren. What a blessing!

How are you feeling today? Are you exhausted? Maybe discouraged? Have faith in God. He is there wanting to give you rest and to refresh you.

*****

one thousand gifts

three things found outside:

514. the sunshine

515. fresh air

516. God's beautiful world

cling tightly to Jesus' hand

"Come to Me and rest. I am all about you, to bless and restore. Breathe Me in with each breath. The way just ahead of you is very steep. Slow down and cling tightly to My hand. I am teaching you a difficult lesson, learned only by hardship. Lift up empty hands of faith to receive My precious Presence. Light, life, joy and peace flow freely through this gift." Jesus Calling

Matthew 11:28 Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

*****

Life is hard, but God is good!

one thousand gifts

512. worship at church

513. "guardrails" that protect us from danger

Choices-trust or worry

"You can have as much of Me and My Peace as you want, through thousands of correct choices each day. The most persistent choice you face is whether to trust Me or to worry." Jesus Calling

Psalm 46:1-2 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear...

*****

So often we believe a lie: you have no choice, you are stuck. But that is a lie, we always have a choice. We can trust God or not. We can choose peace or unrest in our hearts. Often we can choose action or inaction, and even when there is nothing that we can do. we can choose trust.

*****

one thousand gifts

509. a call from Mom

510. hard eucharist: a new scale that weighs 5 lbs heavier

511. choices

leanness lifestyle

As I mentioned in this mornings blog, I am starting a new diet/lifestyle. It is called the Leanness Lifestyle. I have read on Jayme's blog about her weight loss journey over the last year. She didn't go into great details, but it sounded like it was comprehensive, including not only a healthy diet, but exercise. Not only that, but she was succeeding in losing weight. Go Jayme!

Once a year the Leanness Lifestyle University offers an online boot camp for 100 people. Jayme had participated last year and was encouraging others to sign up for this years. I have thought about it for the last several months, but just couldn't decide if it would be too hardcore for me. And to tell you the truth, I didn't investigate that much into it. So Monday rolls around and its the day to sign up. I again was waffling and then just decided to do it. So I did.

I was accepted into the boot camp and spent Tuesday trying to get familiar with the website. Pretty much getting more worried and regretting my spur of the moment decision!

Wednesday I realized that this truly was a leanness diet... meaning low fat and that the low carbohydrate/high protein (read high fat) diet that I had been on wasn't going to mesh. So I made the decision to try and get on board with the leanness diet. Several issues I will have to overcome, but mainly I am going to have to learn to like vegetables. Up to this point in my life, I have had a hate relationship with vegetables! For now I am simply telling myself that I don't have to like them, I just have to eat them. But I am sure hoping that over time my taste buds will awaken to their goodness... I don't want to be gagging down my broccoli the rest of my life.

Thursday and Friday went fairly smoothly. It is hard to get in the habit of logging everything I eat and I am having some difficulty with their logging program, but figure I'll get the hang of it soon.

Today. On my to do list today was a reminder that we needed to have a scale that measures in the tenth of a pound. Now I have a nice scale, but it only measures to the half pound. I start to decide it is good enough and then remind myself that I am trying to do this program to the best of my ability. So I run to Walmart and buy a new scale. Now I hit a major snag. I weigh about 5 more pounds on it than I do my old scale. Now it feels like I have to lose those same 5 pounds over again! Arrgg! Plus it means I have been 5 pounds heavier than I thought, Yikes!!

planning and peace

"Bring Me your weakness, and receive My Peace. Accept yourself and your circumstances just as they are, remembering that I am sovereign over everything. Do no wear yourself out with analyzing and planning. Instead, let thankfulness and trust be your guides through this day; they will keep you close to Me." Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

Psalm 29:11 The Lord will give strength to His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace.

*****

Two thoughts this morning. First we are not to wear ourselves out with analyzing and planning. I don't think it is saying not to analyze and plan, but not to wear ourselves out. Right now I am starting a new diet/lifestyle plan (more on this on another post) and at the beginning of any new venture there needs to be analyzing and planning. I just need to be careful, giving the appropriate amount of time and energy to change some habits, but not let it take precedent over my devotion to God and my family.

Second thought: don't you just love being called one of God"s people?!!

*****

one thousand gifts

206. a new lifestyle plan

207. hope

208. being one of God's people

the gift of today

"I am with you and for you... Each day is precious gift from My Father. How ridiculous to grasp for future gifts when today's is set before you! Receive today's gift gratefully, unwrapping it tenderly and delving into its depths. As you savor this gift, you find Me."

Romans 8:31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us.

*****

Today is a gift from God. Let's celebrate today!

*****

one thousand gifts

504. Tom my encourager

505. the gift of today

what's my focus

"I am renewing your mind. When you thoughts flow freely, they tend to move toward problems. Your focus gets snagged on a given problem, circling round and round it in attempts to gain mastery. Your energy is drained away from other matters through this negative focus. Worst of all, you lose sight of Me. A renewed mind is Presence-focused. Train you mind to see Me in every moment, every situation." Jesus Calling

Psalm 105:4 Seek the Lord and His strength. Seek His face continually.

*****

Word I really needed to hear this morning. I am starting a new diet program and it has me focused on it instead of God... and it is stealing my peace. I do need to diet and I do need to focus on changing what I eat, but it can not be the be all and end all of who I am and what I think about! How about you, is there something that is stealing your focus off of God? Today lets commit to keeping God front and center.

one thousand gifts

501. pictures of Pam's back yard

502. a walk in the sunshine

503. the blues and pinks of a beautiful sunset

the present

"Follow Me one step at a time. That is all I require of you. In fact, that is the only way to move through this space/time world.You see huge mountains looming, and you start wondering how you're going to scale those height. Meanwhile, because you're not looking where you're going, you stumble on the easy path where I am leading you now... Keep your mind on the present journey, enjoying My Presence. Walk by faith not by sight, trusting Me to open up the way before you. "

Jesus Calling by Sarah Young

II Corinthians 5:7 for we walk by faith not by sight.

*****

Is there something that you are tripping on today, because you are looking too far into the future? Today, let's live in the present in God's presence.

*****

499. a gift found on a paper: a note from Robin

500. a gift found in a person: Pam's enduring friendship