Be Holy?

Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written, "YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY."
(1 Peter 1:13-16, NASB)

As I’ve heard many pastors say, when you see a “therefore” in the Bible, you need ask yourself what it’s “there for.”

Yesterday’s passage spoke of prophets serving us and preaching the “gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven.” Today’s verses now put the focus on us. If indeed the prophets spoke truth about the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus, what are we to do to continue to proclaim the gospel—the good news?

We have a pretty concise “to do” list here:
• Prepare our minds for action
• Keep sober in spirit
• Fix our hope completely (did you get that? completely) on grace
• Do not be conformed to former lusts

And finally:
• Be holy

Wow. I don’t know about you, but this list is pretty daunting. In fact the “easiest” of these tasks (for me, at least) is fixing my hope on grace. I am so very, very grateful that, forty years ago, God adopted me as His beloved daughter. I’m equally grateful that, almost seventeen years ago, He brought this prodigal back to Himself. I understand grace.

I can even handle being prepared for action, keeping sober in spirit, and not being conformed to former lust—that’s where grace comes in.

But that last? Be holy? Me? With all my flaws and weaknesses and brokenness? Are you kidding me?

I’m far from holy. You may be thinking the same about yourself.

Ah, but it’s not about us. It’s not about me. I’m holy because the One to whom I belong is holy. When I gave my life completely and irrevocably to God, I was washed clean. I was made righteous in His eyes.

And in gratitude, I strive to live as closely to how Christ lived as I can. I desire my Lord’s will. I want to follow His plan.

And I, with His grace, am becoming more and more like my Savior.

Thank You, Abba, for seeing the worth in me. Thank Your for looking past my rebellion, my deliberate sin. Thank You for making me holy in your eyes. Amen.

An Amazing Gift

As to this salvation, the prophets who prophesied of the grace that would come to you made careful searches and inquiries, seeking to know what person or time the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating as He predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories to follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves, but you, in these things which now have been announced to you through those who preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven—things into which angels long to look.
(1 Peter 1:10-12, NASB)

One thing I love about the Bible—among many—is the fact of already fulfilled prophecies. Old Testament prophecies about the birth and death of Christ. New Testament prophecies about the destruction of the temple.

I feel so blessed to know that because some prophecies have already been fulfilled, others will one day be also.

In these verses, Peter reminds his readers—that’s us, by the way—that the prophets of old predicted Christ’s suffering and His glory to come. Jesus did suffer, and one day, those who know Him will bask in His glory.

But there’s more in these verses. In fact, in a very real way, these verses define the reason God inspired men to write His words: to serve us. Have you thought of that? God didn’t have to leave a written account of His work. He could have just left it to general revelation through creation. Or He could have let us figure it out on our own (like that would happen!).

No. He loves us so much He left the gift of written word. Words inspired by Him, flowing through chosen men. Men who dedicated their lives to accurately scribe God’s inspiration.

Have you thought of what an amazing gift your Bible is? Have you praised God for speaking to you through its words? Don’t take it for granted, my friend. Read it. Meditate on it.

And thank God for it.

More Precious Than Gold

In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls.
(1 Peter 1:6-9, NASB)

I find it very interesting that some followers of Christ are surprised when trials come. Somehow they think that becoming a Christian means rainbows, cotton candy, and puppy dogs.

They haven’t read their Bible apparently.

I’ve written before about being refined as gold, and I love today’s scripture. Not the being “distressed by various trials” part. Frankly, I’d rather avoid trials. Suffering isn’t on my top ten favorite things to do. If God chose to grow me and mature my faith in any other way, I’d say, “Bring it on.”

But that’s not how God works. He knows we’re fickle and frail and fleshly. He knows we (or maybe it’s just me) tend to be self-sufficient when the skies are clear and the waves calm. It’s when the storms hit—when we face the fiery furnace—that we reach our hands up and plead for His presence.

So no, I’d rather not have the trials, but since I know I’m who I am today because of the difficult times and how they’ve shaped me, I can rejoice as Peter exhorted.

I can praise and glorify and honor my Lord. I can love Him through the trials.

I can find hope, knowing that my trials are for “a little while.” And I can be confident God will use those trials to make me precious like gold.

A Living Hope!

… according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
(1 Peter 1:2-5, NASB)

I just finished an inductive study of 1 Peter, and there are so many rich truths—I can’t resist sharing some of them with you. So for the next few weeks, join me as I remind myself of God’s voice through the apostle Peter.

And may I pray, as Peter prayed: May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure!

The last few days, I focused on a psalm that often felt bleak, but ended with hope. Today, I start our review of 1 Peter with hope—a living hope. We who follow Christ, who have personal relationships with Him, have been offered a great mercy from our Lord God.

We are promised an inheritance—imperishable and undefiled—in heaven.

We are promised protection—by the power of God through faith—here on earth.

When I read verses like this, I get homesick. I completely resonate with Paul’s words to the Philippians: “For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.” (Phil. 1:23, NKJV)

It gives me a hope I can live with on earth to know one day the cares and sufferings I experience now won’t even be a memory. I’ll be in the presence of the triune God!

Now, that’s a hope I can live with!

The King Reigns!

The LORD is King forever and ever;
The nations have perished out of His land.
LORD, You have heard the desire of the humble;
You will prepare their heart;
You will cause Your ear to hear,
To do justice to the fatherless and the oppressed,
That the man of the earth may oppress no more.
(Psalm 10:16-18, NKJV)

Yes. It seems the bad guys are winning battle after battle. Corruption. Perversion. Immorality. It can make even the most faithful hang her head in despair.

Ah. But we know Who wins the war.

Read the first line of today’s scripture again. The Lord, our Lord, is King forever and ever. He has heard—and will hear—the desire of the humble. He has heard—and will hear—our cries.

And He will one day do justice. One day, we will all stand before His throne, and those of us who follow Him will receive rewards according to how we’ve served Him.

One day, those who chose not to follow Him will receive judgment. Those who have oppressed, those who have lived thumbing their noses at God, those who have flagrantly lived in ungodliness will be judged.

Now read the last line of this psalm. I’m no theologian, and again, this psalm seems to be more about man than Satan, but wouldn’t you agree that the enemy could be described as “the man of the earth”? And if so, one day, he will oppress no more.

Find hope in these words today, my friend. Be encouraged, knowing that one day, all the pain and suffering you’re facing today will be over. We will be face-to-face with our King—forever and ever.

Amen.

A Cry to God

Arise, O LORD!
O God, lift up Your hand!
Do not forget the humble.
Why do the wicked renounce God?
He has said in his heart,
“You will not require an account.”

But You have seen, for You observe trouble and grief,
To repay it by Your hand.
The helpless commits himself to You;
You are the helper of the fatherless.
Break the arm of the wicked and the evil man;
Seek out his wickedness until You find none.
(Psalm 10:12-15, NKJV)

Have you ever felt forgotten? Have you ever suffered through a season and felt alone? The last few days have focused on the wicked’s pride and arrogance, and how they seem to be winning. They say God has forgotten.

Today is where hope begins. I said yesterday our God never forgets us, and I believe that with all my heart. Even when I “forgot” Him, He never forgot me. He never forgets you.

All we have to do is cry out to Him.

I’ve always found real comfort reading the psalms. So often the writers cry out to God for intervention, for protection, for salvation. And they did so with the assurance that God listened. Always.

We too can cry out to God. We can plea that He not forget the humble. We can ask for His help, knowing He will help us.

He really will. In His time. According to His plan.

Always.

Has God Forgotten Me?

He sits in the lurking places of the villages;
In the secret places he murders the innocent;
His eyes are secretly fixed on the helpless.
He lies in wait secretly, as a lion in his den;
He lies in wait to catch the poor;
He catches the poor when he draws him into his net.
So he crouches, he lies low,
That the helpless may fall by his strength.
He has said in his heart,
“God has forgotten;
He hides His face;
He will never see.”
(Psalm 10:8-11, NKJV)

Yesterday I wrote that sometimes it seems like the enemy is winning. Psalm 10 continues that thought. According to the New American Standard Bible, this is a psalm praying for the overthrow of the wicked, and I agree. But I also see it as how the enemy of our souls behaves. The enemy—prideful, arrogant, a liar, a murderer—seems to be described quite well in today’s verses.

Lurking. Murders the innocent. Lies in wait secretly.

God has forgotten …

And sometimes it seems like God really has forgotten us. When the pain is unrelenting. When the checking account is empty and rent is due. When the doctor says, “I’m so sorry.” When that prodigal is far from home.

God—at times—seems so far away. Prayers—at times—go no further than the ceiling. What do we do then?

I often speak of the gift of hindsight. I’ve experienced a lot in my four and a half decades on this earth. Abuse. Infertility. Chronic pain. And many, many times, God seemed to have forgotten me. But with that gift of hindsight, I can see He never, ever did. Even through twenty years of rebellion, He never, ever did.

And everything that’s happened—even those things my enemies did for evil—God used for good. Everything.

Be strong through whatever season you’re going through, my friend. And know one thing: God never forgets you. Never.

When My Enemy Seems to be Winning

Why do You stand afar off, O LORD?
Why do You hide in times of trouble?
The wicked in his pride persecutes the poor;
Let them be caught in the plots which they have devised.
For the wicked boasts of his heart’s desire;
He blesses the greedy and renounces the LORD.
The wicked in his proud countenance does not seek God;
God is in none of his thoughts.
His ways are always prospering;
Your judgments are far above, out of his sight;
As for all his enemies, he sneers at them.
He has said in his heart, “I shall not be moved;
I shall never be in adversity.”
His mouth is full of cursing and deceit and oppression;
Under his tongue is trouble and iniquity.
(Psalm 10:1-7, NKJV)

Sometimes, I watch the news or read the headlines (online, of course), and it seems like the bad guys are winning … a lot.

The writer of this psalm described our world really, really well. It’s full of people who are prospering and prideful. Even more, countless deny the existence of the one true God.

Deceit. Cursing. Renouncing the Lord. Sound familiar?

It’s almost painful when it seems like those of us who follow Jesus are losing—jobs, health, relationships—when the “wicked” are thriving. And we cry the words of the psalmist,

“Why do You stand afar off, O LORD?”

I’ve asked the same question. Days when I have to drag myself from bed because the pain is so intense. Days when politicians are caught in lies—but “spin” their way out. Days when people die in catastrophic earthquakes while celebrities talk of their triple-digit car purchase.

“Why do You hide in times of trouble?”

Yes, sometimes it seems like God is far away, hiding in times of trouble. Sometimes it feels like the enemy is indeed winning. And it’s really hard.

During these times, my hope comes from a favorite verse. I pray as you face your own enemy, these words will give you hope too.

"These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world."
(John 16:33, NASB)

Our enemies may be winning a battle or two, but our Lord Jesus Christ has already won the war.

The Lord, My Salvation

I lay down and slept;
I awoke, for the LORD sustained me.
I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people
Who have set themselves against me all around.
Arise, O LORD;
Save me, O my God!
…
Salvation belongs to the LORD.
Your blessing is upon Your people.
(Psalm 3:5-8, NKJV)


Not only is the Lord our shield, as we learned yesterday, He’s our salvation from enemies and circumstances—and sleepless nights.

I like the beginning of verse 5. I don’t know about you, but sometimes when I face uncertainty, one of the first things that goes is sleep. Tossing and turning. Worrying and fretting. In times like these, I’ve learned if I talk to God just before I go to sleep and then again when I wake, He will sustain me. He will give me the strength I need to get through each moment, each day.

These verses also remind me I don’t have to fear. I really, really don’t. He’s in control, and He’ll save me. I may—no, let’s be honest here—I will face trials. I will face temptations. I may even face an enemy full-on. But He’ll carry me through.

God’s word promises salvation from our enemies. But let’s not forget, it also promises eternal salvation. So even if today seems rough, even if there’s not even a glimmer of light at the end of that proverbial tunnel, we who know Jesus Christ can be assured that this temporary life will one day be not even a memory. We’ll be face-to-face with our Lord and Savior.

Forever.

The Lord, My Shield

LORD, how they have increased who trouble me!
Many are they who rise up against me.
Many are they who say of me,
“There is no help for him in God.”
But You, O LORD, are a shield for me,
My glory and the One who lifts up my head.
I cried to the LORD with my voice,
And He heard me from His holy hill.
(Psalm 3:1-4, NKJV)

I think I’ll stay in the Psalms for a while.

This one spoke to my soul this morning as my heart continues to hurt for many of my friends who are facing job hunts in this uncertain economy. It has to be a little scary, even for those who have a strong faith in our loving, Sovereign God.

They’re facing troubles, and there are some who may very well say, “You have no help.” Moments may come when even those who trust the Lord may wonder when help will come.

The writer of this Psalm certainly understood trouble from those “who rise up against” him. But he knew the One who held him. He knew he could cry out to his Lord, and he would be heard.

We can do the same. No matter our trouble, no matter our pain, no matter our distress, we can cry out to our Lord. We can have confidence that He is our shield. He is the one who lifts our heads.

Life isn’t easy. And we’ve never been promised it would be. But we do have a protector, a shield against the troubles this world—and its “prince”—may bring.

Cry out to Him. If you’re feeling troubled, unsure, weary, worried … Cry out to Him. He will listen. He will shield you.

Trust Him.

Giving Thanks

Enter into His gates with thanksgiving,
And into His courts with praise.
Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.
For the LORD is good;
His mercy is everlasting,
And His truth endures to all generations.
(Psalm 100:4-5, NKJV)

Yesterday, I wrote about finding joy simply because I’m God’s daughter (or as I like to say when I speak, I’m a much-loved daughter of the King!). Today’s verses complete that thought.

Because I’m God’s, because He loves me, I can be joyful. Even more, I can be grateful for everything. Everything. Good and bad.

I can be grateful for the daily pain that requires a reliance on Him. I can be grateful for times of trial that strengthen me. I can be grateful for difficult relationships that cause me to be compassionate.

Mostly, I can be grateful that the God who loves me is good. He’s merciful.

I know it sounds trite, but it’s true. God will use all things for His ultimate good (Romans 8:28). It may not seem that way today, but as I wrote in my book, The Best Laid Plans:

• God loves you.
• God is beside you every moment, in every circumstance.
• God will use the pain you’re experiencing today to strengthen you.
• And, one day, you will see how your yesterday will bless your today and give you hope for tomorrow.

I’m not white-washing pain, my friends. Believe me. I understand pain more than some, not as much as others. But I do know that if I can be genuinely thankful, blessing and praising God, I see His goodness.

I pray you’ll see that same goodness, no matter what you’re going through. And that you, too, will give thanks.

Finding Joy

Make a joyful shout to the LORD, all you lands!
Serve the LORD with gladness;
Come before His presence with singing.
Know that the LORD, He is God;
It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves;
We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.
(Psalm 100:1-3, NKJV)

Some of my dearest friends are finding it hard to be joyful these days. It’s been a tough week for some. For others, it’s been a tough year or more.

Fractured relationships. Fragile finances. Failing health.

Many seem to be surrounded by very dark clouds. Where’s the rainbow? Or the silver lining? Will the sun ever shine through?

It’s hard sometimes to see any light through the shadows, but when I read these verses, I remember something very, very important. My joy doesn’t come from circumstances. It doesn’t come from sunny skies. It doesn’t come from my stuff. It doesn’t come from a paycheck. It doesn’t even come from my relationships.

My joy comes from one place, and one place only. The assurance that I am God’s. I am His daughter. And He loves me.

And while I may not know exactly what’s around the corner, I can joyfully shout. I can serve Him with gladness. I can praise Him with singing.

Because I know that He is God.

A Change is in the Air

If you’ve been following my blog for a while, you know it’s been more of random thoughts, prayers, and devotions—whatever came to mind—on a weekly or bi-weekly basis.

Starting tomorrow, however, as I begin a new journey of pursuing full-time ministry, my blogs are going to change a bit.

First, they’ll be daily.

Second, they’ll focus on verses, chapters, and books of the Bible. I may stay in a particular book for weeks!

Third, they’ll offer encouragement, edification, and/or equipping—the three “E’s” of my ministry: Triple-E Ministries (www.saunirinehart.com).

I encourage (!) you to join me in my journey and “follow” my blog in the coming months. And let me know what you think.

I do hope you join me. I’m excited to see what God will do!

A Much-needed Refuge

Some of my favorite verses come from Psalm 46.

"God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in time of trouble.
Therefore, we shall not fear.
Even though the earth be removed,
And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;
Though its waters roar and be troubled,
Though the mountains shake with its swelling."

Through storms, through earthquakes, through devastation, through pain, through trials. God is always there. Always.

But sometimes it feels like He's far away. Sometimes it seems like help isn't coming.

I've written a lot about trust. Do we really trust that God is who He says He is? Do we really believe He'll carry us through even the most painful times?

I know for some of my friends it's hard right now. You can't see the light at the end of the proverbial tunnel.

All I can offer you today is my prayers. And the final verses of Psalm 46.

"Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!
The LORD of hosts is with us;
The God of Jacob is our refuge."

If ... Then ...

If ... then ... scenarios permeate our lives, don't they?

As children, we hear:

If you clean your room, then you'll get ice cream.

Then it's:

If you get good grades, then you'll get into a good college.

As we grow older, we're told:

If you work hard, then you'll earn enough to retire.

Or how about:

If you promise to love me 'til death us do part, then I'll promise the same.

And finally:

If you take care of your health, then you'll live to an old age.

Conditions. Requirements. You scratch my back; I'll scratch yours. You give something, and you'll get something.

Even God has "if ... then ..." scenarios.

Throughout the Old Testament, God said time and time again to His chosen people, "If you obey me, then I'll ..."

He'd provide. He'd protect. He'd be gracious. He'd conquer their enemies. He'd be merciful. He'd bless.

He makes the same promises today. All He asks is that we obey Him. All He asks is that we read and follow His commandments He gave us through His word. All He asks is that we trust Him.

And since He's the Creator of all things, He has every right to ask.

If we obey Him, then He'll do all those things He promised to the people of Israel.

I don't know about you, but I really like knowing that if I obey Him and His commands, He'll protect me. He'll provide for me. He'll bless me. In and through every situation.

If you want to have that same assurance, then obey Him. Follow Him.

Trust Him.

Foolish Things

As I was spending time with the Lord this morning, I decided to read some of Psalm 119 and was brought to a screeching halt by verse 37.

I first read the NASB, which says, "Turn away my eyes from looking at vanities, And revive me in Your ways."

I had to check out other versions. The NIV translates "vanities" as "worthless things," and The Message, "toys and trinkets."

Then I came across CEV's rendition:

Take away my foolish desires,
and let me find life
by walking with you.

Join me in my screeching halt and read these words again. And then again.

We just came out of a season where the world is focusing on things, and perhaps many of us who know better got caught right up with it. It's easy, I know, to get tunnel vision. My house. My clothes. My car.

Then the bottom falls out of the economy.

Or even worse, an earthquake destroys a nation.

What then? What do our "foolish desires" really get us? Where does our focus on "toys and trinkets" leave us?

Nothing or nowhere I really want to be. I'd much rather find life in walking with Jesus. I'd rather take my eyes off of my often foolish desires and focus on the plan of my loving Father.

How about you?

As I close this week's blog, please pray for Haiti and its people. Pray for those who are traveling as I write to offer a helping hand. Pray for those who are using this as a political forum.

And remember, even when it's so very hard to see, our loving Father is in control of this too.

Another New Year

2010.

Seriously . . . 2010? For those of us "of an age," wasn't 2010 supposed to be full of space odysseys and travels to far off galaxies, going from here to there with a mere push of a button, cars that levitate?

Instead, it's just another year.

Now, I have to admit, 30 years ago, I couldn't have imagined carrying (and absolutely loving) two small devices, one that holds every song I love and the other, a growing library of books, and a phone, slipped in my pocket, that allows me to call anyone at any time. Those seemed like science fiction dreams.

But really, is there anything new under the sun to look forward to in 2010? I'm not sure. I mean, what else could we possibly want?

It's just another year. For some of us, it'll be business as usual (or trying to find business as usual). Same ol' stuff. For others, 2010 will open new and exciting doors--weddings, births, unexpected opportunities. Well . . . Just like years past. Nothing new under the sun.

Now before you think I'm being a drag, I'm looking forward to this new year. Really. There's a lot of work to be done and plans to be made. There'll be chances to see God work in ways I can't imagine today. There'll be new people to meet and new dreams to see fulfilled.

It's going to be a good year no matter what because God's in it.

So, although I won't be flying off to Saturn any time soon (and I really was hoping for the ability "travel at the push of a button"), I pray for a happy, healthy 2010--for all of us.

Twas the Day After Christmas

Twas the day after Christmas, and all through the house,
Everyone was still sleeping, yes even that mouse.

The gifts were all opened, and some already forgot.
We couldn't remember just why they'd been bought.

The wrapping was stuffed in trash bags stashed outdoors,
And ribbons and bows saved for next year's gift tours.

It was early that morning when I woke and arose,
The house was still quiet, a time for repose.

Just I and the dogs sat in quiet remembrance
Of yesterday's fun, food, and gift-giving dance.

Of family and friends, of cards and phone calls,
Of lights and music, ornaments and decked halls.

It was fun, to be sure, and a wonderful day,
But now I wondered, has it all gone away?

For Christmas was over, another year past,
And as always, it seemed it just didn't last.

But what to my wondering heart did appear?
A thought reminded it was more than time of year.

No, Christmas was not over, and never would be.
No, Christmas was celebrating our Savior, you see.

And Jesus, who lives in believing hearts, I can say
Is always and ever alive, no matter the day.

Through crisis, through suffering, through joy and through pain,
Through good times and bad times, through loss and through gain.

No matter what life seems to bring through the year,
We can know, without doubt, that our Savior is here.

So as decor comes down and is stowed for a while,
Remember Christmas isn't over, and think with a smile,

For unto us a Child is born, to us the Prince of peace.
And in remembering, may your joy and peace increase.

(c) 2009 Sauni Rinehart

Counting Down

Christmas is just a week away! And I have to say...I have somewhat mixed feelings. Part of me is so looking forward to our church's Christmas Eve service and honoring the birth of Christ.

But another part of me is feeling quite melancholy.

It's our first Christmas without Ruth, and for the very first time, we won't be with any family on Christmas Day.

It's going to be strange. We've been invited to have dinner with a dear friend of mine, but it won't be the same.

May I encourage you? If you're going to spend time with family on this special day, cherish them. Don't let the stress of the season weigh you down. Just enjoy being with the people you love. You'd miss them if you weren't with them.

Believe me.

It's Beginning to Look...

I can't help it. I'm a Christmas geek. Certifiably. I'm one of those who decorates the day Saturday after Thanksgiving and envelop the entire first floor of my home with decorations.

I really can't help it. And I really don't want to!

As I sit here in my living room looking at one of the two trees in my home, I just love how having all the fuss around me gives me such joy.

There's something about this season that speaks to my heart--and the hearts of many others. Something joyful. Something peaceful.

But there's something about what's happened to this season that hurts my heart. We live in a culture that doesn't seem to understand that Christmas isn't--for many of us--just another holiday.

Celebrate what you will, but would it be okay for me to celebrate Christmas for what I believe with all I am is the right reason? Is it all right for me to wish you a Merry Christmas? Would you mind if I celebrate because I believe Christmas is Christ-mas--a celebration of Christ?

Just wondering.

Giving Thanks

This has been quite a year ... lots of challenges, some really joyful times, many really painful moments. But today, I know how blessed I am, and I'm filled with gratitude.

I'm thankful for ...

... grace
... Russ and a healthy marriage in a society where "'til death us do part" has morphed into "while love lasts"
... waking up knowing that "His mercies are new every morning"
... family so far away in body but close in heart
... dear friends who pray for me and love me in spite of myself
... my bed (!)
... my dogs with their unconditional love
... a great job at a Christian company
... dark chocolate (!!)
... dark times that draw me closer to God
... a church home where I can serve God and others
... a ministry about which I'm passionate
... gluten- and lactose-free products that actually taste good (!!!)

So many blessings. So many reasons to give thanks.

May your Thanksgiving be one of blessing, love, and gratitude.

Home Improvement

We've been doing a bit of home improvement the last few days. A tile floor is being laid in our master bath (after seven years of carpet--yuck!). We'll be painting this weekend, changing out the lights and mirrors, and then hanging new window treatments. It'll be just like having a brand new bathroom! And it's going to be gorgeous . . . so excited!!

There's something almost cathartic about doing even the simplest upgrades or changes to our homes, isn't there?

I don't know about you, but sometimes I think I'm due for a little "home improvement" in me. Definitely, I need a bit of an upgrade to my physical self (can anyone say, "Get off your duff and exercise!"?).

The last few weeks, I've felt the need for some improvement to my heart. It's been rough for a lot of different reasons, and a couple of weeks ago, I felt pretty much at the end of my rope (thus no blogs since late October). If you've been keeping up with my blog over the last year or so, you know it's been quite a year in the Rinehart home, and it just got to the point where I was done . . .

Fortunately, God isn't done with me yet! I mentioned in my last blog how much I love the book of Philippians. And again, verse 1:6 was a great comfort to me as I remember that I'm a work in progress. I may not understand everything that happens, but when I ask myself if I trust God, I have to say yes. And when I ask myself if I believe He's lovingly in control of everything, I have to say yes again.

And so, I continue to (I pray) "improve" my heart and soul . . . now if I could just get moving on that "strength" part of me!

Hard Pressed

My favorite book in the Bible is Philippians. There are so many wonderful verses of affirmation or conviction or encouragement.

I love the reminder that I'm a work in progress (1:6), that I can do all things through Christ (4:13), that He'll give me a peace beyond understanding (4:7).

Two of my life verses (3:13-14) come from this book.

Lately, though, my heart has been resonating with a handful of verses from chapter one. You're probably familiar with these verses, but maybe you, like me, can relate more and more with them as this world continues its downward spiral.

In chapter one, verses 12-18, Paul writes about the confidence he has that everything that's happened to him has been for a purpose: so that Christ is preached (v. 18).

Paul goes on to pray that he will never be ashamed of sharing the truth of Christ and that his Savior would always be "magnified . . . whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain" (vv. 20b-21).

He recognizes that as long as he remains on earth, it's because God has a purpose in his remaining, and he's content to remain. But he makes his heart very clear . . . and this is where my heart resonates.

"For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better" (v. 23).

I mean, I'm perfectly content to continue to do God's work here on earth, but more and more I know that this world really isn't my home (to paraphrase from an old gospel song). My heart longs more and more for my real home, that place where I really belong (3:20).

Can you relate?

Thank Goodness It's Friday!

It's been a loooooong week!

Started on Sunday night with a quick flight to Oakland, CA, where I met my dad and his wife for dinner. I was up there to host an event for ECCU on Monday in Livermore. I love hosting these events, and it's such fun to meet ministry leaders. And I get a real kick out of being the emcee.

But even fun stuff can be exhausting.

I flew home Monday night (a slightly delayed flight) and fell into bed, only to get up Tuesday morning to host the same event at ECCU's headquarters in Brea. Ditto all of the above.

But even fun stuff can be exhausting.

Wednesday was an in-the-office day, and by the time I got home that evening, I was completely wiped. Completely. And yesterday? Let's just say it was only by the grace of God that I had any energy to get anything done.

Ah, but now it's Friday! Time to relax and rest. And a weekend ahead to rest some more (well, except for seeing Robin Hood at Lifehouse tomorrow! So excited to see some of my friends! And church on Sunday, of course!). Thank goodness!

You know something? Friday's are a gift from God. Really. He gave us an end to our workweek, and since many of us "work" on Sundays, Friday really is the end of our work. We're given the gift of Sabbath rest. But how often do we not accept that gift? Sabbath is a break from our work. A day to enjoy rest and rejuvenation (and for me, that includes going to Lifehouse!).

Can you say "Thank goodness it's Friday" knowing that tomorrow you can really rest.

You have my permission. More importantly, you have God's permission.

Too Tired to Type

Ever feel that way? Just too tired to do much of anything??

It's been a hectic week at work as I prepare for a couple of events next week. And although my new dosage of medication does seem to be helping the pain, the fatigue is just at maximum levels.

So, my few faithful readers, I'd love to share words of wisdom or some pithy comments . . . but I'm just too tired to type.

But one thing I'm not too tired to do: I'm praying for you!!

Have a great weekend, and may you (like me) get some rest!!

His Mercies Are New...Every Morning

We've been experiencing some unseasonably hot weather here in Southern California. Triple digits for over a week. I'm not a hot-weather gal. I prefer the coolness of autumn or the fresh breezes of spring. Triple digits make me want to find the coolest place and just veg.

Autumn is coming, though. The mornings have been cool (yea!), and I've awakened feeling more refreshed. I love it!

The coolness of recent mornings remind me of God's promise in Lamentations. His mercies keep me from being "consumed" (as the New King James Version puts it), and His "compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." (3:23-24)

What an amazing blessing that is! No matter what happened yesterday, His mercies and compassions are new. They don't fail. He is faithful.

Every morning. He never fails! Never.

So the days may be hot, but the mornings will always bring new mercies from my faithful God.

Amen. And amen.

Staying in Bed

You know those days when you wake up and wish you could just pull the covers over your head and just stay in bed?

I've had quite a few of those days lately. I've been feeling pretty lousy the last four weeks (a severe flare up), and I've pretty much wanted to crawl into bed and hibernate . . . for a really long time.

Of course, this isn't possible. Life continues even when I don't want it to.

I've been learning a lot about trusting God over the last few months, and He continues to use my chronic health issues to keep me focused on Him. I don't always like it--right now, in fact, I've been praying that I'll just learn the lesson so I don't have to have this daily pain.

But there's a purpose in everything. I have to believe that.

Anyway, back to the wanting to stay in bed. I was going over one of the talks I'm giving at a retreat in October, and I read a verse that kind of gives me permission to do just that.

Psalm 4:4b tells me to "Meditate in your heart upon your bed, and be still."

Hey! I can do that!

Seriously, even in the midst of any pain or crises, I need to make sure I'm meditating on God's word. And the being still part? Physically, it's almost a given. I'm pretty still these days. But I know it means more than just being prone on my bed. It's being still in God's presence, something I need to do more of.

But, I do love it that I can meditate on God's word and be still in His presence. All without even leaving my bed.

In fact, I think I may just head upstairs early tonight and spend some time with God--before I pull those covers over my head.

You Just Have to Love 'em!

I usually write about what God's doing in my life and heart, but today, I just have to say that dogs are some of God's greatest creations!!

You just have to love 'em!

Now I know there are some of you that don't like dogs, and frankly, I wonder about the health of your mind (just kidding . . . sort of).

I've always loved dogs, but we really didn't have them when I was growing up. My sister had two chihuahuas, but they weren't MINE.

I had my first very-own dog when Russ and I adopted an adorable blond Cocker Spaniel in 1993. Todd was the sweetest thing, and he loved me unconditionally. A few years later, we adopted another Cocker (Gidget) to keep the first company (it didn't really work--Todd barely tolerated Gidget).

Then tragedy--one that only true dog-lovers understand--struck. We lost both Cockers within 8 weeks of each other in early 2004. It was heartbreaking.

Time passed, grieving abated, and in January 2005, we adopted our Labradors that you may have seen on my Facebook page. They're sweet and loving, and coming home to them at the end of the day brings such joy. You dog-lovers know what I mean!

I'm sitting here on a quiet Saturday morning (Russ is out of town), and I'm so grateful I have these precious four-legged "kids" to keep me company. Annie, the older black Lab, is dreaming, and boy, what a dream she must be having! Woofs. Grrs. Quickly moving feet. It's quite entertaining! Then Luke, the younger yellow Lab, sidles up beside me and rests his head on my lap. "Just love me," his eyes tell me.

And I do. God has created so many wonderful things, just for our enjoyment, just to bring us pleasure. And my two sweet Labs do just that.

And you just have to love 'em!!

An Everlasting Love

I journal every day, and the journal I'm writing in right now has verses of encouragement at the bottom of every page. Today, the first page I wrote on has Jeremiah 31:3 . . . "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness." (NIV)

That's God speaking to me . . . and to you.

Do you sometimes forget how much God really loves you? Do you get so caught up with His sovereignty and His power that you forget He's your loving Father? Your Abba? Your Daddy?

I have to admit, I do sometimes. Then He brings reminders through His servants--ancient and modern. How grateful I am that He loves me with that everlasting love. I love how the Message puts it:

"I've never quit loving you and never will. Expect love, love, and more love!"

Bask in those words. Let them flow over you like a gentle rain. No matter what you do--what I do--He'll never stop loving you! He'll never stop loving me! We can "expect love, love, and more love!"

Enjoy!

Another Challenge

A few weeks ago, I offered a "simple" challenge to my few, but faithful readers!

I have another--possibly more difficult--challenge for you today. Or should I say, I'm inviting you to join me as I continue to strive to become the woman God created me to be.

I've mentioned before that I read a daily devotional from In Touch Ministries. And I was really, really convicted when I read today's.

The focus for the last few days has been Elijah's journey of faith as described in 1 Kings. Today, part of the Bible reading was 1 Kings 18:21 where Elijah says, point blank, to the people of Israel, "Whom are you going to serve? You know about God of Israel, the one who continually saved your forefathers, and now there's this false god. Are you going to serve the God you know to be true, or this other one?" (This is my paraphrase.) In a tragic understatement, the people were silent.

Choosing the true God or an idol.

I know today we don't often think of choosing between an idol and God. We think about idols as being small figures we have on a shrine, and few of us actually have such a thing.

But what about this definition? "When we depend on--or give priority--to anything besides the Lord, it becomes our god." (In Touch, 8.27.09, emphasis mine)

Hmmm. Anything besides God.

So I had to ask myself:

* Do I "cherish the gift rather than the Giver"?
* Do I "reserve a part of each day for God"?
* Do I keep my focus fully on God and seek His will--every day?

I want to answer yes to each of these questions. I want to, but I can't always.

"If we really believe that the God of the Bible is the only true God, we ought to give Him our whole life, follow Him faithfully, and serve Him with all our gifts and abilities." (In Touch, 8.27.09)

I do really believe, so I pray: "Lord God, please reveal to me anything--anything--that I'm putting above You. Help me to cherish You. Convict me to spend part of each day with You. Draw my focus fully on You. And do Your will in me, today and every day."

That's my challenge to myself. Join me if you choose.

The Mountain and the Valley

We all know that our life's journeys take us to the top of the mountain at times and to the depths of the valley at times.

Yesterday, I made it to the top and the depths all in one day.

My day started with working at my God-given job that allows me the flexibility to work from home. I'd taken a few hours off the day before, so I really needed to get caught up. I love what I do, so even work sometimes gives me almost-to-the-top-of-the-mountain moments.

Then I took an early lunch to go speak and sing at a local women's club, something I always love to do. Afterwards, the Lord led me to the top of the mountain with some really affirming words from some of the women. Words that reminded me of the gift God's given me by allowing me to speak His words. Words that reminded me of how He uses me to encourage others.

A mountain-top high!

I came back home and worked some more, finishing several tasks ahead of schedule--always a good thing!!

And then the valley.

I've mentioned in other blogs that I've been part of an amazing cast performing a fun, encouraging play. It's been so much fun, and such a wonderful haven from "real" life.

I received a call last evening that the remaining performances have been canceled. It doesn't really matter why, but this call put me in the valley depths.

All that work. All the dedicated people. All the time invested.

It's all over . . .

I'm so sad for the leadership of the playhouse. I'm grieving for the cast and crew. Yes, in the grand scheme of things, this isn't the worst thing that could ever or will ever happen, but it's still a loss.

I know I'll get out of this valley relatively soon, but for now . . . I just have to pray for my dear friends and pray we'll all make it to the mountain.

Will I Ever Learn?

Just last week, I wrote about how much God touched me and gifted me with exceeded expectations.

Then this week . . . I began to feel very discouraged. I'm in a play at a local theater, and we open on Saturday. For the last five weeks, I've had this off and on throat thing going on, and it's on again. My voice is scratchy, and my role requires some singing.

My desire is to always serve God with excellence, and I've been fretting about letting Him down. Letting my director down. Letting the cast down.

Fretting. Worry. Anxiety. Discouragement.

Things I know I shouldn't feel. Things I know I don't have to feel. Truly . . . when will I learn?

Fortunately, I have a very patient Teacher. I'm studying Isaiah right now, and yesterday, as I sat stewing, the Lord showed me this verse in chapter 41:

Fear not for I am with you;
Be not dismayed for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
(v. 10)

Aren't those awe-inspiring words? I don't have to worry about anything. I don't have to fear. God is (and always has been) my strength.

So, today, I know that no matter what happens this weekend, God will uphold me.

Now I'd like to say I've finally learned the lesson for good, but I know my humanity will kick in every once in a while.

Perhaps it's enough that I've learned the lesson a little better for this day.

Exceeding (Unexpected) Expectations

I'm sitting in the airport in Charlotte, NC, having just finished a wonderful weekend. I visited my brother and his family, had coffee with a friend I hadn't seen in about 15 years, and had an amazing time at the She Speaks conference.

I have to admit, I came on this trip with expectations. And some of those expectations were met. I had a great time with my family. I loved reconnecting with my friend. I enjoyed the beauty of one of my favorite places on earth (it's just so wonderfully green here!).

Then came the conference. I came with certain expectations for that as well. And my original expectations were met.

I learned about marketing my speaking ministry more effectively.

I connected with other women throughout the US who have a similar calling on their heart and made friends with a couple who will probably become true friends.

I had a chance to meet with a couple of publishers about a writing project, and at least, they're interested in seeing proposals.

Yes, those expectations were met.

But then a couple of expectations I didn't even know I had were not just met. They were exceeded--amazingly so.

The Lord used a couple of presenters to truly break my heart--in a good way. I spent time (more than once) on my knees, in tears. It was a blessing beyond, well, expectations.

I recognized yet again how great God is, and how weak and inadequate I am. And the fact that He chooses to use this flawed vessel to do His will is so humbling.

I don't know what the future will bring. None of us do. But what a blessing it is to know that He knows.

To all my sisters who attended this conference, to all my sisters who've felt God's calling on their hearts to serve Him in any way . . . I pray for you. I pray your dreams will be exceeded beyond your (perhaps unexpected!) expectations.

Quiet Time Enforced (or the Value of Plane Travel!)

On Thursday, I was sitting on a plane winging its way to Charlotte, NC, truly one of my favorite places on earth. I’ve been blessed to visit this area several times, and it’s absolutely beautiful. I’m here to visit my brother and his family, and to attend a speakers’ conference.

I spent several hours sitting in my tiny coach seat. Several quiet hours.

It’s not often I have time to just sit, quietly, uninterrupted. It was kind of nice! I had time to review my “talks” I’d be giving during a couple of evaluation sessions. I had time to think. And I had time to pray.

Wednesday morning, during devotional time at work (yes, we have staff-wide devotional times weekly—at work!), one of our executive vice presidents talked about solitude and focused time just listening to the Lord’s voice.

And yet again, I was convicted.

I advocate solitude. I talk about it. I encourage others to do it. And I know—beyond doubt—that spending focused time alone with God blesses me so much. God has spoken to my heart in amazing ways when I just sit and listen. I so often walk away from these times feeling refreshed.

So why don’t I take this time every day?

I’m committed to spending time every day in God’s word, and I rarely miss reading, studying, and meditating on biblical passages. I’m usually going through at least one group Bible study. I don’t write these things to boast; I’ve learned that I easily drift from an intimate relationship with the Lord if I don’t take this time.

And I pray a lot. I talk with God about what’s going on in my life and in the lives of those I love. I praise Him for . . . just being Who He is. I ask for healing for my hurting friends and family. I ask for direction and provision.

But I don’t listen to His voice anywhere near as often as I should.

So as I sat on the plane—with all that quiet, uninterrupted time—I tried to listen. And as soon as I finished writing this, I listened again. And I felt refreshed and blessed.

Can I encourage you to make time with the Lord a priority? Will you join me in a renewed commitment to times of study, prayer, and solitude?

Let me know how you’re doing! And I pray for you!

A "Simple" Challenge

I've been going through a chronological reading of the Bible this year, and it's been interesting to see how this amazing book flows together. I've also enjoyed running into verses that have encouraged or affirmed or convicted in the past--and which do the same yet again.

One such verse is Micah 6:8. You may be familiar with it.

He has shown you, O man [or woman!], what is good;
But to do justly,
To love mercy [some translations say "kindness"],
And to walk humbly with your God.

Sometimes, after years of walking with the Lord and desiring His will and His plan, I still wonder what I should be doing for Him. Should I give more of my time, talents, and treasures? Should I volunteer at the local skilled nursing facility? Should I mentor more?

I get caught up with what I should be doing.

Then I read--again--a verse like this, and God reminds me. All He wants for me is:

• To "do justly"--follow His commandments
• To "love mercy"--be kind and merciful to others
• To "walk humbly" with Him--acknowledge that He is sovereign and give Him honor, praise, and worship

It's pretty simple--or so it seems. But really, the human side of me doesn't always want to be kind or humble.

So I'm convicted again. Am I willing to take up this "simple" challenge? I pray I am. I pray you are as well.

Joy and Sadness

It's been a week since Ruth went home to be with her Savior.

There have been moments of joy. We've received cards and letters and calls from so many people who loved and supported Ruth. Russ and I have been enveloped by arms (both literal and figurative) embracing us and letting us know that we too are loved.

There have been moments of sadness. Walking into Ruth's house for the first time since her death brought a tear to my eyes. Russ thinking of picking up the phone to call her, or leaving work and thinking he needed to visit her--then realizing he wouldn't speak to her or see her on this earth.

No matter how "prepared" you think you are--you're never fully prepared for the loss of someone you love. I've been told by several people that moments of sadness will come upon us at unexpected times and unexpected places.

We can't prepare for those either; we can just know they'll come.

Joy in the memories. Sadness in the memories that will never be.

I can't say much more than this . . . I just miss her.

Grieving with Hope

In December 1984, a young man transferred to the restaurant I worked at. I didn't think much of him, at first, but along with him came his mother.

She was a nurse, and she'd come into the restaurant before or after her shift a few times a week. I got to know her quite well. Charming. Witty. Caring.

We all really enjoyed her, and she became my friend.

She continued to be my friend, even as I began to date her son (I eventually began to think quite highly of him!). And then in April 1988, she became my mother-in-law.

Over the years, we've had our times of joy and of sorrow, times when we adored each other, times when we didn't want to be in the same room. But I've been blessed to call her my friend for almost 25 years and my "mother-in-love" for over 21 years.

If you've been reading my blog, you know my mother-in-law, Ruth, has been in ill health for several weeks. I'm blessed to write that yesterday morning at 6:30, she ended her earthly battle and was ushered into the presence of her Savior.

And even though I've lost loved ones before, Paul's words to the Thessalonians became that much more real to me. I don't have to grieve as those without hope. I have hope in the knowledge that Ruth is with Jesus and I'll see her again.

When Russ and I went to pick up Ruth's personal things yesterday, the case worker, Mary, told us how, when she'd gone to "pay her last respects," Ruth had such a look of peace on her face and even had a slight smile. In her over 20 years in long-term health, Mary had never seen such peace.

What joy, what hope it gives me to know that Ruth really is at peace . . . and maybe that slight smile was because, just as she left her earthly body, she saw Jesus, waiting for her with arms wide open.

So I'm sad at losing this woman who's been an important part of my life, but I have hope. And a lot of it!

A New Insight

I may have written this before, but don't you just love it when you read something you've read before and see something new and wonderful?

That happened last week for me. I was reading Proverbs 3, and kind of rushed through verses 5-6. I knew them by heart, so why linger? Then I read verses 7-8, and something struck me that hadn't before. Those four verses go together and provide a wonderful guide for living. In case you don't know them:

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding;
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He shall direct your paths.
Do not be wise in your own eyes;
Fear [revere] the Lord and depart from evil.
It will be health to your flesh,
And strength to your bones.

This is what struck me anew, this guide for living (for me, at least!):

• Trust in the Lord. Look at how He's worked in your life, and remember His faithfulness.
• Don't try to figure it out yourself. His ways and thoughts really are higher than yours!
• Give everything to Him, and He'll direct you. He loves you and will always lead you and protect you.
• Don't try to be self-wise. You may not know as much as you think you do!
• Give reverent awe to God. He is sovereign and worthy of all glory, honor, and praise.
• Turn away from anything that isn't of God. Don't even give the enemy a toehold!
• Focus on Him and be spiritually healed and physically refreshed. Trust Him to give you daily strength, and He will (I speak from experience!).

I pray you spend time in God's word every day. I also pray for new insights for you as well.

Do Not Delay!

I sense a theme lately in my entries . . . lots of talk about roller coasters and complaining . . .

It's been a really, really rough season, and it continues.

I've never experienced walking alongside someone in her last stages of life, so each day is unique. The medical professionals can only "guess" at what's happening because each person ends his or her journey differently. There have been many times lately when I wonder what God's doing. What could the purpose possibly be in Ruth's struggle?

If you're new to my blog, Ruth is my mother-in-law, and she's terminally ill. For the last three months, we've watched her improve and decline, improve a bit, then decline a lot. She's very confused now, and her mind isn't functioning well. It's really hard to watch.

I feel like a small, tiny worm for saying what I'm going to say next. In light of what she's going through my "temporary affliction" is minor. But even though medication is helping my own health issues somewhat, the stress of watching Ruth struggle is exacerbating the symptoms.

It's just hard, and those of you who have been through something similar know exactly what I mean.

It's times like this when I know I need to delve deeply into the Bible and stay in constant contact with the Lord. If I don't, I risk becoming distant from Him. I know myself all too well. So I'm being diligent about my time with Him. I've been spending a lot of time in the Psalms lately, and I so appreciate how the psalmists, especially David, had no fear of crying out to God. I recently read Psalm 70, and I found myself meditating on verse 5:

But I am afflicted and needy;
Hasten to me, O God!
You are my help and my deliverer;
O LORD, do not delay.

That's exactly how I feel. This is my prayer for both Ruth and me. Hasten to me, Lord! Please, do not delay!!

Maybe you're going through something really difficult. Feel free to share my prayer.

God has Heard

I really try not to whine . . . at least not too much.

But sometimes, life really kicks me to the curb, and I can't help wondering if God really hears me. You know those days when you pray, and you realize the old cliche is really true: Your prayers don't go any higher than the ceiling.

Over the last couple of weeks, I've had more than one day like that.

I watch my mother-in-law decline physically and mentally, and I pray for her suffering to end. But it doesn't.

I wake up feeling like a huge weight is pressing me down, and I pray for supernatural energy. But I don't get it.

I hear my husband talk, seemingly still far from faith, and I pray for his heart to soften. But nothing changes.

And so I whine a bit. I wonder, does God really hear me? And then, because I try to continue any Bible study or reading even when I don't feel like it, God reminds me: He really does hear me. He's just working in ways I can't see.

He also reminds me of His past faithfulness to me. It's times like this when I have to look back on what He's done and see the purpose in everything that's happened in my life.

I still watch Ruth with sadness. I still have daily fatigue and pain. I still grieve for Russ's lack of faith. That's my human side. But I just have to believe, although I don't see the purpose today, a day will come when I'll better understand today's suffering and frustration.

I'll leave you with some verses from Psalm 55. These touched my heart this week. I hope they'll touch yours too.

Come and hear, all who fear God,
And I will tell of what He has done for my soul.
I cried to Him with my mouth,
And He was extolled with my tongue.
If I regard wickedness in my heart,
The Lord will not hear;
But certainly God has heard;
He has given heed to the voice of my prayer.
Blessed be God, Who has not turned away my prayer
Nor His lovingkindness from me.
(16-20)

Gratitude

I'm really, really blessed. Really.

Although, on the surface, it doesn't necessarily look that way.

As I've mentioned in past entries, things have been tough, and it looks like the next several weeks (months?) are going to be just as tough. My mother-in-law's health continues to slowly decline, and only the Lord knows the number of her days. The roller coaster continues to take us up and down and around those emotional curves.

I've felt more pain and weariness lately, and I've had to take a step out of a few areas of ministry, which has been really hard for me.

Yes, it's been hard, but I'm really, really blessed.

Just this morning, I was reminded of how blessed I am with wonderful, caring, sincerely loving friends. I know they're praying for me. They share my burdens.

What a blessing!

And then I found out that my fight against the insurance company for a medication is over . . . and I won!!

What a blessing!

Oh, and I'm going to be an honorary grandma again!!

So even with the slow loss of Ruth, even with ongoing health problems, even with the uncertainty of just living, I'm blessed.

Thank You, Lord, for each splash of joy You bring to my life. Thank You for blessings that far outweigh the difficulties. You are so good. Thank You!

Our Refuge and Our Strength

David knew a lot about the need for a refuge and for strength. He wrote quite a few psalms about this very topic. And each time, rather than finding a refuge in something--or someone--here on earth, he found his refuge in the Lord. Rather than deriving his strength from himself, he found his strength in the Lord.

One of my favorite psalms tells me that "God is our refuge and our strength, a present help in trouble." (46:1)

I've been needing a refuge lately. My roller-coaster of a life continues, and more moments than I can say have had me crying out to God and seeking shelter in His arms. I've found great comfort in knowing His arms are ready to envelop me with His love.

His refuge offers a shelter from the storm.

I've written before that there are days when I just don't think I can do it on my own, and on those days, I reach out my hand and ask for a supernatural strength. This verse affirms that I will receive that strength--even if it's just enough to get through one day at a time.

His strength gives the ability to walk through the storm.

I don't know about you, but this reminder--from a well-known and well-loved verse--was exactly what I needed this morning.

I pray it encourages you as well.

A Roller Coaster Ride

I love roller coasters as much as the next person. The anticipation as you go up, up, up . . . and the drop of the stomach--which is a good thing!--as you plunge at the speed of light . . . or so it seems. (For those of you who hate roller coasters, I apologize!) The curves, the loop-di-loops.

It's a rush of adrenaline and a touch of fear all wrapped up together. But all but the most diehard eventually want to get off the ride.

Sometimes life feels like a roller coaster, but one without an end.

The last few weeks have been that way for me.

My ride started a few weeks ago with a severe virus that kicked the stuffing out of me. Just as I was beginning to recover from that, Ruth, my mother-in-law, who's battling cancer, experienced some pretty scary complications. The stress from my illness and her declining health triggered a flare-up of a chronic condition I struggle with.

Over the last 12 days, we've watched Ruth decline and improve and decline and improve. It's been painful. We're still not sure what the prognosis is, but it appears the cancer may be winning.

Up and down. Lefts and rights.

The roller coaster continues, and for now, there's no end to the ride in sight.

Hope in God's Word

I rise before the dawning of the morning,
And I cry for help;
I hope in Your word.
Psalm 119:147

Mornings can be tough for many of us. I know they can be tough for me sometimes.

A sleepless night.

Anticipation of a stressful day at work.

Do you often wake up, pause for a moment, and then just turn over and pull the covers over your head? Well, maybe not literally, but certainly figuratively?

What do you do when you wake up with fear, with worry, with concerns?

The Bible tells us. We can hope in God's word. But here's the catch: You need to know His word.

When you know what God says about protecting you and providing for you, you can have hope. When you know verses that say that Jesus has overcome the world, you can have hope. When you know that the Bible says that God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble, you can have hope.

The more you know of God and His word, the more you can have confidence that, when you wake in need of help, you can have hope in God's word.

From Hope: Devotions for Finding Hope in Every Situation (c) 2007 Sauni Rinehart.

I Love the Lord!!

What a day this has been. I mentioned a blog or two ago that I'm going through Beth Moore's Esther study, and it's been pretty wonderful.

This morning's study was an eye-opener: She compared us with Haman.

Yes! Haman!!

If you know the story, it's not a compliment!!

As I continued meditating on her God-inspired words, I realized that a weakness of mine--pride--could make me into a Haman. Gasp!! Some of those words cut straight to my heart.

Over the last year or so, the Holy Spirit has really been working on my heart regarding pride, and this morning, I prayed fervently that the Lord would continue to refine me in this area. As I was praying about a particular struggle, the Spirit revealed something to me that was a total breakthrough. It was so amazing, it made me cry.

I know I'll sometimes fail, the flesh will sometimes prevail.

But what an amazing answer to something I've struggled with and prayer for . . . for so long! God is good, and I just love Him!!

Disappointed, but Not Discouraged

I regularly listen to a podcast produced by In Touch Ministries, and recently something Charles Stanley said really stuck in my mind.

He said that it's okay to be disappointed, but it's not okay to be discouraged.

In the last couple of weeks, I experienced first hand what this means . . . twice.

I won't bore you with the details, but two times, something I really desired and had prayed for didn't happen the way I wanted. And I was really disappointed. I would rather have had things turn out differently, but because I know God is in loving control and is completely trustworthy, I didn't become discouraged.

Many times in the Bible, we're told to take courage. In fact, that's really what "encourage" means: to give or instill courage. And thus the opposite--discourage--is to take or lose courage. So when I feel discouraged, I'm losing courage in the love God has for me. I'm failing to trust Him.

And that's sin.

Being disappointed is human. We can't help feeling a bit sad when something goes against our desire or plan. But we can keep from being discouraged by going to the Lord, expressing our disappointment, and thanking Him for His faithfulness.

If we trust Him, really trust Him, we can handle any disappointment with the assurance that, if we didn't get what we wanted, it was for our best.

A Warrior Princess

I usually don't include quotes from other writers or speakers in my blog, but I'm going through Beth Moore's study on Esther with women from my church. I've read the book of Esther many times, and I often include parts of her story when I speak.

I love how God reveals new things, though (that's why I never tire of reading and rereading His word), and I just had to share with you what I learned in today's lesson.

It's week four, day two if you're familiar with this study.

Mordecai has learned of the king's edict, and he's torn his clothes and put on sackcloth. He's mourning the coming annihilation of his people. Esther is told about his wailing, but doesn't know why. She sends the king's eunuch to give him clothes to wear--she doesn't (yet) take the time to find out what's wrong. She just wants to solve the problem. (Sound familiar?)

Beth writes, "If people around us helped us avoid [our problems], we'd quit learning how to deal with difficulty. We'd forget how to cope and we'd crush under the least inconvenience . . . strength comes from muscle, and muscle develops with a workout. This is as true spiritually as physically. What we don't use, we lose."

I've written in previous blogs that we are works in progress; we're being refined as gold. We may not like it, but we know that the end result is worth the pain and suffering.

"As painful as the process may be," Beth concludes, "that which shatters our superficiality also shatters the fetters of our fragility . . . We are not the fragile flowers we've considered ourselves to be. We, like Esther, are the warrior princesses of God."

You are not only a beloved daughter of our Father, you are a strong "warrior princess" being refined and grown into the woman God has designed you to be!

Be Still

I've committed Psalm 46:1-2b to memory. It's one of my many favorites, and I love knowing that God is my refuge and strength.

I forgot, though, that another verse I quote often is also from this psalm. Verse 10a says "Be still and know that I am God" (NKJV).

The New American Standard says to "cease striving," and I love what it says in the notes of my study Bible: cease striving means to "let go" or "relax."

I can let go of my worries. I can be still in the moment. I can cease striving to do it on my own. And I can relax knowing that God really is my refuge and strength. He is my very present help in times of trouble and I don't need to fear.

In these uncertain times--a new administration, a stock market that continues its roller coaster ride, lost jobs and homes--it's comforting to know that I can trust Him.

Lord, help me to be still knowing You are God. You are in loving control of all things, and I need not fear. Amen

Brand New Year. Same Old Stuff.

Isn't it the truth?

For some reason, every new year, I somehow think things will change.

Sometimes they do. We plan to exercise more, and guess what? We actually pull the old bike out of the cobwebs in the corner of the garage. We say we're going to eat better, and we add a salad a day to our diet.

But often they don't . . .

Here it is, the 9th day of 2009, and I'm having a really bad day healthwise. I was feeling pretty well for a few weeks, thanks to a new medication that seems to be helping to manage my symptoms . . . But yesterday, I had a migraine (haven't had one in a while), and it triggered a flare up.

Part of me asked, "Why?"

Why didn't it "stick" this time? Why can't I just feel better . . . all the time.

It's interesting how God works. Our theme for the year at work is "Trust."

And I was just telling the Lord that I do trust Him. I trust Him with everything, since it's all His anyway. And if I trust Him with everything, I have to trust Him with my health too. He is worthy of that trust.

And just two days ago, I read a devotional that talked about how we can look at God's fingerprints on our lives to see His faithfulness. And He has been amazingly faithful to me.

So, even though it's a brand new year, and even though I'm faced with some of the same old stuff, once thing remains the same.

The Lord God will never change. His grace and mercy and love will never change. Never.

Happy New Year!

A Christmas Prayer

Dear Lord Jesus,

Words are so inadequate.

I want to thank You for Your willingness to come to earth in human form, to feel hunger and weariness and pain, to experience rejection and betrayal.

I want to thank You for Your willingness to feel the lash of false accusations, to suffer the thorns, to endure the whip, to bear the nails.

I want to thank You for Your willingness to be the sacrifice to cover my sin.

Most of all, I want to thank You for Your willingness to be my living Savior, to walk alongside me through the valleys and atop the mountains of my journey.

I want to thank You for all of this, Lord Jesus.

But, again, words just seem unable to express what's in my heart this Christmas Day.

So one last thank You: Thank You for Your willingness to know what's in my heart and know what words just can't convey.

I love you, Lord Jesus. My Savior, my Redeemer, my gift at Christmas.

Amen

Silent Night

It's the time of year when I'm surrounded with music of the season. I love it! No matter where I go--the grocery store, the mall, my local Target--songs play that speak of Christ's birth. At no other time of the year do we hear such words in public places.

But this morning as Christmas music played in the background, I realized how often the music can become "white noise" and I fail to really think about the words.

My very favorite Christmas song of all is Silent Night. I love to sing it, love to listen to it.

Over the last several days, I've been blessed to sing this song at the end of some speaking engagements. I asked the ladies at the events to sing along, and the last time (mainly because I'm fighting a cold and my throat was pretty sore) I stopped singing and just listened to them sing in lovely harmony.

For the first time in a while, I just listened.

The final verse proclaims:

Silent night, holy night!
Son of God, love's pure light.
Radiant beams from Thy holy face,
With the dawn of redeeming grace.
Jesus Lord at Thy birth.
Jesus Lord at Thy birth.

Jesus is the Son of God! He is love's pure light! He is our Redeemer!!

Next time you're listening to your favorite Christmas songs, stop. Really listen to the words that sometimes just become . . . well, just words.

Remember again why Jesus came: To give us peace and joy and, most importantly, redemption!

In God We Trust?

It's on our currency, and we read that motto from our forefathers regularly (those of us, at least, who still use cash!). But right now, the tangible piece of our economy seems to mock us.

I spoke at a lunch recently, and this lovely older lady came to me afterward. She's in a valley right now, and she's struggling. I asked her if she'd seen a counselor, and with tears in her eyes, she said she couldn't afford it. She'd retired last year, and--you guessed it--her retirement portfolio has taken a huge hit . . .

She's not sure how she's going to make it. And there was an underlying question . . . why? She followed Christ. She loved Him and believed that He loved her, too. But she questioned why this was happening.

My heart broke for her.

And frankly, I didn't have a good answer for her.

We live in perilous times, in many ways, unprecedented. My generation and those following have never lived through times such as these.

And beyond that, it seems like so many are suffering--health, marriages, family. Struggles everywhere.

It's hard. Really hard.

I find myself asking the same "why?" And the answer? Because somehow, some way, God is using even this time of uncertainty. Because the bottom line is, do I trust Him? Do I believe He loves me? Do I believe He's in control, even now?

I know this answer. He's proven Himself faithful to me time and time again. And I have to believe He'll always remain faithful.

Yes, even in times like these, maybe especially in times like these, in God we can trust.

God's Little Heartwarmers

If you're a true Christ-follower, you believe in answered prayer. I do. I've seen it. I've seen God answer big prayers--like miraculous healings--and small things--like the perfect parking place.

He often answers with a resounding "yes!" And we rejoice.

Sometimes, He answers with a clear "no." And we may at first grieve, but eventually we often see the purpose behind the "no."

Then of course, there's when He says "wait," which we usually don't like very much.

While I've seen answered prayer (all of the above), it sometimes seems like God is rather silent. It sometimes seems like a lot of time goes by between clearly answered prayers.

God is good, though, and He rewards our patience. Sometimes He, like the loving Father He is, just warms our hearts, through and through.

Over the last few days, I've experienced some of God's "little heartwarmers." He's clearly answered four prayers--two rather big and two rather small. This time, He chose to answer "yes" to each of them. And can I just say, I feel very blessed . . . and very humbled.

I still have many prayers to which He still seems to be saying "no" or "wait." That's okay, though, because He's reminded me again that He will answer.

Keep praying, my friend. Keep listening for His "yes" or His "no" . . . or just keep waiting. He will answer.

God's Good Work in Me

I don't know about you, but I feel far from complete. There are days when I wonder how God can have any patience with me as I come to him (again) with the same prayer (again). I've really been struggling with my health, and I wake up every morning praying for strength for the day. And every day, He answers that prayer.

But some days, I can feel sorry for myself. On better days, I remember that everything I experience is part of God's good work in my life.

My favorite book in the Bible (I may have mentioned this before!) is Philippians. There is so much richness in this short epistle, so many truths. And some of my life verses are contained in it.

Paul starts this letter, as he does many of his others, with a greeting for grace and peace for his recipients. He thanks God for them. Then in verses 4-6, he writes, ". . . always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, for your fellowship of the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ."

We children of God are works in progress. He is perfecting us, completing us. I've written before about being refined, and I know that trials, pain, suffering, difficulties all are part of that process. And if I want to be complete in Christ, I have to be willing to experience whatever God wills.

So this morning, as I prayed for strength (again), I could do so with that same confidence that Paul had, knowing that God is doing His good work in me and that I will one day be completed, either when He chooses to take me home or when Christ returns.

Thank You, Lord God, for Your refining work. Thank You for Your perfecting work. I pray that You'll fill our hearts with confidence of Your good work. Help us to remember that, as long as we live in Your will, everything we experience will lead us closer to being completed in Jesus Christ.

A Refuge in the Storm

Psalm 62:1-9 is all about God's being our salvation and refuge.

Verses 7 and 8 say:

In God is my salvation and my glory;
The rock of my strength,
And my refuge, is in God.

Trust in Him at all times, you people;
Pour out your heart before Him;
God is a refuge for us.

I really see this world running down. We live in an unprecedented time. Banks are failing in a way not seen since the "Great Depression." Insurance companies are closing. Companies are declaring bankruptcy. The stock market is dipping and rising like a roller coaster. The housing market continues to fall.

More alarmingly, "celebrity preachers" are "tickling the hears" of hundreds of thousands rather than revealing full truth.

It's a messed up world . . .

Yet, those of us who know God, who have a personal relationship with Jesus, can find refuge from the storm. We can be assured that, no matter what happens, that God is our rock, our stronghold . . . our refuge.

Thank You, Lord God, that You provide refuge for Your children. You are the calm in the midst of the storm. You are the wing under which we can hide. It's easy to get caught up in today's chaos. Help us to live wisely, but always looking to You in faith. Let us not make rash decisions out of fear or worry. Rather, let us follow Your will, knowing that You are in loving control. Be glorified. Amen.

It Breaks My Heart . . .

I've been reading the book of Mark, and I'm in the middle of chapter 14. It's the chapter that includes Jesus's betrayal by Judas. It's very sobering to read how one of His own betrayed Him for pieces of silver.

But you know what?

That's not the saddest part to me. What really breaks my heart is verse 50. The New International Version says it this way. After Judas betrayed Jesus and He was arrested, "Then everyone deserted him and fled."

Everyone.

We assume it was just the other eleven disciples, but maybe it included some of the other followers. In any case, that "everyone" was, at the very least, those eleven who had been following Jesus for three years. They'd broken bread with Him. They'd probably camped out under the stars by His side. They'd seen Him heal the broken. They'd watched Him raise the dead. They knew He was the Christ. And just moments before, Peter said he'd die with Jesus.

And yet, everyone deserted Him. Everyone.

It just breaks my heart.

And I think it broke Jesus's heart too. It think it caused more pain than the beatings He'd receive and from the nails that would be pounded in His flesh.

When I read this verse, I'm convicted of something: I never want to cause Jesus that kind of pain again. I deserted Him once. I spent 20 years fleeing from Him. And I broke His heart, just as those eleven did.

And I never want to do that again.

The Lord Holds My Hand

Psalm 37:23 & 24 say,

The steps of man are established by the Lord;
And He delights in his way.
When he falls, he shall not be hurled headlong;
Because the Lord is the One who holds his hand.

I love these verses!

First, they say that God established the steps of man (and woman). I talk a lot about the confidence I have that God really has a plan for each of His children. Verse 23 tells me that God does have a plan, but also that He delights in the steps His children take.

Second, and even closer to my heart, God holds my hand. I often say, when I'm just not sure I can even get out of bed, "Jesus, please hold my hand a little more tightly today." I just came out of a really rough week. Physically, I wasn't doing well. The only way I got through each day was knowing that Jesus was holding my hand.

When I read these verses this morning, it was like God said to me, "My beloved daughter, you see? I hold your hand. You'll never fall too far or too hard. You can trust Me."

What a blessing it is to know that God delights in watching me walk according to His plan. And what a even greater blessing it is to know that He's holding my hand as I take each step.

Are you struggling? Are you unsure? Do you need the touch of your Lord? Just reach out your hand and say, "Jesus, please hold my hand just a little more tightly today." And feel the squeeze of His hand as it covers yours.

The Lord . . . My Strength

I was reading Psalm 28 a couple of days ago, and verse 7 really touched my heart. I know I've read it before . . . probably several times. But this day, it just spoke to me.

"The Lord is my strength and my shield;
My heart trusts in Him, and I am helped;
Therefore my heart exults,
And with my song I shall thank Him."

I've been practicing a song with our church's choir called, "He Made a Difference." And the first lines say, "If it wasn't for the Lord, where would I be?"

Everytime I've sung those lines, I resonate with that truth. Where would I be? I'd be . . . well, I probably wouldn't be here. It's only because of the absolute trust I have in His love and faithfulness that I exist. Really.

I know He'll give me the daily strength I need.

I know He'll shield me from those things that would destroy me.

I know He'll help me.

So, as I sing songs of worship and praise, as I sing songs that draw others' hearts and minds to Him, my heart does exult. I can - and do - thank him with my song.

Do you know that God is your shield? Your strength? Let your heart exult in Him. Thank Him today with your song.

The Gospel of Peace

In Ephesians 6:11, the apostle Paul urged the church at Ephesus to “put on the whole armor of God” in order to combat the enemy. He wrote of putting on truth and righteousness, faith and the word of God.

In the middle of these pieces of “armor,” Paul wrote that we are to “shod [our] feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace.” (12)

Shod our feet.

The other pieces of “armor” provide protection: a breastplate, a shield, a sword. What do shoes have to do with protection? It’s what those shoes represent: the gospel of peace. The gospel is the good news of Christ’s death and resurrection. It’s the assurance that when we give our lives to Jesus, we are saved from our sins. We can look forward to eternity with Jesus.

When we walk in that knowledge, when our feet are shod with that gospel, then everywhere we go, we are grounded in that truth. It’s the very foundation upon which we walk.

A soldier wouldn’t get very far if his shoes weren’t sturdy and strong, able to keep out the elements, able to traverse rough ground. We too wouldn’t get very far if we weren’t standing on God’s promises of salvation and of peace.

Beauty Everywhere

Genesis 1:1 tells us that God created heavens and earth. Then for another two chapters, the rest of creation is described.

Do you ever stop to think about how beautiful creation is? And what a gift it is? I mean, God could have stopped with a tree or two, maybe a flower. A handful of animals, perhaps that all looked alike.

But He didn't. He created this magnificent, diverse world. Certainly for His own pleasure, but also for our pleasure, for our delight.

My husband and I spent a week in the Carolinas, probably my favorite place on earth (and I've been privileged to travel to some pretty amazing places). Although they're experiencing a drought, it was so green and lush and, yes, beautiful. Then we returned to California, and one clear day last week, I viewed the majesty of our local mountains. How awe-inspiring they are!

Today, I looked out my kitchen window to see the flowers in our backyard, some gold, some pink, some red. A rainbow just for me.

I see character and wisdom in the face of my husband. I see purity and innocence in the faces of my great-nephews. I even look at the faces of my adorable Labs, and I see beauty there as well.

We have mountains and deserts and oceans. We have lakes and rivers and cliffs overlooking amazing canyons. We have people of all colors and sizes. Throughout our nation, throughout our world, there's beauty everywhere.

And to think that God created all of this . . . just for us.

What is Man?

Psalm 144:3 asks, "O Lord, what is man, that Thou dost take knowledge of Him? Or the son of man, that Thou dost think of him?"

I ask as well: Lord, who am I that You love me as You do? Who am that You choose to use me? You certainly don't need me to do your work, yet You invite me to participate. What an amazing blessing!

Do you ever stop and think that the Lord of the universe, the Creator of all things thinks of you? The Sovereign of heaven and earth chooses to use you to grow His kingdom. Doesn't that amaze you?

God would do just fine without us--in fact, He would do much better! Yet, He loves us enough to give us joy as we watch Him work through us.

Amazing.

Planting Seeds

Don't you love how God speaks through a verse you've read before?

I recently started a study in the book of Mark. I've read this book before, but I've never really studied it chapter by chapter, verse by verse.

And today, I saw something new.

In Mark 4:26-30, Jesus tells a parable of a man planting seeds. He plants them, and then goes to bed. While he sleeps, the plants have begun to grow, but "how, he himself does not know." (NASB)

As I've mentioned in other entries, my husband, Russ, doesn't share my faith, and there are times when I wonder if he'll ever come to know the Lord. God is faithful, though, and when I face these times, He'll often bring verses to my heart. Like these.

When I read these verses today, the Holy Spirit spoke to my heart. This is what I wrote in my journal:

"Jesus described the kingdom of God 'like a man who casts seeks upon the soil.' He leaves the seeds, and plants spring up, but he doesn't know how. This tells me that we are to plant the seeds. God alone knows how the seeds will grow. This also reminds me that I need to continue to plant the seeds with Russ and wait for God to grow them. I can't save Russ just as I can't grow the seeds."

For all of you who are in spiritually mismatched, spiritually single, or unequally yoked (whichever phrase works for you) marriages, I hope this encourages you as it did me.

Continue to live as the godly wife you've been created to be, and plant those seeds. God will grow the plants. In His time.