All We Need

We want a lot of things in life. We work hard to achieve goals, pray for our heart's desires, seek God...but when the things we want don't line up with God's plan, it's hard to accept. We think we know what will give us life and happiness, but the truth is, the only thing in this whole world we need is God! We have to take all the things we want and lay it at His feet, but then be willing to say, "God, thy will be done." We need to seek and desire God because He is the only one who can fill our empty, hurting places. He alone completes us. Seek Him intentionally this week knowing that He truly is everything we need.

"You, Lord, are all I have, and you give me all I need; my future is in your hands.

 How wonderful are your gifts to me; how good they are!" Psalm 15:5-6

Journey on!

In the Quiet

It's hard to quiet our minds. So much fills our days and interrupts our thoughts...if we could just take a breath. If we could just stop for a even a few minutes everyday and be still, quiet, and patient. We need to silence the chaos in our minds to hear His voice. We need to shut out the negative thoughts and hear His words. Maybe we just need to feel His presence. Take time to quiet your heart and mind this week and just be with God. You will be so glad you did!

“Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress."
                         Psalms 46:10‭-‬11 NLT

Journey on!
 

God of Wonders

“The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.” ― W.B. Yeats

It's incredibly easy to go through life and miss out on the wonders around us. I struggle with this often. I catch glimpses of beauty, snippets of song, find moments of awe...here and there between staring at one screen to the next, finishing one meeting to rush to another, making sure dinner is made and kids are carted to activities and bills are paid. I know if I'd pay more attention, I would see more of the beauty around me. I know if I'd take a quiet walk in nature, or focus on the clouds, or really look into someone's eyes, I'd see more of God. My prayer today is that we would, as Yeats said, allow our senses to grow sharper. That we would see the incredible things in even the most common situations. That we would glorify God for all the wonders He has blessed us with, instead of missing them completely. 

"Many, Lord my God,
    are the wonders you have done,
    the things you planned for us.
None can compare with you;
    were I to speak and tell of your deeds,
    they would be too many to declare."
                                                    Psalm 40:5

Journey on!
 

Come as You Are

Some of the world's most beautiful sights were created imperfectly. Gemstones broken out of rocks, priceless art from a spilled paint can, a monument made more famous because it was a structural disaster (the Leaning Tower of Pisa!). We often think we have to be perfect to be beautiful. We think we have to be perfect for God to love us or want us. But the fact is, He loves us deeply even when we are spiritually ugly. When we are stained with sin, broken from life, hurt and imperfect. He gave Jesus to is, not because we were already perfect, but so we could be made perfect in Him! Accept Jesus, no matter where you are right now. Let Him love you in all your imperfections. You are His child, and you are loved!

"You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly...God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:6,8

Journey on! 
 

Strength from the Lord

We don't always feel strong enough to face the challenges of this life. But our God never intended for us to do battle alone! We are not enough...not without God. But with Him, we are stronger than we could ever be! Our God is so great, so strong, and so powerful that no matter what comes our way, we can face it with HIS strength in us. As His children, we are filled with God. He is in us, and he is for us. Whatever you think you can't do today...know that GOD can! He will lift you up and give you the courage and strength you need to face whatever comes your way. Trust in that strength and do not be afraid!

"You are awesome, O God, in your sanctuary; the God of Israel gives power and strength to His people." Psalm 68:35

Journey on!

Show Me the Way

Life is a journey, and it can often feel like the way forward is unknown. We struggle wanting to know the right choices to make. We wrestle with how we will accomplish the things we set out to do. We question whether the things we are already doing are the right ones. But the truth is, we have a God who holds the map to our lives!

We don't have all the answers, but He does. When we put our faith and trust in Him, and look to Him for answers, He will guide us down the right paths. He will bless us when we step out on faith and trust Him. We don't have to worry or fret about what to do, only bring it to Him and give Him control. He will show us His will if we keep seeking His face. It's not always perfectly clear, but if we are trusting in Him and honoring Him with our choices, He will bless us. Trust Him with your life because He knows the best way for you.

You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever. -- Psalm 16:11

Journey on!
 

Light of God's Love

The beauty of a candle is in its ability to light an entire room with but a single, small flame. There is something so peaceful, warm, and comforting about candlelight.

I am in awe of the fact that God's Love is infinitely brighter than a tiny candle. It amazes me to realize that when I allow His love to shine, there is no dark corner, no deep shadow left in my soul, because I have been filled with an everlasting light.

Whatever you are dealing with in your life right now, there is nothing too dark or too difficult for God's love to shine through. He can fill you with a light that casts out any darkness. He can comfort you in the glow of His love. Pray for God to illuminate your life today!

"The Lord is God, and he has made his light shine upon us." Psalm 118:27

Journey on!
 

All I Want for Christmas: A Future

Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting Light;

The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.  

-- O Little Town of Bethlehem

Our world faces many challenges. We as a nation are in a transitory season, and whether the changes are welcomed or feared, they are upon us. Whatever this new year brings, good or bad, we can face 2017 knowing that God has a plan for our lives, and that He alone is in control.

We can find the blessings and the beauty in our lives because each day is a gift from Him. We can look to Jesus, and know that when he was born into this world so long ago, he brought the gift of eternal salvation that not only gives us a home in heaven but a hope on earth now.

We face this year with confidence in our future, because we know Christ died for us, and we are saved by His grace. We know we are loved by God and that He will be with us in our journeys ahead. I pray that you breathe in this new year with a smile as you think about the future, and that God's love, peace, joy and great hope will surround you every step of the way.  

"I keep my eyes always on the LORD. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken." Psalm 16:18

Journey on!