Ms. inDEPENDENT

I've spent the past seven months trying to be completely independent.

If you'd asked me before, I'd have told you that I was a pretty independent person.

I've traveled alone, driven cross-country alone, flown to Europe (and around) alone. I've lived alone, bought a car alone and did lots of other things that some people haven't. All by myself.

And recently, I've refinanced my house, bought my first lawn mower, my first garbage disposal (that was a banner day, let me just tell you) and acquired two big, sweet, sloppy dogs. I take care of the little things, like remembering to haul the trash can to the street on Tuesdays and Fridays and picking up carpool for Technology Club early on Thursday mornings. I also handle the big things, like paying the mortgage and getting the sprinkler repaired. All by myself.

Or so I thought.

I've been so focused on being independent I sometimes lose sight of the fact that I should be totally DEPENDENT. 

On God, that is.


2 Peter 1:3 assures us that as we grow in our knowledge of God, through His divine power, He gives us everything we need for life and godliness.

There's nothing to worry about.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7

(I have that one running on loop through my mind).

This one too:

I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you. Matthew 17:20


And take comfort in this:

Jesus replied, "What is impossible with men is possible with God." Luke 18:2

This is on my kitchen wall:

I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13 

When I'm feeling weak, this one gives me assurance:

My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9


Growing up, my mom would often say, "Give it up to God."

I'm finally learning what she meant.

Faith and Facebook

I love opening up Facebook in the morning. And I love having so many Christian friends on Facebook. So many post inspirational messages in the morning (and throughout the day, but I have the most time in the morning and in the late evening to get online) that really help me through the day. Here's a sampling of posts from my friends this morning.

By Faith
1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. 2 For by it the people of old received their commendation. 3 By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.
Hebrews 11:1-3

***

I am leading you along the high road, but there are descents as well as ascents. In the distance you see snow-covered peaks glistening in brilliant sunlight. Your longing to reach those peaks is good, but you must not take shortcuts. Your assignment is to follow Me, allowing Me to direct your path. Let the heights beckon you onward, but stay close to Me.

Learn to trust Me when things go “wrong.” Disruptions to your routine highlight your dependence on Me. Trusting acceptance of trials brings blessings that far outweigh them all. Walk hand in hand with Me through this day. I have lovingly planned every inch of the way. Trust does not falter when the path becomes rocky and steep. Breathe deep draughts of My Presence, and hold tightly to My hand. Together we can make it!

Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!”
—John 21:19

For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.
—2 Corinthians 4:17

The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights. For the director of music. On my stringed instruments.

***

"You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Matt 5:14-16 Think about the 1st verse in this passage...YOU are the light of the world -When we accept Christ, He turns on His light in us; not to shine for our benefit, but for His glory. People all around you may be walking in darkness & you may be the only light they can see. Let His light shine brightly through you today for His glory.

 

***

THANK YOU LORD FOR LETTING ME SEE ANOTHER DAY
THANK YOU LORD FOR LETTING ME SEE ANOTHER DAY
THANK YOU LORD FOR LETTING ME SEE ANOTHER DAY
THANK YOU LORD FOR LETTING ME SEE ANOTHER DAY

***

1 Peter 1:22 Having purified your souls by your obedience to the truth for a sincere brotherly love, love one another earnestly from a pure heart...

 

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Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.

(Galatians 6:1 ESV)

 

***

Guess I never really thought about this before... There is no record of Jesus ever healing anyone until He returned from the 40 days of fasting that launched His earthly ministry. I'm glad to see more true disciples of Christ are implementing fasting and prayer as a regular discipline. This truly will release God's power in these last days!

 ***

The King is enthralled by your beauty. Psalms 45:11

 

***

 

 

~*~ Home Sweet Home ~*~

"Now therefore may it please you to bless the house of your servant, so that it may continue forever before you. For you, O Lord GOD, have spoken, and with your blessing shall the house of your servant be blessed forever.”

- 2 Samuel 7:29

Isaiah 46:10

"I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say: My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please." - Isaiah 46:10

Yesterday I was having a heart-to-heart talk with a friend. Well, she was talking, and I was mostly listening to her wisdom and experience. 

She quoted one of Green Acres Baptist Church Pastor David Dykes' favorite expressions, "God knows the end from the beginning." 

WOW. 

Hit me like a TON OF BRICKS.

You see, I REALLY STRUGGLE with being able to give up control to God. *I* want to know what's going to happen and when and have a hand in the outcome. 

But in all reality, I have none of that. 

God does.

When Curt was being diagnosed with autism, I really learned when it meant to 'give it up to God.' (just because I know what it means doesn't mean I don't struggle with it!!!)  I was raised in Faith, served my church and my God, but until that time, I don't think I every really understood that 'God's got this.' Pretty much the only way I got through that time without being locked in a padded room was to 'let go and let God.'

Christian author Max Lucado has a treasure trove of quotes about giving God the reigns:

God is able to accomplish, provide, help, save, keep, subdue… He is able to do what you can’t. He already has a plan. God’s not bewildered. Go to Him. 

Jesus gives us hope because He keeps us company, has a vision and knows the way we should go.

Meet your fears with faith.

Faith is not the belief that God will do what you want. It is the belief that God will do what is right. 

You can endure change by pondering His permanence.

God never said that the journey would be easy, but He did say that the arrival would be worthwhile.

He says it all better than I'd ever be able to. 

While giving it to God is the way to live ALL the time, this is another period in my life when I'm having to remember it specifically and pray about it daily (and several times a day at that.) 

So yesterday, when my friend mentioned that God knows the end from the beginning, I knew it was yet ANOTHER way God put someone in my path the *EXACT* moment I needed them. 


And now Isaiah 46:10 is posted on my computer. To help me remember, every time I see it, to give it to God.