Ecclesiastes 1-6: Eternity in Our Hearts

Ecclesiastes 3:11
Amplified Bible (AMP)

He has made everything beautiful in its time. He also has planted eternity in men’s hearts and minds [a divinely implanted sense of a purpose working through the ages which nothing under the sun but God alone can satisfy], yet so that men cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.

As human beings, we are well aware that our lives are short, merely a breath.  Coming to terms with the brevity of our lives causes us to question the meaning of our existence.  


If my life is "merely a breath," then why do I feel as though there is so much more than just this earth.  My physical body may return to the dust, but the eternal part of me discerns a different future...eternity with Jesus!


With eternity in mind, the way I live my life and interact with others differs than if I subscribe to the short-sighted vision of life on earth, then nothingness.


An eternity mindset causes us to look with a different perspective at circumstances, situations, and people.  Purpose is birthed from the revelation that this earth is not the end of life, but only the beginning for those who hold fast to Jesus.


An eternity mindset causes me to worship the God Who made me.  That worship looks different for each one of us, because the way we express our devotion and affection for the Lord depends upon how He crafted our personalities.  


A huge part of worship is how we treat others who also have been crafted by God.  They may look, act, and speak differently than us, but they are unique creations, just like us.  Worshiping God takes the form of practical substance when we love others in His name.

Nothing under the sun but God alone can satisfy!


Without a revelation of eternity, life can be a depressing experience, BUT with God our purpose, the reason for living, and the meaning of life can all be satisfied! 

Thank You, Lord, for placing eternity in my heart.  Empower me by Your Spirit to approach situations, circumstances, and people with eternity flowing through me.  In the great and glorious name of Jesus, AMEN!!!

Proverbs 27-29: Sweet Counsel

Proverbs 27:9
Amplified Bible (AMP)

Oil and perfume rejoice the heart; so does the sweetness of a friend’s counsel that comes from the heart.

In my Bible, I wrote next to this verse, "Make me a friend like this, Lord."

Since then, countless opportunities have presented giving me the opportunity to speak "sweet counsel."  


What is "sweet counsel"?

• listening to another person using God's heart as the filter

• hearing what is said and perceiving what is not said

• seeing past the present circumstances and into the person's destiny

• asking God how to respond, before giving human advice

Sweet counsel causes a person's heart to rejoice!  

Lord, empower us with the ability to give others "sweet counsel."  Let us be like You as we encourage and bring life to others by using our words.  In Jesus' name, AMEN!!!

Proverbs 25-26: Glory Concealed

Proverbs 25:2
Amplified Bible (AMP)

It is the glory of God to conceal a thing, but the glory of kings is to search out a thing.

I have been a dreamer since childhood.  At times, nighttime was more like watching a movie than getting some sleep.  Most dreams during childhood were more aptly described as "night terrors."  I wasn't thrilled about going to sleep at night.  The only way I could go back to sleep was with Mom holding me.  Needless to say my attitude towards dreaming was not favorable.

But...

Years later, I learned that God actually communicates at times with us through our dreams.  After asking God to speak to me through my dreams, I began to develop a sort of personal dream language.  Though the thing about dreams is that most of the time they are highly symbolic in nature.  

God has used dreams to direct my steps (Matthew 1:20), warn of impending danger (Matthew 2:12), encourage my heart (Genesis 28:12), and speak about others (Genesis 37:5-7).  The difficulty lies in understanding this cryptic form of godly communication.  Most times, I only have a partial understanding of what God is trying to say.  It is only after the fact that a fuller understanding is revealed.

It is the glory of God to conceal a thing, but the glory of a king to search it out!

God wants us to care enough about finding what's on His heart that He purposely hides it in symbolism!  I talked to Abba about these communications, studied the Scripture, and read Christian books on the subject.  

If you are a dreamer of dreams, don't automatically discount them.  God may be attempting to give you guidance for that difficult situation or wisdom for the next step.

Acts 2:16-18
Amplified Bible (AMP)

16 But [instead] this is [the beginning of] what was spoken through the prophet Joel:

17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, God declares, that I will pour out of My Spirit upon all mankind, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy [[a]telling forth the divine counsels] and your young men shall see visions ([b]divinely granted appearances), and your old men shall dream [[c]divinely suggested] dreams.

18 Yes, and on My menservants also and on My maidservants in those days I will pour out of My Spirit, and they shall prophesy [[d]telling forth the divine counsels and [e]predicting future events pertaining especially to God’s kingdom].

You hide Your glory, Lord, but we love You enough to search for it!  Open the eyes of our understanding to Your voice in the night.  In Jesus' name, AMEN!!!

1 Kings 9: 2 Chronicles 8: Deductive Reasoning and God's Favor

The Bible has many examples of deductive reasoning. According to Math Planet "If we instead use facts, rules and definitions then it's called deductive reasoning."


1 Kings 9:4-7
Amplified Bible (AMP)

4 And if you will walk before Me, as David your father walked, in integrity of heart and uprightness, doing according to all that I have commanded you, keeping My statutes and My precepts,

5 Then I will establish your royal throne over Israel forever, as I promised David your father, saying, There shall not fail you [to have] a man upon the throne of Israel.

6 But if you turn away from following Me, you or your children, and will not keep My commandments and My statutes which I have set before you but go and serve other gods and worship them,

7 Then I will cut off Israel from the land I have given them, and this house I have hallowed for My Name (renown) I will cast from My sight. And Israel shall be a proverb and a byword among all the peoples.

Deductive reasoning is logical, and God is the Author of logic.  The "if" statements in the above verses lay out man's actions, while the "then" statements reveal God's response.

If we obey God, then He will pour out His favor on us!  But God cannot be limited by human logic or by a mathematical formula.

I know plenty of Jesus-loving Christians who obey the Lord and are in right standing with Him who don't appear to be basking in His favor.  The "if, then" statement in their lives seems false.

Maybe it's our faulty understanding of favor.  As Americans, we tend to conceptualize favor as the manifestation of material blessings...a nice car, a big house, a high-paying job, but even though favor may include material blessings, it is so much more than the material, which fades away.

God's favor looks like eternal attributes...peace, protection, wisdom, love, etc.  A person can be in the midst of extreme difficulty, yet still be basking in the favor of the Lord.

What is the point, I'm attempting to make?

As Christians, we should be mindful of how we view the favor of God.  

• God's favor does not necessarily equal material blessings.

• God's favor does not necessarily equal a disease free body.

• God's favor does not necessarily equal a perfect life free from trials.

Because I love You, Lord, I will obey You and You will pour out Your favor on me because of Jesus!

Psalm 134; 146-150: Passion in Worship

I grew up in a traditional church and am thankful for the rich heritage and Biblical symbolism it instilled in me.  I fell in love with Jesus at that church, and I am grateful.  But passion in worship was not a part of the structured order of this church.  In fact, the first time attending a "passionate" church, I thought the people were actually being disrespectful to God.  

I had learned that respecting God took the form of standing when prompted to stand, repeating key phrases at the proper time, and remaining quiet during the proceedings.  This was what I knew of worship, what I understood as respecting God.  It had little to do with how I lived life outside of the church structure, until His Spirit stirred me for more. 

I found myself praying, "Lord, there has to be more than this."  If God is alive and active and moving on my behalf, then shouldn't this all look different?

My eyes were opened to Biblical passages such as the readings for today, and I saw passion in worship- singing, dancing, loud percussion instruments.  These worshipers were definitely not subdued or passionless!

Little by little, Holy Spirit awakened active passion in my heart teaching me to express my love for Him with my whole being inside the church during a meeting, as well as, in the company of my own thoughts.  Suddenly, worship became alive in me and although I direct my whole being to Abba, He always seems to out give me by pouring His Presence and love back to me.

Friends, please don't misunderstand my thoughts.  A person can be madly in love with Jesus and never dance with Him.  How someone expresses their love for God is unique.  It's part of that "personal relationship" we have with Him.  

What I am saying is that if your heart desires to express your love for the Lord more demonstratively, go for it.  King David did, and he was described as "a man after God's own heart."

Personally experiencing this kind of freedom in worship has broken much oppression off my life.  For me, there seems to be something supernatural about it.

During an extremely difficult season of warfare, the Lord first called me to dance in the middle of the night.  "Dance for Me," He whispered.  All alone, with no music, and in the middle of my living room during the dark stillness of the night, I swayed back and forth in obedience to His command.  It was the beginning of my healing.  

He is Wonderful!!!

Holy Spirit, speak to those Who You have called to express themselves.  Do not allow anyone or anything hinder them in complete abandonment to You.  In Jesus' name.  AMEN!!!

2 Chronicles 6 & 7; Psalm 136: Imprinted on His Heart

Psalm 136:23
Amplified Bible (AMP)

To Him Who [earnestly] remembered us in our low estate and imprinted us [on His heart], for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever;


We are imprinted on the heart of God. Now take a minute or two and meditate on that statement.

We are imprinted on the heart of God!

I am imprinted on the heart of God!



Merriam Webster's Online Dictionary defines imprint as :


1. to mark by or as if by pressure : impress

2a : to fix indelibly or permanently (as on the memory)


2b : to subject to or induce by imprinting <an imprinted preference>



God thinks about us always and forever! When walking through a difficult season here on earth, it is comforting to know that the God Who rules the universe thinks about me!

He thinks about you!

I know how my sons are imprinted on my heart. I desire the very best in this life for them, but even more, I desire them to be the men God created, their hearts mirroring His heart!


How much more does God desire these things for us?


We were not created haphazardly, but planned to fulfill a purpose, a destiny that only we can complete. God designed us especially equipped for the destiny He holds.


We are imprinted on His heart! Our destinies are before us! His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever!!!

Leg Up Farm: The Courage to Dream

My son directed, filmed, edited and was the liaison between his company and ABC.

I saw the rough cut on Sunday and teared up.  It was very touching and inspirational!

Oh, and watch for my son's blue Geo Metro!  :)

1 Kings 8 & 2 Chronicles 5: The Cloud of His Presence

1 Kings 8:10 & 11
Amplified Bible (AMP)

10 When the priests had come out of the Holy Place, the cloud filled the Lord’s house,

11 So the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud, for the glory of the Lord had filled the Lord’s house.


2 Chronicles 5:13 & 14
Amplified Bible (AMP)

13 And when the trumpeters and singers were joined in unison, making one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the Lord, and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and other instruments for song and praised the Lord, saying, For He is good, for His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever, then the house of the Lord was filled with a cloud,

14 So that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud, for the glory of the Lord filled the house of God.


Finally, the temple that King David had dreamed of had just been completed and now the first worship service is in progress. The above verses are among my favorite in God's Word.


Imagine...

This Sunday you're planning to attend the inaugural service of a new church building. Everyone is excited because this structure had been foreseen for many years. The hearts of the people are joined to the worship team musicians and the pastors who will lead this awesome first service. There is unity! All are unified for one holy purpose...

The music begins its heavenly ascent. Voices ring out like bells calling forth the Presence of God. Words declaring the awesome attributes of God emanate from the pulpit. The people cheer! The applause is deafening!!!


Suddenly...


The house begins to fill with a thick mist. What is happening? The worshipers begin to experience a little healthy fear. God has arrived in the tangible form of a cloud!!! The weight of God's glory settles upon the pastors causing them to sink to their knees. They can't stand to preach the sermon. The worship team is laying out on the floor. The people are amazingly blessed. God Almighty is really with them! They can see Him with their eyes and feel Him with their bodies!


How would you react?


Many years ago, I experienced the misty Presence of God in my bedroom one night. I was in a season of intense warfare and to be honest was an emotional wreck most of the time. I woke up to go to the bathroom and felt God's peaceful Presence around me, but didn't "see" anything at first. When coming back to my bed, I noticed a misty fog filling the room. I could feel Him ministering to my soul, but didn't catch the reality of what was happening (I was half asleep) until a few days later when I received a note of encouragement from a prophetic friend of mine who declared that God would reveal Himself in a mist. WOW!!!

Do you see, my friends, why I am so passionate about the Lord?  This experience is just one of the very many reasons I love Him!

He never leaves us! He never forsakes us! He holds us in the palm of His hand! No one and nothing can snatch us from Him! No trial! No heartache! No sickness of body or of soul! No persecution! No sin unforgivable! We can be who He created. WITH HIM, ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!

Receive Him in all of His glory. Who knows, He may choose to reveal Himself to you in the form of a cloud too!

1 Kings 7 & 2 Chronicles 4: Boaz and Jachin

1 Kings 7:21
Amplified Bible (AMP)

Hiram set up the pillars of the porch of the temple; he set up the right pillar and called its name Jachin [he will establish], and he set up the left pillar and called its name Boaz [in strength].

It is interesting that the two pillars decorating the entrance to the first temple actually were named by Hiram, the chief architect and engineer. There has been thoughts as to the masonic influences of these pillars, which can be found written throughout various occult literature.

I choose to see the prophetic implications in the names of these impressive structures.

"The word JACHIN, in Hebrew, probably pronounced Ya-kayan, and meant, as a verbal noun, He that strengthens; and thence, firm, stable, upright.

The word Boaz is Baaz which means Strong, Strength, Power, Might, Refuge, Source of Strength, a Fort. The prefix means 'with' or 'in,' and gives the word the force of the Latin gerund, roborando–Strengthening The former word also means he will establish, or plant in an erect position–from the verb Kun, he stood erect. It probably meant Active and Vivifying Energy and Force; and Boaz, Stability, Permanence, in the passive sense."

(The Secret of Solomon's Pillars)


The temple dreamed of by King David and constructed by King Solomon belongs to God!  He is the One Who establishes in firm stability and uprightness.  His strength empowers and His power and might are our Refuge!  He is the pillar that holds us up, our Support in times of trouble and the Joy that renews us!  In my heart, the pillars are representative of Him, all that He is and all that He does!!!


Thank You, Lord, for being the Pillar in my life.  All blessing and honor, power and glory, forever to my God!!!!

1 Kings 5-6; 2 Chronicles 2-3: Rest on Every Side Begins With Our Soul

1 Kings 5:4
Amplified Bible (AMP)

But now the Lord my God has given me rest on every side, so that there is neither adversary nor evil confronting me.

Solomon experienced rest on every side.  He had no confrontations or adversaries.  WOW!  Ten years ago, I would not have been able to imagine a season on this earth where this blessing was possible.

But rest on every side can be experienced even when an adversary gets in our face.  Rest can be experienced even as evil's temptations attempt to seduce.  It is possible!

Rest is a state experienced within our souls.  To me a restful soul "feels like" a gently flowing stream on a sunny day.  Birds are singing and the sun is shining.  A restful soul has the ability to take in the beauty of creation, marveling in its complexity and praising its Maker with no stormy racing thoughts or anxious meditations, just Peace ruling it. A restful soul remains at rest because it chooses to remain bonded to Abba's heart. 


Thank You for Your rest, Abba!

When a adversary confronts or evil tempts, the restful soul continues to focus its attention its Lover.  Jesus is the Lover of my soul!  Jesus is the Lover of your soul!

I believe rest ultimately manifests by being the personalities He created with all of our unique idiosyncrasies.  He loves who He made us to be, but we can only be who He made us to be as we remain connected to Him!

God made me to be me.

He made you to be you.

And He made us VERY GOOD!!!  Let's rest in that!!!

Proverbs 22-24: Through Wisdom a Home is Built

Proverbs 24:3-4
Amplified Bible (AMP)

Through skillful and godly Wisdom is a house (a life, a home, a family) built, and by understanding it is established [on a sound and good foundation],

And by knowledge shall its chambers [of every area] be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

Twenty-two years ago, I held my beloved son in my arms for the first time.   I gently placed him in his crib realizing that I had not a clue how to be a mother.  From day one, I cried out to the Lord asking Him to teach me mothering.

Four years later, I was gifted with yet another beloved son.  

Raising up boys to men has been my most difficult and important life assignment; I love them with my whole mommy heart!  Yet, in raising them up, I made errors, not for a lack of love, but for a lack in my own maturity.  

The Lord called me to home educate my sons, which caused a whole new set of blessings and stressors to be released upon our family.  Although a difficult responsibility, I will never suffer the guilt of not being there for my children.  The Lord did answer my cry for wisdom in mothering, and He continues to answer my cry today as I am learning to be a mother of men.  

Wisdom, understanding, and knowledge are the foundations of a godly home, and although I did miss the mark at times, my sons have absolutely no doubt in their hearts that they are loved by their mom...forever!

Proverbs 19-21: A Man of Great Wrath

Proverbs 19:19
Amplified Bible (AMP)

A man of great wrath shall suffer the penalty; for if you deliver him [from the consequences], he will [feel free to] cause you to do it again.

A person with "great wrath" is like a ticking time bomb.  The people associated with this kind of person often feel as though they are "walking on eggshells," never quite sure when or what will cause this unhealthy expression of anger to manifest.  A person suffering from this type of stronghold can actually be classified as mentally ill.  According the the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM),

Explosive personality disorder is an impulse control disorder characterized by episodes of aggressive, destructive behavior resulting in damage to an individual or property. The outburst can occur with little or no provocation, and the individual feels unable to resist the aggressive impulses. The aggressive, destructive feelings and behavior appear very suddenly and subside almost as quickly, often followed by regret or embarrassment over lack of self-control and the resulting damage. Between episodes, the individual may or may not appear impulsive or aggressive. The aggressive episodes typically last about 20 minutes and generally occur from 1 to 25 times a month.

God consuls us to allow this wrathful person to reap the consequences of his behavior.  By making excuses for this person, we, in effect, are hindering his recovery process and possibly endangering those who come into contact with him.  


If you live with someone suffering from this illness, get out and get help!  In an emergency situation where the person is endangering himself or others, call 911 or your local Crisis Intervention.


Wrathful anger is a stronghold and is just like any other sin with which must be dealt.  There is freedom in Christ!  You don't need to suffer any longer with this affliction.  Cry out to Jesus, and talk to a Christian counselor.  Receive healing in your soul and the empowerment of God's Spirit, in the great name of Jesus, AMEN!!!

Proverbs 16-18: The Fruit of Life or Death

Click on picture to enlarge

A special thank you to the WinePress Publishing Group for permitting me to post their "A Recipe For Gossip."

Chances are many of you reading this post have been hurt by careless words spoken by loose tongues and heard by itching ears, but I exhort you (and myself) do not loose heart or become angry or bitter.

God has commanded us to pray for and love our enemies.


Matthew 5:43-45
Amplified Bible (AMP)

43 You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy;

44 But I tell you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,

45 To show that you are the children of your Father Who is in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the wicked and on the good, and makes the rain fall upon the upright and the wrongdoers [alike].

Here's why...Proverbs 18:21 warns us that we will eat the fruit of our words, and that fruit will either be life or death. This godly proverb doesn't say, it's ok to speak evil of our enemies, because they deserve it; they were using their words to hurt us.



Proverbs 18:21
Amplified Bible (AMP)

 21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they who indulge in it shall eat the fruit of it [for death or life].

I don't even want to imagine what death fruit "tastes" like.

Jesus empower us to be slow to speak and quick to listen. Let our tongues be instruments calling forth life!!! In Jesus' name!!! Amen!

Proverbs 13-15: Connections

Proverbs 15:15
Amplified Bible (AMP)

All the days of the desponding and afflicted are made evil [by anxious thoughts and forebodings], but he who has a glad heart has a continual feast [regardless of circumstances].


Our focus really does matter! When God reveals the battle plan of the enemy, a temptation of the prophetically gifted is to become anxious and focus on the upcoming attack. This misplaced focus actually plays directly into the hands of the evil one. Anxious thoughts and forebodings are cousins of fear, and fear is a spirit. Allowing ourselves to travel along the path with fear by our side, strengthens the power and control of satan.

God does not give us a spirit of fear, but power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7 NKJV).


The joy of the Lord is our strength! It doesn't really matter what scheme the evil one launches against us. If our focus continues upon our Great and Awesome God, worshiping and submitting our lives to Him, then joy bubbles up from deep within our souls. One can be in the midst of very difficult circumstances, yet still have a glad heart feasting on God's goodness!

I think about a man who because of his love for Jesus was thrown into a pit for several days. When his captors removed him from the pit, he was shining with the glory of God! This man worshiped the Lord in the midst of a horrific situation and the result was powerful.

When we worship the Lord in the midst of difficult situations, people do notice the joy and peace that emanate from us. There is a feast going on inside the "afflicted" one's heart and people around us witness it.

Revelation of satan's battle plans are for intercession, not to shift our focus from our Abba to the battle. The greatest weapons in the midst of a battle are the fruit of the Holy Spirit...love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23 AMP). The only way to utilize these gifts is to maintain our connection to the One Who gives them.

Connection is solidified by our thoughts. 


 If our thoughts meditate on the evil one and his plans, then our connection to fear is strengthened. If we choose to keep our eyes fixed upon the Lord magnifying His goodness, power, holiness, etc. then our heart connection to Him solidifies, and He releases everything we need to win the battle!

Thank You, Lord, for drawing our hearts to You. Every day can be a continual heart feast as we maintain our connection to You by meditating on You and Your goodness! Empower us (me) in all circumstances to focus on You! All for Your glory and in the name of Jesus, AMEN!!!

Proverbs 10-12: Wise Words Heal and Capture Souls

Proverbs 11
Amplified Bible (AMP)

The fruit of the [uncompromisingly] righteous is a tree of life, and he who is wise captures human lives [for God, as a fisher of men—he gathers and receives them for eternity].


Many years ago, a prophecy was spoken over me that characterized part of my destiny as being a "fisher of men" and "the increase would be sixty fold."

This promise is awesome when you do the math. If my words of praise, adoration, and testimony of Jesus' greatness sow one seed, then sixty will be reached. If the words I type are read by one hundred people, then six thousand souls with be touched. COOL! With God ALL things are possible! :)


Proverbs 12:18
Amplified Bible (AMP)

There are those who speak rashly, like the piercing of a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.


Speaking rashy reminds me of the idiom, "think before you speak." A person who speaks rashly is one who doesn't think before speaking. I am a firm believer in speaking the truth, even if it is painful, but a wise person frames truth with love. A rash person spills the beans not considering the other person and this can do damage to a soul. We all have been guilty of speaking rashly.

A rash person says, "You can't go to college. You're not smart enough."

A wise person says, "You have had difficulty with learning, but you need to pursue what's on your heart."

A few weekends ago, I led a group at work called "Kindness Counts."  One aspect of the group was using kind words to water other people's hearts.  We discussed the idiom, "Sticks and stones will break your bones, but words will never hurt you," and that it was an untrue statement.  

Words can break or bolster a spirit! A rash person's words break a spirit, potentially causing a person to lose hope, but a wise person uses words to bring healing to previously damaged areas of the soul, instilling courage and hope.

Holy Spirit, please empower us to use our words wisely, capturing souls for you.  We will be "Fishers of Men" for Your glory!!!!  In Jesus' name, AMEN!!!

Proverbs 7-9: Accept Plan A

Proverbs 8:36
Amplified Bible (AMP)

But he who misses me or sins against me wrongs and injures himself; all who hate me love and court death.


Our Abba loves us. In His deep and eternal love, He devised a plan to remove our sins and cause us to shine brightly with righteousness.


Plan A: Jesus

Knowing that sin injures us and causes a separation between us and Abba, Jesus willingly came to earth as a man, took our damaging sins upon Himself, and dealt with them once and for all. We are no longer slaves to sin and its eternal consequences!


Romans 8:3 & 4
Amplified Bible (AMP)

For God has done what the Law could not do, [its power] being weakened by the flesh [[a]the entire nature of man without the Holy Spirit]. Sending His own Son in the guise of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, [God] condemned sin in the flesh [[b]subdued, overcame, [c]deprived it of its power over all who accept that sacrifice],

So that the righteous and just requirement of the Law might be fully met in us who live and move not in the ways of the flesh but in the ways of the Spirit [our lives governed not by the standards and according to the dictates of the flesh, but controlled by the Holy Spirit].


Living, moving, and being in one with His Spirit empowers us to live a life in the ways of the Spirit and not of sinful flesh. If we reject His Spirit, we "love and court death," because it is only by His Spirit that we are empowered to walk out righteousness.

I witness the injury of sin all the time in young people's lives. Other's sin as well as their own sin pile up upon their souls causing seemingly irreparable damage, BUT JESUS!  

His words of life, bring hope. Plan A will spring into action, but Plan A must be accepted as the cure for the injuries resulting from sin.

Abba, we accept Plan A as the remedy for sin and its effects. We ask that Your Spirit empower us to walk out righteousness every moment of every day for the honor and glory of Jesus. AMEN!!!

Proverbs 4-6: A Kept Heart

Proverbs 4:23
New King James Version (NKJV)


Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life.


I quoted this verse to a young lady last night encouraging her to be mindful of her thoughts, which affect emotions and ultimately actions.  His beautiful Spirit flows from a kept heart and life springs from it.  The opposite is true with an "unkept" heart...sin, depression, guilt, sorrow, decay ooze.


The truth of this word has proven itself in my life.  


What does a kept heart look like?


*A kept heart follows Wisdom, which requires constant interaction listening and obeying His direction.


*A kept heart speaks honestly out of love, even when honesty hurts.


*A kept heart is not willful, but flexible and yielding to others.  It does insist on its own way, but yields gracefully. 


*A kept heart is mindful if its gaze knowing that the gift of sight can induce righteousness or unrighteousness.  This includes physical sight as well as imaginative sight (thoughts).


*A kept heart considers the path on which it walks always turning aside from evil in all of its forms.


Holy Spirit, please empower us to keep our hearts with all diligence.  Be the Watchman on the holy wall that surrounds our heart, Lord.  Empower us to hear and obey Your direction. We desire love and life to flow from us.  These eternal attributes change the environment surrounding us.  We want to flow with You!  In Jesus' name, AMEN!

Proverbs 1-3: Peace, My Help Comes From the Lord

Proverbs 3:1 & 2
Amplified Bible (AMP)

My son, forget not my law or teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments;

For length of days and years of a life [worth living] and tranquility [inward and outward and continuing through old age till death], these shall they add to you.

People want to live long and peaceful lives, but in my opinion, the lack of peace tormenting the soul is worse than a physical body battling illness or disease, which may kill the body. All of us desire peace, but not many find true Peace.

Some look for peace in other people, thinking that, “If he/she accepts me then I’m worthwhile and then my heart will be at peace.” Often these people lose their uniqueness, modifying themselves in order to be accepted by men. 


This is not Peace!

Some look for peace by self-medicating with drugs (prescribed or illegal, including alcohol), but this artificial peace numbs the soul , while clouding the brain. Problems are not solved and may intensify after the high of drugs wear off. 


This is not Peace!

Some go to fantasy for peace, attempting to escape the stark reality of their situation. Suddenly, reality becomes secondary as this one is drawn inward risking the loss of psychological health through depression, anxiety and may progress towards thoughts of suicide. 


This is certainly not Peace!

So, how do we find peace? 


“My son, forget not my law or teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments.”

The length of days mean nothing without peace and can only be found by obeying the Prince of Peace. Life is worth living when our soul is at peace. God’s Spirit flows unimpeded through a peaceful soul and that Spirit empowers us to keep His commandments. The process is cyclic meaning obedience begets peace, which begets more power to obey, which begets more peace.

How do we learn to obey at all times with all of our hearts? 


Ask Abba for His help. He hears the cry of our hearts. He wants to empower us and give us Peace!

Verse 1: 

When sorrows come and hope seems gone

You're the rock I rest upon

When waters rise and I can't breathe

You're the love that rescues me

Bridge: 

Out of the darkness I lift up my eyes

Unto the hills I feel my faith rise

Chorus: 

Maker of heaven, giver of life

You are my strength my song in the night 

My refuge my shelter 

Now and forevermore 

My help comes from the Lord

Verse 2:

When I'm broken scarred by sin

Death gives way to life again

When I suffer when I doubt

In you I'm free in you I'm found

Bridge

Chorus

2nd Chorus: 

Maker of heaven, giver of life

You are my strength

You're my refuge

Now and forevermore...

Song of Solomon: Fragrant Romance

Song of Solomon speaks volumes to me about my life, now and in the past. This book proclaims God's wisdom in handling the passionate emotions of a man and woman in love. The passionate love Jesus feels for me and I for Him is symbolically apparent throughout these chapters. It's difficult to whittle down my thoughts to just one post, but I'll try. :)

Scented spices are evident in this book. What aromas permeated the environment in the Song of Songs? Do those particular spices have a symbolic context?

Myrrh is described as medicinal, resinous, slightly bitter, dark, sharp, astringent. Myrrh symbolizes devotion or affectionate love for Jesus. Myrrh also was used in preparing a body after death, thus symbolizing suffering and death. Could it be that an intimate relationship requires each party to die to themselves in order to live for the other?

Spikenard has a semi-sweet, musky odor. It is a heavenly fragrance which symbolizes worship and adoration, which emanate from the spirit. Adoring another person, leads to an intimate connection. One aspect of adoration is deep esteem or respect. This relationship is built on knowing a person and respecting who God has created them to be.

Frankincense smells lemony, piney, menthol. "The Hebrew word “frankincense” means “pure or white,” because of the snowcapped mountains of Lebanon where frankincense is grown, as well as the milk-colored drops of aromatic resin that flow from the slashed inner wood of the tree." (Rebecca at the Well Fountain) An intimate, godly relationship is one built on purity. Without purity, there can be no trust.

Henna, from personal experience, smells earthy like grass or soil. "The Hebrew word for 'camphire' (henna) means 'a ransom,' with its root word meaning 'to forgive.'" (Rebecca at the Well Fountain) Forgiveness is essential for any relationship, because offenses are inevitable. Without forgiveness, offenses will build a wall of separation between two hearts.

Saffron smells sweet-peppery, similar to paprika. "It is literally worth its weight in gold because it is the stigmas from which the spice is obtained. Each one is handpicked and placed over a charcoal fire for drying. It takes over 75,000 flowers to make one pound of saffron." (Rebecca at the Well Fountain) A love relationship is costly. Each gives up its own desires to meet the needs and desires of the other. When both willingly give themselves, the relationship blooms gloriously!

Calamus smells buttery, nutty, soft and sweet and signifies moral uprightness with a humble, servant-hearted attitude. (Rebecca at the Well Fountain) There is no greater "turn off" in a relationship then arrogance, and God feels the same way.


Psalm 138:6

For though the Lord is high, yet has He respect to the lowly [bringing them into fellowship with Him]; but the proud and haughty He knows and recognizes [only] at a distance.

Cinnamon, think freshly baked sticky buns! Holiness and consecration are of what cinnamon speaks. Each person set apart for the other, now that's romance!

In researching these scents, I came across a book that was apparently written on the subject, The Fragrance of the Bride by Rebecca Park Totilo. I'd like to read it sometime.

Deuteronomy 24-27: Endless Character Traits

There are some difficult passages in today’s reading in light of today’s culture. I ask the Lord, “What if a woman finds indecency in her husband? in response to Deuteronomy 24:1.

“When a man takes a wife and marries her, if then she finds no favor in his eyes because he has found some indecency in her, and he writes her a bill of divorce, puts it in her hand, and sends her out of his house,…”

Even though many of these verses don’t fit with our current culture, the underlying character traits are endless…integrity, honesty, just judgement, generosity, kindness, mercy, purity, fairness, single-hearted devotion to God, etc.

Lord, teach and empower us to exhibit the behavior that pleases Your heart! In the name of Jesus, AMEN!!!

Deuteronomy 21-23: No Unclean Thing Seen

Deuteronomy 23:14 

“For the LORD thy God walketh in the midst of thy camp, to deliver thee, and to give up thine enemies before thee; therefore shall thy camp be holy: that he see no unclean thing in thee, and turn away from thee.”

We have a choice be held, protected, delivered and comforted by our loving Father Who walks in our midst or choose to follow the dictates of the old man which is consistent with this world’s system. Abba longs to keep us close to Him, but if we choose unholy living, He can’t. Our holy God won’t mix Himself with unholiness.

Being imperfect in this life, what hope do we have? JESUS!!! As soon as we turn away from sin, Abba is running to us! He sees the blood of Jesus covering us.

Thank You, my God, for calling me higher where I soar with You. It’s so much better than the oppression that results from sin. I appreciate all You have done for me. I will love You with all that I am! AMEN!!!

Deuteronomy 17-20: God's Leader

Deuteronomy 17:14-20
Amplified Bible (AMP)

14When you come to the land which the Lord your God gives you and you possess it and live there, and then say, We will set a king over us like all the nations that are about us,

15You shall surely set as king over you him whom the Lord your God will choose. One from among your brethren you shall set as king over you; you may not set a foreigner, who is not your brother, over you.

16But he shall not multiply horses to himself or cause the people to return to Egypt in order to multiply horses, since the Lord said to you, You shall never return that way.

17And he shall not multiply wives to himself, that his [mind and] heart turn not away; neither shall he greatly multiply to himself silver and gold.

18And when he sits on his royal throne, he shall write for himself a copy of this law in a book, out of what is before the Levitical priests.

19And he shall keep it with him, and he shall read in it all the days of his life, that he may learn [reverently] to fear the Lord his God, by keeping all the words of this law and these statutes and doing them,

20That his [mind and] heart may not be lifted up above his brethren and that he may not turn aside from the commandment to the right hand or to the left; so that he may continue long, he and his sons, in his kingdom in Israel.


These verses describe the kind of leader God would set over His people. Verse 15, speaks of a leader as one of the brethren. That totally makes sense to me. A brother would have more intimate connections with the people, a like family, similar culture, same beliefs.

Verse 16, says the king should not amass his own wisdom or power, neither should he actions cause the people to return to their former bondage. I love the promise, “You shall never return that way.”

The leader is not suppose to “multiply wives to himself” in verse 17. The relationship of a wife to her husband should be one of godly influence, not control. God wants the king’s heart to be set in heavenly perspective, not earthly concerns of wives and possessions…"silver and gold."

In verses 18 & 19, God says the king is to set the lay before him, read it, and do it. How the people would be blessed by a king who follows the way of God.

My favorite verse is 20, which speaks of a king’s attitude. Most leaders today seem to have an air of “better than the common people.” A leader seeking after the heart of God will humble himself to the status of servant, just like Jesus.


Holy Spirit, touch the hearts of leaders throughout the world, whether they lead in politics, the family, in church or in employment. Open eyes and cause their hearts to line up according to Your ways. In Jesus name. AMEN!!!

Deuteronomy 14-17: A Call to Intercesssion

Deuteronomy 14:1 & 2
Amplified Bible (AMP)

“YOU ARE the sons of the Lord your God; you shall not cut yourselves or make any baldness on your foreheads for the dead, For you are a holy people [set apart] to the Lord your God; and the Lord has chosen you to be a peculiar people to Himself, above all the nations on the earth.”

Matthew Henry’s Commentary

“In their mourning: You shall not cut yourselves, Deuteronomy 14:1. This forbids (as some think), not only their cutting themselves at their funerals, either to express their grief or with their own blood to appease the infernal deities, but their wounding and mangling themselves in the worship of their gods, as Baal’s prophets did (1Kings 18:28), or their marking themselves by incisions in their flesh for such and such deities, which in them, above any, would be an inexcusable crime, who in the sign of circumcision bore about with them in their bodies the marks of the Lord Jehovah. So that, They are forbidden to deform or hurt their own bodies upon any account. Methinks this is like a parent’s change to his little children, that are foolish, careless, and wilful, and are apt to play with knives: Children, you shall not cut yourselves. This is the intention of those commands which oblige us to deny ourselves; the true meaning of them, if we understood them aright, would appear to be, Do yourselves no harm. And this also is the design of those providences which most cross us, to remove from us those things by which we are in danger of doing ourselves harm. Knives are taken from us, lest we should cut ourselves. Those that are dedicated to God as a holy people must do nothing to disfigure themselves; the body is for the Lord, and is to be used accordingly.”

Can you imagine a person so tormented and mournful that they willingly cut themselves? Self injurious behavior is one of the manifestations of people who are mentally broken. In my job (my ministry), I frequently see patients, usually beautiful adolescent girls, who hurt so deeply inside that they resort to inflicting pain on themselves through self-mutilation.

I would advise caution in viewing this site. Pray first, then continue if the Lord says so. Sometimes an image will stir up compassionate prayer.

http://www.psyke.org/pictures/

Medical researchers have various thoughts on why a person would choose to harm themselves. (1). These people want to control the pain they feel. Oftentimes these young ones have been abused in horrific ways, and they respond by self injury. They will be the master of their own hurt. This is not usually a conscious thought process in the beginning. (2). The pain and the flow of blood release feel go chemicals into the brain called endorphins. A girl once confided in me that “the more I bleed, the better I feel.” (3). Sometimes these dear young ones loathe themselves so greatly that they feel they must punish themselves for any and all infractions.

Satan means to destroy these young lives, but God sends His friends to speak life and healing to them. I am privileged to be one who is called to speak life to these kids. This self-mutilation spirit can not stand in the Presence of Jesus. In the name of Jesus, AMEN!!!

Deuteronomy 11-13: Hearts Soft and Pliable

Deuteronomy 10:16
Amplified Bible (AMP)

“So circumcise the foreskin of your [minds and] hearts; be no longer stubborn and hardened.”


Gill’s Commentary states, “…be concerned for the circumcision of the heart; for removing from that whatever is disagreeable to the Lord, even all carnality, sensuality, hypocrisy, and superfluity of naughtiness,…”

Gill defines being stubborn and hardened as, ” froward, obstinate, and disobedient.”

Salvation is free, but we have a responsibility to access the grace God provides for us in order to cut off or circumcise the areas of our heart that are not pleasing to Him. This is a moment by moment choice. The evil one will do what he does by offering temptation, but we, in co-operation with His Spirit, must recognize this subterfuge and demolish it.

Holy Spirit cause me to see the trappings of the evil one and work with You to demolish the temptations that lay before me. My heart belongs to You, and I don’t want anything in it that pollutes. When I worship, I desire Your pleasure. I don’t want to give lip service to You, Lord. I want my heart to mirror Yours. Impurities dim the fire in my heart. My heart will burn with a pure flame always for You, Jesus! AMEN!!!

Deuteronomy 8-10: For Our Own Good

Deuteronomy 10:12 & 13

“And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the LORD’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?”

For our own good. 

Yet, often we learn the hard way, don’t we? At least I do.

BUT the grace of God is poured out, and His mercies are new every morning. Each day, glory transforms us (me) more into the likeness of Jesus.

I receive Your grace, Father. I can’t live without it! Not only to bolster my soul against sin, but to live in power and victory as I walk through this life. Thank You!

Deuteronomy 5-7: The Shema

Several years ago a friend asked if I could take Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and put it to music. This was to be used to assist kids memorize these important verses.


Be blessed!


I’m not sure if this will work.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d5pGe6WBl74&context=C353db11ADOEgsToPDskLCpG9gvipPHriFg9Z8zVG9

Deuteronomy 3 & 4: Closer in the Fire

Deuteronomy 4:36
Amplified Bible (AMP)

“Out of heaven He made you hear His voice, that He might correct, discipline, and admonish you; and on earth He made you see His great fire, and you heard His words out of the midst of the fire.”

I wrote in the margin of my Bible next to verse 36, “Fiery trials cause me to cling closer to You. The closer I am to You, the better I can hear You.”

None of us enjoy a fiery trial, but in the trial if we cling to the Lord, the end result will be a deeper relationship. Learning to depend on and trust in the only Help that can move to change things matures us.

Leaning on Jesus enables communication to flow and hearing His voice is a beautiful thing. His words offer comfort and courage, power and passion, peace and rest.

Thank You for Your grace, Abba. You are a good Father, and I appreciate all that You do for me!

Deuteronomy 1 & 2: Fear, Fight or Flight

Deuteronomy 1:16
Amplified Bible (AMP)

And I charged your judges at that time: Hear the cases between your brethren and judge righteously between a man and his brother or the stranger or sojourner who is with him.

Some of the most beautiful God-moments I have shared with others have been with ones who have been discarded by society and unfortunately, also by the church.

Jesus has eyes that see a person for who He made them to be, not for their immature actions leading to sin. He loves the sin right out of the sinner, and we are called to do the same!

Romans 3:22
Amplified Bible (AMP)

Since all have sinned and are falling short of the honor and glory which God bestows and receives.

Then there are those who idolize the gifts of another, not placing them on a pedestal, but in jealousy tearing them down. Or others who are intimidated (fear) by someone else’s gift because they cannot control them. Fear induces those under its control to engage in uncharacteristic, even sinful practices.

Deuteronomy 2:4
Amplified Bible (AMP)

And command the Israelites, You are to pass through the territory of your kinsmen the sons of Esau, who live in Seir; and they will be afraid of you. So watch yourselves carefully.

The spirit of fear can cause two reactions…to shrink back or to attack. It’s the fight or flight syndrome we all learned about in health class. The fight portion of fear is why God counsels the Israelites to watch themselves as they pass through the territory of Esau, because the descendants of Esau are afraid of them.

I love the Lord’s promise in Deuteronomy 1:29-30.

Then I said to you, Dread not, neither be afraid of them. The Lord your God Who goes before you, He will fight for you just as He did for you in Egypt before your eyes,…

We have no need to fear those who fight against us, because God fights for His beloved bride. Thank You, Jesus!

Numbers 35 & 36: A Land Polluted

Numbers 35:33-34

“So you shall not pollute the land in which you live; for blood pollutes the land, and no atonement can be made for the land for the blood shed in it, but by the blood of him who shed it. And you shall not defile the land in which you live, in the midst of which I dwell, for I, the Lord, dwell in the midst of the people of Israel.”

Years ago, I read these verses and the atrocity of abortion came to mind. I have written in my Bible, “Abortion pollutes our land with the blood of innocents.”

Yet, even the abortionist can flee to Jesus as Refuge and be saved. The woman coerced into submitting herself to this heinous procedure has Refuge in Jesus and can be washed whiter than snow. The blood of Jesus can purify our land from the pollution of violence.

Numbers 33 & 34: A Known Deadly Poison

Numbers 33:55-56

“But if you will not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you, then those you let remain of them shall be as pricks in your eyes and as thorns in your sides, and they shall vex you in the land in which you dwell. And as I thought to do to them, so will I do to you.”

There is a hefty price to be paid for idolatry. Body, soul and spirit all suffer the effects from choosing someone or something else over the One True God. Because He loves us, He won’t allow comfort with sin in His kids. If we are born of God, then entertaining sin in our hearts is like taking in a known deadly poison…it doesn’t end well. 

BUT, Jesus!

Graciously, His Spirit searches our hearts, rooting out any thing that doesn’t belong, any poison which may kill. If we humble ourselves, Grace is poured out and the power of this false god is broken in us by the Power released through the cross.

Root out, search out, get all out of me any thing that is not pleasing to You, Lord! AMEN!!!

Numbers 31 & 32: Cut it Out

Numbers 31:16
Amplified Bible (AMP)

Behold, these caused the Israelites by the counsel of Balaam to trespass and act treacherously against the Lord in the matter of Peor, and so a [smiting] plague came among the congregation of the Lord.

Previously, I had questioned about why God was so hard on Balaam. Numbers 31:16 states clearly the sin of Balaam.

“Behold, these caused the Israelites by the counsel of Balaam to trespass and act treacherously against the Lord in the matter of Peor, and so a [smiting] plague came among the congregation of the Lord.”

That’s a serious charge, counseling others to purposely cause a people group to sin!

As far a chapter 31 as a whole, while reading it, I found myself thinking about the seriousness of sin and how God desires us to “kill” anything inducing sin, even something that would potentially cause sin. By “kill,” I mean cut it out of our lives. This may be emotionally traumatic, but if we desire to wholly follow the Lord, we must allow His Spirit to show us these areas in our lives, then receive His power to “kill” it.

Numbers 28-30: Only at the Appointed Time

I just realized I missed several readings. So before continuing in our chronological study, I am going to post the the thoughts I missed.  Sorry for the confusion, friends!

Numbers 28: 2 

"Command the sons of Israel and say to them, ‘You shall be careful to present My offering, My food for My offerings by fire, of a soothing aroma to Me, at their appointed time.’"


The “appointed time” may refer to the timing of the fulfillment of a promise from the Lord. If we attempt to make that promise come to pass previous to the time appointed by God, we sin…period, no matter how noble our motives may be.

God promotes us at His “appointed time,” and in my experience, that time tends to arrive suddenly and unexpectedly. I had an “appointed time” experience on Thanksgiving, and my first reaction to the proposal given the day before, was a racing heart. Immediately, I turned to inquire of the Lord for His guidance. Before I could even get to my knees, I heard Him say, “I’m trying to promote you.” Peace then flooded my soul, because I knew He would be with me, giving me the necessary wisdom to complete the task.

2 Chronicles 1 and Psalm 72: Survival of the Fittest

Psalm 72:12-14
Amplified Bible (AMP)


For He delivers the needy when he calls out, the poor also and him who has no helper.


 He will have pity on the poor and weak and needy and will save the lives of the needy.


He will redeem their lives from oppression and fraud and violence, and precious and costly shall their blood be in His sight.




"Survival of the Fittest" is an idea presented to biology students as truth.  The fit are able to survive the dangers inherent to their environment.  As a result, the traits that enabled the fit to survive are then genetically passed to the next generation through procreation.  


The theory of Evolution does not consider the weak and needy.  Those whose environment is filled with violence and oppression are of no concern to a scientific ideology.  


BUT GOD!!! 


He delivers the needy and helps the poor.


He has pity on the weak and save the lives of those in need.


He redeems them from oppression.


Although I think science is awesome, I can't wrap my heart around a belief that elevates the strong, while trampling the weak.  My heart turns towards those who cannot help themselves.  God's heart turns towards those who cannot help themselves.  I am in very good company!!!


Yes, this world is evolving...light and dark are becoming more distinct.  The grays are fading, the line is drawn.  We have a choice, be transformed into the glorious image of God or not.




2 Corinthians 3:18
Amplified Bible (AMP)


And all of us, as with unveiled face, [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit.