Born to Worship

I was born to worship God! This morning Martin Smith led worship. At one point, mental pictures flashed before my mind's eye.

*as a child looking into the sky and talking to God

*as a pre-adolescent crying during a Christmas Eve candle light service because I could feel Him

*as an adolescent being drawn by His love and singing "it only takes a spark to get a fire going" after giving my heart to the Lord 

*as I learned to dance in worship in the middle of the night without music because He asked me to do it

*as I danced in a church service and felt a wave of power after someone who could not previously walk began to walk

*as I choose to forgive a group of people who repeatedly hurt me over the course of many years
All of these were instances of worship, and the only common theme was a heart turned towards God.

Inside Out or Outside In

 

My earthly father has spoken words throughout my life that have pointed me toward the heart of my heavenly Father. Although unknown to my earthly father, these words have encouraged, confirmed and guided me numerous times. Most recently my earthly father stated, "when you are here, it takes a day that is inside out and turns it outside in." It is important that you understand the back story to dad's statement.

Back in February, dad suffered a massive right-sided stroke. This means that the left side of his body has been affected by paralysis. Dad sleeps most of the time, but is able to wake up with verbal stimulation. Can you imagine being imprisoned inside your own body, completely dependent on others to meet you most basic needs? It is understandable that he would feel as though his known world up to this point would feel turned "inside out."

According to Merriam-Webster's online dictionary, inside out can be described as "in or into a confused or disorganized state"(Merriam-Webster,  2018). Everything my dad has known about the world around him, his physical body and the interactions between the two have now been thrown "into a confused or disorganized state" (Merriam-Webster,  2018).

Understandably, this confused and disorganized state could have a dramatic, negative influence on dad's soul impacting his emotional state. Yet dad says his inside out world can be positively influenced from the "outside in." 

Our heavenly Father has empowered us through His Spirit to positively influence others from the "outside in," but how do we prepare ourselves to be a conduit through which God's Spirit flows through us? We must recognize our need to be influenced by His Holy Spirit; we must cry out to God from our inside out. From the depths of our soul, we cry out for the Lord to influence us, so we can positively influence others.

We cannot allow our souls to reign freely in situations of confusion and disorganization. I am reminded of a Disney movie, Inside Out. This movie depicts a little girl's soul (Riley) as being controlled by various characters representing different emotions. Such a cute movie, but as Christians, we cannot allow "Joy" to be overtaken by "Sadness" as was the case in the movie. If we allow God's Holy Spirit to influence us, then Joy will moderate the other emotions. 

 

(Docter & Del Carmen, 2016)

Psalms 73:26 (KJV)

 

My flesh and my heart faileth: 

but God is the strength of my heart, 

and my portion for ever.

  

Nehemiah 8:10 (KJV) 

Then he said unto them, 

Go your way, eat the fat, 

and drink the sweet, 

and send portions unto them for whom 

nothing is prepared: 

for this day is holy unto our Lord: 

neither be ye sorry; 

for the joy of the Lord is your strength. 

The song, From the Inside Out speaks of a soul crying out to the Lord asking to be consumed by the Everlasting (God). It is in this way we are recharged emotionally and anointed to influence others from the outside in.

Whether we cry out using another person's song or whether we use our own words, a sincere cry to the Lord will prepare us to influence others for good, because He ALWAYS hears a sincere cry...ALWAYS!

 From the Inside Out by Joel Housten

References

Docter, P., & Del Carmen, R. (Directors). (2016). Inside Out [Video file]. Milano: Walt Disney studios home entertainment.

Housten, J. (2012, March 25). From The Inside Out - Hillsong United Miami Live 2012 (Lyrics/Subtitles) (Song to Jesus). Retrieved June 5, 2018, from https://www.youtube.com

/watch?v=9j7ZdKtGcSo&feature=youtu.be

Merriam-Webster, Inc. (2018). Inside Out. Retrieved June 3, 2018, from https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inside out

God is Speaking!

 <sup>Galatians 1:6-10

6</sup> I am astonished and extremely irritated that you are so quickly shifting your allegiance and deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ, for a different [even contrary] gospel; ⁷ which is really not another [gospel]; but there are [obviously] ^[b]some [people masquerading as teachers] who are disturbing and confusing you [with a misleading, counterfeit teaching] and want to distort the gospel of Christ [twisting it into something which it absolutely is not]. ⁸ But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to that which we [originally] preached to you, let him be condemned to destruction! ⁹ As we have said before, so I now say again, if anyone is preaching to you a gospel different from that which you received [from us], let him be condemned to destruction!
¹⁰ Am I now ^[c]trying to win the favor and approval of men, or of God? Or am I seeking to please someone? If I were still trying to be popular with men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.

I am absolutely blessed! Just this morning, I read Galatians 1. I was specifically drawn to the verses above and prayed that neither I nor my family would fall prey to misleading or counterfeit teaching. 

Then the special speaker at Life Center, Stacey Campbell, this morning referenced these same verses. WOW! To me, it was like God saying, "I heard you. It is done!"

For ALL of you reading this post. Please, do not assume that just because something is spoken during a sermon or by a pastor that what is being said is the TRUTH. We must ask His Spirit to give us the discernment needed to see through distortions of the TRUTH. We must read our Bibles and compare what is being said with what it says.

Much love to ALL of you!

Beautiful Grace

2017: Backflow, Tidal Wave

"Backflow, Tidal Wave."  When I asked the Lord about 2017 a few weeks ago, this is what I felt He said.  For many years, I have asked the Lord about the upcoming year, but this is the first time it has stirred a sense of foreboding.  For this reason, I am evaluating whether this is truly from the Lord or from the source that uses fear to control. 

The Holy Spirit has been gracious to reveal the meaning of His symbolic communication over the years.  In faith, I speak the part I understand.

1 Corinthians 13:12

Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) 

¹² For now we are looking in a mirror that gives only a dim (blurred) reflection [of reality as in a riddle or enigma], but then [when perfection comes] we shall see in reality and face to face! Now I know in part (imperfectly), but then I shall know and understand fully and clearly, even in the same manner as I have been fully and clearly known and understood by God].

According to Webster's online dictionary, backflow is defined as "a flowing back or returning especially toward a source."  The Lord is calling us to return to Him, doing the things we know He has commanded and steering clear of the things we know He has denied.  The only way to determine the difference between right and wrong is to consult the Source, God.  Intimate, one on One communication is the key. 

The second part, "Tidal Wave" is well known in the physical.  I remember the horrible tidal wave (tsunami) which swept over coastal Japan in 2011, causing widespread death and destruction.  The "Tidal Wave" that the Lord is referring to also has devastating destructive power.  Those of us who refuse to return to the Source and/or who hold onto things which we know are sinful or not permissible, may incur the destructive force of this spiritual Tidal Wave.  The consequence of sin is painful.  God allows us to choose, choose wisely.

I really don't know if this "Tidal Wave" will affect people simultaneously on a large scale or if each of us will experience our own unique Wave, but what I do know is clear...

stop holding onto sinful activities, impure thoughts, coarse talk!  Love your neighbor as you love yourself.  Don't get caught up in the twisted reports inspired by the evil one to induce us to fear those who are not like us!  Realize, that we are not our own, but that we have been bought with a price.  Jesus gave Himself for us.  God, made man, His Spirit is in control.  To stand against Him is a futile pursuit.  His fierce love will draw our hearts back to Him. 

Holy Spirit, empower us in Your Grace.  Cause us to hear You.  Empower us to obey You.  Give us courage in the midst of trials and Peace in the midst of storms.  Be our Helper as You have in the past.  You are our refuge and our strength, a present help in times of trouble.  Cause us to come back to You, our Source, to release our grasp in things which ultimately harm us.  Let our gaze be shifted to eternal things, which places the appropriate value on temporal things.  All for the glory of One, Who was and is and is to come, Jesus!  AMEN!

Matthew 8:14-34: With a Word

Matthew 8:16
AMPC 

When evening came, they brought to Him many who were under the power of demons, and He drove out the spirits with a word and restored to health all who were sick.


With a word Jesus drove out spirits and cured diseases.  What was this powerful, singular word?  The Bible doesn't identify the particular word referenced, but I know the word was delivered in love.

Love does not focus on the unlovely state of the person in front of them, but fiercely calls forth wholeness of body, soul and spirit. This wholeness is defined as freedom from "dis" ease; whether that "dis" ease manifests through a bodily disease process, a mental illness or a spiritual crisis, one word from Jesus binds the fracture.  Jesus gives His friends the ability to bring Peace to the "dis" ease.

Some Christ followers may be intimidated by evil, but if we walk in love, evil has no power over us.  Love is built on the inside as we have an intimate friendship with Jesus.  As the love-base is built, it flows out to others through the word[s] we speak, which results in the freedom as described above. 

Talking about love is easy, but actually walking out love, requires a perseverance that can only be inspired by the Holy Spirit.  It's an overflow of the loving and personal relationship we have with Jesus.

These three sentences sum my life's mission, my purpose for living on this Earth. 

 

 

Love the unlovely. 

 

Trust that love is more powerful than evil.

    

Walk out love, don't just talk about it.

 

 

May all of you who read this, know that the power of God's love in you through a word has the potential to provide freedom for those tethered to "dis" ease. 

 

What a wonderful calling!

 

What a humbling responsibility!

 

Matthew 13: Let Them Grow Together

Matthew 13: 24-30

Weeds among Wheat

24 Jesus gave them another parable [to consider], saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. 25 But while his men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed [c]weeds [resembling wheat] among the wheat, and went away. 26 So when the plants sprouted and formed grain, the weeds appeared also. 27 The servants of the owner came to him and said, ‘Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? Then how does it have weeds in it?’ 28 He replied to them, ‘An enemy has done this.’ The servants asked him, ‘Then do you want us to go and pull them out?’ 29 But he said, ‘No; because as you pull out the weeds, you may uproot the wheat with them. 30 Let them grow together until the harvest; and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, “First gather the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; but gather the wheat into my barn.”’”
Matthew 24:36-43

The Weeds Explained

36 Then He left the crowds and went into the house. And His disciples came to Him saying, “Explain [clearly] to us the parable of the weeds in the field.” 37 He answered, “The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man, 38 and the field is the world; and [as for] the good seed, these are the sons of the kingdom; and the weeds are the sons of the evil one; 39 and the enemy who sowed them is the devil, and the harvest is the end of the age; and the reapers are angels. 40 So just as the weeds are gathered up and burned in the fire, so will it be at the end of the age. 41 The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend [those things by which people are led into sin], and all who practice evil [leading others into sin], 42 and will throw them into the furnace of fire; in that place there will be weeping [over sorrow and pain] and grinding of teeth [over distress and anger]. 43 Then the righteous [those who seek the will of God] will shine forth [radiating the new life] like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears [to hear], let him hear and heed My words.

The parable of the weeds and the wheat explains why evil remains in the world.  Those who perform evil (the weeds) live right beside those who are righteous (those who belong to God). 

For reasons unknown, God has said that uprooting the "weeds" or removing the evil from among us, would in some way damage us (the wheat).

Over the course of my life, evil has been done to me, and  I have witnessed evil done to others.  In my humanness, it seems as though the evil is doing the damage to the wheat. 

BUT God doesn't see situations from an earthly, temporal perspective.

When we find ourselves as a recipient of an evil act, we have a choice to become like the weed by reacting with evil 

OR we can respond as wheat with understanding, love and forgiveness.

Without the weeds, the wheat would not have the opportunity to BE wheat. 

SO what does wheat look like?

Earlier in Matthew 13, Jesus speaks about seeds being sown on the good soil.  These seeds grow and bear fruit to varying degrees. (Matthew 13:23).  It's the fruit that determines what kind of plant is grown. 

SO does fruit look like in a Christian's life?



Galatians 5:22-23

But the fruit of the Spirit [the result of His presence within us] is love [unselfish concern for others], joy, [inner] peace, patience [not the ability to wait, but how we act while waiting], kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.

Christians bear the fruit of His Spirit as listed in the preceding verse.  Note that the fruit is "the result of His presence within us."  True fruit cannot be grown by our own efforts. 

Fruit, even good fruit, takes time to ripen.  Did you ever eat a green banana?  Yuck!  The sweetness of character ripens over time.  What develops "unselfish concern for others" and "inner peace," joy, kindness, gentleness, self-control and the ability to wait with a positive attitude as a person stays remains connected to His Spirit.  Just a wheat grain (fruit) ripens in the presence of sunshine and water, in good soil.

Dear wheat, don't strive to grow fruit; cling to Jesus (His Spirit) and the fruit grows and ripens naturally, supernaturally!
 

John 1:15-51: Let His Light Shine, Reveal God!

John 1:18

 Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC)

¹⁸ No man has ever seen God at any time; the only unique Son, or the only begotten God, Who is in the bosom [in the intimate presence] of the Father, He has declared Him [He has revealed Him and brought Him out where He can be seen; He has interpreted Him and He has made Him known].

 Jesus revealed His Father to the earth.  We can know the Father's heart by reading how Jesus behaved while He was among us.  

What is even more awesome is that Jesus says that we can do "greater things."

John 14:11-13 

Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC)

¹¹ Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me; or else believe Me for the sake of the [very] works themselves. [If you cannot trust Me, at least let these works that I do in My Father’s name convince you.]

¹² I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, if anyone steadfastly believes in Me, he will himself be able to do the things that I do; and he will do even greater things than these, because I go to the Father.

¹³ And I will do [I Myself will grant] whatever you ask in My Name [as presenting all that I Am], so that the Father may be glorified and extolled in (through) the Son.

In other words, you and I can reveal God to the world around us!  Who we are in Him tells a story of the Father.  What is His heart?  How would He speak? What would He do?  Wow!  This is a weighty revelation, but a true one.  Although we are not God, we are empowered to represent Him!  This can only be done as we follow the lead of the His Spirit, spend time with Him, turn away from what we know is wrong and embrace His definition of right.  

Then...the world will see Him.  Remember, we are lights in this dark world.  We may never know (until heaven) how that Light shining through us has impacted others.  

In the Name of Jesus, let's shine His Light into every place we go.  He can transform even the darkest place with His Light!  AMEN!!!

Luke 4-5: Amazing Surprises!

The Luke 4:1-13, wilderness account of the temptation of Jesus stirs courage in me.  Jesus was tempted in three domains...his physical need for food, his exclusive worship of God, and his trust in God's protection. 

On each point, Jesus prevailed by referencing the written Word of God.  In my case, I have been tempted to become anxious regarding some very specific prayer requests, which lay heavily upon my heart.  The Lord countered this ongoing temptation by His Word in my spirit.  I keep hearing, "Trust Me," yet the prayers seemingly remain unanswered.  

Last week, during the middle of the night, I had been tossing and turning because my hip was aching (I hadn't stretched properly after a workout).  The thought came to me that I hadn't yet asked the Lord about the coming year.  Before I could even finish the thought, the Lord said, "Amazing Surprises."  Immediately, I thought of the ongoing, unanswered prayers and how God keeps encouraging me to trust Him.  

I'm excited to experience 2016's "Amazing Surprises."  I am so thankful for God's continued and numerous interventions in 2015.

Friends, let me encourage you to seek God's Word for your personal 2016.  He is such a good Encourager and Guide!
 

Nehemiah 6-9: As One Man

Nehemiah 8:1-3
Amplified Bible (AMP)

Then all the people gathered together as one man in the broad place before the Water Gate; and they asked Ezra the scribe to bring the Book of the Law of Moses, which the Lord had given to Israel.

And Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly of both men and women and all who could hear with understanding, on the first of the seventh month.

He read from it, facing the broad place before the Water Gate, from early morning until noon, in the presence of the men and women and those who could understand; and all the people were attentive to the Book of the Law.

As one man...

What mental image do you have when thinking about this phrase?  It's obvious that "all the people" equal many more than just one man.  Let me propose to you that "as one man" is referring to a heart quality shared by all the people.  The people as a whole unit, as one man, desired to know God's heart as expressed by His Word.  These people were attentive to the reading of the Law, because in their heart, they all desired to do right, to live according to God's directives. 

Later, in chapter 8, verse 9, the people wept when hearing God's Law.  Apparently, this "one man" was being convicted of how far from God's holy mark they had been living.  Yet Ezra encourages this "one man."

Nehemiah 8:10
Amplified Bible (AMP)

Then [Ezra] told them, Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet drink, and send portions to him for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. And be not grieved and depressed, for the joy of the Lord is your strength and stronghold.

How does this story apply to the church at large today?  Are we attentive to God's law?  Do we share a common desire to hear, then obey?  Do we feel the sting of conviction when what we think or do doesn't line up with living the way God desires?

I am not writing about following the law as a mechanical manual, us being religious robots who walk through life feeling condemned, who work, and work to prove worthiness.  Let it never be!!!

Freedom is conviction of His Spirit, empowered by grace, living knowing we are loved by God!!!  Having this corporate heart attitude through out the church (His Bride) qualifies us as being gathered together "as one man."  Excitedly anticipating God's direction, feeling our heart being stirred for change we will embrace the Spirit's conviction. 

As we listen attentively to what God is saying, together with a like heart's desire, then we become one in the eyes of God.  Jesus isn't coming for many brides, He is coming for one Bride, "one (hu)mans, His unified people!

Sooo, the next time fear induces you to "politely ignore" a brother or sister in Christ or hold those people whom you judge as sinners at arms length, remember the people who gathered together, attentive to God's Law, being seen by God as "one man" and choose to be unified for a holy change!

We need each other!  It's the way God designed His Church!  We must forgive and encourage and hold each other up! Some may even need to contact a brother or sister whom they have mistreated. Living in this way, God sees us as one man!!!  Jesus, sees us as His radiantly beautiful Bride!!!

In the name of our Bridegroom, Jesus...AMEN!!!

Nehemiah 1-5: A Sign of Mercy in the Western Sky

Nehemiah 1:5-7
Amplified

⁵ And I said, O Lord God of heaven, the great and terrible God, Who keeps covenant, loving-kindness, and mercy for those who love Him and keep His commandments,

⁶ Let Your ear now be attentive and Your eyes open to listen to the prayer of Your servant which I pray before You day and night for the Israelites, Your servants, confessing the sins of the Israelites which we have sinned against You. Yes, I and my father’s house have sinned.

⁷ We have acted very corruptly against You and have not kept the commandments, statutes, and ordinances which You commanded Your servant Moses.

 

How many times have I missed the mark? 

 

It's sobering to think about the times in my life when I committed sin, both willingly and ignorantly.  Yet, I am not a solitary sinner.  All of you, like me, have sinned.  If we desire, the Holy Spirit will open our eyes to right and wrong, the way God sees it.  When the "eyes of our heart" perceive missteps (sins), grace will empower us to turn away from that thing which drives a wedge between us and Jesus.  You see, my friends, it's not about following rules and regulations; it's about following the Ruler and Regulator of the universe.  He is the King and, we obey because we love Him.

 

 

 

June 28, 2015

 

 

Yet, in our unfaithfulness, God is faithful!  He gives us a sign of His mercy in the night sky.  As Jupiter and Venus converge, some believe this celestial event is similar to what occurred in order to form the Star of David, which pointed the way to Jesus.  As you look into the western sky, remember Jesus and ask Him to empower you to see sin the way He does.  This kind of heart loves God more than self, and it is a heart which is blessed with His loving-kindness and mercy.

 

This heavenly sign once again points the way to Jesus.  Do you seek Him?  Look to the west in tonight's sky.  See the sign.  Pray that your spiritual eyes are opened to see like Him.  Bless you, my friends.  May grace empower you!!!

 



 



The Call of My Beloved: Set Me Like a Seal Upon Your Heart

God can use anything, even a cute little Facebook quiz to stir my passion for Him. Earlier today after getting home from work, 1:53 am, I took the quiz, "Which Bible Passage Describes You?" My result Song of Solomon 8:6. 

Song of Solomon 8:6
Amplified Bible (AMP)

6 Set me like a seal upon your heart, like a seal upon your arm; for love is as strong as death, jealousy is as hard and cruel as Sheol (the place of the dead). Its flashes are flashes of fire, a most vehement flame [the very flame of the Lord]!

All day, I have been meditating on this verse. I felt lead to study it's meaning...WOW!!!. During my study, I found this beautiful prophetic writing, which describes so accurately my heart for Jesus and His heart for me. It's lengthy, but well worth the read. He is a Passionate Bridegroom and I, His adoring Bride. You, also are called to be His Beloved Bride! 


 He is a Seal Upon My Heart; He is My Dwelling Place



 Submitted by Tara Dulin on January 2, 2014 - 20:21
                        
I can hear the sound of rushing water.

I look. I see a waterfall. It is vast and powerful. I look up. It is enormous. I look for the waterfall’s origin, but I can only see the rushing waterfall, and big, perfect, fluffy white clouds encircling the top of it.

I hear My Savior’s voice behind me. He is the Lover of my soul. He says: “This is My provision for you. This is My Spirit, My life that I have poured out for you. All you have need of, is found in Me, My presence, My life, My love for you. I love you with an everlasting love. My love is unmoving, unchanging, unshakeable. The lies that have been spoken over you are just that, lies from the father of lies, designed to steal, kill and destroy. Those lies are not from Me. They are NOT Truth. Fix your eyes on Me. Tune to the flow of My Holy Spirit. Rest in My embrace. Allow Me to minister My truth, My life and My love to you.”

I sense Him. He is behind me. He is near. I feel Him embrace me. I lean into His embrace. I rest in His embrace.

“Forgive me, Lord, for not coming to You first. Forgive me for not being perfect. Forgive me for letting others down. Forgive me for letting You down. Forgive me for listening to the lies and allowing the lies to overtake me for a time.”

“I am always here. I will never leave you nor forsake you. Never for a moment were you not forgiven. You did not let Me down. Apart from Me, there is pain, suffering and death. I am always here. I am unmovable, unshakeable Truth. Lies cannot take hold of you unless you focus on them. What you look to grows. Keep your eyes fixed on Me and My truth. Allow Me and My truth to wash over you. Allow My word, My power and My presence to wash over you and cleanse you.”

He takes my hand. Together, we step onto the massive pool that is before the waterfall. We walk on the water together. I feel the cool water lapping at my feet and ankles, but I feel a solid surface under my feet. I am safe. I feel the warmth of Jesus’ hand in mine. I look at Him, He is smiling at me. The warmth and love in His eyes is overwhelming. He is leading me to the waterfall. I enjoy walking with Him. With every step we take together, I feel stronger. With every step we take, I feel lighter. Walking with Him is rejuvenating. His hand is strong in mine. The warmth of His hand spreads from my hand, up my arm, into my heart. My left hand, my left arm and my heart are warm. The warmth intensifies. I feel the surge of His power and His love hit my heart. He is ministering to my heart. Being with Him, walking with Him, my hand in His, changes me.

“I have overcome sin and death. In My presence, sin and death must flee.”

I look at my Jesus’ left hand. It is glowing. It is a red-yellowish color, as if it is on fire. My left hand and left arm are the same color as His hand. I look at my heart, it is also glowing. His presence is radiating up my arm, into my heart, out of my chest.

He speaks: “Set Me as a seal upon your heart.”

I respond: “Yes, Lord. I set you as a seal upon my heart.”

My heart feels as if it is on fire.

I look to Him. He is watching me, smiling. We stop walking. We are standing before the waterfall. I feel the mist of it on my face and arms. I feel the force of it in my heart and chest. The waterfall is so strong and powerful, I know the force of it will crush me, but I am not afraid. I am safe in His presence. My heart is still warm. I feel the warmth increase, yet again.

Jesus steps in front of me. He stands between me and the waterfall. I look into His eyes. I see nothing but compassion and love. His face is gentle and kind. He loves me. He loves me as I am.

I have looked into eyes filled with anger, pain, fear, and malice. There is a knowing in my spirit that what I saw in those eyes and the lies that followed were intended to harm me. The subsequent depression and thoughts of death did not originate in Jesus.

My Lord speaks: “Will you trust Me? Will you allow Me to wash over you? Will you allow Me to cleanse your body, mind, spirit and soul of those lies?”

“Yes, Lord. I trust You. My life is in your hands. I surrender all to You. Again. I know You are the Way, the Truth, the Life.”

I continue to look into His eyes. The love and kindness I find there continues to minister to me. I weep. He opens His arms wide, and He embraces me. I melt into His embrace. He pulls me into Him.

I am me. He is Him. But we are One. I feel Him embrace every cell of my being. I feel Him hugging me. But it is a deeper embrace than I have known in the natural sense. I close my eyes and settle into His embrace. I feel Him embracing my heart. I feel Him embracing my mind. I feel Him embracing every part of me. I am me, yet I am hidden in Him. I do not understand it. I just receive it. I receive Him and all He has for me. I receive His embrace fully into my body, mind, spirit and soul. I feel His warmth and His presence settle into me as I settle into Him. I open my eyes. I see the form of His body around me. He is translucent, and I can see out of Him. We are standing in the waterfall. I did not know we had stepped into it. He protected me from the force of the downpour that would have killed me. Yet, I can still feel the rush of His power minister to me from the outside-in. He is the rushing water. He is the Living water. I lift up my arms. His arms lift up with mine. Our left arms are still glowing as if they are on fire. I open my mouth. His mouth opens with mine. I drink deeply. I drink deeply of the cool water that He drinks first. As I drink, I feel His power minister to me from the inside-out. His truth is changing me. I am being washed by His word, the Truth. It is changing my heart. His Truth is ministering to my heart. His truth is ministering to my mind. I stand in His presence, wrapped up in His love, inside the waterfall that is His overwhelming power, and I am made new.

I hear my own thoughts: “Thank you, Lord. Thank you for doing all this for me.”

He responds to my heart. It is but a whisper: “My beloved, I gave everything I have and everything I am for you. You are My heart’s desire. This is Our secret place. Dwell with Me. Stay with Me. In this place, you are strengthened. In this place, you are covered, surrounded and protected by My abounding grace. In My presence, you are safe. You cannot be harmed. This is your reality. I am your reality. Stay with Me. Stay in My embrace, and dwell with Me.”

With much love...His Beautiful Grace

Doing Psalm 104

 
 

 

 

 



I drove to Berks PSU Campus today.  What a lovely drive!  Worship music filled the car.  The Presence of the Lord was gently powerful.  My attention was drawn to the exit number 104, while glancing at the time, 1004.  I felt His still small voice say, "Read Psalm 104. 

 

 

I read, and was blessed.  My God surely knows how to encourage!

 

 

He again was speaking to me regarding, "wind."  I find it interesting that I driving in mountains and valleys today, while praising the Lord.  I was "doing" Psalm 104.  Enjoy!

 

Psalm 104
Amplified Bible (AMP)


1 Bless (affectionately, gratefully praise) the Lord, O my soul! O Lord my God, You are very great! You are clothed with honor and majesty—

2 [You are the One] Who covers Yourself with light as with a garment, Who stretches out the heavens like a curtain or a tent,

3 Who lays the beams of the upper room of His abode in the waters [above the firmament], Who makes the clouds His chariot, Who walks on the wings of the wind,

4 Who makes winds His messengers, flames of fire His ministers.

5 You laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be moved forever.

6 You covered it with the deep as with a garment; the waters stood above the mountains.

7 At Your rebuke they fled; at the voice of Your thunder they hastened away.

8 The mountains rose, the valleys sank down to the place which You appointed for them.

9 You have set a boundary [for the waters] which they may not pass over, that they turn not again to deluge the earth.

10 He sends forth springs into the valleys; their waters run among the mountains.

11 They give drink to every [wild] beast of the field; the wild asses quench their thirst there.

12 Beside them the birds of the heavens have their nests; they sing among the branches.

13 He waters the mountains from His upper rooms; the earth is satisfied and abounds with the fruit of His works.

14 He causes vegetation to grow for the cattle, and all that the earth produces for man to cultivate, that he may bring forth food out of the earth—

15 And wine that gladdens the heart of man, to make his face shine more than oil, and bread to support, refresh, and strengthen man’s heart.

16 The trees of the Lord are watered abundantly and are filled with sap, the cedars of Lebanon which He has planted,

17 Where the birds make their nests; as for the stork, the fir trees are her house.

18 The high mountains are for the wild goats; the rocks are a refuge for the conies and badgers.

19 [The Lord] appointed the moon for the seasons; the sun knows [the exact time of] its setting.

20 You [O Lord] make darkness and it becomes night, in which creeps forth every wild beast of the forest.

21 The young lions roar after their prey and seek their food from God.

22 When the sun arises, they withdraw themselves and lie down in their dens.

23 Man goes forth to his work and remains at his task until evening.

24 O Lord, how many and varied are Your works! In wisdom have You made them all; the earth is full of Your riches and Your creatures.

25 Yonder is the sea, great and wide, in which are swarms of innumerable creeping things, creatures both small and great.

26 There go the ships of the sea, and Leviathan (the sea monster), which You have formed to sport in it.

27 These all wait and are dependent upon You, that You may give them their food in due season.

28 When You give it to them, they gather it up; You open Your hand, and they are filled with good things.

29 When You hide Your face, they are troubled and dismayed; when You take away their breath, they die and return to their dust.

30 When You send forth Your Spirit and give them breath, they are created, and You replenish the face of the ground.

31 May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord rejoice in His works—

32 Who looks on the earth, and it quakes and trembles, Who touches the mountains, and they smoke!

33 I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have any being.

34 May my meditation be sweet to Him; as for me, I will rejoice in the Lord.

35 Let sinners be consumed from the earth, and let the wicked be no more. Bless (affectionately, gratefully praise) the Lord, O my soul! Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!)

Ezekiel 5-8: Unexpected Fulfillment

Ezekiel 7:25-26
Amplified Bible (AMP)

25 Distress, panic, and destruction shall come, and they [of Judah] shall seek peace, and there shall be none.

26 Calamity shall come upon calamity and rumor shall be upon rumor, and they shall seek a vision of the prophet; and the law and instruction shall cease from the [distracted] priest and counsel from the [dismayed] elders.


Sin amongst God's people caused the turmoil and the lack of hearing God as written in the above verses, but the opposite occurs when sin is identified and dealt with by crying out to God in our weaknesses.

Many years ago, I had a very specific word from the Lord.  He gave me a specific date, which I believed was the answer to what I had been praying regarding an extremely difficult situation.  I desired unity, but knew there was no way it would occur without God's miraculous intervention.

This intense supernatural experience began just after I had fallen asleep.  A bright light awoke me, and I heard an audible voice with a specific date...Saturday, 6/21/2008.  I felt like this was the promised day of unity.  So I waited and longed for the day, but the "appointed time" came and seeing no change in the physical tempted me to believe I had been duped by the evil one, yet again. 

Many changes have occurred since that day back in 2008, and "unity" seemed like only an impossible dream.  Honestly, I pretty much had forgotten about the promise; it couldn't have been God, or it would have been fulfilled, right?

Fast forward six years. 

This past Saturday, I celebrated my wonderful Mother's life by formally saying goodbye to her at her funeral service.  The day began will an early morning rainbow. ( I didn't see it, but I heard about it.)  I loved my Momma very much, but my emotions were steady and still.  I could feel the prayers being offered on behalf of me and my family. 

It turned out that unity's seed sprouted Saturday morning, 6/21/2014, exactly six years after God's promise.  I had forgotten, but God did not!

What a beautiful comfort to my soul during a time of earthly loss.  Yes, I did hear my heavenly Father!!!  I see this unexpected fulfillment as a down payment of increased unity within the body of Christ. 

My Mother was a "Treasure Seer."  She ALWAYS saw the good God had placed in each person.  She saw past the "dirt" directly into the heart of a person, and this characteristic births unity.  I believe her mantle, her calling and gifting from God, is now being offered to the Church.

Will we accept the offer to be empowered as "Treasure Seers"?  With my whole heart, I want it.  I want it for the Body of Christ, too!  

Brother and Sisters in Christ.  Let's receive this offer of unity, which can only occur as the Lord opens our eyes to see as He does with love and directly into the heart of each one we contact.  Let us bring unity to where separation has occurred.  In the name of the Great and Awesome King of Kings and Lord or Lords, Jesus, AMEN!!!

"Journey Through the Psalms" Day 8

Read, what speaks to you through these chapters?  Psalm 8, 38, 68, 98, & 128.

I don't remember reading this verse previously, "The Lord gives the word [of power]; the women who bear and publish [the news] are a great host."  Psalm 68:11 Amp.  I will sing praises to my "Victorious Deliverer!"  I will proclaim His word of power to the people I meet!  I will use technological media to publish His mighty works!  My life, inside and outside of the church will shine with His glory, because there is no thing in me to mar its reflection.  Praise be to my "Victorious Deliverer," Who empowers me with "impenetrable hardness" in the face of temptation!  You, Who has led captivity captive, will I serve all the days of my life and throughout eternity!!!

With Much Love...
Beautiful Grace

Mountain Removed: New Life and New Beginnings!!!

Dear Victorious and Faithful Friends,




The Monday after this past Christmas, I received a pathology report stating that I had breast cancer. Today, the Monday after Easter (Resurrection Day), I received the results of the PET scan from last week...no metastasis!!! Jesus was born to take our sins, heal our diseases and provide a way for us to be with Him throughout eternity. I do not believe in coincidences. The report declaring the resolution of cancer coming today is just another example of how my God speaks, and I believe He is saying to all of us that His resurrection makes "New Life and New Beginnings" possible, whether a disease needs to be eradicated or our sins need to be wiped away. Today is the day of "New Life and New Beginnings." Let's seize this gift by giving ourselves unreservedly to Jesus, accepting His free gift of salvation in its fullest measure!!!





Many Praises!



I continue to follow Peace no matter the pressure applied to my soul to do otherwise.



This morning I typed out, "The PET scan came back negative." I declared the good report in obedience to a prompting of His Spirit before I physically received the report of no metastasis to any other place in my body!!!



I have resumed my regular work schedule and duties.



Strongman and I celebrated the Passover Seder last Thursday with some dear friends (Thank you, Dave and Lori). This celebration was of special significance to me as I am a living example of the "Death Angel passing over."



I received the second MRSA culture results this morning, which came back as negative. I am officially clear of infection as per Pinnacle Health System policy!



My lifestyle has dramatically changed. I now exercise at least 5 days a week, walking/running 3 miles (5 K) each day. Dairy has been eliminated from my diet , as well as, processed sugar, caffeine, and butter/margarine. My meat (animals that walk on land) intake has been severely restricted, while I am blessed to enjoy salmon three times a week.



My new oncologist has described himself as "a worker bee in the hands of God." I'm not sure if he has a personal relationship with Jesus, but he does respect my beliefs.



It's wonderful to feel great and have some energy! This in itself has been a miraculous transformation as I have been a "tired person" since my teens. The cause of my fatigue was most probably "estrogen dominance." Which is being treated by my change in diet and exercise. http://www.estrogendominanceguide.com/symptoms-of-estrogen-dominance-in-women



Strongman has encouraged me to stand in what my heart tells me in regards to further treatment and gives me a complimentary viewpoint with his logical, left-brained way of thinking. He has the ability to see through the fog to the point of an issue. Since I tend to process with my heart, he balances me.



Continued Prayer

The PET scan did show some esophageal irritation, which I'm thinking is due to the stress of two surgeries, the infection, and all the Motrin I was taking for pain relief. I took Motrin, because the narcotic made me "loopy." ;) The oncologist wants me to take Tums with calcium before supper each day. I was just asking Jesus over the weekend if I was getting enough calcium in my diet. I love the way He answers me.



The blood results were normal and according to the doctor, "You are no where close to menopause." I take this as a praise, but in the doctor's eyes this is not good. As long as my ovaries pump out estrogen, the chance of reoccurrence of cancer is higher. I want God's direction on this, ovaries release different types of estrogen, some of which are cancer preventative.



My next surgery will be in July, please pre-pray against complications. I don't want any more infections!



Thank you all for standing with me. "Beautiful" is the only word that can describe the support I have received throughout this season of trial. Jesus has shown me that with Him, we can have peace no matter what circumstances envelope us, and in that peace, His power is released!!!



With Much Love Always...

Beautiful Grace :)



P.S. The attachment shows some of my flowers. I choose them because yellow signifies a gift from God and the red stripes are symbolic for the stripes Jesus took for my healing. Be blessed my friends!!!



Mountain Removal: Praises & Prayers

Dear Friends,




Several weeks ago, the oncologist I spoke with was a nice man, but I could feel the pressure he was placing on my spirit as he declared multiple times. "This is how we're going to treat your cancer." He verbally considered my prayerful decision of a bilateral mastectomy as "not logical." I want a doctor who respects me and my beliefs, so I spoke to my family practice physician on Monday, who recommended an oncologist "who would appreciate a patient who knows what she wants."



This past Wednesday, I spoke to my breast surgeon to get her recommendation of an oncologist who felt continued treatment was not necessary. (Remember, 50% of the oncologists at the conference said further treatment was not needed) She brought up the oncologist whom my family practice doctor recommended saying, "I don't like him," but she didn't elaborate. She didn't give me the name of another oncologist, but continued to say, in reference to the oncologist I saw initially, "He is the smartest man I know." I believe Intelligence without the guidance of God's Spirit can be a dangerous mix.



On Thursday, I sat at the kitchen table considering the reality that I don't have an oncologist with whom I am comfortable. I said out loud to Strongman, "I don't know what to do." Then I said out loud to Jesus, "Jesus, I don't know what to do. Help me." I wasn't upset, just a little perplexed. I decided to go downstairs to check my computer for any emails. Approximately, five minutes after telling Jesus that I didn't know what to do, my cell phone rang. My prophetic friend called me from work, she felt an urgency to call immediately, just to tell me about an oncologist who a co worker's wife saw for breast cancer. He is a miracle believing, born again Christian! Sounds like my kind of doctor.



Jesus, truly is my Shepherd Who leads me in perfectly. We sang a song in church on Saturday night declaring Psalm 23 whose words mean more to me now than ever before. I couldn't help but dance in praise of my Best Friend Who continually imparts peace, direction, and wisdom to me. This Man Whom I Love, answers my cries for help and guidance. He deserves ALL of my worship in this life and in the life I will share with Him throughout eternity!!!







Praises:

• For the generous monetary gift we received on Saturday. We Love you guys!!!

• The nutritional/lifestyle advice I received on Wednesday was a confirmation of much of what I already am doing.

• The infectious disease nurse practitioner's eyes lit up when she saw how great my left side looked.

• I completed two weeks of half shifts completing desk work without difficulty.

• I am exercising and getting stronger each day.

• I have lost weight, and am eating a lot of food. It's amazing how much more food a person can eat, when choosing low fat, healthy foods.

• I am scheduled for my regular job this afternoon.

• Although well-meaning Christians indirectly insinuate that cancer is the result of wrong doing on my part, their opinions have not affected my soul. I know the heart of my Jesus. He leads me perfectly with the Love of a Bridegroom; He doesn't drive me with whips forcing me to go His way. That is not the God I serve.

• For Jesus Who leads me perfectly!!!

Prayers:

• That my spiritual ears and eyes would be open to Jesus' leading constantly.

• That I would be able to work without undue fatigue, which I have been battling at times.

• That the days of my life would be steps towards my destiny in Jesus, not just days spent.

• That those who come into contact with me would see God's glory through my words and actions.

• That my soul would continue to be protected from "well-meaning Christians." Jesus, touch them and reveal Your heart and Your ways. Make their hearts like Your heart.

• That I would be able to see the born again oncologist quickly. I want closure to this bump in the path of my destiny as soon as possible.

Thank you all for all you do. Prayers, hugs, kind words of encouragement reflect the Love of Jesus!



Blessings to you all!



With Much Love...

Beautiful Grace :)

When Circumstances Knock Us Down, We Will Get Back Up in the Power of Jesus!

Dear Friends,

The beginning of this week was rough for me. Starting Monday night at 7 pm until 1 am Tuesday morning, I had severe chills and nausea. Tony piled comforters on me, but I didn't actually warm up until 4 am. Tuesday morning my temperature spiked to 102 F combined with severe weakness, body muscle aches, and nausea. I'd like to say I was brave about the whole thing, but I was so weak at one point that I couldn't even get off the recliner, and I cried like a baby. The family practice physician's assistant was sure cellulitis (infection in the fluid between the cells in the body) had begun on my left side. He started me on antibiotics and told me if I was not improved by Friday that I would need to be hospitalized. I saw the plastic surgeon yesterday and he concurred with the original diagnosis and treatment.


Both medical practitioners, multiple friends, and family have advised me to take it easy and rest. Rest seems to be the place where God is calling us, spiritually, emotionally, and physically. I really didn't feel I was overdoing it. Actually, I had been feeling great.




Many Praises for Jesus:


· The infection stirred up those nasty chest spasms on the left side, BUT last night I slept in bed spasm free the whole night! :)


· My fever has resolved. I have returned to my "normal" subnormal body temperature. My strength is returning. Yay, Jesus!


· On Tuesday, I literally was a wreck, emotionally and physically. I wept and cried out for Jesus. Peace flooded my soul as I worshipped Jesus in my sickness. Jesus, You are my Best Friend!!!


· I praise God for my Fire, who literally completed his school work while tending to me. I Love you, Fire!

· I am thankful for Pastor B. who prayed for me over the phone. You are a blessing to many, Pastor B.!

· For Hillside's faithful prayer chain organizer, Barbara L. who called the prayer warriors together to pray on my behalf.


· Out of concern, my friend, Faithful Intercessor, called to check on me. Dear, you consider others before yourself. You have the heart of Jesus!

· I am thankful my parents were available to drive me to my Tuesday doctor's appointment (Strongman was working close to Maryland). I Love you Mom and Dad!


· Early Tuesday morning, I couldn't take laying flat in bed any longer, so I got up to sleep on the recliner. My faithful husband insisted on sleeping next to me, just in case I needed him. Strongman, you truly show me Love in times better and worse! I do Love you!


· The left side incision becomes more shallow every day!


· I was approved for desk work at my place of employment on Tuesday!


· For ALL who continue to pray for and encourage me. You are gifts from God!!!


· I was free from nausea all day today and actually was hungry for lunch!



Continued Prayer:


· Complete eradication of the left breast infection


· Complete closure of the incision on the left side without an "overgrowth" of new tissue, which is unhealthy


· That the swelling on my left side would resolve quickly


· That no matter how my physical body feels, all emotions would be directed to the only One Who can help me


· That the Holy Spirit would teach me how to rest physically, emotionally and spiritually, no matter the circumstances surrounding me


· For continued guidance on all decisions and treatment options laid before me


· I will trust in You, Jesus. I will not trust in the horses and chariots of men. Teach me what that means Lord.


· That I would heal quickly, so I can get back to work.


I've been thinking about my emotional state on Tuesday. At first, I considered myself a wimp (satan's lie). The truth is I am more than a conqueror and a formidable warrior with Jesus on my side. Tears are not a sign of lack of faith, but are as Charles Spurgeon said, "liquid prayer" when directed to Jesus!!!


I appreciate and Love every one of you!!!



Most sincerely in Jesus,


Beautiful Grace 


Thought for today:



Lucy: "I knew it was You, the whole time. I knew it, but the others didn't believe me."


Aslan: "And why would that stop you from coming to Me?"
(From the Chronicles of Narnia, Prince Caspian)


Does the unbelief of others ever stop us from "Coming to Jesus?"