Things I'm Hopeful For

I’m in the middle of a self-imposed hiatus from blogging right now. I often struggle to find quiet time with God. I try to “detox” myself from the ‘outside world’ every few months, so that I can open my mind and my heart to what God is showing me. I make notes, jot things down, study the Scriptures more in-depth, and just try to listen to the essence of God within my own heart and mind. (I often think I must be a poor student, because I sometimes need to learn the same lesson more than once! Do you ever find yourself saying that? I should have learned this the first time? I’m thankful He is a patient and sovereign Lord.) I had planned not to post anything until October 1^st – which is right around the corner. But, God impressed upon my heart today, that I needed to do a little writing, so here I am.

Today is my birthday. I love celebrating birthdays! Little things – a note – a text – a silly picture – cake and ice cream – a meal out with family. You name it! I’m for it. I hope you enjoy your birthdays too! They’re special.  I think it is important to be appreciative and grateful to God each year, for all that HE has given us. Birthdays are an opportunity to thank God for what He has blessed us with. It is a chance to be hopeful for the year ahead, and birthdays are an opportunity to be optimistic about the life God has brought you to.

I have written down several things I’m hopeful about – several things I’m thankful for. The list is not all inclusive, but I felt like I needed to share some of my list…

I’m hopeful for good health. I’m hopeful the number of kids in “my” Sunday school class will grow. I’m hopeful my husband’s ministry will be a continued blessing to people. I’m hopeful that the Gospel will go out into all the world, and that people will accept Jesus as their Savior. I apply hope when I think about the wickedness of man – hoping people will ultimately do the right thing. I still hope people will do what’s right! I’m hopeful that evil will not prevail. I’m hopeful that the light of the Christian will not be snuffed out by jealousy and competitiveness. I am hopeful that God’s children will worship Him in a manner which pleases Him. I remain hopeful that nice guys don’t always finish last.

I’m hopeful that idolatry isn’t at practice within modern day churches. I’m hopeful that we will keep our eyes off earthly man and focused on God. I’m eternally hopeful that corrupt behaviors should be exposed, but can be forgiven. I remain hopeful, that people can see my heart. I’m hopeful they see my husband’s servant’s heart. I’m hopeful that our Christian walk makes a difference. I remain hopeful, because Jesus Himself gives me hope. HE is hope for the hopeless.

Jotting things down helps me to be more aware of just how blessed I am. Yet, I find myself with a heaviness of heart today. Maybe it comes as reaction to attending a church member’s funeral earlier this afternoon (a sweet, kind gentleman). Perhaps it is family pressures. Job situations. People dynamics.  It’s just fair to say, when those we love are hurting, it hurts us too. Today is a difficult day in some aspects, but I recognize that I am fully blessed…I do not want my own weaknesses to distract from the goodness of God.

This is my prayer:

Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus, I bow before you. Humbly. Thankfully. This earth, this world, this generation, sure seems dark right now. I sense coldness. I feel a drawing away from that which is warm and comforting within people. I usually can see the bright side of given situations, but the bright side seems dimmer lately. People seem to be walking on egg shells. There’s a lack of genuine love among people.  I discern divisiveness. There seems to be anger and hostility toward your true Followers. There’s unreasonable competition and questionable motives. Help me not to see any of what man may do – Help me to keep my eyes on YOU. You alone.  We need your intercessory power. Oh, Lord Jesus, please display your Light within the darkest caverns. We are weary. Not in well-doing, but weary in the flesh of man. I am, like those that have bowed before you in martyrdom, kneeling at the Cross of Calvary. Heal us, help us, and strengthen us. Help us to keep ‘carrying on’ for you many more years. Amen.

Look UP my friends!

Atheist and the Bear

You’ve probably heard this story before; if you’re a member of our church, then I KNOW you’ve heard this little antidote from one of my husband’s messages. I've seen this joke on the internet too. But I think it is worth a good chuckle today. Sometimes it’s just good to share a laugh! Christians need encouragement! We’re hear enough doom and gloom, right?  We have struggles, pain, and obstacles like everyone else. Let’s take a couple of minutes to rest our minds, and enjoy this well-intended joke.

The Atheist and the Bear

An atheist was taking a walk through the woods. 'What majestic trees! What powerful rivers! What beautiful animals!’ he said to himself. 

As he continued walking alongside the river he heard a rustling in the bushes. Turning to look, he saw a 7 foot grizzly charging towards him. 

He ran as fast as he could up the path. Looking over his shoulder he saw that the bear was closing in on him. His heart was pumping frantically and he tried to run even faster. 

He tripped and fell on the ground. He rolled over to pick himself up but saw the bear raising his paw to take a swipe at him.

At that instant the atheist cried out: 'Oh my God!' ...

Time stopped.
The bear froze.
The forest was silent.

It was then that a bright light shone upon the man and a voice came out of the sky saying:

'You deny my existence for all of these years, teach others I don't exist and even credit creation to a cosmic accident.  Do you expect me to help you out of this predicament? Am I to count you as a believer?'

The atheist looked directly into the light.

'It would be hypocritical of me to suddenly ask you to treat me as a Christian now, but perhaps, could you make the BEAR a Christian?'

'Very well, 'said the voice. The light went out, and the sounds of the forest resumed.

And then the bear lowered his paw, bowed his head and spoke: 'Lord, bless this food which I am about to receive and for which I am truly thankful, Amen.'

Lesson: Look out for Christian bears and be careful what you pray for!

 

Look UP my friends!

4 Things God Doesn't Know?!

I’ve had a busy couple of weeks. Highs. Lows. Blessings. Obstacles. I think most true Christians are in a battle of spiritual warfare, of varying degrees. This morning as I silenced my thoughts, and tried to focus beyond the circumstances, I began to mediate about the innumerable things I DON’T KNOW. Not things like “Why did the chicken cross the road?” But deeper questions such as, “Can this person see my heart? Am I using my abilities to glorify my Savior? What can I do so that my light isn’t snuffed out? Am I doing my part in carrying the Gospel to those who are spiritually blind?” Pondering those questions – it enabled me come to a big realization. Very big! There are a few things that God does NOT know.

Did you know that? Are you shocked? This idea may catch you by great surprise or even blind-side you theologically. But, before you draw the wrong conclusion, please let me further explain.

Foremost, you understand that God is omniscient. This means He knows everything, about everyone, even down to the hair on our heads. He is ALL knowing. He is also omnipresent. This term means He is everywhere for everyone all at once.

So, being that He is omniscient AND omnipresent, how is it that He doesn’t know something?

Allow me to articulate it this way…

(1)  God doesn’t know a bad day. When I’m having a bad day, I like to remind myself that God is never surprised by anything that happens. He is never “boggled down” even when I am. He created the day from the night. The sun from the moon. Genesis accounts the creation of mankind and the earth as we know it. God literally created the day, so it can be concluded that He wouldn’t worry, like mankind does, over something or someone He created. He does not know a bad day in any shape or form. Although He cares for us enormously, He doesn’t stress or lose sleep over our worries. The Bible teaches us that our thoughts are not His thoughts. He is an almighty, powerful, and potent Deity.

(2)  God doesn’t know sin. The dreaded “s” word. We don’t like to think of ourselves as sinful or sin-filled, but the truth is we ALL fall short of the glory of God.  God , Himself is the only one free from sin. He is a holy and righteous God. When Jesus lived as a man among the lowly, HE never sinned. Through the shedding of His precious and holy blood, we have a way to heaven. HE made a way when no other could make a way. You know the old hymn, “What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the Blood of Jesus! What can make me whole again? Nothing but the Blood of Jesus.”

(3)  God doesn’t know a person He doesn’t love. That’s a lot different from people’s nature, isn’t it? Sometimes our love is conditional. Or tainted. Why, I could readily name several people I do love, and probably several people I may not “love to pieces.” <Insert a chuckle> You understand what I’m saying... God IS love. He gave His Son to die for you. For the wicked. For the battered. The bruised. The lowly. The wealthy. The poor. The person of color. The person in bondage. The happy. The sad. The person enslaved. Every individual. YOU. Think about God as our Father. He is our HEAVENLY Father. He loves us. And He proved it on Calvary.

(4)  God doesn’t know defeat. He’s never lost a battle. Let me repeat that sentence…He’s never lost a battle! The God we serve is the same God of Paul and Silas. The same One who led His children out of pharaoh’s bondage at the Red Sea. The same God who raised Lazarus from the dead. But, let’s be clear about one thing…God has always had an enemy who wants to defeat Him, but the enemy will never win. God cannot be defeated because nobody or nothing can defeat His power. Dr. Bob Jones said, "There are times and situations that feel hopeless. We may feel like things are a lost cause. But if worse case scenarios come to fruition, it isn’t because God isn’t powerful enough."  As one gospel song tells us, “He is mightier than the mighty! The greatest of the great!”

So, I hope you find reassurance in that God doesn’t know a bad day. He doesn’t know sin. He doesn’t know defeat. And God does not know a person He doesn’t love! We serve a sovereign Lord!

Look UP my friends!

An Old West Story

And of some have compassion, making a difference: Jude 1:22

One of the best speeches I ever heard was given by our niece at her high school graduation – the Valedictorian of her class – you can imagine how proud we were. I think we cried throughout the entire day. It’s extremely rewarding and fulfilling to see young people who love the Lord. People who care about others more than themselves. To see people reach their God-given potential! There’s nothing like it. Graduations are milestones. Weddings are milestones. Our Christian lives are milestones within themselves. They matter. Our countenance, our disposition, our inner character make a difference! 10+ years later…that speech made a difference in my life. You probably have milestone moments too. Important moments that made a lasting impact.

 I won’t disclose her age, because it might mean disclosing mine, (Haha!) but her keynote verse was Jude 1:22. She made an emphasis on compassion. I’ve had this speech and this thought on my mind for a few days. Do we extend compassion enough? Do we put anyone else’s needs above our own? Are we making a difference in our Christian walk?

So, a few days ago when I came across a short story, it stuck with me. It goes along with my thoughts on compassion today, so I’ll re-tell it as best I can. (Repeat -This original story was not written by me. Unfortunately, I do not know the author).

A man in the ‘Old West’ was on trial for stealing a horse. (Let’s remember that stealing a horse in the Old West was a very grave and serious offense). A person could be hanged if found guilty of such a deed. It was considered in some aspects, no less than a murder.

It so happened that the man whose horse had been stolen had always made it a point to get the best of any person with whom he had any dealings. (He was spiteful!)  He never tried to do anything good for anyone other than himself. (Selfish!) Consequently, the man whose horse had been stolen didn't have a single friend in the entire town. The case was tried and presented to the jury.

The evidence against the alleged man was pretty strong. After 30 minutes of deliberation, the jury returned to the court room. "Gentlemen of the jury, have you reached a verdict?" the judge asked. The chairman of the jury stood up. "Yes we have, your honor," he replied. "What is your verdict?" inquired the judge. There were a few moments of silence and then the chairman spoke. "We find the defendant not guilty if he will return the horse."

After the judge had silenced the laughter in the courtroom, he admonished the jury. "I cannot accept that verdict. You will have to retire until you reach another verdict," said the judge. The jury went back into their room to deliberate toward another verdict. (No member of the jury had any particular liking for the man whose horse had been stolen. At one time or another, he had gotten the best of each of them).

About an hour passed before the jury could reach another verdict. They re-entered the courtroom. They took their place in the jury box and the courtroom grew silent.

"Gentlemen of the jury," began the judge, "have you reached a verdict?" The chairman of the jury stood up. "Yes we have, your honor," he replied. "What is your verdict?" asked the judge.

The courtroom was totally silent. You could have heard a pin drop. Everyone eagerly awaited the verdict. The chairman read the decision reached by the twelve good men, tried and true. "We find the defendant not guilty, and he can keep the horse!”

That was a surprising outcome, right? Unexpected compassion. Unexpected forgiveness. (Sort liken to how God is toward His children. Full of mercy! Unmerited favor). It’s good to be compassionate to those who are seemingly undeserving, isn’t it? Note: I didn’t say it was easy – I said it is a good thing to do.

 I have a few short tips for dealing with difficult, selfish people…

1)       Don’t take it personally, but know sometimes that it is personal.

2)       Act instead of reacting!

3)       Don’t let someone else hurt your relationship with Jesus

4)       Disarm negativity by doing or saying something positive

5)       Resist the urge to label and/or judge someone

6)       Don’t allow others’ behaviors to rub off on you – don’t ‘entertain’ bad company too long

It’s hard to extend compassion when we assume that we have a person nailed. It’s quite tempting to generalize certain situations – especially if we’re on the receiving end of negative behavior!  “He’s a jerk. She’s a rebellious person. He’s selfish.” Even if it unlikely someone will wake up one day and act differently – act kinder or more nicely – we must remember that it IS possible through God’s power.

God will bless your works through Him. You CAN make a difference! He will give you the grace to extend compassion in difficult situations – Ask for His help today. He WILL strengthen you.

Look UP my friends!

 

A Chance At Love - Boaz & Ruth

Gatsby and Daisy. Jane and Edward Rochester. Catherine and Heathcliff. Before today’s Edward and Bella became internationally famous, there were Tristan and Iseult, Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Mr. Darcy and Miss Elizabeth of Pride and Prejudice, there was another couple. Possibly “the couple” of ALL couples! Boaz and Ruth. Their love story, dating from approximately 1000 BC, is still strongly applicable in the twenty-first century. With more than 2.2 million weddings in the United States each year, I’d surmise that people are looking to find their “one true” love. (By the way, it averages about 5,918 weddings per day in America!)

An article I read online stated, "Boaz, cinematically speaking, was the leading man in the Hebrew book of Ruth. Chapter 2 accounts this short but divine love story. The book of Ruth is the story of a young widow, whose heart had been broken by her husband’s death, yet healed by faith in the God of Israel."

"Having touched God’s heart, she also touched the heart of one of God’s champion followers—Boaz. The juncture of their lives becomes not only the framework of an earthly love story but also the foreshadowing of the greatest love story, God’s love for the world through Jesus." {For God SO loved the world, that He gave His only begotten…John 3:16}

I won’t spend a lot of time in review of Ruth and Boaz in this specific blog posting, but I wanted to bring to the reader’s fore mind that our young people – our teens and pre-teens need good, Godly examples in their lives! Right now the “Boaz Principle” or “Recognizing My Boaz” is being taught by leaders throughout the country.  You can lots of good information online about it. I encourage you to attend a seminar or prayer study about this teaching if you have an opportunity. You’ll leave encouraged and stronger.  But what about AFTER the symposium? After the girls go home? The months following the Bible study?

I’ve been thinking about this for several months – possibly because I’ve had recent opportunity to speak in front of several young ladies this summer (Not bragging on self – but rather glorifying God!)

Let’s teach our girls (of all ages) the difference between:

*A young man who lusts after her, verses a man who wants to protect her purity.

* A young man who believes he’s a gift to women, verses a man who believes SHE is a gift to him from God. (Read that comment on Pinterest)

* A young man who views her as a piece of property, verses a man who views her properly

* A young man who sees what he can get, verses a man who expects to receive nothing

*A young man who acts like a Christian in front of her, verses a man who LIVES like a Christian in and out of her presence. (My pastor has said this many times).

* A young man who “acts right” in front of mom and dad, verses a man who acts right when they are alone together, away from mom and dad.

*A young man who brings up past mistakes, verses a man who offers hope, trust, and acceptance in building a future

*A young man who puts his wants first, verses a man who puts himself last.

A famous minister said, "What made Boaz perfect for Ruth had very little to do with his relationship to Naomi, his influence, or his wealth. It was the fact that he was the son of Rahab (Mat 1:5), a Harlot woman who by grace (undeserved favor) was wedded to one of the Israelite princes. Thus, Boaz spent his childhood in groundwork, in preparation, observing the love and respect his royal father showed to his mother."

Thanks to the wonderful God we serve who knows EACH OF US from the beginning from the end, Ruth’s second chance love was born to the right set of parents, with the right dispositions and experiences to teach their son how to love Ruth with divine precision before she was even born.  What God did for Ruth, He is able to do for you! (Already blessed with your Boaz?! Then praise God for His excellent goodness!)

And by all means…Let’s teach our own sons to be the men God will be pleased with!

Look UP my friend!

A Highwire Act

Have you heard of Charles Blondin? I’ve written about him before, but this time I wanted to convey his story of faith. Charles Blondin was a famous French tightrope walker. I feel like his life was a wonderful illustration of what true faith is – and the crowd’s response to his high wire act serves as a valuable life lesson as well.

One famous quote stated, "Blondin's utmost fame came on September 14, 1860, when he became the first person to cross a tightrope stretched 11,000 feet (over a quarter of a mile!) across the massive Niagara Falls. People from all over the world, Canada, and the United States hoarded to see him defy death."

He walked across, 160 feet above the Falls, many, many times... each time with a different daring feat. The newspaper's report stated, "He crossed over once in a sack, a couple of times on stilts, once on a bicycle, even in the dark, and blindfolded, among other precarious things. It is also documented that he even carried a stove and cooked omelets on one daring crossing." Unbelievable sights! You can imagine the “ooohhs” and “aaahhhs” from the large crowds gathered to watch him – how exciting it was to see him pushing wheelbarrows filled with potatoes and other extreme tasks.

Then one day, according to witnessed accounts noted in the paper, "He unexpectedly asked for the participation of a volunteer."  He suddenly stopped and addressed his audience: "Do you believe I can carry a person across in this wheelbarrow?"

The crowd unreservedly yelled, "Yes! You are the greatest tightrope walker in the world! We believe!"

"Okay," inquired Blondin, "Who wants to get into the wheelbarrow?"

As far as the Blondin story goes, NO ONE did at the time! (Not that I blame them).

This unique story illustrates a real life picture of what faith actually is. The crowd watched these daring feats. They said they believed. But... their actions proved they truly did not believe.

You probably know where I am going --- Let’s evaluate our own Christianity.  It is one thing for us to say we believe in God, but it is another thing to actually LIVE it. To demonstrate it consistently. To put God first. (How easy it is to SAY we put God first in our lives! But DO we?)  It's true faith when we believe God, putting our faith in Christ Jesus…Let’s work harder to ensure our ACTIONS and our SPEECH correspond.

Follow Up Story: In August of 1859, Blondin's manager, Harry Colcord, DID ride on Blondin's back across the Falls.

Look UP my friends!

A Happy Pill

Christians most likely know the scripture A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones – Proverbs 17:22, KJV. The ability to laugh and retain a lighthearted spirit are signs of a healthy spiritual life, in my opinion. Laughter simply makes people feel better – literally and emotionally. A good laugh can help us to forget our worries for a few moments. Laughter can help put our lives into perspective. When we laugh, we are able to call to mind that there’s more to life than our pain, our illness, or our mountains. A physician on television said, "A healthy sense of humor and a good laugh bring hope into the present by making us feel better even in the midst of a hard day." Did you know that laughter can also help us forget our fears? Yes! It REALLY is important that the Christian retain the ability to laugh at himself and demonstrate a clean, honorable sense of humor. I understand as I write this, that life isn’t always funny, but it’s relevant to push forward and remain in a lighthearted disposition when at all possible. (Other people are watching your life!) I must confess that I’ve thought if there was a safe and effective “happy pill” that I would like to offer a few happy pills to some people. Nobody likes to be around a scrooge too long. (C’mon! You’ve thought that too! Happy pills?! Surely! Or maybe it really is just me?)  

I remember when I was about 7 years old, an early December morning, a Sunday school classmate REALLY wanted it to snow early for our Christmas break. (Christmas was still a few weeks away). He made a short speech in Sunday school about it. Going so far as to write a note to his parents; a note to several friends including myself, putting us all on notice that he would not be bathing or eating until it snowed. My young brain was quite impressed at his zeal. I lost track of the days – and the note. But the next Sunday I remembered his oath. I was excited to see if he didn’t take a bath for a whole week! Did he eat? Had he melted away from starvation? Would he look the same? Would he look like “little orphan Annie” my only reference point at that young age?

I walked through the parking lot with eager awareness that cold winter morning, my patent leather shoes scuffing as I walked along the curb. My pea coat ruffling against the wind, my thoughts were on the snow-day pact my young friend had made. Then what did I see?

His family’s station wagon! There he was in the front seat “chowing down” on a big fat country ham biscuit and a large glass of apple juice. I gasped! “What happened to the not eating?” I exclaimed. More of an accusation than a question. (I knew it hadn’t snowed).

“Oh,” he casually responded. “That didn’t mean my grandma’s food.”

Boy, was I disappointed. I begrudgingly stomped off to class.  I’m not completely sure why. But I do recall having the feeling of being “let down.” I must have wanted him to show up stinky, putrid, and skinny– a young nobleman with a cause. No baths! No food!

When it snowed AFTER Christmas, my young friend took credit in class. “See! My plan worked!” I did what any good 7 year old girl would do…I ‘bopped him on the arm’ really good and indignantly told him he didn’t have anything to do with it snowing.

What did the teacher say? “Somebody needs a happy pill this morning, right Kimmie?!” Lesson learned! Haha! (We can all use a happy pill sometimes, I suppose! Thankfully, as an adult, I understand that my sincere joy comes from knowing Christ Jesus. Every Christian has this gift of genuine peace).

Ya’ never know what amusing things kids will do or say. I wanted to share a few comments made by kids about relationships! I thought they were quite funny. Enjoy…

Kids Say The Funniest Things Part 2 (Found Online)

HOW DO YOU DECIDE WHO TO MARRY?  
You got to find somebody who likes the same stuff. Like, if you like sports, she should like it that you like sports, and she should keep the chips and dip coming.
- Alan, age 10

No person really decides before they grow up who they're going to marry. God decides it all way before, and you get to find out later who you're stuck with.
- Kirsten, age 10

WHAT IS THE RIGHT AGE TO GET MARRIED?
Twenty-three is the best age because you know the person FOREVER by then.
- Camille, age 10

No age is good to get married at. You got to be a fool to get married.
- Freddie, age 6HOW CAN A STRANGER TELL IF TWO PEOPLE ARE MARRIED?

You might have to guess, based on whether they seem to be yelling at the same kids.
- Derrick, age 8
WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR MOM AND DAD HAVE IN COMMON?
Both don't want any more kids.
- Lori, age 8

WHAT DO MOST PEOPLE DO ON A DATE
Dates are for having fun, and people should use them to get to know each other. Even boys have something to say if you listen long enough.
- Lynnette, age 8

On the first date, they just tell each other lies, and that usually gets them interested enough to go for a second date.
- Martin, age 10

Look UP my friends!  

Short and Powerful Quotes

All of us, at all times, are facing obstacles and adversity OR we know people who are. I’ve received quite a bit of feedback and requests for short but simple truths that will be an encouragement to the readers of this blog. Below I’ve listed a few short but powerful quotes. My prayer is that one of them will speak to your heart and encourage you to look to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith.

The best way to cheer yourself up is to cheer everyone else up!

~ Mark Twain

We tend to judge others by their behavior and ourselves by our intentions.

~ Albert Schlieder

Knowledge is power but it may not foster understanding and compassion.

~ Bro. Danny Hemric

The most beautiful gift a preacher can give others is the truth – even if it is painful.

~ Bro. Danny Hemric

A house divided against itself cannot stand.

~ Abraham Lincoln

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.

~ Romans 3 :23 KJV

Don’t be afraid to stand for what you believe in, even if that means standing alone.

~ Unknown

Look UP my friends!

The Burning Question

“Why is this happening to me?” was the question I received from a friend. Unfortunately, I didn’t have a profound; immediate response. It’s not a bad question - Why DO bad things happen to good people? The question might have at least a dozen right or wrong answers. I needed to tread lightly!

The person who asked me this question – the burning question – seemed to have bitterness in their heart at that particular moment. So in that split second of decision making, I asked God for assistance and decided to be bold in my answer.

It is important not to challenge or rebuke God when things go wrong in our lives. {It is easier said than done sometimes!} The Christian understands that wrong doings still occur. Sometimes they occur frequently! We experience painful situations such as being wrongly fired, unfairly accused, erroneously hurt, the loss of a loved one, or dishonorably treated by someone. Being a child of the King, doesn’t mean we’re treated or loved like one! (Except by Him, the One who died for us).

However, I recommend that we refrain from being hostile with God. Don’t insert a personal pronoun into the question. It could be considered accusatory.   How easy to internally say, “God, why did YOU let this happen to me? Why are YOU allowing this to happen? I’m the good guy here, why are you not punishing THEM for their wicked ways? Why did you let my loved one die? How could you do that, God?” Sentences like those.

The truth is – God’s ways are not our ways. His thoughts are not our thoughts (Isaiah 55:8).  Sometimes life is extremely hard to understand, if we can understand at all. Some occasions offer no earthly answer for heavenly questions. I do, however, know that during and through times of sorrow and pain, the presence of God is available to us 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. He’s there ALL the time. It’s during the valley that we can feel the presence of God. His strength. His comfort. His sustaining love. When everyone and/or everything in our lives fails – God will never fail! He sustains those who grieve and lament. He offers assurance in the face of evil deeds. He offers His magnificent grave to those He calls to Himself.

When my friend asked me about her situation - it seemed a natural question. Most all of us would question favoritism on the job, family rifts, or the loss of relationships. My friend’s story (or account) is quite tragic. A second child with cancer (the first one survived into teenage hood prior to passing away). Unfair workplace treatment. Financial struggles secondary to a family member’s dishonest choices. Just a lot of wounded emotions and sore feelings all at once! Totally understandable, right? A SECOND child with cancer!? Beyond hard!

I cannot explain the loss of a child. I know that God doesn’t look at death like we do. God is able to restore life to that child through the resurrection of Jesus. It’s what heaven is all about! It’s why we put our trusting souls literally in His hands.

I cannot explain the workplace injustices that occur across the nations. I do know that God will meet your needs according to His riches in glory. I know that HE can open better doors. I know that He can be glorified for turning valleys into victories! He CAN make a way. I am reminded that He sees what is wrong, and only He can make things right.

I cannot explain chronic financial struggles. I can testify to God’s deliverance though. I’ve seen Him make possible what I thought was impossible! I know He wants us to rely on Him entirely. You probably have your own personal witness to the glory of God – your witness to Him meeting your needs in an unexpected but holy way! God does work that way quite often. The unforeseen gift from someone. “Laying something on your heart” to be a blessing to another. (Be obedient, dear Christian! You never know what the need is behind the gift!)

My hope in answering the burning question (with what I can and cannot explain) is that you will find His comfort, His presence, and His grace into the circumstances of your life. Remind yourself that God is bigger than anything you’re facing. Jesus is right where you are.

Look UP my friends!

Pancakes on Sunday

I wanted to cook something special for my husband Sunday morning. I don’t usually prepare a large breakfast on Sunday, so as not to run late for Sunday school. It’s not a very good role model if the teacher runs consistently late, so I try my best to avoid my “5 minutes late” lifestyle on the Lord’s Day. Yet, the first Sunday of the month is a big “work day” for my hubby, so I wanted to start his day off well.

With that said, I went about assembling my items: Eggs, milk, canola oil, vanilla, blueberries, 1 lemon, and a box of gluten free pancake flour I had unexpectedly found at the grocery store. (I wasn’t sure how the gluten free flour would taste, so I thought if I doctored it up to make a batch of blueberry-lemon pancakes, then the potential “healthy” taste would be masked. The gluten allergy is my thing, not my husband’s).

I pulled out my big wooden bowl, my ladling spoon, and the large heavy skillet I needed. I poured some oil into the pan. I prefer the pan to be “good and hot.”  I like to hear the sizzle of batter as it initially hits the pan.

As I proceeded to pour oil into the flour mixture, I looked over to the counter and noticed I had left a floury trail on the countertop, my dress, and the floor. No idea how that happened! I thought I was being careful. I don’t know what happened next, but as I cracked the eggs, I also knew two pieces of the shell had landed smack-dab in the middle of the batter! I found myself getting frustrated as I went to the cupboard for a spoon. What I had intended to be a relaxing and fulfilling meal, was suddenly a monumental mess.

Just then, I saw hubby standing at the door. He was watching me. He walked over, popped a blueberry into his mouth, and gave me a kiss on the cheek. “Thanks for going through the extra trouble this morning, you didn’t have to,” he said.  With a squeeze on my arm, a kind word, and a brief acknowledgement he left the room to finish his Sunday morning preparations.

This little snapshot into our Sunday morning routine, got me to thinking... That's how God deals with us sometimes. We try to do something noble in life, but it veers into a mess. HE is there to offer us comfort - an encouraging Word. He’ll set straight what went crooked. Many times our marriage relationship, our job, among other things, gets all sticky and messy (we insult a friend, or we can't stand our job at a particular moment or our health declines or our feeling s are hurt). Sometimes we just stand there for a second, fighting back tears because we don’t know what else to do. It’s at that moment that God picks us up. Comforts His child. That's when God reaches down and forgives us, even though some of our mess gets all over Him.

Just because we might get messy, we can't stop trying to "make pancakes" for others. It’s through our messes that God has opportunity to clean us up! Sooner or later we'll get it right, and then you’ll be glad you tried.

Outcome of our gluten free pancakes? They turned out great.

Look UP my friends!