Conquering Your Battle

I've spent the last couple days reading and re-reading the words of David in Psalm 56.

We've all heard that trials come, and trials go. We can either worry and fret unendingly over them, or learn from them and of course breathe a huge sigh of relief when the light at the end of the tunnel finally seems to appear. However, sometimes there are circumstances and life events that come at us and it literally feels like an attack on our soul itself. Can you relate? I'm talking about the heart wrenching, tear streaming, at the end of our rope and can't take the hurt anymore moments.

These kind of "moments" are the ones which seem to last for weeks... months... even years.

David had these moments, and he wrote about them in a few of his psalms. For me, Psalm 56 turned on the light bulb over my head on handling such moments, and it's instruction for us on handling them in a way that allows us to escape the sadness, fear, grief, and heartache... and accept help, deliverance and peace over it so we can stand up, move forward, and be thankful!

In this particular psalm, David calls out a prayer for help and deliverance. With a combination of evil doings of others, as well as his own fears and mistakes on his part, he finds himself in a mess that is consuming his heart and mind with grief. He walks himself through his problem in his prayer, and we can have breakthroughs of our own by following example.

First he vented.
David told God his problem. Nowhere in the psalm does it say he called up his buddies, ran to his mommy, ranted on Facebook, or discussed it at the office water cooler. He went to God crying... literally. He spilled his guts about what was bothering him. He explained his worries, fears, and what he was up against. He told God about how the people were running their mouth about him, twisting his words, and hoping he made mistakes they could call him out on. He even told God not to let them get away with it and to cast them down. Of course God already knew and saw what he was going through, but David acknowledged God as his confidant by turning to Him, and Him alone.

Is your workplace causing overbearing stress that overflows into your personal life? Are there relationships in your life that have your heart tangled? Maybe you're young and still in school, but hate going because of the peer pressure and bullying you experience?

When you can't stand it any longer... kneel. Talk to Him. He sees what's going on, but who doesn't feel better after they vent a scenario that has rocked your world. Prayer is communication between us and the throne, so fill Him in with how it's troubling your heart. The words don't have to be perfect. They can be through tears, shouting, or just whispers.

Next he acknowledged his faithful friend.
David didn't go into a "hey God how are you, thanks for hearing me out" before he spilled his guts about his dilemma. But he did acknowledge his listening Friend. He spoke of his awareness that God is with him, he has no need to fear or worry, and in God he can trust the situation.

Your dilemma may be so stressful, heart wrenching, or mind consuming that you forget to acknowledge Him before your rant begins, but as we talk, and clear our minds with our personal Confidant, the peace begins to fall, and it sinks in that we have nothing to fear. He is true to His word, nothing your worst enemy could say or do will be greater than the love of the Lord that can and will get you through it.

Lastly, he gives thanks.
David was still in the midst of his dilemma, but he thanked God as though it was already solved and over with. He knew the battle was still raging against him, but he began speaking as though it was over. He claimed God's word and His promises. He thanked God for delivering him out of the situation.

Your problem, whatever it is, may be compiling around you, building up like a concrete wall that seems to be unbreakable. Circumstances don't matter. He's the Creator of your adversaries, so surely you can trust in Him to handle them for you... because let's face it, His intervention will always be better than handling it on your own. So hold onto His promises to deliver you from it. Go about your day with a heart and mind full of joy. The enemy will come at you telling you it's getting worse, that it's not a fixable situation, and that you're just plain nuts for praising through the storm... but do it anyway. Don't feed into the words of discouragement the enemy whispers in your ear, picking it up and worrying about it some more. Let it go, and call it done.

For thou hast delivered my soul from death: wilt not thou deliver my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living?
(Psalm 56:13)

The Whatsoevers On Our Minds

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (Philippians 4:8)

Our minds never stop working... but what are they working on?

While we may think we are in constant control of our thoughts, there is more going on subconsciously than we realize. Whether it be humming a song stuck in our heads, getting up to get a snack during a commercial because a food ad made you hungry, or getting sleepy when you hear it raining outside. These are simple examples of how our subconscious leads us to do and act on what our minds are hearing, even if all else seems quiet and normal.

How many times have you gotten to work still fuming about the way some guy you don't even know cut you off in traffic? Or perhaps you got into it with one of your children and caught yourself snapping at your spouse for no reason. Although you continued on with your day, your mind was still churning thoughts on morning traffic or a dispute with your kids. You have allowed that one moment to consume your day. You weren't controlling your thoughts, you were just reacting to them.

Knowing this, we have to learn to be aware of our thoughts, our minds can be our worst enemy otherwise.

If you were to go swimming out in the ocean, you're controlling your position against the current with your arm and leg movements. When you wear out, you may allow yourself to float. If you get too relaxed floating, you may look up and realized how far the current has taken you and how far away you've floated from the shore. Just because you stopped swimming, doesn't mean the current stopped... it's still moving you while you've been at rest.

Our spiritual walk isn't any different. There's no such thing as a stationary Christian. If you're not working to move toward Christ, you're floating away from Him. The currents in life will sweep you away if your not constantly aware of your thoughts and surroundings. It must be a constant process, consciously and subconsciously. We have to train ourselves to be continuously aware of and in control of our thoughts.

In Philippians chapter 4, Paul reminds us that the "whatsoevers" our minds dwell on should be true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good nature. One's natural way of thinking would be to focus on the negative in a situation... how much we despise our job, a family feud that may have surfaced, the daunting housework before us, the traffic we're sitting in, the bills stacking up on our desk, and so on. Are we just allowing ourselves to get swept up in the current of things, forcing ourselves through the day so we can call it over and hope to start fresh the next day... only to find ourselves further from the shore and stuck in the same current?

We have to choose how we react and respond to things going on around us. We can dwell on our inabilities, challenges, and life drama... or we can focus on our strengths, opportunities, and God's provision in our lives. This goes the same for how we respond to people. Are we allowing ourselves to focus so hard on their weaknesses and mistakes, or are we uplifting them in their accomplishments and strengths?

Spend a day or two noting down your thoughts. Summarize the amount of time spent thinking about the challenges in your life verses the opportunities. How about the amount of time dissecting the mistakes of others in your life verses the accomplishments and good things. My estimate is that the negative will far outweigh the positive. This is natural thought!

With natural thought we push people away from us, form a critical spirit towards others, tie God's hands in doing a work through us, and lead a very poor example for the body of Christ. It's a thought process that lacks the love of the Lord that the Holy Spirit yearns to develop within us! This natural thought allows the current to pull us away from Christ.

However, when we take control over our thoughts and allow ourselves to be led by the spirit, we receive a peace over conflicting situations, we develop a teachable spirit for the Lord to guide, we build wisdom for circumstances, and an example of Christ's love is consistently visible in us. Controlled thoughts keep us focused on the Lord, allowing us draw closer to Him.

It's okay to be aware of weaknesses... but only so we know what areas to strengthen. Life is full of surprises, drama, and unexpected situations, but when we keep our thoughts in check, we have the say on whether or not the automatic nature of negativity will be allowed to consume our minds.

What are the whatsoevers you're concentrating on? Are you at peace over a scenario, or churning a bad conversation in your head over and over? When you're on a break are you laughing at a dumb joke you were told earlier, or refreshing your mind with a scripture that will strengthen you for the remainder of the day? Are you building others up in your conversations, or tearing them down with reminders of their mistakes? Is a lack of sleep the night before giving you an excuse to be snappy and rude, or are you pushing through with a smile despite the weariness so the best can still be made of your day?

We all need improvements in our thinking... so make the whatsoevers that your mind dwells on bring glory to God and positivity to your day, regardless of your surrounding circumstances! Remember, garbage in, creates garbage out... but goodness and Godliness in, reveals the same in return!

It's Time to Get Serious Folks

To many proclaiming Christians, getting into heaven seems as easy and thoughtless as making a quick stop at the store for a gallon of milk.

In fact, I would say many put more thought into what they're going to wear for the day, than they do on The One who woke them up that morning.

Romans 13:14 tells us to "put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ". If you spent hours each morning getting ready, it's all useless and in vain if you haven't put on and wrapped yourself up in the traits of Christ. When you "put on Christ", you're being mindful of the way He lived, the lessons He taught, and the life He sacrificed. You're opening your day to be an example of what He represented and gave His life for.

Consider this scenario:

Jesus wakes up in the morning, says a prayer to the Father in heaven, asking Him to bless His day. He grabs some breakfast, and heads to work as a carpenter. Once He gets to work, he sees John Doe working on a project out of earshot. He leans over to a friend working nearby to fill him in on what he saw John Doe doing the night before. He talks about how hot the woman at the well was. After His boss walks by to check on work progress, Jesus exclaims what a jerk he is and how much he'd like to slap the attitude right out of him. After lunch he's running late getting back to work, and he flips a bird at the guy causing traffic on the path, delaying him even more. Finally making it back to work, He's getting tired and irritated, wishing it were Friday, so he snaps at everyone that speaks to him for the rest of the day. On the way home after work he stops at a nearby pub to have a few drinks with some guys from work to trash talk the boss a bit more. When He gets home for the night, he sits alone, frustrated, trying to figure out why His life is so hard sometimes. Before going to bed for the night, He prays, asking God to make tomorrow a better day.

I don't know about you, but I am most certain this is NOT how a typical day in the life of Jesus went!! So, why is it so many "Christians" think that their typical day can be carried in such a way, yet wonder why their life isn't joy-filled, prosperous, stress free, financially secure, and with blessings overflowing with favor from their Father in heaven??

Look friends, if you want to claim the peace and blessings that come with being a child of God, then it's time to start living like a child of God. Gossip in the work place or at school, negativity and the sharing of unGodly things on social media, belittling your spouse, being two-faced and harsh to friends and/or co-workers, putting yourself before others... none of these are the traits of Christ.

Jesus will be coming back to claim a pure and holy people... not those who claim it and say an occasional "thank you Lord", yet live a life based on their own fleshly desires and fly by night thinking. I'm not pointing fingers, I am well aware of "he that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone" (John 8:7). However, having put on Christ, I am given the boldness to shush the nonsense and filth spoken in my presence. I am able to share compassion with others that He has shown to me. I am given the chance to be an example rather than one that ridicules out of frustration or hate. I have the opportunity to love those who are least lovable.

Spend some time reviewing your last week. How much of your time was spent belittling, criticizing, complaining, lusting, being lazy, and thinking of yourself? Now compare that to how much time was spent showing compassion, forgiving, encouraging, saying I love you, uplifting those around you, putting others before self. After comparing the two, is it time to set some goals and pray for strength for making changes?

Only you can decide to follow through with those changes and make it happen! Put on Christ each morning and realize that being a Christian is being Christ-like. It's not just slapping a title on yourself with an accompanying free pass into heaven, despite how you live your life.

I urge you to take this seriously...
Your time here is precious, don't waste another minute of it!

The Personal Pity Party - Do Not RSVP!

Today it happened. I showed up to the biggest pity party I've seen in quite some time.

There weren't any balloons, streamers, snacks, or gifts at this party, but boy was I completely wrapped up in it anyway.

Pity parties are pathetic, and yet, there I was full-fledge, right in the middle of one... two of my children even took witness to some of it this afternoon. My 100% concentration was on everything I was either in the middle of doing or [thought I] needed to do before the sun set on my day.

Endless issues with the washer repairman. Hand washing certain items needed until my washer is back in order. Getting paperwork figured out for the building inspector. Following up with the bank over issues that are holding us up with progress on the house. Cleaning up actual messes made during progress that has been made on the house. Sorting and getting rid of an attic full of stuff that's in the way. Chickens sneaking on my porch pooping everywhere. Getting my son to concentrate on his math, science, and English homework. Permission slips needing signed. Picking up wind-blown items from all over the yard. Filing paperwork so it doesn't come up missing when I need it most. Phone calls. Dishes. Sweeping. Mopping. Dusting. Garbage overflowing. Scrub the toilets. Unclog the bathroom sink. Feed the dogs. Oh, did I mention I forgot to lay something out for dinner in the midst of all of the above... and I still haven't had my stinkin' shower yet?!

I fled upstairs to "take a breather away from it all", and yet the party followed right along, and I sat in a chair basking in it... tears and all.

I can't do it all, my plate is too full, I'm exhausted, my back hurts, my head is pounding, there's only one of me, why can't anything go right just once, I need 24 more hours in my 24 hour day, why me??

See, it was pathetic.

But then I felt a little tap on my shoulder. Not a physical tap, but more like one of those that very well could have been a great big slap in the face, but since it was done with such love it came across as a little tap just enough to get my attention. I picked up my bible and opened it up. I don't believe in coincidences, so I'm quite positive the Lord intended for it to open up to Hebrews chapter 12.

It started with this...
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
(Hebrews 12:1-2)

Wouldn't you know it... I had allowed myself to get so flustered with all the "stuff" going on around me today, that I completely missed out on what the purpose of my day could have been all about. I wasted my energy and time, lashed out at my kids, and allowed it to be about me-me-me when that's not at all what my day should have been about.

Yes, I had stuff to do... but these are responsibilities that I have been given because the Lord knows I can handle it, especially with His help of peace and assurance. I allowed the enemy to take these responsibilities entrusted to me as a wife and mother, and turn them into a way to entangle me, hindering what could have been a wonderful day!

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.
(Philippians 2:3-5)

Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.
(Philippians 2:14-15)

I wasn't having the heart of a servant, or focusing on the attitude I was reflecting. Hebrews 12:15 says Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled... meaning that it was my choice today to decide whether or not to allow a bitter root to grow up and devour me and those around me. Pity parties feed those bitter roots.

So, if you're having a similar day, or perhaps just get easily caught up in pity parties, let's determine how to avoid these moments shall we?

Think about the good, not the bad! Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things (Philippians 4:8).

Have an attitude adjustment! Pity parties are so damaging to our day. Within minutes they can turn what could have been a great day that ended with a smile, into a hair pulling, stress elevating mess... making us look like we walked through a tornado of crazy. Was is worth it? Nope. It didn't make it better, it just wasted time. The issues and "stuff" are all still there to be dealt with. Ask the Lord to open your eyes to those pity party fits before they set in, so they can be stopped in their tracks.

Take a break! It's okay to take a walk, pick up a book (extra Bible reading time!), or just sit and chill with a glass of iced tea! Walk away from what's causing the urge to yank your hair out and collect your thoughts. Decide that the moment or circumstances will not effect your day in a negative manner.

Follow the advice of Hebrews 12:2 that I quoted above... Look to Jesus! Think about all the awful moments He suffered for me and you! How pathetic does our situation truly look when compared to the life He lived here for us?

Write it down. Jot down every single thing that is creeping into your mind trying to snag your day away from you. Every circumstance that the enemy is trying to drag you down through. Then walk away from that piece of paper and attack your day with a shield of faith. It's quite possible you'll come across that note a few days later and have a giggle at how frazzled you almost allowed such petty situations get you.

Perhaps it really is something big going on in your life. Pray for wisdom over the situation(s) and leave it there. Deal with it as the Lord gives you insight on how to handle it... and don't touch it until then.

Bottom line my friends, when you get a personal invitation to a pity party... do not RSVP! Instead, embrace your day and be thankful for who you were made to be and what you are entrusted to accomplish in it.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm not going to take the time for a spell check or grammar review, I have a couple kiddos to apologize to...

Spiritual Pom-Poms

I read a short little story yesterday that I wanted to share and expand on a little bit...

A little second grader, who was already dealing with the struggles that school can sometimes lend, went to school excited to find out what part had been chosen for him by his teacher in the upcoming school play.

He had enthusiastically told his mother that everyone in the class would be chosen for a special part. She was well aware of his inability to read and memorize, figuring that would prevent him from a big part. She worried he may get discouraged if placed on stage as scenery while other children excitedly embraced and rehearsed their parts. Nonetheless, she kept her worried thoughts to herself.

After school she met his beaming face at the door as he raced in to tell his mother about the part chosen for him in the play. "You won't believe it mom!", he began with pure enthusiasm. "Well what part did you get?", she responded with an excited smile. "I've been chosen to cheer!" the boy beamed.


What pride in his chosen part! While I'm sure this isn't the reaction the mother awaited, surely a moment of humbleness overwhelmed her.

Now, how many of us could use an attitude like his more often? Imagine how different one's home life, workplace, or even the churches could become by truly embracing our individual roles with that much joy, enthusiasm, pride, and realization of importance.

The home front would have a peace and serenity among its inhabitants as each family member accepted their biblical role in the home and lived it with joy, humbleness, and appreciation, rather than murmurings and complaints.

The workplace would become an environment to look forward to, setting an example for others to follow with more witnessing possibilities, rather than a dreaded place to suffer as money is earned to pay the bills.

The church! My oh my, what it would be like if the people of the congregation entered into God's house with that little boy's attitude about cheering others on! Instead of whining about our own trials and frustrations, or boasting about our own endeavors and success... to instead be listeners for others, encouraging them and cheering them through their circumstance!

And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
(Hebrews 10:24-25)

The word used for exhorting in that verse is parakaleo, which is defined as "to put courage into another, or to cheer on another". The young boy in the story embraced that role... how well are we embracing it with those in our own lives? Is it easier to use our loved ones, friends, fellow church goers, and coworkers as an escape goat for our frustrations and fulfillment of pity parties?

We have all been called for an individual, and very specific purpose according to God's plan (2 Timothy 1:9). However, let us not neglect the sideline role we should automatically assume as a follower of Christ, spreading joy as we cheer on those around us.

It's time we pick up our spiritual pompoms and step into a united role that has been chosen for us all by the Almighty. Leave your personal circumstances at His feet, and jump into your part of cheering others on through this race for the Kingdom!

Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.
(1 Thessalonians 5:11)

Prayer Changes Nothing

Say what?? Okay, so if you read the title of this post and you're already looking for the comments section so you can correct me by giving example after example of all the answered prayers in your life... breath, and give me a moment.

And said, I beseech thee, O LORD God of heaven, the great and terrible God, that keepeth covenant and mercy for them that love him and observe his commandments: Let thine ear now be attentive, and thine eyes open, that thou mayest hear the prayer of thy servant, which I pray before thee now, day and night...
(Nehemiah 1:5-6)

First of all, our prayers are spoken into the wind if we are not first recognizing that God has sovereign power and authority... the King of Kings... and we are here as His servants. When praying a prayer that is genuine and heartfelt, we are recognizing Him on his throne, and our place before Him, humbly at His feet.

It must be acknowledged that when we pray, whether knelt beside a bed or couch, driving along in our vehicle, or in the pew at church... our prayers are not us having our way with God. Quite the opposite, it is God who is having His way with us!

Subconsciously at times, we tend to take to prayer as though we are manipulating and convincing God to give us our way, grant us a request, or hear our babbling. We're not in charge at that moment... rather, it's God doing a work in us... influencing, controlling, and putting the pressure on us to surrender completely to Him! Quite simply... If you're not willing to change, have an attitude adjustment, submit to His will, and apply some serious elbow grease to our own situation, then don't bother praying. It's OUR place to change, not God's.

We need to think about God's position. Seriously, picture it. Do we honestly think this great and mighty being, who created all things, and has every hair on your head numbered, could ever be caught by surprise, or let things get out of control according to HIS will? We have no room to try convincing God to change His mind. His plan will always overpower, outweigh, and over-shine ours.

Ah, but what about moments in God's word where God changed His mind?? Keep reading the content, because even then, God was unchanging. In the above referenced scripture, Nehemiah called out for favor on his people, and the situation changed... but it wasn't God that changed His mind deciding to grant Nehemiah his request. Something did change... but it certainly wasn't God's will... it was Nehemiah's heart.

So to clarify the statement made in the post title, prayer changes nothing about the situation or circumstance. It doesn't change God's mind, or make you a head haunch-o that has this miraculous ability to move the earth and change the world. Quite the opposite, prayer moves US... it changes everything about US! How we view a moment, how we handle a situation, how our attitudes approach a moment, how we let go, and submit wholeheartedly without resistance to the Lord, and His plan for us. The change isn't in God, the change is our perception, reaction, and faith in an enormous God that already has it all under control.

Wake Up and Smell the... Blessings?

Yesterday the weather proved to be a perfect day for me to get the garden underway now that the cold front threats seem to have dwindled.

Seven hours later when the sun began to make its final descent I was pleased to see that a nice 3/4 of it was complete. A bonus to the day... seven hours of what turned into some one on one God time. I would like to be able to say it was seven hours of happiness and smiles, but it wasn't. I was corrected, humbled, and even had a few crying moments.

It began as I walked out there earlier in the afternoon to the 70-something foot by 30-something foot area prepped for planting. I remember just standing there looking at it for a moment, thinking, My God, what have I gotten myself into.

You see, I've been looking forward to getting the garden going for a couple months now. I've had standard gardens before, but this year, the idea of having a full-fledge garden to eliminate the need for fresh vegetables and fruits from the grocery shopping list just seemed like a smart idea. This new garden is set up for every vegetable and vine fruit you can imagine, and then some.

However, even with a garden area that size, I don't have the fancy tools and gadgets for easy planting, I don't even own a tiller... in fact, I realized as I stood there that I didn't even have a clue where the basic garden hoe and shovel had grown legs and walked away to. And yet, I had pounds of seeds (yes, pounds) to plant in the ground so the family would be set for a year on fresh, home-canned, and home-froze veggies.

Have you ever been stoked and completely blank at the same time? That was me, in that very moment. But I was determined. The grocery bill will decrease because of this. I will get some fresh air and time in the good outdoors because of this. Others would be blessed with the harvest drawn in from this.

So I took a large metal serving spoon (don't laugh... I use what I've got!), and started digging rows to drop the seeds into, carefully checking each type of veggie, and the amount of spacing each one required. I was enjoying myself. The sun on my face, dirt on my hands (and arms, and knees, and face, and under nails, and in my shoes...), my Chihuahua fur-babies running and playing around me... it was going great.

A little at a time my hands started getting sore, I began to get sweatier and sweatier, my mouth got dry and parched, and the dogs started irritating me as they ran back and forth over my perfect little rows. The disgruntlement started setting in. I trudged into the house to pour a glass of tea, and set back out to my project. I felt like I had already been out there for several hours, and as I approached, I had a pathetic five rows done. I plopped down on my butt right there in the dirt and just looked around.

Then the mumbling began. Oh, and the pity party... I can't forget that... because that's when the correction began. You know how they tend to start right after you try going to God with a "woe is me" attitude?

Shame on me! Oh I wanted the ground to open up big enough to swallow me up (as though I'd be hiding from God there, right?). I don't consider myself a complainer. I really do like trying to look for the best in every situation. In fact, there might even be a couple people that read this that can admit to getting irritated with me because I worry very little about things, and have been accused on quite a few occasions of being passive, when in actuality I just like the bright side of a situation... the gloomy side is yucky and depressing! Yet here I was, being Miss Debbie Downer.

So yes, there I was still sitting in the dirt. I caught a whiff of the fresh air, and I heard "wake up and smell the blessings". Uh, Lord, roses... the saying is roses. Wake up and smell the roses. And that's one thing I don't have planted around here. "No, blessings. You're thriving daily in a garden of blessings I have provided you, and you're feeling sorry for yourself?"

I'm willing to bet if that moment were captured on camera, the photograph would reveal my jaw dropped wide open.

Don't get me wrong, I'm very aware of the blessings in my life, and am forever grateful for them. But a layer was peeled off my spiritual eyes at that moment, looking deeper into my blessings.

One of my favorite shows to watch is Little House on the Prairie. There I sat imagining myself placed back in the days of Laura Ingalls Wilder and the life they lived. If they wanted food to eat, they hunted or grew their own (no exceptions like a trip to McDonald's if crops were ruined or the game got away). If they wanted water, they hiked to a creek, filled a bucket, and used it sparingly and wisely. If you want shelter to call home you build it from the ground up yourself (without electricity or plumbing) and windows were a special (and costly) bonus. When Charles Ingalls needed work, he would walk for days to get to other towns to earn a dollar or two for a weeks work (and that was on a good week).

We are so selfish. Where is it written that we are entitled to the quick and easy way out of everything we do? Can you imagine if our current generations were time warped back into the Little House on the Prairie days without promise of return. How many would long for the chance to return to their own life, realizing just how blessed we are with things as simple as running water, cars for running errands, grocery stores nearby for a quick dinner run (including a stocked meat department). How long would one last, hunting for and growing all their own food, fetching water from a creek, walking to other towns for pennies per hour of work, sewing their own clothes...

No Facebook games or videos to occupy laziness or idle time, no shopping malls or car dealerships to accumulate debt, no nail salons, no cell phones, no fast food joints when there was a night you just didn't feel like cooking, no video game consoles to keep you from interacting wholesomely with your children, no ESPN...

Just hard-working, living off the land, pure interaction with those in your lives.

Suddenly I was joyfully working in the garden. It blessed me to have the privilege to put my time, hard work, and effort into a source that would provide for my family. With the blinders off, it took on a different perspective. Yes it was hard work, but I felt good when I walked back into the house. My eyes watered when I stood before my refrigerator pressing that lever on the front that dispensed cold fresh water into my glass.

We're so spoiled, and we need to realize that blessings most certainly come in forms we too often overlook. If it takes heaven opening up and angels singing for us to recognize we've been blessed, then it's time to reevaluate our way of thinking. Complaints, grumbling, fuss, and disgruntlement are EVERYWHERE, while the "woe is me, life is too hard" syndrome takes over.

Recognize it, confront it, and get over yourself. We live in a garden of blessings... so wake up and smell your blessings!

For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.
(Philippians 2:13-15)

An Anchor of Hope

Hope. It's such a happy word. It's a smiling, healthy attitude for the heart. Any time one truly anticipates something good it brings comfort to the mind and heart.

However, feeling hopelessness is an awful feeling one could have. It's depressing and overwhelming all at once to feel at a point that nothing you're up against could possibly be resolved or changed.

For the one having lost all hope, life can seem like a long dark tunnel leaning absolutely nowhere. Proverbs 13 gives us a clear description of what results from this intense and burdensome feeling.

"Hope deferred maketh the heart sick..."
(Proverbs 13:12)

Just as the body gets weary when lacking powerful immune system boosters such as iron and vitamin C, the heart also weakens without hope. Physical, emotional, and even mental illness can creep up on a person feeling trapped in a dreary position.

But here comes the good news... As long as God is God, there will never be a circumstance, situation, or problem considered hopeless. We have a promise contained in the rest of that verse from Proverbs!

"...but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life."
(Proverbs 13:12)

We find here a hope that anchors our soul! Anchors used to be highly regarded years ago in the Mediterranean. The economy was dependent on shipping goods from far and wide, and to those enduring the travels, that anchor was a strong symbol of calming and steady safety.

Hebrews 6:13-20 uses the word anchor in such a sense, giving reminder to believers that God provides a hope sure to hold firm in the midst of any storm.

When ALL our desires are placed before God and we seek Him diligently over the circumstance (Psalm 38:9), those desires WILL be granted (Proverbs 10:24) when the desired result is to honor the Lord (Proverbs 11:23).

Because of Christ, we have access to the throne room of heaven, the place available to us to cast every care, every burden, before a great and mighty God with unlimited power and authority over all things. In this we have the ability to cling to Him through any trial we stand face to face with.

Through God's abundant love, strength is provided for weary bodies, comfort for grieving hearts, and peace for an anxious mind. Simply put, He brightens that darkened tunnel and gently guides us through the most trying of situations.

Only through this anchor of hope, can your test become a testimony to be used for God's glory!

The Fruit of Long-Suffering

This evening I was reading 2 Corinthians chapter 4, and to some of you, it's probably no secret that Paul wrote quite a bit on the subject of long-suffering. Through his writings he urges us, as believers, to hold strong in following Christ and doing good to others, and through our lives.. even through times of hardship and persecution.

Let's look at this word long-suffering...

long-suf·fer·ing
1. enduring injury, trouble, or provocation long and patiently - adjective
2. long and patient endurance of injury, trouble, or provocation - noun

If anyone had a right to speak on long-suffering, it was definitely Paul. He had been whipped, beaten, stoned, and basically driven right out of town. He survived shipwrecks, riots, abandonment, and illness. He certainly had a thousand and one reasons to get discouraged and give up, but Paul did know his ultimate obedience to God was not in vain.

Some might think Paul didn't reap a whole lot. I suppose it doesn't appear as though he reaped much... after all, he was persecuted, moved from prison to prison, and eventually executed. By looking at it with the idea that rewards only come in materialistic form, a powerful truth is missed.

In reading, Paul writes about their faithfulness in planting seeds that, in the long run, would yield an amazing harvest. This harvest resulted from Paul's faithfulness... his long-suffering. First and foremost, the gospel spread across the Roman Empire, and the early church expanded far beyond just the Jews. The seeds Paul planted by his writings resulted in an abundance of lives being thoroughly changed.

Any strength we draw from his writings would most certainly be fruit from the hardships he endured. When he pressed on for believers to never give up on obeying the Lord, he didn't realize how fully the impact his life would have for us, now. Think about it... how many times have you heard Paul used as an example in a sermon, message, or bible study? His life and long-suffering encourages us to persevere through our own day to day! He simply believed in the power of faith, without having to know the specific why's of it along the way.

Are you aware of how impactful your life actually is? Do not be deceived by Satan's lies. He will tell you that your suffering or obedience will amount to nothing. He will try to convince you of how small and insignificant you are, that there's nothing special about you that God could possibly use.

Whether you're a housewife that spends all day at home or with your kids, a hard working laborer, or a top level CEO - here's the truth... YOUR faithfulness to God will never go to waste. It IS making an eternal difference in someone's life, whether you know it or not! Your children, your neighbors, your co-workers, your spouse, a friend, an onlooking acquaintance, your boss, church members, maybe even your paperboy or mailman. YOU don't know who God is using YOUR life to witness His glory to.

"We glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope."
(Romans 5:3-4)

You were created for His purpose, not what you think should be acomplished on your terms and with "rewards" that the world sees as significant. Let God take care of the why's, how's and when's... as you patiently endure whatever comes your way, because His glory is worth it, and the least we could do in return for the example of long-suffering Jesus demonstrated for us.

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."
(Galatians 5:22-23)

Sanctified or Compromised?

Sanctify. Sanctified. Sanctification. I seem to be coming across some form of that word a lot lately in my reading. God uses it to explain to us how our lives, hearts, and minds should be changing, conforming, and reflecting the life of Christ.

The most simple definition to explain the word sanctify is "set apart".

Several days ago my son broke the remote to his television while it was stuck on an input mode that didn't allow him to use his tv. Without hitting the proper button on the remote the tv was useless, except for in that specific input mode. Last night, Nathan joined me in the laundry room gleaming, announcing that he had fixed his remote. He proceeded to show me how the broken spring that used to hold the battery in, had been replaced with a paperclip, and when held just right, twisted in a certain way, and taped down, accomplished the purpose... and waa-lahh, the remote now controls the tv again. His frustration though, is that he has to occasionally fiddle with the twisted paperclip to keep his remote working.

You see, while my son used his smart thinking and compromising skills, and came up with a great temporary fix until the remote can be replaced, it technically isn't the purpose that paperclip was created for. Remotes were made to control the tv with individual parts precisely designed to allow it proper functioning. The paperclip was made... well, to clip together paper. These items are sanctified! They are set apart with a purpose in mind at the time they were created and designed.

There are some things that are made for a purpose, and shouldn't be used for anything other than their purpose or they can ultimately be damaged and destroyed. Beds are for sleeping, not trampoline improvising, or they break down. Knives are for cutting, not screwdrivers, or the tips are ruined and dulled. Your teeth are made to chew food, not open tight bottle caps, or you'll eventually be making a trip to the dentist. You get the idea.

Our lives, too, have a specific purpose, and shouldn't be used for anything else but that purpose. They were not only individually and uniquely created, but they were paid for, in full, by the King of Kings. Your life is set apart, sanctified, to be used for one purpose, and one purpose alone... to bring glory to God.

But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people.
(1 Peter 2:9)

You are chosen! As a follower of Christ you are royalty! This makes you one of those in highest order within God's kingdom! Families of royalty expect certain behaviors from the bearers of the crown. There are peculiar traits, attitudes, and examples to be set and followed. Surely the Crown of Life is no exception! As joint heirs with Christ we have a purpose to live up to and fulfill. Live for Christ because of who you are in Christ!

When this is compromised, we become like the broken down bed, a dull knife, or a damaged tooth... and we're then useless in accomplishing the very thing we were made to do! Only YOU are able to fulfill the purpose for which YOU were created... no rigging or manipulating can temporarily fill in for you as the paperclip did with the remote.

What areas in your life are not glorifying to God? Perhaps you've allowed yourself to be temporarily rigged so you appear as though you're properly functioning among the crowd. Or are you set apart as your unique purpose designed you to be? Don't compromise your position in Christ! Sanctify your life, set it apart... because YOU are a chosen vessel to bring God glory!

What Voice Are You Listening To?

Regardless how bad we think we have it, how awful and uncontrollable our circumstances may seem, regardless of how distraught we feel inside, there is always an answer.

I've often heard the saying "No matter how bad you have it, someone out there has it worse". More importantly we need to remember the God we serve who has it all under control, and a precious path for each and every one of us that is individually specific for you, and you alone.

For every low we speak, God has a response whispering back through His word. Grasp what He has to share for you, and realize there is NO situation out of HIS control! Open your ears to His voice, and not your own...

When you say "It's impossible", God says that all things are possible!
(Luke 18:27)

When you say "I'm too tired", God says the He will give you rest!
(Matthew 11:28-30)

When you say "Nobody really loves me", God says He loves you!
(John 3:16 and John 3:34)

When you say "I just can't go on", God says that His grace is sufficient!
(2 Corinthians 12:9 and Psalm 91:15)

When you say "I can't figure anything out", God says that He will direct your path!
(Proverbs 3:5-6)

When you say "I can't do it", God says you can do all things!
(Phillipians 4:13)

When you say "I'm not able", God says that He is able!
(2 Corinthians 9:8)

When you say "It's just not worth it", God says it will be worth it!
(Romans 8:28)

When you say "I can't forgive myself", God says that He forgives you!
(1 John 1:9 and Romans 8:1)

When you say "I can't seem to manage", God says He will supply all your needs!
(Phillipians 4:19)

When you say "I'm afraid", God says that He has not given you the spirit of fear!
(2 Timothy 1:7)

When you say "I'm always worried and frustrated", God says to cast all your cares on Him!
(1 Peter 5:7)

When you say "I'm not smart enough", God says that He will give you wisdom!
(1 Corinthians 1:30)

When you say "I feel all alone", God says He will never leave you or forsake you!
(Hebrews 13:5)

Keep your mind focused on God's word, not the words of others, or even self. You and all those around you will fail, stumble, and let others down... but HE will not. We serve a mighty God who will not fail us, stumble in His promises, or let us down despite how we and the world around us may view our circumstance.

So which voice will you listen to... Yours?... Theirs?... or His?

Revive me, O Lord!

"Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee?"
(Psalm 85:6)

The believer who wants true revival throws away his list of favorite excuses for sin. Confession replaces excuses. Commitment replaces compromise.

You might be tempted to say, "But I've confessed, tried, and failed so many times, revival just doesn't last." A skeptic once made a comment to evangelist Billy Sunday in the early 1900s. He tried to make the point that since personal revival wasn't a permanent end-all to temptation, sin, and failure, times of revival weren't really that important. "Revival just doesn't last," the man complained to Billy Sunday one evening. Sunday just smiled and replied, "Well, a bath doesn't last either, but it's good to take one occasionally!"

Has it ever occurred to you that a great word to describe Christianity is exposure? You become a Christian after being exposed as a sinner. You grow as a Christian after being exposed to your need of change in some area. You confess daily sin as it is exposed in your life. You flourish in your walk as a result of being exposed to the Scriptures.

No wonder every Christian is in need of daily revival. We so easily sugarcoat our selfishness and rationalize our rebellion. We manage our sin, but fail to confess it. We conveniently forget how heartbreaking sin is to our heavenly Father.

Revival, then, could be defined as a movement of God's Spirit in the believer's life, which produces both private confession of sin and public obedience to the Scriptures. The priority for our outward behavior is to please God - a priority that will undeniably impact personal relationships, financial decisions, and lifestyle choices. Therefore, revival is not a once-and-done event... it is daily. And it should interrupt your life over and over again.

By the way, you can't plan for revival but you can pray for it. You can't orchestrate it or announce that it is going to happen in a series of meetings the third week of May. All you can do is beg God to give you a heart that confesses and a life that obeys.

So, take His Word daily, ask God to blow on the smoldering embers of your heart, making it burst into flaming affection for Him all over again. While you're at it, remember that revival is not so much about emotion as it is about action.

Don't wait for a week of revival meetings to pray, "Revive me, O Lord"... do it today!

Wisdom for the Heart

Everyday Joy

The kids are arguing. It's time to pay the bills. You woke up feeling physically horrible. A workload was dumped on you at your job. Everyone around you is complaining and miserable. You got a flat tire. Dinner burned in the oven. A loved one is in the hospital. Your roof is leaking.

So, everyday joy: is it possible? You betcha! Joy... YOUR joy... is a choice... it's YOUR choice. We are provided with the joy of the Lord, but it's up to us to open our hearts to it, accept it and apply it! There is so much negativity in this world, and it's so often dwelt upon when the choice to do so is avoidable!!

The joy of the LORD is your strength.
(Nehemiah 8:10)

Joy... genuine, whole-hearted, soul satisfying joy... isn't just missing within the world, it's missing in the body of Christ! In everyday conversations with people, messages I receive, even my Facebook news feed, is overwhelmed with complaints, heartache, disgust, and negativity. Where is the joy of the Lord in that?!

It shouldn't just be saved for Sunday mornings when attending church or during a get together with a fellow Christian! Joy is to dwell within you always, whether you're alone at home, with your family, at a gathering, in the workplace, or just out grocery shopping... the joy of the Lord should be reflected, causing a prism effect everywhere around you!

How is this joy possible? It's supplied to us in God's word! Only the joy of the Lord can provide strength through any and every moment in our everyday life!

The bottom line is, if you're not allowing the Holy Spirit to continuously stir up joy within your heart, causing a craving for more of the Lord in your life, then you my friend are choosing to let your joy sit on the shelf rather than being used for God's glory! Your fire, your Holy Ghost fire, is being extinguished.

A true love for the Lord creates a hunger for more of Him through His word! Follow through with what you are taught through your readings with a humble repenting heart! Those renewing and life changing choices should then separate you and your life from the influences of the world... automatically providing a joy that no circumstance will be able to steal away from you! That's displaying true faith in your Creator and Savior.

You will develop a new set of eyes that find good in ALL things that come your way! What a witness to those that surround you, lost without Jesus... someone full of joy that has good news to share despite a circumstance that could be dwelt upon, but was chosen not to be!!

Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.
(Psalm 32:11)

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
(Galatians 5:22-23)

Rejoice evermore.
(1 Thessalonians 5:16)

Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
(Psalm 16:11)

Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.
(Philippians 4:4)

Life Lesson Through Remembrance

Pictured next to that massive elephant is my cousin, Charlotte aka "Char-Lee". Growing up, she was the only one I really had to talk to.

Times seemed consistently hard for me through childhood, and many times it was unknown who my "real" friends were. Char-Lee always made time for me despite the nine year age difference between us. She would put off plans with her own friends to kidnap me for a day out at the movies, time at the park to fly kites or toss a frisbee around, ride bikes anywhere and everywhere, play time on her Atari, or even to just sit and talk about anything my heart desired. She was beautiful, inside and out. I loved her dearly.

Char-Lee worked for Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa, Florida. She had a passion for animals, and was working hard at her degree in Zoology. When I was 14 years old, I received a phone call from my Aunt while my parents were out, to learn that I would never see Char-Lee again.

Just before a public elephant show at the zoo, an elephant turned on her, and did damage that took her life, and her last concerns expressed to the care flight paramedics were for them to make sure the elephant wasn't destroyed for what it did to her.

At the time of her death I was distraught... especially being at an age that our talks, along with her friendship and love, were so needed and important in my life. I wanted that elephant destroyed for taking something so precious from me.

Looking at what happened now, I gain a valuable lesson from Char-Lee's last moments.

Look at how huge that elephant is compared to Char-Lee in the photo. It was a massive, strong, and obviously a potentially dangerous creature... yet Char-Lee stands beside it, a smile on her face, looking as though she were outside playing with a puppy-sized pet.

How many times do our problems, circumstances and trials seem to stack up so tall against us? When we view them they look gigantic and overwhelming, seemingly desiring to stir fear up inside of us. At times we even have people come against us. They appear to bring on a force so strong that we feel as though we will buckle under their pressure at any given moment. Rumors, lies, condemnation, hate, strife, jealousy, judgement, evil, mockery... people are out there that strive on such things.

So do we tremble in fear, avoiding them as often as possible? Or do we stand tall next to the problems or people in question, a smile on our face, knowing that greater is HE that is in you, than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4)!

Despite the life taking injuries Char-Lee endured, she wanted no retaliation taken.

When our feelings are hurt, our families attacked, our possessions are stolen, or we are taken advantage of... what is our response? Do we attack back? Do we get even? Do we make it known of every little thing we think on the situation? Do we contact everyone we know to "set things straight"?

Or... do we pray the Lord blesses the person in return?

Here's what God's word instructs us to do:

But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you. And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloak forbid not to take thy coat also. Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again.
(Luke 6:27-30)

Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
(Romans 12:14)

Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
(Romans 12:19)

Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
(Romans 12:21)

Revenge is not the answer. Our answer is found in love. So many times it is difficult to respond to situations with the charity of the Lord, but what result do we receive from getting back, getting even, and returning hate for hate... besides more to repent for and a hardened heart?

Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
(1 Corinthians 13:4-8)

I'm thankful for the life lesson I receive from this picture of Char-Lee and the remembrance of her heart of love. The moral is so very significant. There is still to this day a memorial for her at the Lowry Park Zoo, and according to her wishes, the elephant was not destroyed.

Monday Measure

And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.
(Ephesians 4:32)

Revenge, paybacks, alts, silent treatments, door slamming, angry retorts, bitterness, yelling, finger pointing... None of those words are in that verse, and yet they are often within our first responses to wrong doings, accusations, or hurt feelings. We KNOW those responses will get us no where quickly except with more hurt and additional amends to make it the long run. Flesh likes to open its mouth first, having a temper tantrum revolving around self.

If we could only learn to shut our mouths, whisper a prayer, and allow the Lord to intercede for us, so much could be gained for His glory, with so much more peace for ourselves in the process.

Whether someone cuts us off in traffic, spreads a nasty rumor, falsely accuses, hurts our feelings, spats with a spouse, or if our children disobey... we NEED to learn to be kind and compassionate, remembering we are not perfect, we are in daily need of forgiveness, and should likewise forgive others.

God's word is always uplifting, encouraging, loving, and compassionate to us no matter what the sin... what an awesome example of how we should treat others in our lives... strangers, loved ones, and acquaintances.

Keep this verse on my heart Lord, and only your words on my lips... thinking of your will before my own, forgiving others as I desire to be forgiven for my own faults.

Musical Inspiration

Music is an incredible thing. It is defined as combining vocal or instrumental sounds (or both) to produce beauty of form, harmony, and expression of emotion. Music can capture you in a moment, bring about thoughts and concentration, move you, surround you, and lead you.

The music we listen to can shape our minds. The saying "garbage in is garbage out" is powerful when it comes to music because of its motivating factors. If you listen to songs of sadness, hate, rejection, corruption, and ungodliness, then that will be your primary mindset. Likewise, if you're listening to encouragement, comfort, praise, rejoicing, and joy... that is what you will bring forth.

Cleaning around the house isn't the most inspiring task of my day. It seems to drag on and take forever to feel accomplished. It's lagging, and seems to be such an insignificant part of my day. However, if I add music of upliftment to the mix while I go about my chores, a bounce enters my step, my mind is taken elsewhere, and before I know it, the house is clean, I feel good, and I desire to tackle more in my day!

Prayer time is sometimes hard to focus on. Distractions of the day enter my mind and thoughts are tempted to wonder off. I begin playing songs of praise and worship, and suddenly my mind is captured and I embrace my time with God.

Half the time I couldn't tell you which artist goes to which song. There are however songs that inspire me, move me, and lift my spirits. Sometimes the song depends on the circumstance. For me there are certain songs for certain moments, and I thought I would share a few songs/videos for a few of those moments that can apply to anyone.

FORGIVENESS... is amazing. I don't care who you are, what you have done, or what background you come from, the blood of Jesus covers ALL sin. Psalm 103:12 tells us that His forgiveness throws our sin as far away as the east is from the west. I was a mess when I found the cross, yet I was washed clean the day I opened my heart to Jesus. Nothing that I was, did, thought, or said is in God's remembrance of me from that time. There have been many times in my life, even since my heart was washed clean, that I felt as though my wrong doings were unforgivable, but he meets me at the cross every time my sorrowful heart calls out for Him. He's there for you too!

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.
(Romans 3:23)

If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
(I John 1:8)

GUIDANCE... is sometimes hard to submit to, but the Lord is there to share it at all times. Situations in life can boggle us down, torture our minds, and try to throw us off track in our walk with the Lord. How incredible it is to know that by kneeling in prayer and opening the Word of God we can receive guidance, confirmation, and affirmation for any situation. I've heard the saying "life doesn't come with an instruction manual, we just have to learn from our mistakes". Wrong!! My instruction manual is the almighty Word of God that teaches, heals, comforts, convicts, guides, and soothes my heart, soul and mind. He is there to help, we just have to submit ourselves to listening.

Be still, and know that I am God.
(Psalm 46:10)

PRAISE & WORSHIP... can never be given enough. We serve such an incredible God! Our creator. Our forgiver. Our comforter. Our peace. Our helper. Our judge. Our protector. The alpha and omega. He deserves to be praised, remembered, reverenced, glorified, uplifted, thanked and rejoiced. There should be constant praise on our heart and minds for all He has, does, and will do for us. He inhabits the praises of His people (Psalms 22:3)!! Too often we forget to lift His name unless we need or want something, forgetting that He deserves and desires our attention always... before, during and after the storm. He does not leave us or forsake us, and for that our praise and worship to Him should be constant.

And my tongue shall speak of thy righteousness and of thy praise all the day long.
(Psalm 35:28)

Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised.
(Psalm 48:1)

Give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.
(Psalm 30:4)

I encourage you to keep a song on your heart! Music, especially that which is inspired by the Lord, can be a prescription for any ailment! What songs stir you up?