Regrets and Resolutions or Reflective Pursuance (1/1/14)

New Year’s Eve is often time for a party. It is also a time for looking back over the past year.  We look back and consider how things have gone. We may number the things we’ve done wrong, and hopefully we also look at what has been done right. Inevitably our thoughts and conversations will focus on what we want to do better next year. These become our New Year’s resolutions.

A New Year’s resolution by nature states “I resolve to.”  Generally, a resolution will focus on something we wish to improve about ourselves. This often includes better eating habits and physical activity goals. We may also determine to make improvements in our business lives. For many Christians, New Year’s resolutions may include prayer and Bible reading goals. We may find ourselves promising God to do better this year. We may set time frames and specific plans or outlines to achieve these goals.

“I resolve to” may seem like a positive statement. The problem is that the focus remains on the “I.” I have seen the error of my ways.  I am going to do all of these wonderful new things. I have a plan. I am excited and ready to go. Unfortunately, I can only go so far before I burn out. My strength is weak and my attention span is short. Soon I find myself full of regrets that I could not continue through the year with all my good intentions intact.

Does this story sound familiar? I know people that don’t stay on course past the first week. Others make it many months before throwing in the towel. And lots of people simply no longer make resolutions. Do you fit into one of these categories? 

So, is wanting to do better in the new year wrong? Is mapping out a plan to add more discipline to your life not a good thing? Of course, both of these things are good. The problem lies in where your strength is coming from. Apart from relying on God, nothing will stand.

As in many positive things, good is just a shade off of best. God desires for us to be disciplined and have the fruit of good works in our lives.  “…let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16 ESV) God also wants to supply the tasks we are to do and the strength by which we accomplish them.  He wants us to seek Him and follow what He plans for us to do.  Willing obedience is the response He desires.

So instead of “I resolve,” your thoughts should center on “God, what do You say about this?”  What do You see in me that You want to change?  How do You want to make the change?  “Show me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Guide me in Your truth and faithfulness and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; for You [You only and altogether] do I wait [expectantly] all the day long.” (Psalm 25:4-5 AMP) When the I becomes You, both the direction and the power source change.  Not only are you now following God’s plan, but you have His strength to see it through.

To shift our focus, we must “Set your minds and keep them set on what is above (the higher things), not on the things that are on the earth.” (Colossians 3:2 AMP) We look to what the Father has planned for us.  We can then simply obey.  This may involve setting some things aside and picking up other things that we need to follow through on.  Following the leading of the Holy Spirit will always be to our benefit.  “And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6 ESV)

So, have a praise party and look at the good that has been accomplished in your life this past year.  Then ask for God’s plan of what to let go of, what to keep doing and what new things He wishes to do in and through you.  Work on these things by the power He supplies.  Then you can walk in this promise.  “Thus says the Lord, Who makes a way through the sea and a path through the mighty waters, Do not [earnestly] remember the former things; neither consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth; do you not perceive and know it and will you not give heed to it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”  (Isaiah 43:16, 18-19 AMP)

Have a Happy, Spirit - Led, New Year!

Waiting to Return (12/30/13)

Christmas day is over and the masses have headed to the stores to return or exchange unwanted gifts.  The lines are long and shoppers impatient.  Instead of that perfect gift hoped for, this was received.  It’s time to take it back and get what you really wanted.

There are some legitimate reasons to return gifts. One year I received a beautiful sweater that was off by two sizes. When I arrived at the store, I realized finding that same sweater in my size would be impossible. So into the long return line I went. Standing in line I heard others speaking their reasons for returning their items. Some simply did not like them. Others complained that the item was not what they asked for. Still others had received duplicates of the same item. The list went on, some reasons valid and others merely selfish.

Have you ever received a gift from your heavenly Father and wanted to return it? Before you quickly dismiss this thought I want to explore it a little deeper.

We may ask for material things that we may not truly want. I remember when some friends of ours were house hunting and asked God for a pool in their new home. They found a home that had met all the needs of their family and had a beautiful pool in the backyard. They thanked God both privately and publicly for providing their dream.  Several years later the wife confessed to me that she really hated all the upkeep necessary for that pool. There was an expense for the chemicals and hours of labor that were necessary. Somehow the amount of fun in the pool provided paled in comparison to the work. This woman actually said she wished this had been one prayer God had answered with a “no”.  Count the cost of your requests.

Many things are more subtle.  People often say don’t ask for patience because you’ll get difficult situations in which great patience is required. But if you truly want to develop the fruit of the Spirit in your life, are not those difficult situations that develop patience a gift? It may not be what you would have ordered. We like everything quick and easy. But truth be told, microwave character just doesn’t exist. Virtue, godliness and true maturity come only after walking through trials with the help and presence of Jesus Christ.

 “Make me more like Jesus!” may be a heart desire that you voice to the Father. Then you learn that part of becoming like Jesus requires sharing in his suffering.  “For as we share abundantly in Christ’s sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort to.” (2 Corinthians 1:5 ESV)  Not only do we find that we must share the sufferings, but we must do it joyfully.  “But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.” (1 Peter 4:13 ESV) While experiencing  the suffering portion of these verses, we may want to rush to that return line. This wasn’t what we thought we asked for, and it definitely is not the right size or color. We cannot see the second half of these verses which promise His comfort and glory revealed.  Now that is more like what we expected.

I could site so many examples of things that God has placed in my life that I would never have chosen. I think that anybody who has walked with God could do the same. But given time we can see the benefit and how it was truly just the gift that we needed.  “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” (James 1:17 ESV)  This is a precious promise to stand on. Even when we remember that this verse is just a few verses down from the passage, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect that you may be perfect and complete lacking in nothing.” (James 1:2 – 4 ESV)  Complete and lacking nothing is a wonderful gift.

So rejoice, in the gift, the promise you will lack nothing and the giver.  And don’t run to the return line too quickly.  That gift that seemed inappropriate in the beginning may b just what you need somewhere down the road.

Happy Birthday to Jesus! (12/25/13)

From the time our son was born, we have shared the tradition of having a birthday cake for Jesus every Christmas. Initially, this was the easiest way to show him why we were celebrating the day. When he was real young, we went all out with a banner and birthday party plates. We never wanted the giving and receiving of gifts to be the focal point of the day. We had read and discussed the Christmas story early in the morning, before opening our gifts. This was a time that we would take to again reflect on the birth of our Savior. We gather around the table late in the afternoon. Dinner has been put away and desserts are yet to come. We light one candle for the one true Savior and light of the world. The youngest child present blows out the candle after we have sung ‘Happy Birthday.’

Birthdays are a time to remember the day someone first came into the world. Birthdays are also a time to consider how that person has grown through the years. We plan a special day to honor the person and his/her life so far. This is also a day to wish him/her well in the upcoming year. We plan parties, cook favorite foods and set aside time with the honored guest. All in all, it is time to celebrate together with the person whose special day we are honoring. 

Over the years of planning parties for my son, we’ve done many special things. Sometimes we went to places with games and food. Other times we had friends over to our house. One of our favorites was ‘Trains, Cars and Jonathan’s 7^th Birthday.’  We took a train ride, ate at McDonalds and then had the kids back to our house to build the giant train track and town from the gifts that were opened.  (We had asked the children bring gifts that fit the theme.) It is a party he still remembers.

Thinking about the planning of other birthday parties, I wonder how much we truly plan for Jesus. At Christmas time we run about buying gifts for each other, cooking and baking all sorts of special foods and getting everything just right. Do we truly take time to consider the value of Jesus in our lives? As we read the Christmas story and talk about when Jesus came to earth as a baby, do we consider when he first came into our own lives? Do we celebrate Him more than the day?

So here are my thoughts on planning a true birthday party for Jesus. Our special menu would include what He considered His food. “My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work.” (John 4:34 ESV)  We can share in this meal by doing the will and the work of the Father who sent Jesus and now sends us.  When we joyfully do this we are ensured, “…the cheerful of heart has a continual feast.” (Proverbs 15:15 ESV) 
The gifts that we bring to this party will not be frankincense, gold and myrrh. They will be gifts of an attentive heart, a willing attitude and eager determination to follow His will. And the honoring at this party will be continual songs praise. “I will praise the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.” (Psalm 146:2 ESV)  The best part is that we will have the full attention of the guest of honor.

You see, my friend, this party doesn’t occur once a year. The celebration of the birth of Jesus is a continual feast with Him. It lasts all day, every day of our lives. So this Christmas, be sure to consider the Savior and wish Him a ‘Happy Birthday’.  Then, each day of your life, celebrate the purpose of His birth and the eternal life He has brought to you. It’s a party you won’t want to miss!  It’s also a party neither of you will ever forget!

Silent Night, Holy Night (12/24/14)

As we attended a Christmas concert earlier this month, we heard beautiful music composed in countries all around the world. Some of the songs had been written fairly recently while others have been listened to and enjoyed for centuries. The choir and orchestra were very talented and the music was stunning. Yet the song that I enjoyed the most was a well-known carol being sung, a little off-key, but with all her heart, by my 93-year-old companion, Helen. She had appreciated all of the beautiful music that she had heard. But she knew that final song and could truly join in the praise. Silent Night filled both my ears and my heart in that tender moment.

This familiar hymn will be sung by millions around the world today. It is a beautiful song depicting the birth of Jesus Christ. In many Christmas carols the night of Jesus birth is heralded. There was darkness not only in the sky, but in the world that the Son of God entered. No fanfare was heard as the baby was born. Silently He entered this world to change it forever. A new star lit the sky that night, but most never noticed the change. To all appearances, He entered silently as any other baby boy. 

We can remember this truth in the darkness and silence of our lives. The Lord will enter and change everything. The moment of His entrance may go mostly unnoticed. Like the shepherds, we can hear God’s message of the great work beginning. “Then suddenly there appeared with the angel an army of the troops of heaven (a heavenly knighthood), praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest [heaven], and on earth peace among men with whom He is well pleased [men of goodwill, of His favor].” (Luke 2:13-14 AMP) We may get excited and rejoice greatly in the promises of God’s deliverance. But the night may not change visibly and life may go on for a period of time before we can see the miracle of God’s work in our lives. We cannot despise the silent nights of our lives. For it is in that time that the greatest miracles begin. 

Times in life may appear to be one long night. The voice of God may seem to be far off and more a memory than a current conversation. Almost imperceptibly, His power and love have entered in and begun a mighty work. This work may even be the greatest of our lives. We must trust and let the work mature in the timing and leading of the Lord. 

The story of Jesus does not end in a manger in Bethlehem. In fact He doesn’t stay in Bethlehem very long at all. He moves about, grows up and changes the world. He performs the work that God has intended to reunite man with Himself. Perhaps the most silent, dark nights were those in which the body of Jesus Christ lay in the tomb prior to His resurrection. The story continues with the glorious morning of the resurrection that mankind is reconciled to God and the power of eternal death is defeated. The ending of the story is yet to come with the glorious return of Jesus Christ to take His people home. “Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him,” (Revelation 1:7a AMP) 

Until the time we see him riding on the clouds, we must claim the promise that He has given. “And when (if) I go and make ready a place for you, I will come back again and will take you to Myself, that where I am you may be also.” (John 14:3 AMP) He will return for us and in the meantime He will care for us and intervene to bring deliverance to our lives. 

So the next time you sing Silent Night, think about the baby in the manger. Remember how Jesus came into this world of darkness with very little evidence of His appearance. And cling to the promise that He will come into your darkest and most silent nights.

Silent night, Holy night
All is calm, all is bright
Round yon virgin, mother and child
Holy infant, tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace,
Sleep in heavenly peace.

Silent night, Holy night
Shepherds quake, at the sight
Glories stream from heaven above
Heavenly, hosts sing Hallelujah.
Christ the Savior is born,
Christ the Savior is born.

Silent night, Holy night
Son of God, love's pure light
Radiant beams from thy holy face
With the dawn of redeeming grace,
Jesus, Lord at thy birth
Jesus, Lord at thy birth.

The Tree's True Light (12/19/14)

Continuing on the theme of decorations and light, I’d like to tell you about our Christmas tree. This year we purchased an artificial tree with fiber-optic lighting. In case you have never seen one of these allow me to describe it to you. Running along all the branches of the tree are thin transparent fiber-optic tubules. These tubules light up in an array of colors that are constantly changing. The shimmering effect is beautiful. Even the star at the top of the tree benefits from these beautiful iridescent colors. The overall effect of the lighting and its constant, shimmering change can be mesmerizing. My son commented that the tree was beautiful without even putting any ornaments on it.

What is unique about this type of tree is that it is not the tubules along the branches that create the light. We have purchased pre-lit trees in the past. These have strings of lights that are attached to the branches. It seems that with each progressive year one or more light strands refused to light up. This is why we chose the fiber-optic version for this year. In other trees the lights along the branches are what light up. The light in this tree does not come from the branches or even tree itself but from the base in which it stands. This base has a solid, clear light. Just above the light is a transparent, rotating color disc. When the clear light shines up through this rotating disc, the array of colors on the disc shine through the tubules lighting up the tree. The base of the tree looks like a dark green bucket that could hold dirt and support a live tree. The light and the motor remain unseen. All that catches the attention of observer is the color on the branches and the beautiful star on the top.

Looking at this tree we can reflect on what the Christmas story represents. We are celebrating the coming of Jesus Christ, our Savior. Jesus is the tree of eternal life. He told his disciples, “I am the Vine; you are the branches. Whoever lives in Me and I in him bears much (abundant) fruit. However, apart from Me [cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing.” (John 15:5 AMP) We are the branches of that tree. The life comes from Jesus through us. We do not work at it. We simply let it flow unhindered.

 Jesus is the true source of light in life. “…I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me will not be walking in the dark, but will have the Light which is Life.” (John 8:12b AMP) Like the tubules on the tree’s branches, we are equipped to reflect the light of Jesus. “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your moral excellence and your praiseworthy, noble, and good deeds and recognize and honor and praise and glorify your Father Who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16 AMP) We have not only been equipped but also commanded to shine brightly for Him. And Jesus, just like the base of that tree, does all the work. We believers, like the fiber optic tubules, simply reflect what is being projected by our base, the true cornerstone of life. “You are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets with Christ Jesus Himself the chief Cornerstone.” (Ephesians 2:20 AMP) 

We must let Jesus provide the light and the power behind everything that we do. We are created in His image to be a reflection of His glory. “And all of us, as with unveiled face, [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:18 (AMP) There is no striving in this. All we are to do is simply be what we were created to be. The result will be a peaceful calm and incredibly beauty that will mesmerize the world. 

Let the light of Jesus Christ shine through you today. The reflection of God’s Glory will be beautiful for all to see.

In the Right Place (12/22/14)

While decorating our home for Christmas this year, I tried to switch things up a little bit. Since we moved into this house more than 12 years ago, I have placed my nativity scene in the corner of our living room. The den on my lower floor is filled with my Christmas village and a second nativity graces the hall of our upper floor. My large nativity, which consists of a Jerusalem style building and actual dolls dressed in apparel appropriate to the time of the birth of Christ, has always been in that first room you enter when you come through the front door of my home.
It is very important to me to keep this nativity set as the focal point of our Christmas decorations. Over the years, I have added both animals and angels to the display. I want this to be the main remembrance from the added decor of my home during this holiday season. The tree, garland, lighted village and assortment of musical characters all add fun to the festive feel of this time of year. The Nativity brings reason to it all.
This year I moved the Nativity to the center back wall of the room so it would be even more of a focal point. I wanted it to be where the eyes naturally fell as one first walked through the front door. I had it set up there for about 3 days. During this time I was continually picking up one of the kings, a camel or a donkey up off of the floor. The table on which I had placed the set is quite a bit lower than its corner counterpart. My dog Beamer must have thought that I had put toys out for him to play with. Fortunately he did no damage to the ceramic dolls or the elegant clothing of the Magi. But after 3 days, I knew that the original location in the corner on a higher table was the right place for my nativity scene. This was not only out of the dogs play area, but I could also spread the Magi out onto the shelf of the cabinet that was beside this table. (This adds to the realism of the long journey the Magi undertook to reach the newborn King)
I think about how we often predetermine how we want Jesus to come into our lives. When He came as a baby it was not where many expected Him to be. Bethlehem was not where they thought Messiah would begin His reign. Jerusalem was the capital and where the temple was. Surely Messiah would appear as a full grown man on the Temple Mount. But God had His own plan set in motion before time had even begun. That plan included a baby, a stable (or cave) and the town of Bethlehem.
We often believe that we know how God should do things in our lives. We can consider how we would take care of circumstances and wonder why God doesn’t do it the same way. We can also cry out for God to make things so obvious that we cannot miss His plan. Why doesn’t He place it all right in our path where we would stumble over it if we weren’t looking? That would be logical so wouldn’t it also be right? Although it may be logical it is not always what God does. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-9 AMP) His plan may not be as we expect, but it will be right.
My intentions in moving the Nativity set were good. I wanted to make it so easy to see that would be impossible to miss. In reality it takes very little effort to look over to the corner where the display once again stands. God purposely does not always put things directly into our path. He wants us to put a little effort into seeking Him and His ways. “Then you will seek Me, inquire for, and require Me [as a vital necessity] and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13 AMP) When we are willing to make that effort, what we find will always be more than worth it. Like weaving past the Penguins and snowmen to get to the manger we must pass up some of the distractions of daily life to get to the heart of God.
Moving the nativity scene was not a big deal but is much better in its original place. Trying to move what God has set in our lives would be much more serious. We must allow God to choose the times and locations He has planned for us. And we must look to Him to find our way.

Look for God’s plan for you today. It may not be the most obvious choice but it is in just the right place and at just the right time.

Beautiful Lights (12/20/13)

A wonderful part of the Christmas season is all of the beautiful lights that decorate houses throughout many different neighborhoods. We enjoy driving around and seeing how each house has chosen to light up. You usually get a sense of where the best light displays are. Many cities even have areas that the homeowners all agree, and even contract, to decorate. These neighborhoods become areas that may have long lines of vehicles and walkers alike enjoying the beauty.

Nature has its own impressive display of lights that far exceeds the beauty of anything man-made. It is the aurora borealis, or Northern lights. Having never been to Alaska, or anywhere that far north, my personal experience consists of only watching videos taken of them. I have also spoken to people who have been blessed to see them for themselves. Breathtaking, amazing and beyond beautiful are some of the descriptions I have heard.  “They don’t seem real!”

As beautiful as these lights are, they cannot compare to what heaven must be like.  As I consider what Scripture says about the new heaven and the new earth, I wonder just what beauty awaits us.  Just what it will be like to take in all the sights and sounds and experience that amazing light? Here and now, I enjoy seeking the beauty in my everyday life and surroundings. But there are days I find myself longing the light that is yet to come.

As Christmas Eve approaches, we set aside time to consider the birth of Jesus Christ.  This year I have a new perspective of a promise of God.  ”Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” (James 1:17 ESV) I always saw that as answers to prayers. But the greatest prayer need was answered before I even was born. Jesus, in the form of a human baby, is that perfect gift coming down from those gorgeous heavenly lights. He comes from God to bring us back to God.  The Father of lights sent us the very best. 

Not only is Jesus the gift that came from light, but He is the light. “Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”  (John 8:12 ESV)  God sent His son to be born in a lowly, Bethlehem stable.  He came in the darkness of that night to a world that was living in darkness. Through Him we have the light of life; life eternal. 

We can keep that beautiful light in our hearts by following Him day by day.  In doing so, we become more and more like Him.  “Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.” (Psalm 34:5 ESV)  Not only will we enjoy the benefits of his light, we will begin to shine that same light. We are to be a reflection of Him. We will be radiant!

Jesus told those who would follow Him, ^“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16 ESV)  Our good works are like the light displays we drive around to see.  Do the houses of our lives draw people to see and give glory to our heavenly Father?  Are we lit up all year round? 

So, this year, as you admire the pretty Christmas lights, think of them as a dim shadow of the true heavenly lights. Consider the perfect gift that came down to a Bethlehem stable that night. And allow Him to fill you with His radiance, as your heart soaks in His presence in your own life.  How will you decorate your life this year?

Adding Beauty Piece By Piece (12/23/13)

In a previous post (Go Where He Goes) I mentioned my Christmas village.  Twenty six years ago, on our first Christmas together, my husband gave me a Christmas village starter set that included a church, a school, a home and several accessories.  We began a tradition of adding to the village every year. Many years it has been an additional building. We’ve also collected several pieces that make up two wonderful parks. One surrounds a train station with a toy train that runs along an oval track. This park has a beautiful gazebo. The other park contains children playing, snowmen and a carnival style gallery.  It has been great fun putting the set together all these years.

Over the years, the village has changed quite a bit.  As we have moved into different homes and changed furniture, the surface we have used to ser the village has also changed.  At one point, we had roads running through the town.  When we moved the village to a narrower surface, the road no longer worked.  We took it out and increased the size of the parks, where there was ample room.  We currently place the majority of the buildings along a shelf that runs the length of our den. This feeds into our ski resort and parks.  It works for the space we have at this house.

In a way my life is a lot like this village. When I was first born again, God made some changes in my life and implanted a set of hopes and dreams. These were similat to a starter kit.  “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”  (Jeremiah 29:11 ESV)  Along with these hopes and dreams, He gave me talents and abilities to live them out.  As I have studied God’s Word and walked with Him, He has added many other pieces to His plan for my life.  Some of the pieces have remained for all these years.  Other God-planted dreams have been for a season of my life.  They have come and gone as my life has changed. “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:” (Ecclesiastes 3:1a ESV)

This year there was an urgency to add to the village before Christmas.  After several years of inattention to the glue, the library that was on a preset board fell and broke.  Suddenly there was a light bulb with no building to light.  After a search, we purchased a fire station to fill the void.  I had wanted a fire station for some time, but never found one that I liked.  This one is perfect for my village.  It perfectly fills that void.

Why do we seek God with the greatest urgency when something in our lives is broken?  Although we may appreciate His daily provision, we tend to run more quickly to Him when we have a need.  He has already made a way for us.  His plans are to make our lives full and beautiful.  “And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you.” (Philippians 1:6 AMP)  He has started a very specific plan for each of us.  He will complete it piece by piece.  Sometimes it will be an obvious, significant addition.  Other times His additions to our lives will be small and subtle.  

What we find may not be exactly what has been lost.  Just as my library is being replaced by a fire station, God may open new doors in our lives and close others.  We just need to stay on His plan to see the beauty unfold.  Changes, additions and alterations are inevitable.  As we follow God’s ways, we will age with grace and beauty.  The pieces of our lives form the masterpiece He has planned.  “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” (Ephesians 2:10 NLT)  

I may find another library some day.  I may not.  Whatever is added to my village will increase its character and beauty.  Whatever God chooses to restore or replace in my life will also be of a value beyond compare.  The tapestry of my life will be full of character and beauty.
Allow God to mold, redesign and add to your life. His plans will beautify you and bless others. 

Go Where He Goes (12/6/13)

The Christmas season is here, and the house is decorated. Part of our decorating is putting up my Christmas village. On our very first Christmas together, David gave me a Victorian Village starter set that contained three buildings and some accessories. Each year since, we have added a piece or two to the collection.

Because some of our village set is placed on a shelf that runs along the wall, we must rearrange our furniture. The couch that regularly sits against that wall is so tall that it hides part of the houses. So when we begin to decorate our den, the couch and love seat trade places to leave an open view the entire village. The couch we have moved is where I spent a lot time. This is the couch I go to every morning to spend time with God. So when the couch moves, so do I. I also generally sit at the opposite end of the couch during this time. (I’m not sure why, but it’s been this way for years.)

This last week since the furniture has been moved, my dogs, particularly Kari, have not been coming to sit by me as usual. Most mornings, one or the other will climb up and cuddle next to me as I read and pray. Beamer has come around some, but Kari has been going over to the love seat. This morning I changed position and sat on the opposite end of the couch.  (This is closer to where I prefer to be when the den furniture is in its regular configuration.) I was able to coax Kari up next to me. As I sat there, I realized that, for her. everything had changed. The furniture had moved, and so had I. It is the same room Kari is accustomed to, but things are out of place. I am out of place and beckon her to my right side when she is familiar with my left. She has not readily adapted.

This makes me think about how we approach God. People pray, frequently asking God to move in their lives. We talk about mighty moves of God. We may even ask to see Him move in our current circumstances.  But are we willing to move with Him?  Are we willing to search for Him?

When I approach the Father, do I go to the last place I met with him? Do I become disconcerted, if things are not as have become familiar? Do I even become just a bit standoffish because things are not as they had been? I have to admit that sometimes I am a bit slow in changing with the seasons of my life. I sometimes feel as though I need to catch up with God. I have been trying to meet with Him where and how we have always met before.  I do not see that He has rearranged things to show the beauty of something new in my life.  When He moves, I must move with Him.

In the Bible God did things differently on different occasions. Moses was told to strike a rock one time to get water, but the next time he was only to speak to it. (See Exodus 17 and Numbers 20) There was a time that the Ark of the Covenant was in a tent that moved with the Israelites.  Later it was placed in the temple and the people came to it. The Samaritan Woman asked Jesus where it was proper to worship God.  Jesus’ reply surprised her, for it was not a place at all.  ^“ A time will come, however, indeed it is already here, when the true (genuine) worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth (reality); for the Father is seeking just such people as these as His worshipers.” (John 4:23 AMP)

The religious leaders in the day of Jesus were looking for things as they had always been. Jesus came providing a new way to the Father. Many people did not like this. They wanted things as they had always been, the way they believed to be right. But those who held to the old missed out on the true work of God in the earth. They missed out on the salvation that Jesus offers us. They missed out on coming boldly before the throne of God, through Jesus. “Let us then fearlessly and confidently and boldly draw near to the throne of grace (the throne of God’s unmerited favor to us sinners), that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find grace to help in good time for every need [appropriate help and well-timed help, coming just when we need it].”(Hebrews 4:16 AMP)

Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth; do you not perceive and know it and will you not give heed to it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. (Isaiah 43:19 AMP) God has promised to do new things in our lives. This may entail new ways for us to meet with him, to hear Him and to know Him. This verse also says that we must perceive, or recognize, it.  I don’t ever want to get so comfortable in any aspect of my relationship with the Lord that I am unwilling to change my ways. I want to recognize when He moves and then rearrange my life, much like my den, when He rearranges my life. I do not ever want to continue to search the old when God is calling me toward the new.

 How about you? Are you ready to search for God when and where he is doing that new thing in your life? When God moves, will you also move?  His movement will always be to reveal the best for you.  Look for and draw near to Him.

Calling For Your Best Friend (3/31/14)

When I was a little girl, my friends and I would ‘call’ for each other. When I arrived at a friend’s home, I went to the door and instead of knocking I would call out the name of my friend. In a sing – song voice I would call the name twice, pause and then repeat the name twice. This let all family members know exactly who I was there to see. It often prevented siblings from becoming irritated by an interruption to answer the door. It also allowed my friend to know who was outside by the sound of my voice.  My friends did the same when they came over to my house. 

Sometimes my call would not be immediately heard. Loud music or a television set would cover the sound of my voice. If all family members were in a part of the house far from the door, they may not hear me either. In these situations I had a choice to make. I could assume no one was home and go back to my house, or I could call again, in a louder voice.  Persistence always paid off. 

We are told to call upon the Lord and seek him daily. We find many different reasons noted in Scripture. Among the most predominant of these reasons is to praise God and to be saved from enemies. “I will call upon the Lord, Who is to be praised; so shall I be saved from my enemies.” (Psalm 18:3 AMP)   Mercy and forgiveness are also among great reasons to call on God. “For You, O Lord, are good, and ready to forgive [our trespasses, sending them away, letting them go completely and forever]; and You are abundant in mercy and loving-kindness to all those who call upon You.” (Psalm 86:5 AMP)  Calling on Him also arises from thankfulness and results in others coming to know about Him.  “O give thanks unto the Lord, call upon His name, make known His doings among the peoples!” (Psalm 105:1 AMP) 

These reasons are valid for true friends.  Once my call was answered we would spend time together.  We would build each other up and share our gratefulness for the friendship we had.  There were also times when mercy and forgiveness were required by one or the other of us.  I remember how long the walk seemed one day when I had caused a rift in a friendship.  I hesitated before I called out her name.  Hope arose as she answered the door and relief and joy flooded my heart when she accepted my trembling greeting of “Sorry!”  I don’t believe that playing with anyone was ever as much fun as that day. 

Sometimes we may wonder if He even hears or even recognizes our voice.  He has given us promises that He does.  “…The Lord knows those who are His…” (2 Timothy 2:19 AMP)  He will answer us when we call and He will care for us.  “The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him sincerely and in truth.” (Psalm 145:18 AMP) “He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him.” (Psalm 91:15 AMP)  I love these promises. He not only answers us, He calls us by name. “And I will give you the treasures of darkness and hidden riches of secret places, that you may know that it is I, the Lord, the God of Israel, Who calls you by your name.” 

The primary reasons I would call for my friends was that I wanted to see and play with them. We enjoyed spending time together. Sometimes I would go into their home to play or they would come into mine. Other times we would play outside, exploring the far corners of our neighborhood. Anything we did was more fun because we had done it together. God enjoys spending time with us as well. He has made his home with us and desires to be a part of every aspect of our day.

Wherever you are at right now call for Him.  Whether you are needing forgiveness or just wanting to chat, He’s waiting.  So as you go about your day, let this verse be your heart’s prayer. “Hear my cry O God, listen to my prayer.” (Psalm 61:1 AMP)  Then listen for the answer. He will always open the door to spend time with His friend.  Anything you do today will be far better simply because you do it with your best friend.

First time calling?  No problem!  “For everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord [invoking Him as Lord] will be saved.” (Romans 10:13 AMP)  Call and you will become a part of the family and receive more than you ever imagine!  (Note:  If this is your first time calling on God, get with some Christians who can help you begin your walk with Him.)

Simmering Dreams (3/24/14)

Since we started eating healthier, I have begun making most all of my own sauces and dressings. I have a really great recipe for barbecue sauce. It’s quite simple to make. I mix all the ingredients together in a sauce pot and bring it to a boil. Then the sauce must simmer for 20 minutes. At the end of the 20 minutes the sauce is ready to use or can be put into containers and stored for future enjoyment. 

While the sauce simmering, it requires some attention but not my total focus. So, as I set the sauce to simmer, I started about other tasks. First, I cleaned of the utensils and measuring cups I had used in combining the ingredients and wiped down the counter. I stirred the sauce and went to change the laundry from washer to dryer. I stirred the sauce then folded and hung up the clothes that had been in the dryer. I stirred the sauce then selected the clothes I would wear for the day. I did a few other chores and between all of these activities, approximately every three minutes, I took breaks to return to the stove and stir the simmering sauce. When I turned off the burner, I had returned and stirred the sauce a total of seven times. 

As I went about these tasks, I pondered how similar this is to the dreams that God has placed in my heart. These dreams are from God and designed with all the right ingredients. Then it seems the waiting period comes, as the dream simmers in my heart awaiting God’s timing for fulfillment. So, what am I to do during this waiting time? I go about my daily life attending to my current responsibilities. Regularly, I need to revisit my dream. During these visits, I pray and remind myself of what my future holds. This stirs the dream up within me. I am to continue to live out my life faithfully; watching for what God has for me each day. And just as I went back to my barbecue sauce every few minutes, I must regularly go back to the dreams that are simmering in my heart. 

Both the time a sauce simmers and a dream is delayed are critically important. The time may seem long and even unnecessary. It may be tedious to attend to something that is not yet ready. But without this time of simmering both the sauce and the dream may be ruined. In the barbecue sauce, the seasonings need to be brought out to their full taste. God-given dreams can only be truly appreciated after my character has been enhanced. Like the sauce, bringing a dream about too quickly, will not provide the full blessing the Heavenly Father intends. 

Just as both sauce and dreams must wait for the appointed time, attention must be paid to them during the wait. If I were to bring my sauce to a boil, reduce the heat, put on the cover and walk away for the 20 minutes, I would not be happy with the result. If I had failed to set the flame at the proper intensity, the sauce may have boiled too much or not at all. Either is undesirable. Even if the flame was at the proper level, some of the sauce would have become stuck to the bottom and sides of the pot. This would not only cause the scalded portions to be lost, but a burnt taste could permeate the entire batch. If we fail to water our dreams, disastrous effects can also occur. Inattention can cause the dream to fade from our hearts. God may also require some fine-tuning of the dream that will be missed if we don’t pay attention during the waiting time. Either of these can ruin the fulfillment of the dream. 

Jesus is our example in all this. “Looking away [from all that will distract] to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith [giving the first incentive for our belief] and is also its Finisher [bringing it to maturity and perfection]. He, for the joy [of obtaining the prize] that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising and ignoring the shame, and is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2 AMP) He continually saw the vision of the salvation that He was here on earth to bring. Yet in the daily life of His ministry, “He went about doing good and, in particular, curing all who were harassed and oppressed by [the power of] the devil, for God was with Him.” (Acts 10:38b AMP) Jesus followed God’s leading every day of His life. This included the smallest detail all the way up to His death and resurrection. 

Is there a dream from God in your heart? Are there things you are waiting to come about? Faithfully, go about your day doing whatever God has for you that day. This includes regular daily activities and being aware of and obedient to the little things that God calls your attention to. Check in regularly with God on your big dreams. Pray the word over them and fine-tune your vision. If it is of God, it’ll come to pass in His time.

Do You Want Someone Else’s Toys? (2/19/14)

My two dogs Beamer and Karamel Kream (Kari) get along really well – most of the time.  They will play together, sleep beside each other, and even lick the same plate without fighting.  They love to run outside together and bark at other dogs together.  Together is a great word for them …except when either toys or attention is involved.  At that point jealousy emerges with a vengeance.  The favorite toy is the one that the other dog has.  The person whose attention matters the most is the one who is paying attention to the other dog. 

God has called us to walk in unity, Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”  (Psalm 133:1 AMP) When we walk together and encourage each other we become a mighty force for the kingdom of God.  Unfortunately, jealously and pettiness are often true in the Body of Christ, as well.  We can often be a united force and walk in unity as God has intended.  Then we see someone else getting blessed and a vying for attention begins.  We see the gift God has given another and we desire both that gift and the attention of our Father. 

Being jealous of the other dog’s toys is really quite silly.  There is an entire basket of toys to select from.  Regardless of another toy being the generally preferred toy, all it takes is for one dog to pick up a toy and the battle is on.  Now all attention is focused on that single toy.  One dog is guarding his possession, while the other is seeking an opportunity to steal it away.  Neither dog is able to enjoy any toy.  Each dog simply wants what the other has, when the other has it.  That amiable companion of a few moments prior has now become public enemy #1.  

When we become envious of what God is doing in another believer’s life, we get to a very dangerous place. God has blessings and callings for each one of us.  When He opens a door of blessing in one believer’s life, He is in no ways limited in His ability to bless another.  Like that basket of toys in our living room, God has incredible plans and gifts for each of His children.  What may be a suitable opportunity for one believer may not be a proper fit for the temperament of another.  He also is not paying more attention to one believer just because there is some obvious breakthrough in his or her life.  And yet we surrender to envy and resentment.   “You are jealous and covet [what others have] and your desires go unfulfilled; [so] you become murderers. [To hate is to murder as far as your hearts are concerned.] You burn with envy and anger and are not able to obtain [the gratification, the contentment, and the happiness that you seek], so you fight and war. You do not have, because you do not ask.” (James 4:2 AMP)  All we have to do is ask God for His best for us and then be willing to await His perfect timing. 

When it comes to toys, Beamer loves the squeaker.  Kari hates that sound entirely.  Yet, she will attempt to steal that toy away and guard it passionately.  She would be much happier playing with a silent toy. She has even worked herself into a frenzy by inadvertently squeaking the toy as she attempts to ‘bury it’ in the couch. But she will keep Beamer from squeaking and enjoying it at all costs.  If only she would allow her masters to pick the best toy and place to play for her. 

If only we would allow our Master to pick the best gift and place to serve for us.  All would be much more fulfilled, happy and peaceful. 

The apostle Paul felt very strongly about believers supporting each other at all times. “I Therefore, the prisoner for the Lord, appeal to and beg you to walk (lead a life) worthy of the [divine] calling to which you have been called [with behavior that is a credit to the summons to God's service, living as becomes you] with complete lowliness of mind (humility) and meekness (unselfishness, gentleness, mildness), with patience, bearing with one another and making allowances because you love one another.” (Ephesians 4:1-2 AMP) Jesus also spoke about the ineffectiveness brought on by division.  “Any kingdom that is divided against itself is being brought to desolation and laid waste, and no city or house divided against itself will last or continue to stand.” (Matthew 12:25AMP) 

Do not allow a toy, a ministry or another’s blessing to consume your desires.  Do not give envy or jealousy even a tiny foot in the door.  God has plenty of blessings and work to go around.  Ask for His best at His perfect time and rejoice in what He is doing for others.

Angels! Angels! Angels! (12/27/13)

I have a large nativity display that is placed to catch your eye when you enter my front door. The characters of the story are set. There’s not much that I can add to this scene each year.  I can add more animals and angels. I want to keep adding angels to create a ‘heavenly host’.  Some of my angels are cute and childlike in appearance. Others have a more regal bearing and are playing instruments. Some are even ornaments that I hang on the wall behind the nativity scene. The Christmas story tells us that the sky was filled with angels singing praises to the newborn babe.

 As I look at my nativity scene I consider the simplicity of that birth in a lonely cave in Bethlehem. The King of Kings, who is over the universe, came in quietness and poverty to become our Savior. The only fanfare that he received in Bethlehem that night was an announcement by the angels to shepherds watching their flocks.

 (Luke 2: 10–12 ESV) Suddenly the angels were singing high praises to God. “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased.” (Luke 2:14 ESV) It is almost as if the shepherds were given a glimpse of a praise party the angels were throwing.  

I find three primary purposes in Scripture for the presence of angels in the earth.

The first is the role of a messenger.  Angels appear with messages throughout the Old and New Testaments.  Some messages are announcements of births.  Examples of these are Abraham, (concerning Isaac) Zachariah, (concerning John) and both Mary and Joseph, (concerning Jesus).  Others, as with Lot, are the relaying of directions from the Lord.  As morning dawned, the angels urged Lot, saying, “Up! Take your wife and your two daughters who are here, lest you be swept away in the punishment of the city.”  (Genesis 19:15 ESV) Still others are to bring encouragement, as in the case of Gideon.  And the angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him, “The Lord is with you, O mighty man of valor.” (Judges 6:12 ESV) Are you listening for a message God may have for you?

 The second role is as a worshiper of God almighty.  “All heaven will praise your great wonders, Lord; myriads of angels will praise you for your faithfulness.”  (Psalm 89:5 ESV)  And one cried to another and said, Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory! (Isaiah 6:3 AMP) Then I looked, and I heard around the throne and the living creatures and the elders the voice of many angels, numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands, saying with a loud voice, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” (Revelation 5:11-12 ESV) “And when he brought his supreme Son into the world, God said, “Let all of God’s angels worship him.”  (Hebrews 1:6 ESV) These are only a few of the many examples that run through the Bible from Old Testament to New.  

 The third purpose we find in Scripture is to carry out God’s will.  Praise the Lord, you angels, you mighty ones who carry out his plans, listening for each of his commands. Yes, praise the Lord, you armies of angels who serve him and do his will! (Psalm 1003:20-21 ESV) This can take many forms including protection “For he will order his angels to protect you wherever you go.” (Psalm 91:11 ESV) Before entering the Promised Land the Lord told Moses, “Behold, I send an angel before you to guard you on the way and to bring you to the place that I have prepared. (Exodus 23:20 ESV) Angels are obedient servants, waiting to be sent for God’s glory.

 The response of the shepherds to the announcement of the angels that night was to find out more.  When the angels disappeared, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”  (Luke 2:15 ESV) Our response to any of the work of angels in our lives should be the same.  Angels always point us back to Jesus Christ.  We may be receiving a message from the Father through them, joining in on their praise party, or experiencing the protection of their warfare.  Whatever the interaction may be, it should always lead us longingly back to the God we serve and the salvation He offers.

The Banner Waves in Adversity (11/17/14)

As we took a drive on a windy day, an elderly friend of ours pointed out the American flag atop a pole in a neighbor’s yard. As she commented on how she loved that flag she stated, “Look at it blowing in the wind.” The motion of the wind had unfurled the flag, displaying the red, white and blue openly. The stars & stripes were plain to see as the outstretched banner rippled with the strong current. Despite and even because of the intensity of the wind, the flag waved proudly that day.

On a calm and peaceful day a flag will hang limp at the top of the pole. The colors blend together as the folds of the flag swirl around its base. It is when the peaceful calm is disrupted by the force of the wind, that the shapes and color which represent our country are most clearly seen. In the midst of the storm that banner can be clearly observed.

One of the compound names for God found in Scripture is Jehovah Nissi, which means ‘The Lord Our Banner’. This name was first noted when Joshua led the army of Israel to defeat the Amalekites. While Moses held his arms up to God, Joshua remained successful. (See Exodus 17:9 – 13) Moses built a memorial to acknowledge God in this event. “And Moses built an altar and called the name of it, The Lord is my Banner;” God had been the banner of deliverance. (Exodus 17:15 AMP) The Psalmist also acknowledges God as the banner of His people. He wrote, “[But now] You have set up a banner for those who fear and worshipfully revere You [to which they may flee from the bow], a standard displayed because of the truth. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! That Your beloved ones may be delivered, save with Your right hand and answer us [or me].” (Psalm 60:4-5 AMP) This banner denotes the provision and protection of God.

Evidence of God should always be apparent in us. When everything in life is calm and peaceful God’s presence can still be seen in the life of a believer. His character is comfortingly wrapped around us. When the winds of adversity begin to blow, the banner that is Jehovah Nissi unfurls and both the believer and all around can see more of God’s attributes. We then realize how multifaceted is God’s love and design for us.

When we trust as turmoil and fear assail us, we can experience supernatural peace. “Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. And God's peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7 AMP)

When we yield to temptation and slip into sin, we can learn of the Father’s unconditional love and forgiveness. “If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just (true to His own nature and promises) and will forgive our sins [dismiss our lawlessness] and [continuously] cleanse us from all unrighteousness [everything not in conformity to His will in purpose, thought, and action].” (1 John 1:9 AMP) 

When we feel abandoned and totally alone we will experience “A father of the fatherless and a judge and protector of the widows is God in His holy habitation.” (Psalm 68:5 AMP)

The list is unending. The more trials that come against us the more we learn of our Creator who loves us. “…Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn you and continued My faithfulness to you.” (Jeremiah 31:3 AMP) We will become more intimately acquainted with Jesus and experience the attributes Isaiah prophesied. “For to us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father [of Eternity], Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6 AMP)

Storms and high winds will come and go in our lives. For every need, Jehovah, the Great I Am, has a provision. As we endure these storms we grow closer to the Almighty. The shades of His provision will become brighter and more distinct. Like the bride in the Song of Solomon will be able to say, “He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love [for love waved as a protecting and comforting banner over my head when I was near him].” (Song of Songs 2:4 AMP)

So, let the winds of life below and you will see the beauty of the fullness of the Lord unfurled in your life. Look with confidence and appreciate His beauty. His banner of love is waving over you for all to see.

Thanks Giving or Thanks Living? (11/29/13)

To have a day set aside for giving thanks is really great!  This year, on Thanksgiving Day, I spent some time thanking the Lord for things He has done in my life.  We thanked Him together, publicly for the food and friends and the day we could share. But this year, my personal thanks giving had a couple of add-ons.  

First, I was made aware of a host of things to be thankful for.  Many of these are things I often take for granted.  A kitchen mishap took my husband and son on a trip to the emergency room.  A slicer had gotten a piece of finger.  We knew the cut was not deep enough to have harmed the tendons, but there was a lot of blood and we were not sure if the skin could or should be reattached.

As they drove off, I found myself thanking God for both of them; a car to drive; good roads; a hospital to go to; doctors and staff to care for them when they arrived; God’s healing power…The list went on.  Moments earlier, I had not even considered these things for which I was thankful for this day.  But they had become the focal points of what I was verbally thanking God for in that moment.  It turned out that wound had not been deep enough to reattach the skin.  In time, God’s design for the body will cause the skin to grow back. (Another reason to give thanks) After stopping the bleeding, which took a bit more effort, they were on their way home.  I thanked and praised the Lord that it had not been more serious.

The other addition to my giving thanks this year was that God had me write a thank you a note to each person who was to be at our home.  It was a practical way to turn being thankful into giving thanks.  I so love these people.  They know that from my words and actions. Yet this was so simple to do, and it greatly touched those who received it.  That makes me want to do this more often and for more people I care about.

I had already known I would be writing this post about thanks living.  My experiences today simply changed how I would express the concept.  Thanksgiving, a special day to consider and to give thanks, although great, is not enough.  The Bible states, “Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will].”   (1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV) This verse says so much.  We are to thank God in all things, the good and bad.  We are to both feel thankful and express it.  All this is His will and Jesus gave a great example.  Thanking the Father was a natural part of His life.  I am sure he still does as He intercedes for us.

 We are also to thank God for who He is.  And we are to let others know about Him, both who He is and what He does.  “Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim His greatness.  Let the whole world know what He has done,” (1Chronicles 16:8 ESV) The Psalms are full of expressions of gratitude for the mighty attributes and deeds of the Lord.  We can read and share these thoughts.  Better yet, we can tell of how wonderful He is to us.

 We can also thank God frequently for those He has placed in our lives.  This was Paul’s habit and he frequently noted this in his letters.  To the church in Ephesus he wrote, “I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers,” (Ephesians 1:16 ESV) He wrote similar greetings to several other churches.  I think he probably expressed this same sentiment verbally to those around him daily.  We should too.  Telling someone you appreciate them may be that timely word that really encourages him or her just when needed most.

 So, thanks living is this.  Thank God, speak it out at all times, regardless of what is going on.  Thank Him for who He is and for His blessings.  Also let others know that you consider them among these blessings, and that you thank the Father for them.

 The Bible instructs us to, “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.” (Colossians 4:6 ESV) I would like to add my thoughts to this.   “Let all your conversations be sprinkled with words of thanks, both to God and others.”  This habit will turn your thanks giving into thanks living.