February 11

My husband and I, both had several projects going on at the same time. Juggling them and trying to meet other obligations can get hairy at times. Occasionally, some things had to fall to the wayside or be put on the back burner while we handle more immediate matters. Then, even though it was gradual, it seemed as though things suddenly fell into place. The projects were not over, but we reached a pinnacle where approvals were granted and the bigger project could now get underway for an extraordinary finish. Why this happened all at once, only God knows! It was as if we had stayed Goliath! If you know the story of David, you know that it took a lot of time before he became king. He was refined, like pure gold before God set him on the throne, but he had victories along the way. So if you are wondering when the refining will end, it won't. Just rejoice in the small victories; our ultimate victory awaits!

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:6-7

February 10

There has been a shift in the atmosphere. Do you feel it? I believe God is moving on behalf of His children, the ones who love Him and call Him Father. If you're still in the midst of a trial, it will get better, and you may even see a dramatic turn. God is at work among us and is putting things into position to favor us. God does not revel in our misery, but longs to bring us peace and give us our desires. But, like any good father, He guides us with discipline and allows us to deal with the consequences of our actions to help strengthen our character and to learn to draw closer to Him. As with our life, trials are only temporary. God has amazing things in store for you so be patient during your affliction, His plan for you is greater than you ever imagined. So until you start seeing the doors of peace opening, give Him all of your praise, worship Him with every fiber of your being, and do not stop praying.

Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Romans 12:12

February 9

This time of year reminds us of days gone by. County fairs are popping up all over the place. The smell of fair food wafts through the air and the sounds of children laughing brings back memories of sweet times from our own childhood. For me, this meant showtime! I grew up in a cow town and my dad arranged for me and my siblings to show steers each year. It taught us responsibility, how to compete, consistency, accounting, how to win and how to lose. It was just like having a job. All of our experiences as children teach us how to be adults. Jesus began teaching His disciples using experiences that happened to them as they went along; He also used parables as a teaching tool. If you want to learn from the Master, follow His footsteps through the Gospels. His lessons will teach you how to be a disciple. If you will open your eyes you will see that your own experiences are also lessons.

A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher. Luke 6:40

February 8

During this time of year, with it being somewhat cooler, we tend to stay in the sun a little longer. It feels great to be outside! The problem with that is, you can still get sunburned. We lose track of time not realizing that, even though it's nice outside, we still need to protect our skin. When I was a teenager, February was my favorite time to go to the beach. I felt like it was the kickoff for the summer. One time, my friend and I laid out on the beach all day with no protection. I had been taking a powerful medication for acne but never gave that a second thought. I got really burnt. By the next day I had water blisters covering every bit of skin that was exposed. It looked horrible. We need to look at Jesus as our sunscreen. So, put on your Son-screen daily for protection from the harmful burning rays of life and the devastation of eternity in Hell.

and if he rescued righteous Lot, greatly distressed by the sensual conduct of the wicked then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the day of judgment, 2 Peter 7 & 9

February 7

Sometimes we are put into situations just to see how we will react or handle it. Does God test us and if so, and does the enemy have a role to play? The answer to both questions is a resounding yes! I have a friend who creates these magnificent displays that are called Sailors Valentines. It is art made from tiny seashells. She entered her artwork in a contest and received first place ribbons on all three of her entries. She was so honored to have won, but very humble. Her friend took pictures and shared the photos with everyone. They went back the next day and one of her awards had changed to second place. It was a crushing blow. Why would you do that to someone? The excuse was that the award was placed on the wrong artists' work. My friend was very gracious in her disappointment, but never soiled her reputation or testimony during the process. She passed the test! Are you passing the test?

But he knows the way that I take; when he has tried me, I shall come out as gold. My foot has held fast to his steps; I have kept his way and have not turned aside. I have not departed from the commandment of his lips; I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my portion of food. Job 23:10-12

February 6

There are days when I feel that it's important to remind you why you're saved at this particular time. God could have left you to wallow in your sin until right before your very last breath, but He chose to save you now for a reason. We have no need to fear "the day of the Lord". We will be caught up before the impending wrath of God takes place. But, if you want a sobering reminder as to why we need to evangelize and bring others into the saving knowledge of Christ, just do a quick search on the internet for "the day of the Lord". The wrath of God is not something we should take lightly. If you think that what's going on now is bad, just take a look at what's looming for those who do not know or have rejected our Savior. The devastation and the eternity that awaits them is quite overwhelming. If you truly have the heart of Jesus then you will want to save them from that wrath by telling them about Him. 

For us: And night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever. Revelation 22:5

For Them: I will bring distress on mankind, so that they shall walk like the blind, because they have sinned against the LORD; their blood shall be poured out like dust, and their flesh like dung. Zephaniah 1:17

February 5

It is so exciting seeing God's hand at work in our lives and the lives of our friends. He makes His presence known by showing you things that can only be attributed to Him. What I'm talking about are the prayers you've prayed when there is no hope of a good outcome, you are weak and vulnerable and God answers it like only He can. My friend had been battling and insurance company over an issue that they said she wasn't covered for. They had decided that they would no longer pay for her treatment. On top of that, they wanted repayment for what they had already treated her for, which was well beyond her ability to pay.  She was hopeless over the situation, but faithful that God would intervene. Because of her humble spirit and her dedication to prayer, He came through! The debt was canceled and her treatment continues! In our weakness, God shows His strength and we receive His mercy.

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9

February 4

I ordered a new couch. It took nearly two months to come in. When it finally arrived, I realized that I may have made a mistake in choosing the color. I went from a beautiful rich brown to putty! I'd been looking at brown furniture for years and to finally change the color took some getting used to. When Jesus came along and began explaining the law so people would understand it better, He met some resistance. The Pharisees had become so accustomed to doing things a certain way that they thought their way was right. They hated Him for exposing them and so they began plotting to kill Him. Don't get so caught up in religion and rituals that you neglect to follow the actual Word of God. Sometimes what is taught is like my old brown couch, you get so used to it that when the truth is placed in front of you it looks unusual and different, like my new putty colored couch.

You hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy of you, when he said: "'This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.'" Matthew 15:7-9

February 3

Since I was a child, this time of year seems to give me trouble. I'm usually fine all year and seldom have need to visit the doctor, but almost like clockwork, when February hits, so does virus and cold season. It wouldn't be so bad if it was just a cold, but with me, it turns into asthma. Coughing, wheezing, and sneezing are obnoxious! I have too much going on to stop for such nonsense! You don't realize how much you appreciate breathing until it becomes obstructed. Life doesn't stop to wait for me to get better either, I must continue on. My prayer is for you to keep moving forward through sickness and disease and that the power of the Almighty would overtake your situation and help you to push through. We all need some help when sickness comes calling, so as you rest to recover, may God's mighty hand become powerful in your life and may healing come quickly.

Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy. Psalms 103:2-4

February 2

You know you have a job to go to, things to do, or children to take care of but you just don't want to get out of bed. Responsibilities call for us to get up and get going. The things we've been appointed to do cannot wait; besides, we're the only one who can handle our lives. When it comes to the things that God has called to do for His Kingdom, He will sustain you and give you guidance. Though your task may not be an easy one, if we lay the burden of the assignment upon His shoulders, He will carry the weight. It takes a lot of prayer and listening to the Holy Spirit to get to the point where you become relaxed and free from anxiety while working for the Lord. My experience has been that if I feel burdened or anxious, I'm not doing it in God's power but my power. I'm not as effective as He is as completing the task at hand. Take His yoke upon you, learn from Him and He will give you rest.

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30

February 1

Unless you're living under a rock, it's hard to escape being judged by hypocrites. Especially when the ones doing the judging are filthy dirty. Not only that, but, they turn around and accuse those, who are trying to do good, of being the judgmental ones. We are living in a messed up world! Save your breath for those whose hearts are ready to receive your counsel. Trying to defend every little insult that is thrown at you will get you nowhere, they're not listening anyway. Jesus offered no defense when He was being accused, He never even answered to a single charge against Him, He followed the instructions of the Father in Heaven. He also said for us to turn the other cheek, I would say we're getting pretty beat up these days. Hold on to what you've got until His return. We will receive justice. Have pity on our accusers, they will face the fire unless they turn before their end. 

"Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you. Matthew 7:6

January 31

My heart breaks for those who think they are a Christian but don't really know Jesus. These are the people that identify with Christianity as a culture, but haven't actually gone through a radical change in their life. Salvation doesn't come because you utter a few words or even go through baptism, it's well beyond the ritual. My fear is that in the end some will be standing before Jesus and He will say "I never knew you." I've seen many who have gone through the motions but have never had a heartfelt change and continue to live a worldly life. Examine your life. If it doesn't look any different than the life you led before your so-called commitment, then it may be time for you to have a little talk with Jesus. I don't want anyone to be surprised on judgment day so please examine your life as a precaution. I know this is somewhat offensive, but I would rather you be offended right now than see you end up in Hell.

"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?' And then will I declare to them, 'I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.' Matthew 7:21-23

January 29

Every now and then I ask myself "what have you done for the kingdom lately?" When that question comes up, it's usually the Holy Spirit prompting me to move into action. There is probably someone that needs ministering to and He's readying me in advance to take action. As Christians, we can sometimes become sedentary in our ways and forget that there are many hurting souls waiting for some comforting words. Have no fear, the Holy Spirit is there to encourage you into action when it's the right time. Be in prayer and study the Word so you are always ready at any moment. Jesus is right there with you encouraging you! If your words are rejected, shake the dust off of your feet and move on. It may feel like they've rejected you, but they've really rejected Jesus. So, be prepared in and out of season to give a reason for your faith and share it with others. 

And if anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town. Matthew 10:14

January 28

Have you ever considered all the ways that God shows His love for you? I'm sure that I couldn't possibly cover the magnitude of His love in just a few short sentences, but even just a reminder could make the difference between having a good day or having a bad day. God loves you so much that He made a plan to help you make it through your daily life without regret by giving the Ten Commandments. Then, because He knew that your sin nature would sometimes overcome you, He gave you Jesus so you wouldn't have to carry that burden any longer. All along God has been concerned with your mental health and wants nothing to stop your communion with Him. Those two things are just the beginning!  Because of His love for you, He gave you Jesus! He is your greatest gift from God. He is the reason you will never die even though your body may give you up, your spirit will live.

For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39

January 27

As a gardener, I love to have many kinds of plants in my yard. There is one that blooms profusely year round here in Florida called the bougainvillea. It is such a beautiful plant and it comes in many colors. However, admiring it from afar is probably best, since it is equipped with very long, sharp thorns. Sin is the same way; its appearance is beautiful and draws us in for a closer look, causing us to become captivated. The closer we get to it the harder it is to keep our hands to ourselves so we reach out and touch it. As soon as we touch it, BAM, it almost jumps out and pins you with its thorns. Now you're caught in the thicket and unable to get out without getting poked and scratched. Sin not only separates us from God, but it also causes us great pain. There is no escaping it without causing damage. We are all susceptible to it so we must be vigilant and avoid it at all cost.

But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. Galatians 5:16

January 26

I know I reference my little dog Rudy a lot, but he's just so darn cute! He's the perfect picture of unconditional love as is most of our beloved pets. We can learn so much from them if we would just pay a little attention to their behavior. He's only about six pounds, but is a ball of crazy energy. Every time I come home, he gets so overwhelmed to see me that he falls all over himself, his tail is wagging so hard that his whole body moves. He yelps, and cries with excitement just because I've returned. For some of us, our pets are like our children; we should greet God the way our pets greet us, just like Rudy greets me. We are not God's pets, we are His children, but as His children, we should feel so honored to belong to Him that we should be overjoyed, excited, and overwhelmed with passion for Him that we fall all over ourselves because of who He is. After all, He's our creator and our Savior. 

Praise the LORD! Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens! Praise him for his mighty deeds; praise him according to his excellent greatness! Praise him with trumpet sound; praise him with lute and harp! Praise him with tambourine and dance; praise him with strings and pipe! Praise him with sounding cymbals; praise him with loud clashing cymbals! Let everything that has breath praise the LORD! Praise the LORD! Psalms 150:1-6

January 25

I was so excited to be on the beach after a storm just so I could be the first out to gather those beautiful seashell treasures. To my disappointment, very few shells came ashore where I was at. No need to get upset about it because I find wonderful, large shells without a storm. The gulf was still raging two days later, so it was washing them out as quickly as they washed up. What I did find is this: I could hold my head up, look around and enjoy the beauty of the beach, soak up some sun, and breathe in some wonderful salty air. This is not about making lemonade out of lemons, it's about finding the blessings God has waiting for you in all situations. A bad day at the beach is better than a good day... well, you fill in the blank. Just stay aware of what God is doing around you, and look for blessings in everyday situations. I did find a couple of crab trap floats which are fun to collect too.

For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. John 1:16

January 24

My husband and I frequent a barrier island off the gulf coast of Florida. We were spending some time there, but decided to leave before a storm hit and spend the night on the mainland. It's a cozy little place but is only accessible by boat. We returned the next day and headed back over to the island. Once we got into the bay we started to feel like the disciples on the Sea of Galilee. The wind was whipping and the water was rough and our tiny little boat began to get tossed around. We were half way to the island before we thought that this may have been a bad idea. We made it, but not before getting drenched! During the storm on the Sea of Galilee the disciples were frightened even though Jesus was in the boat with them. He asked them, "where is your faith?" When things get rough and you feel like you're being tossed around like a tiny boat on a big sea, remember that Jesus is in your boat.

He said to them, "Where is your faith?" And they were afraid, and they marveled, saying to one another, "Who then is this, that he commands even winds and water, and they obey him?" Luke 8:25

January 23

I get up very early in the morning. It's very quiet that time of day. My father gets up with me and we sit quietly together as we contemplate the day ahead. He's very soft spoken unless he gets mad and then all hell breaks loose. His mornings with me are peaceful and I feel protected and loved. I have his full attention and can lay my heart out and know that he will comfort and console me over whatever issue I'm dealing with. He listens to all my babble when no one else will and won't cut me off mid sentence. I love that he gives me all the attention that I want, even though others may need him more. As the day gets underway, we both get busy and my thoughts turn to handle issues and general everyday things that take my attention away from him, but he never leaves my side. If you don't have a relationship with our Heavenly Father like this, then you need to spend more time with Him. 

O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Psalms 63:1

January 22

I was at a fundraising dinner and part of the program included a silent auction. I love silent auctions! There was a book that covered all the native plants found on Little Gasparilla Island. I really wanted that book so I placed a bid and then kept my eye on it. For almost an hour no one outbid me. Then it happened, someone placed a bid under me. I bumped the bid by a couple of dollars and then left it alone. To my disappointment someone had outbid me and I left empty handed. I get back home and our friends pulled up in the yard with the book. They were bidding against me so they could give it to me as a gift. I was absolutely thrilled. Is there is something that you've waited for and thought it was lost? Maybe God wants to give you a blessing. As we wait for Jesus' return we must be patient; His return will be the ultimate gift and an amazing surprise!

But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. Romans 8:25