What leads you?

Today's devo:" The more completely you devote yourself to Me, the more freely you can love people....Marvel at the beauty of a life intertwined with my Presence. ENJOY THE ADVENTURE OF FINDING YOURSELF through LOSING YOURSELF in Me."

Isn't that the truth. It is only through God's love that we are able to love others, especially certain "others." Our human love only wants to love what or who we like and distance ourselves from what we don't. We have don't love "them" for lots of varying reasons (aka: excuses). We are afraid of being hurt, betrayed, judged, condemned~just to name a few.

Probably more often then we realize, we allow fear to direct us where to go, how to go and even if we go. Rather, we should follow after Love, in Love and love through Love's lead. When we let go of the fear and trust God, this adventure called life's journey becomes a path lined with blessings vs. chaos. No, being a Believer does not exempt a person from experiencing heartache but you can be sure that when Love resides within you, you will have access to peace, joy and comfort through any and all trials because "all things work together for the good for those who love Him."

Two years ago, I did not enjoy the adventure of losing myself. It was frightening, lonely and torturous. I feared losing control. I feared being judged and condemned. Through this process, through desperation, I let go. One lesson at a time, one day at a time and frequently...one breathe at a time...I surrendered to God. I completely devoted myself to His will and eventually....to His way.

In this process where I felt something was taking me away, I was losing myself without control or permission which terrified me, today, I marvel at the beauty of a life intertwined with His Presence. I ENJOY THE ADVENTURE OF FINDING MYSELF through LOSING MYSELF in His Love.

I trust God. I do not trust myself. For a long time I didn't like losing myself. I really thought I was alright. As I reflect two years later, I was not okay. I feared love. Fear lead my way. Today, God used others to love me freely and through their prayers, mentoring, bible studies, timely words and encouragement, He showed me what it meant to love freely so that I in turn would learn how to live out my faith, showing me what it looks like to enjoy the adventure. Love leads today.

Self control is good...it's a fruit of the spirit, but do not mistake self-control and self-controlling. Won't you allow God to control you. Remember, He created your adventure just for you. No one's journey will be the same. So it would be wise to follow His lead, losing yourself to Love.

As the new year approaches, would you take a step back and reflect at yourself? Who are you? What are you made of? Do you allow your human spirit to lead~be it good, bad or down right ugly? Can you loose these things and receive God's beautiful, purposeful, refining love? You are filled with the spirit, therefore, favor, acceptance, joy, peace, glory fills you. You are God's temple. Can you let go of you (your likes and preferences) and surrender to a life intertwined with His Presence, absent of fear?

Marvel at His love. Marvel at His ways. Do not live out each tomorrow controlled by fear. Enjoy the adventure of finding yourself through losing yourself in Love's arms. You will surely find God!

God Bless You in 2011!!! It's a new year and today is a new day. Love today!

Michele

Whoever tries to keep their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life will preserve it. Luke 7:33

Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; His love endures forever. Psalm 118:1

Going Home

Cancer has taken friends and family members. Accidents have taken friends. Times of crisis make us want to be taken. No matter how it happens, there comes a day when we no longer walk on this land. Following the Christmas season of birth, and a recent loss of life and a personal season of crisis, the conversation is fresh in my heart. With the hustle and bustle of each day, life gets overwhelming. What are we doing? What are we here? We are here for a reason, not simply to work, play, have good and bad days, be happy and sad, then die. Full schedules and demands of life pull us into repetition and endless cycles of exhaustion. Sometimes we wonder if the hamster wheel of life has any meaning at all.
Opposite of our birth-date, our death-date is not a hot topic and yet it should be. We are not going to live forever. Deciding where we will live, raise our family, work are important decisions but even more so is the decision we need to make of where will spend eternity. It is our choice. One day, we will be moving on and only God knows how and when.
I imagine God's outstretched hand, a Gentlemen's gesture of leading the way, and my hand will join with His and a new walk shall begin as He escorts me Home. When this day comes, there will be nothing left of me but my legacy and my stuff. It makes you think about what you will leave behind on "That Day." Are there words that need to be said in love and/or forgiveness? Is there that one thing you wish you would have made right? Did you share all the love you had with those God strategically placed on Your path? Family, Friends, Strangers?
This place of land and sea is not our Home. We are citizen of Heaven if we are Believers and this is simply our temporary dwelling place, placed here with purpose and intent to one day return back Home. For those who choose not to fulfill their purpose and reject God's love offering in Jesus Christ, it means living all eternity in Hell, for the only way to Heaven's eternal resting place is through Jesus Christ.
There are not Do-Overs in life. You are born, you live one day at a time until God says you are done! We are not merely existing, searching for the next greatest accomplishment. We spend so much of our time working, gaining, sacrificing precious time and energy for "stuff." I wonder if Jesus sent an email just to let you know He would be returning back in a week if any of those things matter anymore. What would you change on your calendar? What would you do more of or less of? You and I have a purpose. When we surrender to the will of God in our life, we represent a moment by moment, day by day trust in the One who plans our steps despite how we feel. Be anxious for nothing!
As I reflect back even today on my life, there are plenty of Do-Overs I wish for. Since it is impossible to go back in time, I recognize I have the opportunity here, today, to change my attitudes, my behaviors, my stuff, my legacy. Have I been the perfect Mom every day for 14 years? No, but I did my best. I have I been the perfect Wife for 18 years? No, but I did my best. Have I been the perfect Christian for 24 years? No, but I did my best. Have I been the best Friend I could? No, but I did my best.
No one is perfect, other than God, and we all know that. However, He instructs us to do all things in excellence, to be holy as He is holy. All we can do is all we can do. If we trust God with our life, we must allow Him to lead us through it in word and deed, serving how He says to serve, loving others with His love and encouraging others towards Him. This is the legacy we leave behind. What mark on this world am I leaving? What treasure am I storing up in Heaven that moth and rust cannot destroy?
As a Mom~ will my children know how much I love them? Did they not just hear me say it every single day, but did they believe it? Did they see it in my love for them as I took care of their needs, their aches and scrapes. Did they recognize the twinkle they put in my eye when they hugged me and said "I love you Mama." Could they feel my heart leap with theirs? Will they recognize my song or my laugh in Heaven? In their spirits, could they feel my prayers as I laid my hands on them and prayed over them? Will they remember my instructions, wisdom and training as I shared my walk with the Lord? Will there be any doubt how much I loved them? Even when they got a "No" or a "Sorry, that is my decision", did they rest safe knowing I was not rejecting them, but protecting them. Did they trust me? Do my children know my heart? My spirit? There is not enough money in the world to prove love or express value.
Most importantly, do they know how much Mama loved the Lord and how much He loves each one of them? Did they see my worship? The greatest gift, legacy I can leave my family is knowing that Mama loved Jesus deeply, so very much and she showed them how to love Him back.
Will Friends, Neighbors, Strangers notice something different  about me? Did they see the peace I had in crisis, the trust and hope in adversity, joy regardless of circumstances? Do they know that they were loved, forgiven, and accepted by a loving Father? Was I a blessing or burden? Was it clear that my intent was always pure and good? Was every encounter weak or ordinary or did they see God's extrodinary power despite my own efforts? Was His Light evident or did my skill and hard work get all the credit for something accomplished?
When I take my last breath and the Lord grabs hold of my hand, will this earthy path bear the marks of a Christ Follower who left a legacy of Love? Will those who knew me take comfort knowing I have gone Home to the place I have longed for with my greatest Love and Best Friend? Will His Peace and Love be the blessings of legacy for future generations on my little patch of earth or did I leave a debt to fear and unbelief? May they know without doubt, all my heart was His and I lived to worship Him in every part of my being, as imperfect as it was, His grace was sufficient at all times. With my first breath and after my last, all that remains is faith, hope and love, forever and ever, amen.

Father God,
There are so many things I wish I was better at in this life. There are things I wish I wouldn't have said or done, but what is done is done. God, help me to let go of all the "stuff" and hold on to living and leaving a legacy of You.You hold each of our breathes; therefore, who am I to know what is best for today, or what I can wait and do "when I am good and ready?" You, God, know the number of my days. With Your eternal calendar insight, Father, I am asking You to lead me day by day. I desire to rest in Your presence, learning to function in Your grace and not my strength.
Help me accomplish today what You need done. Guard and strengthen my faith to trust You and hope for Your best. As I walk about my day, show me how to effectively and purposely minister to my family, my friends, strangers, the Kingdom. Quiet my mind, rest my soul and sync my spirit with Yours.
There is nothing I want to do better than to Love You Jesus, to receive Your love and embrace Your acceptance of this pitiful human fleshness. The more I love You, the more I desire to serve You and the more I serve You, Your love is multiplied through the overflow, and in that overflow blessings arise. Dry soil is replenished. Seeds are harvested and love continues on.
Help me today Father to follow Your straight, unwavering path marked out just for me. This is where You have me. This is my path, intertwined with the ones You intentionally cross with mine. I am asking for Your wisdom, discernment, courage, truth, compassion, boldness to fill my voids and mark my path, leading the way and leaving the way to Your Eternal Home. When the path before me looks frightening and too long, capture my thoughts and help me trust You, knowing "all things work for the good."
May all those left behind me, see my footsteps, and when they follow them along the path, may they be led to You, the Most High, Loving God, Beautiful Savior, our Redeemer and Gracious Father.vGuard our hearts and minds to be kept by You.
You, O Lord, are all I need. Till the day I see Your hand grabbing mine, they will be lifted to You. I love You Jesus, Father God. Lead me, protect me in Jesus' name. amen.

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. 

Jeremiah 29:11-13

The "BFF" Friend

A friend of mine is patiently and courageously undergoing chemo and radiation treatments for her cancer. I could not even begin to imagine how much this is affecting her physically, emotionally and spiritually...and not even just for her but for her family, and surprisingly, each of us, her friends. Who knew that your friend's illness could touch your life too?

From a friend's perspective, you cannot imagine how you would respond or feel if something tragic were to happen to a loved one. When the difficult news arrives, you can count on being affected. Your relationship with that friend will change, practically/physically, emotionally and spiritually. You have a choice, you can either walk away or walk with. For me, I have found myself to be a person who walks with. My Mom was a nurturor and care-giving type, so I get that from her for sure. It's almost as if God lights this little fire under your booty and you cannot help but jump up! For the family in crisis, it is out of necessity that they must join forces, work as a team to get things done. The mentality is different. Family must learn how to function amongst their crisis. Friends must learn how to minister to the friend in crisis. (Worthy and enough for a whole another blog, but I will say this:)

Practical changes are realized when the calls for a last minute run to grab a morning coffee or enjoy a spontaneous lunch in town turn into runs to the store for meds, groceries, supplies, doctor appointments and prepared meals brought over for the family. Before, it was easy to overlook the toys scattered on the floor, clothes in secret places, not-so-delicious food discoveries in the couch cushion and a game of tic-tac-toe possible on the dust lined shelf. It didn't phase you, until now. Now, you see the toys, the dust, the clothes and your heart goes out, your hands and feet want to get busy. No judgement, but compassion. Practical help. The Giver cannot give unless the Receiver receives. Do you know how to give? Do you know how to receive? There will come a day when you will experience both. God is kind.

Emotionally, speaking for myself personally on this one~crisis changes you, in ways you like and ways you don't like. In my season of crisis (not comparing to this friend's great challenge), my emotions went from controlled and predictable to all over the place, as if they had their own way about them. I tried to remain focused, calm, hopeful, happy, positive and yet it didn't always work out the way I wanted. I found myself angry, thankful, discouraged, strong, weak, scared, safe, exhausted and desperate....all in an hour's time! There is such a gift in a timely word. I had friends who would call at just the right time in my day with encouragement, prayer, distractions, and counsel. Seeds of much needed nourishment in a desperately desolate land. God is Gracious.

Spiritually, oh the journey He takes us on. When we are the one in crisis, you can easily feel overwhelmed with all the mounding decisions that need to be made, medications taken, activities and responsibilities delegated out, etc. You know God is near and yet there are those lingering moments that you wonder "Is He going to rescue me today?" "Will He stay with me to the end of this?" The answer is YES! His promises are true and it becomes a great blessing and necessity for the family of God to surround this loved one, praying without ceasing, revealing and speaking truth into their heart, mind and spirit. I would even go as far as to say it is our responsibility to encourage one another, pray without ceasing and love without ending.

What a blessing, honor and privilege to stand in the gap for another. Prayer is a powerful tool. God listens. It is not always warm and fuzzy. I have felt such great heaviness in my chest when I have prayed for a burdened Sister in Christ that it ached. I have felt my heart literally leap for joy in good news shared and victories won and sink in the weight of a situation. The more we ask God to use us He will. His family should help us put on our battle gear when war breaks out in our life. God is Refuge.

Won't you ask God to use you to bless another, to stand for and with them? To help them believe until they do for themself? With God's help, it is not about anything you can or will do for them. Just be that vessel. We cannot possibly know what it is their spirit needs, so we must just be available. He may call you to pray, help, feed, or simply be there. God is Merciful.

(If you are the one in crisis, and you feel as if you are alone and you do not feel like you have any one near to help you, pray and ask God for help. He cares for you and He will provide for you. He will be that BFF you are looking for. He will send you rescue, peace and comfort. Be patient. Be strong and courageous.)

My friend is one of those people that says what they mean, charges ahead full speed with life and you don't have to wonder what she's thinking cuz she tells ya! Although she is still that same girl on the inside, her outside is painfully different. Her weight has changed drastically, the way she must eat, the many limitations she has due to lack of strength and energy. And yet, on the inside, she is still one strong and courageous woman of God! God is our Rock.

Recently I was blessed to have the honor to pray over her with a few close friends. Many of us have brought meals and given support with practical needs, including taking up love offerings to help offset the mounding medical bills, but to pray with and for your friend....that's a blessing.

Because of the location of her treatments, it has caused her to loose her voice. She is able to push out a strong whisper however. As we asked her for updates on how she was feeling, how was her husband doing, the kids...she would get out a few words and then signal to her closest friend, we'll call her her BFF to finish for her. Her BFF had been at her house each time I had stopped by, so it is evident that she has been a strong, caring and consistent support for our mutual friend.

With just a look or a gesture, the BFF was able to communicate on behalf of our friend with detail. From info on the treatments, medications, her family, her needs, her fears, her prayer needs, the BFF just knew. This only happens one of two ways: either she had written down all the Q&A's for the BFF or the BFF had spent so much time caring for her, that she simply knew. She knows the needs. She sees the needs. No doubt tears and laughter has flowed between them back and forth.

My heart left so full. What a blessing to pray for another, and even more so to witness tender-loving care between two people. I also recently witnessed this between a husband and wife as he cared for her as she underwent a double mastectomy. The look in their eyes towards each other, of deep care, sincere love, steadfastness, concern, hope and strength...you could see it and feel it in the room. They deeply trusted and depended on God's help and strength through each other. (Ok, that was a little warm-fuzzy, I must admit!!)

I am blessed to have been a part of witnessing such beautiful displays of real love. Love for another. What a reflection of God's love for us. That deep sense of compassion, strength, comfort, security that He gives us when we are in His Presence. A dear friend of mine reminded me of God's rod and staff, comforting and leading us through the valleys. What Peace to know He goes before us.

Just as my courageous friend and her BFF shared such a strength and closeness of familiarity between each other that is a result of time spent together, so it is between us and our Father and Friend. The more time we spend talking with Him, sharing our moments with Him, taking Him wherever we go, allowing Him to share the tears in sorrowful hours as well tears of rejoicing that come with each milestone crossed..until we cross that finish line and God says we have completed the race, He will walk with us hand-in-hand, sharing our walk as we approach the gates of Glory.

God wants to be your BFF. Have you been talking to Him about your day? Did you tell Him about the time you felt hurt, pain or grief? Did you thank Him for the favors, gifts and blessings He placed in your day today? He wants to hear from you. He is there. By the way~ He knows your thoughts before you, so it's not like you have the ability to hide from Him. He is all-knowing, all-seeing and all-loving! His grace is more than enough. God is Sufficient.

He will meet you right where you are.

Seek Him.

Trust Him.

Be still, rest in Him, and let Him give You the rest.

Be joyful always;  pray continually;  give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.  Do not put out the Spirit's fire; I Thess 5:16-19

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. I Thess 5:11

I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints. Ephesians 1:18

Thank You Lord Jesus, Abba Father for Your tender-loving care. You are more than sufficient to meet any need we encounter today. God, thank You for the favor and blessings You have placed in our day, our week, our heart, our spirit. Today, we just thank You for Your Presence that will never forsakes us, is never disgusted, or exhausted. Your love endures forever, praise You Lord Jesus!

With a grateful heart, I thank You for the privileges you give us as Family of Your Family, to be able to share burdens, tears, heartaches, anger, temptations and at the same time, be encouraged, strengthened, inspired, and lifted up in Love, Your unexplainable Love. Thank You for the workings of Your hands and feet here on earth. Help us to recognize, see and feel it within our souls. Help us to receive Your love so that in our overflow, we may receive the blessing of being Your hands and feet as Giver of tender-loving care for another who needs Your strength, courage and Love.

God , draw us close to You and never let us go. Loosen our grip on any temporary thing we are holding on to and tighten our grip on Your Rock Eternal. Receive our Praise. Help us to receive all of You. In Love's precious and beautiful Name, Jesus, amen.

It's Harvest Time. You Ready?

Recently I was reminded of the Prayer of Jabez. I was thanking God for increasing my territory to include the zip code of precious friends and then I feel like He showed me something. It has been a long time since I have read Prayer of Jabez (the book) so I know my thoughts may not be the same as what is taught, but God showed me something else.


After going through a very difficult and refining (felt more like a plowing season) season in my life, I could not imagine keeping this to myself. I believe that what we go through is not purely for our own benefit but God intertwines our lives through others, mixing up the batch of harvest seeds. God had and has done such a mighty work in my life that I simply cannot contain Him.


With fear and faith, I prayed, "God increase my territory. Let me touch other's spirits and share hope and Your Love." I literally imagine more land, area, numbers, to help me spread the Word and Love of God to more women/people. Increase my circle of influence.


But this morning He spoke something into my spirit, it was a beautiful "ouch." The Lord said, " I want to increase the terrirtory in your heart where I reside. Increase My borders." Ohhhh.....ouch. My heart's knees just fell, Forgive me Lord.


The more and more God increases within us, the further our strength, courage and faith carries us out to share hope and love with others. We don't need more people to cross our paths, we need more of God so that our overflow spreads further. We are already standing in a depleated land full of hurting hearts and souls.


Sigh.....................................gentle God, so lovingly revelaing the areas that need truth.


This was just my revelation for me and I pray God gives you His personal revelation in this area for you as well.


I pray that within each of our refining processes with Him, we would be open and willing to allow Him to increase His borders within our guarded hearts so that as we learn to trust Him, we will also begin to increase the borders for "other love" ~His love sent to us from others.


It amazes me, at least true for me, that we allow a handful amount of people who have hurt, betrayed and devestated us to ruin it for the hundreds more that are in our life to love us. I have been asking myself this for a while now as I work on trusting others and letting them in. It is a challenge. I have been blinded long enough. His Light always exposes the darkness. To be honest, I am tired of letting those few have that on-going confining power in my life. It's time to break free from the chains that lock me down! Faith must cut through one link at a time with scissors of Hope.


It can only be through God's love and trusting Him more and more, knowing He works all things for my good, I must trust Him with those He gives me and if I am hurt, He will heal. There is a reason He allowed it, something to learn from, as well as receiving the blessings of real love and being more than blessed through another, for there is something to be learned here too. No matter, He is in the business of growing us, sanctifying and refining us and if it takes pain or if it takes joy, all ways~glory to Him. I can open my heart and allow everyone in and take a chance on being hurt, or allow no one in and...still hurt. What are the odds of being hurt vs. blessed. Is it worth the risk to experience more of His love....


I pray your borders increase where He is. The bigger He is in you, the less you can contain Him. He is a Mighty Huge God, Creator of ALL the Universe...how much space are you giving Him within you? If He is mighty to give, are you ready to receive? Do you have enough space behind your mask or walls for gift placement? Today is a new day. Today is the day you and God can begin the process of preparing your soil to be plowed. It is Harvest Time! Are you ready?!


"That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. Such large crowds gathered around Him that He got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. Then He told them many things in parables, saying: "A farmer went out to sow his seed.  As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up.  Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop--a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.  He who has ears, let him hear."


"When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is the seed sown along the path.  The one who received the seed that fell on rocky places is the man who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. But since he has no root, he lasts only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away. The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful.  But the one who received the seed that fell on good soil is the man who hears the word and understands it. He produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown." Matthew 13:1-9, 19-23 

Praise You Lord for Your patience and grace, moment by moment, in perfect portion to my need, for EVERY season!!! AMEN!

The Loose Tooth

We all have to loose our teeth. God used this normal event in each of our lives to teach me something about His "normal" event of growing up. Graciously, instead of a 2x4 in the noggin, God has been giving me a heads-up when there's something I need to especially pay attention to...and last night was another one of those times. ( I was joking with a friend this morning, sometimes it is with a 2x4, and other times it is just a 1x3! haha~ Thankful for the times it is a whisper!!!!!)

My 5yr old daughter, who has not lost her first tooth yet asks me, "Mom? How does your teeth come out?" Followed by, "Can you still talk when you loose all of them?" I heard the small whisper from the Holy Spirit telling me to listen to myself...I thought, okay...what could possibly be for me here?! So, I did. I just finished the conversation without hesitation of pre-occupation of what I was saying and had what was a normal conversation about loosing our teeth.

God gives you all your teeth, these are your Baby Teeth and the Adult Teeth are waiting to come out. You already have them. You will loose one at a time.Once the Adult Tooth is ready, it begins to put pressure onto the Baby Tooth that it will take it's place. Your gums will be swollen, sore and you will feel uncomfortable for a short while, then as the Adult Tooth moves in, the Baby Tooth loosens and wiggles it way gradually out of it's hold. Sometimes it simply falls out while other times it hangs on a tiny vein and must be firmly removed. If the Baby Tooth won't wiggle through, it may have to be forced out (extracted.)

We Googled a diagram x-ray of the jaws so she could see the whole picture. Half way through talking about this normal, regular, common conversation, I got it. This was for me too. It amazes me how creative God is~again~with His illustrations! So often the physical is a training for our spiritual. I find this to be true with me anyway. 

Here is what God said to me. "I will give you everything you need. You already have what you need. I will not give you more than you can bear. When the "new growth" is emerging, it will take time. It is a process. It very well may be uncomfortable, possibly painful, but remember this too shall pass. It is temporary pain for a eternal goal. The "old" will slowly move out, be patient and don't rush it by attempting to yank it out too soon for that will make the healing process longer. Now, it may be necessary for Me to remove a stronghold quickly,  I have the authority, in my perfect timing to immediately remove it. It willl be for the better. Trust my timing. All your baby roots will be replaced slowly, orderly by more mature and stronger roots. Don't be afraid to loose your teeth. I am in control. I have everything you need, relax and trust me."

 Dear God,



As You reveal areas within me that need to be uprooted, help me to stand on Your promises that You will never give me more than I can bear, You will never leave me or forsake me, all things work for the good and our momentary sufferings/trials are for Your eternal glory. Lord, may my thoughts be Yours. Jesus, my Rescuer, I cling to You with trusting and yet trembling hands. I trust You to lead me in paths of righteousness. Your love is more than I can comprehend or imagine. Help me to receive...receive not only Your rescue, Your help, Your grace, but Your love.


Thank You Father God for loving me beyond what I deserve. Thank You for the tangible glimpes of Your love for me through friends. What a gift, an undeserving gift~ to be loved just as you are, without judgement, fear or obligation. This is how You love me. Help me receive and accept the fact that this kind of love is real and available for even me. This kind of love is rare. Forgive my unbelief. GIve me courage to believe, to trust, to receive.


Thank You Lord God for Your faithfulness to do what You say You can and will do. Thank You for Your unconditional Love, Your Light that leads and Your grace that sustains me. I love You!!!! I praise Your name and no other. You are everything I want. You are all that I need. I surrender. Refine me. Cleanse me. In Jesus' sweet and beautiful name, amen.

I Want the Unwanted

Meet "The Girls"

This is Princess (left) and Bow (right).



Almost 2 weeks ago, these sweet little abandon girls made their way into our family. Unfortunatly, we are not able to keep them. Our 9 year old Beagle has been pretty patient with them but I think she is ready for her space back.

These puppies were about 9 weeks old when we found them wondering the streets. I am an animal lover and cannot just casually walk by a hurting animal. Just cannot do it. I have rescued several dogs before (even a bird...oh and a clan of baby Wood Ducks!) With all the previous resuces I have been able to get them to a rescue agency or their owner within 2 days. Not so this time. The vet believes they are a lab/pit mix so they were probably dumped.

Here I was thinking I was helping these sweet, grateful sisters out but actually, they have helped me and my family. God has used this rescue to teach me about rescue and relationship. I could go on and on, but I am going to attempt to simply express the many ways God has touched me through these sisters.

A cord of three is stronger and not easily broken. Had these girls seperated from eachother, they would not have been able to help eachother. It's so cute to see them cuddle up on the blanket intertwined, keeping warm, and probably feeling safe.

There is no comfort when you are alone. If you lead an isolated, closed off life, it will be hard to receive comfort in your time of need because you have created a barrier no one can cross into. We need eachother's encouragement and comfort. Also, God is our comfort and if we turn to Him He is faithful to rescue & redeem.

When the world spits you out for who you are, remember God loves you unconditionally and accepts you completely.

With a real, genuine Sister, you can relax and rest in their fellowship, knowing you have someone to cuddle with when it gets cold and dark outside.

You don't have to be something you are not with your Sister. Inside you are the same spirit. Learn to look at the heart and don't judge something from the outside.

You cannot just go around pooping and peeing wherever you wish. Respect for others...have self-control in word and deed.

Patience~young hearts do not yet have wisdom of mature hearts.

It is such a blessing to give. I also see the joy on the one receiving.

Your accepting help can make the difference between life and death.

Helping others often requires sacrifice on our part.

Be so full of joy and thankfulness that you cannot help but jump!

I could go and on, but I won't. There is so much I have learned. In summary, I have been reminded how much God loves me and wants me to trust and rest in His protection and provision. I recognize the blessing and importance of helping others in their time of need. On the flip side, I also realize the importance of receiving help when in need. My life may depend upon it.

Just as I took the puppies to the vet to be evaluated and see what help they needed, so also must I submit my heart, soul and mind to God and ask Him to help me, cleanse me, grow me. Our God is so patient. I think most of us live a greater part of our life like a puppy~ no self-control, chewing everything up, laying waste wherever we please without care of it's effects, doing as we please. I wonder if God ever wonders When will she get it? Isn't she paying attemtion to my trainings?

Always be joyful. Keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. Do not stifle the Holy Spirit.
I Thess 5:16-19
God, thank You for rescuing me and providing for my every need. Because of You, I have life. Lord God, forgive my immature behavior, clean my heart and soul. Give me courage to not only love others but to receive love from others. Thank You for the gift of friendship which keeps us warm in heart and spirit. Your sacrifice for me is so great, God help me to live a life worthy and pleasing of Your gift to me. May my spirit continue to jump for joy in thanksgiving for all that You have done and been for me. With abandoned self, rescued by You, amen.

Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a right spirit within me. Psalm 51:10

Praying a sweet blessing of prosperity over you girls! I will miss you greatly!!!

Bicycle Lessons

Today, I decided to go on a bike ride instead of going to the gym. We have gone as a family plenty of times but it has been a while! In hind-sight, with the strong winds today, the resistance was probably a bit much for to undertake. I shamfully admit that I have only been to the gym maybe once in the past month. I am out of condition to say the least! Last year, my Cardiologist even told me, "You need to work out 5-6 times a week to get your heart in shape." Well, I did good for several months making it 3-4 times a week, but then school began and I have not found my routine, still!

Anyhoo, the weather is gorgeous here in Houston, so I loaded up my 3yr old (42lbs) into the bike trailer (40lbs), aired up the tires and headed out. The path leads us across the lake and through some nicely wooded paths. Once we make it to the other side, we stop for water and turtle watching and head back towards the house with one quick stop at a local playground.

Everything was going pretty good until I got to the bridge to cross the lake. My heart was pounding and the resistance of the wind was causing me to really push hard. Wisdom told me to crouch down on the handle bars. It helped to bow down. It was easier to make it across without the resistance. We finally made it to the other side and took our water and turtle break only to find ourselves walking through a big patch of burrs. Those are evil little prickles and they really hurt to remove! OUCH! We soon returned to the bike and made the journey back.

I thought since the wind was against us going there, it would be pushing us along on the way back....nope! Somehow it was against me BOTH directions. Can't explain it. By the time I made it back to the playground I thought I was about to die. My heart was paliptating (aka freaking out) and my chest was tight. It was then that I thought, "Hmmm, maybe next time I will check the wind speeds!" I did notice some really beautiful flowers and berries on the ride back as I attempted to distract myself.

I called my husband just in case I actually did pass out. I wasn't sure for the first 15 minutes or so, yikes! Needless to say, I won't be doing any marathons any time soon! haha

I learned some lessons about life today:

* You never know until you try.
* When resistance comes, it is easier to get where you are going if you bow down instead of chest puffed up.
* Resistence comes when you least expect it and it can come from any direction.
* When you feel like giving up, gird up courage and don't stop. Be persistant, show loyalty. Be strong.
* Life is not always easy. There will be unexpected, painful moments that must be dealt with one at a time.
* Also true, expect the unexpected...you can find beauty in the midst of the ordinary.
* If you need help, get it!

Yes, I made it home, thank God!! I am glad for today. Even though it was exhausting and a bit frightening at the end, it was well worth the journey. I exercised both my physical muscles and my spiritual muscles of courage, endurance, faith, hope, rest and strength. It was a good work out!

In the Shadow of a Tree

This morning as I was driving my son to his little pre-k, I began to take notice of every shadow each tree made. Knowing how God likes to use visuals with me, I immediately asked God, "Yes??" What He revealed to me as I passed hundreds of trees on my drive I am not even sure I can write in words but I would like to share it with you, so I will do my best...

Each tree casts it's own shadow. It is simple: The small skinny tree casts a tiny, scantily shadow; whereas the large oak tree casts a massive and very dense shadow. Unfortunately, our property lost 2 of the 4 of it's mighty trees over the past few years with the last one taken down just a few months ago. THAT tree was the hardest to loose because it was the only tree in our front yard and it provided the Mommy shade! My kids are too young still to play out front by themselves, so it is necessary for me to sit out there with them. No big deal, I just grabbed a chair and sat under the shade. Well, now there is no more shade and it is miserable to have to sit outside for an hour!


Ahhh, shade! Lovely & bearable.

 With shade, it is more comfortable and it makes it easier to be outside. It is shelter from the heat. Your body, your drink, your cell phone...it all stays cooled off under the protection of the shade. Without shade, it is more work, you need sunscreen, hats, glasses, Thermos container for your drink, and a towel or something to cover up the cell phone to protect it from the intense heat-not to mention your ear from the burn when you attempt to answer it! (Yes, it was hot! Remember, this is Texas!)

No Shade here!! "Sweating-it" is guaranteed!

After studying the shadows, praying attention to their sizes, shapes and densities, the Creator of this landscape taught me something. Big tree = Big Shade. Big Shade = Big Protection. It was if He was asking me, "How big am I?" I am thinking "pretty big." "I can cover all of you," He said. Wooooah...I had to stop and think for a minute. As I looked over my circumstances, heart areas and spirit, I realized that maybe I hadn't allowed God to grow big enough to cover me. Am I not receiving from Him all that I could, or should? Here He stands offering me full shade and protection and yet I am satisfied with my little umbrella?

How big is God? He holds the world in His hands! How big have I allowed Him to be over me? As a Believer we have been given the seed of Christ, the Holy Spirit to dwell within each of us. How big is your/our God tree? Is it a little seedling that we have placed over our needs area? Did we just ask Him to bless this one little area and forgive this other little one over here? Or, do we have a medium sized Tree ~ we sorta-kinda attempted to nourish it when we feel like it and often do remember to spend some bits of time taking care of it?

Or, have you allowed your "Tree" to take root and grow bigger and bigger as as result of your commitment and dedication to nourishing what was once just a little seed? God wants to bless you and be your refuge and shelter. The bigger we allow God to be in our lives, the bigger His shade will be over us. The greater our protection from the heat (evil.) I don't know about you, but I want God's protection over every area in my life and not just parts of it.

But let all who take refuge in You be glad, Let them ever sing for joy ; And may You shelter them, That those who love Your name may exult in You. For it is You who blesses the righteous man, O LORD, You surround him with favor as with a shield. Psalm 5: 11-12

There was a long part of my walk with God that I would say He was this portable umbrella I carried around so that when rain came, I could just pop it up whenever I needed it. Today, God is a mighty Tree of Life for me. When rain, heat or sun comes out, I know I am protected. I don't need to run around seeking shelter or carry around my temporary shelters. No matter if it is storming or sun shining beautiful, I am protected. No longer do I need to waste time worrying about the weather. I have rest knowing that God is my absolute Shelter and I am provided for under Him.

Having said that, even though I am consumed by Him and He is a mighty tower for me, He has shown me today that I am still holding onto a few umbrellas, attempting to cover (take care of myself) that which He is desiring to cover. Thank God for gentle correction. Thank God for His compassion.

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. Psalm 91:1

There is nothing in your life God cannot protect or rescue you from. He doesn't want to give you momentary shade. He doesn't want to give you partial shade. God is forever! He is Big! Allow Him to take root in you and receive His full protection and provision! It is much easier to find rest in the shadow of the Almighty than in the scorching heat outside of Him!

Father God, Creator of ALL things and their shadows, God I am asking that You help me to toss out the umbrellas I have placed over my life, in my heart, soul and mind. God, all I need is Your shelter. Forgive me for minimizing You. Help me to trust You. Lead the time I spend with You, enriching my soil allowing You to be bigger and greater in my life, covering all of me. God, grant me protection from the storms. Bless me with favor and provisions on lovely days. May Your shadow be so huge there is room to share with others passing by. You are all I need. You are my Shelter. You are my Refuge. You are a very Big God with a very big shadow. Thank You for revealing Yourself to us even through Your creation. My all in all, amen!   

Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge. Psalm 62:8

LOVE & GRACE

Why do I do that which I don't want to do? Why sometimes does it feel like such a HUGE gap between my heart and my head? My flesh and spirit have had some good, knock-down, drag-out fights over the years.

I worship the Lord of All, I am His child! God saves, He redeems. He shelters. He rescues. He gives strength. God loves us. He is sooooo very patient, merciful and gracious. He is sooo much bigger than ANY CIRCUMSTANCE we face!

My spirit is strong within me and I feel it, and yet, my flesh often consumes me. I can feel so courageous and cowaardly at the same time...maybe it's the hope for courage in my weakness. Maybe I need to get back on my counselor's couch...heehee

If I empty myself each morning to be filled back up again, it takes a strong discipline to control what I allow to fill me. I must surrender myself before GOD so that my flesh has no room. What does that look like for me? For me, it means BEFORE MY FEET HIT THE FLOOR in the morning, acknowledging that God is The God, my Loving Father, my Savior and Redeemer, my Healer and Leader for the day. Worshiping Him in truth and stepping into my day with the right mind-set, knowing who I am waking up for.

For those of you who have followed my blog from the beginning, you know my story, my testimony of God's saving grace and compassion (well, I hope you have found that throughout my sharing to be evident.) as He has delivered me fron the bondage of Fear. He certainly is far from done with me on MANY other areas, but I have been released from the consuming and controlling fear. Yes, I still get anxious and nervous when it comes to certain things.

Maybe this is my stubborness mixed with my desire to be set completely free, but I have asked God to give me "opportunities to grow", to challenge myself (gently please!!) in learning how to overcome circumstances or things that make me anxious- elevators, heights, boats, planes, high bridges, being away from home, conflicts, sharing my heart with others.....just to name a few! And He has- time after time, whether I was "in the mood" for it or not!! I find myself looking upwards and just laughing cuz He has a funny sense of humor in His funny ways He has provided me these opportunities!

Just this past weekend, I found myself facing a few anxiety-producing situations and I will share jone with you.It was on the plane. Okay, when you are peaceful and in a happy place, you wouldn't think of moving and disrupting the flow, right? Well, it was a 4 hour flight and after 2 hours I had to go! Yes, like-GO....potty! I did not want to get out of my bubble, all was good and I was afraid that I would loose my calmness. So, I waited another hour, but then I really had to GO! My husband said he would go with me, and just as we unbuckled our belts the Fasten Seat Belts warning came on for upcoming turbulance. Greeeeaaaat! The Stewardess walked by and we asked if we could still get up and go and she replied, "It will be at your own risks." Two years ago, that would have induced an anxiety attack in a second! Turbulance plus "your own risk." BUT OFF WE WENT!!! Bound and determined to go. I have made the decision to not be bound but live and do what I need to do!

This was probably only the 2nd time in my life I had used an airplane bathroom. It scares me, really! The flushing-power could pull down a human and dump you into the skies below!!! Maybe if it was quieter it wouldn't be so terrifying. So, I did it....my famous Warrior Pee! Trusting God, even in THIS, to protect my mind.

It sounds so silly to most, but when you are afraid, going against logic is a no-no. But my faith is fueling my trust where I am trusting for my peace and grace to provide in every circumstance!

I am so thankful to be out of that life where Fear dictated everything, how I felt and what I did. The truth HAS set me free and it can set you free too! The truth is found in God's word. Whatever you are facing, you will find your hope, strength, encouragement, peace and grace in God. Sure, you can try temporary pleasures but nothing will set you free except for God. Pills, alcohol, food, starvation are temporary fixes, unhealthy ones at that. You can also, run away and ignore your feelings, only to have to face them when you are done running.

Freedom is only found through and in Christ Jesus. He is Healer. He will be your Comforter, your Protector. Choose to trust Him despite what your flesh thinks or feels. I could go on and on but I have another post to finish up.

Your tomorrow's healing and help can begin today. Start now! TRUST GOD's LOVE & GRACE!!!

Seek first the Kingdom of God. Matt 6:33

Feeling What Ya Feel

Do you ever get into "one of those funky-feeling moods?" Recently, I sure did!!

When I am funky, I feel like screaming and crying but then laughter seems much better! There is a part of me that wants to run away to my cave and another part of me that wants to connect with a friend and vent out the feelings. Then comes the thought, well....I don't want to be a Whiner and it really isn't a big deal (most o f the time anyway), so I most often keep quiet and visit my little cave for a bit. I like my cave cuz God always meets me in this secret location!! Praise the God of Everywhere!

When I feel stuff I don't want to be feeling, I tend to busy myself and ignore the issues and "just keep swimming." (Sweeping is more like it, really.) There are times it just passes and I can move on; however on these longer journeys/processes God has done with me lately, I have HAD to face it and so the battle begins. I resist it. I either wear down or begin to get frustrated/overwhelmed/depressed. I can't keep "not handling it."

It's then I must stop. The hardest part is stopping because I don't want to stop and yet I have to. When I get still before God and into a spirit of surrender, at first my mind races and complains and I try to force out all that I have been trying to NOT think about, and yet I want it to just get out and quit shoving it back in. I must allow the thoughts to be there, being completely honest (as if you can hide something from God-He knows our thoughts before we even think them) and allow God to take them. Almost like handing them over on a platter to the Lord.

Most recently, I had to get to this place of letting go and I fought a good fight. The the time had come to stop busying myself to avoid feeling the yucky feelings. It takes a few minutes to settle the mind when it is racing. Learning muscle relaxation techniques, putting on music (worship or acoustic) and deep breathing really helps with settling into a quietness. Much like a child, we need to stop playing and look our Father in the eyes so that we can pay full attention to what He has to say.

Sometimes it feels like I am so mad, I throw these feelings back at God saying, "Just take this. I am DONE with it!" Other times, it is an "God, I am scared, angry, worn-out, overwhelmed and frustrated and I just can't keep going like this. Pleeeease take this from me and refresh my soul. Give me rest."

In a recent post I mentioned to you my anger towards God regarding my toddler's diagnosis of PFS. That one particular night, I had become soooo angry with God I could neither fall prostrate on the ground and hit my fists on the floor and as I tried to lift my hands towards Him, my hands became fists of anger. Oh, I was mad with Him. I stood there looking up to the Lord, stretched out my arms to the side and with tears just asked "Why?! Why didn't You heal Him tonight as it seemed You had. I was giving You all the glory and honor for my baby's healing and it was not done." (Circumstances earlier that evening had lead me to fully believe he had been healed so I was full of joy and praise!)

In that quick moment, God firmly replied back to me, "Be thankful it is not worse. Look how I HAVE provided. If you want him to experience seizures and high fevers, putting him in and out of the hospital each month, I can make that happen!!"

My head lowered, followed by my out stretched arms. How could I have been so angry with the One who loves my child millions more than I even love him? This is my Father who saved me from the pit of hell, has extended endless grace and mercy to me and yet I was so angry and questioning His ways?! I dare not EVER to do this. I never imagined I would and yet here I was. I was certainly put in my place, reminded of His authority, power and sovereignty. I could not have hid my thoughts from Him for He knows them before I do.

In our moments of anger, frustration, grief, sadness, abandonment, it is important to call on the Holy Spirit to guard you with self-control and patience. With self-control and patience, we are able to keep a reign on our flesh by remaining in love, peace, joy, gentleness and faithfulness through our "funky moments." When we close our flesh eyes and open our spiritual eyes, we will see truth and in that truth, we will find rest which gives us peace and it is in peace we have joy. (I Thess 5:16-18)

The practice of self-control and patience allows us to remain centered, God-centered. His ways are always better and He never wastes our time or our hurts. I must choose daily to be fully God-aware, to trust Him no matter where He leads me that wherever He takes me I am safe and there is a plan greater than my limited eyes can see. Submission and surrender is my part, the rest is God's. He leads. I follow. Nothing is hidden from His sight. He sees everything. This was a lesson I only learned nearly 2 years ago. I must choose daily, affirming His Lordship over my life.

Whether in the heat of a moment or in exhaustion, we can enter into this "nakedness" before God, revealing all I am and ask for Him to restore and refresh. In this there is rest. There is peace. For a season, this was a daily thing I had to do to let go of what I said and ask God to replace it with what He said. As I learn to do less sweeping, I will experience more cleansing, amen!!

Father God, it is so easy to be joyful when things are going according to what I hope for and enjoy, but it is not easy when things happen that hurt, anger or sadden me. Lord, thank You that I can never out run Your grace and love. Thank You for seeking me out when I am hiding from the rest of the world. You see me completely, good and bad and yet Your self-control...and patience with me...Your love for me, I cannot comprehend.

Forgive my lack of self-control when I act out in my flesh. You deserve all honor and praise simply because You are The Lord God Almighty. Regardless of what I think or feel, the truth is, I love You, I only want You and I am desperately in need of You and You love me, You want me and You will never abandon me. Thank You for peace that surpasses all my understanding, You are gracious and loving. Forgive me, hear my prayers, see my heart and cleanse my mind. Lead me beside Your still waters and grant me rest in Your pastures. I love You with all my heart, mind and strength. amen!

"Be Still my soul Be Still. Wait patiently for the Lord."

Rainbow Smiles

Houston has finally been receiving much needed rain and cooler temperatures have arrived because of it! These cooler temps have been a blessing as the heat indexes have had us between 101-111 degrees for several weeks straight now.

Thunderstorms seem to kick up just after lunch time, so I thought I should get my errands run as soon as I got 3 of the 4 kids to their designated schools. At 8:15am, my 3yr old and I were on a mission and out the door. The skies to the east looked crystal blue but to the west, dark clouds already blanketed the sky. Our first stop was to the recycle bins at the elementary school. My closet got a much needed cleaning!!

As I drove eastward to the school, I was smiling, happy that we had such clear skies above. Grocery shopping, and you add in a 3yr old, is horrible in the rain! I felt the blessing of provision-clear skies, beautiful white puffy clouds and sun shining bright enough to already need sunglasses. This was good. It is good to remember, storms don't stay for long! This too shall pass!

As we circled around the back of the school, my car turned westward facing once we arrived at the recycle dumpsters. I stepped out of my car and it was as if I had stepped into another world. As I stood looking westward, the skies were completely grey. Dark skies were creeping closer and closer over me. "Man, what a bummer!" I mumbled under my breathe. I was so hopeful and excited just 30 seconds before!! Just as the words came off my lips, I removed my sunglasses and caught a glimpse of something...it was the beginnings of a rainbow! Wow! Within seconds, the colors deepened, almost as if God was outlining each distinct color for me to see their order. It was almost like God was saying, "Well, I bet I can make you smile."

Instantly, my mind is captivated by this amazing, tiny edge of a rainbow. I watched for the rest of it to fill out but it never seemed to expand out. I was no longer concerned with the looming storms that were sure to burst out over me at any moment, storms that were about to mess up my entire morning's schedule. Although I had been waiting for days to get these errands done, having experienced this bizarre change of scenery was worth another day of waiting. We took in the sights and yes, we were smiling!
My son and I finished dropping of the papers and magazines. Even 5 minutes later, the rain was still being held back, so, off to the store we went, hoping that we would continue under these skies. It didn't look likely, but we were willing to chance it! Turning left onto the main drive to the store, which happened to be eastward, my 3yr old son says, "Mom? Where's the rainbow?" To my amazement, it was not there. We were looking towards the clear, blue skies! This was bizarre. Just a minute ago we were facing darkness and now were faced the light...surely just driving around to the other end of the school, we could see the rainbow?! Nope! It was gone!

There is something beautiful and comforting in the beauty of light. Birds are chirpping, animals out playing, puffy clouds blanket the sky and the crystal blue color is a brilliant backdrop to His creation. You really get a sence of depth and heigth as you study the varying levels of clouds. And yet, there is something equally intimidating and beautiful in the darkness. The deep rich colors of the skies, displaying the magnitude of heaviness. And yet, the tiniest burst of color in a rainbow can change the entire scene. It is a sign of hope, a distraction off of the storm and a focus onto something amazing and captivating. You cannot help but focus on it as it displays it's brilliance against the darkness.

Like a Parent distracting their child's attention away from their boo-boo, God does this for us too. When we look into a dark season in our life, He gives us a rainbow, a reminder of the coming hope. (Romans 8:28) It may be tiny or full out, reaching as far as the eye can see. It may be literally a rainbow in the sky or it may also come in the form of a blessing. He may bless you physically, emotionally and always spiritually. It may come directly to you in a moment, a prayer, a dream. It may come to you through a brother or sister in Christ. God can use any means to get our attention...question is...are we listening? Are we looking for Him?

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

I Thess 5:16-18

"You are my portion, O LORD; I have promised to obey Your words. I have sought Your face with all my heart; be gracious to me according to Your promise." Psalm 119:57-58

"You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in Your word. Away from me, you evildoers, that I may keep the commands of my God! Sustain me according to Your promise, and I will live; do not let my hopes be dashed." Psalms 119:114-116

Father God, Creator of ALL things, help me to see You in the every circumstance. Whether a season of happiness or a season of hardache, God give me a rainbow to reminder me You are near. Distract me from the only seeing the darkness of my storm. Holy Spirit, shine Your light and lead my steps. Display Your majesty. Remind me of Your promises so I can stand strong. God, You are my refuge and my strength, my rock in which I stand on. I will not fear what seems possible, but I will trust what I know to be true! Thank You Jesus, amen!

Cleaning the Wounds

Recently, our Beagle named Peanut, was injured, leaving an open wound on her neck. We debated on whether or not to take her to the vet for stitches. I needed to get close to the wounded area and needless to say she wasn't too sure about me digging around there. Thankfully, she trusted me enough to allow herself to snuggle up to me and lay down beside me so that I could care for her wound.

To prevent infection, I needed to clean the area good. I am sure it was uncomfortable for her. I bet it even stung for several moments. Knowing her nervousness around the buzzers when I simply cut the boy's hair, I knew it would be too much for her to bear in her time of extreme stress therefore I elected to use the scissors. My hands are pretty steady. The use of scissors made it much more difficult for me as I had to be so careful around the wound.

Peanut laid there nervous but trusting. She attempted to get up and go a few times, but a word of encouragment and a rub of love and she settled back down in obedience and submission. I think she knew I was trying to help her and not hurt her. Snip by snip, I cleared the area of her wound. It went better than I expected in that she didn't resist, constantly putting up a fight with me, so the process went smoother for all of us. By this time, my brother in law had come to assist and was a wonderful help in comforting Peanut and praising me for my steady hands.

Do YOU have a wound that needs to be cleared and cleaned? Are you resting, trusting, submitting in obedience to the Master Hands which are steady and skilled to make you whole again? Or are you resisting and prolonging the process of healing?
You must remember who is calling you...it is The Great Physician and Healer. Can you stop squirming and resisting long enough for Him to cleanse your wound? Yes, it may sting but healing is coming. You MUST trust the process. He will NOT give you more than you can bear...He knows you! He knows your strength. He will meet you at the threshold of ENOUGH! Trust Him!

"And Jesus said to him, "Go your way. Your faith has healed you." And instantly the blind man could see! Then he followed Jesus down the road." Mark 10:52

Father God,
You see my wounds that need to be cleaned before infection sets in. Come quickly Lord and Heal me, Cleanse me from deep within. Remove from me all that hinders and wash me pure. Make me whole Father God. Cover me, seal me and protect me. Will you send encouragers to me that will steady me, encourage me, hold my hand when I am afraid? Holy Spirit, guide my heart and my thoughts through the process. Hold my mind and soul steady and strong. God I trust Your strong hands, so faithful and all-knowing.
Thank You in advance for Your provisions and protections from hinderances, especially keeping me from me, being my own worst obstacle. With the blood that Heals, I praise Your Good Name, Amen.