When Silence Does its' Work

“ He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul” Psalm 23:2b, 3a

 Years ago, Bill and I were camped next to a beautiful river. No one else was in sight. Right out the door of this lovely trailer was the sound of a waterfall, which never stopped. In fact, it was all I could hear. I could not hear the wind or the birds. In the middle of all this beauty, it felt a bit like being by a busy highway. However, If I moved just a little way down the river, it was so quiet. I sat there often. I loved it.

 Every day, I walk my dog, Penny. I always have an audio book on the go and listen to various podcasts or perhaps some music. Each day is a debate in my head, what should I listen to today?

 Today as I got Penny’s leash on, the thought crossed my mind. ‘Leave the noise behind.’ So...I did. It is a hot sunny day here in Toronto. So, I walked and talked to God.  Finally, I just chose to be silent in case He had anything He wanted to say to me. And He did. He reminded me in that still, small voice of the beauty of silence and all that happens if we choose to keep the noise at bay.

 The truth is we live in a noisy world. Choosing silence is often a conscious decision. In the seasons of life, silence is in short supply. I remember when I had 4 small children at home. It was chaos until nap or bedtime. Then I would get done everything that the day would not allow me to do. I wish I would have enjoyed the silence more. I think I had become a bit addicted to noise and activity.

 I am in a different season now. The truth regarding the benefits of silence has not changed, though I am in a different season.

 Here are a few benefits that I was thinking about today.

1.     Silence allows us to discover what we are truly thinking about, instead of waiting until the middle of the night!

2.     Silence can bring to the forefront a truth that business and noise has silenced.

3.     Silence can help us remember what we have been forgetting and has been stuck in the back of our mind!

4.     The quiet is one of the ways that God restores our soul. (unless of course we are using the silence to rehearse offences suffered over the last week)

 It is interesting that David in this Psalm did not mention the busy streets or the marketplace as the preferred location for God to restore his soul, rather the quiet waters. Psalm 46:10 remind us “Cease striving and know that I am God”.

 Sometimes, we just need to be silent, waiting to hear what is on His heart for us in those precious moments. It could simply be rest.

 Dear Father,

Thank you for your interest in helping my soul find rest. I choose to be quiet today, if even for a few minutes, simply to rest in Your presence. Thank you for your constant longing for us to come and sit with You. Never do You tire of our company, and I want to say thank you for that!

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen

The Secret Room

 The sneaky secret room is just down the hall from worry and hopeless rooms. There is no sign on this door though, probably, everyone has one. We have all visited there at one time or another.

 Currently, I am reading through the book of Proverbs and this verse jumped out at me.

Proverbs 9: 17-18 “Stolen water is refreshing, food eaten in secret tastes the best! But little do they know that the dead are there. Her guests are in the depths of the grave.”

 Here are a few thoughts or mind games that I think get played in this particular room.

1. We justify whatever it is we are doing.

2. We deny it.

3. We lie about it.

4. We tell ourselves it won’t matter.

5. No one will notice or care.

6. It will only affect me - if it affects anyone!

7. God does not mind. It is not really a sin, at least not today.

 However, if we are truthful, the effect of what goes on in the secret room can be profound.

1.     Unconfessed or hidden sin matures. It does not lessen.

2.     We lose our confidence before God’s throne every time we go to pray.  “Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence before God.” (1 John 3:21)  We will have confidence before His throne when our heart and mind are not weighed down by the compromises in our life.

3.     Corrupt or wrong thinking will seep into other parts of our life.

4.     When our lives are compromised, it does affect others. It is like saying a walking bridge that has cracks and a weakened structure, will not affect those who walk on it. Rather, It puts everyone who uses that bridge in danger.

5.     Lastly, it grieves God.  “Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption” Ephesians 4: 30

 What should we do if we have been making ourselves comfortable in this room?

 1.     Ask God what He wants you to do. Is it a problem? If so, confess it before God and if needed, confess to a helpful, trusted friend.

2.     I can feel guilty very easily, so when I have something nagging me, I ask God to show me if there is something I need to confess.

I have had my share of visits to this room, sometimes it is where I sit and grumble and complain. Other times, I nurse a resentment - rehearsing the injustice over and over. I find it is where bad decisions and poor attitudes and thoughts are unhelpfully nurtured.

 How about you? How is your secret room doing? Have you been there lately?

 Dear Father,

 Thank you for loving me all the time, no matter what. I ask that you would give me the courage to be honest about this “secret room” in my life. Am I storing anything there that is causing me to stumble and, in turn, perhaps those around me? Show me so I can confess it and be clean before You. Thank you.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen

The Hopeless Room

 Many of us who have “worry rooms” have another room, just across the hall - it is called “the hopeless room”. There we have our issues piled up on the shelf. These are things that, from where you stand, seem impossible. Frankly, these things have been in this room for a long time. Statistically speaking, the chance of any change, seems unrealistic.

 I have sat in this room of hopelessness many times over my life. Watching my mom die was a long, cruel process.  As a pastor’s wife, there have been things that happen that can leave me feeling hopeless. Being confronted by an endless stream of human needs that presents itself to us, also through our ministry, can overwhelm me at times.

 Many times, I sat in that room overwhelmed with sorrow and fear nibbling at my heart and my mind. I had so many “what if” questions, none of which did anything to address the hopelessness that gripped my heart.

 In the grip of hopelessness, we all have different thoughts that plague us. One common thing is that we have forgotten what Jesus said in Matthew 19:26. “Jesus looked at them intently and said ‘Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.’”

 We may have even memorized that verse, but somewhere in our minds there are whispering thoughts that say, “I believe this is true for others, but not in this circumstance.” It is especially easy to find ourselves in this position when whatever we face has been dragging on for a long time.

 Today, I want to say to you, that in the room of hopelessness, our Lord looks intently at you and says the same thing. “ Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible”.

 He sees your suffering and knows the anguish that grips you today.

 As I sat in this hopeless room a while ago, the Spirit of the Lord spoke to me and reminded me that all of His promises are still true. He said also, very clearly, “Do not put your trust in people; look beyond to Me. Truly with Me, nothing is impossible.”

 Dear Father,

 Come, lift up our heads, and soothe our fears. Replace the hopelessness that grips us today with faith that moves mountains. Thank you for loving me and seeing me in this moment.

 In Jesus Name

 Amen

The Worry Room

“ So, don’t worry about these things, saying,” What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ Matthew 6:31

 Many of us have a room set up in our heads, called the “Worry Room”. It is where we go with all the unsolved things, the worries that don’t go away. It is like they have their very own shelf. There is a comfortable chair where you sit and rehearse the scenarios of things that don’t resolve in time or the way you are praying and hoping.

 I was struck today when I read this verse. I have read it many times in my life. Today, I saw my questions that are rolling in my head. I seldom worry about these questions listed as I am well provided for, BUT, I have my list of questions and could replace them with the ones in the passage.

 The next verse is still relevant whatever our list of questions may be. ”These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your Heavenly Father knows all of your needs.”( v. 32) I wonder how often in prayer as I go back to my “worry room” I act like an “unbeliever” who does not know or believe that God knows me and is well aware of what is keeping me awake at night.

 The other day, I had a neat picture as I was praying. I laid down a burden that was very heavy for me and a bit prickly, to be honest. I got up to leave and found myself reaching to pick up the burden once again and an enormous Hand moved over this burden, “No I have this in hand, do not worry”.  And peace came.

 It is like when you are out for a meal with a friend and have already decided you will pay the bill for both of you. When the bill arrives you both reach for it, but your hand covers the bill.  You say,  “No, I will take care of this”. It is the same idea.

 Today, as you take your heavy burden, that one that keeps being rolled around in your ”worry room’. When you get fed up with rehearsing it, and finally lay it down before our Father, imagine His great hand, covering that heavy burden and Him saying to you “I know - I will take care of it; leave it with Me”.

 Dear Father,

 Thank you for Your watch care over me. Thank you for Your eye which is locked on me as I come into your throne room. Thank you for your willingness, to pick up this burden and take care of it for me. Fill me with Your peace even while things seem unresolved from my point of view.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen

Where is your confidence?

“Why am I so discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise Him again - my Savior and my God!” Psalm 42: 11

 Seemingly impossible tasks can be broken down and made manageable... usually, though not always. We are all faced with the impossible at some point in our lives. Clear solutions seem to evade us though we know others who followed a 1-2-3 strategy and it worked perfectly for them.

 I have faced the impossible too many times to rely on 1-2-3 or experts.  I certainly look to them for advice. When the Doctor prescribes medication, I do take it, yet ultimately, my trust is in God. It is easy to get lost in the instructions, the “how to” of books, and lose sight of the One who has ultimate authority.

 This morning as I was praying about this sickness that has been dragging on for me, God asked me simply, “Where are you placing your confidence?” Psalm 42:11 captures, for me, what the Lord was saying to me. I am to put my hope in God for I will praise Him again. (Psalm 42)

 No matter what we face, there are always things to thank God for. David, the writer of this psalm, is feeling very discouraged. To be honest, I am not feeling that. But I am patiently waiting to be back to my old self.  In the meantime, my hope rests in God. 

 There is great comfort to remember that, ultimately, the One who loves us perfectly, sees us and hears us as we call. We can put our full confidence in Him.

 Dear Father,

 Thank you for being faithful. I place my confidence in You. You will see me through what I am facing today. Thank you for hearing my prayers and receiving every burden I lay down at your feet. Thank you for leading me through today and for all of your help.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen

3 New Thoughts for days you don't feel 100%

2 Corinthians 12:9 “ My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness. “ So I am glad to boast about my weakness so that the power of Christ can work through me.”

I have been feeling rough for over a month now. That is a long time in my books. I had bouts of colitis years ago, in fact, I was sure it was in the past. Clearly, I was wrong.

I was reflecting on this verse this morning and wondered what this means for me as I feel weak and tired most days. I tend to be an energetic, and” just it done” kind of person, but lately, that just has not been my story.

Here are my 3 takeaways from this verse as I am living in it right now.

1. God’s grace gives me room and permission to take a break when I don’t feel well, or cancel plans I had hoped to keep, but just can’t. He gives me permission and the capacity to say no and rest, without feeling guilty.

2. I feel His power when I can do things beyond what I in my own strength feel capable of. As much as being unwell is not great, it is a wonderful thing to come to the end of myself and all my resources and look to God. I have found Him faithful each time.

3. At the end of each day, as I have experienced His grace and strength, I say thank you to Him for His kind enduring presence.

Dear Father,

Thank you for helping me even write today. Thank you for Your presence with me and that You are my healer. While I am grateful for Doctors, I know that ultimately, You are my healer and you are a trustworthy one! Thank you for today, it is still a day that You have made and I chose to rejoice and be glad in it.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

10 Reasons spring is my favorite season!

 1.    I love the sounds of birds singing away!

2.    I love the spring flowers.

3.    I love experiencing the cold winter slowly leading to warmer weather.

4.    I love sitting outside and drinking a cup of coffee or tea on my deck and watching people, dogs, squirrels, birds, and even some rabbits.

5.    I love to sit outside and read a good book!

6.    I love to sit on my deck and visit with people dear to me.

7.    I especially love that spring leads to summer which is my favorite season.

8.    I love that we can have the window open at night and enjoy the fresh air!

9.    I like putting the heavy winter coat and hat etc. away and being able to go outside in a light sweater!

10. I love the thunder and lightning storms that often come in spring.

In the Spring, we see new life and that is always inspiring to me. Jesus is a Master at new life. He takes us in whatever state we find ourselves and as we give ourselves to Him, He makes all things new! He is the God of every season.  In this season, we are reminded of this wonderful truth.

 “ Behold, I will do something new, now it will spring forth; Will you not be aware of it? I will even make a roadway in the wilderness, Rivers in the desert.”

 Isaiah 43: 19

 Dear Father,

 Thank you for the spring and for the gift of all that You are doing in this season. I ask that you do in me the “new” which needs to happen. I give to you the brokenness and the hard impossible things I am dealing with at this time. Thank you for being a God who makes all things new.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen

12 Tips for Living Wisely

“Teach me to number my days so that I might gain a heart of wisdom”.

 I sat with the Lord for a while this morning and asked Him what some examples are of what He means by this verse. This is what I heard.

 1.    Wisdom is something we ought to consciously apply each day.

2.    Be wise about what should be put off and what shouldn’t.

3.    The only day you can be truly confident in, is today.

4.    A day is not something you get back.

5.    Sometimes the door before you is shut and it is going to stay that way. Then there are other times you need to ask Me to open it.

6.    You will face times when a leap of faith is required, however, sometimes I provide a bridge... You don’t always have to jump! Learn to discern what is before you

7.    Every day, I provide something to be thankful for. Watch for it and then give thanks.

8.    Keep short accounts with Me. Forgive people. I have forgiven you.

9.    You may think My timing is way off. Remember, I see time differently and I see much further than you do

10. Either I lead or you lead. We both can’t. I see better and know what is ahead. Let Me lead.

11. What your life is built upon matters. It will determine how you will weather the storms that come your way.

12. Choose to allow an offense to pass. It is far better than allowing resentment to fester and turn into bitterness which acts like an infection in the soul.

 God is always waiting to give us the wisdom we need for each day. Some days are harder though, especially if we are filled with anxiety. To hear God speak, we need to believe He does speak! Then we have to listen. Today, this is what I heard, and my hope and prayer is that something inspired your heart.

 Dear Father,

Thank you for Your guidance to us for living each day. Give me the courage and wisdom to do whatever is needed today. Fill me afresh with Your Holy Spirit.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

When Things Just Don't Workout

“Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say rejoice.“ Philippians 4:4

 Personally, I find it is a lot easier to practice this verse when the sun is shining and life is, for the most part, as it should be.

 What about the days when we have dreams that are crushed, or we are struggling over incredibly hard news? 

 Have you ever been in a worship service when people enthusiastically sing, “This is the day the Lord has made - let us be glad and rejoice in it”? While everyone sings you struggle because of what you are going through.

 Frankly, finding something to be thankful for is, sometimes, a tall order. Yet I have discovered in the darkest times of my life that there are always things to rejoice in. The Lord never added a caveat that allows us days off. On the darkest days, God’s promises remain true and His presence with us is unchanged.  

 One thing I have learned to do that I would like to pass on to you is this; If you cannot think of one thing today to give thanks to God for, then ask Him. Simply ask God, “What can I say thank you for today?”

 The answer may surprise you for its simplicity and beauty. God helps us to become joyful people.  I found that in the act of giving thanks on these dark days, though it sometimes feels like a discipline, that practice becomes an opportunity to plant tiny seeds of hope in my own heart.

 Remember my friend, some truths in this life never change. The character of God does not change, and neither does His presence with us.  I am very grateful for this. This truth is the difference faith makes. When we have Jesus with us, we are never alone. No situation we are facing is too difficult for Him or without hope - never.

 There are some tears we shed that will never be entirely wiped away until we see Jesus. When He does that we will finally experience comfort in the fullest measure. In this, we can be thankful. In our suffering, we can hold on to this promise and we will find joy.

 Dear Father,

 Some days it is so easy to give thanks for the day You have made, while other days are like this. I ask that You show me what I can be thankful for. Give me eyes to see what I cannot.  Soften my heart; it seems sorrowful and numb.  Speak to me at this moment.  Thank you for your mercy.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen

The Trouble with Temptation

“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. “ Matthew 26:41

 “If it feels right to you, do it”, says popular culture. What a contrast to the words of Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane on the night He would be betrayed and sent to be crucified. Jesus warned His disciples who were with Him to watch and pray because Jesus knew difficulty and temptation would be introducing themselves like unwelcome guests in short order.

 Not long ago, I was tempted to fall into the pit of envy. Someone shared some good news that was happening in their life. I was happy for them, but to be honest, a little jealous also. I realized this immediately and knew I was faced with a choice. Will I let this little seed of jealousy grow and become envy and lose the pleasure of simply being happy for a friend. I was faced with a choice, and I chose to be happy for them. I found that praying for them and thanking God for these opportunities He was bringing to them, loosened the jealousy that was brewing in my heart. I think this might, at least in part, be what Jesus was talking about in the ‘watch and pray’ of this verse. I noticed and I prayed, and I was free!

 Along the path of life, there are all kinds of challenges that can become  a temptation.  We will only spot them as we “watch and pray” as Jesus reminds us. Watching is critical because there are no shortage of obstacles ahead for us to trip over.

 The devil, our adversary, loves when we complain, judge, brood, curse... there is a long list of what makes his day. They come to us in the form of temptation. We all trip and fall at some point but we can trip and fall a lot less if and when we put the words of our Lord into practice.’ Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.’

 Dear Father,

 Thank you for these words of warning You gave us. Help me daily to put this into practice. I need to watch and pray for I know that I have a formidable foe, the devil, who would love to see me fall. Thank you, Father,

 In Jesus Name

 Amen

The Perils of Pride

“Love is patient and love is kind. It does not envy. It does not boast, it is not proud.” 1 Corinthians 13:4

 The topic of pride is not talked much about these days, certainly not in the way I am thinking. Pride has its use, but it is limited. When I bake cookies, for example, and I know they are really good, I am proud of those cookies.  At what point, though, do I cross the line where pride becomes a stumbling block? Pride is indeed a perilous thing; something all people stumble over from time to time. In my journal, as I sat with the Lord, and asked about the problems that pride brings, here is what was pointed out to me:  

 1.     Pride can lead us to believe that we are better or more important than we are.  Romans 12:3 warns us not to think more highly of ourselves than we ought.

2.     Pride can act like a blinding agent that hinders us from seeing others or circumstances as they truly are. In Matthew 7:5 we are told to “remove the plank from your own eye; then you will see clearly to remove the speck in your brother’s eye.”  We can find ourselves with a plank in our eye for several reasons, pride being one of them.

3.     Pride can keep us from admitting our faults. It is interesting to consider the emotions or attitudes that hang out with pride, like stubbornness. To maintain pride, in the negative sense, you can be sure that stubbornness is nearby.

4.     Pride can keep us from trying new things. People may think “No -  that is fear”.  Perhaps that is true, but pride can get tangled up in it as we do not want to fail and ruin our good record.

5.     Pride can keep us from asking for help when it is clearly needed.

6.     Pride can also keep us from asking for forgiveness simply because we can’t admit that just maybe we were wrong.

7.     On the flip side of this, pride can also hinder us from offering forgiveness to those who ask. How is this possible? Sometimes we can wear the hurts or offences we experience like a pin or a broach and we do not want to let it go.

8.     Pride can keep us from celebrating the success of another likely because envy is running very close by.

9.     Pride can keep us talking and talking and not bothering to ask the listener what they think as we are so very sure what we are saying is better. To listen truly requires the absence of pride and the presence of humility.

10.  Pride isolates us. This is never a good way to live.

 I know that there is more that can be added to this.  Personally, I feel challenged to stop and consider where I am stumbling at this moment.

 Dear Father,

 Pride is a sneaky thing. Show me where pride is tripping me up today. I want to live humbly.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen

5 Things that Stick.

There are many things that we experience in life that stick.  Here is my shortlist for today.

 1.     The feeling of being forgiven when we know very well, we didn’t deserve it.

2.     Good advice which has been given and lived out in our life. Out of this is born a life lesson that hopefully will stick with us through all the seasons of life.

3.     A painful experience or memory can stick around.  The question and challenge I suppose is how much we will focus on it and swim in it. We have to face it, feel all the emotions, and respond wisely, but it is doubtful we will ever fully forget.

4.     I was thinking that the last batch of cookies I baked could stick with me in ways I do not like! This reminds me of a deeper truth - bad decisions often stick around.  The consequences, do not go away. We have to learn to navigate things we dearly wish we did not have to.

5.     Precious memories of friends and families stay with us, as do kindnesses shown to us, especially when we were not in a position to reciprocate.

 There is more we could add to this list. What would you add?

 I am thankful for all that I can lay at our Father’s feet daily. Burdens and memories, bad decisions - all of it I can lay down before Him. He can sort through the messes and the grief of our life and for this I am very thankful.

 Soon, it will be Easter.  The older I get, the more precious this celebration is to me. I know beyond  all things that I am lost without my Savior. He is my strength and my constant company. He calms my racing thoughts. He points me in the way I should go. He speaks to me - and so much more.

 The bad or hard things of this life can trip us up, but when you have the Good Shepherd standing right there, He is present to brush us off and help us take the next step. He is even willing to give us courage for it.

 “ The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want” Psalm 23:1

 Dear Father,

 Thank you for the good and the difficult that is on my list. You love me and guide me every day, through the great days and the not-so-great ones You are always present.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen

Remember, God’s ways are not always our ways!

 When we drive through the city, I am full of suggestions for my husband Bill. Maybe slow down, speed up or maybe get going because the light is already green. Needless to say, I do drive him a bit nuts at times.

 I wonder if God ever thinks that way as He listens to me explain to Him just how I see a prayer ought to be answered. The difference is, that God has even more information than I do! I confess however there are times, especially when it is my family, I am convinced I have a perfect plan if God would just get on board with it and my will!

 God’s word is clear on this account, unfortunately, fortunately! In Isaiah 55:8, He says “For My ways are not your ways and your thoughts are NOT my thoughts. Declares the Lord” Can you believe it? The God of the universe who sees down the road, over the hill, and around the corner, does not see things just like you and me!

 I love Proverbs 3:5,6 “ Trust in the Lord with all your heart, Do NOT lean on your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.”

 I like when we go to a fair or a concert and the parking lot is full of people with glow-in-the-dark orange vests on and flags and they point to exactly where we are supposed to go to park our vehicle. There is little mystery in the experience. You just do as you are directed!

 Life is seldom like that. God at times leads very clearly. One step leads to a logical next step, but the fact is, this is not always our experience. It is often more like, here is the first step, and then we have to wait!!! Who wants to wait? We want to keep going according to our timetable! We start to question, “Did God really lead us? Shouldn’t things be going perfectly?” If you read in the book of Numbers, the story of God’s people who were led out into the desert by Him even there is story after story of the twists and turns in the desert and God was there in a big cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. Yet, it was not as smooth as you would have thought it should be. God was leading and teaching them as they went along. Just like He does with you and me.

He sees us and loves us. He knows what is best and has us and our loved ones squarely in the palm of His hands. Let’s rest in this truth today.

 Dear Father,

 Thank you for being a God who sees what I cannot. You are fully trustworthy to find your way through this wilderness I find myself in today. I choose to put my trust fully in you. Thank you.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen

One Truth which is better than Comfort Food!

Years ago, I went mountain climbing. It was a lot of fun but terrifying at points. One day we were at the top of a very high cliff which we had just climbed. We were told then that we had to rappel down as someone held the rope at the top of the cliff. We wore a harness and were clipped in. The person on top was called a belayer. You dearly hoped that they were strong and knew what they are doing. Otherwise, it could end very badly. When we rappelled down that rock face, it was like jumping down and then constantly pushing outward with our legs so we didn’t hit the rock. If we slipped, the rope held us secure.

 Heights are not my favorite, though I confess, this adventure, while scary, was also a lot of fun. I would do it again if I had the opportunity.

 In Psalm 63:8 it says, “ I will cling to you; your strong right hand holds me securely.” To know that God Almighty has us securely in His right massive hand, is deeply comforting. When difficult challenges come or discouraging situations, we know He still has us securely in His hand. We needn’t fear or wonder if this is too much as if it is more than He can handle. No, He holds onto us and does so with love. His eye Is locked on us and we can be sure that whatever is going on in our lives at this moment does not cause Him panic.

 We can rest in His love and enjoy the gift of peace He gives us in the middle of the storms of life. He offers us whatever is needed; wisdom, guidance, insight. He is able to help you as He holds you securely in His grip. What a great thought for today! We do not have to give into the fear that is standing nearby. Rather we can say thank you to our Father for His firm grip and His eye that is watching over us.

 Dear Father,

 Thank you for holding me secure in Your strong hand. Thank you for your constant presence and for never checking out because a situation is too hard. I know that with you, nothing is impossible. I trust you with all that is troubling me right now.

I ask for Your peace and your wisdom to fill me. Thank you,

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Hope Against All Odds!

“Be strong and courageous! Don’t be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria or his mighty army, for there is a power far greater on our side. He may have a great army, but they are merely men. We have the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles for us! “ 2 Chronicles 32: 7,8

 Who among us has not stood facing an obstacle, a situation or a person that frankly had the upper hand? From where we stood it looked impossible. Victory or a positive outcome was nothing short of delusional.

 To be afraid when standing before what seems impossible is a pretty natural emotion. I was thinking these last few days about how many times through the entire Bible, the words “ do not be afraid “ are mentioned. I looked it up and according to several sources they repeatedly say 365 times.

 In this passage in 2 Chronicles 32:7-8, we see the people in Jerusalem very fearful. As they stood on the wall of the city looking out, they could see the vast army of the Assyrians who were known for their cruelty and skill as an army. They had a reputation that was renowned in that part of the world.

 When you are looking up a very steep and rock-strewn path that goes straight up a mountain and you have no energy to walk that path, what will you do?  Walking it is not an option. It is made even more difficult if the last time you faced this same circumstance, it was a nightmare. Fear seizes your heart, as it does mine. The same old buttons are pressed. The tender ones, that have been pressed to many times.

 Yet, we are reminded tenderly in this passage, regardless of the past or what is before us, we have “a far greater power on our side”. God will not stand idly by watching you struggle. Psalm 26 reminds us He is a very present help in times of trouble.

 As you call out to Him today with whatever you are facing, do not be afraid, God is with you and He will help you. He will give you strength for this next step - whatever is needed. He will make a way. And that, my friend, is indeed good news. We can all use some of that!

 Dear Father,

 You see what I am facing today and know well the panic that has me in its grip.  I ask that you would bring me peace and whatever else I need to make it through. I ask for wisdom and for victory. Thank you, Father.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen.

5 Things I do when my world falls apart.

You don’t learn how to respond to difficult days or events sitting on a beach enjoying the sunshine. We learn the hard stuff as we live through it.

 When I have found myself in the middle of a forest with little light getting through - here is what I do.

 1.     I run to God. Psalm 46:1 “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.” As I sit with God on these days, He is not only my hiding place but my source of strength as well. He gives me what I need, even if it’s on a moment-by-moment basis. Sometimes, when what we face is really tough, we have to go back to God often for the strength to keep pressing forward.

 2.     I remember that He sees me. He has not lost sight of me. Proverbs 5:21 “ For your ways are in full view of the Lord, and He examines all of your paths”. God is not surprised by whatever I am facing. He is not overwhelmed or worried. My struggles may be heartbreaking, but I know that God sees me and knows very well what exactly is happening in my world.

 3.     I remember that God is with me. Deuteronomy 31:8; “ Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; He will neither fail nor abandon you”. It is one thing to be stuck with an incompetent helper and another with God who is all-powerful and wise and loves me! This makes a big difference.

 4.     I remember that Nothing is impossible with God. Jesus said in Luke 18:27 “ What is impossible with man is possible with God.” I have walked through many deep valleys and have seen God repeatedly do what seemed impossible. It was not always quick, but He has always been faithful.

 5.     God answers prayers. Any time I spend with God in prayer over whatever it is that is troubling me, I know that He hears me.  I am not wasting my time! James 5:16b “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful”

 Perhaps your list is different. Whatever it is, please know that these truths stand. They have been proven and practiced by many people. God knows and sees, and He loves you.  Your trouble does not worry Him. He is big enough and does not wring His hands in despair. Trust Him today with whatever is troubling you. He will hear you as pray and carry for you this very heavy burden if you are willing to leave it with Him.

 Dear Father,

I give you this boatload of trouble. today. I don’t know what to do or even if there is something I ought to do. Give me your peace and assurance that You have this in hand. Thank you that I am seen by you; I am not hidden!

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Not Every Day is the “Same old, same old”!

“ And we won’t know how to worship until we get there”  Exodus 10:26b

 I forget sometimes that God is not a creature of habit like I am, like most of us are. This verse jumped off the page as I was reading my Bible this morning.

 I have met the Lord in worship in church but also while walking, driving, or sitting in nature. God is not limited in the ways He wants us to worship Him. He is creative - we all know that.

 In Exodus, as Moses is negotiating with Pharoah concerning the freedom of God’s people, he tells Pharoah that they won’t know exactly how God wants them to worship Him until they get there! I have honestly never thought of that. I tend to be pretty standard as to when and how I worship God.

 However, when we read Romans 12:1, we are reminded that as we give all we are to God, this too is a sacrifice of praise - “ a living and holy sacrifice - the kind that he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship Him.”

 As we give ourselves to God daily, we are worshipping Him! As you and I obediently live out whatever He asks of us, from baking cookies for a neighbor to singing for Him in the choir. We need to listen and see how He is leading us. Our service for Him today is our act of worship and that can change from day to day.

 God loves you and draws you into worship, and it is not just singing out songs of praise on a Sunday morning - which is great, but there is more!

 I read a book several years ago though I sadly forgot the title! This man would ask God every day, “Where do you want me to sit with you today that I might worship and listen for Your voice?” It is easy to get stuck in a rut in many areas of our lives, including worship. And sometimes we won’t know what He has in mind until we get to that very place.  What He has in mind for you that day may not be your favorite chair!

 Dear Father,

I worship You today because You are worthy, and I love to worship You! Lead me today as I sit with You. I give myself entirely to You as an act of worship. Show me what You have in mind for me today. How can I demonstrate your love today?

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen

What to do when a relationship with a loved one hangs by a thread.

 In our work with the streets of downtown Toronto, one thing we have noticed among many of those struggling with addiction/mental illness is this. Many have little to no contact with their families.

 If there is one thing anyone who loves someone lost in this struggle knows, it is how hard these loved ones can make be to love!

 When I think about how we managed to keep those relationships going in the middle of the mess of addiction, this image comes to my mind.

 Years ago, our family would go backwoods camping. It would involve carrying canoes and all kinds of supplies over portages. Those portages, with our heavy loads, were always challenging. The worst was when it was raining, and the paths were littered with roots and rock, adding to that the bridges. They were often slippery and uneven. You could not just stroll along you had to consider each step and not rush. The load you carried made the path even more challenging.

 Relationships with someone particularly struggling with active addiction take a similar practice. Each step is careful. The load is heavy and often awkward. No two are the same and it takes a boatload of wisdom, patience, and a ton of grace.

 1 Cor. 13 reminds us that love is patient and it is kind and keeps no record of wrongs. That is much easier to live this out with people who are doing well and quite another thing when it is when we are talking about an addict or someone with mental illness.

 Many people give up on those who are struggling because it seems like there is no way forward. As we become exhausted and stripped of all hope there are those days when keeping that relationship going was very challenging, but we would tell you, it is worth it.

 Keeping the door open was a priority we worked at hard every day and no it was not easy. We did it one day at a time and step by step with much prayer.

 We also invited Christ to share the load. Matthew 28:30 “ Come to me all who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

 When difficult relationships are in our lives- looking to Christ to share the weight makes a big difference, at least it certainly did for us. We need wisdom, strength, and peace in the middle of the mess. Christ can give that.

 Many days were harder than others, we would go to God over and over in a day, asking for wisdom to know what we could do that was helpful and what was not. Setting healthy boundaries is very important.

 The last point I would make is this. Bill and I were and always will be on the same page. We had to struggle some days to get there, but we did. As the challenges came, we stood united. That was helpful.

 Dear Father,

Thank you for being willing to be my burden bearer. I lay down the hard relationships in my life and ask that you take the weight off of me. Watch over my loved one and do what I cannot. I ask for your peace, strength, and wisdom for today. Thank you, Father,

In Jesus Name,

Amen.

The Top 4 I Tell People who have loved Ones, struggling with Addiction.

When we meet with people who have loved ones struggling with addiction or mental illness, despair and hopelessness are very close to the surface. It is one thing to watch someone who is struggling with a disease that came to them perhaps through genetics or exposure to some unhealthy thing.  It is altogether different when someone chooses day after day to go and destroy themselves. It is hard to understand the strength of the compulsion that addiction holds if you don’t struggle with it.

 In our devotional, Hope For An Unwanted Journey, we discuss many more truths; these are just 4 that come rushing to my mind today. We did an interview a few days ago about the book and had to summarize the most important things we want to tell people, My top four are listed below.

1.     There is always hope.

2.     You will not cure the addiction; you are good but not that good. They have to want to quit. It is likely one of the hardest things in this world to watch.

.3.  It is not your fault.

 4. Do not put your hope in your loved one. Put your hope fully on God. This is where you will find hope. 

We are lost without prayer. We have a Good Shepard who sees our loved one tangled in the brambles, or down on the ledge, over the cliff. It may be impossible for you are I to rescue them, but not Him.

 Psalms 46:1 reminds us that “God is our refuge and strength, a every present help in trouble”.  He sees and hears your prayers. He can show you what you ought to do and what you need to leave with Him.

Sometimes all our intervening, though done out of our desperate love, is not helpful. It may make us feel a bit better for a moment. I remember all too well the many things we did, the money we spent, thinking this would make the difference. And it did not - maybe for the moment, but that moment passed.

When we walk an impossible journey, we need a God who is more than able, and who never sleeps or slumbers. We need a God who looks at the suffering of our loved ones and says again,  nothing is impossible with Me. Your loved one is not a lost cause. Not in the eyes of Jesus.

 Dear Father,

 Thank you for today. Thank you that nothing is too difficult for you. I lay more loved one down again at your feet and pray that You would intervene in their life. Renew in me hope and strength for all that I am dealing with today. My hope is in You alone.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen

Even If...

“ But even if he does not, we want you to know Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” Daniel 3: 18

 A New Year has begun and here is an important reminder for all of us for 2024. If you read through the story of Shadrack, Meshach, and Abednego we meet three very brave men who trusted God no matter what. Even if God was not going to deliver them from the fiery furnace, worshipping the idol that the King had made of himself was not going to happen, not ever.

 Even if prayers should be part of our lives simply because God does not always answer our prayers as we had hoped. We believed Him, quoted all the Bible verses, and trusted Him, and He did not come through. How will we respond?

 Bitter disappointments have a way of planting seeds of resentment and frankly a weakened faith. We can be shaken when things don’t turn out as we believed. Isaiah 55: 8 says “‘For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways’ declares the Lord.”

 The image of a boat anchored comes to mind, the wind is whistling, and the waves rock the boat. What keeps the boat steady at all is the anchor. In my life, Jesus is the anchor who holds me steady regardless of what comes my way. I won’t lie, I have my moments of panic, but then quickly turn to God for direction and wisdom.

 In 2024 can we trust God no matter what happens? If health challenges come or continue for you or financial challenges haunt you daily? What about the challenges in relationships? Things are not going as you had hoped. Whatever you face, whatever the battle that is before you, can you trust God no matter what and still praise Him even if things do not go as you had hoped?

 Dear Father,

 I know you are good, and you are trustworthy no matter what comes to me this year. I look to you to lead and guide me daily. I will praise You, Father, no matter what. I know that your promises remain true. Fill me with your peace today. Thank you.

In Jesus Name,

Amen